WO2010041443A1 - Toilet seat device - Google Patents
Toilet seat device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2010041443A1 WO2010041443A1 PCT/JP2009/005218 JP2009005218W WO2010041443A1 WO 2010041443 A1 WO2010041443 A1 WO 2010041443A1 JP 2009005218 W JP2009005218 W JP 2009005218W WO 2010041443 A1 WO2010041443 A1 WO 2010041443A1
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- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- temperature
- toilet seat
- toilet
- seating
- room
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
- A47K13/00—Seats or covers for all kinds of closets
- A47K13/24—Parts or details not covered in, or of interest apart from, groups A47K13/02 - A47K13/22, e.g. devices imparting a swinging or vibrating motion to the seats
- A47K13/30—Seats having provisions for heating, deodorising or the like, e.g. ventilating, noise-damping or cleaning devices
- A47K13/305—Seats with heating devices
Definitions
- the present invention relates to temperature control of a seating portion of a toilet seat of a toilet seat device.
- toilet seat temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of the toilet seat provided on the back surface of the toilet seat, a room temperature detection sensor for detecting room temperature, a heating element provided on the back surface of the toilet seat, And a controller for controlling energization.
- the control unit controls energization of the heating element of the toilet seat based on signals from the toilet seat temperature detection means and the room temperature detection sensor. Since the toilet seat temperature detecting means is in the cavity on the back surface of the toilet seat, it is difficult to cool because it does not touch the outside air, and when the room temperature in the toilet is low, the difference between the temperature of the toilet seat surface actually seated becomes large. Therefore, the room temperature is measured by the room temperature detection sensor, and the output to the toilet seat heater is corrected so that the surface of the toilet seat becomes the optimum temperature. Thus, the user can comfortably sit on the toilet seat.
- Patent Document 2 a configuration for controlling the energization amount to the heating element of the toilet seat based on the room temperature is disclosed in Patent Document 2, and the target value of the toilet seat temperature is set in multiple stages according to the seating state of the toilet seat by the user.
- Patent Document 3 A configuration to be set to is disclosed in Patent Document 3.
- the toilet seat apparatus of patent document 2 it is trying to maintain toilet seat temperature constant irrespective of the user's entrance status to the toilet room, and there is a lot of waste in power consumption, and demand for energy saving in recent years. Can not respond to.
- the toilet seat device of Patent Document 3 it is considered that a certain amount of energy saving can be expected in that the target value of the toilet seat temperature is set in multiple stages according to the usage status by the user.
- the toilet seat temperature is controlled without considering environmental conditions in the toilet room even in a standby state (for example, a state where the user has not entered the toilet room) which is the longest state. Therefore, in actuality, depending on the environmental conditions, wasteful power consumption may occur, for example, the toilet seat is kept at a temperature higher than the value set as the temperature in the standby state.
- an object of the present invention is to provide a heating toilet seat device capable of realizing energy saving by further reducing the power consumption when adjusting the toilet seat temperature without impairing the comfort of the toilet user. It is.
- a further object of the present invention is to provide an inexpensive and highly accurate comfortable heating toilet seat apparatus by realizing output correction of the toilet seat heater while simplifying the configuration.
- a toilet seat device includes a toilet seat having a seating portion, a heating element that raises the temperature of the toilet seat, a control unit that controls electric power supplied to the heating element, and a toilet seat temperature detection means that detects the temperature of the toilet seat. And second temperature detection means for detecting the temperature in the toilet room, and seating will detection means for detecting seating will information indicating a seating intention by the user on the toilet seat, and the control unit detects the seating will detection In the standby state in which the seating will information is not detected by the means, the temperature of the toilet seat detected by the toilet seat temperature detection unit is set to a predetermined standby temperature set as a maintenance temperature in the standby state.
- the temperature of the toilet seat detected by the toilet seat temperature detection means is changed from the standby temperature to the standby temperature. And controlling the energization of the heating element so as to increase at a predetermined speed to a temperature within a seating temperature range that is assumed to be seated on the toilet seat by the user, and further, the second temperature The energization to the heating element in the standby state is changed according to the temperature in the toilet room detected by the detection means.
- the toilet seat device controls at least a standby state and a seating state, and controls the temperature to be different from each other in a standby temperature and a seating temperature range suitable for seating. Power consumption by the body can be reduced. Furthermore, in the standby state, which is the longest state, the power supply to the heating element is changed according to the temperature in the toilet room, so that power consumption can be further reduced and further energy saving can be achieved. Can do.
- control unit may be configured to reduce electric power supplied to the heating element when the temperature in the toilet room is relatively high in the standby state.
- the predetermined speed may be 0.5 to 5 [Kelvin / second].
- the temperature increase rate of the toilet seat is determined by the temperature increase capability of the heater and the toilet seat configuration such as the heat capacity of the toilet seat heated by the heater. Then, according to this temperature increase rate, the temperature increase is started from the standby temperature based on the user's seating will information detected by the seating will detection means, and the time until the user actually sits (according to the experiments by the inventors). The knowledge obtained is about 6 seconds from entering the toilet room to the seating), and the temperature is surely sufficient for seating (the temperature obtained by the inventors' experiments is that the temperature that does not feel cold when sitting is about 29 degrees) Can warm up to.
- the standby temperature can be set low if there is such a temperature raising capability, in summer when the environmental temperature is relatively high, energization for standby can be made unnecessary, thereby saving energy. realizable.
- the seating intention detecting means may be a human body detecting means for detecting a user entering the toilet room.
- the temperature can be raised to a temperature within the sitting temperature range even from a lower standby temperature. Therefore, since the standby temperature can be set lower, the power consumption in the standby state can be further reduced.
- the second temperature detecting means is a room temperature detecting means provided for controlling the room heating means provided in the toilet room based on the toilet room temperature, and drying that blows hot air on the user's local area after washing
- Room temperature detecting means provided for controlling the means based on the toilet room temperature
- room temperature detecting means provided for correcting the sensitivity and output of the human body detecting means for detecting the user's entry into the toilet room with the toilet room temperature, And you may share with either of the water temperature detection means which detects the water temperature of the washing water which wash
- the toilet seat device of the present invention it is possible to realize a toilet seat device capable of realizing energy saving by further reducing the power consumption when adjusting the toilet seat temperature without impairing the comfort of the toilet user. Can do.
- Embodiment 1 of this invention It is an external appearance perspective view of the toilet seat apparatus in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a block diagram of the toilet seat apparatus in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a partially notched top view of the toilet seat in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is principal part sectional drawing of the case upper part of the toilet seat in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a time chart which shows the change of the drive of a toilet seat heater, and the surface temperature of a toilet seat part.
- (A) is a wave form diagram of the electric current which flows through a toilet seat heater at the time of 1200W drive
- (b) is a wave form diagram of the energization control signal given to a heater drive part from an energization rate switching circuit at the time of 1200W drive.
- (A) is a waveform diagram of the current flowing through the toilet seat heater during 600 W drive
- (b) is a waveform diagram of an energization control signal provided from the energization rate switching circuit to the heater drive unit during 600 W drive.
- (A) is a waveform diagram of a current flowing through the toilet seat heater during low power driving
- (b) is a waveform diagram of an energization control signal provided from the energization rate switching circuit to the heater driving unit during low power driving.
- It is a graph which shows the relationship between the surface temperature of a toilet seat part, and the measured temperature value of a thermistor.
- It is a graph which shows the relationship between the measured temperature value of the thermistor when the room temperature fluctuates, the surface temperature of the toilet seat, and the notification time.
- It is a block diagram of the heating toilet seat in Embodiment 2 of this invention.
- It is a block diagram of the heating toilet seat in Embodiment 4 of this invention.
- It is a graph which shows an example of the aspect which changes an electricity supply rate based on a toilet room temperature.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a toilet seat device according to the first embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram
- FIG. 3 is a partially cutaway view of the toilet seat of the same embodiment
- FIG. 4 is a plan view of the essential part of the upper part of the toilet seat case.
- a main body 21 is attached to the upper surface of a toilet 20, and a toilet seat 22 and a toilet lid 23 are rotatably provided on the main body 21.
- An infrared sensor unit 24 is provided on the sleeve portion of the main body 21 and receives infrared signals from an operation remote controller (not shown) and a human body detection unit (sitting intention detection means) 25.
- the human body detection unit 25 includes, for example, a pyroelectric sensor and an infrared light emitting unit, and transmits an infrared signal (sitting intention detection signal) when the presence of a human body is detected in the toilet space.
- This infrared signal can be regarded as a signal indicating that the user has entered the toilet room with a willingness to sit on the toilet seat 22, and therefore the user's willingness to sit on the toilet seat 22 is highly probable. Can be detected.
- a notification LED 280 is provided on the upper surface of the main body 21.
- This notification LED 280 is a notification means for notifying the temperature rise state of the toilet seat 22 and starts blinking immediately after the start of the temperature increase of the toilet seat. Lights up and notifies the user of the temperature rise state of the toilet seat 22.
- the toilet seat 22 has a case 26 formed by welding and joining two upper and lower members made of synthetic resin at the inner and outer peripheral edges thereof, and water or the like is formed therein. It has a structure having a hermetically sealed cavity 27 that can prevent the intrusion.
- the end portion of the radiation reflecting plate 28 has an upward bent portion over the entire circumference, and the heat radiation from the lamp heater 29 is deflected by the bent portion, so that the outer peripheral edge portion away from the lamp heater 29 and It acts to increase the radiation density at the inner peripheral edge, and the radiation distribution to the upper part of the case 26 is made uniform.
- a thermostat 30 and a thermal fuse 31 that are electrically connected in series with the lamp heater 29 are provided in the vicinity of the lamp heater 29, and act to prevent an overtemperature in the event of an unsafe situation.
- the lamp heater 29 is configured by penetrating a filament 33 made of tungsten and enclosing a halogen gas 34 inside a glass tube 32, and repeats a halogen cycle reaction for forming tungsten halide as the filament 33 generates heat. This acts to prevent the filament 33 from being consumed. By this action, the filament 33 having a very small heat capacity can be used as a heat source, and the radiation energy can be caused to rise very steeply.
- the lamp heater 29 is fixed to the radiation reflecting plate 28 by a lamp heater fixture 36 having a rubber bush 35 which is an elastic material, and the radiation reflecting plate 28 is fixed to the case 26 by rubber feet 37.
- seating detection means 38 constituted by a micro switch 40 is provided, and the seating of the user is detected when the switch is turned on by applying a load to the toilet seat 22. Yes.
- the case 26 has a radiant heat absorption layer 42 containing a large amount of carbon black formed on the upper surface of a case body 41 formed by injection molding using a transparent polypropylene resin material.
- a surface decorative layer 43 that is a light blocking layer that shields all visible light emitted from the heater 29 and takes into consideration surface hardness, chemical resistance, gloss, and the like is formed.
- the case main body 41 is formed of a transparent polypropylene resin material with an average thickness of 2.5 mm, so that the radiant heat transmittance is set to 70% or more, and at the same time, functions as a structural rectangular body of the toilet seat.
- the formed radiant heat absorption layer 42 has a thickness of 0.1 m. m, the thickness of the surface decorative layer 43 is 0.2 mm, and both these layers completely absorb the radiant heat transmitted through the case body 41 and have a very small heat capacity. Shield.
- a thermistor 44 is fitted in a recess provided on the inner surface of the case 26, and the thermistor 44 is in contact with the radiant heat absorption layer 42 so as to have substantially the same temperature, so that the temperature of the radiant heat absorption layer 42 can be directly detected. It has become. Further, a pivot shaft 45 extending in the left-right direction is provided at the rear portion of the toilet seat 22, and the toilet seat 22 can swing up and down between the standing state and the horizontal use state with the pivot shaft 45 as a base point. ing. An electrode 46 is formed on the rotating shaft 45, and constitutes a toilet seat position detecting means 47 together with a bearing portion (not shown) of the main body 21, and the toilet seat is in a standing state or used by being seated.
- the main body 21 has a control unit having a timer unit 49 that counts an elapsed time from the start of temperature rise by energizing the lamp heater 29 of the toilet seat 22 together with a room temperature detection sensor 48 as a sensor for detecting the room temperature.
- a portion 50 is provided. Then, signals from the human body detection unit 25, the seating detection unit 38, the thermistor 44, the toilet seat position detection unit 47, and the room temperature detection sensor 48 are transmitted to the control unit 50, respectively, and based on these signals, the toilet seat is a warming surface
- the energization to the lamp heater 29 is controlled so that the temperature of the upper surface of 22 becomes a predetermined temperature.
- an indoor heating unit 52 is provided in the toilet room, and the indoor heating unit 52 includes an indoor heating heater 53 and an indoor heating fan 54 to heat the toilet room.
- the human body detection unit 25 detects this, and the signal is sent to the control unit 50 via the infrared sensor unit 24.
- the control unit 50 starts energizing the lamp heater 29.
- energization When energization is started, light is emitted from the filament 33 through the glass tube 32 and the radiation reflector 28 toward the case body 41, and the lamp light is instantaneously emitted as radiation energy. Further, the radiant energy is partially absorbed or reflected inside the case body 41, but most of it is transmitted and contributes to the temperature rise of the radiant heat absorption layer 42 and the surface decorative layer 43.
- the warming surface of the seating portion of the toilet seat 22 can be heated almost instantaneously, energy is saved without energizing the heater at all times.
- the lamp heater 29 is used as a heating element for heating the seating portion of the toilet seat 22, but the heating element is not limited to the lamp heater 29.
- a linear heater using an enamel wire is used as the toilet seat. It is good also as a structure adhere
- the enameled wire has excellent heat resistance, can raise the temperature of the toilet seat 22 in a sufficiently short time, and can ensure electrical insulation and safety.
- ⁇ 2> Energization Sequence of Toilet Seat Device The drive control of the lamp heater 29 is performed by changing the power for driving the lamp heater 29 into three.
- the control unit 50 drives the lamp heater 29 with about 1200 W of electric power (1200 W drive).
- control unit 50 drives the lamp heater 29 with power of about 600 W (600 W drive).
- the control unit 50 drives the lamp heater 29 with a power of about 50 W (low power driving).
- low power driving means driving the lamp heater 29 with sufficiently low power (for example, power in the range of 0 W to 50 W) compared to 1200 W driving and 600 W driving.
- Switching between 1200 W drive, 600 W drive, and low power drive is performed by the energization rate switching circuit of the control unit 50 controlling the energization from the control unit 50 to the lamp heater 29.
- the controller 50 is supplied with an alternating current from a power circuit (not shown). Therefore, the control unit 50 causes the alternating current supplied based on the energization control signal provided from the energization rate switching circuit to flow through the lamp heater 29.
- FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a driving example of the lamp heater 29 and a change in the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22.
- a graph showing the relationship between the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 and time and a graph showing the relationship between the energization rate and time when driving the lamp heater 29 are shown.
- the horizontal axis of these two graphs is a common time axis.
- the control unit 50 adjusts the temperature of the toilet seat 22 to 18 ° C. In this way, the control unit 50 reduces the lamp heater 29 so that the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is constant at 18 ° C. during the waiting period D1 until the human body detection unit 25 detects that the user has entered the room.
- Power drive In the low power driving in the standby period D1, power consumption is reduced by changing the energization to the lamp heater 29 according to the temperature in the toilet room, which will be described later.
- the controller 50 performs 600 W driving during the inrush current reduction period D2 when the human body detector 25 detects that the user has entered the room at time t1.
- This 600 W drive is performed in order to sufficiently reduce the inrush current.
- the lamp heater 29 generates a large inrush current when the filament 33 before power is turned on. Even if the overcurrent generated here is transient, the heater and circuit are loaded, adversely affecting the service life, and it is possible to design the circuit using electronic components that are resistant to overcurrent, but this increases costs. Leads to.
- first, in order to suppress the inrush current half of the electric energy is input to suppress the influence. In this case, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is raised with a slightly gentle second temperature gradient.
- the time point when the human body detection unit 25 detects the user's entry is set as the time t1, but the present invention is not limited to this.
- a means for detecting opening / closing of a door that opens and closes when entering and leaving the toilet room may be provided, and the time point when the opening of the door is detected thereby may be set as time t1.
- the temperature of the toilet seat 22 can be raised to an appropriate temperature in advance.
- means for detecting the user's intention to sit in advance means for detecting the opening operation (opening operation) of the toilet lid 23, means for detecting the operation of swinging the toilet seat 22 downward, and the like. It is also possible to adopt.
- the controller 50 starts 1200 W driving of the lamp heater 29 at time t2 after the rush current reduction period D2 has elapsed, and continues 1200 W driving of the lamp heater 29 during the first temperature rising period D3.
- the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is raised with the first temperature gradient described above.
- the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is rapidly increased.
- the 1200 W drive of the lamp heater 29 is performed until the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 reaches a predetermined temperature (hereinafter also referred to as “initial use target temperature”, for example, 30 ° C.).
- the predetermined temperature may be a temperature set as the heating temperature.
