Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a sanitary washing apparatus that washes the private
parts of the human body.
Background Art
[0002] In sanitary washing apparatuses that wash the private parts of the human bodies,
various types of functions have been devised in order to ensure the sanitary conditions
of the sanitary washing apparatuses themselves. The conventional sanitary washing
apparatus will be described while referring to the drawing. Fig. 36 is a schematic
view showing the conventional sanitary washing apparatus. As shown in Fig. 36, in
this type of sanitary washing apparatus, a washing nozzle (hereinafter referred to
as a human body washing nozzle device) 907 is ejected from a main body 905 in the
sanitary washing apparatus installed behind a toilet bowl toward the private parts
of the human body 906 who sits on a toilet seat 903, and washing water is sprayed
from behind the human body 906, to wash the private parts. In Fig. 36, there are provided
a toilet bowl 901, a sanitary washing toilet seat device 902, a toilet seat 903, a
toilet cover 904, a human body washing nozzle device 907, and a main body 905 accommodating
the human body washing nozzle device 907.
[0003] For example, in the sanitary washing apparatus, a front end of the human body washing
nozzle device 907 for washing the private parts of the human body at the time of washing
comes close to the private parts of the human body 906, to spray the washing water.
Therefore, the washing nozzle device 907 is easily showered with dirty water or dirt
in the case of washing, and is made clean by being cleaned using a chlorine or alcohol
bleach or a cleaner at the time of cleaning up a toilet room, for example. However,
such disinfection work is troublesome to a person. Therefore, the function of cleaning
the front end of the human body washing nozzle device 907 is required.
[0004] According to the function of cleaning the human body washing nozzle device 907, dirt
adhering to the human body washing nozzle device 907 is cleaned after washing the
private parts of the human body 906. This allows a user to wash the private parts
with washing water sprayed from the clean human body washing nozzle device 907.
[0005] In the conventional sanitary washing apparatus 902, however, dirt on the human body
washing nozzle device 907 is difficult to sufficiently remove by spraying water which
is washing water, and a sterilization effect is not also obtained. Therefore, it is
proposed that the human body washing nozzle device 907 is cleaned using a chemical
liquid. When the human body washing nozzle device 907 is cleaned using the chemical
liquid, the human body washing nozzle device 907 is cleaned using the chemical liquid
before and after washing the private parts. Since the human body washing nozzle device
907 is provided inside a casing of the sanitary washing apparatus 902, the user cannot
know that the human body washing nozzle device 907 is actually cleaned. Therefore,
the user may erroneously touch the chemical liquid at the time of cleaning the human
body washing nozzle device 907. Even when the human body washing nozzle device 907
is cleaned, the user cannot obtain such a sufficient feeling of safety that the human
body washing nozzle device 907 is kept clean.
[0006] Furthermore, when the human body washing nozzle device 907 is cleaned using the chemical
liquid, the chemical liquid costs money, and it takes time and labor to replenish
a chemical liquid.
Disclosure of the Invention
[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a sanitary washing apparatus capable
of keeping a human body washing nozzle device clean simply and with little effort
and safety and at low cost as well as capable of giving a user such a sufficient feeling
of safety that the sanitary washing apparatus is kept clean.
[0008] A sanitary washing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention comprises
a human body washing nozzle device having a discharge port that discharges washing
water for washing the human body, and a nozzle cleaning device that sterilizes at
least an outer surface of the discharge port of the human body washing nozzle device
by high-temperature cleaning.
[0009] In the sanitary washing apparatus, the human body can be washed by discharging the
washing water from the discharge port using the human body washing nozzle device.
The nozzle cleaning device can sterilizes the outer surface of the discharge port
of the human body washing nozzle device by the high-temperature cleaning.
[0010] In this case, the nozzle cleaning device functions to sterilize the outer surface
of the discharge port of the human body washing nozzle device by high-temperature
cleaning, so that the human body washing nozzle device can be kept clean simply and
with little effort and safely and at low cost. Therefore, there can be provided a
sanitary washing apparatus that allows a user to sufficiently feel clean and have
a feeling of safety.
[0011] The nozzle cleaning device may clean the human body washing nozzle device by heated
washing water.
[0012] In this case, the human body washing nozzle device is washed away by the heated washing
water so that dirt adhering to the human body washing nozzle device is easily removed,
and a high sterilization effect is obtained.
[0013] The nozzle cleaning device may discharge washing water having a flow rate of not
less than 0.3 litters per minute from the discharge port.
[0014] In this case, the human body washing nozzle device is cleaned with washing water
having a sufficient flow rate. Therefore, dirt adhering to the human body washing
nozzle device is easily removed, and a sterilization effect is obtained.
[0015] It is preferable that the temperature of the heated washing water is not less than
55°C. In this case, the temperature of the washing water is set to not less than 55°C.
Dirt adhering to the human body washing nozzle device is effectively removed, and
contamination by fungi and molds can be prevented.
[0016] It is preferable that the temperature of the heated washing water is not more than
100°C. Particularly, the temperature of the washing water is preferably in a range
from 55°C to 100°C, and more preferably in a range from 60°C to 70°C. In this case,
dirt adhering to the human body washing nozzle device can be more effectively removed,
and contamination by fungi and molds can be reliably prevented.
[0017] The nozzle cleaning device may clean the human body washing nozzle device by vapor.
In this case, the human body washing nozzle device is exposed to high-temperature
vapor, so that dirt adhering to the human body washing nozzle device is easily removed,
and a high sterilization effect is obtained. Further, a sterilization range at high
temperatures is enlarged by the diffusion properties of the vapor.
[0018] The nozzle cleaning device may clean the human body washing nozzle device by a mixed
fluid of at least two of the vapor, the heated washing water, and unheated washing
water.
[0019] When the human body washing nozzle device is cleaned by the mixed fluid of the vapor
or the heated washing water and the unheated washing water, the temperature of the
human body washing nozzle device sterilized by the vapor or the heated washing water
can be lowered. Therefore, the high-temperature washing water can be prevented from
being sprayed toward a user. Further, when the human body washing nozzle device is
cleaned by the mixed fluid of the vapor and the heated washing water, bacteria growth
can be restrained.
[0020] The human body washing nozzle device nay comprise a plurality of nozzles that respectively
spray the washing water, and the nozzle cleaning device may have a discharge port
that simultaneously cleans the plurality of nozzles.
[0021] In this case, the plurality of nozzles are simultaneously sterilized. Even when any
one of the plurality of nozzles is used after the sterilization, a user can use the
clean nozzle sterilized with the high-temperature washing water at ease.
[0022] The sanitary washing apparatus may comprise a state detector that detects a state
where the sanitary washing apparatus is employed, and a control device that allows
the human body washing nozzle device to be cleaned by the nozzle cleaning device in
a case where the state detector detects that the sanitary washing apparatus has not
been employed yet.
[0023] In this case, when it is detected that the sanitary washing apparatus has not been
employed yet, the human body washing nozzle device is allowed to be cleaned by the
nozzle cleaning device. When the sanitary washing apparatus is employed, therefore,
the washing water by the nozzle cleaning device is prevented from adhering to the
human body. Thus, the human body washing nozzle device can be kept clean while ensuring
the sanitary conditions of the human body.
[0024] The sanitary washing apparatus further comprises a toilet seat on which the human
body is to sit, and the state detector comprises a seating detector that detects the
presence or absence of seating of the human body on the toilet seat.
[0025] In this case, the seating detector detects the presence or absence of seating of
the human body on the toilet seat. When the human body does not sit on the toilet
seat, therefore, the heated washing water or the vapor can be sprayed on the human
body washing nozzle device from the nozzle cleaning device. Therefore, safety can
be ensured.
[0026] The state detector may comprise an optical detector that optically detects the presence
or absence of the human body on the toilet seat.
[0027] In this case, the optical detector can optically detect the presence or absence of
the human body on the toilet seat. When the human body does not sit on the toilet
seat, therefore, the heated washing water or the vapor can be sprayed on the human
body washing nozzle device from the nozzle cleaning device.
[0028] The state detector may comprise a load detector that detects the presence or absence
of the human body on the toilet seat by a load on the toilet seat.
[0029] In this case, the load detector detects the presence or absence of the human body
on the toilet seat. Therefore, the heated washing water or the vapor can be sprayed
from the nozzle cleaning device when the human body does not sit on the toilet seat.
[0030] The sanitary washing apparatus may further comprise a toilet cover, and the state
detector may comprise a toilet cover opening/closing detection device that detects
the opening/closing of the toilet cover.
[0031] In this case, the toilet cover opening/closing detection device detects the opening/closing
of the toilet cover. Therefore, the heated washing water or the vapor can be sprayed
on the human body washing nozzle device from the nozzle cleaning device when the toilet
cover is closed. Therefore, safety can be ensured.
[0032] The nozzle cleaning device may comprise a heating device that heats the washing water,
and a spray device that sprays the washing water heated by the heating device and/or
the vapor to the human body washing nozzle device.
[0033] In this case, the washing water is heated by the heating device, so that the heated
washing water or the vapor is generated, and is sprayed on the human body washing
water nozzle device from the spray device. Thus, the human body washing nozzle device
is cleaned with the high-temperature washing water or the vapor
[0034] The human body washing nozzle device may discharge the washing water heated by the
heating device to the human body from the discharge port.
[0035] In this case, the washing water is heated by the heating device, so that the washing
water heated to such a temperature that the human body is not given an uncomfortable
feeling, and is discharged to the human body from the discharge port. Thus, the human
body is washed with the washing water heated to such a temperature that it is not
given an uncomfortable feeling.
[0036] The sanitary washing apparatus may further comprise another heating device that heats
washing water, and the nozzle cleaning device may spray the washing water heated by
the other heating device on the human body washing nozzle device from the spray device.
[0037] In this case, the washing water heated to such a temperature that the human body
is not given an uncomfortable feeling can be further heated by the other heating device
further provided in order to heat the washing water. Thus, the high-temperature washing
water or the vapor can be efficiently sprayed by the spray device in the nozzle cleaning
device.
[0038] The nozzle cleaning device may further comprise a flow rate adjustment device that
adjusts the flow rate of the washing water supplied to the heating device, and the
flow rate adjustment device may spray the washing water in a gas state and/or a liquid
state from the spray device by the adjustment of the flow rate of the washing water.
[0039] In this case, the flow rate of the washing water supplied to the heating device is
adjusted, so that the washing water is sprayed in a gas state and/or a liquid state
from the spray device. Thus, the human body washing nozzle device can be easily cleaned
with washing waters which differ in physical properties by the adjustment of the flow
rate of the washing water.
[0040] The sanitary washing apparatus may further comprise a notification device that notifies,
after a cleaning operation performed by the nozzle cleaning device is terminated,
that the cleaning operation is terminated.
[0041] In this case, after the cleaning operation at high temperatures by the nozzle cleaning
device is terminated, the user is notified of the termination of the cleaning operation.
Therefore, the user can recognize that the cleaning operation at high temperatures
is continued until he or she is notified of the termination of the cleaning operation.
Thus, the user is prevented from erroneously causing the human body washing nozzle
device at high temperatures to spray washing water and erroneously touching the human
body washing nozzle device at high temperatures while the cleaning operation at high
temperatures is continued. Further, the user can recognize that the human body washing
nozzle device is cleaned and sterilized. Therefore, the user can obtain such a feeling
of safety that the human body washing nozzle device is kept sanitary. Therefore, the
user is given a sufficient feeling of safety, and the human body washing nozzle device
can be kept clean while ensuring safety.
[0042] The notification device may make notification that the cleaning operation is terminated
after an elapse of a predetermined time period since the cleaning operation performed
by the nozzle cleaning device was terminated.
[0043] In this case, the notification that the cleaning operation is terminated is made
after the temperature of the human body washing nozzle device cleaned at high temperatures
is lowered. Therefore, safety is sufficiently ensured.
[0044] The notification device may make notification that the cleaning operation is terminated
when the temperature of the human body washing nozzle device is lowered to a predetermined
temperature.
[0045] In this case, the notification that the cleaning operation is terminated when the
temperature of the human body washing nozzle device cleaned at high temperatures is
lowered to a safe temperature. Therefore, unexpected danger is avoided, so that safety
is sufficiently ensured.
[0046] The notification device may stop the notification that the cleaning operation is
terminated after an elapse of a predetermined time period since the cleaning operation
performed by the nozzle cleaning device was terminated.
[0047] In this case, more notification than necessary is prevented, and power is prevented
from being uselessly consumed.
[0048] The notification device may comprise a display device that visually makes notification
that the cleaning operation is terminated.
[0049] In this case, the user can visually recognize that the cleaning operation at high
temperatures is terminated.
[0050] The notification device may comprise an audio output device that makes notification
by audio that the cleaning operation is terminated.
[0051] In this case, even an aged or blind user can visually recognize that the cleaning
operation at high temperatures is terminated. Thus, the safety of various types of
users is ensured.
[0052] The sanitary washing apparatus may further comprise a scale adhesion preventer that
prevents the adhesion of a scale in the nozzle cleaning device.
[0053] In this case, the adhesion of the scale in the nozzle cleaning device is prevented,
so that the generation efficiency of the washing water in a heated gas state and/or
liquid state is prevented from being reduced. Thus, the washing water in the gas state
and/or liquid state heated for a long time period can be stably formed. Further, the
washing water does not cost money, and it does not take time and labor to replenish
washing water.
[0054] Thus, the human body washing nozzle device can be sufficiently and stably cleaned
and sterilized for a long time period, and the cost and the time and labor for the
cleaning and sterilization are reduced.
[0055] The scale adhesion preventing device may comprise a scale inhibitor supplier that
supplies a scale inhibitor for inhibiting the adhesion of the scale to the washing
water supplied to the nozzle cleaning device.
[0056] In this case, the scale inhibitor is supplied to the washing water supplied to the
nozzle cleaning device by the scale inhibitor supplier. Thus, the adhesion of the
scale in the nozzle cleaning device is automatically prevented.
[0057] The scale inhibitor may include a crystal form changing material for changing the
crystal form of the scale and/or a crystal growth inhibiting material for inhibiting
the crystal growth of the scale.
[0058] In this case, the crystal form of the scale within the washing water is changed by
the crystal form changing material and/or the crystal growth inhibiting material for
inhibiting the crystal growth of the scale, thereby preventing the deposition of the
scale and preventing the adhesion of the scale in the nozzle washing device.
[0059] The scale inhibitor may include a scale dissolving agent for dissolving the scale.
[0060] In this case, the scale is dissolved by the scale dissolving agent, so that the scale
is removed. Thus, the adhesion of the scale in the nozzle cleaning device is prevented.
Further, the reaction between the scale dissolving agent and the scale component is
hastened by heating so that the effect of removing the scale is increased.
[0061] The scale adhesion preventer may comprise a cation exchange resin provided such that
it can come into contact with the washing water supplied to the nozzle cleaning device.
