Remote control device and toilet system

Abstract

The present invention provides a remote control device that can be used by switching between a state where contactless operation is prohibited and a state where contactless operation is permitted. [Solution] A remote control device for remotely operating a toilet device, comprising: an operating unit capable of non-contact operation; and a control unit that outputs a signal for operating the toilet device based on the non-contact operation of the operating unit, wherein the control unit has a first mode in which the output of the signal based on the non-contact operation is prohibited, and a second mode in which the output of the signal based on the non-contact operation is permitted, and the control unit switches from the first mode to the second mode when it detects a switching operation in the first mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a remote control device and a toilet system.

Background Art

[0002] As a remote control device for remotely operating a toilet device, a remote control device that non - contactedly detects and operates a user's hand or the like is known (for example, Patent Document 1). However, in such a remote control device, for example, when cleaning or maintaining the toilet device, the non - contact operation cannot be prohibited, which may result in poor usability.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Aspects of the present invention have been made based on the recognition of such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a remote control device and a toilet system that can be switched between a state where non - contact operation is prohibited and a state where non - contact operation is permitted and used.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A first invention is a remote control device for remotely operating a toilet device, comprising: an operation unit capable of non - contact operation; and a control unit that outputs a signal for operating the toilet device based on the non - contact operation in the operation unit. The control unit has a first mode in which the output of the signal based on the non - contact operation is prohibited and a second mode in which the output of the signal based on the non - contact operation is permitted. The control unit is characterized in that when a switching operation is detected in the first mode, it switches from the first mode to the second mode.

[0006] This remote control device allows users to switch between a first mode where contactless operation is prohibited and a second mode where contactless operation is permitted, based on a switching operation. This makes it easy to use.

[0007] The second invention is a remote control device characterized in that, in the first invention, the operating unit detects the non-contact operation in a plurality of detection areas, and the plurality of detection areas include a plurality of first detection areas that detect the non-contact operation for executing the function of the toilet device, and a plurality of second detection areas that detect the non-contact operation for setting the toilet device, and the distance between two adjacent first detection areas is greater than the distance between two adjacent second detection areas.

[0008] According to this remote control device, the distance between two adjacent first detection areas is greater than the distance between two adjacent second detection areas, thereby suppressing the occurrence of false detections in the first detection areas compared to the second detection areas.

[0009] The third invention is a remote control device characterized in that, in the first or second invention, the operating unit detects the non-contact operation in a plurality of detection areas, the plurality of detection areas include a first detection area for detecting the non-contact operation for executing the function of the toilet device, and a second detection area for detecting the non-contact operation for setting the toilet device, the first detection area being provided above the second detection area.

[0010] With this remote control device, the first detection area is positioned above the second detection area, thereby suppressing the occurrence of false detections in the first detection area compared to the second detection area.

[0011] The fourth invention is a remote control device characterized in that, in the second or third invention, the detection sensitivity of the first detection area is higher than the detection sensitivity of the second detection area.

[0012] With this remote control device, as described above, the distance and positional relationship between the first detection area and the second detection area can be adjusted to suppress false detections in the first detection area, while the detection sensitivity of the first detection area can be made higher than that of the second detection area, thereby improving usability.

[0013] The fifth invention is a remote control device in which, in any one of the first to fourth inventions, the operating unit has a detection notification unit that detects the non-contact operation in a plurality of detection areas and notifies that the non-contact operation has been detected in the plurality of detection areas, and the detection notification unit notifies in a manner that distinguishes which of the plurality of detection areas the non-contact operation was detected in.

[0014] This remote control device is user-friendly because it can distinguish and notify which of the multiple detection areas a contactless operation was detected in, allowing the user to easily recognize which detection area was operated in without contact.

[0015] The sixth invention is a toilet system characterized by comprising a remote control device according to any one of the first to fifth inventions and the toilet device.

[0016] This toilet system is user-friendly because it includes a remote control device 100 that can switch between a state where contactless operation is prohibited (first mode) and a state where contactless operation is permitted (second mode). [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to an aspect of the present invention, a remote control device and a toilet system are provided that can be used by switching between a state in which contactless operation is prohibited and a state in which contactless operation is permitted. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view showing a toilet system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing a toilet device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view showing a remote control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a block diagram showing a remote control device according to an embodiment. <苟 [Figure 5] It is a front view showing a remote control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a side view showing a remote control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of a remote control device according to an embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted as appropriate.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a toilet device according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, a toilet system 500 according to an embodiment includes a remote control device 100 and a toilet device 200. The toilet system 500 is provided inside a toilet room TR.

