JP5737488B2 - Sanitary washing device - Google Patents

Description

  Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a sanitary washing apparatus, and more specifically, to a sanitary washing apparatus for washing a user's “butt” or the like seated on a Western-style seated toilet with water.

  The cleaning nozzle for local cleaning injects cleaning water to the local area in a state where at least part of the cleaning nozzle is exposed (advanced) from a casing to which predetermined functional parts such as the cleaning nozzle and a hot water tank are attached. Therefore, there is a possibility that dirty water and filth may adhere to the cleaning nozzle. On the other hand, there is a sanitary washing device for washing away and removing sewage and filth adhering to the washing nozzle before and after performing local washing. Thereby, the washing nozzle is kept clean.

  However, even when sewage or filth adhering to the cleaning nozzle is washed away, in a humid environment such as a toilet room, bacteria may propagate on the cleaning nozzle as time passes. More specifically, for example, methylobacterium called pink slime generated on the bowl surface of the toilet bowl or bacteria such as black mold may adhere to the washing nozzle and the bacteria may propagate on the washing nozzle. When bacteria are propagated and, for example, bacteria called biofilms and their secretions (slimming, black stains) are formed, the normal nozzle cleaning as described above removes the biofilms. It becomes difficult.

  In contrast, an electrolytic cell is connected to a flow path for supplying cleaning water, and water containing hypochlorous acid generated by the electrolytic cell is periodically supplied so that no biofilm is formed. A sanitary washing device for sterilizing nozzles has been proposed (Patent Document 1). On the other hand, an electrolysis apparatus and an electrolysis method for generating water containing hypochlorous acid have been proposed (Patent Document 2). According to the electrolysis apparatus and the electrolysis method described in Patent Document 2, the efficiency of generating free chlorine can be improved by electrolyzing after flowing water containing chlorine ions that have flowed into the electrolysis tank. .

  For this reason, bacteria attached to the cleaning nozzle and bacteria in the flow path leading to the cleaning nozzle are sterilized and biofilm formation is suppressed. For example, some molds are sterilized in the sterilization process for several seconds. In some cases, some of them survive in the flow path. In addition, after the sterilization process, if the user does not use the sanitary washing device for a while, those molds may propagate.

Japanese Patent No. 3487447 International Publication No. 95/32922 Pamphlet

  The present invention has been made based on recognition of such a problem, and an object thereof is to provide a sanitary washing apparatus that can sterilize bacteria living in a flow path more reliably.

1st invention has a water outlet, the nozzle which injects water from the said water outlet, and wash | cleans a human body part, The flow path which supplies the said water to the said water outlet, Comprising : An electromagnetic valve is provided, A flow path switching valve that opens and closes water supply to the nozzle downstream of the electromagnetic valve, a flow path that is provided with a vacuum breaker downstream of the electromagnetic valve and upstream of the flow path switching valve, and the flow path The sterilizing water generating means provided in the middle of the sterilizing water, and the water supply is stopped by closing the electromagnetic valve, the flow path switching valve is closed, and the sterilizing water generating means generates the sterilizing water. After holding the sterilizing water in the flow path for a predetermined time, the flow path switching valve is opened to drain the sterilizing water out of the flow path to drain the sterilizing water inside the flow path, and And a control unit that executes control for emptying the interior of the road. A cleaning apparatus.

  According to this sanitary washing device, the control unit can supply the sterilizing water to the inside of the flow path by the sterilizing water generating means and hold the sterilizing water inside the flow path for a predetermined time. In addition, the control unit can drain the sterilized water to the outside of the flow channel after holding the sterilized water inside the flow channel for a predetermined time. According to this, since the sanitary washing device of the present invention holds the sterilizing water inside the flow path for a predetermined time, it is possible to more reliably sterilize bacteria that live inside the flow path. In addition, the sanitary washing device of the present invention drains the sterilized water outside the channel after holding the sterilized water inside the channel for a predetermined time, so even if the sterilizing power of the sterilized water decreases due to aging The sterilizing water can be prevented from becoming a nutrient source for bacteria.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the control unit executes a cleaning process for cleaning the nozzle, and executes a control for continuously holding the nozzle after the cleaning process. It is a sanitary washing device.

  According to this sanitary washing device, the control unit keeps the sterilizing water in the flow path for a predetermined time continuously after executing the washing step of washing the nozzle. Thereby, after performing the washing | cleaning process of a nozzle, the inside of a flow path can be sterilized carefully. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably sterilize bacteria that live inside the flow path.

  In addition, a third invention according to the first invention further comprises human body detection means capable of detecting a human body, wherein the control unit executes the holding control when the human body detection means detects the human body, and the human body The sanitary washing apparatus is characterized in that when the signal instructing execution of local cleaning is received, the drainage control is executed.

  According to this sanitary washing device, the control unit executes control for holding the sterilizing water in the flow path when the human body detecting means detects the human body, and sterilizes by receiving a signal for cleaning the local body part. Control to drain water out of the flow path is executed. Thereby, before a user performs "wet washing", the inside of a channel can be sterilized.

  Here, the time for holding the sterilizing water inside the flow path is the time from when the control unit holds the sterilizing water inside the flow path until receiving a signal for cleaning the local body part. That is, in the present invention, the time for holding the sterilizing water in the flow path varies depending on, for example, the time for the user's stool action. And when the control part receives the signal which wash | cleans a human body local part, the sterilization water currently hold | maintained inside the flow path is replaced by the newly supplied water, and is drained. Thereby, even when the sterilizing power of the sterilizing water decreases due to the change over time, the sterilizing water can be prevented from becoming a nutrient source for bacteria.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to third aspects of the invention, the sterilizing water generating means is an electrolytic cell.

  According to this sanitary washing apparatus, a solution containing hypochlorous acid having a more excellent sterilizing power can be generated in the electrolytic cell. Moreover, the sterilizing water produced | generated in an electrolytic vessel is not limited only to this, The solution containing metal ions, such as silver ion and copper ion, can be produced | generated in an electrolytic vessel. Furthermore, a solution containing electrolytic chlorine, ozone, or the like, acidic water, alkaline water, or the like can be generated. According to this, it is possible to more effectively sterilize bacteria living inside the flow path.

  The fifth invention is the sanitary washing apparatus according to the fourth invention, further comprising heating means capable of heating water supplied to the electrolytic cell.

  According to this sanitary washing device, the control unit can heat the water supplied to the electrolytic cell by controlling the heating means. Here, when the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell is higher, the generation efficiency of the sterilizing water in the electrolytic cell is higher. Therefore, the control unit heats the water supplied to the electrolytic cell by controlling the heating means, and raises the temperature of the water, thereby increasing the concentration of the sterilizing water retained inside the flow path. be able to. This makes it possible to more effectively sterilize bacteria living inside the flow path and more reliably sterilize.

  In addition, the control unit can increase the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell by controlling the heating means, so that the concentration of the sterilizing water retained in the flow path can be increased, so that the sterilization can be performed. The decrease in the sterilizing power of water can be suppressed, and the sterilizing effect of the sterilizing water retained inside the flow path can be maintained for a longer time. Therefore, it can suppress that the sterilized water becomes a nutrient source of bacteria.

