Toilet equipment

Abstract

To provide a toilet device capable of miniaturizing a flow channel unit.SOLUTION: A toilet device comprises: a nozzle for ejecting water toward a human body private part; a flow channel connecting a water supply source and the nozzle; a heat exchanger provided in the flow channel for warming water supplied from the water supply source; and a flow channel unit provided upstream or downstream of the heat exchanger in the flow channel, wherein the flow channel unit has a flow sensor that detects a flow rate of the water and a vacuum breaker that suppresses backflow of the water, the flow sensor has a first case part and a sensor part housed inside the first case part, the vacuum breaker has the second case part and a valve part housed inside the second case part, and at least a part of the first case part and at least a part of the second case part are configured as an integral member.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] In a sanitary washing device equipped with a nozzle that ejects water toward human body parts, it is known to provide units such as a flow sensor that detects the water flow rate and a vacuum breaker that suppresses backflow of water in a flow path connecting the water source and the nozzle (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] In such a sanitary washing device, in order to reduce the size of the entire device, it is necessary to reduce the size of the units provided in the flow path. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-009301 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The aspects of the present invention have been made based on the recognition of such problems, and have an object to provide a toilet apparatus in which the flow path unit can be made smaller. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A first invention is a toilet device comprising: a nozzle that sprays water toward a human body part; a flow path connecting a water source and the nozzle; a heat exchanger provided in the flow path and heating water supplied from the water source; and a flow path unit provided in the flow path upstream or downstream of the heat exchanger, the flow path unit having a flow sensor that detects the flow rate of water, and a vacuum breaker that suppresses backflow of water, the flow sensor having a first case portion and a sensor portion housed inside the first case portion, the vacuum breaker having a second case portion and a valve portion housed inside the second case portion, and at least a portion of the first case portion and at least a portion of the second case portion are constructed as an integral member.

[0007] According to this toilet apparatus, by forming at least a part of the first case of the flow sensor and at least a part of the second case of the vacuum breaker as an integral member, the path through which water flows in the flow sensor and the path through which water flows in the vacuum breaker can be made common, and the flow path unit can be made smaller, thereby making it possible to make the toilet apparatus smaller.

[0008] A second invention is a toilet device according to the first invention, characterized in that the sensor unit has an impeller that rotates due to the flow of water, the valve unit has a float that switches between the outflow of water and the inflow of air, the first case unit has a first lower case unit and a first upper case unit welded to the first lower case unit, the second case unit has a second lower case unit and a second upper case unit welded to the second lower case unit, the first lower case unit and the second lower case unit are formed as an integral member, and the first upper case unit and the second upper case unit are formed as an integral member.

[0009] According to this toilet device, by constructing the first lower case part of the flow sensor and the second lower case part of the vacuum breaker as an integral member, and by constructing the first upper case part of the flow sensor and the second upper case part of the vacuum breaker as an integral member, the number of welded parts can be reduced and reliability against water leakage can be improved.

[0010] A third invention is a toilet device according to the first or second invention, characterized in that the flow path unit is provided downstream of the heat exchanger, and the vacuum breaker is provided downstream of the flow sensor.

[0011] According to this toilet device, by providing the flow path unit downstream of the heat exchanger, the flow sensor can detect when water is not flowing through the heat exchanger. This makes it possible to prevent the heat exchanger from running dry. Also, by providing a vacuum breaker downstream of the flow sensor (i.e., by providing the flow sensor upstream of the vacuum breaker), it is possible to more quickly detect when water is not flowing through the heat exchanger. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent the heat exchanger from running dry.

[0012] A fourth invention is the toilet apparatus according to the third invention, characterized in that the flow path unit is connected to a downstream end of the heat exchanger.

[0013] According to this toilet apparatus, by connecting the flow path unit to the downstream end of the heat exchanger, it is possible to more quickly detect when water is not flowing through the heat exchanger, thereby more reliably preventing the heat exchanger from heating without water.

[0014] A fifth invention is a toilet device according to any one of the first to fourth inventions, characterized in that the flow path unit further has a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of water, the first temperature sensor being provided upstream of the flow sensor, and the second temperature sensor being provided downstream of the flow sensor.

