JP7413722B2 - Bathroom vanity and washroom space system - Google Patents

Description

Aspects of the present invention generally relate to bathroom vanities and bathroom space systems.

BACKGROUND ART An air conditioning system that detects when a user enters a room and activates an air conditioner is known (for example, Patent Document 1). If such an air conditioning system is placed in a washroom space, the air conditioner will be automatically activated every time a user enters the washroom space. For example, when a user temporarily enters a room to collect laundry, there is a possibility that the air conditioner will be activated even when the user does not wish to activate the air conditioner. For this reason, the running cost increases due to an increase in power consumption due to activation of the air conditioner, and there is a risk that the user may be given the impression that the air conditioner is not easy to use.

Patent No. 6395413

The present invention has been made based on the recognition of this problem, and is a washroom vanity that can prevent the air conditioner from starting at an unnecessary timing even when automatically starting the air conditioner, and improve the usability of the washroom space. The purpose of the present invention is to provide a table and a washroom space system using the same.

A first invention is a washstand installed in a washroom space, which includes a washbowl, a faucet device for discharging water into the washbowl, a human body detection sensor for detecting a human body, and a washstand installed in the washroom space. a control unit capable of transmitting a control signal to the air conditioner, the control unit controlling the air conditioner by transmitting the control signal to the air conditioner based on detection information of the human body detection sensor. This is a washstand characterized by being able to be activated.

According to this washstand, when a user enters the washroom space and uses the washstand, the air conditioner can be automatically activated. As a result, the activation of the air conditioner can be triggered by the use of the bathroom vanity, which prevents the activation of the air conditioner at unintended times, such as when temporarily entering the washroom space to collect laundry. be able to. Therefore, even when automatically starting the air conditioner, it is possible to suppress starting at unnecessary timing and improve the usability of the washroom space. For example, it is possible to suppress the power consumption required to start the air conditioner at an unnecessary timing, and to suppress running costs.

A second invention is based on the first invention, further comprising a temperature sensor capable of measuring the temperature of the washroom space, the air conditioner having a plurality of operation modes, and the control unit measuring the temperature of the temperature sensor. The bathroom vanity is characterized in that it has a configuration capable of transmitting the control signal to the air conditioner to activate it in an operating mode corresponding to the temperature of the bathroom space based on information.

According to this washstand, the air conditioner can be automatically activated in an operation mode corresponding to the temperature of the washroom space, and the usability of the washroom space can be further improved. For example, it is possible to automatically set the temperature, air volume, etc. according to the situation in the washroom space, improving comfort.

A third invention is based on the second invention, wherein the control unit starts up the air conditioner and then transmits the control signal based on the measurement information to the air conditioner, thereby controlling the control unit according to the measurement information. The washstand is characterized in that the air conditioner can be caused to perform the operations.

According to this washstand, more suitable control can be performed depending on the temperature of the washroom space. For example, unnecessary operations of the air conditioner can be suppressed, unnecessary power consumption caused by unnecessary operations can be suppressed, and running costs can also be suppressed.

A fourth invention is based on the third invention, wherein the distance between the temperature sensor and the faucet device is shorter than the distance in the height direction from the temperature sensor to the floor surface, and the control unit is configured to The vanity is characterized in that the control signal based on the measurement information is not transmitted during a predetermined water spouting period that includes a period from the start of water spouting to the stop of water spouting from the faucet device.

According to this bathroom vanity, the temperature sensor is installed near the faucet device, so it measures the temperature at a height closer to the user, compared to air conditioners that are likely to be placed near the ceiling or floor. can do. Therefore, the influence of hot air and cold air blown out from the air conditioner can be suppressed, and the temperature of the washroom space can be measured with higher accuracy. Furthermore, by not transmitting control signals based on measurement information during a predetermined water spouting period that includes the period from the start of water spouting to the stop of water spouting from the faucet device, when a temperature sensor is placed near the faucet device, Also, the influence of cold water and hot water discharged from the faucet device can be suppressed. Therefore, the temperature of the washroom space can be measured with higher accuracy.

A fifth invention is the invention according to any one of the first to fourth inventions, in which, after starting the air conditioner, the control unit starts from a timing when the detection information switches from a detection state to a non-detection state. The vanity is characterized in that the air conditioner can be stopped by transmitting the control signal to the air conditioner when a predetermined period of time has elapsed.

According to this bathroom vanity, the air conditioner can be automatically stopped when the user leaves the bathroom vanity, reducing running costs and providing a more convenient and comfortable bathroom space. be able to.

A sixth invention is based on the fifth invention, wherein the control unit measures the time of the predetermined time when the detection information switches from the non-detection state to the detection state again before the predetermined time elapses. This is a bathroom vanity that is characterized by its ability to reset.

According to this bathroom vanity, even if the user leaves the bathroom vanity temporarily, such as when brushing teeth, it will be detected again before a predetermined period of time has elapsed, and the air conditioner will be unintentionally turned off. can be prevented from stopping. For example, it is possible to prevent the air conditioner from repeatedly starting and stopping. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the air conditioner from stopping once, for example, when different users use the bathroom vanity continuously. Therefore, the usability of the washroom space can be further improved while reducing running costs.

A seventh aspect of the present invention is that in any one of the first to sixth aspects, a mirror section provided above the faucet device, and a wireless device that transmits the control signal to the air conditioner by wireless communication using infrared rays. A communication unit, the control unit transmits the control signal to the air conditioner by wireless communication via the wireless communication unit, the wireless communication unit is provided above the mirror unit, This washstand is characterized in that the infrared rays are emitted diagonally upward and forward.

According to this bathroom vanity, infrared rays can be reflected on the ceiling and control signals can be transmitted over a wide range within the bathroom space, making it easier for the air conditioner to receive the control signals. Thereby, the degree of freedom in the installation position of the air conditioner can be increased.

