JP7432167B2 - toilet seat device - Google Patents

Description

Aspects of the present invention generally relate to toilet seat devices.

2. Description of the Related Art There is a known technique for remotely controlling a toilet seat device such as a warm water bidet toilet seat using a mobile information terminal such as a smartphone (for example, Patent Document 1). The portable information terminal remotely controls the toilet seat device by performing wireless communication with the toilet seat device. At this time, depending on the communication standard between the toilet seat device and the portable information terminal, while one portable information terminal is connected to the toilet seat device, another portable information terminal cannot be connected to the toilet seat device.

The communication connection between the toilet seat device and the mobile information terminal is disconnected when the user performs a communication connection disconnection process or when the mobile information terminal moves out of the communication range of the toilet seat device. Therefore, if the communication range between the toilet seat device and the mobile information terminal is relatively wide, if the user forgets to disconnect the communication connection, the next communication will be delayed until the user moves out of the communication range of the toilet seat device. users will be unable to connect their mobile information terminals to the toilet seat device.

For this reason, in toilet seat devices that can be remotely controlled using a mobile information terminal, it is necessary to prevent the next user from being unable to connect even if the previous user forgets to disconnect the communication connection. desired.

Patent No. 5889461

The present invention was made based on the recognition of this problem, and in a toilet seat device that can be remotely controlled by a mobile information terminal, even if the previous user forgets to disconnect the communication connection, the next user can It is an object of the present invention to provide a toilet seat device capable of suppressing a situation where connection becomes impossible.

A first aspect of the present invention is a toilet seat device that is used by being attached to a seat-type toilet bowl, and the toilet seat device includes an operating section that performs a predetermined operation related to the use of the toilet bowl, and a mobile information terminal that communicates wirelessly with the toilet seat device. a wireless communication unit; and a control unit that controls the operation of the operating unit based on a signal received from the mobile information terminal via the wireless communication unit, and the control unit is configured such that the wireless communication unit disconnecting the communication connection between the wireless communication unit and the mobile information terminal when the operation unit is caused to perform a predetermined operation related to ending the use of the toilet in a state where the communication connection is with the information terminal; This toilet seat device is characterized by executing an automatic cutting process.

According to this toilet seat device, when the control unit causes the operating unit to perform a predetermined operation related to ending the use of the toilet while the wireless communication unit is communicatively connected to the mobile information terminal, Automatic disconnection processing that disconnects the communication connection between the communications department and the mobile information terminal prevents the next user from being unable to connect even if the previous user forgets to disconnect the communication connection. can do.

A second invention is the toilet cleaning device based on the first invention, wherein the operating unit supplies flushing water to the toilet bowl to clean the toilet bowl, and the control unit is configured such that the wireless communication unit The toilet seat device is characterized in that the automatic disconnection process is executed when the toilet bowl cleaning device cleans the toilet bowl while being communicatively connected to a portable information terminal.

According to this toilet seat device, the automatic disconnection process is executed when the toilet bowl cleaning device cleans the toilet bowl. The operation of cleaning the toilet bowl by the toilet bowl cleaning device is highly likely to be performed during one defecation operation, and is also likely to be performed at the end of use of the toilet bowl. Therefore, by executing the automatic disconnection process in response to the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning device, the automatic disconnection process can be executed more reliably. Furthermore, the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning device is performed less often in one excretion operation than other operations. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of erroneous disconnection in which the communication connection is disconnected at a timing not desired by the user.

A third invention, based on the second invention, includes a toilet seat and a seating detection sensor having a detection state in which seating on the toilet seat is detected and a non-detection state in which seating on the toilet seat is not detected. The toilet seat may further include a toilet seat characterized in that the control unit does not execute the automatic disconnection process when the toilet bowl cleaning device cleans the toilet bowl when the seating detection sensor is in the detection state. It is a device.

For example, a toilet bowl cleaning device may be operated even during use other than when it is finished, in order to make it difficult for the outside to hear the sound of defecation due to the sound of water flow during flushing. If the automatic disconnection process is executed due to the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning device during use, the usability of the toilet seat device will be impaired. On the other hand, according to this toilet seat device, when the control unit causes the toilet bowl cleaning device to clean the toilet bowl when the seating detection sensor is in the detection state, the automatic disconnection process is not executed. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of erroneous disconnection during use of the toilet seat device. The usability of the toilet seat device can be further improved.

A fourth invention is based on the third invention, when the control unit causes the toilet bowl cleaning device to clean the toilet bowl when the seating detection sensor is in the detection state, the control unit performs the automatic disconnection process. The toilet seat device is characterized in that the automatic disconnection process is executed in response to the occupancy detection sensor switching from the detection state to the non-detection state.

According to this toilet seat device, even if the toilet flushing device is operated while the user is seated, the automatic disconnection process is executed after the user leaves the seat, which more reliably prevents the next user from being unable to connect. can do.

In a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the fourth aspect, the control unit may control the automatic detection when the non-detection state continues for a predetermined period of time after the occupancy detection sensor switches from the detection state to the non-detection state. The toilet seat device is characterized in that when a disconnection process is executed and the non-detection state is switched to the detection state before the predetermined time elapses, the automatic disconnection process is not executed.

According to this toilet seat device, the automatic disconnection process is not executed even if the user leaves the seat for a moment, such as by wiping the toilet, so that erroneous disconnections can be more reliably suppressed.

A sixth invention is based on the fourth or fifth invention, further comprising another operating unit that performs a different operation from the toilet cleaning device in connection with the use of the toilet, and the control unit is configured to perform the automatic disconnection process. The toilet seat device is characterized in that, if the other operating section is operated while the execution of the automatic disconnection process is pending, the automatic disconnection process is canceled.

