Flushing device

Abstract

The present application aims to provide a toilet flushing device capable of miniaturizing a flow path unit. Specifically, the toilet flushing device is provided with: a nozzle that discharges water toward a human body part; a flow path that connects a water supply source and the nozzle; a heat exchanger that is provided on the flow path, heats water supplied from the water supply source; and a flow path unit that is provided on the flow path, upstream or downstream of the heat exchanger, characterized in that the flow path unit has a flow sensor that detects a flow rate of water and a vacuum regulating valve that suppresses backflow of water, the flow sensor has a first housing portion and a sensor portion housed inside the first housing portion, the vacuum regulating valve has a second housing portion and a valve portion housed inside the second housing portion, and at least a part of the first housing portion and at least a part of the second housing portion are made of an integral member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to toilet flushing devices. Background Technology

[0002] It is known that in a sanitary cleaning device equipped with a nozzle that sprays water toward a specific part of the human body, a flow sensor for detecting the flow rate of water and a vacuum regulating valve for preventing backflow of water are installed in the flow path connecting the water supply source and the nozzle (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] In order to miniaturize the overall device, the units installed in the flow path need to be miniaturized.

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-009301 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention is based on the understanding of such a problem, and the technical problem to be solved is to provide a toilet flushing device that can miniaturize the flow path unit.

[0007] The first invention is a toilet flushing device comprising: a nozzle for dispensing water toward a part of the human body; a flow path connecting a water supply source to the nozzle; a heat exchanger disposed on the flow path for heating the water supplied from the water supply source; and a flow path unit disposed upstream or downstream of the heat exchanger on the flow path. The flow path unit is characterized by having a flow sensor for detecting the flow rate of water and a vacuum regulating valve for inhibiting backflow of water. The flow sensor has a first housing and a sensor portion housed within the first housing. The vacuum regulating valve has a second housing and a valve portion housed within the second housing. At least a portion of the first housing and at least a portion of the second housing are integrally formed.

[0008] According to this toilet flushing device, by integrating at least a portion of the first housing of the flow sensor and at least a portion of the second housing of the vacuum regulating valve into a single unit, the water flow path in the flow sensor and the water flow path in the vacuum regulating valve can be made universal, thereby enabling miniaturization of the flow path unit. This allows for the miniaturization of the toilet flushing device.

[0009] The second invention is a toilet flushing device, characterized in that, in the first invention, the sensor part has an impeller that rotates using water flow, the valve part has a float that switches between water outflow and air inflow, the first housing part has a first lower housing part and a first upper housing part welded to the first lower housing part, the second housing part has a second lower housing part and a second upper housing part welded to the second lower housing part, the first lower housing part and the second lower housing part are formed as a single component, and the first upper housing part and the second upper housing part are formed as a single component.

[0010] According to this toilet flushing device, by making the first lower housing of the flow sensor and the second lower housing of the vacuum regulating valve into one component, and by making the first upper housing of the flow sensor and the second upper housing of the vacuum regulating valve into one component, the welding area can be reduced, thereby improving the reliability of leak prevention.

[0011] The third invention is a toilet flushing device, characterized in that, in the first or second invention, the flow path unit is located downstream of the heat exchanger, and the vacuum regulating valve is located downstream of the flow sensor.

[0012] According to this flushing device, by placing the flow path unit downstream of the heat exchanger, a flow sensor can be used to detect when there is no water flow in the heat exchanger. This helps to suppress dry burning of the heat exchanger. Furthermore, by placing the vacuum regulating valve downstream of the flow sensor (i.e., by placing the flow sensor upstream of the vacuum regulating valve), the absence of water flow in the heat exchanger can be detected even more quickly. This further helps to more effectively suppress dry burning of the heat exchanger.

[0013] The fourth invention is a toilet flushing device, characterized in that, in the third invention, the flow path unit is connected to the downstream end of the heat exchanger.

[0014] According to this flushing device, by connecting the flow path unit to the downstream end of the heat exchanger, it is possible to detect more quickly when there is no water flow in the heat exchanger. This, in turn, can more effectively suppress dry burning of the heat exchanger.

[0015] The fifth invention is a toilet flushing device, characterized in that, in any one of the first to fourth inventions, the flow path unit further comprises a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of water, the first temperature sensor being disposed upstream of the flow sensor and the second temperature sensor being disposed downstream of the flow sensor.

