Remote control system, program, and toilet device

Abstract

To provide a remote control system, a program, and a toilet device capable of improving the usability of the toilet device when a function unit of the toilet device is controlled with a portable information terminal.SOLUTION: A remote control system includes a toilet device having a function unit and a portable information terminal capable of transmitting a command signal related to operation of the function unit by wireless communication. The remote control system stops operation of the function unit before disconnection of the wireless communication when it is determined to disconnect the wireless communication.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a remote control system, a program, and a toilet device. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known a remote control system that remotely controls the functional parts of a toilet device using a mobile information terminal such as a smartphone. Such a remote control system allows the functional parts to be operated without touching the remote control of the toilet device (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-120306 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] If communication between the mobile information terminal and the toilet device is interrupted while the functional units of the toilet device are operating, it may be impossible to stop the operation of the functional units. For example, if the user is unaware of the interruption in communication between the mobile information terminal and the toilet device, the user may be unable to stop the operation of the functional units by operating the mobile information terminal, which may make the toilet device less user-friendly. Furthermore, if the functional units of the toilet device continue to operate after the communication interruption, it may be difficult for the next user to use the toilet device.

[0005] The present invention was made based on the recognition of such problems, and aims to provide a remote control system, program, and toilet device that can improve the usability of the toilet device when operating the functional parts of the toilet device with a mobile information terminal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A first invention is a remote control system including a toilet device having a functional unit and a mobile information terminal capable of transmitting a command signal related to the operation of the functional unit by wireless communication, When it is determined that the wireless communication is to be disconnected, the remote control system stops operation of the functional unit before disconnecting the wireless communication.

[0007] According to this remote control system, when communication between the mobile information terminal and the toilet device is cut off, the operation of the functional unit stops, which prevents the functional unit from continuing to operate after communication is cut off.

[0008] A second invention is a remote control system according to the first invention, characterized in that the mobile information terminal transmits a stop signal to stop operation of the functional unit before disconnecting the wireless communication.

[0009] According to this remote control system, when the mobile information terminal decides to disconnect communication, it sends a stop signal to the toilet device before disconnecting communication, thereby preventing the functional unit from continuing to operate after communication is disconnected.

[0010] A third invention is a remote control system according to the first or second invention, characterized in that the toilet device stops operation of the functional unit when it is decided to disconnect the wireless communication.

[0011] According to this remote control system, the operation of the functional unit is stopped when the toilet device decides to disconnect communication or when a signal indicating that communication has been disconnected is received from the mobile information terminal, thereby preventing the functional unit from continuing to operate after communication has been disconnected.

[0012] A fourth invention is the remote control system according to any one of the first to third inventions, characterized in that the functional unit is a sanitary washing functional unit for washing private parts.

[0013] According to this remote control system, the sanitary washing function unit can be prevented from continuing to operate when communication is cut off.

[0014] The fifth invention is a remote control system according to any one of the first to fourth inventions, further comprising a remote control for operating the functional unit, and wherein the operation of the functional unit is not stopped when the operation of the functional unit is being performed by the remote control.

[0015] According to this remote control system, when the operation of the functional unit is controlled by a remote controller, the operation of the functional unit is not stopped due to a communication disconnection, thereby improving the usability of the toilet device.

[0016] A sixth invention is a program that can be installed on a mobile information terminal that has a wireless communication unit that transmits a command signal via wireless communication to activate a functional unit of a toilet device, and a control unit that controls the transmission of the command signal, and is characterized in that, when it is decided to disconnect the wireless communication, the program causes the mobile information terminal to send a stop signal from the wireless communication unit to stop the operation of the functional unit before disconnecting the wireless communication.

[0017] According to this program, when the mobile information terminal decides to disconnect communication, it transmits a stop signal to the toilet device before disconnecting communication, thereby preventing the functional unit from continuing to operate after communication is disconnected.

[0018] The seventh invention is a toilet device comprising a functional unit that operates in response to a command signal transmitted via wireless communication from a mobile information terminal, and a control unit that controls the functional unit, wherein the control unit stops operation of the functional unit when the wireless communication is disconnected.

[0019] According to this toilet device, by monitoring the communication status, the toilet device can stop the operation of the functional unit if the communication is interrupted. For example, even if the user moves out of the communication range while the functional unit is activated, the toilet device can stop the operation of the functional unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to aspects of the present invention, it is possible to provide a remote control system, a program, and a toilet device that can improve the usability of the toilet device when operating the functional parts of the toilet device with a mobile information terminal. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 is a plan view showing a public toilet using a remote control system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the toilet room and the remote control system in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control system of the toilet device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control system of the portable information terminal. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display screen displayed on a display unit of a portable information terminal. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a case where the toilet device and a mobile information terminal are communicatively connected. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart when the communication state is the second connection state. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a case where communication disconnection is determined. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart for stopping the operation of a functional unit. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing a case where communication disconnection is determined according to a first modified example. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing a case where communication is disconnected according to a second modified example. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 2, showing a toilet room and a remote control system according to a third modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a public toilet using a remote control system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the toilet room and the remote control system in FIG. As shown in Figure 1, the public toilet 1 includes a hand washing area 2, a hand dryer 3, and multiple toilet rooms TR. The public toilet 1 may also include urinals and other amenities. The public toilet 1 is a toilet that can be used by an unspecified number of users, for example.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 2, the remote control system 5 includes a toilet device 10 and a mobile information terminal 100. The toilet device 10 is installed in each toilet room TR. The toilet room TR is not limited to a toilet room installed in a public toilet 1, but may be a toilet room installed in a residence, for example. A residence may have multiple toilet rooms TR, for example, on the first and second floors. Each toilet room TR has an encrypted pass 150 dedicated to that toilet room TR (toilet device 10), installed on its wall, for example. This encrypted pass 150 is used to connect the toilet device 10 to the mobile information terminal for communication, and is information such as a QR code (registered trademark) or an identification number. The encrypted pass 150 installed in each toilet room TR is linked to the toilet seat device 20 in the same toilet room TR. For example, the encrypted pass 150 may be installed in a remote control 28 or communication device 4 (described later), or in the vicinity thereof.

[0025] The toilet device 10 comprises a seated toilet bowl (hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, simply referred to as the "toilet bowl") 12 and a toilet seat device 20. The toilet seat device 20 is installed on top of the toilet bowl 12. The toilet seat device 20 may be attached integrally to the toilet bowl 12, or may be attached detachably to the toilet bowl 12.

