Washing nozzle and sanitary washing device equipped therewith

Abstract

To provide a sanitary washing device in which a cleaning nozzle has been used and tested on site, the cleaning nozzle securing chemical resistance, preventing a coating film from being damaged even if brought into contact with an acidic or alkaline detergent, and capable of maintaining a good appearance having a cleanliness feeling.SOLUTION: A cleaning nozzle includes an ejection opening that ejects cleaning water and can move between a standby position and a use position. The cleaning nozzle includes a nozzle body and a cylindrical nozzle cover that covers an outer periphery of the nozzle body. A coating film is formed on a surface of the nozzle cover, the coating film including fluorine-containing acryl resin.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cleaning nozzle and a sanitary cleaning device including the same.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a nozzle device in which dirt on a nozzle cover is easily removed in cleaning of a nozzle device of a sanitary cleaning device.

[0003] The nozzle device of this sanitary cleaning device includes a cleaning nozzle having a discharge hole for ejecting cleaning water. The cleaning nozzle has a nozzle body and a cylindrical nozzle cover covering the outer periphery of the nozzle body. The surface of the nozzle cover has a coating film composed of a low surface free energy layer with a surface free energy of 40 dyne / cm or less. This low surface free energy layer is formed of a fluororesin. Specifically, the low surface free energy layer is formed of a fluororesin such as PTFE, PFEP, PFA, or PCTFE.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Since a coating film of a PTFE-based resin is insoluble in a solvent and has a high melting point, baking coating is required. Therefore, when forming a coating film of a PTFE-based resin on a stainless steel substrate, coloring is required to mask discoloration due to baking. For this reason, there is a problem of impairing the aesthetic appearance of stainless steel with a clean feeling.

[0006] In addition, since coloring requires the addition of a pigment, there is also a problem of reducing chemical resistance and damaging the coating film when it comes into contact with a toilet cleaning agent.

[0007] This disclosure provides a cleaning nozzle and a sanitary cleaning device equipped therewith that ensure chemical resistance and prevent damage to the coating even when exposed to acidic or alkaline detergents. Furthermore, this disclosure provides a cleaning nozzle and a sanitary cleaning device equipped therewith that maintain the clean and aesthetically pleasing appearance of the nozzle cover. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The sanitary cleaning device in this disclosure is a sanitary cleaning device having a spray opening for spraying cleaning water and a cleaning nozzle that is movable between a standby position and a usage position, The cleaning nozzle comprises a nozzle body and a cylindrical nozzle cover that covers the outer circumference of the nozzle body. The surface of the nozzle cover is After applying a paint containing fluorine-containing acrylate as the main raw material of the acrylic polymer resin to the surface of the nozzle cover and drying it, A coating film containing fluorine-containing acrylic resin is formed. The surface of the nozzle cover is made of stainless steel. The aforementioned coating is colorless and transparent, The aforementioned coating film does not contain pigment. This is a sanitary cleaning device equipped with a cleaning nozzle. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] In one aspect of this disclosure, a coating film of a fluorine-containing acrylic polymer (i.e., an acrylic resin containing fluorine atoms in its molecule, hereinafter referred to as "fluorine-containing acrylic resin") is formed on the surface of the nozzle cover at room temperature. That is, a fluorine-containing acrylate is polymerized to form a coating film of fluorine-containing acrylic resin on the surface of the nozzle cover at room temperature. Unlike PTFE-based resins, there is no need to bake at high temperatures when forming the coating film of fluorine-containing acrylic resin. Therefore, it is unnecessary to add pigments to mask discoloration caused by firing. Consequently, a transparent coating can be formed on the surface of the nozzle cover. Since the coating is transparent, if the surface of the nozzle cover has a metallic luster, such as when the surface of the nozzle cover is made of stainless steel, the clean and aesthetic appearance of the nozzle cover can be maintained.

[0010] Furthermore, fluorine improves chemical resistance (e.g., acid and alkali resistance). While the addition of pigments reduces the chemical resistance provided by fluorine, this disclosure makes it possible to suppress such a reduction in chemical resistance. Therefore, chemical resistance can be ensured, and damage to the coating can be prevented even when exposed to acidic or alkaline detergents. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] A perspective view showing the appearance of the sanitary cleaning device in Embodiment 1 of this disclosure when it is installed on a toilet bowl. [Figure 2] Perspective view showing the inside of the main body of the sanitary cleaning device in Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] Perspective view showing the stowed state of the nozzle device in Embodiment 1 [Figure 4] Perspective view showing the rear washing state of the nozzle device in Embodiment 1 [Figure 5] A longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the rear washing state of the nozzle device in Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Enlarged cross-sectional view of the nozzle cover of the cleaning nozzle of the nozzle device in Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] Enlarged cross-sectional view of the nozzle cover of the cleaning nozzle of the nozzle device in Embodiment 2 of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] (Knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) When the inventors came up with the present disclosure, as described in the background art, for the antifouling of the nozzle cover, a summary of PTFE-based resins was considered. However, since PTFE-based resins are insoluble in solvents and have a high melting point, baking coating is required. The baking temperature is usually carried out at 200°C or higher. Therefore, when a PTFE-based resin is coated on the nozzle cover by baking coating, the base material of the nozzle cover discolors due to baking. Therefore, a pigment is added to the PTFE-based paint to mask the discoloration of the base material of the nozzle cover. In recent years, stainless steel has been used as the material for the nozzle cover. Since stainless steel has a clean appearance, there is a technical problem that the coating film covering the stainless steel is desired to be transparent so as not to impair its design.

