Toilet equipment

Abstract

To provide a toilet device capable of suppressing generation of a high temperature in an integrated circuit in which a plurality of drive parts are integrated while suppressing deterioration in usability.SOLUTION: A toilet device comprises: an integrated circuit; and a control part that controls the integrated circuit, wherein the integrated circuit is integrated with an operation sound generation function part that generates an operation sound during operation, a sound output function part that outputs functional sound from a speaker, an operation sound generation drive part that controls supply of power to the operation noise generation function part, and a sound output drive part that controls the supply of the power to the sound output function part, and the control part sets an amount of the power supplied from the sound output drive part to the sound output function part to a first value when the operation sound generation function part is not operating, and sets the amount of the power supplied from the sound output drive part to the sound output function part to a second value smaller than the first value when the operation sound generation function part is operating.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to toilet devices.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, toilet devices have become more multifunctional, and drive circuits for operating each function are provided. When the number of drive circuits provided due to multifunctionalization increases, the toilet device may become larger and the cost may increase. In contrast, there is a method of integrating the circuits into an integrated circuit (IC) (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] On the other hand, when the drive circuits are integrated, when a plurality of integrated drive circuits are driven simultaneously, heat generated from the drive circuits is concentrated, resulting in high temperatures in the integrated circuit, which may cause problems such as the integrated circuit malfunctioning or solder cracks occurring at the terminal portions of the integrated circuit.

[0004] As a means to solve this problem, it is conceivable to increase the size of the integrated circuit or increase the portion where the solder of the integrated circuit is connected. However, such means have the problem of increasing the size and cost of the toilet device.

[0005] Also, as another means, in order to suppress the occurrence of high temperatures in the integrated circuit, it is conceivable to prohibit the simultaneous driving of the integrated drive circuits. However, since the main functions of the toilet device (for example, the water discharge function from the nozzle, the flow rate adjustment function, the deodorizing function, etc.) may be operated simultaneously, prohibiting the simultaneous driving of the drive circuits in an integrated circuit in which the drive circuits for operating these functions are integrated may reduce the usability.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

[0007] This invention was made based on the recognition of the above problems, and aims to provide a toilet device that can suppress the generation of high temperatures in an integrated circuit in which multiple drive units are integrated, while suppressing a decrease in usability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The first invention is a toilet device comprising an integrated circuit that integrates an operating sound generating function unit that generates an operating sound when in operation, a sound output function unit that outputs a functional sound from a speaker, an operating sound generating drive unit that controls the supply of power to the operating sound generating function unit, and a sound output drive unit that controls the supply of power to the sound output function unit, and a control unit that controls the integrated circuit, wherein the control unit sets the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit to a first value when the operating sound generating function unit is not in operation, and sets the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit to a second value which is smaller than the first value when the operating sound generating function unit is in operation.

[0009] When the sound generation function is operating, it generates operating noise, making it difficult to hear the functional sound output from the sound output function. Therefore, when the sound generation function is operating, reducing the volume of the functional sound or stopping the output of the functional sound does not significantly reduce user convenience. With this toilet device, when the sound generation function is operating, the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is reduced compared to when the sound generation function is not operating, thereby suppressing heat generation in the sound output drive unit when the sound generation function is operating. This suppresses the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit where multiple drive units are integrated by operating the sound output function unit and the sound generation function unit simultaneously, while minimizing a decrease in user convenience.

[0010] The second invention is a toilet device in which, in the first invention, the control unit sets the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit to the second value when the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is greater than or equal to a threshold, and sets the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit to the third value which is greater than the second value and less than the first value when the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is greater than 0 and less than the threshold.

[0011] According to this toilet device, when the sound-generating function unit is operating in a low-power consumption mode, the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is increased compared to when the sound-generating function unit is operating in a high-power consumption mode. This allows for more appropriate suppression of heat generation in the sound output drive unit, in accordance with the mode of the sound-generating function unit. As a result, a decrease in usability can be more reliably prevented.

[0012] The third invention is a toilet device in which, in the first invention, the control unit stops supplying power from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit when the operating sound generation function unit is operating.

[0013] According to this toilet device, when the sound generation function is operating, the power supply from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is stopped, thereby more reliably suppressing heat generation in the sound output drive unit when the sound generation function is operating. As a result, high temperatures that occur in integrated circuits where multiple drive units are integrated when the sound output function unit and the sound generation function unit are operating simultaneously can be more reliably suppressed.

[0014] The fourth invention is a toilet device that, in any one of the first to third inventions, further comprises a nozzle for discharging water toward a part of the human body, wherein the operating sound generating function unit includes a flow rate adjustment unit for controlling the discharge of water from the nozzle, the operating sound generating drive unit includes a flow rate adjustment drive unit for controlling the supply of power to the flow rate adjustment unit, and the flow rate adjustment unit controls the discharge of water from the nozzle based on the power supplied from the flow rate adjustment drive unit.

[0015] When the operating sound generation function unit includes a flow rate adjustment unit, operating sounds such as water discharge sounds and water impact sounds are generated when the operating sound generation function unit is operating. Therefore, even if the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is reduced when the operating sound generation function unit is operating, the usability is less likely to deteriorate. In other words, when the operating sound generation function unit includes a flow rate adjustment unit, it is possible to more reliably suppress the deterioration of usability while simultaneously operating the sound output function unit and the operating sound generation function unit to suppress the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit where multiple drive units are integrated.

[0016] The fifth invention is a toilet device in which, in any one of the first to third inventions, the operating sound generating function unit includes a deodorizing unit that deodorizes the sucked air, the operating sound generating drive unit includes a deodorizing drive unit that controls the supply of power to the deodorizing unit, and the deodorizing unit deodorizes based on the power supplied from the deodorizing drive unit.

[0017] When the operating noise generation function unit includes a deodorizing unit, operating noise such as the driving noise of the deodorizing fan is generated when the operating noise generation function unit is operating. Therefore, even if the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is reduced when the operating noise generation function unit is operating, usability is less likely to deteriorate. In other words, when the operating noise generation function unit includes a deodorizing unit, deterioration in usability can be suppressed more reliably, and high temperatures can be suppressed in the integrated circuit where multiple drive units are integrated by operating the sound output function unit and the operating noise generation function unit simultaneously.

[0018] The sixth invention is a toilet device in which, in any one of the first to third inventions, the operating sound generating function unit includes a local drying unit that dries a local part of the human body by blowing air, the operating sound generating drive unit includes a local drying drive unit that controls the supply of power to the local drying unit, and the local drying unit dries based on the power supplied from the local drying drive unit.

[0019] When the operating noise generation function unit includes a local drying unit, operating noise such as the driving noise of the drying fan is generated when the operating noise generation function unit is operating. Therefore, even if the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is reduced when the operating noise generation function unit is operating, usability is less likely to deteriorate. In other words, when the operating noise generation function unit includes a local drying unit, it is possible to more reliably suppress deterioration in usability while simultaneously operating the sound output function unit and the operating noise generation function unit to suppress the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit where multiple drive units are integrated.

[0020] The seventh invention is a toilet device in which, in any one of the first to third inventions, the operating sound generating function unit includes a nozzle motor that moves a nozzle that discharges water toward a part of the human body forward and backward, the operating sound generating drive unit includes a nozzle motor drive unit that controls the supply of power to the nozzle motor, and the nozzle motor moves the nozzle forward and backward based on the power supplied from the nozzle motor drive unit.

[0021] When the sound generation function unit includes a nozzle motor, operating noise such as the nozzle motor's drive noise is generated when the sound generation function unit is operating. Therefore, even if the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is reduced when the sound generation function unit is operating, usability is less likely to deteriorate. In other words, when the sound generation function unit includes a nozzle motor, it is possible to more reliably suppress deterioration in usability while simultaneously operating the sound output function unit and the sound generation function unit to suppress the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit where multiple drive units are integrated.

