Water-related equipment

Abstract

To provide a water section apparatus that can improve safety.SOLUTION: A water section apparatus comprises one or more functional parts including a first functional part, and a control circuit part comprising a first overcurrent protection part for detecting an overcurrent passing through the first functional part and exceeding a first threshold value, and for stopping driving of at least a portion of the one or more functional parts when the overcurrent is detected by the first overcurrent protection part. The first overcurrent protection part has an operation mode in which the first threshold value is set to a first value in an operation state of the first functional part, and a standby mode in which the first threshold value is set to a second value smaller than the first value in a standby state of the first functional part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE Aspects of the present invention relate generally to plumbing equipment. [Background technology]

[0002] In water-related equipment such as sanitary washing devices, a configuration is known in which a leakage current breaker is provided in the power supply section of the equipment to prepare for abnormal conditions caused by short-circuit failures of loads (motors, heaters, etc.) or their drive elements (current control elements that turn current to the load on and off). The leakage current breaker operates when a current greater than a predetermined current value flows in the equipment. It is known that in electrical equipment, an overcurrent may flow to the load due to a short circuit failure, without tripping the breaker, posing a risk of overheating, etc. (Patent Document 1). To address this issue, it is possible to provide an overcurrent protection function. For example, in Patent Document 1, when a current detector that detects current flow to the load detects current flow while the current control element is turned off, a leakage current breaker is activated to cut off the current.

[0003] In conventional overcurrent protection functions, the threshold for detecting overcurrent is set to a certain degree so that the overcurrent protection function does not operate erroneously during normal operation. However, if the threshold is too high, a relatively large current may continue to flow beyond the range in which the overcurrent protection function does not operate. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-17475 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The present invention has been made based on the recognition of such problems, and has an object to provide a plumbing device capable of improving safety. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A first invention is a plumbing device comprising: one or more functional units including a first functional unit; a first overcurrent protection unit that detects an overcurrent exceeding a first threshold flowing through the first functional unit; and a control circuit unit that stops driving at least some of the one or more functional units when the overcurrent is detected by the first overcurrent protection unit, wherein the first overcurrent protection unit has an operation mode in which the first threshold is a first value when the first functional unit is in an operating state; and a standby mode in which the first threshold is a second value smaller than the first value when the first functional unit is in a standby state.

[0007] According to this plumbing device, in the standby state of the first functional unit, the threshold value of the overcurrent can be appropriately lowered from the first value to the second value, thereby preventing a relatively large current from flowing through the first functional unit. This can improve safety. For example, it is possible to prevent a current larger than the second value and smaller than the first value from flowing through the first functional unit for a long period of time, thereby suppressing heat generation. For example, since heat generation can be suppressed without providing a heat dissipation member, it is possible to suppress an increase in the size of the device. In other words, it is possible to achieve both safety and design.

[0008] A second invention is a plumbing device according to the first invention, further comprising a human body detection means for detecting a user, and the first overcurrent protection unit transitions to the standby mode when the human body detection means does not detect a human body.

[0009] According to this plumbing device, when a user is not detected, the overcurrent threshold is lowered from the first value to the second value, thereby preventing a relatively large current from flowing through the first functional unit, thereby improving safety.

[0010] A third invention is a plumbing device according to the second invention, further comprising a toilet seat provided on a toilet bowl, the human body detection means having a seating detection sensor that detects whether the user is sitting on the toilet seat, and the first overcurrent protection unit transitions to the standby mode when the seating detection sensor does not detect a person sitting on the toilet seat.

[0011] According to this plumbing device, when the user is not seated, the threshold value of the overcurrent is lowered from the first value to the second value, thereby preventing a relatively large current from flowing through the first functional unit, thereby improving safety.

[0012] A fourth invention is a plumbing device according to the second or third invention, characterized in that the standby mode continues from a predetermined time after the human body detection means has stopped detecting a human body until the next time the human body detection means detects a human body.

[0013] According to this plumbing device, when the human body detection means does not detect a human body, the overcurrent threshold can be maintained in a state where it is lowered from the first value to the second value, thereby making it possible to more effectively prevent a relatively large current from continuing to flow through the first functional unit for a long period of time.

[0014] A fifth invention is a plumbing device according to any one of the first to fourth inventions, wherein the one or more functional units further include a second functional unit, the first functional unit is a nozzle that sprays water toward a user's local areas, and the second functional unit is a flow rate adjustment unit that adjusts the flow rate of water supplied to the nozzle, the control circuit unit has a nozzle drive unit that controls the advance and retreat of the nozzle, a flow rate adjustment drive unit that controls the drive of the flow rate adjustment unit, and a second overcurrent protection unit that detects an overcurrent exceeding a second threshold flowing through the flow rate adjustment unit, and when the second overcurrent protection unit detects an overcurrent, the drive of at least a part of the one or more functional units is stopped, and the second overcurrent protection unit has an operation mode in which the second threshold is a third value in the operation state of the flow rate adjustment unit, and a standby mode in which the second threshold is a fourth value smaller than the third value in the standby state of the flow rate adjustment unit, and the first overcurrent protection unit is provided in the nozzle drive unit, and the second overcurrent protection unit is provided in the flow rate adjustment drive unit.

[0015] According to this plumbing device, each of the multiple drive units is provided with a separate overcurrent protection unit. This allows an appropriate overcurrent threshold to be set for each drive unit. Therefore, it is possible to optimize the overcurrent threshold so that the functional unit does not erroneously stop during normal operation while preventing heat generation for each drive unit.

[0016] A sixth invention is a plumbing device characterized in that, in the fifth invention, the control circuit unit has an integrated circuit that integrates the nozzle drive unit, the flow rate adjustment drive unit, the first overcurrent protection unit, and the second overcurrent protection unit.

[0017] According to this plumbing device, by integrating the components into an integrated circuit, it is possible to realize a miniaturized product.

[0018] A seventh invention is a plumbing device according to any one of the first to sixth inventions, characterized in that the first overcurrent protection unit has a switch and a current detection element connected to the first functional unit, detects the overcurrent by comparing the voltage of the current detection element with a reference voltage, and switches the first threshold value to the first value or the second value by changing the reference voltage through operation of the switch.

[0019] According to this plumbing device, the first overcurrent protection unit can switch between the operating mode and the standby mode with a simple configuration using a switch. Effect of the Invention

[0020] According to an aspect of the present invention, a plumbing device capable of improving safety is provided. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view illustrating a toilet device according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a sanitary washing device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a sanitary washing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 4(a) and 4(b) are graphs illustrating the operation of the sanitary washing device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram illustrating a part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram illustrating an overcurrent protection unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram illustrating a part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 1 is a circuit diagram illustrating a portion of a sanitary washing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram illustrating a part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram illustrating a part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] 11(a) to 11(c) are graphs illustrating the operation of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram illustrating a part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] 13(a) and 13(b) are graphs illustrating the operation of the sanitary washing device 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. The embodiment relates to a plumbing device having one or more functional units, a drive unit (drive element), and a control circuit unit. The functional unit has a load such as a motor, a heater, a solenoid valve, or an electrolytic cell. The drive unit controls the supply of electricity to the functional unit (load). The control circuit unit controls the operation of the functional unit by controlling the drive unit. Examples of such plumbing devices include toilet devices, automatic faucet devices, urinal devices, and hand dryers. The following description will be given taking a toilet device as an example of the plumbing device.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a toilet device according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the toilet device comprises a seated toilet bowl (hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, simply referred to as the "toilet bowl") 800, and a sanitary washing device 100 installed above it. The sanitary washing device 100 has a casing 400, a toilet seat 200, and a toilet lid 300. The toilet seat 200 and the toilet lid 300 are each pivotally supported on the casing 400 so as to be able to open and close freely.

[0024] The casing 400 includes a built-in private parts washing function unit that washes the private parts, such as the bottom, of the user sitting on the toilet seat 200. In addition, the casing 400 is provided with a seating detection sensor 404 that detects whether the user is sitting on the toilet seat 200.

[0025] When the seating detection sensor 404 detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 200, the user can operate an operation unit 500 (see FIG. 2), such as a remote control, to advance a pubic washing nozzle (hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, simply referred to as "nozzle") 473 into the bowl 801 of the toilet 800 or retract it from within the bowl 801. Note that the sanitary washing device 100 shown in FIG. 1 shows a state in which the nozzle 473 has advanced into the bowl 801.

