JP7482397B2 - Toilet equipment - Google Patents

Description

Aspects of the present invention generally relate to toilet devices.

In toilet devices, the provision of a sensor to detect a clogged toilet bowl is being considered. For example, by providing such a sensor and stopping the supply of toilet flush water to flush the toilet bowl when a clogged toilet bowl is detected, it is possible to prevent toilet flush water from overflowing from the toilet bowl.

Patent Document 1 discloses a flush toilet with a float-type water level sensor installed above the toilet bowl. In the flush toilet of Patent Document 1, the water level sensor detects a rise in the water level in the toilet bowl, thereby detecting a clog in the toilet bowl and preventing flush water from overflowing from the toilet bowl.

JP 2017-145658 A

Such water level sensors are installed, for example, in an exposed position inside the toilet bowl in order to detect the water level inside the toilet bowl. As a result, the water level sensor is prone to becoming soiled by the effects of waste matter such as urine and feces in the toilet bowl, moisture, or detergents.

However, such water level sensors are installed in a position where toilet flush water does not flow in order to prevent false detections caused by toilet flush water. Installing the water level sensor in such a position can prevent false detections caused by toilet flush water, but if the water level sensor becomes dirty, it cannot be cleaned by the toilet flush water. If the water level sensor is left dirty for a long period of time, mold may grow. Furthermore, if the water level sensor is dirty or moldy, it may not be able to accurately detect the water level in the toilet, and it may not be possible to prevent flush water from overflowing from the toilet.

The present invention was made based on the recognition of such problems, and aims to provide a toilet device that can flush the water level sensor even if the water level sensor is installed in a position where the toilet flush water does not flow.

The first invention is a toilet device that includes a water level sensor that detects the water level in a toilet bowl, the water level sensor being provided in an upper portion of the toilet bowl at a position where toilet flushing water for discharging waste in the toilet bowl does not flow, a clogging determination unit that determines whether the toilet bowl is clogged based on the detection result of the water level sensor, and a sensor flush unit that flushes the water level sensor.

According to this toilet device, by installing the water level sensor at a position above the toilet bowl where toilet flush water does not flow, false detections due to toilet flush water can be suppressed. In addition, by providing a sensor cleaning unit that cleans the water level sensor, the water level sensor can be cleaned even if it is installed in a position where toilet flush water does not flow. In other words, even if dirt adheres to the water level sensor, the dirt can be removed by the sensor cleaning unit. This makes it possible to suppress the growth of mold on the water level sensor due to the adhered dirt. It also makes it possible to suppress the inability to accurately detect the water level in the toilet bowl due to the adhesion of dirt or mold to the water level sensor.

The second invention is a toilet device according to the first invention, characterized in that the sensor cleaning unit has a private parts cleaning nozzle for cleaning the private parts of the user, and the private parts cleaning nozzle cleans the water level sensor by ejecting cleaning water.

According to this toilet device, the water level sensor can be cleaned by using the cleaning water discharged from the private parts cleaning nozzle (i.e., the private parts cleaning nozzle also functions as the sensor cleaning section), without the need for a separate component that functions as the sensor cleaning section. This simplifies the toilet device.

The third invention is the toilet device according to the first invention, further comprising a private parts washing nozzle for washing the private parts of the user, the sensor washing unit having a nozzle washing unit for washing the private parts washing nozzle, and the nozzle washing unit discharging washing water to wash the private parts washing nozzle and the water level sensor.

According to this toilet device, the water level sensor can be cleaned by cleaning the water discharged from the nozzle cleaning unit (i.e., the nozzle cleaning unit also functions as the sensor cleaning unit), without the need for a separate component that functions as the sensor cleaning unit. This simplifies the toilet device.

The fourth invention is the toilet device according to the second or third invention, further comprising a nozzle storage section that stores the private parts washing nozzle, the sensor washing section ejects the washing water inside the nozzle storage section, and the nozzle storage section guides the washing water ejected inside the nozzle storage section to the water level sensor.