- the predetermined temperature is not a temperature sufficiently increased to the heating temperature, and may be used even if it is lower than that.
- the temperature may be equal to or higher than the minimum temperature (cool sensation limit temperature) that does not cause an unpleasant feeling of being cold when the person is seated. This limit temperature has been found to be about 29 ° C. by subject experiments conducted by the inventors.
- the initial target temperature for use may be a temperature that is higher than the standby temperature and within a seating temperature range (for example, about 29 to 38 ° C.) that is assumed to be seated on the toilet seat 22 of the user.
- a seating temperature range for example, about 29 to 38 ° C.
- the above-mentioned cooling sensation limit temperature (about 29 ° C.) can be employed.
- the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is quickly raised to a predetermined temperature by 1200 W driving.
- the user can sit on the toilet seat 22 without feeling that the toilet seat 22 is cold.
- the above-described standby temperature (for example, 18 ° C.) is based on the initial use target temperature that is the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 at the end of the first temperature increase period D3 and the temperature increase capability of the lamp heater 29.
- the standby temperature is set as the lowest temperature that can reach the target initial target temperature in consideration of the temperature increase capability of the lamp heater 29 in the combined period of the inrush current reduction period D2 and the first temperature increase period D3.
- the temperature is set.
- the standby temperature is set as low as possible in the standby period D1, while achieving the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 that can ensure the comfort when the user is seated.
- the power consumption for maintaining is reduced.
- a specification that can raise the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 at a rate of 0.5 to 5 Kelvin / second can be adopted as the temperature raising capability of the lamp heater 29.
- the specification is such that the temperature can be raised by about 3 to 25 ° C. from when the user's seating intention is detected until when the user actually sits on the toilet seat 22.
- the rate of temperature increase is at least 1.7 Kelvin / second, more preferably 2 Kelvin / second or more. It is preferable.
- the seat heater is not limited to the lamp heater 29, but a seat heater, a tubing heater, or a surface heater that does not use radiant heat is attached to the back surface of the seating surface.
- the heater may be embedded in the toilet seat member.
- the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 when the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is rapidly increased, an overshoot occurs in the temperature change.
- the 1200 W driving of the lamp heater 29 is switched to the 600 W driving. Therefore, even when the change in the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 overshoots, the surface temperature does not exceed the toilet seat set temperature. As a result, the user is prevented from feeling the toilet seat 22 hot when seated.
- the control unit 50 starts 600 W driving of the lamp heater 29 at time t3 after the first temperature rising period D3 has elapsed, and continues 600 W driving of the lamp heater 29 during the second temperature rising period D4. To do.
- the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is raised with the second temperature gradient described above.
- the 600 W drive of the lamp heater 29 is performed until the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 reaches the toilet seat set temperature (38 ° C.).
- the second temperature gradient is gentler than the first temperature gradient. This prevents a large overshoot from occurring in the change in the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22.
- the control unit 50 starts the low power driving of the lamp heater 29 at time t4 after the elapse of the second temperature raising period D4, and continues the low power driving of the lamp heater 29 during the first maintenance period D5. Thereby, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 becomes constant at the toilet seat set temperature.
- the control unit 50 reduces the energization rate of the low power drive, and the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 during the first seating period D6. Continues the low power drive of the lamp heater 29 so as to maintain the toilet seat set temperature.
- the first seating period D6 is set to about 10 minutes.
- control unit 50 further reduces the energization rate of the low power drive at time t6 after the first seating period D6 has elapsed, and the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is lower than the toilet seat set temperature during the second seating period D7.
- the low power driving of the lamp heater 29 is continued so as to decrease to a slightly lower temperature (36 ° C.).
- the second seating period D7 is set to about 2 minutes.
- the control unit 50 further reduces the energization rate of the low power drive, and the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is slightly higher than the toilet seat set temperature during the second maintenance period D8.
- Low power driving of the lamp heater 29 is continued so as to be constant at a low temperature (36 ° C.).
- the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 that is maintained constant in the second maintenance period D8, that is, a temperature slightly lower than the toilet seat set temperature is referred to as a maintenance temperature.
- the control unit 50 gradually lowers the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22. This prevents the user from getting burned at low temperatures.
- the control unit 50 stops driving the lamp heater 29 during the stop period D9 when the seating detection means 40 detects that the user has left the toilet seat 22 at time t8. Thereby, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 decreases.
- the control unit 50 starts low-power driving of the lamp heater 29 again at time t9 when the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 reaches 18 ° C., so that the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 becomes constant at 18 ° C.
- the low power driving of the intermediate lamp heater 29 is maintained. Even in the low power driving in the standby period D10, as in the standby period D1, power consumption is reduced by changing the energization to the lamp heater 29 according to the temperature in the toilet room. This will be described later.
- the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is gradually lowered by adjusting the electric power used to drive the lamp heater 29.
- the driving of the lamp heater 29 is used.
- the user may stop when sitting on the toilet seat 22. Even in this case, it is possible to prevent the user from getting burned at a low temperature.
- the driving of the lamp heater 29 is stopped when it is detected that the user has left the toilet seat 22 at time t8.
- the stop may be performed after a lapse of a certain time (for example, 1 minute) from time t8 when it is detected that the user has left the toilet seat 22.
- a certain time for example, 1 minute
- the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 does not decrease even when the user once again leaves the toilet seat 22 and again feels comfortable and sits on the toilet seat 22 again. As a result, the user can comfortably sit on the toilet seat 22.
- the energization state of the toilet seat 22 during 1200 W drive, 600 W drive, and low power drive will be described together with the energization control signal of the energization rate switching circuit.
- the energization rate refers to the ratio of the time during which an alternating current is passed through the toilet seat 22 (more precisely, the lamp heater 29) with respect to one cycle of the alternating current. Therefore, a high energization rate to the lamp heater 29 means that the electric power to be supplied to the lamp heater 29 is large, and conversely, a low energization rate means that the electric power to be supplied to the lamp heater 29 is small. means.
- FIG. 6A is a waveform diagram of a current flowing through the toilet seat 22 (more precisely, the lamp heater 29) at 1200 W driving
- FIG. 6B is an energization control given from the energization rate switching circuit to the control unit 50 at 1200 W driving. It is a wave form diagram of a signal.
- the energization control signal at the time of 1200 W driving is always logic “1”.
- the control unit 50 causes the alternating current supplied from the power supply circuit to flow through the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “1” (FIG. 6A, bold line portion). As a result, an alternating current flows through the toilet seat 22 over the entire period. As a result, the toilet seat 22 is driven with about 1200 W of electric power.
- FIG. 7A is a waveform diagram of a current flowing through the toilet seat 22 when driven at 600 W
- FIG. 7B is a waveform diagram of an energization control signal provided from the energization rate switching circuit to the control unit 50 when driven at 600 W.
- the energization control signal at the time of 600 W driving is composed of pulses having the same cycle as the alternating current supplied to the control unit 50.
- the duty ratio of the pulse (ratio of the pulse width of logic “1” to the pulse period) is set to 50%.
- the control unit 50 causes the alternating current supplied from the power supply circuit to flow through the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “1” (FIG. 7A, bold line portion). Thereby, an alternating current flows through the toilet seat 22 for a half-cycle period. As a result, the toilet seat 22 is driven with about 600 W of electric power.
- FIG. 8A is a waveform diagram of a current flowing through the toilet seat 22 during low power driving
- FIG. 8B is a waveform diagram of an energization control signal given from the energization rate switching circuit to the control unit 50 during low power driving.
- the energization control signal at the time of low power driving is composed of pulses having the same cycle as the alternating current supplied to the control unit 50.
- the duty ratio of the pulse is set to be smaller than 50% (for example, about several percent).
- the control unit 50 causes the alternating current supplied from the power supply circuit to flow through the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “1” (FIG. 8A, bold line portion). In each cycle, an alternating current flows through the toilet seat 22 for a period corresponding to the pulse width. As a result, the toilet seat 22 is driven with power of about 50 W, for example.
- the energization rate switching circuit does not give an energization control signal to the control unit 50 (the energization control signal is changed). Set to logic "0"). Thereby, the control unit 50 does not drive the toilet seat 22.
- noise is generated.
- 1200 W drive or 600 W drive of the toilet seat 22 since the current supplied to the toilet seat 22 changes so as to draw a sine curve, the magnitude of the current increases. However, the generation of noise is sufficiently reduced.
- the current supplied to the toilet seat 22 has a harmonic component, but the magnitude of the current is much smaller than that at the time of 1200 W driving and 600 W driving, so that noise is generated. It is sufficiently reduced.
- the toilet seat 22 is driven by electric power of 1200 W, 600 W, and about 50 W, but the toilet seat 22 may be driven by electric power of other sizes.
- the timing for the alternating current to flow is set at intervals of a predetermined period such as two or three periods.
- the toilet seat 22 can be driven with a power different from 1200 W, 600 W and about 50 W while sufficiently preventing noise.
- the controller 50 supplies current to the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “1”, and supplies current to the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “0”. Although it is stopped, the supply of current to the toilet seat 22 may be stopped when the energization control signal is logic “1”, and the current may be supplied to the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “0”.
- the control unit 50 measures the time during which the toilet seat 22 is turned on by two measurement sources so that the time measurement does not deviate.
- the on time of the lamp heater 29 is measured by an oscillator that defines the effective speed of the program of the control unit 50, and as another measurement source, the lamp heater 29 is measured based on the cycle of the AC voltage. Measure the on time. When at least one of these measured values exceeds the specified time, the process proceeds to the next energization pattern.
- Notification LED Notification LED 280 (FIG. 1) serving as notification means is provided on the upper surface of main body 21.
- the notice LED 280 starts blinking when energization of the lamp heater 29 is started, and lights up when the temperature of the toilet seat 22 has risen and reached the aforementioned cooling sensation limit temperature (29 ° C.).
- the notification LED 280 blinks as the first notification form when the detected temperature (thermistor 44 measured temperature) is lower than the cooling sensation limit temperature, and lights up as the second notification form when the detected temperature is high. Whether or not the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 feels cold can be determined by looking at the notification LED 280, and can be seated on the toilet seat 22.
- the function of detecting the presence or absence of a human body in the toilet room by the human body detection unit 25 stops the energization of the lamp heater 29 when a certain time (for example, 1 minute) has elapsed since the user left the toilet room, and the notification LED 280 Turns off regardless of the blinking or lit state. Furthermore, even if the fixed time has not elapsed, the stool lid turns off when it closes.
- a certain time for example, 1 minute
- the time when the notification of the notification LED 280 changes from the first notification mode to the second notification mode is when the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 reaches the limit temperature 29 ° C. as described above.
- FIG. 9 shows the relationship between the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 and the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44.
- FIG. 9 shows the relationship between the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 and the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44.
- the temperature response of the thermistor 44 is delayed in the toilet seat that instantaneously increases in temperature, and the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 cannot be detected accurately. Therefore, when the notification LED 280 which is the second notification form is turned on with the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44, the correlation between the temperature rise value of the toilet seat 22 and the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44 is measured in advance, and an error in temperature response is predicted. There is a need to.
- the notification LED 280 may be switched from blinking to lighting when the thermistor 44 detects 27.9 ° C.
- a correlation between the temperature detected by the thermistor 44 before the start of energization and the arrival time required for the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 to reach the cooling sensation limit temperature at this time is measured in advance, and the temperature is notified at the start of energization. You may determine the time to change. For example, when the temperature t0 before energization is 18 ° C., the time t1 required for the seating surface to rise to 29 ° C. is 5.5 seconds, and if t0 is 20 ° C., t1 is 4.5 seconds. The correlation is calculated in advance, and the notification is changed only with the initial temperature (ie, t0). Such a configuration is effective when the detection delay of the thermistor 44 is large.
- the correlation between the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44 and the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 of the toilet seat 22 and the correlation between the temperature at the start of energization and the arrival time depend on the installation environment such as voltage and room temperature and the resistance value of the lamp heater 29. It is difficult to take into account individual variations due to variations and the like in advance. In this case, since it becomes impossible to notify the user at an appropriate time, correction based on the use environment and individual differences is required.
- the error is 10% (the temperature of the thermistor 44 with respect to the rate of temperature rise of the surface temperature of the seating portion of the toilet seat 22). If the temperature rising speed to be detected is “ ⁇ 10%”), the surface temperature of the seating portion of the toilet seat 22 is 29.0 ° C. (the temperature reached by 11 ° C. rising from the standby temperature of 18 ° C.). Then, the notification is changed from blinking to lighting at the detection temperature of the thermistor 44 of 27.9 ° C. (a value obtained by adding 9.9 ° C. obtained by subtracting 10% from 11 ° C.
- the standby temperature 18 ° C.
- the room temperature is 5 ° C.
- the heat dissipation of the toilet seat 22 is large and the error is reduced.
- the error to be corrected is 0.88 deg, and the notification may be changed at 28.12 ° C.
- the notification time is the cooling sensation limit temperature
- this may be a set temperature or a temperature equivalent thereto.
- the energization control is changed from 1200 W to 600 W or about 50 W phase control depending on the toilet seat surface temperature, and can also be used to correct the change timing. By correcting, it is possible to accurately grasp that the toilet seat surface temperature has reached 38 ° C., so that the comfort is increased.
- the temperature rise rate of the toilet seat surface temperature is fast, and a response delay occurs in the thermistor 44 as the detection means. Therefore, even if the toilet seat surface temperature reaches the set temperature, the detection means detects a temperature lower than the set temperature. ing. This error varies depending on the voltage of the installation environment, the room temperature, and the variation of the resistance value of the toilet seat heater, similarly to the notification time. Therefore, by achieving the same correction as the notification time, the reached temperature can be accurately grasped, and a more comfortable toilet seat can be obtained.
- the toilet seat surface temperature reaches a temperature higher than the set temperature. Therefore, in this case, comfort and safety can be further improved by performing correction based on the environmental temperature (toilet room temperature).
- the room temperature when the room temperature is low, the heat dissipation of the toilet seat 22 is increased, and the error between the toilet seat surface temperature and the measurement temperature of the thermistor 44 is reduced.
- the target temperature of the thermistor 44 When the room temperature is low, the target temperature of the thermistor 44 with respect to the set temperature. It is also possible to lower the warming temperature (18 ° C. in the present embodiment) during standby when no person enters the toilet room. In this case, a reduction in power consumption can be expected.
- the amount of heat released from the toilet seat 22 varies depending on the toilet room temperature (environmental temperature). For example, when the temperature in the toilet room is relatively high, the amount of heat released from the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 is relatively small. Therefore, if the power to be supplied to the lamp heater 29 is the same as when the temperature in the toilet room is low, the amount of heat released becomes a higher temperature, which exceeds the set standby temperature (for example, 18 ° C.). There is a possibility that. This is not preferable because it leads to unnecessary power consumption.
- the set standby temperature for example, 18 ° C.
- the temperature in the toilet room is detected by the room temperature detection sensor 48, and when this is relatively high, the energization rate (that is, the energized power) to the lamp heater 29 is reduced. On the other hand, when the toilet room temperature is relatively low, the energization rate is controlled to be increased.
- FIG. 14 is a graph showing an example of a mode in which the energization rate is changed based on the toilet room temperature as described above.
- the energization rate is indicated by the duty ratio described with reference to FIGS.
- the duty ratio is set to be smaller as the temperature shown on the horizontal axis is relatively higher, in other words, the energization rate is set to be smaller. Therefore, the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 can be maintained at a predetermined standby temperature regardless of changes in the toilet room temperature.
- the apparatus waits in a state where the predetermined standby temperature is exceeded, and further suppresses generation of excessive power consumption by raising the temperature to a temperature higher than necessary. be able to.
- the temperature in the toilet room is low, avoid the situation where the temperature is kept below the predetermined standby temperature and the user cannot enter the desired temperature up to the initial target temperature when entering the room. Can do.
- timing at which the temperature in the toilet room for transmission to the control unit 50 is detected may be when the human body is detected by the human body detection unit 25.
- timer means may be provided in the human body detection unit 25 or the operation remote controller (not shown) so that the temperature in the toilet room is detected every time a certain time has elapsed. Subsequent standby temperatures are controlled based on the latest room temperature information thus obtained.
- control unit 50 also provides signals of the thermistor 44 and the room temperature detection sensor 48 at the start of energization, for example, in the first temperature rising period D3 shown in FIG.
- the control unit 50 when the temperature difference between the two and the respective temperatures are calculated, the optimum value of the energization limit time set and stored in advance is selected, and the elapsed time counted by the timer unit 49 reaches the energization limit time.
- a first step of reducing or zeroing the energization amount is performed, and then a second step of controlling the energization amount so that the seating portion of the toilet seat 22 becomes an appropriate temperature based on a signal from the thermistor 44 is performed.
- an indoor heating unit 52 for heating the toilet room is installed.
- the indoor heating unit 52 is used by the control unit 50 in the first step as described above.
- the output control of the indoor heating heater 53 and the indoor heating fan 54 is performed.
- FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram of a toilet seat device with a hot water cleaning function according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
- the difference from the first embodiment is that a drying function unit 55 that blows out hot air is provided in a local part after cleaning.