[0026] The nozzle 473 discharges water (cleaning water) supplied from a water supply source toward the human private parts to clean the human private parts. A bidet cleansing water outlet 474a and a buttocks cleansing water outlet 474b are provided at the tip of the nozzle 473. The nozzle 473 can spray water from the bidet cleansing water outlet 474a provided at its tip to clean the female private parts of a woman sitting on the toilet seat 200. Alternatively, the nozzle 473 can spray water from the buttocks cleansing water outlet 474b provided at its tip to clean the "buttocks" of a user sitting on the toilet seat 200. It should be noted that the term "water" may include not only cold water but also heated hot water.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a main part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. Figure 2 shows the main components of the waterway system and electrical system. 2, the sanitary washing device 100 has a power supply circuit 401, a control circuit section 30, and a plurality of functional sections 40. These are provided inside a casing 400.

[0028] The power supply circuit 401 is connected to an AC power source (e.g., a commercial power source of AC 100V (rms value)) via an outlet plug. The power supply circuit 401 converts AC power supplied from the AC power source into DC and supplies it to each unit of the control circuit unit 30 and each functional unit 40. The power supply circuit 401 includes, for example, an AC / DC converter.

[0029] For example, an overload protection unit is provided in power supply circuit 401. When the current supplied from power supply circuit 401 to the sanitary washing device reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, the overload protection unit cuts off the passage of electricity from power supply circuit 401 to the sanitary washing device. A known configuration of an overcurrent protection circuit (e.g., a ground fault circuit interrupter) can be applied to such an overload protection unit.

[0030] The control circuit section 30 is a circuit that drives and controls the multiple functional sections 40. For convenience, the multiple drive sections 50 (see FIG. 3) and the control section 405, which will be described later, are collectively represented as the control circuit section 30. As will be described later, at least a part of the drive sections and the like included in the control circuit section 30 may be integrated and provided as an integral unit, or a part of the drive sections and the like may be provided as multiple separate circuits that are physically distributed. An example of the control circuit section 30 will be described later with reference to FIG. 3, etc.

[0031] The functional section 40 includes, for example, a solenoid valve 431, a hot water unit 440, a sterilized water unit 450, a flow rate adjustment section 471, a nozzle unit 475, an opening / closing mechanism 420, a deodorizing unit 480 (deodorizing function section), a toilet seat heating unit 482, and the like.

[0032] The sanitary washing device 100 has a water conveying section 20. The water conveying section 20 has a pipe 20a (water supply flow path) that leads from a water supply source 10, such as a water main or a water tank, to a nozzle 473. The water conveying section 20 guides water supplied from the water supply source 10 to the nozzle 473 through the pipe 20a. The pipe 20a is formed by, for example, each part, such as a solenoid valve 431, a hot water unit 440, and a flow rate adjustment section 471, and a plurality of pipes that connect these each part.

[0033] A solenoid valve 431 is provided downstream of the water supply source 10. The solenoid valve 431 is an openable and closable solenoid valve, and controls the supply of water based on a command from the control circuit unit 30 (control unit 405) provided inside the casing 400. In other words, the solenoid valve 431 opens and closes the pipe 20a. By opening the solenoid valve 431, water supplied from the water supply source 10 flows into the pipe 20a.

[0034] The solenoid valve 431 is, for example, an electromagnetic valve called a solenoid valve. When the solenoid valve 431 is switched from a closed state to an open state (when driven), the solenoid coil is energized to move the plunger and switch the flow path to an open state. When the solenoid coil is deenergized, the solenoid valve 431 is switched from the open state to the closed state (when stopped).

[0035] A hot water unit 440 (heating unit) is provided downstream of the solenoid valve 431. The hot water unit 440 has a hot water heater, and heats water supplied from the water supply source 10 by energizing the hot water heater, thereby increasing the temperature of the water, for example, to a specified temperature. That is, the hot water unit 440 generates hot water.

[0036] The hot water unit 440 is an instantaneous heating type (instantaneous type) heat exchanger using, for example, a ceramic heater. The instantaneous heating type heat exchanger can heat water to a specified temperature in a short time compared to a hot water storage heating type heat exchanger using a hot water storage tank. Note that the hot water unit 440 is not limited to an instantaneous heating type heat exchanger, and may be a hot water storage heating type heat exchanger. In addition, the heating section is not limited to a heat exchanger, and may be one using another heating method, such as one using microwave heating.

[0037] Hot water unit 440 is connected to control circuit section 30. Control section 405 controls hot water unit 440 in response to operation of operation section 500 by a user, for example, to raise the temperature of water to a temperature set by operation section 500.

[0038] A sterilized water unit 450 is provided downstream of the hot water unit 440. The sterilized water unit 450 is, for example, an electrolytic cell unit having electrodes. The sterilized water unit 450 applies a voltage between a pair of electrodes to electrolyze tap water flowing between the electrodes, thereby generating a liquid containing hypochlorous acid (sterilized water) from tap water. The sterilized water unit 450 is connected to the control circuit section 30. The sterilized water unit 450 generates sterilized water (functional water) based on the control of the control section 405.

[0039] The sterilized water generated in the sterilized water unit 450 may be, for example, a solution containing metal ions such as silver ions or copper ions. Alternatively, the sterilized water generated in the sterilized water unit 450 may be a solution containing electrolytic chlorine, ozone, or the like. The functional water generated in the sterilized water unit 450 may be acidic water or alkaline water.

[0040] A flow rate adjustment section 471 is provided downstream of sterilized water unit 450. Flow rate adjustment section 471 adjusts the flow rate (water pressure) of water supplied to nozzle 473. Flow rate adjustment section 471 is connected to control circuit section 30. The operation of flow rate adjustment section 471 is controlled by control section 405. For example, flow rate adjustment section 471 has an adjustment valve and a flow rate adjustment motor. Based on instructions from control section 405, flow rate adjustment section 471 moves the adjustment valve using the flow rate adjustment motor to change the width of the water channel and adjust the flow rate. The flow rate adjustment motor can be, for example, a stepping motor.

[0041] A nozzle unit 475 is provided downstream of the flow rate adjustment section 471. The nozzle unit 475 has a nozzle motor 476 and a nozzle 473. The nozzle motor 476 is connected to the control circuit section 30. The nozzle 473 receives a driving force from the nozzle motor 476 and advances into the bowl 801 of the toilet 800 and retreats from within the bowl 801. In other words, the nozzle motor 476 advances and retreats the nozzle 473 based on a command from the control section 405. For example, a stepping motor is used for the nozzle motor 476. The nozzle unit 475 may have a nozzle cleaning section (not shown) that cleans the outer peripheral surface (body) of the nozzle 473.

[0042] The sanitary washing device 100 may be provided with a pressure regulating valve, a check valve, a vacuum breaker, a pressure modulation unit, a flow path switching unit, a spray nozzle, and the like, which are not shown in the drawings. The pressure regulating valve and the check valve are provided, for example, between the solenoid valve 431 and the hot water unit 440. The vacuum breaker and the pressure modulation unit are provided, for example, between the sterilized water unit 450 and the flow rate adjustment unit 471. The pressure modulation unit varies the pressure of the water in the pipe 20a. The flow path switching unit is provided, for example, between the flow rate adjustment unit 471 and the nozzle unit 475. The flow path switching unit opens and closes or switches the water supply to the nozzle 473. The flow path switching unit may be provided together with the flow rate adjustment unit as one unit. The flow path switching unit switches, for example, each water outlet of the nozzle 473 between a state in which it is connected to the pipe 20a and a state in which it is not connected to the pipe 20a. The spray nozzle is provided, for example, downstream of the flow path switching unit 472. The spray nozzle sprays cleaning water or functional water into a mist onto bowl 801 .

[0043] Sanitary washing device 100 has a temperature sensor 492. Temperature sensor 492 has, for example, a thermistor (limit thermistor). Second temperature sensor 492 is provided downstream of hot water unit 440, and detects the temperature of water supplied to nozzle 473. For example, when the temperature of water supplied to the downstream side is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature based on the measurement result of temperature sensor 492, control unit 405 drives solenoid valve 431 to stop water supply to the downstream side. This can further improve the safety of the user.

[0044] 2, the sanitary washing device 100 is provided with a human body detection means 402 that detects a user of the toilet device. In this example, the human body detection means 402 has a human body detection sensor 403 and a seating detection sensor 404.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 1, the human body detection sensor 403 is embedded in a recess 409 formed on the top surface of the casing 400, for example, and detects a user (human body) located away from the toilet seat 200. In other words, the human body detection sensor 403 detects a user located near the sanitary washing device 100. In addition, a transparent window 310 is provided at the rear of the toilet lid 300. Therefore, when the toilet lid 300 is closed, the human body detection sensor 403 can detect the presence of a user through the transparent window 310. For example, a distance measuring sensor using infrared rays, a pyroelectric sensor, a microwave sensor, or the like is used as the human body detection sensor 403. However, the human body detection sensor 403 is not limited to these, and any sensor capable of detecting a user located away from the toilet seat 200 may be used.