[0013] Also, when the user cleans the toilet bowl, acidic or alkaline detergents for the toilet are used. If the cleaning nozzle of the nozzle device protrudes outside during the cleaning of the toilet bowl, such detergents may accidentally adhere to the cleaning nozzle. Since a pigment is added in the baking coating of the PTFE-based resin, there are parts in the coating film structure where there is no fluorine (that is, the parts of the pigment). Therefore, there are also problems that acids or alkalis penetrate into that part and the coating film itself decomposes, and that the coating film peels off from the nozzle cover.

[0014] In response to such problems, as a result of evaluating and studying the materials of the paint, the inventors have found that by forming a coating film of a fluorine-containing acrylic polymer (that is, a fluorine-containing acrylic resin), transparency can be achieved and chemical resistance can be ensured.

[0015] The present disclosure provides a nozzle device that maintains the clean and beautiful appearance of the nozzle cover, ensures chemical resistance, and can prevent damage to the coating film even when it comes into contact with acidic or alkaline detergents.

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, a description that is more detailed than necessary Explanations may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical structures may be omitted. This is to avoid the following explanation becoming unnecessarily verbose and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0017] The attached drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0018] (Embodiment 1) Embodiment 1 will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 6 and Table 1.

[0019] [1-1. Structure] [1-1-1. Configuration of the sanitary cleaning device 100] In Figure 1, as shown in Figure 1, the sanitary washing device 100 of this embodiment is composed of at least a main body 200, a side section 210, a toilet seat 300, a toilet lid 400, etc. The sanitary washing device 100 of this embodiment is installed on the upper surface 110a of the toilet bowl 110. The side section 210 is provided so as to protrude forward from the rear on the right side of the main body 200. An operating section 211, a plurality of operating switches 212, an indicator light 213, etc. are installed on the upper surface of the side section 210. The operating switches 212 operate the various functions of the sanitary washing device 100.

[0020] As shown in Figure 2, the main body 200 houses a nozzle device 500, a deodorizing device 220, and a control unit 230. The nozzle device 500 is located in the center of the main body 200. The deodorizing device 220 is located to the left of the nozzle device 500 and deodorizes by sucking in odors from inside the toilet bowl 110. The control unit 230 controls each function of the sanitary cleaning device 100 based on the operation signals from the operation switch 212.

[0021] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the stowed state of the nozzle device in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the nozzle device 500 comprises at least a support part 600, a cleaning nozzle 700, a drive unit 800, and a flow control valve 900. The cleaning nozzle 700 moves back and forth along the support part 600. The drive unit 800 drives the cleaning nozzle 700 to move in the forward and backward directions (i.e., in the directions of the two arrows pointing forward and backward in Figure 3). The flow control valve 900 switches the supply of cleaning water to each flow path of the cleaning nozzle 700.

[0022] The following describes the case when posterior washing is performed. When the posterior washing operation is performed from the operation switch 212 of the operation unit 211, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the nozzle body 710 and nozzle cover 720 move forward from the home position (i.e., the stored position) until the rotation speed of the drive motor 830 reaches a set value, and then stop, according to a preset control sequence. In other words, as shown in Figure 5, the posterior washing water nozzle 711 faces the spray opening 724 of the nozzle cover 720 (i.e., the posterior washing water nozzle 711 overlaps with the spray opening 724). This position is the "posterior washing position".

[0023] Next, with the nozzle body 710 and nozzle cover 720 positioned in the "buttock washing position," the control unit 230 controls the water shut-off solenoid valve 243 and the flow control valve 900 to allow washing water to flow through the buttock washing passage 714, thereby starting the buttock washing. The washing water ejected from the buttock washing water outlet 711 then passes through the ejection opening 724 of the nozzle cover 720 without contacting it and is sprayed upward.

[0024] When the user attempts to stop the posterior wash, the control unit 230 controls the water shut-off solenoid valve 243 and the flow control valve 900 to stop the supply of wash water. The control unit 230 then reverses the motor of the drive unit 800 to move the nozzle body 710 and nozzle cover 720 backward, as shown in Figure 3. Return it to its "storage position".

