JP2004089631A

JP2004089631A - Toilet seat device

Info

Publication number: JP2004089631A
Application number: JP2002280857A
Authority: JP
Inventors: Hajime Mase; 間▲瀬▼　元; Osamu Akiyoshi; 秋吉　修; Akira Oishi; 大石　晃
Original assignee: Toto Ltd
Current assignee: Toto Ltd
Priority date: 2002-07-12
Filing date: 2002-09-26
Publication date: 2004-03-25

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce the space and the number of parts of a toilet seat device by setting a first body detecting means, a second body detecting means and a sitting detecting means on one place together, and to reduce the manufacturing cost as well. <P>SOLUTION: A sensor assembly unit 8, in which the first body detecting means 4 for detecting a human body in the upper front of the toilet seat device when a toilet lid is closed, the sitting detecting means 5 for detecting that the human body is sitting on the toilet seat, and the second body detecting means 6 for detecting the human body in the upper front of the toilet seat device when the toilet lid is opened are integrated, is built in a casing. Accordingly, as the three detecting means can be integrated and attached to one detection window together, it is not necessary to form a detection window for each detecting means, so that the space saving can be achieved. Further, the irregularity of the detection performance, which tends to be influenced by the irregularity of the positional relationship between a detecting means and a detection window, can be inhibited, and moreover, the number of parts can be reduced, so that the manufacturing cost can be reduced as well. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