[0016] According to this toilet flushing device, by placing the first temperature sensor upstream of the flow sensor, the temperature of the water flowing from the heat exchanger to the flow sensor can be detected, and it can be determined whether the water has been heated to a temperature above a set point. Furthermore, by placing the second temperature sensor downstream of the flow sensor, it can be detected whether the water flowing closer to the nozzle is abnormally heated to a temperature above a set point. Moreover, by placing both the first and second temperature sensors on the flow path unit, the toilet flushing device can be miniaturized.

[0017] The sixth invention is a toilet flushing device, characterized in that, in the second invention, the flow path unit has a water inlet located at the upstream end and a water outlet located at the downstream end, and the second upper shell has an air intake located above the float, the air intake being positioned at a higher position than the water outlet.

[0018] According to this toilet flushing device, by setting the air intake at a higher position than the water outlet, it is possible to effectively suppress the backflow of water caused by the air intake when negative pressure is generated.

[0019] The seventh invention is a toilet flushing device, characterized in that, in the sixth invention, the flow path unit has: a first flow path extending upward from the inlet; a second flow path extending horizontally from the first flow path through the impeller to below the float; a third flow path extending upward from the second flow path and through the vacuum regulating valve; and a fourth flow path extending downward from the third flow path and connected to the outlet.

[0020] According to this toilet flushing device, since the flow path unit has a first flow path, a third flow path, and a fourth flow path extending in the vertical direction, it can utilize space more effectively compared to setting all the flow paths in the horizontal direction, and can further miniaturize the flow path unit.

[0021] According to the present invention, a toilet flushing device is provided that enables miniaturization of the flow path unit. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view showing the toilet flushing device involved in the embodiment.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a toilet flushing device according to an illustrative embodiment.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the flow path unit involved in the implementation method.

[0025] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing the flow path unit involved in the implementation method.

[0026] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view showing the flow path unit involved in the implementation method.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional sectional view showing the flow path unit involved in the implementation method.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the flow path unit involved in the implementation method.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional sectional view showing the flow path unit involved in the implementation method.

[0030] Figure 9 (a) and Figure 9 (b) is an explanatory diagram illustrating the flow path units involved in the schematic representation of the implementation method.

[0031] Symbol Explanation

[0032] 10-Shell; 20-Toilet seat; 30-Nozzle; 31-Water outlet; 31a-Lower body washing water outlet; 31b-Buttock washing water outlet; 35-Nozzle drive unit; 40-Flow path; 41-Solenoid valve; 42-Heat exchanger; 43-Flow path unit; 44-Electrolysis cell unit; 45-Pressure modulation unit; 46-Flow rate adjustment unit; 47-Inlet water temperature sensor; 50-Control unit; 55-Human body detection sensor; 70-Flow sensor; 71-First shell; 71a-First lower shell; 71b-First upper shell; 72-Sensor unit; 72a-Impeller; 80-Vacuum regulating valve; 81-Second shell Part; 81a-Second lower shell part; 81b-Second upper shell part; 81c-Air intake; 82-Valve part; 82a-Float; 83-Base part; 83a-Body part; 83b-Hole part; 91-First temperature sensor; 91a-First sensor mounting part; 92-Second temperature sensor; 92a-Second sensor mounting part; 93-Water inlet shell part; 93a-Water inlet; 94-Water outlet shell part; 94a-Water outlet; 95a~95d-First~Fourth flow paths; 100-Sanitary cleaning device; 200-Toilet bowl; 201-Basin; 300-Operating part; 500-Flushing device; WS-Water supply source. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same constituent elements, and detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view showing the toilet flushing device involved in the embodiment.

[0035] like Figure 1 As shown, the toilet flushing device 500 includes a Western-style toilet (hereinafter referred to as "toilet" for ease of explanation) 200 and a sanitary cleaning device 100 mounted thereon. The toilet 200 can be either a "floor-mounted" type installed on the toilet floor or a "wall-mounted" type installed on the toilet wall or lining. The sanitary cleaning device 100 includes a housing 10, a toilet seat 20, and a toilet lid (not shown). The toilet seat 20 and the toilet lid are each supported on the housing 10 by a freely opening and closing pivot.