[0021] It should be noted that there seems to be an incorrect "苟" in the translation of line 15. Please check and correct it if necessary.The remote control device 100 is installed, for example, on the wall surface WL of the toilet room TR. The remote control device 100 is a remote control device for remotely operating the toilet equipment 200 installed inside the toilet room TR. The remote control device 100 transmits a signal to activate the toilet equipment 200 based on, for example, an operation input from the user to the remote control device 100. When the toilet equipment 200 receives a signal from the remote control device 100, it operates based on the signal. The remote control device 100 will be described later.

[0022] The toilet device 200 includes, for example, a toilet bowl 210 and a toilet seat unit 220 mounted thereon.

[0023] The toilet bowl 210 is a Western-style toilet. The toilet bowl 210 has a bowl section 212. The bowl section 212 is concave, recessed below the upper surface 210a of the toilet bowl 210. The bowl section 212 receives waste and urine excreted by the user. In addition, the bowl section 212 stores water inside, preventing foul odors and pests from entering the room through the drainpipe.

[0024] The toilet seat unit 220 comprises a main body 222, a toilet seat 224, and a toilet lid 226. The toilet seat 224 and the toilet lid 226 are each pivotally supported on the main body 222 so as to be openable and closable. Figure 1 shows the toilet seat 224 closed and the toilet lid 226 open. When closed, the toilet lid 226 covers the top of the toilet seat 224. The toilet lid 226 can be provided as needed and is optional.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, the toilet device 200 (toilet seat unit 220) includes, for example, a functional unit 230, a control unit 240, and a communication unit 250. The functional unit 230 is the part that performs the functions of the toilet device 200 and includes, for example, a sanitary washing function unit 232, a toilet seat heating function unit 234, a local drying function unit 236, and a deodorizing function unit 238. However, the functional unit 230 is not limited to these.

[0026] The sanitary cleaning function unit 232 performs a cleaning operation to clean the user's buttocks and other body parts while they are sitting on the toilet seat 224. The sanitary cleaning function unit 232 includes, for example, a nozzle 233 that discharges cleaning water towards the body parts, a solenoid valve that controls the water supply to the nozzle 233, and a nozzle drive unit that moves the nozzle 233 forward and backward.

[0027] The toilet seat heating function unit 234 performs a toilet seat heating operation to warm the seating surface of the toilet seat 224 to a suitable temperature. The toilet seat heating function unit 234 has, for example, a heater that warms the seating surface of the toilet seat 224.

[0028] The local drying function unit 236 dries the user's buttocks and other areas, which have been wet by the water discharged from the nozzle 233, by blowing warm air onto these areas when the user is sitting on the toilet seat 224. The local drying function unit 236 includes, for example, a fan and a heater.

[0029] The deodorizing function unit 238 draws in air from the bowl section 212 and deodorizes it. The deodorizing function unit 238 includes, for example, a fan and a deodorizing filter.

[0030] The communication unit 250 is a wireless communication device capable of receiving signals from at least the remote control device 100. The communication unit 250 may also be a wireless communication device capable of transmitting signals from the control unit 240 to the remote control device 100. In other words, the communication unit 250 may be a one-way wireless communication device that receives signals from the remote control device 100, or it may be a two-way wireless communication device that can send and receive signals with the remote control device 100.

[0031] The functional unit 230 and the communication unit 250 are each electrically connected to the control unit 240. When the communication unit 250 receives a signal from the remote control device 100, it outputs a signal corresponding to the received signal to the control unit 240. Based on the signal input from the communication unit 250, the control unit 240 outputs a command signal to the functional unit 230. The functional unit 230 operates based on the command signal input from the control unit 240. The control unit 240 may also transmit information about the operating status of the functional unit 230 and human body detection to the remote control device 100, for example, via the communication unit 250.

