Sink area system

Abstract

To provide a sink area system capable of suppressing power shortages of a plurality of sink area devices.SOLUTION: A sink area system includes: a power transmission part that transmits a microwave signal; and a plurality of sink area devices that operate by power obtained by converting the microwave signal transmitted from the power transmission part. Each of the plurality of sink area devices includes an optical power generation part that converts light received from a light source into power.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art There is a water faucet device that includes a power receiving unit that receives a power carrier wave obtained by converting electric power into microwaves and converts the received power into electric power to be supplied to a sensor and a transmitting unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-8674 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When there are many water-related devices (i.e., power receiving units) connected to one power transmitting unit that transmits power carrier waves, there is a risk that some water-related devices will not receive enough power because the functions and frequency of use of each water-related device are different.Water-related devices that are short of power may become unstable or stop operating.

[0005] An aspect of the present invention has been made based on the recognition of the above problem, and aims to provide a plumbing system that can suppress power shortages in multiple plumbing appliances. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first invention is a bathroom system comprising a power transmission unit that transmits a microwave signal, and a plurality of bathroom appliances that are installed in a toilet space and operate using electricity obtained by converting the microwave signal transmitted from the power transmission unit, each of the plurality of bathroom appliances having a photovoltaic power generation unit that converts light received from a light source into electricity.

[0007] In a water-related system that wirelessly supplies power to multiple water-related appliances using only microwave signals, the frequency of use, power consumption, or amount of power supplied by wireless power supply may differ for each water-related appliance. In such a case, the power supply balance of each water-related appliance may be poor, and some of the multiple water-related appliances may suffer from a power shortage and some may be overcharged. When the power of a water-related appliance is insufficient, the operation of the water-related appliance may be stopped. According to the water-related system, by providing a photovoltaic power generation unit in the water-related appliance, each water-related appliance can cover its power by photovoltaic power generation in addition to wireless power supply by microwave signals. Therefore, even if the water-related system includes multiple water-related appliances, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a water-related appliance that is insufficient in power. In addition, since each water-related appliance can generate photovoltaic power using existing lighting or sunlight, there is no need to install new wiring to connect the water-related appliance to an external power source. In this way, the water-related system has advantages in terms of construction and design.

[0008] A second invention is a plumbing system characterized in that, in the first invention, the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal depending on the amount of light received by the photovoltaic power generation units of the multiple plumbing devices.

[0009] With this plumbing system, for plumbing appliances that may not have enough power through photovoltaic power generation alone, adjustments can be made, for example, by preferentially directing the transmission direction of the microwave signal or by increasing the strength of the microwave signal, thereby balancing the power supply to multiple plumbing appliances and enabling more efficient wireless power supply to the plumbing appliances.

[0010] A third invention is a plumbing system according to the first invention, characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the microwave signal based on the on / off state of the light source.

[0011] For example, when a light source is turned on, which indicates that a user is present in the toilet space, it is assumed that the amount of light received by the bathroom equipment from the light source is large. In such a case, the bathroom system can suppress the amount of microwave signal emitted to the human body, animals, etc. by controlling the transmission direction of the microwave signal or by lowering the intensity of the microwave signal. Also, when the light source is turned off, it is assumed that the amount of light received by the bathroom equipment from the light source is small. In such a case, the bathroom system can prioritize charging of the bathroom equipment by controlling the transmission direction of the microwave signal or by increasing the intensity of the microwave signal. Therefore, the bathroom system can efficiently wirelessly supply power to multiple bathroom equipment.

[0012] A fourth invention is a plumbing system according to the second invention, characterized in that each of the power transmission units adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal based on the amount of light received according to the position of the photovoltaic power generation unit.

[0013] For example, if the photovoltaic power generating unit of a water-related device is installed in a position where light does not reach easily, the amount of light received by the photovoltaic power generating unit will be small, and the amount of power generated will also be small. According to the water-related system, the power transmitting unit can wirelessly supply power preferentially to a water-related device having a photovoltaic power generating unit installed in a position where light does not reach, using a microwave signal. Therefore, the water-related system can efficiently supply wireless power to multiple water-related devices.

[0014] A fifth invention is a plumbing system according to the first invention, characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal based on the usage status of the multiple devices.

[0015] For example, it is assumed that infrequently used plumbing devices can be operated based on photovoltaic power. Therefore, the plumbing system, for example, lowers the priority of transmitting microwave signals to infrequently used plumbing devices. On the other hand, for frequently used plumbing devices, the priority of transmitting microwave signals is increased, and the plumbing devices are efficiently operated using both photovoltaic power generation and power supply by microwave signals. Therefore, the plumbing system can efficiently wirelessly supply power to multiple plumbing devices.

[0016] A sixth invention is a plumbing system which is any one of the first to fifth inventions, wherein the plurality of plumbing devices transmit information to the power transmission unit for use in adjusting at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal, and the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the microwave signal based on the information received from the plurality of plumbing devices.