[0026] The toilet seat device 20 comprises a main body 22, a toilet seat 24, a toilet lid 26, a remote control 28, and a nozzle 30. The toilet lid 26 is provided in the toilet seat device 20 as needed and can be omitted. The toilet seat 24 and the toilet lid 26 are rotatably supported on the main body 22.

[0027] In this specification, the terms "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left side," and "right side" refer to directions as seen by a user sitting on the toilet seat 24 with their back to the open toilet lid 26.

[0028] The toilet 12 has a bowl portion 12a. The bowl portion 12a is concave and recessed downward. The toilet 12 receives excrement such as urine and feces from the user in the bowl portion 12a. The main body portion 22 of the toilet seat device 20 is attached to the toilet 12 at a position rearward of the bowl portion 12a.

[0029] The toilet seat 24, on which a user sits, has an opening 24a that exposes the bowl portion 12a. When lowered, the toilet seat 24 is placed on the toilet bowl 12 so as to surround the outer edge of the bowl portion 12a, exposing the bowl portion 12a through the opening 24a. This allows a user to defecate into the bowl portion 12a while sitting on the toilet seat 24. In this example, a so-called O-shaped toilet seat 24 is shown, in which the through-hole-shaped opening 24a is formed. The toilet seat 24 is not limited to an O-shape and may be U-shaped or the like. The opening 24a is not limited to a through-hole shape and may be a notch-shaped opening. When viewed from above in a usable state (a state in which a user can sit on it), the toilet seat 24 has a ring-shaped or U-shaped shape.

[0030] The remote control 28 has, for example, a plurality of switches and sensors, and receives operation instructions from the user. The remote control 28 is also connected to the main body 22 via a wired or wireless connection, and transmits operation instructions input by the user to the main body 22. The main body 22 performs a predetermined operation in response to the operation instructions input from the remote control 28. Note that operation instructions may be input to the main body 22 via, for example, an operation panel provided on the main body 22.

[0031] Nozzle 30 is provided in main body portion 22. Nozzle 30 moves back and forth between a position where it is housed within main body portion 22 and a position where it protrudes forward from main body portion 22 and advances into bowl portion 12a. Note that Figure 2 shows the state where nozzle 30 advances into bowl portion 12a.

[0032] The toilet seat device 20 has a sanitary washing function part that cleanses the user's private parts, such as the user's buttocks, by discharging washing water from the nozzle 30 toward the private parts while the nozzle 30 is advanced into the bowl part 12a. Note that in this specification, the term "water" includes not only cold water but also heated water.

[0033] The remote control 28 has a plurality of operating members for operating the private parts washing function, such as a wash button and a stop button. The toilet seat device 20 executes the private parts washing function based on an operation instruction input from the remote control 28, for example. This allows the user to wash their private parts in accordance with the operation of the remote control 28.

[0034] The mobile information terminal 100 is, for example, a smartphone or tablet terminal owned by the user, but is not limited to these and may be any terminal that the user can carry around.

[0035] A remote operation program (application software) for remotely operating the functional units of the toilet device 10 is pre-installed in the mobile information terminal 100. The mobile information terminal 100 executes a remote operation mode for remotely operating the functional units based on the remote operation program. In the remote operation system 5, the remote operation program is started in the mobile information terminal 100, and the mobile information terminal 100 is operated in the remote operation mode, whereby the operation of the functional units can be remotely controlled by the mobile information terminal 100.

[0036] In the remote control system 5, the operation of the sanitary washing function unit of the toilet seat device 20 can be remotely controlled by, for example, the mobile information terminal 100. That is, in the remote control system 5, the operation of the sanitary washing function unit can be remotely controlled by operating either the remote controller 28 or the mobile information terminal 100. The function unit of the toilet device 10 that is remotely controlled by the remote controller 28 and the mobile information terminal 100 is not limited to the operation of the sanitary washing function unit, but may be any operation such as the temperature of the toilet seat 24 or the deodorizing function unit.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control system of the toilet device. As shown in Figure 3, the toilet seat device 20 includes a control unit 40, a memory unit 42, a human body detection sensor 51, a seating detection sensor 53, a first wireless communication unit 61, a second wireless communication unit 62, a toilet lid opening / closing device 70, a toilet seat opening / closing device 71, a toilet seat heater 72, an electromagnetic valve 73, a hot water heater 74, a nozzle driving device 75, a deodorizing device 76, an indoor heating device 77, a lighting device 78, a toilet bowl flushing device 79, and a hot air blower 80.

[0038] The memory unit 42 stores various control programs and various data for controlling the operation of each part of the toilet seat device 20. The control unit 40 reads out and sequentially processes the various programs and data stored in the memory unit 42, thereby comprehensively controlling the operation of each part of the toilet seat device 20. The memory unit 42 also stores a program for connecting the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 for communication.

[0039] The human body detection sensor 51 detects a human body approaching the toilet seat device 20. In other words, the human body detection sensor 51 detects a human body entering the toilet room TR. For example, a pyroelectric sensor, a radio wave sensor, an infrared sensor, or the like is used as the human body detection sensor 51. The human body detection sensor 51 is connected to the control unit 40. The human body detection sensor 51 outputs the detection result of the human body to the control unit 40.

[0040] The seating detection sensor 53 detects a person sitting on the toilet seat 24. The seating detection sensor 53 has a detection state in which it detects a person sitting on the toilet seat 24, and a non-detection state in which it does not detect a person sitting on the toilet seat 24. The seating detection sensor 53 may be, for example, a mechanical switch or an electrostatic sensor. The seating detection sensor 53 is connected to the control unit 40. The seating detection sensor 53 outputs the detection result of the human body to the control unit 40.

[0041] The first wireless communication unit 61 performs wireless communication with the remote control 28. The first wireless communication unit 61 is, for example, an infrared receiving device that receives an infrared signal transmitted from the remote control 28. The first wireless communication unit 61 is connected to the control unit 40. The first wireless communication unit 61 outputs a command signal transmitted from the remote control 28 to the control unit 40. Note that the remote control 28 and the first wireless communication unit 61 may perform wireless communication using radio signals.

