Hand Drying Device

Abstract

To provide a hand dryer capable of performing cleaning in proper timing.SOLUTION: A hand dryer comprises a body part, and a control part that acquires information on contamination of the body part and that determines a contamination condition of the body part on the basis of the information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE Aspects of the present invention generally relate to hand drying devices. [Background technology]

[0002] There are hand dryers that are attached to the walls of toilets and washrooms to dry the hands of users after washing their hands. For example, from the viewpoint of preventing infectious diseases, such hand dryers are required to be cleaned at an appropriate time. However, the degree of dirt on the hand dryer varies depending on the usage environment, which makes it difficult to clean it at an appropriate time. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-226297 A [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2015 / 128987 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The aspects of the present invention have been made based on the recognition of such problems, and have an object to provide a hand dryer that can be cleaned at an appropriate time. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The first invention is a hand dryer characterized by comprising a main body unit and a control unit that acquires information regarding dirt on the main body unit and determines the dirt state of the main body unit based on the information.

[0006] According to this hand dryer, the degree of dirt on the main body in the usage environment can be accurately determined by determining the dirt state of the main body based on information on the dirt on the main body. As a result, even if the degree of dirt changes depending on the usage environment, the appropriate cleaning timing according to the usage environment can be known, and the cleaner can clean the hand dryer at the appropriate time.

[0007] A second invention is a hand dryer according to the first invention, characterized in that the control unit acquires operating information of the hand dryer and determines the state of dirt in the main body based on the operating information.

[0008] According to this hand dryer, the dirt state of the main body can be determined based on the operation information of the hand dryer, and the dirt level of the main body can be accurately determined with a simple configuration without making major changes to the configuration of conventional hand dryers. This allows a cleaner to clean the hand dryer at an appropriate time.

[0009] A third invention is a hand dryer characterized in that, in the second invention, it further includes an air blowing unit that blows air, and the operating information includes at least one of the time power is supplied to the control unit, the number of times the air blowing unit operates, and the operating time of the air blowing unit.

[0010] According to this hand dryer, the operating information includes at least one of the duration of power supply to the control unit, the number of times the air blower is operated, and the duration of operation of the air blower, so that the degree of dirt on the main body can be accurately determined from information that can be collected with conventional hand dryers. This allows a cleaner to clean the hand dryer at an appropriate time.

[0011] A fourth invention is a hand dryer characterized in that, in the third invention, the control unit obtains two or more of the time that power is applied to the control unit, the number of times the air blower unit is operated, and the operation time of the air blower unit, and determines the state of dirtiness of the main body unit based on said two or more.

[0012] According to this hand dryer, the degree of dirt on the main body can be determined more accurately by determining the dirt state of the main body based on two or more of the time that the control unit is energized, the number of times that the air blower unit is operated, and the operation time of the air blower, thereby enabling the cleaner to clean the hand dryer at a more appropriate time.

[0013] A fifth invention is a hand dryer according to any one of the second to fourth inventions, characterized in that the main body has a plurality of cleaning points, the control unit judges the dirt state of each of the plurality of cleaning points based on the operating information, and the judgment condition for the dirt state of one of the plurality of cleaning points is different from the judgment condition for the dirt state of another of the plurality of cleaning points.

[0014] According to this hand dryer, when the main body has multiple cleaning locations, the criteria for determining the dirtiness of one of the multiple cleaning locations is different from the criteria for determining the dirtiness of another of the multiple cleaning locations, so that the degree of dirt can be accurately determined for each of the multiple cleaning locations, allowing a cleaner to clean each of the multiple cleaning locations at an appropriate time.

[0015] A sixth invention is a hand dryer which, in any one of the second to fifth inventions, further comprises a memory unit which stores past operating information which is past operating information of the hand dryer, and the control unit determines the state of soiling of the main body based on the operating information and the past operating information stored in the memory unit.

[0016] According to this hand dryer, by determining the dirtiness of the main body based on the operation information and the past operation information, it is possible to eliminate noise such as tampering and false detection, and to more accurately determine the degree of dirtiness of the main body, which allows the cleaner to clean the hand dryer at a more appropriate time.

[0017] A seventh invention is a hand dryer characterized in that, in the first invention, it further includes an environmental information acquisition unit that acquires environmental information around the main body unit, and the control unit acquires the environmental information from the environmental information acquisition unit and determines the state of dirtiness of the main body unit based on the environmental information.

[0018] According to this hand dryer, the degree of dirt on the main body can be accurately determined by determining the dirt state of the main body based on environmental information about the surrounding area of ​​the main body, which allows a cleaner to clean the hand dryer at an appropriate time.

[0019] The eighth invention is a hand dryer which, in any one of the second to sixth inventions, further comprises an environmental information acquisition unit which acquires environmental information around the main body unit, and the control unit acquires the operating information and the environmental information from the environmental information acquisition unit, and determines the state of dirt on the main body unit based on the operating information and the environmental information.

[0020] According to this hand dryer, the degree of dirt on the main body can be determined more accurately by determining the dirt state of the main body based on the operating information and the environmental information around the main body, which allows the cleaner to clean the hand dryer at an appropriate time.

[0021] A ninth invention is a hand dryer which, in any one of the first to eighth inventions, further comprises an optical sensor which detects optical information relating to dirt on the main body portion, and the control unit acquires the optical information from the optical sensor and determines the dirt state of the main body portion based on the optical information.

[0022] According to this hand dryer, the degree of dirt on the main body can be accurately determined by determining the state of dirt on the main body based on optical information related to the dirt on the main body. In addition, the degree of dirt on the main body can be determined more accurately by combining the optical information with other information such as operation information. This allows a cleaner to clean the hand dryer at an appropriate time.

[0023] A tenth invention is a hand dryer which is any one of the first to ninth inventions, characterized in that the control unit determines, based on information regarding dirt on the main body unit, whether the main body unit is in a non-cleaning state where cleaning is not required, or whether the main body unit is in a cleaning required state where cleaning is required, and the conditions for the determination are changeable.

[0024] According to this hand dryer, the criteria for determining whether cleaning is not required or not can be changed, allowing the cleaner to set the parameters and thresholds of the criteria as desired. This allows for appropriate determination according to the usage environment, allowing the cleaner to clean the hand dryer at a more appropriate time.

[0025] An eleventh invention is a hand dryer according to any one of the first to tenth inventions, characterized in that the control unit resets information relating to dirt on the main body portion when a reset signal is input.

[0026] According to this hand dryer, by resetting information about dirt on the main body when a reset signal is input, it is possible to maintain the determination that the main body needs cleaning until, for example, the cleaner performs an operation to input a reset signal after cleaning is completed. This makes it possible to prevent the determination that the main body needs cleaning from continuing even after cleaning is completed, or the determination that the main body needs cleaning from being automatically released even when cleaning is not completed. Effect of the Invention

[0027] According to an aspect of the present invention, a hand dryer that can be cleaned at an appropriate time is provided. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a hand dryer according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2]1 is a block diagram showing a hand dryer according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 3] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 8(a) and 8(b) are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a hand dryer according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a hand dryer according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0030] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a hand dryer according to a first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment includes a main body 10. Main body 10 has a concave drying chamber 13 into which a user's hands can be inserted. Hand dryer 100 is attached to, for example, a wall surface of a toilet room when in use. Hand dryer 100 detects hands inserted into drying chamber 13, and blows air onto the hands inside drying chamber 13. In this way, hand dryer 100 dries hands that are wet, for example, after washing their hands after using the toilet.