[0015] According to this toilet device, by providing a first temperature sensor upstream of the flow sensor, the first temperature sensor can detect the temperature of the water flowing from the heat exchanger to the flow sensor and detect whether the water is heated to a temperature equal to or higher than the set temperature. Also, by providing a second temperature sensor downstream of the flow sensor, the second temperature sensor can detect whether the water flowing closer to the nozzle is abnormally heated to a temperature equal to or higher than the set temperature. Also, by providing the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor in the flow path unit, the toilet device can be made smaller.

[0016] A sixth invention is a toilet device characterized in that, in the second invention, the flow path unit has a water inlet located at the upstream end and a water outlet located at the downstream end, the second upper case part has an air intake located above the float, and the air intake is provided at a higher position than the water outlet.

[0017] According to this toilet apparatus, by providing the air intake at a position higher than the water outlet, it is possible to reliably prevent water from flowing back due to air intake through the air intake when negative pressure is generated.

[0018] A seventh invention is a toilet device according to the sixth invention, characterized in that the flow path unit has a first flow path extending upward from the water inlet, a second flow path extending horizontally from the first flow path through the impeller to below the float, a third flow path extending upward from the second flow path and passing through the vacuum breaker, and a fourth flow path extending downward from the third flow path and connected to the water outlet.

[0019] According to this toilet device, the flow path unit has a first flow path, a third flow path, and a fourth flow path that extend in the vertical direction, so that space can be used more effectively and the flow path unit can be made even smaller than if all the flow paths were arranged horizontally. Effect of the Invention

[0020] According to an aspect of the present invention, a toilet apparatus is provided in which the flow path unit can be made compact. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a toilet device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a toilet device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a flow path unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a flow path unit according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a flow path unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view illustrating a flow path unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a part of a flow path unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view illustrating a flow path unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 9(a) and 9(b) are explanatory diagrams that typically illustrate the flow path unit according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a toilet device according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the toilet device 500 comprises a Western-style seated toilet bowl (hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, simply referred to as "toilet bowl") 200 and a sanitary washing device 100 provided above it. The toilet bowl 200 may be a "floor-standing type" installed on the floor of a toilet room, or a "wall-mounted type" installed on a wall surface or lining of the toilet room. The sanitary washing device 100 comprises a casing 10, a toilet seat 20, and a toilet lid (not shown). The toilet seat 20 and the toilet lid are each pivotally supported on the casing 10 so as to be able to open and close freely.

[0024] Casing 10 houses a body washing function unit that washes the private parts of the body, such as the bottom, of a user sitting on toilet seat 20. When a user operates operation unit 300 (see FIG. 2), such as a remote control, nozzle 30 advances into bowl 201 of toilet 200 and causes water to be discharged. In FIG. 1, the state in which nozzle 30 advances from casing 10 into bowl 201 is shown by a two-dot chain line, and the state in which nozzle 30 retreats from bowl 201 and is stored in casing 10 is shown by a solid line.

[0025] A water outlet 31 is provided at the tip of the nozzle 30. The nozzle 30 sprays water from the water outlet 31 toward the human body private parts to clean the human body private parts. A plurality of water outlets 31 may be provided. For example, the water outlets 31 may include a bidet cleansing water outlet 31a and a buttocks cleansing water outlet 31b. The nozzle 30 can spray water from the bidet cleansing water outlet 31a provided at its tip to clean the female private parts of a woman sitting on the toilet seat 20. The nozzle 30 can spray water from the buttocks cleansing water outlet 31b provided at its tip to clean the "buttocks" of a user sitting on the toilet seat 20.

[0026] In this specification, the term "water" includes not only cold water but also heated water.

[0027] The toilet device 500 may be a toilet device in which a sheet-type sanitary washing device 100 is attached on top of a toilet bowl 200, or a toilet device in which a functional part of the sanitary washing device 100 is attached inside the toilet bowl 200. The following describes an example in which a sheet-type sanitary washing device 100 is attached on top of the toilet bowl 200.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the toilet device according to the embodiment. Figure 2 shows the configuration of both the waterway system and the electrical system. 2, the toilet device 500 (sanitary washing device 100) has a flow path 40. The flow path 40 is disposed inside the casing 10, and connects a water supply source WS, such as a water main or a water tank, to the nozzle 30. The flow path 40 supplies water supplied from the water supply source WS to the nozzle 30.

