SANITARY CLEANSING DEVICE AND TOILET DEVICE WITH SAME

Abstract

 A sanitary cleansing device of the present invention includes: human body cleansing nozzle (1) configured to discharge cleansing water and cleanse a human body; human body cleansing water flow passage (202) provided between a supply source and human body cleansing nozzle (1), and configured to allow the cleansing water from the supply source to flow through human body cleansing nozzle (1). The sanitary cleansing device further includes: toilet bowl nozzle (40) provided on an end of toilet bowl cleansing water flow passage (205) branched from human body cleansing water flow passage (202); pulsation pump (14) provided on an upstream side with respect to toilet bowl nozzle (40); atmosphere open part (8) configured to open a part of human body cleansing water flow passage (202) to atmosphere at an upstream side with respect to pulsation pump (14); and controller (4). Consequently, a jet flow from toilet bowl nozzle (40) can be stabilized and prevented from splashing outside a toilet bowl.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a sanitary cleansing device having a toilet bowl nozzle that cleanses a toilet bowl, and a toilet device with the same.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Heretofore, in order to prevent dirt from adhering to a toilet bowl, various sanitary cleansing devices are developed (e.g., see PTL 1).

[0003] A sanitary cleansing device described in PTL 1 discharges cleansing water from a toilet bowl nozzle toward an inner surface of a toilet bowl in a case where a person sits on a toilet seat. At this time, the inner surface of the toilet bowl is wetted by the cleansing water, so that a water screen is formed on a toilet bowl surface. Consequently, dirt is prevented from adhering to the toilet bowl.

[0004] That is, supply pressure of tap water is reduced by a pressure reducing valve, and a main solenoid valve and an electromagnetic bypass valve are opened, thereby discharging depressurized cleansing water as a jet flow to the inner surface of the toilet bowl from a pre-cleansing nozzle that is the toilet bowl nozzle.

[0005] However, in a configuration of the conventional sanitary cleansing device, the supply pressure of the tap water (generally, 1 kg/cm² to 7.5 kg/cm²) that is a supply source of the cleansing water acts on a primary side of the main solenoid valve with the main solenoid valve being closed. Therefore, high supply pressure acts on the toilet bowl nozzle for a brief moment from a moment when the main solenoid valve is opened until the supply pressure is reduced to predetermined pressure with the pressure reducing valve. Consequently, there has been a problem that the jet flow of the cleansing water jetted from the toilet bowl nozzle reaches the toilet seat or outside the toilet bowl.

[0006] Additionally, the supply pressure of the tap water fluctuates depending on areas or time zones. Therefore, due to pressure fluctuation on a primary side of the pressure reducing valve, pressure on a secondary side of the pressure reducing valve also fluctuates. Consequently, there is a problem that the jet flow of the cleansing water cannot be jetted from the toilet bowl nozzle with stable supply pressure.

Citation List

Patent Literature

[0007] PTL 1: Unexamined Japanese Patent Publication No. H07-189319

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, the present invention is a sanitary cleansing device for supplying cleansing water supplied from a supply source to a human body, the sanitary cleansing device including: a human body cleansing nozzle configured to discharge the cleansing water and cleanse the human body; and a human body cleansing water flow passage provided between the supply source and the human body cleansing nozzle, and configured to allow the cleansing water from the supply source to flow through the human body cleansing nozzle. The sanitary cleansing device further includes: a toilet bowl nozzle provided on an end of a toilet bowl cleansing water flow passage branched from the human body cleansing water flow passage; a pulsation pump provided on an upstream side with respect to the toilet bowl nozzle; an atmosphere open part configured to open a part of the human body cleansing water flow passage to atmosphere at an upstream side with respect to the pulsation pump; and a controller.

[0009] According to this configuration, in a case where the cleansing water from the supply source is jetted from the toilet bowl nozzle, a part of the human body cleansing water flow passage disposed on the upstream side with respect to the pulsation pump is open to the atmosphere. Consequently, an effect by supply pressure of tap water being a supply source of the cleansing water is eliminated. Therefore, cleansing water having a flow rate according to operation speed of the pulsation pump controlled by the controller can be supplied to the toilet bowl nozzle. As a result, pressure of a jet flow of the cleansing water discharged into the toilet bowl from the toilet bowl nozzle is stabilized, so that the cleansing water from the toilet bowl nozzle can be prevented from splashing outside the toilet bowl.

[0010] Additionally, the cleansing water on the primary side of the pulsation pump is open to the atmosphere, and therefore the cleansing water sent out by the pulsation pump is not affected by the supply pressure of the tap water being the supply source. Therefore, a jet flow of cleansing water having pulsation according to operation of the pulsation pump can be jetted from the toilet bowl nozzle. Consequently, the toilet bowl surface is previously wetted by the jet flow of the cleansing water from the toilet bowl nozzle, so that it is possible to prevent adhesion of feces. Furthermore, an effect of removing dirt already adhered to the toilet bowl surface can be provided by the jet flow of the cleansing water from the toilet bowl nozzle.

[0011] A toilet device of the present invention includes: at least the above sanitary cleansing device; a toilet bowl; and a room entry detection sensor. Consequently, it is possible to implement a clean toilet device that is excellent in convenience.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] 

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a toilet device mounted with a sanitary cleansing device according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view of a remote controller of the sanitary cleansing device according to the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a main body of the sanitary cleansing device according to the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an atmosphere open part of the sanitary cleansing device according to the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a sectional view of a displacement pump of the sanitary cleansing device according to the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a time chart showing an example of operation of the sanitary cleansing device according to the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of the sanitary cleansing device according to the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged sectional view for illustrating structures of a toilet bowl nozzle of FIG. 7 and periphery of the toilet bowl nozzle.

FIG. 9 is a longitudinal sectional view of the sanitary cleansing device during pre-cleansing of a toilet bowl of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged sectional view for illustrating structures of the toilet bowl nozzle in a state of FIG. 9 and periphery of the toilet bowl nozzle.

FIG. 11A is a sectional view showing a detailed structure of a tip of the toilet bowl nozzle of FIG. 7.

FIG. 11B is a sectional view taken along line 11B-11B of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12A is a schematic diagram for illustrating definitions of jet velocity V and expanding width W of the toilet bowl nozzle.

FIG. 12B is a diagram showing relation between jet velocity V and expanding width W.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing research results of room entry and sitting times.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method of toilet bowl cleansing processes of the sanitary cleansing device of the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of an atmosphere open part of a sanitary cleansing device according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, a sanitary cleansing device and a toilet device according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited by these exemplary embodiments.

FIRST EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT

[0014] Hereinafter, a sanitary cleansing device according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, and a toilet device with the same will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the toilet device mounted with the sanitary cleansing device according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Toilet device 1000 is installed in a toilet room.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1, toilet device 1000 of this exemplary embodiment includes at least sanitary cleansing device 100, toilet bowl 700, room entry detection sensor 600, and the like, and is mounted with sanitary cleansing device 100 on toilet bowl 700.

[0017] Sanitary cleansing device 100 is configured by main body 200, remote controller 300, toilet seat 400, lid 500, and the like. Main body part 200 incorporates a cleansing water supply mechanism (see FIG. 3) that is controlled by sitting sensor 610 and controller 4 provided on a front upper part, and is openably mounted with toilet seat 400 and lid 500. Sitting sensor 610 is configured by, for example, a reflective infrared sensor, and detects an infrared ray reflected from a human body, to detect whether or not a user is present on toilet seat 400.

[0018] The cleansing water supply mechanism incorporated in main body 200 has one end connected to toilet bowl nozzle 40 provided on a front lower part of main body 200 and the other end connected to a tap water piping. FIG. 1 shows a state where toilet bowl nozzle 40 protrudes inside toilet bowl 700. Consequently, the cleansing water supply mechanism supplies cleansing water supplied from the tap water piping to toilet bowl nozzle 40. In a case of pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl, the supplied cleansing water is jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 into a wide range of an inner surface of toilet bowl 700. In a case of back part cleansing of the toilet bowl, the cleansing water is jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 to a rear surface side of the inner surface of toilet bowl 700.

