Toilet system

Abstract

To provide a toilet system that can prevent electrical components from malfunctioning when a clogging condition in a toilet bowl is detected.SOLUTION: A toilet system includes: a detection unit that detects whether or not cleaning water is present at a position lower than the full water level but higher than the water sealing level on the surface of a bowl part of a toilet device; a control device that determines the clogging condition of the toilet device on the basis of the detection result of the detection unit; a power supply device that supplies power to the control device; and a power cutoff device that cuts off the power supplied to the control device from the power supply device. The control device operates the power cutoff device under such a condition that there is clogging in the toilet device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE Aspects of the present invention relate generally to toilet systems. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art A toilet system is known that stops the flush drain function when flush water is about to overflow from the toilet bowl (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-141565 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When flush water is about to overflow from the toilet bowl, there is a high risk that flush water will splash onto the electrical components of the toilet device. In such a case, if flush water splashes onto the electrical components of the toilet device, there is a risk that the electrical components will short out.

[0005] The present invention has been made based on the recognition of such problems, and aims to provide a toilet system that can prevent electrical components from breaking down when a clogged toilet is detected. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first invention is a toilet system comprising a detection unit that detects whether flushing water is present on the surface of a bowl portion of a toilet device at a position lower than the full water level and higher than the seal water level, a control unit that determines the clogged state of the toilet device based on the detection result of the detection unit, a power supply unit that supplies power to the control device, and a power cut-off device that cuts off the power supplied from the power supply unit to the control device, wherein the control device activates the power cut-off device if the toilet device is clogged.

[0007] According to this toilet system, the power cutoff device is activated when a clog occurs in the toilet device, thereby preventing a short circuit in the electrical circuit mounted in the toilet device in advance.

[0008] A second invention is the toilet system according to the first invention, characterized in that the power cut-off device is provided outside the toilet device.

[0009] According to this toilet system, the power cutoff device is installed in a location remote from the toilet device. If the toilet device becomes clogged, there is a high risk of water leaking from the bowl. In such a case, the power cutoff device can be safely operated remotely to appropriately cut off the power supply.

[0010] A third invention is a toilet system characterized in that, in the first invention, the power supply device has a power plug having the power cut-off device, a power line that supplies power from the power plug to the control device, and a communication line that transmits a cut-off signal from the control device to the power cut-off device.

[0011] According to this toilet system, a communication line for the power cutoff device is provided together with a power line. When a clog in the toilet device is detected, the control device can remotely activate the power cutoff device in the power plug unit via the communication line.

[0012] A fourth invention is a toilet system according to the first invention, further comprising a transmitting unit provided in the toilet device for wirelessly transmitting a cut-off signal for activating the power cut-off device, wherein the power supply device has a power plug having the power cut-off device, a power line for supplying power from the power plug to the control device, and a receiving unit for receiving the cut-off signal wirelessly transmitted from the transmitting unit.

[0013] According to this toilet system, by transmitting a cutoff signal between the power cutoff device and the control device wirelessly, it is possible to prevent the power cutoff device from malfunctioning due to, for example, lightning surge noise generated in the power cord, etc. Therefore, the power cutoff device can be operated stably.

[0014] A fifth invention is a toilet system according to the first invention, characterized in that the control device activates the power cut-off device when the toilet device is clogged and certain conditions are met.

[0015] According to this toilet system, when a clog is detected, rather than immediately cutting off power using the power cut-off device, the power cut-off is delayed until certain conditions are met, allowing time to check the state of the clog and to determine the cause of the clog.

[0016] A sixth invention is a toilet system according to the fifth invention, characterized in that the specified condition is that the time during which the toilet device is determined to be clogged continues for a specified period of time.

[0017] According to this toilet system, by delaying the power cut-off until a predetermined time has elapsed, it is possible to check, for example, the degree of clogging of the toilet bowl and the cause of the clogging.

[0018] A seventh invention is a toilet system characterized in that, in the fifth invention, it further comprises an operating unit that is operated to flow the cleaning water into the bowl section, and the specified condition is when it receives notification that the operating unit has been operated.

[0019] According to this toilet system, by setting a specific condition when the operating unit is operated, if a clog occurs, the flush water in the bowl can be prevented from approaching the full water level. Also, in the case of a partial clog, for example, the water level will reach the seal water level over time, so it is possible to prevent the power supply to the toilet device from being cut off in this easy case.