[0017] According to this plumbing system, the power transmission unit can adjust the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the strength of the microwave signal based on information received from multiple plumbing devices. The information is, for example, at least one of a usage state indicating the usage state of the plumbing device, light reception amount information indicating the amount of light received by a photovoltaic power generation unit of the plumbing device, and power storage amount information indicating the amount of power stored in a power storage unit of the plumbing device. Therefore, the plumbing system can change the priority of wireless power supply to multiple plumbing devices based on the current state of the plumbing devices. Therefore, the plumbing system can efficiently wirelessly supply power to multiple plumbing devices. Effect of the Invention

[0018] According to an aspect of the present invention, a plumbing system is provided that can suppress power shortages in multiple plumbing appliances. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1]1 is a diagram showing a toilet space in which a plumbing system according to a first embodiment is installed. [Diagram 2] A cross-sectional view showing a hand washing basin, which is one of the plumbing devices installed in the toilet space in Figure 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a toilet bowl, which is one of the plumbing devices installed in the toilet space in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a urinal, which is one of the plumbing devices installed in the toilet space in FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] 1 is a block diagram showing an overview of wireless power supply in a plumbing device included in a plumbing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 6] 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a mechanism by which a power transmission unit and a lighting unit of the plumbing system according to the first embodiment wirelessly supply power to a plurality of plumbing appliances. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an overview of wireless power supply in a plumbing device included in a plumbing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] 6 is a timing chart showing the timing for adjusting the transmission of a microwave signal from a power transmission unit provided in the plumbing system. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a mechanism by which a power transmission unit and a lighting unit of a plumbing system according to a second embodiment wirelessly supply power to a plurality of plumbing appliances. [Figure 10] 13 is a diagram showing an example of received light amount information managed by a received light amount management unit included in the bathroom system according to the second embodiment. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an overview of wireless power supply to a plumbing device included in a plumbing system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of usage frequency information managed by a usage frequency management unit included in the plumbing system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an overview of wireless power supply in a plumbing device included in a plumbing system according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the size ratio between parts, etc. are not necessarily the same as those in reality. Even when the same part is shown, the dimensions and ratios of each part may be different depending on the drawing. In this specification and each drawing, elements similar to those described above with reference to the previous drawings are given the same reference numerals and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0021] (First embodiment) First, a toilet space TR in which a plumbing system 1 according to the first embodiment is installed will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a toilet space TR in which a plumbing system 1 according to the first embodiment is installed.

[0022] As shown in Fig. 1, for example, a public toilet space TR is equipped with a water-related equipment 10, which includes a hand washing basin 11, a toilet bowl 12, and a urinal 13. A plurality of hand washing basins 11, toilet bowls 12, and urinals 13 are installed in predetermined locations in the toilet space TR. Each of the water-related equipment 10 (11, 12, 13) is equipped with a photovoltaic power generation unit 36.

[0023] Further, a power supply unit 20 is installed in the toilet space TR. The power supply unit 20 includes a power transmission unit 201 and a lighting unit (light source) 202, which will be described later. The power transmission unit 201 wirelessly supplies power to a power receiving unit 31, which will be described later, provided in each of the water-related devices 10 (11, 12, 13), and supplies power to a load 35 (see FIG. 5). The lighting unit 202 also supplies power by irradiating light toward a photovoltaic power generation unit 36 ​​provided in each of the water-related devices 10 (11, 12, 13), and supplies power to the load 35 (see FIG. 5). The power supply unit 20 is installed, for example, on the ceiling of the toilet space TR. By installing the power supply unit 20 on the ceiling, the radio waves emitted by the power transmission unit 201 and the light irradiated by the lighting unit 202 can efficiently reach each of the water-related devices 10 without being blocked by obstacles. In addition, since the lighting unit 202 is also used to illuminate the toilet space TR, it is more preferable to install the power supply unit 20 on the ceiling in order to fulfill the role of lighting. In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the power supply unit 20 includes the power transmission unit 201 and the lighting unit 202 will be described, but the power transmission unit 201 and the lighting unit 202 may be separately provided in the toilet space TR. That is, the power transmission unit 201 and the lighting unit 202 may be provided in one casing or in separate casings.

[0024] Next, an example of the plumbing device 10 included in the plumbing system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a hand washing basin, which is one of the plumbing devices installed in the toilet space in FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a toilet bowl, which is one of the plumbing devices installed in the toilet space in FIG. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a urinal, which is one of the plumbing devices installed in the toilet space in FIG.

[0025] 2, a hand washing basin 11, which is one of the plumbing devices 10, detects an object (such as a human body or an object) and automatically discharges and stops water. The hand washing basin 11 discharges water into a washbasin B1 attached to a washstand.

[0026] The washbasin B1 is provided on the washbasin counter 50. The washbasin counter 50 is provided with a water outlet 11a constituting a spout for discharging water onto the bowl surface BS1 of the washbasin B1. The water outlet 11a has a water outlet 11aa for discharging water, and is provided so that the water discharged from the water outlet 11aa is discharged onto the bowl surface BS1 of the washbasin B1.

[0027] Water discharged from the water outlet 11aa is supplied from a water supply passage 11c. The water supply passage 11c guides water supplied from a water supply source such as a water pipe to the water outlet 11aa. A drain passage 11d is connected to the washbasin B1. The drain passage 11d drains the water discharged from the water outlet 11aa to the bowl surface BS1 of the washbasin B1.