[0022] The eighth invention is a toilet device comprising a seating detection sensor that detects the user's seating on the toilet seat, a seating use functional unit that is used in a state where the user is seated, a display functional unit that is located behind the user in the seated state and displays visual information, a seating use drive unit that controls the supply of power to the seating use functional unit, a display drive unit that controls the supply of power to the display functional unit, an integrated circuit in which these are integrated, and a control unit that controls the integrated circuit. When the seating use functional unit is not operating, the control unit sets the power supply amount from the display drive unit to the display functional unit to a first value, and when the seating use functional unit is operating, the control unit sets the power supply amount from the display drive unit to the display functional unit to a second value smaller than the first value.

[0023] When the seating use functional unit is operating, since the user is seated on the toilet seat, it is difficult for the display functional unit located behind the user to come into the user's field of vision. Therefore, when the seating use functional unit is operating, even if the brightness of the display functional unit is dimmed or the display of the display functional unit is stopped, it is difficult for the user's usability to deteriorate. According to this toilet device, when the seating use functional unit is operating, by making the power supply amount from the display drive unit to the display functional unit smaller than when the seating use functional unit is not operating, heat generation in the display drive unit when the seating use functional unit is operating can be suppressed. Thereby, while suppressing a deterioration in usability, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of high temperatures in an integrated circuit in which a plurality of drive units are integrated by operating the display functional unit and the seating use functional unit simultaneously.

[0024] The ninth invention is a toilet device according to the eighth invention, wherein when the seating use functional unit is operating, the control unit stops the supply of power from the display drive unit to the display functional unit.

[0025] According to this toilet device, when the sitting and using function unit is operating, by stopping the power supply from the display driving unit to the display function unit, heat generation in the display driving unit when the sitting and using function unit is operating can be more reliably suppressed. Thereby, in an integrated circuit in which a plurality of driving units are integrated by operating the display function unit and the sitting and using function unit simultaneously, occurrence of high temperature can be more reliably suppressed.

[0026] The tenth invention is the toilet device according to the eighth or ninth invention, further comprising a nozzle that discharges water toward a local part of the human body, wherein the sitting and using function unit includes a flow rate adjustment unit that controls the discharge of water from the nozzle, the sitting and using driving unit includes a flow rate adjustment driving unit that controls the power supply to the flow rate adjustment unit, and the flow rate adjustment unit controls the discharge of water from the nozzle based on the power supply from the flow rate adjustment driving unit.

[0027] The flow rate adjustment unit usually operates only when the user is sitting on the toilet seat. Therefore, when the sitting and using function unit includes the flow rate adjustment unit, even if the amount of power supplied from the display driving unit to the display function unit is reduced when the sitting and using function unit is operating, the usability is less likely to deteriorate. That is, when the sitting and using function unit includes the flow rate adjustment unit, occurrence of high temperature in an integrated circuit in which a plurality of driving units are integrated by operating the display function unit and the sitting and using function unit simultaneously can be suppressed while more reliably suppressing deterioration of usability.

[0028] The eleventh invention is the toilet device according to the eighth or ninth invention, wherein the sitting and using function unit includes a local drying unit that dries a local part of the human body by blowing air, the sitting and using driving unit includes a local drying driving unit that controls the power supply to the local drying unit, and the local drying unit performs drying based on the power supply from the local drying driving unit.

[0029] The local drying unit typically operates only when the user is seated on the toilet seat. Therefore, if the seating function unit includes the local drying unit, reducing the power supply from the display drive unit to the display function unit when the seating function unit is operating does not significantly impair usability. In other words, if the seating function unit includes the local drying unit, it is possible to more reliably suppress the deterioration of usability while simultaneously operating the display function unit and the seating function unit, thereby suppressing the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit where multiple drive units are integrated. [Effects of the Invention]

[0030] According to an aspect of the present invention, a toilet device is provided that can suppress the generation of high temperatures in an integrated circuit in which multiple drive units are integrated, while suppressing a decrease in usability. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0031] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing a toilet device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the main components of a toilet device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the main components of a toilet device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0032] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted as appropriate. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet device according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the toilet device 100 is used when installed on a toilet seat (hereinafter simply referred to as "toilet" for convenience of explanation) 800. The toilet 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 pivotally supported on the casing 400 so that they can be opened and closed.

[0033] The casing 400 contains a localized cleaning function unit that enables cleaning of the user's buttocks and other body parts when they are seated on the toilet seat 200. The casing 400 is also equipped with a seat detection sensor 404 that detects when a user is seated on the toilet seat 200.

[0034] When the seating detection sensor 404 detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 200, the user can operate, for example, a remote control or other control unit 500 (see Figure 2), to extend the nozzle 473 into the bowl 801 of the toilet bowl 800 or retract it from the bowl 801. In the toilet device 100 shown in Figure 1, the nozzle 473 is shown in the extended state within the bowl 801.

[0035] The nozzle 473 discharges water (washing water) supplied from the water source towards the genital area of ​​the human body to cleanse it. The tip of the nozzle 473 is equipped with a bidet nozzle 474a and a posterior wash nozzle 474b. The nozzle 473 can wash the female genital area of ​​a woman sitting on the toilet seat 200 by spraying water from the bidet nozzle 474a at its tip. Alternatively, the nozzle 473 can wash the "buttocks" of a user sitting on the toilet seat 200 by spraying water from the posterior wash nozzle 474b at its tip. Note that the term "water" may include not only cold water but also heated water.

[0036] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main components of a toilet device according to this embodiment. Figure 2 shows the main components of both the waterway system and the electrical system. As shown in Figure 2, the toilet device 100 includes a power supply circuit 401, a control circuit unit 30, and a plurality of functional units 40. These are housed inside the casing 400.

[0037] The power supply circuit 401 is connected to an AC power source (for example, a commercial power supply of AC 100V (RMS)) via a power outlet plug. The power supply circuit 401 converts the AC power supplied from the AC power source into DC power and supplies it to each part of the control circuit unit 30 and each functional unit 40. The power supply circuit 401 includes, for example, an AC / DC converter.

[0038] For example, the power supply circuit 401 is provided with an overload protection unit. When the current supplied from the power supply circuit 401 to the toilet unit exceeds a predetermined value, the overload protection unit cuts off the power supply from the power supply circuit 401 to the toilet unit. Such an overload protection unit can be configured with a known overcurrent protection circuit (e.g., a ground fault circuit breaker).

[0039] The control circuit section 30 is a circuit that drives and controls multiple functional sections 40. For convenience, multiple drive sections 50 (see Figure 3) and control section 405, etc., which will be described later, are collectively represented as the control circuit section 30. As will be described later, at least some of the drive sections, etc., included in the control circuit section 30 may be integrated and provided as a single unit, or some of them may be provided as multiple separate circuits that are physically dispersed. An example of the control circuit section 30 will be described later with reference to Figure 3, etc.

[0040] Functional units 40 include, for example, a solenoid valve 431, a hot water unit 440, a disinfecting water unit 450, a flow rate adjustment unit 471, a flow path switching unit 472, a nozzle motor 476, an opening / closing mechanism 420, a deodorizing unit 480, a toilet seat heating unit 482, a local drying unit 484, a sound output function unit 630, and a display function unit 640.

[0041] The toilet device 100 has a water supply section 20. The water supply section 20 has a pipeline 20a (water supply channel) leading from a water source 10, such as a water tap or a water storage tank, to a nozzle 473. The water supply section 20 guides the water supplied from the water source 10 to the nozzle 473 via the pipeline 20a. The pipeline 20a is formed by various parts such as a solenoid valve 431, a hot water unit 440, a flow rate adjustment section 471, and a channel switching section 472, and a plurality of pipes connecting these parts.