[0020] An eighth invention is a toilet system according to the fifth invention, further comprising a management device capable of communicating with the toilet device and notifying of a clogged state of the toilet device, and the specified condition is when a cut-off instruction signal for activating the power cut-off device is received, the management device being sent from the management device.

[0021] According to this toilet system, the toilet device notifies the manager who manages the toilet that the toilet device is clogged. When the control device receives a cut-off instruction signal from the manager's device, it activates the power cut-off device to cut off the power supply. This makes it possible to identify the cause of the clog and make adjustments with related facilities other than the toilet. Effect of the Invention

[0022] According to an aspect of the present invention, a toilet system is provided that can suppress failure of electrical components when a clogged toilet is detected. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a toilet system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic diagram of a position at which water level is detected when determining whether the toilet is clogged. FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical system of the toilet system. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart showing power cut-off control executed by the control device. [Diagram 5] 6 is a flowchart showing power cutoff control according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing power cutoff control according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an electrical system of a toilet system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart showing power cut-off control executed by the control device. [Figure 9]FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an electrical system of a toilet system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0024] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a toilet system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view that shows a schematic position for detecting the water level when determining whether the toilet is clogged. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical system of the toilet system. As shown in Fig. 1, the toilet system 1 includes a toilet device 5 and a power supply device 70 that supplies power to the toilet device 5. The toilet device 5 includes a toilet bowl 10 and a main body 50 provided on the toilet bowl 10. In this specification, "up," "down," "front," "rear," "left," and "right" refer to directions seen from a user sitting on the toilet seat with their back to the toilet lid of the toilet device 5.

[0026] The toilet 10 is a so-called seated toilet, and has a concave bowl portion 11 that is recessed downward from the upper surface 10a. The toilet 10 receives waste materials such as urine and feces from the user in the bowl portion 11. When the user performs a toilet flushing operation, flush water W is supplied from the flow path 20 to discharge the waste materials in the bowl portion 11 and clean the surface 12 of the bowl portion 11. After the toilet flushing is completed, flush water W (sealing water) collects in the bottom portion 11a of the bowl portion 11.

[0027] Flow path 20 connects a water supply source (not shown) and bowl portion 11. Flush water W to be supplied to bowl portion 11 flows through flow path 20. Flow path 20 is provided with a flush water supply unit 25. Flush water supply unit 25 has an on-off valve that is opened and closed by, for example, a solenoid or a motor, and is connected to a water supply source such as a water supply system or a water tank. Flush water supply unit 25 has, for example, a flush valve. The opening and closing of flush water supply unit 25 is controlled by a command signal from control device 60. In addition to this, flush water supply unit 25 may appropriately have a tank for storing water, a pump for pressure-feeding water, etc.

[0028] The operating unit 30 is operated to cause flush water W to flow into the bowl portion 11. The operating unit 30 is provided, for example, on a wall surface 100 of the toilet room, and is capable of communicating with the toilet apparatus 5. The operating unit 30 may be provided in the toilet apparatus 5. When the operating unit 30 performs a flushing operation to flush the toilet bowl 10, it transmits a command signal to start flushing to the control device 60. When the control device 60 receives this command signal, it switches the flush water supply unit 25 from a closed state to an open state. As a result, flush water W is supplied from the water supply source via the flow path 20 to the toilet bowl 10.

[0029] The toilet device 5 includes a detection unit 40. The detection unit 40 is attached, for example, to the inside or outside surface of the toilet 10 facing the surface 12 of the bowl portion 11. As shown in FIG 1, the detection unit 40 is attached, for example, to the storage space 10b of the toilet 10.

[0030] The detection unit 40 detects whether or not there is flush water W in the bowl portion 11. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 2, the detection unit 40 detects whether or not there is flush water W at a position on the surface 12 of the bowl portion 11 of the toilet device 5 that is lower than the full water level L1 and higher than the seal water level L2. The full water level L1 is the position at which the flush water W overflows from inside the bowl portion 11, and is located at the top surface 10a of the toilet bowl 10. The seal water level L2 is the position of the flush water W (seal water) that collects at the bottom 11a of the bowl portion 11 after flushing of the toilet bowl 10 has finished. An electric wave sensor, a capacitance sensor, or the like is used as the detection unit 40.