[0028] The hand washing basin 11 also includes a control unit 34, a sensor unit 351, and a solenoid valve 352. The control unit 34 detects the position and movement of an object, for example, based on a detection signal. The control unit 34 controls the opening and closing operation of the solenoid valve 352 based on the detection result. The control unit 34 also outputs a control signal to the sensor unit 351 to control the sensing operation of the sensor unit 351. The hand washing basin 11 also includes a power receiving unit 31 and a photovoltaic power generating unit 36. Details of the power receiving unit 31 and the photovoltaic power generating unit 36 ​​will be described later.

[0029] The control unit 34 is capable of controlling each part through electronic control, and includes a processing unit (not shown) having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) etc., as well as a memory unit consisting of a hard disk, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory) etc., in which various programs and necessary data are stored.

[0030] The sensor unit 351 is provided near the water outlet 11aa of the water discharge unit 11a, and is arranged to transmit an optical signal toward the user's side of the washbasin (the left side in FIG. 2). The sensor unit 351 detects an object, such as the user's hand, approaching the water outlet 11aa using a built-in sensor. In this case, the destination of the water from the water outlet 11aa is included in the detection area of ​​the sensor unit 351. The sensor unit 351 detects the position, movement, etc. of the object by receiving a reflected signal reflected from the object, such as a human body, that receives the transmitted optical signal, for example.

[0031] The sensor of the sensor unit 351 is, for example, an optical sensor that uses an infrared light signal. The optical signal transmitted from the sensor may be, for example, visible light. Note that "infrared light" is, for example, light with a wavelength of 0.7 μm or more and 1000 μm or less. The sensor may be, for example, an ultrasonic sensor or a microwave sensor.

[0032] The sensor unit 351 inputs a detection signal indicating the detection result of the object to the control unit 34. The control unit 34 detects the presence or absence of the object based on the detection signal input from the sensor unit 351.

[0033] The solenoid valve 352 is provided in the water supply passage 11c and opens and closes the water supply passage 11c. When the solenoid valve 352 is opened, water supplied from the water supply passage 11c is discharged from the water outlet 11aa, and when the solenoid valve 352 is closed, the discharge of the water supplied from the water supply passage 11c from the water outlet 11aa is stopped.

[0034] The solenoid valve 352 is connected to the control unit 34, and the control unit 34 drives the solenoid valve 352 to control the opening and closing operation of the solenoid valve 352. The solenoid valve 352 is electrically controlled by a control signal from the control unit 34 to open and close the water supply passage 11c. In this way, the solenoid valve 352 functions as a water supply valve that opens and closes the water supply passage 11c for water discharged from the water outlet 11aa.

[0035] It should be noted that solenoid valve 352 is a self-holding solenoid valve (latch type solenoid valve) also known as a latching solenoid valve; it switches from a closed state to an open state when current is passed through the solenoid coil in one direction, and then maintains the open state even if current is cut off to the solenoid coil. It switches from the open state to a closed state when current is passed through the solenoid coil in the other direction, and then maintains the closed state even if current is cut off to the solenoid coil.

[0036] Power is supplied to the hand washing device 11 by a microwave signal transmitted from the power transmitting unit 201 and by light from the lighting unit 202. Wireless power supply by microwave signal and wireless power supply by light will be described later.

[0037] As shown in Fig. 3, toilet 12, which is one of plumbing devices 10, has a concave bowl portion B2 and a water outlet (not shown) that discharges flushing water onto the bowl surface BS2 of bowl portion B2. The toilet 12 flushes away waste excreted into bowl portion B2 by discharging flushing water supplied via water supply passage 12c from the water outlet into bowl portion B2. In the example shown, toilet 12 is a Western-style toilet.

[0038] The toilet 12 is equipped with a control unit 34, a sensor unit 351, and a solenoid valve 352. The control unit 34 opens the solenoid valve 352 by, for example, detecting a hand held over the sensor unit 351. The toilet 12 also is equipped with a power receiving unit 31 and a photovoltaic power generating unit 36. Details of the power receiving unit 31 and the photovoltaic power generating unit 36 ​​will be described later. Note that in the toilet 12, parts that are substantially the same in function and configuration as the above-mentioned hand washing basin 11 are given the same reference numerals, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0039] 4, the urinal 13, which is one of the plumbing devices 10, includes a concave bowl portion B3 and a water outlet (not shown) that discharges flushing water onto a bowl surface BS3 of the bowl portion B3. The urinal 13 flushes the bowl surface BS3 of the bowl portion B3 by discharging flushing water supplied via a water supply passage 13c from the water outlet into the bowl portion B3.

[0040] As shown in Fig. 4, the urinal 13 comprises a control unit 34, a sensor unit 351, and a solenoid valve 352. The control unit 34 opens the solenoid valve 352, for example, when a user standing in front of the sensor unit 351 moves out of the detection range of the sensor unit 351. The urinal 13 also comprises a power receiving unit 31 and a photovoltaic power generating unit 36. Details of the power receiving unit 31 and the photovoltaic power generating unit 36 ​​will be described later. Note that in the urinal 13, components that are substantially the same in function and configuration as the hand washing basin 11 and toilet 12 described above are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0041] The plumbing equipment 10 may be, for example, a remote controller for operating the equipment in the toilet space TR, in addition to the hand washing basin 11, the toilet bowl 12, and the urinal 13 installed in the toilet space TR.