[0032] In this example, the toilet device 200 is described as having a toilet bowl 210 and a toilet seat unit 220, but the toilet device 200 remotely operated by the remote control device 100 is not limited to this. The toilet device 200 remotely operated by the remote control device 100 may be, for example, a toilet bowl 210, a toilet seat unit 220 with a sanitary washing function (a so-called sanitary washing device), a toilet seat unit 220 without a sanitary washing function (a so-called toilet seat device), or a urinal.

[0033] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a remote control device according to this embodiment. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing a remote control device according to this embodiment. Figure 5 is a front view showing a remote control device according to an embodiment. Figure 6 is a side view showing a remote control device according to an embodiment. As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the remote control device 100 includes a case 10, an operation unit 20, a switching unit 25, a control unit 30, a communication unit 40, a mode notification unit 50, a detection notification unit 60, and a human body detection sensor 70.

[0034] Case 10 is a box-shaped structure with a hollow interior. Case 10 has, for example, a front portion 10a located at the front, side portions 10b located on the left and right sides, a top portion 10c located above, and a bottom portion 10d located below.

[0035] In this specification, the terms "upward," "downward," "right side," and "left side" refer to the directions above, below, right, and left, respectively, relative to a person looking at the remote control device 100 from in front of it. Furthermore, in this specification, the direction from the remote control device 100 toward a person standing in front of it is defined as "forward," and the opposite direction is defined as "rear."

[0036] The operation unit 20 is an operation input unit that allows for both contact operation and non-contact operation. "Contact operation" is an operation method in which the user inputs an operation by touching the operation unit 20. "Non-contact operation" is an operation method in which the user inputs an operation without touching the operation unit 20. The operation unit 20 includes, for example, a contact operation unit 21 that allows for contact operation and a non-contact operation unit 22 that allows for non-contact operation.

[0037] The contact operation unit 21 is, for example, a push-button type switch that can be input by pressing it. The contact operation unit 21 may also be a touch-type switch having, for example, a capacitive sensor for detecting contact. The contact operation unit 21 can be provided as needed and is optional.

[0038] In this example, the contact operation unit 21 includes a first switch 21a and a second switch 21b. The first switch 21a is an input unit for executing the functions of the toilet device 200 by contact operation. In other words, the first switch 21a detects a contact operation for executing the functions of the toilet device 200. The second switch 21b is an input unit for setting the settings of the toilet device 200 by contact operation. In other words, the second switch 21b detects a contact operation for setting the settings of the toilet device 200.

[0039] In this example, multiple first switches 21a and multiple second switches 21b are provided, but it is sufficient to have at least one of each. Furthermore, the second switches 21b can be provided as needed and are optional.

[0040] The first switch 21a and the second switch 21b are provided, for example, on the front portion 10a of the case 10. The first switch 21a and the second switch 21b may also be provided, for example, on the side portion 10b, the top portion 10c, or the bottom portion 10d of the case 10. The first switch 21a and the second switch 21b may be provided on two or more of the front portion 10a, the side portion 10b, the top portion 10c, and the bottom portion 10d. The first switch 21a is provided, for example, on the front portion 10a of the case 10, above the second switch 21b.

[0041] The non-contact operation unit 22 may have, for example, a sensor that detects the user's hand or the like. The non-contact operation unit 22 may have, for example, a capacitive sensor that detects the approach of the user's hand or the like by a change in capacitance. The non-contact operation unit 22 may also have, for example, a photoelectric sensor that detects the approach of the user's hand or the like by a change in brightness, or a radio wave sensor that detects the approach of the user's hand or the like by emitting radio waves.

[0042] The non-contact operation unit 22 detects non-contact operations in multiple detection areas. In this example, the multiple detection areas include a first detection area 22a and a second detection area 22b. The first detection area 22a functions as an input unit for executing the functions of the toilet device 200 by non-contact operation. That is, the non-contact operation unit 22 detects non-contact operations in the first detection area 22a for executing the functions of the toilet device 200. The second detection area 22b functions as an input unit for setting the settings of the toilet device 200 by non-contact operation. That is, the non-contact operation unit 22 detects non-contact operations in the second detection area 22b for setting the settings of the toilet device 200.

