Generator-type power supply circuit and remote control device

Abstract

To provide a power generation type power supply circuit and a remote control device capable of suppressing power loss.SOLUTION: The generator type power supply circuit includes a generator, a rectifier circuit for rectifying a current output from the generator, a storage device for storing power by the current from the generator rectified by the rectifier circuit, the power stored in the storage device being supplied to a load, and an interruption switch for interrupting the current from the storage device to the rectifier circuit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Aspects of the present invention generally relate to power generating circuits and remote control devices. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a power generation circuit that generates electricity by storing the electricity generated by a generator in a battery and supplies the electricity from the battery to a load. The generator generates electricity by utilizing the operating force when a user manually operates an operating unit, for example. There are also remote control devices that are powered by power supplied from such a power generating power circuit. The remote control device uses the power supplied from the power generating power circuit to recognize pressed switches and transmit signals corresponding to the pressed switches. Such remote control devices do not require dry cell batteries that need to be replaced or indoor power sources that are limited in location. In a power generating power supply circuit, it is desirable to suppress power loss. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-093994 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present invention has been made based on the recognition of the above problem, and has an object to provide a power generating power supply circuit and a remote control device that can suppress power loss. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The first invention is a generator-type power supply circuit comprising: a generator; a rectifier circuit that rectifies the current output from the generator; a storage battery that stores electricity using the current from the generator rectified by the rectifier circuit, and the electricity stored in the storage battery is supplied to a load; and a cut-off switch that cuts off the current from the storage battery to the rectifier circuit.

[0006] According to this generator-type power supply circuit, the current flowing from the storage battery to the rectifier circuit can be suppressed by the cutoff switch, thereby suppressing power loss.

[0007] A second invention is a power generating power supply circuit according to the first invention, characterized in that the rectifier circuit is a diode bridge including a Schottky barrier diode.

[0008] This power generating power supply circuit uses a Schottky barrier diode to reduce the forward voltage of the diode and suppress loss during power storage, while the cutoff switch suppresses loss due to leakage current after power storage. This allows for efficient use of the power generated by the generator.

[0009] A third invention is a remote control device comprising the generator-type power supply circuit of the first or second invention, an operating unit that is pressed by a user, and a load including a control unit that operates with power supplied from the storage battery, wherein the generator generates electricity based on the operating force with which the user presses the operating unit, and the cut-off switch includes a physical switch that turns on and off in conjunction with the user's pressing operation of the operating unit.

[0010] This remote control device allows the on / off of the cutoff switch to be linked to the amount of depression of the operating unit, so that the cutoff switch can be turned on and off according to the timing of power generation by the generator, thereby enabling efficient use of the power generated by the generator.

[0011] A fourth invention is a remote control device according to the third invention, characterized in that the cut-off switch turns on and off depending on the amount of depression of the operating unit, and turns on after depression of the operating unit begins but before the generator starts generating electricity due to the depression operation.

[0012] With this remote control device, the cutoff switch is turned on before the generator starts generating electricity, allowing the storage battery to efficiently store electricity using the current from the generator, thereby making it possible to efficiently use the electricity generated by the generator. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to aspects of the present invention, a power generating power supply circuit and a remote control device that can suppress power loss are provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic circuit diagram illustrating a power generating power supply circuit according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the remote control device and the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view showing the inside of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a front view showing a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] 7(a) and 7(b) are perspective views showing a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 9(a) to 9(d) are timing charts illustrating the operation of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 10]10(a) and 10(b) are schematic diagrams showing a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] 11(a) and 11(b) are schematic diagrams showing a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] 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 schematic circuit diagram illustrating a power generating power supply circuit according to an embodiment. 1, a power generating power supply circuit 100 (hereinafter simply referred to as a "power supply circuit") according to an embodiment includes a generator 11, a rectifier circuit 20, a battery 12, and a cutoff switch 14. The power supply circuit 100 is electrically connected to a load 30. The power supply circuit 100 supplies power generated by the generator 11 to the load 30.

[0016] The generator 11 generates power based on, for example, a user's operation. For example, AC power is generated from the generator 11. The generator 11 supplies the power to the load 30 via the rectifier circuit 20.

[0017] The rectifier circuit 20 is electrically connected to the generator 11 and rectifies the current output from the generator 11. The rectifier circuit 20 electrically connects the generator 11 and the cutoff switch 14. Specifically, one end of the generator 11 is electrically connected to a connection point 20a of the rectifier circuit 20, and the other end of the generator 11 is electrically connected to a connection point 20b of the rectifier circuit 20. A connection point 20c of the rectifier circuit 20 is electrically connected to the cutoff switch 14.