[0025] [1-1-2. Configuration of the nozzle cover of the nozzle device] In Figure 6, the nozzle cover 720 of the cleaning nozzle 700 has a coating 730 formed on it for the purpose of preventing fouling of the nozzle cover 720. In other words, the outer surface of the nozzle cover 720 has a coating 730. Preferably, the coating 730 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the nozzle cover 720. Preferably, the coating 730 is formed on the tip of the nozzle cover 720. As will be described in detail later, the coating 730 contains a fluoropolymer acrylic resin. Preferably, the coating 730 is made from a fluoropolymer acrylic resin. More preferably, the coating 730 is made from a fluoropolymer acrylic resin.

[0026] Furthermore, the nozzle cover 720 is made of stainless steel. In this embodiment, SUS304 is used. Preferably, the outer circumferential surface of the nozzle cover 720 is formed from stainless steel. In other words, preferably, a coating film 730 containing a fluorine-containing acrylic resin is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the nozzle cover 720 which is made from stainless steel. More preferably, a coating film 730 made from a fluorine-containing acrylic resin is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the nozzle cover 720 which is made from stainless steel. Even more preferably, a coating film 730 made from a fluorine-containing acrylic resin is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the nozzle cover 720 which is made from stainless steel.

[0027] Similarly, preferably, the tip of the nozzle cover 720 is formed of stainless steel. In other words, preferably, a coating film 730 containing a fluorine-containing acrylic resin is formed on the tip of the nozzle cover 720 which is formed of stainless steel. More preferably, a coating film 730 made of a fluorine-containing acrylic resin is formed on the tip of the nozzle cover 720 which is formed of stainless steel. Even more preferably, a coating film 730 made of a fluorine-containing acrylic resin is formed on the tip of the nozzle cover 720 which is formed of stainless steel.

[0028] Fluorine-containing acrylic resin has the chemical formula -(CR1R2-CR3COOR4) n -(Here, R1 to R3 are each independently a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group, and R4 is -Cm1 F m2 H m3 It is desirable that the material contains a polymer (i.e., a polymer) represented by an organic group represented by (where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2, and m1 to m3 are each independent natural numbers greater than or equal to 1). As will be described later, not only polymers consisting of said polymer, but also copolymers containing said polymer are included in the concept of the term "fluorine-containing acrylic resin". More preferably, R1 and R2 are hydrogen atoms, and R3 is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group. More preferably, the formula: m2 + m3 = 2m1 + 1 is satisfied.

[0029] As described above, in this embodiment, the surface of the nozzle cover 720 is composed of a laminated structure of a layer formed from stainless steel (hereinafter referred to as the stainless steel layer) and a coating film 730 containing a fluoropolymer acrylic resin (preferably a coating film 730 formed from a fluoropolymer acrylic resin, and more preferably a coating film 730 made of a fluoropolymer acrylic resin). The coating film 730 is located on the outermost surface of the nozzle cover 720.

[0030] The surface of the nozzle cover 720 may be roughened by polishing or blasting to improve adhesion with the coating film 730.

[0031] [1-2. Method for forming a coating on the nozzle cover] Next, the method for forming the coating film 730 on the nozzle cover 720 will be described. The coating film 730 contains fluorine-containing acrylate as the main raw material of the acrylic polymer resin. In addition to this main raw material (i.e., fluorine-containing acrylate), the coating also contains fluorine-based It contains a solvent. Preferably, the fluorine-containing acrylate is a monomer represented by the chemical formula (CR1R2=CR3COOR4). The monomer polymerizes to form a fluorine-containing acrylic resin.

[0032] The method for forming the coating film 730 on the nozzle cover 720 will be described in more detail below.

[0033] First, the surface of the nozzle cover 720 is cleaned and degreased with an organic solvent such as isopropyl alcohol, acetone, or hexane. Then, after degreasing, it is heated and dried.

[0034] After the nozzle cover 720 is heat-dried, the paint coating 730 is applied. One example of an application method is the dipping method, in which the nozzle cover 720 is immersed in a bath of paint and then removed. Alternatively, another example of an application method is the spray application method, in which the paint is applied by spraying.

[0035] In the dipping method, the film thickness of the coating 730 can be adjusted by the rate at which the coating is removed after dipping. In the spray application method, the film thickness of the coating 730 can be adjusted by the amount of spray and the distance to the target object. Compared to the dipping method, the spray application method consumes more paint, but the adhesion of the coating 730 to the nozzle cover 720 is higher. In the spray application method, the solvent in the paint evaporates as the sprayed paint adheres to the nozzle cover 720, so the solvent content is lower at the time of adhesion than in the dipping method. As a result, shrinkage during coating formation is reduced and internal stress is lower, leading to higher adhesion. The weight ratio of the solvent in the coating 730 to the paint is between 50% and 95%.

