This invention relates to a sanitary washing toilet seat device and a toilet device, and more particularly to a sanitary washing toilet seat device for washing the “bottom” and the like of a user sitting on a sit-down toilet bowl, and to a toilet device equipped therewith.
A sanitary washing toilet seat device retractably houses therein a washing nozzle for squirting wash water, and hence, in the mainstream configuration, it is installed for use on the rear upper surface of a sit-down toilet bowl. For the purpose of improving the cleanability of such a sanitary washing toilet seat device, its downsizing is under study. More specifically, a smaller depth dimension of the sanitary washing toilet seat device allows the portion overlying the bowl of the sit-down toilet bowl to be reduced, saving trouble to clean the backside of the sanitary washing toilet seat device overlying the bowl. Furthermore, a smaller height of the sanitary washing toilet seat device allows the soiled area to be reduced, also facilitating cleaning.
To downsize the sanitary washing toilet seat device, the dimension of the washing nozzle in the housed state needs to be decreased. As a structure for decreasing the dimension of the washing nozzle in the housed state, the multistage structure is desirable. As an extension/retraction mechanism of the multistage washing nozzle, use of water pressure and a wire is disclosed, for example (Patent Document 1).
On the other hand, as an extension/retraction mechanism of the washing nozzle, also disclosed is a structure in which a leaf spring is wound around a drum rotated by a motor and is advanced/retracted by the rotation of the motor to extend/retract the nozzle (Patent Document 2).
However, in the case of using water pressure as disclosed in Patent Document 1, the nozzle needs to be liquid-tight. Furthermore, it is difficult to independently control the water discharge pressure and the extending/retracting motion of the nozzle. These problems are particularly serious in the multistage washing nozzle.
On the other hand, in the structure extended/retracted by a leaf spring as disclosed in Patent Document 2, for a long stroke, the drum for winding the leaf spring needs to be enlarged. Furthermore, there is also room for improvement in that the leaf spring is likely to undergo “flexure”, which makes it difficult to accurately control the advancing distance of the washing nozzle by the rotation of the motor.
This invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides a sanitary washing toilet seat device provided with a mechanism capable of accurately advancing/retracting a multistage washing nozzle, and a toilet device equipped therewith.
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a sanitary washing toilet seat device including: a nozzle head having a water discharge port; a first cylinder capable of housing at least part of the nozzle head; a second cylinder capable of housing at least part of the first cylinder; and a driver configured to advance or retract at least one of the nozzle head and the first and second cylinder, the driver including: a flexible rack with one end connected to the nozzle head; a motor; and a transmission mechanism configured to transmit rotation of the motor to the flexible rack, and at least one of the nozzle head and the first and second cylinder being advanced or retracted in accordance with the rotation of the motor.
According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a toilet device including: a sit-down toilet bowl; and the sanitary washing toilet seat device as mentioned above.
An embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.
This washing nozzle is of the three-stage type, including a nozzle head 100, a first cylinder 200, a second cylinder 300, and a third cylinder 400. This example includes a three-stage washing nozzle, that is, a washing nozzle having three movable portions. However, the invention is not limited thereto, but encompasses multistage washing nozzles having four or more movable portions.
At the tip of the nozzle head 100, one or more water discharge ports 150 are provided, which can squirt water toward the “bottom” and the like of a user sitting on a toilet seat (not shown) as described later in detail. The “water” referred to herein includes not only cold water, but also warmed water.
The nozzle head 100 is slidable relative to the first cylinder 200, and at least part of the nozzle head 100 can be housed in the first cylinder 200. Furthermore, the first cylinder 200 is slidable relative to the second cylinder 300, and at least part of the first cylinder 200 can be housed in the second cylinder 300. Likewise, the second cylinder 300 is slidable relative to the third cylinder 400, and at least part of the second cylinder 300 can be housed in the third cylinder 400. The third cylinder 400 is fixed with respect to the nozzle base 700. It is noted that the third cylinder 400 does not necessarily need to be perfectly cylindrical, but only needs to be able to slidably hold the second cylinder 300. The sliding motion of these elements are implemented by a driving portion 600 as described later in detail with reference to examples.
