Sanitary washing device

Abstract

To provide a sanitary washing device capable of suppressing a height.SOLUTION: A nozzle unit that has a casing and a washing nozzle curved so as to be convex upward and moves forward and backward between the casing and a toilet bowl, a rack that is connected to the nozzle unit and has flexibility, a gear that engages with the rack, a drive motor that moves the rack via the gear to move the nozzle unit forward and backward, a rack guide that guides the rack, and a support portion that slidably supports the nozzle unit, the upper surface includes a top portion, a first inclined surface descending from the top portion toward the front, and a second inclined surface descending from the top portion toward the rear. The washing nozzle in a stored state overlaps the top portion in an up-down direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Aspects of the present invention generally relate to sanitary washing devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Sanitary washing devices equipped with a nozzle that advances and retreats relative to a toilet bowl are known. Sanitary washing devices perform private parts washing by discharging wash water from a nozzle that advances into the toilet bowl. It is desirable to reduce the height of the sanitary washing device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6686382 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present invention has been made based on the recognition of such a problem, and aims to provide a sanitary washing device whose height can be reduced. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A first invention is a sanitary washing device comprising: a casing; a nozzle unit having a washing nozzle that is curved so as to be convex upward and that moves back and forth between the casing and a toilet bowl; a flexible rack connected to the nozzle unit; a gear that engages with the rack; a drive motor that moves the rack via the gear, thereby moving the nozzle unit back and forth; a rack guide that guides the rack; and a support part that slidably supports the nozzle unit, wherein the support part has a nozzle arrangement part whose upper surface is curved so as to be convex upward, the upper surface having a peak, a first inclined surface that descends as it moves forward from the peak, and a second inclined surface that descends as it moves backward from the peak, and wherein the washing nozzle in the stored state overlaps the peak in the vertical direction.

[0006] With this sanitary washing device, the washing nozzle, which is curved so that it is convex upward, is stored so that it overlaps with the apex of the upper surface of the support part, which is also curved so that it is convex upward. This allows the washing nozzle to be stored in a more horizontal position, thereby reducing the height of the sanitary washing device.

[0007] The second invention is a sanitary washing device characterized in that, in the first invention, when the washing nozzle is stored, the center of the curved extension direction of the nozzle unit is located forward of the top.

[0008] According to this sanitary washing device, in the stored state, a larger portion of the nozzle unit is positioned forward of the top portion, making it easier for the nozzle unit to advance forward.

[0009] A third invention is a sanitary washing device according to the first or second invention, characterized in that the rack guide has a first curved portion that is curved so as to be convex upward, and a second curved portion that is located rearward of the first curved portion and curved with a curvature greater than that of the first curved portion, and the drive motor drives at a first rotation speed in a first state to move the rack, and drives at a second rotation speed in a second state to move the rack, the second state being a state in which the rack is located rearward compared to the first state, and the second rotation speed being lower than the first rotation speed.

[0010] With this sanitary washing device, in the second state where sliding resistance is high, the rotation speed is reduced and the rack is driven with a large torque, while in the first state where sliding resistance is low, the rotation speed is increased and the rack can be moved quickly. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to an aspect of the present invention, a sanitary washing device that can be reduced in height is provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet apparatus equipped with a sanitary washing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of the sanitary washing device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the local cleaning device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic view illustrating the local cleaning device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the nozzle unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a support portion according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a main body portion of the support portion according to the embodiment. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a schematic top view illustrating the main body of the support according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a cover portion of the support portion according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view illustrating a part of the local cleaning device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic side view illustrating the nozzle unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] 12(a) to 12(c) are schematic side views illustrating a part of the local cleaning device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments 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 descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet apparatus equipped with a sanitary washing device according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, a toilet device 300 according to an embodiment includes a sanitary washing device 100 and a Western-style seated toilet bowl (hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, simply referred to as "toilet bowl") 200. The sanitary washing device 100 is provided on top of the toilet bowl 200. The sanitary washing device 100 includes a genital washing device 30 for washing the genitals of a user seated on the toilet seat 20.

[0014] The casing 10 has a case plate 11 and a case cover 12. The case plate 11 forms the bottom of the casing 10. The case plate 11 is placed on the rear of the toilet bowl 200. The case cover 12 is provided on top of the case plate 11 and covers the upper part of the case plate 11. The toilet seat 20 and toilet lid 25 are rotatably supported on the case cover 12.

[0015] The casing 10 houses the private parts cleansing device 30 inside the space surrounded by the case plate 11 and the case cover 12. The casing 10 also houses functional parts such as an opening / closing unit that controls the opening and closing of the toilet seat 20 and the toilet lid 25, a toilet seat heating unit that controls the temperature of the toilet seat 20, and a communication unit that can communicate with the operating unit, etc.

[0016] In this specification, "up," "down," "front," "back," "right," and "left" refer to directions as seen by a user sitting on toilet seat 20 with their back to toilet lid 25, as shown in Figure 1.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of the sanitary washing device. FIG. 2 shows the main components of the water channel system and electrical system of the sanitary washing device 100. 2, the sanitary washing device 100 has a pipe 110. The pipe 110 extends from a water supply source 500, such as a tap or a water tank, to the nozzle unit 60. The pipe 110 guides water supplied from the water supply source 500 to the nozzle unit 60.

[0018] A solenoid valve 120 is provided upstream of the pipeline 110. The solenoid valve 120 is an openable and closable electromagnetic valve, and controls the supply of water based on commands from a control unit 130 provided inside the casing 10. In other words, the solenoid valve 120 opens and closes the pipeline 110. By opening the solenoid valve 120, water supplied from the water supply source 500 flows into the pipeline 110.