- the control unit 50 controls the output of the drying heater 57 and the drying fan 58 based on a signal from the room temperature detection sensor 56. Then, by performing temperature control of the toilet seat (including energization rate control during the standby period) and drying temperature control with the same temperature sensor, there is no need to provide a temperature sensor dedicated to toilet seat control, and Embodiment 1 Similarly, the temperature control of the toilet seat can be realized with a simple configuration at low cost and high accuracy.
- FIG. 12 is a configuration diagram of a toilet seat device with a hot water washing function according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.
- the difference from the first and second embodiments is that a room temperature detection sensor 59 is provided inside the human body detection unit 25.
- the human body detection unit 25 transmits a signal from the room temperature detection sensor 59 to the control unit 50 of the main body 21 by the infrared light emitting unit.
- the human body detection unit 25 corrects the sensitivity and output of the human body detection sensor based on the signal from the room temperature detection sensor 59.
- the temperature control of the toilet seat is simple, inexpensive, and highly accurate.
- FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of the toilet seat apparatus with a hot water washing function of Embodiment 4 of this invention.
- a warm water cleaning function unit 60 for heating the cleaning water supplied from the water supply source and ejecting the cleaning water to the human body has an incoming water temperature detecting means 61 for detecting the water temperature of the water supply source.
- the controller 50 is configured to control the temperature of the toilet seat based on signals from the thermistor 44 of the toilet seat and the incoming water temperature detecting means 61. That is, the room temperature is estimated from the incoming water temperature.
- the configuration is simple, and the temperature control of the toilet seat can be realized with low cost and high accuracy.
- a room temperature detection sensor that exclusively detects the temperature in the toilet used for temperature control of the toilet seat 22 may be provided instead.
- an operation remote controller prepared separately from the human body detection unit 25 and the main body 21 can be cited as such an installation location.
- the above-described indoor heating unit 52 may be provided with a room temperature detection sensor dedicated to detecting the temperature in the toilet, or such a room temperature detection sensor may be provided in the lighting fixture. Also good.
- a plurality of room temperature detection sensors that exclusively detect the temperature in the toilet room may be provided. Thereby, the more accurate detection of the temperature in the toilet room can be realized.
- at least one of the plurality of room temperature detection sensors may be shared with a temperature sensor having another purpose.
- the toilet seat is formed by welding the upper and lower members made of synthetic resin at the inner peripheral edge and the outer peripheral edge, respectively.
- the heat capacity of the toilet seat member it is desirable to make the heat capacity of the toilet seat member to be warmed as small as possible. Therefore, it is possible to provide a seating portion made of a metal such as an aluminum alloy. By setting it as such a structure, it can be set as the heating toilet seat which was more excellent in temperature rising characteristics and uniformity.
- the present invention can be applied to a toilet seat device capable of realizing energy saving by further reducing power consumption when adjusting the toilet seat temperature without impairing the comfort of the toilet user.
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Abstract
A toilet seat device which attains energy saving by furthermore reducing power consumption when adjusting the temperature of a toilet seat, without damaging comfort of a toilet user.
A control section provided to the toilet seat device controls distribution of power to a heat generator (29) such that in a standby state the temperature of the toilet seat (22) detected by a toilet seat temperature detection means (44) is a predetermined standby temperature and such that when detecting information relating to a user’s intention to seat on the toilet seat (22), the temperature of the toilet seat (22) rises at a predetermined speed from the standby temperature to a temperature higher than the standby temperature and within a seating temperature range wherein seating of the user on the toilet seat (22) is assumed. Furthermore, the distribution of power to the heat generator (29) in the standby state is varied in accordance with the temperature in a toilet room detected by a second temperature detection means (48).
Description
本発明は、便座装置の便座の着座部の温度制御に関する。
The present invention relates to temperature control of a seating portion of a toilet seat of a toilet seat device.
従来、この種の便座装置においては、人体に不快感を与えないようにするために、人体が直接接触する箇所の温度を適切な温度に調整する様々な機能を有する装置が案出されている。なかでも、使用者が冬場等気温が低い場合においても不快を感じることなく便座に着座することができるように、便座の着座部の温度制御の方法が提案されている。(例えば、特許文献1参照)。
Conventionally, in this kind of toilet seat device, in order not to give unpleasant feeling to the human body, a device having various functions has been devised to adjust the temperature of the portion in direct contact with the human body to an appropriate temperature. . In particular, a method for controlling the temperature of the seating portion of the toilet seat has been proposed so that the user can sit on the toilet seat without feeling uncomfortable even when the temperature is low, such as in winter. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).
特許文献1記載の便座装置においては、便座の裏面に設けた便座の温度を検知する便座温度検知手段と、室温を検知する室温検知センサと、便座の裏面に設けた発熱体と、発熱体の通電を制御する制御部とを備えている。
In the toilet seat device described in Patent Document 1, toilet seat temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of the toilet seat provided on the back surface of the toilet seat, a room temperature detection sensor for detecting room temperature, a heating element provided on the back surface of the toilet seat, And a controller for controlling energization.
このような構成において、制御部は、便座温度検知手段と室温検知センサの信号に基づいて、便座の発熱体の通電を制御する。便座温度検知手段は、便座の裏面の空洞内にあるため、外気に触れないため冷めにくく、トイレ内の室温が低い場合は、実際に着座する便座表面の温度に対して差が大きくなる。そこで、室温検知センサによって室内温度を計測し、便座表面が最適温度となるように便座ヒータへの出力を補正する。それにより、使用者は快適に便座に着座することができる。
In such a configuration, the control unit controls energization of the heating element of the toilet seat based on signals from the toilet seat temperature detection means and the room temperature detection sensor. Since the toilet seat temperature detecting means is in the cavity on the back surface of the toilet seat, it is difficult to cool because it does not touch the outside air, and when the room temperature in the toilet is low, the difference between the temperature of the toilet seat surface actually seated becomes large. Therefore, the room temperature is measured by the room temperature detection sensor, and the output to the toilet seat heater is corrected so that the surface of the toilet seat becomes the optimum temperature. Thus, the user can comfortably sit on the toilet seat.
また、室温に基づいて便座の発熱体への通電量を制御する構成が、特許文献2に開示されており、使用者による便座への着座状態などに応じて、便座温度の目標値を多段的に設定する構成が、特許文献3に開示されている。
Further, a configuration for controlling the energization amount to the heating element of the toilet seat based on the room temperature is disclosed in Patent Document 2, and the target value of the toilet seat temperature is set in multiple stages according to the seating state of the toilet seat by the user. A configuration to be set to is disclosed in Patent Document 3.
ところで、上記のような特許文献1に開示された従来の衛生洗浄装置においては、室温検知センサを便座の制御専用に設ける必要があり、構成が複雑になりコストがかかるという課題があった。
By the way, in the conventional sanitary washing apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 as described above, it is necessary to provide a room temperature detection sensor exclusively for controlling the toilet seat, and there is a problem that the configuration becomes complicated and the cost is high.
また、特許文献2の便座装置によると、使用者のトイレ室への入室状況にかかわらず、便座温度を一定に保持しようとするものであり、消費電力に無駄が多く、近年における省エネルギー化の要望に応えることができない。特許文献3の便座装置の場合は、使用者による利用状況に応じて便座温度の目標値を多段的に設定している点で、ある程度の省エネルギー化が期待できると考えられる。しかしながら、最も長期間の状態である待機状態(例えば、使用者がトイレ室に入室していない状態など)においても、トイレ室内の環境条件を考慮せずに便座温度を制御している。従って、実際には、環境条件によっては待機状態の温度として設定された値より高い温度に便座が保温されるなど、無駄な消費電力が生じる可能性がある。
Moreover, according to the toilet seat apparatus of patent document 2, it is trying to maintain toilet seat temperature constant irrespective of the user's entrance status to the toilet room, and there is a lot of waste in power consumption, and demand for energy saving in recent years. Can not respond to. In the case of the toilet seat device of Patent Document 3, it is considered that a certain amount of energy saving can be expected in that the target value of the toilet seat temperature is set in multiple stages according to the usage status by the user. However, the toilet seat temperature is controlled without considering environmental conditions in the toilet room even in a standby state (for example, a state where the user has not entered the toilet room) which is the longest state. Therefore, in actuality, depending on the environmental conditions, wasteful power consumption may occur, for example, the toilet seat is kept at a temperature higher than the value set as the temperature in the standby state.
そこで、本発明の目的は、トイレの使用者の快適性を損なうことなく、便座温度を調整する際の消費電力をより一層低減して省エネルギー化を実現することのできる暖房便座装置を提供することである。また、更なる本発明の目的は、構成を単純化しながらも、便座ヒータの出力補正を実現することにより、安価で精度の高い快適な暖房便座装置を提供することである。
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a heating toilet seat device capable of realizing energy saving by further reducing the power consumption when adjusting the toilet seat temperature without impairing the comfort of the toilet user. It is. A further object of the present invention is to provide an inexpensive and highly accurate comfortable heating toilet seat apparatus by realizing output correction of the toilet seat heater while simplifying the configuration.
本発明に係る便座装置は、着座部を有する便座と、前記便座を昇温する発熱体と、前記発熱体に通電する電力を制御する制御部と、前記便座の温度を検知する便座温度検知手段と、トイレ室内の温度を検知する第2の温度検知手段と、使用者による便座への着座意志を示す着座意志情報を検知する着座意志検知手段とを備え、前記制御部は、前記着座意志検知手段により前記着座意志情報を検知していない待機状態では、前記便座温度検知手段により検知する前記便座の温度が、前記待機状態での維持温度として設定された所定の待機温度となるように、前記発熱体への通電を制御し、前記着座意志検知手段により前記着座意志情報を検知した場合には、前記便座温度検知手段により検知する前記便座の温度が、前記待機温度から、該待機温度より高温であって使用者の前記便座への着座を想定した着座温度範囲内の温度まで、所定速度で上昇するように、前記発熱体への通電を制御し、更に、前記第2の温度検知手段により検知したトイレ室内温度に応じて、前記待機状態における前記発熱体への通電を変化させる。
A toilet seat device according to the present invention includes a toilet seat having a seating portion, a heating element that raises the temperature of the toilet seat, a control unit that controls electric power supplied to the heating element, and a toilet seat temperature detection means that detects the temperature of the toilet seat. And second temperature detection means for detecting the temperature in the toilet room, and seating will detection means for detecting seating will information indicating a seating intention by the user on the toilet seat, and the control unit detects the seating will detection In the standby state in which the seating will information is not detected by the means, the temperature of the toilet seat detected by the toilet seat temperature detection unit is set to a predetermined standby temperature set as a maintenance temperature in the standby state. When energization to the heating element is controlled and the seating will detection information is detected by the seating will detection means, the temperature of the toilet seat detected by the toilet seat temperature detection means is changed from the standby temperature to the standby temperature. And controlling the energization of the heating element so as to increase at a predetermined speed to a temperature within a seating temperature range that is assumed to be seated on the toilet seat by the user, and further, the second temperature The energization to the heating element in the standby state is changed according to the temperature in the toilet room detected by the detection means.
これにより、本発明に係る便座装置は、少なくとも待機状態と着座状態とで区別して、それぞれの状態で互いに異なる待機温度と着座に適した着座温度範囲内の温度とになるよう制御するため、発熱体による消費電力を低減することができる。更に、最も長期間の状態である待機状態において、トイレ室内温度に応じて発熱体への通電を変化させることとしているため、消費電力をより低減することができ、より一層の省エネルギー化を図ることができる。
As a result, the toilet seat device according to the present invention controls at least a standby state and a seating state, and controls the temperature to be different from each other in a standby temperature and a seating temperature range suitable for seating. Power consumption by the body can be reduced. Furthermore, in the standby state, which is the longest state, the power supply to the heating element is changed according to the temperature in the toilet room, so that power consumption can be further reduced and further energy saving can be achieved. Can do.
また、前記制御部は、前記待機状態において、前記トイレ室内温度が相対的に高い場合には前記発熱体へ通電する電力を低減するように構成されていてもよい。
Further, the control unit may be configured to reduce electric power supplied to the heating element when the temperature in the toilet room is relatively high in the standby state.
これにより、トイレ室内温度が相対的に高く、便座表面からの放熱量が相対的に少ない場合には、発熱体へ通電する電力をトイレ室内温度が低い場合より低減しても、待機温度を維持することができるため、消費電力の低減を図ることができる。
As a result, when the temperature in the toilet room is relatively high and the amount of heat released from the toilet seat surface is relatively small, the standby temperature is maintained even if the power supplied to the heating element is reduced compared to the case where the temperature in the toilet room is low. Therefore, power consumption can be reduced.
また、前記所定速度は0.5~5[ケルビン/秒]であってもよい。
Further, the predetermined speed may be 0.5 to 5 [Kelvin / second].
この便座の昇温速度は、ヒータの昇温能力と該ヒータにより暖める便座部分の熱容量などの便座構成とによってきまる。そしてこの昇温速度によれば、着座意志検知手段により検知した使用者の着座意志情報に基づいて待機温度から昇温を開始して、実際に着座するまでの時間内(発明者らの実験により得られた知見ではトイレ室への入室から着座まで約6秒)で、確実に着座に十分な温度(発明者らの実験により得られた知見では着座時に冷たいと感じない温度は約29度)まで温めることができる。また、これだけの昇温能力があれば、待機温度を低く設定することができるため、環境温度の比較的高い夏場においては、待機するための通電が不要な状態とすることがきて、省エネルギー化が実現できる。
The temperature increase rate of the toilet seat is determined by the temperature increase capability of the heater and the toilet seat configuration such as the heat capacity of the toilet seat heated by the heater. Then, according to this temperature increase rate, the temperature increase is started from the standby temperature based on the user's seating will information detected by the seating will detection means, and the time until the user actually sits (according to the experiments by the inventors). The knowledge obtained is about 6 seconds from entering the toilet room to the seating), and the temperature is surely sufficient for seating (the temperature obtained by the inventors' experiments is that the temperature that does not feel cold when sitting is about 29 degrees) Can warm up to. In addition, since the standby temperature can be set low if there is such a temperature raising capability, in summer when the environmental temperature is relatively high, energization for standby can be made unnecessary, thereby saving energy. realizable.
また、前記着座意志検知手段は、前記トイレ室への使用者の入室を検知する人体検知手段であってもよい。
Further, the seating intention detecting means may be a human body detecting means for detecting a user entering the toilet room.
これにより、使用者が便座に着座する可能性が高く、且つ、実際に着座するまでの期間を最も長く確保することができる。そして、着座するまでに長期間を確保することによって、より低い待機温度からであっても着座温度範囲内の温度まで昇温することができる。従って、待機温度をより低く設定することができるため、待機状態での消費電力をより低減することができる。
As a result, there is a high possibility that the user will sit on the toilet seat, and the period until the user actually sits can be ensured the longest. By securing a long period of time before sitting, the temperature can be raised to a temperature within the sitting temperature range even from a lower standby temperature. Therefore, since the standby temperature can be set lower, the power consumption in the standby state can be further reduced.
また、前記第2の温度検知手段は、前記トイレ室内に設けられた室内暖房手段をトイレ室温に基づいて制御すべく備えられた室温検知手段、洗浄後の使用者の局部に温風を吹き付ける乾燥手段をトイレ室温に基づいて制御すべく備えられた室温検知手段、前記トイレ室への使用者の入室を検知する人体検知手段の感度及び出力をトイレ室温により補正すべく備えられた室温検知手段、及び使用者の局部を洗浄する洗浄水の水温を検知する水温検知手段のうちの何れかと共用していてもよい。
In addition, the second temperature detecting means is a room temperature detecting means provided for controlling the room heating means provided in the toilet room based on the toilet room temperature, and drying that blows hot air on the user's local area after washing Room temperature detecting means provided for controlling the means based on the toilet room temperature, room temperature detecting means provided for correcting the sensitivity and output of the human body detecting means for detecting the user's entry into the toilet room with the toilet room temperature, And you may share with either of the water temperature detection means which detects the water temperature of the washing water which wash | cleans a user's local part.
これにより、トイレ室内温度を検知する第2の温度検知手段として、待機温度を制御するための専用のものを用意する必要がないため、構成を単純化し、安価で精度の高い便座の温度制御が実現できる。
As a result, it is not necessary to prepare a dedicated temperature control means for controlling the standby temperature as the second temperature detection means for detecting the temperature in the toilet room. realizable.
本発明の便座装置によれば、トイレの使用者の快適性を損なうことなく、便座温度を調整する際の消費電力をより一層低減して省エネルギー化を実現することのできる便座装置を実現することができる。
According to the toilet seat device of the present invention, it is possible to realize a toilet seat device capable of realizing energy saving by further reducing the power consumption when adjusting the toilet seat temperature without impairing the comfort of the toilet user. Can do.
以下、本発明の実施の形態について図面を参照しながら説明する。なお、本実施の形態によって本発明が限定されるものではない。
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment.