  In addition, in a sixth aspect based on the fifth aspect, the temperature of the water supplied from the heating means when generating the sterilizing water is the water supplied from the heating means when washing the local body part. This is a sanitary washing device characterized by being above the maximum temperature.

  According to this sanitary washing device, when the sterilizing water is generated in the electrolytic cell, the control unit controls the heating means to supply the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell when cleaning the human body part. Set above the maximum temperature of the water to be used. Thereby, the production | generation efficiency of the sterilizing water in an electrolytic cell becomes higher. Therefore, the concentration of the sterilizing water held inside the flow path can be further increased.

  In addition, according to a seventh invention, in any one of the fourth to sixth inventions, a flow rate of water supplied to the electrolytic cell when generating the sterilizing water is a maximum flow rate of water flowing through the electrolytic cell. It is a sanitary washing device characterized by being less than.

  According to this sanitary washing device, the control unit sets the flow rate of water supplied to the electrolytic cell to a flow rate smaller than the maximum flow rate when generating sterilizing water in the electrolytic cell. Thereby, the production | generation efficiency of the sterilizing water in an electrolytic cell becomes higher. Therefore, the concentration of the sterilizing water held inside the flow path can be further increased.

  Further, an eighth invention according to the first invention further comprises a human body detecting means capable of detecting a human body, and a heating means capable of heating water supplied to the sterilized water generating means, wherein the control unit is When the human body detecting means detects the human body, the water supplied to the sterilized water generating means is heated by the heating means, and then the flow rate of water supplied to the sterilized water generating means is reduced and held. The sanitary washing apparatus is characterized in that when the control is executed and the signal for washing the human body part is received, the drainage control is executed.

  According to this sanitary washing device, when preparing warm water to be discharged from the nozzle outlet, the control unit sets the flow rate of water supplied to the electrolytic cell to the maximum flow rate, and is supplied to the electrolytic cell. Set the water temperature to the highest temperature. On the other hand, when producing | generating sterilization water in an electrolytic vessel, a control part sets the flow volume of the water supplied to an electrolytic vessel to a flow volume smaller than a maximum flow volume. According to this, when preparing the hot water, the time for holding the sterilizing water in the flow path varies depending on, for example, the time of the user's stool, but the flow is not affected by this time variation. The density | concentration of the sterilization water hold | maintained inside a path | route can be made higher.

  In a ninth aspect based on any one of the first to second and fourth to seventh aspects, the control unit periodically executes the holding control and the draining control. This is a sanitary washing device.

  According to this sanitary washing apparatus, the control unit periodically executes the control for holding the sterilizing water inside the flow path and the control for draining the sterilizing water to the outside of the flow path. Can be sterilized regularly. Thereby, it is possible to more reliably sterilize the bacteria that live inside the flow path, and more reliably suppress the bacteria from growing inside the flow path.

  According to the aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sanitary washing device capable of more reliably sterilizing bacteria that live in the flow path.

It is a perspective schematic diagram showing the toilet apparatus provided with the sanitary washing apparatus concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram showing the principal part structure of the sanitary washing apparatus concerning this embodiment. It is a block diagram which illustrates the example of the principal part structure of the waterway system of the sanitary washing apparatus concerning this embodiment. It is a cross-sectional schematic diagram which illustrates the specific example of the electrolytic cell unit of this embodiment. It is a perspective schematic diagram which illustrates the example of the nozzle unit of this embodiment. It is a conceptual schematic diagram showing the outline of the operation | movement of the sanitary washing apparatus concerning this embodiment, and the state of a flow path. It is a timing chart which illustrates the example of operation | movement of the sanitary washing apparatus concerning this embodiment. It is a cross-sectional schematic diagram which represents schematically the internal structure of the pressure modulation apparatus of this embodiment. It is the graph and data table which illustrate an example of the experimental result about the bactericidal effect with respect to colon_bacillus | E._coli. It is the graph and data table which illustrate an example of the experimental result about the bactericidal effect with respect to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It is the graph and data table which illustrate an example of the experimental result about the bactericidal effect with respect to S. aureus. It is the graph and data table which illustrate an example of the experimental result about the bactericidal effect with respect to methylobacterium.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, in each drawing, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same component and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted suitably.
FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a toilet apparatus provided with a sanitary washing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Moreover, FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the principal part structure of the sanitary washing apparatus concerning this embodiment. In addition, FIG. 2 represents together the principal part structure of the waterway system and the electrical system.

  The toilet device shown in FIG. 1 includes a Western-style seat toilet (hereinafter simply referred to as “toilet” for convenience of explanation) 800 and a sanitary washing device 100 provided thereon. The sanitary washing device 100 includes a casing 400, a toilet seat 200, and a toilet lid 300. The toilet seat 200 and the toilet lid 300 are pivotally supported with respect to the casing 400 so as to be freely opened and closed.

  The casing 400 incorporates a local cleaning function unit that realizes cleaning of a user who sits on the toilet seat 200, such as a “butt”. In addition, for example, the casing 400 is provided with a seating detection sensor (human body detection means) 404 that detects that a user is sitting on the toilet seat 200. When the seating detection sensor 404 detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 200, when the user operates the operation unit 500 such as a remote controller, for example, a cleaning nozzle (hereinafter simply referred to as “nozzle”) 473. Can be advanced into the bowl 801 of the toilet bowl 800. In the sanitary washing device 100 shown in FIG. 1, the nozzle 473 has entered the bowl 801.

  One or a plurality of water discharge ports 474 are provided at the tip of the nozzle 473. And the nozzle 473 can wash | clean the "buttock" etc. of the user who sat on the toilet seat 200 by injecting water from the spout 474 provided in the front-end | tip part. In the present specification, “water” includes not only cold water but also heated hot water.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the sanitary washing device 100 according to the present embodiment is a flow that guides water supplied from a water supply source 10 such as a water supply or a water storage tank to a water outlet 474 of a nozzle 473. It has a path 20. An electromagnetic valve 431 is provided on the upstream side of the flow path 20. The electromagnetic valve 431 is an electromagnetic valve that can be opened and closed, and controls the supply of water based on a command from the control unit 405 provided in the casing 400. The flow path 20 is a secondary side downstream from the electromagnetic valve 431.

A hot water heater 441 is provided downstream of the electromagnetic valve 431. The hot water heater 441 heats the supplied water to make predetermined hot water. In addition, about warm water temperature, a user can set by operating the operation part 500, for example.
An electrolytic cell unit (sterilizing water generating means) 450 capable of generating sterilizing water is provided downstream of the hot water heater 441. The electrolytic cell unit 450 will be described in detail later.

A pressure modulation device 460 is provided downstream of the electrolytic cell unit 450. The pressure modulation device 460 can pulsate the flow of water in the flow path 20 and pulsate the water discharged from the water discharge port 474 of the nozzle 473.
Downstream of the pressure modulator 460, a flow rate switching valve 471 that adjusts the water flow (flow rate) and a flow path switching valve 472 that opens, closes, and switches water supply to the nozzle 473 and the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 are provided. Yes. Note that the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 may be provided as one unit as in a specific example described later with reference to FIG. Subsequently, a nozzle 473 is provided downstream of the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472.