[0046] The seating detection sensor 404 detects a human body above the toilet seat 200 immediately before the user sits on the toilet seat 200, or a user sitting on the toilet seat 200. For example, an infrared light emitting / receiving distance measuring sensor can be used as the seating detection sensor 404. Note that the seating detection sensor 404 may also be, for example, a microwave sensor or a pyroelectric sensor. The seating detection sensor 404 may also be, for example, a mechanical switch, an optical sensor, or a magnetic sensor that detects the movement of the toilet seat 200, a capacitance sensor that detects a change in capacitance due to sitting, or a piezoelectric sensor that detects a change in pressure due to sitting.

[0047] The control unit 405 controls the operation of the solenoid valve 431, the hot water unit 440, the sterilized water unit 450, the flow rate adjustment unit 471, the nozzle motor 476, the opening / closing mechanism 420, the deodorizing unit 480, the toilet seat heating unit 482, etc. based on signals from the human body detection sensor 403, the seating detection sensor 404, the operation unit 500, etc.

[0048] The opening / closing mechanism 420 drives the opening and closing of the toilet seat 200 and / or the toilet lid 300. The opening / closing mechanism 420 is composed of, for example, a motor and is connected to the control circuit unit 30. The control unit 405 controls the opening / closing mechanism 420 based on signals from the human body detection sensor 403, the seating detection sensor 404, the operation unit 500, etc., to move the toilet seat 200 and / or the toilet lid 300 to a closed position and an open position.

[0049] The deodorizing unit 480 has a deodorizing fan, and by operating the deodorizing fan, the air in the bowl 801 is sucked in, and odorous components such as feces odor contained in the sucked in air are reduced. An exhaust port 407 (FIG. 1) from the deodorizing unit 480 is provided on the side of the casing 400. The deodorizing unit 480 has a deodorizing member that uses a catalyst using, for example, activated carbon to deodorize. When the air comes into contact with the deodorizing member, odorous components such as ammonia contained in the air are adsorbed by the deodorizing member. This makes it possible to reduce odorous components contained in the air. However, the deodorizing unit 480 is not limited to the above, and may have any configuration that can deodorize the sucked in air. The deodorizing unit 480 is connected to the control circuit section 30. The control section 405 controls the drive of the deodorizing fan (motor) based on, for example, a signal from the seating detection sensor 404 or the operation section 500.

[0050] The toilet seat heating unit 482 has a toilet seat heater that heats the seating surface of the toilet seat 200. The toilet seat heater is, for example, an electric heating wire that generates heat when an electric current is passed through it. The toilet seat heater is provided, for example, in the internal space of the toilet seat 200, and heats the seating surface from the back side (the inside of the toilet seat 200). The toilet seat heating unit 482 is connected to the control circuit section 30.

[0051] The casing 400 may also be provided with various functional parts, such as a "warm air drying unit" that blows warm air toward the "bottoms" of a user sitting on the toilet seat 200 to dry them, and an "indoor heating unit." In this case, an exhaust port 408 (FIG. 1) from the indoor heating unit is appropriately provided on the side of the casing 400.

[0052] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a main part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. 3 is a diagram illustrating a portion of the configuration of the electrical system of the sanitary washing device 100, including the control circuit unit 30 and the functional unit 40. As shown in FIG. 3, the control circuit unit 30 includes a conversion circuit 70, a processing unit 72, a plurality of drive units 50, a plurality of overcurrent protection units 60, a comparator unit 74, and a control unit 405.

[0053] The conversion circuit 70 converts the power supplied from the power supply circuit 401 into DC power compatible with the control unit 405 and the processing unit 72. The conversion circuit 70 is a so-called step-down DC-DC converter. For example, the conversion circuit 70 steps down a voltage of 24 V input from the power supply circuit 401 to 5 V and outputs it to the control unit 405 and the processing unit 72. The control unit 405 and the processing unit 72 operate using the power from the conversion circuit 70.

[0054] Each of the multiple driving units 50 is connected to each of the multiple functional units 40, and controls the driving of each functional unit 40. Specifically, each driving unit 50 is a driving circuit having a driving element such as a transistor and acting as a switch. For example, the driving unit 50 is connected to the functional unit 40 and its power source. The driving unit 50 controls (e.g., on / off) the supply of power to the connected functional unit 40 based on a command from the control unit 405. For example, the driving unit 50 switches between a state (on state) in which power is supplied to the functional unit 40 to drive the functional unit 40, and a state (off state) in which the supply of power to the functional unit 40 is stopped and the functional unit 40 is not driven. In the on state, electricity is conducted between the functional unit 40 and its power source, and the functional unit 40 operates by the power from the power source. In the off state, the driving unit 50, for example, cuts off the electricity between the functional unit 40 and the power source, and the functional unit 40 stops operating. The driving section 50 may include a plurality of switching elements (transistors, etc.) and resistors, and may also include a bridge circuit (for example, an H-bridge circuit).

[0055] The multiple drive units 50 include, for example, a deodorization drive unit 51, a sterilized water drive unit 52, a nozzle drive unit 53, a flow rate adjustment drive unit 54, and an electromagnetic valve drive unit 55. The deodorization driving section 51 is connected to the deodorization unit 480, and controls the driving of the deodorization fan (motor) of the deodorization unit 480 based on a signal from the control section 405. The sterilized water driving section 52 is connected to the sterilized water unit 450 and controls the driving of the sterilized water unit 450, that is, the supply of electricity to the electrodes, based on a signal from the control section 405. The nozzle driving section 53 is connected to the nozzle unit 475 , and controls the driving of the nozzle motor 476 of the nozzle unit 475 , that is, the advancement and retreat of the nozzle 473 , based on a signal from the control section 405 . The flow rate adjustment drive unit 54 is connected to the flow rate adjustment unit 471 , and controls the driving of the flow rate adjustment motor of the flow rate adjustment unit 471 based on a signal from the control unit 405 . The solenoid valve driving unit 55 is connected to the solenoid valve 431 and controls the driving of the solenoid valve 431, that is, the supply of electricity to the solenoid coil, based on a signal from the control unit 405 or the comparator unit 74.

[0056] The temperature sensor 492 (limit thermistor) is connected to the comparator unit 74 and the control unit 405. The measurement result of the temperature sensor 492 is output to the comparator unit 74 and the control unit 405. If the detected water temperature is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature based on the output from the temperature sensor 492, the control unit 405 controls the solenoid valve driving unit 55 to close the solenoid valve 431. The comparator unit 74 has a comparator and compares the output from the temperature sensor 492 with a predetermined threshold value. This determines whether the detected water temperature is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature. If the detected water temperature is equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature, the comparator unit 74 controls the solenoid valve driving unit 55 to close the solenoid valve 431 and maintains that state. Even if a malfunction occurs in either the comparator unit 74 or the control unit 405, the solenoid valve 431 can be closed based on a signal from the other. This can further improve safety.

[0057] The control unit 405 is, for example, a calculation device including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory, and an integrated circuit such as a microcomputer is used. The processing unit 72 has, for example, a logic circuit. The processing unit 72 is connected to the control unit 405, the deodorizing driving unit 51, the sterilizing water driving unit 52, the nozzle driving unit 53, and the flow rate adjustment driving unit 54. Communication is performed between the control unit 405 and the driving unit 50 connected to the processing unit 72 via the processing unit 72.

[0058] For example, synchronous serial communication is used for communication between the control unit 405 and the processing unit 72. The control unit 405 transmits a clock signal and a data signal to the processing unit 72, for example.

[0059] Processing unit 72 has a register. The register stores commands that instruct the operation of drive unit 50 (operation of function unit 40) connected to processing unit 72. For example, the register stores commands such as turning on / off the deodorizing fan, advancing / retracting the nozzle, and increasing / decreasing the flow rate.

[0060] The control unit 405 transmits and receives a signal including command information to and from the processing unit 72. The processing unit 72 performs logical operations on the signal from the control unit 405 and transmits a signal corresponding to the command to the driving unit 50 corresponding to the command. As a result, the control unit 405 controls the driving of the functional unit 40 by controlling the driving unit 50 via the processing unit 72.

[0061] The register also stores commands corresponding to the states of the functional unit 40 and the driving unit 50 (e.g., malfunctions such as open, short, overheat, and overcurrent). This enables the processing unit 72 to notify the control unit 405 of malfunctions of the functional unit 40 and the driving unit 50.

[0062] In the embodiment, it is not necessary to provide the processing unit 72. For example, the control unit 405 may be configured to communicate with each of the driving units 50 and each of the overcurrent protection units 60 without the intervention of the processing unit 72.