(実施の形態1)
<1> 便座装置の外観
図1は本発明の第1の実施の形態における便座装置の斜視図であり、図2は概略構成図であり、図3は同実施例の便座の一部切り欠き平面図、図4は便座のケース上部の要部断面図である。 (Embodiment 1)
<1> Appearance of Toilet Seat Device FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a toilet seat device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram, and FIG. 3 is a partially cutaway view of the toilet seat of the same embodiment. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the essential part of the upper part of the toilet seat case.
<1> 便座装置の外観
図1は本発明の第1の実施の形態における便座装置の斜視図であり、図2は概略構成図であり、図3は同実施例の便座の一部切り欠き平面図、図4は便座のケース上部の要部断面図である。 (Embodiment 1)
<1> Appearance of Toilet Seat Device FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a toilet seat device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram, and FIG. 3 is a partially cutaway view of the toilet seat of the same embodiment. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the essential part of the upper part of the toilet seat case.
図1に示すように、便器20の上面に本体21が取り付けられており、この本体21には便座22および便ふた23が回動自在に設けられている。
As shown in FIG. 1, a main body 21 is attached to the upper surface of a toilet 20, and a toilet seat 22 and a toilet lid 23 are rotatably provided on the main body 21.
本体21の袖部には赤外線センサ部24が設けられ、操作リモコン(図示せず)および人体検知部(着座意志検知手段)25からの赤外線信号を受信する。人体検知部25は例えば焦電センサと赤外線発光部からなり、トイレ空間に人体の存在を検出すると、赤外線信号(着座意志検知信号)を送信する。この赤外線信号は、使用者が便座22に着座する意志を有してトイレ室に入室したことを示す信号であるとみなすことができ、従って、使用者による便座22への着座意志を、高い蓋然性をもって検知することができる。
An infrared sensor unit 24 is provided on the sleeve portion of the main body 21 and receives infrared signals from an operation remote controller (not shown) and a human body detection unit (sitting intention detection means) 25. The human body detection unit 25 includes, for example, a pyroelectric sensor and an infrared light emitting unit, and transmits an infrared signal (sitting intention detection signal) when the presence of a human body is detected in the toilet space. This infrared signal can be regarded as a signal indicating that the user has entered the toilet room with a willingness to sit on the toilet seat 22, and therefore the user's willingness to sit on the toilet seat 22 is highly probable. Can be detected.
また、本体21の上面にお知らせLED280が設けられている。このお知らせLED280は便座22の昇温状態を報知する報知手段であり、便座の昇温開始直後から点滅を開始し、便座22に着座しても冷たくない温度以上に昇温した場合は連続して点灯し、使用者に便座22の昇温の状態を報知する。
Further, a notification LED 280 is provided on the upper surface of the main body 21. This notification LED 280 is a notification means for notifying the temperature rise state of the toilet seat 22 and starts blinking immediately after the start of the temperature increase of the toilet seat. Lights up and notifies the user of the temperature rise state of the toilet seat 22.
図2、図3に示すように、便座22は、合成樹脂製の上・下2つの部材をそれぞれの内周縁および外周縁で溶着接合することによりケース26を形成し、その内部には水等の浸入を阻止できる密閉された空洞部27を有する構造となっている。
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the toilet seat 22 has a case 26 formed by welding and joining two upper and lower members made of synthetic resin at the inner and outer peripheral edges thereof, and water or the like is formed therein. It has a structure having a hermetically sealed cavity 27 that can prevent the intrusion.
上記空洞部27の内部には便座22の着座部に対向して、アルミ板を鏡面仕上げした輻射反射板28と輻射型の発熱体であるランプヒータ29とが設けられている。輻射反射板28の端部は全周にわたり上方への折り曲げ部を有しており、その折り曲げ部によりランプヒータ29からの熱輻射が偏向されるので、ランプヒータ29から離れている外周縁部および内周縁部の輻射密度を上げるように作用し、ケース26上部への輻射分布の均一化を図っている。このランプヒータ29の近傍には、ランプヒータ29と直列に電気接続したサーモスタット30および温度ヒューズ31が設けられ、万一の不安全事態に対して温度過昇を防止するよう作用する。
Inside the hollow portion 27, a radiation reflecting plate 28 having a mirror finished aluminum plate and a lamp heater 29, which is a radiation type heating element, are provided facing the seating portion of the toilet seat 22. The end portion of the radiation reflecting plate 28 has an upward bent portion over the entire circumference, and the heat radiation from the lamp heater 29 is deflected by the bent portion, so that the outer peripheral edge portion away from the lamp heater 29 and It acts to increase the radiation density at the inner peripheral edge, and the radiation distribution to the upper part of the case 26 is made uniform. A thermostat 30 and a thermal fuse 31 that are electrically connected in series with the lamp heater 29 are provided in the vicinity of the lamp heater 29, and act to prevent an overtemperature in the event of an unsafe situation.
上記ランプヒータ29は、ガラス管32の内部にタングステンからなるフィラメント33を貫通しハロゲンガス34を封入して構成されており、フィラメント33の発熱に伴ってハロゲン化タングステンを形成するハロゲンサイクル反応を繰り返すことにより、フィラメント33の消耗を防止するよう作用している。この作用により熱容量の非常に小さいフィラメント33を熱源とすることができ、輻射エネルギーの極めて急峻な立ち上がりを行わせることができる。このランプヒータ29は、弾性材であるゴムブッシュ35を有するランプヒータ固定具36により輻射反射板28に固定され、輻射反射板28はゴム足37によりケース26に固定されている。便座22の脚ゴム39内には、マイクロスイッチ40で構成された着座検知手段38が設けられており、便座22への加重でスイッチがオンすることにより使用者の着座を検知するようになっている。
The lamp heater 29 is configured by penetrating a filament 33 made of tungsten and enclosing a halogen gas 34 inside a glass tube 32, and repeats a halogen cycle reaction for forming tungsten halide as the filament 33 generates heat. This acts to prevent the filament 33 from being consumed. By this action, the filament 33 having a very small heat capacity can be used as a heat source, and the radiation energy can be caused to rise very steeply. The lamp heater 29 is fixed to the radiation reflecting plate 28 by a lamp heater fixture 36 having a rubber bush 35 which is an elastic material, and the radiation reflecting plate 28 is fixed to the case 26 by rubber feet 37. In the leg rubber 39 of the toilet seat 22, seating detection means 38 constituted by a micro switch 40 is provided, and the seating of the user is detected when the switch is turned on by applying a load to the toilet seat 22. Yes.
図4に示すように、ケース26は透明ポリプロピレン樹脂材料を用いて射出成形で構成されたケース本体41の上面に、カーボンブラックを多量に含有する輻射熱吸収層42を形成し、さらにその上にランプヒータ29から放射される全ての可視光を遮蔽するとともに、表面硬度,耐薬品性能,光沢等を考慮した光遮断層である表面化粧層43を形成したものである。ケース本体41は透明ポリプロピレン樹脂材料を平均厚み2.5mmにて成形することにより、輻射熱透過率を70%以上に設定すると同時に、その剛性から便座の構造矩体として機能している。また、形成されている輻射熱吸収層42の厚みは0.1m
m,表面化粧層43の厚みは0.2mmであり、これら両層はケース本体41を透過した輻射熱を完全に吸収し、熱容量が非常に小さいので瞬時に昇温すると同時に、放射可視光を完全に遮蔽する。 As shown in FIG. 4, thecase 26 has a radiant heat absorption layer 42 containing a large amount of carbon black formed on the upper surface of a case body 41 formed by injection molding using a transparent polypropylene resin material. A surface decorative layer 43 that is a light blocking layer that shields all visible light emitted from the heater 29 and takes into consideration surface hardness, chemical resistance, gloss, and the like is formed. The case main body 41 is formed of a transparent polypropylene resin material with an average thickness of 2.5 mm, so that the radiant heat transmittance is set to 70% or more, and at the same time, functions as a structural rectangular body of the toilet seat. The formed radiant heat absorption layer 42 has a thickness of 0.1 m.
m, the thickness of the surfacedecorative layer 43 is 0.2 mm, and both these layers completely absorb the radiant heat transmitted through the case body 41 and have a very small heat capacity. Shield.
m,表面化粧層43の厚みは0.2mmであり、これら両層はケース本体41を透過した輻射熱を完全に吸収し、熱容量が非常に小さいので瞬時に昇温すると同時に、放射可視光を完全に遮蔽する。 As shown in FIG. 4, the
m, the thickness of the surface
ケース26の内面に設けられた凹部にはサーミスタ44がはめ込まれ、該サーミスタ44は輻射熱吸収層42と略同一温度になるように接触しているので、輻射熱吸収層42の温度を直接検知できるようになっている。また、便座22の後部には左右方向に延びる回動軸45が設けられ、便座22は該回動軸45を基点にして起立状態と水平の使用状態との間で上下へ揺動可能になっている。この回動軸45には電極46が形成されており、本体21の軸受け部(図示せず)とともに便座位置検知手段47を構成し、便座が起立状態にあるか着座して使用される略水平の使用位置にあるかを検出するようになっている。本体21には、室温を検知するためのセンサとしての室温検知センサ48とともに、便座22のランプヒータ29に通電することにより昇温を開始した時点からの経過時間をカウントするタイマー部49を有する制御部50が設けられている。そして、人体検知部25、着座検知手段38、サーミスタ44、便座位置検知手段47、及び室温検知センサ48からの信号は、それぞれ制御部50に伝達され、これらの信号に基づいて採暖面である便座22の上面の温度が所定の温度になるよう、ランプヒータ29への通電が制御されるようになっている。
A thermistor 44 is fitted in a recess provided on the inner surface of the case 26, and the thermistor 44 is in contact with the radiant heat absorption layer 42 so as to have substantially the same temperature, so that the temperature of the radiant heat absorption layer 42 can be directly detected. It has become. Further, a pivot shaft 45 extending in the left-right direction is provided at the rear portion of the toilet seat 22, and the toilet seat 22 can swing up and down between the standing state and the horizontal use state with the pivot shaft 45 as a base point. ing. An electrode 46 is formed on the rotating shaft 45, and constitutes a toilet seat position detecting means 47 together with a bearing portion (not shown) of the main body 21, and the toilet seat is in a standing state or used by being seated. It is designed to detect whether it is in the use position. The main body 21 has a control unit having a timer unit 49 that counts an elapsed time from the start of temperature rise by energizing the lamp heater 29 of the toilet seat 22 together with a room temperature detection sensor 48 as a sensor for detecting the room temperature. A portion 50 is provided. Then, signals from the human body detection unit 25, the seating detection unit 38, the thermistor 44, the toilet seat position detection unit 47, and the room temperature detection sensor 48 are transmitted to the control unit 50, respectively, and based on these signals, the toilet seat is a warming surface The energization to the lamp heater 29 is controlled so that the temperature of the upper surface of 22 becomes a predetermined temperature.
また図2に示すように、トイレ室内には室内暖房部52が設けられており、該室内暖房部52は、室内暖房ヒータ53と室内暖房ファン54とを備えて、トイレ室内の暖房を行う。
Further, as shown in FIG. 2, an indoor heating unit 52 is provided in the toilet room, and the indoor heating unit 52 includes an indoor heating heater 53 and an indoor heating fan 54 to heat the toilet room.
上記構成により、使用者がトイレに入室した場合、人体検知部25がそれを検知し、その信号が赤外線センサ部24を介して制御部50に送られる。このとき、便座位置検知手段47の信号により便座22が略水平の使用位置にあるのを確認すると、制御部50はランプヒータ29に通電を開始する。通電を開始すると、フィラメント33からガラス管32および輻射反射板28を経てケース本体41の方向に光が照射され、瞬時にランプの光が輻射エネルギーとして放射される。さらに、輻射エネルギーはケース本体41の内部で一部吸収あるいは反射されるが、その大半は透過し輻射熱吸収層42および表面化粧層43の昇温に寄与する。以上の如く便座22の着座部の採暖面をほぼ瞬時に加温することができるので、ヒータを常時通電しておくことなく非常に省エネになる。
With the above configuration, when the user enters the toilet, the human body detection unit 25 detects this, and the signal is sent to the control unit 50 via the infrared sensor unit 24. At this time, when it is confirmed by the signal from the toilet seat position detecting means 47 that the toilet seat 22 is in a substantially horizontal use position, the control unit 50 starts energizing the lamp heater 29. When energization is started, light is emitted from the filament 33 through the glass tube 32 and the radiation reflector 28 toward the case body 41, and the lamp light is instantaneously emitted as radiation energy. Further, the radiant energy is partially absorbed or reflected inside the case body 41, but most of it is transmitted and contributes to the temperature rise of the radiant heat absorption layer 42 and the surface decorative layer 43. As described above, since the warming surface of the seating portion of the toilet seat 22 can be heated almost instantaneously, energy is saved without energizing the heater at all times.
また、本実施の形態においては便座22の着座部を加熱する発熱体としてランプヒータ29を使用したが、発熱体はランプヒータ29に限るものではなく、例えばエナメル線を使用した線状ヒータを便座22の着座部の裏面に粘着した構成としてもよい。エナメル線は、耐熱性能に優れ、十分短時間で便座22を昇温でき、かつ電気絶縁性および安全性を確保することができる。
In the present embodiment, the lamp heater 29 is used as a heating element for heating the seating portion of the toilet seat 22, but the heating element is not limited to the lamp heater 29. For example, a linear heater using an enamel wire is used as the toilet seat. It is good also as a structure adhere | attached on the back surface of 22 seating parts. The enameled wire has excellent heat resistance, can raise the temperature of the toilet seat 22 in a sufficiently short time, and can ensure electrical insulation and safety.
<2> 便座装置の通電シーケンス
ランプヒータ29の駆動の制御は、ランプヒータ29を駆動する電力を大きく3つに変化させることにより行う。 <2> Energization Sequence of Toilet Seat Device The drive control of thelamp heater 29 is performed by changing the power for driving the lamp heater 29 into three.
ランプヒータ29の駆動の制御は、ランプヒータ29を駆動する電力を大きく3つに変化させることにより行う。 <2> Energization Sequence of Toilet Seat Device The drive control of the
例えば、便座22を第1の温度勾配で昇温させる場合、制御部50は約1200Wの電力でランプヒータ29を駆動する(1200W駆動)。
For example, when the temperature of the toilet seat 22 is raised with the first temperature gradient, the control unit 50 drives the lamp heater 29 with about 1200 W of electric power (1200 W drive).
ランプヒータ29の抵抗値を8.33Ωとすると、ランプヒータ29に交流100Vが印加されると、(100V×100V)÷8.33Ω=1200Wの電力が発生する。すなわち、ランプヒータ29に交流電源の全周期に渡って電流を流すことにより、1200Wの電力が発生する。
Assuming that the resistance value of the lamp heater 29 is 8.33Ω, when 100V AC is applied to the lamp heater 29, (100V × 100V) ÷ 8.33Ω = 1200 W is generated. That is, by supplying a current to the lamp heater 29 over the entire period of the AC power supply, 1200 W of power is generated.
また、便座22を第1の温度勾配よりもやや緩やかな第2の温度勾配で昇温させる場合、制御部50は約600Wの電力でランプヒータ29を駆動する(600W駆動)。
Further, when the temperature of the toilet seat 22 is raised with a second temperature gradient that is slightly gentler than the first temperature gradient, the control unit 50 drives the lamp heater 29 with power of about 600 W (600 W drive).
さらに、便座22の温度を一定に保つ場合、制御部50は約50Wの電力でランプヒータ29を駆動する(低電力駆動)。なお、低電力駆動とは、1200W駆動および600W駆動に比べて十分に低い電力(例えば、0W~50Wの範囲内の電力)によりランプヒータ29を駆動することをいう。
Furthermore, when the temperature of the toilet seat 22 is kept constant, the control unit 50 drives the lamp heater 29 with a power of about 50 W (low power driving). Note that low power driving means driving the lamp heater 29 with sufficiently low power (for example, power in the range of 0 W to 50 W) compared to 1200 W driving and 600 W driving.
1200W駆動、600W駆動および低電力駆動の切替えは、制御部50の通電率切替回路が、制御部50からランプヒータ29への通電を制御することにより行われる。
Switching between 1200 W drive, 600 W drive, and low power drive is performed by the energization rate switching circuit of the control unit 50 controlling the energization from the control unit 50 to the lamp heater 29.
制御部50には図示しない電源回路から交流電流が供給されている。そこで、制御部50は、通電率切替回路から与えられる通電制御信号に基づいて供給された交流電流をランプヒータ29に流す。
The controller 50 is supplied with an alternating current from a power circuit (not shown). Therefore, the control unit 50 causes the alternating current supplied based on the energization control signal provided from the energization rate switching circuit to flow through the lamp heater 29.