The nozzle 473 can advance and retract into the bowl 801 of the toilet bowl 800 under the driving force from the nozzle motor 476. That is, the nozzle motor 476 can advance and retract the nozzle 473 based on a command from the control unit 405.
The control unit 405 is supplied with power from the power supply circuit 401, and based on signals from the human body detection sensor (human body detection means) 403, the seating detection sensor 404, the operation unit 500, etc., the electromagnetic valve 431, hot water Operations of the heater 441, the electrolytic cell unit 450, the pressure modulator 460, the flow rate switching valve 471, the flow path switching valve 472, and the nozzle motor 476 can be controlled.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the human body detection sensor 403 is provided so as to be embedded in a recessed portion 409 formed on the upper surface of the casing 400, and detects a user (human body) approaching the toilet seat 200. Can do. A transmissive window 310 is provided at the rear of the toilet lid 300. Therefore, in the state where the toilet lid 300 is closed, the human body detection sensor 403 can detect the presence of the user via the transmission window 310. For example, when the human body detection sensor 403 detects the user, the control unit 405 can automatically open the toilet lid 300 based on the detection result of the human body detection sensor 403.

  Also, the casing 400 is provided with various types of devices such as a “warm air drying function”, a “deodorizing unit”, and an “indoor heating unit” for blowing and drying hot air toward a “butt” of a user sitting on the toilet seat 200. A mechanism may be provided as appropriate. At this time, an exhaust port 407 from the deodorizing unit and an exhaust port 408 from the indoor heating unit are appropriately provided on the side surface of the casing 400. However, in the present invention, the sanitary washing function unit and other additional function units are not necessarily provided.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a specific example of the main configuration of the water channel system of the sanitary washing device according to this embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a specific example of the electrolytic cell unit of this embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a specific example of the nozzle unit of this embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the water supplied from the water supply source 10 is first guided to the branch fitting 410. The water guided to the branch fitting 410 is distributed to the connecting hose 420 and a valve unit for toilet flushing (not shown). However, the toilet apparatus provided with the sanitary washing device 100 according to the present embodiment is not limited to the so-called “water direct pressure type”, and may be a so-called “low tank type”. Therefore, when the toilet device is a “low tank type”, the water guided to the branch fitting 410 is guided to a low tank (not shown) instead of the valve unit for toilet flushing.

  Subsequently, the water supplied to the connection hose 420 is guided to the valve unit 430. The valve unit 430 includes an electromagnetic valve 431, a pressure regulating valve 432, a water entry thermistor 433, a safety valve 434, and a water drain plug 435. The pressure regulating valve 432 has a role of adjusting to a predetermined pressure range when the feed water pressure is high. The incoming water thermistor 433 detects the temperature of water led to the heat exchanger unit 440. The safety valve 434 opens when the pressure in the flow path 20 rises and discharges water to the bowl 801 of the toilet bowl 800. By providing the safety valve 434, it is possible to prevent leakage of water inside the sanitary washing device 100 even when the pressure in the secondary (downstream) flow path 20 increases due to, for example, a failure of the pressure regulating valve 432. Further, the water drain plug 435 is used when there is a possibility that the water in the flow path 20 is frozen, and can discharge the water in the flow path 20. The electromagnetic valve 431 is as described above.

  Subsequently, the water supplied to the valve unit 430 is guided to the heat exchanger unit 440. The heat exchanger unit (heating means) 440 includes a hot water heater 441 and a vacuum breaker 442. The vacuum breaker 442 prevents the sewage from flowing backward from the nozzle 473 when, for example, a negative pressure is generated in the valve unit 430. Alternatively, the vacuum breaker 442 takes in air from the outside when draining the flow path 20 and promotes drainage of the flow path 20 between the heat exchanger unit 440 and the nozzle unit 470. Then, the water from the vacuum breaker 442 is discharged to the bowl 801 of the toilet bowl 800.

  Subsequently, the water supplied to the heat exchanger unit 440 and heated to a predetermined temperature is guided to the electrolytic cell unit 450. The electrolyzer unit 450 can produce sterilized water as described above with respect to FIGS. Here, the electrolytic cell unit 450 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

As shown in FIG. 4, the electrolytic cell unit 450 includes an anode plate 451 and a cathode plate 452 inside thereof, and can electrolyze tap water flowing through the inside by controlling energization from the control unit 405. Here, tap water contains chlorine ions. This chloride ion is contained as salt (NaCl) or calcium chloride (CaCl ₂ ) in a water source (for example, groundwater, dam water, river water, etc.). Therefore, hypochlorous acid is produced by electrolyzing the chlorine ions. As a result, the water electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell unit 450 changes to a liquid containing hypochlorous acid.

  Hypochlorous acid functions as a sterilizing component, and a solution containing the hypochlorous acid, that is, sterilizing water, can efficiently remove or decompose or sterilize dirt caused by ammonia or the like. Here, in the present specification, “sterilizing water” refers to a solution containing more sterilizing components such as hypochlorous acid than tap water (also simply referred to as “water”).

  As described above, the tap water supplied from the heat exchanger unit 440 is electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell unit 450 to become a solution containing hypochlorous acid, and is led to the nozzle unit 470 through the pressure modulator 460. As shown in FIG. 3, the nozzle unit 470 includes a flow rate switching valve 471, a flow path switching valve 472, and a nozzle 473. Then, the flow path switching valve 472 guides the sterilizing water supplied from the electrolytic cell unit 450 via the pressure modulator 460 to the water outlet 474 of the nozzle 473 or the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 (see FIGS. 2 and 5). it can. Here, the nozzle unit 470 will be described with reference to the drawings.

  As illustrated in FIG. 5, the nozzle unit 470 of the present embodiment includes a mounting base 475 as a base, a nozzle 473 supported by the mounting base 475, and a nozzle motor 476 that moves the nozzle 473. The nozzle 473 is slidable with respect to the mounting base 475 by a driving force transmitted from the nozzle motor 476 via a transmission member 477 such as a belt as indicated by an arrow A shown in FIG. That is, the nozzle 473 can move straight in the axial direction (advance / retreat direction) of the nozzle 473 itself. The nozzle 473 can be moved forward and backward from the casing 400 and the mounting base 475.

  Further, the nozzle unit 470 of the present embodiment is provided with a nozzle cleaning chamber 478. The nozzle cleaning chamber 478 is fixed to the mounting base 475, and sterilizes or cleans the outer peripheral surface (body) of the nozzle 473 by spraying sterilizing water or water from a water discharge portion 479 provided therein. it can. That is, when the control unit 405 generates sterilizing water by energizing the anode plate 451 and the cathode plate 452 of the electrolytic cell unit 450, the body of the nozzle 473 is sterilized by the sterilizing water sprayed from the water discharge unit 479. The On the other hand, when the control unit 405 does not energize the anode plate 451 and the cathode plate 452 of the electrolytic cell unit 450, the body of the nozzle 473 is physically washed with water sprayed from the water discharger 479.