If another operating unit operates while execution of the automatic disconnection process is pending, it is highly likely that the toilet bowl cleaning device was operated while the toilet seat device was in use, for example in order to make the sound of defecation difficult to hear. According to this toilet seat device, when the control section operates another operating section while execution of the automatic disconnection process is pending, the automatic disconnection process is canceled. Thereby, the occurrence of erroneous cutting can be more reliably suppressed, and the usability of the toilet seat device can be further improved.

In a seventh aspect of the present invention, in any one of the third to sixth aspects, the control unit causes the toilet bowl cleaning device to clean the toilet bowl when the seating detection sensor is in the non-detection state. In this case, when the non-detection state of the occupancy detection sensor continues for a predetermined period of time, the automatic disconnection process is executed, and the occupancy detection sensor changes from the non-detection state to the detection state before the predetermined time elapses. The toilet seat device is characterized in that the automatic disconnection process is not executed when the toilet seat device is switched to the above state.

If the toilet bowl cleaning device is operated in the non-detection state and then immediately switched to the detection state, there is a high possibility that the toilet seat device is still in use. According to this toilet seat device, the control unit does not perform the automatic disconnection process when the seating detection sensor switches from the non-detection state to the detection state before the predetermined time has elapsed. Thereby, the occurrence of erroneous cutting can be more reliably suppressed, and the usability of the toilet seat device can be further improved.

According to an aspect of the present invention, in a toilet seat device that can be remotely controlled by a mobile information terminal, even if the previous user forgets to disconnect the communication connection, it is possible to prevent the next user from being unable to connect the communication connection. A toilet seat device is provided.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a toilet system according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically representing a toilet seat device according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically representing a portable information terminal according to an embodiment. It is a flowchart schematically representing an example of the operation of the toilet system according to the embodiment. FIGS. 5(a) to 5(d) are explanatory diagrams schematically showing examples of display screens.

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.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a toilet system according to an embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 1, the toilet system 2 includes a toilet device 10 and a mobile information terminal 100. The toilet device 10 is installed in a toilet room TR of a residence or public facility. In a house, a plurality of toilet rooms TR may be installed, for example, on the first floor and the second floor. Furthermore, in public facilities, a plurality of toilet rooms TR may be installed in one toilet space, for example, by partitioning the toilet space with a partition or the like. In other words, the toilet room TR of a public facility is a toilet booth. The toilet device 10 is installed, for example, in each of the plurality of toilet rooms TR.

The toilet device 10 includes a seated toilet bowl (hereinafter simply referred to as a "toilet bowl" for convenience of explanation) 12 and a toilet seat device 20. The toilet seat device 20 is installed above the toilet bowl 12. The toilet seat device 20 may be attached integrally to the toilet bowl 12 or may be detachably attached to the toilet bowl 12.

The toilet seat device 20 includes a main body 22, a toilet seat 24, a toilet lid 26, a remote control 28, and a nozzle 30. The toilet lid 26 is provided on the toilet seat device 20 as necessary and can be omitted. The toilet seat 24 and the toilet lid 26 are rotatably supported by the main body 22 .

In this specification, "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left side", and "right side" each refer to a person sitting on the toilet seat 24 with his/her back to the open toilet lid 26. This is the direction seen from the user.

The toilet bowl 12 has a bowl portion 12a. The bowl portion 12a has a concave shape that is concave downward. The toilet bowl 12 receives the user's excreta such as urine and feces at the bowl portion 12a. The main body portion 22 of the toilet seat device 20 is attached above the portion of the toilet bowl 12 that is rearward of the bowl portion 12a.

The toilet seat 24 on which the user sits has an opening 24a that exposes the bowl portion 12a. In the lowered state, the toilet seat 24 is provided on the toilet bowl 12 so as to surround the outer edge of the bowl portion 12a, and exposes the bowl portion 12a through the opening 24a. This allows the user to defecate into the bowl portion 12a while sitting on the toilet seat 24. This example shows a so-called O-shaped toilet seat 24 in which a through-hole-like opening 24a is formed. The toilet seat 24 is not limited to an O-shape, but may be U-shape or the like. The opening 24a is not limited to the shape of a through hole, but may be shaped like a cutout. The shape of the toilet seat 24 when viewed from above in a used state (a state in which a user can sit) is annular or U-shaped.

The remote control 28 includes, for example, a plurality of switches and sensors, and receives operation instructions from the user. Further, the remote controller 28 is connected to the main body 22 via wire or wirelessly, and transmits operation instructions input by the user to the main body 22. The main body section 22 executes predetermined operations in response to operational instructions input from the remote controller 28. Note that the operation instructions may be input to the main body 22 via, for example, an operation panel provided on the main body 22. That is, the remote control 28 is provided as needed and can be omitted.

The nozzle 30 is provided on the main body portion 22. The nozzle 30 moves back and forth between a position housed in the main body 22 and a position protruding forward from the main body 22 into the bowl part 12a. Note that FIG. 1 shows a state in which the nozzle 30 has advanced into the bowl portion 12a.

The toilet seat device 20 is designed to clean the user's private parts by discharging cleansing water from the nozzle 30 toward the user's private parts, such as the buttocks, with the nozzle 30 advanced into the bowl part 12a. Has a cleaning function. Note that in the present specification, "water" includes not only cold water but also heated hot water.

The remote control 28 includes a plurality of operating members for operating the private part washing function, such as a washing button and a stop button. The toilet seat device 20 executes a private part cleaning function based on an operation instruction input from the remote controller 28, for example. Thereby, the user can clean his private parts according to the operation of the remote controller 28.

The mobile information terminal 100 is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet terminal owned by a user. However, the portable information terminal 100 is not limited to these, and may be any terminal that can be carried by the user.