図5は、ランプヒータ29の駆動例および便座22の表面温度の変化を示す図である。図5においては、便座22の表面温度と時間との関係を示すグラフと、ランプヒータ29を駆動する際の通電率と時間との関係を示すグラフとが示されている。これら2つのグラフの横軸は共通の時間軸である。
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a driving example of the lamp heater 29 and a change in the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22. In FIG. 5, a graph showing the relationship between the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 and time and a graph showing the relationship between the energization rate and time when driving the lamp heater 29 are shown. The horizontal axis of these two graphs is a common time axis.
本実施の形態では、使用者が予め暖房機能をオンし、便座設定温度を高く(38℃)設定した場合を想定する。
In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the user turns on the heating function in advance and sets the toilet seat set temperature high (38 ° C.).
冬季等室温が待機温度である18℃よりも低い場合、制御部50は、便座22の温度を18℃となるように温度調整する。このように、制御部50は、人体検知部25により使用者の入室が検知されるまでの待機期間D1の間、便座22の表面温度が18℃で一定となるように、ランプヒータ29の低電力駆動を行う。この待機期間D1での低電力駆動では、トイレ室内温度に応じて、ランプヒータ29への通電を変化させることにより消費電力の低減を図っているが、これについては後述する。
When the room temperature is lower than the standby temperature of 18 ° C., such as in winter, the control unit 50 adjusts the temperature of the toilet seat 22 to 18 ° C. In this way, the control unit 50 reduces the lamp heater 29 so that the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is constant at 18 ° C. during the waiting period D1 until the human body detection unit 25 detects that the user has entered the room. Power drive. In the low power driving in the standby period D1, power consumption is reduced by changing the energization to the lamp heater 29 according to the temperature in the toilet room, which will be described later.
制御部50は、時刻t1で人体検知部25により使用者の入室が検知された場合、突入電流低減期間D2の間、600W駆動を行う。なお、この600W駆動は、突入電流を十分に低減するために行う。ランプヒータ29は、電力投入前のフィラメント33が冷えていると大きな突入電流が生じてしまう。ここで発生する過電流は一過性であるとしてもヒータや回路に負荷がかかり、寿命に悪影響を与え、過電流に耐性のある電子部品を用いて回路設計にすることもできるが、コストアップにつながる。本実施の形態では、まずは突入電流を抑えるため半分の電力量を投入して影響がでることを抑制している。この場合、便座22の表面温度はやや緩やかな第2の温度勾配で上昇される。
The controller 50 performs 600 W driving during the inrush current reduction period D2 when the human body detector 25 detects that the user has entered the room at time t1. This 600 W drive is performed in order to sufficiently reduce the inrush current. The lamp heater 29 generates a large inrush current when the filament 33 before power is turned on. Even if the overcurrent generated here is transient, the heater and circuit are loaded, adversely affecting the service life, and it is possible to design the circuit using electronic components that are resistant to overcurrent, but this increases costs. Leads to. In this embodiment, first, in order to suppress the inrush current, half of the electric energy is input to suppress the influence. In this case, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is raised with a slightly gentle second temperature gradient.
なお、ここでは人体検知部25により使用者の入室を検知した時点を時刻t1としているが、これに限定されない。例えば、トイレ室に対する入退室の際に開閉するドアの開閉を検知する手段を設けておき、これによりドアの開放を検知した時点を時刻t1と設定してもよい。このようにドアの開放を検知する場合でも、人体検知部25による場合と同様に、使用者が近々便座22に着座するであろうその意志を検知することができるため、この時点を時刻t1とすることによって便座22を事前に適温にまで昇温することができる。この他にも、使用者の着座意志を事前に検知する手段として、便蓋23を開放動作(上方へ開く動作)を検知する手段、便座22を下方に揺動させる動作を検知する手段などを採用することも可能である。
Note that, here, the time point when the human body detection unit 25 detects the user's entry is set as the time t1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a means for detecting opening / closing of a door that opens and closes when entering and leaving the toilet room may be provided, and the time point when the opening of the door is detected thereby may be set as time t1. Even in the case where the opening of the door is detected in this manner, the willingness that the user will soon be seated on the toilet seat 22 can be detected as in the case of the human body detection unit 25. By doing so, the temperature of the toilet seat 22 can be raised to an appropriate temperature in advance. In addition to this, as means for detecting the user's intention to sit in advance, means for detecting the opening operation (opening operation) of the toilet lid 23, means for detecting the operation of swinging the toilet seat 22 downward, and the like. It is also possible to adopt.
その後、制御部50は、突入電流低減期間D2の経過後の時刻t2で、ランプヒータ29の1200W駆動を開始し、第1の昇温期間D3の間ランプヒータ29の1200W駆動を継続する。この場合、便座22の表面温度は上述の第1の温度勾配で上昇される。
Thereafter, the controller 50 starts 1200 W driving of the lamp heater 29 at time t2 after the rush current reduction period D2 has elapsed, and continues 1200 W driving of the lamp heater 29 during the first temperature rising period D3. In this case, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is raised with the first temperature gradient described above.
ここで、便座22の表面温度は急激に上昇される。ランプヒータ29の1200W駆動は、便座22の表面温度が所定温度(以下、「使用初期目標温度」ともいい、例えば30℃である)に達するまで行われる。もちろん、この所定温度(使用初期目標温度)は暖房温度として設定された温度であってもよいが、この所定温度は暖房温度にまで十分に上昇した温度でなく、それよりも低くても、使用者が着座した際に冷たいという不快感情を生じない最低限界の温度(冷感限界温度)以上であればよい。この限界温度は、発明者らの実施した被験者実験により約29℃であることがわかっている。即ち、使用初期目標温度としては、待機温度より高温であって使用者の便座22への着座を想定した着座温度範囲(例えば、約29~38℃)内の温度であればよく、その下限値としては上述した冷感限界温度(約29℃)を採用することができる。
Here, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is rapidly increased. The 1200 W drive of the lamp heater 29 is performed until the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 reaches a predetermined temperature (hereinafter also referred to as “initial use target temperature”, for example, 30 ° C.). Of course, the predetermined temperature (initial target temperature for use) may be a temperature set as the heating temperature. However, the predetermined temperature is not a temperature sufficiently increased to the heating temperature, and may be used even if it is lower than that. The temperature may be equal to or higher than the minimum temperature (cool sensation limit temperature) that does not cause an unpleasant feeling of being cold when the person is seated. This limit temperature has been found to be about 29 ° C. by subject experiments conducted by the inventors. That is, the initial target temperature for use may be a temperature that is higher than the standby temperature and within a seating temperature range (for example, about 29 to 38 ° C.) that is assumed to be seated on the toilet seat 22 of the user. As described above, the above-mentioned cooling sensation limit temperature (about 29 ° C.) can be employed.
このように、第1の昇温期間D3においては、便座22の表面温度が1200W駆動により迅速に所定温度まで上昇される。それにより、使用者は便座22を冷たいと感じることなく便座22に着座することができる。
Thus, in the first temperature raising period D3, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is quickly raised to a predetermined temperature by 1200 W driving. Thus, the user can sit on the toilet seat 22 without feeling that the toilet seat 22 is cold.
ここで、上述した待機温度(例えば、18℃)は、第1の昇温期間D3が終了する時点の便座22の表面温度である使用初期目標温度と、ランプヒータ29の昇温能力とに基づいて決定している。即ち、突入電流低減期間D2と第1の昇温期間D3とを合わせた期間で、ランプヒータ29の昇温能力を考慮した上で使用初期目標温度にまで到達可能な、最も低い温度として、待機温度を設定している。これにより、使用初期目標温度としては、使用者が着座したときの快適性を確保できる便座22の表面温度を達成しつつ、待機期間D1においては、待機温度をできるだけ低く設定することにより、待機温度を維持するための消費電力を低減している。
Here, the above-described standby temperature (for example, 18 ° C.) is based on the initial use target temperature that is the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 at the end of the first temperature increase period D3 and the temperature increase capability of the lamp heater 29. Has been decided. That is, the standby temperature is set as the lowest temperature that can reach the target initial target temperature in consideration of the temperature increase capability of the lamp heater 29 in the combined period of the inrush current reduction period D2 and the first temperature increase period D3. The temperature is set. Thereby, as the initial use target temperature, the standby temperature is set as low as possible in the standby period D1, while achieving the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 that can ensure the comfort when the user is seated. The power consumption for maintaining is reduced.
なお、本実施の形態では、このようなランプヒータ29の昇温能力としては、便座22の表面温度を0.5~5ケルビン/秒の速度で昇温できるスペックを採用することができる。あるいは、使用者の着座意志を検知してから実際に便座22に着座するまでの間に、3~25℃程度昇温可能なスペックであることが好ましい。更に、例えば日本の個人邸宅の場合であれば、トイレ室のドアを開けてから脱衣して便座22に着座するのに、平均すると約6秒間を要することが、発明者らの実験により明らかになっている。従って、この約6秒間に待機温度から使用初期目標温度に到達できるだけのスペックを有することが好ましく、この場合、昇温速度は少なくとも1.7ケルビン/以上、より望ましくは2ケルビン/秒以上であることが好ましい。
In the present embodiment, a specification that can raise the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 at a rate of 0.5 to 5 Kelvin / second can be adopted as the temperature raising capability of the lamp heater 29. Alternatively, it is preferable that the specification is such that the temperature can be raised by about 3 to 25 ° C. from when the user's seating intention is detected until when the user actually sits on the toilet seat 22. Furthermore, in the case of a Japanese private residence, for example, it takes about 6 seconds on average to open the toilet room door, then undress and sit on the toilet seat 22 through experiments by the inventors. It has become. Therefore, it is preferable to have specifications that can reach the initial target temperature from the standby temperature in about 6 seconds. In this case, the rate of temperature increase is at least 1.7 Kelvin / second, more preferably 2 Kelvin / second or more. It is preferable.
また、このような昇温能力を有するヒータであれば、ランプヒータ29に限定されず、輻射熱を利用しないシートヒータやチュービングヒータや面ヒータを着座面の裏面に貼り付ける、更に他の構成の着座部を加熱する構成、例えばヒータを便座の部材に埋め込む、などの構成としてもよい。
Further, if the heater has such a temperature raising capability, the seat heater is not limited to the lamp heater 29, but a seat heater, a tubing heater, or a surface heater that does not use radiant heat is attached to the back surface of the seating surface. For example, the heater may be embedded in the toilet seat member.
また、上述のように、便座22の表面温度を急激に上昇させると、その温度変化にオーバーシュートが生じる。しかしながら、本実施の形態では、便座22の表面温度が所定温度に達したときにランプヒータ29の1200W駆動を600W駆動に切替える。したがって、便座22の表面温度の変化がオーバーシュートした場合でも、その表面温度は便座設定温度を超えない。その結果、使用者が着座時に便座22を熱いと感じることが防止さ
れる。 Further, as described above, when the surface temperature of thetoilet seat 22 is rapidly increased, an overshoot occurs in the temperature change. However, in the present embodiment, when the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 reaches a predetermined temperature, the 1200 W driving of the lamp heater 29 is switched to the 600 W driving. Therefore, even when the change in the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 overshoots, the surface temperature does not exceed the toilet seat set temperature. As a result, the user is prevented from feeling the toilet seat 22 hot when seated.
れる。 Further, as described above, when the surface temperature of the
続いて、制御部50は、第1の昇温期間D3の経過後の時刻t3で、ランプヒータ29の600W駆動を開始し、第2の昇温期間D4の間ランプヒータ29の600W駆動を継続する。この場合、便座22の表面温度は上述の第2の温度勾配で上昇される。
ランプヒータ29の600W駆動は、便座22の表面温度が便座設定温度(38℃)に達するまで行われる。 Subsequently, thecontrol unit 50 starts 600 W driving of the lamp heater 29 at time t3 after the first temperature rising period D3 has elapsed, and continues 600 W driving of the lamp heater 29 during the second temperature rising period D4. To do. In this case, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is raised with the second temperature gradient described above.
The 600 W drive of thelamp heater 29 is performed until the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 reaches the toilet seat set temperature (38 ° C.).
ランプヒータ29の600W駆動は、便座22の表面温度が便座設定温度(38℃)に達するまで行われる。 Subsequently, the
The 600 W drive of the
第2の温度勾配は第1の温度勾配よりも緩やかである。これにより、便座22の表面温度の変化に大きなオーバーシュートが生じることが防止される。
The second temperature gradient is gentler than the first temperature gradient. This prevents a large overshoot from occurring in the change in the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22.
制御部50は、第2の昇温期間D4の経過後の時刻t4で、ランプヒータ29の低電力駆動を開始し、第1の維持期間D5の間ランプヒータ29の低電力駆動を継続する。それにより、便座22の表面温度が便座設定温度で一定となる。
The control unit 50 starts the low power driving of the lamp heater 29 at time t4 after the elapse of the second temperature raising period D4, and continues the low power driving of the lamp heater 29 during the first maintenance period D5. Thereby, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 becomes constant at the toilet seat set temperature.
制御部50は、時刻t5で着座検知手段40により使用者の便座22への着座が検知された場合、低電力駆動の通電率を低下させ、第1の着座期間D6の間便座22の表面温度が便座設定温度を維持するようにランプヒータ29の低電力駆動を継続する。本実施の形態では、第1の着座期間D6は約10分に設定される。
When the seating detection means 40 detects that the user is seated on the toilet seat 22 at time t5, the control unit 50 reduces the energization rate of the low power drive, and the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 during the first seating period D6. Continues the low power drive of the lamp heater 29 so as to maintain the toilet seat set temperature. In the present embodiment, the first seating period D6 is set to about 10 minutes.
また、制御部50は、第1の着座期間D6の経過後の時刻t6で、低電力駆動の通電率をさらに低下させ、第2の着座期間D7の間便座22の表面温度が便座設定温度よりもやや低い温度(36℃)に低下するようにランプヒータ29の低電力駆動を継続する。本実施の形態では、第2の着座期間D7は約2分に設定される。
Further, the control unit 50 further reduces the energization rate of the low power drive at time t6 after the first seating period D6 has elapsed, and the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is lower than the toilet seat set temperature during the second seating period D7. The low power driving of the lamp heater 29 is continued so as to decrease to a slightly lower temperature (36 ° C.). In the present embodiment, the second seating period D7 is set to about 2 minutes.
制御部50は、第2の着座期間D7の経過後の時刻t7で、低電力駆動の通電率をさらに低下させ、第2の維持期間D8の間便座22の表面温度が便座設定温度よりもやや低い温度(36℃)で一定となるようにランプヒータ29の低電力駆動を継続する。以下の説明では、第2の維持期間D8において一定に維持される期間便座22の表面温度、すなわち便座設定温度よりもやや低い温度を維持温度と称する。
At time t7 after the elapse of the second seating period D7, the control unit 50 further reduces the energization rate of the low power drive, and the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is slightly higher than the toilet seat set temperature during the second maintenance period D8. Low power driving of the lamp heater 29 is continued so as to be constant at a low temperature (36 ° C.). In the following description, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 that is maintained constant in the second maintenance period D8, that is, a temperature slightly lower than the toilet seat set temperature is referred to as a maintenance temperature.
このように、本実施の形態では、使用者が便座22に着座した後、制御部50が徐々に便座22の表面温度を低下させる。それにより、使用者が低温やけどすることが防止される。
Thus, in the present embodiment, after the user sits on the toilet seat 22, the control unit 50 gradually lowers the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22. This prevents the user from getting burned at low temperatures.
制御部50は、時刻t8で着座検知手段40により使用者が便座22から離れたことを検知すると、停止期間D9の間ランプヒータ29の駆動を停止する。それにより、便座22の表面温度が低下する。
The control unit 50 stops driving the lamp heater 29 during the stop period D9 when the seating detection means 40 detects that the user has left the toilet seat 22 at time t8. Thereby, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 decreases.
制御部50は、便座22の表面温度が18℃に達した時刻t9で、再びランプヒータ29の低電力駆動を開始し、便座22の表面温度が18℃で一定となるように待機期間D10の間ランプヒータ29の低電力駆動を維持する。なお、この待機期間D10での低電力駆動においても、待機期間D1のときと同様に、トイレ室内温度に応じて、ランプヒータ29への通電を変化させることにより消費電力の低減を図っているが、これについては後述する。
The control unit 50 starts low-power driving of the lamp heater 29 again at time t9 when the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 reaches 18 ° C., so that the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 becomes constant at 18 ° C. The low power driving of the intermediate lamp heater 29 is maintained. Even in the low power driving in the standby period D10, as in the standby period D1, power consumption is reduced by changing the energization to the lamp heater 29 according to the temperature in the toilet room. This will be described later.
このように温度勾配が徐々に緩やかになる場合、便座22の温度変化により生じるオーバーシュートを十分に小さくすることができる。
In this way, when the temperature gradient gradually decreases, the overshoot caused by the temperature change of the toilet seat 22 can be sufficiently reduced.
本実施の形態では、使用者の便座22への着座後、ランプヒータ29の駆動に用いる電力を調整することにより便座22の表面温度を徐々に低下させているが、ランプヒータ29の駆動は使用者の便座22への着座時に停止してもよい。この場合においても、使用者が低温やけどすることが防止される。
In the present embodiment, after the user is seated on the toilet seat 22, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 is gradually lowered by adjusting the electric power used to drive the lamp heater 29. However, the driving of the lamp heater 29 is used. The user may stop when sitting on the toilet seat 22. Even in this case, it is possible to prevent the user from getting burned at a low temperature.