[0063] Each of the multiple overcurrent protection units 60 is connected to each of the multiple drive units 50. Each overcurrent protection unit 60 detects an overcurrent (current exceeding a threshold) flowing through the connected drive unit 50. That is, each overcurrent protection unit 60 detects an overcurrent flowing through the functional unit 40 to which the drive unit 50 is connected. When each overcurrent protection unit 60 detects an overcurrent, it transmits abnormality detection information indicating that an overcurrent is occurring to the control unit 405 via the processing unit 72. Then, when the control unit 405 receives the abnormality detection information from each overcurrent protection unit 60, it controls the multiple drive units 50 to stop driving at least a part of the multiple functional units 40. For example, the control unit 405 controls the drive unit 50 to which the overcurrent protection unit 60 that detected the overcurrent is connected to stop driving the functional unit 40 to which the drive unit 50 is connected.

[0064] For example, the overcurrent protection unit 60 (first overcurrent protection unit 60a) provided in the nozzle drive unit 53 detects an overcurrent exceeding a threshold value flowing through the nozzle drive unit 53. That is, the first overcurrent protection unit 60a detects an overcurrent exceeding a threshold value (first threshold value) flowing through the nozzle unit 475. Then, when the first overcurrent protection unit 60a detects an overcurrent, the control unit 405 stops driving at least a part of the multiple functional units 40. For example, the control unit 405 controls the nozzle drive unit 53 to stop driving the nozzle unit 475 (first functional unit). For example, the overcurrent protection unit 60 (second overcurrent protection unit 60b) provided in the flow rate adjustment drive unit 54 detects an overcurrent exceeding a threshold flowing through the flow rate adjustment drive unit 54. That is, the second overcurrent protection unit 60b detects an overcurrent exceeding a threshold (second threshold) flowing through the flow rate adjustment unit 471. Then, when the second overcurrent protection unit 60b detects an overcurrent, the control unit 405 stops driving at least a part of the multiple functional units 40. For example, the control unit 405 controls the flow rate adjustment drive unit 54 to stop driving the flow rate adjustment unit 471 (second functional unit). For example, the overcurrent protection unit 60 (third overcurrent protection unit 60c) provided in the deodorization driving unit 51 detects an overcurrent exceeding a threshold value flowing through the deodorization driving unit 51. That is, the third overcurrent protection unit 60c detects an overcurrent exceeding a threshold value (third threshold value) flowing through the deodorization unit 480. Then, when the third overcurrent protection unit 60c detects an overcurrent, the control unit 405 stops driving at least a part of the multiple functional units 40. For example, the control unit 405 controls the deodorization driving unit 51 to stop driving the deodorization unit 480 (third functional unit). For example, overcurrent protection unit 60 (fourth overcurrent protection unit 60d) provided in sterilized water drive unit 52 detects an overcurrent exceeding a threshold value flowing through sterilized water drive unit 52. That is, fourth overcurrent protection unit 60d detects an overcurrent exceeding a threshold value (fourth threshold value) flowing through sterilized water unit 450. Then, when fourth overcurrent protection unit 60d detects an overcurrent, control unit 405 stops driving at least a part of the multiple functional units 40. For example, control unit 405 controls sterilized water drive unit 52 to stop driving sterilized water unit 450 (fourth functional unit).

[0065] In this example, the first to fourth functional units are the nozzle unit 475, the flow rate adjustment unit 471, the deodorization unit 480, and the sterilized water unit 450, respectively, but the embodiment is not limited to this. Each of the first to fourth functional units may be any functional unit included in the plumbing equipment. Also, each of the first to fourth overcurrent protection units 60a to 60d is an overcurrent protection unit 60 provided in each of the first to fourth functional units. The overcurrent protection unit 60 does not necessarily have to be provided in all of the multiple functional units 40 included in the plumbing equipment.

[0066] In the embodiment, each overcurrent protection unit 60 has an operation mode and a standby mode. In the operation mode, the threshold value of the overcurrent is set to a predetermined value in the operation state of the functional unit 40 to which the overcurrent protection unit 60 is connected. In the standby mode, the threshold value of the overcurrent is set to a value smaller than the predetermined value in the operation mode in the standby state of the functional unit 40.

[0067] For example, the first overcurrent protection unit 60a has an operation mode in which the overcurrent threshold (first threshold) is a predetermined value (first value) when the nozzle unit 475 is in an operation state, and a standby mode in which the overcurrent threshold (first threshold) is a value (second value) smaller than the predetermined value in the operation mode when the nozzle unit 475 is in a standby state. For example, the second overcurrent protection unit 60b has an operation mode in which the overcurrent threshold (second threshold) is set to a predetermined value (third value) when the flow rate adjustment unit 471 is in an operation state, and a standby mode in which the overcurrent threshold (second threshold) is set to a value (fourth value) smaller than the predetermined value in the operation mode when the flow rate adjustment unit 471 is in a standby state. For example, the third overcurrent protection unit 60c has an operation mode in which the overcurrent threshold (third threshold) is a predetermined value when the deodorization unit 480 is in an operation state, and a standby mode in which the overcurrent threshold (third threshold) is a value smaller than the predetermined value in the operation mode when the deodorization unit 480 is in a standby state. For example, the fourth overcurrent protection unit 60d has an operation mode in which the overcurrent threshold (fourth threshold) is a predetermined value when the sterilized water unit 450 is in operation, and a standby mode in which the overcurrent threshold (fourth threshold) is a value smaller than the predetermined value in the operation mode when the sterilized water unit 450 is in standby.

[0068] The standby state of the functional unit 40 refers to, for example, a state in which the function of the functional unit 40 is not being used. For example, the standby state is at least a part of a state in which the control unit 405 controls the drive unit 50 to cut off the power supply to the load of the functional unit 40.

[0069] More specifically, the standby state of nozzle unit 475 is, for example, a state in which control unit 405 controls nozzle drive unit 53 to cut off current to nozzle motor 476. The standby state of flow rate adjustment unit 471 is, for example, a state in which control unit 405 controls flow rate adjustment drive unit 54 to cut off current to the flow rate adjustment motor. The standby state of deodorization unit 480 is, for example, a state in which control unit 405 controls deodorization drive unit 51 to cut off current to the deodorization fan (motor). The standby state of sterilized water unit 450 is, for example, a state in which control unit 405 controls sterilized water drive unit 52 to cut off current to the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit.

[0070] For example, a state in which the human body detection means 402 does not detect (detect) a user can be set as a standby state. In this case, each overcurrent protection unit 60 transitions to a standby mode when the human body detection means 402 (e.g., the human body detection sensor 403) does not detect a human body.

[0071] Alternatively, the state in which the seating detection sensor 404 does not detect a user sitting can be set as the standby state. In this case, each overcurrent protection unit 60 transitions to the standby mode when the seating detection sensor does not detect a user sitting.

[0072] The operating state of the functional unit 40 refers to a state in which the functional unit 40 is not in a standby state (non-standby state). For example, the operating state is a state in which the control unit 405 controls the driving unit 50 so as to energize the load of the functional unit 40. For example, a state in which the human body detection means 402 detects a user can be set as the operating state.

[0073] 4(a) and 4(b) are graphs illustrating the operation of the sanitary washing device. The vertical axis of Fig. 4(a) and Fig. 4(b) represents the current value (A) in one of the driving parts (e.g., the nozzle driving part) of the sanitary washing device. Fig. 4(a) shows a reference example in which the overcurrent protection part connected to the driving part does not have a standby mode, and Fig. 4(b) shows an embodiment in which the overcurrent protection part connected to the driving part (e.g., the first overcurrent protection part 60a) has an operating mode and a standby mode. The horizontal axis of Fig. 4(a) and Fig. 4(b) represents seconds (s).

[0074] From time T0 to time T1 and from time T2 to time T3, the functional unit 40 is in an operating state. In this operating state, in the case of normal operation where no abnormality such as a short circuit occurs, that is, in the normal operation region A1 in the figure, a current equal to or less than the value In flows.

[0075] The overcurrent threshold in the operation mode of each overcurrent protection unit 60 is set to a value larger than the current during normal operation when no abnormality occurs. If an abnormality such as a short circuit occurs and a current equal to or greater than a value Ia larger than a value In flows, that is, in the overload protection region A2 in the figure, the overcurrent protection unit 60 detects the overcurrent, and the control unit 405 stops driving the functional unit 40. The overcurrent threshold in the operation mode is, for example, about 1 to 2 A.

[0076] Furthermore, when a current equal to or greater than a value Ip larger than value Ia flows, that is, in an overload protection area A3 in the figure, an overload protection unit provided in power supply circuit 401 cuts off the flow of electricity.