[0019] Furthermore, the cleansing water supply mechanism incorporated in main body 200 is connected to nozzle part 20 (see FIG. 3) configured by buttock nozzle 1 and bidet nozzle 2 which are human body cleansing nozzles, and nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle. Consequently, the cleansing water supply mechanism supplies cleansing water supplied from the tap water piping to nozzle part 20. Then, the supplied cleansing water is jetted from nozzle part 20 such as buttock nozzle 1 and bidet nozzle 2 to a private part of the user. Additionally, the cleansing water supplied to nozzle part 20 of nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle is jetted to nozzle part 20 such as buttock nozzle 1 and bidet nozzle 2 and cleanses nozzle part 20 such as buttock nozzle 1 and bidet nozzle 2.

[0020] Remote controller 300 has a plurality of switches, and is mounted on, for example, a place where the user sitting on toilet seat 400 can operate.

[0021] Room entry detection sensor 600 is configured by, for example, a reflective infrared sensor, and is mounted on an entrance of the toilet room or the like. In a case where room entry detection sensor 600 detects an infrared ray reflected from the human body, room entry detection sensor 600 detects that the user entered the toilet room.

[0022] Controller 4 (see FIG. 3) of main body 200 controls operation of respective parts of sanitary cleansing device 100 based on signals transmitted from remote controller 300, room entry detection sensor 600, and sitting sensor 610.

[0023] Hereinafter, a configuration of remote controller 300 of sanitary cleansing device 100 according to this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a front view of the remote controller of the sanitary cleansing device according to this exemplary embodiment.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 2, remote controller 300 includes wide cleansing switch 305, rhythm cleansing switch 306, water force setting switches 307 and 308, move cleansing switch 309, and cleansing position setting switches 310 and 311 which are provided on an upper part of controller main body 301, and stop switch 302 for instructing cleansing operation, buttock switch 303, and bidet switch 304 which are provided on a lower part of controller main body 301.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 1, when the user operates the respective switches of remote controller 300, predetermined signals according to the respective switches of main body 200 are transmitted from remote controller 300, for example, by radio. Controller 4 (see FIG. 3) of main body 200 controls operation of respective components of main body 200 and toilet seat 400 based on the received signals. For example, in a case where the user depresses buttock cleansing button 303 or bidet cleansing button 304, controller 4 moves nozzle part 20 such as buttock nozzle 1 and bidet nozzle 2 of main body 200, jets cleansing water, and cleanses the private part of the user.

[0027] Hereinafter, configurations and actions of a water supply system and a control system in main body 200 of sanitary cleansing device 100 of this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of the main body of the sanitary cleansing device according to this exemplary embodiment.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 3, main body 200 of sanitary cleansing device 100 is configured by controller 4, branch faucet 5, strainer 6, solenoid valve 7, atmosphere open part 8, flow regulating valve 9, heat exchanger 12, temperature sensors 13a and 13b, displacement pump 14, buffer tank 15, switching valve 16, nozzle part 20, vacuum breaker 61, toilet bowl nozzle 40, toilet bowl nozzle motor 40m, and the like. As described above, nozzle part 20 of main body 200 is configured by buttock nozzle 1, bidet nozzle 2, and nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle, and switching valve 16 includes switching valve motor 16m.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 3, branch faucet 5 is inserted into tap water piping 201 that serves as a supply source of water, and is connected to human body cleansing water flow passage 202 that reaches buttock nozzle 1 and bidet nozzle 2 which serve as human body cleansing nozzles. Into human body cleansing water flow passage 202, strainer 6, solenoid valve 7, flow regulating valve 9, temperature sensor 13a, heat exchanger 12, temperature sensorl3b, displacement pump 14, buffer tank 15 having vacuum breaker 61, and switching valve 16 are sequentially inserted from branch faucet 5.

[0031] Furthermore, toilet bowl nozzle 40 is connected to an end of toilet bowl cleansing water flow passage 205 branched from human body cleansing water flow passage 202 by switching valve 16. Toilet bowl nozzle 40m is mounted with toilet bowl nozzle motor 40m.

[0032] Now, flow of cleansing water in main body 200 of sanitary cleansing device 100, and control of the respective components of main body 200 by controller 4 will be described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0033] First, as shown in FIG. 3, tap water that flows through tap water piping 201 is supplied to strainer 6 as cleansing water by branch faucet 5. Then, strainer 6 removes dust, impurities, and the like included in the cleansing water.

[0034] Controller 4 controls solenoid valve 7 to switch a supply state of the cleansing water. At this time, pressure of cleansing water that passes through flow regulating valve 9 formed from a rubber variable orifice having an orifice diameter changed by action water pressure, and flows in human body cleansing water flow passage 202 is reduced.

[0035] The cleansing water controlled by solenoid valve 7 is supplied to heat exchanger 12 via atmosphere open part 8 which is hereinafter described in detail.

[0036] Heat exchanger 12 heats the cleansing water supplied through human body cleansing water flow passage 202 to a predetermined temperature, for example, 39°C. At this time, displacement pump 14 (hereinafter, referred to as a "displacement pump") that serves as a pulsation pump connected to heat exchanger 12 is driven and controlled by controller 4, and cleansing water having a flow rate according to operation speed of displacement pump 14 is discharged from buttock nozzle 1 or bidet nozzle 2 that serves as the human body cleansing nozzle. Therefore, controller 4 controls heating operation of heat exchanger 12 based on measured temperature values measured by temperature sensors 13a and 13b and a control flow rate by displacement pump 14.

[0037] The cleansing water heated by heat exchanger 12 is pumped to switching valve 16 through buffer tank 15 by displacement pump 14. Then, switching valve 16 is switched to buttock nozzle 1 or bidet nozzle 2 that serves as the human body cleansing nozzle, or nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle, by controller 4. Additionally, switching valve 16 is switched to toilet bowl nozzle 40 that discharges the cleansing water to a toilet bowl surface in order to perform the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl, back part cleansing of the toilet bowl, and the like.

[0038] At this time, buffer tank 15 acts as a temperature buffer part of the heated cleansing water. That is, the cleansing water pumped to switching valve 16 controls generation of temperature irregularity. Total capacity of heat exchanger 12 and buffer tank 15 is preferably from 15 cc to 30 cc, and more preferably from 20 cc to 25 cc. Consequently, in a general sanitary cleansing device, temperature fluctuation of cleansing water can be suppressed with optimum responsiveness.

[0039] Then, controller 4 controls operation of switching valve motor 16m, switching valve 16 is switched to any of buttock nozzle 1, bidet nozzle 2, nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle, and toilet bowl nozzle 40, and the cleansing water pumped from displacement pump 14 is supplied via buffer tank 15. Consequently, the cleansing water is jetted from any of buttock nozzle 1, bidet nozzle 2, nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle, and toilet bowl nozzle 40.

[0040] Buttock nozzle 1, and bidet nozzle 2 are used to cleanse the private part of the user. Nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle is used to cleanse parts of buttock nozzle 1 and bidet nozzle 2 that protrude inside toilet bowl 700. Furthermore, toilet bowl nozzle 40 is used to cleanse the inside of the toilet bowl.

[0041] Buffer tank 15 disposed between displacement pump 14 and switching valve 16 is provided with vacuum breaker 61. Even in a state where both displacement pump 14 and switching valve 16 stop so as to block human body cleansing water flow passage 202, vacuum breaker 61 prevents human body cleansing water flow passage 202 disposed between displacement pump 14 and switching valve 16 from having negative pressure. As a result, sewage or the like can be prevented from flowing back from the toilet bowl nozzle 40 side and the nozzle part 20 side.

[0042] Now, the atmosphere open part provided in the main body of the sanitary cleansing device according to this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 4.

[0043] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the atmosphere open part of the sanitary cleansing device according to this exemplary embodiment.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 4, atmosphere open part 8 is configured by at least tank 8a having water inlet 8b, water outlet 8d, and atmosphere open hole 8c, water level sensor 11, and the like. Water inlet 8b of tank 8a is provided on an upper part of tank 8a, and cleansing water such as tap water is injected in tank 8a via solenoid valve 7 of main body 200. Water outlet 8d of tank 8a is provided on a lower part of tank 8a, and discharges cleansing water to heat exchanger 12. Atmosphere open hole 8c of tank 8a is provided on the upper part of tank 8a, and allows the inside of tank 8a to have atmospheric pressure. At this time, atmosphere open hole 8c of tank 8a forms air layer 8e in an upper part of the inside of tank 8a, and water inlet 8b of tank 8a is provided so as to be open to air layer 8e.