【０００１】
【発明の属する技術分野】
本発明は、便器前の人体を検知する人体検知手段と、人体の着座を検知する着座検知手段と、人体検知手段および着座検知手段の信号に基づいてトイレ環境（便座・便ふた姿勢、室内照明、脱臭起動、便座温度等）を制御する便座装置に関するものである。
【０００２】
【従来の技術】
従来、便座装置として、人体検知センサを備え、便ふた、便座の開閉を自動で行うものが知られている。この装置は、例えば特許文献１に記載されている例では、図１６のように便ふた２及び便座３が閉状態にあるときに前方に開放される部位に第一の人体検知センサ４を設け、図１６（ａ）のように人体を検知して便ふた２を自動的に開くようにしていた。また、便ふた２、または便ふた２及び便座３が開状態にある時に前方に開放される部位に第二の人体検知センサ６を設け、図１６（ｃ）のように人体の有無を確認して便ふた２、または便ふた２および便座３を自動的に閉まるようにしていた。さらに、便ふた２が開状態であり便座３が閉状態において、人体が便座３に座っているかどうかを検知する着座検知手段５を設け、図１６（ｂ）のように着座を検知して人体の行動を追跡し、的確な制御を行っていた。
これにより、トイレを使用する意思のある人物に対して、人体検知手段の信号に連動して自動で便ふたおよび便座の開閉を行うことが出来る。その為、例えば工事現場等で手を汚した人物がトイレを使用する、あるいは便ふたに小水の飛び散り等の汚れが付着している等の際にも、手を汚すことなく用を足すことが出来て衛生的である。また、身体の不自由な人物に対しても、便ふたを開閉するという動作を自動で行うことにより、腰など身体への負担をなくすことが出来る。
【０００３】
【特許文献１】
特許第３２０１７１５号公報
【０００４】
【発明が解決しようとする課題】
しかし上記した従来の便座装置では、第一の人体検知手段、第二の人体検知手段および着座検知手段が便座装置の各位置にばらばらに取り付けられており、検知手段の取り付け部材や検知手段から投光される光を透過させる検知窓等、検知手段に備わるべき部材も第一の人体検知手段、第二の人体検知手段および着座検知手段に対して個々に配置しなければならず、その為、収納スペースが広がり、部品点数も増大し、製作コストも高くなるという問題があった。
【０００５】
そこで本発明では、便座装置において上記課題を解決すること、つまり、第一の人体検知手段、第二の人体検知手段および着座検知手段を一箇所にまとめて省スペース化すると共に部品点数を低減し、製作コストをも低減することを目的とする。
【０００６】
【課題を解決するための手段および作用、効果】
請求項１記載の発明における便座装置は、便ふた、便座、及び該便ふたと該便座の開閉を支持するケーシングを備えた便座装置において、前記便ふたが閉じられた状態において便座装置の前方上方の人体を検知する第一の人体検知手段と、人体が該便座に着座していることを検知する着座検知手段と、前記便座が開かれた状態において便座装置の前方上方の人体を検知する第二の人体検知手段とを一体化した検知手段構造体を備えたことを特徴とする。
これにより、第一の人体検知手段、第二の人体検知手段および着座検知手段の三つを一体として、三つの検知手段を一つの検知窓に一体として取り付けることが出来るので、各検知手段毎につき検知窓を必要とせず、省スペース化を図ることが出来る。また、検知手段と検知窓との位置関係のバラツキに影響を受け易い検知性能のバラツキを抑えることが出来る。また、部品点数も少なくて済むので、製作のコストを低減することが出来る。
なお、一体化するには、本実施の形態にて詳説する単体の検知手段を検知窓のごとき別部品に組み込むセンサ組品のような構造の他、一つの検知手段に他の検知手段を連結して一体化する構造、樹脂一体成形品に各検知手段の投受光機構部を組み込んで一体物とする構造など、種々の構造で達成することが出来る。
【０００７】
請求項２記載の発明における便座装置は、便座、及び該便座の開閉を支持するケーシングを備えた便座装置において、前記便座が閉じられた状態において便座装置の前方上方の人体を検知する第一の人体検知手段と、人体が該便座に着座していることを検知する着座検知手段と、該便座が開かれた状態において便座装置の前方上方の人体を検知する第二の人体検知手段とを一体化した検知手段構造体を備えたことを特徴とする。
これにより、福祉設備の取り付けなどのために便ふたを有しない便座装置であっても、請求項１と同等の効果を得ることが出来る。
【０００８】
請求項３記載の発明における便座装置は、請求項１，２の検知手段構造体を、前記第一の人体検知手段を上段に、第二の人体検知手段を下段に、着座検知手段を中段に配置したことを特徴とする。
これにより、便ふたおよび便座が閉状態の時には上段に配置した第一の人体検知手段が便ふたの上部を通して便座装置の前方上方の人体を検知し、便ふたが開状態で便座が閉状態の時には中段に配置した着座検知手段が便ふたと便座の間を通して着座の状態を検知し、便ふたおよび便座が開状態の時には下段に配置した第二の人体検知手段が便座の下部を通して便座装置の前方上方の人体を検知することが出来る。また、簡単な構造で複数の検知手段の一体化を具現化することが出来る。
【０００９】
請求項４記載の発明における便座装置は、前記検知手段構造体は、前記第一の人体検知手段、第二の人体検知手段、着座検知手段を取り付け部材に組み込むことで一体化された組品であることを特徴とする。
これによれば、一つの取り付け部材に複数の検知手段を取り付けるので、各検知手段の検知性能にバラツキが出るのを抑えることが出来る。
【００１０】
請求項５記載の発明における便座装置は、前記取り付け部材は、各検知手段からの投光が透過する検知窓と一体であることを特徴とする。
これにより、検知手段と検知窓とを一体として、検知手段構造体を簡易な構造とすることが出来る。
【００１１】
請求項６記載の発明における便座装置は、前記検知手段構造体を、該便座装置本体のケーシング前面に配置したことを特徴とする。
これにより、スッキリ且つコンパクトで美しい袖なしのデザインあるいはローシルエットデザインをした便座装置に対しても請求項１の効果を適用出来る。
【００１２】
請求項７記載の発明における便座装置は、前記第一の人体検知手段を前記便ふたと同じ高さ乃至下方に配置したことを特徴とする。
これにより、スッキリ且つコンパクトで美しいローシルエットデザインをした便座装置に対して請求項１の効果を適用出来る。
【００１３】
請求項８記載の発明における便座装置は、前記第一の人体検知手段を前記便ふた乃至前記便座の回動中心よりも後方に配置したことを特徴とする。
これにより、便ふたおよび便座よりも下方に配置した人体検知手段が、便ふたおよび便座の外観を損なうことなく、閉じられた状態にある便ふたおよび便座に遮られることなく、便座装置の前方上方に赤外線を放つことが出来、便器先端付近の人体を検知することが出来る。
【００１４】
請求項９記載の発明における便座装置は、前記第一の人体検知手段および前記第二の人体検知手段を反射型の光電測距センサにより構成したことを特徴とする。
これにより、便座装置に対して使用者がどの程度近づいているのかを認識することが出来、よって使用者のトイレ使用の意思を判断することが出来る。
【００１５】
請求項１０記載の発明における便座装置は、前記第一の人体検知手段と前記第二の人体検知手段が同一構造であることを特徴とする。
これにより、同金型、同生産ラインにて製作した人体検知手段を第一および第二の人体検知手段に適用出来る為、金型や生産ラインも一つで済み、コストを低減出来る。
【００１６】
請求項１１記載の発明における便座装置は、前記着座検知手段を反射型の光電測距センサにより構成したことを特徴とする。
これにより、着座の意思を的確に判断することが出来る。
【００１７】
請求項１２記載の発明における便座装置は、前記検知窓の表面を前記ケーシングの表面よりも前記便座装置本体内部に凹ませた凹形状とすることを特徴とする。
これにより、例えば便ふたや便座の後端が、検知窓を含めたケーシング表面と、ある一定のクリアランスを設けて設計しても、便ふたや便座の自重などにより経年変化してクリアランスが無くなってしまい、便ふたや便座の開閉時に便ふたや便座の後端とケーシングの表面が接触してしまう場合でも、検知窓はケーシング表面よりも便座装置本体内部に凹んでいる為、検知窓が便ふたや便座の後端に接触し、傷が付くことを防ぐことが出来るので、人体検知手段あるいは着座検知手段の性能を損なうことなく確実に人体あるいは着座を検知することが出来る。
【００１８】
請求項１３記載の発明における便座装置は、少なくとも前記検知窓における前記着座検知手段の前方を前記ケーシング前面よりも前記便座装置本体内部に前記着座検知手段の検知出来る最近接距離以上凹ませた凹形状とすることを特徴とする。
検知窓に衣類が被った場合等、近点検知性能によっては衣類を検知しない場合があるが、これにより、ケーシング前面に衣類が被った場合でも、検知窓とケーシング前面を凹形状によって着座検知手段の検知出来る最近接距離以上隔てている為、検知窓に衣類が被ることはほとんどなく、確実に人体の着座を検知することが出来る。
【００１９】
請求項１４記載の発明における便座装置は、前記凹形状は、前記便ふたが閉位置にある状態における便ふた後端縁よりも下に配置したことを特徴とする。
これにより、便ふたおよび便座が閉状態にて人がトイレに入室する際に、凹形状が便ふたの下に隠れている為、デザイン性を損なうことなく確実に人体の着座を検知することが出来る。
【００２０】
請求項１５記載の発明における便座装置は、前記検知手段構造体には、投光レンズと前記検知窓までの投光空間と、受光レンズと該検知窓までの受光空間を隔てる遮光板を設け、前記検知窓は可視光遮断材であり前記遮光板は遮光材を用いた二色成形であるとし、前記遮光板は前記検知窓の内部にまで貫通させたことを特徴とする。
これにより、投光された赤外線が、投光空間から受光空間に漏れず、また、センサ窓に付着した水滴やごみによって乱反射して受光空間に到達することも無くなるので、誤検知を防ぐことが出来る。
【００２１】
請求項１６記載の発明における便座装置は、前記第一の人体検知手段乃至前記着座検知手段乃至前記第二の人体検知手段の検知領域の一部に干渉するように前記検知窓の一部に遮光材を配置したことを特徴とする。
これにより、第一の人体検知手段あるいは着座検知手段あるいは第二の人体検知手段の検知領域を狭めることで、検知領域と便ふたおよび便座の干渉を回避することが出来る。
【００２２】
請求項１７記載の発明における便座装置は、前記検知手段構造体であって前記第一の人体検知手段の上部にかさを設け、前記かさで前記第一の人体検知手段および前記着座検知手段および前記第二の人体検知手段を覆い、且つ前記かさの最下位置を前記第一の人体検知手段および前記着座検知手段および前記第二の人体検知手段よりも突出させたことを特徴とする。
これにより、例えば便座装置を掃除した際に検知窓の上方から水が入り込んだ場合や便座装置内部の結露水が検知手段の上方より落ちてきても、検知手段の被水を防ぐことが出来、検知手段の故障を防ぐことが出来る。
【００２３】
請求項１８記載の発明における便座装置は、第一の人体検知手段と前記着座検知手段と前記第二の人体検知手段を前記取り付け部材にスナップフィットで取り付けることを特徴とする。
これにより、検知窓と検知手段を別段の締結部材を用いずに簡単に締結出来る為、締結部材の部品点数も省け、コストを低減出来る。
【００２４】
請求項１９記載の発明における便座装置は、前記第一の人体検知手段と前記着座検知手段と前記第二の人体検知手段を前記取り付け部材にスナップフィットで取り付ける際の嵌合部となるスナップフィット爪部を、前記第一の人体検知手段と前記着座検知手段と前記第二の人体検知手段それぞれの側面に最低二ヶ所設け、且つ前記スナップフィット爪部の形状を異ならせたことを特徴とする。
これにより、中心より略対称の形状をした検知手段を取り付け部材に取り付ける際の誤組立を防止することが出来る。
【００２５】
請求項２０記載の発明における便座装置は、前記第一の人体検知手段と前記着座検知手段と前記第二の人体検知手段を、水平角を同一にし、仰角を任意の角度に配置したことを特徴とする。
これにより、取り付け部材を成形する際に、検知手段の前方と後方に型が抜ける構造とすることが出来る。その上で、スライドにより各取り付け部材のスナップフィット爪嵌合穴を形成することにより、各検知手段の目的に応じた照射方向に対して自由に検知手段を配置することが出来る。
【００２６】
【発明の実施の形態】
以下に本発明の具体的な実施例を、図１乃至図１５に基づいて詳細に説明する。
【００２７】
図１に示すようなローシルエットであって左右に袖の無いデザインの便座装置１において、便ふた２および便座３の各開閉状態における各センサの投光状態について説明する。
まず、図２のように便ふた２および便座３が閉じた状態においては、第一の人体検知センサ４の赤外線４−ａが閉じている便ふた２の上部を通過して便座装置１の前方上方に投光しており、人体の用便を待機する。人体が用便を足そうとして便座装置１にある一定の距離以内に近づき第一の人体検知センサ４の検知範囲内に入り込むと、第一の人体検知センサ４が人体を検知して、便ふた２を自動で開く。次に、図３のように便ふた２が開状態、便座３が閉状態においては、便ふた２の下部と便座３の上部の間から第一の人体検知センサ４の赤外線４−ａおよび着座センサ５の赤外線５−ａを投光して、人体の着座の有無を検知する。人体の着座を検知すると同時または後に便座装置１の制御を可能とする。次に、第一の場合として、人体が便座装置１に着座した場合には、着座センサ５が人体を検知する。人体が用便を終えて離座することで、まず着座センサ５が非検知となり、さらに人体が便座装置１から離れることで第一の人体検知センサ４も非検知となるので、その後に便ふた２を自動で閉める。また、第二の場合として、人体が立小便をする場合には、図４のように便座３も開かれることになるので、便ふた２および便座３の下部を通過して便座装置１の前方上方に第二の人体検知センサ６の赤外線６−ａを投光して便座装置１前の人体を検知する。人体の小用が終わり人体が便座装置１から離れて第二の人体検知センサ６が非検知となった後に便ふた２および便座３を自動で閉じる。
【００２８】
次に、第一の人体検知センサ４、着座センサ５、第二の人体検知センサ６およびセンサ窓７で構成するセンサ組品８に関して、各センサの配置およびセンサ窓７の形状について説明する。
センサ組品８は図１の便座装置１におけるところのケーシング前面９に配置している。センサ組品８中心の断面図を図５に示す。各センサは、上段に第一の人体検知センサ４、中段に着座センサ５、下段に第二の人体検知センサ６を三段重ねにして配置し、センサ窓７とはスナップフィット固定による一体で構成している。
便ふた２および便座３が閉状態では、図２のように第一の人体検知センサ４の赤外線４−ａを閉じている便ふた２の上部を通過して便座装置１の前方上方に投光する。また、便ふた２が開状態、便座３が閉状態では、図３のように便ふた２と便座３の間から第一の人体検知センサ４の赤外線４−ａおよび着座センサ５の赤外線５−ａを投光する。さらに、便ふた２および便座３が開状態では図４のように便ふた２および便座３の下部を通過して便座装置１の前方上方に第二の人体検知センサ６の赤外線６−ａを投光する。
【００２９】
次に、センサの構成について、図６を用いて説明する。センサは図６のように反射型の光電測距センサを用いており、発光素子１０、ＰＳＤ素子１１、回路基板１２及びそれらを覆う外郭ケース１３で構成され、発光素子１０及びＰＳＤ素子１１の前面にはそれぞれ投光レンズ１０−ａ、受光レンズ１１−ａが配置されている。またセンサはセンサ窓７から奥まって配置しており、その空間には発光素子１０からの光が直接ＰＳＤ素子１１に入らないように遮光板１４が設けられている。発光素子１０より投光された赤外線が検知対象物で反射した光をＰＳＤ素子１１が検知し、センサと検知対象物の距離を測定する。
【００３０】
このようにして、トイレを使用する意思のある人物に対して、各センサの検知信号に連動して便ふた２および便座３が自動で開閉することにより、例えば工事現場等で手を汚した人物がトイレを使用する、あるいは便ふた２に小水の飛び散り等の汚れが付着している等の際にも、手を汚すことなく用を足すことが出来て衛生的である。また、身体の不自由な人物に対しても、便ふた２を持ち上げるという動作を自動で行うことにより、腰など身体への負担をなくすことが出来る。
【００３１】
さて、本実施例の便座装置１においては、上段に第一の人体検知センサ４、中段に着座センサ５、下段に第二の人体検知センサ６を三段重ねに配置しており、便ふた２および便座３の各開閉状態に対して目的に適う投光を行うことが出来る。また、センサ窓７と各センサを一体とすることで、各センサとセンサ窓７のガタツキが小さく、各センサから投光される赤外線の方向のバラツキを低減出来て性能を確保することが出来る。さらに、三つのセンサを一つのセンサ窓７に一体として取り付けることで、各センサ毎につきセンサ窓を必要とせず、省スペース化を図ることが出来る。また、部品点数も少なくて済むので、製作のコストを低減することが出来る。
【００３２】
ここで、本実施例では、便ふた２を備えた便座装置１としているが、例えば背もたれ等の福祉設備設置に伴い便ふた２を便座装置１から取り外した状態でも、上記効果を得ることが出来る。
【００３３】
また、本実施例ではセンサ組品８を便座装置１のケーシング前面９に配置しており、これは例えば本実施例のような袖なしデザインやローシルエットデザインを有する便座装置に対して、上記効果を得ることが出来る。
【００３４】
ここで、センサ組品８の上段に配置した第一の人体検知センサ４を、図２（ｂ）のように閉状態にある便ふた２の後端縁２−ａよりも下に配置しており、これは例えば本実施例のようなローシルエットデザインを有する便座装置に対して、上記効果を得ることが出来る。
【００３５】
また、第一の人体検知センサ４を、便ふた２および便座３の回動中心１５よりも後部に配置している。図７（ａ）のように、第一の人体検知センサ４を、便ふた２および便座３の回動中心１５よりも後部に配置した場合には、赤外線４−ａを便ふた後端縁２−ａの上方に通すことが出来る。一方で、図７（ｂ）のように、第一の人体検知センサ４を、便ふた２および便座３の回動中心１５よりも前部に配置した場合には、便座装置１の前側上方を照射しようとすると便ふた後端部２−ａが回避出来ず、赤外線４−ａを通すために便ふた２の後端部に切り欠き１６を入れる等の工夫が必要であり、この場合、外観上不恰好となってしまう。その為、第一の人体検知センサ４を、便ふた２および便座３の回動中心１５よりも後部に配置するとよい。
【００３６】
しかし、上記配置としても、便ふた２と便座３が所要の位置にある場合にデザイン収納上各センサの検知領域の一部が便ふた２乃至便座３に干渉してしまう場合がある。例えば便ふた２が開状態で便座３が閉状態にある場合にデザイン収納上着座センサ５の検知領域の一部が便ふたの後端縁２−ａ乃至便座の後端縁３−ａに干渉してしまう場合を考える。その時には図８のように着座センサ５の検知領域の一部に干渉するようにセンサ窓７の一部に遮光部材７−ａを配置してもよい。これにより、検知領域が便ふたの後端縁２−ａ乃至便座の後端縁３−ａと干渉しないよう、センサ窓７の一部に遮光部材７−ａを配置して着座センサ５の検知領域を狭めることで、検知領域と便ふたの後端縁２−ａ乃至便座の後端縁３−ａとの干渉を回避することが出来る。これは一例であるが、便ふた２と便座３がその他の所要の位置にある場合にも同様に適用出来る。
【００３７】
第一の人体検知センサ４、着座センサ５や第二の人体検知センサ６としては人体の距離を検知することの可能な反射型の光電測距センサがよい。例えば光電光量式センサや焦電センサでは、便座装置１本体と人体の距離が不安定であり、例えばトイレ清掃時やタオル、トイレットペーパーの交換等、用足し以外の目的でトイレに入室した際にも便ふた２および便座３が不本意にも自動で開いてしまう等の不都合が考えられる。一方で、センサとして光電測距式のセンサを用いることで、便座装置１本体と人体の距離をセンサで把握し、用足しに必要であると設定した便座装置１と人体との距離以内である場合のみ、入室者のトイレ使用の意思あるいは着座の意思があると判断して便ふた２および便座３を自動で開閉することが出来る。
【００３８】
