JP2022039680A - Toilet system - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a toilet system capable of cleaning a water level sensor even when the water level sensor is placed at a position where toilet bowl wash water does not flow.SOLUTION: The toilet system includes: a water level sensor for detecting water level in a toilet bowl, which is placed at a position in an upper area of the toilet bowl where toilet bowl wash water for draining filth in the toilet bowl does not flow; a clogging detection unit that determines a clog in the toilet bowl based on the detection result of the water level sensor; and a sensor cleaning unit that cleans the water level sensor.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Aspects of the invention generally relate to toilet appliances.

It is being considered to provide a sensor for detecting a clogging of a toilet bowl in a toilet device. For example, by providing such a sensor and stopping the supply of the toilet bowl washing water for cleaning the toilet bowl when the clogging of the toilet bowl is detected, it is possible to prevent the toilet bowl washing water from overflowing from the toilet bowl.

Patent Document 1 discloses a flush toilet with a float type water level sensor provided above the toilet bowl of the toilet. In the flush toilet of Patent Document 1, the clogging of the toilet bowl can be detected by detecting the rise of the water level in the toilet bowl by the water level sensor, and the overflow of the washing water from the toilet bowl can be suppressed.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2017-145658

Such a water level sensor is provided, for example, at a position exposed in the toilet bowl in order to detect the water level in the toilet bowl. Therefore, dirt is likely to adhere to the water level sensor due to the influence of excrement such as urine and stool in the toilet bowl, humidity, or detergent.

On the other hand, such a water level sensor is provided at a position where the toilet flush water does not flow in order to suppress erroneous detection by the toilet flush water. If the water level sensor is provided at such a position, false detection by the toilet bowl washing water can be suppressed, but when the water level sensor becomes dirty, the water level sensor cannot be washed with the toilet bowl washing water. If the water level sensor continues to be dirty, mold may form. Further, if the water level sensor is dirty or moldy, the water level in the toilet bowl cannot be accurately detected, and it may not be possible to prevent the washing water from overflowing from the toilet bowl.

The present invention has been made based on the recognition of such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a toilet device capable of cleaning the water level sensor even if the water level sensor is provided at a position where the toilet bowl cleaning water does not flow. And.

The first invention is a water level sensor that detects the water level in the toilet bowl, and is provided at a position above the toilet bowl where the toilet flush water for discharging the excrement in the toilet bowl does not flow. A toilet device including a water level sensor, a clogging determination unit for determining clogging of the toilet bowl based on the detection result of the water level sensor, and a sensor cleaning unit for cleaning the water level sensor. Is.

According to this toilet device, by providing the water level sensor at a position above the toilet bowl where the toilet bowl wash water does not flow, it is possible to suppress erroneous detection due to the toilet bowl wash water. Further, by providing the sensor cleaning unit for cleaning the water level sensor, the water level sensor can be cleaned even if the water level sensor is provided at a position where the toilet bowl cleaning water does not flow. That is, even if dirt adheres to the water level sensor, the dirt can be removed by the sensor cleaning unit. This makes it possible to suppress the generation of mold caused by the attached dirt in the water level sensor. In addition, it is possible to prevent the water level in the toilet bowl from being unable to be accurately detected due to dirt or mold adhering to the water level sensor.

A second aspect of the invention is the first aspect of the invention, wherein the sensor cleaning unit has a local cleaning nozzle for cleaning a user's local area, and the local cleaning nozzle discharges cleaning water to make the water level sensor. It is a toilet device characterized by cleaning.

According to this toilet device, a component that functions as a sensor cleaning unit is separately provided by cleaning the water level sensor with the cleaning water discharged from the local cleaning nozzle (that is, the local cleaning nozzle also serves as the sensor cleaning unit). The water level sensor can be cleaned without it. This makes it possible to simplify the toilet device.

A third aspect of the invention further comprises, in the first aspect, a local cleaning nozzle for cleaning the local area of the user, the sensor cleaning unit having a nozzle cleaning unit for cleaning the local cleaning nozzle, and the nozzle cleaning unit. Is a toilet device characterized in that the water level sensor is washed together with the local washing nozzle by discharging washing water.

According to this toilet device, a component that functions as a sensor cleaning unit is separately provided by cleaning the water level sensor with the cleaning water discharged from the nozzle cleaning unit (that is, the nozzle cleaning unit also serves as the sensor cleaning unit). The water level sensor can be cleaned without it. This makes it possible to simplify the toilet device.

A fourth aspect of the invention further comprises a nozzle accommodating portion for accommodating the local cleaning nozzle in the second or third invention, and the sensor cleaning unit discharges the cleaning water inside the nozzle accommodating unit. The nozzle accommodating portion is a toilet device characterized in that the washing water discharged inside the nozzle accommodating portion is guided to the water level sensor.

According to this toilet device, more cleaning water can be supplied to the water level sensor by guiding the cleaning water discharged from the sensor cleaning unit inside the nozzle storage unit to the water level sensor by the nozzle storage unit. As a result, the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning unit can be enhanced.