[0019] A pressure regulating valve 121 is provided downstream of the solenoid valve 120. When the water supply pressure is high, the pressure regulating valve 121 adjusts the pressure inside the pipeline 110 to within a predetermined pressure range. A check valve 122 is provided downstream of the pressure regulating valve 121. The check valve 122 prevents water from flowing back upstream of the check valve 122 when, for example, the pressure inside the pipeline 110 drops.

[0020] A heat exchanger unit 123 (heating section) is provided downstream of the check valve 122. The heat exchanger unit 123 has a heater and heats the water supplied from the water supply source 500 to a specified temperature. In other words, the heat exchanger unit 123 generates hot water.

[0021] The heat exchanger unit 123 is an instantaneous heating type (instantaneous type) heat exchanger that uses, for example, a ceramic heater. An instantaneous heating type heat exchanger can heat water to a specified temperature in a shorter time than a hot water storage heating type heat exchanger that uses a hot water storage tank. Note that the heat exchanger unit 123 is not limited to an instantaneous heating type heat exchanger, and may also be a hot water storage heating type heat exchanger. Furthermore, the heating section is not limited to a heat exchanger, and may use other heating methods, such as one that uses microwave heating.

[0022] The heat exchanger unit 123 is connected to the control unit 130. The control unit 130 controls the heat exchanger unit 123 in response to, for example, the operation of the operation unit 140 by the user, thereby raising the temperature of the water to the temperature set by the operation unit 140.

[0023] A flow rate sensor 124 is provided downstream of the heat exchanger unit 123. The flow rate sensor 124 detects the flow rate of water discharged from the heat exchanger unit 123. In other words, the flow rate sensor 124 detects the flow rate of water flowing through the pipe 110. The flow rate sensor 124 is connected to the control unit 130. The flow rate sensor 124 inputs the flow rate detection result to the control unit 130.

[0024] A vacuum breaker (VB) 125 is provided downstream of the flow sensor 124. The vacuum breaker 125 has, for example, a flow path for flowing water, an intake port for taking air into the flow path, and a valve mechanism for opening and closing the intake port. For example, the valve mechanism closes the intake port when water is flowing through the flow path, and opens the intake port when the water flow stops, taking air into the flow path. In other words, the vacuum breaker 125 takes air into the pipeline 110 when there is no water flow in the pipeline 110. For example, a float valve is used as the valve mechanism.

[0025] The vacuum breaker 125 takes in air into the pipeline 110, thereby promoting drainage of water in the portion downstream of the vacuum breaker 125, for example. The vacuum breaker 125 promotes drainage of water from, for example, the nozzle unit 60. In this way, the vacuum breaker 125 drains water from the nozzle unit 60 and takes in air into the nozzle unit 60, thereby preventing, for example, flush water in the nozzle unit 60 from flowing back toward the water supply source 500 (tap water).

[0026] An electrolytic cell unit 126 is provided downstream of the vacuum breaker 125. The electrolytic cell unit 126 generates a liquid containing hypochlorous acid (functional water) from tap water by electrolyzing the tap water flowing therein. The electrolytic cell unit 126 is connected to a control unit 130. The electrolytic cell unit 126 generates functional water under the control of the control unit 130.

[0027] The functional water produced in the electrolytic cell unit 126 may be a solution containing metal ions such as silver ions or copper ions. Alternatively, the functional water produced in the electrolytic cell unit 126 may be a solution containing electrolytic chlorine or ozone. Alternatively, the functional water produced in the electrolytic cell unit 126 may be acidic water or alkaline water.

[0028] A pressure modulation unit 127 is provided downstream of the electrolytic cell unit 126. The pressure modulation unit 127 imparts pulsation or acceleration to the flow of water in the pipeline 110, and imparts pulsation to the water discharged from the water outlet of the cleaning nozzle 85 and the water outlet of the nozzle cleaning unit 44. In other words, the pressure modulation unit 127 varies the flow state of the water flowing in the pipeline 110. The pressure modulation unit 127 is connected to the control unit 130. The pressure modulation unit 127 varies the flow state of the water based on the control of the control unit 130. The pressure modulation unit 127 varies the pressure of the water in the pipeline 110.

[0029] A flow rate adjustment unit 71 and a flow path switching valve 70 (flow path switching device) are provided downstream of the pressure modulation unit 127. The flow rate adjustment unit 71 (flow rate adjustment valve) adjusts the water pressure (flow rate). The flow path switching valve 70 is provided downstream of the flow rate adjustment unit 71. The flow path switching valve 70 is connected to a water supply flow path 79. Water is supplied to the flow path switching valve 70 from the upstream side via the water supply flow path 79.

[0030] The flow path switching valve 70 is a unit that has a flow path switching unit 72. The flow path switching unit 72 opens, closes, or switches the water supply to the nozzle body 80 of the cleaning nozzle 85 and the nozzle cleaning unit 44. The flow rate adjustment unit 71 and the flow path switching unit 72 are connected to the control unit 130. The operation of the flow rate adjustment unit 71 and the flow path switching unit 72 is controlled by the control unit 130.

[0031] A plurality of flow paths (a posterior cleansing flow path 80a, a soft cleansing flow path 80b, a bidet cleansing flow path 80c, a body cleansing flow path 75, and a jetting flow path 76) are connected downstream of the flow path switching valve 70 (flow path switching unit 72). The posterior cleansing flow path 80a, the soft cleansing flow path 80b, and the bidet cleansing flow path 80c are provided inside the nozzle body body. The posterior cleansing flow path 80a, the soft cleansing flow path 80b, and the bidet cleansing flow path 80c are flow paths that supply water to a water outlet that discharges water toward the human private parts. That is, the cleansing nozzle 85 discharges water supplied from the flow path switching unit 72 via the posterior cleansing flow path 80a, the soft cleansing flow path 80b, and the bidet cleansing flow path 80c.