ここで、第一の人体検知センサ４と第二の人体検知センサ６は同種のものであるほうが望ましい。これにより、同金型、同生産ラインにて製作した人体検知センサを第一の人体検知センサ４および第二の人体検知センサ６に適用出来る為、金型や生産ラインも一つで済み、コストを低減することが出来る。
【００３９】
ここで、センサ窓７の表面はケーシング前面９よりも便座装置１本体内部に凹ませている。例えば図９（ａ）のように、便ふた後端縁２−ａと、センサ窓７を含むケーシング前面９に、一定のクリアランスを設けた設計において、便ふた２の自重により便ふた２の回動中心１５が経年とともに降下した場合等において、図９（ｂ）のように便ふた後端縁２−ａとケーシング前面９のクリアランスが無くなってしまい、両者が接触してしまうことが考えられる。このような場合、図９（ｃ）のようにセンサ窓７がケーシング前面９と面一である若しくはセンサ窓７がケーシング前面９よりも突出しているとなると、便ふた後端縁２−ａがセンサ窓７と接触してしまい、センサ窓７に傷が付くことで、各センサの性能を大きく損なうことになる。そこで、センサ窓７を図９（ｄ）のようにケーシング前面９よりも奥めて配置しておけば、便ふた後端縁２−ａが接触するのはケーシング前面９となり、センサ窓７との接触を避けることが出来、センサ窓７に傷が付かない為、各センサの性能を損なうことなく確実に人体あるいは着座を検知することが出来る。
【００４０】
また、センサ窓７の着座センサ５前部に図５のように便座装置１本体のケーシング前面９よりも凹ませた凹部１７を設けている。光電測距センサは検知距離において上限と下限を持つ為、検知対象物の色や材質によっては、センサ窓７と検知対象物の距離が検知可能距離下限以下である場合には検知対象物を検知することが出来ない場合がある。この為、本実施例のようにセンサ組品８をケーシング前面９に配置した状況において人体が便座装置１に着座した場合には、人体が着用している衣類等が便座装置１本体のケーシング前面９に被ってしまい、センサ窓７と検知対象物である衣類が密着することで、衣類を検知出来ない場合がある。しかし本実施例のようにセンサ窓７の着座センサ５前部を便座装置１本体のケーシング前面９よりも凹ますことによってセンサ窓７と衣類の密着を防ぐことにより、センサ窓７と衣類の距離を検知可能距離下限以上に確保することが出来、人体の着座を確実に検知して誤動作を防止することが出来る。この場合、センサ窓７を凹ませている為、凹部１７に衣類が侵入してしまうことも考えられるので、センサ窓７の凹ます距離は衣類の浸入想定距離も考慮して設定することが望ましい。また、センサ窓７の着座センサ５前部を凹ますことにより、便座装置１の外観が損なわれることが考えられる。その為本実施例では、図１０のように凹部１７の上端１７−ａを、閉状態にある便ふた２の後端縁２−ａよりも下に配置している。これにより、少なくとも便ふた２および便座３が閉状態にある場合に人体がトイレに入室しても、凹部１７が便ふた２に隠れる為、外観上の不恰好さを防ぐことが出来る。
【００４１】
また、センサ窓７は可視光遮断材であり、投光レンズ１０−ａとセンサ窓７までの投光空間１０−ｂと、受光レンズ１１−ａとセンサ窓７までの受光空間１１−ｂとを隔てる遮光板１４、および取り付け部材１８は遮光材を用いた二色成形であるとしている。図１１のように、センサ窓７を可視光遮断材とし、遮光板１４および取り付け部材１８を遮光材とした二色成形とすることにより、投光空間１０−ｂ、受光空間１１−ｂおよび外部での赤外線の行き来が無くなる為、誤検知を防ぐことが出来る。
【００４２】
さらに遮光板１４はセンサ窓７の内部にまで貫通させている。遮光板１４がセンサ窓７を貫通していない場合、図１２（ａ）のように投光された赤外線がセンサ窓７に付着した水滴やごみによってセンサ窓７内で乱反射して受光空間１１−ｂに到達してしまい、誤検知して誤動作を招く恐れがある。しかし図１２（ｂ）のように遮光板１４をセンサ窓７に貫通させることで、投光された赤外線がセンサ窓７内で乱反射して受光空間１１−ｂに到達することを防ぐことが出来るので、誤検知を防ぐことが出来る。
【００４３】
なお、取り付け部材１８において上段に配置した第一の人体検知センサ４の上部に図１３のようにかさ１９を設け、かさ最下位置１９−ａの真下には第一の人体検知センサ４、着座センサ５および第二の人体検知センサ６を配置しないように配置している。これにより、例えば便座装置１本体内部の結露水や小水の飛び散りが便座本体１内部に侵入した場合等にセンサ組品８上部から液体が滴った場合でも、液体がかさ１９に滴下してかさ最下位置１９−ａまで伝い、かさ最下位置１９−ａより真下に滴下するので、液体が各センサに被水することがなく、各センサの故障を防ぐことが出来る。
【００４４】
ここで、本実施例では図１４（ｂ）のようにセンサ窓７と一体で成形したセンサ取り付け部材１８に図１４（ａ）のような各センサをスナップフィットで取り付ける構造としている。これにより、別途締結部材を用いずにセンサ窓７と各センサを簡単に一体化することが出来る。その為、各センサとセンサ窓７のガタツキが小さく、各センサから投光される赤外線の方向のバラツキを低減出来て性能を確保することを可能にする。また、三つのセンサを一つの取り付け部材１８およびセンサ窓７に一体として取り付けることで、各センサ毎につき取り付け部材およびセンサ窓を必要とせず、省スペース化を図ることを可能にする。また、部品点数も少なくて済むので、製作のコストを低減することを可能にする。また、スナップフィット爪２０およびスナップフィット穴２１は各センサの側面左右および取り付け部材１８の左右側面に設けているが、この時、左右のスナップフィット爪２０およびスナップフィット穴２１の形状は図１４のように異ならせることが望ましい。これにより、センサ組品８の組立時にセンサの上下を逆にして取り付けてしまう等の誤組立を防止することが出来、性能を確保することが出来る。あるいは各センサの裏面に刻印を配置し、検査工程の中で刻印の向きを確認することによって誤組立を防止してもよい。
【００４５】
また、本実施例では各センサにおけるところの便座装置１の前後方向からの左右への角度を示す水平角は同一としている。これにより、図１５（ａ）のようにセンサ取り付け部材１８を水平角方向に揃えることが出来、金型構成上、センサ窓７とセンサ取り付け部材１８の一体成形をセンサ取り付け部材１８と同一の方向に簡単に型抜きを行うことが出来る。その際各センサにおけるところの便座装置１の前後方向からの上方への角度を示す仰角については、センサ取り付け部材１８に対して垂直方向へのスライドにて図１５（ｂ）のように各センサの仰角に対応したスナップフィット穴２１を型抜きし、また、各センサの前面で位置決めする為の位置決めリブ２２を図１４（ｂ）のようにセンサ窓７裏側に設けることで、各センサの仰角を照射目的に応じて自由に設定することが出来る。
【００４６】
さらに、本実施例では各センサの検知に対して、便ふた２および便座３を自動で開閉することを念頭に置いているが、その他にも便座装置１本体の人体を検知することにより、トイレ環境を制御してもよい。これにより、トイレ入室時に便座装置に近づくだけで、例えば換気、脱臭、節電解除、照明点灯、暖房、冷房、音響等の便利な、快適な機能を作動させることが出来る。
【００４７】
さらに、また、便座装置１の制御は着座センサ５が人体の着座を検知した後に制御可能とすることが望ましい。例えばトイレ掃除の際に暖房便座の設定温度や衛生洗浄便座の吐水ボタンなどを間違えて押してしまっても、着座検知による用便の意思が無い限り便座装置１を作動させないことで誤操作を防ぐことが出来、安全性を保つことが出来る。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の便座装置の外観図である。
【図２】本発明の便座装置における便ふたおよび便座が閉状態であるときの投光の様子を示す外観図（ａ）と、その時のセンサ断面図（ｂ）である。
【図３】本発明の便座装置における便ふたが開状態であり便座が閉状態であるときの投光の様子を示す外観図（ａ）と、その時のセンサ断面図（ｂ）である。
【図４】本発明の便座装置における便ふたおよび便座が開状態であるときの投光の様子を示す外観図（ａ）と、その時のセンサ断面図（ｂ）である。
【図５】本発明の便座装置のセンサ組品の断面図である。
【図６】光量測距センサの構成を示す図である。
【図７】本発明の便座装置の前後に関するセンサ配置を説明する図である。
【図８】本発明のセンサ組品において、センサ窓に遮光部材を配置した時の検知領域と遮光部材によって遮光される領域を示した模式図の断面図である。
【図９】本発明のセンサ窓およびケーシング前面と便ふた後端の接触を示す断面図である。
【図１０】本発明の便座装置のセンサ組品とその近傍の断面図である。
【図１１】本発明の便座装置のセンサ窓と取り付け部材および遮光板の二色成形の各部を色分けした図である。
【図１２】本発明の便座装置のセンサ組品の遮光板とセンサ窓の配置を示した図である。
【図１３】本発明のセンサ組品の側面図である。
【図１４】センサの正面図（ａ）と本発明のセンサ組品の後斜視図（ｂ）である。
【図１５】本発明のセンサ組品を上から見た図（ａ）および左側面から見た図（ｂ）である。
【図１６】従来の便座装置のセンサ配置箇所を示す図である。
【符号の説明】
１：　便座装置
２：　便ふた
３：　便座
４：　第一の人体検知センサ
５：　着座センサ
６：　第二の人体検知センサ
７：　センサ窓
８：　センサ組品
９：　ケーシング前面
１０：　発光素子
１１：　ＰＳＤ素子
１２：　回路基板
１３：　外郭ケース
１４：　遮光板
１５：　回動中心
１６：　切り欠き
１７：　凹部
１８：　取り付け部材
１９：　かさ
２０：　スナップフィット爪
２１：　スナップフィット穴
２２：　位置決めリブ[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a human body detecting means for detecting a human body in front of a toilet, a seating detecting means for detecting a seating of a human body, and a toilet environment (toilet seat and toilet lid posture, indoor lighting) based on signals from the human body detecting means and the seating detecting means. , Deodorization start, toilet seat temperature, etc.).
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known a toilet seat device that includes a human body detection sensor and automatically opens and closes a toilet lid and a toilet seat. In this device, for example, in the example described in Patent Document 1, a first human body detection sensor 4 is provided at a portion that is opened forward when the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 are closed as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 16A, the human body is detected and the toilet lid 2 is automatically opened. In addition, a second human body detection sensor 6 is provided at a portion that is opened forward when the toilet lid 2 or the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 are in the open state, and confirms the presence or absence of a human body as shown in FIG. The toilet lid 2 or the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 are automatically closed. Further, when the toilet lid 2 is in the open state and the toilet seat 3 is in the closed state, there is provided a seating detecting means 5 for detecting whether or not the human body is sitting on the toilet seat 3, and as shown in FIG. Was tracking their actions and performing precise control.
Thus, the person who intends to use the toilet can automatically open and close the toilet lid and the toilet seat in conjunction with the signal of the human body detecting means. Therefore, for example, when a person who has dirty hands at the construction site uses the toilet, or when the toilet lid has dirt such as splashing of small water, etc. It is made and sanitary. Also, even for a person with a physical disability, the burden on the body such as the waist can be eliminated by automatically performing the operation of opening and closing the stool lid.
[0003]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Patent No. 3201715
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the above-mentioned conventional toilet seat device, the first human body detecting means, the second human body detecting means, and the seating detecting means are separately mounted at respective positions of the toilet seat device, and the first human body detecting means, the mounting member of the detecting means, and the detecting means are projected. Members to be provided in the detection means, such as a detection window that transmits light to be emitted, must also be individually arranged for the first human body detection means, the second human body detection means, and the seating detection means. There is a problem that the storage space is widened, the number of parts is increased, and the manufacturing cost is increased.
[0005]
Therefore, in the present invention, to solve the above-mentioned problem in the toilet seat device, that is, the first human body detecting means, the second human body detecting means and the seating detecting means in one place to save space and reduce the number of parts. It is intended to reduce the manufacturing cost.
[0006]
Means, actions, and effects for solving the problem
A toilet seat device according to claim 1, comprising a toilet lid, a toilet seat, and a casing that supports opening and closing of the toilet lid and the toilet seat, wherein the toilet lid device is located in front of the toilet seat device when the toilet lid is closed. First human body detecting means for detecting a human body, a seating detecting means for detecting that the human body is sitting on the toilet seat, and a second human body for detecting a human body in front of the toilet seat device when the toilet seat is open. It is characterized by comprising a detecting means structure in which the two human body detecting means are integrated.
Thereby, the first human body detecting means, the second human body detecting means, and the seating detecting means can be integrally formed, and the three detecting means can be integrally mounted on one detecting window. No detection window is required, and space can be saved. Further, it is possible to suppress a variation in detection performance that is easily affected by a variation in the positional relationship between the detection unit and the detection window. Also, the number of parts can be reduced, so that the manufacturing cost can be reduced.