[0042] A solenoid valve 431 is provided downstream of the water source 10. The solenoid valve 431 is an openable and closable electromagnetic valve that controls the water supply based on commands from a control circuit unit 30 (control unit 405) located inside the casing 400. In other words, the solenoid valve 431 opens and closes the pipeline 20a. By opening the solenoid valve 431, water supplied from the water source 10 flows into the pipeline 20a.

[0043] The solenoid valve 431 is, for example, a solenoid valve. When switching from the closed state to the open state (when driven), the solenoid valve 431 moves the plunger by energizing the solenoid coil, switching the flow path to the open state. When the energizing of the solenoid coil is stopped, it switches from the open state to the closed state (when stopped).

[0044] Downstream of the solenoid valve 431, a hot water unit 440 (heating section) is provided. The hot water unit 440 has a hot water heater, and by energizing the hot water heater, it heats the water supplied from the water source 10 to, for example, a specified temperature. In other words, the hot water unit 440 generates hot water.

[0045] The hot water unit 440 is an instantaneous heating type heat exchanger, for example, using a ceramic heater. Compared to a storage-type heat exchanger that uses a hot water storage tank, an instantaneous heating type heat exchanger can raise the water temperature to the specified temperature in a shorter time. The hot water unit 440 is not limited to an instantaneous heating type heat exchanger, but may also be a storage-type heat exchanger. Furthermore, the heating section is not limited to a heat exchanger, but may use other heating methods, such as microwave heating.

[0046] The hot water unit 440 is connected to the control circuit unit 30. The control unit 405 controls the hot water unit 440, for example, in response to the user's operation of the operation unit 500, thereby raising the water temperature to the temperature set on the operation unit 500.

[0047] A disinfectant water unit 450 is provided downstream of the hot water unit 440. The disinfectant water unit 450 is, for example, an electrolytic cell unit having electrodes. The disinfectant water unit 450 generates a liquid containing hypochlorous acid (disinfectant water) from tap water by electrolyzing tap water flowing between the electrodes by applying a voltage between the pair of electrodes. The disinfectant water unit 450 is connected to the control circuit unit 30. The disinfectant water unit 450 generates disinfectant water (functional water) based on control by the control unit 405.

[0048] The disinfectant water produced in the disinfectant water unit 450 may be a solution containing metal ions such as silver ions or copper ions. Alternatively, the disinfectant water produced in the disinfectant water unit 450 may be a solution containing electrolyzed chlorine or ozone. The functional water produced in the disinfectant water unit 450 may be acidic water or alkaline water.

[0049] A flow rate adjustment unit 471 is provided downstream of the disinfectant water unit 450. The flow rate adjustment unit 471 adjusts the flow rate (water pressure) of the water supplied to the nozzle 473 and the nozzle cleaning unit 465. In this way, the flow rate adjustment unit 471 controls the discharge of water from the nozzle 473 and the nozzle cleaning unit 465. The flow rate adjustment unit 471 is connected to the control circuit unit 30. The operation of the flow rate adjustment unit 471 is controlled by the control unit 405. For example, the flow rate adjustment unit 471 has an adjustment valve and a flow rate adjustment motor. Based on a command from the control unit 405, the flow rate adjustment unit 471 adjusts the flow rate by changing the width of the water channel by moving the adjustment valve with the flow rate adjustment motor. For example, a stepping motor is used as the flow rate adjustment motor. The flow rate adjustment unit 471 includes a pump that adjusts the flow rate.

[0050] Downstream of the flow rate adjustment unit 471, a flow path switching unit 472 is provided. The flow path switching unit 472 switches between, for example, a state in which water is supplied to the nozzle 473 and a state in which water is supplied to the nozzle cleaning unit 465. The flow path switching unit 472 also switches between, for example, a state in which each outlet of the nozzle 473 is connected to the pipeline 20a and a state in which it is not connected to the pipeline 20a. The flow path switching unit 472 may be provided as a single unit together with the flow rate adjustment unit 471.

[0051] Downstream of the flow path switching unit 472, a nozzle 473 and a nozzle cleaning unit 465 are provided. When the flow path switching unit 472 is supplying water to the nozzle 473, the pump of the flow rate adjustment unit 471 is turned on, causing water to be discharged from the nozzle 473. When the flow path switching unit 472 is supplying water to the nozzle cleaning unit 465, the pump of the flow rate adjustment unit 471 is turned on, causing water to be discharged from the nozzle cleaning unit 465. The nozzle cleaning unit 465 cleans the outer surface (body) of the nozzle 473 by discharging water.

[0052] A nozzle motor 476 is provided around the nozzle 473 to move the nozzle 473 forward and backward. The nozzle motor 476 is connected to the control circuit unit 30. The nozzle 473 receives driving force from the nozzle motor 476 and moves forward into the bowl 801 of the toilet bowl 800 or backward from the bowl 801. In other words, the nozzle motor 476 moves the nozzle 473 forward and backward based on commands from the control unit 405. For example, a stepping motor is used for the nozzle motor 476.

[0053] The toilet device 100 may be appropriately equipped with a pressure regulating valve, a check valve, a vacuum breaker, a pressure modulation unit, a spray nozzle, etc., which are not shown in the figure. The pressure regulating valve and check valve are provided, for example, between the solenoid valve 431 and the hot water unit 440. The vacuum breaker and pressure modulation unit are provided, for example, between the disinfectant water unit 450 and the flow rate adjustment unit 471. The pressure modulation unit fluctuates the water pressure in the pipeline 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 in a mist form onto the bowl 801.

[0054] The toilet device 100 has a temperature sensor 492. The temperature sensor 492 is, for example, a thermistor (limit thermistor). The second temperature sensor 492 is located downstream of the hot water unit 440 and detects the temperature of the water supplied to the nozzle 473. The control unit 405, for example, based on the measurement result of the temperature sensor 492, drives the solenoid valve 431 to stop the water supply to the downstream side if the temperature of the water supplied to the downstream side is above a predetermined temperature. This further improves user safety.

[0055] As shown in Figure 2, the toilet device 100 is equipped with a human body detection means 402 for detecting the user of the toilet device. In this example, the human body detection means 402 includes a human body detection sensor 403 and a seating detection sensor 404.

[0056] As shown in Figure 1, the human body detection sensor 403 is installed, for example, embedded in a recess 409 formed on the upper surface of the casing 400, and detects a user (person) at a distance from the toilet seat 200. In other words, the human body detection sensor 403 detects a user in the vicinity of the toilet device 100. A transparent window 310 is also 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. The human body detection sensor 403 can be, for example, an infrared distance measuring sensor, a pyroelectric sensor, or a microwave sensor. However, the human body detection sensor 403 is not limited to these, and can be any sensor capable of detecting a user at a distance from the toilet seat 200.

[0057] The seating detection sensor 404 detects a person above the toilet seat 200 immediately before the user sits on the toilet seat 200, or a user who has sat on the toilet seat 200. For example, an infrared light-emitting and receiving distance measuring sensor can be used as such a seating detection sensor 404. Alternatively, the seating detection sensor 404 may be a microwave sensor, a pyroelectric sensor, or the like. Furthermore, the seating detection sensor 404 may be a mechanical switch, optical sensor, or magnetic sensor that detects the movement of the toilet seat 200, or a capacitive sensor that detects changes in capacitance associated with sitting, or a piezoelectric sensor that detects changes in pressure associated with sitting.

[0058] The control unit 405 controls the operation of the solenoid valve 431, hot water unit 440, disinfectant water unit 450, flow rate adjustment unit 471, flow path switching unit 472, nozzle motor 476, opening / closing mechanism 420, deodorizing unit 480, toilet seat heating unit 482, local drying unit 484, sound output function unit 630, display function unit 640, etc., based on signals from the human body detection sensor 403, seat detection sensor 404, operation unit 500, etc.