[0031] The radio wave sensor emits radio waves and detects the reflected waves. The strength of the reflected waves varies depending on the presence or absence of water at the position where the radio waves are emitted. When a radio wave sensor is used as the detection unit 40, the detection unit 40 is disposed so that the radio waves are emitted to a predetermined area on the surface 12 of the bowl portion 11.

[0032] The capacitance sensor detects the capacitance between the sensor and a predetermined area facing the sensor. The capacitance changes depending on the presence or absence of water in the predetermined area. When the capacitance sensor is used as the detection unit 40, the detection unit 40 is provided so as to face the detection area on the surface 12 of the bowl portion 11.

[0033] By using a radio wave sensor or a capacitance sensor as the detection unit 40, it is possible to detect whether the water level in the bowl portion 11 is at a position higher than a predetermined area. Furthermore, by arranging capacitance sensors continuously at multiple locations at different heights, it is possible to directly detect the water level. The detection unit 40 that detects the flush water W may be a water level sensor using ultrasonic waves, infrared rays, lasers, or the like, a float switch, a water pressure sensor that measures the water level by the water pressure of the flush water W at the bottom 11a of the bowl portion 11, or a continuity sensor that detects the water level by two electrodes touching the flush water W and causing a current to flow between the electrodes via the flush water W. In the case of a continuity sensor, the electrodes may be provided at a position higher than the sealed water level L2 and lower than the full water level L1.

[0034] In this example, a radio wave sensor serving as detection unit 40 is provided inside toilet bowl 10 (storage space 10b). Detection unit 40 emits radio waves to detect whether flush water W is present at a position on surface 12 of bowl portion 11 that is lower than full water level L1 and higher than seal water level L2. In other words, detection unit 40 detects a state in which flush water W has accumulated at clogged water level L3, which is higher than seal water level L2, due to a clog in toilet device 5.

[0035] The main body 50 is provided on the toilet bowl 10. The main body 50 has a casing and a number of functional parts (not shown) provided inside the casing. The functional parts include, for example, an opening / closing unit that controls the opening and closing of the toilet seat and toilet lid, a toilet seat heating unit that controls the temperature of the toilet seat, a private parts washing unit that washes the private parts of the human body, and a communication unit that can communicate with the operation unit 30 such as a remote control.

[0036] The control device 60 is provided in the toilet device 5. The control device 60 is provided, for example, in the casing of the main body portion 50. The control device 60 may be provided in the storage space 10b of the toilet bowl 10. The control device 60 determines the clogged state of the toilet device 5 (toilet bowl 10) based on the detection result of the detection unit 40. The control device 60 determines the clog based on the water level of the flush water W stored in the bowl portion 11. The control device 60 may also determine the clog based on the amount of flush water W stored in the bowl portion 11.

[0037] The control device 60 has a storage unit 61. The storage unit 61 stores a control program for determining a clogged state and a control program for power cutoff control, which will be described later. The control device 60 determines that a clog has occurred in the toilet device 5 when the detection unit 40 detects flush water W a predetermined time after the flush water supply unit 25 is closed. This predetermined time can be set to any number of seconds between 4 and 12 seconds, for example, and is preferably set to 10 seconds. More preferably, the predetermined time can be set to 5 seconds.

[0038] The control device 60 also disables the supply of flush water W to the bowl portion 11 from the time the flush water supply unit 25 is closed until the determination of the clogged state of the toilet device 5 is completed. In other words, the control device 60 prohibits the opening operation of the flush water supply unit 25 from the time the flush water supply unit 25 is closed until the determination of the clogged state of the toilet device 5 is completed. The control device 60 activates the power cut-off device 73, which will be described later, on the condition that the toilet device 5 is clogged. The power cut-off control executed by the control device 60 will be described later.

[0039] The power supply device 70 supplies power to the control device 60. The power supply device 70 has a power plug 71, a power line 72, a power cutoff device 73, and a communication line 74. The power plug 71 is a part that is inserted into the outlet 110. The power line 72 connects between the power plug 71 and the control device 60. The power line 72 supplies power from the power plug 71 to the control device 60.

