Toilet device, supply mechanism, control device, control method, and computer program

Abstract

This toilet device includes: a toilet body having a toilet bowl; a first water discharge port positioned below a water storage surface of the toilet bowl; a second water discharge port positioned above the water storage surface; and a supply mechanism for supplying washing water from a water supply pipe to the first water discharge port and the second water discharge port. The supply mechanism can supply the washing water to the first water discharge port by means of a first water pressure of the washing water flowing through the water supply pipe, and supply the washing water to the second water discharge port by means of a second water pressure of the washing water generated outside the water supply pipe.

Description

Toilet device, supply mechanism, control device, control method, and computer program

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a toilet device, a supply mechanism, a control device, a control method, and a computer program.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a direct water pressure type flush toilet. The flush toilet includes a bowl part, a water storage part, a rim water outlet, and a jet water outlet. The bowl part includes a rim part formed at the upper edge of the dirt receiving surface. The water storage part is formed below the bowl part. The rim water outlet discharges washing water along the rim part to wash the bowl part. The jet water outlet is provided below the water storage part. The jet water outlet discharges washing water so as to push dirt toward the entrance of the drain trap pipe. The flush toilet supplies washing water to the rim water outlet and the jet water outlet by the water pressure of the water supply.

[0003] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2019 - 65492

[0004] In a configuration where washing water is supplied to the toilet bowl of the toilet device by the water pressure of the water supplied to the toilet device, such as the water pressure in the water supply pipe, the water pressure of the washing water changes depending on the installation environment of the toilet device. There may be cases where washing water with the assumed water pressure cannot be supplied to a plurality of water outlets.

[0005] This specification provides a technology that can discharge washing water to the toilet bowl without directly using the water pressure of the water supplied to the toilet device.

[0006] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a toilet device. The toilet device includes a toilet main body having a toilet bowl, a first water outlet located below the water storage surface of the toilet bowl, a second water outlet located above the water storage surface, and a supply mechanism that supplies washing water from a water supply pipe to the first water outlet and the second water outlet. The supply mechanism may supply the washing water to the first water outlet by the first water pressure of the washing water flowing through the water supply pipe, and supply the washing water to the second water outlet by the second water pressure of the washing water generated outside the water supply pipe.

[0007] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the toilet device of the embodiment. Figure 2 shows a schematic block diagram representing the supply mechanism of the first embodiment. Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the toilet body at the III-III cross-section. Figure 2 shows a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the valve device of the first embodiment. Figure 3 shows a flowchart of the flushing process of the first embodiment. Figure 4 shows a time chart of the valve device, pump, and water level in the normal mode of the embodiment. Figure 5 shows the flow rate in each step of the normal mode of the embodiment. Figure 6 shows the flow velocity in each step of the normal mode of the embodiment. Figure 7 shows a time chart of the valve device and pump in the water-saving mode of the embodiment. Figure 8 shows a time chart of the valve device and pump in the first high-water-volume mode of the embodiment. Figure 9 shows a time chart of the valve device and pump in the low-water-pressure mode of the embodiment. Figure 10 shows a time chart of the valve device and pump in the power outage mode of the embodiment. Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view of the toilet body at the III-III cross-section of Figure 2 of the second embodiment. Figure 12 shows a schematic block diagram representing the flushing water path of the toilet device of the third embodiment. Figure 12 shows a schematic block diagram representing the flushing water path of the toilet device of the fourth embodiment. Figure 12 shows a schematic block diagram representing the flushing water path of the toilet device of the fifth embodiment. A schematic block diagram showing the flushing water path of the toilet device in the sixth embodiment is shown. A time chart of the valve device and pump in normal mode of a modified example is shown.

[0008] (First Embodiment) As shown in Figure 1, the toilet device 10 is a flush toilet. The toilet device 10 is fixed to the floor for use. The toilet device 10 may be, for example, a so-called wall-mounted flush toilet that is fixed to the wall. In this specification, "front," "rear," "left," "right," "up," and "down" are defined in terms of the direction as seen from the user facing the toilet body 12.

[0009] The toilet device 10 comprises a toilet body 12, a toilet seat 14, a rear section 16, a supply mechanism 30 (see Figure 2), and a seat sensor 92 (see Figure 2). Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the left-right direction at the center of the toilet body 12 in the left-right direction. The toilet body 12 comprises a toilet bowl 20, a rim 22, a jet outlet 26, a rim outlet 28 (see Figure 3), and a drainage path 24. In this specification, "path" is defined by piping, etc., and includes a space through which water flows.

[0010] The toilet bowl 20 has a recessed shape at the bottom. The toilet bowl 20 receives the excrement of the user. Water is stored in the toilet bowl 20. The water level in the toilet bowl 20 rises and falls as washing water, etc. is supplied to the toilet bowl 20. The water level of the toilet bowl 20 when washing water, etc. is not supplied to the toilet bowl 20 and the water level is stable is called the water level WF. The part of the toilet bowl 20 below the water level WF is called the water storage section 20b. The part of the toilet bowl 20 above the water level WF is called the upper part of the toilet bowl 20a.

[0011] A rim 22 is positioned at the upper end of the toilet bowl 20. The rim 22 encircles the upper edge of the toilet bowl 20. The rim 22 protrudes from the upper surface of the toilet bowl 20 toward the inner circumference of the toilet bowl 20. The shape of the rim 22 is not particularly limited. For example, the rim 22 does not have to protrude toward the inner circumference from the toilet bowl 20. In this case, the rim 22 may be the upper edge of the toilet bowl 20. The rim 22 may be smoothly continuous with the surface of the toilet bowl 20. In a modified example, the rim 22 may define a path for washing water extending in the circumferential direction of the toilet bowl 20 at the upper edge of the toilet bowl 20.

[0012] A drainage path 24 is connected to the toilet bowl 20. The drainage path 24 is connected to the water reservoir 20b. A drain opening 24a is located on the toilet bowl 20 side of the drainage path 24. The drain opening 24a is located on the surface of the toilet bowl 20 below the water reservoir WF. The drain opening 24a opens into the water reservoir 20b. The drainage path 24 extends upward toward the rear from the drain opening 24a. The drainage path 24 bends downward from the top 24b at an intermediate position. The drainage path 24 extends downward and is connected to a drain pipe (not shown). The water reservoir WF is at the same height as the top 24b.

[0013] The toilet bowl 20 has a jet outlet 26 and a rim outlet 28. The jet outlet 26 is formed in the water reservoir 20b. The jet outlet 26 opens to the surface of the toilet bowl 20 below the water reservoir WF. The jet outlet 26 opens toward the drain outlet 24a. The washing water discharged from the jet outlet 26 flows toward the drain outlet 24a. The direction of the opening of the jet outlet 26 is not particularly limited. The jet outlet 26 only needs to be positioned below the water reservoir WF. For example, the jet outlet 26 does not need to face the drain outlet 24a. The jet outlet 26 does not need to discharge water toward the drain outlet 24a.

[0014] As shown in Figure 3, the rim outlet 28 is located below the rim 22. The rim outlet 28 opens at the lower end of the rim 22, in a position that discharges cleaning water along the surface of the upper part 20a of the toilet bowl. The cleaning water discharged from the rim outlet 28 flows along the surface of the upper part 20a of the toilet bowl, swirling in the flow direction FA. The cleaning water flows downward along the surface of the toilet bowl 20, swirling in the flow direction FA. The flow direction FA includes a vector extending horizontally.

[0015] The jet outlet 26 and the rim outlet 28 discharge water supplied from the supply mechanism 30. As shown in Figure 2, the supply mechanism 30 is located in the rear section 16, except for a part of the path extending forward. The supply mechanism 30 includes a water supply path 32, a stopcock 34, a valve device 40, a water supply path 46, a jet path 48, a rim path 56, a storage tank 50, a pump 52, and a control unit 90. Figure 2 does not represent the actual arrangement of the supply mechanism 30.

[0016] The water supply route 32 communicates with the water supply pipe 2. The water supply pipe 2 communicates with the water supply pipe. Water flows into the water supply pipe 2 from the water supply pipe. The water pressure in the water supply pipe 2 depends on the water pressure in the water supply pipe. In a modified example, the water pressure in the water supply pipe 2 may depend on the water pressure other than that of the water supply pipe. For example, in a configuration where a water storage tank is located above the building, the water pressure in the water supply pipe 2 may depend on the water pressure of the water flowing from the water storage tank. The water supply route 32 is connected to the water supply pipe 2 at its upstream end. Water flows into the water supply route 32 from the water supply pipe 2. The water pressure in the water supply route 32 depends on the water pressure in the water supply pipe 2. A stopcock 34 is provided in the water supply route 32. The stopcock 34 can prevent water from flowing downstream of the stopcock 34, for example, when a water leak occurs in the supply mechanism 30. A pressure reducing valve (not shown) may be provided in the water supply route 32.

[0017] The water supply path 32 passes through the stopcock 34 and the pressure reducing valve and communicates with the valve device 40. The water supply path 32 branches into two branch paths 32a and 32b before reaching the valve device 40 and is connected to the valve device 40. The valve device 40 comprises two valve sections 42 and 44. The valve sections 42 and 44 have the same configuration. The valve sections 42 and 44 are housed in a single housing. In a modified example, the valve device 40 may be located upstream of the branch paths 32a and 32b. In this case, each of the branch paths 32a and 32b may be connected to each of the valve sections 42 and 44.

[0018] (Configuration of the valve section) As shown in Figure 4, the valve section 42 comprises an inlet path 72, a pressure chamber 74, valve bodies 76, 78, 80, a solenoid 79, pilot paths 81, 82, and an outlet path 84. The inlet path 72 is connected to the branch path 32a. The inlet path 72 is in communication with the pressure chamber 74. Water flows into the pressure chamber 74 from the branch path 32a via the inlet path 72. The valve section 42 is equipped with a constant flow valve (not shown) on the upstream side of the pressure chamber 74. The pressure chamber 74 and the pilot path 81 are connected or disconnected by the valve body 78. The valve body 78 is operated by the solenoid 79. When power is supplied to the solenoid 79, the valve body 78 is attracted to the solenoid 79 by the magnetic force of the solenoid 79. This connects the pressure chamber 74 and the pilot path 81. The valve body 78 and the solenoid 79 can be called an electromagnetic valve device.

[0019] The pressure chamber 74 and the pilot path 82 are connected or disconnected by a valve body 80. The valve body 80 is operated manually by the user. When the valve body 80 is open, the pressure chamber 74 and the pilot path 82 are connected. The pressure chamber 74 and the outlet path 84 are connected or disconnected by a valve body 76. The valve body 76 includes a diaphragm valve. When the pressure chamber 74 and the outlet path 84 are disconnected by valve bodies 78 and 80, the valve body 76 is pushed toward the outlet path 84 by the water pressure in the pressure chamber 74.