[0045] Water level sensor 11 is configured by, for example, three electrodes 11a, 11b, and 11c whose length are different, and tip positions of electrodes 11a, 11b, and 11c are set so as to detect an upper limit water level or a lower limit water level by contact with water inside tank 8a. For example, the lower limit water level is detected by a state where the longest electrode 11a of water level sensor 11 is soaked in the cleansing water, and middle electrode 11b is not soaked in the cleansing water, namely, by non-conduction between electrode 11a and electrode 11b. On the other hand, the upper limit water level is detected by a state of FIG. 4 where all of three electrodes 11a, 11b, and 11c are soaked in the cleansing water. The tip position of electrode 11c of water level sensor 11 is preferably provided at a position having at least the same height as a lower surface of atmosphere open hole 8c, or a position below this position. Consequently, the cleansing water can be prevented from leaking from tank 8a via atmosphere open hole 8c. The tip position of electrode 11b of water level sensor 11 is preferably provided at a position having at least the same height as an upper surface of water outlet 8d, or a position above this position. Consequently, air can be prevented from entering heat exchanger 12 from air layer 8e of tank 8a.

[0046] Now, a configuration and operation of the displacement pump that serves as the pulsation pump provided in the main body of the sanitary cleansing device will be described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0047] FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the displacement pump of the sanitary cleansing device according to this exemplary embodiment.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 5, displacement pump 14 is configured by at least pump main body 81 having columnar space 82, pressure feeding piston 83, motor 86, link mechanism 89, and the like. At this time, pressure feeding piston 83 divides columnar space 82 of pump main body 81 into pump chamber 82a and pump chamber 82b.

[0049] Pump main body 81 has one side part provided with inflow parts 84 of cleansing water, and the other side part provided with outflow parts 85 of cleansing water. Inflow parts 84 are connected to heat exchanger 12 via human body cleansing water flow passage 202, and outflow parts 85 are connected to switching valve 16 via human body cleansing water flow passage 202.

[0050] Gear 87 mounted on a rotational shaft of motor 86, and gear 88 connected to link mechanism 89 mesh with each other, so that rotary motion of motor 86 is converted into reciprocating motion of pressure feeding piston 83 via link mechanism 89. That is, when motor 86 rotates, pressure feeding piston 83 reciprocates via gear 87, gear 88, and link mechanism 89. Consequently, displacement pump 14 performs following operation. When pressure feeding piston 83 moves downward, and capacity of pump chamber 82a increases, pressure of pump chamber 82a becomes lower than pressure of inflow parts 84. Therefore, cleansing water inside heat exchanger 12 is supplied from inflow part 84a to pump chamber 82a.

[0051] On the other hand, when pressure feeding piston 83 moves upward and capacity of pump chamber 82a is reduced, the pressure of pump chamber 82a becomes higher than pressure of outflow parts 85. Therefore, cleansing water supplied to pump chamber 82a is discharged to outflow part 85a.

[0052] Consequently, when the cleansing water in pump chamber 82a is discharged from outflow part 85a, the cleansing water is supplied into pump chamber 82b from inflow part 84b. Then, when the cleansing water in pump chamber 82a is supplied from inflow part 84a, the cleansing water in pump chamber 82b is discharged from outflow part 85b.

[0053] That is, by the upward and downward motion of pressure feeding piston 83, pressure is alternately applied to the cleansing water in pump chamber 82a and the cleansing water in pump chamber 82b. Additionally, reciprocating speed of pressure feeding piston 83 is changed during a single rotation, so that periodical pulsation can be applied to the cleansing water of inflow parts 84. At this time, as to pulsation pressure of the cleansing water, minimum pressure during pulsation is nearly equal to inflow pressure of displacement pump 14. On the other hand, maximum pressure of the pulsation pressure becomes pressure corresponding to a load of displacement pump 14 and speed of capacity change of displacement pump 14. Consequently, the cleansing water to which the pulsation pressure is applied is discharged from outflow parts 85 of displacement pump 14.

[0054] At this time, as shown in FIG. 3, opening to the atmosphere is allowed on an upstream side with respect to displacement pump 14 by atmosphere open part 8 inserted in human body cleansing water flow passage 202. That is, the inflow pressure of the cleansing water that flows into displacement pump 14 becomes atmospheric pressure (corresponding to 0 MPa at gauge pressure of an atmospheric pressure reference) without being affected by supply pressure of tap water being a supply source.

[0055] Therefore, for example, in a case where switching valve 16 switches to toilet bowl nozzle 40, cleansing water having a flow rate and pulsation pressure according to rotational speed of motor 86 of displacement pump 14 controlled by controller 4 are supplied to toilet bowl nozzle 40. Consequently, a jet flow of the cleansing water can be stably discharged into the toilet bowl from toilet bowl nozzle 40 at arbitrary pressure or an arbitrary flow rate without being affected by the supply pressure of the tap water being the supply source. As a result, the jet flow of the cleansing water discharged from toilet bowl nozzle 40 can be prevented from splashing outside the toilet bowl. An installation position in a height direction of displacement pump 14 is preferably installed at a position lower than a water level of atmosphere open part 8. Consequently, pump heat capacity of displacement pump 14 is reduced, and an energy loss can be reduced.

[0056] That is, sanitary cleansing device 100 of this exemplary embodiment includes displacement pump 14 provided on an upstream side with respect to toilet bowl nozzle 40, atmosphere open part 8 that allows a part of human body cleansing water flow passage 202 disposed on the upstream side with respect to displacement pump 14 to be open to the atmosphere, and controller 4 that controls each part. Therefore, the flow rate of the cleansing water jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 and the maximum pressure of pulsation are not affected by supply pressure of tap water supplied from the tap water piping serving as the supply source. That is, the flow rate of the cleansing water jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 and the maximum pressure of pulsation can be arbitrarily adjusted in accordance with operation speed of displacement pump 14 by controller 4. Consequently, the jet flow of the cleansing water discharged from toilet bowl nozzle 40 can be prevented from splashing outside the toilet bowl. Additionally, the toilet bowl surface is previously wetted by the jet flow of the cleansing water from toilet bowl nozzle 40, so that it is possible to prevent adhesion of feces. Furthermore, dirt already adhered to the toilet bowl surface can be effectively removed by the jet flow of the cleansing water from toilet bowl nozzle 40.

[0057] Hereinafter, reasons why the above operation and effects are obtained will be described.

[0058] Generally, in a case where the supply pressure of tap water acts on inflow parts 84 of displacement pump 14, the minimum pressure of the pulsation of displacement pump 14 becomes the supply pressure of tap water. At this time, when a load is constant at the maximum pressure of pulsation, the load is hardly changed, and therefore a pulsation width is reduced.

[0059] However, as in this exemplary embodiment, when opening to the atmosphere is allowed on the upstream side with respect to displacement pump 14 by atmosphere open part 8 of human body cleansing water flow passage 202, the pressure of inflow parts 84 of displacement pump 14 becomes nearly atmospheric pressure. Therefore, the minimum pressure of the pulsation of displacement pump 14 becomes the atmospheric pressure. On the other hand, the maximum pressure of pulsation of the displacement pump 14 is changeable by a number of rotations of motor 86 of displacement pump 14, and the pulsation width can be increased. Consequently, as described above, the jet flow of the cleansing water discharged from toilet bowl nozzle 40 into the toilet bowl can be stabilized without being affected by the supply pressure of tap water being the supply source. Consequently, the cleansing water from toilet bowl nozzle 40 can be prevented from splashing outside the toilet bowl. Additionally, it is possible to improve an effect of removing the dirt already adhered to the toilet bowl surface.

[0060] In this exemplary embodiment, the toilet bowl is cleansed by the jet of the cleansing water from toilet bowl nozzle 40. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the present invention may be applied to a case where the private part of the human body is cleansed by buttock nozzle 1 or bidet nozzle 2 that serves as the human body cleansing nozzle, and operation and effects similar to those described below can be obtained.