[0042] Next, an overview of wireless power supply in the plumbing device 10 included in the plumbing system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an overview of wireless power supply in a plumbing device included in the plumbing system according to the first embodiment.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 5, a power transmitting unit 201 that transmits a microwave signal toward the plumbing device 10 and an illumination unit 202 that irradiates light are supplied with power via an AC power source 23 and an AC / DC converter 24. The power transmitting unit 201 transmits a microwave signal. The power transmitting unit 201 includes, for example, a transmitting IC 21 and a power transmitting antenna 22. The transmitting IC 21 determines the transmission direction of the microwave signal. The power transmitting antenna 22 transmits the microwave signal in the transmission direction determined by the transmitting IC 21. For example, the power transmitting antenna 22 includes a plurality of antennas, and an antenna corresponding to the direction in which the microwave signal is transmitted is used. The power transmitting unit 201 may be a single power transmitting antenna that is capable of changing the transmission direction of the microwave signal.

[0044] The power transmitting unit 201 is, for example, a radio wave type wireless transmitter such as a transmitter, and transmits a signal as a radio wave (microwave signal). Note that "microwave" is, for example, a radio wave with a wavelength of 300 MHz or more and 300 GHz or less.

[0045] The lighting unit 202 is, for example, a lighting device provided in the toilet space TR. The lighting unit 202 is, for example, an LED light bulb, an incandescent light bulb, etc. The lighting unit 202 is turned on or off, for example, by a switch (not shown) or based on the detection result of a sensor that detects a user of the toilet space TR (not shown).

[0046] The plumbing device 10 includes, for example, a power receiving unit 31, a power storage unit 340, a diode 341, a voltage conversion unit 342, a diode 343, a load 35, and a photovoltaic power generation unit 36. The power receiving unit 31 receives a microwave signal transmitted from the power transmitting unit 201. The power receiving unit 31 converts the received microwave signal into electric power. The photovoltaic power generation unit 36 ​​receives light emitted by the illumination unit 202 and converts it into electric power.

[0047] The power receiving unit 31 is configured, for example, by a rectifying antenna. A rectenna is an antenna in which a receiving antenna and a rectifying circuit are integrated. The power receiving unit 31 includes, for example, a power receiving antenna, an input low-pass filter, a rectifying circuit, and an output low-pass filter. The power receiving antenna, the input low-pass filter, the rectifying circuit, and the output low-pass filter are electrically connected in this order.

[0048] The receiving antenna receives the microwave signal. For example, an array antenna is used as the receiving antenna. The input low-pass filter is composed of a low-pass filter circuit, and suppresses harmonics generated when the microwave signal is rectified from being re-radiated into space from the receiving antenna. The rectifier circuit is composed of a bridge rectifier circuit or the like. The output low-pass filter is composed of a low-pass filter circuit, and allows only DC power to flow to the load.

[0049] The photovoltaic power generating unit 36 ​​includes, for example, a solar panel, a first electrode, an n-type semiconductor, a p-type semiconductor, a second electrode, and a conductor connecting the first electrode and the second electrode. The solar panel, the first electrode, the n-type semiconductor, the p-type semiconductor, and the second electrode are provided in this order. When light is irradiated onto the solar panel, negatively charged "electrons" gather in the n-type semiconductor, and positively charged "holes" gather in the p-type semiconductor, and for example, the first electrode becomes a positive pole, the second electrode becomes a negative pole, and the electrons move along the conductor. In this way, the photovoltaic power generating unit 36 ​​generates electricity.

[0050] The power storage unit 340 stores the power converted by the power receiving unit 31 and the power generated by the photovoltaic power generation unit 36. The diode 341 prevents a current from flowing back from the power storage unit 340 to the power receiving unit 31. The diode 343 prevents a current from flowing back from the power storage unit 340 to the photovoltaic power generation unit 36. The voltage conversion unit 342 converts the power supplied from the power receiving unit 31 or the power storage unit 340 into power (voltage) capable of driving the load 35.

[0051] The load 35 is a sensor unit 351 and a solenoid valve 352 provided in the plumbing device 10, and is driven by the power converted by the power receiving unit 31 and the power generated by the photovoltaic power generating unit .

[0052] The plumbing device 10 drives the load 35 (the sensor unit 351 and the solenoid valve 352) with electric power obtained by converting the microwave signal transmitted from the power transmission unit 201 and with electric power generated by the photovoltaic power generation unit 36.

[0053] Next, a mechanism for adjusting the transmission process of microwave signals for wirelessly feeding power to the multiple plumbing devices 10 installed in the toilet space TR will be described. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a mechanism by which the power transmitting unit and the lighting unit of the plumbing system according to the first embodiment wirelessly feed power to a plurality of plumbing appliances.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 6, the power transmitting unit 201 included in the power supply unit 20 arranged on the ceiling of the toilet space TR transmits a microwave signal to the plumbing equipment 10. The microwave signal is repeatedly irradiated to the power receiving unit 31 of the hand washing basin 11, the power receiving unit 31 of the toilet 12, and the power receiving unit 31 of the urinal 13 in sequence at the same time intervals. The power receiving unit 31 of the hand washing basin 11 is provided in the area MA1. The power receiving unit 31 of the toilet 12 is provided in the area MA2. The power receiving unit 31 of the urinal 13 is provided in the area MA3. That is, the transmission directions of the multiple power transmitting antennas 22 are respectively oriented toward the areas MA1, MA2, and MA3, as shown by the arrows A11, A12, and A13 in FIG. 6.