[0029] The flow path 40 is provided with a solenoid valve 41, a heat exchanger 42, a flow path unit 43, an electrolytic cell unit 44, a pressure modulation unit 45, and a flow rate adjustment unit 46. The flow path 40 may be provided with a pressure regulating valve, a check valve, a flow path switching unit, and the like, as necessary. The pressure regulating valve and the check valve are provided, for example, between the solenoid valve 41 and the heat exchanger 42. The flow path switching unit is provided, for example, between the flow rate adjustment unit 46 and the nozzle 30.

[0030] An electromagnetic valve 41 is provided on the upstream side of the flow path 40. The electromagnetic valve 41 controls the supply of water from the water supply source WS to the downstream side, i.e., the supply of water from the water supply source WS to the nozzle 30. The electromagnetic valve 41 is, for example, a solenoid valve that can be opened and closed. The electromagnetic valve 41 is electrically connected to a control unit 50 provided inside the casing 10. The electromagnetic valve 41 opens and closes the flow path 40 based on a command from the control unit 50. By opening the electromagnetic valve 41, water supplied from the water supply source WS flows downstream. By closing the electromagnetic valve 41, the supply of water to the downstream side is stopped.

[0031] A heat exchanger 42 is provided downstream of the solenoid valve 41. The heat exchanger 42 has a heater and heats the water supplied via the solenoid valve 41 to a specified temperature. That is, the heat exchanger 42 generates hot water. The heat exchanger 42 is, for example, an instantaneous heat exchanger that does not include a hot water storage tank for storing hot water. For example, a ceramic heater or the like is used for the instantaneous heat exchanger. The instantaneous heat exchanger can heat water to a specified temperature in a short time compared to a hot water storage type heat exchanger that uses a hot water storage tank. The heat exchanger 42 may be a hot water storage type heat exchanger.

[0032] The heat exchanger 42 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The control unit 50 heats the water to a temperature set by the operation unit 300, for example, by operating the heat exchanger 42 (i.e., turning on the heater) in response to the operation of the operation unit 300 by the user.

[0033] The passage unit 43 is provided downstream of the heat exchanger 42. The passage unit 43 is connected to, for example, the downstream end of the heat exchanger 42. That is, the passage unit 43 is provided, for example, at a position adjacent to the heat exchanger 42. In other words, for example, no other components (units) are provided between the heat exchanger 42 and the passage unit 43. Note that the passage unit 43 may be provided upstream of the heat exchanger 42.

[0034] The flow passage unit 43 has a flow rate sensor 70, a vacuum breaker (VB) 80, a first temperature sensor 91, and a second temperature sensor 92. The structure of the flow passage unit 43 will be described later.

[0035] The flow rate sensor 70 detects the flow rate of water flowing through the flow path 40. The flow rate sensor 70 detects, for example, whether or not water is flowing through the heat exchanger 42. The flow rate sensor 70 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The flow rate sensor 70 outputs the detection result (information regarding the flow rate) to the control unit 50.

[0036] The vacuum breaker 80 suppresses the backflow of water. The vacuum breaker 80 has an intake port (intake port 81c described later) for taking in air into the flow path, and a valve mechanism (valve unit 82 described later) for opening and closing the intake port. The valve mechanism closes the intake port when water is flowing through the flow path 40, and opens the intake port when the water flow stops, taking in air into the flow path 40. In other words, the vacuum breaker 80 takes in air into the flow path 40 when there is no water flow in the flow path 40. For example, a float valve (float 82a described later) is used as the valve mechanism. The vacuum breaker 80 is provided, for example, downstream of the flow sensor 70. The vacuum breaker 80 may be provided upstream of the flow sensor 70.

[0037] The vacuum breaker 80 takes in air into the flow path 40 as described above, thereby, for example, facilitating drainage of the portion of the flow path 40 downstream of the vacuum breaker 80. The vacuum breaker 80 promotes drainage of the nozzle 30, for example. In this way, the vacuum breaker 80 drains the water in the nozzle 30 and takes in air into the nozzle 30, thereby preventing, for example, cleaning water in the nozzle 30 or sewage accumulated in the bowl 201 from flowing back toward the water supply source WS (clean water).