[0042] The second wireless communication unit 62 performs wireless communication with the mobile information terminal 100. The second wireless communication unit 62 performs, for example, two-way wireless communication with the mobile information terminal 100. A wireless communication device conforming to a communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), Thread (registered trademark), or WiFi (registered trademark) is used as the second wireless communication unit 62. The following description will be given taking as an example a case where the toilet seat device 20 and the mobile information terminal 100 are directly connected by wireless communication without going through another device, such as when the second wireless communication unit 62 uses a direct connection function of Bluetooth or WiFi. The second wireless communication unit 62 is connected to the control unit 40. The second wireless communication unit 62 outputs a command signal transmitted from the mobile information terminal 100 to the control unit 40, and transmits a command signal to the mobile information terminal 100 based on an instruction from the control unit 40. The first wireless communication unit 61 and the second wireless communication unit 62 may be provided as separate units, or may be provided as an integrated unit, such as by providing the first wireless communication unit 61 and the second wireless communication unit 62 on the same substrate or within the same unit.

[0043] The toilet lid opening / closing device 70 is connected to the control unit 40, and automatically opens and closes the toilet lid 26 based on the control of the control unit 40. The control unit 40 opens the toilet lid 26 based on, for example, the detection of a human body by the human body detection sensor 51, and closes the toilet lid 26 based on the non-detection of a human body by the human body detection sensor 51. The control unit 40 also opens and closes the toilet lid 26 by driving the toilet lid opening / closing device 70 in response to the operation of the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100, for example.

[0044] The toilet seat opening / closing device 71 is connected to the control unit 40, and automatically opens and closes the toilet seat 24 under the control of the control unit 40. The control unit 40 opens and closes the toilet seat 24 by driving the toilet seat opening / closing device 71 in response to the operation of the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100, for example.

[0045] The toilet seat heater 72 is provided inside the toilet seat 24 and heats the seat surface of the toilet seat 24 from the inside. The toilet seat heater 72 is connected to the control unit 40 and heats the seat surface of the toilet seat 24 under the control of the control unit 40. The control unit 40 controls the driving of the toilet seat heater 72 so that the temperature of the seat surface of the toilet seat 24 becomes the temperature set by operating the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100, for example.

[0046] The solenoid valve 73 is provided between the water supply source and the nozzle 30. By opening the solenoid valve 73, cleaning water is supplied to the nozzle 30. By closing the solenoid valve 73, the supply of cleaning water to the nozzle 30 is stopped. The solenoid valve 73 is connected to the control unit 40. The solenoid valve 73 switches between supplying cleaning water to the nozzle 30 and stopping the supply of cleaning water to the nozzle 30 based on the control of the control unit 40.

[0047] Hot water heater 74 is provided downstream of solenoid valve 73. Hot water heater 74 is connected to control unit 40. Hot water heater 74 heats wash water supplied from a water supply source based on the control of control unit 40, for example, to a specified temperature. Hot water heater 74 converts wash water supplied from the water supply source into hot water at a set temperature. Hot water heater 74 may be, for example, an instantaneous heating type (instantaneous type) heat exchanger using a ceramic heater or the like, or may be a hot water storage heating type heat exchanger using a hot water storage tank.

[0048] Furthermore, the control unit 40 allows the hot water temperature to be set by operating, for example, the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100. The user can set the hot water temperature to a desired temperature by operating the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100.

[0049] Nozzle drive device 75 moves nozzle 30 back and forth between a position housed within main body portion 22 and a position protruding forward from main body portion 22 and advancing into bowl portion 12a. Nozzle drive device 75 is connected to control unit 40. Nozzle drive device 75 moves nozzle 30 back and forth based on the control of control unit 40.

[0050] Furthermore, control unit 40 allows the position of nozzle 30 to be adjusted when it is advanced into bowl portion 12a, for example, by operating remote control 28 or mobile information terminal 100. With nozzle 30 advanced into bowl portion 12a, the user can adjust the front-to-rear position of nozzle 30 to a desired position by operating remote control 28 or mobile information terminal 100. Nozzle 30, solenoid valve 73, and nozzle drive device 75 form a sanitary washing function unit for washing the user's private parts.

[0051] The deodorizing device 76 deodorizes the air within the bowl portion 12a of the toilet 12 by sucking in the air within the bowl portion 12a of the toilet bowl 12, reducing the odorous components contained in the sucked air, and then discharging the air outside the main body portion 22. The deodorizing device 76 is connected to the control unit 40 and deodorizes the air within the bowl portion 12a under the control of the control unit 40. For example, when the seating detection sensor 53 detects that the user has left the toilet seat 24, the control unit 40 activates the deodorizing device 76 for a predetermined period of time. The control unit 40 also activates the deodorizing device 76 by operating the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100, for example.

[0052] The indoor heating device 77 heats the toilet room TR by blowing warm air out of the main body 22. The indoor heating device 77 is connected to the control unit 40, and heats the toilet room TR based on the control of the control unit 40. The control unit 40 allows the indoor temperature to be set by operating the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100, for example. The user can set the set temperature in the toilet room TR to a desired temperature by operating the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100.

[0053] The lighting device 78 illuminates the inside of the bowl portion 12a of the toilet 12. The lighting device 78 is connected to the control unit 40 and illuminates the inside of the bowl portion 12a based on the control of the control unit 40. The control unit 40 turns on the lighting device 78 based on the detection of a human body by the human body detection sensor 51, for example, thereby making the bowl portion 12a easier to see at night, etc. The user can also turn the lighting device 78 on and off by operating the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100.

[0054] The toilet flushing device 79 supplies flush water to the toilet 12 to flush it. The toilet flushing device 79 is provided, for example, in a water supply tank for the toilet 12 or a water supply pipe for the toilet 12, and enables automatic flushing of the toilet 12. The toilet flushing device 79 is connected to the control unit 40, and flushes the toilet 12 based on the control of the control unit 40. The control unit 40 flushes the toilet 12 by activating the toilet flushing device 79 in response to detection, for example, by the human body detection sensor 51 or the seating detection sensor 53, that the user has left the toilet seat 24. The user can also activate the toilet flushing device 79 by operating the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100.

[0055] The warm air blower 80 blows warm air toward the user's private parts. The warm air blower 80 dries the user's private parts by blowing warm air to the user's private parts that have become wet, for example, by washing the private parts. The warm air blower 80 is connected to the control unit 40. The warm air blower 80 switches between blowing warm air toward the user's private parts and stopping the blowing of air based on the control of the control unit 40. The user can activate the warm air blower 80 by operating the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100.