An eighth aspect of the present invention is that, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, a mirror section provided above the faucet device, and a wireless communication device that transmits the control signal to the air conditioner by wireless communication using infrared rays. A communication unit, the control unit transmits the control signal to the air conditioner by wireless communication via the wireless communication unit, and the wireless communication unit is located above the wash basin and at the mirror unit. The washstand is provided below the washbowl and irradiates the infrared rays diagonally downward and forward toward the washbowl.

According to this washstand, infrared rays can be reflected by the washbowl and the control signal can be transmitted over a wide area within the washroom space, making it easier for the air conditioner to receive the control signal. Thereby, the degree of freedom in the installation position of the air conditioner can be increased.

A ninth invention includes a washstand installed in a washroom space and an air conditioner installed in the washroom space, and the washstand includes a washbowl and a water heater that spouts water into the washbowl. It has a stopper device, a human body detection sensor that detects a human body, and a control unit capable of transmitting a control signal to the air conditioner, and the control unit transmits the control signal based on detection information of the human body detection sensor. The washroom space system is characterized in that the air conditioner can be activated by transmitting information to the air conditioner.

According to this washroom space system, when a user enters the washroom space and uses the washroom vanity, the air conditioner can be automatically activated. As a result, the activation of the air conditioner can be triggered by the use of the bathroom vanity, which prevents the activation of the air conditioner at unintended times, such as when temporarily entering the washroom space to collect laundry. be able to. Therefore, even when automatically starting the air conditioner, it is possible to suppress starting at unnecessary timing and improve the usability of the washroom space. For example, it is possible to suppress the power consumption required to start the air conditioner at an unnecessary timing, and to suppress running costs.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a washstand and a washroom using the vanity, which can prevent the air conditioner from starting at an unnecessary timing even when automatically starting the air conditioner and improve the usability of the washroom. system is provided.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a washroom space system and a washstand according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a washroom space system and a washstand according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view schematically showing a washstand according to the first embodiment. It is a flowchart schematically representing an example of the operation of the washroom space system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a side view schematically showing a modified example of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically representing a modification of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. 7 is a flowchart schematically representing another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically representing a washroom space system and a washstand according to a second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a side view schematically showing a washstand according to a second embodiment. It is a flowchart schematically representing an example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment. 12 is a flowchart schematically representing another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically representing a modification of the washroom space system and washstand according to the second embodiment. 12 is a flowchart schematically representing another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that in each drawing, similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations are omitted as appropriate.
(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a washroom space system and a washstand according to a first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 1, the washroom space system 2 includes a washstand 10 and an air conditioner 12.

The washstand 10 is installed in the washroom space WS. The washstand 10 allows the user to wash his or her hands. The washroom space WS is, for example, a washroom. However, the washroom space WS may be any space in which the washstand 10 is installed.

The air conditioner 12 is installed and used in the washroom space WS together with the washstand 10. The air conditioner 12 is installed, for example, on a wall of the washroom space WS, separately from the washstand 10. However, the air conditioner 12 may be installed at any position within the washroom space WS.

The air conditioner 12 air-conditions the washroom space WS. More specifically, the air conditioner 12 cools and heats the washroom space WS. The air conditioner 12 may be an air conditioner that only performs cooling, or may be a heater that only performs heating.

The washstand 10 includes a washbowl 20 and a faucet device 22. The washbowl 20 has a bowl part 20a and a back guard part 20b. The bowl portion 20a is formed in a concave shape concave downward. The bowl portion 20a has a drain port (not shown). A drain port is provided at the bottom of the bowl portion 20a. The drain port is connected to a drain pipe, and allows water discharged into the bowl portion 20a to flow into the drain pipe.

The back guard portion 20b extends upward from the rear end of the bowl portion 20a. The back guard portion 20b is provided as necessary and can be omitted. The shape of the washbowl 20 may be any shape having at least a bowl portion 20a.

The bathroom vanity 10 further includes, for example, a support stand 24, a mirror cabinet 26, and a lighting device 28.

The washbasin 20 is provided on a support base 24. The support stand 24 supports the washbowl 20. The support stand 24 includes, for example, a main body portion 24a and two drawers 24b and 24c. Each drawer 24b, 24c can store items therein.

In this way, the support stand 24 also functions as a cabinet in which articles can be stored. In other words, the support stand 24 is a lower cabinet (floor cabinet). Note that the number of drawers is not limited to two, and may be one or three or more. Moreover, the support stand 24 is not limited to a drawer-type cabinet, and may be a door-type cabinet.

The support stand 24 does not necessarily have to have a storage function. The support stand 24 may have any configuration capable of supporting the washbowl 20. Further, the washbasin 20 may be directly attached to a wall surface of a washroom or the like, for example. That is, the support stand 24 is provided as necessary and can be omitted.

The faucet device 22 is provided, for example, on a wall surface extending above the bowl portion 20a. The faucet device 22 is attached to, for example, the back guard portion 20b of the washbasin 20, and is arranged above the bowl portion 20a. Thereby, the faucet device 22 discharges water toward the bowl portion 20a of the washbasin 20. Note that in this specification, the water discharged from the faucet device 22 includes not only cold water but also heated hot water.

The mounting position of the faucet device 22 is not limited to the above, for example, it may be mounted on a mounting panel (back panel) provided above the rear part of the washbasin 20, or it may be mounted directly on a wall surface of a washroom or the like. good. The faucet device 22 may be installed at any position where water can be spouted into the bowl portion 20a. The mounting position of the faucet device 22 may be appropriately set depending on the shape of the washbasin 20 and the like.