[0038] The first temperature sensor 91 detects the temperature of the water flowing downstream of the heat exchanger 42. The first temperature sensor 91 is provided, for example, upstream of the flow rate sensor 70. The first temperature sensor 91 is, for example, a thermistor. The first temperature sensor 91 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The first temperature sensor 91 outputs the detection result (information related to temperature) to the control unit 50.

[0039] The second temperature sensor 92 is provided downstream of the first temperature sensor 91. The second temperature sensor 92 detects the temperature of water flowing downstream of the first temperature sensor 91. The second temperature sensor 92 is provided downstream of the flow rate sensor 70, for example. The second temperature sensor 92 is, for example, a thermistor. The second temperature sensor 92 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The second temperature sensor 92 outputs the detection result (information related to temperature) to the control unit 50.

[0040] An electrolytic cell unit 44 is provided downstream of the flow path unit 43. The electrolytic cell unit 44 electrolyzes tap water flowing therein, thereby producing a liquid (functional water) containing hypochlorous acid from the tap water. The electrolytic cell unit 44 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The electrolytic cell unit 44 produces functional water under the control of the control unit 50.

[0041] The functional water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 44 may be a solution containing metal ions such as silver ions or copper ions. Alternatively, the functional water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 44 may be a solution containing electrolytic chlorine or ozone. Alternatively, the functional water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 44 may be acidic water or alkaline water.

[0042] A pressure modulation unit 45 is provided downstream of the electrolytic cell unit 44. The pressure modulation unit 45 imparts pulsation or acceleration to the flow of water in the flow path 40, and imparts pulsation to the water discharged from the water outlet 31 of the nozzle 30. In other words, the pressure modulation unit 45 varies the flow state of the water flowing in the flow path 40. The pressure modulation unit 45 is, for example, an electromagnetic pump. The pressure modulation unit 45 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The pressure modulation unit 45 varies the flow state of the water based on the control by the control unit 50.

[0043] A flow rate adjustment unit 46 is provided downstream of the pressure modulation unit 45. The flow rate adjustment unit 46 adjusts the water pressure (flow rate). The flow rate adjustment unit 46 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The operation of the flow rate adjustment unit 46 is controlled by the control unit 50.

[0044] A nozzle 30 is provided downstream of the flow rate adjustment unit 46. The nozzle 30, in a state where it protrudes forward from the casing 10, discharges water heated by the heat exchanger 42 toward a human body part.

[0045] Also, in this example, an inlet water temperature sensor 47 is provided upstream of heat exchanger 42. Inlet water temperature sensor 47 detects the temperature of water flowing upstream of heat exchanger 42. Inlet water temperature sensor 47 is, for example, a thermistor. Inlet water temperature sensor 47 is electrically connected to control unit 50. Inlet water temperature sensor 47 outputs the detection result (information related to temperature) to control unit 50.

[0046] The toilet device 500 (sanitary washing device 100) has a nozzle drive unit 35 for advancing and retracting the nozzle 30. The nozzle drive unit 35 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The nozzle drive unit 35 advances and retracts the nozzle 30 based on a command from the control unit 50.

[0047] The toilet device 500 (sanitary washing device 100) has, for example, a human body detection sensor 55 that detects a human body. The human body detection sensor 55 is, for example, at least one of a seating detection sensor that detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 20, an entry detection sensor that detects a user entering a toilet room, and an approach detection sensor that detects a user approaching the toilet device 500. The human body detection sensor 55 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The human body detection sensor 55 outputs a detection result (information related to human body detection) to the control unit 50.

[0048] The control unit 50 includes a control circuit such as a microcomputer. The control unit 50 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control unit 50 may include, for example, a comparator. The control unit 50 controls the operations of the solenoid valve 41, the heat exchanger 42, the electrolytic cell unit 44, the pressure modulation unit 45, the flow rate adjustment unit 46, the nozzle drive unit 35, and the like, based on a signal from the operation unit 300 and a detection result from the human body detection sensor 55.