A remote control program (application software) for remotely controlling the toilet seat device 20 is installed in the mobile information terminal 100 in advance. In the toilet system 2, by starting the above remote control program on the portable information terminal 100, the operation of the toilet seat device 20 can be remotely controlled by the portable information terminal 100. In the toilet system 2, for example, the operation of the private part cleaning function of the toilet seat device 20 can be remotely controlled by the mobile information terminal 100. That is, in the toilet system 2, by operating either the remote control 28 or the portable information terminal 100, the operation of the private part cleaning function of the toilet seat device 20 can be remotely controlled.

In this example, the toilet seat device 20 is, in other words, a sanitary cleaning device having a private part cleaning function. The toilet seat device 20 is not limited to a sanitary cleaning device, and may be, for example, a heated toilet seat device that warms the seat surface of the toilet seat 24. The operation of the toilet seat device 20 remotely controlled by the remote control 28 and the portable information terminal 100 is not limited to the operation of the private part cleaning function, and may be any arbitrary operation.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically representing the toilet seat device according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 2, the toilet seat device 20 includes a control section 40, a storage section 42, a first human body detection sensor 51, a second human body detection sensor 52, a seating detection sensor 53, and a first wireless communication section. 61, a second wireless communication unit 62, a toilet lid opening/closing device 70, a toilet seat opening/closing device 71, a toilet seat heater 72, a solenoid valve 73, a hot water heater 74, a nozzle drive device 75, a deodorizing device 76, It includes an indoor heating device 77, a lighting device 78, a toilet bowl cleaning device 79, and a hot air blower 80.

The storage unit 42 stores various control programs and various data for controlling the operations of each part of the toilet seat device 20. The control unit 40 reads various programs and data stored in the storage unit 42 and sequentially processes them, thereby controlling the operation of each part of the toilet seat device 20 in an integrated manner.

The first human body detection sensor 51 detects a human body approaching the toilet seat device 20 . In other words, the first human body detection sensor 51 detects a human body that has entered the toilet room TR. For example, a pyroelectric sensor, a radio wave sensor, or the like is used as the first human body detection sensor 51. The first human body detection sensor 51 is connected to the control section 40 . The first human body detection sensor 51 inputs a human body detection result to the control unit 40 .

The second human body detection sensor 52 detects a human body standing in front of the toilet seat device 20 (toilet bowl 12). As the second human body detection sensor 52, for example, an infrared distance measuring sensor or the like is used. The second human body detection sensor 52 is connected to the control section 40 . The second human body detection sensor 52 inputs a human body detection result to the control unit 40 .

The seating detection sensor 53 detects seating on the toilet seat 24. The seating detection sensor 53 has a detection state in which seating on the toilet seat 24 is detected, and a non-detection state in which seating on the toilet seat 24 is not detected. For example, a mechanical switch, an electrostatic sensor, or the like is used as the seating detection sensor 53. The seating detection sensor 53 is connected to the control section 40 . The seating detection sensor 53 inputs the detection result of the human body to the control unit 40 .

The first wireless communication unit 61 performs wireless communication with the remote controller 28 . The first wireless communication unit 61 is, for example, an infrared light receiving device that receives an infrared signal transmitted from the remote controller 28. The first wireless communication section 61 is connected to the control section 40 . The first wireless communication unit 61 inputs the received signal received from the remote controller 28 to the control unit 40 .

The second wireless communication unit 62 performs wireless communication with the mobile information terminal 100. The second wireless communication unit 62 performs bidirectional wireless communication with the mobile information terminal 100, for example. The second wireless communication unit 62 uses, for example, a wireless communication device compliant with communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and Wi-Fi. The second wireless communication section 62 is connected to the control section 40 . The second wireless communication unit 62 inputs the reception signal received from the mobile information terminal 100 to the control unit 40 and transmits the transmission signal input from the control unit 40 to the mobile information terminal 100.

The toilet lid opening/closing device 70 is connected to the control unit 40 and automatically opens and closes the toilet lid 26 based on the control of the control unit 40. For example, the control unit 40 opens the toilet lid 26 based on the detection of a human body by the first human body detection sensor 51 or the second human body detection sensor 52, and detects the presence of the human body by the first human body detection sensor 51 or the second human body detection sensor 52. The toilet lid 26 is closed based on the detection. Further, the control unit 40 opens and closes the toilet lid 26 by, for example, driving the toilet lid opening/closing device 70 in accordance with the operation of the remote controller 28 or the mobile information terminal 100.

The toilet seat opening/closing device 71 is connected to the control unit 40 and automatically opens and closes the toilet seat 24 based on the control of the control unit 40. The control unit 40 opens and closes the toilet seat 24 by, for example, driving the toilet seat opening/closing device 71 in accordance with the operation of the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100.

The toilet seat heater 72 is provided inside the toilet seat 24 and warms the seat surface of the toilet seat 24 from the inside. The toilet seat heater 72 is connected to the control section 40 and warms the seat surface of the toilet seat 24 under the control of the control section 40 . For example, the control unit 40 controls the driving of the toilet seat heater 72 so that the temperature of the seat surface of the toilet seat 24 becomes a temperature set by operating the remote controller 28 or the mobile information terminal 100.

The solenoid valve 73 is provided between the water supply source and the nozzle 30. By opening the solenoid valve 73, cleaning water is supplied to the nozzle 30. By closing the solenoid valve 73, the supply of cleaning water to the nozzle 30 is stopped. The solenoid valve 73 is connected to the control section 40 . The solenoid valve 73 switches between supplying cleaning water to the nozzle 30 and stopping supply of cleaning water to the nozzle 30 based on the control of the control unit 40 .