[0043] Here, the execution of the functions of the toilet device 200 includes starting and stopping the operation of the functional unit 230 of the toilet device 200. The execution of the functions of the toilet device 200 includes, for example, starting and stopping the discharge of water from the nozzle 233 of the sanitary washing function unit 232, and starting and stopping the drying of the local drying function unit 236. In addition, the settings of the toilet device 200 include changing the settings related to the operation of the functional unit 230. The settings of the toilet device 200 include, for example, setting the temperature and water pressure of the water discharged from the nozzle 233 of the sanitary washing function unit 232, and setting the output of the heater of the toilet seat heating function unit 234.

[0044] The first detection area 22a is provided at a position corresponding to the first switch 21a. For example, the first detection area 22a is provided at a position that overlaps with the first switch 21a in the front-to-back direction. This allows for contactless operation by waving a hand over the position where the first switch 21a is operated, using the first detection area 22a. If the first switch 21a is provided on the side portion 10b, top portion 10c, or bottom portion 10d of the case 10, the first detection area 22a may also be provided at a position corresponding to the side portion 10b, top portion 10c, or bottom portion 10d.

[0045] The second detection area 22b is provided at a position corresponding to the second switch 21b. For example, the second detection area 22b is provided at a position that overlaps with the second switch 21b in the front-to-back direction. This allows for contactless operation by waving a hand over the position where the second switch 21b is operated, using the second detection area 22b. If the second switch 21b is provided on the side portion 10b, top portion 10c, or bottom portion 10d of the case 10, the second detection area 22b may also be provided at a position corresponding to the side portion 10b, top portion 10c, or bottom portion 10d.

[0046] In this example, multiple first detection areas 22a corresponding to multiple first switches 21a and multiple second detection areas 22b corresponding to multiple second switches 21b are provided. However, the number of first detection areas 22a and second detection areas 22b only needs to be the number corresponding to the first switches 21a and second switches 21b. Also, if the second switches 21b are omitted, the second detection areas 22b can be omitted.

[0047] The first detection area 22a is, for example, located above the second detection area 22b. Users often operate the control unit 20 of the remote control device 100 from below. Therefore, if the user were to perform a non-contact operation in the upper detection area, their hand would be positioned in front of the lower detection area, potentially causing false detection in the lower detection area. In other words, when operating the control unit 20 of the remote control device 100 from below, false detection is less likely to occur in the upper detection area than in the lower detection area. By placing the first detection area 22a above the second detection area 22b, the occurrence of false detection in the first detection area 22a can be suppressed compared to the second detection area 22b. By suppressing the occurrence of false detection in the first detection area 22a, which is used to execute the functions of the toilet device 200, compared to the second detection area 22b, which is used to set the toilet device 200, it is possible to prevent unintended water discharge from the nozzle 233, resulting in improved usability.

[0048] When multiple first detection regions 22a and multiple second detection regions 22b are provided, the distance P1 between two adjacent first detection regions 22a is greater than, for example, the distance P2 between two adjacent second detection regions 22b. The distance P1 is the length of the straight line connecting the centers of the two adjacent first detection regions 22a. The distance P2 is the length of the straight line connecting the centers of the two adjacent second detection regions 22b. This makes it possible to suppress the occurrence of false detections in the first detection regions 22a compared to the second detection regions 22b.

[0049] The detection sensitivity of the first detection area 22a is, for example, higher than that of the second detection area 22b. As described above, by adjusting the distance and positional relationship between the first detection area 22a and the second detection area 22b to suppress the occurrence of false detections in the first detection area 22a, and by making the detection sensitivity of the first detection area 22a higher than that of the second detection area 22b, usability can be improved.

[0050] For example, by making the detection threshold in the first detection area 22a lower than the detection threshold in the second detection area 22b, the detection sensitivity of the first detection area 22a can be made higher than the detection sensitivity of the second detection area 22b. By making the detection sensitivity of the first detection area 22a higher than the detection sensitivity of the second detection area 22b, the area of ​​the first detection area 22a can be made larger than the area of ​​the second detection area 22b.

[0051] The first detection area 22a and the second detection area 22b are, for example, areas detectable by a sensor. In this embodiment, for example, a position where a hand can be detected within 3 seconds is considered to be within the range of the detection area. In other words, in this embodiment, for example, a position where a hand is not detected even when held over for 3 seconds is considered to be outside the range of the detection area.