The faucet device 22 has a water spouting part 22a that spews water to the bowl part 20a. The water spouting portion 22a is a so-called spout. Further, the faucet device 22 has a shelf portion 22b on the top surface on which items such as toiletries and glasses can be placed. The water spouting part 22a is provided at the lower part of the shelf part 22b. However, the shape of the faucet device 22 is not limited to this. The faucet device 22 does not necessarily have to have the shelf portion 22b. The shape of the faucet device 22 may be any shape that has at least a water spouting portion 22a and is capable of spouting water to the bowl portion 20a.

The mirror cabinet 26 is installed above the washbowl 20 having the bowl portion 20a. Further, the mirror cabinet 26 is installed above the faucet device 22. The mirror cabinet 26 has a cabinet body 26a and three doors 26b to 26d. The cabinet main body 26a has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box shape with an open front, and can store articles therein. Each of the doors 26b to 26d is provided on the front surface of the cabinet body 26a so as to be openable and closable. Each of the doors 26b to 26d can rotate around the vertical direction and move between a closed position and an open position. The closed position is a position where the front of the internal space (article storage space) of the cabinet body 26a is closed. The open position is a position where the internal space of the cabinet body 26a is opened and articles can be taken in and taken out.

Mirror portions 26e to 26g are provided on the front surface of each door 26b to 26d. In this manner, the washstand 10 includes mirror portions 26e to 26g provided above the faucet device 22. Thereby, the user of the bathroom vanity 10 can check his or her face, hairstyle, etc. by referring to the mirror sections 26e to 26g.

Note that the number of doors and mirrors provided in the mirror cabinet 26 is not limited to three, and may be one or two, or four or more. Further, the mirror parts 26e to 26g provided above the faucet device 22 do not necessarily have to be provided in front of the doors 26b to 26d of the mirror cabinet 26. The mirror section provided above the faucet device 22 may be a so-called one-sided mirror. The mirror portion may be attached to the wall of the washroom space WS.

The lighting device 28 is provided at the top of the mirror cabinet 26. The lighting device 28 is provided above each of the doors 26b to 26d in the mirror cabinet 26, for example. The lighting device 28 emits light downward, illuminating each of the doors 26b to 26d (mirrors 26e to 26g) and the bowl part 20a. The lighting device 28 is not limited to the upper part of the mirror cabinet 26, but may be provided at the lower part, side end, or inside of the mirror cabinet 26.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the washroom space system and washstand according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 2, the washstand 10 includes a human body detection sensor 40 and a control section 42.

The human body detection sensor 40 detects a human body. The human body detection sensor 40 detects, for example, a hand extended to the washbasin 20. In other words, the human body detection sensor 40 makes it possible to detect a hand held out to the washbasin 20 by detecting an object close to the water spouting part 22a. In this case, the human body detection sensor 40 is, for example, a sensor using infrared light. The human body detection sensor 40 is connected to the control section 42 and inputs detection information representing the detection result of the human body to the control section 42 . Note that the human body detection sensor 40 may be, for example, a sensor using an imaging means such as a camera installed on the bathroom vanity 10. The human body detection sensor 40 may be any sensor capable of detecting a user using the bathroom vanity 10.

The control unit 42 is configured to be able to communicate with the air conditioner 12 installed in the washroom space WS. The control unit 42 can transmit a control signal to the air conditioner 12. The control unit 42 can control the operation of the air conditioner 12 by transmitting a control signal to the air conditioner 12. Further, the control unit 42 controls the operation of the internal devices provided in the bathroom vanity 10 by, for example, transmitting a control signal to the internal devices.

The washstand 10 further includes a power supply section 44, a switching valve 46, and a wireless communication section 48. The power supply section 44 has a power plug 44a. In other words, the power plug 44a is an outlet plug. The power supply section 44 is connected to a commercial power source or the like via a power plug 44a. The power supply unit 44 converts AC power supplied from a commercial power source into predetermined power, and supplies the same to each part of the bathroom vanity 10 . The power supply unit 44 is, for example, a DC/AC converter that converts AC power into DC power and supplies the DC power. Each section, such as the human body detection sensor 40, the control section 42, the switching valve 46, the wireless communication section 48, and the illumination device 28, operates in accordance with the supply of power from the power supply section 44.

The switching valve 46 switches between spouting water from the water spouting section 22a of the faucet device 22 and stopping the water spouting. The switching valve 46 is connected to the control unit 42 and switches between spouting water and stopping water spouting based on the control of the control unit 42 . The switching valve 46 is, for example, a solenoid valve. However, the switching valve 46 is not limited to an electromagnetic valve, and may be any member capable of switching between spouting water and stopping water spouting based on the control of the control unit 42.

The human body detection sensor 40, the control unit 42, the power supply unit 44, and the switching valve 46 are provided in the faucet device 22, for example. The human body detection sensor 40, the control section 42, the power supply section 44, and the switching valve 46 are provided, for example, in the shelf section 22b of the faucet device 22. However, these arrangements are not limited to the faucet device 22, and may be placed at any position on the washstand 10. The human body detection sensor 40, the control unit 42, the power supply unit 44, and the switching valve 46 may be provided inside the support base 24, inside the mirror cabinet 26, etc., for example.

The control unit 42 determines whether the hand is detected or not based on the detection information from the human body detection sensor 40, and operates the switching valve 46 in response to the switch from the non-detection state to the detection state. Water is automatically spouted from the water spouting part 22a. Then, the control unit 42 automatically stops water spouting from the water spouting unit 22a by stopping the operation of the switching valve 46 in response to the switch from the hand detection state to the non-detection state. That is, in this example, the faucet device 22 is a so-called automatic faucet.

The control unit 42 controls the operation of the switching valve 46 based on the detection information input from the human body detection sensor 40. In this way, the control unit 42 controls the operation of the internal devices provided in the bathroom vanity 10 based on the detection information input from the human body detection sensor 40. The control unit 42 may control turning on and off of the lighting device 28 based on detection information input from the human body detection sensor 40, for example. More specifically, the control unit 42 turns on the lighting device 28 in response to switching from the hand non-detection state to the detection state, and turns on the lighting device 28 in response to the hand switching from the hand detection state to the non-detection state. 28 may be turned off.