In addition, in order to integrate, in addition to a structure such as a sensor assembly in which a single detection unit described in detail in this embodiment is incorporated into another component such as a detection window, another detection unit is connected to one detection unit. It can be achieved by various structures, such as a structure in which the light emitting and receiving mechanisms of the respective detecting means are integrated into a resin-integrated molded product.
[0007]
A toilet seat device according to a second aspect of the present invention is a toilet seat device including a toilet seat and a casing that supports opening and closing of the toilet seat, wherein a first body that detects a human body in front of the toilet seat device when the toilet seat is closed. Human body detecting means, seating detecting means for detecting that a human body is sitting on the toilet seat, and second human body detecting means for detecting a human body in front of the toilet seat device when the toilet seat is open are integrated. And a detecting means structure.
Thus, even if the toilet seat device does not have a toilet lid for attaching a welfare facility, the same effect as that of the first aspect can be obtained.
[0008]
In the toilet seat device according to the third aspect of the present invention, the detecting means structures of the first and second aspects are arranged such that the first human body detecting means is in the upper stage, the second human body detecting means is in the lower stage, and the seating detecting means is in the middle stage. It is characterized by being arranged.
Thereby, when the toilet lid and the toilet seat are in the closed state, the first human body detecting means arranged in the upper stage detects a human body in front of the toilet seat device through the upper part of the toilet lid, and the toilet seat is in the open state and the toilet seat is in the closed state. Sometimes the seat detection means arranged in the middle section detects the state of seating between the toilet lid and the toilet seat, and when the toilet lid and the toilet seat are in the open state, the second human body detection means arranged in the lower section passes through the lower part of the toilet seat and the A human body in the upper front can be detected. Further, integration of a plurality of detection means can be realized with a simple structure.
[0009]
In the toilet seat device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the detecting means structure is an assembly in which the first human body detecting means, the second human body detecting means, and the seating detecting means are integrated into a mounting member. There is a feature.
According to this, since a plurality of detecting means are mounted on one mounting member, it is possible to suppress a variation in detection performance of each detecting means.
[0010]
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the toilet seat device, the attachment member is integrated with a detection window through which light emitted from each detection unit is transmitted.
Thereby, the detection means and the detection window can be integrated, and the detection means structure can have a simple structure.
[0011]
A toilet seat device according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the detecting means structure is disposed on a front surface of a casing of the toilet seat device main body.
Thus, the effect of claim 1 can be applied to a toilet seat device having a clean, compact, beautiful sleeveless design or a low silhouette design.
[0012]
The toilet seat device according to the invention of claim 7 is characterized in that the first human body detecting means is arranged at the same height or lower than the toilet lid.
Thereby, the effect of claim 1 can be applied to a toilet seat device having a clean, compact and beautiful low silhouette design.
[0013]
The toilet seat device according to the eighth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the first human body detecting means is disposed behind the center of rotation of the toilet lid or the toilet seat.
Thereby, the human body detecting means disposed below the toilet lid and the toilet seat can be positioned above the front of the toilet seat device without impairing the appearance of the toilet lid and the toilet seat and without being blocked by the closed toilet lid and the toilet seat. Can emit infrared light to the human body near the tip of the toilet.
[0014]
According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the toilet seat device, the first human body detecting means and the second human body detecting means are configured by a reflection type photoelectric ranging sensor.
As a result, it is possible to recognize how close the user is to the toilet seat device, and it is possible to determine the user's intention to use the toilet.
[0015]
In the toilet seat apparatus according to the tenth aspect, the first human body detecting means and the second human body detecting means have the same structure.
Thereby, since the human body detecting means manufactured on the same mold and the same production line can be applied to the first and second human body detecting means, only one mold and one production line are required, and the cost can be reduced.
[0016]
An eleventh aspect of the present invention is the toilet seat device, wherein the seating detecting means is constituted by a reflection-type photoelectric ranging sensor.
Thereby, it is possible to accurately determine the intention of sitting.
[0017]
The toilet seat device according to the twelfth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the surface of the detection window has a concave shape that is recessed inside the toilet seat device main body from the surface of the casing.
Thus, for example, even if the rear end of the toilet lid or toilet seat is designed with a certain clearance provided between the casing surface including the detection window and the clearance, the clearance changes over time due to the weight of the toilet lid and toilet seat, and the clearance is lost. Even if the lid of the toilet seat or the toilet seat comes into contact with the rear surface of the casing when opening or closing the toilet lid or the seat, the detection window is recessed in the toilet seat body from the surface of the casing. And the rear end of the toilet seat can be prevented from being scratched, so that the human body or the seat can be reliably detected without impairing the performance of the human body detecting means or the sitting detecting means.
[0018]
14. The toilet seat device according to claim 13, wherein at least the front of the seating detection means in the detection window is recessed in the toilet seat device body more than the closest distance detectable by the seating detection means inside the toilet seat device main body from the front surface of the casing. It is characterized by the following.
There is a case where clothes are not detected depending on the near-point detection performance, such as when clothes are covered on the detection window, but even when clothes are covered on the front surface of the casing, the detection window and the front surface of the casing are recessed so that the seating detection means. , The clothing is hardly covered by the detection window, and the seating of the human body can be reliably detected.
[0019]
In the toilet seat apparatus according to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the concave shape is disposed below a rear end edge of the toilet lid when the toilet lid is in the closed position.
With this, when a person enters the toilet with the toilet lid and toilet seat closed, the concave shape is hidden under the toilet lid, so it is possible to reliably detect the seating of the human body without impairing the design. I can do it.
[0020]
The toilet seat device according to claim 15, wherein the detecting means structure is provided with a light projecting lens and a light projecting space up to the detection window, and a light shielding plate separating the light receiving lens and the light receiving space up to the detection window, The detection window is a visible light shielding material, and the light shielding plate is formed by two-color molding using a light shielding material, and the light shielding plate is penetrated to the inside of the detection window.
As a result, the emitted infrared light does not leak from the light-emitting space to the light-receiving space, and does not reach the light-receiving space due to water droplets or dust adhering to the sensor window, thereby preventing erroneous detection. I can do it.
[0021]