Hot water heater 74 is provided downstream of electromagnetic valve 73. Hot water heater 74 is connected to control section 40 . The hot water heater 74 heats the cleaning water supplied from the water supply source under the control of the control unit 40, and raises the temperature to, for example, a specified temperature. The hot water heater 74 converts cleaning water supplied from a water supply source into hot water at a set temperature. The hot water heater 74 may be, for example, an instantaneous heating type heat exchanger using a ceramic heater or the like, or a hot water storage heating type heat exchanger using a hot water storage tank.

Further, the control unit 40 can set the hot water temperature by operating the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100, for example. The user can set the hot water temperature to a desired temperature by operating the remote control 28 or the portable information terminal 100.

The nozzle drive device 75 advances and retreats the nozzle 30 between a position housed in the main body 22 and a position protruding forward from the main body 22 and advanced into the bowl part 12a. The nozzle drive device 75 is connected to the control section 40. The nozzle drive device 75 moves the nozzle 30 forward and backward under the control of the control unit 40 .

Further, the control unit 40 can adjust the position of the nozzle 30 in the state of advancing into the bowl portion 12a, for example, by operating the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100. The user can adjust the longitudinal position of the nozzle 30 to a desired position by operating the remote control 28 or the portable information terminal 100 in a state where the nozzle 30 has advanced into the bowl portion 12a.

The deodorizing device 76 sucks the air in the bowl portion 12a of the toilet bowl 12, reduces malodor components contained in the sucked air, and then discharges it outside the main body portion 22, thereby deodorizing the air in the bowl portion 12a. Deodorize. The deodorizing device 76 is connected to the control section 40 and deodorizes the air in the bowl section 12a under the control of the control section 40. For example, when the seating detection sensor 53 detects that the user has left the toilet seat 24, the control unit 40 operates the deodorizing device 76 for a predetermined period of time.

The room heating device 77 heats the inside of the toilet room TR by blowing warm air out of the main body 22 . The indoor heating device 77 is connected to the control unit 40 and performs heating in the toilet room TR under the control of the control unit 40. The control unit 40 can set the indoor temperature by operating the remote controller 28 or the mobile information terminal 100, for example. The user can set the temperature in the toilet room TR to a desired temperature by operating the remote control 28 or the portable information terminal 100.

The lighting device 78 illuminates the inside of the bowl portion 12a of the toilet bowl 12. The lighting device 78 is connected to the control section 40 and illuminates the inside of the bowl section 12a under the control of the control section 40. The control unit 40 makes the bowl part 12a easier to see at night by, for example, turning on the lighting device 78 based on the detection of a human body by the first human body detection sensor 51 or the second human body detection sensor 52.

The toilet bowl cleaning device 79 supplies flushing water to the toilet bowl 12 to clean the toilet bowl 12. The toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is provided, for example, in a water supply tank to the toilet bowl 12 or a water supply pipe to the toilet bowl 12, so that the toilet bowl 12 can be cleaned automatically. The toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is connected to the control unit 40 and cleans the toilet bowl 12 under the control of the control unit 40. For example, the control unit 40 operates the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 in response to the detection that the user has left the toilet seat 24 by the first human body detection sensor 51, the second human body detection sensor 52, or the seating detection sensor 53. By operating the toilet bowl 12, the toilet bowl 12 is cleaned.

The hot air blower 80 blows hot air toward the user's private parts. The hot air blower 80 dries the user's private parts by blowing warm air to the user's private parts that have become wet due to, for example, washing the user's private parts. The hot air blower 80 is connected to the control section 40 . The hot air blower 80 switches between blowing hot air to the user's private parts and stopping the blowing of the hot air based on the control of the control unit 40 .

In this way, the toilet seat device 20 includes, for example, a toilet lid opening/closing device 70, a toilet seat opening/closing device 71, a toilet seat heater 72, a solenoid valve 73, a hot water heater 74, a nozzle driving device 75, a deodorizing device 76, an indoor heating device 77, and a lighting device. 78, a toilet bowl cleaning device 79, a hot air blower 80, and other operating units that perform predetermined operations related to the use of the toilet bowl 12. The toilet seat device 20 has, for example, a plurality of operating parts. Note that the operating section is not limited to those described above, and may be any operating section that performs a predetermined operation related to the use of the toilet bowl 12. The number of operating parts provided in the toilet seat device 20 may be any number. The number of operating parts provided in the toilet seat device 20 may be one, for example.

As described above, in the toilet system 2, the operation of the toilet seat device 20 can be remotely controlled by operating either the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100. The control unit 40 of the toilet seat device 20 controls the operations of the plurality of operating units based on signals received from the remote controller 28 via the first wireless communication unit 61, and also controls the operation of the mobile information terminal via the second wireless communication unit 62. The operation of the plurality of operation units is controlled based on the signals received from the operation unit 100.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically representing the portable information terminal according to the embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 3, the mobile information terminal 100 includes a control section 110, a storage section 112, a wireless communication section 114, an operation section 116, a display section 118, a speaker 120, and a microphone 122. .

The storage unit 112 stores various control programs and various data for controlling the operations of each part of the mobile information terminal 100. The control unit 110 reads various programs and data stored in the storage unit 42 and sequentially processes them, thereby controlling the operation of each unit of the mobile information terminal 100 in an integrated manner.

The wireless communication unit 114 performs wireless communication with the second wireless communication unit 62 of the toilet seat device 20. For the wireless communication unit 114, a wireless communication device compliant with the same communication standard as the second wireless communication unit 62 is used. The wireless communication section 114 is connected to the control section 110. The wireless communication unit 114 inputs the reception signal received from the second wireless communication unit 62 of the toilet seat device 20 to the control unit 110, and also inputs the transmission signal input from the control unit 110 to the second wireless communication unit 62 of the toilet seat device 20. Send to.