[0031] The drying chamber 13 opens, for example, upward, and dries the hands inserted therein. The main body 10 is, for example, in the shape of an open box that opens upward. Therefore, the user can dry his or her hands by inserting them into the drying chamber 13 from above downward. The opening direction of the drying chamber 13 is not limited to the upward direction, and may be, for example, the front or diagonally upward toward the front. The opening direction of the drying chamber 13 may be any direction that makes it easy for the user to insert his or her hands.

[0032] The opening of drying chamber 13 has a horizontally long shape. The horizontal length of the opening of drying chamber 13 is longer than the front-rear length of the opening of drying chamber 13. This allows the hand drying device 100 to insert the left and right hands into drying chamber 13 from above with the hands aligned horizontally. In other words, the user can simply insert both hands into drying chamber 13 with both hands hanging down, allowing the user to dry the hands in a natural posture.

[0033] The main body 10 has a front surface 10a, a rear surface 10b, and a pair of side surfaces 10c and 10d. In this example, the main body 10 is a substantially rectangular box. The drying chamber 13 is, for example, a substantially rectangular recess surrounded at the front, rear, and both sides by the front surface 10a, the rear surface 10b, and the side surfaces 10c and 10d.

[0034] The drying chamber 13 has an inner surface on the front side formed by the front portion 10a, an inner surface on the back side formed by the back portion 10b, and a bottom surface continuous with the lower ends of the inner surfaces. In addition, both side ends of each of the inner surfaces and the bottom surface are closed by the side portions 10c and 10d. The drying chamber 13 receives water droplets blown off wet hands on each surface.

[0035] The shapes of the main body 10 and the drying chamber 13 are not limited to this, and may be any shape that allows hands to be inserted. For example, the side portions 10c and 10d may be omitted. That is, the drying chamber 13 may be a groove shape that is open at the top and sides. In this way, the shape of the drying chamber 13 may be a shape in which a part other than the opening for inserting hands is open.

[0036] The main body 10 has a plurality of air outlets 15 for blowing air into the drying chamber 13. Each air outlet 15 is, for example, a substantially circular opening. Each air outlet 15 is provided on an inner surface on the front side of the front portion 10a and an inner surface on the rear side of the rear portion 10b. Each air outlet 15 is provided, for example, on each inner surface, arranged in a substantially straight line in the lateral direction (horizontal direction).

[0037] Each air outlet 15 is provided, for example, near the upper end (opening end) of each inner surface, and blows out air diagonally downward. That is, each air outlet 15 blows off water droplets toward the bottom side of the drying chamber 13. This makes it possible to prevent the blown off water droplets from splashing on the user.

[0038] The shape of the air outlet 15 may be any shape. The number of air outlets 15 may be any number. For example, one air outlet having a slit shape extending in the horizontal direction may be provided in the main body 10. The air outlets may be any shape and number that can appropriately blow air onto the hands inserted in the drying chamber 13.

[0039] The main body 10 has, for example, a pair of ventilation holes 17 provided on each of the side surface portions 10c, 10d. Each ventilation hole 17 allows the wind blown out from each air outlet 15 to escape to the outside of the drying chamber 13. This makes it possible to prevent, for example, wind containing water droplets from being turned back inside the drying chamber 13 and heading toward the user. In other words, it is possible to prevent the blown-off water droplets from heading toward the user.

[0040] The main body 10 further includes a water receiving tray 18. The water receiving tray 18 is detachably attached, for example, to the bottom of the main body 10. The main body 10 has drainage grooves (not shown). Water droplets received on each surface of the drying chamber 13 are sent to the water receiving tray 18 via the drainage grooves. In this way, the water receiving tray 18 collects water droplets blown away within the drying chamber 13.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment further includes an intake port 14, an air duct 16, a blower section 20, a heating section 25, a hand detection section 30, an operation section 40, a control section 50, a memory section 55, an alarm section 60, and a communication section 70.

[0042] Inlet 14 is provided, for example, at the bottom of main body 10. Inlet 14 is an opening for taking in gas (air) from the outside into main body 10. Air passage 16 connects inlet 14 to each outlet 15. Air passage 16 is formed, for example, by a plurality of ducts, and sends the gas taken in from inlet 14 to each outlet 15.

[0043] The blower 20 sends air to the drying chamber 13. The blower 20 is, for example, an electric blower (fan motor). The blower 20 is provided in the air passage 16. The blower 20, for example, draws in air from the room in which the hand drying device 100 is installed through the suction port 14 and supplies the air to the air passage 16, thereby blowing air from each air outlet 15 provided at the downstream end of the air passage 16 towards the drying chamber 13. The blower 20 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The blower 20 operates in response to a signal from the control unit 50.

[0044] The heating unit 25 heats the air sent to the drying chamber 13. The heating unit 25 is, for example, a fin heater. The heating unit 25 may be any heater capable of heating the gas directed from the blower unit 20 to each of the air outlets 15. The heating unit 25 is provided, for example, between the blower unit 20 and each of the air outlets 15 in the air passage 16. The heating unit 25 heats the gas (air) directed from the blower unit 20 to each of the air outlets 15, thereby warming the gas blown out from each of the air outlets 15. As a result, in the hand drying device 100, the warm air warmed by the heating unit 25 can be blown out from each of the air outlets 15. As a result, for example, the drying performance of the user's hands can be improved. For example, the user's hands can be dried in a shorter time than when non-heated air is blown out. The heating unit 25 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The heating unit 25 operates in response to a signal from the control unit 50. The heating unit 25 is provided as necessary and can be omitted.

[0045] The hand detection unit 30 detects a hand inserted into the drying chamber 13. The hand detection unit 30 is, for example, a transmissive optical sensor (photointerrupter). The hand detection unit 30 is not limited to this and may be any sensor capable of detecting a user's hand. The hand detection unit 30 may be, for example, a reflective optical sensor, a distance measurement sensor, a pyroelectric sensor, a capacitance sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a microwave sensor, or the like. The hand detection unit 30 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The hand detection unit 30 outputs the detection result to the control unit 50.

[0046] Operation unit 40 is electrically connected to control unit 50. Operation unit 40 receives operations from a user and inputs the user's operation instructions to control unit 50. Control unit 50 controls the operation of each part of hand dryer 100 in accordance with the input operation instructions. Operation unit 40 is disposed in an inconspicuous position where the user can operate it, such as the bottom of main body 10. Operation unit 40 is used, for example, to switch the operation mode of hand dryer 100.