The toilet seat device according to the invention of claim 16, wherein a part of the detection window is shielded from light so as to interfere with a part of a detection area of the first human body detection unit to the seat detection unit to the second human body detection unit. The material is arranged.
Thus, by narrowing the detection area of the first human body detecting means, the seating detecting means, or the second human body detecting means, it is possible to avoid interference between the detection area and the toilet lid and the toilet seat.
[0022]
The toilet seat device according to claim 17, wherein the detection means structure is provided with a bulk above the first human body detection means, and the first human body detection means, the seating detection means, and the The second human body detecting means is covered, and the lowermost position of the bulk is made to protrude more than the first human body detecting means, the seating detecting means, and the second human body detecting means.
Thereby, for example, when water enters from above the detection window when the toilet seat device is cleaned, or even when dew water inside the toilet seat device drops from above the detection unit, it is possible to prevent the detection unit from being wet, Failure of the detection means can be prevented.
[0023]
An eighteenth aspect of the present invention is the toilet seat device, wherein the first human body detecting means, the seating detecting means, and the second human body detecting means are mounted on the mounting member by snap fitting.
Thus, since the detection window and the detection means can be easily fastened without using a separate fastening member, the number of parts of the fastening member can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced.
[0024]
20. The toilet seat device according to claim 19, wherein the first human body detecting means, the seating detecting means, and the second human body detecting means are snap-fit claws serving as fitting portions when snap-fitting the mounting member. At least two portions are provided on the side surfaces of the first human body detecting means, the seating detecting means, and the second human body detecting means, respectively, and the shapes of the snap fit claws are different.
As a result, it is possible to prevent erroneous assembly when the detection means having a substantially symmetric shape from the center is attached to the attachment member.
[0025]
The toilet seat device according to the twentieth aspect is characterized in that the first human body detecting means, the seating detecting means, and the second human body detecting means have the same horizontal angle and are arranged at an arbitrary elevation angle. And
Thereby, when the mounting member is formed, a structure can be provided in which the mold comes off in front of and behind the detecting means. Then, by forming a snap-fit claw fitting hole of each mounting member by sliding, the detecting means can be freely arranged in the irradiation direction according to the purpose of each detecting means.
[0026]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.
[0027]
The light emitting state of each sensor in the open / closed state of the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 in the toilet seat device 1 having a low silhouette as shown in FIG. 1 and having no left and right sleeves will be described.
First, in a state where the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 are closed as shown in FIG. 2, the infrared ray 4-a of the first human body detection sensor 4 passes through the upper part of the closed toilet lid 2 and the front of the toilet seat device 1. The light is emitted upward, and waits for the stool of the human body. When the human body approaches the toilet seat device 1 within a certain distance to enter the toilet and enters the detection range of the first human body detection sensor 4, the first human body detection sensor 4 detects the human body and the stool lid. Open 2 automatically. Next, as shown in FIG. 3, when the toilet lid 2 is in the open state and the toilet seat 3 is in the closed state, the infrared ray 4-a of the first human body detection sensor 4 and the seating are located between the lower part of the toilet lid 2 and the upper part of the toilet seat 3. The infrared ray 5-a of the sensor 5 is emitted to detect whether or not a human body is seated. The control of the toilet seat device 1 is enabled at the same time or after detecting the seating of the human body. Next, as a first case, when the human body is seated on the toilet seat device 1, the seating sensor 5 detects the human body. When the human body finishes the toilet and separates, the seating sensor 5 becomes non-detected first, and when the human body separates from the toilet seat device 1, the first human body detection sensor 4 also becomes non-detected. Close 2 automatically. Further, as a second case, when the human body performs standing urination, the toilet seat 3 is also opened as shown in FIG. 4, so that the toilet seat 2 passes through the lower portion of the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 and is in front of the toilet seat device 1. The infrared ray 6-a of the second human body detection sensor 6 is projected upward to detect a human body in front of the toilet seat device 1. After the small use of the human body ends, the human body separates from the toilet seat device 1 and the second human body detection sensor 6 is not detected, and then the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 are automatically closed.
[0028]
Next, regarding the sensor assembly 8 including the first human body detection sensor 4, the seating sensor 5, the second human body detection sensor 6, and the sensor window 7, the arrangement of each sensor and the shape of the sensor window 7 will be described.
The sensor assembly 8 is arranged on the casing front surface 9 in the toilet seat device 1 of FIG. FIG. 5 shows a sectional view of the center of the sensor assembly 8. Each sensor has a first human body detection sensor 4 at the upper stage, a seating sensor 5 at the middle stage, and a second human body detection sensor 6 at the lower stage in a three-tiered configuration, and is integrally formed with the sensor window 7 by snap-fit fixing. are doing.
When the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 are in the closed state, the light passes through the upper portion of the toilet lid 2 that closes the infrared ray 4-a of the first human body detection sensor 4 as shown in FIG. I do. When the toilet lid 2 is in the open state and the toilet seat 3 is in the closed state, the infrared ray 4-a of the first human body detection sensor 4 and the infrared ray 5-a of the seating sensor 5 are provided between the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 as shown in FIG. a is emitted. Further, when the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 are in the open state, the infrared ray 6-a of the second human body detection sensor 6 passes through the lower part of the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 and is in front of the toilet seat device 1 as shown in FIG. Light.
[0029]
Next, the configuration of the sensor will be described with reference to FIG. The sensor uses a reflection-type photoelectric ranging sensor as shown in FIG. 6 and includes a light emitting element 10, a PSD element 11, a circuit board 12, and an outer case 13 covering them. Are provided with a light projecting lens 10-a and a light receiving lens 11-a, respectively. Further, the sensor is disposed deeper than the sensor window 7, and a light shielding plate 14 is provided in the space so that light from the light emitting element 10 does not directly enter the PSD element 11. The PSD element 11 detects the light reflected from the detection target by the infrared light emitted from the light emitting element 10, and measures the distance between the sensor and the detection target.
[0030]
In this way, for a person who intends to use the toilet, the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 automatically open and close in conjunction with the detection signal of each sensor, and thus, for example, a person whose hands are soiled at a construction site or the like. However, even when the toilet is used, or when dirt such as splashing of small water is attached to the stool lid 2, it can be used without soiling the hands, which is sanitary. Further, even for a person with a physical disability, the operation of lifting the stool lid 2 is automatically performed, so that the burden on the body such as the waist can be eliminated.
[0031]