[0056] In this way, the toilet device 10 (toilet seat device 20) has functional units that perform predetermined operations related to the use of the toilet 12, such as a toilet lid opening / closing device 70, a toilet seat opening / closing device 71, a toilet seat heater 72, a solenoid valve 73, a hot water heater 74, a nozzle driving device 75, a deodorizing device 76, an indoor heating device 77, a lighting device 78, a toilet bowl flushing device 79, and a warm air blower 80. The toilet device 10 has, for example, multiple functional units. Note that the functional units are not limited to those described above, and may be any functional units that perform predetermined operations related to the use of the toilet 12. The number of functional units provided in the toilet device 10 may be any number. The number of functional units provided in the toilet device 10 may be, for example, one.

[0057] As described above, in the remote control system 5, the operation of the functional units of the toilet seat device 20 can be remotely controlled by operating either the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100. The control unit 40 of the toilet seat device 20 controls the operation of the multiple functional units based on signals received from the remote control 28 via the first wireless communication unit 61, and also controls the operation of the multiple functional units based on signals received from the mobile information terminal 100 via the second wireless communication unit 62. The control unit 40 can execute a mobile information terminal operation mode in which the operation of the multiple functional units is controlled based on signals received from the mobile information terminal 100 via the second wireless communication unit 62.

[0058] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a control system of the portable information terminal. As shown in FIG. 4, the mobile information terminal 100 includes a control unit 110, a storage unit 112, a wireless communication unit 114, operation units 116 and 117, a display unit 118, a speaker 120, and a microphone 122.

[0059] The storage unit 112 stores various control programs and various data for controlling the operation of each unit of the mobile information terminal 100. The control unit 110 reads out the various programs and data stored in the storage unit 112 and processes them sequentially, thereby comprehensively controlling the operation of each unit of the mobile information terminal 100.

[0060] The wireless communication unit 114 performs wireless communication with the second wireless communication unit 62 of the toilet seat device 20. A wireless communication device that complies with the same communication standard as the second wireless communication unit 62 is used for the wireless communication unit 114. The wireless communication unit 114 is connected to the control unit 110. The wireless communication unit 114 outputs command signals transmitted from the second wireless communication unit 62 of the toilet seat device 20 to the control unit 110, and transmits command signals transmitted from the control unit 110 to the second wireless communication unit 62 of the toilet seat device 20.

[0061] The operation units 116 and 117 accept input of operation instructions from a user or the like. For example, a touch panel is used for the operation units 116 and 117. The operation units 116 and 117 may be, for example, mechanical switches or other sensors, or may be configured as a combination of these. The operation units 116 and 117 are connected to the control unit 110. The operation units 116 and 117 output the input operation instructions to the control unit 110. The control unit 110 controls the operation of each unit, such as the wireless communication unit 114, in accordance with the operation instructions input from the operation units 116 and 117, for example. The operation unit 116 is an input unit for operating the functional units of the toilet seat device 20. The operation unit 117 is an input unit related to the communication connection between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10.

[0062] Display unit 118 displays various operation screens and the like. For example, a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display is used as display unit 118. Display unit 118 is connected to control unit 110, and displays various types of information based on the control of control unit 110. For example, if operation units 116 and 117 are touch panels, operation units 116 and 117 are provided on top of display unit 118.

[0063] The speaker 120 outputs various sounds. The speaker 120 is connected to the control unit 110 and outputs various sounds under the control of the control unit 110.

[0064] The microphone 122 converts the input sound into an electrical signal. The microphone 122 is connected to the control unit 110 and outputs the converted electrical signal to the control unit 110. Note that the toilet device 10 may be operated by the mobile information terminal 100 using voice information acquired by the microphone 122.

[0065] The storage unit 112 stores a remote operation program 200 for remotely operating the functional units of the toilet device 10 by the mobile information terminal 100. In other words, the mobile information terminal 100 has the remote operation program 200 installed therein.

[0066] The control unit 110 reads the remote operation program 200 from the storage unit 112, for example, when instructed to start the remote operation program 200 from the operation unit 116. Then, the control unit 110 executes the operation of the remote operation mode based on the remote operation program 200, thereby enabling remote operation of the functional units of the toilet device 10.

[0067] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a display screen displayed on the display unit of the portable information terminal. 5, the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 displays an operation screen OS for operating the functional units on the display unit 118 while being connected for communication with the toilet seat device 20. The operation screen OS displays, for example, a plurality of operation units 116 for operating the functional units and an operation unit 117 related to the communication connection with the toilet seat device 20.

[0068] A plurality of operation sections 116 for operating the functional sections are displayed on the display section 118. The plurality of operation sections 116 include a posterior cleansing button 116a for instructing the execution of a posterior cleansing, a bidet cleansing button 116b for instructing the execution of a bidet cleansing, a setting button 116c for setting the hot water temperature, toilet seat temperature, etc., and a stop button 116d for stopping the operation of the functional sections.

[0069] The operation unit 117 related to the communication connection includes a disconnect button 117a for disconnecting the wireless communication connection between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet seat device 20, an extension button 117b for extending the communication time, etc. The user inputs desired operation instructions to the control unit 110 by operating various buttons via the operation units 116 and 117.

[0070] When an operation instruction regarding the operation of the toilet seat device 20 is input from the operation unit 116 by operating the rear cleansing button 116a or the like, the control unit 110 transmits a signal from the wireless communication unit 114 to the toilet seat device 20 and instructs the toilet seat device 20 to perform an operation corresponding to the operation.

[0071] When the control unit 40 of the toilet seat device 20 receives a command signal transmitted from the mobile information terminal 100, it executes an operation corresponding to the command signal. When the control unit 40 receives a command signal from the mobile information terminal 100, it operates any one of the toilet lid opening / closing device 70, toilet seat opening / closing device 71, toilet seat heater 72, solenoid valve 73, hot water heater 74, nozzle driving device 75, deodorizing device 76, room heating device 77, lighting device 78, toilet bowl flushing device 79, and warm air blower 80 in response to the command signal. This allows the functional units of the toilet device 10 to be remotely operated based on the operation of the mobile information terminal 100.

[0072] On the other hand, when an instruction to disconnect the communication connection (wireless communication) is given by operating the disconnect button 117a, the control unit 110 executes a process to disconnect the communication connection with the toilet seat device 20. As a result, the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 and the control unit 40 of the toilet seat device 20 disconnect their communication connections with each other.