[0036] Inside the casing 10, there is a built-in body washing function that allows for washing of specific body parts, such as the buttocks, of the user sitting on the toilet seat 20. When the user operates the remote control or similar unit 300 (see...),... Figure 2 When operating, the nozzle 30 can enter the basin 201 of the toilet 200 and discharge water. Additionally, in Figure 1 In the diagram, a double-dotted line indicates the state in which the nozzle 30 enters the basin 201 from the shell 10, and a solid line indicates the state in which the nozzle 30 retracts from the basin 201 and is stored back into the shell 10.

[0037] A water outlet 31 is provided at the tip of the nozzle 30. The nozzle 30 sprays water from the water outlet 31 toward a specific area of ​​the body for localized cleaning. Multiple water outlets 31 may also be provided. For example, water outlets 31 may include a lower body cleaning outlet 31a and a buttocks cleaning outlet 31b. The nozzle 30 can spray water from the lower body cleaning outlet 31a at its tip to clean the female genital area of ​​a woman sitting on the toilet seat 20. The nozzle 30 can also spray water from the buttocks cleaning outlet 31b at its tip to clean the buttocks of the user sitting on the toilet seat 20.

[0038] In addition, when referred to as "water" in this instruction manual, it includes not only cold water but also hot water after heating.

[0039] The toilet flushing device 500 can be installed either on top of the toilet bowl 200 with a seat-type sanitary cleaning device 100, or the functional part of the sanitary cleaning device 100 can be installed inside the toilet bowl 200. The following is an example of the case where a seat-type sanitary cleaning device 100 is installed on top of the toilet bowl 200.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a toilet flushing device according to an illustrative embodiment.

[0041] exist Figure 2 The diagram shows the composition of both the water system and the electrical system.

[0042] like Figure 2As shown, the toilet flushing device 500 (sanitary cleaning device 100) has a flow path 40. The flow path 40 is disposed inside the housing 10 and connects a water supply source WS, such as a tap water pipe or a water tank, to the nozzle 30. The flow path 40 supplies water from the water supply source WS to the nozzle 30.

[0043] The flow path 40 is equipped with a solenoid valve 41, a heat exchanger 42, a flow path unit 43, an electrolytic cell unit 44, a pressure modulation unit 45, and a flow adjustment unit 46. If needed, a pressure regulating valve, a check valve, and a flow path switching unit may also be provided on the flow path 40. For example, the pressure regulating valve and the check valve may be located between the solenoid valve 41 and the heat exchanger 42. For example, the flow path switching unit may be located between the flow adjustment unit 46 and the nozzle 30.

[0044] A solenoid valve 41 is provided on the upstream side of the flow path 40. The solenoid valve 41 controls the water supply from the water supply source WS downstream, that is, the water supply from the water supply source WS to the nozzle 30. The solenoid valve 41 is, for example, an openable and closable solenoid valve. The solenoid valve 41 is electrically connected to a control unit 50 located inside the housing 10. The solenoid valve 41 opens and closes the flow path 40 based on commands from the control unit 50. By opening the solenoid valve 41, water supplied from the water supply source WS can flow downstream. By closing the solenoid valve 41, the water supply to the downstream side is stopped.

[0045] A heat exchanger 42 is disposed downstream of the solenoid valve 41. The heat exchanger 42 has a heater that heats the water supplied through the solenoid valve 41 to a specified temperature. That is, the heat exchanger 42 generates warm water. The heat exchanger 42 is, for example, an instantaneous heat exchanger that does not include a hot water storage tank. Instantaneous heat exchangers, for example, use ceramic heaters. Compared to hot water storage heat exchangers that use a hot water storage tank, instantaneous heat exchangers can heat water to a specified temperature in a shorter time. The heat exchanger 42 can also be a hot water storage heat exchanger.

[0046] The heat exchanger 42 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The control unit 50, for example, heats the water to the temperature set on the control unit 300 by activating the heat exchanger 42 (i.e., turning the heater ON) according to the operation of the user's operation unit 300.

[0047] A flow path unit 43 is provided downstream of the heat exchanger 42. The flow path unit 43 is connected, for example, to the downstream end of the heat exchanger 42. That is, the flow path unit 43 is provided, for example, adjacent to the heat exchanger 42. In other words, for example, no other parts (units) are provided between the heat exchanger 42 and the flow path unit 43. Alternatively, the flow path unit 43 may also be provided upstream of the heat exchanger 42.