Furthermore, the washing nozzle portion of this embodiment includes a nozzle cleaning chamber 500. The nozzle cleaning chamber 500 is fixed with respect to the nozzle base 700, and can clean the outer peripheral surface of the washing nozzle by squirting water from a water discharge port provided therein. As shown in
In this embodiment, the retracting motion of the washing nozzle is performed sequentially from the outer cylinder. More specifically, from the extended state of the washing nozzle as shown in
Thus, in the retracting motion of the washing nozzle, the washing nozzle is passed through the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 sequentially from the outer movable portion. Hence, the outer peripheral surface of the movable portions of the nozzle can be entirely and evenly cleaned in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. More specifically, when the sanitary washing toilet seat device is used, water is squirted to the “bottom” and the like of a user in the extended state of the washing nozzle as shown in
Thus, when the washing nozzle is retracted, it is desirable to perform “nozzle body cleaning” for cleaning the outer peripheral surface of the washing nozzle by squirting wash water in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. According to this embodiment, the second cylinder 300, the first cylinder 200, and the nozzle head 100 can be passed through the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 in this order while being cleaned therein. That is, the outer peripheral surface of these movable portions that have been exposed outside in the extended state can be entirely and evenly cleaned. Consequently, the washing nozzle can be always kept clean, and the sanitary washing toilet seat device can be maintained in a sanitarily desirable condition. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce trouble to clean the washing nozzle, and prevent malfunction, failure and the like of the washing nozzle due to any attached dirt.
The nozzle cleaning chamber 500 of this example is shaped like a box with the bottom opened. A water channel 510 is connected to the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 and allows wash water W to be squirted from a water channel opening 520 into the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. Furthermore, through holes 530, 540 with the bottom opened are provided in the rear and front side face of the nozzle cleaning chamber 500, respectively. As described above with reference to
In this example, in the housed state of the washing nozzle as shown in
In this manner, when “nozzle body cleaning” is performed in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500, wash water W squirted from the water discharge port 520 can be prevented from spattering through the through hole 530 toward the base 700. As described later in detail, the body of the sanitary washing toilet seat device includes electrical components and other various components, and hence spattering of wash water W needs to be minimized. In this regard, in this example, the rear through hole 530 of the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 is always nearly occluded by the second cylinder 300. This can maximally prevent wash water W from spattering into the body of the sanitary washing toilet seat device and realize a sanitary washing toilet seat device with high reliability. Furthermore, as illustrated in
The variation shown in
On the other hand, the example shown in
It is noted that the invention is not limited to these examples and variations, but they can be combined with each other. Furthermore, the invention also encompasses further variations in the number, shape, and layout of water discharge ports. Moreover, the shape of the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 also encompasses, for example, the shape of only part of the bottom opened and the shape with no opening at the bottom, besides the shape with the bottom entirely opened.
It is noted that, as shown in
The washing nozzle portion provided in the sanitary washing toilet seat device of this embodiment will now be described in more detail with reference to examples.
In this example, a flexible rack 610 is used to advance/retract the washing nozzle. The flexible rack 610 is made of a flexible resin or other material, and at least one side surface thereof is provided with a corrugation to be engaged with a gear. By embedding a reinforcing wire made of metal or the like in the flexible rack 610, buckling due to longitudinal compression can be prevented, and tensile strength can be increased. Such a reinforcing wire can illustratively be a cable in which a plurality of metallic wires are stranded together.
The flexible rack 610 is supported along a guide portion 612 provided in the base 700 so as to be longitudinally slidable in the sanitary washing toilet seat device 800, and its tip is fixed to the nozzle head 100. Furthermore, the base 700 is provided with a driving unit 620, which can suitably decelerate the driving output of a motor 622 for output to the gear 624. The flexible rack 610, which is engaged with the gear 624, converts the rotary driving force of the gear 624 to a linear driving force to move the nozzle head 100.
Furthermore, a disengaging portion 630 is provided near the basal portion of the washing nozzle.
As seen from these figures, the disengaging portion 630 can be made of a pair of wedge-shaped members provided on both sides of the flexible rack 610. The disengaging portion 630 is fixed with respect to the base 700, and the flexible rack 610 is slidable in the direction of arrow B by the driving force from the gear 624.
The flexible rack 610 is fixed to the base end of the nozzle head 100. A stopper 120 protruding toward the periphery is provided at the base end of the nozzle head 100. On the other hand, a slider 210 is provided inside the tip portion of the first cylinder 200, and a stopper 220 protruding toward the periphery is provided at the base end of the first cylinder 200. The nozzle head 100 abuts the inner peripheral surface of the slider 210 and is slidably supported thereby. When the nozzle head 100 advances, its stopper 120 abuts the slider 210 of the first cylinder 200, and the stroke end is determined.
Furthermore, a slider 310 is provided also inside the tip portion of the second cylinder 300, and a stopper 320 protruding toward the periphery is provided at the base end of the second cylinder 300. The first cylinder 200 abuts the inner peripheral surface of the slider 310 and is slidably supported thereby. When the first cylinder 200 advances, the stopper 220 abuts the slider 310 of the second cylinder 300, and its stroke end is determined.