[0062] In this case, metal ions which are a main component of the scale are removed from
the washing water by the cation exchange resin so that a high scale removal capability
is obtained. Further, the washing water is prevented from being colored.
[0063] The scale adhesion preventer may comprise a magnetism generator that applies magnetism
to the washing water supplied to the nozzle cleaning device.
[0064] The magnetism is applied to the washing water supplied to the nozzle washing device
so that an ion flow comprising a set of ions having the same polarity of calcium ions
and magnesium ions which are main components of the scale is produced. In this case,
the ions are condensed so that collisions of the ions are hastened. Thus, the aggregation
and sedimentation actions of the ions are hastened. Therefore, the adhesion of the
scale in the nozzle cleaning device is automatically prevented. The magnetism generator
is semipermanently operated, thereby eliminating the necessity of maintenance.
[0065] The scale adhesion preventer may comprise a ultrasonic wave generator that applies
ultrasonic waves to the washing water supplied to the nozzle cleaning device.
[0066] In this case, the ultrasonic waves are applied to the washing water supplied to the
nozzle cleaning device so that carbon ions within the washing water are vaporized
by cavitation. Thus, the scale is prevented from being produced, and the adhesion
of the scale in the nozzle cleaning device is automatically prevented. The ultrasonic
wave generator is semipermanently operated, thereby eliminating the necessity of maintenance.
[0067] The nozzle cleaning device may further comprise a washing instruction unit that issues
an instruction to start the cleaning operation performed by the nozzle cleaning device.
[0068] In this case, the user can clean the human body washing nozzle device at an arbitrary
time by operating the washing instruction unit.
[0069] The washing instruction unit may comprise a remote control device that instructs
the control device to start the cleaning operation by a remote control system.
[0070] In this case, the user can clean the human body washing nozzle device at an arbitrary
time by operating the remote control device, and the operability is improved.
[0071] The sanitary washing apparatus may further comprise a disabling unit that disables
the washing instruction device. In the washing instruction unit, the instruction to
start the cleaning operation performed by the nozzle cleaning device may be disabled
by operating the disabling unit.
[0072] In this case, the instruction to start the cleaning operation performed by the nozzle
cleaning device is disabled by operating the disabling unit, thereby making it possible
to prevent mischief by children and present a malfunction.
[0073] The control device may start the cleaning operation for each predetermined time interval.
In this case, even when the sanitary washing apparatus is not employed for a long
time period or over a long time, the human body washing nozzle device is automatically
sterilized by the high-temperature cleaning for each predetermined time interval,
thereby allowing the human body washing nozzle device to be always kept sanitary and
clean without producing contamination by fungi and molds.
[0074] At least a part of the human body washing nozzle device may be formed of a heat-resistant
material. In this case, the human body washing nozzle device is not damaged even if
it is sterilized by the high-temperature cleaning, and can be employed at ease.
[0075] The heat-resistance material may include stainless steel. In this case, at least
a part of the human body washing nozzle device is made of stainless steel, so that
the sterilization effect by high-temperature cleaning can be further enhanced.
[0076] At least a part of a surface of the human body washing nozzle device may be subjected
to water repellent processing. In this case, a water stain scale or dirt can be prevented
from adhering to the human body washing nozzle device, thereby allowing the sterilization
effect by high-temperature cleaning to be further enhanced.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0077]
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the appearance of a sanitary washing apparatus according
to a first embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a plan view of a remote control device in the sanitary washing apparatus
according to the first embodiment.
Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a water circuit in the sanitary
washing apparatus according to the first embodiment.
Fig. 4 is a front sectional view of a switching valve in the sanitary washing apparatus
according to the first embodiment.
Fig. 5 is a plan sectional view of a switching valve in the sanitary washing apparatus
according to the first embodiment.
Fig. 6 is a plan sectional view of a switching valve in the sanitary washing apparatus
according to the first embodiment.
Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an instantaneous heating device
in the sanitary washing apparatus according to the first embodiment.
Fig. 8 is a partially side sectional view of the sanitary washing apparatus according
to the first embodiment.
Fig. 9 is a partially side sectional view of the sanitary washing apparatus according
to the first embodiment.
Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a state where a sanitary washing apparatus according
to a second embodiment is mounted on a toilet bowl.
Fig. 11 is a schematic plan view showing an example of a remote control device shown
in Fig. 10.
Fig. 12 is a schematic view showing the configuration of a main body in the sanitary
washing apparatus according to the second embodiment.
Fig. 13 is a vertical sectional view of a switching valve, a cross-sectional view
taken along a line C - C of the switching valve, a cross-sectional view taken along
a line D - D of the switching valve, and a cross-sectional view taken along a line
E - E of the switching valve.
Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the switching valve shown
in Fig. 13.
Fig. 15 is a diagram showing the flow rate of washing water flowing out of a washing
water outlet in the switching valve shown in Fig. 14 to a posterior nozzle, the flow
rate of washing water flowing out of the washing water outlet into a bidet nozzle,
and the flow rate of washing water flowing out of the washing water outlet into a
nozzle cleaning nozzle.
Fig. 16 is a partially cutaway sectional view showing the configuration of an instantaneous
heating device.
Fig. 17 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a part of a nozzle.
Fig. 18 is a schematic sectional view of a nozzle in a case where washing water is
sprayed toward a surface to be washed of the human body from a posterior nozzle.
Fig. 19 is a schematic sectional view of a nozzle in a case where nozzle cleaning
hot water or nozzle cleaning vapor is sprayed from a nozzle cleaning nozzle.
Fig. 20 is a schematic sectional view of an automatic opening/closing toilet seat
system provided in a main body in the sanitary washing apparatus shown in Fig. 10.
Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along a line F - F in the automatic opening/closing
toilet seat system shown in Fig. 20.
Fig. 22 is a diagram for explaining the operation of an automatic opening/closing
toilet cover device for a toilet cover.
Fig. 23 is a diagram showing a signal transmitted to a controller from a hole IC by
operating the automatic opening/closing toilet cover device shown in Fig. 22.
Fig. 24 is a flow chart showing the operation of the controller.
Fig. 25 is a flow chart showing the operation of the controller.
Fig. 26 is a schematic plan view showing another example of the remote control device
shown in Fig. 10.
Fig. 27 is a partially cutaway sectional view showing another example of an instantaneous
heating device used for a sanitary washing apparatus according to the present invention.
Fig. 28 is a flow chart showing the operation of a controller in a sanitary washing
apparatus according to a third embodiment.
Fig. 29 is a flow chart showing the operation of the controller in the sanitary washing
apparatus according to the third embodiment.
Fig. 30 is a diagram showing an example of the control timing of the controller in
the sanitary washing apparatus in the third embodiment.
Fig. 31 is a schematic view showing the configuration of a main body in a sanitary
washing apparatus according to a fourth embodiment.
Fig. 32 is a partially cutaway sectional view showing the configuration of an instantaneous
heating device.
Fig. 33 is a schematic perspective view of an instantaneous heating device according
to a fifth embodiment.
Fig. 34 is a schematic view of an example of an instantaneous heating device according
to a sixth embodiment.
Fig. 35 is a schematic view of the configuration of a sanitary washing apparatus according
to a seventh embodiment.
Fig. 36 is a side sectional view of a conventional sanitary washing apparatus.
Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
[0078] First to seventh embodiments of the present invention will be described while referring
to Figs. 1 to 35.
(First Embodiment)
[0079] Fig. 1 illustrates the appearance of a sanitary washing apparatus according to a
first embodiment of the present invention.
[0080] In Fig. 1, a hot-water washing toilet seat serving as a sanitary washing apparatus
(hereinafter referred to as a sanitary washing apparatus) 100 is installed on a toilet
bowl 600. The sanitary washing apparatus 100 comprises a main body 200, a cover (toilet
cover) 500, a toilet seat 400 on which a user is to sit, and so on. The sanitary washing
apparatus 100 comprises a water supply pipe for receiving the supply of washing water
from a tap water (indicated by a tap water pipe 201 shown in Fig. 3) and an electrical
cable 800 for receiving the supply of power from an outlet on a wall surface. The
inside of the sanitary washing apparatus 100 comprises a posterior washing function
for washing the anus of a user, a bidet washing function for washing the female private
parts after urination, a drying function for drying the private parts of the human
body after washing, a room heating function for heating a toilet space at cold times,
and so on. The functions are respectively exerted by a user pressing various types
of switches in a remote control device (a remote controller) 300 mounted on the wall
surface. A seating sensor 51 serving as a detector for detecting the presence of a
user is provided in the toilet seat 400. In the present embodiment, the seating sensor
51 detects the presence or absence of seating of a user on the toilet seat 400 using
infrared rays.
[0081] Used as a system of the seating sensor 51 may be a system for detecting the electrostatic
capacitance of the toilet seat 400, a system for detecting seating of a user on the
toilet seat 400 using infrared rays, ultrasonic waves, etc., a system for detecting
that a user enters and leaves a toilet room, a system for detecting the presence of
a user in synchronization with the illumination of the toilet room, or the like.
[0082] Fig. 2 illustrates the general view of the remote control device 300.
[0083] In Fig. 2, the remote control device 300 comprises a nozzle cleaning switch (a sterilization
switch) 309 for issuing an instruction to perform sterilization using high-temperature
washing water from a posterior nozzle 1 and a bidet nozzle which are human body washing
nozzle devices (hereinafter merely referred to as high-temperature cleaning sterilization),
a posterior switch 303 serving as a start device capable of a user inputting the start
of human body washing, a bidet switch 306 mainly used after urination and in menstrual
periods by women, a stop switch 305 serving as a stop device for inputting the stop
of washing, a drying switch 307 for switching a drying function on and off, a deodorization
switch 314 for switching a deodorization function on and off, and an adjustment switch
(level switch) 302 for adjusting the level of the function, and so on.
[0084] An operation signal transmitted by the user pressing each of the switches in the
remote control device 300 is transmitted to the main body 200 in the warm water cleaning
toilet seat by an infrared signal. Thus, the remote control device 300 is so configured
that it can instruct the main body 200 to operate various types of functions by radio.
[0085] Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing a water circuit in the sanitary washing apparatus
100 in the first embodiment, Figs. 4, 5, and 6 are diagrams showing the configuration
of a switching valve, and Figs. 7 and 8 are perspective views showing the appearance
of an instantaneous heating device (a hot water unit) and a cross-sectional view showing
a principal part of the human body washing nozzle device.
[0086] In Fig. 3, a tap water pipe 201 serving as a water source is first connected to a
pipe (a water supply pipe) 202 leading to a switching valve 14 in the main body 200
in the sanitary washing apparatus 100. On the pipe 202, a stop solenoid valve 9 serving
as a waterstop device, a flow sensor 10 for measuring the flow rate of washing water,
a heat exchanger (a warm water unit) 11 for forming warm water, a temperature sensor
12b for detecting the temperature of warm water, and so on.
[0087] The heat exchanger 11 comprises a plate-shaped ceramic heater and an internal flow
path, which snakes, provided on both its surfaces. Room-temperature washing water
supplied to an inlet of the heat exchanger 11 receives heat from a ceramic heater
while flowing through the internal flow path which snakes, and is heated to a proper
temperature until it leads to an outlet of the heat exchanger 11. Therefore, the heat
exchanger 11 is a very efficient warm water supply device because it can continuously
supply warm water having a proper temperature when required and need not be warmed
and stored in preparation for the use time.
[0088] Although in the first embodiment, the plate-shaped ceramic heater superior in heat
density is used as a heater, various heaters such as a sheathed heater, a mica heater,
and a print heater may be used.
[0089] Furthermore, the switching valve 14 is connected through a pipe (warm water pipe)
203 on the downstream side of the heat exchanger 11. In the switching valve 14, a
washing water inlet (an inlet flow path) 143a to which the above-mentioned pipe 203
is connected is selectively communicated with a washing water outlet (a first outlet
flow path) 143b, a washing water outlet (a second outlet flow path) 143c, and a washing
water outlet (a third outlet flow path) 143d by a motor 141.
[0090] The switching valve 14 used in the first embodiment can vary the flow rate of washing
water flowing through the flow path selected in addition to switching of a water passage
by varying the communication area of the washing water inlet 143a with the washing
water outlet 143b, the washing water outlet 143c, and the washing water outlet 143d.
[0091] On the downstream side of the switching valve 14, a posterior nozzle 1 which is the
one human body washing nozzle device is connected to the washing water outlet 143b,
and a bidet nozzle 2 which is the other human body washing nozzle device is connected
to the washing water outlet 143c. An instantaneous heating device 33 for changing
warm water into high-temperature hot water and a nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 for sterilizing
outer surfaces of the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 by high-temperature
cleaning with the hot water are connected to the washing water outlet 143d.
[0092] Each of the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 is provided with a spray hole
(a discharge port) for spraying warm water flowing via the heat exchanger 11 and the
switching valve 14 as washing water for washing the human body toward the anus or
the female private parts.
[0093] As shown in Figs. 8 and 9, a nozzle cleaning hole 24d is provided at a front end
on the downstream side of a sheathed heater 505 in the instantaneous heating device
33.
[0094] A spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1 and a spray hole in the bidet nozzle 2
are so configured as to spray washing water toward a portion to be washed of the human
body, that is, the anus or the female private parts in a case where they are used
for washing the human body. When the human body is not washed, as shown in Fig. 7,
however, the nozzle cleaning switch (sterilization switch) 309 in the remove operation
device 300 is pressed so that high-temperature hot water is discharged toward the
outer surfaces of the spray holes 25 in the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle
2 which are the human body washing nozzle devices from the nozzle cleaning nozzle
3 to sterilize the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2. The hot water used for
sterilizing the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 by high-temperature cleaning
flows down in the toilet bowl.
[0095] The position and the direction of the nozzle cleaning hole 24d are determined such
that the high-temperature hot water discharged from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 does
not splash on the human body even if the above-mentioned high-temperature cleaning
sterilization is performed in a state where the user sits on the toilet seat 400.
[0096] The posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are driven by a configuration of a
piston (a cylindrical piston) 20, a cylinder (a cylindrical cylinder) 21, and a spring
23. That is, when washing water is fed to the washing water outlet 143b by operating
the switching valve 14 shown in Figs. 4 and 5, the water pressure of the washing water
is exerted on the piston 20, and the posterior nozzle 1 is ejected against a force
of the spring 23, so that warm water is sprayed from the spray hole 25, as shown in
Fig. 9.
[0097] When the switching valve 14 is operated by the motor 141 so that the washing water
outlet 143b is closed, the piston 20 is pressed back by the force of the spring 23,
as shown in Fig. 8. Therefore, the posterior nozzle 1 enters a state where it is accommodated
within the main body 200 in the sanitary washing apparatus 100. Thus, the posterior
nozzle 1 is so configured that the position of the spray hole 25 can be made variable
at the standby time and at the use time. The bidet nozzle 2 is similarly so configured
that the position of the spray hole can be made variable by opening and closing the
washing water outlet 143c using the switching valve 14.