[0059] The opening / closing mechanism 420 drives the toilet seat 200 and / or toilet lid 300 to open and close. 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 toilet lid 300 to the closed position and the open position.

[0060] The deodorizing unit 480 has a deodorizing fan, and by operating the deodorizing fan, it sucks in the air inside the bowl 801 and reduces odor components such as fecal odor contained in the sucked-in air. An exhaust port 407 (Figure 1) from the deodorizing unit 480 is provided on the side of the casing 400. The deodorizing unit 480 has a deodorizing member that deodorizes using a catalyst, for example, activated carbon. When air comes into contact with the deodorizing member, odor components such as ammonia contained in the air are adsorbed by the deodorizing member. This reduces the odor components contained in the air. However, the deodorizing unit 480 is not limited to the above, and any configuration capable of deodorizing the sucked-in air is acceptable. The deodorizing unit 480 is connected to the control circuit unit 30. The control unit 405 controls the driving of the deodorizing fan (motor) based on signals from, for example, the seat detection sensor 404 or the operation unit 500.

[0061] The toilet seat heating unit 482 has a toilet seat heater that warms the seating surface of the toilet seat 200. The toilet seat heater is, for example, an electric heating element that generates heat when an electric current is passed through it. The toilet seat heater is installed, for example, in the internal space of the toilet seat 200 and warms the seating surface from the underside (inside of the toilet seat 200). The toilet seat heating unit 482 is connected to the control circuit unit 30.

[0062] The localized drying unit 484 has a drying fan, and by operating the drying fan, it dries a part of the human body by blowing air toward that part of the human body. The localized drying unit 484 may have, for example, a heater for blowing warm air. The localized drying unit 484 is connected to the control circuit unit 30. The control unit 405 controls the driving of the drying fan (motor) based on signals from, for example, the seating detection sensor 404 or the operation unit 500.

[0063] The sound output function unit 630 has a speaker and outputs a functional sound from the speaker. The functional sound includes, for example, at least one of the sound of flowing water, music, and voice. The sound output function unit 630 is, for example, a sound effect output device that outputs the sound of flowing water from the speaker. The sound effect output device is used, for example, to mask sounds associated with the user's excretion. By using the sound effect output device, it is possible to suppress the sound of excretion being heard by others in public restrooms, etc.

[0064] The display function unit 640 displays visual information. For example, the display function unit 640 displays information about the operating status of the toilet device 100. The information displayed by the display function unit 640 includes, for example, information on whether the power to the toilet device 100 is on or off, information on whether the toilet seat heater of the toilet seat heating unit 482 is on or off, information on whether a specific mode of the toilet device 100, such as power saving mode, is on or off, and information on whether the deodorizing fan of the deodorizing unit 480 is on or off. The display function unit 640 displays information by lighting, flashing, turning off, and changing the color of an LED (light-emitting diode). The display function unit 640 may be, for example, a display that shows characters or images.

[0065] As shown in Figure 1, the display function unit 640 is located behind the user when the user is seated on the toilet seat 200 with their back to the toilet lid 300. The display function unit 640 is located behind the front of the user's face when the user is seated on the toilet seat 200 with their back to the toilet lid 300 and facing forward. The display function unit 640 is located behind the rear end of the toilet seat 200 when the toilet seat 200 is closed. The display function unit 640 is located behind the hinge portion 210 that pivotally supports the toilet seat 200 relative to the casing 400. The display function unit 640 is provided on the upper surface of the rear of the casing 400, for example. The user can obtain information about the operating status of the toilet device 100 by looking at the display function unit 640 when they are not seated on the toilet seat 200.

[0066] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the main components of a toilet device according to this embodiment. Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating a part of the electrical system configuration of the toilet device 100, including the control circuit unit 30 and the functional unit 40. As shown in Figure 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.

[0067] The conversion circuit 70 converts the power supplied from the power supply circuit 401 into DC power corresponding to 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 the 24V voltage input from the power supply circuit 401 to 5V 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.

[0068] Each of the multiple drive units 50 is connected to each of the multiple functional units 40 and controls the driving of each functional unit 40. Specifically, each drive unit 50 is a drive circuit that has a driving element such as a transistor and acts as a switch. For example, a drive unit 50 is connected to a functional unit 40 and its power supply. Based on a command from the control unit 405, the drive unit 50 controls the supply of power to the connected functional unit 40 (e.g., on / off). For example, the drive unit 50 switches between a state in which it supplies power to the functional unit 40 and drives the functional unit 40 (on state) and a state in which it stops supplying power to the functional unit 40 and does not drive the functional unit 40 (off state). In the on state, the functional unit 40 and its power supply are energized, and the functional unit 40 operates using the power from the power supply. In the off state, the drive unit 50 cuts off the power supply between the functional unit 40 and the power supply, and the functional unit 40 stops operating. For example, the drive unit 50 may switch between a state in which it supplies a large amount of power to the functional unit 40 to drive the functional unit 40 in a high-power consumption mode, and a state in which it supplies a small amount of power to the functional unit 40 to drive the functional unit 40 in a low-power consumption mode. The drive unit 50 may include multiple switching elements (such as transistors) and resistors, and may also include a bridge circuit (for example, an H-bridge circuit).

[0069] The multiple drive units 50 include, for example, a deodorizing drive unit 51, a disinfecting water drive unit 52, a nozzle motor drive unit 53, a flow rate adjustment drive unit 54, a solenoid valve drive unit 55, a local drying drive unit 56, a sound output drive unit 57, and a display drive unit 58.

[0070] The deodorizing drive unit 51 is connected to the deodorizing unit 480 and controls the power supply to the deodorizing unit 480 based on signals from the control unit 405. More specifically, the deodorizing drive unit 51 controls the power supply to the deodorizing fan (motor) of the deodorizing unit 480 based on signals from the control unit 405. In this way, the deodorizing drive unit 51 controls the driving of the deodorizing fan (motor) of the deodorizing unit 480.

[0071] The disinfectant water drive unit 52 is connected to the disinfectant water unit 450 and controls the supply of power to the disinfectant water unit 450 based on signals from the control unit 405. More specifically, the disinfectant water drive unit 52 controls the supply of power to the electrodes of the disinfectant water unit 450 based on signals from the control unit 405. In this way, the disinfectant water drive unit 52 controls the driving of the disinfectant water unit 450, that is, the supply of power to the electrodes.

[0072] The nozzle motor drive unit 53 is connected to the nozzle motor 476 and controls the power supply to the nozzle motor 476 based on signals from the control unit 405. In this way, the nozzle motor drive unit 53 controls the driving of the nozzle motor 476, that is, the movement of the nozzle 473 forward and backward.

[0073] The flow rate adjustment drive unit 54 is connected to the flow rate adjustment unit 471 and controls the power supply to the flow rate adjustment unit 471 based on signals from the control unit 405. More specifically, the flow rate adjustment drive unit 54 controls the power supply to the flow rate adjustment motor and pump of the flow rate adjustment unit 471 based on signals from the control unit 405. In this way, the flow rate adjustment drive unit 54 controls the drive of the flow rate adjustment motor and pump of the flow rate adjustment unit 471.

[0074] The solenoid valve drive unit 55 is connected to the solenoid valve 431 and controls the power supply to the solenoid valve 431 based on signals from the control unit 405 or the comparator unit 74. More specifically, the solenoid valve drive unit 55 controls the power supply to the solenoid coil of the solenoid valve 431 based on signals from the control unit 405. In this way, the solenoid valve drive unit 55 controls the driving of the solenoid valve 431, i.e., the energization of the solenoid coil.