Furthermore, a slider 410 is provided inside the tip portion of the third cylinder 400 and slidably supports the second cylinder 300. When the second cylinder 300 advances, the stopper 320 abuts the slider 410 of the third cylinder 400, and its stroke end is determined. Alternatively, it is also possible to use a structure in which the base 700 itself slidably supports the second cylinder 300 without providing the third cylinder 400.
As described later in detail, the body of the nozzle head 100 and the first and second cylinder 200, 300 can be made of metal such as stainless steel or aluminum, and the sliders 210, 310, 410 can be made of resin such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate). This enables smooth sliding while blocking entry of water from outside. Alternatively, the body of the nozzle head 100 can illustratively be formed from resin or the like.
On the other hand, engaging mechanisms 230, 330 for engaging with the flexible rack 610 are provided at the base end of the first and second cylinder 200, 300, respectively.
The engaging mechanism 330 has a frame 331 illustratively made of resin. The frame 331 can be formed integrally with the stopper 320, or can be formed separately. The frame 331 is provided with a first through hole 332 and a second through hole 334. The first through hole 332 can be used as a path for passing a water supply tube 180 and an electrical wire harness 190. The tube 180 supplies wash water W to the nozzle head 100. The electrical wire harness 190 supplies a driving signal for switching water paths, adjusting the momentum of water and the like. The structure of the nozzle head 100 is described later in detail with reference to examples.
On the other hand, the second through hole 334 is provided with a latch 350 supported by a coil spring 340. The latch 350 is biased in the direction of arrow S in
The engaging mechanism 230 provided in the first cylinder 200 has a similar structure.
The frictional force acting between the latch 250 of the engaging mechanism 230 and the disengaging portion 630 is configured to be larger than the frictional force produced between the first cylinder 200 and the second cylinder 300. The frictional force acting between the latch 350 of the engaging mechanism 330 and the disengaging portion 630 is configured to be larger than the frictional force produced between the second cylinder 300 and the third cylinder 400 (or the base 700).
Furthermore, the engaging force between the latch 250 of the engaging mechanism 230 and the flexible rack 610 is configured to be larger than the frictional force acting between the nozzle head 100 and the first cylinder 200, between the first cylinder 200 and the second cylinder 300, and between the second cylinder 300 and the third cylinder 400 (or the base 700).
This configuration of the relationship between the engaging force of the engaging mechanisms 230, 330 and the frictional force of the washing nozzle allows the washing nozzle to advance sequentially from the nozzle head 100. When the washing nozzle retracts, the nozzle head 100, the first cylinder 200, and the second cylinder 300 are integrally interlocked until the latches 250, 350 are disengaged from the flexible rack 610. Hence, the washing nozzle retracts sequentially from the outer cylinder (second cylinder 300).
It is noted that, as shown by arrow L in
Next, the advancing and retracting motion of the washing nozzle of this example is described.
At this time, the tip portion of the nozzle head 100 protrudes from the first cylinder 200 and is housed in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500.
In this housed state of the washing nozzle, when a user manipulates a washing switch provided on the sanitary washing toilet seat device or on a remote controller for controlling it, the operation for washing the “bottom” and the like is started.
At this time, first, with the washing nozzle remaining in the housed state as shown in
It is noted that such “nozzle precleaning” is performed in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. Hence, the discharged water does not spatter outside, but the water squirted from the water discharge port 150 flows out of the opening at the bottom of the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 and is ejected to the bowl portion of the toilet bowl.
After the “nozzle precleaning” is finished, the washing nozzle is advanced while performing “nozzle body cleaning”. That is, wash water W is squirted from the water discharge port 420 provided in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 (see
Furthermore, to advance the washing nozzle, the flexible rack 610 is pushed in the direction of arrow F. Then, first, as shown in
Thus, by first advancing only the nozzle head 100, its outer peripheral surface can be entirely and evenly cleaned in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500.
As shown in
When the first cylinder 200 advances to the position shown in
As shown in
When the first cylinder 200 advances, as shown in
Thus, by advancing the first cylinder 200 subsequent to the nozzle head 100, the outer peripheral surface of the first cylinder 200 can also be entirely and evenly cleaned in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500.
As shown in
Thus, by advancing the second cylinder 300 subsequent to the first cylinder 200, the outer peripheral surface of the second cylinder 300 can also be evenly cleaned in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500.
It is noted that
As described above, in this example, the driving force of the flexible rack 610 can be applied to the nozzle head 100 and transmitted to the cylinders through the stoppers 120, 220 to advance the washing nozzle. Furthermore, the flexible rack 610 has a structure in which a metallic cable is sheathed with resin, and can prevent its flexure and buckling. Consequently, the amount of advancement of the washing nozzle can be precisely controlled even if it is a multistage nozzle.