[0098] Although in the embodiment shown in Fig. 3, the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet
nozzle 2 are gotten in and out by the water pressure of washing water, the present
invention is not limited to the same. For example, they may be gotten in and out by
meshing a rack and a pinion gear (not shown), for example, and driving the pinion
gear by a motor.
[0099] As shown in Fig. 8, when the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are in a standby
state (in an accommodated state), the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 covers upper surfaces
of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1 and the spray hole in the bidet nozzle
2. Thus, the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 which are the human body washing
nozzle devices are generally accommodated within the main body 200 in the sanitary
washing apparatus, and project from the main body in the sanitary washing apparatus
at the time of washing the human body. Further, an operation of high-temperature cleaning
sterilization is inhibited in states other than the state where the posterior nozzle
1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are accommodated within the main body 200 in the sanitary
washing apparatus such that hot water from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 does not splash
on the human body at the time of the high-temperature cleaning sterilization.
[0100] Referring now to Figs. 4, 5 and 6, the switching valve 14 will be described in detail.
[0101] The switching valve 14 comprises an outer cylinder (a housing) 143, an inner cylinder
142 (a valve member) which is inserted into the outer cylinder 143 so as to be rotatable,
and a motor 141 for rotating the inner cylinder 142.
[0102] First, the outer cylinder 143 is provided with a washing water inlet 143a, a washing
water outlet 143b, a washing water outlet 143c, and a washing water outlet 143d. As
shown in Fig. 5, the washing water outlet 143b and the washing water outlet 143c are
arranged so as to be positioned opposed to each other in a cross section A - A. As
shown in a cross section B - B in Fig. 6, the washing water outlet 143d is provided
at a cross-sectional position different from those of the two washing water outlets
143b and 143c. Then, the inner cylinder 142 is provided with an internal flow path
143h in such a form that it always communicates with the washing water inlet 143a
when it is inserted into the outer cylinder 143. The inner flow path 143h is provided
with a hole (a first valve outlet) 142f and a hole (a second valve outlet) 142g. The
hole 142f is provided at a position corresponding to the washing water outlet 143b
and the washing water outlet 143c in the outer cylinder 143, and the hole 142g is
provided at a position corresponding to the washing water outlet 143d in the outer
cylinder 143. By these configurations, the rotation angle of the inner cylinder 142
allows the respective degrees of communication of the washing water inlet 143a with
the washing water outlet 143b, the washing water outlet 143c, and the washing water
outlet 143d to be varied.
[0103] Although the flow paths are respectively provided with O-rings 144 as sealing members
in order to prevent an internal leak or prevent an external leak, the present invention
is not limited to the same. The O-ring may be replaced with a special O-ring such
as an X-ring or a V packing in order to reduce a load on a motor.
[0104] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a reduction gear contained stepping motor
which can be positioned with high accuracy even in open control is employed as the
motor 141, and its output shaft is mounted on the inner cylinder 142 in such a form
that it is inserted thereinto. Although in the first embodiment, the stepping motor
is employed as the motor 141, a brush-type general-purpose DC motor or the like can
be utilized, provided that even positioning accuracy is ensured. Alternatively, various
types of actuators such as a rotary-type solenoid may be used. Although in the first
embodiment, the rotary-type flow path switching valve is used, a direct driving flow
path switching valve, a flow path switching valve using a diaphragm, or a flow path
switching valve for switching a plurality of flow paths by a disk-type inner cylinder,
and so on can be also used.
[0105] In the above-mentioned configuration, in the configuration of the sanitary washing
apparatus 100 comprising the posterior nozzle 1 and the bide nozzle 2 respectively
having the spray holes 25 and 25e for discharging washing water for washing the human
body and the instantaneous heating device (high-temperature cleaning sterilization
device) 33 for sterilizing at least the outer surfaces of the spray holes 25 and 25e
in the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 by high-temperature cleaning, the
nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 including the instantaneous heating device 33 can sterilize
the outer surfaces of the spray holes 25 and 25e in the posterior nozzle 1 and the
bidet nozzle 2 by high-temperature cleaning using the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 including
the instantaneous heating device 33. Thus, the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle
2 can be kept clean by performing the high-temperature cleaning sterilization when
the sanitary washing apparatus 100 is employed, thereby making it possible for a cleanly
person to employ the sanitary washing apparatus 100 at ease.
[0106] When high-temperature hot water is discharged from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 including
the instantaneous heating device 33, the user presses the nozzle cleaning switch 309
in the remote control device 300 so that a controller 4 incorporated in the sanitary
washing apparatus 100 controls the operation of high-temperature cleaning sterilization
upon receipt of a high-temperature cleaning sterilization mode signal.
[0107] That is, in a case where the user presses the nozzle cleaning switch 309, the controller
4 carries out such control as to drive the motor 141 in the switching valve 14 to
communicate the washing water inlet 143a and the washing water outlet 143d with each
other, and sterilize the outer surfaces of the spray holes 25 and 25e in the posterior
nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 by high-temperature cleaning from the nozzle cleaning
nozzle 3 after warm water from the heat exchanger 11 is supplied to the instantaneous
heating device 33 and is changed into high-temperature hot water.
[0108] Thus, the sanitary washing apparatus 100 comprises the controller 4 for controlling
the operation of high-temperature cleaning sterilization upon receipt of the high-temperature
cleaning sterilization mode signal and the instantaneous heating device 33. Therefore,
the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 respectively having the spray holes
25 and 25e for discharging washing water for washing the human body can be kept sanitary
without producing contamination by fungi and molds because at least the outer surfaces
of the spray holes 25 and 25e in the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are
sterilized by high-temperature cleaning without troubles of the operation.
[0109] Although in the first embodiment, description was made of such a configuration that
the nozzle cleaning switch 309 for transmitting the high-temperature cleaning sterilization
mode signal is provided in the remote control device 300 in the sanitary washing apparatus
100, it may be provided in the main body 200 in the sanitary washing apparatus 100.
[0110] Thus, the configuration in which the nozzle cleaning switch 309 for transmitting
the high-temperature cleaning sterilization mode signal is provided in the main body
200 or the remote control device 300 in the sanitary washing apparatus 100 allows
the high-temperature cleaning sterilization to be easily and simply performed only
by pressing the nozzle cleaning switch 309.
[0111] The posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are sterilized using high-temperature
hot water produced by the instantaneous heating device 33, thereby making it possible
to keep the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 sanitary without producing contamination
by fungi and molds by the sterilization function using the high-temperature hot water.
[0112] The temperature of the hot water used for performing the high-temperature cleaning
sterilization is preferably 55°C to 100°C, more preferably 55°C to 70°C, and most
preferably 60°C to 70°C. The reason for this is that as a result of examination, there
is an example in which beer is sterilized at 55 to 60°C, sake is sterilized at 55
to 60°C, and miso is sterilized at approximately 60°C, for example, in the field of
food. Incidentally, it is said that the death point of a germ is 60°C if the germ
is any of a dysentery bacillus, typhoid bacteria, paratyphoid bacillus, Escherichia
coli, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Brucella, streptococci, and staphylococcus, and so
on. The results of examination of the effect of sterilizing the germs will be described
later.
[0113] Even in the results of experiments on the Escherichia coli, the sterilization effect
can be confirmed at 55°C. The higher the temperature is, the larger a high-temperature
sterilization action is. However, it is preferable that the upper-limit temperature
is 70°C. Thus, the temperature of hot water is set to 55°C to 70°C, which may not
bring about a serious result even if the human body touches the hot water, and allows
contamination by fungi and molds to be effectively prevented.
[0114] The nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 is provided in a branched path other than a path for
supplying washing water to the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2. By this
configuration, the instantaneous heating device 33 is provided in another branched
path which does not lead to the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2. Thus, the
possibility that the hot water is discharged from the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet
nozzle 2 to splash on the human body is eliminated, thereby allowing the posterior
nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 to be sterilized by high-temperature cleaning at ease.
Further, no high-temperature washing water is supplied to the path for supplying washing
water to the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2, so that a material composing
the path and a material composing the heat exchanger 11 and the switching valve 14
halfway provided need not be a special heat-resistant material.
[0115] Furthermore, the flow rate of the hot water passing through the instantaneous heating
device 33 is controlled to a predetermined flow rate by the controller 4 at the time
of high-temperature cleaning sterilization. That is, the degree of a communication
aperture between the washing water inlet 143a and the washing water outlet 143d in
the switching valve 14 is taken as a predetermined amount so that the flow rate of
the hot water flowing through the instantaneous heating device 33 is controlled by
the controller 4. The controller 4 can obtain a flow rate signal from the flow sensor
10. The hot water can be prevented from splashing on the human body by controlling
the flow rate of the hot water to a predetermined flow rate. Heat input required for
warm water, which is controlled to a predetermined temperature of 40°C, for example,
by the heat exchanger 11 to be changed into hot water having a predetermined temperature
of 60°C, for example, by the instantaneous heating device 33 is theoretically determined
at the flow rate of the hot water. As a result, the flow rate of the hot water passing
through the instantaneous heating device 33 is controlled to a predetermined flow
rate, thereby eliminating the necessity of providing a temperature sensor in the instantaneous
heating device 33. Moreover, an amount of heat required for heating in the sheathed
heater 505 can be also reduced by controlling the flow rate of the hot water to a
small predetermined flow rate, and the effect of energy saving is obtained together
with the above-mentioned safety.
[0116] The sheathed heater 505 in the instantaneous heating device 33 is a self-temperature
control heater. Thus, electric input is automatically controlled such that the temperature
of the hot water is a predetermined temperature of 60°C, for example, by the self-temperature
control sheathed heater 505 itself without mounting a temperature sensor or the like
on the instantaneous heating device 33. Therefore, the instantaneous heating device
33 can be made compact, and can be used at ease by a user because the temperature
of the hot water can be also made approximately constant and the sterilization effect
can be stabilized. However, the sheathed heater 505 in the instantaneous heating device
33 need not necessarily be a self-temperature control heater. For example, it may
be a general ceramic heater, provided that even temperature control can be safely
carried out.
[0117] The posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are generally accommodated in the main
body 200 in the sanitary washing apparatus 100, and project from the main body 200
in the sanitary washing apparatus 100 at the time of washing the human body, to inhibit
the operation of high-temperature cleaning sterilization in states other than a state
where the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are accommodated within the main
body 200 in the sanitary washing apparatus 100 such that the hot water from the nozzle
cleaning nozzle 3 does not splash on the human body at the time of the high-temperature
cleaning sterilization. That is, even if the user erroneously presses an operation
button for issuing an instruction to sterilize the remote control device 300 by high-temperature
cleaning (a nozzle cleaning switch 309) when he or she washes his or her human body
by the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2, the controller 4 carries out control
so as not to perform the operation of high-temperature cleaning sterilization. That
is, a signal of the nozzle cleaning switch 309 is accepted by the controller 4 only
in a state where the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are accommodated within
the main body 200 in the sanitary washing apparatus 100. This allows the user to employ
the sanitary washing apparatus 100 at ease without fears such as a scald.
[0118] At the time of high-temperature cleaning sterilization, a plurality of nozzles in
each of the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are simultaneously sterilized
by high-temperature cleaning with hot water from the nozzle cleaning hole (hot water
discharge port) 24d. Even when the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are employed
after the high-temperature cleaning sterilization, the posterior nozzle 1 and the
bidet nozzle 2 which are sterilization by high-temperature cleaning can be also used.
Therefore, the user can wash the private parts at ease in a state where the posterior
nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are clean by being sterilized.
[0119] Portions, on which hot water having a high temperature of 55°C to 70°C is exerted,
in the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are composed of a high-resistant
material which sufficiently withstands the high temperature, thereby allowing the
posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 to be employed at ease for a long time period
without fears such as deformation and damage by high-temperature cleaning sterilization.
[0120] On the other hand, portions, on which hot water having a high temperature of 55°C
to 70°C is exerted, in the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are formed of
stainless steel, so that the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 sufficiently
withstand the high temperature and are highly clean, thereby making it possible to
further enhance the effect of high-temperature cleaning sterilization.
[0121] The posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are so configured that a surface composed
of resin is coated with a metal, so that the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle
2 can be formed of resin even if the flow paths or outer shapes thereof are in a three-dimensional
curved shape, and the high-temperature cleaning sterilization effect on the surfaces
of the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 can be further enhanced by plating
the surface of the resin with a metal, for example, to form a metal film on at least
a part of the surface.
[0122] A water stain scale can be prevented from adhering to the posterior nozzle 1 and
the bidet nozzle 2 by subjecting the surfaces of the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet
nozzle 2 to water repellent processing. Therefore, the effect of the high-temperature
cleaning sterilization can be further enhanced.
[0123] The instantaneous heating device 33 is so configured as to automatically perform
high-temperature cleaning sterilization not only in a case where the nozzle cleaning
switch 309 in the remote control device 300 is pressed but also for each predetermined
time interval, thereby making it possible to provide a sanitary washing apparatus
100 that can be always kept sanitary and clean without producing contamination by
fungi and molds because the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are automatically
sterilized by high-temperature cleaning for each predetermined time interval even
when the sanitary washing apparatus 100 is not employed for a long time period or
for a long time.
[0124] As described in the foregoing, according to the first embodiment, there can be provided
a sanitary washing apparatus 100 that can be kept clean easily and simply and can
be employed at ease even by a cleanly person by the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet
nozzle 2 for discharging washing water for washing the human body and the nozzle cleaning
nozzle 3 for sterilizing the outer surfaces of the spray holes in the posterior nozzle
1 and the bidet nozzle 2 by high-temperature cleaning.
(Second Embodiment)
[0125] A sanitary washing apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention
will be described on the basis of Figs. 10 to 25.
[0126] Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing a state where a sanitary washing apparatus
according to an embodiment of the present invention is mounted on a toilet bowl.
[0127] As shown in Fig. 10, a sanitary washing apparatus 100a is mounted on a toilet bowl
600. A tank 700 is connected to a tap water pipe, to supply washing water to the toilet
bowl 600.
[0128] The sanitary washing apparatus 100a comprises a main body 200a, a remote control
device 300, a toilet seat 400, and a cover 500.
[0129] The toilet seat 400 and the cover 500 are mounted on the main body 200a so as to
be capable of being opened or closed. Further, the main body 200a is provided with
a washing water supplying mechanism including a nozzle 30, a seating sensor 51, and
an automatic opening/closing toilet bowl system, described later, and contains a controller.
The seating sensor 51 detects the presence or absence of a user on the toilet seat
400 using infrared rays. A hole IC in the automatic opening/closing toilet bowl system
detects the presence or absence of the user on the toilet bowl 400 using a hole effect.
Further, a toilet seat switch 55 for detecting the presence or absence of the user
on the toilet seat 400 by a load is provided on a lower surface of the toilet seat
400.
[0130] In the present embodiment, the controller detects a state where the sanitary washing
apparatus 100 is used using the hole IC. The controller may detect the state where
the sanitary washing apparatus 100a is employed using the seating sensor 51 or the
toilet seat switch 55.