Now, in the toilet seat device 1 of the present embodiment, the first human body detection sensor 4 is arranged in the upper stage, the seating sensor 5 is arranged in the middle stage, and the second human body detection sensor 6 is arranged in the lower stage in a three-stage stack. In addition, it is possible to perform light emission suitable for each purpose with respect to each open / close state of the toilet seat 3. In addition, by integrating the sensor window 7 and each sensor, the backlash between each sensor and the sensor window 7 is small, and the variation in the direction of infrared rays emitted from each sensor can be reduced, so that the performance can be secured. Furthermore, by attaching three sensors integrally to one sensor window 7, a sensor window is not required for each sensor, and space can be saved. Also, the number of parts can be reduced, so that the manufacturing cost can be reduced.
[0032]
Here, in the present embodiment, the toilet seat device 1 is provided with the toilet lid 2, but the above-described effect can be obtained even when the toilet lid 2 is detached from the toilet seat device 1 due to installation of welfare facilities such as a backrest. .
[0033]
Further, in this embodiment, the sensor assembly 8 is arranged on the front surface 9 of the casing of the toilet seat device 1. This is advantageous for a toilet seat device having a sleeveless design or a low silhouette design as in this embodiment. Can be obtained.
[0034]
Here, the first human body detection sensor 4 arranged in the upper stage of the sensor assembly 8 is arranged below the rear end edge 2-a of the toilet lid 2 in the closed state as shown in FIG. Thus, the above-described effect can be obtained for a toilet seat device having a low silhouette design as in the present embodiment, for example.
[0035]
In addition, the first human body detection sensor 4 is disposed behind the center of rotation 15 of the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3. As shown in FIG. 7A, when the first human body detection sensor 4 is disposed behind the center of rotation 15 of the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3, infrared rays 4-a are transmitted to the rear edge 2 of the toilet lid. -A. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 7B, when the first human body detection sensor 4 is disposed in front of the rotation center 15 of the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3, the front upper side of the toilet seat device 1 is moved upward. If irradiation is attempted, the rear end 2-a of the stool lid cannot be avoided, and it is necessary to devise a notch 16 at the rear end of the stool lid 2 to pass infrared rays 4-a. It will be awkward. Therefore, the first human body detection sensor 4 may be arranged at a position rearward of the center of rotation 15 of the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3.
[0036]
However, even in the above arrangement, when the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 are at required positions, a part of the detection area of each sensor may interfere with the toilet lid 2 to the toilet seat 3 in design storage. For example, when the toilet lid 2 is open and the toilet seat 3 is closed, a part of the detection area of the design storage upper seating sensor 5 interferes with the rear edge 2-a of the toilet lid or the rear edge 3-a of the toilet seat. Think about the case. At that time, a light shielding member 7-a may be arranged in a part of the sensor window 7 so as to interfere with a part of the detection area of the seating sensor 5 as shown in FIG. Thus, the light shielding member 7-a is disposed in a part of the sensor window 7 so that the detection area does not interfere with the rear end edge 2-a of the toilet lid or the rear end edge 3-a of the toilet seat, and the detection of the seating sensor 5 is performed. By narrowing the area, it is possible to avoid interference between the detection area and the rear edge 2-a of the toilet lid or the rear edge 3-a of the toilet seat. Although this is an example, the present invention can be similarly applied to a case where the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 are at other required positions.
[0037]
As the first human body detection sensor 4, the sitting sensor 5, and the second human body detection sensor 6, a reflection-type photoelectric ranging sensor capable of detecting the distance of a human body is preferable. For example, in the case of a photoelectric light sensor or a pyroelectric sensor, the distance between the body of the toilet seat device 1 and the human body is unstable, such as when cleaning the toilet or replacing towels and toilet paper, and when entering the toilet for purposes other than addition. There may be inconveniences such as the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 being unintentionally and automatically opened. On the other hand, by using a photoelectric ranging sensor as a sensor, the distance between the body of the toilet seat device 1 and the human body is grasped by the sensor, and the distance is within the distance between the toilet seat device 1 and the human body which is set to be necessary for adding. Only the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 can be automatically opened and closed by judging that the occupant intends to use the toilet or to sit down.
[0038]
Here, it is desirable that the first human body detection sensor 4 and the second human body detection sensor 6 are of the same type. As a result, since the human body detection sensor manufactured on the same mold and the same production line can be applied to the first human body detection sensor 4 and the second human body detection sensor 6, only one mold and one production line are required, and the cost is reduced. Can be reduced.
[0039]
Here, the surface of the sensor window 7 is recessed into the body of the toilet seat device 1 more than the front surface 9 of the casing. For example, as shown in FIG. 9A, in a design in which a fixed clearance is provided between the rear end edge 2-a of the toilet lid and the front surface 9 of the casing including the sensor window 7, the toilet lid 2 is turned by its own weight. In the case where the moving center 15 is lowered with the passage of time, for example, as shown in FIG. 9B, the clearance between the rear end edge 2-a of the toilet lid and the casing front surface 9 is lost, and the two may come into contact with each other. In such a case, if the sensor window 7 is flush with the front surface 9 of the casing as shown in FIG. When the sensor window 7 comes into contact with the sensor window 7 and is damaged, the performance of each sensor is greatly impaired. Therefore, if the sensor window 7 is disposed deeper than the front surface 9 of the casing as shown in FIG. 9D, the rear edge 2-a of the toilet lid contacts the front surface 9 of the casing, and the sensor window 7 and Contact can be avoided and the sensor window 7 is not damaged, so that the human body or sitting can be reliably detected without impairing the performance of each sensor.
[0040]
In addition, a recess 17 is provided in the front of the seating sensor 5 of the sensor window 7 as shown in FIG. Since the photoelectric ranging sensor has an upper limit and a lower limit in the detection distance, depending on the color and material of the detection target, the detection target is detected when the distance between the sensor window 7 and the detection target is less than the lower limit of the detectable distance. May not be possible. For this reason, when the human body sits on the toilet seat device 1 in a situation where the sensor assembly 8 is arranged on the front surface 9 of the casing as in the present embodiment, the clothes and the like worn by the human body are removed from the front surface of the casing of the body of the toilet seat device 1. 9, the clothing may not be detected because the sensor window 7 and the clothing to be detected are in close contact with each other. However, as in the present embodiment, the front portion of the seating sensor 5 of the sensor window 7 is recessed from the front surface 9 of the casing of the body of the toilet seat device 1 to prevent the sensor window 7 and the clothing from sticking to each other. Can be secured to be equal to or longer than the lower limit of the detectable distance, and the seating of the human body can be reliably detected to prevent malfunction. In this case, since the sensor window 7 is recessed, clothing may enter the recess 17. Therefore, it is preferable that the recessed distance of the sensor window 7 be set in consideration of the estimated distance of clothing penetration. . Further, it is conceivable that the appearance of the toilet seat device 1 is impaired by recessing the front portion of the seating sensor 5 of the sensor window 7. Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the upper end 17-a of the concave portion 17 is arranged below the rear end edge 2-a of the toilet lid 2 in the closed state. Thereby, even when a human body enters the toilet when at least the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 are in the closed state, the concave portion 17 is hidden by the toilet lid 2, so that the appearance can be prevented from being awkward.