[0047] The control unit 50 is electrically connected to the air blowing unit 20, the heating unit 25, the hand detection unit 30, and the operation unit 40. The control unit 50 controls the air blowing unit 20 and the heating unit 25. For example, when the hand detection unit 30 detects the user's hand, the control unit 50 outputs a signal to the air blowing unit 20 and the heating unit 25 to start operation. In addition, for example, when the hand detection unit 30 no longer detects the user's hand, the control unit 50 outputs a signal to the air blowing unit 20 and the heating unit 25 to stop operation.

[0048] The control unit 50 acquires information regarding dirt on the main body unit 10. In this example, the control unit 50 acquires operation information of the hand dryer 100. The operation information includes, for example, at least one of the time that power is supplied to the control unit 50, the number of times that the blower unit 20 is operated, and the operation time of the blower unit 20.

[0049] The control unit 50 judges the dirt state of the main body unit 10 based on the acquired information. More specifically, the control unit 50 judges whether the main body unit 10 is in a non-cleaning state where cleaning is not required, or in a cleaning required state where cleaning is required. The conditions for the judgment can be set (i.e., changeable) to any condition by the cleaner. More specifically, the parameters and thresholds of the judgment conditions can be set (i.e., changeable) to any parameter or threshold by the cleaner. The conditions for the judgment can be changed, for example, by operating the operation unit 40 or the external device 200.

[0050] Memory unit 55 stores past operation information, which is past operation information of hand dryer 100. Memory unit 55 is electrically connected to control unit 50. Control unit 50 determines the soiling state of main body 10 based on, for example, the operation information and the past operation information stored in memory unit 55.

[0051] The control unit 50 outputs the determination result. More specifically, when it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a cleaning required state, the control unit 50 outputs first information indicating that the main body unit 10 is in a cleaning required state. The control unit 50 outputs the first information to at least one of the notification unit 60 and the external device 200. The control unit 50 may output the first information to both the notification unit 60 and the external device 200, for example.

[0052] In this example, the control unit 50 is a CPU, and acquires information about dirt on the main body unit 10, judges the dirt state of the main body unit 10, and outputs the judgment result. The control unit 50 may be structurally divided into, for example, a part that acquires information about dirt on the main body unit 10, a part that judges the dirt state of the main body unit 10, and a part that outputs the judgment result.

[0053] The notification unit 60 notifies the determination result. More specifically, when the first information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies that the main body unit 10 needs cleaning. The notification unit 60 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The notification unit 60 notifies the determination result, for example, by at least one of light and sound. The notification unit 60 includes, for example, at least one of a light output unit and a sound output unit. The light output unit is provided, for example, on the inner surface of the drying chamber 13. The light output unit, for example, lights up weakly when not in use (standby), lights up strongly when in use, and flashes when reporting. The light output unit, for example, flashes with different flashing patterns depending on the content to be reported. The sound output unit is provided, for example, inside the main body unit 10. The sound output unit, for example, outputs a buzzer sound or a voice when reporting. Furthermore, if the notification unit 60 has a display unit capable of displaying characters and images, the notification unit 60 may notify the determination result by displaying characters and images.

[0054] The communication unit 70 is provided so as to be able to communicate with the external device 200. The communication between the communication unit 70 and the external device 200 may be wired communication or wireless communication. The communication unit 70 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The control unit 50 outputs the first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70.

[0055] The external device 200 notifies the determination result. More specifically, when the first information is input, the external device 200 notifies that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning. The external device 200 is, for example, a monitor in a management room where a cleaner is present, or a smart mirror provided in the vicinity of a hand dryer. The external device 200 may be, for example, an information display terminal carried by a cleaner. The external device 200 has, for example, a display unit capable of displaying characters and images. The external device 200 notifies the determination result by, for example, displaying characters and images. The external device 200 may also notify the determination result by, for example, at least one of light and sound. In this case, the external device 200 includes, for example, at least one of a light output unit and a sound output unit.

[0056] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. 3, the control unit 50 acquires operation information of the hand dryer 100, and determines the dirt state of the main body unit 10 based on the operation information. In this example, the control unit 50 acquires two or more of the power supply time to the control unit 50, the number of times the blower unit 20 is operated, and the operation time of the blower unit 20, and determines the dirt state of the main body unit 10 based on the two or more.

[0057] More specifically, when the hand dryer 100 is powered on (that is, when power starts being applied to the control unit 50), the control unit 50 acquires operation information (step S101).

[0058] Next, the control unit 50 determines whether the operation information satisfies a first operation condition (step S102). The first operation condition is, for example, whether the time that power is supplied to the control unit 50 exceeds a threshold value (for example, two days). The first operation condition may be, for example, whether the number of times that the blower unit 20 operates exceeds a threshold value (for example, 800 times). The first operation condition may be, for example, whether the operation time of the blower unit 20 exceeds a threshold value (for example, two hours). The parameters and threshold values ​​of the first operation condition can be set arbitrarily.

[0059] When the operation information satisfies the first operation condition (step S102: Yes), the control unit 50 judges whether the current operation information is similar to the past operation information stored in the storage unit 55 (step S103). Here, as an example, a case where the first operation condition is satisfied when the number of operations of the blower unit 20 exceeds 800 times will be described. In the past operation information, it is assumed that the power supply time to the control unit 50 at the time when the number of operations of the blower unit 20 exceeds 800 times is X hours. In addition, in the current operation information, it is assumed that the power supply time to the control unit 50 at the time when the number of operations of the blower unit 20 exceeds 800 times is Y hours. When Y is an approximate value of X, the control unit 50 judges that the current operation information is similar to the past operation information stored in the storage unit 55. When Y is within a range of X±20% (i.e., when 0.8X≦Y≦1.2X is satisfied), for example, the control unit 50 judges that Y is an approximate value of X. In addition, the past operating information may be the operating information at the time when it was determined that the main body unit 10 was in a state requiring cleaning the previous time, or it may be the average value of the operating information at the time when it was determined that the main body unit 10 was in a state requiring cleaning the past several times.

[0060] If it is determined that the current operating information is similar to the past operating information stored in the memory unit 55 (step S103: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 needs to be cleaned (step S104). Next, the control unit 50 stores the operating information in the memory unit 55 (step S105).

[0061] Next, the control unit 50 outputs the first information indicating that the main body unit 10 needs cleaning to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S106). When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the main body unit 10 needs cleaning.

[0062] On the other hand, if it is determined that the current operating information is not similar to the past operating information stored in the memory unit 55 (step S103: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S107). Next, the control unit 50 corrects the operating information (step S108). For example, the control unit 50 corrects the current operating information to the average value of the past operating information stored in the memory unit 55. For example, the control unit 50 may reset the current operating information. That is, the control unit 50 may set at least one of the counts of the power supply time to the control unit 50, the number of times the blower unit 20 is operated, and the operating time of the blower unit 20 to 0. If it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 does not output the first information.