[0036] After applying the paint to the nozzle cover 720, it is allowed to dry. Drying is done at room temperature for 1 to 2 days, during which the solvent components (i.e., the solvent) in the paint evaporate and the fluorine-containing acrylate polymerizes. In this way, a coating film 730 is formed as a fluorine-containing acrylic polymer resin (i.e., a fluorine-containing acrylic resin). Drying may also be done by heating at 50 to 120°C for a short time of 10 minutes to 1 hour. However, if the film thickness of the coating film 730 is thick, heating may cause the solvent in the coating film 730 to evaporate and generate bubbles. Therefore, it is desirable to determine the drying conditions according to the thickness of the coating film 730 to be formed.

[0037] Since the dried coating 730 is formed from acrylic resin, it is colorless and transparent. Furthermore, because the drying temperature is low, below 120°C, there is no discoloration of the stainless steel substrate (i.e., the substrate of the nozzle cover 720), and the aesthetic appearance is not compromised.

[0038] [1-3. Effects] Next, we will describe the results of evaluating various properties of the nozzle cover 720 on which the coating film 730 is formed. Table 1 shows the results of the evaluation of the nozzle cover's properties.

[0039] [Table 1]

[0040] Table 1 shows the contact angle and fall angle characteristics for water.

[0041] (Regarding the simulated dirt adhesion rate) The evaluation of simulated dirt adhesion is described below.

[0042] An examination of the nozzle cover of a toilet seat nozzle revealed mold in the dirt. Feces were considered to be the nutrient source for this mold. Therefore, a simulated dirt was prepared by diluting a mixture of protein, lipid, carbohydrate, and salt with water. A nozzle cover 720 with a coating 730 formed on it was immersed in this simulated dirt using a dipping device and then pulled out at a constant speed, after which the amount of dirt adhering to it was measured. The amount of dirt adhering was similarly measured for a nozzle cover 720 without the coating 730. The amount of dirt adhering with the coating 730 was then calculated as the simulated dirt adhesion rate, compared to the amount of dirt adhering with and without the coating 730 (i.e., the weight of the adhering material).

[0043] (Regarding acid and alkali resistance) Next, we will explain the evaluation of acid resistance and alkali resistance. As a cleaner for toilet bowls, acidic detergents with hydrochloric acid as the main component or alkaline detergents with sodium hydroxide and hypochlorous acid as the main components are used.

[0044] When a user cleans the toilet, if they use this detergent to clean the toilet bowl and also wash the nozzle cover 720 in the pulled-out position shown in Figure 4, there is a possibility that this detergent may accidentally adhere to the nozzle cover 720.

[0045] With these possibilities in mind, we conducted tests on the acid and alkali resistance of coating film 730.

[0046] This section describes the test method for the acid and alkali resistance of coating film 730. A cloth was impregnated with an aqueous solution of commercially available acidic detergent (product name "Sanpol" (registered trademark)) and alkaline detergent (product name "Domestos" (registered trademark)) diluted several tens of times. The cloth was made of cotton. This impregnated cloth was wrapped around nozzle cover 720, and the test sample was placed in a sealed container to prevent drying and left at room temperature for 10 days. After 10 days, the surface of the test sample was washed with water and its appearance was observed.

[0047] If there was no particular change in the external condition, it was rated as "〇".

[0048] On the other hand, if the external condition included peeling paint or partial discoloration, it was evaluated as "×".

[0049] Table 1 also shows the test results for nozzle covers with coatings made of other materials, as comparative examples, in addition to those of this embodiment.

[0050] Table 1 shows that the silicone-based and silica glass-based coatings of Comparative Examples 1-6 and 1-7 were colorless and transparent, and showed good adhesion rates for simulated dirt. However, damage and peeling of the coatings were observed in the acid resistance test. Similar deterioration was also observed in the alkali resistance test. In particular, silica has the problem of easily dissolving into sodium silicate when exposed to alkali.

[0051] On the other hand, as an example of a fluorine-based coating film, there is the monomolecular film shown in Comparative Example 1-5. In Comparative Example 1-5, the coating film (i.e., monomolecular film) is colorless and transparent and has a good adhesion rate of simulated dirt, but damage and peeling of the coating film (i.e., monomolecular film) were observed in the acid resistance test. Similar deterioration was also observed in the alkali resistance test. The monomolecular film has a carbon chain formed by carbon bonding perpendicular to the substrate, and fluorine atoms with high acid and alkali resistance are bonded to the ends of the carbon chain. In Comparative Example 1-5, although the monomolecular film contains fluorine atoms, the molecules are not bonded to each other (i.e., they do not form a polymer), and the thickness of the coating film (i.e., monomolecular film) is on the order of nanometers, so there is a problem of low resistance to acids and alkalis.