[0018] When the cutoff switch 14 is on, the rectifier circuit 20 electrically connects the generator 11 and the battery 12 via the cutoff switch 14. The rectifier circuit 20 is, for example, a full-wave rectifier circuit having a diode. A current flows from the generator 11 to the connection point 20c via the connection point 20a or the connection point 20b. The rectifier circuit 20 rectifies the direction of the current flowing between the connection point 20c and the one end 12a of the battery 12, from the connection point 20c to the one end 12a. In this way, the AC current flowing from the generator 11 to the rectifier circuit 20 is rectified by the rectifier circuit 20 and flows from the connection point 20c of the rectifier circuit 20 to the one end 12a of the battery 12.

[0019] One end of the cutoff switch 14 is electrically connected to the connection point 20c of the rectifier circuit 20, and the other end of the cutoff switch 14 is electrically connected to one end 12a of the battery 12. The cutoff switch 14 turns on and off between the generator 11 and the battery 12. That is, when the cutoff switch 14 is in the on state, it electrically connects the connection point 20c and the one end 12a. When the cutoff switch 14 is in the on state, a current can flow between the connection point 20c and the one end 12a via the cutoff switch 14. On the other hand, when the cutoff switch 14 is in the off state, it electrically insulates the connection point 20c from the one end 12a. When the cutoff switch 14 is in the off state, the cutoff switch 14 cuts off the current between the connection point 20c and the one end 12a, and therefore no current flows between the connection point 20c and the one end 12a via the cutoff switch 14.

[0020] One end 12a of the electric storage device 12 is electrically connected to the cutoff switch 14 and the load 30, and the other end 12b of the electric storage device 12 is connected to ground potential. The electric storage device 12 stores the current from the generator 11 rectified by the rectifier circuit 20. That is, the electric storage device 12 is charged by the current from the rectifier circuit 20 and the cutoff switch 14. The electric storage device 12 may be, for example, a capacitor or a storage battery.

[0021] The electric power stored in the electric storage device 12 is supplied to the load 30. The load 30 is operated (driven) by the electric power supplied from the electric storage device 12.

[0022] In this way, the battery 12 stores the power generated by the generator 11, but leakage current may flow from the battery 12 to the rectifier circuit 20. The leakage current flows, for example, in the reverse direction through the rectifier element (diode) of the rectifier circuit 20. The leakage current causes a loss of power. To cope with this, the cutoff switch 14 is provided, and by turning the cutoff switch 14 off, the current flowing from the battery 12 to the rectifier circuit 20 can be suppressed, thereby suppressing the loss of power. The power generated in the generator 11 can be efficiently supplied to the load 30.

[0023] The cutoff switch 14 is turned on and off in accordance with, for example, the timing of power generation by the generator 11. For example, the cutoff switch 14 is in the on state while the generator 11 is generating power. For example, the cutoff switch 14 is in the off state during at least a portion of the period when the generator 11 is not generating power. As will be described later, for example, the generator 11 is a unit that generates power through mechanical operation (manipulation), and the on and off of the cutoff switch 14 is mechanically linked to this mechanical operation.

[0024] In this example, the rectifier circuit 20 is a diode bridge including Schottky barrier diodes. Specifically, the rectifier circuit 20 is configured with four diodes (a first diode 21, a second diode 22, a third diode 23, and a fourth diode 24), and each of the four diodes is a Schottky barrier diode. The rectifier circuit 20 may be a diode bridge in which all the diodes are Schottky barrier diodes.

[0025] The anode side of the first diode 21 is electrically connected to the connection point 20d, and the cathode side of the first diode 21 is electrically connected to the connection point 20a. The anode side of the second diode 22 is electrically connected to the connection point 20a, and the cathode side of the second diode 22 is electrically connected to the connection point 20c. The anode side of the third diode 23 is electrically connected to the connection point 20d, and the cathode side of the third diode 23 is electrically connected to the connection point 20b. The anode side of the fourth diode 24 is electrically connected to the connection point 20b, and the cathode side of the fourth diode 24 is electrically connected to the connection point 20c. The connection point 20d is electrically connected to ground potential.

[0026] For example, compared to using a PN junction diode, using a Schottky barrier diode can reduce the forward voltage of the diode. Lowering the forward voltage of the diode can reduce the loss in the diode when a current flows in the forward direction. In other words, the loss during power storage (power consumption in the diode when the power storage device 12 stores power) can be suppressed.

[0027] On the other hand, if the forward voltage of the diode is reduced, there is a risk of increasing leakage current. That is, for example, there is a trade-off relationship between loss during power storage and loss due to leakage current after power storage. In contrast, the cutoff switch 14 can suppress loss due to leakage current after power storage (the period when the generator 11 is not generating power). Therefore, by using a Schottky barrier diode with a low forward voltage, loss during power storage can be suppressed, while loss due to leakage current after power storage can be suppressed by the cutoff switch 14. That is, for example, it is possible to eliminate the above-mentioned trade-off relationship. The power generated by the generator 11 can be used efficiently.