[0049] The control unit 50 controls the operation of the heat exchanger 42 based on the detection result (first temperature T1) of the first temperature sensor 91. For example, the control unit 50 turns on the heater of the heat exchanger 42 when the first temperature T1 is lower than a set value set in the operation unit 300 or the like, and turns off the heater of the heat exchanger 42 when the first temperature T1 is higher than the set value. For example, the control unit 50 may reduce the output of the heater of the heat exchanger 42 when the first temperature T1 is higher than the set value, and may increase the output of the heater of the heat exchanger 42 when the first temperature T1 is lower than the set value. This makes it possible to eject water heated to a temperature close to the set value set in the operation unit 300 or the like from the nozzle 30.

[0050] Furthermore, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the solenoid valve 41 based on the detection result (second temperature T2) of the second temperature sensor 92. For example, when the second temperature T2 is higher than a predetermined specified value, the control unit 50 closes the solenoid valve 41. The control unit 50 may control the operation of the heat exchanger 42 based on the detection result (second temperature T2) of the second temperature sensor 92. For example, when the second temperature T2 is higher than a predetermined specified value, the control unit 50 may turn off the heater of the heat exchanger 42. The specified value is set to 65°C or lower (for example, 53°C). This makes it possible to prevent high-temperature water from being discharged from the nozzle 30 even if water is heated to an excessively high temperature due to a failure of the heat exchanger 42 or the like.

[0051] The flow path unit 43 will be described in more detail below. FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a flow path unit according to the embodiment. 4 and 5 are exploded perspective views illustrating the flow path unit according to the embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the flow passage unit 43 includes a flow sensor 70 and a vacuum breaker 80. The flow passage unit 43 includes a flow sensor 70 and a vacuum breaker 80.

[0052] The flow sensor 70 has a first case portion 71 and a sensor portion 72. The sensor portion 72 is housed inside the first case portion 71. The sensor portion 72 has, for example, an impeller 72a that rotates due to the flow of water. The flow sensor 70 detects the flow rate in response to, for example, the rotation of the impeller 72a.

[0053] The first case part 71 has a first lower case part 71a and a first upper case part 71b. The first upper case part 71b is welded and fixed to the first lower case part 71a. The sensor part 72 (impeller 72a) is disposed inside a space formed by the first lower case part 71a and the first upper case part 71b. The sensor part 72 (impeller 72a) is placed, for example, on the first lower case part 71a. In this example, the first lower case part 71a has a recessed part recessed downward, and the sensor part 72 (impeller 72a) is stored inside the recessed part. The first upper case part 71b covers the upper part of the sensor part 72 (impeller 72a).

[0054] The vacuum breaker 80 has a second case portion 81, a valve portion 82, and a base portion 83. The valve portion 82 and the base portion 83 are housed inside the second case portion 81. The valve portion 82 has, for example, a float 82a that switches between the outflow of water and the inflow of air. The valve portion 82 is provided on the base portion 83. The base portion 83 has a main body portion 83a and a hole portion 83b that passes through the main body portion 83a in the vertical direction.

[0055] The second case part 81 has a second lower case part 81a and a second upper case part 81b. The second upper case part 81b is welded and fixed to the second lower case part 81a. The valve part 82 (float 82a) and the pedestal part 83 are arranged inside a space formed by the second lower case part 81a and the second upper case part 81b. The pedestal part 83 is placed, for example, on the second lower case part 81a. The valve part 82 (float 82a) is placed, for example, on the pedestal part 83. In this example, the second lower case part 81a has a recess recessed downward, the pedestal part 83 is stored inside the recess, and the valve part 82 (float 82a) is provided on the pedestal part 83. The second upper case part 81b covers the valve part 82 (float 82a) and the pedestal part 83 from above.

[0056] In this example, the valve portion 82 (float 82a) protrudes upward from the second lower case portion 81a. The second upper case portion 81b is recessed upward, and the upper portion of the valve portion 82 (float 82a) is located inside the space formed by the recess. The recess is provided with an intake port 81c, which will be described later.

[0057] In the embodiment, at least a part of the first case portion 71 and at least a part of the second case portion 81 are made of an integral member. In this example, the first lower case portion 71a and the second lower case portion 81a are made of an integral member. Also, in this example, the first upper case portion 71b and the second upper case portion 81b are made of an integral member.