[0041]
The sensor window 7 is a visible light blocking material, and includes a light projecting lens 10-a and a light projecting space 10-b up to the sensor window 7, a light receiving lens 11-a and a light receiving space 11-b up to the sensor window 7. It is assumed that the light shielding plate 14 and the mounting member 18 separating the two are formed by two-color molding using a light shielding material. As shown in FIG. 11, the sensor window 7 is made of two-color molding using a visible light shielding material and the light shielding plate 14 and the mounting member 18 as light shielding materials, so that the light emitting space 10-b, the light receiving space 11-b and Since there is no exchange of infrared light at the time, erroneous detection can be prevented.
[0042]
Further, the light shielding plate 14 penetrates into the sensor window 7. When the light shielding plate 14 does not penetrate the sensor window 7, the emitted infrared light is irregularly reflected in the sensor window 7 by water droplets or dust attached to the sensor window 7 as shown in FIG. b may be erroneously detected and a malfunction may occur. However, by penetrating the light shielding plate 14 through the sensor window 7 as shown in FIG. 12B, it is possible to prevent the emitted infrared rays from being irregularly reflected in the sensor window 7 and reaching the light receiving space 11-b. Therefore, erroneous detection can be prevented.
[0043]
In addition, as shown in FIG. 13, a bulk 19 is provided above the first human body detection sensor 4 disposed in the upper part of the mounting member 18, and the first human body detection sensor 4 is provided immediately below the bulk lowest position 19-a. The sensor 5 and the second human body detection sensor 6 are arranged so as not to be arranged. Thus, even if liquid is dripped from the upper part of the sensor assembly 8 when, for example, dew condensation or small water splashes inside the toilet seat device 1 enters the toilet seat main body 1, the liquid drops on the bulk 19. Since the light travels to the lowermost position 19-a and drops directly below the bulk lowermost position 19-a, the liquid does not get wet by each sensor, and the failure of each sensor can be prevented.
[0044]
Here, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14B, each sensor as shown in FIG. 14A is attached to a sensor attachment member 18 formed integrally with the sensor window 7 by snap fitting. Thus, the sensor window 7 and each sensor can be easily integrated without using a separate fastening member. Therefore, the backlash between each sensor and the sensor window 7 is small, and the variation in the direction of the infrared light emitted from each sensor can be reduced, so that the performance can be secured. In addition, since the three sensors are integrally mounted on one mounting member 18 and the sensor window 7, the mounting member and the sensor window are not required for each sensor, and the space can be saved. Further, since the number of parts can be reduced, the manufacturing cost can be reduced. The snap fit claws 20 and the snap fit holes 21 are provided on the left and right sides of each sensor and on the left and right sides of the mounting member 18. At this time, the shapes of the left and right snap fit claws 20 and the snap fit holes 21 are as shown in FIG. It is desirable to make them different. Thereby, it is possible to prevent erroneous assembly such as mounting the sensor upside down when assembling the sensor assembly 8, and to ensure the performance. Alternatively, an imprint may be arranged on the back surface of each sensor, and the direction of the imprint may be checked during the inspection process to prevent erroneous assembly.
[0045]
Further, in this embodiment, the horizontal angle indicating the angle of the toilet seat device 1 in each sensor from the front-back direction to the left and right is the same. As a result, the sensor mounting member 18 can be aligned in the horizontal angle direction as shown in FIG. 15A, and the sensor window 7 and the sensor mounting member 18 can be integrally formed in the same direction as the sensor mounting member 18 due to the mold configuration. Can be easily die-cut. At that time, the elevation angle indicating the upward angle of the toilet seat device 1 from the front-rear direction of each sensor is slid in the vertical direction with respect to the sensor mounting member 18 as shown in FIG. The snap-fit hole 21 corresponding to the elevation angle is cut out, and a positioning rib 22 for positioning on the front surface of each sensor is provided on the back side of the sensor window 7 as shown in FIG. It can be set freely according to the irradiation purpose.
[0046]
Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the toilet lid 2 and the toilet seat 3 are automatically opened and closed with respect to the detection of each sensor. However, by additionally detecting the human body of the toilet seat device 1 body, the toilet The environment may be controlled. Thus, when entering the toilet, only by approaching the toilet seat device, convenient and comfortable functions such as ventilation, deodorization, power saving cancellation, lighting lighting, heating, cooling, and sound can be operated.
[0047]
Further, it is desirable that the control of the toilet seat device 1 can be performed after the seating sensor 5 detects the seating of the human body. For example, even if the set temperature of the heated toilet seat or the water discharge button of the sanitary washing toilet seat is pressed by mistake during toilet cleaning, it is possible to prevent erroneous operation by not operating the toilet seat device 1 unless there is an intention to use the toilet by detecting seating. It is possible to maintain safety.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an external view of a toilet seat device of the present invention.
FIGS. 2A and 2B are an external view showing a state of light emission when the toilet lid and the toilet seat in the toilet seat device of the present invention are in a closed state, and a sectional view of the sensor at that time.
FIGS. 3A and 3B are an external view showing a state of light emission when the toilet lid is open and the toilet seat is closed in the toilet seat device of the present invention, and a sensor cross-sectional view at that time.
4A and 4B are an external view showing a state of light emission when the toilet lid and the toilet seat in the toilet seat device of the present invention are in an open state, and a cross-sectional view of the sensor at that time.
FIG. 5 is a sectional view of a sensor assembly of the toilet seat device of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a light amount ranging sensor.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a sensor arrangement in front and rear of the toilet seat device of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a schematic diagram showing a detection area when a light shielding member is arranged in a sensor window and an area shielded by the light shielding member in the sensor assembly of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing contact between the sensor window and the front surface of the casing and the rear end of the toilet lid according to the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the sensor assembly of the toilet seat device of the present invention and the vicinity thereof.
FIG. 11 is a view in which each part of the two-color molding of the sensor window, the mounting member, and the light shielding plate of the toilet seat device of the present invention is color-coded.
FIG. 12 is a view showing an arrangement of a light shielding plate and a sensor window of a sensor assembly of the toilet seat device of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a side view of the sensor assembly of the present invention.
14A is a front view of the sensor, and FIG. 14B is a rear perspective view of the sensor assembly of the present invention.
FIGS. 15A and 15B are a top view and a left side view of the sensor assembly of the present invention. FIGS.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a sensor arrangement portion of a conventional toilet seat device.
[Explanation of symbols]
1: Toilet seat device
2: Stool lid
3: Toilet seat
4: First human body detection sensor
5: Seating sensor
6: Second human body detection sensor
7: Sensor window
8: Sensor assembly
9: Casing front
10: Light emitting element
11: PSD element
12: Circuit board
13: Outer case
14: Light shield
15: Center of rotation
16: Notch
17: recess
18: Mounting member
19: Kasa
20: snap fit nail
21: Snap fit hole
22: Positioning rib