With this toilet device, the nozzle storage section guides the cleaning water discharged from the sensor cleaning section to the water level sensor inside the nozzle storage section, so that more cleaning water can be supplied to the water level sensor. This improves the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning section.

The fifth invention is a toilet device according to the second or third invention, further comprising a nozzle storage section that stores the pubic cleansing nozzle, and a nozzle shutter that opens and closes an opening at the front end of the nozzle storage section, the sensor cleansing section ejects the cleansing water inside the nozzle storage section, and the nozzle shutter guides the cleansing water ejected inside the nozzle storage section to the water level sensor.

With this toilet device, the cleaning water discharged from the sensor cleaning unit inside the nozzle storage unit is guided to the water level sensor by the nozzle shutter, allowing more cleaning water to be supplied to the water level sensor. This improves the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning unit.

The sixth invention is a toilet device according to any one of the second to fifth inventions, further comprising a nozzle storage section that stores the private parts washing nozzle, the sensor washing section discharges the washing water inside the nozzle storage section, and the water level sensor is disposed below the nozzle storage section.

In this toilet device, by locating the water level sensor below the nozzle storage section, the cleaning water discharged from the sensor cleaning section inside the nozzle storage section can be supplied to the water level sensor more efficiently. This improves the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning section.

The seventh invention is a toilet device according to the first invention, characterized in that the sensor cleaning unit has a spray device that sprays cleaning water into the toilet bowl, and the spray device cleans the water level sensor by spraying the cleaning water.

According to this toilet device, the water level sensor can be cleaned by cleaning it with cleaning water sprayed from the spray device (i.e., the spray device also functions as the sensor cleaning unit), without the need for a separate component that functions as the sensor cleaning unit. This simplifies the toilet device.

The eighth invention is the toilet device according to the seventh invention, characterized in that at least a portion of the spray device is positioned above the water level sensor.

According to this toilet device, by positioning at least a portion of the spray device above the water level sensor, cleaning water can be sprayed downward from the spray device to clean the water level sensor. This makes it possible to prevent cleaning water sprayed from the spray device from splashing outside the toilet bowl.

The ninth invention is a toilet device according to the seventh or eighth invention, characterized in that at least a portion of the spray device is disposed rearward of the water level sensor.

With this toilet device, by positioning at least a portion of the spray device behind the water level sensor, it is possible to prevent the water level sensor from being located between the spray device and the rear inner wall surface of the toilet. This prevents the cleaning water sprayed from the spray device toward the rear inner wall surface of the toilet from being blocked by the water level sensor. Therefore, cleaning water can be more reliably applied to the rear inner wall surface of the toilet, which is prone to becoming dirty.

The tenth invention is a toilet device according to any one of the first to ninth inventions, further comprising a functional water generating unit that generates functional water that reduces bacteria, and the sensor cleaning unit cleans the water level sensor with the functional water supplied from the functional water generating unit.

With this toilet device, the sensor cleaning unit cleans the water level sensor with functional water that reduces bacteria, which further prevents mold from growing on the water level sensor.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a toilet device is provided that can flush the water level sensor even if the water level sensor is located in a position where toilet flush water does not flow.

1 is a perspective view showing a toilet system according to a first embodiment; 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a toilet system according to a first embodiment. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a toilet system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a portion of a toilet device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating a nozzle storage section of the toilet device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a rear view illustrating a nozzle shutter of the toilet device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a part of a toilet device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a part of a toilet device according to a second embodiment.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view that diagrammatically illustrates a toilet system according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view that diagrammatically illustrates the toilet system according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the toilet system according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a toilet system 100 according to an embodiment includes a toilet bowl 10, a toilet flushing unit 20, and a toilet device 30.

In this specification, the terms "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "right side," and "left side" refer to directions seen from the perspective of a user seated on the toilet seat 32 of the toilet device 30.