[0058] In this specification, the term "integral member" refers to a structure that is continuous without breaks and is formed, for example, by integral molding. In other words, a structure in which multiple members are joined by adhesives or welding, or a structure in which multiple members are fixed by fitting or screwing, is not included in the term "integral member."

[0059] The flow path unit 43 also has a water inlet case 93. The water inlet case 93 is provided upstream of the first lower case 71a and is connected to the first lower case 71a. The water inlet case 93 does not overlap with the first upper case 71b in the up-down direction. The water inlet case 93 is provided with a water inlet port 93a. The water inlet port 93a is located at the upstream end of the flow path unit 43 and guides water supplied from the upstream of the flow path unit 43 into the inside of the flow path unit 43. The water inlet port 93a is connected to, for example, the downstream end of the heat exchanger 42. The water inlet port 93a is provided at the bottom of the water inlet case 93. In this example, the water inlet case 93 and the first lower case 71a are configured as an integrated member.

[0060] Further, the water inlet case portion 93 is provided with a first sensor attachment portion 91a for attaching the first temperature sensor 91. The first temperature sensor 91 is attached, for example, by being inserted into the inside of the flow path unit 43 from the first sensor attachment portion 91a. This allows the first temperature sensor 91 to be provided upstream of the flow rate sensor 70.

[0061] The flow path unit 43 also has a water outflow case 94. The water outflow case 94 is provided below the second lower case 81a and is connected to the second lower case 81a. The water outflow case 94 is provided with a water outflow port 94a. The water outflow port 94a is located at the downstream end of the flow path unit 43 and guides water that has passed through the inside of the flow path unit 43 downstream of the flow path unit 43. In this example, the water outflow case 94 and the second lower case 81a are not formed as an integral member. The water outflow case 94 and the second lower case 81a may be formed as an integral member.

[0062] In this example, the second upper case portion 81b is provided with a second sensor attachment portion 92a for attaching the second temperature sensor 92. The second sensor attachment portion 92a is provided above the first upper case portion 71b. The second temperature sensor 92 is attached, for example, by being inserted into the flow path unit 43 from the second sensor attachment portion 92a. This allows the second temperature sensor 92 to be provided downstream of the flow rate sensor 70.

[0063] In this way, by configuring at least a part of the first case portion 71 of the flow sensor 70 and at least a part of the second case portion 81 of the vacuum breaker 80 as an integral member, a common path through which water flows in the flow sensor 70 and in the vacuum breaker 80 can be used, thereby making it possible to reduce the size of the flow path unit 43. This allows the toilet apparatus 500 (sanitary washing apparatus 100) to be reduced in size.

[0064] In addition, by constructing the first lower case portion 71a of the flow sensor 70 and the second lower case portion 81a of the vacuum breaker 80 as an integral member, and by constructing the first upper case portion 71b of the flow sensor 70 and the second upper case portion 81b of the vacuum breaker 80 as an integral member, the number of welded points can be reduced and reliability against water leakage can be improved.

[0065] Furthermore, by providing the flow path unit 43 downstream of the heat exchanger 42, the flow rate sensor 70 can detect that no water is flowing through the heat exchanger 42. This makes it possible to prevent the heat exchanger 42 from running dry. Furthermore, by providing the vacuum breaker 80 downstream of the flow rate sensor 70 (i.e., by providing the flow rate sensor 70 upstream of the vacuum breaker 80), it is possible to more quickly detect that no water is flowing through the heat exchanger 42. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent the heat exchanger 42 from running dry.

[0066] Furthermore, by connecting the flow passage unit 43 to the downstream end of the heat exchanger 42, it is possible to more quickly detect that water is not flowing through the heat exchanger 42. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent the heat exchanger 42 from heating without water.

[0067] Furthermore, by providing the first temperature sensor 91 upstream of the flow rate sensor 70, the first temperature sensor 91 can detect the temperature of the water flowing from the heat exchanger 42 to the flow rate sensor 70, and detect whether the water is heated to a temperature equal to or higher than the set temperature. Furthermore, by providing the second temperature sensor 92 downstream of the flow rate sensor 70, the second temperature sensor 92 can detect whether the water flowing closer to the nozzle 30 is abnormally heated to a temperature equal to or higher than the set temperature. Furthermore, by providing the first temperature sensor 91 and the second temperature sensor 92 in the flow path unit 43, the toilet device 500 (sanitary washing device 100) can be made smaller in size.