[0063] Furthermore, if the operation information does not satisfy the first operation condition (step S102: No), the control unit 50 judges whether or not the operation information satisfies the second operation condition (step S109). The second operation condition is, for example, whether or not the number of times the blower unit 20 has been operated exceeds a threshold value (for example, 1200 times). The second operation condition may be, for example, whether or not the time during which electricity is supplied to the control unit 50 exceeds a threshold value (for example, three days). The second operation condition may be, for example, whether or not the operation time of the blower unit 20 exceeds a threshold value (for example, three hours). The parameters and threshold value of the second operation condition can be set arbitrarily. However, the parameters of the second operation condition are different from the parameters of the first operation condition.

[0064] If the operation information satisfies the second operation condition (step S109: Yes), the control unit 50 proceeds to step S103. If the operation information does not satisfy the second operation condition (step S109: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state where cleaning is not required (step S110). If it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state where cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 does not output the first information.

[0065] Note that step S103 is performed as necessary and can be omitted. When step S103 is omitted, if the operation information satisfies the first operation condition (step S102: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 needs to be cleaned (step S104). When step S103 is omitted, steps S105, S107, and S108 are also omitted.

[0066] Moreover, step S109 is performed as necessary and can be omitted. In the case where step S109 is omitted, if the operation information does not satisfy the first operation condition (step S102: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S110).

[0067] In this way, by determining the state of dirt on main body 10 based on the information on dirt on main body 10, it is possible to accurately determine the degree of dirt on main body 10 in the usage environment. As a result, even if the degree of dirt changes depending on the usage environment, it is possible to know the appropriate cleaning timing according to the usage environment, and the cleaner can clean hand dryer 100 at the appropriate timing.

[0068] Furthermore, by determining the state of dirt on main body 10 based on the operation information of hand dryer 100, it is possible to accurately determine the degree of dirt on main body 10 with a simple configuration without making major changes to the configuration of conventional hand dryers. This allows a cleaner to clean hand dryer 100 at an appropriate time.

[0069] Furthermore, since the operating information includes at least one of the time power is supplied to control unit 50, the number of times blower unit 20 is operated, and the operating time of blower unit 20, the degree of dirt on main body 10 can be accurately determined from information that can be collected with conventional hand dryers. This allows a cleaner to clean hand dryer 100 at an appropriate time.

[0070] In addition, by determining the state of dirt on the main body 10 based on two or more of the time that power is supplied to the control unit 50, the number of times that the blower unit 20 is operated, and the operation time of the blower unit 20, it is possible to more accurately determine the degree of dirt on the main body 10. This allows the cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at a more appropriate time.

[0071] Furthermore, by determining the dirt state of the main body 10 based on the operation information and the past operation information, noise such as tampering and false detection can be eliminated, and the degree of dirt on the main body 10 can be determined more accurately. This allows the cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at a more appropriate time.

[0072] Furthermore, by making it possible to change the judgment conditions for determining whether cleaning is not required or not, the cleaner can arbitrarily set parameters and thresholds for the judgment conditions. This allows appropriate judgment to be made according to the usage environment, and allows the cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at a more appropriate time.

[0073] Furthermore, when it is determined that the main body 10 is in a state requiring cleaning, the first information indicating that the main body 10 is in a state requiring cleaning is output, thereby making it possible to more reliably inform the cleaner that cleaning is required. This makes it possible to encourage the cleaner to perform cleaning at an appropriate time, and to prevent the hand dryer 100 from being used in a state requiring cleaning (i.e., a dirty state).

[0074] Furthermore, by outputting the first information to the notification unit 60 provided in the hand dryer 100 and notifying the notification unit 60 that the hand dryer 100 is in a state requiring cleaning, the cleaner can know that the hand dryer 100 is in a state requiring cleaning just by looking at the hand dryer 100. This makes it possible to more reliably encourage the cleaner to clean.

[0075] In addition, by outputting the first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70 and reporting that the external device 200 is in a state requiring cleaning, the cleaner can know that the external device 200, such as a monitor in a management room where the cleaner is present or a smart mirror in the vicinity of the hand dryer 100, is in a state requiring cleaning. This makes it possible to more reliably encourage the cleaner to clean.

[0076] Furthermore, the main body 10 has, for example, a plurality of cleaning points. The plurality of cleaning points include, for example, at least one of the drying chamber 13, the water receiving tray 18, a filter provided in the suction port 14, and the outer surface. The control unit 50 judges the dirt state of each of the plurality of cleaning points based on the operation information. The judgment condition for the dirt state of one of the plurality of cleaning points (for example, the drying chamber 13) is different from the judgment condition for the dirt state of another of the plurality of cleaning points (for example, the water receiving tray 18).

[0077] More specifically, if one of the multiple cleaning locations is a first portion and the other of the multiple cleaning locations is a second portion, the first operating condition in determining the dirt state of the first portion is different from, for example, the first operating condition in determining the dirt state of the second portion. Also, the second operating condition in determining the dirt state of the first portion is different from, for example, the second operating condition in determining the dirt state of the second portion. Note that "the first operating condition (second operating condition) is different" means that at least one of the parameters and the threshold value is different. In other words, not only when the parameters are different, but also when the parameters are the same but the threshold value is different, it can be considered that "the first operating condition (second operating condition) is different."

[0078] In this way, when the main body 10 has multiple cleaning locations, the condition for determining the dirtiness of one of the multiple cleaning locations is different from the condition for determining the dirtiness of another of the multiple cleaning locations, so that the degree of dirt can be accurately determined at each of the multiple cleaning locations. This allows the cleaner to clean each of the multiple cleaning locations at an appropriate time.

[0079] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the alarm unit 60, if the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning, the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the alarm unit 60 after a predetermined time has elapsed after the blower unit 20 has stopped.

[0080] More specifically, when it is determined that the main body 10 needs to be cleaned (step S201), the control unit 50 determines whether the blower 20 is stopped (step S202). The control unit 50 repeats step S202 until the blower 20 is stopped (step S202: No).

[0081] When the blower 20 stops, or if the blower 20 is already stopped (step S202: Yes), the control unit 50 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the blower 20 stopped (step S203). The control unit 50 repeats step S203 until the predetermined time has elapsed since the blower 20 stopped (step S203: No). The predetermined time is, for example, about 2 to 5 seconds.

[0082] When a predetermined time has elapsed since the blower 20 was stopped (step S203: Yes), the controller 50 outputs the first information to the notification unit 60 (step S204). When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies that the main body 10 needs to be cleaned.

[0083] In this way, when it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning, the first information is output to the notification unit 60 a predetermined time after the blower unit 20 stops, so that a notification can be given after the user has used the hand dryer 100. This makes it easier to notify the cleaner that cleaning is required without the user realizing it.

[0084] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, when a reset signal is input, the control unit 50 resets information related to dirt on the main body unit 10.

[0085] More specifically, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a reset signal has been input (step S301). If a reset signal has been input (step S301: Yes), the control unit 50 resets the count of the operation information (step S302). For example, the control unit 50 resets at least one of the counts of the power supply time to the control unit 50, the number of times the blower unit 20 has been operated, and the operation time of the blower unit 20 to 0.