[0077] The functional unit 40 is in a standby state from time T1 to time T2. If no abnormality occurs at this time, only a small leakage current due to the driving element etc. flows in the driving unit 50. This leakage current is sufficiently smaller than the value In.

[0078] Insensitive area A4 is an area where overcurrent protection does not work. In the example of Fig. 4(a), an area where a current larger than value In and smaller than value Ia flows is insensitive area A4.

[0079] In the example of Fig. 4(b), at times T0-T1 and T2-T3, the overcurrent protection unit 60 is in the operating mode, and the overcurrent threshold is a value Ia. On the other hand, in the standby state at times T1-T2, the overcurrent protection unit 60 transitions to the standby mode, and the overcurrent threshold is a value Ib smaller than the value Ia. As a result, at times T1-T2, the region larger than the value Ib becomes the overload protection region A2 where the overcurrent protection unit 60 detects an overcurrent. That is, in the case of Fig. 4(b), the overload protection region A2 is expanded and the insensitive region A4 is reduced compared to the case of Fig. 4(a).

[0080] The overcurrent threshold in the standby mode of each overcurrent protection unit 60 may be set to a value that can detect a current that exceeds the leakage current that flows in the standby state when no abnormality occurs. The overcurrent threshold in the standby mode is, for example, about 0.5 to 1 A.

[0081] For example, if the load is completely shorted, a large current of value Ia or Ip or more will flow, and the overcurrent protection will be activated. On the other hand, depending on the failure mode of the load, an overcurrent larger than the normal value In but smaller than the value Ia may flow. If such an overcurrent continues to flow for a long period of time, there is a risk of the element overheating.

[0082] In contrast, in the embodiment, the first overcurrent protection unit 60a has an operation mode in which the overcurrent threshold is a first value in the operation state of the first functional unit, and a standby mode in which the overcurrent threshold is a second value smaller than the first value in the standby state of the first functional unit. In the standby state (non-operating), the overcurrent threshold is appropriately lowered from the first value to the second value, thereby preventing a relatively large current from flowing through the first functional unit. This can improve safety. In addition, it is possible to prevent a current larger than the second value and smaller than the first value from flowing through the first functional unit for a long period of time, thereby suppressing heat generation.

[0083] In particular, in recent water-related equipment such as sanitary washing devices, not only is it difficult to set the overcurrent threshold due to the increasing number of functions, but there is also a demand for miniaturization of the equipment itself, so that the driving element and the product outer casing are close to each other, and there is a risk that holes will be formed in the product outer casing due to heat generated by the driving element. To prevent such a situation, it is possible to provide a heat dissipation means (for example, a heat dissipation member such as a heat sink), but this would result in an increase in the size of the equipment. In other words, it is becoming difficult to achieve both safety and design. In contrast, according to the embodiment, for example, heat generation can be suppressed without providing a heat dissipation member, so that the size of the equipment can be suppressed. In other words, it is possible to achieve both safety and design.

[0084] As already described, the overcurrent protection unit 60 transitions to the standby mode when the human body detection means 402 does not detect a human body, for example, when the seating detection sensor 404 does not detect a seated person. This makes it possible to prevent a relatively large current from flowing to the functional unit when the user is not detected, for example, when the user is not seated. This makes it possible to further improve safety.

[0085] For example, the standby mode continues from a predetermined time after the human body detection means 402 (human body detection sensor 403 or seating detection sensor 404) has stopped detecting a human body until the human body detection means 402 detects a human body again. This makes it possible to maintain a state in which the overcurrent threshold is lowered while the human body detection means 402 is not detecting a human body. This makes it possible to more effectively prevent a relatively large current from continuing to flow through the functional unit for a long period of time.

[0086] For example, the standby mode continues from a predetermined time after the user leaves the seat until the next time the user sits down. Alternatively, the standby mode continues from a predetermined time after the user leaves the room until the next time the user sits down. Here, the predetermined time is, for example, 60 seconds or more and 120 seconds or less, and is about 90 seconds.

[0087] In the embodiment, each of the multiple drive units 50 is provided with a separate overcurrent protection unit 60. Specifically, in the example of FIG. 3, the nozzle drive unit 53 is provided with a first overcurrent protection unit 60a, the flow rate adjustment drive unit 54 is provided with a second overcurrent protection unit 60b, the deodorization drive unit 51 is provided with a third overcurrent protection unit 60c, and the sterilizing water drive unit 52 is provided with a fourth overcurrent protection unit 60d. This allows an appropriate overcurrent threshold to be set for each drive unit 50. Therefore, the overcurrent threshold can be optimized to prevent heat generation for each drive unit 50 while preventing the functional unit 40 from erroneously stopping during normal operation.

[0088] In this example, as shown in FIG. 3, the control circuit section 30 includes an integrated circuit 32. In the embodiment, at least the nozzle driving section 53, the flow rate adjustment driving section 54, the first overcurrent protection section 60a, and the second overcurrent protection section 60b among the multiple driving sections 50 are integrated into the integrated circuit 32. In this example, the conversion circuit 70, the processing section 72, the deodorizing driving section 51, the sterilizing water driving section 52, the third overcurrent protection section 60c, the fourth overcurrent protection section 60d, and the comparator section 74 are further integrated into the integrated circuit 32. The integrated circuit 32 is an IC in which multiple circuits are integrated into one package. For example, the integrated circuit 32 is an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) and is one IC chip (semiconductor chip). The circuit area can be reduced by integrating the multiple driving sections 50 and the like. By integrating them into an integrated circuit, the dead space is reduced compared to when each driving section 50 and each overcurrent protection section 60 are provided in separate locations, and the overall product can be made smaller.

[0089] FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram illustrating a part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. 5 shows an example of the configuration of the functional unit 40, the driving unit 50, and the overcurrent protection unit 60. In this example, a field effect transistor R2 (MOSFET) is used for the driving unit 50. The field effect transistor R2 is connected in series with the load of the functional unit 40. The overcurrent protection unit 60 has a transistor R1 (MOSFET) and a resistor R3 for current detection as a current detection element. The transistor R1 and the resistor R3 are connected in parallel with the transistor R2. The transistor R1 and the resistor R3 are also connected in series.

[0090] The transistor R1 and the field effect transistor R2 are turned on and off based on a command from the control unit 405. For example, when the transistor R1 and the field effect transistor R2 are turned on at the same time, the load is energized. At this time, a current Iout flows through the load. Depending on the magnitude of the current Iout flowing through the load, a current I1 and a current I2 flow through the transistor R1 and the field effect transistor R2, respectively. When the current I1 flows through the transistor R1 and the resistor R3, the voltage of the node N1 between the transistor R1 and the resistor R3 changes. By detecting this voltage, it is possible to detect an overcurrent of the current Iout flowing through the functional unit 40 or an overcurrent of the current I2 flowing through the driving unit 50.

[0091] FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram illustrating the overcurrent protection unit. 6 shows an example of the configuration of the overcurrent protection unit 60. In this example, the overcurrent protection unit 60 further includes a comparator C1, a resistor R4, a resistor R5, and a switch SW1 and a switch SW2. The switches SW1 and SW2 include, for example, transistors. The on / off of the switches SW1 and SW2 is controlled, for example, by the control unit 405. The value of the resistor R4 is different from the value of the resistor R5. For example, the value of the resistor R4 is greater than the value of the resistor R5.

[0092] The negative input terminal IN2 of the comparator C1 is connected to the node N1. As described above, the current I1 flows through the transistor R1 and the resistor R3. Furthermore, the current IREF flows through the resistor R3.

[0093] The positive input terminal IN1 of the comparator C1 is connected to a resistor R4 via a switch SW1, and is connected to a resistor R5 via a switch SW2. The resistors R4 and R5 are connected in parallel.

[0094] In the operating state of the functional unit 40, the switch SW1 is turned on and the switch SW2 is turned off. That is, in the operating mode of the overcurrent protection unit 60, the switch SW1 is turned on and the switch SW2 is turned off. At this time, a current IREF flows through the switch SW1 and the resistor R4.

[0095] On the other hand, in the standby state of the functional unit 40, the switch SW1 is turned off and the switch SW2 is turned on. That is, in the standby mode of the overcurrent protection unit 60, the switch SW1 is turned off and the switch SW2 is turned on. At this time, a current I flows through the switch SW2 and the resistor R5.

[0096] The voltage of the positive input terminal IN1 of the comparator C1 changes by controlling the on / off of the switches SW1 and SW2. That is, the voltage of the positive input terminal IN1 in the standby mode and the voltage of the positive input terminal IN1 in the operating mode are different from each other.