The operation unit 116 accepts input of operation instructions from a user or the like. For example, a touch panel is used for the operation unit 116. The operation unit 116 may be, for example, a mechanical switch or other sensor, or may be configured by combining these. The operation section 116 is connected to the control section 110. The operation unit 116 inputs the input operation instruction to the control unit 110. The control unit 110 controls the operation of each unit, such as the wireless communication unit 114, according to an operation instruction input from the operation unit 116, for example.

The display unit 118 displays various operation screens and the like. For the display unit 118, a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display is used, for example. The display section 118 is connected to the control section 110 and performs various displays under the control of the control section 110. For example, when the operation unit 116 is a touch panel, the operation unit 116 is provided to overlap the display unit 118.

The speaker 120 outputs various sounds. The speaker 120 is connected to the control section 110 and outputs various sounds under the control of the control section 110.

The microphone 122 converts input sound into an electrical signal. The microphone 122 is connected to the control unit 110 and inputs the converted electrical signal to the control unit 110.

The storage unit 112 stores a toilet seat device remote control program 200 for remotely controlling the toilet seat device 20 using the portable information terminal 100. In other words, the toilet seat device remote control program 200 is installed in the portable information terminal 100.

For example, in response to an instruction from the operation unit 116 to start the toilet seat device remote control program 200, the control unit 110 reads the toilet seat device remote control program 200 from the storage unit 112 and executes control based on the toilet seat device remote control program 200. This enables remote control of the toilet seat device 20.

In order to remotely control the toilet seat device 20 with the mobile information terminal 100, pairing may have to be performed in advance between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet seat device 20. If pairing has not been performed, for example, after the toilet seat device remote control program 200 is started, information on the toilet seat devices 20 that can be paired is displayed on the display unit 118. For example, if there are a plurality of toilet seat devices 20 that can be paired within the communication range of the wireless communication section 114, information on the plurality of toilet seat devices 20 is displayed on the display section 118.

The user selects the toilet seat device 20 with which pairing is desired from among the information on the toilet seat devices 20 displayed on the display section 118 and inputs the selection result to the control section 110 via the operation section 116. When the selection result is input from the operation unit 116, the control unit 110 performs pairing with the selected toilet seat device 20. After the pairing with the toilet seat device 20 is completed, the control unit 110 starts a communication connection with the toilet seat device 20. This allows remote control of the toilet seat device 20 using the portable information terminal 100.

Once pairing with the toilet seat device 20 is performed, for example, ID information representing the toilet seat device 20 is stored in the storage unit 112, and subsequent pairing becomes unnecessary. Therefore, when the toilet seat device remote control program 200 is started, if a paired toilet seat device 20 exists within the communication range of the wireless communication unit 114, a communication connection with that toilet seat device 20 is started, and pairing is performed. The toilet seat device 20 can be remotely operated without having to do so.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart schematically representing an example of the operation of the toilet system according to the embodiment.
FIGS. 5(a) to 5(d) are explanatory diagrams schematically showing examples of display screens.
In the toilet system 2, when remotely controlling the toilet seat device 20 using the mobile information terminal 100, first operate the operation unit 116 of the mobile information terminal 100 to start the toilet seat device remote control program 200 (step S101 in FIG. 4). ). When the toilet seat device remote control program 200 is activated, the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 starts processing based on the toilet seat device remote control program 200.

Upon starting the process, the control unit 110 determines whether there is a communicable toilet seat device 20 within the communication range of the wireless communication unit 114 based on the communication result of the wireless communication unit 114. The communicable toilet seat device 20 is, for example, a toilet seat device 20 in which the communication range of the wireless communication unit 114 overlaps with the communication range of the second wireless communication unit 62 of the toilet seat device 20, and which has been paired.

When the control unit 110 determines that there is no toilet seat device 20 that can communicate, the control unit 110 displays a display screen on the display unit 118 indicating that there is no toilet seat device 20 to connect to, as shown in FIG. 5(a), for example. do. In this case, the control unit 110 re-detects the communicable toilet seat device 20, for example, periodically or in response to an instruction from the user.

When the control unit 110 determines that there is a communicable toilet seat device 20 within the communication range, the control unit 110 detects the toilet seat device 20 as a connection target and starts a communication connection with the toilet seat device 20 to be connected. As a result, the portable information terminal 100 and the toilet seat device 20 are brought into a connected state in which they are communicatively connected to each other (step S102 in FIG. 4). When the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 completes the communication connection with the toilet seat device 20, for example, as shown in FIG. .

The control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 displays information on the communicatively connected toilet seat device 20 on the display unit 118, and then waits for input of an operation instruction from the user. Further, the control unit 40 of the toilet seat device 20 waits for input of an operation instruction from the mobile information terminal 100 (step S103 in FIG. 4).

In the standby state, the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 displays an operation screen for operating the toilet seat device 20 on the display unit 118, for example, as shown in FIG. 5(c). The operation screen includes, for example, a butt washing button for instructing execution of butt washing, a bidet washing button for instructing execution of bidet washing, a setting button for setting hot water temperature, toilet seat temperature, etc., and a toilet seat device. Various buttons are provided, such as a disconnect button for disconnecting the communication connection with 20. The user inputs desired operation instructions to the control unit 110 by operating various buttons via the operation unit 116.

When an operation instruction is input from the operation unit 116, the control unit 110 determines whether the input operation instruction is an operation instruction related to the operation of the toilet seat device 20 or an operation instruction to disconnect the communication connection (step S104 in FIG. 4). , S105).