A fifth aspect of the invention further comprises, in the second or third aspect, a nozzle accommodating portion for accommodating the local cleaning nozzle and a nozzle shutter for opening and closing the opening at the front end of the nozzle accommodating portion. Is a toilet device characterized in that the washing water is discharged inside the nozzle housing portion, and the nozzle shutter guides the washing water discharged inside the nozzle housing portion to the water level sensor. ..

According to this toilet device, more washing water can be supplied to the water level sensor by guiding the washing water discharged from the sensor washing part inside the nozzle storage part to the water level sensor by the nozzle shutter. As a result, the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning unit can be enhanced.

A sixth aspect of the invention further comprises, in any one of the second to fifth inventions, a nozzle accommodating portion for accommodating the local cleaning nozzle, wherein the sensor cleaning portion is the cleaning water inside the nozzle accommodating portion. The water level sensor is a toilet device, which is arranged below the nozzle accommodating portion.

According to this toilet device, by arranging the water level sensor below the nozzle storage unit, the cleaning water discharged from the sensor cleaning unit inside the nozzle storage unit can be more efficiently supplied to the water level sensor. As a result, the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning unit can be enhanced.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention, in the first aspect, the sensor cleaning unit has a spraying device for spraying cleaning water into the toilet bowl, and the spraying device sprays the cleaning water to the water level. It is a toilet device characterized by cleaning the sensor.

According to this toilet device, by cleaning the water level sensor with the cleaning water sprayed from the spraying device (that is, the spraying device also serves as the sensor cleaning unit), there is no need to separately provide a component that functions as a sensor cleaning unit. You can also clean the water level sensor. This makes it possible to simplify the toilet device.

An eighth aspect of the invention is a toilet device according to a seventh aspect, wherein at least a part of the spraying device is arranged above the water level sensor.

According to this toilet device, by arranging at least a part of the spraying device above the water level sensor, it is possible to spray the washing water downward from the spraying device to wash the water level sensor. As a result, it is possible to prevent the washing water sprayed from the spraying device from being scattered outside the toilet bowl.

A ninth aspect of the invention is a toilet device according to a seventh or eighth aspect, wherein at least a part of the spraying device is arranged behind the water level sensor.

According to this toilet device, by arranging at least a part of the spray device behind the water level sensor, it is possible to suppress the position of the water level sensor between the spray device and the inner wall surface on the rear side of the toilet bowl. As a result, it is possible to prevent the washing water sprayed from the spray device toward the inner wall surface on the rear side of the toilet bowl from being blocked by the water level sensor. Therefore, the washing water can be more reliably adhered to the inner wall surface on the rear side of the toilet bowl where dirt is likely to adhere.

The tenth invention further comprises a functional water generating section for generating functional water that reduces bacteria in any one of the first to ninth aspects, and the sensor cleaning section is supplied from the functional water generating section. It is a toilet device characterized in that the water level sensor is washed with the functional water.

According to this toilet device, the sensor cleaning unit cleans the water level sensor with functional water that reduces bacteria, so that the generation of mold on the water level sensor can be further suppressed.

According to the aspect of the present invention, there is provided a toilet device capable of cleaning the water level sensor even if the water level sensor is provided at a position where the toilet flush water does not flow.

It is a perspective view which shows typically the toilet system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows typically the toilet system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram schematically showing the toilet system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the part of the toilet apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment schematically. It is a front view schematically showing the nozzle storage part of the toilet apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a rear view schematically showing the nozzle shutter of the toilet apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the part of the toilet apparatus which concerns on the modification of 1st Embodiment schematically. It is sectional drawing which shows the part of the toilet apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment schematically.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, similar components are designated by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing the toilet system according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the toilet system according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing the toilet system according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the toilet system 100 according to the embodiment includes a toilet bowl 10, a toilet bowl cleaning unit 20, and a toilet device 30.

In the present specification, each of "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "right side", and "left side" is the direction seen from the user seated on the toilet seat 32 of the toilet device 30. do.

The toilet bowl 10 is a so-called sitting toilet bowl. The toilet bowl 10 has a concave bowl portion 11 (toilet bowl) that is recessed downward from the upper surface 10a. That is, the inner end portion of the upper surface 10a of the toilet bowl 10 is the opening portion 13 of the bowl portion 11. The toilet bowl 10 receives excrement such as urine and stool of the user in the bowl portion 11.

When the user operates the toilet bowl cleaning or stands up from the toilet seat, the toilet bowl cleaning is performed. In the toilet bowl cleaning, the toilet bowl cleaning water WT is supplied from the toilet bowl cleaning unit 20, so that the excrement in the bowl portion 11 is discharged and the surface 12 of the bowl portion 11 is cleaned. After the toilet bowl cleaning is completed, the toilet bowl cleaning water WT (sealing water) is collected in the bottom portion 11a of the bowl portion 11.