[0040] The power cut-off device 73 is provided inside the power plug 71. That is, the power cut-off device 73 is provided outside the toilet device 5. The power cut-off device 73 is, for example, a ground fault circuit interrupter, which operates when a ground fault is detected, and automatically cuts off the power circuit (not shown) inside the power plug 71. Note that the power cut-off device 73 may be provided separately from the ground fault circuit interrupter.

[0041] Furthermore, the power cut-off device 73 operates upon receiving a cut-off signal sent from the control device 60 to cut off the power circuit in the power plug 71. This cuts off the power supplied from the power plug 71 to the power line 72. In other words, when the power cut-off device 73 is not activated, electricity is flowing from the power plug 71 to the power line 72. On the other hand, when the power cut-off device 73 is activated, the electricity flow from the power plug 71 to the power line 72 is cut off.

[0042] The communication line 74 connects the control device 60 and the power cut-off device 73. The communication line 74 transmits a cut-off signal from the control device 60 to the power cut-off device 73. This cut-off signal is a signal for cutting off the power supply from the power plug 71 to the control device 60. In other words, the control device 60 and the power cut-off device 73 are connected by wire.

[0043] Next, the power cutoff control when a blockage occurs in bowl portion 11 of toilet device 5 will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the power cutoff control executed by the control device. The control process shown in Fig. 4 is stored in advance in the storage unit 61 of the control device 60. In Fig. 4, each step is indicated by "S".

[0044] First, when operating unit 30 is operated to switch flush water supply unit 25 from a closed state to an open state, flush water W is discharged from flow path 20 toward surface 12 of bowl portion 11. This allows flush water W to spread over the entire surface 12 of bowl portion 11, thereby cleaning surface 12 of bowl portion 11. Then, when the discharge of flush water W ends, flush water W is accumulated in bottom portion 11a of bowl portion 11.

[0045] Under normal conditions when there is no clog in the toilet device 5, the level of flush water W in the toilet bowl 10 reaches the seal water level L2 a predetermined time after the flush water supply unit 25 is closed (for example, 5 seconds). On the other hand, if a foreign object clogs the toilet bowl 10, the flush water W does not flow toward the sewer pipe, and the water level in the toilet bowl 10 reaches a clogged water level L3 that is higher than the seal water level L2 and lower than the full water level L1. When the toilet is flushed, the detection unit 40 detects whether or not there is flush water W between the clogged water level L3 and the full water level L1.

[0046] In S1 of Fig. 4, it is determined whether or not there is a clog. That is, the control device 60 determines whether, a predetermined time after the flush water supply unit 25 is closed (e.g., 5 seconds), there is a clogged state in which flush water W is between the clogged water level L3 and the full water level L1, or there is no clog in which flush water W is between the seal water level L2 and the clogged water level L3. Then, if it is determined that there is a clog in S1, it proceeds to S2. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no clog in S1, it ends.

[0047] In S2, a cutoff signal is transmitted. That is, the control device 60 transmits the cutoff signal to the power cutoff device 73 via the communication line 74, and ends the process. Upon receiving the cutoff signal, the power cutoff device 73 cuts off the power circuit in the power plug 71. This cuts off the power supply to the toilet device 5 in which a blockage has occurred. Note that before cutting off the power supply to the toilet device 5, the control device 60 may transmit information that a blockage has occurred in the toilet device 5 to a management device (such as a mobile terminal or PC) of a manager or cleaner. This allows the manager or cleaner to recognize the toilet device 5 to which the power supply has been cut off due to a blockage.

[0048] When a clog has occurred in the toilet device 5, the flush water W will be at a position close to the full water level L1 in the bowl portion 11. In such a case, there is a high risk that flush water will splash onto the functional parts (electrical components) provided inside the main body portion 50. Therefore, when a clog has occurred in the toilet device 5, the toilet system 1 activates the power cut-off device 73 to stop the power supply. This allows the toilet system 1 to avoid in advance a state where there is a high risk that flush water will splash onto the functional parts. Therefore, when the toilet system 1 detects a clogged state in the toilet device 5, it can prevent the functional parts (electrical components) from breaking down.

[0049] Then, after clearing the blockage in the toilet apparatus 5, the cleaner can clear the power interruption caused by the power interruption device 73 to restore the toilet apparatus 5.