  More specifically, in a state where the nozzle 473 is accommodated in the casing 400, the portion of the water discharge port 474 of the nozzle 473 is substantially accommodated in the nozzle cleaning chamber 478. Therefore, the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 can sterilize or clean the portion of the water discharge port 474 of the nozzle 473 in the housed state by injecting sterilizing water or water from the water discharge portion 479 provided therein. In addition, the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 can sterilize or clean not only the portion of the water discharge port 474 but also the outer peripheral surface of the other portion by spraying water or sterilizing water from the water discharge portion 479 when the nozzle 473 advances and retreats. .

  Further, the nozzle 473 of this embodiment sterilizes or cleans the portion of the water outlet 474 by discharging sterilizing water or water from the water outlet 474 of the nozzle 473 itself in a state where the nozzle 473 is housed in the casing 400. be able to. Further, in the state where the nozzle 473 is housed in the casing 400, the portion of the water outlet 474 of the nozzle 473 is almost housed in the nozzle cleaning chamber 478, so that the sterilized water discharged from the water outlet 474 of the nozzle 473 or The water is reflected by the inner wall of the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 and is applied to the portion of the water discharge port 474. Therefore, the portion of the water discharge port 474 of the nozzle 473 is sterilized or cleaned by sterilizing water or water reflected from the inner wall of the nozzle cleaning chamber 478.

  As described above, the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle 473 and the portion of the water discharge port 474 are sterilized by the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450. For example, some molds are sterilized in the sterilization process for several seconds. In some cases, some of them may survive inside the flow path 20. In addition, after the sterilization process is performed, if the user does not use the sanitary washing device 100 for a while, those molds may propagate.

  In contrast, the sanitary washing device 100 according to the present embodiment can supply the sterilized water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 to the flow path 20 and hold the sterilized water in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time. (Sterilized water retention step). At that time, by closing the flow path switching valve 472, it is easier to hold the sterilized water inside the flow path 20. In particular, the present embodiment is effective because the channel that reaches the water outlet 474 of the nozzle 473 is easily contaminated. In addition, when holding the sterilizing water inside the flow path 20, it is desirable to replace the water remaining in the flow path 20 before replacing the sterilizing water into the flow path 20. . In addition, the sanitary washing device 100 according to the present embodiment can drain the sterilized water to the outside of the channel 20 after holding the sterilized water inside the channel 20 for a predetermined time (drainage process).

  According to this, since the sanitary washing device 100 holds the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time, it is possible to sterilize bacteria living in the flow path 20 more reliably. This is one of the effective means when the flow path 20 is formed of an antibacterial metal having a weaker sterilizing power. Further, since the sanitary washing device 100 retains the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time and then drains the sterilizing water to the outside of the flow path 20, even when the sterilizing power of the sterilizing water decreases due to a change over time. The sterilizing water can be prevented from becoming a nutrient source for bacteria. Hereinafter, these operations will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 6 is a conceptual schematic diagram showing an outline of the operation of the sanitary washing device and the state of the flow path according to the present embodiment.
First, when the seating detection sensor 404 detects a user seated on the toilet seat 200, the control unit 405 opens the electromagnetic valve 431 and executes “waste water”. Thereby, the cold water in the flow path 20 is drained, and warm water is prepared.

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 energizes the electrolytic cell unit 450 to generate sterilizing water. Then, the control unit 405 controls the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 to discharge the sterilizing water from all the plurality of water outlets 474 and perform “pre-cleaning” of the portion of the water outlet 474 ( Timing t101 to t102). At this time, since the sterilizing water is discharged from the water outlet 474, the inside of the flow path 20 and the portion of the water outlet 474 are sterilized by the sterilizing water. In addition, the execution time of the pre-cleaning with sterilizing water is about 6 to 15 seconds, for example.

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 closes the electromagnetic valve 431, waits until a “wet washing switch” (not shown) provided in the operation unit 500 is pressed by the user, and keeps the temperature of the water discharged from the water outlet 474. (Timing t102 to t103). At this time, since the control unit 405 closes the electromagnetic valve 431 and closes the flow path switching valve 472, the control unit 405 can hold the sterilized water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time (sterilization). Water retention step). Thereby, before a user performs "wet washing", the inside of channel 20 can be sterilized.

  The predetermined time referred to here is the time during which the sterilizing water is retained in the flow path 20, that is, the “wet washing switch” after the control unit 405 closes the electromagnetic valve and the flow path switching valve 472. Is the time until is pressed by the user. Therefore, the predetermined time referred to here varies depending on, for example, the time of the user's stool act.

  Subsequently, when the user presses a “wet cleaning switch” (not shown) provided in the operation unit 500 (timing t103), the control unit 405 receives a signal for executing local cleaning. Then, the control unit 405 first performs “pre-cleaning” with water (timing t103 to t104). More specifically, the control unit 405 controls the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 to discharge water from all of the plurality of water discharge ports 474 and wash these water discharge ports 474. At this time, the control unit 405 does not energize the electrolytic cell unit 450 and does not generate sterilizing water. Therefore, the portions of the plurality of water discharge ports 474 are physically cleaned by the water discharged by the water discharge ports 474 itself (including the water reflected by the inner wall of the nozzle cleaning chamber 478).

  In other words, the sterilizing water retained in the flow path 20 is drained from the water outlet 474 by newly supplied water. That is, the sterilizing water retained in the flow path 20 is replaced with newly supplied water and drained (drainage process). In addition, the execution time of the pre-cleaning with water is, for example, about 2 to 7 seconds.

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 controls the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 to cause the nozzle 473 to advance into the bowl 801 while ejecting water from the water discharger 479 provided in the nozzle cleaning chamber 478. . Therefore, the body of the nozzle 473 is washed with water sprayed from the water discharger 479 (timing t104 to t105). Also at this time, the control unit 405 does not energize the electrolytic cell unit 450 and does not generate sterilizing water. Therefore, the body of the nozzle 473 is physically washed with water sprayed from the water discharger 479.

  Also at this time, the sterilizing water retained in the flow path 20 connected to the water discharger 479 is replaced with newly supplied water and drained (drainage process). In addition, the execution time of the trunk cleaning with water is, for example, about 2 seconds.

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 controls the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 to inject water from the spout 474 for “wet washing”, and to remove the “butt” of the user seated on the toilet seat 200. Washing is performed (timing t105 to t106). At this time, the control unit 405 does not energize the electrolytic cell unit 450 and does not generate sterilizing water. In addition, the sterilizing water retained in the flow path 20 is replaced with newly supplied water and drained at timings t103 to t105. Therefore, sterilizing water is not sprayed to the user's local area.

  Subsequently, when the user presses a “stop switch” (not shown) by the operation unit 500 (timing t106), the control unit 405 controls the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 to provide the nozzle cleaning chamber 478. The nozzle 473 is housed in the casing 400 while spraying sterilizing water from the water discharger 479 (timing t106 to t107). That is, the control unit 405 energizes the electrolytic cell unit 450 to generate sterilizing water, and performs “body cleaning” of the nozzle 473 with the sterilizing water sprayed from the water discharge unit 479 (timing t106 to t107). Thereby, the inside of the flow path 20 and the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle 473 are sterilized with sterilizing water. In addition, the execution time of the body cleaning with the sterilizing water is, for example, about 2 seconds.