[0020] In the valve section 42, power is supplied to the solenoid 79, and when the valve body 78 is attracted to the solenoid 79, the pressure chamber 74 and the pilot path 81 are connected. As a result of the connection between the pressure chamber 74 and the pilot path 81, water flows from the pressure chamber 74 to the outlet path 84 via the pilot path 81. This reduces the water pressure in the pressure chamber 74. The valve body 76 moves away from the outlet path 84. As a result, the branch path 32a is connected to the outlet path 84 via the pressure chamber 74. The water from the branch path 32a flows into the outlet path 84.

[0021] When the valve body 80 is opened by the user's operation, the pressure chamber 74 and the pilot path 82 are connected. When the pressure chamber 74 and the pilot path 82 are connected, water flows from the pressure chamber 74 to the outlet path 84 via the pilot path 82. As a result, the water pressure in the pressure chamber 74 decreases. The valve body 76 moves away from the outlet path 84. As a result, the branch path 32a is connected to the outlet path 84 via the pressure chamber 74. The water from the branch path 32a flows into the outlet path 84. In the valve section 42, there are cases where power is not supplied to the solenoid 79 due to a power outage or the like. With this configuration, water can pass through the valve section 42 even when power is not supplied to the solenoid 79.

[0022] A water supply path 46 is connected to the downstream side of the valve section 42. The water supply path 46 connects the valve section 42 to the storage tank 50. The outlet path 84 is connected to the water supply path 46. Water flowing from the branch path 32a to the outlet path 84 flows into the storage tank 50 via the water supply path 46. A vacuum breaker (not shown) is located in the water supply path 46.

[0023] The storage tank 50 stores water. As shown in Figure 2, the storage tank 50 is in communication with the atmosphere via a vent pipe 54. A float switch (not shown) is located in the storage tank 50. The float switch transmits a signal to the control unit 90 when the water level in the storage tank 50 reaches a predetermined level. An overflow pipe 55 is also located in the storage tank 50.

[0024] A pump 52 is housed in the storage tank 50. When power is supplied from an external power source, the pump 52 rotates an impeller inside the pump 52 to pressurize the water. The pump 52 is connected to a rim passage 56. The rim passage 56 connects the pump 52 to the rim outlet 28. The water pressurized by the pump 52 is discharged from the pump 52 through the rim passage 56 to the toilet bowl 20 from the rim outlet 28. A check valve (not shown) is located in the rim passage 56. The pump 52 can send water to the rim passage 56 by converting electrical energy obtained from power supplied from an external power source into kinetic energy of water. The water pressure of the water pressurized by the pump 52 is adjustable.

[0025] An overflow pipe 55 is further connected to the rim passage 56. When an excess of water is supplied to the storage tank 50, it is supplied from the overflow pipe 55 through the rim passage 56 to the rim outlet 28. When an excess of water is supplied to the storage tank 50, the water that is not stored in the storage tank 50 flows out of the storage tank 50 into the toilet bowl 20. This prevents water from overflowing from the storage tank 50 to anything other than the toilet bowl 20. Check valves (not shown) are provided in the overflow pipe 55 and the rim passage 56 to prevent water from flowing from the rim outlet 28 towards the storage tank 50.

[0026] A jet path 48 is connected to the downstream side of valve section 44, which has the same configuration as valve section 42. The jet path 48 connects valve section 44 and jet outlet 26. Water flowing from branch path 32b to the outflow path of valve section 44 reaches jet outlet 26 via jet path 48. A vacuum breaker and an air vent valve (not shown) are arranged in the jet path 48 from upstream to downstream.

[0027] The jet outlet 26 and the rim outlet 28 are supplied with water from a common water supply pipe 2. No branching fittings are provided between the water supply pipe 2, the storage tank 50, and the jet outlet 26.

[0028] In a modified version, the water supply source may include a plurality of supply pipes. The plurality of supply pipes may include a first supply pipe communicating with the jet outlet 26 and a second supply pipe communicating with the storage tank 50. A valve 44 may be located between the jet outlet 26 and the first supply pipe. A valve 42 may be located between the storage tank 50 and the second supply pipe.

[0029] A seating sensor 92 is positioned on the toilet seat 14. When a user sits on the toilet seat 14, the toilet seat 14 lowers. The seating sensor 92 detects the user sitting down and getting up by detecting the up and down movement of the toilet seat 14. In modified examples, the seating sensor 92 may be a contact-type sensor, infrared sensor, capacitive sensor, etc., that directly detects the user. In addition to the seating sensor 92, a human presence sensor (e.g., infrared sensor, camera, etc.) that detects the user may also be used.

[0030] The valve device 40 and the pump 52 are controlled by the control unit 90. The valve device 40 and the pump 52 are communicated to the control unit 90 by wiring. The wiring between the pump 52 and the control unit 90 is not shown. The control unit 90 includes a CPU and memory. The memory has volatile and non-volatile storage sections. The control unit 90 controls the valve device 40 and the pump 52 by having the CPU execute processing according to a computer program pre-stored in the memory. The control unit 90 acquires a signal representing the detection result from the seat sensor 92.

[0031] (Water flow from water supply pipe to toilet bowl) The flow of water from the water supply pipe 2 to the toilet bowl 20 via the jet outlet 26 and rim outlet 28 will be explained. The control unit 90 supplies water to the toilet bowl 20 by controlling the valve device 40 and the pump 52. Specifically, when water is discharged from the jet outlet 26, the control unit 90 supplies power to the solenoid of the valve unit 44. This causes the valve unit 44 to transition from a closed state to an open state. The water supplied from the water supply pipe 2 passes through the water supply path 32 and the branch path 32b. The water passing through the branch path 32b flows through the valve unit 44 to the jet path 48. The water flowing through the jet path 48 is discharged from the jet outlet 26 to the toilet bowl 20.

[0032] The water flowing from the water supply pipe 2 is depressurized in the path from the water supply pipe 2 to the jet outlet 26. For example, the water is depressurized when it passes through the valve section 44. On the other hand, there is no configuration in the water path from the water supply pipe 2 to the jet outlet 26 that imparts kinetic energy to the water. The pressure of the water discharged from the jet outlet 26 depends on the water pressure in the water supply pipe 2. The jet outlet 26 discharges water using a direct pressure method from the water supply pipe 2. The water discharged from the jet outlet 26 utilizes the water pressure in the water supply pipe 2.

[0033] When filling the storage tank 50 with water, the control unit 90 supplies power to the solenoid 79 of the valve unit 42. This causes the valve unit 42 to move from a closed state to an open state. The water supplied from the water supply pipe 2 passes through the water supply path 32 and the branch path 32a. The water passing through the branch path 32a flows into the water supply path 46 via the valve unit 42. The water flowing through the water supply path 46 reaches the storage tank 50. The water that reaches the storage tank 50 is stored in the storage tank 50. When the control unit 90 receives a signal from the float switch, it moves the valve unit 42 from an open state to a closed state. The supply of water from the water supply pipe 2 to the storage tank 50 is stopped.

[0034] When water is discharged from the rim outlet 28, the control unit 90 drives the pump 52. The pump 52 converts electrical energy supplied from an external power source into kinetic energy of water, thereby sending water from the storage tank 50 to the rim path 56. The water flowing through the rim path 56 is discharged from the rim outlet 28 into the toilet bowl 20. When water is discharged from the rim outlet 28, the water is discharged by the water pressure applied by the supply mechanism 30 (i.e., the pump 52). When water is discharged from the rim outlet 28, the water pressure applied from a configuration other than the water pressure of the water supply pipe 2 is utilized. When water is discharged from the jet outlet 26, no water pressure is applied by the supply mechanism 30. When water is discharged from the jet outlet 26, the water pressure is not adjusted by the supply mechanism 30. The water pressure of the water discharged from the rim outlet 28 is greater than or equal to the water pressure of the water discharged from the jet outlet 26. The water pressure of the water discharged from the rim outlet 28 is the water pressure just before it is discharged from the rim outlet 28. The pump 52 can adjust the water pressure of the water it pumps. Therefore, the water pressure of the water discharged from the rim outlet 28 can be adjusted by the pump 52. The water pressure of the water discharged from the rim outlet 28 is different from the water pressure of the water discharged from the jet outlet 26.

[0035] (Cleaning Process) The control unit 90 performs a cleaning process to clean the toilet bowl 20 when the toilet bowl 20 is to be cleaned. The situation in which the toilet bowl 20 is to be cleaned includes, for example, a situation in which the control unit 90 receives a signal from the seating sensor 92 indicating that the user has left the seat. The situation in which the toilet bowl 20 is to be cleaned includes a situation in which the user performs a cleaning start operation (for example, operating the cleaning lever or the cleaning button) on an operating device not shown, and the control unit 90 receives a signal from the operating device indicating that the cleaning start operation has been performed.

[0036] The control unit 90 executes the cleaning process according to the set cleaning mode from among multiple cleaning modes. The multiple cleaning modes include normal mode, water-saving mode, first high-water-volume mode, second high-water-volume mode, low-water-pressure mode, and power outage mode. Users and installers can select one of the cleaning modes from normal mode, water-saving mode, first high-water-volume mode, second high-water-volume mode, and low-water-pressure mode by operating the operating device. The control unit 90 sets the selected cleaning mode to be executed in the cleaning process. The power outage mode is executed when power is not supplied to the toilet device 10. In power outage mode, the user executes the cleaning process by operating the valve device 40.

[0037] As shown in Figure 5, in any of the multiple cleaning modes, the cleaning process includes the cleaning step of S12, the discharge step of S14, the condensation step of S16, and the water supply step of S18. In the cleaning step of S12, the toilet bowl 20 is cleaned with cleaning water. In the discharge step of S14, the cleaning water from the toilet bowl 20 is discharged to the drain pipe via the drainage path 24. In the condensation step of S16, water is collected in the water reservoir 20b of the toilet bowl 20. In the water supply step of S18, water is collected in the storage tank 50. The power outage mode varies depending on the user's operation. In the power outage mode, depending on the user's operation, for example, the water supply step of S18 may not be included.