上記のように、本実施の形態では、時刻t8に使用者が便座22から離れたことが検知されることによりランプヒータ29の駆動が停止される旨を説明したが、ランプヒータ29の駆動の停止は、使用者が便座22から離れたことが検知された時刻t8から一定時間(例えば1分間)経過後に行われてもよい。この場合、一度使用者が便座22から離れた後に再度便意をもよおし、再度便座22に着座する際にも、便座22の表面温度が低下しない。これにより、使用者は快適に便座22に着座することができる。
As described above, in the present embodiment, it has been described that the driving of the lamp heater 29 is stopped when it is detected that the user has left the toilet seat 22 at time t8. The stop may be performed after a lapse of a certain time (for example, 1 minute) from time t8 when it is detected that the user has left the toilet seat 22. In this case, the surface temperature of the toilet seat 22 does not decrease even when the user once again leaves the toilet seat 22 and again feels comfortable and sits on the toilet seat 22 again. As a result, the user can comfortably sit on the toilet seat 22.
1200W駆動時、600W駆動時および低電力駆動時における便座22への通電状態を通電率切替回路の通電制御信号とともに説明する。
The energization state of the toilet seat 22 during 1200 W drive, 600 W drive, and low power drive will be described together with the energization control signal of the energization rate switching circuit.
以下の説明において、通電率とは交流電流の1周期に対して便座22(より正確には、ランプヒータ29)に交流電流を流す時間の割合をいう。従って、ランプヒータ29への通電率が高いということは、ランプヒータ29へ通電する電力が大きいことを意味し、反対に通電率が低いということは、ランプヒータ29へ通電する電力が小さいことを意味する。
In the following description, the energization rate refers to the ratio of the time during which an alternating current is passed through the toilet seat 22 (more precisely, the lamp heater 29) with respect to one cycle of the alternating current. Therefore, a high energization rate to the lamp heater 29 means that the electric power to be supplied to the lamp heater 29 is large, and conversely, a low energization rate means that the electric power to be supplied to the lamp heater 29 is small. means.
図6(a)は1200W駆動時に便座22(より正確には、ランプヒータ29)を流れる電流の波形図、図6(b)は1200W駆動時に通電率切替回路から制御部50に与えられる通電制御信号の波形図である。
FIG. 6A is a waveform diagram of a current flowing through the toilet seat 22 (more precisely, the lamp heater 29) at 1200 W driving, and FIG. 6B is an energization control given from the energization rate switching circuit to the control unit 50 at 1200 W driving. It is a wave form diagram of a signal.
図6(b)に示すように、1200W駆動時における通電制御信号は常に論理「1」となる。制御部50は通電制御信号が論理「1」のときに電源回路から供給される交流電流を便座22に流す(図6(a)太線部)。それにより、全周期の期間に渡って交流電流が便座22に流れる。その結果、便座22が約1200Wの電力で駆動される。
As shown in FIG. 6B, the energization control signal at the time of 1200 W driving is always logic “1”. The control unit 50 causes the alternating current supplied from the power supply circuit to flow through the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “1” (FIG. 6A, bold line portion). As a result, an alternating current flows through the toilet seat 22 over the entire period. As a result, the toilet seat 22 is driven with about 1200 W of electric power.
図7(a)は600W駆動時に便座22を流れる電流の波形図、図7(b)は600W駆動時に通電率切替回路から制御部50に与えられる通電制御信号の波形図である。
7A is a waveform diagram of a current flowing through the toilet seat 22 when driven at 600 W, and FIG. 7B is a waveform diagram of an energization control signal provided from the energization rate switching circuit to the control unit 50 when driven at 600 W.
図7(b)に示すように、600W駆動時における通電制御信号は、制御部50に供給される交流電流と同じ周期のパルスからなる。パルスのデューティー比(論理「1」のパルス幅のパルス周期に対する割合)は50%に設定される。
As shown in FIG. 7B, the energization control signal at the time of 600 W driving is composed of pulses having the same cycle as the alternating current supplied to the control unit 50. The duty ratio of the pulse (ratio of the pulse width of logic “1” to the pulse period) is set to 50%.
制御部50は通電制御信号が論理「1」のときに電源回路から供給される交流電流を便座22に流す(図7(a)太線部)。それにより、半周期の期間交流電流が便座22に流れる。その結果、便座22が約600Wの電力で駆動される。
The control unit 50 causes the alternating current supplied from the power supply circuit to flow through the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “1” (FIG. 7A, bold line portion). Thereby, an alternating current flows through the toilet seat 22 for a half-cycle period. As a result, the toilet seat 22 is driven with about 600 W of electric power.
図8(a)は低電力駆動時に便座22を流れる電流の波形図、図8(b)は低電力駆動時に通電率切替回路から制御部50に与えられる通電制御信号の波形図である。
8A is a waveform diagram of a current flowing through the toilet seat 22 during low power driving, and FIG. 8B is a waveform diagram of an energization control signal given from the energization rate switching circuit to the control unit 50 during low power driving.
図8(b)に示すように、低電力駆動時における通電制御信号は、制御部50に供給される交流電流と同じ周期のパルスからなる。パルスのデューティー比は50%よりも小さく(例えば数%程度)に設定される。
As shown in FIG. 8B, the energization control signal at the time of low power driving is composed of pulses having the same cycle as the alternating current supplied to the control unit 50. The duty ratio of the pulse is set to be smaller than 50% (for example, about several percent).
制御部50は通電制御信号が論理「1」のときに電源回路から供給される交流電流を便座22に流す(図8(a)太線部)。各周期においては、パルス幅に相当する期間交流電流が便座22に流れる。その結果、便座22が例えば約50Wの電力で駆動する。
The control unit 50 causes the alternating current supplied from the power supply circuit to flow through the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “1” (FIG. 8A, bold line portion). In each cycle, an alternating current flows through the toilet seat 22 for a period corresponding to the pulse width. As a result, the toilet seat 22 is driven with power of about 50 W, for example.
上記の他、便座22の温度を低くする場合、または便座装置110の暖房機能をオフしている場合等には、通電率切替回路は制御部50に通電制御信号を与えない(通電制御信号を論理「0」に設定する)。これにより、制御部50は便座22を駆動しない。
In addition to the above, when the temperature of the toilet seat 22 is lowered, or when the heating function of the toilet seat device 110 is turned off, the energization rate switching circuit does not give an energization control signal to the control unit 50 (the energization control signal is changed). Set to logic "0"). Thereby, the control unit 50 does not drive the toilet seat 22.
ここで、一般に、電子機器に供給される電流が高調波成分を有する場合、ノイズが発生する。本実施の形態では、上述のように便座22の1200W駆動または600W駆動を
行う場合には、便座22に供給される電流がサインカーブを描くように変化するので、電流の大きさが大きくなってもノイズの発生が十分に低減される。 Here, generally, when the current supplied to the electronic device has a harmonic component, noise is generated. In the present embodiment, when 1200 W drive or 600 W drive of thetoilet seat 22 is performed as described above, since the current supplied to the toilet seat 22 changes so as to draw a sine curve, the magnitude of the current increases. However, the generation of noise is sufficiently reduced.
行う場合には、便座22に供給される電流がサインカーブを描くように変化するので、電流の大きさが大きくなってもノイズの発生が十分に低減される。 Here, generally, when the current supplied to the electronic device has a harmonic component, noise is generated. In the present embodiment, when 1200 W drive or 600 W drive of the
また、便座22の低電力駆動を行う場合、便座22に供給される電流は高調波成分を有するが、電流の大きさが1200W駆動時および600W駆動時に比べて非常に小さいので、ノイズの発生が十分に低減される。
Further, when the toilet seat 22 is driven at low power, the current supplied to the toilet seat 22 has a harmonic component, but the magnitude of the current is much smaller than that at the time of 1200 W driving and 600 W driving, so that noise is generated. It is sufficiently reduced.
上記のように、本実施の形態では、便座22を1200W、600Wおよび約50Wの電力で駆動するとしているが、他の大きさの電力で便座22を駆動してもよい。
As described above, in the present embodiment, the toilet seat 22 is driven by electric power of 1200 W, 600 W, and about 50 W, but the toilet seat 22 may be driven by electric power of other sizes.
例えば、便座22に半周期の期間交流電流を流す場合には、交流電流を流すタイミングを2周期または3周期等所定の周期の間隔で設定する。それにより、1200W、600Wおよび約50Wとは異なる大きさの電力で、ノイズの発生を十分に防止しつつ便座22を駆動することができる。
For example, when an alternating current is passed through the toilet seat 22 for a half period, the timing for the alternating current to flow is set at intervals of a predetermined period such as two or three periods. As a result, the toilet seat 22 can be driven with a power different from 1200 W, 600 W and about 50 W while sufficiently preventing noise.
なお、本実施の形態では、制御部50は通電制御信号が論理「1」のときに便座22に電流を供給し、通電制御信号が論理「0」のときに便座22への電流の供給を停止しているが、通電制御信号が論理「1」のときに便座22への電流の供給を停止し、通電制御信号が論理「0」のときに便座22に電流を供給してもよい。
In the present embodiment, the controller 50 supplies current to the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “1”, and supplies current to the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “0”. Although it is stopped, the supply of current to the toilet seat 22 may be stopped when the energization control signal is logic “1”, and the current may be supplied to the toilet seat 22 when the energization control signal is logic “0”.
なお、ランプヒータ29のオンおよびオフは時間により制御されるため、時間の計測がずれると便座22の温度が所定値を超えたり、所定値に達しない。そこで、時間の計測がずれないように、制御部50では、2つの計測源にて便座22のオンの時間を計測する。1つの計測源として、制御部50のプログラムの実効速度を規定する発振子によりランプヒータ29のオンの時間を計測し、もう1つの計測源して、交流電圧の周期を基準としてランプヒータ29のオンの時間を計測する。これらの計測値の少なくとも一方が規定時間を超過すると、次の通電パターンに移行する。
Since the lamp heater 29 is turned on and off according to time, the temperature of the toilet seat 22 exceeds a predetermined value or does not reach a predetermined value if the time measurement is shifted. Therefore, the control unit 50 measures the time during which the toilet seat 22 is turned on by two measurement sources so that the time measurement does not deviate. As one measurement source, the on time of the lamp heater 29 is measured by an oscillator that defines the effective speed of the program of the control unit 50, and as another measurement source, the lamp heater 29 is measured based on the cycle of the AC voltage. Measure the on time. When at least one of these measured values exceeds the specified time, the process proceeds to the next energization pattern.
特に、便座に1200W通電される時間が正確に計測されることにより過昇温が確実に防止される。これにより、さらに機器の安全性が向上する。ここでは、計測源を複数設けることにより計測の精度を向上させる方法について記載したが、ランプヒータ29がフル通電される時間を計測し、強制的にヒータへの通電を遮断もしくは制限する方法であっても、同様の効果を得ることができる。
Especially, it is possible to reliably prevent overheating by accurately measuring the time when 1200 W is energized in the toilet seat. This further improves the safety of the device. Here, a method for improving the measurement accuracy by providing a plurality of measurement sources has been described, but this is a method for measuring the time during which the lamp heater 29 is fully energized and forcibly interrupting or limiting the energization to the heater. However, the same effect can be obtained.
<3>お知らせLEDの動作
本体21の上面には報知手段であるお知らせLED280(図1)が設けられている。お知らせLED280はランプヒータ29への通電開始時に点滅を開始し、便座22の温度が上がっていって前述の冷感限界温度(29℃)に達したときに点灯する。 <3> Operation of Notification LED Notification LED 280 (FIG. 1) serving as notification means is provided on the upper surface ofmain body 21. The notice LED 280 starts blinking when energization of the lamp heater 29 is started, and lights up when the temperature of the toilet seat 22 has risen and reached the aforementioned cooling sensation limit temperature (29 ° C.).
本体21の上面には報知手段であるお知らせLED280(図1)が設けられている。お知らせLED280はランプヒータ29への通電開始時に点滅を開始し、便座22の温度が上がっていって前述の冷感限界温度(29℃)に達したときに点灯する。 <3> Operation of Notification LED Notification LED 280 (FIG. 1) serving as notification means is provided on the upper surface of
お知らせLED280は冷感限界温度よりも検出温度(サーミスタ44測定温度)が低い場合は第1の報知形態である点滅を、検出温度が高い場合は第2の報知形態である点灯を行い、使用者に便座22の着座面が冷たいと感じるか否かをお知らせLED280を見ることで判別することができ、便座22に着座することができる。
The notification LED 280 blinks as the first notification form when the detected temperature (thermistor 44 measured temperature) is lower than the cooling sensation limit temperature, and lights up as the second notification form when the detected temperature is high. Whether or not the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 feels cold can be determined by looking at the notification LED 280, and can be seated on the toilet seat 22.
また、人体検知部25によるトイレットルームの人体の有無を検出する機能により、使用者がトイレットルームから退出してから一定時間(例えば1分間)経過すると、ランプヒータ29の通電を停止し、お知らせLED280は点滅、点灯の状態によらず消灯する。さらに、一定時間が経過しなくても便ふたが閉じると消灯する。
Further, the function of detecting the presence or absence of a human body in the toilet room by the human body detection unit 25 stops the energization of the lamp heater 29 when a certain time (for example, 1 minute) has elapsed since the user left the toilet room, and the notification LED 280 Turns off regardless of the blinking or lit state. Furthermore, even if the fixed time has not elapsed, the stool lid turns off when it closes.
お知らせLED280の報知が第1の報知形態から第2の報知形態に変わる時期は、前
述の通り便座22の着座面の温度が限界温度29℃に達したときである。 The time when the notification of thenotification LED 280 changes from the first notification mode to the second notification mode is when the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 reaches the limit temperature 29 ° C. as described above.
述の通り便座22の着座面の温度が限界温度29℃に達したときである。 The time when the notification of the
図9に便座22の着座面の温度とサーミスタ44の測定温度値の関係を示す。この図9に示すように便座22の着座面の温度とサーミスタ44の測定温度値とでは測定面が異なるため差異が生じる。瞬間的に昇温する便座ではサーミスタ44の温度応答が遅くなり、正確に便座22の着座面の温度を検知できない。したがって、サーミスタ44の測定温度値で第2の報知形態であるお知らせLED280を点灯させる場合、便座22の温度上昇値とサーミスタ44の測定温度値との相関をあらかじめ測定し、温度応答の誤差を予測する必要がある。
FIG. 9 shows the relationship between the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 and the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44. As shown in FIG. 9, there is a difference between the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 and the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44 because the measurement surface is different. The temperature response of the thermistor 44 is delayed in the toilet seat that instantaneously increases in temperature, and the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 cannot be detected accurately. Therefore, when the notification LED 280 which is the second notification form is turned on with the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44, the correlation between the temperature rise value of the toilet seat 22 and the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44 is measured in advance, and an error in temperature response is predicted. There is a need to.
例えば、便座22の便座22の着座面の昇温に対し、サーミスタ44の昇温が10%低下している場合、便座22の着座面の温度が18℃から29℃まで11deg上昇する間に、サーミスタ44の昇温は9.9degである。したがって、サーミスタ44が27.9℃を検知した際にお知らせLED280を点滅から点灯に切替えればよい。
For example, when the temperature rise of the thermistor 44 is 10% lower than the temperature rise of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 of the toilet seat 22, the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 rises by 11 deg from 18 ° C. to 29 ° C. The temperature rise of the thermistor 44 is 9.9 deg. Therefore, the notification LED 280 may be switched from blinking to lighting when the thermistor 44 detects 27.9 ° C.
また、通電開始前のサーミスタ44による検知温度と、このときに便座22の着座面が冷感限界温度に到達するのに要した到達時間との相関をあらかじめ測定し、通電開始時の温度で報知変更までの時間を決定してもよい。例えば通電前の温度t0が18℃であり、このときに着座面が29℃まで昇温するのに要する時間t1が5.5秒、t0が20℃であればt1は4.5秒、といった具合に相関を出しておき、初期温度(即ち、t0)のみで報知を変更する。このような構成は、サーミスタ44の検知の遅れが大きい場合には有効である。
In addition, a correlation between the temperature detected by the thermistor 44 before the start of energization and the arrival time required for the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 to reach the cooling sensation limit temperature at this time is measured in advance, and the temperature is notified at the start of energization. You may determine the time to change. For example, when the temperature t0 before energization is 18 ° C., the time t1 required for the seating surface to rise to 29 ° C. is 5.5 seconds, and if t0 is 20 ° C., t1 is 4.5 seconds. The correlation is calculated in advance, and the notification is changed only with the initial temperature (ie, t0). Such a configuration is effective when the detection delay of the thermistor 44 is large.