[0086] If the reset signal is not input (step S301: No), the control unit 50 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the previous output of the first information (step S303). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S303: No), the control unit 50 returns to step S301.

[0087] When the predetermined time has elapsed (step S303: Yes), the control unit 50 reacquires the operation information (step S304). Next, the control unit 50 judges whether the operation information satisfies the remind condition (step S305). The remind condition is, for example, whether the power supply time to the control unit 50 exceeds a threshold value (for example, 4 days). The remind condition may be, for example, whether the number of times the blower unit 20 has been operated exceeds a threshold value (for example, 1600 times). The remind condition may be, for example, whether the operation time of the blower unit 20 exceeds a threshold value (for example, 4 hours). The parameters and threshold value of the remind condition can be set arbitrarily. If the operation information does not satisfy the remind condition (step S305: No), the control unit 50 returns to step S301.

[0088] If the operation information satisfies the reminder condition (step S305: Yes), the control unit 50 determines whether the operation information satisfies an operation prohibition condition (step S306). The operation prohibition condition is, for example, whether the time that power has been supplied to the control unit 50 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 5 days). The operation prohibition condition may be, for example, whether the number of times that the blower unit 20 has been operated has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 2000 times). The operation prohibition condition may be, for example, whether the operation time of the blower unit 20 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 5 hours). The parameters and threshold value of the operation prohibition condition can be set arbitrarily.

[0089] If the operation information satisfies the operation prohibition condition (step S306: Yes), control unit 50 prohibits operation of hand dryer 100 (step S307). More specifically, control unit 50 prohibits operation of blower unit 20, for example. Next, control unit 50 outputs operation prohibition information indicating that hand dryer 100 is in an operation prohibited state to notification unit 60 or external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S308). When the operation prohibition information is input, notification unit 60 and external device 200 each notify that hand dryer 100 is in an operation prohibited state.

[0090] Next, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a reset signal has been input (step S309). The control unit 50 repeats step S309 until a reset signal is input (step S309: No). If a reset signal is input (step S309: Yes), the control unit 50 resets the count of the driving information (step S302).

[0091] On the other hand, if the operation information does not satisfy the operation prohibition condition (step S306: No), control unit 50 outputs reminder information indicating that hand dryer 100 is in a state requiring cleaning to external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S310). When the reminder information is input, external device 200 notifies that hand dryer 100 is in a state requiring cleaning.

[0092] In this way, by resetting information about dirt on the main body unit when the reset signal is input, the determination that the main body unit is in a state requiring cleaning can be maintained, for example, until the cleaner performs an operation to input a reset signal after cleaning is completed. This makes it possible to prevent the determination that the main body unit is in a state requiring cleaning from continuing even after cleaning is completed, or the determination that the main body unit is in a state requiring cleaning from being automatically released even when cleaning is not completed.

[0093] In addition, by outputting reminder information when the operation information satisfies the reminder condition, the cleaner can be more reliably informed that cleaning is required. This makes it possible to prevent the hand dryer 100 from being used in a state in which cleaning is required (i.e., in a dirty state).

[0094] Furthermore, by prohibiting operation of hand dryer 100 when the operation information satisfies the operation prohibition condition, it is possible to prevent hand dryer 100 from being used in a state requiring cleaning (that is, in a dirty state).

[0095] Furthermore, by outputting operation prohibition information when the operation of the hand dryer 100 is prohibited, the user can be notified that the operation of the hand dryer 100 is prohibited, and the cleaner can be prompted to perform cleaning.

[0096] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, when the main body 10 is in a state where cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a state where cleaning is required is imminent, and if it is determined that a state where cleaning is required is imminent, it outputs second information (advance notice information) indicating that a state where cleaning is required is imminent.

[0097] More specifically, when it is determined that the main body 10 does not require cleaning (step S401), the control unit 50 determines whether the operation information satisfies a first notice condition (step S402). The first notice condition is, for example, whether the time that power is supplied to the control unit 50 exceeds a threshold value (for example, one day). The first notice condition may be, for example, whether the number of times that the blower unit 20 operates exceeds a threshold value (for example, 400 times). The first notice condition may be, for example, whether the operation time of the blower unit 20 exceeds a threshold value (for example, one hour). The parameters and threshold value of the first notice condition can be set arbitrarily.

[0098] If the operation information satisfies the first advance notice condition (step S402: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is close to being in a state requiring cleaning (step S403). Next, the control unit 50 determines whether the operation information satisfies the second advance notice condition (step S404). The second advance notice condition is, for example, whether the number of times the blower unit 20 has been operated exceeds a threshold value (for example, 600 times). The second advance notice condition may be, for example, whether the time that power has been supplied to the control unit 50 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 1.5 days). The second advance notice condition may be, for example, whether the operation time of the blower unit 20 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 1.5 hours). The parameters and threshold value of the second advance notice condition can be set arbitrarily. However, the parameters of the second advance notice condition are different from the parameters of the first advance notice condition.

[0099] If the operation information satisfies the second advance notice condition (step S404: Yes), the control unit 50 outputs second information indicating that a cleaning-necessary state is approaching to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S405). When the second information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that a cleaning-necessary state is approaching. The second information may be, for example, information simply indicating that a cleaning-necessary state is approaching, or information indicating a predicted time until a cleaning-necessary state occurs or a predicted number of uses until a cleaning-necessary state occurs.

[0100] On the other hand, if the operation information does not satisfy the second advance notice condition (step S404: No), the control unit 50 outputs second information indicating that a cleaning-necessary state is approaching to the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S406). When the second information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies that a cleaning-necessary state is approaching.

[0101] Furthermore, if the operation information does not satisfy the first advance notice condition (step S402: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is not close to a state requiring cleaning (step S407). If it is determined that the main body unit 10 is not close to a state requiring cleaning, the control unit 50 does not output the second information.

[0102] Note that step S404 is performed as necessary and can be omitted. In the case where step S404 is omitted, when it is determined that the main body unit 10 is close to being in a state where cleaning is required (step S403), the control unit 50 outputs second information indicating that the main body unit 10 is close to being in a state where cleaning is required to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S405). In addition, in the case where step S404 is omitted, step S406 is also omitted.

[0103] In this way, when it is determined that the cleaning-necessity state is approaching, the second information indicating that the cleaning-necessity state is approaching is output, so that the cleaner can be notified that the cleaning-necessity state is approaching before the cleaning-necessity state actually occurs, which makes it easier for the cleaner to create an efficient cleaning plan.

[0104] This flow chart may be repeatedly executed until it is determined that the cleaning is required. In this case, the predicted time until the cleaning is required and the predicted number of uses until the cleaning is required are updated as needed and output as the second information. In other words, the control unit 50 may output the second information that is updated as needed, so that the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 can count down and notify the predicted time until the cleaning is required and the predicted number of uses until the cleaning is required.