[0061] That is, as described above, the minimum pressure of the pulsation of the cleansing water discharged from displacement pump 14 is atmospheric pressure, and the maximum pressure is changeable by the number of rotations of motor 86 of displacement pump 14. Therefore, a set flow rate is reduced by low speed rotation of motor 86 of displacement pump 14, so that it is possible to implement private part cleansing with a smaller pulsation width and softer cleansing feeling. On the other hand, the set flow rate is increased by high speed rotation of motor 86 of displacement pump 14, so that it is possible to implement strong private part cleansing with stimulation feeling. As a result, a jet flow of the cleansing water discharged from buttock nozzle 1 or bidet nozzle 2 can be stabilized without being affected by the supply pressure of the tap water being the supply source, and a wider range of cleansing feeling can be provided to the user. As described above, sanitary cleansing device 100 of this exemplary embodiment is provided with atmosphere open part 8 that opens a part of human body cleansing water flow passage 202 to the atmosphere at the upstream side with respect to pulsation pump, and the pulsation pump is configured by displacement pump 14 that is capable of sending out cleansing water having capacity according to a driving amount of pressure feeding piston 83. Consequently, even when a flow rate control valve is not particularly provided, the number of rotations of motor 86 of displacement pump 14 is variably controlled, and the flow rate of cleansing water or pressure amplitude of pulsation pressure can be controlled.

[0062] For example, in a case where the number of rotations of motor 86 is set to low speed rotation, the flow rate of the cleansing water supplied to nozzle part 20 is reduced, and the pressure amplitude of pulsation pressure is reduced. As a result, the private part or the like of the human body can be cleansed by a soft jet flow with reduced stimulation feeling. In a case where the number of rotations of motor 86 is set to high speed rotation, the flow rate of the cleansing water supplied to nozzle part 20 is increased, and the pressure amplitude of pulsation pressure is increased. As a result, the private part or the like of the human body can be cleansed by a strong jet flow with stimulation feeling.

[0063] That is, the flow rate of the cleansing water discharged from the human body cleansing nozzle can be stably controlled without a flow rate control valve. Additionally, as the set flow rate of the cleansing water discharged from the human body cleansing nozzle is large, the pressure amplitude of the pulsation pressure of the cleansing water can be greatly amplified.

[0064] In this exemplary embodiment, cleansing water is discharged from toilet bowl nozzle 40 or buttock nozzle 1 or bidet nozzle 2 that serves as the human body cleansing nozzle, with stable pulsation, and the toilet bowl or the private part of the human body is cleansed. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, switching valve motor 16m of switching valve 16 may be rotated by controller 4, and cleansing water may be discharged from nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle. Consequently, dirt on an outer surface of buttock nozzle 1 or bidet nozzle 2 that serves as the human body cleansing nozzle can be effectively removed without being affected by supply pressure of tap water.

[0065] Hereinafter, operation of the sanitary cleansing device of this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 3, and FIG. 6.

[0066] FIG. 6 is a time chart showing an example of the operation of the sanitary cleansing device according to this exemplary embodiment.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 6, when room entry detection sensor 600 detects that a user has entered the toilet room, controller 4 activates displacement pump 14 that configures the pulsation pump being a water pump, and energizes heater 12h of heat exchanger 12. At this time, in switching valve 16 that serves as a flow passage switching function, flow passages to toilet bowl nozzle 40 is open, and flow passages to buttock nozzle 1, bidet nozzle 2, and nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle are closed.

[0068] Consequently, while cleansing water is heated by heat exchanger 12, displacement pump 14 jets the cleansing water in a wide range of the inner surface of toilet bowl 700 from toilet bowl nozzle 40 at intermittent strong/weak pulsation pressure only for a predetermined time. Then, after a lapse of the predetermined time, energization to heat exchanger 12 and displacement pump 14 is stopped. The above predetermined time corresponds to a period indicated as toilet bowl cleansing and preheating of FIG. 6.

[0069] At a time point when the toilet bowl cleansing and preheating is started, a water level of the cleansing water of tank 8a provided with atmosphere open hole 8c is located at a high (upper) position. Thereafter, the cleansing water inside tank 8a is jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 by displacement pump 14, and therefore the water level of the cleansing water inside tank 8a is lowered to a low (lower) position. At this time, water level controller 4s of controller 4 controls opening/closing (ON/OFF) of solenoid valve 7 while detecting the water level of the cleansing water inside tank 8a with water level sensor 11. Consequently, the water level of the cleansing water inside tank 8a is maintained in a predetermined range from the upper limit water level to the lower limit water level.

[0070] The pressure of inflow parts 84 of downstream displacement pump 14 becomes nearly the atmospheric pressure, namely, a gauge pressure of 0 MPa in an atmospheric pressure reference, by atmosphere open hole 8c provided in tank 8a. Therefore, the minimum pressure of the pulsation of the cleansing water is the atmospheric pressure, and the maximum pressure is variable according to the number of rotations of motor 86 of displacement pump 14, without being affected by the supply pressure of tap water being the supply source.

[0071] Consequently, the jet flow of the cleansing water discharged in the toilet bowl from toilet bowl nozzle 40 is stabilized without being affected by the supply pressure of tap water, so that the cleansing water from toilet bowl nozzle 40 can be prevented from splashing outside the toilet bowl. Furthermore, it is possible to remove dirt already adhered to the toilet bowl surface. That is, the toilet bowl surface is previously wetted with the cleansing water, so that it is possible not only to prevent adhesion of dirt, but also to remove the dirt already adhered to the toilet bowl surface.

[0072] Toilet bowl cleansing water flow passage 205 that leads to toilet bowl nozzle 40 is disposed on a downstream side of heat exchanger 12 and a downstream side of displacement pump 14, so that cleansing water warmed by heat exchanger 12 can be used for pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl. Consequently, it is possible to further enhance the effect of cleansing the adhesion of feces to the toilet bowl surface, and dirt. Furthermore, it is possible to perform preheating for warming cleansing water used for human body cleansing during the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 6, the user then sits on toilet seat 400, and operates buttock switch 303 or bidet switch 304 of remote controller 300 to turn on a human body cleansing switch. At this time, while switching valve 16 opens the flow passage to nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle, displacement pump 14 is activated, and heater 12h of heat exchanger 12 is energized. Consequently, parts of buttock nozzle 1 and bidet nozzle 2 which protrude in toilet bowl 700 are cleansed with the warmed cleansing water which pulses and jets from nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle (nozzle cleansing). As a result, dirt on outer surfaces of human body cleansing nozzles 1 and 2 can be removed with cleansing water having a flow rate and pulsation according to the rotational speed of motor 86 of displacement pump 14 that is controlled by controller 4.

[0074] Then, controller 4 protrudes buttock nozzle 1 (or bidet nozzle 2) instructed by remote controller 300 in toilet bowl 700 (nozzle protrusion), and opens a flow passage that leads to buttock nozzle 1 (or bidet nozzle 2) instructed by switching valve 16. Consequently, the warmed cleansing water that plusses and jets from buttock nozzle 1 is discharged to the buttock, so that the buttock is cleansed. At this time, opening to the atmosphere is allowed on an upstream side with respect to displacement pump 14 by atmosphere open part 8 of human body cleansing water flow passage 202. Therefore, the human body private part can be cleansed by the cleansing water having the flow rate and the pulsation according to the rotational speed of motor 86 of displacement pump 14 that is controlled by controller 4 without being affected by the supply pressure of the tap water. As a result, it is possible to stably obtain cleansing of user's desired cleansing feeling in a range of cleansing strength from a soft jet flow having small pressure amplitude of pulsation and reduced stimulation feeling to a strong jet flow having large pressure amplitude of pulsation and stimulation feeling. A selection instruction of the range of the cleansing strength can be arbitrarily set by water force setting switches 307 and 308 shown in FIG. 2.

[0075] Also in the human body cleansing described above, controller 4 controls the opening/closing (ON/OFF) of solenoid valve 7 to maintain the water level of the cleansing water of tank 8a in the predetermined range, while detecting the water level of the cleansing water of tank 8a with water level sensor 11.