  Subsequently, in a state where the nozzle 473 is housed in the casing 400, the control unit 405 controls the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 to discharge sterilizing water from all the plurality of water outlets 474, “Post-cleaning” of these water discharge ports 474 is executed (timing t107 to t108). That is, the control unit 405 energizes the electrolytic cell unit 450 to generate sterilizing water, and performs post-cleaning of the portion of the water discharge port 474 with the sterilizing water sprayed from the water discharge port 474 (timing t107 to t108). Thereby, the inside of the flow path 20 and the portion of the water discharge port 474 are sterilized with sterilizing water. The execution time of the pre-cleaning with sterilizing water is, for example, about 3 seconds.

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 closes the electromagnetic valve 431, then closes the flow path switching valve 472, and holds the sterilized water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time (timing t108 to t109: Sterilized water retention step). Thereby, after a user performs "wet washing", the inside of channel 20 can be sterilized. The predetermined time here is, for example, about 60 minutes. Thus, since the sanitary washing device 100 according to the present embodiment holds the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 for a longer time, it is possible to sterilize bacteria living in the flow path 20 more reliably.

  Subsequently, when a predetermined time elapses, the control unit 405 performs “drainage” (timing t109 to t110: drainage process). That is, the control unit 405 drains the sterilizing water inside the flow channel 20 and empties the flow channel 20. The execution time of this “drainage” is, for example, about 60 seconds. As described above, the sanitary washing device 100 according to the present embodiment holds the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time, and then drains the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 to empty the flow path 20. Therefore, even when the sterilizing power of the sterilizing water is reduced due to the change over time, the sterilizing water can be prevented from becoming a nutrient source for bacteria.

  In addition, the control unit 405 according to the present embodiment continuously holds the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time after executing the cleaning process for cleaning the nozzle 473. Here, in the present specification, the “cleaning step” of the nozzle means at least one of pre-cleaning with sterilizing water, body cleaning with sterilizing water, and post-cleaning with sterilizing water. Thereby, after performing the washing | cleaning process of the nozzle 473, the inside of the flow path 20 can be sterilized carefully. Therefore, the bacteria that live inside the flow path 20 can be sterilized more reliably.

FIG. 7 is a timing chart illustrating a specific example of the operation of the sanitary washing device according to this embodiment.
First, when the seating detection sensor 404 detects a user seated on the toilet seat 200 (timing t1), the control unit 405 changes the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 from “origin” to “SC (self-cleaning)”. The water discharge from all the water outlets 474 for switching, “wet cleaning” and “bidet cleaning” is enabled. The flow rate (water volume) at this time is, for example, about 450 cc / min.

  Subsequently, when the switching of the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 is completed (timing t2), the control unit 405 opens the electromagnetic valve 431 and sets the hot water heater 441 to the “water draining mode”. Thereby, the cold water in the flow path 20 is drained, and warm water is prepared. Subsequently, when the controller 405 switches the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 from “SC” to “SC2” and completes the hot water preparation, energization of the electrolytic cell unit 450 is started and sterilizing water is generated. (Timing t3).

  The flow rate (water amount) at this time is, for example, about 280 cc / min. That is, the flow rate at this time is smaller than the flow rate at the time of preparation of hot water (for example, about 450 cc / min) and the flow rate at the time of pre-cleaning with water and body cleaning and post-cleaning (for example, about 450 cc / min). In other words, the control unit 405 can generate sterilizing water at a set flow rate that is independent of the flow rate when performing local cleaning. In this specific example, the flow rate at the time of warm water preparation and the flow rate at the time of pre-cleaning with water, body cleaning, and post-cleaning are set to the maximum flow rate. Thus, the control unit 405 increases the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 by reducing the flow rate of water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 from the maximum flow rate. Can do.

  At this time, the control unit 405 changes the setting of the hot water heater 441 from the “disposal mode” to the “sterilization control mode” (timing t3). The temperature of the hot water heater 441 at this time, that is, the set temperature of the hot water heater 441 in the “sterilization control mode” is the set temperature of the hot water heater 441 when performing local cleaning, that is, “pre-cleaning mode, main cleaning mode, post-cleaning mode”. Is the maximum temperature of the set temperature of the hot water heater 441 in FIG. In other words, the control unit 405 can generate sterilizing water at a set temperature that is independent of the temperature at which local cleaning is performed.

  As described above, the control unit 405 sets the hot water heater 441 to the “sterilization control mode” and sets the temperature to be equal to or higher than the maximum temperature of water supplied from the hot water heater 441 when performing local cleaning. The concentration of hypochlorous acid in the sterilizing water generated in 450 can be further increased. Moreover, since the control part 405 can raise the density | concentration of the hypochlorous acid of sterilization water more by setting more than the maximum temperature when performing local cleaning, it suppresses the fall of the sterilization power of sterilization water. The sterilizing effect of the sterilizing water retained in the flow path 20 can be maintained for a longer time. Therefore, it can suppress that the sterilized water becomes a nutrient source of bacteria.

  At this time, since the control unit 405 switches the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 to “SC2”, as in the case of “SC”, all of the “wet washing” and “bidet washing” are performed. The water discharge from the water discharge port 474 is possible. And since the sterilization water produced | generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 is discharged from the spout 474, the inside of the flow path 20 and the part of the spout 474 are sterilized with sterilization water.

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 changes the setting of the hot water heater 441 from the “sterilization control mode” to the “heat retention control mode” (timing t4), then closes the electromagnetic valve 431 and stops energization of the electrolytic cell unit 450. (Timing t5). The reason why the electromagnetic valve 431 is closed after the controller 405 changes the setting of the hot water heater 441 is to prevent so-called “post-boiling”. That is, the hot water heater 441 generates residual heat even after the setting is changed from the “sterilization control mode” to the “heat retention control mode”.

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 switches the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 from “SC2” to “closed” (timing t6). Then, the control unit 405 waits until a “wet washing switch” (not shown) provided in the operation unit 500 is pressed by the user, and keeps the temperature of water discharged from the water discharge port 474 (timing t6 to t7). At this time, since the control unit 405 closes the electromagnetic valve 431 and closes the flow path switching valve 472, the control unit 405 can hold the sterilized water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time (sterilization). Water retention step). Thereby, before a user performs "wet washing", the inside of channel 20 can be sterilized.

  Subsequently, when the user presses a “wet cleaning switch” (not shown) provided in the operation unit 500 (timing t7), the control unit 405 receives a signal for executing local cleaning. Then, the control unit 405 switches the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 from “closed” to “SC”, opens the electromagnetic valve 431, and sets the hot water heater 441 to “pre-cleaning mode, main cleaning mode, post-cleaning mode”. To "". At this time, the control unit 405 does not energize the electrolytic cell unit 450 and does not generate sterilizing water. Therefore, the portion of the water outlet 474 is washed with water discharged by the water outlet 474 itself.

  In other words, the sterilizing water retained in the flow path 20 is drained from the water outlet 474 by newly supplied water. That is, the sterilizing water retained in the flow path 20 is replaced with newly supplied water and drained (drainage process).