The air conditioner 12 has a power plug 12a. In other words, the power plug 12a is an outlet plug. The air conditioner 12 is connected to a commercial power source or the like via a power plug 12a. The air conditioner 12 converts AC power supplied from a commercial power source into predetermined power and supplies it to each part of the air conditioner 12 .

The air conditioner 12 can operate independently based on the power supplied via the power plug 12a without depending on a control signal from the control unit 42 of the washstand 10. The air conditioner 12 has, for example, an operation section (remote controller) not shown, and operates based on the operation of the operation section. The air conditioner 12 switches between starting and stopping its operation in accordance with the operation of the operating unit. In addition, the air conditioner 12 switches various settings, such as switching between operating modes such as cooling operation and heating operation, or switching the set temperature, in accordance with the operation of the operating unit.

Moreover, the air conditioner 12 can execute operations according to the control signal by receiving a control signal from the control unit 42 of the bathroom vanity 10 .

The control unit 42 of the bathroom vanity 10 can cause the air conditioner 12 to perform an operation according to the detection information by transmitting a control signal based on the detection information of the human body detection sensor 40 to the air conditioner 12. The control unit 42 can start the air conditioner 12 by transmitting a control signal to the air conditioner 12 based on the detection information of the human body detection sensor 40.

For example, the control unit 42 transmits a control signal to the air conditioner 12 in response to switching from the hand non-detection state to the detection state, thereby causing the air conditioner 12 to start operating, and changing from the hand detection state to the non-detection state. By transmitting a control signal to the air conditioner 12 in response to switching to the detection state, the air conditioner 12 is caused to stop operating.

The wireless communication unit 48 transmits a control signal to the air conditioner 12 by wireless communication using infrared rays. The wireless communication section 48 is connected to the control section 42. The control unit 42 transmits a control signal to the air conditioner 12 by wireless communication via the wireless communication unit 48.

The air conditioner 12 has a wireless communication unit 12b that receives an infrared control signal transmitted from the wireless communication unit 48 of the washstand 10. The air conditioner 12 receives a control signal transmitted from the wireless communication unit 48 of the bathroom vanity 10 at the wireless communication unit 12b, and thereby executes an operation according to the control signal.

Note that the wireless communication between the washstand 10 and the air conditioner 12 is not limited to communication using infrared rays. The wireless communication between the bathroom vanity 10 and the air conditioner 12 may be, for example, communication using radio waves. Further, the communication between the bathroom vanity 10 and the air conditioner 12 is not limited to wireless communication, and may be wired communication. Note that when transmitting a control signal to the air conditioner 12 by wireless communication, the control signal may be transmitted from the control unit 42 via a transmitting antenna (not shown) built in the bathroom vanity.

FIG. 3 is a side view schematically showing the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 3, the wireless communication section 48 is provided above the mirror sections 26e to 26g of the mirror cabinet 26. The wireless communication unit 48 is provided, for example, at the upper end of the mirror cabinet 26.

The wireless communication unit 48 emits infrared IR toward the front diagonally upward. Note that the "front" is, for example, the direction toward the front when viewed from the user facing the washstand 10. In other words, it is the direction toward which the wall surface (architectural elevation) to which the washstand 10 is attached faces.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart schematically representing an example of the operation of the washroom space system according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 4, in the washroom space system 2, first, the control unit 42 of the washstand 10 changes the hand (human body) from the non-detection state to the detection state based on the detection information from the human body detection sensor 40. It is determined whether the switching has occurred (step S101 in FIG. 4). The control unit 42 repeatedly determines whether the state has changed from the non-detection state to the detection state until the state is switched from the non-detection state to the detection state.

When the control unit 42 determines that the state has changed from the non-detection state to the detection state, it transmits a control signal to the air conditioner 12 (step S102 in FIG. 4). Further, when the control unit 42 determines that the state has changed from the non-detection state to the detection state, the control unit 42 opens the switching valve 46 to start discharging water from the water discharging unit 22a of the faucet device 22.

The air conditioner 12 operates, for example, in a standby mode in which air conditioning is not performed, and determines whether or not a control signal has been received (step S201 in FIG. 4). Then, the air conditioner 12 is activated in response to receiving the control signal from the bathroom vanity 10 (step S202 in FIG. 4). In other words, the air conditioner 12 switches from standby mode to a predetermined operating mode in response to receiving the control signal. The predetermined operation mode is, for example, a preset operation mode such as a cooling operation mode or a heating operation mode.

The control signal transmitted from the control unit 42 to the air conditioner 12 is, for example, a signal for switching the air conditioner 12 from a stopped state to an operating state. Thereby, the air conditioner 12 can be activated without the need for determination on the air conditioner 12 side. The control signal sent from the control unit 42 to the air conditioner 12 is, for example, a signal representing hand detection, and the air conditioner 12 side determines whether the switch has changed from non-detection to detection, so that even if the air conditioner 12 is started, good. In this case, there is no need to generate a control signal corresponding to the air conditioner 12 on the control section 42 side, and the configuration of the control section 42 can be simplified. In addition, the start of operation of the air conditioner 12 is not limited to switching from standby mode to operation mode, and for example, the air conditioner 12 can be started by supplying power to the air conditioner 12 by inputting a control signal. It may also be started.

After transmitting the control signal, the control unit 42 of the bathroom vanity 10 determines whether the hand detection state has been switched to the non-detection state based on the detection information from the human body detection sensor 40 (step in FIG. 4). S103). The control unit 42 repeatedly determines whether the detection state has been switched to the non-detection state until the detection state is switched to the non-detection state.