[0048] The flow path unit 43 includes a flow sensor 70, a vacuum regulating valve (VB) 80, a first temperature sensor 91, and a second temperature sensor 92. The structure of the flow path unit 43 will be described later.

[0049] Flow sensor 70 detects the flow rate of water flowing in flow path 40. For example, flow sensor 70 detects whether water is flowing in heat exchanger 42. Flow sensor 70 is electrically connected to control unit 50. Flow sensor 70 outputs the detection result (flow-related information) to control unit 50.

[0050] A vacuum regulating valve 80 is used to suppress backflow of water. The vacuum regulating valve 80 has: an air intake (air intake 81c, described later) for drawing air into the flow path; and a valve mechanism (valve part 82, described later) for opening and closing the air intake. The valve mechanism closes the air intake when water flows in the flow path 40 and opens the air intake when the water flow stops, so as to draw air into the flow path 40. That is, the vacuum regulating valve 80 draws air into the flow path 40 when there is no water flow. A float valve (float 82a, described later) is used, for example, in the valve mechanism. The vacuum regulating valve 80 is, for example, located downstream of the flow sensor 70. The vacuum regulating valve 80 can also be located upstream of the flow sensor 70.

[0051] The vacuum regulating valve 80, by drawing air into the flow path 40 as described above, can, for example, promote drainage of the portion of the flow path 40 further downstream than the vacuum regulating valve 80. The vacuum regulating valve 80 can, for example, promote drainage of the nozzle 30. Thus, by discharging water from the nozzle 30 and drawing air into the nozzle 30, the vacuum regulating valve 80 can, for example, prevent backflow of cleaning water from the nozzle 30 or wastewater accumulated in the basin 201 towards the water supply source WS (upstream water).

[0052] The first temperature sensor 91 detects the temperature of the water flowing downstream of the heat exchanger 42. The first temperature sensor 91 is, for example, located upstream of the flow sensor 70. The first temperature sensor 91 is, for example, a thermistor. The first temperature sensor 91 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The first temperature sensor 91 outputs the detection result (temperature-related information) to the control unit 50.

[0053] The second temperature sensor 92 is located downstream of the first temperature sensor 91. The second temperature sensor 92 detects the temperature of the water flowing downstream of the first temperature sensor 91. The second temperature sensor 92 is, for example, located downstream of the flow sensor 70. The second temperature sensor 92 is, for example, a thermistor. The second temperature sensor 92 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The second temperature sensor 92 outputs the detection result (temperature-related information) to the control unit 50.

[0054] An electrolytic cell unit 44 is provided downstream of the flow path unit 43. The electrolytic cell unit 44 electrolyzes the tap water flowing through it to generate a liquid containing hypochlorous acid (functional water). The electrolytic cell unit 44 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The electrolytic cell unit 44 generates functional water based on the control of the control unit 50.

[0055] The functional water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 44 may be, for example, a solution containing metal ions such as silver ions or copper ions. Alternatively, the functional water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 44 may be a solution containing electrolyzed chlorine or ozone. Alternatively, the functional water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 44 may be acidic water or alkaline water.

[0056] A pressure modulation unit 45 is provided downstream of the electrolytic cell unit 44. The pressure modulation unit 45 can pulsate or accelerate the water flow within the flow path 40, and pulsate the water discharged from the outlet 31 of the nozzle 30. That is, the pressure modulation unit 45 can change the flow state of the water flowing within the flow path 40. The pressure modulation unit 45 is, for example, an electromagnetic pump. The pressure modulation unit 45 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The pressure modulation unit 45 changes the water flow state based on the control of the control unit 50.

[0057] A flow rate adjustment unit 46 is provided downstream of the pressure modulation unit 45. The flow rate adjustment unit 46 is used to adjust the water pressure (flow rate). The flow rate adjustment unit 46 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The operation of the flow rate adjustment unit 46 is controlled by the control unit 50.

[0058] A nozzle 30 is provided downstream of the flow adjustment section 46. When the nozzle 30 enters from the shell 10 forward, it sprays water heated by the heat exchanger 42 toward the human body.

[0059] Furthermore, in this example, an inlet water temperature sensor 47 is provided upstream of the heat exchanger 42. The inlet water temperature sensor 47 detects the temperature of the water flowing upstream of the heat exchanger 42. The inlet water temperature sensor 47 is, for example, a thermistor. The inlet water temperature sensor 47 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The inlet water temperature sensor 47 outputs the detection result (temperature-related information) to the control unit 50.