[0028] For example, in a Schottky barrier diode, the reverse voltage (V R When the forward voltage (V) is 10V, the reverse current may be about 0.3μA. FIn a Schottky barrier diode with an even lower forward voltage, the reverse current can be as low as 20 μA when the reverse voltage is 10 V. Thus, if a diode with a low forward voltage is used in a rectifier circuit to reduce the forward voltage drop, the reverse current can become large, which can lead to a large leakage current. This leakage current can be blocked by the cutoff switch 14.

[0029] The power generating power supply circuit 100 according to the embodiment can be included in, for example, a remote control device and used as a power source for the remote control device. The remote control device is used in, for example, plumbing equipment (devices) such as a toilet room, bathroom, shower booth, kitchen, or vanity. The following description will be given taking as an example a remote control device for a toilet device installed in a toilet room. However, the remote control device is not limited to plumbing equipment and may be a device for remotely controlling any device.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the remote control device and the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, a remote control device 200 according to the embodiment is installed on a wall surface 10 of a toilet room and is used to operate a toilet device 101.

[0031] First, a description will be given of an example of the toilet apparatus 101. The toilet apparatus 101 includes a Western-style seated toilet bowl (hereinafter simply referred to as "toilet bowl") 110 and a toilet seat unit 120 provided above the toilet bowl 110.

[0032] The toilet seat unit 120 has a main body 122, a toilet seat 124, and a toilet lid 126. The toilet seat 124 and the toilet lid 126 are each pivotally supported on the main body 122 so that they can be opened and closed. Figure 2 shows the toilet seat unit 120 in a state where the toilet lid 126 is open and the toilet seat 124 is closed.

[0033] The toilet seat unit 120 has, for example, a sanitary washing function, a private parts drying function, and a toilet seat heating function. The sanitary washing function uses a nozzle 130 to wash the private parts, such as the buttocks, of a user sitting on the toilet seat 124. The private parts drying function dries the private parts that have become wet during the sanitary washing by blowing warm air onto the private parts of the user sitting on the toilet seat 124. The toilet seat heating function warms the seating surface of the toilet seat 124.

[0034] The remote control device 200 has multiple operation units. When a user of the toilet device 101 operates an operation unit, the remote control device 200 transmits a wireless signal corresponding to the operation to the toilet device 101. The toilet seat unit 120 performs one of the above-mentioned functions based on the wireless signal transmitted from the remote control device 200. Alternatively, the toilet seat unit 120 may perform a function such as cleaning the bowl surface of the toilet 110 based on the wireless signal transmitted from the remote control device 200.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the remote control device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, remote control device 200 has a plurality of operation units 210 and a cover member 201 that supports them.

[0036] The operation unit 210 is, for example, an operation button that is pressed by the user. That is, the operation unit 210 is a so-called push button that can be pressed (depressed). The operation unit 210 is movable between a normal position (origin position) and a pressed position when pressed. The pressed position is, for example, a position where the operation unit 210 is completely pressed, in other words, the position where it is pressed the most. When the operation unit 210 is not pressed by the user, it is located in the normal position. The operation unit 210 moves from the normal position to the pressed position in response to a pressing operation. When the user releases the operation unit 210, the operation unit 210 returns to the normal position.

[0037] Specifically, the operation unit 210 is held in a normal position when not being operated, for example, by a spring, etc. Therefore, the operation unit 210 moves to the pressed position by a pressing operation, and then returns to the normal position by releasing the pressing operation.

[0038] As an example, the multiple operation units 210 include a stop button 211, a rear cleansing button 212, a bidet cleansing button 213, and a dry button 214, which are provided on the upper section of the remote control device 200. The multiple operation units 210 also include a high water discharge flow rate button 215, a low water discharge flow rate button 216, a wash position forward button 217, a wash position backward button 218, and a nozzle clean button 219, which are provided on the lower section of the remote control device 200.

[0039] The rear cleansing button 212, the bidet cleansing button 213, and the drying button 214 are buttons for starting rear cleansing, bidet cleansing, and private parts drying by the toilet device 101. The stop button 211 is a button for stopping these functions. The high water discharge flow rate button 215 and the low water discharge flow rate button 216 are buttons for adjusting the force of the wash water sprayed during sanitary washing. The forward wash position button 217 and the backward wash position button 218 are buttons for adjusting the wash position. The clean nozzle button 219 is a button for executing the cleaning of the nozzle 130. The number of operation units 210 in remote control device 200 and the functions of each operation unit 210 are not limited to the above example, and can be changed as appropriate.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a front view showing the inside of the remote control device according to the embodiment. In FIG. 4, operation unit 210 is represented by a dashed line to show the positional relationship between each component inside remote control device 200 and operation unit 210.

[0041] The remote control device 200 has a generator 11 and a transmission unit 230 (link mechanism) inside. The transmission unit 230 transmits the pressing force applied to the operation unit 210 by the user of the toilet device 101 to the generator 11. The transmission unit 230 is provided on the back side of each operation unit 210, and when any operation unit 210 is pressed, the pressing force is transmitted to the generator 11.