[0068] FIG. 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view illustrating a flow path unit according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a part of the flow path unit according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a perspective cross-sectional view illustrating a flow path unit according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view seen from above with the first upper case portion 71b, the second upper case portion 81b, and the valve portion 82 (float 82a) removed. As shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the flow path unit 43 has a first flow path 95a, a second flow path 95b, a third flow path 95c, and a fourth flow path 95d.

[0069] The first flow passage 95a extends upward from the water inlet 93a. The first flow passage 95a is defined by the water inlet case portion 93.

[0070] The second flow path 95b extends horizontally from the upper end of the first flow path 95a, through the sensor portion 72 (impeller 72a), to below the valve portion 82 (float 82a). The second flow path 95b is composed of the water inlet case portion 93, the first case portion 71, the second case portion 81, and the base portion 83.

[0071] The third flow path 95c extends upward from the second flow path 95b and passes through the vacuum breaker 80. The third flow path 95c is constituted by a second case portion 81, a valve portion 82 (float 82a), and a seat portion 83.

[0072] The fourth flow passage 95d extends downward from the third flow passage 95c and is connected to the water outlet 94a. The fourth flow passage 95d is formed by the second case portion 81 and the water outlet case portion 94.

[0073] The flow of water is indicated by arrows in Figures 6 to 8. As shown in Figures 6 to 8, water supplied from a water inlet 93a passes through a first flow path 95a, a second flow path 95b, a third flow path 95c, and a fourth flow path 95d in this order, and flows downstream from a water outlet 94a.

[0074] Water that has entered the inside of the flow passage unit 43 from the water inlet 93a flows inside the water inlet case 93 and reaches the first case 71 in which the sensor 72 (impeller 72a) is provided. The water that has reached the first case 71 flows inside the first case 71 and reaches the second case 81 in which the valve 82 (float 82a) and the pedestal 83 are provided. The water that has reached the second case 81 passes through the space between the second lower case 81a and the main body 83a of the pedestal 83 (i.e., below the pedestal 83) and reaches the hole 83b of the pedestal 83. The water that has reached the hole 83b of the pedestal 83 flows from the bottom to the top in the hole 83b, and flows horizontally from a position above the hole 83b and below the float 82a (i.e., passes through the vacuum breaker 80). The water that has passed through the vacuum breaker 80 flows downward from the second lower case portion 81a, reaches the water outlet case portion 94, and flows downstream from the water outlet 94a.

[0075] In this way, by having the flow path unit 43 have the first flow path 95a, the third flow path 95c, and the fourth flow path 95d extending in the vertical direction, space can be used more effectively than in the case where all the flow paths are arranged horizontally, and the flow path unit 43 can be made even smaller.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 8, the second upper case portion 81b has an intake port 81c located above the float 82a. The intake port 81c is provided, for example, at a higher position than the water outlet 94a. The float 82a is provided so as to be movable up and down between the base portion 83 and the intake port 81c. When water is not flowing, the float 82a is lowered and placed on the base portion 83. In this state, the intake port 81c is not blocked, so air can be taken into the inside of the vacuum breaker 80. When water flows, the float 82a is pushed up by the water flowing upward through the hole portion 83b of the base portion 83, and the intake port 81c is blocked by the float 82a. This prevents air from being taken into the inside of the vacuum breaker 80.

[0077] In this way, by providing the air intake port 81c at a position higher than the water outlet port 94a, it is possible to reliably prevent water from flowing back due to the intake of air through the air intake port 81c when negative pressure is generated.

[0078] 9(a) and 9(b) are explanatory diagrams that typically illustrate the flow path unit according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9(a) and FIG. 9(b), at least a part of the first case portion 71 and at least a part of the second case portion 81 are configured as an integral member.