The toilet bowl cleaning unit 20 has a flow path 21 and an on-off valve 22. The flow path 21 connects the water supply source 5 such as a water supply or a water storage tank to the toilet bowl 10 (bowl portion 11). The on-off valve 22 is, for example, a valve that is opened and closed by a solenoid, a motor, or the like. The on-off valve 22 is provided in the flow path 21, and by opening and closing, the flow of the toilet flush water WT in the flow path 21 is started or stopped. When the on-off valve 22 is in the open state, the toilet flush water WT supplied from the water supply source 5 is supplied to the toilet 10 through the flow path 21. When the on-off valve 22 is in the closed state, the supply of the toilet flush water WT from the water supply source 5 to the toilet 10 is stopped.

The toilet device 30 includes a main body portion 31, a toilet seat 32, a toilet lid 33, a water level sensor 34, an open / close control unit 35, a clogging determination unit 36, and a sensor cleaning unit 37. The toilet device 30 is, for example, a toilet seat device. The toilet device 30 is, for example, a sanitary cleaning device.

The main body portion 31 is provided on the rear portion of the upper surface 10a of the toilet bowl 10. The main body 31 has, for example, a built-in functional unit (such as a local cleaning nozzle described later) for cleaning a user's local area. Further, the main body portion 31 may include, for example, a functional portion (such as a spraying device described later) for spraying the washing water in the toilet bowl 10.

The toilet seat 32 is provided on the upper surface 10a of the toilet bowl 10 and is rotatably supported with respect to the main body 31. The toilet seat 32 is provided with an opening 32a that overlaps with the opening 13 of the bowl portion 11 in the vertical direction. The user excretes, for example, while sitting on the toilet seat 32.

The toilet lid 33 is provided on the toilet seat 32 and is rotatably supported by the main body 31. The toilet lid 33 is provided so as to cover the opening 32a of the toilet seat 32. The toilet lid 33 is provided as needed and can be omitted.

The water level sensor 34 detects the water level in the toilet bowl 10 (bowl portion 11). The water level sensor 34 is provided above the toilet bowl 10 (bowl portion 11) at a position where the toilet bowl cleaning water WT supplied from the toilet bowl cleaning unit 20 does not flow. The water level sensor 34 is provided, for example, inside the opening 13 of the bowl portion 11 so that at least a part (lower end) thereof is located below the upper surface 10a of the toilet bowl 10. In this example, the water level sensor 34 is provided so as to project downward from the lower surface of the main body 31. The water level sensor 34 is provided so as to be exposed inside the bowl portion 11.

By providing the water level sensor 34 at a position above the toilet bowl 10 where the toilet bowl cleaning water WT does not flow, it is possible to prevent the toilet bowl cleaning water WT supplied from the toilet bowl cleaning unit 20 from being applied to the water level sensor 34 during toilet bowl cleaning. .. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of erroneous detection of the water level sensor 34 by the toilet bowl cleaning water WT supplied from the toilet bowl cleaning unit 20 at the time of toilet bowl cleaning.

The water level sensor 34 may be a contact type sensor such as a float type sensor, or may be a non-contact type sensor such as a distance measuring sensor. The water level sensor 34 may, for example, continuously detect the water level in the toilet bowl 10, or may detect only the water level above a predetermined height.

The open / close control unit 35 is electrically connected to the toilet bowl cleaning unit 20. The open / close control unit 35 controls the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning unit 20. More specifically, the on-off control unit 35 is electrically connected to the on-off valve 22 and controls the opening and closing of the on-off valve 22 to control the start and stop of the toilet bowl cleaning. That is, the open / close control unit 35 controls whether or not the toilet bowl washing water WT is supplied from the water supply source 5 to the toilet bowl 10.

The clogging determination unit 36 is electrically connected to the water level sensor 34. The clogging determination unit 36 determines the clogging of the toilet bowl 10 based on the detection result of the water level sensor 34. The clogging determination unit 36 determines the clogging of the toilet bowl 10 based on the detection result of the water level sensor 34 at a time when a predetermined time has elapsed from the cleaning of the toilet bowl, for example.

More specifically, the clogging determination unit 36 determines that the toilet bowl 10 is clogged when, for example, the water level sensor 34 detects a water level of a predetermined height or higher at a time when a predetermined time has elapsed from the cleaning of the toilet bowl. On the other hand, the clogging determination unit 36 determines that the toilet bowl 10 is not clogged when, for example, the water level sensor 34 detects a water level below a predetermined height when a predetermined time has elapsed from the cleaning of the toilet bowl. Here, the predetermined height of the water level is, for example, a position higher than the water level of the normal sealed water (see FIG. 2) and lower than the upper surface 10a of the toilet bowl 10. Alternatively, the clogging determination unit 36 may determine that the toilet bowl 10 is not clogged, for example, when the water level sensor 34 does not detect the water level when a predetermined time has elapsed from the cleaning of the toilet bowl.