[0105] In addition, when the notification unit 60 notifies that a cleaning-necessary state is present when the first information is input and notifies that a cleaning-necessary state is approaching when the second information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies in a state in which it is possible to distinguish between a cleaning-necessary state and a cleaning-necessary state approaching. In other words, the notification pattern when the notification unit 60 notifies that a cleaning-necessary state is approaching is different from the notification pattern when the notification unit 60 notifies that a cleaning-necessary state is present. For example, when the notification unit 60 notifies by light, the blinking pattern of the notification unit 60 when notifying that a cleaning-necessary state is approaching is different from the blinking pattern of the notification unit 60 when notifying that a cleaning-necessary state is present. For example, when the notification unit 60 notifies by sound, the sound of the notification unit 60 when notifying that a cleaning-necessary state is approaching is different from the sound of the notification unit 60 when notifying that a cleaning-necessary state is present.

[0106] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, when an output command signal is input, the control unit 50 outputs information regarding the current contamination state.

[0107] More specifically, the control unit 50 determines whether or not an output command signal has been input (step S501). The control unit 50 repeats step S501 until an output command signal is input (step S501: No).

[0108] When the output command signal is input (step S501: Yes), the control unit 50 judges whether or not the cleaning is required (step S502). When the cleaning is required (step S502: Yes), the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S503). When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the cleaning is required.

[0109] If the cleaning-necessary state is not reached (step S502: No), the control unit 50 determines whether or not the cleaning-necessary state is approaching (step S504). If the cleaning-necessary state is approaching (step S504: Yes), the control unit 50 outputs the second information to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S505). When the second information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the cleaning-necessary state is approaching.

[0110] If the cleaning required state is not approaching (step S504: No), the control unit 50 outputs third information indicating that the cleaning is not required and the cleaning required state is not approaching to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S506). When the third information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the cleaning is not required and the cleaning required state is not approaching.

[0111] The output command signal is input, for example, by a predetermined operation on the operation unit 40. More specifically, for example, a cleaner can perform a predetermined operation on the operation unit 40 to cause the control unit 50 to output information on the current dirt state to the notification unit 60, and can check whether the state requires cleaning or whether the state requires cleaning is close. Also, the output command signal is input, for example, by a predetermined operation on the external device 200. More specifically, for example, a cleaner can perform a predetermined operation on the external device 200 to cause the control unit 50 to output information on the current dirt state to the external device 200, and can check whether the state requires cleaning or whether the state requires cleaning is close.

[0112] In this way, by outputting information on the current soiling state when an output command signal is input, the cleaner can easily grasp the current soiling state, such as whether cleaning is required or whether the cleaning is about to be required. For example, by outputting information on the current soiling state to the notification unit 60 when an output command signal is input via the operation unit 40 provided in the hand dryer 100, the cleaner can easily grasp the current soiling state even if the notification indicating the soiling state is overlooked. In addition, for example, a decision can be made on the spot to clean the hand dryer 100 together with the cleaning timing of other appliances, thereby reducing the cleaning load. In addition, for example, even if there are hand dryers with different usage conditions, it is possible to grasp the hand dryer that needs cleaning. In addition, for example, by outputting information on the current soiling state to the external device 200 when an output command signal is input via the external device 200, the cleaner can easily grasp the current soiling state via the external device 200. This makes it easier for the cleaner to make an efficient cleaning plan.

[0113] 8(a) and 8(b) are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8(a), when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to both the notification unit 60 and the external device 200, the control unit 50, for example, outputs the first information to the notification unit 60 after outputting the first information to the external device 200.

[0114] More specifically, when it is determined that the main body 10 needs cleaning (step S601), the control unit 50 first outputs first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70 (step S602). When the first information is input, the external device 200 notifies that the main body 10 needs cleaning.

[0115] Next, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed (step S603). The control unit 50 repeats step S603 until the predetermined time has elapsed (step S603: No). If the predetermined time has elapsed (step S603: Yes), the control unit 50 outputs first information to the notification unit 60 (step S604). When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies that the main body unit 10 needs to be cleaned. The predetermined time is, for example, 24 hours. This allows you to schedule the cleaning the day before, so that you can clean in advance if the timing is right.

[0116] In this way, by outputting the first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70 and then outputting the first information to the notification unit 60, it is possible to notify the cleaner in advance that cleaning is required, without the user being aware of it. This allows cleaning to be completed before the user is aware of it.

[0117] As shown in FIG. 8(b), when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to both the notification unit 60 and the external device 200, the control unit 50 may, for example, output the first information to the notification unit 60 and then output the first information to the external device 200.

[0118] More specifically, when it is determined that the main body 10 needs cleaning (step S701), the control unit 50 first outputs the first information to the notification unit 60 (step S702). When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies that the main body 10 needs cleaning.

[0119] Next, the control unit 50 judges whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed (step S703). The control unit 50 repeats step S703 until the predetermined time has elapsed (step S703: No). When the predetermined time has elapsed (step S703: Yes), the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70 (step S704). When the first information is input, the external device 200 notifies that the main body unit 10 needs cleaning. The predetermined time is, for example, 12 hours. In this way, if cleaning cannot be performed in the morning, the notification is sent again when the user leaves, so that cleaning can be performed within the cleaning timing of the day.

[0120] In this way, by outputting the first information to the alarm unit 60 and then outputting the first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70, the alarm on the external device 200 can be used as a reminder alarm function that notifies the cleaner only if the hand drying device 100 continues to be used without being cleaned.

[0121] Second embodiment FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a hand dryer according to the second embodiment. 9, the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment further includes an environmental information acquisition unit 80. The configuration other than the environmental information acquisition unit 80 is the same as that of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0122] The environmental information acquisition unit 80 acquires environmental information about the surroundings of the main body unit 10. The environmental information acquisition unit 80 includes, for example, at least one of a dust sensor, a temperature sensor, and a humidity sensor. The environmental information acquisition unit 80 may be, for example, a communication unit that acquires information about the number of uses of a water faucet device provided in the vicinity of the main body unit 10. The environmental information acquisition unit 80 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The environmental information acquisition unit 80 outputs the acquired environmental information to the control unit 50.

[0123] As described above, the hand dryer sucks in air around the main body 10 and blows it out into the drying chamber 13. Therefore, the degree of dirt on the filters provided in the drying chamber 13 and the suction port 14 is related to the dust condition in the surrounding environment of the main body 10. By using a dust sensor as the environmental information acquisition unit 80, it is possible to acquire information on the dust condition in the surrounding environment. The dirt condition of the main body 10 can be determined by judging the dirt condition of the main body 10 based on the information on the dust condition in the surrounding environment.

[0124] Many bacteria prefer high temperature and humidity. Therefore, the degree of dirt on the main body 10 is related to the temperature and humidity of the surrounding environment of the main body 10. By using a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor as the environmental information acquisition unit 80, information on the temperature and humidity of the surrounding environment can be acquired. The dirt state of the main body 10 can be determined by determining the dirt state of the main body 10 based on the information on the temperature and humidity of the surrounding environment.