しかしながら、サーミスタ44の測定温度値と便座22の便座22の着座面の温度の相関や、通電開始時の温度と到達時間の相関は、電圧、室温等の設置環境やランプヒータ29の抵抗値のバラツキ等による個体バラツキをあらかじめ加味することは困難である。この場合、使用者に適切な時期に報知できなくなるため、使用環境や個体差に基づく補正が必要となる。
However, the correlation between the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44 and the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 of the toilet seat 22 and the correlation between the temperature at the start of energization and the arrival time depend on the installation environment such as voltage and room temperature and the resistance value of the lamp heater 29. It is difficult to take into account individual variations due to variations and the like in advance. In this case, since it becomes impossible to notify the user at an appropriate time, correction based on the use environment and individual differences is required.
<4> 室温検知センサによる補正
トイレ室内温度に基づいて、サーミスタ44の測定温度値と便座22の着座面の温度との誤差を解消すべく、お知らせLED280による報知時期を補正する場合について説明する。ここでは、本体21に設置した室温検知センサ48により検出した室温に基づき、予め制御部50の記憶部に記憶させた室温ごとに設定した放熱量に基づく補正値を用いて、お知らせLED280による報知時期の補正を行う。図10に室温が変動した場合のサーミスタ44の測定温度値と便座22の着座部の表面温度および報知時期の関係を示す。 <4> Correction by room temperature detection sensor The case where the notification time by thenotification LED 280 is corrected to eliminate the error between the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44 and the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 based on the toilet room temperature will be described. Here, based on the room temperature detected by the room temperature detection sensor 48 installed in the main body 21, using the correction value based on the amount of heat set for each room temperature stored in the storage unit of the control unit 50 in advance, the notification time by the notification LED 280 Perform the correction. FIG. 10 shows the relationship between the measured temperature value of the thermistor 44 when the room temperature fluctuates, the surface temperature of the seating portion of the toilet seat 22 and the notification timing.
トイレ室内温度に基づいて、サーミスタ44の測定温度値と便座22の着座面の温度との誤差を解消すべく、お知らせLED280による報知時期を補正する場合について説明する。ここでは、本体21に設置した室温検知センサ48により検出した室温に基づき、予め制御部50の記憶部に記憶させた室温ごとに設定した放熱量に基づく補正値を用いて、お知らせLED280による報知時期の補正を行う。図10に室温が変動した場合のサーミスタ44の測定温度値と便座22の着座部の表面温度および報知時期の関係を示す。 <4> Correction by room temperature detection sensor The case where the notification time by the
例えば室温(図10においてRTと表記する)が15℃で便座22を18℃に保温している場合、誤差が10%(便座22の着座部の表面温度の昇温速度に対し、サーミスタ44の検知する昇温速度が「-10%」)であれば、便座22の着座部の表面温度が冷感限界の29.0℃(待機温度18℃から11℃上昇して到達する温度)に対して、サーミスタ44検知温度を27.9℃(11℃から10%差し引いた9.9℃を、待機温度18℃に加算した値)で報知を点滅から点灯に変更する。これが室温が5℃の場合には便座22の放熱が大きく誤差が少なくなる。例えば誤差が8%であった場合には、補正すべき誤差は0.88degであり28.12℃で報知を変更すればよい。
For example, when the room temperature (indicated as RT in FIG. 10) is 15 ° C. and the toilet seat 22 is kept at 18 ° C., the error is 10% (the temperature of the thermistor 44 with respect to the rate of temperature rise of the surface temperature of the seating portion of the toilet seat 22). If the temperature rising speed to be detected is “−10%”), the surface temperature of the seating portion of the toilet seat 22 is 29.0 ° C. (the temperature reached by 11 ° C. rising from the standby temperature of 18 ° C.). Then, the notification is changed from blinking to lighting at the detection temperature of the thermistor 44 of 27.9 ° C. (a value obtained by adding 9.9 ° C. obtained by subtracting 10% from 11 ° C. to the standby temperature of 18 ° C.). When the room temperature is 5 ° C., the heat dissipation of the toilet seat 22 is large and the error is reduced. For example, when the error is 8%, the error to be corrected is 0.88 deg, and the notification may be changed at 28.12 ° C.
以上の本実施の形態においては報知時期が冷感限界温度である場合について説明したが、これは設定温度やそれに準ずる温度でも構わない。
In the above embodiment, the case where the notification time is the cooling sensation limit temperature has been described, but this may be a set temperature or a temperature equivalent thereto.
通常の温度制御、例えば設定温度への到達温度を正確に把握する手段としても活用が可能である。つまり報知時期の変更ではなく通電変更時期として使用しても良い。通電制御は1200Wから600Wや約50Wの位相制御へと便座表面温度によって変更するが、その変更時期の補正にも使用できる。補正をすることで便座表面温度が38℃に到達したことを正確に把握できるため快適性が増す。
It can also be used as a means for accurately grasping the normal temperature control, for example, the temperature reached to the set temperature. That is, it may be used as the energization change time instead of the notification time change. The energization control is changed from 1200 W to 600 W or about 50 W phase control depending on the toilet seat surface temperature, and can also be used to correct the change timing. By correcting, it is possible to accurately grasp that the toilet seat surface temperature has reached 38 ° C., so that the comfort is increased.
前述の通り便座表面温度の昇温速度が速く、検知手段であるサーミスタ44に応答遅れ
が生じるため、便座表面温度が設定温度に到達しても、検知手段は設定温度よりも低い温度を検知している。この誤差は、報知時期と同様に設置環境による電圧や室温および便座ヒータの抵抗値のバラツキによって変わってくる。よって報知時期と同様の補正をすることで到達温度を正確に把握することができ、より快適な便座とすることができる。 As described above, the temperature rise rate of the toilet seat surface temperature is fast, and a response delay occurs in thethermistor 44 as the detection means. Therefore, even if the toilet seat surface temperature reaches the set temperature, the detection means detects a temperature lower than the set temperature. ing. This error varies depending on the voltage of the installation environment, the room temperature, and the variation of the resistance value of the toilet seat heater, similarly to the notification time. Therefore, by achieving the same correction as the notification time, the reached temperature can be accurately grasped, and a more comfortable toilet seat can be obtained.
が生じるため、便座表面温度が設定温度に到達しても、検知手段は設定温度よりも低い温度を検知している。この誤差は、報知時期と同様に設置環境による電圧や室温および便座ヒータの抵抗値のバラツキによって変わってくる。よって報知時期と同様の補正をすることで到達温度を正確に把握することができ、より快適な便座とすることができる。 As described above, the temperature rise rate of the toilet seat surface temperature is fast, and a response delay occurs in the
特に設定温度では、応答遅れが予め想定していた遅れより大きい場合には、便座表面温度は設定温度より高い温度に到達してしまう。従って、この場合は環境温度(トイレ室内温度)に基づく補正を行うことで、快適性と安全性をより向上することができる。
Especially at the set temperature, when the response delay is larger than the delay assumed in advance, the toilet seat surface temperature reaches a temperature higher than the set temperature. Therefore, in this case, comfort and safety can be further improved by performing correction based on the environmental temperature (toilet room temperature).
特に、室温が低い場合に、便座22の放熱が大きくなり便座表面温度とサーミスタ44の測定温度の誤差が少なくなることを利用して、室温が低い場合には、設定温度に対するサーミスタ44の目標温度や人がトイレットルームに入室していない待機時の保温温度(本実施例では18℃)を下げることも可能である。この場合消費電力の節減が期待できる。
In particular, when the room temperature is low, the heat dissipation of the toilet seat 22 is increased, and the error between the toilet seat surface temperature and the measurement temperature of the thermistor 44 is reduced. When the room temperature is low, the target temperature of the thermistor 44 with respect to the set temperature. It is also possible to lower the warming temperature (18 ° C. in the present embodiment) during standby when no person enters the toilet room. In this case, a reduction in power consumption can be expected.
一方、図10から分かるように、室温が高い場合は、同じ待機時の保温温度からでも、設定温度までの昇温速度が大きく、便座22は早く温まる。これを利用して、人がトイレットルームに入室していない待機時の保温温度(本実施例では18℃)を下げることも可能である。この場合も消費電力の節減が期待できる。
On the other hand, as can be seen from FIG. 10, when the room temperature is high, the temperature rise rate to the set temperature is large even from the same warming temperature during standby, and the toilet seat 22 warms up quickly. By utilizing this, it is possible to lower the heat retention temperature during standby when a person has not entered the toilet room (18 ° C. in this embodiment). In this case, power consumption can be expected to be reduced.
<5> 室温検知センサによる待機温度制御
次に、トイレ室内温度に応じて、待機期間(図5の期間D1,D10など)中におけるランプヒータ29の低電力駆動時に、ランプヒータ29への通電を変化させ、消費電力を低減するための制御部50による制御について説明する。 <5> Standby temperature control by room temperature detection sensor Next, thelamp heater 29 is energized when the lamp heater 29 is driven at low power during the standby period (periods D1, D10, etc. in FIG. 5) according to the temperature in the toilet room. The control by the control unit 50 for changing and reducing the power consumption will be described.
次に、トイレ室内温度に応じて、待機期間(図5の期間D1,D10など)中におけるランプヒータ29の低電力駆動時に、ランプヒータ29への通電を変化させ、消費電力を低減するための制御部50による制御について説明する。 <5> Standby temperature control by room temperature detection sensor Next, the
既に説明したように、トイレ室内温度(環境温度)の高低により、便座22の放熱量は異なってくる。例えば、トイレ室内温度が相対的に高い場合、便座22の着座面からの放熱量が相対的に少なくなる。従って、仮にランプヒータ29へ通電する電力をトイレ室内温度が低いときと同じにした場合は、放熱量が少ない分、より高い温度になってしまい、設定した待機温度(例えば、18℃)を超えてしまう可能性がある。これでは、余計な電力の消費につながることから好ましくない。
As already described, the amount of heat released from the toilet seat 22 varies depending on the toilet room temperature (environmental temperature). For example, when the temperature in the toilet room is relatively high, the amount of heat released from the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 is relatively small. Therefore, if the power to be supplied to the lamp heater 29 is the same as when the temperature in the toilet room is low, the amount of heat released becomes a higher temperature, which exceeds the set standby temperature (for example, 18 ° C.). There is a possibility that. This is not preferable because it leads to unnecessary power consumption.
そこで、本実施の形態に係る便座装置では、室温検知センサ48によってトイレ室内温
度を検知し、これが相対的に高い場合には、ランプヒータ29への通電率(即ち、通電する電力)を低減させるように制御する一方、トイレ室内温度が相対的に低い場合には、通電率を増大させるように制御している。 Therefore, in the toilet seat device according to the present embodiment, the temperature in the toilet room is detected by the roomtemperature detection sensor 48, and when this is relatively high, the energization rate (that is, the energized power) to the lamp heater 29 is reduced. On the other hand, when the toilet room temperature is relatively low, the energization rate is controlled to be increased.
度を検知し、これが相対的に高い場合には、ランプヒータ29への通電率(即ち、通電する電力)を低減させるように制御する一方、トイレ室内温度が相対的に低い場合には、通電率を増大させるように制御している。 Therefore, in the toilet seat device according to the present embodiment, the temperature in the toilet room is detected by the room
図14は、このようにトイレ室内温度に基づいて通電率を変化させる態様の一例を示すグラフであり、ここで通電率は、図6~8を用いて説明したデューティー比により示している。この図14に示すように、横軸に示す温度が相対的に高いほど、デューティー比が小さくなるように、換言すれば通電率が小さくなるように設定されている。そのため、トイレ室内温度の変化にかかわらず、便座22の着座面の温度を、所定の待機温度に維持することができる。
FIG. 14 is a graph showing an example of a mode in which the energization rate is changed based on the toilet room temperature as described above. Here, the energization rate is indicated by the duty ratio described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 14, the duty ratio is set to be smaller as the temperature shown on the horizontal axis is relatively higher, in other words, the energization rate is set to be smaller. Therefore, the temperature of the seating surface of the toilet seat 22 can be maintained at a predetermined standby temperature regardless of changes in the toilet room temperature.
従って、例えば、トイレ室内温度が高い場合に、所定の待機温度を超えた状態で待機してしまい、さらに必要以上の温度まで昇温をするなどして余分な消費電力が発生するのを抑制することができる。また、反対にトイレ室内温度が低い場合には、所定の待機温度以下で保温されてしまって使用者が入室した際に使用初期目標温度まで所望の時間で昇温できない、といった事態を回避することができる。
Therefore, for example, when the temperature in the toilet room is high, the apparatus waits in a state where the predetermined standby temperature is exceeded, and further suppresses generation of excessive power consumption by raising the temperature to a temperature higher than necessary. be able to. On the other hand, if the temperature in the toilet room is low, avoid the situation where the temperature is kept below the predetermined standby temperature and the user cannot enter the desired temperature up to the initial target temperature when entering the room. Can do.
なお、制御部50へ送信するためのトイレ室内温度を検知するタイミングとしては、人体検知部25によって人体を検知したときとすることが可能である。また、人体検知部25または操作リモコン(図示せず)にタイマー手段を設けておき、一定時間が経過するたびにトイレ室内温度を検知するようにしてもよい。このようにして得られた最新室温情報に基づいてその後の待機温度を制御する。
It should be noted that the timing at which the temperature in the toilet room for transmission to the control unit 50 is detected may be when the human body is detected by the human body detection unit 25. Alternatively, timer means may be provided in the human body detection unit 25 or the operation remote controller (not shown) so that the temperature in the toilet room is detected every time a certain time has elapsed. Subsequent standby temperatures are controlled based on the latest room temperature information thus obtained.
<6> 室温検知センサの共用
ところで、本実施の形態に係る制御部50は、例えば図5に示す第1の昇温期間D3において、通電開始時のサーミスタ44および室温検知センサ48の信号をもとに、両者の温度差やそれぞれの温度から演算を行い、あらかじめ設定および記憶されている通電制限時間の最適値を選択し、タイマー部49でカウントしている経過時間が通電制限時間に到達すると通電量を低減またはゼロにするという第1ステップを実行し、その後サーミスタ44の信号をもとに便座22の着座部が適温になるよう通電量を制御するという第2ステップを実行する。 <6> Sharing of room temperature detection sensor By the way, thecontrol unit 50 according to the present embodiment also provides signals of the thermistor 44 and the room temperature detection sensor 48 at the start of energization, for example, in the first temperature rising period D3 shown in FIG. In addition, when the temperature difference between the two and the respective temperatures are calculated, the optimum value of the energization limit time set and stored in advance is selected, and the elapsed time counted by the timer unit 49 reaches the energization limit time. A first step of reducing or zeroing the energization amount is performed, and then a second step of controlling the energization amount so that the seating portion of the toilet seat 22 becomes an appropriate temperature based on a signal from the thermistor 44 is performed.
ところで、本実施の形態に係る制御部50は、例えば図5に示す第1の昇温期間D3において、通電開始時のサーミスタ44および室温検知センサ48の信号をもとに、両者の温度差やそれぞれの温度から演算を行い、あらかじめ設定および記憶されている通電制限時間の最適値を選択し、タイマー部49でカウントしている経過時間が通電制限時間に到達すると通電量を低減またはゼロにするという第1ステップを実行し、その後サーミスタ44の信号をもとに便座22の着座部が適温になるよう通電量を制御するという第2ステップを実行する。 <6> Sharing of room temperature detection sensor By the way, the
本実施の形態に係るトイレ室には、トイレ室内の暖房を行う室内暖房部52が設置されているが、該室内暖房部52は、制御部50が、上述したように第1ステップにて利用する室温検知センサ48からの信号を検知することによって、室内暖房ヒータ53と室内暖房ファン54の出力制御を行う。このように、便座の温度制御と室内暖房の温度制御を同一の温度センサにて行うことにより、便座制御専用の温度センサを設ける必要がなく、構成が単純で、安価で精度の高い、快適な便座の温度制御が実現できる。同様に、待機期間中のランプヒータ29への通電率の制御に利用するトイレ室内温度の検知手段も、室内暖房の温度制御に用いる温度センサと共用することにより、同様のことが言える。
In the toilet room according to the present embodiment, an indoor heating unit 52 for heating the toilet room is installed. The indoor heating unit 52 is used by the control unit 50 in the first step as described above. By detecting a signal from the room temperature detection sensor 48, the output control of the indoor heating heater 53 and the indoor heating fan 54 is performed. Thus, by performing the temperature control of the toilet seat and the temperature control of the room heating with the same temperature sensor, there is no need to provide a temperature sensor dedicated to toilet seat control, the configuration is simple, inexpensive, highly accurate, and comfortable The temperature control of the toilet seat can be realized. Similarly, the same can be said for the toilet room temperature detection means used for controlling the energization rate to the lamp heater 29 during the standby period by sharing the temperature sensor used for temperature control of the room heating.
(実施の形態2)
図11は本発明の実施の形態2の温水洗浄機能付き便座装置の構成図である。実施の形態1と異なる点は、洗浄後の局部に温風を吹き出す乾燥機能部55を設けたことである。 (Embodiment 2)
FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram of a toilet seat device with a hot water cleaning function according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The difference from the first embodiment is that adrying function unit 55 that blows out hot air is provided in a local part after cleaning.