The open / close control unit 35 is electrically connected to the clogging determination unit 36. The open / close control unit 35 controls the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning unit 20 based on the determination result of the clogging determination unit 36. For example, when the clogging determination unit 36 determines that the toilet bowl 10 is not clogged, the open / close control unit 35 cleans the toilet bowl in response to the user's operation of cleaning the toilet bowl. That is, when the clogging determination unit 36 determines that the toilet bowl 10 is not clogged, the open / close control unit 35 permits the toilet bowl cleaning.

On the other hand, for example, when the clogging determination unit 36 determines that the toilet bowl 10 is clogged, the open / close control unit 35 does not clean the toilet bowl even if the user operates the toilet bowl cleaning. That is, when the clogging determination unit 36 determines that the toilet bowl 10 is clogged, the open / close control unit 35 prohibits the toilet bowl cleaning. As a result, it is possible to prevent the toilet bowl from being washed while the toilet bowl 10 is clogged, and it is possible to prevent the toilet bowl washing water WT from overflowing from the toilet bowl 10.

Further, the clogging determination unit 36 may be electrically connected to, for example, a notification device (not shown) for notifying the clogging state of the toilet bowl 10. As a result, it is possible to notify the user, the manager, or the like of the clogged state (presence or absence of clogging) of the toilet bowl 10.

The clogging determination unit 36 may be integrated with the open / close control unit 35, or may be provided separately from the open / close control unit 35. The open / close control unit 35 and the clogging determination unit 36 are provided inside, for example, the main body unit 31. The open / close control unit 35 may be a part of the toilet bowl cleaning unit 20.

The sensor cleaning unit 37 cleans the water level sensor 34. The water level sensor 34 is connected to the water supply source 5, and the water level sensor 34 is washed by applying the washing water WS supplied from the water supply source 5 to the water level sensor 34. The sensor cleaning unit 37 will be described later.

By providing the sensor cleaning unit 37 for cleaning the water level sensor 34 in this way, the water level sensor 34 can be cleaned even if the water level sensor 34 is provided at a position where the toilet bowl cleaning water WT does not flow. That is, even if dirt adheres to the water level sensor 34, the dirt can be removed by the sensor cleaning unit 37. As a result, in the water level sensor 34, it is possible to suppress the generation of mold caused by the adhered dirt. In addition, it is possible to prevent the water level in the toilet bowl 10 from being unable to be accurately detected due to dirt or mold adhering to the water level sensor 34.

In this example, a functional water generation unit 38 is provided between the water supply source 5 and the sensor cleaning unit 37. That is, the water level sensor 34 is connected to the water supply source 5 via the functional water generation unit 38. The functional water generation unit 38 generates functional water that reduces bacteria from the washing water WS, and supplies the functional water to the sensor cleaning unit 37. The sensor cleaning unit 37 cleans the water level sensor 34 with the functional water supplied from the functional water generation unit 38.

Fuctional water is water that has the effect of reducing bacteria (so-called sterilization effect). Fuctional water contains, for example, silver ions, ozone, hypochlorous acid and the like. The functional water generation unit 38 is provided as needed and can be omitted.

In this way, by cleaning the water level sensor 34 with the functional water that reduces bacteria by the sensor cleaning unit 37, it is possible to further suppress the generation of mold on the water level sensor 34.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of the toilet device according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 4, in this example, the toilet device 30 has a local cleaning nozzle 301, a nozzle accommodating portion 302, and a nozzle shutter 303.

The local cleaning nozzle 301 cleans the user's local area by discharging the cleaning water WS. The local cleaning nozzle 301 is provided so as to be able to advance and retreat with respect to the main body portion 31. The local cleaning nozzle 301 is tilted downward as it goes forward.

In this example, the local cleaning nozzle 301 is connected to the functional water generation unit 38. The functional water generation unit 38 can switch between a mode in which tap water is supplied to the local cleaning nozzle 301 and a mode in which the functional water is supplied to the local cleaning nozzle 301, for example. That is, the local cleaning nozzle 301 can switch between a mode in which tap water is discharged as the cleaning water WS and a mode in which the functional water is discharged as the cleaning water WS. The local cleaning nozzle 301 discharges tap water as cleaning water WS, for example, when cleaning a user's local area. The local cleaning nozzle 301, for example, discharges functional water as cleaning water WS when cleaning the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like.

Inside the main body 31, a nozzle storage unit 302 for storing the local cleaning nozzle 301 is provided. The nozzle accommodating portion 302 has a cylindrical shape having an opening 302a at the front end, and accommodates the local cleaning nozzle 301 in the internal space. The nozzle accommodating portion 302 is inclined downward as it goes forward.

As shown in FIG. 3, when the local cleaning nozzle 301 is in the most retracted position, the front end of the local cleaning nozzle 301 is located behind the opening 302a of the nozzle accommodating portion 302. When the local cleaning nozzle 301 is in the most advanced position, the front end of the local cleaning nozzle 301 is located in front of the opening 302a of the nozzle accommodating portion 302. In this way, the local cleaning nozzle 301 can move forward and backward between the position housed in the nozzle storage unit 302 and the position protruding from the nozzle storage unit 302.