[0052] Comparative Examples 1-2 (PTFE, i.e., polytetrafluoroethylene), 1-3 (FEP, i.e., tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene copolymer), and 1-4 (PFA, i.e., tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer) are perfluoropolymer coatings. In these, all hydrogen atoms of the hydrocarbons forming the polymer backbone are replaced with fluorine atoms, and therefore, except for PTFE in Comparative Examples 1-2, the acid and alkali resistance test results were good. However, because these polymers are nonpolar, they are not easily soluble in solvents, and therefore require baking at a high temperature of 250°C to form a coating on the nozzle cover 720. Because of this high-temperature baking, the stainless steel of the nozzle cover 720 discolors. For this reason, it is necessary to add pigment to the paint to mask the discoloration of the substrate. Depending on the type and amount of pigment added, acids and alkalis may penetrate into areas without fluorine (i.e., areas with pigment) and damage the coating. The deterioration of the coating film in the alkali resistance test for PTFE in Comparative Examples 1-2 is thought to be due to the above reasons.

[0053] In the case of the fluoroethylene-vinyl ether polymer used in Comparative Example 1-1, a coating film could be formed by curing at room temperature, and the coating film was colorless and transparent. However, the contact angle was small (less than 100°) and the fall angle was more than 80°. As a result, the simulated dirt adhesion rate was high at 99%, indicating a problem with stain resistance.

[0054] Compared to the fluororesins of Comparative Examples 1-1 to 1-5, the acrylic polymer resin (i.e., fluororesin) of Example 1-1, which uses fluorine-containing acrylate as the main raw material, was formed by polymerization and curing of the fluorine-containing acrylate at a low temperature of 150°C or less. As a result, there was no discoloration of the stainless steel substrate of the nozzle cover 720, and it was colorless and transparent. In addition, it had water repellency with a contact angle of 100° or more, but the sliding angle was large at 64°. The simulated dirt adhesion rate was low and good. Acid resistance and alkali resistance tests were also good, with no change in the appearance of the coating film after the tests. The paint used in Example 1-1 contained other monomers containing unsaturated bonds in addition to fluorine-containing acrylate, so the solvent was 70% (by weight) and the monomer components (i.e., fluorine-containing acrylate and other monomers) were 30% (by weight), resulting in high viscosity, which allowed for the formation of a relatively thick coating film 730. The thickness of the coating film 730 was Although it depends on the application method and conditions of the material, as an example, in Example 1-1, the coating film 730 has a thickness of 40 micrometers to 60 micrometers. Therefore, chemical resistance could be ensured by the coating film 730, which contains fluorine and is relatively thick.

[0055] As in Example 1-1, if the coating contains other monomers containing unsaturated bonds in addition to the fluorine-containing acrylate, the coating film 730 may be a copolymer of the fluorine-containing acrylate and the other monomer. In this specification, such copolymers are also included in the term "fluorine-containing acrylic resin."

[0056] In Example 1-2, the resin raw material for the acrylic polymer consisted solely of fluorine-containing acrylate. This also polymerized and cured at a low temperature of 150°C or less, resulting in no discoloration of the stainless steel substrate of the nozzle cover 720, and the coating remained colorless and transparent. Furthermore, it exhibited good water repellency with a contact angle of over 100° and a small sliding angle of 46°. The simulated dirt adhesion rate was also low at 11%, indicating good antifouling properties. Acid and alkali resistance tests also showed no change in the appearance of the coating after testing, indicating good results. Additionally, a separate salt spray test also showed no change in the appearance of the coating after testing. This suggests that Example 1-2 also had the effect of improving resistance to the salt contained in feces. Since the coating in Example 1-2 consists solely of fluorine-containing acrylate, the solvent is 90% (by weight) and the monomer component (i.e., fluorine-containing acrylate) is 10% (by weight), resulting in a lower viscosity than Example 1-1. Therefore, the coating film 730 is formed thinner than in Example 1-1. The thickness of the coating film 730 depends on the coating application method and conditions, but as an example, in Example 1-2, the coating film 730 has a thickness of 10 micrometers to 30 micrometers. However, in Example 1-2, the resin raw material of the acrylic polymer is composed only of fluorine-containing acrylate, so the polymerized polymer has a denser distribution of fluorine atoms compared to Example 1-1. This ensures chemical resistance even in thin films and further improves saltwater resistance.

[0057] In Example 1-1, the dipping method is appropriate for application due to the high viscosity of the paint. In Example 1-2, since the viscosity of the paint is low, either the dipping method or spray application is possible. As mentioned above, spray application can improve the adhesion of the nozzle cover 720 to the stainless steel substrate.