[0076] When the user presses stop switch 302 of remote controller 300, the human body cleansing is terminated. Consequently, controller 4 stops energization to heater 12h of heat exchanger 12, and motor 86 of displacement pump 14. Then, buttock nozzle 1 (or bidet nozzle 2) that protrudes in toilet bowl 700 is housed in main body 200.

[0077] After buttock nozzle 1 (or bidet nozzle 2) is housed, controller 4 switches switching valve 16 to a state where the flow passage to nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle is open, activates displacement pump 14, and energizes heater 12h of heat exchanger 12. Consequently, the part of buttock nozzle 1 (or bidet nozzle 2) which protrudes in toilet bowl 700 is cleansed with the warmed cleansing water which pulses and jets from nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle (nozzle cleansing) for a predetermined time. Then, after the nozzle cleansing is performed for the predetermined time, controller 4 stops energization to heater 12h of heat exchanger 12, and motor 86 of displacement pump 14.

[0078] The right end of the time chart in FIG. 6 shows operation performed when controller 4 recognizes with a signal from sitting sensor 610 that the user has stood up from toilet seat 400. In a case where the user stands up from toilet seat 400, controller 4 energizes heater 12h of heat exchanger 12 again, and performs post-cleansing (nozzle cleansing) of the part of buttock nozzle 1 (or bidet nozzle 2) which protrudes in toilet bowl 700 by the warmed cleansing water which pulses and jets from nozzle 3 for cleansing a nozzle for the predetermined time. The above operation is preferable for keeping buttock nozzle 1 and bidet nozzle 2 for cleansing the human body clean, but does not always need to be performed. Therefore, the user may be able to set the above operation arbitrarily. At this time, controller 4 controls solenoid valve 7 with the signal from water level sensor 11, and holds the water level of tank 8a in an upper and lower range between electrode 11c and electrode 11b of water level sensor 11 (between 11c and 11b).

[0079] Hereinafter, a configuration and operation of the toilet bowl nozzle of the sanitary cleansing device of this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 7 and FIG. 8.

[0080] FIG. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of the sanitary cleansing device according to this exemplary embodiment. FIG. 8 is an enlarged sectional view for illustrating structures of the toilet bowl nozzle of FIG. 7 and periphery of the toilet bowl nozzle. Hereinafter, each part will be described while a side close to main body 200 of sanitary cleansing device 100 is set to a back side, and a front end side of toilet seat 400 is set to a front side, as shown in FIG. 7

[0081] Now, toilet bowl cleansing by toilet bowl nozzle 40 will be described.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 7, toilet bowl nozzle 40 is disposed at a position adjacent to nozzle part 20 in a lower part of main body 200, and a tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40 is disposed on an inner side of toilet bowl 700.

[0083] Lamp 50 formed by an LED (light-emitting diode) or the like is provided on a side of toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K in the vicinity of toilet bowl nozzle 40. Toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K is formed of transparent or translucent resin, such as polypropylene resin, for example, and provided so as to cover a front side of toilet bowl nozzle 40 and lamp 50. At this time, when lamp 50 emits light, the inside of toilet bowl 700 is irradiated with the light of lamp 50 through toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 8, toilet bowl nozzle 40 has a structure in which a bar-shaped jet flow formation member 42 is inserted into a tip of cylindrical toilet bowl nozzle main body 41. Inside toilet bowl nozzle main body 41, a clearance that serves as a flow passage of cleansing water, described later, is formed between an inner surface of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 and an outer peripheral surface of jet flow formation member 42. To a back end of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41, connecting pipe 44 that configures a part of toilet bowl cleansing water flow passage 205 of FIG. 3 is connected.

[0085] Consequently, cleansing water supplied from connecting pipe 44 to toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 is jetted from the tip side of toilet bowl nozzle 40 through the clearance between the inner surface of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 and the outer peripheral surface of jet flow formation member 42.

[0086] On the other hand, to the back end of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41, one end of rotation piece 43 is fixed. Rotation piece 43 has the other end connected to toilet bowl nozzle motor 40m fixed to main body lower part casing 200A described later. Then, toilet bowl nozzle motor 40m is driven, thereby rotating the tip of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41.

[0087] During a standby time of toilet bowl nozzle 40, that is, in a case where the user does not enter the toilet room, the tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40 is positioned and disposed so as to be adjacent to an inner surface of toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K as shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8. Hereinafter, this position of toilet bowl nozzle 40 is referred to as a "housing position". On the other hand, a position where toilet bowl nozzle 40 is disposed so as to move downward and perform the toilet bowl cleansing is hereinafter referred to as a "protruding position".

[0088] As shown in FIG. 8, rotation piece 43 fixed to toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 is inserted into torsion spring 40S. Torsion spring 40S is fixed to fixing parts 43a provided in rotation piece 43, and fixing groove 40Kb provided in toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K. Consequently, toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 is urged toward the housing position of the nozzle.

[0089] Generally, between toilet bowl nozzle motor 40m and rotation piece 43, jolting of a drive system, or backlash of a reduction gear, for example, in a case where the reduction gear is used in toilet bowl nozzle motor 40m, is present. Therefore, even when toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 is manually moved to the housing position, toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 sometimes does not stop at the housing position, and returns by jolting amount. Therefore, toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 is urged toward the nozzle housing side by torsion spring 40S, so that torsion spring 40S absorbs fluctuation by the amount of jolting or backlash. Consequently, it is possible to manually fix nozzle main body 41 at a predetermined housing position without positional displacement.

[0090] Torque of torsion spring 40S is set to at least tension generated in connecting pipe 44 connected to toilet bowl nozzle main body 41, so that toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 is easily and more reliably disposed at the housing position of the nozzle.

[0091] However, in a case where the sanitary cleansing device cannot be controlled, toilet bowl nozzle 40 stops at an intermediate position, and cleansing water is jetted, there is a possibility that the cleansing water splashes out from the toilet bowl, and leaks onto a floor surface. Therefore, it is necessary to configure such that the cleansing water does not splash out from at least the toilet bowl surface even when toilet bowl nozzle 40 stops at any position.

[0092] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 8, toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K is provided with, for example, shielding part 40Ka having such a shape as to incline downward toward the back side of the toilet bowl such that the cleansing water overspreads a front surface of the toilet bowl at the protruding position of toilet bowl nozzle 40. Consequently, cleansing water jetted by rotation of the tip of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 is prevented from splashing outside the toilet bowl surface in the course of movement from the protruding position to the housing position. As a result, it is possible to prevent the cleansing water from splashing outside the toilet bowl and leaking, for example, even when toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 stops at any position.

[0093] Additionally, in a case where toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K covers toilet bowl nozzle 40, and external force acts on toilet bowl nozzle 40, toilet bowl nozzle 40 moves inside shielding part 40Ka of toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K. Consequently, an overload never acts on toilet bowl nozzle 40 with respect to external force.

[0094] In the above state, when room entry detection sensor 600 shown in FIG. 1 detects that the user has entered the toilet room, controller 4 causes toilet bowl nozzle motor 40m to operate. Consequently, the tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40 rotates in a direction shown by arrow A of FIG. 8. Then, cleansing water is jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 to the toilet bowl surface, so that the above pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl is started.

[0095] Now, operation of the above pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl will be described with reference to FIG. 3, FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10.

[0096] FIG. 9 is a longitudinal sectional view of the sanitary cleansing device during pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl of FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is an enlarged sectional view for illustrating structures of the toilet bowl nozzle in a state of FIG. 9 and periphery of the toilet bowl nozzle.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, when detecting that the user has entered the toilet room, controller 4 rotates the tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40 in the direction shown by arrow A of FIG. 8. Consequently, the tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40 moves below toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K, and is positioned so as to be exposed to an inner space of toilet bowl 700. Hereinafter, this position of toilet bowl nozzle 40 is referred to as a "toilet bowl cleansing position".

[0098] Then, while toilet bowl nozzle 40 is disposed at the toilet bowl cleansing position, cleansing water is supplied from connecting pipe 44 to toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 via the cleansing water supply mechanism. Consequently, the cleansing water is jetted from the tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40.