[0052] The detection range W1 of the first detection area 22a is, for example, larger than the detection range W2 of the second detection area 22b. The detection range W1 is the width of the first detection area 22a in the left-right direction. The detection range W2 is the width of the second detection area 22b in the left-right direction. The detection range W1 is, for example, 1 mm or more and 50 mm or less. The detection range W2 is, for example, 1 mm or more and 50 mm or less.

[0053] The detection distance L1 of the first detection area 22a is, for example, greater than the detection distance L2 of the second detection area 22b. The detection distance L1 is the length from the center of the first detection area 22a to the front end of the first detection area 22a. The detection distance L2 is the length from the center of the second detection area 22b to the front end of the second detection area 22b. The detection distance L1 is, for example, between 1 mm and 200 mm. The detection distance L2 is, for example, between 1 mm and 200 mm.

[0054] The switching unit 25 is used for switching operations to switch between modes (first mode and second mode) of the control unit 30, which will be described later. The switching unit 25 is, for example, an input unit that can be operated without contact. The switching unit 25 has, for example, a sensor that detects the user's hand or the like. The switching unit 25 has, for example, an infrared sensor that detects the approach of the user's hand or the like by emitting infrared rays. The switching unit 25 may also have, for example, a radio wave sensor that detects the approach of the user's hand or the like by emitting radio waves. Alternatively, the switching unit 25 may be an input unit that can be operated by contact, such as a push-button switch or a touch-type switch. The switching unit 25 can be provided as needed and is optional.

[0055] In this example, the switching unit 25 is provided on the front surface 10a of the case 10. The switching unit 25 may also be provided on, for example, the side surface 10b, the top surface 10c, or the bottom surface 10d of the case 10.

[0056] In this example, the switching unit 25 is located below the operating unit 20 on the front surface 10a of the case 10. The switching unit 25 may also be located above the operating unit 20 on the front surface 10a of the case 10.

[0057] The control unit 30 outputs a signal to activate the toilet device 200 based on the operation input in the operation unit 20. More specifically, the control unit 30 outputs a signal to activate the toilet device 200 based on a contact operation in the contact operation unit 21 or a non-contact operation in the non-contact operation unit 22. The control unit 30 has a first mode and a second mode. The first mode and the second mode are different from each other.

[0058] The control unit 30 outputs a signal based on a contact operation, for example, in the first mode. The control unit 30 is permitted to output a signal based on a contact operation, for example, in the first mode. The control unit 30 accepts input from the contact operation unit 21, for example, in the first mode. The first mode is, for example, a state in which a contact operation is possible (permitted).

[0059] In the first mode, for example, the control unit 30 is prohibited from outputting signals based on non-contact operation. In the first mode, for example, the control unit 30 does not accept input from the non-contact operation unit 22. In this case, the first mode is a state in which non-contact operation is impossible (prohibited).

[0060] When a contact operation section 21 and a non-contact operation section 22 are provided, the first mode is a state in which contact operation is permitted and non-contact operation is prohibited. When the contact operation section 21 is omitted and only the non-contact operation section 22 is provided, the first mode is a state in which non-contact operation is prohibited.

[0061] The control unit 30 outputs a signal based on contactless operation, for example, in the second mode. The control unit 30 is permitted to output a signal based on contactless operation, for example, in the second mode. The control unit 30 accepts input from the contactless operation unit 22, for example, in the second mode. The second mode is, for example, a state in which contactless operation is possible (permitted).

[0062] The control unit 30 is, for example, allowed to output a signal based on a contact operation in the second mode. The control unit 30 accepts input from the contact operation unit 21 in the second mode. In this case, the second mode is, for example, a state in which a contact operation is possible (allowed).

[0063] The control unit 30 may, for example, prohibit the output of signals based on contact operations in the second mode. The control unit 30 may, for example, not accept input from the contact operation unit 21 in the second mode. In this case, the second mode is, for example, a state in which contact operations are impossible (prohibited).

[0064] When a contact operation section 21 and a non-contact operation section 22 are provided, the second mode is a state in which contact operation is prohibited and non-contact operation is permitted, or a state in which both contact operation and non-contact operation are permitted. When the contact operation section 21 is omitted and only the non-contact operation section 22 is provided, the second mode is a state in which non-contact operation is permitted.

[0065] If both contact and contactless operation are permitted in the second mode, it is more user-friendly than if contact operation is prohibited and contactless operation is permitted in the second mode.