A nozzle shutter 303 is provided in front of the nozzle accommodating portion 302. In this example, the nozzle shutter 303 is rotatably supported with respect to the main body portion 31 and opens and closes the opening 302a at the front end of the nozzle accommodating portion 302. The nozzle shutter 303 is located in front of the local cleaning nozzle 301 with the local cleaning nozzle 301 housed in the nozzle accommodating unit 302. When the local cleaning nozzle 301 advances, the nozzle shutter 303 rotates. The nozzle shutter 303 may be provided at the tip of the local cleaning nozzle 301 and move forward and backward together with the local cleaning nozzle 301, for example.

The water level sensor 34 is arranged below the nozzle accommodating portion 302. More specifically, the water level sensor 34 is arranged below the opening 302a at the front end of the nozzle accommodating portion 302. The water level sensor 34 is arranged at a position overlapping the opening 302a in the vertical direction, for example.

The local cleaning nozzle 301 cleans the user's local area by discharging the cleaning water WS upward in a state of advancing from the nozzle storage unit 302 (main body unit 31). Further, the local cleaning nozzle 301 is housed in the nozzle storage unit 302 (that is, inside the nozzle storage unit 302), and by discharging the cleaning water WS, the local cleaning nozzle 301, the nozzle storage unit 302, and the local cleaning nozzle 301 are discharged. Clean the nozzle shutter 303 and the like.

A part of the cleaning water WS discharged from the local cleaning nozzle 301 inside the nozzle accommodating portion 302 hits the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 and bounces off the local cleaning nozzle 301. As a result, the surface of the local cleaning nozzle 301 is cleaned. Further, a part of the cleaning water WS discharged from the local cleaning nozzle 301 inside the nozzle accommodating portion 302 flows along the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302. As a result, the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 is cleaned. Further, another part of the cleaning water WS discharged from the local cleaning nozzle 301 inside the nozzle accommodating portion 302 flows from the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 along the back surface 303a of the nozzle shutter 303. As a result, the back surface 303a of the nozzle shutter 303 is cleaned.

The cleaning water WS used for cleaning the local cleaning nozzle 301, the nozzle accommodating portion 302, and the nozzle shutter 303 passes through the gap between the nozzle shutter 303 and the nozzle accommodating portion 302, and the toilet bowl 10 (bowl portion 11). Is discharged to. At this time, the washing water WS flowing from the gap flows on the surface of the water level sensor 34 located below the nozzle accommodating portion 302 and is discharged to the toilet bowl 10 (bowl portion 11). As a result, the surface of the water level sensor 34 is cleaned.

As described above, in this example, the local cleaning nozzle 301 cleans the water level sensor 34 together with the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like by discharging the cleaning water WS. That is, the local cleaning nozzle 301 functions as the sensor cleaning unit 37. In other words, the local cleaning nozzle 301 also serves as the sensor cleaning unit 37. That is, the sensor cleaning unit 37 has a local cleaning nozzle 301.

In this way, the component that functions as the sensor cleaning unit 37 by cleaning the water level sensor 34 with the cleaning water WS discharged from the local cleaning nozzle 301 (that is, the local cleaning nozzle 301 also serves as the sensor cleaning unit 37). The water level sensor 34 can be cleaned without separately providing the water level sensor 34. This makes it possible to simplify the toilet device 30.

Further, cleaning of the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like by the local cleaning nozzle 301 is performed, for example, every time the local cleaning nozzle 301 is used. By cleaning the water level sensor 34 at the time of cleaning the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like, the frequency of cleaning the water level sensor 34 can be increased. Further, by cleaning the water level sensor 34 using the cleaning water WS used for cleaning the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like, the amount of water used can be reduced.

Further, by arranging the water level sensor 34 below the nozzle storage unit 302, the cleaning water WS discharged from the sensor cleaning unit 37 (local cleaning nozzle 301) inside the nozzle storage unit 302 can be more efficiently used as the water level sensor 34. Can be supplied. As a result, the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning unit 37 can be enhanced.

The local cleaning nozzle 301 may clean the water level sensor 34 by discharging the cleaning water WS in a state of advancing from the nozzle accommodating portion 302 (that is, outside the nozzle accommodating portion 302). The local cleaning nozzle 301 may clean the water level sensor 34, for example, by directly applying the cleaning water WS discharged from the local cleaning nozzle 301 to the water level sensor 34 in a state where the local cleaning nozzle 301 has advanced to a predetermined position.

FIG. 5 is a front view schematically showing a nozzle storage portion of the toilet device according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 5 shows the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the nozzle accommodating portion 302 when viewed from the direction of A1 shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 5, the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 has, for example, a cylindrical shape. That is, the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 has a curved surface that goes downward toward the center in the left-right direction of the nozzle accommodating portion 302. That is, the bottom portion 302c of the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 is provided at a position overlapping the center of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 in the left-right direction.

The water level sensor 34 is provided, for example, at a position overlapping the bottom portion 302c of the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 in the vertical direction when viewed from the front. In this example, the water level sensor 34 is provided at a position overlapping the center of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 in the left-right direction.