[0131] The controller in the main body 200a controls the washing water supplying mechanism
on the basis of signals transmitted from the hole IC, described later, the toilet
seat switch 55, and the seating sensor 51, and a signal transmitted by the remote
control device 300, described later. Further, the controller in the main body 200a
also controls a heater (not shown) contained in the toilet seat 400, a deodorization
device (not shown) provided in the main body 200a, a hot air supply device (not shown),
and so on.
[0132] Fig. 11 is a schematic plan view showing an example of the remote control device
shown in Fig. 10. A remote control device 300a comprises a display panel 301, an adjustment
switch 302, a posterior switch 303, a stop switch 305, a bidet switch 306, a drying
switch 307, a nozzle cleaning switch 309, a speaker 310, a notification lamp 311,
and a child lock switch 312.
[0133] The adjustment switch 302, the posterior switch 303, the stop switch 305, the bidet
switch 306, the drying switch 307, the nozzle cleaning switch 309, and the child lock
switch 312 are pressed by the user. Thus, the remote control device 300a transmits
a predetermined signal to the controller provided in the main body 200a in the sanitary
washing apparatus 100a, described later, by radio. The controller in the main body
200 receives the predetermined signal transmitted by radio from the remote control
device 300, to control the washing water supplying mechanism or the like.
[0134] For example, the user presses the posterior switch 303 or the bidet switch 306 so
that the nozzle 30 in the main body 200a shown in Fig. 10 is moved to spray washing
water. The stop switch 305 is pressed so that the spray of the washing water from
the nozzle 30 is stopped.
[0135] The child lock switch 312 is pressed so that a predetermined signal transmitted to
the controller, described later, from the remote control device 300a is disabled.
When the child lock switch 312 is pressed once, the predetermined signal transmitted
to the controller, described later, is enabled by performing a predetermined operation.
Examples of the predetermined operation include an operation of pressing the child
lock switch 312 for not less than three seconds or an operation of simultaneously
pressing the child lock switch 312 and the other switch.
[0136] Furthermore, a posterior nozzle and a bidet nozzle in the nozzle 30, described later,
are cleaned (hereinafter referred to as nozzle cleaning) by pressing the nozzle cleaning
switch 309. The details of a nozzle cleaning operation will be described later. The
drying switch 307 is pressed so that hot air is sprayed toward the private parts of
the human body from a warm air supply device (not shown) in the sanitary washing apparatus
100.
[0137] The adjustment switch 302 comprises water power adjustment switches 302a and 302b.
The user presses the water power adjustment switches 302a and 302b so that the pressure
of washing water sprayed from the nozzle 30 is changed. A lighting display in the
shape of a bar graph on the display panel 30 is changed as the water power adjustment
switches 302a and 302b are pressed.
Description is now made of the main body 200a in the sanitary washing apparatus 100a
according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 12 is a schematic view showing
the configuration of the main body 200a in the sanitary washing apparatus 100a according
to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0138] The main body 200a shown in Fig. 12 comprises a controller 4, a branched water faucet
5, a straighter 6, a check valve 7, a constant flow valve 8, a stop solenoid valve
9, a flow sensor 10, a heat exchanger 11, temperature sensors 12a, 12b, and 12c, a
seating sensor 51, a toilet bowl switch 55, hole ICs 513a and 513b, a pump 13, a switching
valve 14a, an instantaneous heating device 33, and a nozzle 30. The nozzle 30 comprises
a posterior nozzle 1a, a bidet nozzle 2, and a nozzle cleaning nozzle 3, and the instantaneous
heating device 33 comprises a thermistor 33a, a thermistor 33b, and a temperature
fuse (not shown).
[0139] As shown in Fig. 12, the branched water facet 5 is interposed in a tap water pipe
201. The straighter 6, the check valve 7, the constant flow valve 8, the stop solenoid
valve 9, the flow sensor 10, and the temperature sensor 12a are interposed in this
order in a pipe 202 connected between the branched water faucet 5 and the heat exchanger
11. Further, the temperature sensor 12b and the pump 13 are interposed in a pipe 203
connected between the heat exchanger 11 and the switching valve 14a.
[0140] First, purified water flowing through the tap water pipe 201 is supplied as washing
water to the straighter 6 by the branched water faucet 5. Dust, impurities, and so
on included in the washing water are removed by the straighter 6. Backflow of the
washing water in the pipe 202 is then prevented by the check valve 7. The flow rate
of the washing water flowing in the pipe 202 is kept constant by the constant flow
valve 8.
[0141] A relief pipe 204 is connected between the pump 13 and the switching valve 14a, and
a relief water faucet 205 is connected between the stop solenoid valve 9 and the flow
sensor 10. A relief valve 206 is interposed in the relief pipe 204. The relief valve
206 is opened when the pressure, particularly on the downstream side of the pump 13,
of the pipe 203 exceeds a predetermined value, to prevent problems such as damage
to equipment at the abnormal time and disconnection of a hose.
[0142] On the other hand, washing water which is not sucked in by the pump 13 in washing
water supplied after the flow rate thereof is adjusted by the constant flow valve
8 is discharged from the relief water pipe 205. Thus, predetermined back pressure
is exerted on the pump 13 without being dependent on tap water supply pressure.
[0143] The flow sensor 10 then measures the flow rate of the washing water flowing in the
pipe 202, and gives a measured flow rate value to the controller 4. The temperature
sensor 12a measures the temperature of the washing water flowing in the pipe 202,
and gives a measured temperature value to the controller 4.
[0144] The heat exchanger 11 then heats the washing water supplied through the pipe 202
to a predetermined temperature on the basis of a control signal fed by the controller
4. The temperature sensor 12b measures the temperature of the washing water heated
to the predetermined temperature by the heat exchanger 11, and gives a measured temperature
value to the controller 4. The temperature sensor 12c measures the temperature of
the washing water supplied to the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 through the instantaneous
heating device 33, and gives a measured temperature value to the controller 4.
[0145] The pump 13 feeds by pressure the washing water heated by the heat exchanger 11 to
the switching valve 14 on the basis of the control signal fed by the controller 4.
The switching valve 14a supplies the washing water to any one of the posterior nozzle
1a, the bidet nozzle 2, and the instantaneous heating device 33 in the nozzle 30 on
the basis of the control signal fed by the controller 4.
[0146] When the washing water is supplied to the posterior nozzle 1a or the bidet nozzle
2 in the nozzle 30, the washing water is sprayed from the posterior nozzle 1a or the
bidet nozzle 2. On the other hand, when the washing water is supplied to the instantaneous
heating device 33, the washing water is heated by the instantaneous heating device
33, and the heated washing water or vapor generated by the heating is supplied to
the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3.
[0147] The washing water heated by the instantaneous heating device 33 is referred to as
nozzle cleaning hot water, and the vapor generated by the heating of the instantaneous
heating device 33 is referred to as nozzle cleaning vapor.
[0148] The nozzle cleaning hot water or the nozzle cleaning vapor is sprayed on the posterior
nozzle 1a or the bidet nozzle 2 from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3. In the instantaneous
heating device 33, the washing water is prevented from being overheated by the thermistor
33a, the thermostat 33b, and the temperature fuse.
[0149] The flow rates of the washing water sprayed from the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet
nozzle 2 as well as the flow rates of the nozzle cleaning hot water and the nozzle
cleaning vapor sprayed from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 are adjusted by the switching
valve 14a.
[0150] The controller 4 feeds the control signal to the stop solenoid valve 9, the heat
exchanger 11, the pump 13, the switching valve 14a, and the instantaneous heating
device 33 on the basis of the signal transmitted by radio from the remote control
device 300 shown in Fig. 11, the measured flow rate value fed from the flow sensor
10, and the measured temperature values respectively fed from the temperature sensors
12a, 12b, and 12c.
[0151] Fig. 13 (a) is a longitudinal sectional view of the switching valve 14a, Fig. 13
(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along a line C - C of the switching valve 14a
shown in Fig. 13 (a), Fig. 13 (c) is a cross-sectional view taken along a line D -
D of the switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 13 (a), and Fig. 13 (d) is a cross-sectional
view taken along a line E - E of the switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 13 (a).
[0152] The switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 13 comprises a motor 141, an inner cylinder
142, and an outer cylinder 143.
[0153] The inner cylinder 142 is inserted into the outer cylinder 143, and an axis of rotation
of the motor 141 is mounted on the inner cylinder 142. The motor 141 performs a rotating
operation on the basis of the control signal fed by the controller 4. The motor 141
is rotated so that the inner cylinder 142 is rotated.
[0154] As shown in Figs. 13 (a), 13 (b), 13 (c), and 13 (d), a washing water inlet 143a
is provided at one end of the outer cylinder 143, washing water outlets 143b and 143c
are provided at opposite positions of its side part, a washing water outlet 143d is
provided at a position different from the washing water outlets 143b and 143c in the
side part, and a washing water outlet 143e is provided at a position different from
the washing water outlets 143b, 143c, and 143d in the side part. Holes 142e, 142f,
and 142g are provided at different positions of the inner cylinder 142. A chamfer
composed of a curved line and a straight line is formed, as shown in Figs. 13 (b)
and 13 (c), around each of the holes 142e and 142f, and a chamfer composed of a straight
line is formed, as shown in Fig. 13 (d), around the hole 142g.
[0155] The rotation of the inner cylinder 142 allows the hole 142e to be opposed to the
washing water outlet 143b or 143c in the outer cylinder 143, allows the hole 142f
to be opposed to the washing water outlet 143d in the outer cylinder 143, and allows
the hole 142g to be opposed to the washing water outlet 143e in the outer cylinder
143.
[0156] The pipe 203 shown in Fig. 12 is connected to the washing water inlet 143a, the bidet
nozzle 2 is connected to the washing water outlet 143b, a first flow path of the posterior
nozzle 1a is connected to the washing water outlet 143c, and a second flow path of
the posterior nozzle is connected to the washing water outlet 143d, and the nozzle
cleaning nozzle 3 is connected to the washing water outlet 143e.
[0157] Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the switching valve 14a
shown in Fig. 13.
[0158] Figs. 14 (a) to 14 (f) illustrate states where the motor 141 in the switching valve
14a is respectively rotated through 0 degree, 90 degrees, 135 degrees, 180 degrees,
225 degrees, and 270 degrees.
[0159] First, as shown in Fig. 14 (a), in a case where the motor 141 is not rotated (rotated
through 0 degree), the chamfer around the hole 142e in the inner cylinder 142 is then
opposed to the washing water outlet 143b in the outer cylinder 143. Thus, washing
water passes in the inner cylinder 142 through the washing water inlet 143a, to flow
out of the washing water outlet 143b, as indicated by an arrow W1.
[0160] Then, as shown in Fig. 14 (b), in a case where the motor 141 rotates the inner cylinder
142 through 90 degrees, the chamfer around the hole 142g in the inner cylinder 142
is opposed to the washing water outlet 143e in the outer cylinder 143. Thus, washing
water passe.s in the inner cylinder 142 through the washing water inlet 143a, to flow
out of the washing water outlet 143e, as indicated by an arrow W2.
[0161] Then, as shown in Fig. 14 (c), in a case where the motor 141 rotates the inner cylinder
142 through 135 degrees, the chamfer around the hole 142g in the inner cylinder 142
is then opposed to the washing water outlet 143e in the outer cylinder 143, and a
part of the chamfer around the hole 142e in the inner cylinder 142 is opposed to the
washing water outlet 143c in the outer cylinder 143. Thus, a small amount of washing
water passes in the inner cylinder 142 through the washing water inlet 143a, to flow
out of the washing water outlets 143c and 143e, as indicated by arrows W2 and W3.
[0162] Then, as shown in Fig. 14 (d), in a case where the motor 141 rotates the inner cylinder
142 through 180 degrees, the chamfer around the hole 142e in the inner cylinder 142
is then opposed to the washing water outlet 143c in the outer cylinder 143. Thus,
washing water passes in the inner cylinder 142 through the washing water inlet 143a,
to flow out of the washing water outlet 143c, as indicated by an arrow W3.
[0163] Then, as shown in Fig. 14 (e), in a case where the motor 141 rotates the inner cylinder
142 through 225 degrees, a part of the chamfer around the hole 142e in the inner cylinder
142 is then opposed to the washing water outlet 143c in the outer cylinder 143, and
a part of the chamfer around the hole 142f in the inner cylinder 142 is opposed to
the washing water outlet 143d in the outer cylinder 143. Thus, a small amount of washing
water passes in the inner cylinder 142 through the washing water inlet 143a, to flow
out of the washing water outlets 143c and 143d, as indicated by arrows W3 and W4.
[0164] As shown in Fig. 14 (f), in a case where the motor 141 rotates the inner cylinder
142 through 270 degrees, the chamfer around the hole 142f in the inner cylinder 142
is opposed to the washing water outlet 143d in the outer cylinder 143. Thus, washing
water passes in the inner cylinder 142 through the washing water inlet 143a, to flow
out of the washing water outlet 143d, as indicated by an arrow W4.
[0165] As described in the foregoing, the motor 141 is rotated on the basis of the control
signal from the controller 4, so that any one of the holes 142e, 142f, and 142g in
the inner cylinder 142 is opposed to the washing water outlets 143b to 143e in the
outer cylinder 143. Thus, the washing water flowing from the washing water inlet 143a
flows out of any one of the washing water outlets 143b to 143e.
[0166] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing the flow rate of washing water flowing out of the washing
water outlets 143c and 143d in the switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 13 into the posterior
nozzle 1, the flow rate of washing water flowing out of the washing water outlet 143b
into the bidet nozzle 2, and the flow rate of washing water flowing out of the washing
water outlet 143e into the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3.
[0167] In Fig. 15, the horizontal axis indicates the rotation angle of the motor 141, and
the vertical axis indicates the flow rate of washing water flowing out of the washing
water outlets 143b to 143e. A solid line Q1 indicates the change in the flow rate
of washing water flowing out of the washing water outlet 143c into the posterior nozzle
1, a one-dot and dash line Q2 indicates the change in the flow rate of washing water
flowing out of the washing water outlet 143d into the posterior nozzle 1a, a two-dot
and dash line Q3 indicates the change in the flow rate of washing water flowing out
of the washing water outlet 143b into the bidet nozzle 2, and a broken line Q4 indicates
the change in the flow rate of washing water flowing out of the washing water outlet
143e into the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 through the instantaneous heating device 33.
[0168] When the motor 141 is not rotated (0 degree), as shown in Fig. 15, for example, the
flow rate Q3 of washing water flowing out of the washing water outlet 143b into the
bidet nozzle 2 takes the maximum value. As the rotation angle of the motor 141 increases,
the flow rate Q3 of washing water flowing out of the washing water outlet 143b into
the bidet nozzle 2 decreases, and the flow rate Q4 of washing water flowing out of
the washing water outlet 143e into the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 increases.