[0058] Furthermore, the film thickness of coating 730 is adjusted by the lifting speed in the case of the dipping method, and by the spray volume and distance of the sprayer in the case of spray application. To ensure chemical resistance, test results indicate that a film thickness of 10 μm or more is necessary, and 15 μm or more is preferable. However, if it is too thick, cracking of the coating film will occur, so it is necessary to keep it below 50 μm, and below 30 μm is preferable.

[0059] Furthermore, the coating film 730 may contain an antibacterial agent to impart antibacterial properties. In this embodiment, a silver-based antibacterial agent was added to the paint at a weight ratio of 1.0% relative to the fluorine-containing acrylate. After forming a coating film on a stainless steel substrate, an antibacterial test was conducted on this test sample according to JIS Z 2801. The results showed an antibacterial effect with an antibacterial activity value of 2.0 against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Here, in order to obtain an antibacterial effect, the weight ratio of the antibacterial agent to the resin (i.e., the fluorine-containing acrylic resin contained in the coating film 730) must be 1.0% or more. However, in order to maintain antifouling properties and chemical resistance, it is desirable that the weight ratio be between 1.0% and 5.0%. As described above, the weight ratio is the value obtained by dividing the weight of the antibacterial agent by the fluorine-containing acrylic resin contained in the coating film 730. In this embodiment, a silver-based antibacterial agent was used, but other antibacterial agents such as zinc or copper-based agents with antibacterial properties may also be used. However, since silver-based antibacterial agents have antibacterial effects even in small amounts compared to these other antibacterial agents, it is preferable to use silver-based antibacterial agents in order to achieve both antifouling properties, chemical resistance, and effectiveness.

[0060] [1-4. Summary] As described above, in this embodiment, the washing nozzle 700 comprises a buttock washing water outlet 711, a nozzle body 710, and a cylindrical nozzle cover 720 that covers the outer circumference of the nozzle body 710. A coating film 730 containing a fluorine-containing acrylic resin polymerized with fluorine-containing acrylate as the main raw material is formed on the surface of the nozzle cover 720.

[0061] This allows the coating film 730 to be formed at room temperature, thus maintaining transparency and preserving the aesthetic appearance of the nozzle cover 720. Furthermore, the coating film 730 is a resin coating film formed by polymerizing fluorine-containing polymers in a three-dimensional direction, allowing for a high concentration of fluorine-containing acrylate in the paint. As a result, a thick coating film 730 can be formed, ensuring chemical resistance. Consequently, damage to the coating film 730 can be prevented even when exposed to acidic or alkaline detergents.

[0062] As in Examples 1-2, a coating film 730 made of acrylic resin polymerized using only fluorine-containing acrylate as a raw material may be formed on the surface of the nozzle cover 720. In this case, although the coating film 730 is thin because the amount of fluorine-containing acrylate that can be contained in the paint is small, the coating film 730 is composed only of fluorine-containing acrylic resin, so fluorine atoms are densely present. This ensures chemical resistance even in a thin film and further improves saltwater resistance. In addition, because the viscosity of the paint is low, various application methods such as dipping or spray application are possible.

[0063] The film thickness of the coating 730 may be between 10 μm and 50 μm. Forming a film thickness of 10 μm or more prevents acid or alkaline agents from penetrating and reaching the interface between the nozzle cover 720 and the coating 730, thereby preventing the coating 730 from peeling off and corrosion of the substrate of the nozzle cover 720. A film thickness of 50 μm or less prevents cracking of the coating 730.

[0064] The coating 730 may contain an antibacterial agent. The antibacterial properties of the antibacterial agent can suppress the growth of mold on the surface of the nozzle cover 720 and further improve its stain resistance.

[0065] The antibacterial agent may also be a silver-based antibacterial agent. This allows for antibacterial action with only a small amount of antibacterial agent, thus reducing the decrease in transparency of the coating film caused by the addition of antibacterial agents, and enabling a balance between antifouling properties, chemical resistance, and effectiveness.

[0066] The antibacterial agent may be included in a weight ratio of 1.0% to 5.0% relative to the fluorine-containing acrylic resin. In other words, it is desirable that the weight ratio of the antibacterial agent to the resin (i.e., the fluorine-containing acrylic resin contained in coating 730) be 1.0% to 5.0%. This further reduces the decrease in transparency of the coating film due to the addition of the antibacterial agent, and makes it possible to achieve both antifouling properties and chemical resistance.

[0067] (Embodiment 2) Embodiment 2 will be described below with reference to Figure 7.