[0075] The local drying drive unit 56 is connected to the local drying unit 484 and controls the power supply to the local drying unit 484 based on signals from the control unit 405. More specifically, the local drying drive unit 56 controls the power supply to the drying fan (motor) of the local drying unit 484. In this way, the local drying drive unit 56 controls the driving of the drying fan (motor) of the local drying unit 484.

[0076] The sound output drive unit 57 is connected to the sound output function unit 630 and controls the power supply to the sound output function unit 630 based on signals from the control unit 405. More specifically, the sound output drive unit 57 controls the power supply of the sound output function unit 630 to the speaker. In this way, the sound output drive unit 57 controls the driving of the sound output function unit 630, that is, the output of functional sound from the speaker.

[0077] The display drive unit 58 is connected to the display function unit 640 and controls the power supply to the display function unit 640 based on signals from the control unit 405. More specifically, the display drive unit 58 controls the power supply to the LEDs of the display function unit 640. In this way, the display drive unit 58 controls the driving of the display function unit 640, i.e., the on / off switching of the LEDs.

[0078] The temperature sensor 492 (limit thermistor) is connected to the comparator unit 74 and the control unit 405. The measurement results from the temperature sensor 492 are output to the comparator unit 74 and the control unit 405. Based on the output from the temperature sensor 492, the control unit 405 controls the solenoid valve drive unit 55 to close the solenoid valve 431 if the detected water temperature is above a predetermined temperature. The comparator unit 74 has a comparator and compares the output from the temperature sensor 492 with a predetermined threshold. This determines whether the detected water temperature is above a predetermined temperature. If the detected water temperature is above a predetermined temperature, the comparator unit 74 controls the solenoid valve drive unit 55 to close the solenoid valve 431 and maintain 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 the signal from the other unit. This further improves safety.

[0079] The control unit 405 is a computing device that includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and memory, and uses an integrated circuit such as a microcontroller. The processing unit 72 has, for example, a logic circuit. The processing unit 72 is connected to the control unit 405, the deodorizing drive unit 51, the disinfecting water drive unit 52, the nozzle motor drive unit 53, the flow rate adjustment drive unit 54, the local drying drive unit 56, the sound output drive unit 57, and the display drive unit 58. Communication takes place between the control unit 405 and the drive unit 50 connected to the processing unit 72 via the processing unit 72.

[0080] For communication between the control unit 405 and the processing unit 72, for example, synchronous serial communication is used. The control unit 405 transmits, for example, clock signals and data signals to the processing unit 72.

[0081] The processing unit 72 has a register. The register stores commands that instruct the operation of the drive unit 50 (operation of the functional unit 40) connected to the processing unit 72. For example, the register stores commands such as turning the deodorizing fan on / off, increasing / decreasing the airflow, extending / retracting the nozzle, increasing / decreasing the flow rate, turning the drying fan on / off and increasing / decreasing the airflow, turning the speaker on / off and increasing / decreasing the volume, and turning the LED on / off and increasing / decreasing the brightness.

[0082] The control unit 405 transmits and receives signals containing command information to and from the processing unit 72. The processing unit 72 performs logical operations on the signals from the control unit 405 and transmits a signal corresponding to that command to the drive unit 50. In this way, the control unit 405 controls the drive of the functional unit 40 by controlling the drive unit 50 via the processing unit 72.

[0083] Furthermore, the registers store commands corresponding to the status of the functional unit 40 and the drive unit 50 (for example, malfunctions such as open circuits, short circuits, overheating, and overcurrent). This allows the processing unit 72 to notify the control unit 405 of malfunctions in the functional unit 40 and the drive unit 50.

[0084] As shown in Figure 3, the control circuit unit 30 includes an integrated circuit 32. In this embodiment, at least some of the multiple drive units 50 are integrated into the integrated circuit 32. In this example, the conversion circuit 70, processing unit 72, deodorizing drive unit 51, disinfecting water drive unit 52, nozzle motor drive unit 53, flow rate adjustment drive unit 54, local drying drive unit 56, sound output drive unit 57, display drive unit 58, and comparator unit 74 are integrated as the integrated circuit 32. The integrated circuit 32 is an IC that integrates multiple circuits into a single package. For example, the integrated circuit 32 is an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) and is a single IC chip (semiconductor chip). By integrating multiple drive units 50, etc., the circuit area can be reduced.

[0085] In this example, the solenoid valve drive unit 55 is not included in the integrated circuit 32. In other words, in this example, the solenoid valve drive unit 55 is not integrated into the IC that includes the other drive units 50. In this example, the solenoid valve drive unit 55 is provided as a separate unit from the integrated circuit 32.

[0086] In this embodiment, the processing unit 72 is not necessarily required. For example, the control unit 405 may communicate with each drive unit 50 and each overcurrent protection unit 60 without going through the processing unit 72.

[0087] When drive circuits (drive units) are consolidated using such integrated circuits, if multiple consolidated drive circuits are driven simultaneously, the heat generated from the drive circuits is concentrated, which can cause high temperatures in the integrated circuit. This can lead to malfunctions such as failure of the integrated circuit or solder cracks at the terminals of the integrated circuit.

[0088] One possible solution to this problem is to increase the size of the integrated circuit or to enlarge the area where the solder joints are connected. However, such measures have the drawback of resulting in larger toilet equipment and increased costs.

[0089] Another possible approach to suppress high temperatures in integrated circuits is to prohibit the simultaneous operation of integrated drive circuits. However, since the main functions of a toilet system (e.g., water discharge from the nozzle, flow rate adjustment, deodorization) may be operated simultaneously, prohibiting the simultaneous operation of drive circuits in an integrated circuit that integrates the drive circuits for these functions may reduce usability.

[0090] Therefore, in the toilet device 100 according to this embodiment, the following control is performed. The control of the toilet device 100 according to this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0091] In the following description, the function unit 40, in which the drive unit 50 is integrated into the integrated circuit 32, that generates operating noise when in operation will be referred to as the operating noise generating function unit 610. The drive unit 50 of the operating noise generating function unit 610 will be referred to as the operating noise generating drive unit 660. The operating noise generating drive unit 660 controls the power supply to the operating noise generating function unit 610.

[0092] The operating sound generation function unit 610 includes, for example, a flow rate adjustment unit 471 that controls the discharge of water from the nozzle 473 and the nozzle cleaning unit 465. In this case, the operating sound generation drive unit 660 includes a flow rate adjustment drive unit 54 that controls the supply of power to the flow rate adjustment unit 471. The flow rate adjustment unit 471 controls the discharge of water from the nozzle 473 and the nozzle cleaning unit 465 based on the power supplied from the flow rate adjustment drive unit 54.

[0093] The operating sound generation function unit 610 includes, for example, a deodorizing unit 480 that deodorizes the inhaled air. In this case, the operating sound generation drive unit 660 includes a deodorizing drive unit 51 that controls the supply of power to the deodorizing unit 480. The deodorizing unit 480 performs deodorization based on the power supplied from the deodorizing drive unit 51.

[0094] The operating noise generation function unit 610 includes, for example, a local drying unit 484 that dries a local part of the human body by blowing air. In this case, the operating noise generation drive unit 660 includes a local drying drive unit 56 that controls the supply of power to the local drying unit 484. The local drying unit 484 performs drying based on the power supplied from the local drying drive unit 56.

[0095] The operating sound generation function unit 610 includes, for example, a nozzle motor 476 that moves the nozzle 473 forward and backward. In this case, the operating sound generation drive unit 660 includes a nozzle motor drive unit 53 that controls the supply of power to the nozzle motor 476. The nozzle motor 476 moves the nozzle 473 forward and backward based on the power supplied from the nozzle motor drive unit 53.