[0066] The control unit 30 switches between the first mode and the second mode based on a switching operation, for example. More specifically, when the control unit 30 detects a first switching operation in the first mode, it switches from the first mode to the second mode. When the control unit 30 detects a second switching operation in the second mode, it switches from the second mode to the first mode.

[0067] The first and second switching operations may be contact operations or non-contact operations. The first and second switching operations may be, for example, non-contact operations to the switching unit 25. The first and second switching operations may be, for example, contact operations to the switching unit 25. The first and second switching operations may be, for example, contact operations to the contact operation unit 21. The first and second switching operations may be, for example, non-contact operations to the non-contact operation unit 22. The second switching operation may be the same as or different from the first switching operation.

[0068] Thus, based on the first switching operation, the device switches from a first mode that allows contact operation to a second mode that allows non-contact operation. This allows users to switch between a state where contact operation is possible (first mode) and a state where non-contact operation is possible (second mode), making it very user-friendly.

[0069] Furthermore, by switching from the second mode, which allows contactless operation, to the first mode, which allows contact operation, based on the second switching operation, it becomes easier to switch between the contact operation state (first mode) and the contactless operation state (second mode), making it more user-friendly.

[0070] Furthermore, based on the first switching operation, the device switches from the first mode, where contactless operation is prohibited, to the second mode, where contactless operation is permitted. This allows users to switch between a state where contactless operation is prohibited (first mode) and a state where contactless operation is permitted (second mode), making it very user-friendly.

[0071] Furthermore, by switching from the second mode, where contactless operation is permitted, to the first mode, where contactless operation is prohibited, based on the second switching operation, it becomes easier to switch between the state where contactless operation is prohibited (first mode) and the state where contactless operation is permitted (second mode), making it more user-friendly.

[0072] Furthermore, the control unit 30 may, for example, switch back from the second mode to the first mode after a predetermined time has elapsed since switching from the first mode to the second mode. In other words, the control unit 30 may automatically return to the first mode after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the second mode. The predetermined time is, for example, 1 minute or more and 10 minutes or less. The predetermined time is, for example, about 5 minutes. This allows the system to automatically return to the first mode before the next user uses the remote control device 100, even if the previous user ends using the remote control device 100 without returning it to the first mode. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the second mode from continuing unintentionally, making it user-friendly.

[0073] Furthermore, in the second mode, the control unit 30 may switch from the second mode to the first mode if the human body detection sensor 70 does not detect a user. In other words, the control unit 30 may automatically return to the first mode when the human body detection sensor 70 no longer detects a user. This allows the system to automatically return to the first mode before the next user uses the remote control device 100, even if the previous user ends using the remote control device 100 without returning to the first mode. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the second mode from continuing unintentionally, resulting in improved usability.

[0074] The communication unit 40 is a wireless communication device capable of transmitting signals from at least the control unit 30 to the toilet device 200 (communication unit 250). The communication unit 40 may also be a wireless communication device capable of receiving signals from the toilet device 200 (communication unit 250). In other words, the communication unit 40 may be a one-way wireless communication device that transmits signals to the toilet device 200 (communication unit 250), or it may be a two-way wireless communication device that can send and receive signals with the toilet device 200 (communication unit 250).

[0075] The operation unit 20 (contact operation unit 21 and non-contact operation unit 22) and the communication unit 40 are each electrically connected to the control unit 30. When the operation unit 20 detects a user's operation input (contact operation and non-contact operation), it outputs a signal corresponding to the operation input to the control unit 30. When the control unit 30 receives a signal from the operation unit 20, it outputs a signal corresponding to the input signal to the communication unit 40. When the communication unit 40 receives a signal from the control unit 30, it transmits a signal corresponding to the input signal to the toilet device 200 (communication unit 250). The control unit 30 may also receive information about the operating status of the function unit 230 and human body detection from the toilet device 200 (communication unit 250) via the communication unit 40, for example.

[0076] The mode notification unit 50 notifies information about the mode of the control unit 30 (first mode and second mode). The mode notification unit 50 notifies information about the mode of the control unit 30 (first mode and second mode) by, for example, light and sound. When notification is made by light, the mode notification unit 50 notifies by, for example, lighting up, flashing, and changing colors. When notification is made by sound, the mode notification unit 50 notifies by, for example, outputting voice or buzzer sound. More specifically, the mode notification unit 50 notifies that the second mode has started when, for example, the control unit 30 switches from the first mode to the second mode. The mode notification unit 50 may, for example, continue notifying until the second mode ends, or it may stop notifying after a predetermined time has elapsed since the second mode started.