[0055] As a result, power is wirelessly fed to the plumbing devices 10 by microwave signals. Note that the power transmitting unit 201 may simultaneously transmit a microwave signal to the power receiving units 31 in areas MA1, MA2, and MA3 to feed power wirelessly. Alternatively, the power transmitting unit 201 may sequentially transmit a microwave signal to each of the power receiving units 31 of the plumbing devices 10 in areas MA1 to MA3 to feed power wirelessly.

[0056] Furthermore, light from the lighting unit 202 included in the power supply unit 20 is irradiated onto the area LA1 in which the photovoltaic power generation unit 36 ​​of the hand washing basin 11, the photovoltaic power generation unit 36 ​​of the toilet bowl 12, and the photovoltaic power generation unit 36 ​​of the urinal 13 are located, as indicated by the arrow A21. In other words, the lighting unit 202 serves as an interior light for the toilet space TR. As a result, power is wirelessly supplied to the plumbing equipment 10 by the light irradiated from the lighting unit 202.

[0057] As described above, the plumbing system 1 is installed in the toilet space TR and includes a plurality of plumbing devices 10 that operate on power generated by the photovoltaic power generation unit 36, which converts the microwave signal transmitted from the power transmission unit 201 and the light received from the lighting unit 202 into power. Note that the photovoltaic power generation unit 36 ​​may convert sunlight from the sun (light source) into power. In other words, the light source is not limited to the lighting unit 202, and may be sunlight.

[0058] According to the water-related system 1, the water-related equipment 10 is provided with a photovoltaic power generating unit 36, so that each water-related equipment 10 can cover its power by wireless power supply by photovoltaic power generation in addition to wireless power supply by microwave signals. Therefore, even if the water-related system 1 includes a plurality of water-related equipment 10, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of the water-related equipment 10 that is insufficient in power. In addition, since each water-related equipment 10 can generate photovoltaic power using existing lighting, there is no need to install new wiring to connect the water-related equipment 10 to an external power source. In this way, the water-related system 1 has advantages in terms of construction and design. In a water-related system that wirelessly supplies power to a plurality of water-related equipment by microwave signals, the frequency of use, power consumption, or amount of power supplied by wireless power supply by microwave signals of each water-related equipment 10 may differ. Even in such a case, the water-related system 1 can supply power to each water-related equipment 10 by photovoltaic power generation, so that it is possible to avoid a situation in which the water-related equipment 10 stops operating due to a lack of power due to a shortage of power.

[0059] Second embodiment The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the transmission process of the microwave signal of the power transmitting unit 201 is changed according to the amount of light received by the photovoltaic power generating unit 36 ​​of the plumbing device 10 included in the plumbing system 1. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description of these components will be omitted.

[0060] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an overview of wireless power supply to a plumbing device included in the plumbing system according to the second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 7, the power supply unit 20 has a light receiving amount management unit 25 provided in the power transmission unit 201. The light receiving amount management unit 25 has a storage unit that stores light receiving amount information indicating the amount of light received by the photovoltaic power generation unit 36 ​​of each plumbing device 10. The power transmission unit 201 of the plumbing system 1 adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal according to the amount of light received by the photovoltaic power generation units 36 of the multiple plumbing devices 10.

[0061] According to this plumbing system 1, for a plumbing device 10 for which there may be a power shortage from photovoltaic power generation alone, the power transmission unit 201 can, for example, preferentially direct the transmission direction of a microwave signal or increase the strength of the microwave signal, thereby adjusting the power supply balance to multiple plumbing devices and enabling more efficient wireless power supply to the plumbing devices 10.

[0062] Next, a specific example of the light receiving amount information managed by the light receiving amount management unit 25 will be given, and a detailed description will be given of the process in which the power transmitting unit 201 adjusts at least one of the transmission direction and the intensity of the microwave signal based on the light receiving amount information.

[0063] First, a case will be described in which the power transmitting section 201 changes the transmission process of the microwave signal based on the on / off state of the illumination section 202 managed by the light receiving amount managing section 25.

[0064] The received light amount management unit 25 manages the on / off state of the illumination unit 202 as received light amount information. The received light amount management unit 25 manages the on / off state, in other words whether the amount of light received by the photovoltaic power generation unit 36 ​​is zero or there is an amount of received light, for example, by acquiring the state of a switch that turns the illumination unit 202 on and off or acquiring the power supply state of the illumination unit 202. A control processing program for controlling the operation of the power transmission unit 201 depending on the on / off state of the illumination unit 202 is stored in the received light amount management unit 25.

[0065] The power transmitting unit 201 adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal, based on the on / off state of the illumination unit 202. In this embodiment, the process of adjusting the intensity of the microwave signal will be described with reference to FIG.