[0032] The body cleaning flow path 75 is a conduit that connects the flow path switching valve 70 and the nozzle cleaning unit 44. The nozzle cleaning unit 44 discharges water supplied from the flow path switching unit 72 via the body cleaning flow path 75 onto the outer peripheral surface (body) of the cleaning nozzle 85. In this way, the nozzle cleaning unit 44 cleans the cleaning nozzle 85.

[0033] The ejection flow path 76 is a conduit that connects the flow path switching valve 70 and the ejection unit 77. The ejection unit 77 is, for example, a nozzle that sprays water supplied from the flow path switching unit 72 via the ejection flow path 76 in the form of mist into the bowl of the toilet 200. By spraying water into the bowl, it is possible to prevent dirt from adhering to the inside of the toilet 200.

[0034] The flow path switching unit 72 switches between opening and closing the bottom cleansing flow path 80a, the soft cleansing flow path 80b, the bidet cleansing flow path 80c, the body cleansing flow path 75, and the jetting flow path 76. When each flow path is opened, water is supplied and a water-passing state is established in which water flows. When each flow path is closed, a water-stopped state is established in which water supply is stopped (for example, a state in which water does not flow).

[0035] The flow path switching unit 72 switches between a state in which each of a plurality of water outlets, such as the water outlet provided in the cleaning nozzle 85 and the water outlet provided in the nozzle cleaning unit 44, is connected to the pipeline 110 and a state in which it is not connected to the pipeline 110. The flow path switching valve 70 (flow path switching unit 72) switches the flow path through which water flows among the plurality of flow paths connected downstream of the flow path switching valve 70. In other words, the flow path switching valve 70 selects a flow path that supplies water to the downstream side from the plurality of flow paths connected downstream of the flow path switching valve 70.

[0036] The control unit 130 is a control circuit including an electric circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control unit 130 receives power from a power supply circuit 135 and controls the operation of the solenoid valve 120, the heat exchanger unit 123, the electrolytic cell unit 126, the pressure modulation unit 127, the flow rate adjustment unit 71, the flow path switching unit 72, the drive motor 50, etc. based on signals from the seating detection sensor 150, the flow rate sensor 124, the operation unit 140, etc. In this way, the control unit 130 controls the operation of the nozzle unit 60.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the local cleaning device according to the embodiment. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the left side view of the local washing device 30 included in the sanitary washing device 100. As shown in Fig. 4, the local washing device 30 includes a nozzle unit 60, a rack 53, a gear 52, a drive motor 50, and a rack guide 54.

[0038] The nozzle unit 60 is curved so as to be convex upward. The nozzle unit 60 has a cleaning nozzle 85 and a flow path switching valve 70 (flow path switching section 72) located on the rear side of the cleaning nozzle 85. The flow path switching valve 70 is connected to the rear end of the cleaning nozzle 85, which is curved so as to be convex upward.

[0039] The nozzle unit 60 moves back and forth between the casing 10 and the toilet bowl 200 described with reference to FIG. 1. FIGS. 3 and 4 (excluding the two-dot chain line) show the stored state in which the nozzle unit 60 is in the retracted position. In the stored state, the tip of the nozzle unit 60 is located rearward of the front end of the case cover 12 and is located below the case cover 12. For example, the nozzle unit 60 in the stored state is located rearward of the opening / closing lid 12a provided on the case cover 12 and is stored between the case cover 12 and the case plate 11 (see FIG. 1). The retracted position is, for example, the rearmost position within the movable range of the nozzle unit 60. As shown in FIG. 4, in a side view, the rear portion of the cleaning nozzle 85 is inclined upward toward the front, and the front portion of the cleaning nozzle 85 is inclined downward toward the front. In other words, for example, in the stored state, the upper end (vertex) of the cleaning nozzle 85 or the nozzle unit 60 is located midway in the front-to-rear direction of the nozzle unit 60.

[0040] In Figure 4, the washing nozzle 85 and the opening / closing lid 12a are shown by two-dot chain lines in the extended state where the nozzle unit 60 has moved to the extended position. In the extended state, the tip of the nozzle unit 60 is located forward of the front end of the case cover 12. For example, the tip of the nozzle unit 60 in the extended state is located forward of the opening / closing lid 12a, and is advanced to a position inside the toilet bowl 200 forward of the casing 10. When the nozzle unit 60 advances into the toilet bowl 200, the opening / closing lid 12a is pressed against it and opens. The extended position is, for example, the forwardmost position within the movable range of the nozzle unit 60. The tip of the nozzle unit 60 in the extended state is forward and lower than the tip of the nozzle unit 60 in the stored state.

[0041] The rack 53 is a flexible rack (cable rack). The rack 53 has flexibility that allows it to move within the curved rack guide 54 (passage 54g). The rack 53 can be made of, for example, resin. The rack 53 has a tip portion 53t that is the front end, and a rear end portion 53r that is the end opposite the tip portion 53t in the extension direction along the rack guide 54. The tip portion 53t of the rack 53 is connected to the engagement portion 73c of the nozzle unit 60.

[0042] The gear 52 is a gear wheel that is substantially circular in side view. The teeth of the gear 52 engage with the teeth of the rack 53. A plurality of teeth that engage with the gear 52 are arranged on the surface of the rack 53 facing the gear 52 in the extension direction of the rack 53. The rack 53 is a rack gear that converts the rotational motion of the gear 52 into linear motion.