If the flexible rack 610 advances/retracts only linearly, a thick-diameter wire can be used. However, because the depth of the sanitary washing device body 800 is shorter than the advancement length of the multistage washing nozzle, the flexible rack 610 for advancing/retracting the washing nozzle needs to be bent at the guide portion 612 and housed in the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800. Hence, as in this example, a cable resistant to bending is preferably used.
Furthermore, the engaging mechanisms 230, 330 are provided at the base end of the first and second cylinder 200, 300, which are advanced with the latches 250, 350 being engaged with the flexible rack 610. Thus, flexure and buckling of the flexible rack 610 can be prevented almost completely. More specifically, without a guide or support provided along the path from the guide portion 612 (see
Moreover, the flexible rack 610 has a thin diameter, and is supported so as to be longitudinally slidable in the sanitary washing toilet seat device 800. Hence, it is possible to reduce the space for housing the mechanism for advancing/retracting the washing nozzle in the sanitary washing device 800.
Furthermore, according to this example, the washing nozzle is advanced in the order of the nozzle head 100, the first cylinder 200, and the second cylinder 300. Thus, the outer periphery of these movable portions can be entirely and evenly cleaned. Consequently, the “bottom” and the like can be washed with the washing nozzle in a clean and sanitary condition. Furthermore, prewetting the outer peripheral surface of the washing nozzle has the additional effect of preventing attachment of dirt and the like spattered during washing the “bottom” and the like.
Next, the retracting motion of the washing nozzle in this example is described.
In this state, the nozzle head 100, the first cylinder 200, and the second cylinder 300 are each advanced toward the tip, and the stoppers 120, 220, 320 abut the sliders 210, 310, 410. Furthermore, in this state, the engaging mechanisms 230, 330 of the first and second cylinder engage with the flexible rack 610. It is noted that, instead of such a completely advanced state, the washing nozzle can be located at a position for washing the “bottom” and the like as described above with reference to
In this advanced state of the washing nozzle, when the user finishes washing the “bottom” and the like and manipulates a stop switch illustratively provided on the remote controller, water discharge from the water discharge port 150 of the nozzle head 100 is stopped, and the retracting motion of the washing nozzle is started while performing “nozzle body cleaning”.
More specifically, first, wash water W is squirted from the water discharge port 420 provided in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 (see
Next, to start to retract the washing nozzle, the flexible rack 610 is pulled back in the direction of arrow F. Then, as shown in
As shown in
As shown in
Subsequently, the flexible rack 610 still continues to be pulled back in the direction of arrow F. At this time, the latch 350 idles on the corrugated surface of the flexible rack 610 in accordance with the counterbalance between the biasing force of the coil spring 340 and the effort exerted by the disengaging portion 630. The biasing force of the coil spring 340, the slope shape of the disengaging portion 630, and the shape of the abutment surface of the latch 350 can be suitably configured to allow the latch 350 to smoothly idle in this state so that an excessive braking force is not applied to the flexible rack 610.
When the engaging mechanism 330 is thus disengaged, the second cylinder 300 stops, and the first cylinder 200 continues to retract with the nozzle head 100. At this time, the first cylinder 200 passes through the nozzle cleaning chamber 500, and its outer peripheral surface can be entirely and evenly cleaned in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500.
As shown in
Also when the nozzle head 100 retracts after the retraction of the first cylinder 200, the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle head 100 can be entirely and evenly cleaned in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. Then, as shown in
Subsequently, “nozzle postcleaning” can be performed by suitably squirting water from the water discharge port 150 at the tip portion of the nozzle head 100 housed in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. This can prevent clogging of the water discharge port 150, and has the additional effect of thoroughly cleaning the tip portion of the nozzle head 100 and the inside of the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. In the case where the nozzle head 100 has a plurality of water discharge ports 150, water can be discharged from all the water discharge ports 150 also during the “nozzle postcleaning”.
As described above, in this example, the engaging mechanisms 230, 330 and the disengaging portion 630 allow the washing nozzle to retract in the order of the second cylinder 300, the first cylinder 200, and the nozzle head 100. Thus, the outer periphery of these movable portions can be entirely and evenly cleaned in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. That is, when the multistage washing nozzle retracts, “nozzle body cleaning” can be performed effectively and reliably. Consequently, even a multistage washing nozzle can be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. Thus, it is possible to save the trouble of cleaning, and also prevent malfunction and failure due to any attached dirt.
More specifically, in the extended state of the washing nozzle as shown in
Next, as shown in
Next, as shown in
Next, when the flexible rack 610 is further pulled back in the direction of arrow A, the nozzle head 100 retracts with the latch of the engaging mechanism 230 of the first cylinder 200 and the latch of the engaging mechanism 330 of the second cylinder 300 both idling, and the washing nozzle is completely housed as shown in
As described above, even in the case without the disengaging portion 630, the action of the latches of the engaging mechanisms 230, 330 allows the washing nozzle to be retracted in the order of the second cylinder 300, the first cylinder 200, and the nozzle head 100 while passing through the nozzle cleaning chamber 500.