When the control unit 42 determines that the detection state has switched to the non-detection state, it transmits a control signal to the air conditioner 12 (step S104 in FIG. 4). Further, when the control unit 42 determines that the detection state has switched to the non-detection state, the control unit 42 closes the switching valve 46 to stop discharging water from the water discharging unit 22a of the faucet device 22.

After the air conditioner 12 starts operating, it determines whether a control signal has been received (step S203 in FIG. 4). The air conditioner 12 then stops operating in response to receiving the control signal from the bathroom vanity 10 (step S204 in FIG. 4). In other words, the air conditioner 12 returns from the operating mode to the standby mode in response to receiving the control signal.

As described above, according to the washroom space system 2 and the washstand 10 according to the present embodiment, when the user enters the washroom space WS and uses the washroom vanity 10, the user automatically The air conditioner 12 can be activated. As a result, the activation of the air conditioner 12 can be triggered by the use of the bathroom vanity 10, and the air conditioner 12 can be activated at an unintended timing, such as when temporarily entering the washroom space WS to collect laundry. Starting can be suppressed. Therefore, even when automatically starting the air conditioner 12, it is possible to suppress starting at unnecessary timing and improve the usability of the washroom space WS. For example, the power consumption required to start the air conditioner 12 at an unnecessary timing can be reduced, and running costs can be reduced.

Further, in the bathroom vanity 10, the wireless communication section 48 is provided above the mirror sections 26e to 26g, and emits infrared IR toward the front and diagonally upward. This makes it possible to reflect the infrared IR on the ceiling and transmit the control signal to a wide range within the washroom space WS, making it easier for the air conditioner 12 to receive the control signal. Thereby, the degree of freedom in the installation position of the air conditioner 12 can be increased.

FIG. 5 is a side view schematically showing a modification of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment.
Components that are substantially the same in function and configuration as those in the above embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.
As shown in FIG. 5, in the washstand 10a, the wireless communication unit 48 is provided above the washbowl 20 and below the mirror parts 26e to 26g of the mirror cabinet 26. The wireless communication unit 48 is provided, for example, at the lower end of the mirror cabinet 26. Then, the wireless communication unit 48 emits infrared IR toward the washbowl 20 diagonally downward and forward.

In this washstand 10a, the infrared IR is reflected by the washbowl 20, and the control signal can be transmitted over a wide range within the washroom space WS, making it easier for the air conditioner 12 to receive the control signal. Thereby, the degree of freedom in the installation position of the air conditioner 12 can be increased.

In this manner, the wireless communication unit 48 may irradiate infrared IR rays diagonally upward and forward toward the ceiling, or may radiate infrared IR IR diagonally downwardly toward the front toward the washbasin 20. When emitting infrared IR rays diagonally downward toward the front of the washbasin 20, for example, the infrared light emitter for detecting the hand of the human body detection sensor 40 may also be used as an infrared light emitter for wireless communication. Good too. That is, the human body detection sensor 40 may have the function of the wireless communication section 48.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram schematically showing a modification of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, in the bathroom vanity 10b, the control unit 42 includes a timer 60 that measures time. Note that the timer 60 may be provided as a separate member from the control section 42 and configured to input clock information to the control section 42.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart schematically showing another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 7, the control unit 42 of the bathroom vanity 10b first detects a hand (human body) based on the detection information from the human body detection sensor 40, similar to the explanation regarding FIG. By transmitting a control signal to the air conditioner 12 in response to the detection, the air conditioner 12 is activated and it is determined whether or not a hand is detected (steps S111 to S113 in FIG. 7).

When the control unit 42 determines that the detection state has switched to the non-detection state, it starts the timer 60 and causes the timer 60 to start measuring time (step S114 in FIG. 7). Further, when the control unit 42 determines that the detection state has switched to the non-detection state, the control unit 42 closes the switching valve 46 to stop discharging water from the water discharging unit 22a of the faucet device 22.

After activating the timer 60, the control unit 42 determines whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed from the timing at which the detection information of the human body detection sensor 40 switched from the detection state to the non-detection state (step S115 in FIG. 7). .

When the control unit 42 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed, it transmits a control signal to the air conditioner 12 to stop the operation of the air conditioner 12 (step S116 in FIG. 7). Further, when the control unit 42 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed, it stops the timer 60 (step S117 in FIG. 7).

If it is determined in step S115 that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the control unit 42 then determines whether the hand has switched from the non-detection state to the detection state based on the detection information from the human body detection sensor 40. (Step S118 in FIG. 7).

If the control unit 42 determines that the non-detection state continues, the process returns to step S115 and determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed.

On the other hand, if the control unit 42 determines that the detection information has switched from the non-detection state to the detection state again before the predetermined time elapses, the control unit 42 stops the operation of the timer 60 by resetting the timer 60, and The time measurement is reset (step S119 in FIG. 7). In other words, if a human body is detected before the predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 42 returns the time measurement for the predetermined time to the initial value.

After resetting the timer 60, the control unit 42 returns to the process of step S113 and determines whether or not a hand is detected. The control unit 42 then repeats the same process.

In this way, in the bathroom vanity 10b, the control unit 42 sends a control signal to the air conditioner 12 when a predetermined period of time has elapsed from the timing when the detection information switched from the detection state to the non-detection state after starting the air conditioner 12. 12, the air conditioner 12 can be stopped. As a result, when the user leaves the washroom vanity 10b, the air conditioner 12 can be automatically stopped, thereby reducing running costs and providing a comfortable washroom space WS that is more user-friendly. can.

Furthermore, in the bathroom vanity 10b, the control unit 42 resets the clock for the predetermined time when the detection information switches from the non-detection state to the detection state again before the predetermined time elapses. As a result, even if the user temporarily leaves the bathroom vanity 10b while brushing their teeth, the air conditioner 12 will be detected again before the predetermined time elapses, and the air conditioner 12 will not stop unintentionally. It is possible to prevent this from happening. For example, it is possible to prevent the air conditioner 12 from repeatedly starting and stopping. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the air conditioner 12 from stopping once, for example, when different users use the bathroom vanity 10b successively. Therefore, the usability of the washroom space WS can be further improved while reducing running costs.