[0050] Next, a toilet system 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 5. In the second embodiment, the power cutoff device 73 is activated when a predetermined condition is met in addition to the toilet device 5 being clogged. The predetermined condition is when the toilet device 5 is determined to be clogged for a predetermined period of time. In the second embodiment, the same components as those in the toilet system 1 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0051] The clogged state of the toilet apparatus 5 may be a completely clogged state in which the flush water W hardly flows from the bowl portion 11 to the sewer pipe, or a half-clogged state in which the flush water W flows slowly from the bowl portion 11 to the sewer pipe. In the half-clogged state, the flush water W in the bowl portion 11 gradually drops toward the seal water level L2, so there is little risk of the flush water W splashing on the functional parts. In the half-clogged state, the toilet apparatus 5 may be in a usable state. In such a case, if the power supply to the toilet apparatus 5 is cut off, the toilet apparatus 5 will not be usable until the cleaner restores the power supply to the toilet apparatus 5. Therefore, the control device 60 activates the power cutoff device 73 after the time during which it is determined that the toilet apparatus 5 is clogged continues for a predetermined period of time.

[0052] FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing power cutoff control according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The control process shown in Fig. 5 is stored in advance in the storage unit 61 of the control device 60. In Fig. 5, each step is indicated by "S".

[0053] In S11, it is determined whether or not there is a clog. In S11, the same control process as S1 in Fig. 4 is executed. That is, the controller 60 performs a clog determination based on the level of the flush water W in the toilet bowl 10 a predetermined time has elapsed (e.g., 5 seconds) after the flush water supply unit 25 is closed. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S11, that is, that there is a clog, it proceeds to S12. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S11, that is, that there is no clog, the process ends.

[0054] In S12, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. This predetermined time is, for example, 10 to 15 seconds after performing the clogging determination. That is, when a clogging occurs in the toilet device 5, the control device 60 monitors whether the clogging is complete or partial. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S12, that is, that the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to S13. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S12, that is, that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process continues to measure time and continues to monitor the clogging state.

[0055] In S13, it is determined whether or not there is a clog. In S11, the same control process as S1 in Fig. 4 is executed. That is, the control device 60 performs a clog determination for the toilet device 5 again after a predetermined time has elapsed since the clog determination in S11. In other words, the control device 60 performs a clog determination, for example, 5 seconds after the flush water supply unit 25 is closed, and if it is determined that there is a clog, it performs a clog determination again, for example, 15 seconds after the flush water supply unit 25 is closed.

[0056] Then, if S13 returns "YES", i.e., if a clog is present, the process proceeds to S14. On the other hand, if S13 returns "NO", i.e., if no clog is present, the process ends. If S13 returns "NO", i.e., if no clog is present, the process ends. If S13 returns "NO", it can be determined that the toilet device 5 is completely clogged. On the other hand, if S13 returns "NO", it can be determined that the toilet device 5 is partially clogged.

[0057] In S14, a cutoff signal is transmitted. In S14, the same control process as S2 in FIG. 4 is executed. This cuts off the power supply to the toilet device 5 in which a complete clog has occurred. Therefore, when the toilet system 1 detects a clogged state of the toilet device 5, it is possible to prevent the functional unit (electrical component) from breaking down. In the second embodiment, the power supply to the toilet device 5 is cut off taking into account the stage of the clogged state of the toilet device 5. This makes it possible to provide a toilet system 1 that is easy to use.

[0058] Note that the control device 60 may transmit to a management device (such as a mobile terminal or a personal computer) of a manager or cleaner that the toilet device 5 is completely clogged before cutting off the power supply to the toilet device 5. Furthermore, if the answer is "NO" in S13, the control device 60 may transmit to a management device (such as a mobile terminal or a personal computer) of a manager or cleaner that the toilet device 5 is partially clogged. This allows the manager or cleaner to recognize a toilet device 5 whose power supply has been cut off due to a completely clogged toilet device 5 or a toilet device 5 that is partially clogged.

[0059] Next, a toilet system 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 6. In the third embodiment, the power cutoff device 73 is activated when a predetermined condition is met in addition to the toilet device 5 being clogged. The predetermined condition is when a notification that the operation unit 30 has been operated is received. In the third embodiment, the same components as those in the toilet system 1 according to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0060] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing power cutoff control according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The control process shown in Fig. 6 is stored in advance in the storage unit 61 of the control device 60. In Fig. 6, each step is indicated by "S".