[0096] The operating sounds generated from the operating sound generation function unit 610 may be sounds generated by the operating sound generation function unit 610 itself, or sounds that are generated incidentally as a result of the operation of the operating sound generation function unit 610. The operating sounds include, for example, sounds emitted from the nozzle 473 or nozzle cleaning unit 465 when water is discharged from the nozzle 473 or nozzle cleaning unit 465, sounds generated when the discharged water from the nozzle 473 or nozzle cleaning unit 465 hits the toilet bowl 800, the water (seal water) inside the toilet bowl 800, the nozzle 473, or the casing 400, the driving sound of the deodorizing fan of the deodorizing unit 480, the driving sound of the drying fan of the local drying unit 484, and the driving sound of the nozzle motor 476 when the nozzle 473 is moved forward and backward.

[0097] Furthermore, in the following description, the functional unit 40 in which the drive unit 50 is integrated into the integrated circuit 32, which is used when the user is seated, will be referred to as the seated-use functional unit 620. The drive unit 50 of the seated-use functional unit 620 will be referred to as the seated-use drive unit 670. The seated-use drive unit 670 controls the supply of power to the seated-use functional unit 620.

[0098] The seated operation function unit 620 includes, for example, a flow rate adjustment unit 471 that controls the discharge of water from the nozzle 473 and the nozzle cleaning unit 465. In this case, the seated operation drive unit 670 includes a flow rate adjustment drive unit 54 that controls the supply of power to the flow rate adjustment unit 471. The flow rate adjustment unit 471 controls the discharge of water from the nozzle 473 and the nozzle cleaning unit 465 based on the power supplied from the flow rate adjustment drive unit 54.

[0099] The seating function unit 620 includes, for example, a local drying unit 484 that dries a local part of the human body by blowing air. In this case, the seating drive unit 670 includes a local drying drive unit 56 that controls the supply of power to the local drying unit 484. The local drying unit 484 performs drying based on the power supplied from the local drying drive unit 56.

[0100] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the toilet device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 405 determines whether the sound output function unit 630 is operating or not (step S101). If the sound output function unit 630 is not operating (step S101: No), the control unit 405 repeats step S101.

[0101] If the sound output function unit 630 is operating (step S101: Yes), the control unit 405 determines whether or not the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating (step S102). If the operating sound generation function unit 610 is not operating (step S102: No), the control unit 405 sets the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 to a first value (step S103).

[0102] When the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating (step S102: Yes), the control unit 405 sets the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 to a second value which is smaller than the first value (step S104).

[0103] When the sound-generating function unit 610 is not operating, the amount of power supplied from the sound-generating drive unit 660 to the sound-generating function unit 610 is, for example, 0. When the sound-generating function unit 610 is operating, the amount of power supplied from the sound-generating drive unit 660 to the sound-generating function unit 610 is, for example, greater than 0.

[0104] When the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating, operating noise is generated, making it difficult to hear the function sound output from the sound output function unit 630. Therefore, when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating, reducing the volume of the function sound or stopping the output of the function sound does not significantly reduce the user's convenience. According to this embodiment, when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating, the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 is reduced compared to when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is not operating, thereby suppressing heat generation in the sound output drive unit 57 when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating. This suppresses the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit 32, which integrates multiple drive units 50, by operating the sound output function unit 630 and the operating sound generation function unit 610 simultaneously, while minimizing a decrease in usability.

[0105] The second value may be, for example, a value greater than 0 and less than the first value, or it may be 0. In other words, when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating, the control unit 405 may continue supplying power from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630, or it may stop supplying power from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630.

[0106] When the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating, the power supply from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 is stopped, thereby more reliably suppressing heat generation in the sound output drive unit 57 when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating. As a result, it is possible to more reliably suppress the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit 32, which is an integrated circuit of multiple drive units 50, by operating the sound output function unit 630 and the operating sound generation function unit 610 simultaneously.

[0107] As described above, the operating sound generating function unit 610 is a function unit 40 that generates operating sound when in operation. The operating sound generating function unit 610 includes, for example, at least one of the flow rate adjustment unit 471, the deodorizing unit 480, the local drying unit 484, and the nozzle motor 476.

[0108] When the operating sound generation function unit 610 includes the flow rate adjustment unit 471, operating sounds such as water discharge sounds and water impact sounds are generated when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating. Therefore, even if the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 is reduced when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating, the usability is less likely to deteriorate. In other words, when the operating sound generation function unit 610 includes the flow rate adjustment unit 471, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of usability more reliably while simultaneously operating the sound output function unit 630 and the operating sound generation function unit 610 to suppress the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit 32 in which multiple drive units 50 are integrated.

[0109] When the operating sound generation function unit 610 includes the deodorizing unit 480, operating noise such as the driving noise of the deodorizing fan is generated when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating. Therefore, even if the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 is reduced when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating, the usability is less likely to deteriorate. In other words, when the operating sound generation function unit 610 includes the deodorizing unit, the deterioration in usability can be more reliably suppressed, and the simultaneous operation of the sound output function unit 630 and the operating sound generation function unit 610 can suppress the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit 32 in which multiple drive units 50 are integrated.

[0110] When the operating noise generation function unit 610 includes a local drying unit 484, operating noise such as the driving noise of the drying fan is generated when the operating noise generation function unit 610 is operating. Therefore, even if the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 is reduced when the operating noise generation function unit 610 is operating, the usability is less likely to deteriorate. In other words, when the operating noise generation function unit 610 includes a local drying unit 484, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of usability more reliably while simultaneously operating the sound output function unit 630 and the operating noise generation function unit 610 to suppress the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit 32 in which multiple drive units 50 are integrated.

[0111] When the operating sound generation function unit 610 includes the nozzle motor 476, operating sounds such as the drive sound of the nozzle motor 476 are generated when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating. Therefore, even if the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 is reduced when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating, the usability is less likely to deteriorate. In other words, when the operating sound generation function unit 610 includes the nozzle motor 476, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of usability more reliably while simultaneously operating the sound output function unit 630 and the operating sound generation function unit 610 to suppress the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit 32 in which multiple drive units 50 are integrated.

[0112] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the toilet device according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 405 determines whether the sound output function unit 630 is operating or not (step S201). If the sound output function unit 630 is not operating (step S201: No), the control unit 405 repeats step S201.

[0113] If the sound output function unit 630 is operating (step S201: Yes), the control unit 405 determines whether or not the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating (step S202). If the operating sound generation function unit 610 is not operating (step S202: No), the control unit 405 sets the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 to a first value (step S203).

[0114] When the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating (step S202: Yes), the control unit 405 determines whether the amount of power supplied from the operating sound generation drive unit 660 to the operating sound generation function unit 610 is greater than or equal to a threshold (step S204). If the amount of power supplied from the operating sound generation drive unit 660 to the operating sound generation function unit 610 is greater than or equal to a threshold (step S204: Yes), the control unit 405 sets the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 to a second value that is smaller than the first value (step S205). The second value may be, for example, a value greater than 0 and less than the first value, or it may be 0.

[0115] When the amount of power supplied from the operating sound generation drive unit 660 to the operating sound generation function unit 610 exceeds 0 (step S202: Yes) but is less than the threshold (step S204: No), the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 is set to a third value that is greater than the second value and less than the first value (step S206).

[0116] When the sound-generating function unit 610 is not operating, the amount of power supplied from the sound-generating drive unit 660 to the sound-generating function unit 610 is, for example, 0. When the sound-generating function unit 610 is operating, the amount of power supplied from the sound-generating drive unit 660 to the sound-generating function unit 610 is, for example, greater than 0. When the sound-generating function unit 610 is operating in a first mode with high power consumption, the amount of power supplied from the sound-generating drive unit 660 to the sound-generating function unit 610 is, for example, greater than 0 and less than the threshold.