[0068] The configuration of the sanitary cleaning device 100, nozzle device 500, and cleaning nozzle 700 is the same as in Embodiment 1, and a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0069] [2-1. Configuration of the nozzle cover 720 of the nozzle device] In Figure 7, a primer layer 731 is formed on the surface of the nozzle cover 720 of the cleaning nozzle 700. A coating film 730 is then formed on the primer layer 731. Table 2 shows the adhesion of various materials of this primer layer 731 to the stainless steel substrate. The results are shown below.

[0070] The primer layer 731 is formed from a polymer that does not contain fluorine atoms. Since the primer layer 731 is formed from a polymer that does not contain fluorine atoms, it is possible to improve the adhesion between the coating film 730 containing fluorine-containing acrylic resin and the nozzle cover 720.

[0071] Table 2 shows the adhesion test results for samples in which a primer layer 731 was formed before the coating film 730 was formed, and for samples in which the stainless steel substrate was pre-treated (i.e., solvent degreasing treatment with isopropyl alcohol) without forming the primer layer 731 before the coating film 730 was formed.

[0072] [Table 2]

[0073] (Adhesion test) Adhesion tests were conducted on samples dried at room temperature (indicated as "Heat Treatment: None" in Table 2) and samples heated at 100°C (indicated as "Heat Treatment: Yes" in Table 2) for each treatment specification. In the primary tape peel test, cellophane tape (registered trademark) was adhered to the coating 730 after drying, and then the peeling of the cellophane tape (registered trademark) was confirmed. Next, the condition of the coating 730 after immersion in boiling water at 98°C was observed. Furthermore, the tape peel test was conducted again (hereinafter referred to as the "secondary tape peel test"), and the peeling of the coating 730 was confirmed.

[0074] Table 2 shows that, among the various primer materials, olefin-based materials exhibit superior adhesion between the stainless steel material and the coating film 730, with no peeling or thermal effects, compared to specifications where no primer layer 731 was formed (i.e., the pre-treated specifications described above) or primer layers 731 formed from other materials.

[0075] This primer layer 731 is formed on the surface of the nozzle cover 720 by dipping or spraying and then drying it. Then, a coating film 730 is formed on top of this primer layer 731. The same method as in Embodiment 1 can be applied to form the coating film 730.

[0076] [2-2. Effects] For the nozzle cover 720 with a coating film 730 formed on the primer layer 731, the antifouling properties were evaluated in the same manner as in Embodiment 1. The adhesion rate of simulated dirt was low and good. Furthermore, acid resistance and alkali resistance tests were conducted, and no change in the appearance of the coating film 730 was observed, indicating good performance.

[0077] Furthermore, anticipating that users will clean the nozzle cover 720, it is soaked in a weakly alkaline detergent. An abrasion test was conducted in which a cloth was applied to the nozzle cover 720 with a constant load while being rubbed back and forth over the coating film 730. As a result of this abrasion test, it was not observed that the coating film 730 with the primer layer 731 formed on it peeled off from the nozzle cover 720. Thus, the adhesion was improved by the primer layer 731. Since the polyolefin structure of the primer layer 731 does not contain fluorine atoms, the primer layer 731 can improve the adhesion between the nozzle cover 720 and the coating film 730.

[0078] [2-3. Summary] As described above, in Embodiment 2, a primer layer 731 is formed on the surface of the nozzle cover 720 of the cleaning nozzle 700, and a coating film 730 is formed on the primer layer 731. Since the primer layer 731 is a resin that does not contain fluorine, the adhesion to the nozzle cover 720 can be improved.

[0079] Preferably, the primer layer 731 is a polyolefin resin. The polyolefin resin can further improve the adhesion between the stainless steel substrate of the nozzle cover 720 and the coating film 730.

[0080] Since the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes of the technology described herein, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the claims or their equivalents. [Industrial applicability]

[0081] This disclosure ensures chemical resistance and prevents damage to the coating even when exposed to acidic or alkaline detergents. Furthermore, because it is colorless and transparent, it maintains the clean and aesthetic appearance of the cleaning nozzle, making it applicable to sanitary cleaning equipment for toilets. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0082] 100 Sanitary cleaning equipment 110 toilet bowl 200 main unit 210 Sleeve 211 Operation section 212 Operating switches 213 Indicator light 220 Deodorizing device 230 Control Unit 243 Water shut-off solenoid valve 300 toilet seats 500 nozzle device 600 Support part 700 Cleaning Nozzles 710 Nozzle Body 711 Buttocks washing water nozzle 714 Buttocks cleansing channel 724 Spout opening 720 Nozzle Cover 730 Coating film 731 Primer layer 800 Drive Unit 900 flow control valve

Claims

1. A sanitary cleaning device comprising a cleaning nozzle having a spray opening for ejecting cleaning water and movable between a standby position and a usage position, The cleaning nozzle comprises a nozzle body and a cylindrical nozzle cover that covers the outer circumference of the nozzle body. On the surface of the nozzle cover, a coating film containing fluorine-containing acrylic resin is formed by applying a paint containing fluorine-containing acrylate as the main raw material of the acrylic polymer resin to the surface of the nozzle cover and then drying it. The surface of the nozzle cover is made of stainless steel. The aforementioned coating is colorless and transparent, The aforementioned coating film is a sanitary cleaning device equipped with a cleaning nozzle that does not contain pigment.