[0042] Transmission unit 230 has, for example, first transmission member 231, second transmission member 232, and connecting member 233. First transmission member 231 is provided on the rear side of operation units 210 provided on the upper level of remote control device 200, and receives pressing force from those operation units 210. Second transmission member 232 is provided on the rear side of operation units 210 provided on the lower level of remote control device 200, and receives pressing force from those operation units 210. Connecting member 233 connects first transmission member 231 and second transmission member 232. The pressing force received by first transmission member 231 is transmitted to second transmission member 232 via connecting member 233.

[0043] The first transmission member 231 is attached so as to be slidable in the direction indicated by the arrow A1 or the arrow A2. The second transmission member 232 is attached so as to be slidable in the direction indicated by the arrow A3 or the arrow A4. The connecting member 233 is attached so as to be rotatable in the direction indicated by the arrow A5 or the arrow A6.

[0044] The generator 11 generates electricity by utilizing the pressing force transmitted by the transmission unit 230. Specifically, the generator 11 has a main body module 221 and a force receiving unit 222. A power generating unit such as a motor is provided inside the main body module 221.

[0045] Force receiving portion 222 is attached to main body module 221 and receives the pressing force transmitted from transmission portion 230. Force receiving portion 222 moves between a protruding position where it protrudes from main body module 221 and a pushed-in position where it is pushed into main body module 221.

[0046] When operation unit 210 on the upper side of remote control device 200 is operated, the pressing force is transmitted to first transmission member 231, causing first transmission member 231 to slide in the direction of arrow A2. When first transmission member 231 slides in the direction of arrow A2, connecting member 233 rotates in the direction of arrow A5. When connecting member 233 rotates in the direction of arrow A5, second transmission member 232 slides in the direction of arrow A3. Alternatively, when operation unit 210 on the lower side of remote control device 200 is operated, the pressing force is transmitted to second transmission member 232, causing second transmission member 232 to slide in the direction of arrow A3. When second transmission member 232 slides in the direction of arrow A3, second transmission member 232 (or resistance means 260) presses force receiving portion 222, causing force receiving portion 222 to move from the protruding position to the retracted position. When force receiving portion 222 is pressed, the energy generated by pressing force receiving portion 222 is transmitted to the power generating unit, which generates electricity. For example, the force generated by pressing force receiving portion 222 causes the rotating shaft of a motor to rotate, generating AC power from the motor.

[0047] For example, a click mechanism 223 may be provided inside main body module 221. Click mechanism 223 has an interlocking member engaged with force receiving portion 222. Click mechanism 223 accumulates the pressing force transmitted to force receiving portion 222 by the interlocking member. For example, when force receiving portion 222 is in the protruding position, the interlocking member is in the initial position, and when force receiving portion 222 is pressed in, the interlocking member moves against the elastic force of the spring that biases the interlocking member.

[0048] When the force receiving portion 222 is pressed and the interlocking member moves to a predetermined position, the engagement between the interlocking member and the force receiving portion 222 is temporarily released, and the pressure that had been accumulated up to that point is released. When the engagement is released, the pressure resistance of the operating unit 210 weakens, and the user feels a clicking sensation. The clicking sensation notifies the user that the pressing operation of the operating unit 210 has been accepted. For example, when the engagement between the interlocking member and the force receiving portion 222 is temporarily released, the interlocking member returns to its initial position due to its elastic force. When the interlocking member returns to its initial position, the elastic force of the spring biasing the interlocking member is released, and the operating force of the operating unit 210 weakens, making it easier for the user to feel the clicking sensation.

[0049] Furthermore, the generator 11 may generate AC current by rotating the motor using the pressing force released when the engagement between the click mechanism 223 and the force receiving portion 222 is temporarily released. For example, the interlocking member is connected to the rotating shaft of the motor via a gear or the like, and the momentum of the interlocking member returning to its initial position rotates the rotating shaft, thereby generating electricity. Regardless of the speed at which the operating unit 210 is pressed toward the lowest position, the power required to send a signal to the toilet device 101 can be generated.

[0050] In this way, the generator 11 generates electricity based on the operating force (pressing force) applied by the user to press the operating unit 210. In this specification, the term "generator" refers to a part that receives kinetic energy and generates electricity, or a part that converts kinetic energy into electrical energy. The power generation method of the generator 11 is not limited to a motor, and any method can be used as long as it can transmit a signal to the toilet device 101. For example, the generator 11 may generate electricity using a piezoelectric element instead of the electromagnetic induction method using a motor described above. Furthermore, the power output from the generator 11 is not limited to the AC described above, and may be DC or a pulsating current. The mechanism for transmitting kinetic energy to the generator 11 is not limited to the configuration described above, and may be any mechanism as long as it can transmit energy due to the operating force applied to press the operating unit 210 to the generator 11 and the generator 11 can generate electricity using the transmitted energy.