[0099] At this time, the cleansing water jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 is radially jetted in a direction nearly orthogonal to a shaft center of cylindrical toilet bowl nozzle 40, by jet flow formation member 42 of toilet bowl nozzle 40. Consequently, the cleansing water is jetted in a wide range of the inner surface around waste vent 700D of toilet bowl 700, as shown in FIG. 9. Then, the inner surface of toilet bowl 700 which is dry when the user enters the toilet room is wetted by the cleansing water. As a result, dirt can be prevented from adhering to the inner surface of toilet bowl 700 beforehand.

[0100] Additionally, lamp 50 emits light during the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl, thereby enabling the user to visually recognize the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl.

[0101] Thus, the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl in the sanitary cleansing device of this exemplary embodiment is performed.

[0102] The pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl is stopped after the lapse of the predetermined time, after the user sits on toilet seat 400, or by operation of remote controller 300 by the user.

[0103] When the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl is terminated, controller 4 drives toilet bowl nozzle motor 40m again. Consequently, the tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40 moves inside toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K again, and moves to the housing position adjacent to the inner surface of toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K.

[0104] Then, controller 4 continuously jets the cleansing water from the tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40, to start the back part cleansing of the toilet bowl.

[0105] At this time, during the back part cleansing of the toilet bowl, the cleansing water jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 to an inner surface of a back side of toilet bowl 700 as shown by arrow B of FIG. 7 collides with the inner surface of toilet bowl 700, to flow down along the inner surface of toilet bowl 700 as shown by arrow C. Consequently, when the user uses toilet device 1000, dirt can be more reliably prevented from adhering to the inner surface on the back side of toilet bowl 700.

[0106] Additionally, cleansing water jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 to the inner surface of toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K collides with the inner surface of toilet bowl nozzle cover 40K to splash back toward the tip side of toilet bowl nozzle 40. Consequently, the tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40 is cleansed, thereby preventing contamination of the tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40.

[0107] Thereafter, for example, when the user stands up from toilet seat 400, controller 4 stops the jet flow of the cleansing water from toilet bowl nozzle 40 to stop the back part cleansing of the toilet bowl.

[0108] Thus, the back part cleansing of toilet bowl 700 is performed.

[0109] Hereinafter, a structure and operation of the toilet bowl nozzle of this exemplary embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B.

[0110] FIG. 11A is a sectional view showing a detailed structure of the tip of the toilet bowl nozzle of FIG. 7. FIG. 11B is a sectional view taken along line 11B-11B of FIG. 11A.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 11A, jet flow formation member 42 having insertion shaft 42a therein is inserted into the tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40 from tip opening 41h of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41.

[0112] As shown in FIG. 11B, insertion shaft 42a of jet flow formation member 42 is provided with, for example, three blade members 42b that radially extend outward from a shaft center of insertion shaft 42a.

[0113] Insertion shaft 42a of jet flow formation member 42 has large diameter part 42c, enlarged part 42d, and flange 42e from blade members 42b toward a tip of jet flow formation member 42. At this time, a diameter of large diameter part 42c is larger than a diameter of insertion shaft 42a. Enlarged part 42d is provided so as to have a diameter which gradually increases toward the tip of jet flow formation member 42, and a diameter of the tip of jet flow formation member 42 is formed to be larger than a diameter of tip opening 41h. Furthermore, an outer diameter of flange 42e is formed so as to be larger than an outer diameter of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41.

[0114] On the inner surface of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41, step part 41d is formed. When jet flow formation member 42 is inserted into toilet bowl nozzle main body 41, step part 41d and blade members 42b of jet flow formation member 42 come into contact with each other. At this time, blade members 42b act as spacers between jet flow formation member 42 and toilet bowl nozzle main body 41.

[0115] Consequently, jet flow formation member 42 is positioned inside toilet bowl nozzle main body 41. Then, large diameter part 42c of jet flow formation member 42 protrudes from tip opening 41h of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41, and enlarged part 42d and flange 42e are disposed outside toilet bowl nozzle main body 41.

[0116] Outer diameter of each of insertion shaft 42a and large diameter part 42c is formed so as to be smaller than an inner diameter of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41. Consequently, a clearance that serves as flow passage 41s of cleansing water is formed between the inner surface of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 and the outer peripheral surface of jet flow formation member 42.

[0117] Thus, the toilet bowl nozzle of this exemplary embodiment is configured. Hereinafter, a flow of cleansing water of the toilet bowl nozzle will be described.

[0118] First, cleansing water supplied from connecting pipe 44 shown in FIG. 8 flows through flow passage 41s between the inner surface of toilet bowl nozzle main body 41 and the outer peripheral surface of jet flow formation member 42. The cleansing water that flows through flow passage 41s is accelerated to set flow velocity that is set by a clearance size of acceleration flow passage 41t and a shape of the flow passage after flowing, by acceleration flow passage 41t configured by large diameter part 42c of jet flow formation member 42 and toilet bowl nozzle main body 41. A flow direction of the accelerated cleansing water is deflected in a direction substantially orthogonal (including "orthogonal") to a shaft center of toilet bowl nozzle 40 at enlarged part 42d of jet flow formation member 42. Then, the deflected cleansing water spreads to an entire periphery along flange 42e, to be discharged in a radial jet flow by flange end 42f.

[0119] Consequently, the cleansing water is radially jetted in the direction nearly orthogonal to the shaft center of toilet bowl nozzle 40.

[0120] Generally, in order to uniformly spread the jet flow of the cleansing water to the toilet bowl surface, for example, velocity of about 4 m/sec is required. Therefore, in order to implement the above velocity, for example, assuming that the diameter of large diameter part 42c of insertion shaft 42a is 4mm, a cleansing flow rate is 1 L/min, a flow passage width (clearance) of acceleration flow passage 41t is required to form a narrow flow passage having a width of about 0.3 mm.

[0121] Hereinafter, jet flow velocity and an expanding width of cleansing water of the toilet bowl nozzle of this exemplary embodiment during the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B.

[0122] FIG. 12A is a schematic diagram for illustrating definitions of jet velocity V and expanding width W of the toilet bowl nozzle. FIG. 12B is a diagram showing relation between jet velocity V and expanding width W experimentally obtained.

[0123] First, jet velocity V and expanding width W of cleansing water jetted from the toilet bowl nozzle will be described with reference to FIG. 12A. FIG. 12A shows an example of a case where cleansing water is jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 in a state where the shaft center of toilet bowl nozzle 40 is disposed so as to be parallel to a vertical direction.

[0124] As shown in FIG. 12A, jet velocity V of the cleansing water is defined by flow velocity jetted in a horizontal direction of the tip of toilet bowl nozzle 40 shown by arrow WV. Expanding width W of the cleansing water is defined by an outer diameter, shown by arrow WW, of an area where the cleansing water is supplied (splashed) from toilet bowl nozzle 40, at a position of 100 mm below toilet bowl nozzle 40.

[0125] As can be seen from experiment results shown in FIG. 12B, in a case where jet velocity V of the cleansing water is larger than 2 m/s, expanding width W becomes larger than 200 mm. Consequently, the cleansing water can be supplied in a sufficiently wide range of the inner surface of toilet bowl 700. As a result, dirt can be sufficiently prevented from adhering to the inner surface of toilet bowl 700.

[0126] On the other hand, in a case where jet velocity V of the cleansing water is smaller than 10 m/s, expanding width W becomes smaller than 1000 mm. Consequently, the cleansing water can be prevented from splashing outside toilet bowl 700. Additionally, jet velocity V of the cleansing water is made smaller than 10 m/s, so that the cleansing water jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 can be prevented from being greatly splashed back by the inner surface of toilet bowl 700.

[0127] That is, jet velocity V of the cleansing water is set in a range from 2 m/s to 10 m/s, so that the cleansing water can be prevented from splashing outside toilet bowl 700, and dirt can be prevented from adhering to toilet bowl 700. Jet velocity V of the cleansing water is more preferably set in a range from 4 m/s to 8 m/s. Consequently, the cleansing water can be more reliably prevented from splashing outside toilet bowl 700, and dirt can be more reliably prevented from adhering to toilet bowl 700.

[0128] Hereinafter, timing of performing the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl of the sanitary cleansing device of this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 13.