[0060] The toilet flushing device 500 (sanitary cleaning device 100) has a nozzle drive unit 35 for moving the nozzle 30 forward and backward. The nozzle drive unit 35 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The nozzle drive unit 35 moves the nozzle 30 forward and backward based on commands from the control unit 50.

[0061] The toilet flushing device 500 (hygiene cleaning device 100) includes, for example, a human body detection sensor 55 for detecting human bodies. The human body detection sensor 55 may be, for example, at least one of a seating detection sensor that detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 20, an entry detection sensor that detects a user entering the toilet, and a proximity detection sensor that detects a user approaching the toilet flushing device 500. The human body detection sensor 55 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The human body detection sensor 55 outputs the detection results (information related to human body detection) to the control unit 50.

[0062] The control unit 50 includes control circuitry such as a microcomputer. The control unit 50 may include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control unit 50 may also include, for example, a comparator. Based on signals from the operation unit 300 or detection results from the human body detection sensor 55, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the solenoid valve 41, heat exchanger 42, electrolytic cell unit 44, pressure modulation unit 45, flow adjustment unit 46, and nozzle drive unit 35.

[0063] The control unit 50 controls the operation of the heat exchanger 42 based on the detection result (first temperature T1) on the first temperature sensor 91. For example, the control unit 50 turns the heater of the heat exchanger 42 ON when the first temperature T1 is lower than the set value set on the operation unit 300, and turns the heater of the heat exchanger 42 OFF when the first temperature T1 is higher than the set value. The control unit 50 may also reduce the output of the heater of the heat exchanger 42 when the first temperature T1 is higher than the set value, and increase the output of the heater of the heat exchanger 42 when the first temperature T1 is lower than the set value. As a result, water heated to a temperature close to the set value set on the operation unit 300 can be discharged from the nozzle 30.

[0064] Furthermore, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the solenoid valve 41 based on the detection result (second temperature T2) on the second temperature sensor 92. For example, the control unit 50 closes the solenoid valve 41 when the second temperature T2 is higher than a predetermined value. The control unit 50 can also control the operation of the heat exchanger 42 based on the detection result (second temperature T2) on the second temperature sensor 92. For example, the control unit 50 can also turn off the heater of the heat exchanger 42 when the second temperature T2 is higher than a predetermined value. The predetermined value is set to 65°C or lower (e.g., 53°C). Thus, even if the water is heated to an excessively high temperature due to a malfunction of the heat exchanger 42, etc., the discharge of high-temperature water from the nozzle 30 can be suppressed.

[0065] The flow path unit 43 will now be described in further detail.

[0066] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the flow path unit involved in the implementation method.

[0067] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view showing the flow path unit involved in the implementation method.

[0068] like Figures 3-5 As shown, the flow path unit 43 has a flow sensor 70 and a vacuum regulating valve 80.

[0069] The flow sensor 70 has a first housing portion 71 and a sensor portion 72. The sensor portion 72 is housed inside the first housing portion 71. The sensor portion 72 has, for example, an impeller 72a that rotates using water flow. The flow sensor 70 detects the flow rate, for example, based on the rotation of the impeller 72a.

[0070] The first housing portion 71 has a first lower housing portion 71a and a first upper housing portion 71b. The first upper housing portion 71b is welded and fixed to the first lower housing portion 71a. The sensor portion 72 (impeller 72a) is disposed inside the space formed by the first lower housing portion 71a and the first upper housing portion 71b. The sensor portion 72 (impeller 72a) is, for example, mounted on the first lower housing portion 71a. In this example, the first lower housing portion 71a has a downwardly recessed portion, and the sensor portion 72 (impeller 72a) is housed inside the recess. The first upper housing portion 71b covers the sensor portion 72 (impeller 72a).

[0071] The vacuum regulating valve 80 has a second housing portion 81, a valve portion 82, and a base portion 83. The valve portion 82 and the base portion 83 are housed inside the second housing portion 81. The valve portion 82, for example, has a float 82a that switches between water outflow and air inflow. The valve portion 82 is mounted on the base portion 83. The base portion 83 has a body portion 83a and a hole 83b that passes through the body portion 83a in the vertical direction.