[0038] (Normal Mode) Referring to Figure 6, the cleaning process in normal mode will be explained. When the toilet bowl 20 is to be cleaned, the control unit 90 first drives the pump 52 at time T11. That is, it switches the pump 52 from OFF to ON. The pump 52 rotates its impeller using electrical energy from an external power source. The water in the storage tank 50 is given kinetic energy within the pump 52 by the rotation of the impeller. The pump 52 pressurizes the water in the storage tank 50 and sends it to the rim path 56. The water flowing through the rim path 56 is discharged from the rim outlet 28 to the upper part 20a of the toilet bowl as cleaning water for the toilet bowl 20. As shown in Figure 3, the rear end of the rim outlet 28 is defined by the rear surface 20d of the toilet bowl 20. The cleaning water discharged from the rim outlet 28 flows along the surface of the toilet bowl 20, swirling in the flow direction FA. The washing water flows in a swirling motion across the surface of the toilet bowl 20 and spreads downwards. The washing water flows over the entire upper part 20a of the toilet bowl. This performs a washing process that cleans the surface of the upper part 20a of the toilet bowl.

[0039] Returning to Figure 6, when cleaning water is discharged from the rim outlet 28, the water level WF in the toilet bowl 20 rises from water level L3 to water level L4. Water level L3 is the water level WF when no water is supplied to the toilet bowl 20. Water level L3 is at the same height as the top 24b. Water level L4 is at the same height as the upper end surface of the top 24b of the drainage path 24. The water level in the drainage path 24 rises in accordance with the water level WF. During the cleaning process, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 can rise up to water level L4.

[0040] At time T12, the control unit 90 switches the valve unit 44 from the closed state to the open state. Specifically, the control unit 90 supplies an electrical signal to the valve unit 44 to switch it from the closed state to the open state. The valve unit 44 switches from the closed state to the open state upon receiving the electrical signal. There is a slight time lag in the valve unit 44 between the time the control unit 90 supplies the electrical signal and the time it switches to the open state. In the time charts from Figure 6 onward, for the valve units 42 and 44, the period from the time the control unit 90 supplies the electrical signal to the time it switches to the open state, as shown from time T12 to time T13, is represented by a slanted line. The slanted line represents the switching between the open state and the closed state of the valve units 42 and 44. In Figure 6 and the time charts from Figure 6 onward, "open" and "closed" for the valve units 42 and 44 represent the fully open state and the fully closed state, respectively.

[0041] At time T13, when the valve 44 is switched to the open state, the cleaning water from the water supply pipe 2 is discharged from the jet outlet 26 into the toilet bowl 20 via the water supply path 32, the branch path 32b, and the jet path 48. The jet outlet 26 is positioned in the water reservoir 20b toward the drain outlet 24a. The cleaning water discharged from the jet outlet 26 flows toward the drain path 24.

[0042] When cleaning water is discharged from the jet nozzle 26, a large amount of cleaning water flows into the drainage path 24. As a result, as shown in Figure 2, in the portion of the drainage path 24 that flows downwards, i.e., downstream of the top 24b, the drainage path 24 is sealed by the water layer WL formed by the cleaning water. The water layer WL is moved downward by gravity. As a result, negative pressure is generated in the space SP between the water layer WL and the water in the toilet bowl 20. The water layer WL may extend to the downstream end of the drainage path 24. The negative pressure draws the water in the toilet bowl 20 into the drainage path 24. Consequently, when cleaning water is discharged from the jet nozzle 26 at time T13, a siphon effect occurs. When a siphon effect occurs, the water in the toilet bowl 20 is discharged into the drainage path 24. The discharge process begins at time T13. In the discharge process, the excrement in the toilet bowl 20 is discharged into the drainage path 24 along with the water in the toilet bowl 20. In this embodiment, the start of the siphon phenomenon, i.e., the start of the discharge process, is defined as occurring at the same time as the start of drainage from the jet outlet 26. The start of the siphon phenomenon may be slightly delayed from the start of drainage from the jet outlet 26. The start of the siphon phenomenon, i.e., the start of the discharge process, may also be defined as the timing when negative pressure is generated in the space SP. In a modified example, the start of the siphon phenomenon, i.e., the start of the discharge process, may be the timing when the water layer WL is generated. In any of these timings, the pump 52 is driven and water is being discharged from the jet outlet 26.

[0043] Returning to FIG. 6, cleaning water is discharged from the jet water outlet 26, and for a predetermined period, that is, from time T13 to time T14, cleaning water is simultaneously discharged from the jet water outlet 26 and the rim water outlet 28. The period from time T13 to time T14 is the double-port water discharge period. During the double-port water discharge period, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 drops from the water level L4. The water level drops below the water level L2, exceeding the water level L3. The water level L2 is at the same height as the upper end of the drain port 24a. At time T14, that is, after a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of the discharge process at time T13, the control unit 90 stops the pump 52. The water discharge from the rim water outlet 28 is stopped. As a result, the flow rate of water supplied to the toilet bowl 20 decreases. While the siphon phenomenon is occurring, the drain port 24a is blocked by the water in the toilet bowl 20.

[0044] When the flow rate of water supplied to the toilet bowl 20 decreases, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 drops. When the water level in the toilet bowl 20 becomes less than the water level L2, the sealed drainage path 24 is unsealed. As a result, air flows into the drainage path 24. At time T14, the siphon phenomenon stops. At time T14, the process shifts from the discharge process to the water replenishment process. Even in the situation where the water level in the toilet bowl 20 is at its lowest, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 is higher than the water level L1. The water level L1 is at the same height as the upper end of the jet water outlet 26. The water level L0 is at the same height as the lowest position on the bottom surface of the toilet bowl 20. The water level L0 is located below the lower end of the jet water outlet 26.

[0045] In the water replenishment process, water is discharged from the jet water outlet 26. In the water replenishment process, the cleaning of the toilet bowl 20 has ended. As a result, water accumulates in the toilet bowl 20. The control unit 90 further switches the valve unit 42 from the closed state to the open state at time T14. Thereby, the water in the water supply pipe 2 is supplied to the storage tank 50 via the water supply path 32, the branch path 32a, and the water supply path 46. Water is stored in the storage tank 50. In the water replenishment process, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 rises to the water level L3 due to the water discharge from the jet water outlet 26.

[0046] At time T15 after a predetermined period has elapsed since time T14, water has accumulated in the toilet bowl 20 up to the water surface WF. The control unit 90 shifts the valve unit 44 from the open valve state to the closed valve state. As a result, the water discharge from the jet water outlet 26 stops. At time T15, the process shifts from the water recovery process to the water supply process. In the water supply process, water continues to be supplied to the storage tank 50 from time T15 to time T16. The control unit 90 shifts the valve unit 42 from the open valve state to the closed valve state at time T16 when a signal from the float switch in the storage tank 50 is received. As a result, the water supply to the storage tank 50 stops, and the cleaning process ends.

[0047] FIG. 7 shows a graph representing the change over time in the water flow rates from the jet water outlet 26 and the rim water outlet 28 and the water flow rate supplied to the storage tank 50. The flow rate represents the amount of water flowing per unit time. The flow rate of the rim water outlet 28 is represented by flow rate 29. The flow rate of the jet water outlet 26 is represented by flow rate 27. The flow rate of the water flowing into the storage tank 50 is represented by flow rate 51. From time T11 to time T13, water is discharged only from the rim water outlet 28. At time T13, the water discharge from the jet water outlet 26 starts. During the dual outlet water discharge period from time T13 to time T14, the cleaning water flow rate 28b from the rim water outlet 28 is lower than the cleaning water flow rate 28a from the rim water outlet 28 from time T11 to time T12. During the dual outlet water discharge period, the flow rate 29 of the rim water outlet 28 is always greater than the flow rate 27 of the jet water outlet 26.

[0048] When the water recovery process starts at time T14, cleaning water is supplied to the storage tank 50. The cleaning water flow rate 26b from the jet water outlet 26 from time T14 to time T15 is less than the cleaning water flow rate 26a from the jet water outlet 26 from time T13 to time T14. The flow rate 26b of the jet water outlet 26 from time T14 to time T15 is approximately equal to the flow rate 51 to the storage tank 50.

[0049] Figure 8 shows a graph illustrating the change in water velocity over time from the jet outlet 26 and the rim outlet 28. The velocity is the flow rate divided by the opening area. The water velocity from the jet outlet 26 is represented by velocity 31. The water velocity from the rim outlet 28 is represented by velocity 33. At time T12 of the cleaning process, water discharge from the jet outlet 26 begins. During the period of discharge from both outlets from time T13 to time T14, the water velocity 33b from the rim outlet 28 is lower than the water velocity 33a from the rim outlet 28 at time T11 to time T12. During the period of discharge from both outlets, the water velocity from the jet outlet 26 is always higher than the water velocity from the rim outlet 28.

[0050] If the condensation process is started at time T14, cleaning water is supplied to the storage tank 50. The flow velocity 31b of the cleaning water from the jet outlet 26 from time T14 to time T15 is lower than the flow velocity 31a of the cleaning water from the jet outlet 26 from time T12 to time T14.

[0051] During the cleaning process, by maintaining the water level of the toilet bowl 20 above the jet outlet 26, noise during water discharge from the jet outlet 26 can be suppressed.

[0052] (Water-saving mode) Referring to Figure 9, the differences between the washing process in water-saving mode and the normal mode will be explained. In water-saving mode, the total amount of water used for the washing process is less than in the normal mode. The operation of the supply mechanism 30 from time T21 to time T22 in the washing process is the same as the operation of the supply mechanism 30 from time T11 to time T13. The change in the water level of the toilet bowl 20 is the same as in the normal mode.

[0053] At time T22, similar to time T13, the control unit 90 switches the valve section 44 from the closed state to the open state. At time T22, the control unit 90 also stops the pump 52. As a result, the washing water from the rim outlet 28 is stopped. At time T22, when washing water is discharged from the jet outlet 26, a siphon effect occurs. As a result, the discharge process begins. The water level in the toilet bowl 20 drops from water level L4 to water level L0. In the discharge process in water-saving mode, the seal is broken when the water level drops to L2. As a result, the siphon effect ends. After the water level drops to L2, the valve section 42 remains in the closed state until time T23. Even after the water level drops to L2, the water discharge from the jet outlet 26 continues, and the force of the water discharged from the jet outlet 26 pushes the water and waste in the toilet bowl 20 into the drainage path 24. As a result, the discharge process continues. The water level in the toilet bowl 20 is lowered to water level L0 by the continuous discharge of water from the jet outlet 26. The water level L0 state is maintained until the pump 52 is driven at time T23. In water-saving mode, during the discharge process, the jet outlet 26 is exposed to the atmosphere from the accumulated water.

[0054] At time T23, the control unit 90 drives the pump 52. At time T23, the process transitions from the discharge process to the condensation process. This allows the water level in the toilet bowl 20 to rise to level L2 quickly by discharging water from both the jet outlet 26 and the rim outlet 28. During the period from time T23 to time T24 in the condensation process when water is discharged from both outlets, the total amount of cleaning water discharged from the rim outlet 28 is greater than the total amount of cleaning water discharged from the jet outlet 26. This suppresses the discharge of sewage odors into the atmosphere through the drain port 24a.