[0066] Fig. 8 is a timing chart showing the timing of adjusting the transmission of a microwave signal from a power transmission unit included in a plumbing system. Fig. 8(a) shows the timing of turning on and off the lighting unit 202, and Fig. 8(b) shows the timing of adjusting the intensity of the microwave signal transmitted by the power transmission unit 201.

[0067] As shown in Fig. 8, the illumination unit 202 is turned on at time t1, and then turned off at time t2. The power transmitting unit 201 reduces the intensity of the microwave signal at time t1, i.e., the timing when the illumination unit 202 is turned on. Thereafter, at time t2, i.e., the timing when the illumination unit 202 is turned off, the power transmitting unit 201 increases the intensity of the microwave signal to return it to its original level. In other words, while the illumination unit 202 is turned on, the power transmitting unit 201 reduces the intensity of the microwave signal to be transmitted compared to when the illumination unit 202 is turned off. Note that when the illumination unit 202 is turned on, the power transmitting unit 201 does not need to transmit a microwave signal.

[0068] According to this bathroom system 1, for example, when the lighting unit 202, which indicates that a user is assumed to be present in the toilet space TR, is turned on, the intensity of the microwave signal can be reduced to suppress the amount of microwaves emitted to the human body.

[0069] Furthermore, when the lighting unit 202 is turned off, it is assumed that the amount of light received by the multiple bathroom appliances 10 from the lighting unit 202 is small, so the bathroom system 1 can increase the strength of the microwave signal to prioritize charging of the bathroom appliances 10. Therefore, the bathroom system 1 can efficiently wirelessly supply power to the multiple bathroom appliances 10.

[0070] Next, a case will be described in which the power transmitting unit 201 changes the transmission process of the microwave signal based on the amount of received light corresponding to the position of the photovoltaic power generating unit 36 ​​managed by the received light amount managing unit 25. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a mechanism by which a power transmitting unit and a lighting unit of a plumbing system according to the second embodiment wirelessly feed power to a plurality of plumbing appliances. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of received light amount information managed by a received light amount management section included in the bathroom system according to the second embodiment.

[0071] The received light amount management unit 25 manages, as received light amount information, the amount of light received V1 by the photovoltaic unit 36 ​​of the hand-washing basin 11, the amount of light received V2 (>V1) by the photovoltaic unit 36 ​​of the toilet bowl 12, and the amount of light received V3 (>V2) by the photovoltaic unit 36 ​​of the urinal 13. For example, when constructing the toilet space TR, a worker measures the actual illuminance with a illuminometer to determine the amount of light received by the photovoltaic unit 36 ​​of each plumbing device 10, and the measurement result is stored in the received light amount management unit 25 as received light amount information.

[0072] The transmitting IC 21 performs a process of transmitting a microwave signal based on the received light amount information managed by the received light amount management unit 25. Specifically, the transmitting IC 21 adjusts at least one of the transmission direction and the intensity of the microwave signal. For example, the process of adjusting the transmission direction of the microwave signal from the power transmitting unit 201 will be described.

[0073] As shown in Fig. 9, areas MA1, MA2, and MA3 are provided as areas for transmitting microwave signals, similarly to the case shown in Fig. 6. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of received light amount information stored in received light amount management unit 25.

[0074] 10, for example, the amounts of light received V1, V2, and V3 of the photovoltaic power generation units 36 in areas MA1, MA2, and MA3 have a relationship of V3>V2>V1. This amount of light received may be, for example, the total amount of light received per day, or the amount of light received within a predetermined period of time.

[0075] The power receiving unit 31 of the urinal 13 in area MA3 can receive sunlight from the sun (light source) through the window 41 as indicated by arrow A31 in addition to the light from the lighting unit 202, and therefore has the largest amount of received light V3. Also, the power receiving unit 31 of the hand wash basin 11 in area MA1 is installed in a position farthest from the lighting unit 202, and therefore receives the smallest amount of light from the lighting unit 202. Thus, in the plumbing system 1, the amount of received light differs depending on the installation position of the plumbing equipment 10, or more precisely, the installation position of the photovoltaic unit 36 ​​and the position where the sunlight is irradiated. Note that the light source based on the amount of received light may be only the light irradiated from the lighting unit 202, or may be only sunlight.

[0076] The transmission direction of the microwave signal is repeatedly changed in the order of area MA1, area MA2, and area MA3. At this time, the power transmitting unit 201 controls the transmission direction of the microwave signal, for example, adjusts the length of time until the transmission direction of the microwave signal is changed, based on the received light amount information.

[0077] For example, if the transmission times of the microwave signal to areas MA1, MA2, and MA3 are times T1, T2, and T3, the transmitting IC 21 controls the power transmitting antenna 22 so that times T1, T2, and T3 satisfy the relationship T1>T2>T3. In this manner, the transmitting IC 21 adjusts the transmission direction of the microwave signal so that the microwave signal is irradiated for a longer period of time in areas where the amount of light received by the photovoltaic power generation unit 36 ​​is less. Note that, when the power transmitting unit 201 irradiates the microwave signal for the same period of time, the strength of the microwave signal may be increased in areas where the amount of light received by the photovoltaic power generation unit 36 ​​is less. The power transmitting unit 201 may also perform both control of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and adjustment of the strength of the microwave signal.