[0077] The mode notification unit 50 includes, for example, an illumination unit. The mode notification unit 50 lights up when, for example, the control unit 30 switches from the first mode to the second mode. The mode notification unit 50 turns off when, for example, the control unit 30 switches from the second mode to the first mode. This makes it easy for the user to recognize whether the device is in the first mode or the second mode, resulting in a user-friendly design.

[0078] In this example, the mode notification unit 50 is located on the front surface 10a of the case 10. The mode notification unit 50 may also be located on the side surface 10b, top surface 10c, or bottom surface 10d of the case 10. The mode notification unit 50 can be provided as needed and is optional.

[0079] The detection and notification unit 60 notifies that a non-contact operation has been detected in the first detection area 22a or the second detection area 22b. The detection and notification unit 60 notifies that a non-contact operation has been detected, for example, by at least one of light and sound. The detection and notification unit 60 notifies in a way that distinguishes which of the multiple detection areas the non-contact operation was detected in.

[0080] The detection and notification unit 60 has, for example, illumination units provided at positions corresponding to the first switch 21a and the second switch 21b, respectively. For example, when a non-contact operation is detected in one of the first detection areas 22a, the detection and notification unit 60 illuminates one of the first switches 21a corresponding to this first detection area 22a using the illumination unit. Also, for example, when a non-contact operation is detected in another of the first detection areas 22a, the detection and notification unit 60 illuminates another first switch 21a corresponding to this first detection area 22a using the illumination unit. In this way, the detection and notification unit 60 can distinguish and notify which detection area was detected as a non-contact operation. Therefore, the user can easily recognize which detection area was operated on by non-contact, making it user-friendly. The detection and notification unit 60 can be provided as needed and is optional.

[0081] The human body detection sensor 70 is, for example, a sensor that detects a user using the remote control device 100. The human body detection sensor 70 detects a user who is near the remote control device 100. The human body detection sensor 70 is, for example, a pyroelectric sensor. The human body detection sensor 70 may also be, for example, a radio wave sensor, an infrared sensor, or a capacitive sensor. The human body detection sensor 70 is provided separately from, for example, the non-contact operation unit 22 and the switching unit 25. In this case, the human body detection sensor 70 is provided in a part other than the operation unit 20 and the switching unit 25.

[0082] Furthermore, sensors provided in the non-contact operation unit 22 or the switching unit 25 may be used as human body detection sensors 70. In this case, for example, the threshold value for functioning as a human body detection sensor 70 is set to a smaller value than the threshold value for functioning as a non-contact operation unit 22 or the switching unit 25.

[0083] The human body detection sensor 70 is electrically connected to the control unit 30. The human body detection sensor 70 outputs the detection result to the control unit 30. The human body detection sensor 70 can be provided as needed and is optional.

[0084] The human body detection sensor 70 may be installed in the toilet unit 200 instead of the remote control device 100. In this case, the human body detection sensor 70 is, for example, a sensor that detects a user using the toilet unit 200. In this case, the human body detection sensor 70 detects a user who is near the toilet unit 200. In this case, the human body detection sensor 70 may be, for example, a sensor that detects the user's approach to and departure from the toilet unit 200, or a sensor that detects the user sitting on and leaving the toilet seat 224. For example, a radio wave sensor or an infrared sensor can be used as a sensor that detects the user's approach to and departure from the toilet unit 200. For example, a capacitive sensor can be used as a sensor that detects the user sitting on and leaving the toilet seat 224. When the human body detection sensor 70 is installed in the toilet unit 200, the control unit 30 receives the detection result from the human body detection sensor 70 from the toilet unit 200 (communication unit 250) via, for example, the communication unit 40.

[0085] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the remote control device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, in the first mode (step S101), the control unit 30 determines whether or not it has detected the first switching operation (step S102). The control unit 30 repeats step S102 until it detects the first switching operation (step S102: No).