[0055] At time T23, the control unit 90 further switches the valve 42 from the closed state to the open state. As a result, water is stored in the storage tank 50. From time T24 to time T26, the process is the same as from time T14 to time T16. In water-saving mode, the transition from the discharge process to the condensation process coincides with the timing when the valve 42 switches from the closed state to the open state (i.e., the valve 42 is fully open).

[0056] (First High-Water Volume Mode) Referring to Figure 10, the differences between the washing process in the first high-water volume mode and the normal mode will be explained. In the first high-water volume mode, the total amount of water used for the washing process is greater than in the normal mode. From time T31 to time T32 in the washing process, it is the same as from time T11 to time T13. The change in the water level of the toilet bowl 20 is the same as in the normal mode.

[0057] At time T32, similar to time T13, the control unit 90 switches the valve unit 44 from the closed state to the open state. At time T32, the control unit 90 also stops the pump 52. The cleaning water from the rim outlet 28 is stopped, and cleaning water is discharged from the jet outlet 26. At time T32, a siphon effect occurs. This initiates the discharge process.

[0058] The siphon effect is continued by continuously discharging cleaning water from the jet outlet 26 from time T32. This allows the discharge process to continue. During the discharge process, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 drops from water level L4 to water level L0. In the discharge process in the first high-water-volume mode, the seal is broken when the water level drops to L2, similar to the water-saving mode. This ends the siphon effect. After the water level drops to L2, the valve 42 remains closed until time T33. Even after the water level drops to L2, the water discharge from the jet outlet 26 continues, pushing the water and waste in the toilet bowl 20 into the drainage path 24 with the force of the water discharged from the jet outlet 26. This allows the discharge process to continue. The water level in the toilet bowl 20 drops to water level L0 by continuing to discharge water from the jet outlet 26.

[0059] At time T33, the control unit 90 drives the pump 52. At time T33, the process transitions from the discharge process to the condensation process. The period from time T32 to time T33 is longer than the period from time T13 to time T14. In the first high-flow mode, the discharge process is longer than the discharge process in the normal mode. With this configuration, in the first high-flow mode, compared to the normal mode, a larger amount of water can be discharged into the drainage path 24 during the discharge process. As a result, in the first high-flow mode, compared to the normal mode, the discharge performance in the discharge process can be improved. In the first high-flow mode, similar to the water-saving mode, the transition from the discharge process to the condensation process coincides with the timing when the valve 42 switches from a closed state to an open state (i.e., the valve 42 is fully open).

[0060] As water is continuously discharged from the jet outlet 26 from time T32, the water level WF decreases from water level L4 to water level L0. Furthermore, as water is continuously discharged from the jet outlet 26, the water level WF is maintained at water level L0, and the discharge process continues. This improves drainage performance.

[0061] The control unit 90 drives the pump 52 from time T33, when the condensation process starts, until time T34. At time T34, the control unit 90 stops the pump 52. This allows water to be accumulated in the toilet bowl 20 early after the condensation process starts. As a result, water can be accumulated above the upper end of the drain port 24a early on. By raising the water level WF to water level L2, the drain port 24a can be sealed with water. This prevents the leakage of unpleasant odors from the drainage path 24 early on. At time T34, the control unit 90 further stops the pump 52.

[0062] At time T33, the control unit 90 further switches the valve 42 from the closed state to the open state. As a result, water is stored in the storage tank 50. From time T34 to time T36, the process is the same as from time T24 to time T26.

[0063] In water-saving mode and first high-flow mode, as in normal mode, while cleaning water is being discharged from the jet outlet 26 and the rim outlet 28, the flow rate from the rim outlet 28 is always greater than the flow rate from the jet outlet 26. While cleaning water is being discharged from the jet outlet 26 and the rim outlet 28, the flow velocity from the jet outlet 26 is always higher than the flow velocity from the rim outlet 28.

[0064] (Second High-Water Volume Mode) In the second high-water volume mode, the control unit 90 repeats the cleaning process in the normal mode two or more times during the cleaning process. As a result, the cleaning performance in the second high-water volume mode can be improved compared to the normal mode.

[0065] In normal mode, water-saving mode, first high-water-volume mode, and second high-water-volume mode, the cleaning performance of the toilet bowl 20 can be improved by making the flow rate from the rim outlet 28 greater than the flow rate from the jet outlet 26 during the cleaning process. In a modified example, for a portion of the cleaning process, the flow rate from the jet outlet 26 may be greater than the flow rate from the rim outlet 28. In this case, the maximum flow rate from the rim outlet 28 may be greater than the maximum flow rate from the jet outlet 26.

[0066] In normal mode, water-saving mode, first high-water-volume mode, and second high-water-volume mode, during the washing process, water is first discharged from the rim outlet 28, and then from the jet outlet 26. This allows the waste and other materials adhering to the surface of the upper part 20a of the toilet bowl to be washed into the water reservoir 20b before the discharge process can be performed.

[0067] In normal mode, water-saving mode, first high-flow mode, and second high-flow mode, during the period when water is discharged from both outlets (for example, from time T13 to time T14 in normal mode), the flow rate from the rim outlet 28 is always greater than the flow rate from the jet outlet 26. That is, during the period when water is discharged from both outlets, the total amount of cleaning water discharged from the rim outlet 28 is greater than the total amount of cleaning water discharged from the jet outlet 26. During the period when water is discharged from both outlets, by limiting the total amount of cleaning water discharged from the jet outlet 26 to the minimum amount necessary for the siphon effect, the toilet bowl 20 can be cleaned with the cleaning water discharged from the rim outlet 28.

[0068] In normal mode, water-saving mode, first high-water-volume mode, and second high-water-volume mode, the flow velocity from the jet outlet 26 is made greater than the flow velocity from the rim outlet 28 during the washing process, making it easier to generate a siphon effect. In addition, the force of the water from the jet outlet 26 makes it easier to discharge waste into the drainage path 24.

[0069] In normal mode, water-saving mode, first high-flow mode, and second high-flow mode, during the condensation process, water is discharged from the jet outlet 26 while water is stored in the storage tank 50. This allows water to be stored in the storage tank 50 quickly and condensed from the jet outlet 26.

[0070] In normal mode, water-saving mode, first high-flow mode, and second high-flow mode, the flow rate from the rim outlet 28 is greater than the flow rate from the jet outlet 26 during a portion of the condensation process. In normal mode and second high-flow mode, immediately after the transition from the discharge process to the condensation process, for a portion of the period until the pump 52 is stopped, the flow rate from the rim outlet 28 is greater than the flow rate from the jet outlet 26.

[0071] (Low Water Pressure Mode) Referring to Figure 11, the differences between the cleaning process in low water pressure mode and the normal mode will be explained. Low water pressure mode is set when the water pressure in the water supply pipe 2 is low. In low water pressure mode, cleaning water is not discharged from the direct pressure type jet outlet 26. As a result, by discharging low-pressure water from the jet outlet 26, it is possible to avoid a situation in which excrement etc. in the toilet bowl 20 is not discharged into the drainage path 24 during the discharge process.

[0072] In low water pressure mode, at time T41, the control unit 90 drives the pump 52. By continuously driving the pump 52, the control unit 90 causes the water level in the toilet bowl 20 to rise from water level L3 to water level L4 during the washing process. During the washing process, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 is maintained at water level L4 until time T42 when the siphon effect occurs. The period during which the water level in the toilet bowl 20 is maintained at water level L4, i.e., the period until the siphon effect occurs, varies depending on the flow rate from the rim outlet 28. During the washing process, the rise in the water level in the toilet bowl 20 increases the amount of water in the drainage path 24. As a result, the drainage path 24 is sealed, causing the siphon effect to occur.

[0073] At time T42, the process transitions from the washing process to the discharge process. At time T41, the control unit 90 further switches the valve 42 from the closed state to the open state. As a result, water is supplied to the storage tank 50.

[0074] At time T43, the control unit 90 stops the pump 52. This stops the siphon effect, and the discharge process ends at time T44. At time T44, the control unit 90 starts the pump 52 again. This executes the condensation process. At time T45, the control unit 90 stops the pump 52. This transitions from the condensation process to the water supply process. In a modified example, the control unit 90 does not need to stop the pump 52 at time T43. The control unit 90 may control the rotation speed of the pump 52 to decrease.

[0075] From time T41 until time T46 when the condensation process is completed, the valve 42 is kept in the open state. From time T41 to time T43, the water supplied to the storage tank 50 is sent to the rim discharge port 28 by the pump 52. When the pump 52 is stopped, the water supplied to the storage tank 50 is stored in the storage tank 50.

[0076] (Example of a power outage mode) Referring to Figure 12, the flushing process in power outage mode will be explained. In power outage mode, the flushing process is performed when no power is supplied to the toilet unit 10. In power outage mode, the pump 52 is stopped. In power outage mode, flushing water is not discharged from the rim outlet 28 by the pump 52.

[0077] In power outage mode, the user operates the valve device 40 to start and stop the water supply to the storage tank 50 and to start and stop the water discharge from the jet outlet 26. Therefore, the flushing process shown in Figure 12 is not performed by the user's operation. In other words, the flushing process shown in Figure 12 is one example proposed by the manufacturer of the toilet device 10.

[0078] In power outage mode, at time T51, the user moves valve 42 from the closed state to the open state. This supplies water from the water supply pipe 2 to the storage tank 50. When the storage tank 50 is filled with water, cleaning water is discharged from the overflow pipe 55 through the rim path 56 and from the rim outlet 28 into the toilet bowl 20. As a result, at time T51, the cleaning process begins when cleaning water is discharged from the overflow pipe 55 through the rim path 56 and from the rim outlet 28. This causes the water level in the toilet bowl 20 to rise from water level L3 to water level L4. At time T52, the user moves valve 42 from the open state to the closed state. This completes the cleaning process. At time T52, the user also moves valve 44 from the closed state to the open state. The timing of moving valve 44 from the closed state to the open state may differ from the timing of moving valve 42 from the open state to the closed state.

[0079] At time T52, the valve 44 moves from a closed state to an open state, causing a siphon effect in the drainage path 24. At time T52, the discharge process begins. As a result, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 drops to water level L0. In the discharge process in power outage mode, similar to water-saving mode, the seal is broken when the water level drops to L2. This ends the siphon effect. After the water level drops to L2, the valve 42 remains closed until time T53. Even after the water level drops to L2, water continues to be discharged from the jet outlet 26, pushing the water and waste in the toilet bowl 20 into the drainage path 24 with the force of the water discharged from the jet outlet 26. This continues the discharge process. The water level in the toilet bowl 20 drops to water level L0 as water continues to be discharged from the jet outlet 26. At time T53, the user moves the valve 44 from an open state to a closed state. This stops the discharge process. During the discharge process, by maintaining the valve 42 in a closed state, water from the water supply pipe 2 can be concentrated into the jet outlet 26. This increases the flow rate from the jet outlet 26, thereby improving discharge performance during the discharge process.