Claims

In a toilet seat device including a toilet lid, a toilet seat, and a casing that supports opening and closing of the toilet lid and the toilet seat, first human body detection means for detecting a human body in front of the toilet seat device in a state where the toilet lid is closed. And a seating detecting means for detecting that a human body is sitting on the toilet seat, and a second human body detecting means for detecting a human body in front of the toilet seat device when the toilet seat is opened. A toilet seat device comprising a means structure.

In a toilet seat device including a toilet seat and a casing that supports opening and closing of the toilet seat, first human body detecting means for detecting a human body in front of the toilet seat device in a state where the toilet seat is closed, and a human body sitting on the toilet seat. And a second human body detecting means for detecting a human body above and in front of the toilet seat device when the toilet seat is opened. Toilet seat device characterized.

3. The toilet seat device according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit structure includes the first human body detection unit in an upper stage, the second human body detection unit in a lower stage, and the seating detection unit in a middle stage. Toilet seat device characterized.

4. The toilet seat device according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit structure is formed by incorporating the first human body detection unit, the second human body detection unit, and the seating detection unit into a mounting member. 5. A toilet seat device characterized by being an assembled assembly.

5. The toilet seat device according to claim 4, wherein the attachment member is integrated with a detection window through which light emitted from each detection unit is transmitted.

The toilet seat device according to claim 4, wherein the detecting means structure is disposed on a front surface of a casing of the toilet seat device main body.

7. The toilet seat device according to claim 3, wherein the first human body detecting means is arranged at the same height or lower than the toilet lid.

The toilet seat device according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the first human body detecting means is disposed behind a center of rotation of the toilet lid or the toilet seat.

The toilet seat device according to any one of claims 3 to 8, wherein the first human body detecting means and the second human body detecting means are constituted by a reflection type photoelectric ranging sensor. .

The toilet seat device according to any one of claims 3 to 9, wherein the first human body detecting means and the second human body detecting means have the same structure.

The toilet seat device according to any one of claims 3 to 10, wherein the seating detecting means is constituted by a reflection-type photoelectric ranging sensor.

12. The toilet seat device according to claim 11, wherein the surface of the detection window has a concave shape in which the surface of the detection window is recessed inside the toilet seat device main body from the surface of the casing.

12. The toilet seat device according to claim 11, wherein at least the front of the seating detection means in the detection window has a concave shape in which the seating detection device can detect the seating device closer to the inside than the front surface of the casing. A toilet seat device characterized by the above-mentioned.

14. The toilet seat device according to claim 13, wherein the concave shape is disposed below a rear end edge of the toilet lid in a state where the toilet lid is in the closed position.

The toilet seat device according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the detecting means structure includes a light projecting lens and a light projecting space up to the detection window, and a light receiving lens and a light receiving space up to the detection window. A light-shielding plate is provided, wherein the detection window is a visible light shielding material and the light-shielding plate is formed by two-color molding using a light-shielding material, and the light-shielding plate is penetrated to the inside of the detection window. Toilet seat device.

The toilet seat device according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the detection is performed so as to interfere with a part of a detection area of the first human body detection unit, the sitting detection unit, and the second human body detection unit. A toilet seat device in which a light shielding material is arranged in a part of a window.

The toilet seat device according to any one of claims 3 to 16, wherein a bulk is provided above the first human body detecting means in the detecting means structure, and the first human body detecting means is provided with the bulk. Covering the seating detecting means and the second human body detecting means, and projecting the lowermost position of the bulk more than the first human body detecting means and the seating detecting means and the second human body detecting means. Toilet seat device characterized.

The toilet seat device according to any one of claims 3 to 17, wherein the first human body detecting means, the seating detecting means, and the second human body detecting means are attached to the attachment member by snap fitting. Toilet seat device.

19. The toilet seat device according to claim 18, wherein the first human body detecting unit, the seating detecting unit, and the second human body detecting unit are snap-fit claw portions serving as fitting portions when snap-fitting the mounting member. A toilet seat device, wherein at least two places are provided on the side surfaces of each of the first human body detecting means, the seating detecting means, and the second human body detecting means, and the shapes of the snap fit claws are different.

20. The toilet seat device according to claim 19, wherein the first human body detecting means, the seating detecting means, and the second human body detecting means have the same horizontal angle and are arranged at an arbitrary elevation angle. Toilet seat device.