In this variation, when the washing nozzle is advanced, the second cylinder 300 first advances with the first cylinder 200 and the nozzle head 100. Next, the first cylinder 200 advances with the nozzle head 100 while the latch of the engaging mechanism 330 idles on the corrugated surface of the flexible rack 610. Subsequently, the nozzle head 100 advances while the latches of the engaging mechanisms 230, 330 each idle on the corrugated surface of the flexible rack 610.
Thus, even in the case where the washing nozzle advances, the washing nozzle can be kept clean if the nozzle can be retracted in the order as illustrated in
Next, another variation of this embodiment is described.
In this variation, instead of the engaging mechanisms, magnets and magnetic bodies are used to control the order of advancing/retracting the washing nozzle. More specifically, a magnet 662 is provided near the base end of the nozzle head 100. Likewise, magnets 664, 666 are provided also near the base end of the first cylinder 200 and the second cylinder 300.
On the other hand, a magnetic body 652 is provided near the tip portion of the first cylinder 200. Likewise, a magnetic body 654 is provided near the tip portion of the second cylinder 300. Furthermore, a magnetic body 656 is provided near the base end of the third cylinder 400. These magnetic bodies 652, 654, 656 can be made of ferromagnetic material such as cobalt or nickel so as to be attracted to the magnets 662, 664, 666. It is noted that the sliders 210, 310, 410 are omitted in
The order of advancing/retracting the washing nozzle can be controlled by adjusting the relationship of attractive/repulsive force acting between these magnets and magnetic bodies. For example, in the housed state of the washing nozzle as shown in
More specifically, in the state shown in
As shown in
Next, as shown in
On the other hand, in this extended state of the washing nozzle, the washing nozzle can be retracted in a suitable order by adjusting the relationship between the attractive force acting between the magnet 662 and the magnetic body 652 and the attractive force acting between the magnet 664 and the magnetic body 654.
More specifically, in the extended state of the washing nozzle as shown in
In this state, when the flexible rack 610 is pulled back in the direction of arrow A, the first cylinder 200 and the second cylinder 300 start to retract with the nozzle head 100 by the attractive force acting between the magnet 662 and the magnetic body 652 and the attractive force acting between the magnet 664 and the magnetic body 654.
Then, as shown in
Next, as shown in
As described above, the washing nozzle can be advanced and retracted in a prescribed order by suitably placing magnets and magnetic bodies in the nozzle head 100 and the first to third cylinder 200, 300, 400.
It is noted that the layout of the magnets and magnetic bodies and the relationship of attractive force or repulsive force acting therebetween in this variation are illustrative only. That is, the washing nozzle can be advanced sequentially from its inner element if, in the housed state of the washing nozzle, the effect of maintaining its outer element in the housed state is relatively large. For example, this variation is applicable if, in the housed state of the washing nozzle, the force of maintaining the second cylinder 300 in the housed state is the largest, the force of maintaining the first cylinder 200 in the housed state is smaller than that, and the force of maintaining the nozzle head 100 in the housed state is the smallest, or conversely, a force of advancing the nozzle head 100 acts thereon.
On the other hand, the washing nozzle can be retracted from the extended state sequentially from its outer element if the effect of maintaining its inner element in the extended state is relatively large. For example, this variation is applicable if, in the extended state of the washing nozzle, the force of maintaining the nozzle head 100 in the extended state is the largest, the force of maintaining the first cylinder 200 in the extended state is smaller than that, and the force of maintaining the second cylinder 300 in the extended state is the smallest, or conversely, a force of retracting the second cylinder 300 acts thereon.
As described above, the washing nozzle can be advanced and retracted in a prescribed order also by using magnets and magnetic bodies and suitably adjusting attractive/repulsive forces therebetween.
Next, the cylinder, slider, stopper and the like that can be provided in this embodiment are described in more detail with reference to examples.
In this example, the nozzle head 100 and the first to third cylinder 200, 300, 400 are made of a metallic cylindrical body. However, the nozzle head 100 does not necessarily need to be metallic, but can illustratively be made of resin or the like.
If the nozzle head 100 and the first to third cylinder 200, 300, 400 are made of metal, a sufficient mechanical strength is obtained even with a small wall thickness. Hence, the increase in thickness of the nozzle portion can be prevented even for the multistage nozzle. Furthermore, the surface is resistant to flaws and deformation, and smooth sliding motion can be maintained even if the advancing/retracting motion is repeated for a long time. A metal material such as stainless steel, and aluminum with an alumite-treated surface, is advantageous as a material of the washing nozzle of the sanitary washing toilet seat device, also in regard to being resistant to rust and capable of maintaining cleanliness for a long time.