[0097] The comparator C1 compares the voltage at the positive input terminal IN1 with the voltage at the negative input terminal IN2, and outputs a signal according to the comparison. When an overcurrent occurs in the functional unit 40 and the driving unit 50, the voltage of the current detection element, i.e., the voltage at the negative input terminal IN2, changes, and the output signal of the comparator C1 changes. Therefore, the output signal of the comparator C1 can detect an overcurrent.

[0098] For example, the output signal of the comparator C1 detects that the voltage at the negative input terminal IN2 is greater than the voltage at the positive input terminal IN1. In this case, it can be determined that the current I1 flowing through the resistor R3 is large and an overcurrent is flowing through the load of the functional unit 40 and the drive unit 50.

[0099] In other words, the voltage at the positive input terminal IN1 is set as the reference voltage, and an overcurrent can be detected by the magnitude of the voltage of the current detection element relative to the reference voltage. By changing the reference voltage, the overcurrent threshold can be changed. As already mentioned, this reference voltage is set to different values ​​in the standby mode and the operating mode by controlling the on / off of the switches SW1 and SW2.

[0100] As described above, the overcurrent protection unit 60 detects an overcurrent by comparing the voltage of the current detection element with the reference voltage. The overcurrent protection unit 60 changes the reference voltage by using a switch, thereby changing the overcurrent threshold.

[0101] For example, the first overcurrent protection unit 60a has switches SW1 and SW2 and a current detection element connected to the first functional unit. The first overcurrent protection unit 60a can detect an overcurrent flowing through the first functional unit (and the drive unit 50 of the first functional unit) by comparing the voltage of the current detection element with a reference voltage. The first overcurrent protection unit 60a changes the reference voltage by the operation of the switches SW1 and SW2, thereby switching the overcurrent threshold (first threshold) between a first value and a second value. In this way, according to the embodiment, it is possible to switch between an operating mode and a standby mode with a simple configuration using switches.

[0102] FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram illustrating a part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. 7 shows another example of the configuration of the functional unit 40, the driving unit 50, and the overcurrent protection unit 60. In this example, similar to the example described with reference to FIG. 5, the transistor R1 and resistor R3, which are current detection elements of the overcurrent protection unit 60, are connected in parallel with the field effect transistor R2 of the driving unit 50. By detecting the voltage of the current detection element (the voltage of a node N1 between the transistor R1 and resistor R3), it is possible to detect an overcurrent flowing in the functional unit 40 or an overcurrent flowing in the driving unit 50.

[0103] In this example, the node N1 is connected to the processing unit 72, and the voltage of the node N1 is input to the processing unit 72. The processing unit 72 converts the input analog voltage into a digital value by AD conversion. The processing unit 72 compares the voltage of the node N1 (the value obtained by AD converting the voltage of the node N1) with a reference voltage (a threshold value corresponding to the value obtained by AD converting the reference voltage) and detects an overcurrent based on the magnitude of the comparison. If the voltage of the node N1 is greater than the reference voltage (threshold value), it can be determined that an overcurrent is flowing through the load of the functional unit 40 and the driving unit 50. This reference voltage is stored in the processing unit 72, for example, and the threshold value of the overcurrent can be changed by changing the reference voltage. The processing unit 72 sets the reference voltage to different values ​​in the standby mode and the operation mode.

[0104] The control unit 405 transmits a state signal indicating whether the functional unit 40 is in a standby state or an operating state to the processing unit 72. The processing unit 72 changes the reference voltage based on the state signal. The processing unit 72 differentiates the reference voltage when the functional unit 40 is in a standby state from the reference voltage when the functional unit 40 is in an operating state. This makes it possible to set the threshold value of an overcurrent of the functional unit 40 to a predetermined value in the operating state and to a value in the standby state that is smaller than the predetermined value in the operating state.

[0105] In this way, the processing unit 72 may have a function as a switch for switching a reference voltage (i.e., an overcurrent threshold) and a function for comparing and judging the magnitude between the reference voltage and the voltage of the current detection element. In this case, a part of the processing unit 72 (a functional block of the processing unit 72 for switching the overcurrent threshold and comparing the threshold and the voltage of the current detection element) may be regarded as a part of the overcurrent protection unit 60. That is, for example, the first overcurrent protection unit 60a has a part of the processing unit 72 that is a switch and a current detection element connected to the first functional unit, and detects an overcurrent by comparing the voltage of the current detection element with the reference voltage. At this time, the first overcurrent protection unit 60a changes the reference voltage by the operation of the switch, thereby setting the overcurrent threshold (first threshold) to a first value in the operation mode and switching it to a second value in the standby mode.

[0106] When the processing unit 72 determines that an overcurrent is flowing through the load of the functional unit 40 or the driving unit 50, for example, the processing unit 72 transmits a cutoff signal to the driving unit 50 to stop driving the load.

[0107] FIG. 8 is a circuit diagram illustrating a portion of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. 8 shows another example of the configuration of the functional unit 40, the driving unit 50, and the overcurrent protection unit 60. In this example, similar to the example described with reference to FIG. 5, the transistor R1 and resistor R3, which are current detection elements of the overcurrent protection unit 60, are connected in parallel with the field effect transistor R2 of the driving unit 50. By detecting the voltage of the current detection element (the voltage of a node N1 between the transistor R1 and resistor R3), it is possible to detect an overcurrent flowing in the functional unit 40 or an overcurrent flowing in the driving unit 50.

[0108] In this example, the overcurrent protection unit 60 further includes a comparator C2, a comparator C3, a resistor R6, a resistor R7, and a resistor R8. The resistor R6, the resistor R7, the resistor R8, the resistor R3, and the node N1 are connected in series in this order.

[0109] The negative input terminal IN4 of the comparator C2 and the negative input terminal IN6 of the comparator C3 are connected to the node N1. A current I1 flows through the transistor R1 and the resistor R3.

[0110] The positive input terminal IN3 of the comparator C2 is connected between resistors R6 and R7. The positive input terminal IN5 of the comparator C3 is connected between resistors R7 and R8. A current IREF flows through the resistor R6 toward the resistors R7 and R8. For example, the potential of the positive input terminal IN3 of the comparator C2 is higher than the potential of the positive input terminal IN5 of the comparator C3.

[0111] The comparator C2 compares the voltage of the positive input terminal IN3 with the voltage of the negative input terminal IN4, and outputs an output signal S2 according to the comparison to the processing unit 72. When a current larger than a predetermined value (for example, a first value) flows through the functional unit 40 and the driving unit 50, the voltage of the current detection element, i.e., the voltage of the negative input terminal IN4, changes, and the output signal S2 of the comparator C1 changes. Therefore, a current larger than a predetermined value (for example, a first value) can be detected by the output signal S2 of the comparator C2. That is, the voltage of the positive input terminal IN3 is set as a reference voltage, and an overcurrent can be detected by the magnitude of the voltage of the current detection element relative to the reference voltage. For example, when the processing unit 72 detects that the voltage of the negative input terminal IN4 is larger than the voltage of the positive input terminal IN3 based on the output signal S2, it can determine that an overcurrent larger than a predetermined value (for example, a first value) flows through the functional unit 40 and the driving unit 50.

[0112] The comparator C3 compares the voltage of the positive input terminal IN5 with the voltage of the negative input terminal IN6, and outputs an output signal S3 according to the comparison to the processing unit 72. When a current larger than a predetermined value (for example, a second value smaller than the first value) flows through the functional unit 40 and the driving unit 50, the voltage of the current detection element, i.e., the voltage of the negative input terminal IN6, changes, and the output signal S3 of the comparator C3 changes. Therefore, the output signal S3 of the comparator C3 can detect a current larger than a predetermined value (for example, a second value). In other words, the voltage of the positive input terminal IN5 is set as a reference voltage, and an overcurrent can be detected based on the magnitude of the voltage of the current detection element relative to the reference voltage. For example, when the processing unit 72 detects that the voltage of the negative input terminal IN6 is larger than the voltage of the positive input terminal IN5 based on the output signal S3, it can determine that an overcurrent larger than a predetermined value (for example, a second value) flows through the functional unit 40 and the driving unit 50.

[0113] In this way, the processing unit 72 can detect currents of different magnitudes by the output signal S2 and the output signal S3. The processing unit 72 selects either the output signal S2 or the output signal S3. When the processing unit 72 selects the output signal S2, it determines that an overcurrent is flowing through the load of the functional unit 40 and the drive unit 50 when a current greater than a predetermined value (e.g., a first value) is detected based on the output signal S2. When the processing unit 72 selects the output signal S3, it determines that an overcurrent is flowing through the load of the functional unit 40 and the drive unit 50 when a current greater than a predetermined value (e.g., a second value) is detected based on the output signal S3.