[0080] At time T53, the user further moves the valve 42 from the closed state to the open state. As a result, water is supplied to the storage tank 50. At time T53, cleaning water is supplied from the storage tank 50 to the toilet bowl 20 from the rim outlet 28 via the overflow pipe 55 and the rim path 56. At time T53, the process transitions from the discharge process to the condensation process. In the power outage mode, similar to the water-saving mode, the transition from the discharge process to the condensation process coincides with the timing when the valve 42 switches from the closed state to the open state (i.e., the valve 42 is fully open). In the power outage mode, the transition from the discharge process to the condensation process coincides with the timing when the valve 44 switches from the open state to the closed state (i.e., the valve 44 is fully closed). The timing of moving the valve 44 from the open state to the closed state may differ from the timing of moving the valve 42 from the closed state to the open state. At time T54, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 rises from water level L0 to water level L3. At time T54, the user moves the valve 42 from the open state to the closed state. At time T54, the condensation process is completed, and the cleaning process is finished.

[0081] In power outage mode, pump 52 is stopped. In power outage mode, the water level in storage tank 50 does not decrease. In power outage mode, the water supply process after the condensation process is not performed.

[0082] The valve device 40 allows the user to manually switch between the open and closed states of the valve sections 42 and 44. In the event of a power outage, the toilet device 10 can be made to perform the flushing process.

[0083] In this embodiment, the toilet device 10 has a jet outlet 26 that discharges flushing water using the water pressure from the water supply pipe 2. The rim outlet 28 discharges flushing water using the water pressure generated by the pump 52. The rim outlet 28 can discharge flushing water independently of the water pressure from the water supply pipe 2.

[0084] In situations where the water pressure in the water supply pipe 2 is low, the cleaning process can be performed without utilizing the water pressure in the water supply pipe 2 by executing the cleaning process in low-pressure mode. The toilet bowl 20 can be cleaned even when the water pressure in the water supply pipe 2 is low.

[0085] The water pressure generated by the pump 52 causes the cleaning water to be discharged from the rim outlet 28. The water pressure of the cleaning water used to clean the surface of the toilet bowl 20 can be stabilized independently of the water pressure in the water supply pipe 2. This prevents the cleaning performance of the surface of the toilet bowl 20 from being affected by the water pressure in the water supply pipe 2.

[0086] At the rim outlet 28, water stored in the storage tank 50 is pressurized by the pump 52 and then discharged. This ensures a stable supply of cleaning water to the rim outlet 28.

[0087] The cleaning water discharged from the rim outlet 28 flows downward while swirling inside the toilet bowl 20. This allows the cleaning water from the rim outlet 28 to clean the entire upper part 20a of the toilet bowl.

[0088] The jet outlet 26 discharges cleaning water using the water pressure from the water supply pipe 2. This eliminates the need for a pump or other equipment to discharge cleaning water from the jet outlet 26. For example, in situations where the pump 52 cannot be driven due to a power outage, cleaning water can still be discharged from the jet outlet 26.

[0089] The supply of water from the water supply pipe 2 to the jet outlet 26 and the storage tank 50 is electrically switched by the valve device 40. Under normal conditions when there is no power outage, the water supply and stop can be switched by the control unit 90. The valve device 40 can also be switched manually. In the event of a power outage, the water supply and stop can be switched by the user.

[0090] In the cleaning process, cleaning water is first discharged from the rim outlet 28, and then from the jet outlet 26. This allows for a smooth transition to the discharge process after cleaning the surface of the toilet bowl 20.

[0091] The valve device 40 has two valve sections 42 and 44 integrated into one unit. This reduces the work required to install the valve sections 42 and 44. The valve device 40 has a configuration that allows each of the two valve sections 42 and 44 to be opened and closed independently. This makes it possible to simultaneously achieve communication between the water supply pipe 2 and the jet outlet 26, and communication between the water supply pipe 2 and the storage tank 50.

[0092] In the condensation process, water is discharged from the jet outlet 26, and the discharge from the rim outlet 28 is stopped. This allows water to be stored in the storage tank 50 during the condensation process. The time between when the water stored in the storage tank 50 is used and when water is stored in the storage tank 50 again can be shortened.

[0093] (Correspondence) The jet outlet 26 is an example of the "first outlet". The rim outlet 28 is an example of the "second outlet". The water pressure in the water supply pipe 2 is an example of the "first water pressure". The water pressure applied by the pump 52 is an example of the "second water pressure". The state in which the valve section 44 is open and the water supply pipe 2 and the jet outlet 26 are in communication, that is, the state in which water is being discharged from the jet outlet 26, is an example of the "first communication state". The state in which the valve section 44 is closed and the water supply pipe 2 and the jet outlet 26 are blocked, that is, the state in which water is not being discharged from the jet outlet 26, is an example of the "first blocked state". The state in which the valve section 42 is open and the water supply pipe 2 and the storage tank 50 are in communication is an example of the "second communication state". An example of the "second shut-off state" is when the valve 42 is in the closed position and the water supply pipe 2 and the storage tank 50 are blocked off.

[0094] (Second Embodiment) The differences between the toilet device 210 of this embodiment and the toilet device 10 will be explained. As shown in Figure 13, the toilet body 12 is equipped with two rim outlets 128a and 128b instead of the rim outlet 28 of the toilet device 10. The rim outlets 128a and 128b are located at the lower end of the rim 22, similar to the rim outlet 28. The rim outlet 128a is located at the lower end of the rim 22, similar to the rim outlet 28, and is positioned so that flushing water is discharged along the surface of the upper part of the toilet bowl 20a. The flushing water discharged from the rim outlets 128a and 128b flows along the surface of the upper part of the toilet bowl 20a, swirling around on the surface. The rim outlet 128a is located at the back of the toilet bowl 20, similar to the rim outlet 28. The rim spout 128b is positioned closer to the front of the toilet bowl 20 than the rim spout 128a.

[0095] The rim path 56 branches into a branch path 156a that communicates with the rim outlet 128a and a branch path 156b that communicates with the rim outlet 128b. The configuration of the toilet device 210, other than the configuration described above, is the same as that of the toilet device 10.

[0096] (Third Embodiment) The differences between the toilet device 310 of this embodiment and the toilet device 10 will be explained. As shown in Figure 14, in the toilet device 310, the pump path 255 is connected to the pump 52 instead of the rim path 56. At the downstream end, the pump path 255 branches into the rim path 256 and the jet path 258. The rim path 256 is connected to the rim outlet 28. The jet path 258 is connected to the jet outlet 26. A check valve device (not shown) is arranged in the jet path 258. The pump 52 communicates with the rim outlet 28 via the pump path 255 and the rim path 256. The pump 52 is further connected with the jet outlet 26 via the pump path 255 and the jet path 258.

[0097] Solenoid valve devices 202 and 204 are arranged in the rim path 256 and the jet path 258, respectively. The solenoid valve devices 202 and 204 are controlled by the control unit 90.

[0098] The control unit 90 switches the solenoid valve device 202 from a closed state to an open state when it is necessary to discharge cleaning water from the rim discharge port 28 during the cleaning process. When the solenoid valve device 202 is in an open state, the pump 52 communicates with the rim discharge port 28 via the pump path 255 and the rim path 256. In a modified example, the control unit 90 may switch the solenoid valve device 202 from an open state to a closed state when it is necessary to discharge water from the jet discharge port 26 via the pump 52.

[0099] During the cleaning process, in normal mode, water-saving mode, and second high-volume mode, when water is discharged from the jet outlet 26, the control unit 90 switches the solenoid valve device 202 from an open state to a closed state. The control unit 90 further switches the solenoid valve device 204 from a closed state to an open state. When the solenoid valve device 204 is in an open state, the pump 52 communicates with the jet outlet 26 via the pump path 255 and the jet path 258. As a result, water pressurized by the pump 52 is discharged from the jet outlet 26.

[0100] In the first high-flow mode, at time T32 before the discharge process, pressurized water from the pump 52 is discharged from the jet outlet 26, similar to the other modes described above. Until the siphon effect occurs in the drainage path 24, cleaning water is discharged from the jet outlet 26 using the pump 52. This allows the siphon effect to occur earlier. When the discharge process begins due to the occurrence of the siphon effect in the drainage path 24, the control unit 90 switches the solenoid valve device 204 from the open state to the closed state. The control unit 90 further switches the valve section 44 from the closed state to the open state. As a result, after the siphon effect occurs, water is discharged from the jet outlet 26 in a direct pressure manner. After the siphon occurs, the siphon effect is maintained even if the flow rate from the jet outlet 26 is small. By continuing to discharge water from the jet outlet 26 in a direct pressure manner, water can be continuously supplied. This improves the discharge performance.

[0101] During a power outage, the pump 52 is stopped. Water is discharged from the jet outlet 26 using a direct pressure system.

[0102] In the modified example, the timing of switching the solenoid valve device 204 from the open state to the closed state and switching the valve section 44 from the closed state to the open state during the discharge process does not have to coincide with the timing of the siphon phenomenon. Alternatively, the solenoid valve device 204 may be switched from the open state to the closed state and the valve section 44 may be switched from the closed state to the open state during the middle of the discharge process.

[0103] (Fourth Embodiment) The differences between the toilet device 410 of this embodiment and the toilet device 10 will be explained. As shown in Figure 15, the toilet device 410 is equipped with a booster 450 in place of the storage tank 50 and pump 52 of the toilet device 10. The toilet device 410 further includes an inlet path 402, an outlet path 404, and a constant flow valve device 406.

[0104] The booster 450 comprises a housing 452, a partition wall 453, an elastic member 454, a storage space 456, and a containment space 458. The internal space of the housing 452 is divided into a storage space 456 and a containment space 458 by the partition wall 453. The containment space 458 houses the elastic member 454. The elastic member 454 includes, for example, a coil spring. The elastic member 454 may be a gas such as air. The storage space 456 communicates with the branch path 32a via an inlet path 402 and an outlet path 404. A constant flow valve device 406 is arranged in the inlet path 402 and the outlet path 404.