[0169] When the motor 141 is then rotated through 90 degrees, the flow rate Q4 of washing
water flowing out of the washing water outlet 143e into the nozzle cleaning nozzle
3 takes the maximum value. As the rotation angle of the motor 141 further increases,
the flow rate Q4 of washing water flowing out of the washing water outlet 143e into
the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 decreases, and the flow rate Q1 of washing water flowing
out of the washing water outlet 143c into the posterior nozzle 1a increases.
[0170] When the motor 141 is then rotated through 180 degrees, the flow rate Q1 of washing
water flowing out of the washing water outlet 143c into the posterior nozzle 1a takes
the maximum value. The rotation angle of the motor 141 further increases, the flow
rate Q1 of washing water flowing out of the washing water outlet 143c into the posterior
nozzle 1 decreases, and the flow rate Q2 of washing water flowing out of the washing
water outlet 143d into the posterior nozzle 1 increases.
[0171] When the motor 141 is then rotated through 270 degrees, the flow rate Q2 of washing
water flowing out of the washing water outlet 143d into the posterior nozzle 1a takes
the maximum value. The rotation angle of the motor 141 further increases, the flow
rate Q2 of washing water flowing out of the washing water outlet 143d into the posterior
nozzle 1a decreases, and the flow rate Q3 of washing water flowing out of the washing
water outlet 143b into the bidet nozzle 2 increases.
[0172] As described in the foregoing, the controller 4 controls the rotation angle of the
motor 141 in the switching valve 14 so that the flow rate of the washing water flowing
out of the washing water outlets 143b to 143e can be controlled. Further, even when
the rotation angle of the motor 141 in the switching valve 14 takes any value, any
one of the washing water outlets 142e, 142f, and 142g or the chamfer (recess) around
the washing water outlet is opposed to any one of the washing water outlets 143b to
143e. Therefore, the flow path of the washing water is not closed, and the washing
water supplied from the washing water inlet 143a flows out of any one of the washing
water outlets 143b to 143e.
[0173] Fig. 16 is a partially cutaway sectional view showing the configuration of the instantaneous
heating device 33. In Fig. 16, the instantaneous heating device 33 comprises a casing
504, a sheathed heater 505, a thermal conductor 506, a pipe 510, a thermistor 33a,
a thermostat 33b, and a temperature fuse 33c.
[0174] The casing 504 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. In the casing
504, the pipe 510 and the sheathed heater 505 are provided side by side with predetermined
spacing so as to extend in the longitudinal direction, and both ends of each of them
project outward from both end surfaces of the casing 504.
[0175] In the casing 504, the pipe 510 and the sheathed heater 505 are covered with the
thermal conductor 506. The sheathed heater 505 contains an electrically-heated wire,
and generates heat by being supplied with power.
[0176] At the time of the above-mentioned nozzle cleaning, washing water supplied from the
washing water outlet 143e in the switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 13 is introduced
into the pipe 510 from the water supply port 511.
[0177] When power is supplied to the sheathed heater 505, the heat generated by the sheathed
heater 505 is transmitted to the pipe 510 through the thermal conductor 506. Thus,
the washing water introduced into the pipe 510 is heated, so that nozzle cleaning
hot water or nozzle cleaning vapor is discharged from a discharge port 512.
[0178] Here, when the side of the water supply port 511 in the pipe 510 is the upstream
side of the instantaneous heating device 33 and the side of the discharge port 512
is the downstream side of the instantaneous heating device 33 in Fig. 16, the thermistor
33a and the thermostat 33b are provided on the downstream side of the instantaneous
heating device 33. The temperature fuse 33c is provided on a side surface of the casing
504.
[0179] In the second embodiment, the thermistor 33a, the thermostat 33b, and the temperature
fuse 33c differ in reference operating temperatures. Thus, adjustments for preventing
overheating in three stages can be made. Further, even if any one of the thermistor
33a, the thermostat 33b, and the temperature fuse 33c fails, the remaining two of
them prevent overheating.
[0180] The thermistor 33a is mounted on the sheathed heater 505, to detect the temperature
of the sheathed heater 505. The controller 4 judges the temperature of the sheathed
heater 505 fed from the thermistor 33a, to carry out control, in a case where the
sheathed heater is in an overheated state, such that the temperature of the sheathed
heater 505 is lowered.
[0181] The thermostat 33b is mounted such that the temperature of washing water circulating
within the pipe 510 is detectable. When the temperature of the washing water circulating
within the pipe 510 exceeds the reference operating temperature of the thermostat
33b, the thermostat 33b is operated so as to shut off the supply of power to the sheathed
heater 505.
[0182] Finally, the temperature fuse 33c is adhesively fixed to the casing 504. When the
temperature of the casing 504 exceeds the reference operating temperature of the temperature
fuse 33c, the temperature fuse 33c is fused so that the supply of power to the sheathed
heater 505 is shut off.
[0183] By the functions of the thermistor 33a, the thermostat 33b, and the temperature fuse
33c, overheating of washing water by the sheathed heater 505 and overheating of the
sheathed heater 505 itself are prevented.
[0184] Although in the instantaneous heating device 33 in the second embodiment, the sheathed
heater 505 is used as a heating device for washing water, the present invention is
not limited to the same. For example, a mica heater, a ceramic heater, a print heater,
and so on may be used.
[0185] Furthermore, although each of the thermistor 33a, the thermostat 33b, the temperature
fuse 33c prevents the overheating of the instantaneous heating device 33, the controller
4 may carry out feedback control or feed forward control of the temperature of the
sheathed heater 505 on the basis of the measured temperature value of the thermistor
33a or the thermostat 33b by connecting the thermistor 33a or the thermostat 33b to
the controller 4.
[0186] Fig. 17 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a part of the nozzle 30.
In Fig. 17, the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 having a cylindrical shape
are provided parallel to each other so as to be adjacent to each other, and the nozzle
cleaning nozzle 3 is mounted so as to cover upper parts at front ends of the posterior
nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2.
[0187] A tube 3t is connected to a rear end of the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3, and the tube
3t is connected to the discharge port 512 in the instantaneous heating device 33.
Thus, the nozzle cleaning hot water and the nozzle cleaning vapor are supplied to
the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 through the tube 3t from the instantaneous heating device
33.
[0188] Fig. 18 is a schematic sectional view of the nozzle in a case where washing water
is sprayed toward a surface to be washed of the human body from the posterior nozzle,
and Fig. 19 is a schematic sectional view of the nozzle in a case where nozzle cleaning
hot water or nozzle cleaning vapor is sprayed from the nozzle cleaning nozzle.
[0189] In Fig. 18 and 19, the whole or a part of the nozzle 30 is accommodated within a
casing of the main body 200a.
[0190] Washing of the private parts of the human body by the posterior nozzle 1a is hereinafter
referred to as posterior washing.
[0191] The posterior nozzle 1a comprises a piston 20, a cylinder 21, and a spring 23. A
washing water inlet 24a is provided at a rear end surface of the cylinder 21, and
a washing water inlet 24b is provided in its side part. A first flow path 20a and
a second flow path 20b are formed inside the piston 20, and a spray hole 25 is provided
on an upper surface at a front end of the piston 20.
[0192] Washing water is supplied from the washing water inlet 24b in the cylinder 21 at
the time of starting the posterior washing. Thus, the piston 20 provided within the
cylinder 21 projects outward from a casing of the main body 200a against an elastic
force of the spring 23, as shown in Fig. 18.
[0193] Thereafter, washing water is supplied from the washing water inlets 24a and 24b in
the cylinder 21. Thus, the washing water supplied from the washing water inlet 24a
is introduced into the first flow path 20a in the piston 20, and is sprayed from the
spray hole 25 while being given a rotating force. The washing water supplied from
the washing water inlet 24b is introduced into the second flow path 20b in the piston
20, and is sprayed from the spray hole 25.
[0194] Thus, the washing water fed to the spray hole 25 from the first flow path 20a is
given the rotating force, so that the washing water sprayed toward the surface to
be cleaned of the human body from the spray hole 25 has a divergent angle. The divergent
angle of the washing water sprayed from the spray hole 25 can be adjusted by adjusting
the ratio of the flow rate of the washing water within the first flow path 20a to
the flow rate of the washing water within the second flow path 20b using the above-mentioned
switching valve 14a.
[0195] When the posterior washing is terminated, the supply of the washing water to the
washing water inlets 24a and 24b in the cylinder 21 is stopped. Thus, the piston 20
is accommodated within the cylinder 21 by the elastic force of the spring 23, as shown
in Fig. 19. In this case, the piston 20 does not project from the main body 200a because
the piston 20 is held in a state where it is accommodated within the cylinder 21 by
the elastic force of the spring 23.
[0196] A washing water inlet 24c is provided at a rear end surface of the nozzle cleaning
nozzle 3, and a nozzle cleaning hole 24d is provided on a lower surface at a front
end of the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 so as to be opposed to the spray hole 25 in the
posterior nozzle 1a and the spray hole in the bidet nozzle 2. A flow path 24e for
communicating the washing water inlet 24c and the nozzle cleaning hole 24d is formed
inside the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3. As described in the foregoing, the washing water
inlet 24c is connected to the discharge port 512 in the instantaneous heating device
33 through the tube 3t (Fig. 17).
[0197] At the time of nozzle cleaning, the nozzle cleaning hot water or the nozzle cleaning
vapor is supplied to the washing water inlet 24c in the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 from
the instantaneous heating device 33. Thus, the nozzle cleaning hot water or the nozzle
cleaning vapor is sprayed in a direction indicated by an arrow J1 from the nozzle
cleaning hole 24d through the flow path 24e, as shown in Fig. 19.
[0198] The nozzle cleaning hot water or the nozzle cleaning vapor sprayed from the nozzle
cleaning hole 24d in the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 is sprayed toward the vicinities
of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle
2. Thus, dirt adhering to the vicinities of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle
1a and the spray hole in the bidet nozzle 2 is stripped by the nozzle cleaning hot
water and the nozzle cleaning vapor, and is caused to flow into the toilet bowl 600.
As a result, the vicinities of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a and the
spray hole in the bidet nozzle 2 are cleaned and sanitized.
[0199] Fig. 20 is a schematic sectional view of the automatic opening/closing toilet seat
system provided in the main body 200a in the sanitary washing apparatus shown in Fig.
10, and Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along a line F - F of the automatic
opening/closing toilet seat system shown in Fig. 20.
[0200] As shown in Figs. 20 and 21, an inner case 450 is provided within the main body 200a.
Within the inner case 450, an automatic toilet seat opening/closing device 460 and
an automatic toilet cover opening/closing device 560 are provided. The automatic toilet
seat opening/closing device 460 has a toilet seat opening/closing sensor 401, and
the automatic toilet cover opening/closing device 560 has a toilet cover opening/closing
sensor 501.
[0201] The automatic toilet cover opening/closing device 560 comprises a motor M5 and gears
507 and 509. An axis of rotation 506 of the motor M5 is rotated in a direction indicated
by an arrow R500, and rotates the gear 509 through the gear 507. The toilet cover
500 is mounted on an axis of rotation 508 of the gear 509 through a fixed unit 820
(see Fig. 21). Thus, the gear 509 is rotated, and the opening/closing operation of
the toilet cover 500 is performed.
[0202] Permanent magnets 511a and 511b are mounted on the gear 509 in the automatic toilet
cover opening/closing device 560 so as to form an angle of approximately 90 degrees.
Holes 513a and 513b are provided at positions respectively opposed to the permanent
magnets 511a and 511b in a state where the toilet cover 500 is closed. Here, the hole
ICs 513a and 513b are magnetic sensors utilizing a hole effect.
[0203] The automatic toilet seat opening/closing device 460 comprises a motor M4 and gears
407 and 409. An axis of rotation 406 of the motor M4 is rotated in a direction indicated
by an arrow R400, and rotates the gear 409 through the gear 407. The toilet seat 400
is mounted on an axis of rotation 408 of the gear 409. Thus, the gear 409 is rotated,
and an opening/closing operation of the toilet seat 400 is performed.
[0204] Permanent magnets 409a and 409b are mounted on the gear 409 in the automatic toilet
seat opening/closing device 460 so as to form an angle of 90 degrees. Hole ICs 420a
and 420b are provided at positions opposed to the permanent magnets 409a and 409b
in a state where the toilet seat 400 is closed.
[0205] Then, Fig. 22 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the automatic opening/closing
toilet cover device 560 in the toilet cover 500, and Fig. 23 is a diagram showing
signals respectively transmitted to the controller 4 from the hole ICs 513a and 513b
by operating the automatic opening/closing toilet cover device 560 shown in Fig. 22.
[0206] Fig. 22 (a) illustrates a state where the toilet cover 500 is closed (a toilet cover
rotation angle = 0 degree), and Fig. 22 (b) illustrates a state where the toilet cover
500 is opened (a toilet cover rotation angle = 90 degrees).
[0207] As shown in Fig. 22, permanent magnets 511a and 511b are provided on the gear 509
in the automatic toilet cover opening/closing device 560 so as to form an angle of
90 degrees.
[0208] An angle formed between the permanent magnets 511a and 511b is so designed as to
be equal to an opening/closing angle of the toilet cover 500.
[0209] When the toilet cover 500 is closed, that is, when the toilet cover rotation angle
is 0 degree, as shown in Fig. 22 (a), therefore, the permanent magnet 511a is opposed
to the hole IC 513a, and the permanent magnet 511b is opposed to the hole IC 513b.
[0210] As a result, when the toilet cover rotation angle is 0 degree, as shown in Fig. 23,
the hole ICs 513a and 513b detect magnetism generated by the permanent magnets 511a
and 511b, to transmit a signal at a logical high (H) level to the controller 4. Thus,
the controller 4 recognizes that the opening/closing state of the toilet cover is
"close" on the basis of the signals from the hole ICs 513a and 513b.
[0211] On the other hand, when the toilet cover 500 is opened by the automatic toilet cover
opening/closing device 560, the gear 509 in the automatic toilet cover opening/closing
device 560 is rotated in a direction indicated by an arrow X in Fig. 22. Thus, the
permanent magnets 511a and 511b mounted on the gear 509 are also rotated in the direction
indicated by the arrow X.
[0212] When the toilet cover 500 is opened, that is, when the toilet cover rotation angle
is 90 degree, as shown in Fig. 22 (b), the permanent magnet 511a is opposed to the
hole IC 513b, and the permanent magnet 511b is not opposed to the hole IC 513a.
[0213] As a result, when the toilet cover rotation angle is 90 degree, as shown in Fig.
23, the hole IC 513b detects magnetism generated by the permanent magnet 511a, to
transmit a signal at a logical high (H) level to the controller 4, and the hole IC
513a cannot detect magnetism from the permanent magnets 511a and 511b, to transmit
a signal at a logical low (L) level to the controller 4. Thus, the controller 4 recognizes
that the opening/closing state of the toilet cover is "open" on the basis of the signals
from the hole ICs 513a and 513b.
[0214] The operation of the controller 4 will be then described. Figs. 24 and 25 are flow
charts showing the operation of the controller 4.