(Second embodiment)
FIG. 8 is a block diagram schematically showing a washroom space system and a washstand according to the second embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 8, the bathroom vanity 10c includes a temperature sensor 62. The temperature sensor 62 can measure the temperature within the washroom space WS. Temperature sensor 62 is connected to control section 42 . The temperature sensor 62 inputs measurement information of the temperature within the washroom space WS to the control unit 42.

FIG. 9 is a side view schematically showing a washstand according to the second embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 9, the temperature sensor 62 is provided at the lower end of the mirror cabinet 26, for example. The distance D1 between the temperature sensor 62 and the faucet device 22 is shorter than the distance D2 in the height direction from the temperature sensor 62 to the floor surface. The distance D1 between the temperature sensor 62 and the faucet device 22 is, for example, the shortest distance between the temperature sensor 62 and the faucet device 22.

In this way, the temperature sensor 62 is placed near the faucet device 22. The temperature sensor 62 is arranged, for example, above the upper end of the bowl portion 20a of the washbasin 20 and below the lower end of the mirror cabinet 26. The temperature sensor 62 is arranged, for example, at a position overlapping the back guard portion 20b in the front-rear direction. However, the position of the temperature sensor 62 is not limited to this, and may be any position where the temperature within the washroom space WS can be appropriately measured.

For example, if the temperature sensor 62 is placed in a closed space such as the inside of the support stand 24 or the inside of the mirror cabinet 26, there is a possibility that the temperature in the washroom space WS cannot be appropriately measured. Therefore, it is preferable that the temperature sensor 62 be placed at a position exposed to the outside. In other words, it is preferable that the temperature sensor 62 be placed in a position where it directly contacts the air in the washroom space WS.

The temperature sensor 62 is provided, for example, at the lower end of the mirror cabinet 26 or at the front of the back guard portion 20b. Thereby, the temperature within the washroom space WS can be appropriately measured.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart schematically showing an example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment.
In FIG. 10, an example of the operation of the bathroom vanity 10c is shown, taking as an example a case where the air conditioner 12 is set to the cooling operation mode and has two operation modes, operation mode A and operation mode B. explain. Operation mode A is an operation mode recommended when the room temperature of the washroom space WS is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold. Operation mode B is an operation mode recommended when the room temperature of the washroom space WS is less than a predetermined threshold value set in advance. The operation mode A is, for example, a strong operation mode in which the air volume is increased. Operation mode B is, for example, a weak operation mode in which the air volume is weakened. The operation modes A and B are not limited to these, and, for example, an operation mode with a low set temperature may be set as operation mode A, an operation mode with a high set temperature may be set as operation mode B, etc. For example, the operation mode A may be a cooling operation mode, and the operation mode B may be a heating operation mode.

As shown in FIG. 10, the control unit 42 of the bathroom vanity 10c determines whether or not the hand (human body) is switched from the non-detection state to the detection state based on the detection information from the human body detection sensor 40, When it is determined that the state has switched from the non-detection state to the detection state, it is subsequently determined whether the room temperature of the washroom space WS is equal to or higher than the threshold value based on the measurement information from the temperature sensor 62 (steps S121 and S122 in FIG. 10). ).

If the control unit 42 determines that it is equal to or greater than the threshold value, it transmits a control signal to the air conditioner 12 to start the air conditioner 12 in operation mode A (step S123 in FIG. 10). The air conditioner 12 starts up in operation mode A in response to receiving this control signal.

On the other hand, if the control unit 42 determines that it is less than the threshold, it transmits a control signal to the air conditioner 12 to start the air conditioner 12 in operation mode B (step S124 in FIG. 10). The air conditioner 12 starts up in operation mode B in response to receiving this control signal.

In this way, in the bathroom vanity 10c, the control unit 42 can send a control signal to the air conditioner 12 to activate the operating mode corresponding to the temperature of the bathroom space WS, based on the measurement information of the temperature sensor 62. It has a unique structure. Thereby, the air conditioner 12 can be automatically started in an operation mode corresponding to the temperature of the washroom space WS, and the usability of the washroom space WS can be further improved. For example, the set temperature, air volume, etc. can be automatically set according to the situation of the washroom space WS, and comfort can be improved.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart schematically showing another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 11 schematically shows a part of the operation of the washstand 10c. The operation in FIG. 11 is executed after transmitting a control signal to the air conditioner 12 and activating the air conditioner 12. That is, the operation in FIG. 11 is executed after step S123 or step S124 in FIG. Moreover, in FIG. 11, operation mode A and operation mode B are the same as the description regarding FIG. 10.

After transmitting a control signal to start the air conditioner 12, the control unit 42 of the washstand 10c determines whether the room temperature of the washroom space WS is equal to or higher than a threshold value based on the measurement information from the temperature sensor 62. (Step S131 in FIG. 11).

If the control unit 42 determines that it is equal to or greater than the threshold value, then it determines whether the current operation mode of the air conditioner 12 is operation mode B (step S132 in FIG. 11).

When the control unit 42 determines that the operation mode is B, it transmits a control signal to the air conditioner 12 for changing the operation mode of the air conditioner 12 from the operation mode B to the operation mode A (step in FIG. 11). S133). The air conditioner 12 changes the operation mode from operation mode B to operation mode A in response to reception of this control signal. Moreover, when the control unit 42 determines that the operation mode is A, the control unit 42 returns to the room temperature determination in step S131 without transmitting a control signal.

If it is determined in step S131 that it is less than the threshold, the control unit 42 subsequently determines whether the current operation mode of the air conditioner 12 is operation mode A (step S134 in FIG. 11).