[0079] 9(a), the first lower case part 71a and the second lower case part 81a are configured as an integral member, and the first upper case part 71b and the second upper case part 81b are configured as an integral member. In other words, the sensor part 72 and the valve part 82 are housed between the lower case part of the integral member and the upper case part of the integral member.

[0080] In the example of FIG. 9(b), the first lower case part 71a and the second lower case part 81a are configured as an integral member, whereas the first upper case part 71b and the second upper case part 81b are not configured as an integral member. In this way, the upper case part may be divided into the first upper case part 71b and the second upper case part 81b, instead of being an integral member. In this case, too, the path through which water flows in the flow sensor 70 and the path through which water flows in the vacuum breaker 80 can be made common, and the flow path unit 43 can be made smaller. This allows the toilet device 500 (sanitary washing device 100) to be made smaller.

[0081] As described above, according to the embodiment, a toilet apparatus is provided in which the flow path unit can be made smaller in size.

[0082] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Any 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 have the characteristics of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, installation form, etc. of each element of the sanitary washing device 100 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]

[0083] 10 casing, 20 toilet seat, 30 nozzle, 31 water outlet, 31a bidet cleansing water outlet, 31b rear cleansing water outlet, 35 nozzle drive unit, 40 flow path, 41 solenoid valve, 42 heat exchanger, 43 flow path unit, 44 electrolytic cell unit, 45 pressure modulation unit, 46 flow rate adjustment unit, 47 inlet water temperature sensor, 50 control unit, 55 human body detection sensor, 70 flow rate sensor, 71 first case unit, 71a first lower case unit, 71b first upper case unit, 72 sensor unit, 72a impeller, 80 vacuum breaker, 81 second case unit, 81a second lower case unit, 81b second upper case unit, 81c intake port, 82 valve unit, 82a float, 83 base portion, 83a main body portion, 83b hole portion, 91 first temperature sensor, 91a first sensor mounting portion, 92 second temperature sensor, 92a second sensor mounting portion, 93 water inlet case portion, 93a water inlet, 94 water outlet case portion, 94a water outlet, 95a to 95d first to fourth flow paths, 100 sanitary flushing device, 200 toilet bowl, 201 bowl, 300 operation portion, 500 toilet device, WS water supply source

Claims

1. A nozzle for ejecting water toward a human body part; a flow path connecting a water supply source and the nozzle; a heat exchanger provided in the flow path for heating water supplied from the water supply source; a flow path unit provided upstream or downstream of the heat exchanger in the flow path; Equipped with The flow path unit has a flow sensor that detects a flow rate of water and a vacuum breaker that suppresses a backflow of water, The flow sensor includes a first case portion and a sensor portion housed inside the first case portion, The vacuum breaker has a second case portion and a valve portion housed inside the second case portion, A toilet device, wherein at least a portion of the first case portion and at least a portion of the second case portion are constructed as an integral member.

2. The sensor unit has an impeller that rotates due to the flow of water, The valve portion has a float that switches between an outflow of water and an inflow of air, The first case portion has a first lower case portion and a first upper case portion welded and fixed to the first lower case portion, the second case portion includes a second lower case portion and a second upper case portion welded and fixed to the second lower case portion, the first lower case portion and the second lower case portion are configured as an integral member, 2. The toilet apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first upper case portion and the second upper case portion are constructed as a single unitary member.

3. The flow path unit is provided downstream of the heat exchanger, 3. The toilet device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the vacuum breaker is provided downstream of the flow sensor.

4. 4. The toilet apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the flow path unit is connected to a downstream end of the heat exchanger.

5. The flow path unit further includes a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the water, the first temperature sensor is provided upstream of the flow rate sensor; 5. The toilet apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second temperature sensor is provided downstream of the flow sensor.

6. The flow path unit has a water inlet located at an upstream end and a water outlet located at a downstream end, The second upper case portion has an air intake port located above the float, 3. The toilet apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the air inlet is provided at a higher position than the water outlet.

7. The flow path unit includes: A first flow path extending upward from the water inlet; a second flow passage extending horizontally from the first flow passage through the impeller to below the float; a third flow passage extending upward from the second flow passage and passing through the vacuum breaker; A fourth flow path extending downward from the third flow path and connected to the water outlet; 7. The toilet device according to claim 6, further comprising:

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