[0114] That is, the processing unit 72 can change the overcurrent threshold by selecting the output signal S2 and the output signal S3. In other words, the processing unit 72 can change the overcurrent threshold by using either the voltage of the positive input terminal IN3 or the voltage of the positive input terminal IN5 as the reference voltage. The processing unit 72 selects the output signal S2 in the operation mode and the output signal S3 in the standby mode, thereby setting the reference voltage to different values ​​in the standby mode and the operation mode.

[0115] The control unit 405 transmits a state signal indicating whether the functional unit 40 is in a standby state or an operating state to the processing unit 72. The processing unit 72 changes the reference voltage based on the state signal, i.e., selects either the output signal S2 or the output signal S3. This allows the threshold value of the overcurrent of the functional unit 40 to be a predetermined value in the operating state and a value smaller than the predetermined value in the operating state in the standby state.

[0116] In this way, the processing unit 72 may have a function of selecting either the output signal S2 or the output signal S3, that is, a function as a switch for switching a reference voltage, or a function of judging an overcurrent based on the output signal S2 or S3. In this case, a part of the processing unit 72 (a functional block of the processing unit 72 for switching the overcurrent threshold and judging an overcurrent) may be regarded as a part of the overcurrent protection unit 60. That is, for example, the first overcurrent protection unit 60a has a part of the processing unit 72 that is a switch, and a current detection element connected to the first functional unit. In this example, the first overcurrent protection unit 60a also detects an overcurrent by comparing the voltage of the current detection element with a reference voltage. At this time, the first overcurrent protection unit 60a changes the reference voltage by the operation of the switch, thereby setting the overcurrent threshold (first threshold) to a first value in the operation mode and switching it to a second value in the standby mode.

[0117] When it is determined that an overcurrent is flowing through the load of the functional unit 40 or the drive unit 50, for example, the processing unit 72 transmits a cutoff signal to the drive unit 50 to stop driving the load.

[0118] FIG. 9 is a circuit diagram illustrating a part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. 9 shows another example of the configuration of the functional unit 40, the drive unit 50, and the overcurrent protection unit 60. In this example, similar to the example described with reference to FIG. 5, the transistor R1 and resistor R3, which are current detection elements of the overcurrent protection unit 60, are connected in parallel with the field effect transistor R2 of the drive unit 50. By detecting the voltage of the current detection element (the voltage of a node N1 between the transistor R1 and resistor R3), it is possible to detect an overcurrent flowing in the functional unit 40 or an overcurrent flowing in the drive unit 50.

[0119] Also in this example, similarly to the example described with reference to FIG. 6, the overcurrent protection unit 60 includes a comparator C1, a resistor R4, a resistor R5, a switch SW1, and a switch SW2. By controlling the on / off of the switches SW1 and SW2, the threshold value of the overcurrent is changed between the standby mode and the operating mode, and the overcurrent is detected by the output signal of the comparator C1. In this example, the switch SW1 is a field effect transistor Tr1, and the switch SW2 is a field effect transistor Tr2.

[0120] The control unit 405 has, for example, a port P. The port P of the control unit 405 is connected to the gate of the field effect transistor R2 via a resistor r1. The gate of the field effect transistor R2 is connected to a common potential GND via a resistor r2. The control unit 405 can turn the field effect transistor R2 on and off by inputting a signal from the port P to the gate of the field effect transistor R2.

[0121] Port P of the control unit 405 is connected to the gate of the field effect transistor Tr1 via resistor r3. The gate of the field effect transistor Tr1 is connected to the common potential GND via resistor r4. When the control unit 405 transmits a signal to turn on the field effect transistor R2 from port P, the field effect transistor Tr1 is turned on. When the control unit 405 transmits a signal to turn off the field effect transistor R2 from port P, the field effect transistor Tr1 is turned off.

[0122] A port P of the control unit 405 is connected to a predetermined voltage V (e.g., a power supply voltage) via resistors r7 and r8 connected in series. A base of a transistor Tr3 is connected between the resistors r7 and r8. An emitter of the transistor Tr3 is connected to the predetermined voltage V, and a collector of the transistor Tr3 is connected to a gate of a field effect transistor Tr2 via a resistor r5. In addition, a gate of the field effect transistor Tr2 is connected to a common potential GND via a resistor r6. When the control unit 405 transmits a signal to turn on the field effect transistor R2 from the port P, the field effect transistor Tr2 is turned off. When the control unit 405 transmits a signal to turn off the field effect transistor R2 from the port P, the field effect transistor Tr2 is turned on.

[0123] In an embodiment, the port for controlling the driving unit 50 and the port for switching the threshold value of the overcurrent may be linked. That is, for example, in the example shown in FIG. 9, the port P is a port for transmitting an on / off control signal for the field effect transistor R2 of the driving unit 50, and is also a port for transmitting an on / off control signal for the switches SW1 and SW2. As a result, the threshold value of the overcurrent is switched in conjunction with the on / off of the driving unit 50, so that the period during which a relatively small current (for example, a current equal to or less than a first value) cannot be detected can be shortened, and safety can be further improved. When an overcurrent is detected, a shutoff signal for stopping the driving of the load is transmitted to the driving unit 50 according to the output of the comparator C1.

[0124] As described above, in the embodiment, at least a part of the state in which the human body detection means 402 does not detect a user (e.g., sitting) can be set as the standby state of the functional unit 40. For example, the overcurrent protection unit 60 transitions to a standby mode with a low overcurrent threshold after a predetermined time (e.g., about 90 seconds) has elapsed since the human body detection means 402 transitioned to a state in which the human body detection means 402 does not detect a human body. However, in this case, during the predetermined time from when the human body detection means 402 transitioned to a state in which the human body detection means 402 does not detect a user until the transition to the standby mode, the operation mode with a high threshold continues, so that a relatively small current (e.g., a current equal to or less than a first value) cannot be detected. In contrast, in the example of FIG. 9, the port for controlling the drive unit 50 and the port for switching the overcurrent threshold are linked. This makes it possible to shorten the period in which a relatively small current cannot be detected, thereby further improving safety.

[0125] On the other hand, a method of switching between the standby mode and the operation mode based on, for example, the operation of the operation unit 500 by the user, rather than the detection result of the human body detection means 402, is also conceivable. However, some of the functional units 40 may continue to operate for a predetermined time from when the operation unit 500 is operated. For example, when the nozzle 473 is advanced and discharging cleaning water, if the user operates the operation unit 500 to input the cleaning stop, the nozzle motor 476 continues to operate for a predetermined time to retract the nozzle 473. In such a case, for example, a timer for counting the predetermined time may be provided in the control unit 405. This allows the overcurrent protection unit 60 to transition from the operation mode to the standby mode after the operation of the functional unit 40 has stopped after the predetermined time has elapsed. However, providing a timer may complicate the configuration. In this case, the control unit 405 judges the operation state of each functional unit 40 (each drive unit 50) and switches between the operation mode and the standby mode for each overcurrent protection unit 60 based on the judgment result. That is, the control unit 405 determines that each driving unit 50 is not driving the functional unit 40, and switches the overcurrent threshold for each driving unit 50. This may result in the software becoming more complicated.

[0126] In contrast, when the port for controlling the driving unit 50 and the port for switching the overcurrent threshold are linked as described above, for example, it is not necessary to increase the number of ports of the control unit 405 or to use a timer. Therefore, it is possible to further improve safety with a simple configuration while suppressing the complication of the circuit and software.

[0127] Also, some of the driving units 50 operate the functional unit 40 by performing so-called duty control. Duty control is a control that repeatedly turns on and off a signal that drives a load while the functional unit 40 is operating. For example, the control unit 405 repeatedly turns on and off the field effect transistor R2 while the functional unit 40 is operating. The output of the load of the functional unit 40 can be adjusted by the ratio of the on time to the off time (duty ratio). When the control port of the driving unit 50 that performs such duty control is linked to the port for switching the threshold value of the overcurrent, the threshold value of the overcurrent is switched in conjunction with the on / off of the driving unit 50 even while the functional unit 40 is operating. This makes it possible to further shorten the period during which a relatively small current cannot be detected, thereby further improving safety.

[0128] FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram illustrating a part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. Fig. 10 shows another example of the configuration of the functional unit 40, the driving unit 50, and the overcurrent protection unit 60. In this example, a capacitor Cap1 is further provided. Except for this, the configuration of the circuit in Fig. 10 is the same as the configuration of the circuit in Fig. 9. As shown in Fig. 10, one end of the capacitor Cap1 is connected between the field effect transistor Tr2 and the resistor r5, and the other end of the capacitor Cap1 is connected to the common potential GND.