[0129] When the user enters the toilet room, sanitary cleansing device 100 of this exemplary embodiment starts the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl by the control of controller 4. Then, in a case where the user uses toilet device 1000, the back part cleansing of the toilet bowl is performed by the control of controller 4. That is, in a case where the user sits on toilet seat 400, cleansing water is not jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 toward a front side of toilet bowl 700. Therefore, the jetted cleansing water is prevented from adhering to the user.

[0130] Then, after a lapse of a predetermined time, controller 4 performs transition from the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl to the back part cleansing of the toilet bowl to perform the back part cleansing of the toilet bowl based on sitting on toilet seat 400 by the user, or operation of remote controller 300 by the user. At this time, the above predetermined time is previously determined based on an average time from when the user enters the toilet room until when the user sits on toilet seat 400.

[0131] Therefore, the present inventors have conducted research on the time from when the user enters the toilet room until when the user sits on toilet seat 400 (hereinafter, referred to as a "room entry and sitting time") in order to determine the above predetermined time. As the room entry and sitting time, a time from when each of a predetermined number of users enters the toilet room until when the user sits on toilet seat 400 was measured. Then, a cumulative percentage for each room entry and sitting time was calculated to determine the predetermined time. Results of the research are shown in FIG. 13.

[0132] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the research results of the room entry and sitting time. A horizontal axis of FIG. 13 indicates the room entry and sitting time, and a vertical axis indicates the cumulative percentage of the users.

[0133] From the results shown in FIG. 13, it has been found that a large number of the users (90% or more) sit on toilet seat 400 after a lapse of about six seconds since the users entered the toilet room. Therefore, in sanitary cleansing device 100 of this exemplary embodiment, the above predetermined time is set to six seconds. In this case, the transition from the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl to the back part cleansing of the toilet bowl is performed immediately after each user sits on toilet seat 400. Consequently, it is possible to sufficiently wet the inner surface of toilet bowl 700 with cleansing water before the user sits, and to prevent the cleansing water jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 from adhering to the user.

[0134] Next, a method of controlling toilet bowl cleansing processes (the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl and the back part cleansing of the toilet bowl) of the sanitary cleansing device of this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 10, and FIG. 14.

[0135] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the control method of toilet bowl cleansing processes of the sanitary cleansing device of this exemplary embodiment.

[0136] As shown in FIG. 14, controller 4 controls toilet bowl nozzle motor 40m to hold toilet bowl nozzle 40 at the housing position (positions shown in FIG. 7, and FIG. 8) (Step S1).

[0137] Next, controller 4 determines whether or not a user has entered the toilet room based on an output signal of room entry detection sensor 600 (Step S2). In a case where the user has entered the toilet room (Yes in Step S2), controller 4 controls toilet bowl nozzle motor 40m to move toilet bowl nozzle 40 to the toilet bowl cleansing position (positions shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10) (Step S3). In a case where the user has not entered the toilet room (No in Step S2), controller 4 stands by until detecting the entry of the user.

[0138] Then, controller 4 opens solenoid valve 7, and controls switching valve motor 16m of switching valve 16 having a flow rate adjustment function to transfer valve opening of switching valve 16 from a throttle state to an open state. Consequently, while cleansing water is gradually increased from toilet bowl nozzle 40, a jet flow to toilet bowl 700 is stably jetted, and lamp 50 is turned on (Step S4).

[0139] Thereafter, controller 4 determines whether or not a predetermined time (e.g., six seconds) has elapsed since the user has entered the toilet room (Step S5). In a case where the predetermined time has not elapsed (No in Step S5), controller 4 determines whether or not the user depressed stop switch 302 (Step S6). In a case where stop switch 302 is not depressed (No in Step S6), controller 4 determines whether or not the user has sat down on toilet seat 400 based on an output signal of sitting sensor 610 (Step S7). In a case where the user does not sit on toilet seat 400 (No in Step S7), controller 4 returns to the process in Step S5, and repeats the above determination.

[0140] On the other hand, in a case where it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes in Step S5), in a case where stop switch 302 is depressed by the user (Yes in Step S6), or in a case where the user sits on toilet seat 400 (Yes in Step S7), controller 4 turns off lamp 50 (Step S8).

[0141] Next, controller 4 controls toilet bowl nozzle motor 40m to move toilet bowl nozzle 40 at the housing position (Step S9),

[0142] Then, controller 4 determines whether or not the user has stood up based on an output signal of sitting sensor 610 (Step S10). In a case where the user has not stood up (No in Step S10), controller 4 stands by until the user stands up. On the other hand, in a case where it is determined that the user has stood up (Yes in Step S10), controller 4 controls solenoid valve 7, an opening/closing valve, and the like to stop the jet flow of the cleansing water from toilet bowl nozzle 40 (Step S11).

[0143] As described above, by the control of controller 4, the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl is terminated after the lapse of the predetermined time since the user entered the toilet room. Consequently, it is possible to sufficiently wet the inner surface of toilet bowl 700 with the cleansing water immediately before the user sits, and to prevent the cleansing water jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 from adhering to the user.

[0144] Additionally, the user depresses stop switch 302, or the user sits on toilet seat 400, thereby terminating the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl. Therefore, the cleansing water jetted from toilet bowl nozzle 40 can be prevented from adhering to the user even when the user sits on toilet seat 400 within the above predetermined time.

[0145] In a case where the user is sitting on toilet seat 400, the back part cleansing of the toilet bowl is performed. Consequently, dirt can be reliably prevented from adhering onto the back side of the inner surface of toilet bowl 700.

[0146] In a control flow of the sanitary cleansing device of this exemplary embodiment, the jet of the cleansing water is started in Step S4, after toilet bowl nozzle 40 moves to the toilet bowl cleansing position in Step S3. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the jet of the cleansing water may be started, before toilet bowl nozzle 40 moves to the toilet bowl cleansing position, namely, with toilet bowl nozzle 40 being held at the housing position. Consequently, toilet bowl nozzle 40 can be cleansed before the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl is performed. As a result, it is possible to more reliably prevent contamination of toilet bowl nozzle 40.

[0147] Additionally, in the control flow of the sanitary cleansing device of this exemplary embodiment, toilet bowl nozzle 40 is moved to the toilet bowl cleansing position when the entry of the user is confirmed in Step S2. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, toilet bowl nozzle 40 may be previously moved and made to stand by at the toilet bowl cleansing position. Consequently, the pre-cleansing of the toilet bowl can be promptly started, and therefore a sufficient amount of the cleansing water can be supplied to toilet bowl 700. As a result, dirt can be more reliably prevented from adhering to toilet bowl 700. At this time, in a case where toilet bowl nozzle 40 is previously made to stand by at the toilet bowl cleansing position, toilet bowl nozzle 40 may be moved to the toilet bowl cleansing position at a time point when the predetermined time has elapsed after the user finished using toilet device 1000, for example.

SECOND EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT

[0148] Hereinafter, a sanitary cleansing device according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, and a toilet device with the same will be described with reference to FIG. 15.

[0149] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of an atmosphere open part of the sanitary cleansing device according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0150] That is, the sanitary cleansing device of this exemplary embodiment is different from the sanitary cleansing device of the first exemplary embodiment in which atmosphere open part 8 and heat exchanger 12 are formed by separate components, in that atmosphere open part 8 and heat exchanger 12 are integrally formed. Other configurations are identical to those of the sanitary cleansing device of the first exemplary embodiment, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0151] That is, as shown in FIG. 15, in the sanitary cleansing device of this exemplary embodiment, heater 12h of heat exchanger 12 is incorporated in and integrally formed with tank 8a of atmosphere open part 8.

[0152] Consequently, a number of components of the sanitary cleansing device can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to implement a more compact and low-cost sanitary cleansing device. Other operation and effects are identical to those of the sanitary cleansing device of the first exemplary embodiment, and therefore descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0153] At this time, at least heater 12h of heat exchanger 12 is preferably provided below a tip position of electrode 11b of water level sensor 11. Consequently, it is possible to prevent no-water heating inside tank 8a to enhance safety.