It is noted that the surface of the nozzle head 100 and the first and second cylinder 200, 300 can be coated with a film or a cover layer. For example, coating with a film made of resin provides resistance to dirt and rust, and allows smooth sliding motion. A similar effect can be expected by coating with a cover layer containing ceramics or the like.
On the other hand, also in this example, the nozzle head 100 and the first to third cylinder 200, 300, 400 are not in direct contact with each other, but are slidable in abutment with and supported by generally ring-shaped sliders 210, 310, 410 and stoppers 120, 220, 320 made of resin or the like. More specifically, the sliders 210, 310, 410 are provided inside the first to third cylinder 200, 300, 400 near the tip thereof, respectively. The stoppers 120, 220, 320 are provided at the base end of the nozzle head 100 and the first and second cylinder 200, 300 so as to protrude toward the periphery, respectively. Hence, the nozzle head 100, for example, is slidably supported in abutment with the stopper 120 and the slider 210, and is not in direct contact with the first cylinder 200. Likewise, the first cylinder 200 is slidably supported in abutment with the stopper 220 and the slider 310, and is not in direct contact with the second cylinder 300. The second cylinder 300 is also not in direct contact with the third cylinder 400, but is slidably supported in abutment with the stopper 320 and the slider 410.
In the case where the nozzle head 100 and the first to third cylinder 200, 300, 400 are made of metal, sliding these members in direct contact with each other results in a large sliding resistance and is likely to produce flaws and unusual noise. To prevent this, if the gap between the members is excessively increased, water or the like is likely to enter from outside.
In contrast, in this example, these metallic members are not in direct contact with each other, but are slidably supported by the sliders 210, 310, 410 and stoppers 120, 220, 320 made of resin or the like. Thus, it is possible to decrease the sliding resistance, avoid flaws and the like, and also prevent entry of water and the like from outside.
Furthermore, the sliders 210, 310, 410 and the stoppers 120, 220, 320 also serve to determine the stroke end of the nozzle head 100 and the first and second cylinder 200, 300. More specifically, in the housed state, as shown in
Furthermore, as described below with reference to
On the other hand, in this example, a narrowed portion T with its outer diameter narrowed in a generally tapered configuration is provided near the tip of the first to third cylinder 200, 300, 400, and a tucked portion C folded toward the central axis is provided at the extreme tip.
Such narrowed portions T and tucked portions C can prevent entry of water and foreign matter from the tip of these cylinders 200, 300, 400. Furthermore, if any foreign matter or the like is attached to the outer wall of the cylinder, it can be easily removed with the sliding motion. Moreover, the washing nozzle can be smoothly wiped so that cloth or the like is not caught at the tip of the cylinder. Furthermore, there is no concern about injury to hands and the like.
The slider 210, 310, 410 has an inner peripheral wall 210S, 310S, 410S slidably abutting the nozzle head 100 or the cylinder 200, 300 provided inside the inner peripheral wall 210S, 310S, 410S. It is noted that the inner peripheral wall 210S, 310S, 410S can be partly bulged inside so that the resulting apex slidably abuts the nozzle head 100 or the cylinder 200, 300. This can prevent the problem of the slider 210, 310, 410 sticking to the nozzle head 100 or the cylinder 200, 300 due to the solidification of calcium components and the like in wash water.
On the other hand, the stopper 120, 220, 320 has, on its base end side, an extending portion 121, 221, 321 overhanging in the peripheral direction. The outer peripheral wall 121S, 221S, 321S of this extending portion 121, 221, 321 slidably abuts the cylinder 200, 300, 400 provided outside the outer peripheral wall 121S, 221S, 321S.
The material of the slider 210, 310, 410 can illustratively be PET (polyethylene terephthalate). The material of the stopper 120, 220, 320 can illustratively be POM (polyoxymethylene/polyacetal resin) and the like. These materials can be used to facilitate slidably and abuttably supporting the nozzle head 100, cylinders 200, 300 and the like made of stainless steel.
Furthermore, the slider 210, 310, 410 is provided with a depression 212, 312, 412 opened toward the base end of the washing nozzle. On the other hand, the stopper 120, 220, 320 is provided with a projection 122, 222, 322 in which the extending portion 121, 221, 321 protrudes toward the tip of the washing nozzle. In the extended state of the washing nozzle, the depression 212, 312, 412 of the slider can be engaged with the projection 122, 222, 322 of the stopper to prevent rotation of the nozzle head 100 and the cylinders 200, 300, 400.
On the other hand, the extending portion 121, 221, 321 of the stopper 120, 220, 320 is provided with a depression 124, 224, 324. As described below in detail, this depression 124, 224, 324 engages with an engaging thread formed on the cylinder provided outside the depression 124, 224, 324 and serves to prevent rotation of the washing nozzle in the housed state and during the advancing/retracting motion.