The toilet bowl 10 is a so-called seated toilet bowl. The toilet bowl 10 has a concave bowl portion 11 (toilet bowl) that is recessed downward from the upper surface 10a. In other words, the inner end of the upper surface 10a of the toilet bowl 10 forms an opening 13 of the bowl portion 11. The toilet bowl 10 receives waste such as urine and feces from the user in the bowl portion 11.

The toilet is flushed when the user operates the toilet flush or stands up from the toilet seat. In the toilet flush, toilet flush water WT is supplied from the toilet flushing unit 20 to expel waste from the bowl portion 11 and clean the surface 12 of the bowl portion 11. After the toilet flush is completed, toilet flush water WT (sealing water) accumulates in the bottom 11a of the bowl portion 11.

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

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

The main body 31 is provided on the rear of the upper surface 10a of the toilet 10. The main body 31 incorporates, for example, a functional part (such as a private part washing nozzle described below) for washing the private parts of the user. The main body 31 may also incorporate, for example, a functional part (such as a spray device described below) for spraying washing water into the toilet 10.

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

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

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

By providing the water level sensor 34 at a position above the toilet 10 where the toilet flush water WT does not flow, it is possible to prevent the toilet flush water WT supplied from the toilet flushing unit 20 during toilet flushing from coming into contact with the water level sensor 34. This makes it possible to prevent false detections by the water level sensor 34 caused by the toilet flush water WT supplied from the toilet flushing unit 20 during toilet flushing.

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

The opening/closing control unit 35 is electrically connected to the toilet flushing unit 20. The opening/closing control unit 35 controls the operation of the toilet flushing unit 20. More specifically, the opening/closing control unit 35 is electrically connected to the opening/closing valve 22, and controls the start and stop of the toilet flush by controlling the opening and closing of the opening/closing valve 22. In other words, the opening/closing control unit 35 controls whether or not toilet flush water WT is supplied from the water supply source 5 to the toilet 10.

The clogging determination unit 36 is electrically connected to the water level sensor 34. The clogging determination unit 36 determines whether the toilet 10 is clogged based on the detection result of the water level sensor 34. The clogging determination unit 36 determines whether the toilet 10 is clogged based on the detection result of the water level sensor 34 at a predetermined time after the toilet is flushed, for example.

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

The opening/closing control unit 35 is electrically connected to the clogging determination unit 36. The opening/closing control unit 35 controls the operation of the toilet flushing unit 20 based on the determination result of the clogging determination unit 36. For example, if the clogging determination unit 36 determines that the toilet 10 is not clogged, the opening/closing control unit 35 flushes the toilet in response to the toilet flushing operation by the user. In other words, if the clogging determination unit 36 determines that the toilet 10 is not clogged, the opening/closing control unit 35 permits the toilet flushing.

On the other hand, for example, if the clogging determination unit 36 determines that the toilet 10 is clogged, the opening/closing control unit 35 will not flush the toilet even if the user operates the toilet flush. In other words, if the clogging determination unit 36 determines that the toilet 10 is clogged, the opening/closing control unit 35 prohibits the toilet flush. This makes it possible to prevent the toilet flush from being performed when the toilet 10 is clogged, and to prevent the toilet flush water WT from overflowing from the toilet 10.

The clogging determination unit 36 may also be electrically connected to, for example, an alarm device (not shown) for notifying the clogging state of the toilet 10. This makes it possible to notify the user, manager, etc. of the clogging state of the toilet 10 (whether there is a clogging or not).

The clogging determination unit 36 may be integrated with the opening/closing control unit 35, or may be provided separately from the opening/closing control unit 35. The opening/closing control unit 35 and the clogging determination unit 36 are provided, for example, inside the main body unit 31. The opening/closing control unit 35 may be part of the toilet flushing unit 20.