[0051] Furthermore, the force receiving portion 222 is held in the protruding position by a spring (not shown) of the click mechanism 223 when not pressed. After the operation unit 210 is pressed, the elastic force of the spring moves the force receiving portion 222 from the pressed position to the protruding position. When the force receiving portion 222 moves to the protruding position, the second transmission member 232 slides in the direction of arrow A4. When the second transmission member 232 slides in the direction of arrow A4, the connecting member 233 rotates in the direction of arrow A6, and the first transmission member 231 slides in the direction of arrow A1. When the first transmission member 231 and the second transmission member 232 slide in the directions of arrows A1 and A4, respectively, the operation unit 210 moves to its normal position. In this way, after the operation unit 210 is pressed, the pressed operation unit 210 returns to its normal position by a return mechanism including a spring provided in the click mechanism 223 and a spring 234b provided in the transmission unit 230 (described later).

[0052] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the remote control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a front view showing a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. 7(a) and 7(b) are perspective views showing a part of a remote control device according to an embodiment. Fig. 7(a) shows a state before the operation unit 210 is pressed (a state in which the operation unit 210 is in a normal position), and Fig. 7(b) shows a state after the operation unit 210 is pressed (a state in which the operation unit 210 is in a pressed position).

[0053] As shown in Fig. 5, remote control device 200 further includes a case member 202, a base 204, and a hanger 208. Case member 202 is hung on hanger 208 installed on the wall of the toilet room. The outer frame of case member 202 is fitted inside cover member 201. Base 204 is provided between cover member 201 and case member 202. Base 204 is fixed to case member 202 while holding power generation unit 220 and transmission unit 230. In addition, a board (not shown in Fig. 5) holding power supply unit 243 and control unit 250, which will be described later with reference to Fig. 8, is fixed to the back surface of base 204.

[0054] 5 and 6, first transmission member 231 and second transmission member 232 of transmission unit 230 are provided with rotating cams 234 and 235, respectively. Rotating cams 234 are provided corresponding to each operation unit 210 on the upper level of remote control device 200, and rotating cams 235 are provided corresponding to each operation unit 210 on the lower level of remote control device 200.

[0055] The structure of the rotating cam will be described below. Since the structures of the rotating cams 234 and 235 are substantially the same, only the structure of the rotating cam 234 will be described here as an example. The rotating cam 234 has a rotating shaft 234a and a spring 234b. The spring 234b is, for example, a torsion coil spring, and is provided around the rotating shaft 234a. When the operating unit 210 is not being pressed, the rotating cam 234 is held in the origin position by the spring 234b.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b), a protrusion 210a is provided on the back surface of the operation unit 210. The rotation cam 234 has an inclined surface 234c facing the protrusion 210a. As shown in FIG. 7(b), when a user presses the operation unit 210 in the direction of arrow A11, the protrusion 210a moves in response to the pressing operation. As the protrusion 210a moves, it comes into contact with the inclined surface 234c, and a pressing force is transmitted to the rotation cam 234. When the rotation cam 234 receives the pressing force, it rotates in the direction of arrow A12 around the rotation shaft 234a while resisting the elastic force of the spring 234b. When the rotation cam 234 rotates in the direction of arrow A12, the first transmission member 231 is pushed and slides in the direction of arrow A2 shown in FIG. 4. As a result, the second transmission member 232 slides via the connecting member 233, moving the force receiving portion 222 from the protruding position to the pushing position.

[0057] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the remote control device according to the embodiment. 8, remote control device 200 includes operation unit 210, detection unit 241, transmission unit 230, resistance means 260, power supply circuit 100 (power generator 11 and power supply unit 243), and load 30. Load 30 includes control unit 250. Power supply unit 243 of power supply circuit 100 includes rectifier circuit 20, cutoff switch 14, and battery 12 described above. Operation unit 210, power generator 11, and transmission unit 230 are as described above.

[0058] The detection unit 241 is provided corresponding to each operation unit 210, and detects the pressing operation of the operation unit 210. For example, a Hall element is used for the detection unit 241. Alternatively, the detection unit 241 may be a mechanical switch or the like.

[0059] The control unit 250 is electrically connected to a plurality of detection units 241. The control unit 250 determines which operation unit 210 has been pressed based on the detection results of each detection unit 241. The control unit 250 then transmits a wireless signal corresponding to the determined operation unit 210 to the toilet device 101, thereby remotely controlling the toilet device 101.

[0060] The control unit 250 is a circuit that has, for example, a microcomputer 251 (MCU: micro controller unit), a high-frequency generating circuit 253, and a transmitting unit 255. The microcomputer 251 determines which operation unit 210 has been pressed and generates a signal corresponding to the determined operation unit 210. The high-frequency generating circuit 253 converts the signal generated by the microcomputer 251 into a high-frequency signal. The high-frequency generating circuit 253 generates a high-frequency signal of, for example, 2.4 GHz. The transmitting unit 255 includes an antenna, and converts the high-frequency signal generated by the high-frequency generating circuit 253 into a wireless signal and transmits it to the toilet device 101.