[0117] When the operating noise generation function unit 610 is the flow rate adjustment unit 471, for example, the first mode, which consumes a lot of power, is a mode in which the force of the water discharged from the nozzle 473 and nozzle cleaning unit 465 is stronger than that of the second mode, and the second mode, which consumes little power, is a mode in which the force of the water discharged from the nozzle 473 and nozzle cleaning unit 465 is weaker than that of the first mode.

[0118] When the operating noise generation function unit 610 is a deodorizing unit 480, for example, the first mode, which consumes a lot of power, is a mode in which the rotation speed of the deodorizing fan per unit time is higher than that of the second mode, and the second mode, which consumes little power, is a mode in which the rotation speed of the deodorizing fan per unit time is lower than that of the first mode.

[0119] When the operating noise generating function unit 610 is a local drying unit 484, for example, the first mode, which consumes a lot of power, is a mode in which the rotational speed of the drying fan per unit time is higher than that of the second mode, and the second mode, which consumes little power, is a mode in which the rotational speed of the drying fan per unit time is lower than that of the first mode.

[0120] If the operating noise generation function unit 610 is a nozzle motor 476, for example, the first mode, which consumes a lot of power, is a mode in which the rotational speed of the nozzle motor 476 per unit time is higher than that of the second mode, and the second mode, which consumes little power, is a mode in which the rotational speed of the nozzle motor 476 per unit time is lower than that of the first mode.

[0121] According to this embodiment, when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating in a low power consumption mode, the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit 57 to the sound output function unit 630 is increased compared to when the operating sound generation function unit 610 is operating in a high power consumption mode. This allows for more appropriate suppression of heat generation in the sound output drive unit 57 in accordance with the mode of the operating sound generation function unit 610. As a result, a decrease in usability can be more reliably suppressed.

[0122] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the toilet device according to the present invention. As shown in Figure 6, the control unit 405 determines whether the seating detection sensor 404 has detected that the user is seated on the toilet seat 200 (step S301). If seating has not been detected (step S301: No), the control unit 405 repeats step S301.

[0123] If seating is detected (step S301: Yes), the control unit 405 determines whether the display function unit 640 is operating (step S302). If the display function unit 640 is not operating (step S302: No), the control unit 405 returns to step S301.

[0124] If the display function unit 640 is operating (step S302: Yes), the control unit 405 determines whether or not the seating function unit 620 is operating (step S303). If the seating function unit 620 is not operating (step S303: No), the control unit 405 sets the amount of power supplied from the display drive unit 58 to the display function unit 640 to a first value (step S304).

[0125] When the seating function unit 620 is in operation (step S303: Yes), the control unit 405 sets the amount of power supplied from the display drive unit 58 to the display function unit 640 to a second value which is smaller than the first value (step S305).

[0126] When the seated-use function unit 620 is in operation, the user is seated on the toilet seat 200, so the display function unit 640, located behind the user, is not easily visible to the user. Therefore, when the seated-use function unit 620 is in operation, even if the brightness of the display function unit 640 is dimmed or the display of the display function unit 640 is turned off, the user's convenience is not significantly reduced. According to this embodiment, when the seated-use function unit 620 is in operation, the amount of power supplied from the display drive unit 58 to the display function unit 640 is reduced compared to when the seated-use function unit 620 is not in operation, thereby suppressing heat generation in the display drive unit 58 when the seated-use function unit 620 is in operation. This suppresses the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit 32, which is an aggregation of multiple drive units 50, by operating the display function unit 640 and the seated-use function unit 620 simultaneously, while suppressing a decrease in usability.

[0127] The second value may be, for example, a value greater than 0 and less than the first value, or it may be 0. In other words, the control unit 405 may continue supplying power from the display drive unit 58 to the display function unit 640 when the seating function unit 620 is operating, or it may stop supplying power from the display drive unit 58 to the display function unit 640.

[0128] When the seating function unit 620 is in operation, the power supply from the display drive unit 58 to the display function unit 640 is stopped, thereby more reliably suppressing heat generation in the display drive unit 58 when the seating function unit 620 is in operation. This makes it more reliably possible to suppress high temperatures in the integrated circuit 32, which is a combination of multiple drive units 50, when the display function unit 640 and the seating function unit 620 are operated simultaneously.

[0129] As described above, the seated function unit 620 is a function unit 40 used when the user is seated on the toilet seat 200. The seated function unit 620 includes, for example, at least one of the flow rate adjustment unit 471 and the local drying unit 484.

[0130] The flow rate adjustment unit 471 normally operates only when the user is seated on the toilet seat 200. Therefore, when the seating function unit 620 includes the flow rate adjustment unit 471, the usability is less likely to deteriorate even if the amount of power supplied from the display drive unit 58 to the display function unit 640 is reduced when the seating function unit 620 is operating. In other words, when the seating function unit 620 includes the flow rate adjustment unit 471, it is possible to more reliably suppress the deterioration of usability while simultaneously operating the display function unit 640 and the seating function unit 620 to suppress the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit 32 in which multiple drive units 50 are integrated.

[0131] The local drying unit 484 normally operates only when the user is seated on the toilet seat 200. Therefore, when the seating function unit 620 includes the local drying unit 484, the usability is not significantly reduced even if the amount of power supplied from the display drive unit 58 to the display function unit 640 is reduced when the seating function unit 620 is operating. In other words, when the seating function unit 620 includes the local drying unit 484, it is possible to more reliably suppress the decrease in usability while simultaneously operating the display function unit 640 and the seating function unit 620, thereby suppressing the generation of high temperatures in the integrated circuit 32, which integrates multiple drive units 50.

[0132] The embodiment may include the following configurations.

[0133] (Composition 1) A sound-generating function unit that produces operating noise when in operation, A sound output function unit that outputs functional sounds from the speaker, An integrated circuit comprising an operating sound generation drive unit that controls the supply of power to the operating sound generation function unit, and a sound output drive unit that controls the supply of power to the sound output function unit, A control unit for controlling the aforementioned integrated circuit, Equipped with, The control unit, When the sound generation function unit is not operating, the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is set to a first value. A toilet device that, when the sound-generating function unit is operating, sets the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit to a second value which is smaller than the first value.

[0134] (Configuration 2) The control unit, When the amount of power supplied from the operating sound generation drive unit to the operating sound generation function unit is equal to or greater than a threshold, the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is set to the second value. The toilet device according to configuration 1, wherein when the amount of power supplied from the operating sound generating drive unit to the operating sound generating function unit exceeds 0 and is less than the threshold, the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is set to a third value that is greater than the second value and less than the first value.

[0135] (Composition 3) The toilet device according to configuration 1, wherein the control unit stops supplying power from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit when the sound generation function unit is operating.

[0136] (Composition 4) It is further equipped with a nozzle that discharges water towards a specific part of the human body. The aforementioned operating sound generating function unit includes a flow rate adjustment unit that controls the discharge of water from the nozzle, The aforementioned operating sound generating drive unit includes a flow rate adjustment drive unit that controls the supply of power to the flow rate adjustment unit, The toilet device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the flow rate adjustment unit controls the discharge of water from the nozzle based on the power supply from the flow rate adjustment drive unit.

[0137] (Composition 5) The aforementioned operating sound generating function unit includes a deodorizing unit that deodorizes the inhaled air. The aforementioned operating sound generating drive unit includes a deodorizing drive unit that controls the supply of power to the deodorizing unit, The toilet device according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the deodorizing unit performs deodorization based on the power supply from the deodorizing drive unit.

[0138] (Composition 6) The aforementioned operating noise generating function unit includes a local drying unit that dries a local part of the human body by blowing air. The aforementioned operating noise generating drive unit includes a local drying drive unit that controls the supply of power to the local drying unit, The toilet device according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the local drying unit performs drying based on the power supply from the local drying drive unit.