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

In this way, by providing a sensor cleaning unit 37 that cleans the water level sensor 34, the water level sensor 34 can be cleaned even if the water level sensor 34 is installed in a position where the toilet flush water WT does not flow. In other words, even if dirt adheres to the water level sensor 34, the dirt can be removed by the sensor cleaning unit 37. This makes it possible to suppress the growth of mold in the water level sensor 34 due to the adhered dirt. It also makes it possible to suppress the inability to accurately detect the water level in the toilet bowl 10 due to the adhesion of dirt or mold to the water level sensor 34.

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

Functional water is water that has the effect of reducing bacteria (so-called disinfecting effect). Functional water contains, for example, silver ions, ozone, hypochlorous acid, etc. The functional water generator 38 is provided as necessary and can be omitted.

In this way, the sensor cleaning unit 37 cleans the water level sensor 34 with functional water that reduces bacteria, which further prevents mold from growing on the water level sensor 34.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view that diagrammatically illustrates a portion of the toilet device according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 4 , in this example, the toilet device 30 has a pubic cleansing nozzle 301 , a nozzle storage section 302 , and a nozzle shutter 303 .

The private parts washing nozzle 301 sprays washing water WS to wash the private parts of the user. The private parts washing nozzle 301 is provided so that it can move forward and backward relative to the main body 31. The private parts washing nozzle 301 is inclined so that it moves downward as it moves forward.

In this example, the local cleaning nozzle 301 is connected to the functional water generating unit 38. The functional water generating unit 38 can switch between, for example, a mode in which tap water is supplied to the local cleaning nozzle 301 and a mode in which functional water is supplied to the local cleaning nozzle 301. In other words, the local cleaning nozzle 301 can switch between a mode in which tap water is discharged as the cleaning water WS and a mode in which functional water is discharged as the cleaning water WS. For example, when washing the user's local areas, the local cleaning nozzle 301 discharges tap water as the cleaning water WS. For example, when washing the local cleaning nozzle 301, the local cleaning nozzle 301 discharges functional water as the cleaning water WS.

Inside the main body 31, there is a nozzle storage section 302 that stores the local cleaning nozzle 301. The nozzle storage section 302 is cylindrical with an opening 302a at the front end, and stores the local cleaning nozzle 301 in the internal space. The nozzle storage section 302 is inclined downward as it moves forward.

As shown in FIG. 3, when the local cleaning nozzle 301 is in the most retracted position, the front end of the local cleaning nozzle 301 is located rearward of the opening 302a of the nozzle storage section 302. When the local cleaning nozzle 301 is in the most advanced position, the front end of the local cleaning nozzle 301 is located forward of the opening 302a of the nozzle storage section 302. In this way, the local cleaning nozzle 301 can be moved back and forth between a position stored in the nozzle storage section 302 and a position protruding from the nozzle storage section 302.

A nozzle shutter 303 is provided in front of the nozzle storage section 302. In this example, the nozzle shutter 303 is rotatably supported on the main body section 31, and opens and closes the opening 302a at the front end of the nozzle storage section 302. The nozzle shutter 303 is located in front of the local cleaning nozzle 301 when the local cleaning nozzle 301 is stored in the nozzle storage section 302. When the local cleaning nozzle 301 advances, the nozzle shutter 303 rotates. Note that the nozzle shutter 303 may be provided, for example, at the tip of the local cleaning nozzle 301, and may advance and retreat together with the local cleaning nozzle 301.

The water level sensor 34 is disposed below the nozzle storage section 302. More specifically, the water level sensor 34 is disposed below the opening 302a at the front end of the nozzle storage section 302. The water level sensor 34 is disposed, for example, at a position overlapping with the opening 302a in the up-down direction.

When the private parts cleaning nozzle 301 is extended from the nozzle storage section 302 (main body section 31), it sprays cleaning water WS upward to clean the private parts of the user. Also, when stored in the nozzle storage section 302 (i.e., inside the nozzle storage section 302), the private parts cleaning nozzle 301 sprays cleaning water WS to clean the private parts cleaning nozzle 301, the nozzle storage section 302, the nozzle shutter 303, etc.