[0073] In this way, when the control unit 40 of the toilet seat device 20 receives a signal from the mobile information terminal 100 instructing to disconnect the communication connection, it disconnects the communication connection with the mobile information terminal 100 in response to the instruction from the mobile information terminal 100. The control unit 40 also disconnects the communication connection with the mobile information terminal 100 when the mobile information terminal 100 goes out of the communication range of the second wireless communication unit 62.

[0074] Next, a communication connection process between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10, which is performed to remotely operate the functional units of the toilet device 10 using the mobile information terminal 100, will be described. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a case where the toilet device and the mobile information terminal are connected for communication. In Figure 6, time flows from top to bottom on the page.

[0075] First, when a user carrying the mobile information terminal 100 enters the toilet room TR, the human body detection sensor 51 detects the human body (user). When the control unit 40 receives a signal indicating that a human body has been detected from the human body detection sensor 51, it causes the second wireless communication unit 62 to transmit a connection confirmation signal. Note that the second wireless communication unit 62 may always transmit the connection confirmation signal regardless of whether or not a human body has been detected by the human body detection sensor 51. However, by transmitting the connection confirmation signal depending on whether or not a human body has been detected, it is possible to improve safety and avoid confusion with connection confirmation signals transmitted from other toilet devices 10.

[0076] When the mobile information terminal 100 receives the connection confirmation signal, it starts an application of the remote control system 5. This application may be started manually by the user. Alternatively, the application may be started automatically, for example, when the mobile information terminal 100 enters a range where the radio wave strength of the connection confirmation signal is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0077] Next, the mobile information terminal 100 acquires the encrypted pass 150. This encrypted pass 150 may be read by, for example, a camera (not shown) of the mobile information terminal 100, or may be entered manually by the user. The control unit 110 stores the encrypted pass in the storage unit 112. Note that acquisition of the encrypted pass 150 may be performed between the start of the application and the transmission of the encrypted pass, which will be described later.

[0078] After the application is launched, information about the toilet devices 10 that can be connected to for communication is displayed on the display unit 118. For example, if there are multiple toilet devices 10 that can be connected to for communication within the communication range of the wireless communication unit 114, information about the multiple toilet devices 10 is displayed on the display unit 118.

[0079] Each toilet room TR displays information for establishing a communication connection with the toilet device 10. The user checks the display and selects the toilet device 10 with which the user desires to establish a communication connection from the information about the toilet devices 10 displayed on the display unit 118. The control unit 110 transmits a connection request signal to the selected toilet device 10.

[0080] The control unit 40 performs a first connection permission with the mobile information terminal 100 by confirming receipt of the connection request signal. As a result, the communication connection (wireless communication connection state) between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet seat device 20 is set to the first connection state. The control unit 40 executes a first step of setting the first connection state by receiving the connection request signal transmitted from the mobile information terminal 100 that has received the connection confirmation signal. Then, the control unit 40 transmits a first connection permission signal to the mobile information terminal 100.

[0081] When the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 receives the first connection permission signal, it switches the information display of the plurality of toilet devices 10 that can be connected to the communication terminal, displayed on the display unit 118, to a first status display. The first status display, for example, displays that some of the plurality of functional units of the toilet device 10 can be operated. The first status display displays the operation of the functional units that can be operated without any problems, for example, from another toilet room TR. Therefore, the first status display does not display, for example, the rear cleansing button 116a or the bidet cleansing button 116b as shown in FIG. 5. Note that the first status display may display (enable) only the disconnect button 117a for disconnecting the communication connection. In other words, the first status display indicates that the operation unit 116 for operating at least some of the functional units is disabled. Note that the first status display does not need to display that the functional units can be operated. In that case, device performance, advertisements, etc. may be displayed.

[0082] As a result, in the first connection state, even if a communication connection is made to the toilet apparatus 10 in a toilet room TR different from the toilet room TR in which the user is present, only certain limited operations can be performed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the toilet apparatus 10 in the other toilet room TR from being accidentally operated or being tampered with.

[0083] Next, the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 transmits the encrypted pass 150 to the toilet device 10. The transmission of the encrypted pass 150 may be performed automatically upon reception of the first connection permission signal, or may be performed manually by the user. When the user manually transmits the encrypted pass 150, for example, an operation button (not shown) for "send encrypted pass" is displayed on the first status display.

[0084] When the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10 confirms receipt of the encrypted pass 150, it determines whether the encrypted pass 150 is valid. If the control unit 40 determines that the encrypted pass 150 is valid, it grants a second connection permission to the mobile information terminal 100. That is, the communication connection transitions from the first connection state to the second connection state. The control unit 40 executes a second step of setting the second connection state by receiving the encrypted pass 150 transmitted from the mobile information terminal 100 when in the first connection state.

[0085] On the other hand, if the control unit 40 determines that the encrypted path 150 is not valid, it disconnects communication in the first connection state with the mobile information terminal 100. The encrypted path 150 is different for each toilet room TR. This prevents the communication state between the toilet room TR in which the user is present and the toilet device 10 in another toilet room TR from transitioning from the first connection state to the second connection state.

[0086] Here, the control unit 40 sets the second connection state by receiving the encrypted path 150 within a predetermined time after the first connection state is set. The control unit 40 disconnects the communication in the first connection state if the encrypted path 150 is not received within the predetermined time after the first connection state is set. The predetermined time is about several seconds (e.g., about 1 to 30 seconds). This prevents the communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 from remaining undisconnected for a long period of time. For example, even if a user leaves the toilet room TR while the first connection state is set, the communication is disconnected, so that the next user can establish a stable communication connection. Note that, here, the configuration has been described in which the control unit 40 disconnects the communication in the first connection state if the encrypted path 150 is not received within a predetermined time after the first connection state is set. However, for example, after the first connection state is set, the communication in the first connection state may be disconnected based on human body detection information or the like.

[0087] When the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10 grants the second connection permission, it transmits a second connection permission signal to the mobile information terminal 100. When the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 receives the second connection permission signal, it switches the first status display displayed on the display unit 118 to a second status display. The second status display displays more operable function units than the first status display. For example, the second status display enables operation of the same function units as those operable by the remote control 28. In the second status display, for example, a rear cleansing button 116a and a bidet cleansing button 116b as shown in FIG. 5 are displayed.

[0088] This allows the user to operate the functional parts of the toilet device 10 (toilet seat device 20) using the mobile information terminal 100 without touching the remote control 28 provided in the toilet room TR. The state of wireless communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 can be transitioned from a first connection state to a second connection state by the encrypted path 150. The encrypted path 150 is provided individually in each toilet room TR, and therefore it is possible to prevent the toilet device 10 in another toilet room TR from entering the second connection state.