[0061] First, in S21, it is determined whether or not there is a clog. In S21, the same control process as S1 in Fig. 4 is executed. That is, the controller 60 performs a clog determination based on the level of the flush water W in the toilet bowl 10 a predetermined time has elapsed (e.g., 5 seconds) after the flush water supply unit 25 is closed. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S21, that is, that there is a clog, it proceeds to S22. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S21, that is, that there is no clog, the process ends.

[0062] In S22, it is determined whether the operating unit 30 has been operated. That is, the control device 60 determines whether or not a command to flush the toilet bowl 10 has been issued when the toilet device 5 is clogged. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S22, that is, that the operating unit 30 has been operated, the process proceeds to S23. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S22, that is, that the operating unit 30 has not been operated, the process ends.

[0063] In S23, a cutoff signal is transmitted. In this case, the control device 60 ignores the command signal transmitted from the operation unit 30, transmits the cutoff signal, and ends the process. This cuts off the power supply to the toilet device 5 in which a clog has occurred. Note that the control device 60 may transmit information that a clog has occurred in the toilet device 5 to a management device (such as a mobile terminal or a PC) of a manager or cleaner before cutting off the power supply to the toilet device 5. This allows the manager or cleaner to recognize the toilet device 5 to which the power supply has been cut off due to the occurrence of a clog.

[0064] Even in such a case, it is possible to secure time to determine, for example, whether the toilet device 5 is in a completely clogged state or a partially clogged state. That is, the toilet system 1 can continue the power supply when the flush water W in the bowl portion 11 gradually flows and the water level falls below the clogged water level L3 after the control device 60 determines that there is a clog.

[0065] Also, for example, there may be cases where a user operates the operating unit 30 when a clog has occurred in the toilet device 5. In such cases, it is possible to prevent the flush water W in the bowl portion 11 from approaching the full water level L1.

[0066] Therefore, the toilet system 1 can prevent the functional unit (electrical component) from breaking down when it detects a clogged state of the toilet device 5. In the third embodiment, the power supply to the toilet device 5 is cut off in consideration of the stage of the clogged state of the toilet device 5. This makes it possible to provide a user-friendly toilet system 1.

[0067] Next, a toilet system 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. In the fourth embodiment, the power cutoff device 73 is activated when a predetermined condition is met in addition to the toilet device 5 being clogged. The predetermined condition is when a cutoff instruction signal for activating the power cutoff device 73 is received, which is sent from the management device 85. In the fourth embodiment, the same components as those in the toilet system 1 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0068] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an electrical system of a toilet system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 7, the toilet system 80 further includes a management device 85 capable of communicating with the toilet device 5 and reporting a clogged state of the toilet device 5. The management device 85 is, for example, a mobile terminal 85a or a personal computer 85b of a manager or cleaner. The toilet device 5 has a communication unit 90 capable of communicating with the management device 85. That is, the toilet system 80 is capable of bidirectional communication between the toilet device 5 and the management device 85.

[0069] In the toilet system 80, the state and usage status of the functional parts of the toilet device 5 are transmitted from the communication unit 90 of the toilet device 5 to the management device 85 via the Internet. This allows the manager to check the state and situation of the toilet device 5 on the management device 85. In addition, the toilet system 80 is capable of setting the functional parts of the toilet device 5 according to command signals transmitted from the management device 85.

[0070] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the power cutoff control executed by the control device. The control process shown in Fig. 8 is stored in advance in the storage unit 61 of the control device 60. In Fig. 8, each step is indicated by "S".

[0071] In S31, it is determined whether or not there is a clog. In S31, the same control process as S1 in Fig. 4 is executed. That is, the controller 60 performs a clog determination based on the level of the flush water W in the toilet bowl 10 a predetermined time has elapsed (e.g., 5 seconds) after the flush water supply unit 25 is closed. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S31, that is, that there is a clog, it proceeds to S32. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S31, that is, that there is no clog, it proceeds to S35.

[0072] In S32, a clogged signal is transmitted to the management device 85. That is, when a clog has occurred in the toilet device 5, the control device 60 causes the communication unit 90 to transmit a clogged signal to the management device 85. The clogged signal includes unique identification information of the toilet device 5. When the management device 85 receives the clogged signal, it notifies the management device 85 of the toilet device 5 in which a clog has occurred. This allows the manager to recognize which toilet device 5 has a clog.