A part of the cleaning water WS discharged from the local cleaning nozzle 301 inside the nozzle storage section 302 bounces off the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302 and falls on the local cleaning nozzle 301. This cleans the surface of the local cleaning nozzle 301. Also, a part of the cleaning water WS discharged from the local cleaning nozzle 301 inside the nozzle storage section 302 flows along the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302. This cleans the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302. Also, another part of the cleaning water WS discharged from the local cleaning nozzle 301 inside the nozzle storage section 302 flows from the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302 along the back surface 303a of the nozzle shutter 303. This cleans the back surface 303a of the nozzle shutter 303.

The cleaning water WS used to clean the genital cleaning nozzle 301, the nozzle storage section 302, and the nozzle shutter 303 passes through the gap between the nozzle shutter 303 and the nozzle storage section 302 and is discharged into the toilet 10 (bowl section 11). At this time, the cleaning water WS that flows through the gap flows over the surface of the water level sensor 34 located below the nozzle storage section 302, and is discharged into the toilet 10 (bowl section 11). This cleans the surface of the water level sensor 34.

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

In this way, by cleaning the water level sensor 34 with the cleaning water WS discharged from the private parts cleaning nozzle 301 (i.e., by having the private parts cleaning nozzle 301 also function as the sensor cleaning unit 37), the water level sensor 34 can be cleaned without the need for a separate component that functions as the sensor cleaning unit 37. This allows the toilet device 30 to be simplified.

In addition, cleaning of the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like using the local cleaning nozzle 301 is performed, for example, every time the local cleaning nozzle 301 is used. By also cleaning the water level sensor 34 when cleaning the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like, the frequency with which the water level sensor 34 is cleaned can be increased. In addition, by cleaning the water level sensor 34 with the cleaning water WS used to clean the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like, the amount of water used can be reduced.

In addition, by locating the water level sensor 34 below the nozzle storage section 302, the cleaning water WS discharged from the sensor cleaning section 37 (local cleaning nozzle 301) inside the nozzle storage section 302 can be more efficiently supplied to the water level sensor 34. This can improve the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning section 37.

The local cleaning nozzle 301 may clean the water level sensor 34 by ejecting cleaning water WS when it is advanced from the nozzle storage section 302 (i.e., outside the nozzle storage section 302). The local cleaning nozzle 301 may clean the water level sensor 34 by spraying the cleaning water WS ejected from the local cleaning nozzle 301 directly onto the water level sensor 34 when it is advanced to a predetermined position, for example.

FIG. 5 is a front view that typically illustrates the nozzle storage section of the toilet device according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 5 shows the private parts cleaning nozzle 301 and the nozzle storage portion 302 as viewed from the direction A1 shown in FIG.
5, the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage portion 302 is, for example, cylindrical in shape. That is, the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage portion 302 has a curved surface that curves downward toward the center in the left-right direction of the nozzle storage portion 302. That is, the bottom portion 302c of the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage portion 302 is provided at a position that overlaps with the center in the left-right direction of the nozzle storage portion 302.

The water level sensor 34 is provided at a position overlapping in the vertical direction with the bottom 302c of the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302 when viewed from the front. In this example, the water level sensor 34 is provided at a position overlapping with the center of the nozzle storage section 302 in the horizontal direction.

A portion of the cleaning water WS discharged from the sensor cleaning section 37 (local cleaning nozzle 301) inside the nozzle storage section 302 flows along the inner wall surface 302b toward the bottom section 302c. The cleaning water WS collected at the bottom section 302c falls on the water level sensor 34 provided below the bottom section 302c. In this way, the nozzle storage section 302 guides the cleaning water WS discharged inside the nozzle storage section 302 to the water level sensor 34.