[0105] Water flows into the storage space 456 from the water supply pipe 2 via the water supply path 32, the branch path 32a, and the inflow path 402. When the valves 42 and 44 are closed, water fills the storage space 456. The water in the storage space 456 presses against the partition wall 453 against the elastic force of the elastic member 454. The elastic member 454 is elastically deformed by the water pressure in the storage space 456, i.e., the water pressure in the water supply path 32. The storage space 456 expands due to the deformation of the elastic member 454. Water is stored in the storage space 456. Water is stored while the elastic member 454 is elastically deformed until the water pressure in the storage space 456 balances the water pressure in the water supply path 32.

[0106] When the water pressure in the storage space 456 balances the water pressure in the branched path 32a, the elastic member 454 is maintained in an elastically deformed state. Elastic energy is stored in the elastic member 454. Water is stored in the storage space 456.

[0107] A check valve device 420 is installed in the branching path 32a. The check valve device 420 allows water to flow from the water supply path 32 to the branching path 32a. The check valve device 420 blocks the flow of water from the branching path 32a to the water supply path 32. The check valve device 420 prevents water from the storage space 456 from flowing into the water supply path 32.

[0108] When cleaning water is discharged from the rim outlet 28 during the cleaning process, the control unit 90 switches the valve section 42 from a closed state to an open state instead of driving the pump 52. The branch path 32a communicates with the rim outlet 28. The water pressure in the branch path 32a and the valve section 42 decreases. As a result, the water pressure in the storage space 456 causes the cleaning water in the storage space 456 to pass through the valve section 42 and the rim path 56 and be discharged from the rim outlet 28. The elastic energy of the elastic member 454 is converted into the kinetic energy of the cleaning water in the storage space 456.

[0109] When the discharge of cleaning water from the rim outlet 28 is stopped, the control unit 90 switches the valve 42 from the open state to the closed state. As a result, water flows from the branch path 32a into the storage space 456. Elastic energy is stored in the elastic member 454 due to the water pressure of the incoming water.

[0110] (Fifth Embodiment) The differences between the toilet device 510 of this embodiment and the toilet device 10 will now be explained. As shown in Figure 16, the toilet device 510 is equipped with a storage tank 550 and a drain valve device 552 in place of the storage tank 50 and pump 52 of the toilet device 10. The storage tank 550 stores water. The storage tank 550 is located above the rim outlet 28. The storage tank 550 is in communication with the water supply path 32 via an inflow path 502. A constant flow valve device 506 is located in the inflow path 502. A ball tap 508 is also located in the inflow path 502.

[0111] Water flows into the storage tank 550 from the water supply pipe 2 via the water supply path 32 and the inflow path 502. When the water level in the storage tank 550 rises, the ball tap 508 rises in accordance with the rising water level. When the ball tap 508 rises to a predetermined height, the inflow path 502 is closed by the ball tap 508. The water supply to the storage tank 550 stops.

[0112] A drain valve device 552 is located at the bottom of the storage tank 550. The drain valve device 552 is connected to the rim passage 56. The drain valve device 552 switches between an open state and a closed state, thereby switching between a state in which the storage tank 550 and the rim passage 56 are connected and a state in which they are blocked. The drain valve device 552 is controlled by the control unit 90. When the drain valve device 552 is switched from the closed state to the open state, the state in which the storage tank 550 and the rim passage 56 are blocked switches to a state in which they are connected. The water in the storage tank 550 is discharged from the rim outlet 28 to the toilet bowl 20 via the rim passage 56.

[0113] The storage tank 550 is located above the rim outlet 28. The water stored in the storage tank 550 stores potential energy. When the drain valve device 552 is opened, the water in the storage tank 550 converts its potential energy into kinetic energy. As a result, the water in the storage tank 550 flows into the rim path 56.

[0114] An overflow pipe 554 is provided in the storage tank 550. When the water level in the storage tank 550 exceeds a predetermined level, water flows into the overflow pipe 554 from its upper end. The overflow pipe 554 is connected to a rim passage 56. The water that flows into the overflow pipe 554 passes through the rim passage 56 and is discharged into the toilet bowl 20.

[0115] The valve device 40 includes a valve section 44. The valve device 40 does not have a valve section 42. When washing water is discharged from the rim outlet 28 during the washing process, the control unit 90 switches the drain valve device 552 from a closed state to an open state instead of driving the pump 52. When stopping the discharge of washing water from the rim outlet 28, the control unit 90 switches the drain valve device 552 from an open state to a closed state.

[0116] In a modified example, as shown in Figure 17, the toilet device 510 may further include a throat pipe 600 in the storage tank 550. The throat pipe 600 may be in communication with a drain valve device 552. The throat pipe 600 may extend upward from the bottom of the storage tank 550 and curve diagonally downward at an intermediate position.

[0117] The valve device 40 may include valve sections 42 and 44. Valve section 42 may be in communication with the throat pipe 600. When cleaning water is discharged from the rim outlet 28 during the cleaning process, the control unit 90 may switch the drain valve device 552 from a closed state to an open state, and also switch valve section 42 to an open state. As a result, water may be sent from valve section 42 through the path 602 into the throat pipe 600. In this case, as a so-called jet pump structure, water in the storage tank 550 may be drawn into the throat pipe 600 by the water flowing into the throat pipe 600 from the path 602. As a result, water may be supplied to the rim outlet 28.

[0118] In the second to fourth embodiments, the control unit 90 executes the normal mode, water-saving mode, first high-volume mode, second high-volume mode, low-pressure mode, and power outage mode, respectively, by discharging water from the jet outlet 26 and rim outlet 28 at the same timing as the water discharge timing of the jet outlet 26 and rim outlet 28 in the first embodiment. In the fifth embodiment, the control unit 90 executes the normal mode, water-saving mode, first high-volume mode, second high-volume mode, and power outage mode, respectively, by discharging water from the jet outlet 26 and rim outlet 28 at the same timing as the water discharge timing of the jet outlet 26 and rim outlet 28 in the first embodiment.

[0119] The following are aspects of the technology disclosed herein.

[0120] The first embodiment is a toilet device. The toilet device comprises a toilet body having a toilet bowl, a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level in the toilet bowl, a second water outlet located above the water level, and a supply mechanism that supplies flushing water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first and second water outlets, wherein the supply mechanism may supply the flushing water to the first water outlet by a first water pressure, which is the water pressure of the flushing water flowing through the water supply pipe, and supply the flushing water to the second water outlet by a second water pressure, which is the water pressure generated outside the water supply pipe.

[0121] In a second embodiment, the supply mechanism may be adjustable in the first embodiment.

[0122] In a third embodiment, the second water pressure may be provided by the supply mechanism in any one of the first to second embodiments described above.

[0123] The fourth embodiment is any one of the first to third embodiments described above, in which the second water pressure may be equal to or greater than the first water pressure.

[0124] In a fifth embodiment, in any one of the first to fourth embodiments described above, the second water outlet may discharge the flushing water into the toilet bowl from a rim located at the upper edge of the toilet bowl body.

[0125] In a sixth embodiment, the supply mechanism may further include a storage tank for storing the cleaning water, and the cleaning water stored in the storage tank may be supplied to the second discharge port.

[0126] A seventh embodiment is one of the first to sixth embodiments described above, wherein the supply mechanism further comprises an energy conversion unit that converts specific energy into the kinetic energy of the washing water, and the washing water is supplied to the second outlet using the second water pressure generated by the converted kinetic energy.

[0127] An eighth embodiment is the seventh embodiment described above, in which the energy conversion unit may include at least one of the following: a pump that converts electrical energy into the kinetic energy of the cleaning water; a booster that stores the kinetic energy of the cleaning water flowing through the water supply pipe as elastic energy and converts the elastic energy into the kinetic energy of the cleaning water; and a tank that stores the kinetic energy of the cleaning water flowing through the water supply pipe as potential energy and converts the potential energy into the kinetic energy of the cleaning water.

[0128] The ninth embodiment is one of the first to eighth embodiments described above, wherein the supply mechanism further comprises a valve device disposed between the water supply pipe and the first and second discharge ports, and the valve device may comprise an electrically operated valve body.

[0129] The tenth embodiment is, in any one embodiment of the first to ninth described above, the supply mechanism further comprises a valve device disposed between the water supply pipe and the first and second discharge ports, the valve device which electrically operates a valve body, and a storage tank disposed between the valve device and the second discharge port for storing the washing water, wherein the valve device may be switchable between a first connected state in which the water supply pipe and the first discharge port are in communication and a first disconnected state in which the water supply pipe and the first discharge port are disconnected, and between a second connected state in which the water supply pipe and the storage tank are in communication and a second disconnected state in which the water supply pipe and the storage tank are disconnected.

[0130] In the eleventh embodiment, the valve device may be manually switchable between a state in which the water supply pipe and the supply mechanism are in communication and a state in which they are blocked.

[0131] A twelfth embodiment is one of the first to eleventh embodiments described above, wherein the toilet device is available for use in a normal state in which the toilet device is energized, and the supply mechanism may, in the normal state, supply the flushing water to the first outlet by the first water pressure.

[0132] In the thirteenth embodiment, in any one of the first to twelfth embodiments described above, the supply mechanism may discharge the washing water from the second outlet so that it swirls and flows in the toilet bowl.

[0133] The 14th embodiment is one of the first to 13 embodiments described above, wherein the supply mechanism performs a cleaning process of cleaning the toilet bowl, draining water from the toilet bowl, and filling the toilet bowl with water by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first and second outlets, wherein the maximum flow rate of the cleaning water discharged from the second outlet may be greater than the maximum flow rate of the cleaning water discharged from the first outlet.

[0134] The 15th embodiment is one of the first to 14 embodiments described above, wherein the toilet device is available in a normal state when the toilet device is energized, and the supply mechanism performs a cleaning process that cleans the toilet bowl, drains water from the toilet bowl, and fills the toilet bowl with water by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first and second outlets, and in the cleaning process, in a normal state, the discharge of the cleaning water from the second outlet may be started, followed by the discharge of the cleaning water from the first outlet.

[0135] The sixteenth embodiment is one of the first to fifteen embodiments described above, wherein the supply mechanism performs a cleaning process that involves cleaning the toilet bowl, draining water from the toilet bowl, and filling the toilet bowl with water by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first and second outlets, and during the period of double-outlet water discharge for at least a portion of the cleaning process, the supply mechanism discharges the cleaning water simultaneously from both the first and second outlets, and during the period of double-outlet water discharge, the amount of cleaning water discharged from the second outlet may be greater than the amount of cleaning water discharged from the first outlet.