[0061] The control unit 250 operates using power supplied from the battery 12. That is, for example, when the voltage of the battery 12 reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, the power supply unit 243 supplies the power stored in the battery 12 to the control unit 250 to start up the control unit 250. The battery 12 temporarily stores the power generated by the generator 11, and while the generator 11 is not generating power, the control unit 250 operates when power is supplied from the battery 12 to the load side.

[0062] The resistance means 260 is, for example, a member provided between the generator 11 and the transmission unit 230, and generates resistance to the pressing force. The resistance means 260 may be provided between the operation unit 210 and the transmission unit 230. The resistance means 260 is, for example, a coil spring. When a coil spring is used as the resistance means 260, the configuration of the resistance means 260 can be simplified and the remote control device 200 can be made smaller. However, the resistance means 260 is not limited to this, and may also be a leaf spring, a torsion coil spring, a block-shaped elastic member, or the like. The resistance means 260 may be provided as needed, or may be omitted.

[0063] In a remote control device that operates using a generator that utilizes the user's operating force, increasing the amount of power generated by the generator can accommodate increased power consumption by the remote control device. However, increasing the amount of power generated can adversely affect the operability and design of the remote control device. For example, the operating force required to operate the operation buttons may increase, the stroke (depression distance) of the operation buttons may become longer, or the remote control may become larger. Conversely, if the power consumption of a remote control device is reduced, it is easier to improve the operability and design of the remote control device. The power consumption of a remote control device includes loss during power storage, power used for remote control operation, and loss due to leakage current after power storage. As described above, there may be a trade-off between reducing "loss during power storage" and reducing "loss due to leakage current after power storage." In contrast, in the embodiment, as described above, it is possible to reduce "loss during power storage" while also reducing "loss due to leakage current after power storage" by using cut-off switch 14. This reduces the power consumption of the remote control device and improves the operability and design of the remote control device.

[0064] 9(a) to 9(d) are timing charts illustrating the operation of the remote control device according to the embodiment. 9(a) shows the position of the operating unit 210, FIG. 9(b) shows the state of the cutoff switch, FIG. 9(c) shows the operating state of the generator, and FIG. 9(d) shows the operation of the control unit 250.

[0065] 9(a), before time T1, no pressing operation is performed, and operation unit 210 is in a normal position. At time T1, the user starts pressing operation on operation unit 210. The position of operation unit 210 transitions between time T1 and time T4 depending on the amount of pressing by the user. At time T4, operation unit 210 reaches the pressed position.

[0066] From time T4 to time T6, the user presses operation unit 210, so operation unit 210 is located in the pressed position. At time T6, the user stops pressing and begins to release operation unit 210. Accordingly, the position of operation unit 210 transitions between time T6 and time T9. At time T9, operation unit 210 returns to its normal position.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 9(b), the cutoff switch 14 turns on and off in conjunction with the amount of depression of the operating unit 210. At time T2 between time T1 and time T4, i.e., while the operating unit 210 is being depressed from the normal position, the cutoff switch 14 switches from off to on. Thereafter, at time T8 between time T6 and time T9, i.e., while the operating unit 210 is being released (while the operating unit 210 is returning from the depressed position to the normal position), the cutoff switch 14 switches from on to off. In this way, the cutoff switch 14 switches on and off when the operating unit 210 is between the normal position and the depressed position. The cutoff switch 14 is configured to turn on when the amount of depression of the operating unit 210 becomes greater than a predetermined value and to turn off when the amount of depression is equal to or less than the predetermined value.

[0068] 9(c), the generator 11 starts a power generating operation in response to a pushing operation of the operating unit 210. That is, at time T3 after time T1 (before time T4), the pushing operation of the operating unit 210 causes the transmission unit 230 (resistance means 260) to push the force receiving portion 222 of the generator 11, the force receiving portion 222 is positioned at a predetermined position, and the generator 11 starts a power generating operation. At time T7 after time T6 (before time T9), the pushing of the force receiving portion 222 is released, and the force receiving portion 222 returns to the protruding position side of the predetermined position at which the power generating operation starts.

[0069] By keeping the cutoff switch 14 on for at least part of the time that the operation unit 210 is being pressed, the power generated by the generator in response to the pressing operation can be stored in the storage battery 12. When the user releases the operation unit 210, the cutoff switch 14 is off, thereby suppressing leakage current during the period when power is not being generated.

[0070] Time T3 when the generator 11 starts generating power is after time T2 when the cutoff switch 14 is turned on. Time T7 is before time T8 when the cutoff switch 14 is turned off.

[0071] In this way, after the pressing operation of the operation unit 210 is started, the cutoff switch 14 is turned on before the generator 11 starts generating electricity due to the pressing operation. By turning on the cutoff switch 14 before the generator 11 starts generating electricity, the storage battery 12 can efficiently store electricity using the current from the generator 11. In other words, for example, the electricity generated by the generator 11 at the start of power generation can be used, and power loss can be suppressed. Therefore, the electricity generated by the generator 11 can be efficiently used.