[0043] The drive motor 50 engages with a gear 52. The gear 52 is attached to the rotation shaft of the drive motor 50. The driving force of the drive motor 50 is transmitted to the rack 53 via the gear 52, causing the rack 53 to move. The drive motor 50 moves the rack 53, thereby moving the nozzle unit 60 forward and backward.

[0044] The rack 53, which is moved by the driving force of the drive motor 50, is guided by a rack guide 54. The rack guide 54 is a portion that houses the rack 53 and slidably holds the rack 53. The rack guide 54 defines a path 54g (the track of the rack 53) along which the rack 53 moves.

[0045] More specifically, the rack guide 54 has a first guide surface g1 and a second guide surface g2 that guide the rack 53. A passage 54g is formed between the first guide surface g1 and the second guide surface g2. The rack 53 slides along the first guide surface g1 and the second guide surface g2 by contacting the first guide surface g1 and the second guide surface g2.

[0046] For example, when the gear 52 is rotated clockwise by the drive motor 50 from the stored state shown in Fig. 4, the rack 53 moves forward within the curved rack guide 54 from the position shown in Fig. 4. That is, the tip end 53t of the rack 53 moves forward along an arc-shaped path within the first curved portion 541 of the rack guide 54, along arrow A1. The rear end 53r of the rack 53 moves along arrow A2 from the straight portion 544 of the rack guide 54, through the second curved portion 542, to the straight portion 543. The nozzle unit 60 advances into the toilet bowl 200 as the rack 53 presses the engagement portion 73c forward.

[0047] On the other hand, for example, when the gear 52 rotates counterclockwise from a state in which the rack 53 moves forward and the nozzle unit 60 is in the advanced state, the rack 53 moves rearward. The rack 53 moves rearward within the curved rack guide 54 and returns to the position shown in FIG. 4. That is, the tip end 53t of the rack 53 moves rearward along an arc-shaped path within the first curved portion 541 of the rack guide 54 in the opposite direction of arrow A1. The rear end 53r of the rack 53 moves from the straight portion 543 of the rack guide 54 through the second curved portion 542 to the straight portion 544 in the opposite direction of arrow A2. The rack 53 presses the engagement portion 73c rearward, causing the nozzle unit 60 to retreat into the casing 10.

[0048] In this way, the nozzle unit 60 can move between the advanced position and the retracted position along an arc-shaped trajectory by the driving force of the drive motor 50 transmitted via the gear 52 and the rack 53.

[0049] The local cleansing device 30 further includes a support part 40. The support part 40 is fixed to, for example, the casing 10 (see FIG. 1). The support part 40 slidably supports the nozzle unit 60. The support part 40 is positioned below the nozzle unit 60 and supports the nozzle unit 60 from below.

[0050] The support part 40 is provided so as to be located, for example, above the top surface 200t (rim surface, see FIG. 1) of the toilet bowl 200. For example, in the stored state, the nozzle unit 60 is above the top surface 200t. This prevents dirty water from entering the private parts cleansing device 30, and prevents the support part 40 and the nozzle unit 60 from becoming soiled.

[0051] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the nozzle unit according to the embodiment. The cleaning nozzle 85 has a curved (or bent) cylindrical nozzle body 80 and a curved cylindrical nozzle cover 90 that covers the outer periphery of the nozzle body 80.

[0052] The tip of the cleaning nozzle 85 is provided with water outlets (posterior cleansing water outlet 83a, soft cleansing water outlet 83b, bidet cleansing water outlet 83c) that discharge water toward the upper human body parts when the nozzle unit 60 is in the extended state. The posterior cleansing flow path 80a, soft cleansing flow path 80b, and bidet cleansing flow path 80c, which are schematically shown in Figure 2, are provided inside the nozzle body 80.

[0053] The posterior cleansing flow path 80a causes water to flow from the flow path switching unit 72 to the posterior cleansing water discharge port 83a. The posterior cleansing water discharge port 83a discharges water supplied from the flow path switching unit 72 via the posterior cleansing flow path 80a. The soft wash flow path 80b causes water to flow from the flow path switching unit 72 to the soft wash water discharge port 83b. The soft wash water discharge port 83b discharges the water supplied from the flow path switching unit 72 via the soft wash flow path 80b. The bidet flush flow path 80c allows water to flow from the flow path switching unit 72 to the bidet flush water spout 83c. The bidet flush water spout 83c spouts the water supplied from the flow path switching unit 72 via the bidet flush flow path 80c.

[0054] The flow path switching valve 70 is connected to, for example, the rear end of the nozzle body 80. The flow path switching valve 70 has a case 73 that houses a flow path switching unit 72. The flow path switching unit 72 has a valve body 72a. The valve body 72a can be, for example, a rotor and a stator. For example, the stator is disk-shaped and has ports (openings) connected to each flow path. The rotor is disk-shaped and is arranged upstream of the stator so as to face the stator. A drive mechanism having an electric motor such as a motor or solenoid rotates the rotor. As the rotor rotates while in contact with the stator, the rotor switches between a state in which it closes and a state in which it opens the port. When a port is closed, the flow path connected to that port is stopped from flowing. When a port is opened, the flow path connected to that port is allowed to flow. However, the flow path switching unit 72 can be configured in any way that can switch the flow path through which water flows.

[0055] The case 73 is attached to, for example, the nozzle body 80. A portion of the case 73 may be formed integrally with a portion of the nozzle body 80. The nozzle cover 90 is attached to the case 73 and the nozzle body 80. As a result, the nozzle unit 60, the flow path switching valve 70, the nozzle body 80, and the nozzle cover 90, slide in the front-to-rear direction relative to the support part 40 as a single unit.