2. The aforementioned coating film is made of a fluoropolymer resin. The sanitary cleaning apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The thickness of the coating film is 10 μm or more and 50 μm or less. A sanitary cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The aforementioned coating contains an antibacterial agent. A sanitary cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The aforementioned antibacterial agent is a silver-based antibacterial agent. The sanitary cleaning apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The weight ratio of the antibacterial agent to the fluorine-containing acrylic resin is 1.0% or more and 5.0% or less. The sanitary cleaning apparatus according to claim 4 or 5.

7. A primer layer is formed between the surface of the nozzle cover and the coating film. A sanitary cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The sanitary cleaning apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the primer layer is formed from a polyolefin resin.

9. The fluorine-containing acrylic resin has the chemical formula - (CR １ R ２ -CR ３ COOR ４ ) ｎ Consists of polymers represented by - A sanitary cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. Here, R １ ~R ３ Each of these is independently a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group. R ４ is an organic group represented by -C ｍ１ F ｍ２ H ｍ３ and is represented by n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2, and m1 to m3 are each independent natural numbers greater than or equal to 1.

10. The fluorine-containing acrylic resin has the chemical formula - (CR １ R ２ -CR ３ COOR ４ ) ｎ A copolymer comprising a polymer represented by - A sanitary cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. Here, R １ ~R ３ Each of these is independently a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group. R ４ Ha-C ｍ１ F ｍ２ H ｍ３ It is an organic group represented by, n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2, and m1 to m3 are each independent natural numbers greater than or equal to 1.

11. R １ and R ２ is a hydrogen atom, and R ３ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group. A sanitary cleaning device according to either claim 9 or claim 10.

12. A cleaning nozzle having a spray opening for ejecting cleaning water, and which is movable between a standby position and a usage position, The cleaning nozzle comprises a nozzle body and a cylindrical nozzle cover that covers the outer circumference of the nozzle body. A coating containing fluorine-containing acrylic resin is formed on the surface of the nozzle cover. The surface of the nozzle cover is made of stainless steel. The aforementioned coating is colorless and transparent, The aforementioned coating film does not contain pigment. The fluorine-containing acrylic resin has the chemical formula - (CR １ R ２ -CR ３ COOR ４ ) ｎ A cleaning nozzle made of a polymer represented by -. Here, R １ and R ２ is a hydrogen atom, and R ３ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R ４ Ha-C ｍ１ F ｍ２ H ｍ３ It is an organic group represented by, n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2, and m1 to m3 are each independent natural numbers greater than or equal to 1. The equation m² + m³ = 2m¹ + 1 is satisfied.

13. A cleaning nozzle having a spray opening for ejecting cleaning water, and which is movable between a standby position and a usage position, The cleaning nozzle comprises a nozzle body and a cylindrical nozzle cover that covers the outer circumference of the nozzle body. A coating containing fluorine-containing acrylic resin is formed on the surface of the nozzle cover. The surface of the nozzle cover is made of stainless steel. The aforementioned coating is colorless and transparent, The aforementioned coating film does not contain pigment. The fluorine-containing acrylic resin has the chemical formula - (CR １ R ２ -CR ３ COOR ４ ) ｎ A cleaning nozzle made of a copolymer containing a polymer represented by -. Here, R １ and R ２ is a hydrogen atom, and R ３ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R ４ Ha-C ｍ１ F ｍ２ H ｍ３ It is an organic group represented by, n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2, and m1 to m3 are each independent natural numbers greater than or equal to 1. The equation m² + m³ = 2m¹ + 1 is satisfied.

14. A method for manufacturing a cleaning nozzle having a spray opening for ejecting cleaning water and being movable between a standby position and a usage position, The cleaning nozzle comprises a nozzle body and a cylindrical nozzle cover that covers the outer circumference of the nozzle body. A coating containing fluorine-containing acrylic resin is formed on the surface of the nozzle cover. The surface of the nozzle cover is made of stainless steel. The aforementioned coating is colorless and transparent, The aforementioned coating film does not contain pigment. The aforementioned method, A step of applying a paint containing a solvent and fluorine-containing acrylate to the surface of the nozzle cover formed from stainless steel, and A step of drying the nozzle cover coated with the aforementioned paint at a temperature of 120°C or lower, thereby volatilizing the solvent contained in the paint and forming a coating film containing the fluorine-containing acrylic resin. A method that includes the following.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the temperature is room temperature.

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