[0136] The 17th embodiment is one of the first to 16 embodiments described above, wherein the supply mechanism may perform a cleaning process in which it supplies the cleaning water to at least one of the first and second outlets to clean the toilet bowl, drains the cleaning water from the toilet bowl using a siphon effect, and after the siphon effect is completed, discharges the cleaning water from the first outlet and discharges a larger amount of the cleaning water from the second outlet than the amount discharged from the first outlet to fill the toilet bowl with water.

[0137] The eighteenth embodiment is one of the first to seventeen embodiments described above, wherein the supply mechanism performs a cleaning process of cleaning the toilet bowl, draining water from the toilet bowl, and filling the toilet bowl with water by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first and second outlets, wherein the maximum flow velocity that the cleaning water discharged from the first outlet can reach during the cleaning process is greater than the maximum flow velocity that the cleaning water discharged from the second outlet can reach during the cleaning process.

[0138] A 19th embodiment is the same as the 10th embodiment, wherein the supply mechanism further comprises a control unit for controlling the valve device, and the control unit is capable of maintaining the first communication state and the second communication state of the solenoid valve device.

[0139] In the 20th embodiment, the supply mechanism further comprises a supply unit that supplies the cleaning water from the storage tank to the second discharge port, and the control unit maintains both the first and second communication states when the supply unit does not supply the cleaning water from the storage tank to the second discharge port, thereby discharging water from the first discharge port while storing water in the storage tank.

[0140] The 21st embodiment is that, in any one of the 19th to 20th embodiments, the supply mechanism further comprises a supply unit that supplies the cleaning water from the storage tank to the second discharge port, and by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first discharge port and the second discharge port, it performs a cleaning process that cleans the toilet bowl, drains water from the toilet bowl, and fills the toilet bowl with water, and the control unit maintains both the first and second connected states when the supply unit does not supply the cleaning water from the storage tank to the second discharge port, thereby discharging water from the first discharge port, storing water in the storage tank, and filling the toilet bowl with water.

[0141] The 22nd embodiment is that, in any one of the first to 21 embodiments, the supply mechanism performs a cleaning process in which it cleans the toilet bowl, drains the water from the toilet bowl, and fills the toilet bowl with water by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first and second outlets, and in the cleaning process, the water level in the toilet bowl is maintained above the upper end of the first outlet.

[0142] In the 23rd embodiment, in any one of the first to 22 embodiments described above, the supply mechanism may further supply the cleaning water to the first discharge port by utilizing the second water pressure of the cleaning water generated outside the water supply pipe.

[0143] The 24th embodiment is a toilet device. The toilet device comprises a toilet body having a toilet bowl, a first outlet for discharging flushing water so as to push the water in the toilet bowl into a drainage path, a second outlet for discharging the flushing water so as to swirl and flow in the toilet bowl to flush the toilet bowl, and a supply mechanism for supplying the flushing water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first and second outlets, wherein the supply mechanism may supply the flushing water to the first outlet by a first water pressure which is the water pressure of the flushing water flowing through the water supply pipe, and supply the flushing water to the second outlet by a second water pressure which is different from the first water pressure.

[0144] The 25th embodiment is a toilet device. The toilet device comprises a toilet body having a toilet bowl, a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level in the toilet bowl, one or more second water outlets located above the water level, and a supply mechanism that supplies flushing water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first water outlet and the second water outlet, wherein the supply mechanism comprises a valve device disposed between the water supply pipe and the first water outlet and between the water supply pipe and the second water outlet, the valve device comprises an electrically operated valve body, and an energy conversion unit that converts specific energy into the kinetic energy of the flushing water is disposed only between the valve device and the one or more second water outlets. The toilet device may have a plurality of second water outlets. The energy conversion unit may be located upstream of the second water outlets. If the toilet device has a plurality of second water outlets, the energy conversion unit may be located upstream of any of the plurality of second water outlets.

[0145] The 26th embodiment is a supply mechanism. The supply mechanism may be used in a toilet device. The toilet device comprises a toilet body having a toilet bowl, a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level in the toilet bowl, and a second water outlet located above the water level. The supply mechanism may supply the flushing water to the first water outlet by a first water pressure, which is the water pressure of the flushing water flowing through a water supply pipe, and supply the flushing water to the second water outlet by a second water pressure, which is the water pressure generated outside the water supply pipe.

[0146] The 27th embodiment is a control device. The control device may be used in a toilet device. The toilet device comprises a toilet body having a toilet bowl, a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level in the toilet bowl, a second water outlet located above the water level, and a supply mechanism that supplies flushing water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first water outlet and the second water outlet, wherein the supply mechanism comprises a valve device disposed between the water supply pipe and the first and second water outlets and capable of switching between a communication state and a shut-off state between the water supply pipe and the first and second water outlets, and an energy conversion unit that generates a second water pressure which is the water pressure generated outside the water supply pipe, wherein the control device may control the valve device to discharge the flushing water from the first water outlet by the first water pressure which is the water pressure of the flushing water flowing through the water supply pipe, and control the energy conversion unit to discharge the flushing water from the second water outlet by the second water pressure.

[0147] The 28th aspect is a control method. The control method may be performed by a control device used in a toilet device. The toilet device comprises a toilet body having a toilet bowl, a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level in the toilet bowl, a second water outlet located above the water level, and a supply mechanism that supplies flushing water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first water outlet and the second water outlet, wherein the supply mechanism supplies the flushing water to the first water outlet by a first water pressure which is the water pressure of the flushing water flowing through the water supply pipe, and supplies the flushing water to the second water outlet by a second water pressure which is the water pressure generated outside the water supply pipe, and the control The method may involve controlling the supply mechanism to discharge the cleaning water from the second outlet using the second water pressure to clean the toilet bowl, then discharging the water from the first outlet using the first water pressure and discharging the cleaning water from the second outlet using the second water pressure, or discharging the cleaning water only from the first outlet using the first water pressure to drain the water from the toilet bowl, and then discharging the water from at least one of the first and second outlets to fill the toilet bowl with water.

[0148] The 29th embodiment is a computer program. The computer program may be for a control device used in a toilet device. The toilet device comprises a toilet body having a toilet bowl, a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level in the toilet bowl, a second water outlet located above the water level, and a supply mechanism that supplies flushing water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first water outlet and the second water outlet, wherein the supply mechanism supplies the flushing water to the first water outlet by a first water pressure, which is the water pressure of the flushing water flowing through the water supply pipe, and supplies the flushing water to the second water outlet by a second water pressure, which is the water pressure generated outside the water supply pipe, and the computer program may cause the control device to control the supply mechanism and supply the flushing water to at least one of the first water outlet and the second water outlet, thereby performing a flushing process that flushes the toilet bowl, drains the water from the toilet bowl, and fills the toilet bowl with water.

[0149] The specific examples of the technology disclosed herein have been described in detail above. These are merely illustrative examples and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and changes to the specific examples illustrated above. Modifications of the above embodiments are listed below.

[0150] (1) The rim outlets 28 (128a, 128b) do not have to swirl the washing water over the surface of the toilet bowl 20. For example, the rim 22 may have a rim path that goes around the upper edge of the toilet bowl 20. The rim outlets may discharge water downward from the rim path. In this case, multiple rim outlets may be arranged in the rim path.

[0151] (2) In each of the above embodiments, one of the pump 52, booster 450, and storage tank 550 is provided as the "energy conversion unit". In a modified example, the toilet device 10 may be provided with two or more energy conversion units from the pump 52, booster 450, and storage tank 550 as the "energy conversion unit". In this case, the control unit 90 may use any of the two or more energy conversion units when discharging water from the rim outlet 28 (128a, 128b).

[0152] (3) In the cleaning process, the flow rate, flow velocity, and total volume of water discharged from the jet outlet 26 and the rim outlet 28 (128a, 128b) are not particularly limited. For example, the maximum flow rate from the jet outlet 26 may be greater than the maximum flow rate from the rim outlet 28.

[0153] (4) The valve section 42 may be equipped with a solenoid valve device. The valve section 42 may switch between communication and disconnection between the inlet path 72 and the outlet path 84 by means of a solenoid valve and a solenoid. The valve section 44 may be similar. The valve sections 42 and 44 do not have to be of the same type. For example, the valve section 42 may switch between communication and disconnection between the inlet path 72 and the outlet path 84 by means of a solenoid valve and a solenoid. The valve section 44 may switch between communication and disconnection between the inlet path 72 and the outlet path 84 by means of a diaphragm valve. Furthermore, the dimensions of the valve sections 42 and 44 are not particularly limited.

[0154] (5) In the normal mode and the second high-water-volume mode, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 may drop below the water level L2 during the discharge process.

[0155] (6) As shown in Figure 18, in normal mode, the control unit 90 may stop the pump 52 at time T14 and switch the valve 44 from the open state to the closed state. This may stop the discharge of water from the jet outlet 26. In the discharge process, the discharge of water from the jet outlet 26 and the rim outlet 28 may be temporarily stopped. This may allow the siphon effect to continue due to the water discharged from the jet outlet 26 while the valve 44 is switching from the open state to the closed state. When the valve 44 switches to the closed state, the siphon effect may end by breaking the seal. This may allow the process to switch from the discharge process to the condensation process. When the siphon effect ends, any water in the drainage path 24 that did not exceed the top 24b may return to the water reservoir 20b. This may cause the water level in the toilet bowl 20 to rise. At time T100 in the condensation process, the valve 44 may be switched from the closed state to the open state. Towards the end of the discharge process, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 is at its lowest. By stopping the discharge of water from the jet outlet 26, it is possible to prevent the water level in the toilet bowl 20 from falling below the level of the jet outlet 26. By stopping the discharge of water from the jet outlet 26, it is possible to prevent the jet outlet 26 from being exposed to the atmosphere while discharging water. This reduces noise.

[0156] (7) In a modified example, the control unit 90 may control at least one of the rotational speed and rotational time of the impeller of the pump 52.

[0157] (8) The number of rim outlets 28 is not particularly limited. For example, the toilet device 10 may have three or more rim outlets.

[0158] (9) The change in flow rate from the rim outlet 28 over time is not particularly limited. For example, in normal mode, during the period of discharge from both outlets from time T13 to time T14, the flow rate 28b of the cleaning water from the rim outlet 28 does not have to be lower than the flow rate 28a of the cleaning water from the rim outlet 28 from time T11 to time T12. The flow rate 28b may be the same as the flow rate 28a.

[0159] (10) The change in flow rate from the jet outlet 26 over time is not particularly limited. For example, in normal mode, the flow rate 26b from the jet outlet 26 between time T14 and time T15 may be less than the flow rate 51 to the storage tank 50.

[0160] (11) In the washing process, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 does not need to reach water level L4. For example, in the washing process, the water level in the toilet bowl 20 may rise from water level L3 and reach between water level L3 and water level L4.