[0089] This allows the remote control system 5 to prevent malfunctions and tampering of toilet devices 10 in other toilet rooms TR. Furthermore, the remote control system 5 allows the encryption pass 150 to be set in the application software area, which allows for a high degree of freedom in the number of digits, character type, etc. of the encryption pass 150, making it easy to ensure security. Furthermore, the remote control system 5 can be deployed with the same security pass configuration regardless of the communication standard. Therefore, for example, even if the communication standard used is changed, there is no need to change the communication connection procedure.

[0090] Incidentally, additional information may be added to the connection confirmation signal transmitted from the toilet device 10. This additional information may be, for example, model information, product number information, or status information of the toilet device 10. This may allow the mobile information terminal 100 to determine whether or not to transmit a connection request signal. As a result, erroneous connections can be further reduced. Furthermore, by including the status information of the toilet device 10 as additional information, the user can use the toilet device 10 according to its status, for example, by not transmitting a connection request signal when the toilet bowl is being automatically flushed. Furthermore, this additional information may be used to change the operation screen displayed on the mobile information terminal for each model or product number, for example.

[0091] Next, a case where the communication state between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet apparatus 10 is in the second connection state will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart when the communication state is the second connection state. The control process shown in Fig. 7 is repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle after the second connection state is set. The control process in Fig. 7 is stored, for example, in the storage unit 42 of the toilet device 10. In Fig. 7, each step is indicated by "S", and for example, "step 1" is indicated by "S1".

[0092] First, in S1, it is determined whether the duration of the second connection state is equal to or greater than a time threshold. The duration of the second connection state is measured, for example, after the second connection permission is set. The time threshold is, for example, the time that the user uses the toilet room TR, and is set through experiments and simulations. The time threshold is, for example, several minutes (approximately 5 to 15 minutes), and is stored in advance in the storage unit 42.

[0093] If S1 returns "YES," i.e., if it is determined that the duration of the second connection state is equal to or greater than the time threshold, the process proceeds to S2. On the other hand, if S1 returns "NO," i.e., if it is determined that the duration of the second connection state is less than the time threshold, the duration is monitored.

[0094] In S2, it is determined whether a predetermined condition is met. The predetermined condition can be that the human body detection sensor 51 or the seating detection sensor 53 has detected a human body. If the human body detection sensor 51 has detected a human body, it means that a user is present in the toilet room TR. If the seating detection sensor 53 has detected a human body, it means that a user is sitting on the toilet seat 24.

[0095] The predetermined condition may also be that an extension operation has been performed by the mobile information terminal 100. As shown in FIG. 5, the display unit 118 displays the remaining time for which the second connection state will continue, such as "5 minutes remaining." When the extension button 117b is operated, the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 transmits a command signal for time extension from the wireless communication unit 114 to the toilet device 10. The control unit 40 of the toilet device 10 can recognize that an extension operation has been performed by receiving this command signal. Note that the extension button 117b may be enabled when the remaining time reaches a predetermined value. For example, if the above-mentioned time threshold is set to 10 minutes, the extension button 117b is disabled from "10 minutes remaining" to "2 minutes remaining," and is enabled when the remaining time is equal to or less than "2 minutes remaining."

[0096] If S2 returns "YES," i.e., if the predetermined condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to S3, where the second connection state is continued and the process ends. The extension time added in S3 may be shorter than the time threshold set in S1. For example, if the time threshold is set to 10 minutes, the extension time may be set to 3 to 5 minutes. This prevents the second connection state from being extended more than necessary. If it is determined that the second connection state should be extended, the control unit 40 transmits a command signal based on the extension time to the mobile information terminal 100. The control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 updates the remaining time on the display unit 118 based on the received command signal.

[0097] On the other hand, if S2 returns "NO," i.e., if it is determined that the predetermined condition is not met, the process proceeds to S4, where communication is disconnected, and the process ends. For example, if the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 are only connected one-to-one for communication, if a user leaves the toilet room TR without disconnecting communication, the next user may not be able to connect to the toilet device 10. However, in this embodiment, communication is automatically disconnected even if a user leaves the toilet room TR without disconnecting communication, so the next user can use the remote control system 5 stably. Furthermore, since the communication state in the second connection state is not automatically disconnected by satisfying the predetermined condition, usability can be improved. Note that the communication may be transitioned to the first connection state without disconnecting communication in S4.

[0098] Note that the control process in FIG. 7 has been described using an example in which it is executed by the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10, but is not limited thereto, and may also be executed by, for example, the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100. In this case, if the predetermined condition is, for example, that the human body detection sensor 51 or the seating detection sensor 53 has detected a human body, the mobile information terminal 100 receives information about the human body detection from the toilet device 10. On the other hand, if the predetermined condition is that the mobile information terminal 100 performs an extension operation, it is not necessary to transmit a command signal for time extension from the wireless communication unit 114 to the toilet device 10. Also, for example, a determination (e.g., S1 or S2) may be made by either the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10 or the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100, and then a determination (e.g., S2, S3, or S4) may be made by the other of the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10 or the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100. In other words, in the control process of FIG. 7, the determination of each step may be divided between the control unit 40 of the toilet apparatus 10 and the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100.

[0099] Next, a control process when it is decided to disconnect communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet apparatus 10 will be described. FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the process when it is decided to disconnect communication. The control process (program) shown in Fig. 8 is repeatedly executed at a predetermined interval after, for example, the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 are connected for communication. The control process in Fig. 8 is stored, for example, in the storage unit 112 of the mobile information terminal 100. Note that in Fig. 8, each step is indicated by "S", and for example, "step 11" is indicated by "S11".

[0100] First, in S11, it is determined whether or not it has been decided to disconnect communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet apparatus 10. The control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100 can determine that communication has been disconnected when, for example, a predetermined condition is not satisfied in S2 in Fig. 7. Note that the decision to disconnect communication is not limited to the predetermined condition in S2, and may be based on any condition, such as when the disconnect button 117a is operated.

[0101] If S11 returns "YES", that is, if it is determined that the communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 has been disconnected, the process proceeds to S12. On the other hand, if S11 returns "NO", that is, if it is determined that the communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 has not been disconnected, the process ends.