[0056] By curving the cleaning nozzle 85 so that it is convex upward in this way, the height (vertical width) can be reduced in the stored state, and the cleaning nozzle can be advanced to a lower position in the advanced state. In other words, a nozzle unit with high cleaning performance can be provided while keeping the height low.

[0057] The case 73 has a protrusion 73a and a recess 73b. The protrusion 73a and the recess 73b are engaging portions that engage with parts of the support part 40 (groove parts 45 and rail parts 46 described below). The protrusion 73a protrudes outward from the outer periphery of the case 73. The recess 73b is provided on the outer periphery of the case 73.

[0058] In this example, an engagement portion 73c at which the nozzle unit 60 is connected to the rack 53 (see FIG. 4) is provided on the case 73. The engagement portion 73c is a protrusion that protrudes laterally from the outer periphery of the case 73.

[0059] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a support portion according to the embodiment. The support part 40 has a main body part 41 and a cover part 48 that covers the side of the main body part 41 . FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a main body portion of the support portion according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic top view illustrating the main body of the support according to the embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 6 , the main body 41 has a nozzle arrangement section 42, a vertical section 43, and a nozzle cleaning section 44. The nozzle arrangement section 42 is, for example, the bottom of the main body 41 and extends in the front-to-rear direction. The nozzle arrangement section 42 is a portion above which the nozzle unit 60 in the stored state is disposed. The upper surface 42t of the nozzle arrangement section 42 has a curved shape that is convex upward corresponding to the shape of the nozzle cover 90. The nozzle unit 60 is curved to fit along the upper surface 42t in the stored state. That is, the nozzle unit 60 is stored above the upper surface 42t of the nozzle arrangement section 42 so as to fit along the upper surface 42t. The upper surface 42t may have, for example, a smoothly curved shape, or may be curved at a constant curvature.

[0060] The vertical portion 43 is a plate-like portion that extends upward from the nozzle arrangement portion 42. The vertical portion 43 is curved to be convex upward in accordance with the shape of the nozzle cover 90.

[0061] 7, the support part 40 has a groove part 45 that extends in the direction of advancement and retreat of the nozzle unit 60. In this example, the groove part 45 is a slit-shaped opening that penetrates the vertical part 43 in the thickness direction (left and right direction) and extends in the front and rear direction. The groove part 45 is curved so as to be convex upward in accordance with the shape of the nozzle cover 90.

[0062] 6 or 8, the support part 40 has a rail part 46 that extends in the direction of advancement and retreat of the nozzle unit 60. The rail part 46 is a plate-like part that protrudes in the left-right direction from the nozzle arrangement part 42 and extends in the front-rear direction. The rail part 46 is curved so as to be convex upward in accordance with the shape of the nozzle cover 90.

[0063] These groove portion 45 and rail portion 46 become engaged portions with which a part of the nozzle unit 60 engages. The groove portion 45 and rail portion 46 serve as portions that guide the nozzle unit 60 when the nozzle unit 60 is moved back and forth between the inside of the casing 10 and the inside of the toilet bowl 200.

[0064] That is, the protrusion 73a (see FIG. 5) of the nozzle unit 60 engages with the groove 45 by being inserted into the groove 45. The protrusion 73a is held slidably along the groove 45. The recess 73b (see FIG. 5) of the nozzle unit 60 engages with the rail 46 by sandwiching the rail 46. The recess 73b is held slidably along the rail 46. In this way, the nozzle unit 60 is held slidably relative to the support part 40 by the groove 45 and the rail 46. Because the groove 45 and the rail 46 are curved in the front-rear direction, the nozzle unit 60 advances and retreats along an arc-shaped trajectory.

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the nozzle cleaning unit 44 is provided on the front end side of the nozzle arrangement unit 42 and the vertical unit 43. In this example, the nozzle cleaning unit 44 is provided as part of the main body unit 41. The nozzle cleaning unit 44 covers the outer periphery of the nozzle cover 90. A water outlet 44a (see FIG. 7) is provided on the inner periphery of the nozzle cleaning unit 44. Water from the flow path switching unit 72 is supplied to the nozzle cleaning unit 44 by the body cleaning flow path 75. The nozzle cleaning unit 44 discharges the water supplied by the body cleaning flow path 75 from the water outlet 44a toward the nozzle cover 90 of the cleaning nozzle 85. In this way, the nozzle cleaning unit 44 cleans the outer periphery surface (body) of the nozzle cover 90.

[0066] 8, in this example, the support part 40 has a motor arrangement part 47a. The motor arrangement part 47a is provided behind the nozzle arrangement part 42 of the main body part 41 and covers the drive motor 50. In other words, the drive motor 50 is housed in the motor arrangement part 47a of the support part 40.

[0067] 7, the support part 40 further includes a gear arrangement part 47b. The gear arrangement part 47b is provided adjacent to the side of the motor arrangement part 47a. The gear 52 is arranged in the gear arrangement part 47b. That is, the gear 52 is housed in the support part 40 and is located on the side surface of the main body part 41.

[0068] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a cover portion of the support portion according to the embodiment. In this example, the rack guide 54 is provided integrally with the support portion 40. In other words, the rack guide 54 is included in the support portion 40. The support portion 40 of the nozzle unit 60 also serves as a support portion for the rack guide 54.

[0069] For example, the space between the cover portion 48 (see FIG. 9) and the main body portion 41 (see FIG. 7) forms a passage 54g of the rack guide 54. At least a portion of the rack guide 54 is integral with the cover portion 48 and is included in the cover portion 48 formed as a single member.