[0215] As shown in Fig. 24, the controller 4 first judges whether or not it receives a nozzle
cleaning operation signal from the remote control device 300a (step S10). Here, the
nozzle cleaning operation signal is a predetermined signal transmitted to the controller
4 by the pressing of the nozzle cleaning switch 309.
[0216] When the controller 4 does not receive the nozzle cleaning operation signal from
the remote control device 300, it is judged whether or not another signal is received
(step S11). When another signal is received, the controller 4 performs a predetermined
operation on the basis of the other signal (step S12). For example, when the controller
4 receives a signal indicating that the posterior switch 303 is pressed by the remote
control device 300a, control is carried out such that washing water is sprayed from
the posterior nozzle 1a. On the other hand, when the controller 4 judges in the step
S11 that no other signal is received, the procedure is returned to the step S10.
[0217] When the nozzle cleaning operation signal is then received from the remote control
device 300 in the step S10, the controller 4 receives output signals of the hole ICs
513a and 513b (step S13).
[0218] The controller 4 judges the opening or closing of the toilet cover on the basis of
the output signals of the hole ICs 513a and 513b (step S14). When the controller 4
judges that the toilet cover is closed, the procedure is returned to the step S13.
[0219] Although in the second embodiment, the opening or closing of the toilet cover is
judged on the basis of the output signals of the hole ICs 513a and 513b, the present
invention is not limited to the same. For example, the seating sensor 51 for detecting
the presence or absence of a user may be used on the toilet seat 400 using infrared
rays.
[0220] On the other hand, when it is judged that the toilet cover is opened, the controller
4 transmits a heating instruction to the instantaneous heating device 33 (step S15).
Thus, an amount of heat generated from the sheathed heater 505 is increased.
[0221] Furthermore, the controller 4 designates a rotation angle of the switching valve
14a (step S16). For example, the controller 4 instructs the motor 141 to set the rotation
angle of the switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 15 to 90 degrees. Thus, the motor 141
is rotated, and washing water having a flow rate Q4 is supplied to the pipe 510 in
the instantaneous heating device 33. The nozzle cleaning hot water heated by the function
of the instantaneous heating device 33 is sprayed on the vicinity of the spray hole
25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle 2 from the nozzle
cleaning nozzle 3.
[0222] Thus, dirt adhering to the vicinity of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle
1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle 2 is floated and removed.
[0223] Thereafter, the controller 4 judges whether or not a predetermined time period has
elapsed (step S17). The predetermined time period in the step S17 is a time period
required to perform cleaning by spraying the nozzle cleaning hot water on the vicinity
of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle
2. When the controller 4 judges that the predetermined time period has not elapsed,
the procedure is returned to the step S17. In the step S17, the controller 4 waits
until the predetermined time period has elapsed.
[0224] On the other hand, when the predetermined time period has elapsed, the controller
4 instructs the instantaneous heating device 33 to raise the heating temperature (step
S18). Thus, an amount of heat generated from the sheathed heater 505 is increased.
[0225] Furthermore, the controller 4 designates a rotation angle of the switching valve
14a (step S19). For example, the controller 4 instructs the motor 141 to set the rotation
angle of the switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 15 to approximately 110 degrees. Thus,
the motor 141 is rotated, and washing water supplied to the pipe 510 in the instantaneous
heating device 33 is reduced. Therefore, the nozzle cleaning hot water is changed
into nozzle cleaning vapor.
[0226] As a result, the high-temperature nozzle cleaning vapor is sprayed on the vicinity
of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle
2 from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3. Thus, bacteria or dirt adhering to the vicinity
of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle
2 is removed and is sterilized. The nozzle 30 in the second embodiment is formed of
resin having high heat resistance which is not deformed even by spraying the nozzle
cleaning vapor or the nozzle cleaning hot water.
[0227] Thereafter, the controller 4 judges whether or not the predetermined time period
has elapsed (step S20). The predetermined time period in the step S20 is a time period
required to perform cleaning and sterilization by spraying the nozzle cleaning vapor
on the vicinity of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole
in the bidet nozzle 2. When the controller 4 judges that the predetermined time period
has not elapsed, the procedure is returned to the step S20. In the step S20, the controller
4 waits until the predetermined time period has elapsed.
[0228] On the other hand, when the predetermined time period has elapsed, the controller
4 transmits an instruction to stop heating to the instantaneous heating device 33
(step S21). Thus, the supply of power to the sheathed heater 505 in the instantaneous
heating device 33 is stopped.
[0229] The controller 4 then judges whether or not the predetermined time period has elapsed
(step S22). The predetermined time period in the step S22 is a time period required
until the temperature in the vicinity of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle
1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle 2 is lowered. The predetermined time period
may be variably set depending on seasons, for example, because it depends on outside
air temperature. For example, the predetermined time period may be set to four to
six seconds in summer, and may be set to one to three seconds in winter.
[0230] When the predetermined time period has not elapsed, the controller 4 waits until
the predetermined time period has elapsed. Thus, the temperature of the nozzle cleaning
vapor heated by the instantaneous heating device 33 is gradually lowered so that the
nozzle cleaning vapor is transformed into nozzle cleaning hot water. Further, the
temperature is lowered so that low-temperature washing water is sprayed on the vicinity
of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle
2 through the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 from the instantaneous heating device 33.
[0231] As a result, the temperature in the vicinity of the spray hole 25 in the posterior
nozzle 1a is gradually lowered. Thus, the temperature of the nozzle 30 after sterilization
can be lowered, thereby making it possible to prevent bacteria from growing.
[0232] On the other hand, when the predetermined time period has elapsed, the rotation angle
of the switching valve 14a is designated (step S23). For example, the motor 41 is
instructed to set the rotation angle of the switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 15 to
approximately 135 degrees. Thus, the motor 141 is rotated, and the washing water supplied
to the pipe 510 in the instantaneous heating device 33 is stopped. Thus, the washing
water sprayed from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 is stopped.
[0233] The controller 4 then transmits a lamp lighting control signal for controlling the
lighting of the notification lamp 311 in the remote control device 300a (step S24).
For example, a pulse-shaped lamp lighting control signal comprising a logical high
(H) level and a logical low (L) level is transmitted to the notification lamp 311.
The notification lamp 311 lights up in the case of the logical high level and goes
out in the case of the logical low level on the basis of the lamp lighting control
signal. Thus, the notification lamp 311 flickers.
[0234] The controller 4 transmits to the speaker 310 in the remote control device 300a a
sound output control signal for controlling an output of a sound from the speaker
310 (step S25). Thus, the sound is outputted from the speaker 310 provided in the
remote control device 300a. For example, a sound "Nozzle cleaning is terminated. Please
use at ease" is repeatedly outputted and a sound "peep" is repeatedly outputted from
the speaker 310 by the controller 4.
[0235] The controller 4 then judges whether or not a predetermined time period has elapsed
(step S26). When the controller 4 judges that the predetermined time period has not
elapsed, the procedure is returned to the step S24. The processing in the step S24
and the step S25 is repeatedly performed. The predetermined time period in the step
S26 is a time period required to notify the user that nozzle cleaning is terminated.
[0236] On the other hand, when the predetermined time period has elapsed, the controller
4 transmits to the notification lamp 311 a lamp extinction control signal for controlling
the extinction of the notification lamp 311 (step S27), and transmits a sound stop
control signal for carrying out such control that an output of a sound from the speaker
310 in the remote control device 300a is stopped (step S28). Thus, the notification
lamp 311 goes out, so that the output of the sound from the speaker 310 is stopped.
[0237] In the sanitary washing apparatus 100a according to the present invention, when it
is detected by the seating sensor 51, the hole ICs 513a and 513b, and the toilet seat
switch 55 that the sanitary washing apparatus 100a has not been employed yet, the
cleaning of the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 by the nozzle cleaning
nozzle 3 is allowed. When the sanitary washing apparatus is employed, therefore, the
washing water by the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 is prevented from adhering to the human
body. Thus, the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 can be kept clean while
giving a sufficient feeling of safety to the user as well as ensuring safety. Further,
the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are exposed to high-temperature vapor
so that dirt adhering to the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 is easily
removed, and a sterilization effect is obtained. Further, a sterilization range at
high temperatures is enlarged by the diffusion properties of the vapor.
[0238] The posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 are washed away by the vapor or the
heated washing water, and is then cleaned with unheated washing water, so that the
temperatures of the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 which are sterilized
by the vapor or the heated washing water can be lowered. Therefore, the high-temperature
washing water can be prevented from being sprayed on the user. Further, bacteria can
be also prevented from growing.
[0239] The washing water is instantaneously heated by the instantaneous heating device 33
so that the heated washing water or the vapor is generated and is sprayed on the posterior
nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3. Thus, the posterior
nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 are cleaned with the high-temperature washing water
or the vapor. Further, the flow rate of the washing water supplied to the instantaneous
heating device 33 is adjusted so that the vapor and the heated washing water are sprayed
from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3. Thus, the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle
2 can be cleaned with the vapor or the heated washing water easily by adjusting the
flow rate of the washing water.
[0240] In the remote control device 300a in the second embodiment, the posterior nozzle
1a and the bidet nozzle 2 can be cleaned at an arbitrary time by operating the nozzle
cleaning switch 309 in the remote control device 300a, and the operability is improved.
Therefore, an instruction to start a cleaning operation of the nozzle cleaning nozzle
3 is disabled by operating the child lock switch 312, thereby making it possible to
prevent mischief by children and prevent a malfunction. Further, after the cleaning
operation by the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 is terminated, the user is notified of the
termination of the cleaning operation. Therefore, the user can recognize that the
cleaning operation is continued until he or she is notified of the termination of
the cleaning operation. Thus, the user is prevented from erroneously causing the posterior
nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 to spray washing water and erroneously touching the
washing water sprayed from the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 while the
cleaning operation is continued. Thus, the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle
2 can be kept clean while ensuring safety.
[0241] Fig. 26 is a schematic plan view showing another example of the remote control device
shown in Fig. 11.
[0242] The remote control device 300a shown in Fig. 26 differs from the remote control device
300a shown in Fig. 11 in the following points. As shown in Fig. 26, the remote control
device 300b comprises a liquid crystal display unit 313 in place of the speaker 310
and the notification lamp 311 in the remote control device 300a.
[0243] Thus, information can be displayed using characters, signs, figures, etc. on the
liquid crystal display unit 313. For example, "Nozzle sterilization is completed"
can be displayed using characters on the liquid crystal display unit 313. As a result,
the user can visually recognize that nozzle cleaning is terminated so that the sanitary
washing apparatus 100 can be safely employed.
[0244] Fig. 27 is a partially cutaway sectional view showing another example of an instantaneous
heating device used for the sanitary washing apparatus according to the present invention.
[0245] The instantaneous heating device 33a shown in Fig. 27 differs from the instantaneous
heating device 33 shown in Fig. 16 in the following points.
[0246] A casing 504a in the instantaneous heating device 33a shown in Fig. 27 has a substantially
long cylindrical shape. A sheathed heater 505 is provided within the casing 504a,
and both ends of the sheathed heater 505 project outward from both end surfaces of
the casing 504a. A cylindrical space 510a formed between the casing 504a and the sheathed
heater 505 functions as the pipe 510 shown in Fig. 16.
[0247] At the time of the above-mentioned nozzle cleaning, washing water supplied from the
washing water outlet 143e in the switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 13 is introduced
into the cylindrical space 510a from the water supply port 511a.
[0248] When power is supplied to the sheathed heater 505, the washing water circulating
through the cylindrical space 510a is heated by heat generated by the sheathed heater
505, and nozzle cleaning hot water or nozzle cleaning vapor is discharged from the
discharge port 512a.
[0249] In this case, in the instantaneous heating device 33a, the pipe 510 need not be formed
as in the instantaneous heating device 33, so that the cost can be reduced. Heat is
directly exchanged between the sheathed heater 505 and the washing water, thereby
allowing the heat exchange rate to be increased.
[0250] Although in the second embodiment, the nozzle cleaning hot water, the nozzle cleaning
vapor, and the washing water are sprayed in this order on the posterior nozzle 1a
and the bidet nozzle 2 from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 at the time of nozzle cleaning,
the present invention is not limited to the same. For example, the nozzle cleaning
vapor, the nozzle cleaning hot water, and the washing water may be sprayed in an arbitrary
order on the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2. For example, the nozzle cleaning
hot water, the nozzle cleaning vapor, the nozzle cleaning hot water, and the washing
water may be sprayed in this order to the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle
2 from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3.
[0251] Furthermore, although in the present embodiment, a state where the sanitary washing
apparatus 100 is employed is detected on the basis of the opening/closing of the toilet
cover 500 using the hole ICs 513a and 513b, the present invention is not limited to
the same. For example, a method of detecting the presence or absence of the human
body on the basis of the change in electrostatic capacitance of the toilet seat 400
to detect a state where the sanitary washing apparatus 100a is employed, a method
of detecting the presence or absence of the human body using ultrasonic waves to detect
a state where the sanitary washing apparatus 100a is employed, a method of detecting
that a user enters and leaves a toilet room on the basis of the opening/closing of
a door of the toilet room to detect a state where the sanitary washing apparatus 100a
is employed, or a method of detecting a state where the sanitary washing apparatus
100 is detected on the basis of on/off of illumination in the toilet room may be utilized.
[0252] In the sanitary washing apparatus according to the second embodiment, the posterior
nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 correspond to a human body washing nozzle device,
the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 corresponds to a nozzle cleaning device, the seating
sensor 51 or the hole ICs 153a and 153d correspond to a state detector or a seating
sensor, the controller 4 corresponds to a control device, the instantaneous heating
device 33 corresponds to a heating device, the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 corresponds
to a spray device, the switching valve 14a corresponds to a flow rate adjustment device,
the toilet seat 400 corresponds to a toilet seat, the seating sensor 51 corresponds
to an optical detector, the toilet seat switch 55 corresponds to a load detector,
the hole ICs 153a and 153d correspond to a toilet cover opening/closing detector,
the nozzle cleaning switch 309 corresponds to a washing instruction device, the remote
control devices 300a and 300b correspond to a remote control device, the child lock
switch 312 corresponds to a disabling device, the speaker 310, the notification lamp
311, or the liquid crystal display unit 313 correspond to a notification device.
(Third Embodiment)
[0253] Description is now made of a main body 200a in a sanitary washing apparatus 100a
according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The sanitary washing apparatus
100a according to the third embodiment has the same configuration as that of the sanitary
washing apparatus 100a according to the second embodiment. The operation of the main
body 200a in the sanitary washing apparatus 100a according to the third embodiment
differs from the operation of the main body 200a in the sanitary washing apparatus
100a according to the second embodiment in the following points.
[0254] Description is now made of the operation of a controller 4 in the main body 200a
in the sanitary washing apparatus 100a according to the third embodiment. Figs. 28
and 29 are flow charts showing the operation of the controller 4, and Fig. 30 is a
diagram showing an example of the control timing of the controller 4.