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 switches the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 from “SC” to “bypass 2”, and enables water to be injected from the water discharger 479 provided in the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 (timing). t8). Subsequently, the control unit 405 advances the nozzle 473 housed in the casing 400 to the “wet washing” position (timing t9 to t10). At this time, the control unit 405 opens the electromagnetic valve 431, does not energize the electrolytic cell unit 450, and does not generate sterilizing water. Therefore, the body of the nozzle 473 is washed with water sprayed from the water discharger 479. And the sterilizing water currently hold | maintained inside the flow path 20 connected to the water discharging part 479 is substituted by the newly supplied water, and is drained (drainage process).

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 switches the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 from “bypass 2” to “wet water flow 5” (timing t10 to t11), and performs main cleaning (wet cleaning) (timing t11). To t12). For example, when the user changes the setting of the water flow in “wet washing” from “water flow 5” to “water flow 3” using the operation unit 500, the control unit 405 includes the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472. Is switched from “Oshiri water force 5” to “Oshiri water force 3” (timing t12 to t13). And the control part 405 continues this washing | cleaning in "water power 3" (timing t13-t14).

  In this main cleaning, the control unit 405 does not energize the electrolytic cell unit 450 and does not generate sterilizing water. In addition, the sterilizing water retained in the flow path 20 is replaced and drained by newly supplied water at timings t7 to t10. Therefore, sterilizing water is not sprayed to the user's local area.

  Subsequently, when the user presses a “stop switch” (not shown) by the operation unit 500, the control unit 405 switches the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 from “wetting water force 3” to “bypass 2”, and the nozzle Water can be ejected from the water discharger 479 provided in the cleaning chamber 478 (timing t14). Subsequently, the control unit 405 stores the nozzle 473 that has advanced to the “wet washing” position in the casing 400 (timing t15 to t16). At this time, the control unit 405 opens the electromagnetic valve 431, does not energize the electrolytic cell unit 450, and does not generate sterilizing water. Therefore, the body of the nozzle 473 is washed with water sprayed from the water discharger 479.

  Subsequently, in a state where the nozzle 473 is housed in the casing 400, the control unit 405 switches the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 from “bypass 2” to “SC”, and performs “wet cleaning” and “bidet cleaning”. The post-cleaning is performed by discharging water from all of the water discharge ports 474 for "the time" (timing t16 to t17). Also at this time, since the control unit 405 opens the electromagnetic valve 431 and does not energize the electrolytic cell unit 450, the portion of the water outlet 474 of the nozzle 473 is washed with water discharged from the water outlet 474 itself. Is done.

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 closes the electromagnetic valve 431 and switches the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 from “SC” to “origin” (timing t18). Subsequently, after a user performs “wet-drying” as appropriate and leaves the toilet seat 200, when a predetermined time (here, for example, about 5 seconds) elapses, the control unit 405 includes the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching. The valve 472 is switched from “origin” to “SC2” to enable water discharge from all the water discharge ports 474 for “wet cleaning” and “bidet cleaning” (timing t19). Further, the control unit 405 opens the electromagnetic valve 431 and sets the hot water heater 441 to “the pre-cleaning mode, the main cleaning mode, and the post-cleaning mode” (timing t19). Furthermore, the control unit 405 starts energization of the electrolytic cell unit 450 and starts generating sterilizing water (timing t20).

  Therefore, the post-cleaning of the nozzle 473 with the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 is performed. That is, since the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 is discharged from the water outlet 474, the inside of the flow path 20 and the portion of the water outlet 474 are sterilized by the sterilizing water. Thereby, after a user performs "wet washing", the inside of channel 20 can be sterilized.

  The flow rate (water amount) at this time is, for example, about 280 cc / min. According to this, as described above, the control unit 405 reduces the concentration of hypochlorous acid in the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 by reducing the flow rate of water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450. Can be increased.

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 stops energization of the electrolytic cell unit 450 and sets the hot water heater 441 to the “freezing prevention control mode” (timing t21). Thereafter, the control unit 405 closes the electromagnetic valve 431, closes the flow path switching valve 472, and holds the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time (timing t22 to t25: sterilizing water). Holding step). Thereby, after a user performs "wet washing", the inside of channel 20 can be sterilized.

  The execution time of this sterilizing water holding process is about 60 minutes, for example. Thus, since the sanitary washing device 100 according to the present embodiment holds the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 for a longer time, it is possible to sterilize bacteria living in the flow path 20 more reliably. Note that the control unit 405 may supply the sterilizing water by energizing the electrolytic cell unit 450 while holding the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 (timing t22 to t25) (timing t23 to t24). . According to this, even when the sterilizing power of the sterilizing water is reduced due to the change over time, the control unit 405 can control the electrolytic cell unit 450 and suppress the decrease in the sterilizing power by supplying new sterilizing water. it can.

  Subsequently, when a predetermined time (for example, about 60 minutes) elapses, the control unit 405 switches the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 from “closed” to “SC2”, and sets the nozzle 473 to “drain”. Move to position (timing t25). Thereby, “drainage” inside the flow path 20 is executed (timing t25 to t28: drainage process). That is, the control unit 405 drains the sterilizing water inside the flow channel 20 and empties the flow channel 20. As described above, the sanitary washing device 100 according to the present embodiment holds the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time, and then drains the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 to empty the flow path 20. Therefore, even when the sterilizing power of the sterilizing water is reduced due to the change over time, the sterilizing water can be prevented from becoming a nutrient source for bacteria.

  Here, the control unit 405 can promote draining by driving the pressure modulation device 460 while draining the water inside the flow path 20 (timing t26 to t27). More specifically, depending on the installation position of the flow path 20, the heat exchanger unit 440, the electrolytic cell unit 450, etc., the sterilizing water inside the flow path 20 is completely drained only by the height difference between the installation positions. May not be. Alternatively, depending on the internal structure of the electrolytic cell unit 450 or the distance between the anode plate 451 and the negative electrode plate 452 provided in the electrolytic cell unit 450, the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 may be the electrolytic cell unit. In some cases, the water is not completely drained due to the resistance and surface tension of water inside the 450. If the sterilizing water remains without being drained from the inside of the flow path 20, the sterilizing water may be a nutrient source for bacteria because its sterilizing power decreases due to changes over time.

  In contrast, the control unit 405 actively drains the sterilizing water inside the flow path 20 by driving the pressure modulation device 460 while draining the water inside the flow path 20. Can do. Thereby, it can suppress that sterilization water remains in the inside of the flow path 20, and can prevent more reliably that the sterilization water becomes a nutrient source of bacteria.

Here, the pressure modulation device 460 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing the internal structure of the pressure modulation device of this embodiment.
The pressure modulator 460 can pulsate the flow of water inside the flow path 20. Here, “pulsation” in the specification of the present application refers to a pressure fluctuation caused by the pressure modulation device 460. Therefore, the pressure modulation device 460 is a device that varies the pressure of water inside the flow path 20.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the pressure modulation device 460 includes a cylinder 461 connected to the flow path 20, a plunger 462 provided in the cylinder 461 so as to advance and retreat, and a check provided in the plunger 462. It has a valve 463 and a pulsation generating coil 464 that moves the plunger 462 forward and backward by controlling the excitation voltage.