A part of the cleaning water WS discharged from the sensor cleaning unit 37 (local cleaning nozzle 301) inside the nozzle housing unit 302 flows along the inner wall surface 302b and heads toward the bottom portion 302c. Then, the washing water WS collected in the bottom portion 302c is applied to the water level sensor 34 provided below the bottom portion 302c. In this way, the nozzle accommodating portion 302 guides the washing water WS discharged inside the nozzle accommodating portion 302 to the water level sensor 34.

The shape of the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 is not limited to the cylindrical shape, and may be any shape as long as the cleaning water WS can be collected in the bottom portion 302c. For example, the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 may have an inclined surface downward toward the center in the left-right direction of the nozzle accommodating portion 302.

Further, for example, the bottom portion 302c of the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 may be provided at a position deviated from the center in the left-right direction of the nozzle accommodating portion 302. Also in this case, it is preferable that the water level sensor 34 is provided at a position where it overlaps with the bottom portion 302c in the vertical direction when viewed from the front.

Further, the bottom portion 302c of the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 may be provided with a guide portion for guiding the washing water WS to the water level sensor 34. The guide portion may be, for example, a groove recessed downward in the bottom portion 302c, or may be a pair of ribs protruding upward from the left side and the right side of the bottom portion 302c.

In this way, by guiding the cleaning water WS discharged from the sensor cleaning unit 37 (local cleaning nozzle 301) to the water level sensor 34 by the nozzle storage unit 302 inside the nozzle storage unit 302, more cleaning water WS can be brought to the water level. It can be supplied to the sensor 34. As a result, the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning unit 37 can be enhanced.

FIG. 6 is a rear view schematically showing the nozzle shutter of the toilet device according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 6 shows the back surface 303a of the nozzle shutter 303 when viewed from the direction of A2 shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 6, the back surface 303a of the nozzle shutter 303 is provided with a guide portion 303b that guides the washing water WS to the water level sensor 34. In this example, the guide portion 303b is a groove recessed forward on the back surface 303a. The width of the groove in the left-right direction becomes smaller toward the bottom. The lower end 303c of the guide portion 303b (the portion where the width of the groove in the left-right direction is the narrowest) is provided at a position overlapping the center of the nozzle shutter 303 in the left-right direction.

The water level sensor 34 is provided at a position where it overlaps with the lower end 303c of the guide portion 303b in the vertical direction, for example, when viewed from the rear. In this example, the water level sensor 34 is provided at a position overlapping the center of the nozzle shutter 303 in the left-right direction.

A part of the cleaning water WS discharged from the sensor cleaning unit 37 (local cleaning nozzle 301) inside the nozzle storage unit 302 flows from the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage unit 302 along the back surface 303a of the nozzle shutter 303. At this time, the washing water WS flowing through the back surface 303a is collected in the center by the guide portion 303b toward the lower end 303c, and is applied to the water level sensor 34 provided below the lower end 303c of the guide portion 303b. In this way, the nozzle shutter 303 guides the washing water WS discharged inside the nozzle accommodating portion 302 to the water level sensor 34.

The guide portion 303b may be a pair of ribs protruding rearward from the back surface 303a. In this case, the distance between the pair of ribs in the left-right direction becomes smaller toward the bottom.

Further, for example, the guide portion 303b of the nozzle shutter 303 may guide the washing water WS to a position deviated from the center in the left-right direction of the nozzle shutter 303. Also in this case, it is preferable that the water level sensor 34 is provided at a position where it overlaps with the lower end 303c of the guide portion 303b in the vertical direction when viewed from the rear.

In this way, by guiding the cleaning water WS discharged from the sensor cleaning unit 37 (local cleaning nozzle 301) to the water level sensor 34 by the nozzle shutter 303 inside the nozzle housing unit 302, more cleaning water WS can be sent to the water level sensor. Can be supplied to 34. As a result, the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning unit 37 can be enhanced.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of the toilet device according to the modified example of the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 7, the toilet device 30A according to the modified example of the first embodiment further has a nozzle cleaning unit 304.

The nozzle cleaning unit 304 is provided inside the main body unit 31. In this example, the nozzle cleaning unit 304 is provided inside the nozzle storage unit 302. The nozzle cleaning unit 304 cleans the local cleaning nozzle 301, the nozzle storage unit 302, the nozzle shutter 303, and the like by discharging the cleaning water WS.

In this example, the nozzle cleaning unit 304 is connected to the functional water generation unit 38. The nozzle cleaning unit 304 discharges the functional water supplied from the functional water generation unit 38 as the cleaning water WS.

The cleaning water WS discharged from the nozzle cleaning unit 304 inside the nozzle storage unit 302 is applied to the local cleaning nozzle 301. As a result, the surface of the local cleaning nozzle 301 is cleaned. The cleaning water WS that has flowed on the surface of the local cleaning nozzle 301 flows along the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302. As a result, the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 is cleaned. Further, the washing water WS flowing along the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle accommodating portion 302 is applied to the back surface 303a of the nozzle shutter 303. As a result, the back surface 303a of the nozzle shutter 303 is cleaned.