[0072] The power generation time during which the generator 11 generates power in response to a single pressing of the operating unit 210 is, for example, approximately 1 to 10 milliseconds (5 milliseconds as an example). In this example, the power generation operation ends before time T4, but the power generation operation may also end after time T4. It is desirable for the generator 11 to complete power generation during the period when the cutoff switch 14 is on (from time T2 to time T8). This allows for efficient use of power.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 9(d), the control unit 250 is activated at time T5 after time T3 by the power generated by the generator 11 from time T3. After activation, the control unit 250 transmits a signal to the toilet device 101. After that, in this example, the control unit 250 enters a standby state at time T8. Note that the timing of signal transmission is not limited to this, and the control unit 250 may transmit a signal at any timing when sufficient power remains in the battery 12 after activation.

[0074] 10(a) and 10(b) are schematic diagrams showing a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 10(a) shows the state in which the operation unit 210 is in the normal position, and FIG. 10(b) shows the state in which the operation unit 210 is in the pressed-in position.

[0075] As shown in FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b), the remote control device 200 is provided with, for example, a switch 244. The switch 244 is, for example, a physical switch. A physical switch is, for example, a switch in which a part of the switch is a movable part and is turned on and off by the movement of the movable part. The physical switch may be a switch that can be turned on and off without receiving power from a power source. More specifically, in this example, the switch 244 is a push button switch.

[0076] The isolation switch 14 illustrated in the circuit diagram of Fig. 1 includes a switch 244. For example, the isolation switch 14 is the switch 244 (a push button switch).

[0077] In this example, the switch 244 is held by a substrate 245. The substrate 245 may hold at least a part of the control unit 250, the rectifier circuit 20, and the battery 12. The substrate 245 is fixed, for example, to the rear side (opposite side to the operation unit 210) of the base 204 (see FIG. 5). The position of the switch 244 is fixed relative to the positions of the base 204, the case member 202, the cover member 201, etc.

[0078] Remote control device 200 has movable member 238 provided with pressing portion 238a. Pressing portion 238a is a convex portion that presses switch 244 (push button switch). Movable member 238 is a member that moves in conjunction with the pressing operation of operation unit 210. Specifically, movable member 238 may be any one of first transmission member 231, second transmission member 232, connecting member 233, rotating cam 234, and rotating cam 235 described with reference to FIG. 4 etc.

[0079] 10(a), when no pressing operation is performed and operation unit 210 is in a normal position, pressing unit 238a is located at an original position where it does not press switch 244. When operation unit 210 is pressed, movable member 238 moves according to the amount of pressing. When operation unit 210 is moved to the pressed position by a pressing operation, movable member 238 moves as shown in FIG. 10(b), and pressing unit 238a moves to a pressing position where it presses switch 244.

[0080] In this way, the switch 244 turns on and off in conjunction with the user's pressing of the operation unit 210. The switch 244 turns on and off according to the amount of pressing of the operation unit 210. When the user presses the operation unit 210, the switch 244 is pressed and turned on. Turning on the switch 244 corresponds to turning on the cutoff switch 14. On the other hand, when the user does not press the operation unit 210, the switch 244 is not pressed and is turned off. Turning off the switch 244 corresponds to turning off the cutoff switch 14. In other words, the cutoff switch 14 turns on and off in conjunction with the user's operation of the operation unit 210.

[0081] By linking the on / off of the cutoff switch 14 with the depression amount of the operation unit 210, the cutoff switch 14 can be turned on and off according to the timing of power generation by the generator 11. This allows for efficient use of the power generated by the generator 11. For example, by keeping the cutoff switch 14 off during periods when the generator 11 is not generating power, it is possible to suppress loss due to leakage current after power storage.

[0082] 11(a) and 11(b) are schematic diagrams showing a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 11(a) shows the state in which the operation unit 210 is in the normal position, and FIG. 11(b) shows the state in which the operation unit 210 is in the pressed-in position.

[0083] In this example, a reed switch is used as the physical switch in place of the aforementioned push button switch in switch 244. For example, cutoff switch 14 is a reed switch. Movable member 238 is provided with magnet 238b instead of the aforementioned pressing portion 238a.

[0084] 11(a), when the operation unit 210 is in a normal position without being pressed, the magnet 238b is located at an origin position away from the switch 244, and therefore the switch 244 is off. When the operation unit 210 is pressed, the movable member 238 moves in accordance with the amount of pressing. When the operation unit 210 is moved to the pressed position by a pressing operation, the movable member 238 moves as shown in FIG. 11(b), and the magnet 238b moves to a proximity position close to the switch 244, and the switch 244 is turned on.

[0085] Thus, in this example as well, switch 244 is turned on and off in accordance with the amount of depression of operation unit 210. In other words, cutoff switch 14 is turned on and off in conjunction with the user's operation of operation unit 210. As a result, as in the previous example, cutoff switch 14 can be turned on and off in accordance with the timing of power generation, allowing for efficient use of power.