[0154] As described above, the present invention is a sanitary cleansing device for supplying cleansing water supplied from a supply source to a human body, and the sanitary cleansing device includes: a human body cleansing nozzle configured to discharge the cleansing water and cleanse the human body; and a human body cleansing water flow passage provided between the supply source and the human body cleansing nozzle, and configured to allow the cleansing water from the supply source to flow through the human body cleansing nozzle. The sanitary cleansing device further includes: a toilet bowl nozzle provided on an end of a toilet bowl cleansing water flow passage branched from the human body cleansing water flow passage; a pulsation pump provided on an upstream side with respect to the toilet bowl nozzle; an atmosphere open part configured to open a part of the human body cleansing water flow passage to atmosphere at an upstream side with respect to the pulsation pump; and a controller.

[0155] According to this configuration, in a case where the cleansing water from the supply source is jetted from the toilet bowl nozzle, a part of the human body cleansing water flow passage disposed on the upstream side with respect to the pulsation pump is open to the atmosphere. Consequently, an influence caused by supply pressure of tap water being a supply source of the cleansing water is eliminated. Therefore, cleansing water having a flow rate according to operation speed of the pulsation pump controlled by the controller can be supplied to the toilet bowl nozzle. As a result, pressure of a jet flow discharged into the toilet bowl from the toilet bowl nozzle is stabilized, so that the jet flow from the toilet bowl nozzle can be prevented from splashing outside the toilet bowl.

[0156] Additionally, the cleansing water on the primary side of the pulsation pump is open to the atmosphere, and therefore the cleansing water sent out by the pulsation pump is not affected by the supply pressure of the tap water being the supply source. Therefore, a jet flow having pulsation according to operation of the pulsation pump can be jetted from the toilet bowl nozzle. Consequently, the toilet bowl surface is previously wetted by the jet flow from the toilet bowl nozzle, so that it is possible to prevent adhesion of feces. Furthermore, an effect of removing dirt already adhered to the toilet bowl surface is improved by the jet flow from the toilet bowl nozzle.

[0157] The sanitary cleansing device of the present invention includes a heat exchanger disposed on the upstream side with respect to the pulsation pump, and configured to heat the cleansing water. Consequently, cleansing water warmed by the heat exchanger can be pulsated and jetted from the toilet bowl nozzle. As a result, it is possible to further improve an effect of cleansing adhesion of feces to the toilet bowl surface, and dirt.

[0158] The sanitary cleansing device of the present invention includes a solenoid valve disposed on an upstream side with respect to the atmosphere open part, wherein the atmosphere open part has: a tank having a water inlet and a water outlet, and configured to store the cleansing water; a water level sensor configured to output a signal depending on a water level of the tank; and an atmosphere open hole configured to open an inner upper part of the tank to the atmosphere to form an air layer, and wherein the water inlet is open to the air layer.

[0159] According to this configuration, an air layer that is open to the atmosphere is formed between a water surface of the atmosphere open part, and the water inlet that is communicated with the tap water being the supply source of the cleansing water. Consequently, cleansing water on a downstream side of the atmosphere open part can be prevented from flowing back to the tap water being the supply source of the cleansing water.

[0160] In the sanitary cleansing device of the present invention, the controller further includes a water level controller, and the water level controller is configured to control such that the water level inside the tank and the air layer are each maintained within a predetermined range by opening the solenoid valve when the water level of the tank reaches a predetermined lower limit water level, and closing the solenoid valve when the water level of the tank reaches a predetermined upper limit water level, based on the signal of the water level sensor. Consequently, the water surface of the heat exchanger can be maintained between the upper limit water level and the lower limit water level with a simple configuration in which the water level controller controls the opening/closing of the solenoid valve by the signal from the water level sensor. Therefore, it is possible to secure the air layer without increase in size of the tank. As a result, it is possible to implement a small and compact sanitary cleansing device.

[0161] In the sanitary cleansing device of the present invention, a heater of the heat exchanger for heating at least the stored cleansing water is provided in the tank. Consequently, it is possible to reduce the number of components to implement a more compact and low-cost sanitary cleansing device.

[0162] A toilet device of the present invention includes at least the above sanitary cleansing device, a toilet bowl, and a room entry detection sensor. Consequently, it is possible to implement a clean toilet device that is excellent in convenience.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0163] The present invention is capable of stably supplying a jet flow having arbitrary pulsation from a cleansing nozzle, and therefore is useful not only for a warm water cleansing toilet seat, but a sanitary cleansing device for a face, a head, hands, feet, and the like, or a cleansing device for cleansing of animals such as pets or things other than living things.

REFERENCE MARKS IN THE DRAWINGS

[0164] 

1

human body cleansing nozzle (buttock nozzle)

2

human body cleansing nozzle (bidet nozzle)

3

nozzle for cleansing nozzle

4

controller

4s

water level controller

5

branch faucet

6

strainer

7

solenoid valve

8

atmosphere open part

8a

tank

8b

water inlet

8c

atmosphere open hole

8d

water outlet

8e

air layer

9

flow regulating valve

11

water level sensor

11a, 11b, 11c

electrode

12

heat exchanger

12h

heater

13a, 13b

temperature sensor

14

pulsation pump (displacement pump)

15

buffer tank

16

switching valve

20

nozzle part (human body cleansing nozzle)

40

toilet bowl nozzle

40K

toilet bowl nozzle cover

40Ka

shielding part

40Kb

fixing groove

40S

torsion spring

41

nozzle main body (toilet bowl nozzle main body)

41d

step part

41h

tip opening

41s

flow passage

41t

acceleration flow passage

42

jet flow formation member

42a

insertion shaft

42b

blade member

42c

large diameter part

42d

enlarged part

42e

flange

42f

flange end

43

rotation piece

43a

fixing part

44

connecting pipe (piping)

50

lamp

61

vacuum breaker

81

pump main body

82

columnar space

82a, 82b

pump chamber

83

pressure feeding piston

84, 84a, 84b

inflow part

85, 85a, 85b

outflow part

86

motor

87, 88

gear

89

link mechanism

100

sanitary cleansing device

200

main body

200A

main body lower part casing

201

tap water piping

202

human body cleansing water flow passage

205

toilet bowl cleansing water flow passage

300

remote controller

301

controller main body

302

stop switch

303

switch (cleansing button)

304

bidet switch (bidet cleansing button)

305

wide cleansing switch

306

rhythm cleansing switch

307

water force setting switch

309

move cleansing switch

310

cleansing position setting switch

400

toilet seat

500

lid

600

room entry detection sensor

610

sitting sensor

700

toilet bowl

700D

waste vent

1000

toilet device

Claims

1. A sanitary cleansing device for supplying cleansing water supplied from a supply source to a human body, the sanitary cleansing device comprising:

a human body cleansing nozzle configured to discharge the cleansing water and cleanse the human body;

a human body cleansing water flow passage provided between the supply source and the human body cleansing nozzle, and configured to allow the cleansing water from the supply source to flow through the human body cleansing nozzle;

a toilet bowl nozzle provided on an end of a toilet bowl cleansing water flow passage branched from the human body cleansing water flow passage;

a pulsation pump provided on an upstream side with respect to the toilet bowl nozzle;

an atmosphere open part configured to open a part of the human body cleansing water flow passage to atmosphere at an upstream side with respect to the pulsation pump; and

a controller.

2. The sanitary cleansing device according to claim 1, further comprising
a heat exchanger disposed on the upstream side with respect to the pulsation pump, and configured to heat the cleansing water.

3. The sanitary cleansing device according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising
a solenoid valve disposed on an upstream side with respect to the atmosphere open part,
wherein the atmosphere open part has:

a tank having a water inlet and a water outlet, and configured to store the cleansing water;

a water level sensor configured to output a signal depending on a water level of the tank; and

an atmosphere open hole configured to open an inner upper part of the tank to the atmosphere to form an air layer, and

the water inlet is open to the air layer.

4. The sanitary cleansing device according to claim 3, wherein
the controller further includes a water level controller, and
the water level controller is configured to control such that the water level inside the tank and the air layer are each maintained within a predetermined range by opening the solenoid valve when the water level of the tank reaches a predetermined lower limit, and closing the solenoid valve when the water level of the tank reaches a predetermined upper limit, based on the signal of the water level sensor.

5. The sanitary cleansing device according to claim 3, wherein
at least a heater of a heat exchanger for heating the stored cleansing water is provided in the tank.

6. A toilet device comprising:

at least the sanitary cleansing device according to claim 1;

a toilet bowl; and

a room entry detection sensor.

Drawing