[0161] The technical elements described in at least one of this specification and the drawings exhibit technical utility individually or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. The technologies illustrated in at least one of this specification and the drawings can achieve multiple objectives simultaneously, and achieving even one of these objectives itself constitutes technical utility.

[0162] 10: Toilet device, 12: Toilet body, 14: Toilet seat, 16: Rear section, 20: Toilet bowl, 20a: Top of toilet bowl, 20b: Water reservoir, 22: Rim, 24: Drainage path, 24a: Drain outlet, 24b: Top section, 26: Jet outlet, 28: Rim outlet, 30: Supply mechanism, 32: Water supply path, 40: Valve device, 42, 44: Valve section, 46: Water supply path, 48: Jet path, 50: Storage tank, 52: Pump, 56: Rim path, 90: Control unit, 450: Booster, 500: Storage tank, 550: Storage tank

Claims

1. A toilet device comprising: a toilet bowl body having a toilet bowl; a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level in the toilet bowl; a second water outlet located above the water level; and a supply mechanism that supplies flushing water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first water outlet and the second water outlet, wherein the supply mechanism supplies the flushing water to the first water outlet by a first water pressure, which is the water pressure of the flushing water flowing through the water supply pipe, and supplies the flushing water to the second water outlet by a second water pressure, which is the water pressure generated outside the water supply pipe.

2. The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the supply mechanism is adjustable to the second water pressure.

3. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the second water pressure is provided by the supply mechanism.

4. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second water pressure is equal to or greater than the first water pressure.

5. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second water outlet flows the flushing water from a rim located at the upper edge of the toilet bowl body toward the toilet bowl.

6. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the supply mechanism further comprises a storage tank for storing the washing water, and supplies the washing water stored in the storage tank to the second water outlet.

7. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the supply mechanism further comprises an energy conversion unit that converts specific energy into the kinetic energy of the washing water, and the washing water is supplied to the second outlet by the second water pressure generated by the converted kinetic energy.

8. The toilet device according to claim 7, wherein the energy conversion unit comprises at least one of: a pump that converts electrical energy into the kinetic energy of the washing water; a booster that stores the kinetic energy of the washing water flowing through the water supply pipe as elastic energy and converts the elastic energy into the kinetic energy of the washing water; and a tank that stores the kinetic energy of the washing water flowing through the water supply pipe as potential energy and converts the potential energy into the kinetic energy of the washing water.

9. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the supply mechanism further comprises a valve device disposed between the water supply pipe and the first and second water outlets, and the valve device comprises an electrically operated valve body.

10. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the supply mechanism further comprises a valve device disposed between the water supply pipe and the first and second outlets, the valve device which electrically operates a valve body, and a storage tank disposed between the valve device and the second outlet for storing the flushing water, wherein the valve device is switchable between a first connected state in which the water supply pipe and the first outlet are in communication and a first disconnected state in which the water supply pipe and the first outlet are disconnected, and a second connected state in which the water supply pipe and the storage tank are in communication and a second disconnected state in which the water supply pipe and the storage tank are disconnected.

11. The toilet device according to claim 9, wherein the valve device can be manually switched between a state in which the water supply pipe and the supply mechanism are in communication and a state in which they are disconnected.

12. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the toilet device is usable in a normal state in which the toilet device is energized, and the supply mechanism supplies the flushing water to the first outlet by the first water pressure in the normal state.

13. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the supply mechanism discharges the washing water from the second outlet so that it flows in a swirling manner in the toilet bowl.

14. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the supply mechanism performs a cleaning process of cleaning the toilet bowl, draining water from the toilet bowl, and filling the toilet bowl with water by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first and second water outlets, and in the cleaning process, the maximum flow rate of the cleaning water discharged from the second water outlet is greater than the maximum flow rate of the cleaning water discharged from the first water outlet.

15. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the toilet device is available in a normal state in which the toilet device is energized, the supply mechanism performs a cleaning process of cleaning the toilet bowl, draining water from the toilet bowl, and filling the toilet bowl with water by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first and second water outlets, and in the cleaning process, in the normal state, the cleaning water is discharged from the second water outlet first, and then the cleaning water is discharged from the first water outlet.

16. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the supply mechanism performs a cleaning process of cleaning the toilet bowl, draining water from the toilet bowl, and filling the toilet bowl with water by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first and second water outlets, during a period of double water discharge for at least a portion of the cleaning process, the supply mechanism discharges the cleaning water simultaneously from both the first and second water outlets, and during the double water discharge period, the amount of cleaning water discharged from the second water outlet is greater than the amount of cleaning water discharged from the first water outlet.

17. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the supply mechanism washes the toilet bowl by supplying the washing water to at least one of the first and second water outlets, drains the washing water in the toilet bowl using a siphon effect, and after the siphon effect is completed, discharges the washing water from the first water outlet and discharges a larger amount of the washing water from the second water outlet than the amount discharged from the first water outlet, thereby filling the toilet bowl with water.

18. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the supply mechanism performs a cleaning process of cleaning the toilet bowl, draining water from the toilet bowl, and filling the toilet bowl with water by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first and second water outlets, and in the cleaning process, the maximum flow velocity that the cleaning water discharged from the first water outlet can reach during the cleaning process is greater than the maximum flow velocity that the cleaning water discharged from the second water outlet can reach during the cleaning process.

19. The toilet device according to claim 10, wherein the supply mechanism further comprises a control unit for controlling the valve device, and the control unit is capable of maintaining the first communication state and the second communication state of the valve device.

20. The toilet device according to claim 19, wherein the supply mechanism further comprises a supply unit that supplies the flushing water from the storage tank to the second discharge port, and the control unit maintains both the first communication state and the second communication state when the supply unit does not supply the flushing water from the storage tank to the second discharge port, thereby discharging water from the first discharge port while storing water in the storage tank.

21. The toilet device according to any one of claims 19 to 20, wherein the supply mechanism further comprises a supply unit that supplies the cleaning water from the storage tank to the second discharge port, and by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first discharge port and the second discharge port, it performs a cleaning process that cleans the toilet bowl, drains water from the toilet bowl, and fills the toilet bowl with water, and the control unit maintains both the first communication state and the second communication state when the supply unit does not supply the cleaning water from the storage tank to the second discharge port, thereby discharging water from the first discharge port, storing water in the storage tank, and filling the toilet bowl with water.

22. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the supply mechanism performs a cleaning process of cleaning the toilet bowl, draining water from the toilet bowl, and filling the toilet bowl with water by supplying the cleaning water to at least one of the first and second water outlets, and in the cleaning process, the water level in the toilet bowl is maintained above the upper end of the first water outlet.

23. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the supply mechanism further supplies the washing water to the first outlet by utilizing the second water pressure of the washing water generated outside the water supply pipe.

24. A toilet device comprising: a toilet body having a toilet bowl; a first outlet for discharging cleaning water so as to push the water in the toilet bowl into a drainage path; a second outlet for discharging the cleaning water so as to swirl and flow in the toilet bowl to clean the toilet bowl; and a supply mechanism for supplying the cleaning water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first and second outlets, wherein the supply mechanism supplies the cleaning water to the first outlet by a first water pressure which is the water pressure of the cleaning water flowing through the water supply pipe, and supplies the cleaning water to the second outlet by a second water pressure which is different from the first water pressure.

25. A toilet device comprising: a toilet body having a toilet bowl; a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level of the toilet bowl; one or more second water outlets located above the water level; and a supply mechanism that supplies flushing water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first water outlet and the second water outlet, wherein the supply mechanism comprises a valve device disposed between the water supply pipe and the first water outlet and between the water supply pipe and the second water outlet, the valve device comprises an electrically operated valve body, and an energy conversion unit that converts specific energy into the kinetic energy of the flushing water is disposed only between the valve device and the one or more second water outlets.

26. A supply mechanism used in a toilet device, wherein the toilet device comprises a toilet body having a toilet bowl, a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level of the toilet bowl, and a second water outlet located above the water level, wherein the supply mechanism supplies the flushing water to the first water outlet by a first water pressure which is the water pressure of the flushing water flowing through a water supply pipe, and supplies the flushing water to the second water outlet by a second water pressure which is the water pressure generated outside the water supply pipe.

27. A control device used in a toilet device, the toilet device comprising: a toilet body having a toilet bowl; a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level of the toilet bowl; a second water outlet located above the water level; and a supply mechanism that supplies flushing water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first water outlet and the second water outlet, wherein the supply mechanism comprises: a valve device disposed between the water supply pipe and the first and second water outlets, and capable of switching between a state of communication and a state of blockage between the water supply pipe and the first and second water outlets; and an energy conversion unit that generates a second water pressure, which is the water pressure generated outside the water supply pipe, wherein the control device controls the valve device to discharge the flushing water from the first water outlet by the first water pressure, which is the water pressure of the flushing water flowing through the water supply pipe; and controls the energy conversion unit to discharge the flushing water from the second water outlet by the second water pressure.

28. A control method performed by a control device used in a toilet device, wherein the toilet device comprises: a toilet body having a toilet bowl; a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level of the toilet bowl; a second water outlet located above the water level; and a supply mechanism that supplies flushing water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first water outlet and the second water outlet, wherein the supply mechanism supplies the flushing water to the first water outlet by a first water pressure which is the water pressure of the flushing water flowing through the water supply pipe, and supplies the flushing water to the second water outlet by a second water pressure which is the water pressure generated outside the water supply pipe, and the control method controls the supply mechanism to discharge the flushing water from the second water outlet by the second water pressure to flush the toilet bowl. A control method for performing a cleaning process in which the first water pressure causes the cleaning water to be discharged from the first outlet and the second water pressure causes the cleaning water to be discharged from the second outlet, or the first water pressure causes the cleaning water to be discharged only from the first outlet and drained from the toilet bowl, and the cleaning process is performed in which the cleaning water is discharged from at least one of the first outlet and the second outlet and the water is filled into the toilet bowl.

29. A computer program for a control device used in a toilet device, wherein the toilet device comprises: a toilet body having a toilet bowl; a first water outlet whose lower end is located below the water level of the toilet bowl; a second water outlet located above the water level; and a supply mechanism that supplies flushing water supplied from a water supply pipe to the first water outlet and the second water outlet, wherein the supply mechanism supplies the flushing water to the first water outlet by a first water pressure which is the water pressure of the flushing water flowing through the water supply pipe; and supplies the flushing water to the second water outlet by a second water pressure which is the water pressure generated outside the water supply pipe; and the computer program causes the control device to control the supply mechanism and supply the flushing water to at least one of the first water outlet and the second water outlet, thereby performing a flushing process which involves flushing the toilet bowl, draining water from the toilet bowl, and filling the toilet bowl with water.

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