[0086] When the first switching operation is detected (Step S102: Yes), the control unit 30 switches from the first mode to the second mode (Step S103). Once the switch is made from the first mode to the second mode, the control unit 30, via the mode notification unit 50, begins to notify that the second mode has been started (Step S104).

[0087] When notification is started, the control unit 30 determines whether or not a second switching operation has been detected (step S105). If a second switching operation is detected (step S105: Yes), the control unit 30 switches from the second mode to the first mode (step S106). Once the system switches from the second mode to the first mode, the control unit 30 stops the notification by the mode notification unit 50 (step S107).

[0088] If the second switching operation is not detected (step S105: No), the control unit 30 determines whether the human body detection sensor 70 has detected a user (step S108). If the human body detection sensor 70 has not detected a user (step S108: Yes), the control unit 30 switches from the second mode to the first mode (step S106) and stops the notification by the mode notification unit 50 (step S107).

[0089] If the human body detection sensor 70 detects a user (step S108: No), the control unit 30 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since switching from the first mode to the second mode (step S109). If a predetermined time has elapsed since switching from the first mode to the second mode (step S109: Yes), the control unit 30 switches from the second mode to the first mode (step S106) and stops the notification by the mode notification unit 50 (step S107).

[0090] If a predetermined time has not elapsed since switching from the first mode to the second mode (step S109: No), the control unit 30 returns to step S105. In other words, the control unit 30 repeats steps S105, S108, and S109 until a predetermined time has elapsed since switching from the first mode to the second mode.

[0091] As a result, even if the second switching operation is not performed, the system can automatically return to the first mode when the human body detection sensor 70 no longer detects a user, or when a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since switching from the first mode to the second mode. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the second mode from continuing unintentionally, making it user-friendly.

[0092] As described above, the embodiment provides a remote control device and a toilet system that can be used by switching between a state in which contactless operation is prohibited and a state in which contactless operation is permitted.

[0093] Embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Modifications made by those 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 features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, and installation configuration of each element of the remote control device or toilet system are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of each of the embodiments described above can be combined to the extent technically possible, and these combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention insofar as they include the features of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0094] 10 cases 10a Front part 10b Side part 10c Top part 10d Bottom part 20 Control section 21 Touch operation part 21a Switch 1 21b Second switch 22 Non-contact operation part 22a First detection area 22b Second detection area 25 Switching section 30 Control Unit 40 Communications Department 50 Mode Notification Unit 60 Detection and notification unit 70 Human body detection sensors 100 Remote control devices 200 toilet equipment 210 toilet bowl 210a top side 212 Bowl Section 220 Toilet Seat Unit 222 Main body 224 toilet seat 226 Toilet lid 230 Functional Section 232 Hygienic cleaning function unit 233 Nozzles 234 Toilet seat heating function unit 236 Local drying function section 238 Deodorizing function unit 240 Control Unit 250 Communications Department 500 toilet system TR toilet room WL Wall Surface

Claims

1. A remote control device for remotely operating a toilet system, A control unit that allows for contactless operation, A control unit that outputs a signal to operate the toilet device based on the non-contact operation in the control unit, Equipped with, The operation unit detects the non-contact operation in multiple detection areas, The aforementioned plurality of detection regions are A plurality of first detection regions for detecting the non-contact operation that causes the toilet device to perform its function, Multiple second detection regions for detecting the non-contact operation for setting the toilet device, It has, A remote control device characterized in that the detection sensitivity of the first detection area is higher than the detection sensitivity of the second detection area.

2. A remote control device for remotely operating a toilet system, A control unit that allows for contactless operation, A control unit that outputs a signal to operate the toilet device based on the non-contact operation in the control unit, Equipped with, The operation unit detects the non-contact operation in multiple detection areas, The aforementioned plurality of detection regions are A plurality of first detection regions for detecting the non-contact operation that causes the toilet device to perform its function, Multiple second detection regions for detecting the non-contact operation for setting the toilet device, It has, A remote control device characterized in that the detection range of the first detection area is larger than the detection range of the second detection area.

3. The remote control device according to claim 2, characterized in that the detection sensitivity of the first detection area is higher than the detection sensitivity of the second detection area.

4. The remote control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the distance between two adjacent first detection areas is greater than the distance between two adjacent second detection areas.

5. The remote control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first detection area is provided above the second detection area.

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