[0102] In S12, a stop signal is transmitted. The control unit 110 causes the wireless communication unit 114 to transmit a stop signal for stopping the operation of the functional units of the toilet device 10. This stop signal is a signal for stopping the operation of functional units of the toilet device 10 that can be operated, for example, by the mobile information terminal 100. The stop signal may also be a signal for stopping the operation of some of the functional units that can be operated by the mobile information terminal 100. For example, a stop signal may not be transmitted to a functional unit that automatically stops after a predetermined time has elapsed since activation. Furthermore, the stop signal may be transmitted regardless of whether the functional unit is activated or not. The stop signal may be transmitted only when the functional unit is activated. When the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10 confirms that the stop signal has been received, it stops the functional units that are activated.

[0103] In S13, communication is disconnected. That is, the control unit 110 disconnects communication with the toilet device 10 after transmitting a stop signal for the functional unit, and then ends the process. In this manner, in this embodiment, when it is decided to disconnect wireless communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10, the operation of the functional unit of the toilet device 10 is stopped before the wireless communication is disconnected. This makes it possible to prevent the functional unit of the toilet device 10 from remaining in operation after communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 is disconnected. For example, even if communication is disconnected while the sanitary washing functional unit is operating, it is possible to prevent water from continuing to be discharged from the nozzle 30.

[0104] Next, the difference between activating the functional unit with the remote control 28 and activating the functional unit with the mobile information terminal 100 when disconnecting communication will be described. FIG. 9 is a flow chart for stopping the operation of the functional unit. The control process shown in Fig. 9 is executed, for example, when it is determined to disconnect communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10. The control process in Fig. 9 is stored, for example, in the storage unit 42 of the toilet device 10. Note that in Fig. 9, each step is indicated by "S", and for example, "step 21" is indicated as "S21".

[0105] First, in S21, it is determined whether or not a functional unit is in operation. That is, when it is determined that communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 is to be disconnected, the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10 determines whether or not any functional unit of the toilet device 10 is in operation. Then, if it is determined "YES" in S21, that is, that a functional unit is in operation, the process proceeds to S22. On the other hand, if it is determined "NO" in S21, that is, that a functional unit is not in operation, the process ends.

[0106] In S22, it is determined whether the operation of the functional unit has been performed by the remote control 28. The memory unit 42 stores command signals transmitted from the remote control 28 and command signals transmitted from the mobile information terminal 100, distinguishing between them. The control unit 40 references the command signals stored in the memory unit 42 and determines whether the operating functional unit has been instructed by the remote control 28 or the mobile information terminal 100. If the result in S22 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that the operation of the functional unit has been performed by the mobile information terminal 100, the process proceeds to S23. On the other hand, if the result in S22 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that the operation of the functional unit has been performed by the remote control 28, the process proceeds to S24.

[0107] In S23, the operation of the functional unit is stopped. That is, if the operating functional unit is operated by the mobile information terminal 100, the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10 stops the operation of the functional unit when it is determined that communication is to be disconnected, and the process ends.

[0108] In S24, the operation of the functional unit continues. That is, if the operating functional unit is controlled by the remote control 28, the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10 ends the process without stopping the operation of the functional unit even when it has decided to disconnect communication. The control unit 40 ignores a stop signal sent from the mobile information terminal 100, for example.

[0109] In this way, when communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 is disconnected, the control unit 40 may determine whether to stop the operation of the functional unit depending on whether the instruction was given by the remote control 28 or by the mobile information terminal 100. For example, a user who has instructed the operation of the functional unit by the remote control 28 may also use the remote control 28 to stop the functional unit. In such a case, if the functional unit is stopped when communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 is disconnected, the usability of the toilet device 10 may be reduced. Therefore, if the operation of the functional unit is controlled by the remote control 28, the usability of the toilet device 10 can be improved by not stopping the operation of the functional unit when communication is disconnected.

[0110] The control process in Figure 9 has been described using an example in which it is executed by the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10. However, the control process in Figure 9 may also be executed by the control unit 110 of the mobile information terminal 100. In this case, for example, the mobile information terminal 100 may receive the operation status of the functional unit from the toilet device 10. In such a case, the mobile information terminal 100 does not need to transmit a stop signal when it is checking that the operation of the functional unit is being performed by the remote control 28.

[0111] Furthermore, by transmitting a command signal to activate a functional unit, the mobile information terminal 100 can recognize that the activation of the functional unit was performed by the mobile information terminal 100. Therefore, when the mobile information terminal 100 has transmitted a command signal to activate a functional unit, it may transmit a signal to stop the functional unit.

[0112] Next, a first modified example of the control process for stopping the operation of the functional unit when communication is cut off will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a process when communication disconnection is determined according to the first modified example. The control process shown in Fig. 10 is executed by the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10. The control process shown in Fig. 10 is executed repeatedly at a predetermined interval, for example, after the toilet device 10 is powered on. The control process in Fig. 10 is stored, for example, in the storage unit 42 of the toilet device 10. Note that in Fig. 10, each step is indicated by "S," and for example, "step 31" is indicated as "S31."

[0113] In S31, it is determined whether or not it has been decided to disconnect communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10. The control unit 40 of the toilet device 10 can recognize that it has been decided to disconnect communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10, for example, by confirming that it has received a communication disconnection decision signal from the mobile information terminal 100. The communication disconnection decision signal is transmitted, for example, when the disconnection button 117a on the mobile information terminal 100 is operated, or when a predetermined condition is not met in S2 in FIG. 7.

[0114] If S31 returns "YES", that is, if it is determined that the communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 has been disconnected, the process proceeds to S32. On the other hand, if S31 returns "NO", that is, if it is determined that the communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 has not been disconnected, the process ends.

[0115] In S32, it is determined whether the functional unit is operating. The control unit 40 determines whether the functional unit of the toilet device 10 is operating. If S32 returns "YES", i.e., if it is determined that the functional unit is operating, the process proceeds to S33. On the other hand, if S32 returns "NO", i.e., if it is determined that the functional unit is not operating, the process ends.

[0116] In S33, the operation of the functional units is stopped. When it is determined that communication should be disconnected, the control unit 40 stops the functional units that are operating and ends the process. In this way, the toilet device 10 may stop the operation of the functional units when it is determined that wireless communication should be disconnected. This makes it possible to prevent the functional units of the toilet device 10 from remaining in an operating state after communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 is disconnected.