[0255] The horizontal axis shown in Fig. 30 indicates time. Fig. 30 (a) indicates the timing
of a heating device control signal HS, Fig. 30 (b) indicates the change in temperature
of a spray hole 25 in a posterior nozzle 1a, and Fig. 30 (c) indicates a lamp lighting
control signal of the notification lamp 311 in the remote control device 300a shown
in Fig. 11.
[0256] As shown in Fig. 28, the controller 4 first judges whether or not a nozzle cleaning
operation signal is received from the remote control device 300a (step S30). Here,
the nozzle cleaning operation signal is a predetermined signal transmitted to the
controller 4 by the pressing of a nozzle cleaning switch 309.
[0257] The controller 4 judges, when the nozzle cleaning operation signal is not received
from the remote control device 300a, whether or not another signal is received (step
S31). When another signal is received, the controller 4 performs a predetermined operation
on the basis of the other signal (step S32). When the controller 4 receives a signal
indicating that a posterior switch 303 is pressed from the remote control device 300a,
control is carried out such that washing water is sprayed from the posterior nozzle
1a. On the other hand, when the controller 4 judges in the step S31 that no other
signal is received, the procedure is returned to the step S30.
[0258] When the nozzle cleaning operation signal is then received from the remote control
device 300a in the step S30, the controller 4 receives an output signal of a seating
sensor 51 (step S33).
[0259] The controller 4 judges the presence or absence of the human body on a toilet seat
400 on the basis of the output signal of the seating sensor 51(step S34). When the
controller 4 judges that the human body exists, the procedure is returned to the step
S33.
[0260] On the other hand, the controller 4 transmits, when it judges that the human body
does not exist, a heating instruction to the instantaneous heating device 33 (step
S35). Thus, an amount of heat generated from the sheathed heater 505 is increased.
For example, as shown in Fig. 30 (a), the controller 4 transmits a pulse-shaped heating
device control signal HS comprising a logical high (H) level and a logical low (L)
level to the instantaneous heating device 33. The instantaneous heating device 33
adjusts on/off of the sheathed heater 505 on the basis of the heating device control
signal HS.
[0261] Furthermore, the controller 4 designates a rotation angle of a switching valve 14a
(step S36). For example, the controller 4 instructs a motor 141 to set the rotation
angle of the switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 15 to 90 degrees. Thus, the motor 141
is rotated, and washing water having a flow rate Q4 is supplied to a pipe 510 in the
instantaneous heating device 33. Nozzle cleaning hot water heated by the function
of the instantaneous heating device 33 is sprayed on the vicinity of a spray hole
25 in a posterior nozzle 1a or a spray hole in a bidet nozzle 2 from a nozzle cleaning
nozzle 3.
[0262] Thus, as shown in Fig. 30 (b), the temperature of the spray hole 25 in the posterior
nozzle 1a is raised. Dirt adhering to the vicinity of the spray hole 25 in the posterior
nozzle 1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle 2 is floated and removed.
[0263] Thereafter, the controller 4 judges whether or not a predetermined time period has
elapsed (step S37). The predetermined time period in the step S37 is a time period
required to perform cleaning by spraying the nozzle cleaning hot water on the vicinity
of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle
2. When the controller 4 judges that the predetermined time period has not elapsed,
the procedure is returned to the step S37. In the step S37, the controller 4 waits
until the predetermined time period has elapsed.
[0264] On the other hand, when the predetermined time period has elapsed, the controller
4 instructs the instantaneous heating device 33 to raise the heating temperature (step
S38) . Thus, an amount of heat generated from a sheathed heater 505 is increased.
[0265] Furthermore, the controller 4 designates a rotation angle of the switching valve
14a (step S39). For example, the motor 141 is instructed to set the rotation angle
of the switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 15 to approximately 110 degrees. Thus, the
motor 141 is rotated, and washing water supplied to the pipe 510 in the instantaneous
heating device 33 is reduced. Thus, the nozzle cleaning hot water is transformed into
nozzle cleaning vapor.
[0266] As a result, the high-temperature nozzle cleaning vapor is sprayed on the vicinity
of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle
2 from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3. Thus, bacteria or dirt adhering to the vicinity
of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle
2 is removed and is sterilized. The nozzle 30 in the second embodiment is formed of
resin having high heat resistance which is not deformed by spraying the nozzle cleaning
vapor or the nozzle cleaning hot water.
[0267] Thereafter, the controller 4 judges whether or not the predetermined time period
has elapsed (step S40). The predetermined time period in the step S40 is a time period
required to perform cleaning and sterilization by spraying the nozzle cleaning vapor
on the vicinity of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole
in the bidet nozzle 2. When the controller 4 judges that the predetermined time period
has not elapsed, the procedure is returned to the step S40. In the step S40, the controller
4 waits until the predetermined time period has elapsed.
[0268] On the other hand, when the predetermined time period has elapsed, the controller
4 instructs the instantaneous heating device 33 to stop heating (step S41). Thus,
the supply of power to the sheathed heater 505 in the instantaneous heating device
33 is stopped.
[0269] The controller 4 then judges whether or not a predetermined time period has elapsed
(step S42). The predetermined time period in the step S42 is a time period required
until the temperature in the vicinity of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle
1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle 2 is lowered, and corresponds to a time T1
in Fig. 30. The predetermined time period may be variably set depending on seasons
or the like because it depends on outside air temperature. For example, the predetermined
time period may be set to four to six seconds in summer, and may be set to one to
three seconds in winter.
[0270] In this case, as shown in Fig. 30 (b), the temperature of the spray hole 25 in the
posterior nozzle 1a is gradually lowered.
[0271] When the predetermined time period has not elapsed, the controller 4 waits until
the predetermined time period has elapsed. Thus, the temperature of the nozzle cleaning
vapor heated by the instantaneous heating device 33 is gradually lowered so that the
nozzle cleaning vapor is transformed into nozzle cleaning hot water, and the temperature
is further lowered. Thus, low-temperature washing water is sprayed on the vicinity
of the spray hole 25 in the posterior nozzle 1a or the spray hole in the bidet nozzle
2 from the instantaneous heating device 33 through the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3.
[0272] As a result, the temperature in the vicinity of the spray hole 25 in the posterior
nozzle 1a is gradually lowered. Thus, the temperature of the nozzle 30 after sterilization
can be lowered, thereby making it possible to prevent bacteria from growing.
[0273] On the other hand, when the predetermined time period has elapsed, the rotation angle
of the switching valve 14a is designated (step S43). For example, the motor 41 is
instructed to set the rotation angle of the switching valve 14a shown in Fig. 15 to
approximately 135 degrees. Thus, the motor 141 is rotated, and the washing water supplied
to the pipe 510 in the instantaneous heating device 33 is stopped. Thus, the washing
water sprayed from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 is stopped.
[0274] The controller 4 then transmits a lamp lighting control signal for controlling the
lighting of the notification lamp 311 in the remote control device 300a (step S44).
For example, a pulse-shaped lamp lighting control signal comprising a logical high
(H) level and a logical low (L) level is transmitted to the notification lamp 311,
as shown in Fig. 30 (c). The notification lamp 311 lights up in the case of the logical
high level and goes out in the case of the logical low level on the basis of the lamp
lighting control signal. Thus, the notification lamp 311 flickers.
[0275] The controller 4 transmits to the speaker 310 in the remote control device 300a a
sound output control signal for controlling an output of a sound from the speaker
310 (step S45). Thus, the sound is outputted from the speaker 310 provided in the
remote control device 300a. For example, a sound "Nozzle cleaning is terminated. Please
use at ease" is repeatedly outputted or a sound "peep" is repeatedly outputted from
the speaker 310 by the controller 4.
[0276] The controller 4 then judges whether or not a predetermined time period has elapsed
(step S46). When the controller 4 judges that the predetermined time period has not
elapsed, the procedure is returned to the step S44, to repeatedly perform the processing
in the step S44 and the step S45. The predetermined time period in the step S46 is
a time period required to notify a user that nozzle cleaning is terminated, and corresponds
to a time T2 in Fig. 30.
[0277] On the other hand, when the predetermined time period has elapsed, the controller
4 transmits to the notification lamp 311 a lamp extinction control signal for controlling
the extinction of the notification lamp 311 (step S47), and transmits a sound stop
control signal for carrying out such control that an output of a sound is stopped
from the speaker 310 in the remote control device 300a (step S48). Thus, the notification
lamp 311 goes out, so that the output of the sound from the speaker 310 is stopped.
[0278] In the sanitary washing apparatus 100a according to the present invention, after
the cleaning operation at high temperatures by the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 is terminated,
and the temperature of the posterior nozzle 1a is lowered, the user is notified of
the termination of the cleaning operation by the notification lamp 311 and the speaker
310. Therefore, the user can recognize that the cleaning operation at high temperatures
is continued until he or she is notified of the termination of the cleaning operation.
Thus, the user is prevented from erroneously causing the posterior nozzle 1a and the
bidet nozzle 2 at high temperatures to spray washing water and erroneously touching
the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 at high temperatures while the cleaning
operation at high temperatures is continued. Thus, the posterior nozzle 1a and the
bidet nozzle 2 can be kept clean while giving a sufficient feeling of safety to the
user as well as ensuring safety.
[0279] Furthermore, the notification lamp 311 and the speaker 310 stop notification that
the cleaning operation is terminated after an elapse of a predetermined time period
since the cleaning operation by the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 was terminated. Therefore,
more notification than necessary is prevented, and useless power consumption is prevented.
The use of the speaker 310 allows even an aged or blind user to visually recognize
that the cleaning operation at high temperatures is terminated. Thus, the safety of
various types of users is ensured.
[0280] Furthermore, the posterior nozzle 1 and the bidet nozzle 2 are exposed to high-temperature
vapor, so that dirt adhering to the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 is
floated, and is washed away with high-temperature washing water, thereby obtaining
a sterilization effect. Further, a sterilization range at high temperatures is enlarged
by the diffusion properties of vapor.
[0281] In the sanitary washing apparatus according to the third embodiment, the user is
notified, after the cleaning operation at high temperatures of the posterior nozzle
1a and the bidet nozzle 2 by the vapor is terminated, of the termination of the cleaning
operation. Therefore, the user is prevented from erroneously touching the high-temperature
vapor, erroneously causing the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 to spray
the high-temperature washing water, and erroneously touching the posterior nozzle
1a and the bidet nozzle 2 at high temperatures while the cleaning operation at high
temperatures is continued. Thus, the posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 can
be kept clean while ensuring safety.
[0282] Furthermore, the flow rate of the washing water supplied to the instantaneous heating
device 33 is adjusted so that the washing water is sprayed with the high-temperature
washing water or the vapor from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3. Thus, the human body
washing nozzle device can be easily cleaned with washing waters which differ in physical
properties by the adjustment of the flow rate of the washing water.
[0283] The posterior nozzle 1a and the bidet nozzle 2 can be cleaned at an arbitrary time
by operating the nozzle cleaning switch 309 provided in the remote control device
300a, and the operability is improved.
(Fourth Embodiment)
[0284] Description is now made of a main body 200b in a sanitary washing apparatus 100b
according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
[0285] Fig. 31 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the main body 200b in the
sanitary washing apparatus 100b according to the fourth embodiment of the present
invention.
[0286] The main body 200b in the sanitary washing apparatus 100b shown in Fig. 31 further
comprises a scale inhibiting material supply device 34 in addition to the configuration
of the main body 200a in the sanitary washing apparatus 100a shown in Fig. 12. The
details of the scale inhibiting material supply device will be described later.
[0287] Fig. 32 is a partially cutaway sectional view showing the configuration of an instantaneous
heating device 33. In Fig. 32, the instantaneous heating device 33 comprises a casing
504, a sheathed heater 505, a thermal conductor 506, a pipe 510, a thermistor 33a,
a thermostat 33b, and a temperature fuse 33c.
[0288] The casing 504 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. In the casing
504, the pipe 510 and the sheathed heater 505 are provided side by side with predetermined
spacing so as to extend in the longitudinal direction, and both ends of each of them
project outward from both end surfaces of the casing 504. Here, the side of one end
of the pipe 510 is taken as the upstream side of the instantaneous heating device
33, and the side of the other end is taken as the downstream side of the instantaneous
heating device 33. One end of the pipe 510 is connected to the pipe 520 connected
to a switching valve 14 shown in Fig. 31.
[0289] The scale inhibiting material supply device 34 is interposed in the pipe 520 on the
upstream side of the instantaneous heating device 33. The scale inhibiting material
supply device 34 accommodates a scale inhibitor.
[0290] In the casing 504, the pipe 510 and the sheathed heater 505 are covered with a thermal
conductor 506. The sheathed heater 505 contains an electrically-heated wire, and generates
heat by being supplied with power.
[0291] At the time of the above-mentioned nozzle cleaning, washing water is introduced into
the pipe 510 from a water supply port 511 by the switching valve 14a.
[0292] When power is supplied to the sheathed heater 505, the heat generated by the sheathed
heater 505 is transmitted to the pipe 510 through the thermal conductor 506. Thus,
the washing water introduced into the pipe 510 is heated, so that nozzle cleaning
hot water or nozzle cleaning vapor is discharged from a discharge port 512.
[0293] The thermistor 33a and the thermostat 33b are provided on the downstream side of
the instantaneous heating device 33. The temperature fuse 33c is provided on a side
surface of the casing 504.
[0294] In the fourth embodiment, the thermistor 33a, the thermostat 33b, and the temperature
fuse 33c differ in reference operating temperatures. Thus, adjustments for preventing
overheating in three stages can be made. Further, even if any one of the thermistor
33a, the thermostat 33b, and the temperature fuse 33c fails, the remaining two of
them allow overheating to be prevented.
[0295] The thermistor 33a is mounted on the sheathed heater 505, to detect the temperature
of the sheathed heater 505. A controller 4 judges the temperature of the sheathed
heater 505 fed from the thermistor 33a, to carry out control, in a case where the
sheathed heater 505 is in an overheated state, such that the temperature of the sheathed
heater 505 is lowered.
[0296] The thermostat 33b is mounted such that the temperature of washing water circulating
within the pipe 510 is detectable. When the temperature of the washing water circulating
within the pipe 510 exceeds the reference operating temperature of the thermostat
33b, the thermostat 33b is operated so as to shut off the supply of power to the sheathed
heater 505.
[0297] Finally, the temperature fuse 33c is adhesively fixed to the casing 504. When the
temperature of the casing 504 exceeds the reference operating temperature of the thermostat
33b, the temperature fuse 33c is fused so that the supply of power to the sheathed
heater 505 is shut off.
[0298] By the functions of the thermistor 33a, the thermostat 33b, and the temperature fuse
33c, overheating of washing water by the sheathed heater 505 and overheating of the
sheathed heater 505 itself are prevented.
[0299] Although in the instantaneous heating device 33 in the fourth embodiment, the sheathed
heater 505 is used as a heating device for washing water, the present invention is
not limited to the same. For example, a mica heater, a ceramic heater, a print heater,
and so on may be used.