[0125] The hand dryer is often used after a water faucet device provided around the main body 10 has been used. Therefore, the degree of dirt on the main body 10 is related to the number of times the water faucet device provided around the main body 10 has been used. The environmental information acquisition unit 80 acquires information relating to the number of times the water faucet device provided around the main body 10 has been used, and based on this information, the dirt state of the main body 10 can be determined.

[0126] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the control unit 50 acquires environmental information from an environmental information acquisition unit 80, and determines the soiling state of the main body unit 10 based on the environmental information.

[0127] More specifically, when hand dryer 100 is powered on (that is, when power starts being applied to control unit 50), control unit 50 acquires environmental information from environmental information acquisition unit 80 (Step S801).

[0128] Next, the control unit 50 determines whether the environmental information satisfies a first environmental condition (step S802). The first environmental condition is, for example, a temperature of 25° C. or higher and 30° C. or lower and a humidity of 50% or higher and 60% or lower. The first environmental condition is, for example, a condition in which the amount of dust is greater than a threshold value (for example, 0.15 mg / m 3 The first environmental condition may be, for example, whether the number of times a faucet device provided in the vicinity of the main body 10 has been used exceeds a threshold value (e.g., 400 times). The parameters and threshold value of the first environmental condition can be set arbitrarily.

[0129] If the environmental information does not satisfy the first environmental condition (step S802: No), the control unit 50 maintains the threshold value of the first operating condition (step S803). The first operating condition is the same as that described in the first embodiment. If the environmental information does not satisfy the first environmental condition, the first operating condition is, for example, whether or not the power supply time to the control unit 50 exceeds a threshold value (for example, 2 days). If the environmental information does not satisfy the first environmental condition, the first operating condition may be, for example, whether or not the number of times the blower unit 20 is operated exceeds a threshold value (for example, 800 times). If the environmental information does not satisfy the first environmental condition, the first operating condition may be, for example, whether or not the operation time of the blower unit 20 exceeds a threshold value (for example, 2 hours).

[0130] When the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition (step S802: Yes), the control unit 50 changes the threshold value of the first operating condition (step S804). The control unit 50 changes the threshold value of the first operating condition, for example, in accordance with the surrounding environment. For example, when the control unit 50 determines that the environmental state is one in which dirt is likely to occur, the control unit 50 lowers the threshold value of the first operating condition. For example, when the control unit 50 determines that the environmental state is one in which dirt is unlikely to occur, the control unit 50 may raise the threshold value of the first operating condition. More specifically, when the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition, the first operating condition is, for example, whether or not the power supply time to the control unit 50 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, one day). When the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition, the first operating condition may be, for example, whether or not the number of times the blower unit 20 has been operated has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 400 times). When the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition, the first operating condition may be, for example, whether or not the operation time of the blower unit 20 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, one hour).

[0131] Next, the control unit 50 acquires operating information (step S805), and determines whether the operating information satisfies the first operating condition (step S806).

[0132] If the driving information satisfies the first driving condition (step S806: Yes), the control unit 50 determines whether the current driving information is similar to the past driving information stored in the storage unit 55 (step S807). Step S807 is performed in the same manner as step S103 in the first embodiment.

[0133] If it is determined that the current operating information is similar to the past operating information stored in the memory unit 55 (step S807: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning (step S808), stores the operating information in the memory unit 55 (step S809), and outputs first information indicating that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S810). Steps S808 to S810 are performed in the same manner as steps S104 to S106 in the first embodiment. When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning.

[0134] On the other hand, if it is determined that the current operating information is not similar to the past operating information stored in the memory unit 55 (step S807: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S811) and corrects the operating information (step S812). Steps S811 and S812 are performed in the same manner as steps S107 and S108 in the first embodiment. If it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 does not output the first information.

[0135] Furthermore, if the operation information does not satisfy the first operation condition (step S806: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S813). If it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 does not output the first information.

[0136] Note that step S807 is performed as necessary and can be omitted. When step S807 is omitted, if the operation information satisfies the first operation condition (step S806: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 needs to be cleaned (step S808). When step S807 is omitted, steps S809, S811, and S812 are also omitted.

[0137] 3, if the operation information does not satisfy the first operation condition (step S806: No), the control unit 50 may determine whether the operation information satisfies the second operation condition. If the operation information satisfies the second operation condition, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S807. If the operation information does not satisfy the second operation condition, the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S811). If the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition, the control unit 50 may change the threshold value of the second operation condition to suit the surrounding environment.

[0138] In this way, the degree of dirt on the main body unit 10 can be accurately determined by determining the dirt state of the main body unit 10 based on environmental information around the main body unit 10. Also, the degree of dirt on the main body unit 10 can be more accurately determined by determining the dirt state of the main body unit 10 based on the operation information and environmental information. This allows a cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at an appropriate time.

[0139] In this example, the control unit 50 determines the dirt state of the main body unit 10 by combining the environmental information and the operating information, but the control unit 50 may determine the dirt state of the main body unit 10 based on the environmental information alone. For example, the control unit 50 may determine that the main body unit 10 requires cleaning when the number of times a water faucet device provided around the main body unit 10 is used exceeds a threshold value.

[0140] 4 according to the first embodiment may be applied to the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment. That is, when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the notification unit 60, if it is determined that the main body unit 10 needs cleaning, the control unit 50 may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the blower unit 20 stopped.

[0141] The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5 may be applied to the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment. That is, the control unit 50 may reset information related to dirt on the main body unit 10 when a reset signal is input. The control unit 50 may output reminder information when the operation information satisfies a reminder condition. When the environmental information satisfies a first environmental condition, the control unit 50 may change the threshold value of the reminder condition in accordance with the surrounding environment. When the operation information satisfies an operation prohibition condition, the control unit 50 may prohibit the operation of the hand dryer 100. When the environmental information satisfies a first environmental condition, the control unit 50 may change the threshold value of the operation prohibition condition in accordance with the surrounding environment.

[0142] The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 6 may also be applied to the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment. That is, when the main body 10 is in a state where cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 may determine whether or not a state requiring cleaning is imminent, and if it is determined that a state requiring cleaning is imminent, output second information (notice information) indicating that a state requiring cleaning is imminent. When the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition, the control unit 50 may change the threshold value of the first notice condition and the threshold value of the second notice condition in accordance with the surrounding environment.

[0143] 7 may be applied to the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment. That is, the control unit 50 may output information related to the current soiling state when an output command signal is input.

[0144] 8(a) and 8(b) may be applied to the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment. That is, when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to both the notification unit 60 and the external device 200, the control unit 50 may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after outputting the first information to the external device 200, or may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after outputting the first information to the external device 200.

[0145] Third embodiment FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a hand dryer according to the third embodiment. 11, the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment further includes an optical sensor 85. The configuration other than the optical sensor 85 is the same as that of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0146] The optical sensor 85 detects optical information related to dirt on the main body 10. The optical sensor 85 includes, for example, at least one of an imaging sensor and a photoelectric sensor. The optical sensor 85 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The optical sensor 85 outputs a detection result to the control unit 50.