[0073] In the next step S33, it is determined whether or not a cutoff instruction signal has been received. That is, the control device 60 determines whether or not a cutoff instruction signal for operating the power cutoff device 73 has been transmitted from the management device 85. The cutoff instruction signal is transmitted by an administrator operating the management device 85. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S33, that is, that a cutoff instruction signal has been received, the process proceeds to S34. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S33, that is, that a cutoff instruction signal has not been received, the process ends.

[0074] In S34, a cutoff signal is transmitted. The control process in S34 is the same as that in S2 in Fig. 4, and then ends. When the power cutoff device 73 receives the cutoff signal, it cuts off the power circuit in the power plug 71. This cuts off the power supply to the toilet device 5 in which the clog has occurred.

[0075] In S35, a no-clog signal is transmitted to the management device 85. That is, when no clog has occurred in the toilet device 5, the control device 60 causes the communication unit 90 to transmit a no-clog signal to the management device 85, and then ends the process.

[0076] The no-clog signal includes unique identification information of the toilet device 5. When the management device 85 receives the no-clog signal, it notifies the toilet device 5 that no clog has occurred. Note that the management device 85 does not need to notify when no clog has occurred. Note that the control process of S35 may be executed only when it has been determined that a clog has occurred in the previous clog determination. In other words, the control process of S35 may transmit information that the clog in the toilet device 5 has been cleared.

[0077] The manager can recognize the toilet device 5 in which a clog has occurred by using the management device 85. Furthermore, when the manager confirms that the notification of the clog in the toilet device 5 is erased after a predetermined time has elapsed, the manager can recognize that the toilet device 5 is partially clogged. This allows the manager to cut off the power supply to the clogged toilet device 5, taking into consideration, for example, the usage status of each toilet room. For example, the manager can cut off the power to a toilet device 5 that is used less frequently than to a toilet device 5 that is used more frequently.

[0078] Therefore, the toilet system 1 can prevent the functional unit (electrical component) from breaking down when it detects a clogged state of the toilet device 5. In the fourth embodiment, the manager can cut off the power supply to the toilet device 5 at any time, taking into consideration the stage of the clogged state of the toilet device 5. This makes it possible to provide a user-friendly toilet system 1.

[0079] FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing an electrical system of a toilet system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. In the above-described embodiment, the control device 60 and the power cut-off device 73 are connected by wire. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the control device 60 and the power cut-off device 73 may be connected wirelessly, for example, as in a fifth embodiment shown in FIG.

[0080] In this case, the toilet system 95 further includes a transmitter 96 that is provided in the toilet device 5 and wirelessly transmits a cutoff signal for activating the power cutoff device 73. The power supply device 70 includes a power plug 71 having the power cutoff device 73, a power line 72 that supplies power from the power plug 71 to the control device 60, and a receiver 97 that receives the cutoff signal wirelessly transmitted from the transmitter 96.

[0081] In the above-described embodiment, the power cut-off device 73 is provided in the power plug 71. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and the power cut-off device may be provided in a distribution board of a building, for example. In this case, when the power cut-off device is activated, the power supply to the power plug 71 is cut off. The power cut-off device in the distribution board may be connected to the control device 60 by wire or wirelessly.

[0082] Also, in the above-mentioned third embodiment, an example was given of a case in which a cutoff signal is sent when the operating unit 30 for flowing flush water W into the bowl portion 11 is operated. However, the present invention is not limited to this aspect, and for example, the operating unit may be for activating a functional unit such as an opening / closing unit for opening and closing the toilet seat or toilet lid, a toilet seat heating unit for controlling the temperature of the toilet seat, or a private parts washing unit for washing the private parts of the human body. In other words, if there is a clog in the toilet device 5, the control device 60 may activate the power cutoff device 73 when the operating unit for activating a functional unit is operated.

[0083] In the above-described embodiment, the power cut-off device 73 is provided in the power plug 71. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the power cut-off device may be provided in the power line 72. The power cut-off device provided in the power line 72 may be connected to the control device 60 by wire or wirelessly.