[0117] Next, a second modified example of the control process for stopping the operation of the functional unit when communication is cut off will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a process when communication is disconnected according to the second modification. The control process shown in Fig. 11 is executed by the control unit 40 of the toilet device 10. The control process shown in Fig. 11 is executed repeatedly at a predetermined interval, for example, after the toilet device 10 is powered on. The control process in Fig. 11 is stored, for example, in the storage unit 42 of the toilet device 10. Note that in Fig. 11, each step is indicated by "S," and for example, "step 41" is indicated as "S41."

[0118] First, in S41, it is determined whether communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 has been disconnected. The control unit 40 of the toilet device 10 monitors the communication status with the mobile information terminal 100. If S41 returns "YES", that is, if it is determined that communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 has been disconnected, the process proceeds to S42. On the other hand, if S41 returns "NO", that is, if it is determined that communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 has not been disconnected, the process ends.

[0119] In S42, it is determined whether the functional unit is operating. The control unit 40 determines whether the functional unit of the toilet device 10 is operating. If S42 returns "YES", i.e., if it is determined that the functional unit is operating, the process proceeds to S43. On the other hand, if S42 returns "NO", i.e., if it is determined that the functional unit is not operating, the process ends.

[0120] In S43, the operation of the functional units is stopped. When communication is disconnected, the control unit 40 stops the functional units that are operating and ends the process. In this way, the toilet device 10 may stop the operation of the functional units when wireless communication is disconnected. This makes it possible to prevent the functional units of the toilet device 10 from remaining in an operating state after communication between the mobile information terminal 100 and the toilet device 10 is disconnected.

[0121] According to the second modification, the toilet device 10 monitors the communication status with the mobile information terminal 100. Then, the control unit 40 stops the operation of the functional unit when communication is disconnected. Therefore, the control unit 40 can stop the operation of the functional unit when wireless communication is disconnected, for example, without receiving a stop signal or a communication disconnection decision signal from the mobile information terminal 100. According to the second modification, for example, when the user leaves the toilet room TR and goes out of the communication range with the toilet device 10, the functional unit can be automatically stopped.

[0122] FIG. 12 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 2, showing a toilet room and a remote control system according to a third modified example. In the above-described embodiment, the mobile information terminal 100 has been described as communicating with the second wireless communication unit 62 of the toilet seat device 20. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as in a third modified example shown in FIG. 12, the toilet device 10 may have an external communication device 4. In this case, the mobile information terminal 100 communicates wirelessly with the communication device 4. Operation instructions entered on the mobile information terminal 100 are transmitted to the toilet seat device 20 via the communication device 4. Communication between the communication device 4 and the toilet seat device 20 may be two-way communication, or one-way communication from the communication device 4 to the toilet seat device 20. Although the communication device 4 is installed outside the toilet room TR in FIG. 12, the communication device 4 may also be installed inside the toilet room TR.

[0123] The control unit of the communication device 4 may transition the communication state between the communication device 4 and the mobile information terminal 100 from the first connection state to the second connection state when receiving the encrypted pass 150 transmitted from the mobile information terminal 100. Furthermore, the control unit (not shown) of the communication device 4 may execute the control processes shown in Figures 7 to 11 above. For example, when it is decided to disconnect communication or when communication is disconnected, a stop signal may be transmitted from the communication device 4 to the toilet seat device 20.

[0124] The above describes embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also within the scope of the present invention as long as they incorporate the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, and arrangement of each element of the remote control system 5 are not limited to those illustrated and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of the above-described embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also within the scope of the present invention as long as they incorporate the features of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 1. Public toilets 2. Hand washing area 3 Hand dryer 4. Communication equipment 5 Remote Control System 10 Toilet equipment 12 Toilet 12a Bowl section 20 Toilet seat device 22 Main body 24 toilet seats 24a opening 26 Toilet lid 28 Remote Control 30 nozzles 40 Control Unit 42 Storage section 51 Human body detection sensor 53 Seating detection sensor 61 First Radio Communication Division 62 Second Radio Communication Division 70 Toilet lid opening / closing device 71 Toilet seat opening / closing device 72 Toilet seat heater 73 Solenoid valve 74 Hot water heater 75 Nozzle drive unit 76 Deodorizing device 77 Indoor heating system 78 Lighting Equipment 79 Toilet flushing device 80 Warm air blower 100 Mobile Information Terminals 110 control section 112 Storage section 114 Radio Communication Department 116 Operation section 116a Rear cleansing button 116b Bidet flush button 116c Settings button 116d Stop button 117 Operation section 117a Disconnect button 117b Extension button 118 Display section 120 speakers 122 microphones 150 Encryption Passes 200 Remote Control Program OS operation screen TR Toilet Room

Claims

1. A remote control system including a toilet device having a functional unit and a mobile information terminal capable of transmitting a command signal related to the operation of the functional unit via wireless communication, When it is determined that the wireless communication is to be terminated, the operation of the functional unit is stopped before the wireless communication is terminated; Further provided is a remote control for operating the functional unit, A remote control system, characterized in that, when the operation of the functional unit is being performed by the remote controller, the operation of the functional unit is not stopped.

2. 2. The remote control system according to claim 1, wherein the portable information terminal transmits a stop signal to stop operation of the functional unit before disconnecting the wireless communication.

3. The remote control system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the toilet device stops operation of the functional unit when it is determined to disconnect the wireless communication.

4. 4. The remote control system according to claim 1, wherein the functional unit is a sanitary washing functional unit for washing private parts.

5. A program that can be installed on a mobile information terminal that includes a wireless communication unit that transmits a command signal for operating a functional unit of a toilet device by wireless communication, and a control unit that controls the transmission of the command signal, If it is determined that the wireless communication is to be terminated, When the operation of the functional unit is being performed by the portable information terminal, a stop signal for stopping the operation of the functional unit is transmitted from the wireless communication unit before disconnecting the wireless communication; A program that causes the mobile information terminal to execute a program not to send the stop signal when the mobile information terminal confirms that the operation of the functional unit has been performed by the remote control of the toilet device.

6. A toilet device comprising: a functional unit that operates in response to a command signal transmitted by wireless communication from a mobile information terminal; a control unit that controls the functional unit; and a remote control for operating the functional unit, The control unit When it is determined that the wireless communication is to be disconnected, When the operation of the functional unit is performed by the mobile information terminal, the operation of the functional unit is stopped; A toilet apparatus, characterized in that the operation of the functional unit is not stopped when the operation of the functional unit is being performed by the remote control.

Images