The first cylinder 200 placed inside is provided with a stopper 220. The second cylinder 300 placed outside is provided with a slider 310. The first cylinder 200 is slidably supported in abutment with the slider 310 and the stopper 220.
Furthermore, the second cylinder 300 is provided with an engaging thread 304 in parallel to its sliding direction. The engaging thread 304 protrudes toward the central axis of the cylinder 300 and engages with the depression 224 provided in the stopper 220. A similar engaging thread is also provided on the first cylinder 200, but not shown in
The second cylinder 300 slides with the engaging thread 304 engaged with the depression 224. Thus, the engaging thread 304 provided on the second cylinder 300 can be engaged with the depression 224 provided in the stopper 220 located inside to prevent rotation of the cylinder 300 in the housed state and during the advancing/retracting motion. Consequently, deviation of the direction of water discharge from the water discharge port 150 provided in the nozzle head 100 is prevented, and water can be discharged constantly in a given direction.
In the state of the first cylinder 200 advanced to its stroke end, the engaging thread 304 provided on the second cylinder 300 is still engaged with the depression 224 provided in the stopper 220. Furthermore, the depression 312 provided in the slider 310 engages with the projection 222 provided in the stopper 220. Consequently, relative rotation of these cylinders 200, 300 is blocked more firmly.
Thus, in the extended state of the washing nozzle, its rotation is blocked more firmly. Hence, also during cleaning the washing nozzle, for example, its rotation can be prevented. More specifically, when the washing nozzle is cleaned, it may be wiped with cloth and the like in the state advanced to the stroke end. At this time, the washing nozzle may be subjected to a force in the rotation direction. However, in this example, the engaging thread 304 is engaged with the depression 224, and furthermore, the depression 312 is engaged with the projection 222. Hence, rotation of the washing nozzle can be firmly blocked. Consequently, even if the washing nozzle is cleaned, deviation of the water discharge direction can be prevented, and water can be discharged constantly in a given direction.
The washing nozzle is cleaned when a user is not seated on the toilet seat of the sanitary washing toilet seat device. Furthermore, at that time, it is preferable that the washing nozzle be completely extended. Hence, a switch for cleaning the washing nozzle is desirably provided. Such a switch can be provided on the body of the sanitary washing toilet seat device, or can be provided on the remote controller of the sanitary washing toilet seat device.
The remote controller of this example includes a set of switches for controlling the operation of the warm water washing toilet seat device, illustratively including a bottom wash switch 951, a warm air dry switch 952, and a stop switch 953. Furthermore, automatic flushing of the flush toilet bowl with wash water is also available, and a big flush switch 954 and a small flush switch 955 are provided. Moreover, a transmitter 958 based on an infrared LED (light emitting diode) is provided so that a signal is transmitted to the warm water washing toilet seat device.
Cleaning of the washing nozzle is relatively less frequent, and a special operation. Hence, it is suitable to provide the switch therefor inside the lid.
More specifically, the remote controller 950 of this example includes various setting switches and the like inside its front lid 960. It also includes a “nozzle clean” switch 970 for cleaning the washing nozzle. When the user manipulates the “nozzle clean” switch 970, the washing nozzle is completely extended as shown in
Next, the motion of the multistage washing nozzle of this example is described.
The advancing motion of the multistage washing nozzle can be performed sequentially from the inner element. More specifically, from the housed state of the washing nozzle as shown in
Thus, the washing nozzle is advanced from the inner movable portion, which is sequentially passed through the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. Hence, the outer peripheral surface of the movable portions of the nozzle can be entirely and evenly cleaned in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. More specifically, when the sanitary washing toilet seat device is used, water is squirted to the “bottom” and the like of a user in the extended state of the washing nozzle as shown in
Furthermore, according to this example, when the washing nozzle advances to wash the “bottom” and the like, the washing nozzle can be passed through the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 in the order of the nozzle head 100, the first cylinder 200, and the second cylinder 300 while being cleaned therein. Consequently, the outer peripheral surface of the movable portions of the washing nozzle exposed outside in the extended state can be entirely and evenly cleaned. Consequently, the washing nozzle can be always kept clean, and the sanitary washing toilet seat device can be maintained in a sanitarily desirable condition. Furthermore, during washing the “bottom” and the like, dirt and the like may be spattered on the washing nozzle. However, according to this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the washing nozzle is entirely and evenly wetted in advance, and hence is resistant to attachment of dirt and the like. Consequently, the washing nozzle can be kept clean also after use. Furthermore, it is possible to save trouble to clean the washing nozzle, and prevent malfunction, failure and the like of the washing nozzle due to any attached dirt. A similar effect is also achieved when the washing nozzle is advanced for nozzle cleaning (see
Furthermore, when the washing nozzle thus advances, the engaging thread (e.g., 304) provided on each cylinder slides while being engaged with the holding depression (e.g., 224) provided in the associated stopper. Hence, rotation of these elements can be prevented. Consequently, deviation of the water discharge direction is eliminated, and a stable cleaning effect is achieved.