If the control unit 110 determines that the instruction is to disconnect the communication connection, it executes processing to disconnect the communication connection with the toilet seat device 20 . Thereby, the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 and the control unit 40 of the toilet seat device 20 disconnect the communication connection with each other (step S106 in FIG. 4).

In this way, when the control unit 40 of the toilet seat device 20 receives a signal instructing to disconnect the communication connection from the mobile information terminal 100, the control unit 40 disconnects the communication connection with the mobile information terminal 100 in response to the instruction from the mobile information terminal 100. cut. Further, the control unit 40 also disconnects the communication connection with the mobile information terminal 100 when the mobile information terminal 100 moves out of the communication range of the second wireless communication unit 62.

When the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 completes disconnection of the communication connection with the toilet seat device 20, the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 displays a message indicating completion of disconnection of the communication connection with the toilet seat device 20 on the display unit, for example, as shown in FIG. 5(d). 118. After that, the control unit 110 stops the toilet seat device remote control program 200 and ends the process based on the toilet seat device remote control program 200.

On the other hand, if the control unit 110 determines that the instruction is an operation instruction regarding the operation of the toilet seat device 20, the wireless communication unit 114 transmits a signal to the toilet seat device 20, and instructs the toilet seat device 20 to perform an operation corresponding to the corresponding operation. Instruct.

When the control unit 40 of the toilet seat device 20 receives the signal from the mobile information terminal 100, it executes the operation corresponding to the signal (step S107 in FIG. 4). When the control unit 40 receives a signal from the mobile information terminal 100, the control unit 40 operates the toilet lid opening/closing device 70, the toilet seat opening/closing device 71, the toilet seat heater 72, the solenoid valve 73, the hot water heater 74, the nozzle drive device 75, in response to the signal. Either the deodorizing device 76, the indoor heating device 77, the lighting device 78, the toilet bowl cleaning device 79, or the hot air blower 80 is operated. Thereby, the toilet seat device 20 can be remotely operated based on the operation of the mobile information terminal 100. After transmitting the signal to the toilet seat device 20, the control unit 110 returns to the process of step S103 and waits for input of an operation instruction from the user again.

In the standby state, the control unit 40 of the toilet seat device 20 receives a signal instructing to clean the toilet bowl 12 from the mobile information terminal 100, a signal instructing to clean the toilet bowl 12 from the remote control 28, or When the detection sensor 53 switches from the detection state to the non-detection state and the non-detection state continues for a predetermined period of time, the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is operated to cause the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 to clean the toilet bowl 12.

In this way, the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is performed by operating the remote controller 28 or the portable information terminal 100, and is also performed based on the detection result of the seating detection sensor 53. The execution of the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 based on the detection result of the seating detection sensor 53 may be called, for example, automatic toilet bowl cleaning.

The predetermined time for automatic toilet flushing is, for example, about 6 seconds (for example, 2 seconds or more and 10 seconds or less). That is, the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is automatically executed after about 6 seconds have passed since the seating detection sensor 53 switched from the detection state to the non-detection state. In other words, the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is automatically performed after approximately 6 seconds have passed since the user leaves the toilet seat 24.

The control unit 40 of the toilet seat device 20 causes the seat detection sensor 53 to detect when the second wireless communication unit 62 is communicatively connected to the mobile information terminal 100 and causes the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 to clean the toilet bowl 12. It is determined whether the state is a detection state or a non-detection state (steps S108 and S109 in FIG. 4).

If it is determined that the control unit 40 is in the non-detection state, then it determines whether the non-detection state has continued for a predetermined period of time (step S110 in FIG. 4). At this time, the predetermined time is, for example, about 6 seconds (for example, 2 seconds or more and 10 seconds or less).

If the control unit 40 determines that the predetermined period of time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S106, and the communication connection with the mobile information terminal 100 is disconnected, as in the case where an instruction from the mobile information terminal 100 is received.

In this manner, when the second wireless communication unit 62 is communicatively connected to the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 cleans the toilet bowl 12, the control unit 40 controls the second wireless communication unit 62 to clean the toilet bowl 12. 62 and the mobile information terminal 100 are executed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S109 that the detection state is present, and if it is determined in step S110 that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the control unit 40 suspends execution of the automatic disconnection process (step S111 in FIG. 4). .

After suspending execution of the automatic disconnection process, the control unit 40 determines whether the seating detection sensor 53 has switched from the detection state to the non-detection state (step S112 in FIG. 4).

If the control unit 40 determines that the state has been switched to the non-detection state, the process proceeds to step S110, and determines whether the non-detection state has continued for a predetermined period of time. Then, the control unit 40 executes the automatic disconnection process when the predetermined time has elapsed, and suspends the automatic disconnection process when the seating detection sensor 53 switches to the detection state again before the predetermined time elapses. Continue the state.

On the other hand, when the control unit 40 receives a signal from the remote controller 28 or the mobile information terminal 100 while the detection state is maintained, it executes the operation corresponding to the signal (steps S113 and S114 in FIG. 4). When the control unit 40 receives a signal from the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100, the control unit 40 controls the toilet lid opening/closing device 70, the toilet seat opening/closing device 71, the toilet seat heater 72, the solenoid valve 73, the hot water heater 74, and the nozzle drive in response to the signal. Either the device 75, the deodorizing device 76, the indoor heating device 77, the lighting device 78, the toilet cleaning device 79, or the hot air blower 80 is operated.

When the control unit 40 operates an operation unit other than the toilet bowl cleaning device 79, the control unit 40 cancels the automatic disconnection process and returns to the standby state in step S103. On the other hand, when the control unit 40 operates the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 again while execution of the automatic disconnection process is on hold, for example, the control unit 40 returns to the process of step S111 and continues the operation in the suspended state.