[0070] 9, the support part 40 is provided with a first convex part 48a and a second convex part 48b. A passage 54g of the rack guide 54 is formed between the first convex part 48a and the second convex part 48b. The first convex part 48a and the second convex part 48b protrude in the left-right direction from a side surface of the support part 40 (in this example, the side surface 48s of the cover part 48) and extend in the front-rear direction.

[0071] The first convex portion 48a has a front portion Pa1 and a rear portion Pa2. The front portion Pa1 extends in the front-to-rear direction and curves upward in a convex shape in a side view. The rear portion Pa2 is located rearward of the front portion Pa1 and includes a curved portion that extends upward toward the rear. The first guide surface g1 described in FIG. 4 is a side surface of the first convex portion 48a.

[0072] The second convex portion 48b is curved in the same manner as the first convex portion 48a and extends along the first convex portion 48a so as to surround the outside of the first convex portion 48a. The second convex portion 48b has a front portion Pb1 adjacent to the front portion Pa1 of the first convex portion 48a and a rear portion Pb2 adjacent to the rear portion Pa2 of the first convex portion 48a. The second convex portion 48b is a parallel curved line separated by a predetermined distance from the first convex portion 48a. The second guide surface g2 described in FIG. 4 is a side surface of the second convex portion 48b.

[0073] Therefore, the rack guide 54 (passage 54g) has a first curved portion 541 and a second curved portion 542. The first curved portion 541 is curved so as to be convex upward in accordance with the shape of the cleaning nozzle 85. The first curved portion 541 corresponds to the passage between the front portion Pa1 and the front portion Pb1. The first curved portion 541 is curved with, for example, a constant curvature. For example, the first curved portion 541 is curved along the upper surface 42t (see FIG. 6) of the nozzle arrangement portion 42 and is a parallel curved line separated by a predetermined distance from the upper surface 42t. In a side view, the curvature of the first curved portion 541 may be substantially the same as the curvature of the upper surface 42t. The first curved portion 541 has an upwardly inclined portion extending rearward and a downwardly inclined portion continuing rearward from the rear end of the upwardly inclined portion.

[0074] The second curved portion 542 is located further rearward than the first curved portion 541. The second curved portion 542 includes a portion that curves in a direction intersecting the front-to-rear direction as it extends rearward. The second curved portion 542 corresponds to the passage between the rear portion Pa2 and the rear portion Pb2. In this example, the second curved portion 542 has a shape that convex rearward in a side view and is a folded portion that extends back and back in the front-to-rear direction. That is, the second curved portion 542 includes a portion P1 that curves upward as it extends rearward. The second curved portion 542 includes a portion P2 that is continuous from the upper end of portion P1 and curves forward as it extends upward. The second curved portion 542 is curved, for example, with a constant curvature.

[0075] For example, in a side view, at least a part of the first curved portion 541 and at least a part of the second curved portion 542 are aligned on a straight line extending in the front-rear direction. In this example, the first curved portion 541 is located between the upper and lower ends of the second curved portion 542 (folded portion) in the up-down direction.

[0076] Furthermore, the rack guide 54 may have a straight portion 543 and a straight portion 544. The straight portion 543 connects the first curved portion 541 and the second curved portion 542 and extends linearly in the front-to-rear direction. The gear 52 located between the first curved portion 541 and the second curved portion 542 meshes with the rack 53 at the straight portion 543. The straight portion 544 extends linearly in the front direction from the upper end of the second curved portion 542.

[0077] 9, the first convex portion 48a and the second convex portion 48b are provided on the cover portion 48, but at least a portion of the first convex portion 48a and the second convex portion 48b may be provided on the main body portion 41 side. At least a portion of the rack guide 54 may be integral with the main body portion 41, or may be included in the main body portion 41 formed as a single member. Furthermore, at least a portion of the passage 54g of the rack guide 54 may be formed as a groove (recess) provided on the side surface of the support portion 40.

[0078] 4, when the nozzle unit 60 is in the stored state, the cleaning nozzle 85 is adjacent to the first curved portion 541 in the left-right direction and is located further forward than the second curved portion 542. When the nozzle unit 60 is in the stored state, the cleaning nozzle 85 is curved so as to follow the first curved portion 541. Because the cleaning nozzle 85 can be stored so as to follow the first curved portion 541, the height of the sanitary washing device 100 can be further reduced.

[0079] The curvature of the cleaning nozzle 85 (nozzle cover 90) may be the same as the curvature of the first curved portion 541 in a side view. For example, the first curved portion 541 has a curved shape parallel to the cleaning nozzle 85 (nozzle cover 90) in the housed state.

[0080] When the nozzle unit 60 is in the stored state, the cleaning nozzle 85 is disposed above the upper surface 42t of the nozzle arrangement portion 42 described in FIG. 6 and other figures. In this manner, the curved cleaning nozzle 85 is disposed on the curved upper surface 42t of the support portion 40. This allows the cleaning nozzle 85 to be advanced forward and downward, enabling water to be ejected from below when cleaning private parts. This makes it possible to provide a nozzle unit with high cleaning performance while keeping the height low.

[0081] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view illustrating a part of the local cleaning device according to the embodiment. Fig. 10 shows a side view of the nozzle unit 60 and a part of the support part 40. As shown in Fig. 10, when the nozzle unit 60 is in the stored state, the cleaning nozzle 85 is arranged directly above the upper surface 42t of the nozzle arrangement part 42 so as to be aligned along the upper surface 42t.

[0082] The upper surface 42t has an apex 49 (vertex), a first inclined surface 49a, and a second inclined surface 49b. The first inclined surface 49a is a surface that slopes downward from the apex 49 toward the front, i.e., a downward inclined surface that slopes forward. The second inclined surface 49b is a slope that slopes downward from the apex 49 toward the rear, in other words, a upward inclined surface that slopes forward.