  When the position of the plunger 462 changes to the nozzle 473 side (downstream side), the pressure of water downstream from the pressure modulation device 460 increases, and the side opposite to the nozzle 473 (upstream side). In the case of changing to, a check valve is arranged so that the pressure of water downstream of the pressure modulator 460 decreases. In other words, when the position of the plunger 462 changes to the nozzle 473 side (downstream side), the pressure of water upstream from the pressure modulation device 460 decreases and the side opposite to the nozzle (upstream side). When the pressure changes to, the pressure of water upstream of the pressure modulator 460 increases.

  Then, by controlling the excitation of the pulsation generating coil 464, the plunger 462 is advanced and retracted upstream and downstream. That is, when pulsation is added to the water inside the flow path 20 (when the pressure of the water inside the flow path 20 is varied), the plunger 462 is controlled by controlling the excitation voltage flowing through the pulsation generating coil 464. The cylinder 461 is moved back and forth in the axial direction (upstream / downstream).

  In this case, the plunger 462 moves from the illustrated original position (plunger original position) to the downstream side 465 by excitation of the pulsation generating coil 464. When the excitation of the coil disappears, it returns to the original position by the urging force of the return spring 466. At this time, the return movement of the plunger 462 is buffered by the buffer spring 467. The plunger 462 has a duck pill type check valve 463 in the inside thereof, and prevents back flow upstream.

  Therefore, when the plunger 462 moves from the plunger original position to the downstream side, the water in the cylinder 461 can be pressurized and pushed into the flow path 20 on the downstream side. In other words, when the plunger 462 moves downstream from the plunger original position, the water in the upstream flow path 20 can be decompressed and sucked into the cylinder 461. At this time, since the plunger original position and the position moved downstream are always constant, the amount of washing water sent to the downstream flow path 20 when the plunger 462 operates is constant.

  Thereafter, when returning to the original position, the cleaning water flows into the cylinder 461 through the check valve 463. Therefore, at the next downstream movement of the plunger 462, a fixed amount of washing water is sent to the downstream flow path 20 again.

  Thus, when the plunger 462 moves downstream from the plunger original position, the water in the upstream flow path 20 can be decompressed and sucked into the cylinder 461. Thereby, the pressure modulation device 460 can suck water in the flow channel 20 upstream of the pressure modulation device 460 while pulsating the flow of water in the flow channel 20. As a result, the control unit 405 can positively drain the sterilizing water inside the flow path 20 on the upstream side as well as on the downstream side of the pressure modulation device 460 by controlling the pressure modulation device 460.

  Subsequently, returning to the description of the time chart illustrated in FIG. 7, the control unit 405 enters a standby state after draining the water inside the flow path 20 (timing t28 to t29). Thereafter, the control unit 405 switches the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 from “origin” to “SC2”, and can discharge water from all the water outlets 474 for “wet cleaning” and “bidet cleaning”. (Timing t29). Further, the controller 405 opens the electromagnetic valve 431 and sets the hot water heater 441 to the “sterilization control mode” (timing t29). Furthermore, the control unit 405 starts energization of the electrolytic cell unit 450 and starts generating sterilizing water (timing t29). That is, here, as described above with respect to the timings t19 to t22, the inside of the flow path 20 and the portion of the water outlet 474 are sterilized with the sterilizing water (timing t29 to t30).

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 closes the electromagnetic valve 431, closes the flow path switching valve 472, and disinfects the sterilized water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 in the flow path 20 in the same manner as described above with respect to the timings t22 to t25. (Time t30 to t31: sterilizing water holding step). According to this, after the user performs “wet washing”, the inside of the flow path 20 can be periodically sterilized. And the control part 405 drains the sterilization water inside the flow path 20, and makes the inside of the flow path 20 empty like the operation | movement mentioned above regarding timing t25-t28 (timing t31-t32: drainage process). Thereby, it is possible to more reliably sterilize the bacteria that live inside the flow path 20, and more reliably prevent the bacteria from growing inside the flow path 20.

  Here, with respect to a trigger for executing periodic sterilization and drainage (timing t29 to t32) inside the flow path 20, the control unit 405 performs periodic sterilization and drainage at a time appropriately set by a timer, for example. Can be executed. The time of the timer may be set in advance at the time of manufacture and shipment of the sanitary washing device 100, or may be set according to preference by the user. Or the control part 405 can perform regular sterilization and drainage aiming at the night time zone when the sanitary washing apparatus 100 is not used.

  Or the control part 405 may memorize | store the usage frequency of the sanitary washing apparatus 100 by a user, and may learn the time slot | zone with the low usage frequency. According to this, the control part 405 can perform regular sterilization and drainage in the time slot | zone when the user's use frequency is few.

Next, the bactericidal effect against various bacteria will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 9 is a graph and a data table illustrating an example of experimental results on the bactericidal effect on E. coli.
FIG. 10 is a graph and a data table illustrating an example of an experimental result on the bactericidal effect against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
FIG. 11 is a graph and a data table illustrating an example of an experimental result on the bactericidal effect against Staphylococcus aureus.
FIG. 12 is a graph and a data table illustrating an example of an experimental result regarding the bactericidal effect against methylobacterium.

The present inventor conducted an experiment for examining the bactericidal effect on microorganisms detected at a relatively high frequency from the surrounding environment using electrolyzed water having a relatively low concentration.
First, conditions for generating electrolyzed water will be described. First, the present inventor appropriately erased free residual chlorine from clean water. And this inventor passed the tap water through the electrolytic cell, adjusted electrolysis voltage suitably, and produced | generated the electrolyzed water whose density | concentration of free residual chlorine is 0.3-1.0 mg / L. The electrode used for this electrolysis is an iridium-based electrode (Pt / IrO ₂ ) suitable for electrolysis of domestic water and having excellent durability.

  In addition, the present inventor, Escherichia coli NBRC3972, Pseudomonas aeruginosa IFO13736, and Staphylococcus aureus NBRC12732, as microorganisms separated from the surrounding environment at a relatively high frequency, Methylobacterium extorquens IFO15687 was selected.

Next, the method of the sterilization test will be described. The inventor first added 1 mL of a test bacterial solution (about 10 ⁷ CFU (colony forming unit) / mL) to 100 mL of electrolyzed water generated under the above-described generation conditions, and left it for about 1 hour. Here, the present inventor separated the electrolyzed water (1 mL) when the test bacterial solution was added to the electrolyzed water for 5 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 10 minutes, and 1 hour, respectively. . And this inventor added the fractionated electrolyzed water (1 mL) to 1% sodium thiosulfate addition physiological saline solution (9 mL), and stopped the bactericidal resistance of electrolyzed water.

  Then, this inventor measured the number of the microbe which survives in the electrolyzed water which stopped the bactericidal resistance using the agar plate pour method. Here, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus were cultured for 24 hours on a standard agar medium in a 35 ° C. environment. On the other hand, methylobacterium was cultured in an R2A medium for 7 days under an environment of 27 ° C. The measurement results are as shown in FIGS.

  In the graphs shown in FIGS. 9 (a) to 12 (a), the horizontal axis represents the time (seconds) elapsed since the test bacterial solution was added to the electrolyzed water, and the vertical axis represents the living bacteria. (CFU / mL). Moreover, in the data table shown to FIG.9 (b)-FIG.12 (b), the time (second) which passed since the density | concentration (mg / L) of free residual chlorine, and adding a test microbe solution to electrolyzed water, An example of an actual measurement value of the number of surviving bacteria (CFU / mL) corresponding to each is illustrated.