As described above, in the toilet seat device 20 according to the present embodiment, the control section 40 causes the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 to clean the toilet bowl 12 while the second wireless communication section 62 is communicatively connected to the mobile information terminal 100. When cleaning is performed, an automatic disconnection process is executed to disconnect the communication connection between the second wireless communication unit 62 and the mobile information terminal 100 (for example, Yes in step S108 in FIG. 4, No in step S109, or step S110). Yes, and the process flow of step S106). Thereby, even if the previous user forgets to disconnect the communication connection, it is possible to prevent the next user from being unable to make the communication connection.

The operation of cleaning the toilet bowl 12 by the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is likely to be performed during one excretion operation, and is also likely to be performed at the end of use of the toilet bowl 12. Therefore, by executing the automatic disconnection process in response to the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning device 79, the automatic disconnection process can be executed more reliably. Furthermore, the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is performed less often in one excretion operation than other operations. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of erroneous disconnection in which the communication connection is disconnected at a timing not desired by the user.

For example, the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 may be operated even during use other than when the toilet is finished, in order to make it difficult for the outside to hear the sound of defecation due to the sound of the water flow during flushing. If the automatic disconnection process is executed due to the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 during use, the usability of the toilet seat device 20 will be impaired. On the other hand, in the toilet seat device 20, when the control unit 40 causes the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 to clean the toilet bowl 12 when the seating detection sensor 53 is in the detection state, the automatic disconnection process is not executed (for example, (Yes in step S109 and the flow of processing in step S111 in FIG. 4). Thereby, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of erroneous disconnection during use of the toilet seat device 20. The usability of the toilet seat device 20 can be further improved.

In this example, when the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is caused to clean the toilet bowl 12 when the seating detection sensor 53 is in the detection state, execution of the automatic disconnection process is suspended. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is caused to clean the toilet bowl 12 when the seating detection sensor 53 is in the detection state, for example, execution of the automatic disconnection process may be canceled. As described above, the operation of not executing the automatic disconnection process includes suspending the execution of the automatic disconnection process and canceling the execution of the automatic disconnection process.

In addition, in the toilet seat device 20, when the control unit 40 causes the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 to clean the toilet bowl 12 when the seating detection sensor 53 is in the detection state, execution of the automatic disconnection process is suspended and the seating detection sensor 53 is in the detection state. In response to the sensor 53 switching from the detection state to the non-detection state, automatic disconnection processing is executed (for example, Yes in step S109 in FIG. 4, Yes in step S111, step S112, Yes in step S110, and Processing flow of S106). In this way, even if the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is operated while the user is seated, the automatic disconnection process is executed after leaving the seat, thereby more reliably preventing the next user from being unable to connect for communication. Can be done.

In addition, in the toilet seat device 20, the control unit 40 executes an automatic disconnection process when the non-detection state continues for a predetermined time after the seating detection sensor 53 switches from the detection state to the non-detection state (for example, (Yes in Step S112, Yes in Step S110, and Process Flow in Step S106). Then, the control unit 40 does not execute the automatic disconnection process if the non-detection state is switched to the detection state before the predetermined time elapses (for example, if Yes in step S112 in FIG. 4, No in step S110, or Flow of processing in step S111). As a result, the automatic cutting process will not be executed even if the user leaves the seat for a moment, such as by wiping the baby's back, thereby making it possible to more reliably prevent erroneous cutting.

If another operating unit operates while execution of the automatic disconnection process is pending, there is a high possibility that the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 was operated while the toilet seat device 20 was in use, for example in order to make the sound of defecation difficult to hear. In the toilet seat device 20, when the control unit 40 operates another operation unit while execution of the automatic disconnection process is pending, the automatic disconnection process is canceled (for example, Yes in step S113 in FIG. 4, S114 and the process flow of step S103). Thereby, the occurrence of erroneous cutting can be more reliably suppressed, and the usability of the toilet seat device 20 can be further improved.

If the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is operated in the non-detection state and then immediately switched to the detection state, there is a high possibility that the toilet seat device 20 is still in use. In the toilet seat device 20, the control unit 40 does not execute the automatic disconnection process if the seating detection sensor switches from the non-detection state to the detection state before a predetermined period of time has elapsed (for example, if No. , No in step S110, and the process flow in step S111). Thereby, the occurrence of erroneous cutting can be more reliably suppressed, and the usability of the toilet seat device 20 can be further improved.

In the above embodiment, the operation of cleaning the toilet bowl 12 by the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 is shown as an example of the predetermined operation related to the end of the use of the toilet bowl 12. The predetermined operation related to the end of use of the toilet bowl 12 is not limited to this. For example, the operation may be an operation of stopping local cleaning by driving the nozzle 30 or an operation of stopping local drying by driving the hot air blower 80. In other words, the operation may be performed in response to operation of a stop button on the remote controller 28 or the mobile information terminal 100. Alternatively, it may be an operation of switching the seating detection sensor 53 from a detection state to a non-detection state (an operation of detecting leaving the seat). It may also be an operation of switching the first human body detection sensor 51 from a detection state to a non-detection state. It may also be an operation of switching the second human body detection sensor 52 from a detection state to a non-detection state. The toilet lid opening/closing device 70 may be used to close the toilet lid 26 . In this way, the predetermined operation related to the end of the use of the toilet bowl 12 may be any operation related to the end of the use of the toilet bowl 12.

In the toilet seat device 20 according to the present embodiment, the control unit 40 performs a predetermined operation related to ending the use of the toilet in a state where the second wireless communication unit 62 is communicatively connected to the mobile information terminal 100. When the mobile information terminal is activated, an automatic disconnection process is executed to disconnect the communication connection between the wireless communication unit and the mobile information terminal. Thereby, even if the previous user forgets to disconnect the communication connection, it is possible to prevent the next user from being unable to make the communication connection.