[0147] By using an imaging sensor as the optical sensor 85, an image showing the degree of dirt at a predetermined location of the main body 10 can be obtained, and the dirt state of the main body 10 can be determined based on this image. The imaging sensor includes, for example, at least one of a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor and a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor.

[0148] By using a photoelectric sensor as the optical sensor 85, the reflectance of a predetermined location on the main body 10 can be obtained, and the dirt state of the main body 10 can be determined based on this reflectance. The photoelectric sensor has a light-projecting unit and a light-receiving unit, and measures the reflectance of the predetermined location on the main body 10 by detecting light irradiated from the light-projecting unit and reflected at the predetermined location on the main body 10 with the light-receiving unit.

[0149] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, the control unit 50 acquires optical information from the optical sensor 85, and determines the soiling state of the main body unit 10 based on the optical information.

[0150] More specifically, when the hand dryer 100 is turned on (that is, when power starts to be applied to the control unit 50), the control unit 50 acquires optical information from the optical sensor 85 (step S901).

[0151] Next, the control unit 50 judges whether or not the optical information satisfies a first optical condition (step S902). The first optical condition is, for example, whether or not a dirt value calculated by image analysis from an image captured by an imaging sensor exceeds a threshold value (for example, 200% of the dirt value of a reference image). The reference image is, for example, an image of the same location in a state without dirt. The first optical condition may be, for example, whether or not a reflectance measured by a photoelectric sensor is less than a threshold value (for example, 60% of the reference reflectance). The reference reflectance is, for example, the reflectance of the same location in a state without dirt. The parameters and threshold value of the first optical condition can be set arbitrarily.

[0152] If the optical information satisfies the first optical condition (step S902: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning (step S903), and outputs first information indicating that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S904). Steps S903 and S904 are performed in the same manner as steps S104 and S106 in the first embodiment. When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning.

[0153] On the other hand, if the optical information does not satisfy the first optical condition (step S902: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S905). If it is determined that the main body 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 does not output the first information.

[0154] In this way, by determining the state of dirt on the main body 10 based on the optical information related to the dirt on the main body 10, it is possible to accurately determine the degree of dirt on the main body 10. This allows a cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at an appropriate time.

[0155] In this example, the control unit 50 determines the dirt state of the main body unit 10 based only on the optical information, but the control unit 50 may determine the dirt state of the main body unit 10 by combining the optical information and the driving information. The control unit 50 may also determine the dirt state of the main body unit 10 by combining the optical information and the environmental information. The control unit 50 may also determine the dirt state of the main body unit 10 by combining the optical information, the driving information, and the environmental information. By combining the optical information with other information such as the driving information, the degree of dirt of the main body unit 10 can be determined more accurately.

[0156] 4 may be applied to the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment. That is, when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the notification unit 60, if it is determined that the main body unit 10 needs cleaning, the control unit 50 may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the blower unit 20 stopped.

[0157] The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5 may be applied to the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment. That is, the control unit 50 may reset information about dirt on the main body unit 10 when a reset signal is input. The control unit 50 may output reminder information when the optical information satisfies a reminder condition. The reminder condition may be, for example, whether the dirt value exceeds a threshold value (for example, 250% of the dirt value of the reference image). The reminder condition may be, for example, whether the reflectance is less than a threshold value (for example, 50% of the reference reflectance). The control unit 50 may prohibit the operation of the hand dryer 100 when the optical information satisfies an operation prohibition condition. The operation prohibition condition may be, for example, whether the dirt value exceeds a threshold value (for example, 300% of the dirt value of the reference image). The operation prohibition condition may be, for example, whether the reflectance is less than a threshold value (for example, 40% of the reference reflectance).

[0158] The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6 may be applied to the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment. That is, when the main body 10 is in a cleaning unnecessary state, the control unit 50 may determine whether or not a cleaning-necessary state is imminent, and if it is determined that the cleaning-necessary state is imminent, output second information (notice information) indicating that the cleaning-necessary state is imminent. The first notice condition is whether or not the dirt value exceeds a threshold value (for example, 150% of the dirt value of the reference image). The first optical condition may be, for example, whether or not the reflectance is less than a threshold value (for example, 80% of the reference reflectance). The second notice condition is whether or not the dirt value exceeds a threshold value (for example, 180% of the dirt value of the reference image). The first optical condition may be, for example, whether or not the reflectance is less than a threshold value (for example, 70% of the reference reflectance).

[0159] 7 may be applied to the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment. That is, the control unit 50 may output information related to the current soiling state when an output command signal is input.

[0160] 8(a) and 8(b) may be applied to the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment. That is, when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to both the notification unit 60 and the external device 200, the control unit 50 may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after outputting the first information to the external device 200, or may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after outputting the first information to the external device 200.

[0161] As described above, according to the embodiment, a hand dryer that can be cleaned at an appropriate time is provided.

[0162] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Regarding the above-mentioned embodiments, those in which a person skilled in the art makes appropriate design changes are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they have the characteristics of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, etc. of each element of a hand dryer are not limited to those exemplified, and can be appropriately changed. In addition, each element of each of the above-mentioned embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and combinations of these are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they include the characteristics of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0163] 10 main body, 10a front, 10b rear, 10c, 10d side, 13 drying chamber, 14 intake port, 15 exhaust port, 16 air passage, 17 ventilation port, 18 water receiving tray, 20 air blower, 25 heating unit, 30 hand detection unit, 40 operation unit, 50 control unit, 55 memory unit, 60 notification unit, 70 communication unit, 80 environmental information acquisition unit, 85 Optical sensor, 100, 100A, 100B Hand dryer, 200 External device

Claims

1. A main body portion, a control unit that acquires information regarding dirt on the main body portion and determines a dirt state of the main body portion based on the information; A blower for blowing air; Equipped with The control unit acquires operation information of the hand dryer, and determines a soiling state of the main body based on the operation information; The hand dryer according to claim 1, wherein the operating information includes two or more of a power supply time to the control unit, a number of times the air blower unit is operated, and an operating time of the air blower unit.

2. A memory unit that stores past operation information, which is past operation information of the hand dryer, The hand dryer according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit determines a soiling state of the main body based on the operation information and the past operation information stored in the memory unit.

3. An environmental information acquisition unit that acquires environmental information about the surroundings of the main body unit is further provided, The hand dryer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control unit further acquires the environmental information from the environmental information acquisition unit, and determines the state of dirt in the main body unit based on the operating information and the environmental information.

4. An optical sensor for detecting optical information related to dirt on the main body portion is further provided. The hand dryer of any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the control unit further acquires the optical information from the optical sensor and determines the state of dirtiness of the main body based on the operating information and the optical information.

5. The control unit determines whether the main body unit is in a non-cleaning state where cleaning is not required or whether the main body unit is in a cleaning required state where cleaning is required, based on information regarding dirt on the main body unit; 5. The hand dryer according to claim 1, wherein the condition for the determination is changeable.

6. 6. The hand dryer according to claim 1, wherein the control unit resets information relating to dirt on the main body when a reset signal is input.

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