[0078] For example, if the photovoltaic power generating unit 36 ​​of the plumbing device 10 is installed in a position where light does not easily reach, the amount of light received by the photovoltaic power generating unit 36 ​​will be small, and the amount of power generated will also be small. In such a case, according to the plumbing system 1, the power transmitting unit 201 can preferentially supply wireless power by microwave signals to the plumbing device 10 having the photovoltaic power generating unit 36 ​​installed in a position where light does not easily reach. Therefore, the plumbing system 1 can efficiently supply wireless power to multiple plumbing devices 10.

[0079] Third embodiment The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the transmission process of the microwave signal of the power transmitting unit 201 is changed depending on the usage state of the plumbing device 10 included in the plumbing system 1. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description of these components will be omitted.

[0080] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an overview of wireless power supply in a plumbing device included in a plumbing system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of use frequency information managed by a use frequency management unit included in the plumbing system according to the third embodiment. 11, the power supply unit 20 includes a usage frequency management unit 26 provided in a power transmission unit 201. The usage frequency management unit 26 is a storage unit that stores usage frequency information indicating the usage frequency of each of the bathroom devices 10. The usage frequency is determined in advance based on, for example, the arrangement and type of the bathroom devices 10 in the toilet space TR.

[0081] In this embodiment, the frequency of use is specified (predicted) according to the type of plumbing equipment 10. As shown in Fig. 12, for example, assuming that the frequency of use of the hand washing basin 11 is F1, the frequency of use of the toilet 12 is F2, and the frequency of use of the urinal 13 is F3, the relationship is F1>F3>F2. In other words, the frequency of use is set so that the hand washing basin 11 is used more frequently than the urinal 13, and the urinal 13 is used more frequently than the toilet 12.

[0082] The power transmitting unit 201 of the plumbing system 1 adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal according to the frequency of use of the multiple plumbing appliances 10.

[0083] The transmission IC 21 adjusts the transmission process of the microwave signal, specifically, adjusts at least one of the transmission direction and intensity of the microwave signal, based on the use frequency information stored in the use frequency management unit 26.

[0084] The transmission direction of the microwave signal is repeatedly changed, for example, in the order of area MA1, area MA2, and area MA3. At this time, the transmitting IC 21 adjusts the length of time until the transmission direction of the microwave signal is changed, based on the use frequency information stored in the use frequency management unit 26.

[0085] For example, assuming that the transmission times of the microwave signal to areas MA1, MA2, and MA3 are times T1, T2, and T3, the transmitting IC 21 controls the transmission direction of the power transmitting antenna 22 so that times T1, T2, and T3 satisfy the relationship T1>T3>T2. In this manner, the transmitting IC 21 adjusts the transmission direction of the microwave signal so that the more frequently used an area is, the longer the microwave signal is irradiated. The microwave signal may be irradiated for the same period of time, and the intensity of the microwave signal may be increased for areas that are used more frequently. The power transmitting unit 201 may also perform both control of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and adjustment of the intensity of the microwave signal.

[0086] According to this wet-area system 1, for wet-area devices 10 that are expected to be used infrequently, photovoltaic power generation can be used to cover the power required. On the other hand, for wet-area devices 10 that are expected to be used frequently, the power that is insufficient due to photovoltaic power generation can be covered by microwave power. Therefore, for example, the wet-area system lowers the priority of transmitting microwaves to wet-area devices 10 that are used infrequently. On the other hand, according to the wet-area system 1, for wet-area devices 10 that are used frequently, the priority of transmitting microwave signals is increased, allowing efficient power supply by photovoltaic power generation and wireless power supply by microwave signals. Therefore, the wet-area system 1 can efficiently supply wireless power to multiple wet-area devices 10.

[0087] (Fourth embodiment) The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the transmission process of the microwave signal of the power transmitting unit 201 is changed depending on the current state of the plumbing device 10. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description of these components is omitted.

[0088] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an overview of wireless power supply in a plumbing device included in a plumbing system according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, the plumbing device 10 further includes an information transmitting unit 37. The information transmitting unit 37 transmits to the power transmitting unit 201 information used to adjust at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal. More specifically, the information transmitting unit 37 acquires, for example, usage state information indicating the usage state from the load 35. The usage state is, for example, the frequency of use, such as the number of times the plumbing device 10 is used per day or the number of times it is used per hour. The information transmitting unit 37 also acquires, for example, light reception amount information indicating the amount of light received from the photovoltaic power generating unit 36. Furthermore, the information transmitting unit 37 acquires, for example, stored power amount information indicating the current amount of stored power from the power storage unit 340.

[0089] In this way, the information transmitting unit 37 obtains information on the current state of the plumbing device 10, such as the current frequency of use, the current amount of received light, and the current amount of stored power, and transmits the obtained information to the power transmitting unit 201 of the power supply unit 20. Note that the information transmitting unit 37 may transmit at least one of the use state information, the amount of received light information, and the amount of stored power information to the power transmitting unit 201.

[0090] A receiving IC 27 is provided in the power transmitting unit 201 of the power supply unit 20. The receiving IC 27 receives information used to adjust at least one of the transmission direction and the intensity of the microwave signal from the information transmitting unit 37. This information is, for example, at least one of the above-mentioned usage state information, light receiving amount information, and stored power amount information.