The cleaning water WS used for cleaning the local cleaning nozzle 301, the nozzle accommodating portion 302, and the nozzle shutter 303 passes through the gap between the nozzle shutter 303 and the nozzle accommodating portion 302, and the toilet bowl 10 (bowl portion 11). Is discharged to. At this time, the washing water WS flowing from the gap flows on the surface of the water level sensor 34 located below the nozzle accommodating portion 302 and is discharged to the toilet bowl 10 (bowl portion 11). As a result, the surface of the water level sensor 34 is cleaned.

As described above, in this example, the nozzle cleaning unit 304 cleans the water level sensor 34 together with the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like by discharging the cleaning water WS. That is, the nozzle cleaning unit 304 functions as the sensor cleaning unit 37. In other words, the nozzle cleaning unit 304 also serves as the sensor cleaning unit 37. That is, the sensor cleaning unit 37 has a nozzle cleaning unit 304.

In this way, the component that functions as the sensor cleaning unit 37 by cleaning the water level sensor 34 with the cleaning water WS discharged from the nozzle cleaning unit 304 (that is, the nozzle cleaning unit 304 also serves as the sensor cleaning unit 37). The water level sensor 34 can be cleaned without separately providing the water level sensor 34. This makes it possible to simplify the toilet device 30A.

Further, the nozzle cleaning unit 304 cleans the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like every time the local cleaning nozzle 301 is used, for example. By cleaning the water level sensor 34 at the time of cleaning the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like, the frequency of cleaning the water level sensor 34 can be increased. Further, by cleaning the water level sensor 34 using the cleaning water WS used for cleaning the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like, the amount of water used can be reduced.

Further, by arranging the water level sensor 34 below the nozzle storage unit 302, the cleaning water WS discharged from the sensor cleaning unit 37 (nozzle cleaning unit 304) inside the nozzle storage unit 302 can be more efficiently used as the water level sensor 34. Can be supplied. As a result, the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning unit 37 can be enhanced.

The cleaning of the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like by the nozzle cleaning unit 304 shown in FIG. 7 may be performed at the same time as the cleaning of the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like by the local cleaning nozzle 301 shown in FIG. 4, for example. Further, the functional water generation unit 38 may supply the functional water to both the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the nozzle cleaning unit 304.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of the toilet device according to the second embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 8, the toilet device 30B according to the second embodiment has a spraying device 305. Since the toilet device 30B according to the second embodiment is substantially the same as the toilet device 30 according to the first embodiment except that it has the spray device 305, the description other than the spray device 305 will be omitted here.

The spraying device 305 sprays the washing water WS into the toilet bowl 10. The spraying device 305 is provided inside, for example, the main body 31. The spray device 305 is arranged, for example, above the water level sensor 34 and behind the water level sensor 34. More specifically, at least a part of the spray device 305 is located above the water level sensor 34. Further, at least a part of the spray device 305 is located behind the water level sensor 34.

Here, "at least a part of the spraying device 305" includes, for example, a spray port 305a of the spraying device 305. The spray port 305a of the spray device 305 is located, for example, above the upper end of the water level sensor 34. Further, the spray port 305a of the spray device 305 is located, for example, behind the rear end of the water level sensor 34.

The spraying device 305 sprays the washing water WS downward, for example. The wash water WS sprayed from the spray device 305 adheres to the surface of the toilet bowl 10 (the surface 12 of the bowl portion 11) to form a water film. By spraying the washing water WS from the spraying device 305 before using the toilet device 30B, it is possible to prevent dirt such as excrement from adhering to the surface of the toilet bowl 10. Further, by spraying the washing water WS from the spraying device 305 after using the toilet device 30B, dirt such as excrement adhering to the surface of the toilet bowl 10 can be washed away.

The water level sensor 34 is provided at a position where at least a part of the washing water WS sprayed from the spraying device 305 is applied. In other words, the water level sensor 34 is provided at a position where at least a part of the water level sensor 34 overlaps with the spray range of the washing water WS sprayed from the spray device 305. That is, the spray range of the washing water WS by the spray device 305 is set so that at least a part thereof overlaps with the water level sensor 34. As a result, the surface of the water level sensor 34 is cleaned.

As described above, in this example, the spraying device 305 cleans the water level sensor 34 by spraying the washing water WS. That is, the spray device 305 functions as a sensor cleaning unit 37. In other words, the spraying device 305 also serves as a sensor cleaning unit 37. That is, the sensor cleaning unit 37 has a spraying device 305.

In this way, by cleaning the water level sensor 34 with the cleaning water WS sprayed from the spraying device 305 (that is, the spraying device 305 also serves as the sensor cleaning unit 37), a component that functions as the sensor cleaning unit 37 is separately provided. The water level sensor 34 can be cleaned even if it is not provided. This makes it possible to simplify the toilet device 30B.