However, the operation of stopping private area washing and the operation of stopping local drying are not reliable because some users do not use the private area cleaning function. In addition, private part cleaning may be performed multiple times in one excretion operation, and there is a possibility that the communication connection will be disconnected even though the user continues to use the toilet seat device 20. Further, the switching operation of the seating detection sensor 53 from the detection state to the non-detection state is not detected, for example, when a male user uses the device to urinate standing up, and therefore, there is a lack of certainty. Furthermore, even if the user is seated on the toilet seat 24, there is a possibility that the person will take the seat off the toilet seat 24 multiple times during one excretion operation, such as sitting up again or wiping the toilet, and erroneous disconnection may occur.

On the other hand, if the automatic disconnection process is executed when the toilet bowl cleaning device 79 cleans the toilet bowl 12, there is a high possibility that it will be executed during one excretion operation, and it will also be necessary to stop the private part cleaning or Compared to detecting when the user leaves the seat, the number of times one excretion operation is performed is smaller, and the occurrence of erroneous disconnections can be suppressed. Therefore, it is more preferable that the predetermined operation related to the end of use of the toilet bowl 12 is an operation of cleaning the toilet bowl 12 by the toilet bowl cleaning device 79.

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 toilet system 2, the mobile information terminal 100, the toilet seat device remote control program 200, etc. are not limited to those illustrated and can be changed as appropriate.
Furthermore, the elements of 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 toilet system, 10 toilet device, 12 toilet bowl, 12a bowl part, 20 toilet seat device, 22 main body part, 24 toilet seat, 24a opening part, 26 toilet lid, 28 remote control, 30 nozzle, 40 control part, 42 storage part, 51 th 1 human body detection sensor, 52 second human body detection sensor, 53 seating detection sensor, 61 first wireless communication unit, 62 second wireless communication unit, 70 toilet lid opening/closing device, 71 toilet seat opening/closing device, 72 toilet seat heater, 73 solenoid valve, 74 hot water heater, 75 nozzle drive device, 76 deodorizing device, 77 indoor heating device, 78 lighting device, 79 toilet bowl cleaning device, 80 warm air blower, 100 mobile information terminal, 110 control unit, 112 storage unit, 114 wireless communication unit, 116 operation unit, 118 display unit, 120 speaker, 122 microphone, 200 toilet seat device remote control program

Claims (7)

A toilet seat device that is used by being attached to a seat-type toilet bowl,
an operating section that performs a predetermined operation related to the use of the toilet;
a wireless communication section that performs wireless communication with a mobile information terminal;
a control unit that controls the operation of the operating unit based on a signal received from the mobile information terminal via the wireless communication unit;
Equipped with
The control unit is configured to control the wireless communication when causing the operating unit to perform a predetermined operation related to ending the use of the toilet in a state where the wireless communication unit is communicatively connected to the mobile information terminal. A toilet seat device, characterized in that the toilet seat device executes an automatic disconnection process of disconnecting the communication connection between the unit and the portable information terminal. The operation unit is a toilet bowl cleaning device that supplies flush water to the toilet bowl to clean the toilet bowl,
The control unit is characterized in that when the wireless communication unit is communicatively connected to the mobile information terminal and causes the toilet bowl cleaning device to clean the toilet bowl, the control unit executes the automatic disconnection process. The toilet seat device according to claim 1. A toilet seat device that is used by being attached to a seat-type toilet bowl,
toilet seat and
a seating detection sensor having a detection state in which seating on the toilet seat is detected and a non-detection state in which seating on the toilet seat is not detected;
a toilet bowl cleaning device that supplies flushing water to the toilet bowl to clean the toilet bowl;
a wireless communication section that performs wireless communication with a mobile information terminal;
a control unit that controls the operation of the toilet bowl cleaning device based on a signal received from the mobile information terminal via the wireless communication unit;
Equipped with
The control unit is configured such that the wireless communication unit is communicatively connected to the mobile information terminal,
When the toilet bowl cleaning device cleans the toilet bowl, if the seating detection sensor is in the non-detection state, executing automatic disconnection processing to disconnect the communication connection;
When the toilet bowl cleaning device cleans the toilet bowl, if the seating detection sensor is in the detection state, either one of suspending or canceling the automatic disconnection process is performed. Toilet seat device. The control unit includes:
4. The toilet seat according to claim 3, wherein when execution of the automatic disconnection process is suspended, the automatic disconnection process is executed after the seating detection sensor switches from the detection state to the non-detection state. Device. The control unit includes:
After the seating detection sensor switches from the sensing state to the non-detecting state while execution of the automatic cutting process is pending, when the non-sensing state continues for a predetermined time, executing the automatic cutting process,
5. The toilet seat device according to claim 4, wherein when the non-detection state is switched to the detection state before the predetermined time elapses, execution of the automatic disconnection process is continued to be suspended. further comprising another operating unit that performs a different operation from the toilet cleaning device in connection with the use of the toilet;
According to claim 4 or 5, the control unit cancels the suspended automatic disconnection process when the other operating unit is operated while execution of the automatic disconnection process is on hold. The toilet seat device described. Execution of the automatic disconnection process may be performed when the occupancy detection sensor is in the non-detection state when the toilet bowl cleaning device cleans the toilet bowl, and the non-detection state of the occupancy detection sensor is in the predetermined non-detection state. done when continued for a time,
If the seating detection sensor switches from the non-detection state to the detection state before the predetermined time elapses, execution of the automatic disconnection process is suspended. The toilet seat device according to item 1.

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