図11は本発明の実施の形態2の温水洗浄機能付き便座装置の構成図である。実施の形態1と異なる点は、洗浄後の局部に温風を吹き出す乾燥機能部55を設けたことである。 (Embodiment 2)
FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram of a toilet seat device with a hot water cleaning function according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The difference from the first embodiment is that a
制御部50は、室温検知センサ56からの信号によって乾燥ヒータ57と乾燥ファン58の出力制御を行う。そして、便座の温度制御(待機期間中の通電率制御を含む)と乾燥の温度制御を同一の温度センサにて行うことにより、便座制御専用の温度センサを設ける必要がなく、実施の形態1と同様に構成が単純で、安価で精度の高い便座の温度制御が実現できる。
The control unit 50 controls the output of the drying heater 57 and the drying fan 58 based on a signal from the room temperature detection sensor 56. Then, by performing temperature control of the toilet seat (including energization rate control during the standby period) and drying temperature control with the same temperature sensor, there is no need to provide a temperature sensor dedicated to toilet seat control, and Embodiment 1 Similarly, the temperature control of the toilet seat can be realized with a simple configuration at low cost and high accuracy.
(実施の形態3)
図12は本発明の実施の形態3の温水洗浄機能付き便座装置の構成図である。実施の形態1および2との違いは、人体検知部25の内部に室温検知センサ59を設けたことである。人体検知部25は室温検知センサ59からの信号を赤外線発光部によって本体21の制御部50に送信する。人体検知部25は室温検知センサ59からの信号に基づいて、人体検知センサの感度および出力の補正を行う。 (Embodiment 3)
FIG. 12 is a configuration diagram of a toilet seat device with a hot water washing function according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. The difference from the first and second embodiments is that a roomtemperature detection sensor 59 is provided inside the human body detection unit 25. The human body detection unit 25 transmits a signal from the room temperature detection sensor 59 to the control unit 50 of the main body 21 by the infrared light emitting unit. The human body detection unit 25 corrects the sensitivity and output of the human body detection sensor based on the signal from the room temperature detection sensor 59.
図12は本発明の実施の形態3の温水洗浄機能付き便座装置の構成図である。実施の形態1および2との違いは、人体検知部25の内部に室温検知センサ59を設けたことである。人体検知部25は室温検知センサ59からの信号を赤外線発光部によって本体21の制御部50に送信する。人体検知部25は室温検知センサ59からの信号に基づいて、人体検知センサの感度および出力の補正を行う。 (Embodiment 3)
FIG. 12 is a configuration diagram of a toilet seat device with a hot water washing function according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. The difference from the first and second embodiments is that a room
そして、便座の温度制御(待機期間中の通電率制御を含む)と人体検知部25の人体検知センサの補正を同一の室温検知センサ59にて行うことにより、便座制御専用の温度センサを設ける必要がなく、実施の形態1および2と同様に構成が単純で、安価で精度の高い便座の温度制御が実現できる。
Then, it is necessary to provide a temperature sensor dedicated to toilet seat control by performing temperature control of the toilet seat (including energization rate control during the standby period) and correction of the human body detection sensor of the human body detection unit 25 by the same room temperature detection sensor 59. In addition, similar to the first and second embodiments, the temperature control of the toilet seat is simple, inexpensive, and highly accurate.
(実施の形態4)
図13は本発明の実施の形態4の温水洗浄機能付き便座装置の概略構成図である。実施の形態1~3との違いは、給水源から供給される洗浄水を加熱し、洗浄水を人体に噴出する温水洗浄機能部60に、給水源の水温を検知する入水温度検知手段61を備え、制御部50は、便座のサーミスタ44と入水温度検知手段61の信号に基づいて、便座の温度制御を行うことである。すなわち入水温度から室温を推定するのである。 (Embodiment 4)
FIG. 13: is a schematic block diagram of the toilet seat apparatus with a hot water washing function of Embodiment 4 of this invention. The difference fromEmbodiments 1 to 3 is that a warm water cleaning function unit 60 for heating the cleaning water supplied from the water supply source and ejecting the cleaning water to the human body has an incoming water temperature detecting means 61 for detecting the water temperature of the water supply source. The controller 50 is configured to control the temperature of the toilet seat based on signals from the thermistor 44 of the toilet seat and the incoming water temperature detecting means 61. That is, the room temperature is estimated from the incoming water temperature.
図13は本発明の実施の形態4の温水洗浄機能付き便座装置の概略構成図である。実施の形態1~3との違いは、給水源から供給される洗浄水を加熱し、洗浄水を人体に噴出する温水洗浄機能部60に、給水源の水温を検知する入水温度検知手段61を備え、制御部50は、便座のサーミスタ44と入水温度検知手段61の信号に基づいて、便座の温度制御を行うことである。すなわち入水温度から室温を推定するのである。 (Embodiment 4)
FIG. 13: is a schematic block diagram of the toilet seat apparatus with a hot water washing function of Embodiment 4 of this invention. The difference from
そして、便座の温度制御(待機期間中の通電率制御を含む)と洗浄水の温度制御を同一の温度センサ(入水温度検知手段61)にて行うことにより、便座制御専用の温度センサを設ける必要がなく、実施の形態1~3と同様に構成が単純で、安価で精度の高い便座の温度制御が実現できる。
Further, it is necessary to provide a temperature sensor dedicated to toilet seat control by performing temperature control of the toilet seat (including energization rate control during the standby period) and temperature control of the washing water with the same temperature sensor (incoming water temperature detection means 61) As in the first to third embodiments, the configuration is simple, and the temperature control of the toilet seat can be realized with low cost and high accuracy.
<7>他の構成
上記実施の形態2~4では、室温検知センサを共用する場合について説明したが、もちろん便座装置によって搭載される機能が異なるので、それに応じた室温センサと共有するようにすればよい。さらに2つ以上の機能を搭載している便座装置であれば室温検知センサを2つ以上共有する構成としてもよい。 <7> Other Configurations In the above-described Embodiments 2 to 4, the case where the room temperature detection sensor is shared has been described. Of course, since the functions mounted on the toilet seat device are different, the room temperature sensor corresponding to the room temperature sensor should be shared. That's fine. Further, if the toilet seat device has two or more functions, two or more room temperature detection sensors may be shared.
上記実施の形態2~4では、室温検知センサを共用する場合について説明したが、もちろん便座装置によって搭載される機能が異なるので、それに応じた室温センサと共有するようにすればよい。さらに2つ以上の機能を搭載している便座装置であれば室温検知センサを2つ以上共有する構成としてもよい。 <7> Other Configurations In the above-described Embodiments 2 to 4, the case where the room temperature detection sensor is shared has been described. Of course, since the functions mounted on the toilet seat device are different, the room temperature sensor corresponding to the room temperature sensor should be shared. That's fine. Further, if the toilet seat device has two or more functions, two or more room temperature detection sensors may be shared.
また、これに換えて、便座22の温度制御に用いるトイレ室内温度を専用に検知する室温検知センサを設けてもよいことは言うまでもない。この場合、設置箇所を適切に選択することによって、より正確なトイレ室内温度の検知を行うことができる。例えば、そのような設置箇所として、人体検知部25や本体21とは別体に用意された操作リモコンを挙げることができる。また、より正確な検知が可能であれば、上述した室内暖房部52に、トイレ室内温度を専用に検知する室温検知センサを設けてもよいし、照明器具にそのような室温検知センサを設けてもよい。
In addition, it goes without saying that a room temperature detection sensor that exclusively detects the temperature in the toilet used for temperature control of the toilet seat 22 may be provided instead. In this case, it is possible to more accurately detect the temperature in the toilet room by appropriately selecting the installation location. For example, an operation remote controller prepared separately from the human body detection unit 25 and the main body 21 can be cited as such an installation location. In addition, if more accurate detection is possible, the above-described indoor heating unit 52 may be provided with a room temperature detection sensor dedicated to detecting the temperature in the toilet, or such a room temperature detection sensor may be provided in the lighting fixture. Also good.
また、トイレ室内温度を専用に検知する複数の室温検知センサを設けてもよい。これにより、より正確なトイレ室内温度の検知を実現することができる。この場合、複数の室温検知センサのうち少なくとも1つを、他の目的をもった温度センサと共用するようにしてもよい。
In addition, a plurality of room temperature detection sensors that exclusively detect the temperature in the toilet room may be provided. Thereby, the more accurate detection of the temperature in the toilet room can be realized. In this case, at least one of the plurality of room temperature detection sensors may be shared with a temperature sensor having another purpose.
また、本実施の形態1~4においては、便座は、合成樹脂製の上・下2つの部材をそれぞれの内周縁および外周縁で溶着接合することによりケースを形成したものとしたが、ヒータの昇温能力を向上させ、昇温速度を確保するため、暖める便座部材の熱容量をできるだけに小さくすることが望ましい。そのために、アルミ合金などの金属からなる着座部を設けるようなことも可能である。このような構成にすることで、昇温特性、均一性のより優れた暖房便座とすることができる。
In the first to fourth embodiments, the toilet seat is formed by welding the upper and lower members made of synthetic resin at the inner peripheral edge and the outer peripheral edge, respectively. In order to improve the temperature raising capability and secure the temperature raising rate, it is desirable to make the heat capacity of the toilet seat member to be warmed as small as possible. Therefore, it is possible to provide a seating portion made of a metal such as an aluminum alloy. By setting it as such a structure, it can be set as the heating toilet seat which was more excellent in temperature rising characteristics and uniformity.
本発明は、トイレの使用者の快適性を損なうことなく、便座温度を調整する際の消費電力をより一層低減して省エネルギー化を実現することのできる便座装置に適用することができる。
The present invention can be applied to a toilet seat device capable of realizing energy saving by further reducing power consumption when adjusting the toilet seat temperature without impairing the comfort of the toilet user.
22 便座
25 人体検知部
29 ランプヒータ(発熱体)
44 サーミスタ(温度検知手段)
48 室温検知センサ(第2の温度検知手段)
50 制御部
52 室内暖房部(室内暖房手段)
55 乾燥機能部
56 室温検知センサ(第2の温度検知手段)
59 室温検知センサ(第2の温度検知手段)
60 温水洗浄機能部
61 入水温度検知手段(第2の温度検知手段) 22Toilet seat 25 Human body detection part 29 Lamp heater (heating element)
44 thermistor (temperature detection means)
48 Room temperature detection sensor (second temperature detection means)
50control part 52 indoor heating part (indoor heating means)
55Drying Function Unit 56 Room Temperature Detection Sensor (Second Temperature Detection Means)
59 Room temperature detection sensor (second temperature detection means)
60 Warm watercleaning function part 61 Incoming water temperature detection means (second temperature detection means)
25 人体検知部
29 ランプヒータ(発熱体)
44 サーミスタ(温度検知手段)
48 室温検知センサ(第2の温度検知手段)
50 制御部
52 室内暖房部(室内暖房手段)
55 乾燥機能部
56 室温検知センサ(第2の温度検知手段)
59 室温検知センサ(第2の温度検知手段)
60 温水洗浄機能部
61 入水温度検知手段(第2の温度検知手段) 22
44 thermistor (temperature detection means)
48 Room temperature detection sensor (second temperature detection means)
50
55
59 Room temperature detection sensor (second temperature detection means)
60 Warm water
Claims (5)
- 着座部を有する便座と、
前記便座を昇温する発熱体と、
前記発熱体に通電する電力を制御する制御部と、
前記便座の温度を検知する便座温度検知手段と、
トイレ室内の温度を検知する第2の温度検知手段と、
使用者による便座への着座意志を示す着座意志情報を検知する着座意志検知手段と、
を備え、
前記制御部は、
前記着座意志検知手段により前記着座意志情報を検知していない待機状態では、前記便座温度検知手段により検知する前記便座の温度が、前記待機状態での維持温度として設定された所定の待機温度となるように、前記発熱体への通電を制御し、
前記着座意志検知手段により前記着座意志情報を検知した場合には、前記便座温度検知手段により検知する前記便座の温度が、前記待機温度から、該待機温度より高温であって使用者の前記便座への着座を想定した着座温度範囲内の温度まで、所定速度で上昇するように、前記発熱体への通電を制御し、
更に、前記第2の温度検知手段により検知したトイレ室内温度に応じて、前記待機状態における前記発熱体への通電を変化させることを特徴とする便座装置。 A toilet seat having a seating portion;
A heating element for heating the toilet seat;
A control unit that controls electric power supplied to the heating element;
Toilet seat temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of the toilet seat;
A second temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature in the toilet room;
A seating will detection means for detecting seating will information indicating the seating will to the toilet seat by the user;
With
The controller is
In the standby state in which the seating will detection means has not detected the seating intention information, the temperature of the toilet seat detected by the toilet seat temperature detection unit is a predetermined standby temperature set as the maintenance temperature in the standby state. So as to control energization to the heating element,
When the seating will detection means detects the seating will information, the temperature of the toilet seat detected by the toilet seat temperature detection means is higher than the standby temperature from the standby temperature to the user's toilet seat. The energization of the heating element is controlled so as to increase at a predetermined speed up to a temperature within a seating temperature range assuming the seating of
Further, the toilet seat device changes the energization to the heating element in the standby state according to the temperature in the toilet room detected by the second temperature detecting means. - 前記制御部は、前記待機状態において、前記トイレ室内温度が相対的に高い場合には前記発熱体へ通電する電力を低減することを特徴とする請求項1に記載の便座装置。 2. The toilet seat device according to claim 1, wherein the controller reduces power supplied to the heating element when the temperature in the toilet room is relatively high in the standby state.
- 前記所定速度は0.5~5[ケルビン/秒]であることを特徴とする請求項1又は2に記載の便座装置。 3. The toilet seat device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined speed is 0.5 to 5 [Kelvin / second].
- 前記着座意志検知手段は、前記トイレ室への使用者の入室を検知する人体検知手段であることを特徴とする請求項1乃至3の何れかに記載の便座装置。 The toilet seat device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the seating will detection means is a human body detection means for detecting a user entering the toilet room.
- 前記第2の温度検知手段は、
前記トイレ室内に設けられた室内暖房手段をトイレ室温に基づいて制御すべく備えられた室温検知手段、
洗浄後の使用者の局部に温風を吹き付ける乾燥手段をトイレ室温に基づいて制御すべく備えられた室温検知手段、
前記トイレ室への使用者の入室を検知する人体検知手段の感度及び出力をトイレ室温により補正すべく備えられた室温検知手段、及び、
使用者の局部を洗浄する洗浄水の水温を検知する水温検知手段、
のうちの少なくとも1つの手段と共用していることを特徴とする請求項1乃至4の何れかに記載の便座装置。
The second temperature detecting means includes
Room temperature detection means provided to control the room heating means provided in the toilet room based on the toilet room temperature,
Room temperature detection means equipped to control the drying means to blow warm air on the user's local area after washing based on the toilet room temperature,
Room temperature detection means provided to correct the sensitivity and output of the human body detection means for detecting the user's entry into the toilet room with the toilet room temperature, and
Water temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of the wash water for washing the user's local area,
The toilet seat device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the toilet seat device is shared with at least one means.
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CN (1) | CN102176852A (en) |
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US10521323B2 (en) * | 2012-09-13 | 2019-12-31 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Terminal controlling method and terminal therefor |
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JP5625695B2 (en) * | 2010-09-30 | 2014-11-19 | アイシン精機株式会社 | Toilet seat heating system |
KR101283654B1 (en) * | 2011-05-31 | 2013-07-08 | 주식회사 콜러노비타 | Seat temperature control method of bidet |
CN103207020B (en) * | 2012-01-11 | 2015-12-16 | 松下电器产业株式会社 | Use in toilet human body detection device and possess the sanitary flushing base device of this device |
CN103519743B (en) | 2012-07-05 | 2016-08-10 | 上海科勒电子科技有限公司 | A kind of bowl device for toilet being applied to toilet seat |
CN104706267A (en) * | 2015-03-17 | 2015-06-17 | 厦门科牧智能技术有限公司 | Electricity-saving heating control method for intelligent toilet |
JP2018000596A (en) * | 2016-07-04 | 2018-01-11 | アイシン精機株式会社 | Heated toilet seat device |
JP7190676B2 (en) * | 2018-09-26 | 2022-12-16 | パナソニックIpマネジメント株式会社 | toilet seat device |
JP7250491B2 (en) * | 2018-11-30 | 2023-04-03 | 株式会社 Mtg | Beauty device |
CN110244799B (en) * | 2019-06-19 | 2021-03-02 | 三门康创电子科技有限公司 | Control method for preventing low-temperature burn of intelligent closestool |
CN112120578B (en) * | 2020-10-09 | 2021-12-07 | 宁波舜洁卫生器具有限公司 | Intelligent heating device for complete toilet seat |
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JP2010110623A (en) | 2010-05-20 |
TW201019877A (en) | 2010-06-01 |
CN102176852A (en) | 2011-09-07 |
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