[0139] (Composition 7) The aforementioned operating sound generating function unit includes a nozzle motor that moves a nozzle that discharges water toward a part of the human body forward and backward, The aforementioned operating sound generating drive unit includes a nozzle motor drive unit that controls the supply of power to the nozzle motor, The toilet device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the nozzle motor moves the nozzle forward and backward based on the power supplied from the nozzle motor drive unit.

[0140] (Composition 8) A seating detection sensor that detects when a user sits on the toilet seat, The aforementioned seating function unit is used when the user is seated, A display unit located behind the user while the user is seated, which displays visual information, An integrated circuit comprising a seating drive unit that controls the supply of power to the seating function unit and a display drive unit that controls the supply of power to the display function unit, A control unit for controlling the aforementioned integrated circuit, Equipped with, The control unit, When the seating function unit is not operating, the amount of power supplied from the display drive unit to the display function unit is set to a first value. A toilet device that, when the seating function unit is in operation, sets the amount of power supplied from the display drive unit to the display function unit to a second value which is smaller than the first value.

[0141] (Composition 9) The toilet device according to configuration 8, wherein the control unit stops supplying power from the display drive unit to the display function unit when the seating function unit is in operation.

[0142] (Composition 10) It is further equipped with a nozzle that discharges water towards a specific part of the human body. The seating function unit includes a flow rate adjustment unit that controls the discharge of water from the nozzle, The seating drive unit includes a flow rate adjustment drive unit that controls the supply of power to the flow rate adjustment unit, The toilet device according to configuration 8 or 9, wherein the flow rate adjustment unit controls the discharge of water from the nozzle based on the power supplied from the flow rate adjustment drive unit.

[0143] (Composition 11) The aforementioned seating function unit includes a local drying unit that dries a part of the human body by blowing air. The seating drive unit includes a local drying drive unit that controls the supply of power to the local drying unit. The toilet device according to any one of configurations 8 to 10, wherein the local drying unit performs drying based on the power supply from the local drying drive unit.

[0144] As described above, according to the embodiment, a toilet device is provided that can suppress the generation of high temperatures in an integrated circuit in which multiple drive circuits are integrated, while suppressing a decrease in usability.

[0145] Embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Modifications made by those skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention, as long as they retain the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, and installation configuration of each element of the toilet device are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of each of the embodiments described above can be combined to the extent technically possible, and these combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention insofar as they include the features of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0146] 10: Water source 20: Water intake section 20a: Conduit 30: Control circuit section 32: Integrated Circuits 40: Functional parts 50: Drive unit 51: Deodorizing drive unit 52: Disinfectant water drive unit 53: Nozzle motor drive unit 54: Flow rate adjustment drive unit 55: Solenoid valve drive unit 56: Local drying drive unit 57: Sound output drive unit 58: Display drive unit 60: Overcurrent protection section 70: Conversion Circuit 72: Processing Unit 74: Comparator section 100: Toilet equipment 200: Toilet seat 210: Hinge section 300: Toilet lid 310: Transparent window 400: Casing 401:Power circuit 402: Human body detection means 403: Human body detection sensor 404: Occupancy detection sensor 405: Control Unit 407: Exhaust vent 409: Recessed section 420: Opening and closing mechanism 431: Solenoid valve 440: Hot water unit 450: Disinfectant water unit 465: Nozzle cleaning unit 471:Flow rate adjustment section 472: Flow path switching section 473: Nozzle 474a: Bidet washing spout 474b: Washing outlet 476: Nozzle motor 480: Deodorizing Unit 482: Toilet seat heating unit 484: Local drying unit 492: Temperature sensor 500:Operation unit 610: Operating sound generation function unit 620: Seating function unit 630: Sound output function section 640:Display function section 660: Operating noise generating drive unit 670: Seating drive unit 800: Toilet 801: Bowl

Claims

1. A sound-generating function unit that produces operating noise when in operation, A sound output function unit that outputs functional sounds from the speaker, An integrated circuit comprising an operating sound generation drive unit that controls the supply of power to the operating sound generation function unit, and a sound output drive unit that controls the supply of power to the sound output function unit, A control unit for controlling the aforementioned integrated circuit, Equipped with, The control unit, When the aforementioned operating sound generation function unit is not operating, the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is set to a first value. When the operating sound generation function unit is operating and the amount of power supplied from the operating sound generation drive unit to the operating sound generation function unit is greater than or equal to a threshold, the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit is set to a second value smaller than the first value. A toilet device that, when the sound-generating function unit is operating and the amount of power supplied from the sound-generating drive unit to the sound-generating function unit is greater than zero and less than the threshold, sets the amount of power supplied from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit to a third value that is greater than the second value and less than the first value.

2. The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stops supplying power from the sound output drive unit to the sound output function unit when the operating sound generation function unit is in operation.

3. It is further equipped with a nozzle that discharges water towards a specific part of the human body. The aforementioned operating sound generating function unit includes a flow rate adjustment unit that controls the discharge of water from the nozzle, The aforementioned operating sound generating drive unit includes a flow rate adjustment drive unit that controls the supply of power to the flow rate adjustment unit, The toilet device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flow rate adjustment unit controls the discharge of water from the nozzle based on the power supplied from the flow rate adjustment drive unit.

4. The aforementioned operating sound generating function unit includes a deodorizing unit that deodorizes the inhaled air. The aforementioned operating sound generating drive unit includes a deodorizing drive unit that controls the supply of power to the deodorizing unit, The toilet device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deodorizing unit performs deodorization based on the supply of power from the deodorizing drive unit.

5. The aforementioned operating noise generating function unit includes a local drying unit that dries a local part of the human body by blowing air. The aforementioned operating noise generating drive unit includes a local drying drive unit that controls the supply of power to the local drying unit, The toilet apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the local drying unit performs drying based on the supply of power from the local drying drive unit.

6. The aforementioned operating sound generating function unit includes a nozzle motor that moves a nozzle that discharges water toward a part of the human body forward and backward, The aforementioned operating sound generating drive unit includes a nozzle motor drive unit that controls the supply of power to the nozzle motor, The toilet device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the nozzle motor moves the nozzle forward and backward based on the power supplied from the nozzle motor drive unit.

7. A seating detection sensor that detects when a user sits on the toilet seat, The aforementioned seating function unit is used when the user is seated, A display unit located behind the user while the user is seated, which displays visual information, An integrated circuit comprising a seating drive unit that controls the supply of power to the seating function unit and a display drive unit that controls the supply of power to the display function unit, A control unit for controlling the aforementioned integrated circuit, Equipped with, The control unit, When the seating function unit is not operating, the amount of power supplied from the display drive unit to the display function unit is set to a first value. A toilet device that, when the seating function unit is in operation, sets the amount of power supplied from the display drive unit to the display function unit to a second value which is smaller than the first value.

8. The toilet device according to claim 7, wherein the control unit stops supplying power from the display drive unit to the display function unit when the seating function unit is in operation.

9. It is further equipped with a nozzle that discharges water towards a specific part of the human body. The seating function unit includes a flow rate adjustment unit that controls the discharge of water from the nozzle, The seating drive unit includes a flow rate adjustment drive unit that controls the supply of power to the flow rate adjustment unit, The toilet device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the flow rate adjustment unit controls the discharge of water from the nozzle based on the power supplied from the flow rate adjustment drive unit.

10. The aforementioned seating function unit includes a local drying unit that dries a part of the human body by blowing air. The seating drive unit includes a local drying drive unit that controls the supply of power to the local drying unit. The toilet apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the local drying unit performs drying based on the supply of power from the local drying drive unit.

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