[0072] The second shell portion 81 has a second lower shell portion 81a and a second upper shell portion 81b. The second upper shell portion 81b is welded and fixed to the second lower shell portion 81a. The valve portion 82 (float 82a) and the base portion 83 are disposed inside the space formed by the second lower shell portion 81a and the second upper shell portion 81b. The base portion 83 is, for example, placed on the second lower shell portion 81a. The valve portion 82 (float 82a) is, for example, placed on the base portion 83. In this example, the second lower shell portion 81a has a downwardly recessed portion, the base portion 83 is housed inside the recess, and the valve portion 82 (float 82a) is disposed on the base portion 83. The second upper shell portion 81b covers the valve portion 82 (float 82a) and the base portion 83.

[0073] Furthermore, in this example, the valve portion 82 (float 82a) protrudes upwards more than the second lower shell portion 81a. The second upper shell portion 81b is recessed upwards, and the upper part of the valve portion 82 (float 82a) is located inside the space formed by the recess. In addition, an air intake 81c, which will be described later, is provided in the recess.

[0074] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the first shell portion 71 and at least a portion of the second shell portion 81 are formed by a single integral component. In this example, the first lower shell portion 71a and the second lower shell portion 81a are formed by a single integral component. Furthermore, in this example, the first upper shell portion 71b and the second upper shell portion 81b are formed by a single integral component.

[0075] Furthermore, in this specification, "one-piece component" refers to a seamless, continuous structure, such as one-piece molding. That is, "one-piece component" does not include structures in which multiple components are joined together by adhesives or fusion, or structures in which multiple components are fixed by fitting, screws, or the like.

[0076] Furthermore, the flow path unit 43 has a water inlet shell 93. The water inlet shell 93 is located upstream of the first lower shell 71a and is connected to the first lower shell 71a. The water inlet shell 93 does not overlap with the first upper shell 71b in the vertical direction. A water inlet 93a is provided on the water inlet shell 93. The water inlet 93a is located at the upstream end of the flow path unit 43 to guide water supplied from the upstream of the flow path unit 43 into the interior of the flow path unit 43. The water inlet 93a is connected, for example, to the downstream end of the heat exchanger 42. The water inlet 93a is located at the lower part of the water inlet shell 93. In this example, the water inlet shell 93 and the first lower shell 71a are formed as a single piece.

[0077] Furthermore, a first sensor mounting portion 91a for mounting the first temperature sensor 91 is provided on the water inlet housing 93. The first temperature sensor 91 is mounted, for example, by inserting it into the interior of the flow path unit 43 through the first sensor mounting portion 91a. Thus, the first temperature sensor 91 can be positioned upstream of the flow sensor 70.

[0078] Furthermore, the flow path unit 43 has a water outlet shell 94. The water outlet shell 94 is located below and connected to the second lower shell 81a. A water outlet 94a is provided on the water outlet shell 94. The water outlet 94a is located at the downstream end of the flow path unit 43 and can guide water passing through the interior of the flow path unit 43 to the downstream end of the flow path unit 43. In this example, the water outlet shell 94 and the second lower shell 81a are not formed as a single piece. The water outlet shell 94 and the second lower shell 81a may also be formed as a single piece.

[0079] Furthermore, in this example, a second sensor mounting portion 92a for mounting the second temperature sensor 92 is provided on the second upper housing portion 81b. The second sensor mounting portion 92a is located above the first upper housing portion 71b. The second temperature sensor 92 is mounted, for example, by inserting it into the interior of the flow path unit 43 through the second sensor mounting portion 92a. Thus, the second temperature sensor 92 can be positioned downstream of the flow sensor 70.

[0080] Thus, by forming at least a portion of the first housing 71 of the flow sensor 70 and at least a portion of the second housing 81 of the vacuum regulating valve 80 into a single component, the water flow path in the flow sensor 70 and the water flow path in the vacuum regulating valve 80 can be made universal, thereby enabling the flow path unit 43 to be miniaturized. As a result, the toilet flushing device 500 (sanitary cleaning device 100) can be miniaturized.

[0081] Furthermore, by making the first lower housing portion 71a of the flow sensor 70 and the second lower housing portion 81a of the vacuum regulating valve 80 into one component, and by making the first upper housing portion 71b of the flow sensor 70 and the second upper housing portion 81b of the vacuum regulating valve 80 into one component, the number of welded areas can be reduced, thereby improving the reliability of water leakage prevention.