[0084] The embodiment may include the following features. (Configuration 1) a detection unit that detects whether flush water is present at a position on the surface of the bowl portion of the toilet device that is lower than the full water level and higher than the seal water level; A control device that determines a clogged state of the toilet device based on a detection result of the detection unit; A power supply device that supplies power to the control device; a power cut-off device that cuts off the power supplied from the power supply device to the control device; Equipped with The control device activates the power cutoff device on the condition that the toilet device is clogged. (Configuration 2) 2. The toilet system according to claim 1, wherein the power cutoff device is provided outside the toilet device. (Configuration 3) The power supply device is a power plug having the power interruption device; a power line for supplying power from the power plug to the control device; a communication line for transmitting a cutoff signal from the control device to the power cutoff device; The toilet system according to claim 1, further comprising: (Configuration 4) A transmitter provided in the toilet device for wirelessly transmitting a cutoff signal for activating the power cutoff device, The power supply device is a power plug having the power interruption device; a power line for supplying power from the power plug to the control device; a receiving unit that receives the blocking signal wirelessly transmitted from the transmitting unit; The toilet system according to claim 1, further comprising: (Configuration 5) The toilet system of configuration 1, wherein the control device activates the power cut-off device when a predetermined condition is met in addition to the toilet device being clogged. (Configuration 6) The toilet system according to configuration 5, wherein the predetermined condition is that the toilet device has been determined to be clogged for a predetermined period of time. (Configuration 7) The washing water is caused to flow into the bowl portion. The toilet system according to configuration 5, wherein the predetermined condition is a case where a signal is received that the operating unit has been operated. (Configuration 8) The toilet device further includes a management device capable of communicating with the toilet device and notifying a clogged state of the toilet device. The toilet system according to configuration 5, wherein the predetermined condition is when a cut-off instruction signal for activating the power cut-off device is received from the management device.

[0085] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Regarding the above-mentioned embodiments, those in which a person skilled in the art makes appropriate design changes are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they have the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, installation form, etc. of each element of the toilet system are not limited to those exemplified and can be appropriately changed. In addition, each element of each of the above-mentioned embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and the combination of these is also included in the scope of the present invention as long as it includes the features of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 1. Toilet System 5. Toilet equipment 10 Toilet 10a Top 10b Storage space 11 Bowl section 11a bottom 12 Surface 20 Flow Path 25 Cleaning water supply section 30 Control section 40 Detection unit 50 Main body 60 Control device 61 Storage section 70 Power supply 71 Power plug 72 Power Lines 73 Power cut-off device 74 Communication Line 80 Toilet System 85 Management device 85a Mobile terminals 85b PC 90 Communications Department 95 Toilet System 96 Transmitter 97 Receiving section 100 Wall 110 Outlet L1 Full water level L2 water seal level L3 Clogging level W Cleaning water

Claims

1. a detection unit that detects whether flush water is present at a position on the surface of the bowl portion of the toilet device that is lower than the full water level and higher than the seal water level; A control device that determines a clogged state of the toilet device based on a detection result of the detection unit; A power supply device that supplies power to the control device; a power cut-off device that cuts off the power supplied from the power supply device to the control device; Equipped with The control device activates the power cutoff device on the condition that the toilet device is clogged.

2. 2. The toilet system of claim 1, wherein the power cutoff device is provided external to the toilet device.

3. The power supply device is a power plug having the power interruption device; a power line for supplying power from the power plug to the control device; a communication line for transmitting a cutoff signal from the control device to the power cutoff device; 2. The toilet system according to claim 1, further comprising:

4. A transmitter provided in the toilet device for wirelessly transmitting a cutoff signal for activating the power cutoff device, The power supply device is a power plug having the power interruption device; a power line for supplying power from the power plug to the control device; a receiving unit that receives the blocking signal wirelessly transmitted from the transmitting unit; 2. The toilet system according to claim 1, further comprising:

5. 2. The toilet system of claim 1, wherein the control device activates the power cutoff device when a predetermined condition is met in addition to the toilet device being clogged.

6. 6. The toilet system according to claim 5, wherein the predetermined condition is that the toilet device is determined to be clogged for a predetermined period of time.

7. The washing water is caused to flow into the bowl portion. The toilet system according to claim 5, wherein the predetermined condition is a case where a notification that the operation unit has been operated is received.

8. The toilet device further includes a management device capable of communicating with the toilet device and notifying a clogged state of the toilet device.

6. The toilet system according to claim 5, wherein the predetermined condition is a case where a cutoff instruction signal for activating the power cutoff device is received, the cutoff instruction signal being transmitted from the management device.

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