Further, the cleaning water WS is sprayed from the spraying device 305 every time the toilet device 30 is used, for example. By cleaning the water level sensor 34 when the cleaning water WS is sprayed from the spraying device 305, the frequency of cleaning the water level sensor 34 can be increased. Further, by cleaning the water level sensor 34 using the cleaning water WS sprayed from the spraying device 305, the amount of water used can be reduced.

Further, by arranging at least a part of the spraying device 305 above the water level sensor 34, the washing water WS can be sprayed downward from the spraying device 305 to wash the water level sensor 34. As a result, it is possible to prevent the washing water WS sprayed from the spraying device 305 from scattering outside the toilet bowl 10.

Further, by arranging at least a part of the spray device 305 behind the water level sensor 34, it is possible to suppress the position of the water level sensor 34 between the spray device 305 and the inner wall surface 10b on the rear side of the stool 10. .. As a result, it is possible to prevent the washing water WS sprayed from the spray device 305 toward the inner wall surface 10b on the rear side of the toilet bowl 10 from being blocked by the water level sensor 34. Therefore, the cleaning water WS can be more reliably adhered to the inner wall surface 10b on the rear side of the toilet bowl 10 to which dirt is easily adhered.

In the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, the case where the local cleaning nozzle 301, the nozzle cleaning unit 304, the spraying device 305, and the like also serve as the sensor cleaning unit 37 has been described, but the sensor cleaning unit 37 is used for local cleaning. It may be provided separately from the nozzle 301, the nozzle cleaning unit 304, the spraying device 305, and the like.

As described above, according to the embodiment, there is provided a toilet device capable of cleaning the water level sensor even if the water level sensor is provided at a position where the toilet bowl cleaning water does not flow.

The embodiment of the present invention has been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. The above-mentioned embodiments which have been appropriately designed by those skilled in the art are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they have the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, installation form, and the like of each element included in the toilet device and the toilet system are not limited to those exemplified, and can be appropriately changed.
Further, the elements included in each of the above-described embodiments can be combined as long as technically possible, and the combination thereof is also included in the scope of the present invention as long as the features of the present invention are included.

5 Water supply source, 10 toilet bowl, 10a top surface, 10b inner wall surface, 11 bowl part, 11a bottom part, 12 surface, 13 opening, 20 toilet bowl cleaning part, 21 flow path, 22 on-off valve, 30, 30A, 30B toilet device, 31 Main body, 32 Toilet seat, 32a opening, 33 Toilet lid, 34 Water level sensor, 35 Open / close control unit, 36 Clog determination unit, 37 Sensor cleaning unit, 38 Functional water generator, 100 Toilet system, 301 Local cleaning nozzle, 302 Nozzle storage, 302a opening, 302b inner wall surface, 302c bottom, 303 nozzle shutter, 303a back, 303b guide, 303c bottom, 304 nozzle cleaning, 305 spraying device, WT toilet bowl cleaning water, WS cleaning water

Claims (10)

A water level sensor for detecting the water level in the toilet bowl, which is provided above the toilet bowl at a position where the toilet flushing water for discharging excrement in the toilet bowl does not flow.
A clogging determination unit that determines clogging of the toilet bowl based on the detection result of the water level sensor, and a clogging determination unit.
A sensor cleaning unit that cleans the water level sensor,
Toilet device characterized by being equipped with. The sensor cleaning unit has a local cleaning nozzle for cleaning the user's local area.
The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the local cleaning nozzle cleans the water level sensor by discharging cleaning water. Further equipped with a local cleaning nozzle for cleaning the user's local area,
The sensor cleaning unit has a nozzle cleaning unit that cleans the local cleaning nozzle.
The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the nozzle cleaning unit cleans the water level sensor together with the local cleaning nozzle by discharging cleaning water. Further provided with a nozzle storage unit for storing the local cleaning nozzle, the nozzle storage unit is further provided.
The sensor cleaning unit discharges the cleaning water inside the nozzle accommodating unit.
The toilet device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the nozzle accommodating portion guides the washing water discharged inside the nozzle accommodating portion to the water level sensor. A nozzle storage unit for storing the local cleaning nozzle and a nozzle shutter for opening and closing the opening at the front end of the nozzle storage unit are further provided.
The sensor cleaning unit discharges the cleaning water inside the nozzle accommodating unit.
The toilet device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the nozzle shutter guides the washing water discharged inside the nozzle accommodating portion to the water level sensor. Further provided with a nozzle storage unit for storing the local cleaning nozzle, the nozzle storage unit is further provided.
The sensor cleaning unit discharges the cleaning water inside the nozzle accommodating unit.
The toilet device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the water level sensor is arranged below the nozzle accommodating portion. The sensor cleaning unit has a spraying device that sprays cleaning water into the toilet bowl.
The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the spray device cleans the water level sensor by spraying the washing water. The toilet device according to claim 7, wherein at least a part of the spray device is arranged above the water level sensor. The toilet device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein at least a part of the spray device is arranged behind the water level sensor. Further equipped with a functional water generator that generates functional water that reduces bacteria,
The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the sensor cleaning unit cleans the water level sensor with the functional water supplied from the functional water generation unit.

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