[0091] The power transmitting unit 201 of the plumbing system 1 adjusts at least one of the transmission direction and the strength of the microwave signal based on the information received by the receiving IC 27. For example, based on the information received by the receiving IC 27 from each of the plumbing devices 10, the transmitting IC 21 calculates the total amount of light received, the total frequency of use, or the total amount of stored power of the plumbing devices 10 for each of the areas MA1 to M3, and changes the microwave transmission process based on the calculated total value.

[0092] The change in the microwave signal transmission process based on the total amount of received light can be the same control process as in the second embodiment. The change in the microwave signal transmission process based on the total amount of use frequency can be the same control process as in the third embodiment. The change in the microwave signal transmission process based on the total amount of stored power in each area MA1 to MA3 can be, for example, such that the time during which the power transmission unit 201 transmits microwaves is longer or the strength of the microwave signal is stronger, or both, for an area with a smaller total amount of stored power. Note that the value calculated from the information received from each plumbing device 10 may be an average value instead of a total value. The power transmission unit 21 can also transmit a microwave signal toward, for example, an area in which the plumbing device 10 with the smallest amount of stored power is located.

[0093] According to this water-related system 1, the power transmitting unit 201 can adjust at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal based on information received from multiple water-related devices 10. Therefore, it is possible to change the priority of wireless power supply to the multiple water-related devices 10 based on the current state of the water-related devices 10. Therefore, the water-related system 1 can efficiently wirelessly supply power to the multiple water-related devices 10.

[0094] The embodiments include the following aspects.

[0095] (Appendix 1) A power transmitting unit that transmits a microwave signal; A plurality of plumbing devices are installed in the toilet space and are operated by power obtained by converting the microwave signal transmitted from the power transmission unit; Equipped with A plumbing system, wherein each of the plurality of plumbing devices has a photovoltaic power generation unit that converts light received from a light source into electricity.

[0096] (Appendix 2) The plumbing system described in Appendix 1 is characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal depending on the amount of light received by the photovoltaic power generation units of the multiple plumbing devices.

[0097] (Appendix 3) The plumbing system described in Appendix 1 or 2, characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal based on the on / off state of the light source.

[0098] (Appendix 4) The plumbing system described in Appendix 2, characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal based on the amount of light received according to the position of each of the photovoltaic power generation units.

[0099] (Appendix 5) The plumbing system described in any one of Appendices 1 to 4, characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal based on the usage status of the multiple plumbing appliances.

[0100] (Appendix 6) The plurality of plumbing devices transmit information used to adjust at least one of a transmission direction of the microwave signal and an intensity of the microwave signal to the power transmitting unit, The plumbing system described in any one of Appendices 1 to 5, characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal based on the information received from the multiple plumbing devices.

[0101] 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 characteristics of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, etc. of each element of a water supply 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 combinations of these are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they include the characteristics of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 1...water supply system, 10...water supply equipment, 11...hand washing basin, 11a...water outlet, 11aa...water outlet, 11c...water supply channel, 11d...drainage channel, 12...toilet bowl, 12c...water supply channel, 13...urinal, 13c...water supply channel, 20...power supply section, 21...transmission IC, 22...power transmission antenna, 23...AC power source, 24...AC / DC converter, 25...light receiving amount management section, 26...usage frequency management section, 27...reception IC, 31...power receiving section, 34...control section, 35...load, 36...photovoltaic power generation section, 37 ...information transmission unit, 41...window, 50...washbasin counter, 201...power transmission unit, 202...lighting unit, 340...power storage unit, 341...diode, 342...voltage conversion unit, 343...diode, 351...sensor unit, 352...solenoid valve, B1...washbasin, B2...bowl unit, B3...bowl unit, BS1...bowl surface, BS2...bowl surface, BS3...bowl surface, F1, F2, F3...frequency of use, LA1, MA1, MA2, MA3...area, TR...toilet space, V1, V2, V3...amount of light received

Claims

1. A power transmitting unit that transmits a microwave signal; A plurality of plumbing devices are installed in the toilet space and are operated by power obtained by converting the microwave signal transmitted from the power transmission unit; Equipped with A plumbing system, wherein each of the plurality of plumbing devices has a photovoltaic power generation unit that converts light received from a light source into electricity.

2. The plumbing system according to claim 1, characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal depending on the amount of light received by the photovoltaic power generation units of the multiple plumbing devices.

3. The plumbing system according to claim 1, characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction and the intensity of the microwave signal based on the on / off state of the light source.

4. The plumbing system according to claim 2, characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal based on the amount of light received according to the position of each of the photovoltaic power generation units.

5. The plumbing system according to claim 1, characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction and the intensity of the microwave signal based on the usage status of the plurality of plumbing appliances.

6. The plurality of plumbing devices transmit information used to adjust at least one of a transmission direction of the microwave signal and an intensity of the microwave signal to the power transmitting unit, The plumbing system described in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the power transmission unit adjusts at least one of the transmission direction of the microwave signal and the intensity of the microwave signal based on the information received from the multiple plumbing devices.

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