[0129] 11(a) to 11(c) are graphs illustrating the operation of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. The vertical axis of Fig. 11(a) represents the output signal Sp (electric potential) of port P of the control unit 405 in the example of Fig. 9 or Fig. 10. The vertical axis of Fig. 11(b) represents the overcurrent threshold Ith of the functional unit 40 and the current In flowing through the load of the functional unit 40 in the example of Fig. 9. The vertical axis of Fig. 11(c) represents the overcurrent threshold Ith of the functional unit 40 and the current In flowing through the load of the functional unit 40 in the example of Fig. 10. In these graphs, the horizontal axis represents time.

[0130] In this example, the load of the functional unit 40 is duty controlled. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 11(a), the output of the control unit 405 periodically repeats high and low. Also, in this example, the load of the functional unit 40 has an inductance. For example, the load of the functional unit 40 is a nozzle motor 476 having a coil.

[0131] As shown in FIG. 11B, the threshold Ith of the overcurrent of the functional unit 40 is a value th1 when the output signal Sp of the port P is High, and is a value th2 lower than the value th1 when the output signal Sp of the port P is Low. Also, as shown in FIG. 11B, when the output signal Sp of the port P is High, the field effect transistor R2 is turned on, and the value of the current In flowing through the load increases. When the output signal Sp of the port P is Low, the field effect transistor R2 is turned off, and the value of the current In flowing through the load decreases (for example, substantially no current flows). When the load has an inductance, as shown in FIG. 11B, the waveform of the current In may become dull. For example, the timing of the rise and fall of the current In may be delayed with respect to the timing of the rise and fall of the threshold Ith. Therefore, even if no abnormality occurs in the functional unit 40, the current In may become larger than the threshold Ith, and an abnormality may be erroneously detected. For example, as shown in FIG. 11B, at time Ta immediately after the output signal Sp of the port P switches from High to Low, the current In becomes larger than the threshold Ith, which may result in erroneous detection of an abnormality.

[0132] In response to this, by inserting a capacitor Cap1 on the field effect transistor Tr2 side as in the example of Fig. 10, the time when the overcurrent threshold Ith falls can be delayed. For example, the current In shown in Fig. 11(c) is the same as the current In shown in Fig. 11(b). In Fig. 11(c), at time Ta, the overcurrent threshold Ith is greater than the value th1 and greater than the current In. This makes it possible to suppress erroneous detection of an overcurrent.

[0133] FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram illustrating a part of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. Fig. 12 shows another example of the configuration of the functional unit 40, the driving unit 50, and the overcurrent protection unit 60. In this example, a capacitor Cap2 is further provided. Except for this, the configuration of the circuit in Fig. 12 is similar to the configuration of the circuit in Fig. 10. As shown in Fig. 12, one end of the capacitor Cap2 is connected between the field effect transistor Tr1 and the resistor r3, and the other end of the capacitor Cap2 is connected to the common potential GND.

[0134] 13(a) and 13(b) are graphs illustrating the operation of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. In these graphs, the horizontal axis represents time. The vertical axis of Fig. 13(a) represents the output signal Sp of the port P of the control unit 405 in the example of Fig. 12. The vertical axis of Fig. 13(b) represents the overcurrent threshold Ith of the functional unit 40 and the current In flowing through the load of the functional unit 40 in the example of Fig. 12.

[0135] As shown in FIG. 13(a), in this example, the load of the functional unit 40 is also duty-controlled. The load of the functional unit 40 has an inductance. In response to the repetition of High and Low of the output signal Sp of the port P, the threshold Ith and the current In repeat rising and falling as shown in FIG. 13(b). A spike noise may occur when the current In rises. Therefore, even if no abnormality occurs in the functional unit 40, the current In may become larger than the threshold Ith, which may cause a false detection of an abnormality. For example, in response to the switching of the output signal Sp of the port P from Low to High, the current In may become larger at time Tb as shown in FIG. 13(b), which may cause a false detection of an abnormality.

[0136] In response to this, by inserting a capacitor Cap2 on the field effect transistor Tr1 side as in the example of Fig. 12, the value of the overcurrent threshold Ith at the time of rising can be increased. For example, in Fig. 13(b), at time Tb, the overcurrent threshold Ith is greater than the value th1 and greater than the current In. This makes it possible to suppress erroneous detection of overcurrent.

[0137] The capacitance of the capacitors Cap1 and Cap2 is, for example, about 1 μF, but is not limited to this and may be appropriately determined based on the inductance of the functional unit 40 and the like so as to suppress erroneous detection.

[0138] 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 plumbing equipment 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]

[0139] 10 water supply source, 20 water conveying section, 20a pipe, 30 control circuit section, 32 integrated circuit, 40 function section, 50 drive section, 51 deodorizing drive section, 52 sterilizing water drive section, 53 nozzle drive section, 54 flow rate adjustment drive section, 55 solenoid valve drive section, 60 overcurrent protection section, 60a-60d first to fourth overcurrent protection sections, 70 conversion circuit, 72 processing section, 74 comparator section, 100 sanitary washing device, 200 toilet seat, 300 toilet lid, 310 transparent window, 400 casing, 401 power supply circuit, 401p overload protection section, 402 human body detection means, 403 human body detection sensor, 404 seating detection sensor, 405 control section, 407 exhaust port, 408 outlet, 409 recessed portion, 420 opening / closing mechanism, 431 solenoid valve, 440 hot water unit, 450 sterilized water unit, 471 flow rate adjustment portion, 472 flow path switching portion, 473 nozzle, 474a bidet flush outlet, 474b flush outlet, 475 nozzle unit, 476 nozzle motor, 480 deodorizing unit, 482 toilet seat heating unit, 492 temperature sensor, 500 operation portion, 800 toilet bowl, 801 bowl, A1 normal operation region, A2 overload protection region, A3 overload protection region, A4 dead region, C1, C2, C3 comparator, Cap1, Cap2 capacitor, I1, I2, IREF current, IN1, IN3, IN5 positive input terminal, IN2, IN4, IN6 negative input terminal, In current, Ith threshold, P port, R1 transistor, R2 field effect transistor, R3~R8 resistors, r1~r8 resistors, SW1, SW2 switch, S2, S3 output signal, Sp output signal, Ta, Tb time, Tr1~Tr2 field effect transistor, Tr3 transistor

Claims

1. One or more functional units including a first functional unit; a control circuit unit having a first overcurrent protection unit that detects an overcurrent exceeding a first threshold flowing in the first functional unit, and that stops driving at least a part of the one or more functional units when the overcurrent is detected by the first overcurrent protection unit; Equipped with The first overcurrent protection unit has an operation mode in which the first threshold is a first value when the first functional unit is in an operation state, and a standby mode in which the first threshold is a second value smaller than the first value when the first functional unit is in a standby state.

2. Further comprising a human body detection means for detecting a user, 2. The plumbing device according to claim 1, wherein the first overcurrent protection unit transitions to the standby mode when the human body detection unit does not detect a human body.

3. The toilet further includes a toilet seat provided on the toilet bowl, The human body detection means has a seating detection sensor that detects whether the user is seated on the toilet seat, 3. The plumbing device according to claim 2, wherein the first overcurrent protection unit transitions to the standby mode when the seating detection sensor does not detect a seating motion.

4. 4. The plumbing device according to claim 2, wherein the standby mode continues from a predetermined time after the human body detection means has not detected a human body until the human body detection means next detects a human body.

5. The one or more functional units further include a second functional unit, The first functional portion is a nozzle that ejects water toward a user's private parts, the second functional unit is a flow rate adjusting unit that adjusts a flow rate of water supplied to the nozzle, The control circuit unit includes: A nozzle driving unit that controls the advancement and retreat of the nozzle; A flow rate adjustment drive unit that controls the drive of the flow rate adjustment unit; a second overcurrent protection unit that detects an overcurrent exceeding a second threshold flowing through the flow rate adjustment unit; when the second overcurrent protection unit detects an overcurrent, the driving of at least a part of the one or more functional units is stopped; the second overcurrent protection unit has an operation mode in which the second threshold is a third value when the flow rate adjustment unit is in an operation state, and a standby mode in which the second threshold is a fourth value smaller than the third value when the flow rate adjustment unit is in a standby state, the first overcurrent protection unit is provided in the nozzle driving unit, The plumbing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second overcurrent protection unit is provided in the flow rate adjustment drive unit.

6. The plumbing device according to claim 5, characterized in that the control circuit unit has an integrated circuit that integrates the nozzle drive unit, the flow rate adjustment drive unit, the first overcurrent protection unit, and the second overcurrent protection unit.

7. The plumbing equipment described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the first overcurrent protection unit has a switch and a current detection element connected to the first functional unit, detects the overcurrent by comparing the voltage of the current detection element with a reference voltage, and switches the first threshold value to the first value or the second value by changing the reference voltage by operating the switch.

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