If the control unit 42 determines that the operating mode is A, it transmits a control signal to the air conditioner 12 for changing the operating mode of the air conditioner 12 from the operating mode A to the operating mode B (step in FIG. 11). S135). The air conditioner 12 changes the operation mode from operation mode A to operation mode B in response to receiving this control signal. Further, when the control unit 42 determines that the operation mode is B, the control unit 42 returns to the room temperature determination in step S131 without transmitting a control signal.

In this way, in the bathroom vanity 10c, the control unit 42 starts the air conditioner 12 and then transmits a control signal based on the measurement information to the air conditioner 12, thereby causing the air conditioner 12 to operate according to the measurement information. can be executed. Thereby, more suitable control can be performed according to the temperature of the washroom space WS. For example, unnecessary operations of the air conditioner 12 can be suppressed, unnecessary power consumption caused by unnecessary operations can be suppressed, and running costs can also be suppressed.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram schematically showing a modification of the washroom space system and washstand according to the second embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 12, in the bathroom vanity 10d, the faucet device 22 includes an operating section 70 and a flow rate regulating valve 72. Furthermore, the switching valve 46 is omitted in the faucet device 22 of the washstand 10d.

The operation unit 70 receives operations from a user or the like. The operation unit 70 is, for example, a handle, a lever, or the like. The flow rate adjustment valve 72 is provided between the water supply source and the water spouting part 22a, and opens and closes the flow path according to the operation of the operating part 70, thereby switching between spouting water from the water spouting part 22a and stopping the water spouting, and also controls the operation. The flow rate of water spouted from the water spouting section 22a is adjusted according to the amount of operation of the section 70. That is, in this example, the faucet device 22 is a so-called manual faucet.

In this example, an example of a manual faucet is shown in which the flow rate adjustment valve 72 mechanically switches between spouting water from the water spouting section 22a and stopping the water spouting. However, the configuration of the manual faucet is not limited to the above configuration. For example, the control unit 42 may input an operation input from the operation unit 70 to the control unit 42, and the control unit 42 may open and close the switching valve 46 to switch between discharging water from the water discharging unit 22a and stopping the water discharging. In this case, the operation unit 70 may be a handle, a lever, or a touch sensor.

The faucet device 22 further includes a water discharge detection section 74. The water spouting detection unit 74 detects water spouting from the water spouting unit 22a and the stoppage of water spouting. For example, a flow rate sensor is used for the water discharge detection section 74. The water discharge detection section 74 is connected to the control section 42 . The water spouting detection section 74 inputs water spouting information based on the detection result to the control section 42 . Thereby, even when the faucet device 22 is a mechanical manual faucet, the control unit 42 can be made to know whether or not water is being spouted. For example, when inputting an operation input from the operation unit 70 to the control unit 42, the water discharge detection unit 74 can be omitted.

In the bathroom vanity 10d, the human body detection sensor 40 detects a human body approaching the bathroom vanity 10d. In other words, the human body detection sensor 40 detects a human body approaching the washbowl 20 or the faucet device 22. In this case, the human body detection sensor 40 can be, for example, a distance measurement sensor using infrared light, a pyroelectric sensor, or a radio wave sensor such as a microwave sensor. In this way, the human body detection sensor 40 is not limited to one that detects the hand of a user, and may be any sensor capable of detecting an approaching human body. The human body detection sensor 40 may be appropriately selected depending on the type of water discharge, such as a manual faucet or an automatic faucet.

In the bathroom vanity 10d, the detection range of the human body detection sensor 40 is preferably set to, for example, approximately 50 cm or more and 1 m or less. By setting the detection range of the human body detection sensor 40 to 50 cm or more, an approaching human body can be detected before the user or the like operates the operation unit 70. In other words, an approaching human body can be detected before the faucet device 22 starts discharging water. Thereby, for example, the air conditioner 12 can be activated before the user or the like operates the operation unit 70 to discharge water. By setting the detection range of the human body detection sensor 40 to 1 m or less, it is possible to suppress the activation of the air conditioner 12 at unintended timings, such as when temporarily entering the washroom space WS to collect laundry. can.

In this way, it is preferable that the detection range of the human body detection sensor 40 is set so that a human body can be detected before water spouting starts, and that the detection range is narrower than the washroom space WS. By setting the detection range of the human body detection sensor 40 to 50 cm or more and 1 m or less, a human body can be detected before water spouting starts, and it can be set to be narrower than the washroom space WS.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart schematically illustrating another example of the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 13 schematically shows a part of the operation of the washstand 10d. The operation in FIG. 13 is executed after transmitting a control signal to the air conditioner 12 and starting the air conditioner 12, similarly to the operation in FIG. At this time, in the bathroom vanity 10d, by configuring the human body detection sensor 40 as described above, it is possible to detect a human body before the water starts discharging and start the air conditioner 12, and also to respond to non-detection etc. By stopping the air conditioner 12, the air conditioner 12 can be stopped after water discharging has stopped.

The control unit 42 of the bathroom vanity 10d transmits a control signal to start the air conditioner 12, and then controls the water faucet device 22 from the start of water spouting to the stop of water spouting based on the water spouting information from the water spouting detection unit 74. It is determined whether or not it is a predetermined water spouting period including (step S141 in FIG. 13). The water spouting period may be a period from the start of water spouting to the stop of water spouting, or may be a period obtained by adding a predetermined time to the period from the start of water spouting to the stop of water spouting.

For example, the control unit 42 determines that it is the water spouting period when the water spouting information switches from stop to water spouting, and determines that the water spouting period has ended when the water spouting information switches from water spouting to stop. Alternatively, the control unit 42 determines that it is the water spouting period when the water spouting information switches from stop to water spouting, and determines that the water spouting period has ended when a predetermined time has elapsed from the timing when the water spouting information switched from water spouting to stop. judge.