The shape of the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302 is not limited to a cylindrical shape, and may be any shape as long as the cleaning water WS can be collected at the bottom 302c. For example, the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302 may have an inclined surface that slopes downward as it approaches the center of the nozzle storage section 302 in the left-right direction.

For example, the bottom 302c of the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302 may be located at a position offset from the center in the left-right direction of the nozzle storage section 302. In this case, too, it is preferable that the water level sensor 34 is located at a position that overlaps the bottom 302c in the up-down direction when viewed from the front.

A guide portion that guides the cleaning water WS to the water level sensor 34 may be provided on the bottom 302c of the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302. The guide portion may be, for example, a groove recessed downward in the bottom 302c, or a pair of ribs that protrude upward from the left and right sides of the bottom 302c.

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

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

The water level sensor 34 is provided at a position overlapping the lower end 303c of the guide portion 303b in the vertical direction when viewed from the rear. In this example, the water level sensor 34 is provided at a position overlapping the center of the nozzle shutter 303 in the horizontal direction.

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

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

For example, the guide portion 303b of the nozzle shutter 303 may guide the cleaning water WS to a position offset from the center in the left-right direction of the nozzle shutter 303. In this case, too, it is preferable that the water level sensor 34 is provided at a position that overlaps in the up-down direction with the lower end 303c of the guide portion 303b when viewed from behind.

In this way, by directing the cleaning water WS discharged from the sensor cleaning unit 37 (local cleaning nozzle 301) inside the nozzle storage unit 302 to the water level sensor 34 by the nozzle shutter 303, more cleaning water WS can be supplied to the water level sensor 34. This improves the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning unit 37.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view that diagrammatically illustrates a portion of a toilet device according to a modified example of the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 7 , a toilet device 30A according to the modification of the first embodiment further includes a nozzle cleaning unit 304 .

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

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

The cleaning water WS discharged from the nozzle cleaning section 304 inside the nozzle storage section 302 falls on the local cleaning nozzle 301. This cleans the surface of the local cleaning nozzle 301. The cleaning water WS that flows over the surface of the local cleaning nozzle 301 flows along the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302. This cleans the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302. In addition, the cleaning water WS that flows along the inner wall surface 302b of the nozzle storage section 302 falls on the back surface 303a of the nozzle shutter 303. This cleans the back surface 303a of the nozzle shutter 303.

The cleaning water WS used to clean the genital cleaning nozzle 301, the nozzle storage section 302, and the nozzle shutter 303 passes through the gap between the nozzle shutter 303 and the nozzle storage section 302 and is discharged into the toilet 10 (bowl section 11). At this time, the cleaning water WS that flows through the gap flows over the surface of the water level sensor 34 located below the nozzle storage section 302, and is discharged into the toilet 10 (bowl section 11). This cleans the surface of the water level sensor 34.

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

In this way, by cleaning the water level sensor 34 with the cleaning water WS discharged from the nozzle cleaning unit 304 (i.e., by having the nozzle cleaning unit 304 also function as the sensor cleaning unit 37), the water level sensor 34 can be cleaned without the need for a separate component that functions as the sensor cleaning unit 37. This allows the toilet device 30A to be simplified.

In addition, the nozzle cleaning unit 304 cleans the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like, for example, every time the local cleaning nozzle 301 is used. By also cleaning the water level sensor 34 when cleaning the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like, the frequency with which the water level sensor 34 is cleaned can be increased. In addition, by cleaning the water level sensor 34 with the cleaning water WS used to clean the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like, the amount of water used can be reduced.

In addition, by arranging the water level sensor 34 below the nozzle storage section 302, the cleaning water WS discharged from the sensor cleaning section 37 (nozzle cleaning section 304) inside the nozzle storage section 302 can be more efficiently supplied to the water level sensor 34. This can improve the cleaning effect of the sensor cleaning section 37.