[0082] Furthermore, by placing the flow path unit 43 downstream of the heat exchanger 42, the flow sensor 70 can detect the absence of water flow in the heat exchanger 42. This helps to suppress dry burning of the heat exchanger 42. Additionally, by placing the vacuum regulating valve 80 downstream of the flow sensor 70 (i.e., upstream of the flow sensor 70), the absence of water flow in the heat exchanger 42 can be detected more quickly. This further helps to more effectively suppress dry burning of the heat exchanger 42.

[0083] Furthermore, by connecting the flow path unit 43 to the downstream end of the heat exchanger 42, it is possible to detect more quickly when there is no water flow in the heat exchanger 42. As a result, dry burning of the heat exchanger 42 can be more effectively suppressed.

[0084] Furthermore, by placing the first temperature sensor 91 upstream of the flow sensor 70, the temperature of the water flowing from the heat exchanger 42 to the flow sensor 70 can be detected, and it can be determined whether the water has been heated to a temperature above the set temperature. Furthermore, by placing the second temperature sensor 92 downstream of the flow sensor 70, it can be detected whether the warm water flowing closer to the nozzle 30 has been abnormally heated to a temperature above the set temperature. Moreover, by placing the first temperature sensor 91 and the second temperature sensor 92 on the flow path unit 43, the toilet flushing device 500 (sanitary cleaning device 100) can be miniaturized.

[0085] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional sectional view showing the flow path unit involved in the implementation method.

[0086] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the flow path unit involved in the implementation method.

[0087] Figure 8 This is a perspective sectional view of the flow path unit involved in the implementation method.

[0088] Figure 7 This is a perspective view taken from above with the first upper shell 71b, the second upper shell 81b, and the valve part 82 (float 82a) removed.

[0089] like Figures 6-8 As shown in the figure, the flow path unit 43 has a first flow path 95a, a second flow path 95b, a third flow path 95c, and a fourth flow path 95d.

[0090] The first flow path 95a extends upward from the inlet 93a. The first flow path 95a is formed by the inlet shell 93.

[0091] The second flow path 95b starts from the upper end of the first flow path 95a, passes through the sensor section 72 (impeller 72a), and extends horizontally to the lower part of the valve section 82 (float 82a). The second flow path 95b is composed of the water inlet shell section 93, the first shell section 71, the second shell section 81, and the base section 83.

[0092] The third flow path 95c extends upward from the second flow path 95b and passes through the vacuum regulating valve 80. The third flow path 95c is composed of a second housing part 81, a valve part 82 (float 82a) and a base part 83.

[0093] The fourth flow path 95d extends downward from the third flow path 95c and connects to the outlet 94a. The fourth flow path 95d is composed of the second shell portion 81 and the outlet shell portion 94.

[0094] exist Figures 6-8 In the image, arrows are used to represent water flow. For example... Figures 6-8 As shown, the water supplied from the inlet 93a flows downstream from the outlet 94a through the first flow path 95a, the second flow path 95b, the third flow path 95c and the fourth flow path 95d.

[0095] Water entering the flow path unit 43 from the inlet 93a flows inside the inlet housing 93 and reaches the first housing 71, where the sensor unit 72 (impeller 72a) is located. Water reaching the first housing 71 flows inside the first housing 71 and reaches the second housing 81, where the valve unit 82 (float 82a) and the base unit 83 are located. Water reaching the second housing 81 passes through the space between the second lower housing 81a and the body 83a of the base unit 83 (i.e., below the base unit 83) and reaches the hole 83b of the base unit 83. Water reaching the hole 83b of the base unit 83 flows upward from below within the hole 83b and flows horizontally from above the hole 83b and below the float 82a (i.e., through the vacuum regulating valve 80). Water passing through the vacuum regulating valve 80 flows downward from the second lower housing 81a, reaches the outlet housing 94, and flows downstream from the outlet 94a.

[0096] Thus, since the flow path unit 43 has a first flow path 95a, a third flow path 95c, and a fourth flow path 95d extending in the vertical direction, it can utilize space more effectively compared to setting all the flow paths in the horizontal direction, thereby enabling the flow path unit 43 to be further miniaturized.

[0097] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, the second upper housing portion 81b has an air intake 81c located above the float 82a. The air intake 81c is positioned, for example, higher than the water outlet 94a. The float 82a is configured to move vertically between the base portion 83 and the air intake 81c. In the absence of water flow, the float 82a descends and rests on the base portion 83. In this state, since the air intake 81c is not closed, air can be drawn into the vacuum regulating valve 80. When water flows, the float 82a is pushed upwards by the water flowing through the hole 83b in the base portion 83, and the air intake 81c is closed by the float 82a. Therefore, air is not drawn into the vacuum regulating valve 80.