[0086] It should be noted that the relationship between the amount of depression of the operation unit 210 and the timing of power generation can be adjusted as appropriate, for example, by adjusting the positional relationship and shape of each member (e.g., the power generation unit (motor), force receiving unit 222, transmission unit 230, operation unit 210, click mechanism, etc.) that operates in conjunction with the operation of the operation unit 210. For example, the position to which each member (e.g., transmission unit 230, force receiving unit 222, interlocking members of the click mechanism, etc.) moves in conjunction with the amount of depression of the operation unit 210, or the timing of movement of each member, etc., can be adjusted as appropriate, and the timing at which the force or energy produced by pressing the operation unit 210 is transmitted to the power generation unit can be adjusted as appropriate. Furthermore, for example, by adjusting the positional relationship and shape of the switch 244 and the movable member 238 (the pressing portion 238a or the magnet 238b), it is possible to adjust the relationship between the amount of depression of the operation unit 210 and the on / off timing of the switch 244. That is, it is possible to adjust the relationship between the amount of depression of the operation unit 210 and the on / off timing of the cutoff switch 14. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the relationship between the power generation timing of the generator 11 and the on / off timing of the cutoff switch 14. Note that the switch 244 is not limited to a push button switch or a reed switch, and it is possible to use, as appropriate, a switch that is turned on by pressing the operation unit 210 and turned off by releasing the operation unit 210.

[0087] Embodiments may include the following features. (Configuration 1) A generator and a rectifier circuit that rectifies the current output from the generator; a battery that stores electricity using the current from the generator rectified by the rectifier circuit, and the electricity stored in the battery is supplied to a load; a cutoff switch that cuts off current from the capacitor to the rectifier circuit; A power generating circuit comprising: (Configuration 2) 2. The power generating power supply circuit according to configuration 1, wherein the rectifier circuit is a diode bridge including a Schottky barrier diode. (Configuration 3) The power generating power supply circuit according to configuration 1 or 2, an operation unit that is pressed by a user; the load including a control unit that operates using power supplied from the electric storage device; Equipped with the generator generates electricity based on the operating force with which the user presses the operating unit, The remote control device is characterized in that the cutoff switch includes a physical switch that turns on and off in conjunction with the user's pressing operation of the operation portion. (Configuration 4) The cutoff switch is The operation is turned on and off according to the amount of depression of the operation unit. The remote control device according to configuration 3, wherein the remote control device is turned on after the operation of pressing the operation unit is started and before the generator starts generating power due to the pressing operation.

[0088] 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]

[0089] 10: Wall surface, 11: Generator, 12: Storage battery, 12a: One end, 12b: Other end, 14: Cut-off switch, 20: Rectifier circuit, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d: Connection points, 21-24: First to fourth diodes, 30: Load, 100: Generator-type power supply circuit, 101: Toilet device, 110: Toilet bowl, 120: Toilet seat unit, 122: Main body, 124: Toilet seat, 126: Toilet lid, 130: Nozzle, 200: Remote control device, 201: Cover member, 202: Case member, 204: Base, 208: Hanger, 210: Operation unit, 210a: Protrusion, 211: Stop button, 212: Rear cleansing button, 213: Bidet cleansing button, 214: Drying button, 215: High water flow rate button, 216: Low water flow rate button, 217: Washing position forward button, 218: Washing position backward button, 219: Nozzle clean button, 221: Main module, 222: Force receiving part, 223: Click mechanism, 230: Transmission part, 231: First transmission member, 232: Second transmission member, 233: Connecting member, 234: Rotating cam, 234a: Rotating shaft, 234b: Spring, 234c: Inclined surface, 235: Rotating cam, 238: Movable member, 238a: Pressing part, 238b: Magnet, 241: Detection part, 243: Power supply part, 244: Switch, 245: Circuit board, 250: Control part, 251: Microcomputer, 253: High frequency generating circuit, 255: Transmitter, 260: Resistance means

Claims

1. A generator and a rectifier circuit that rectifies the current output from the generator; a battery that stores electricity using the current from the generator rectified by the rectifier circuit, and the electricity stored in the battery is supplied to a load; a cutoff switch that cuts off current from the capacitor to the rectifier circuit; A power generating circuit comprising:

2. 2. The power generating circuit according to claim 1, wherein the rectifier circuit is a diode bridge including a Schottky barrier diode.

3. The power generating power supply circuit according to claim 1 or 2; an operation unit that is pressed by a user; the load including a control unit that operates using power supplied from the electric storage device; Equipped with the generator generates electricity based on the operating force with which the user presses the operating unit, The remote control device is characterized in that the cutoff switch includes a physical switch that turns on and off in conjunction with the user's pressing operation of the operation portion.

4. The cutoff switch is The operation is turned on and off according to the amount of depression of the operation unit.

4. The remote control device according to claim 3, wherein the remote control device is turned on after the operation of pressing the operation unit is started and before the generator starts generating power due to the pressing operation.

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