The cleaning of the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like by the nozzle cleaning unit 304 shown in FIG. 7 may be performed, for example, simultaneously with the cleaning of the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the like by the local cleaning nozzle 301 shown in FIG. 4. In addition, the functional water generating unit 38 may supply functional water to both the local cleaning nozzle 301 and the nozzle cleaning unit 304.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view that diagrammatically illustrates a portion of the toilet device according to the second embodiment.
8, the toilet device 30B according to the second embodiment has a spray device 305. The toilet device 30B according to the second embodiment is substantially the same as the toilet device 30 according to the first embodiment except for having the spray device 305, so a description of the toilet device 30B according to the second embodiment other than the spray device 305 will be omitted here.

The spray device 305 sprays flush water WS into the toilet bowl 10. The spray device 305 is provided, for example, inside the main body 31. The spray device 305 is positioned, for example, above the water level sensor 34 and behind the water level sensor 34. More specifically, at least a portion of the spray device 305 is located above the water level sensor 34. In addition, at least a portion of the spray device 305 is located behind the water level sensor 34.

Here, "at least a part of the spray device 305" includes, for example, the spray nozzle 305a of the spray device 305. The spray nozzle 305a of the spray device 305 is, for example, located above the upper end of the water level sensor 34. Also, the spray nozzle 305a of the spray device 305 is, for example, located rearward of the rear end of the water level sensor 34.

The spray device 305 sprays flushing water WS, for example, downward. The flushing water WS sprayed from the spray device 305 adheres to the surface of the toilet bowl 10 (surface 12 of the bowl portion 11) and forms a water film. By spraying flushing water WS from the spray device 305 before using the toilet device 30B, it is possible to prevent dirt such as excrement from adhering to the surface of the toilet bowl 10. In addition, by spraying flushing water WS from the spray device 305 after using the toilet device 30B, it is possible to wash away dirt such as excrement that has adhered to the surface of the toilet bowl 10.

The water level sensor 34 is provided at a position where at least a portion of the cleaning water WS sprayed from the spray device 305 falls on it. In other words, the water level sensor 34 is provided at a position where at least a portion of it overlaps with the spray range of the cleaning water WS sprayed from the spray device 305. In other words, the spray range of the cleaning water WS sprayed by the spray device 305 is set so that at least a portion of it overlaps with the water level sensor 34. This cleans the surface of the water level sensor 34.

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

In this way, by cleaning the water level sensor 34 with the cleaning water WS sprayed from the spray device 305 (i.e., by having the spray device 305 also function as the sensor cleaning unit 37), the water level sensor 34 can be cleaned without the need for a separate component that functions as the sensor cleaning unit 37. This allows the toilet device 30B to be simplified.

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

In addition, by positioning at least a portion of the spray device 305 above the water level sensor 34, the cleaning water WS can be sprayed downward from the spray device 305 to clean the water level sensor 34. This makes it possible to prevent the cleaning water WS sprayed from the spray device 305 from scattering outside the toilet bowl 10.

In addition, by positioning at least a portion of the spray device 305 behind the water level sensor 34, it is possible to prevent the water level sensor 34 from being located between the spray device 305 and the rear inner wall surface 10b of the toilet 10. This prevents the flush water WS sprayed from the spray device 305 toward the rear inner wall surface 10b of the toilet 10 from being blocked by the water level sensor 34. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably apply the flush water WS to the rear inner wall surface 10b of the toilet 10, which is prone to becoming dirty.

In the above-described first and second embodiments, the case where the local cleaning nozzle 301, the nozzle cleaning unit 304, the spray device 305, etc. also function as the sensor cleaning unit 37 has been described, but the sensor cleaning unit 37 may be provided separately from the local cleaning nozzle 301, the nozzle cleaning unit 304, the spray device 305, etc.

As described above, according to the embodiment, a toilet device is provided that can flush the water level sensor even if the water level sensor is located in a position where toilet flush water does not flow.