When the control unit 42 determines that it is not the water spouting period, the control unit 42 transmits a control signal based on the measurement information to the air conditioner 12, similarly to the explanation regarding FIG. (Steps S142 to S146 in FIG. 13). Steps S142 to S146 in FIG. 13 are substantially the same as steps S131 to S135 in FIG. 11.

On the other hand, if the control unit 42 determines that it is the water spouting period, it does not transmit the control signal based on the measurement information.

In the bathroom vanity 10d, the temperature sensor 62 is installed near the faucet device 22, so it measures the temperature at a height closer to the user than the air conditioner 12, which is likely to be placed near the ceiling or floor. can be measured. Therefore, the influence of hot air and cold air blown out from the air conditioner 12 can be suppressed, and the temperature of the washroom space WS can be measured with higher accuracy.

Furthermore, in the bathroom vanity 10d, during a predetermined water spouting period including from the start of water spouting of the faucet device 22 to the stop of water spouting, the control signal based on the measurement information is not transmitted. Even when the temperature sensor 62 is disposed at the faucet device 22, the influence of cold water and hot water discharged from the faucet device 22 can be suppressed. Therefore, the temperature of the washroom space WS can be measured with higher accuracy.

In the bathroom vanity 10d, the water spouting detection section 74 detects the presence or absence of water spouting from the water spouting section 22a. For example, if the human body detection sensor 40 detects the hand of a user or the like and opens and closes the switching valve 46 to switch between starting and stopping water spouting, the human body detection sensor 40 can be used without providing the water spouting detection section 74. The presence or absence of water discharge may be detected based on the detection information.

In this case, for example, by setting two threshold values in the human body detection sensor 40, the two detection ranges of a human body approaching the washstand 10d and a hand extended to the washbowl 20 can be detected. A human body detection sensor 40 is provided with a range to make the human body detection range wider than the hand detection range.

The control unit 42 activates the air conditioner 12 in response to the detection of a human body, and causes the water discharge unit 22a to start discharging water in response to the detection of a hand. As a result, the operations of steps S142 to S146 in FIG. 13 can be performed from the activation of the air conditioner 12 to the start of water spouting, and from the stop of water spouting to the stop of the air conditioner 12.

The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the invention is not limited to these descriptions. Appropriate design changes made by those skilled in the art with respect to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they have the characteristics of the present invention. For example, the shape, size, material, arrangement, etc. of each element included in the washroom space system, washstand, etc. are not limited to those illustrated, and can be changed as appropriate.
Furthermore, the elements provided in each of the embodiments described above can be combined to the extent technically possible, and combinations of these are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention.

2 washroom space system, 10, 10a to 10d washstand, 12 air conditioner, 20 washbowl, 22 faucet device, 24 support stand, 26 mirror cabinet, 26a cabinet body, 26b to 26d door, 26e to 26g mirror section, 28 lighting device, 40 human body detection sensor, 42 control unit, 44 power supply unit, 48 wireless communication unit, 60 timer, 62 temperature sensor, 70 operation unit, 72 flow rate adjustment valve, 74 water discharge detection unit

Claims (4)

A washstand installed in a washroom space,
wash bowl and
a faucet device that spews water into the wash basin;
A human body detection sensor that detects a human body,
a control unit capable of transmitting a control signal to an air conditioner installed in the washroom space;
a temperature sensor capable of measuring the temperature of the washroom space;
Equipped with
The control unit can start the air conditioner by transmitting the control signal to the air conditioner based on the detection information of the human body detection sensor,
The air conditioner has multiple operation modes,
The control unit has a configuration capable of transmitting the control signal to the air conditioner to activate the operation mode in an operation mode corresponding to the temperature of the washroom space based on the measurement information of the temperature sensor, and After starting the air conditioner, by transmitting the control signal based on the measurement information to the air conditioner, the air conditioner can be caused to perform an operation according to the measurement information,
The distance between the temperature sensor and the faucet device is shorter than the distance in the height direction from the temperature sensor to the floor surface,
The bathroom vanity is characterized in that the control unit does not transmit the control signal based on the measurement information during a predetermined water spouting period including from the start of water spouting to the stop of water spouting from the faucet device. A washstand installed in a washroom space,
wash bowl and
a faucet device that spews water into the wash basin;
A human body detection sensor that detects a human body,
a control unit capable of transmitting a control signal to an air conditioner installed in the washroom space;
a mirror section provided above the faucet device;
a wireless communication unit that transmits the control signal to the air conditioner by wireless communication using infrared rays;
Equipped with
The control unit can start the air conditioner by transmitting the control signal to the air conditioner based on the detection information of the human body detection sensor, and the control unit can start the air conditioner by wireless communication via the wireless communication unit. transmitting a signal to the air conditioner;
The bathroom vanity is characterized in that the wireless communication unit is provided above the mirror unit and irradiates the infrared rays diagonally upward and forward. A washstand installed in a washroom space,
wash bowl and
a faucet device that spews water into the wash basin;
A human body detection sensor that detects a human body,
a control unit capable of transmitting a control signal to an air conditioner installed in the washroom space;
a mirror section provided above the faucet device;
a wireless communication unit that transmits the control signal to the air conditioner by wireless communication using infrared rays;
Equipped with
The control unit can start the air conditioner by transmitting the control signal to the air conditioner based on the detection information of the human body detection sensor, and the control unit can start the air conditioner by wireless communication via the wireless communication unit. transmitting a signal to the air conditioner;
The bathroom vanity is characterized in that the wireless communication section is provided above the washbowl and below the mirror section, and irradiates the infrared rays diagonally downward toward the front toward the washbowl. The washstand according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which is installed in a washroom space;
an air conditioner installed in the washroom space;
A washroom space system characterized by being equipped with.

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