[0098] Thus, by setting the air intake 81c at a higher position than the water outlet 94a, it is possible to effectively suppress the backflow of water caused by the air intake 81c when negative pressure is generated.

[0099] Figure 9 (a) and Figure 9 (b) is an explanatory diagram illustrating the flow path units involved in the schematic representation of the implementation method.

[0100] like Figure 9 (a) and Figure 9 As shown in (b), at least a portion of the first shell portion 71 and at least a portion of the second shell portion 81 are composed of an integral component.

[0101] exist Figure 9 In example (a), the first lower shell portion 71a and the second lower shell portion 81a are formed by a single component, and the first upper shell portion 71b and the second upper shell portion 81b are also formed by a single component. That is, the sensor portion 72 and the valve portion 82 are housed between the lower shell portion and the upper shell portion of the single component.

[0102] exist Figure 9 In example (b), the first lower shell portion 71a and the second lower shell portion 81a are constructed as a single piece, while the first upper shell portion 71b and the second upper shell portion 81b are not constructed as a single piece. Thus, the upper shell portion can also be divided into the first upper shell portion 71b and the second upper shell portion 81b instead of being a single piece. In this case, the water flow path in the flow sensor 70 can be made universal with the water flow path in the vacuum regulating valve 80, and the flow path unit 43 can be miniaturized. Therefore, the toilet flushing device 500 (sanitary cleaning device 100) can be miniaturized.

[0103] As described above, according to the embodiments, a toilet flushing device that enables miniaturization of the flow path unit can be provided.

[0104] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Regarding the foregoing embodiments, any design modifications made by those skilled in the art that possess the features of the present invention are also included within the scope of the present invention. For example, the shape, size, material, configuration, and arrangement of the various elements included in the sanitary cleaning device 100, etc., are not limited to the examples shown and can be appropriately modified.

[0105] Furthermore, the elements of the aforementioned embodiments can be combined as long as they are technically feasible, and any product resulting from such combination of elements is also included within the scope of the present invention as long as it contains the features of the present invention.

Claims

1. A toilet device comprising: a nozzle configured to discharge water toward a human body; a flow path configured to connect a water supply source and the nozzle; a heat exchanger configured to be provided on the flow path and heat water supplied from the water supply source; and a flow path unit configured to be provided on the flow path, upstream or downstream of the heat exchanger, characterized in that: the flow path unit includes a flow sensor configured to detect a flow rate of water and a vacuum regulating valve configured to prevent backflow of water, the flow sensor includes a first housing and a sensor portion housed inside the first housing, the vacuum regulating valve includes a second housing and a valve portion housed inside the second housing, at least a portion of the first housing and at least a portion of the second housing are formed of a single member, the sensor portion includes an impeller configured to rotate by water flow, the valve portion includes a float configured to switch between water outflow and air inflow, the first housing includes a first lower housing and a first upper housing fusion-bonded to the first lower housing, the second housing includes a second lower housing and a second upper housing fusion-bonded to the second lower housing, the first lower housing and the second lower housing are formed of a single member, the first upper housing and the second upper housing are formed of a single member, the flow path unit includes a water inlet at an upstream end and a water outlet at a downstream end, the second upper housing includes an air inlet above the float, and the air inlet is provided at a position higher than the water outlet.

2. The toilet device according to claim 1, characterized in that: the flow path unit is provided downstream of the heat exchanger, and the vacuum regulating valve is provided downstream of the flow sensor.

3. The toilet device according to claim 2, characterized in that: the flow path unit is connected to a downstream end of the heat exchanger.

4. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: the flow path unit further includes a first temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of water and a second temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of water, the first temperature sensor is provided upstream of the flow sensor, and the second temperature sensor is provided downstream of the flow sensor.

5. The toilet device according to claim 1, characterized in that: the flow path unit includes: a first flow path extending upward from the water inlet, a second flow path extending in a horizontal direction from the first flow path to below the float via the impeller, a third flow path extending upward from the second flow path and passing through the vacuum regulating valve, and a fourth flow path extending downward from the third flow path and connected to the water outlet. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

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