The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Any design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, installation form, etc. of each element of the toilet device or toilet system are not limited to those exemplified, and can be modified as appropriate.
Furthermore, the elements of each of the above-described embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention.

5 water supply source, 10 toilet bowl, 10a upper surface, 10b inner wall surface, 11 bowl portion, 11a bottom portion, 12 surface, 13 opening portion, 20 toilet bowl flushing portion, 21 flow path, 22 opening/closing valve, 30, 30A, 30B toilet device, 31 main body portion, 32 toilet seat, 32a opening portion, 33 toilet lid, 34 water level sensor, 35 opening/closing control portion, 36 clogging determination portion, 37 sensor flushing portion, 38 functional water generating portion, 100 toilet system, 301 private parts washing nozzle, 302 nozzle storage portion, 302a opening portion, 302b inner wall surface, 302c bottom portion, 303 nozzle shutter, 303a back surface, 303b guide portion, 303c Bottom end, 304 nozzle cleaning part, 305 spray device, WT toilet flushing water, WS flushing water

Claims (10)

a water level sensor that detects the water level in the toilet bowl, the water level sensor being provided in an upper portion of the toilet bowl at a position where toilet flush water for discharging excrement in the toilet bowl does not flow;
a clogging determination unit that determines whether the toilet is clogged based on the detection result of the water level sensor;
a sensor cleaning unit that cleans the water level sensor;
Equipped with
The sensor cleaning unit has a local cleaning nozzle for cleaning the local area of a user,
The toilet apparatus, wherein the pubic cleansing nozzle cleans the water level sensor by ejecting cleansing water . a water level sensor that detects the water level in the toilet bowl, the water level sensor being provided in an upper portion of the toilet bowl at a position where toilet flush water for discharging excrement in the toilet bowl does not flow;
a clogging determination unit that determines whether the toilet is clogged based on the detection result of the water level sensor;
a sensor cleaning unit that cleans the water level sensor;
A local cleaning nozzle for cleaning the local area of a user;
Equipped with
The sensor cleaning unit has a nozzle cleaning unit that cleans the local cleaning nozzle,
The toilet apparatus , wherein the nozzle cleaning unit discharges cleaning water to clean the water level sensor together with the pubic cleaning nozzle . Further provided is a local cleaning nozzle for cleaning the local area of the user,
The sensor cleaning unit has a nozzle cleaning unit that cleans the local cleaning nozzle,
2. The toilet apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the nozzle cleaning unit discharges cleaning water to clean the water level sensor as well as the private parts cleaning nozzle. The cleaning device further includes a nozzle storage section for storing the local cleaning nozzle.
The sensor cleaning unit discharges the cleaning water inside the nozzle storage unit,
4. The toilet apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the nozzle storage portion guides the flush water discharged inside the nozzle storage portion to the water level sensor. The cleaning device further includes a nozzle housing portion for housing the local cleaning nozzle, and a nozzle shutter for opening and closing an opening at a front end of the nozzle housing portion,
The sensor cleaning unit discharges the cleaning water inside the nozzle storage unit,
4. The toilet apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the nozzle shutter guides the flush water discharged inside the nozzle storage portion to the water level sensor. The cleaning device further includes a nozzle storage section for storing the local cleaning nozzle.
The sensor cleaning unit discharges the cleaning water inside the nozzle storage unit,
6. The toilet apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the water level sensor is disposed below the nozzle housing portion. The sensor cleaning unit has a spray device that sprays cleaning water into the toilet bowl,
2. The toilet apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the spray device cleans the water level sensor by spraying the cleaning water. The toilet device according to claim 7, characterized in that at least a portion of the spray device is disposed above the water level sensor. The toilet device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that at least a portion of the spray device is disposed behind the water level sensor. A functional water generating unit is further provided for generating functional water for reducing bacteria.
10. The toilet apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sensor cleaning section cleans the water level sensor with the functional water supplied from the functional water production section.

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