[0083] The apex 49 connects the first inclined surface 49a and the second inclined surface 49b. That is, the apex 49 is the portion where the upper surface 42t changes from an upward inclination to a downward inclination toward the front. For example, the first inclined surface 49a and the second inclined surface 49b are smoothly continuous at the apex 49. The curvature of the first inclined surface 49a and the curvature of the second inclined surface 49b may be the same.

[0084] The cleaning nozzle 85 in the stored state overlaps the top 49 in the vertical direction. In other words, the cleaning nozzle 85, which is curved so as to be convex upward, is stored so that it overlaps the top 49 of the upper surface 42t of the support part 40, which is also curved so as to be convex upward. This allows the cleaning nozzle 85 to be stored in a more horizontal position. This makes it possible to reduce the height of the sanitary washing device 100, that is, to reduce the vertical length of the nozzle unit 60 in the stored state. For example, it is possible to prevent wasted space from being created above the cleaning nozzle. For example, even if the nozzle unit 60 is not lower than the rim surface of the toilet bowl when stored, the length from the rim surface to the top end of the sanitary washing device 100 can be shortened, thereby achieving a low height.

[0085] The portion of the nozzle unit 60 that is located behind the top 49 in the stored state rises once and then falls when the nozzle unit 60 advances along an arc-shaped trajectory. When a portion of the nozzle unit 60 is raised in this manner, there is a risk that the load on the drive motor 50 will increase when the nozzle unit 60 advances. For example, sliding resistance will increase when the nozzle unit 60 advances.

[0086] 10, when the cleaning nozzle 85 is stored, the center C60 of the nozzle unit 60 in the extension direction is located forward of the apex 49. In this case, the portion of the nozzle unit 60 in the stored state that is located forward of the apex 49 is longer than the portion that is located behind the apex 49. In the stored state, since a larger portion of the nozzle unit 60 is located forward of the apex 49, the nozzle unit 60 is more likely to advance forward. For example, the weight of the portion of the nozzle unit 60 forward of the apex makes it easier for the nozzle unit 60 to advance due to the action of gravity.

[0087] FIG. 11 is a schematic side view illustrating the nozzle unit according to the embodiment. The cleaning nozzle 85 is curved along an arc A85 in a side view. The arc A85 is the center between the inner and outer peripheries of the curved cleaning nozzle 85 in a side view. The extension direction D60 of the nozzle unit 60 is the circumferential direction in which the arc A85 extends.

[0088] In a side view, the center C60 in the extension direction D60 of the nozzle unit 60 is the bisector of the central angle θ of a sector having points p1 and p2 as its two ends. In a side view, an arc including arc A85 intersects with the front end face and the rear end face of the nozzle unit 60. In a side view, point p1 is located at the center of the front end face, and point p2 is located at the center of the rear end face.

[0089] 12(a) to 12(c) are schematic side views illustrating a part of the local cleaning device according to the embodiment. In these figures, for convenience, the position of the rack 53 in the rack guide 54 is shown schematically (the shape of the teeth of the rack 53 is not shown, and the outline is shown by a thick line).

[0090] 12(a), 12(c), and 12(b) show the rack 53 and the rack guide 54 in a first state ST1, a second state ST2, and a third state ST3, respectively. The first state ST1, the second state ST2, and the third state ST3 differ in the position of the rack 53 on the rack guide 54.

[0091] The second state ST2 is, for example, a state in which at least a portion of the rack 53 is located in the second curved portion 542. In the second state ST2, the rack 53 is located further rearward than in the first state ST1. That is, the portion of the rack 53 that is located in the second curved portion 542 in the second state ST2 is longer than the portion that is located in the second curved portion 542 in the first state ST1, or the rack 53 is not located in the second curved portion 542 in the first state ST1.

[0092] In this example, the first state ST1 is a state in which more than half of the overall length of the rack 53 is located at the first curved portion 541, and the second state ST2 is a state in which more than half of the overall length of the rack 53 is located at the second curved portion 542. The third state ST3 is a transition state between the first state ST1 and the second state ST2.

[0093] The rotation speeds of the drive motor 50 in the first to third states ST1 to ST3 are referred to as first to third rotation speeds. In other words, the drive motor 50 moves the rack 53 by driving at a first rotation speed in the first state ST1, moves the rack 53 by driving at a second rotation speed in the second state ST2, and moves the rack 53 by driving at a third rotation speed in the third state ST3. Note that although Figures 12(a) to 12(c) show an example in which the drive motor 50 moves the rack 53 backward, it may also move the rack 53 forward.

[0094] The third rotation speed is lower than the first rotation speed. The maximum rotation speed of the drive motor 50 in the third state ST3 is lower than the maximum rotation speed of the drive motor 50 in the first state ST1.

[0095] The second rotation speed is lower than the third rotation speed. The maximum rotation speed of the drive motor 50 in the second state ST2 is lower than the maximum rotation speed of the drive motor 50 in the third state ST3.

[0096] In this way, for example, the control unit controls the drive motor 50 so that the rotation speed decreases as the proportion of the portion of the rack 53 that is located at the second curved portion 542 increases. The rotation speed of the drive motor 50 may change continuously or in steps as the rack 53 moves.

[0097] The sliding resistance between the rack 53 and the rack guide 54 may increase when the rack 53 slides over a portion of the rack guide 54 with a large curvature. For example, the sliding resistance in the second state may be greater than the sliding resistance in the first state. Furthermore, when the rotation speed of the drive motor decreases, the torque of the drive motor increases.