According to this, for E. coli, as shown in FIG. 9, at a concentration of 1.0 and 0.5 mg / L, 10 ⁵ CFU / mL bacteria were not detected in 5 seconds, but 0.3 mg / L. In the concentration, 10 ⁵ CFL / mL bacteria were not detected in 30 seconds.
For Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as shown in FIG. 10, at a concentration of 1.0 mg / L, 10 ⁵ CFU / mL of bacteria were not detected in 5 seconds, and concentrations of 0.5 and 0.3 mg / L were detected. Then, 10 ⁵ CFU / mL bacteria were not detected in 30 seconds.
As for Staphylococcus aureus, as shown in FIG. 11, 10 ⁵ CFU / mL bacteria were not detected in 30 seconds at a concentration of 1.0 mg / L, and 1 minute at a concentration of 0.5 mg / L. 10 ⁵ CFU / mL of bacteria not detected, ¹⁰ 5 CFU / mL of bacteria at 10 minutes at a concentration of 0.3 mg / L was detected.
For methylobacterium, as shown in FIG. 12, at a concentration of 1.0 and 0.5 mg / L, 10 ⁵ CFU / mL of bacteria were not detected in 30 seconds, and 0.3 mg / L. At the concentration, 10 ⁵ CFU / mL of bacteria were not detected for 10 minutes.

  Therefore, for microorganisms detected relatively frequently from the environment around the water, in a relatively low concentration (free residual chlorine concentration: 0.3 to 1.0 mg / L) of electrolyzed water in a shorter time. It was found that a bactericidal effect can be obtained. Therefore, even if bacteria are alive inside the flow path 20, as described above with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the sterilizing water is retained in the flow path 20 for about 60 minutes, for example. It is possible to more reliably sterilize the bacteria that live inside.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the sanitary washing device 100 supplies the sterilized water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 to the flow path 20 and holds the sterilized water inside the flow path 20 for a predetermined time. (Sterilized water retention step). Further, the sanitary washing device 100 can drain the sterilized water to the outside of the channel 20 after holding the sterilized water inside the channel 20 for a predetermined time (drainage process). Thereby, since the sanitary washing device 100 holds the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time, it is possible to sterilize the bacteria living in the flow path 20 more reliably. Further, since the sanitary washing device 100 retains the sterilizing water in the flow path 20 for a predetermined time and then drains the sterilizing water to the outside of the flow path 20, even when the sterilizing power of the sterilizing water decreases due to a change over time. The sterilizing water can be prevented from becoming a nutrient source for bacteria.

The embodiment of the present invention has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. As long as the features of the present invention are provided, those skilled in the art appropriately modified the design of the above-described embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, material, arrangement, etc. of each element provided in the sanitary washing device 100, the pressure modulation device 460, etc., the installation form of the nozzle 473 and the nozzle washing chamber 478, etc. are not limited to those illustrated, but are appropriate. Can be changed.
Further, the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 may be a solution containing metal ions such as silver ions and copper ions. Alternatively, the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 may be a solution containing electrolytic chlorine, ozone, or the like. Alternatively, the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 may be acidic water or alkaline water. Alternatively, the sterilizing water generating means is not limited to the electrolytic cell. That is, the sterilizing water may be sterilizing water generated by dissolving a sterilizing agent and a sterilizing liquid in water. In addition, the trigger for executing periodic sterilization and drainage (operation at timings t29 to t32 shown in FIG. 7) inside the flow path 20 is not limited to the trigger described above with reference to FIG. can do.
Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the sterilizing water is held inside the flow path 20, an example in which the flow path switching valve 472 is “closed” is shown. As long as it can hold time, it is not limited to what was illustrated, and it can set suitably.
Moreover, each element with which each embodiment mentioned above is provided can be combined as long as technically possible, and the combination of these is also included in the scope of the present invention as long as it includes the features of the present invention.

  10 water supply source, 20 flow path, 100 sanitary washing device, 200 toilet seat, 300 toilet lid, 310 transmission window, 400 casing, 401 power supply circuit, 403 human body detection sensor, 404 seating detection sensor, 405 control unit, 407 exhaust port, 408 Discharge port, 409 recessed portion, 410 branch fitting, 420 connection hose, 430 valve unit, 431 solenoid valve, 432 pressure regulating valve, 433 water intake thermistor, 434 safety valve, 435 water drain plug, 440 heat exchanger unit, 441 hot water heater, 442 Vacuum breaker, 450 electrolytic cell unit, 451 anode plate, 452 cathode plate, 460 pressure modulator, 461 cylinder, 462 plunger, 463 check valve, 464 pulsation generating coil, 465 downstream side, 466 return spring, 46 Buffer spring, 470 nozzle unit, 471 flow rate switching valve, 472 flow path switching valve, 473 nozzle, 474 water outlet, 475 mounting base, 476 nozzle motor, 477 transmission member, 478 nozzle cleaning chamber, 479 water discharge unit, 500 operation unit, 800 toilet bowls, 801 bowls

Claims (9)

A nozzle having a spout, and jetting water from the spout to wash a local body part;
A flow path for supplying the water to the water outlet, provided with an electromagnetic valve, and provided with a flow path switching valve for opening and closing the water supply to the nozzle downstream of the electromagnetic valve; A flow path provided with a vacuum breaker upstream of the flow path switching valve ;
A sterilizing water generating means provided in the middle of the flow path and capable of generating sterilizing water;
The supply of water is stopped by closing the electromagnetic valve, the flow path switching valve is closed, the sterilizing water generated by the sterilizing water generating means is held in the flow path for a predetermined time, and then the flow path switching is performed. A control unit that performs control to drain the sterilizing water out of the flow path by opening a valve , drain the sterilizing water inside the flow path, and empty the interior of the flow path;
A sanitary washing device characterized by comprising:   The sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit executes a cleaning process for cleaning the nozzle, and executes the holding control continuously after the cleaning process. It further comprises a human body detecting means capable of detecting a human body,
The control unit executes the holding control when the human body detecting unit detects a human body, and executes the draining control when receiving a signal instructing execution of cleaning of the human body local part. The sanitary washing device according to 1.   The sanitary washing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sterilizing water generating means is an electrolytic cell.   The sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising heating means capable of heating water supplied to the electrolytic cell.   6. The temperature of water supplied from the heating unit when generating the sterilizing water is equal to or higher than a maximum temperature of water supplied from the heating unit when washing the human body part. The sanitary washing device described.   The flow rate of water supplied to the electrolytic cell when generating the sterilizing water is smaller than the maximum flow rate of water flowing through the electrolytic cell, according to any one of claims 4 to 6. Sanitary washing device. Human body detecting means capable of detecting a human body;
Heating means capable of heating water supplied to the sterilized water generating means;
Further comprising
When the human body detecting unit detects the human body, the control unit heats water supplied to the sterilized water generating unit by the heating unit, and then reduces a flow rate of water supplied to the sterilized water generating unit. The sanitary washing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control for draining is executed when the control for holding is executed and the signal for cleaning the human body part is received.   The sanitary washing device according to any one of claims 1 to 2 and 4 to 7, wherein the control unit periodically executes the control to hold and the control to drain.