[0300] Furthermore, although each of the thermistor 33a, the thermostat 33b, and the temperature
fuse 33c prevents the overheating of the instantaneous heating device 33, the thermistor
33a or the thermostat 33b is connected to the controller 4 so that the controller
4 may carry out feedback control or feed forward control of the temperature of the
sheathed heater 505 on the basis of the measured temperature value of the thermistor
33a or the thermostat 33b.
[0301] Usable as the scale inhibitor is a phosphate compound, an acrylic acid, or an acrylic
compound. Usable as the phosphate compound may be any one type of calcium phosphate,
potassium phosphate, hexametaphosphate, aluminum-calcium tripolyphosphate, aluminum-magnesium
tripolyphosphate, magnesium pyrophosphate, calcium.metaphosphate, and calcium sodium
metaphosphate, or a mixture of two or more types of the phosphate compounds.
[0302] Usable as the acrylic compound is an acrylic acid-maleic acid copolymer compound
or the like.
[0303] The crystal form of a scale in washing water is changed and crystal growth is prevented
by thus supplying the phosphate compound, the acrylic acid, or the acrylic compound
to the washing water. Thus, the scale can be prevented from being deposited, so that
the scale can be prevented from adhering to a wall surface of the pipe 510 in the
instantaneous heating device 33.
[0304] Particularly, it is preferable that a mixture of calcium phosphate and potassium
phosphate is used. In this case, the effect of preventing the adhesion of the scale
is continued for a long time period.
[0305] A chelate material may be used as the scale inhibitor. Usable as the chelate material
can be one or two or more types of an ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, a hydroethylethylenediamine
triacetic acid, a dihydroxyl ethylenediamine diacetic acid, a 1,3-propanediaminetetraacetic
acid, a triethylenetetramine hexaacetic acid, a nitrilotriacetic acid, and a gluconic
acid.
[0306] In this case, the chelate material reacts with a metal ion in the scale so that the
scale is removed. As a result, the scale is prevented from adhering to the wall surface
of the pipe 510 in the instantaneous heating device 33.
[0307] A scale dissolving agent may be used as the scale inhibitor. Usable as the scale
dissolving agent are a citric acid, a hydrochloric acid, an acetic acid, or a nitric
acid.
[0308] In this case, the scale is dissolved and is removed. This prevents the scale from
adhering to the wall surface of the pipe 510 in the instantaneous heating device 33.
An unnecessary component other than the scale component is also dissolved by the scale
dissolving agent. Thus, sodium ions and potassium ions which are unnecessary components
can be also removed.
[0309] A heater may be provided in the vicinity of the scale inhibiting material supply
device 34 to heat the scale component. Thus, the reaction between the scale dissolving
agent and the scale component is hastened so that the effect of removing the scale
is increased.
[0310] As described in the foregoing, the scale inhibitor is supplied to the washing water
supplied to the instantaneous heating device 33 by the scale inhibiting material supply
device 34. Thus, the scale is automatically prevented from adhering to the wall surface
of the pipe 510 in the instantaneous heating device 33.
[0311] Furthermore, cation exchange resin may be brought into contact with the washing water
by providing the cation exchange resin in place of or in addition to the scale inhibitor
in the scale inhibiting material supply device 34. In this case, metal ions such as
calcium ions or magnesium ions which are a main component of the scale are removed
from the washing water so that a high scale removal capability is obtained. The washing
water is prevented from being colored. An example of the type of the cation exchange
resin is a strong acid cation exchange resin sodium type.
(Fifth Embodiment)
[0312] Fig. 33 is a schematic perspective view showing a part of a sanitary washing apparatus
according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
[0313] As shown in Fig. 33, the sanitary washing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment
of the present invention differs from the sanitary washing apparatus 100b according
to the fourth embodiment of the present invention in that a pipe 510 is provided with
a vertical magnetic field generating magnet 514a and a horizontal magnetic field generating
magnet 514b in place of or in addition to the scale preventing material supply device
34.
[0314] The vertical magnetic field generating magnet 514a generates a vertical magnetic
field, and the horizontal magnetic field generating magnet 514b generates a horizontal
magnetic field. The vertical magnetic field generating magnet 514a and the horizontal
magnetic field generating magnet 514b are composed of an electromagnet, and energize
a coil (not shown) to generate a magnetic field.
[0315] Thus, magnetism can be exerted on calcium ions, magnesium ions, etc. in washing water
flowing in a pipe 510.
[0316] Both the vertical magnetic field generating magnet 514a and the horizontal magnetic
field generating magnet 514b are used so that respective non-action ranges of magnetism
can be compensated for. This allows the magnesium to be exerted on the whole of the
washing water flowing in the pipe 510.
[0317] As described in the foregoing, the magnetism is exerted on the washing water flowing
in the pipe 510 so that an ion flow comprising a set of ions having the same polarity
is produced within the pipe 510. In this case, the ions are condensed so that collisions
of the ions are hastened. Thus, the aggregation and sedimentation actions of the ions
are hastened. Therefore, no scale occurs on the wall surface of the pipe 510, so that
an aggregate of the ions flows toward the downstream side of the instantaneous heating
device 33. This automatically prevents the scale from adhering to a wall surface of
the pipe 510 in the instantaneous heating device 33.
[0318] The vertical magnetic field generating magnet 514a and the horizontal magnetic field
generating magnet 514b are semipermanently operated, thereby eliminating the necessity
of maintenance.
[0319] The vertical magnetic field generating magnet 514a and the horizontal magnetic field
generating magnet 514b may be provided so as to be rotatable around an outer peripheral
surface of the pipe 510 by an actuator (not shown).
[0320] The vertical magnetic field generating magnet 514a and the horizontal magnetic field
generating magnet 514b may be moved back and forth in the axial direction of the pipe
510. Thus, the ion flow can be more effectively produced. This makes it possible to
more effectively prevent the scale from adhering to the wall surface of the pipe 510.
[0321] A permanent magnet may be used as the vertical magnetic field generating magnet 514a
and the horizontal magnetic field generating magnet 514b. In this case, the necessity
of the supply of power can be eliminated.
(Sixth Embodiment)
[0322] Fig. 34 is a schematic view showing a part of a sanitary washing apparatus according
to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.
[0323] As shown in Fig. 34, the sanitary washing apparatus according to the sixth embodiment
differs from the sanitary washing apparatus 100a according to the fourth embodiment
in that a pipe 510 is provided with a ultrasonic vibrator S in place of or in addition
to the scale inhibiting material supply device 34.
[0324] When an AC voltage having a resonance frequency is applied to the ultrasonic vibrator
S, strong ultrasonic waves are produced by a resonance phenomenon. The ultrasonic
waves produced by the ultrasonic vibrator S are propagated in a direction at a right
angle to a vibration surface without being dispersed.
[0325] Therefore, the ultrasonic waves are propagated in the backflow direction of washing
water by providing the ultrasonic vibrator S in a bent portion of the pipe 510. Thus,
fine bubbles (hereinafter referred to as cavitation) are produced in washing water.
[0326] The cavitation produced in the washing water by the ultrasonic waves evaporates carbon
ions in the washing water which cause a scale. Thus, the scale is prevented from being
produced, thereby making it possible to automatically prevent the scale from adhering
to a wall surface of the pipe 510 in the instantaneous heating device 33. The ultrasonic
vibrator S is semipermanently operated, thereby eliminating the necessity of maintenance.
[0327] As in the above-mentioned fourth, fifth, and sixth embodiments, the posterior nozzle
1a and the bidet nozzle 2 correspond to a human body washing nozzle device, the nozzle
cleaning nozzle 3 corresponds to a nozzle cleaning device, the scale inhibiting material
supply device 34 corresponds to a scale inhibitor supply device, the vertical magnetic
field generating magnet 514a and the horizontal magnetic field generating magnet 514b
correspond to a magnetism generator, and the ultrasonic vibrator S corresponds to
a ultrasonic wave generator.
(Seventh Embodiment)
[0328] Description is now made of a main body 200c in a sanitary washing apparatus 100c
according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 35 is a schematic
view showing the configuration of the main body 200c in the sanitary washing apparatus
100c according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. The main body 200c
in the sanitary washing apparatus 100c shown in Fig. 35 does not comprise the instantaneous
heating device 33 and the thermistor 33b in the configuration of the main body 200a
in the sanitary washing apparatus 100a shown in Fig. 12.
[0329] As shown in Fig. 35, a heat exchanger 11 heats washing water supplied through a pipe
202 to a predetermined temperature on the basis of a control signal fed by a controller
4. A temperature sensor 12b measures the temperature of the washing water heated to
a predetermined temperature by the heat exchanger 11, and gives a measured temperature
value to the controller 4. A temperature sensor 12c measures the temperature of the
washing water supplied to a nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 through the heat exchanger 11,
and gives a measured temperature value to the controller 4.
[0330] A pump 13 feeds by pressure the washing water heated by the heat exchanger 11 to
a switching valve 14a on the basis of the control signal fed by the controller 4.
The switching valve 14a supplies washing water to any one of a posterior nozzle 1a
and a bidet nozzle 2 in a nozzle 30 and the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3 on the basis
of the control signal fed by the controller 4.
[0331] In a case where the washing water is supplied to the posterior nozzle 1a or the bidet
nozzle 2 in the nozzle 30, the washing water is sprayed from the posterior nozzle
1a or the bidet nozzle 2. On the other hand, when the washing water is supplied to
the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3, the washing water is sprayed on the posterior nozzle
1a and the bidet nozzle 2 from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3.
[0332] The washing water heated by the heat exchanger 11 is referred to as nozzle cleaning
hot water, and vapor generated by the heating of the heat exchanger 11 is referred
to as nozzle cleaning vapor.
[0333] The nozzle cleaning hot water or the nozzle cleaning vapor is sprayed on the posterior
nozzle 1a or the bidet nozzle 2 from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3. In the heat exchanger
11, the washing water is prevented from being overheated by the temperature sensors
12b and 12c.
[0334] As described in the foregoing, in the sanitary washing apparatus according to the
seventh embodiment, the instantaneous heating device 33 need not be provided, so that
the miniaturization of the nozzle 30 can be realized.
[0335] That is, although in the seventh embodiment, the instantaneous heating device 33
as described in the first embodiment is not used, the washing water is heated to high-temperature
water having a temperature of approximately 60°C by the heat exchanger 11 and is discharged
from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3, thereby making it possible to sterilize the surface
of the posterior nozzle 1 or the bidet nozzle 2 which is a human body washing nozzle
device by high-temperature cleaning, as in the first embodiment.
[0336] The washing water is heated by the heat exchanger 11 to high-temperature water or
vapor, and is discharged from the nozzle cleaning nozzle 3, thereby allowing the surface
of the posterior nozzle 1 or the bidet nozzle 2 which is the human body washing nozzle
device from being cleaned and sterilized by the high-temperature water or the vapor,
as in the other embodiments.
(Sterilization Evaluation Test Result)
[0337] Description is now made of results obtained by conducting sterilization evaluation
tests in metal nozzles.
[0338] First, 12 metal nozzles (long size) are used as a specimen of a test material. As
the specimen, Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Pseudomonas sp. and Aspergillus niger IFO
9455 were used as test strains.
[0339] As a strain preparation liquid, the Escherichia coli and the Pseudomonas sp. were
cultivated overnight at a temperature of 37°C in a tryptosoybouillon culture medium,
and is suitably diluted using the tryptosoybouillon culture medium diluted by ten
times, to be prepared such that the number of strains is approximately 10
5 CFU/mL. As a spore preparation liquid, the Aspergillus niger was suitably diluted
using a liquid obtained by diluting a potato dexitrose agar medium by 100 times, to
be prepared such that the number of spores is approximately 10
4 CFU/mL. Four test tubes were prepared per one strain, and a strain preparation liquid
of 15 mL was put per one of the test tubes.
[0340] Escherichia coli : four test tubes (15 mL per one), the number of strains is approximately
10
5 CFU/mL
[0341] Pseudomonas sp. : four test tubes (15 mL per one), the number of strains is approximately
10
5 CFU/mL
[0342] Aspergillus niger : four test tubes (15 mL per one), the number of strains is approximately
10
4 CFU/mL
[0343] As a test method, the metal nozzles were subjected to sterilization processing by
autoclaving and then, one of the metal nozzles was put in each of the strain preparation
liquid and the spore preparation liquid. Storage conditions were 25°C, surfaces of
the metal nozzles which were respectively subjected to warming processing and no-processing
were extracted using "wiping check" after one and two weeks, and the preparation liquids
were suitably diluted by a sterile normal saline solution. Therefore, the Escherichia
coli and the Pseudomonas sp. were cultivated overnight at a temperature of 37°C using
a standard agar medium and then, the number of strains which have grown was measured.
The Aspergillus niger was cultivated at a temperature of 25°C using a potato dextrose
agar medium for seven days and then, the number of strains which have grown was measured.
[0344] Here, as test conditions (a method of processing a surface of the metal nozzle),
tap water was warmed to 55°C with respect to the warming processing, was cleaned for
one minute at a rate of 300 to 500 mL per minute, and was cleaned for seven minutes
(warmed once per day) at a rate of 300 to 500 mL per minute. As to the no-processing,
the tap water was not cleaned.
[0345] As to the results of the foregoing tests, the results of the respective numbers of
strains in bacteria and the Aspergillus niger which have adhered to the surface of
the metal nozzle are shown in Table 1. Although the Escherichia coli which was warmed
was 40 CFU/mL in the first week, it was not more than 10 CFU/mL which is not more
than the detection limit in the second week. Although the Pseudomonas sp. was 38 CFU/mL
in the first week, it was 20 CFU/mL in the second week. The Aspergillus niger was
not more than 10 CFU/mL which is not more than the detection limit in the first and
second weeks.
[0346] The respective numbers of strains in the Escherichia coli and the Pseudomonas sp.
which were not processed were 10
4 to 10
5 CFU/mL in the first and second weeks, and the number of strains in the Aspergillus
niger was 10
3 CFU/mL in the first and second weeks.
Table 1
TEST STRAIN |
PERIOD (WEEK) |
WARMING PROCESSING |
NO PROCESSING |
E.coli
(5.3×105CFU/mL)* |
1 |
40 |
7.9×104 |
2 |
<10 |
6.7×106 |
Pseudomonas sp.
(9.2×105CFU/mL)* |
1 |
38 |
1.3×105 |
2 |
20 |
3.2×106 |
A. niger
(4.1×104CFU/mL)* |
1 |
<10 |
4.5×103 |
2 |
<10 |
4.8×103 |
*: NUMBER OF INITIAL STARINS (UNIT:CFU/mL) |
[0347] The above-mentioned metal nozzle is a so-called stainless nozzle obtained by squeezing
stainless steel.
[0348] The above-mentioned results are obtained by test and evaluation in a third-party
public organization.
[0349] The foregoing results proves that a sterilization effect is produced by cleaning
at a temperature of 55°C in the foregoing conditions.