[0098] Therefore, for example, the second rotation speed in the second state ST2 is set lower than the first rotation speed in the first state ST1. In the second state ST2 where the sliding resistance is large, the rotation speed is reduced to drive the rack 53 with a large torque, while in the first state ST1 where the sliding resistance is small, the rotation speed is increased to move the rack quickly.

[0099] For example, when the user is not using the toilet device, the control unit advances the washing nozzle forward to drain the water from the washing nozzle. According to the embodiment, when the approach (entry) of the user is detected, the washing nozzle can be quickly retracted and stored. This allows subsequent operations (such as preparing hot water) to be performed appropriately.

[0100] Embodiments may include the following features. (Configuration 1) A casing; a nozzle unit having a flushing nozzle curved so as to be convex upward and moving back and forth between the casing and the toilet bowl; a flexible rack connected to the nozzle unit; a gear engaging with the rack; a drive motor that moves the rack via the gear to move the nozzle unit forward and backward; a rack guide that guides the rack; a support portion that slidably supports the nozzle unit; Equipped with the support portion has a nozzle arrangement portion that is curved so that the upper surface is convex upward, the upper surface has a top, a first inclined surface that descends from the top toward the front, and a second inclined surface that descends from the top toward the rear, The sanitary washing device is characterized in that, in a stored state, the washing nozzle overlaps with the top portion in the vertical direction. (Configuration 2) The sanitary washing device according to configuration 1, characterized in that when the washing nozzle is stored, the center of the curved extension direction of the nozzle unit is located forward of the top. (Configuration 3) The rack guide is a first curved portion curved so as to be convex upward; a second curved portion located rearward of the first curved portion and curved with a curvature greater than that of the first curved portion; and The drive motor is In a first state, the rack is driven at a first rotation speed to move the rack; In the second state, the rack is driven at a second rotation speed to move the rack; The second state is a state in which the rack is positioned further rearward than in the first state, 3. The sanitary washing device according to claim 1, wherein the second rotation speed is lower than the first rotation speed.

[0101] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they retain the characteristics of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, installation form, etc. of each element are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of each of the above-described embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 10: Casing, 11: Case plate, 12: Case cover, 12a: Opening / closing lid, 20: Toilet seat, 25: Toilet lid, 30: Private part cleaning device, 40: Support part, 41: Main body part, 42: Nozzle arrangement part, 42t: Upper surface, 43: Vertical part, 44: Nozzle cleaning part, 44a: Spout, 45: Groove part, 46: Rail part, 47a: Motor arrangement part, 47b: Gear arrangement part, 48: Cover part, 48a: First convex part, 48b: Second convex part, 48s: Side, 49: Top part, 49a: First inclined surface, 49b: Second inclined surface, 50: Drive motor, 52: Gear, 53: Rack, 53r: Rear end part, 53t: Front end part, 54: Rack guide, 54g: passage, 60: nozzle unit, 70: flow path switching valve, 71: flow rate adjustment section, 72: flow path switching section, 72a: valve body, 73: case, 73a: protrusion, 73b: recess, 73c: engagement section, 75: body cleaning flow path, 76: jetting flow path, 77: jetting section, 79: water supply flow path, 80: nozzle body, 80a: rear cleaning flow path, 80b: soft cleaning flow path, 80c: bidet cleaning flow path, 83a: rear cleaning outlet, 83b: soft cleaning outlet, 83c: bidet cleaning outlet, 85: cleaning nozzle, 90: nozzle cover, 100: sanitary cleaning device, 110: pipe, 120: solenoid valve, 121: pressure regulating valve, 122: check valve, 123: Heat exchanger unit, 124: Flow rate sensor, 125: Vacuum breaker, 126: Electrolyzer unit, 127: Pressure modulation unit, 130: Control unit, 135: Power supply circuit, 140: Operation unit, 150: Sitting detection sensor, 200: Toilet bowl, 200t: Top surface, 300: Toilet device, 500: Water supply source, 541: First curved portion, 542: Second curved portion, 543, 544: Straight portion, A1, A2: Arrow, A85: Arc, C60: Center, D60: Extension direction, P1, P2: Part, Pa1: Front portion, Pa2: Rear portion, Pb1: Front portion, Pb2: Rear portion, ST1-3: 1st to 3rd states, g1: First guide surface, g2: Second guide surface, p1, p2: Point, θ: central angle

Claims

1. A casing; a nozzle unit having a flushing nozzle curved so as to be convex upward and moving back and forth between the casing and the toilet bowl; a flexible rack connected to the nozzle unit; a gear engaging with the rack; a drive motor that moves the rack via the gear to move the nozzle unit forward and backward; a rack guide that guides the rack; a support portion that slidably supports the nozzle unit; Equipped with the support portion has a nozzle arrangement portion that is curved so that the upper surface is convex upward, the upper surface has a top, a first inclined surface that descends from the top toward the front, and a second inclined surface that descends from the top toward the rear, The sanitary washing device is characterized in that, in a stored state, the washing nozzle overlaps with the top portion in the vertical direction.

2. The sanitary washing device according to claim 1, wherein, when the washing nozzle is stored, the center of the curved extension direction of the nozzle unit is located forward of the apex.

3. The rack guide is a first curved portion curved so as to be convex upward; a second curved portion located rearward of the first curved portion and curved with a curvature greater than that of the first curved portion; and The drive motor is In a first state, the rack is driven at a first rotation speed to move the rack; In the second state, the rack is driven at a second rotation speed to move the rack; The second state is a state in which the rack is positioned further rearward than in the first state, The sanitary washing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second rotation speed is lower than the first rotation speed.

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