Next, the retracting motion of the washing nozzle of this example is described.
From the extended state of the washing nozzle as shown in
Thus, in the retracting motion of the washing nozzle, the washing nozzle is retracted and passed through the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 sequentially from the outer movable portion. Hence, the outer peripheral surface of the movable portions of the nozzle can be entirely and evenly cleaned in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. More specifically, when water is squirted to wash the “bottom” and the like of a user in the extended state of the washing nozzle as shown in
However, according to this embodiment, the second cylinder 300, the first cylinder 200, and the nozzle head 100 can be passed through the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 in this order while undergoing “nozzle body cleaning”. That is, the outer peripheral surface of these movable portions that have been exposed outside in the extended state can be entirely and evenly cleaned. Consequently, the washing nozzle can be always kept clean, and the sanitary washing toilet seat device can be maintained in a sanitarily desirable condition. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce trouble to clean the washing nozzle, and prevent malfunction, failure and the like of the washing nozzle due to any attached dirt. A similar effect is also achieved when the washing nozzle is advanced for nozzle cleaning (see
Furthermore, also when the washing nozzle thus retracts, the engaging thread (e.g., 304) provided on each cylinder slides while being engaged with the holding depression (e.g., 224) provided in the associated stopper. Hence, rotation of these elements can be prevented. Consequently, deviation of the water discharge direction is eliminated, and a stable cleaning effect is achieved.
Next, the water discharge mechanism of the nozzle head 100 in this example is described.
A first water discharge port 150A, a second water discharge port 150B, and a third water discharge port 150C are illustratively provided near the tip of the nozzle head 100. These water discharge ports can be suitably used for various purposes such as the normal “bottom washing”, the “bottom washing” of the “soft mode”, and “bidet washing”. That is, the structure, opening diameter, and water discharge direction of these water discharge ports 150A-150C can be suitably adjusted to provide various water flows adapted to the user's preference and purpose.
These water discharge ports 150A-150C are connected to a switching mechanism 160 through a water flow path. The switching mechanism 160 includes a stator 162 and a rotor 164. The stator 162 is provided with a plurality of water channel openings corresponding to the number of water discharge ports, and the water channel openings illustratively supply water to the water discharge port 150A through the water flow path 152. Although only the water flow path 152 connected to the water discharge port 150A is shown in
On the other hand, the rotor 164 is provided upstream of and adjacent to the stator 162. The rotor 164 is provided with one water channel opening 166. The rotor 164 is connected to and rotated by the output shaft 172 of a motor 170 and serves to supply water through the water channel opening 166 provided therein to one of the plurality of water channel openings provided in the stator 162. The water supplied from the water supply tube 180 (see
On the other hand, a partition plate 174 is provided between the distribution chamber 184 and the motor 170, and a waterproof structure is formed with a Y-packing 176. That is, the motor 170 side as viewed from the partition plate 174 is in ambient atmosphere, and water leakage into the motor 170 can be reliably prevented.
According to this example, the rotor 164 can be suitably rotated to select one of the first to third water discharge port 150A-150C and discharge water therefrom, and to adjust the water pressure (or the amount of water) to a desired level.
Furthermore, according to this example, the switching mechanism 160 and the motor 170 are incorporated in the nozzle head 100, and thereby the number of water supply tubes 180 connected to the nozzle head 100 can be reduced to one. That is, the number of water supply tubes 180 disposed in the washing nozzle can be reduced to one. Consequently, the multistage washing nozzle can be smoothly advanced/retracted without interference with the water supply tube.
Here, comparison is made between the two examples shown in
Here, the flow path of water in the nozzle head 100 is described. In the example shown in
Here, the water flow path 152 is directed once downward in order to control the water flow and ejection angle of the discharged water ejected from the water discharge port 150A. That is, to control the water flow and angle of the discharged water ejected from the water discharge port 150A, the water flow path 152 is desirably directed once downward to form a water path making best use of the thickness along the height of the nozzle head 100. However, it is difficult to form, at the bottom of the nozzle head 100, all the plurality of water channel openings provided in the stator 162. Hence, each of the water flow paths extending from the water channel openings provided in the stator 162 to the water discharge ports 150A-150C needs to include a flow path directed downward.
In the example shown in
In contrast, in the example shown in
As described above, in consideration of the pressure loss associated with the direction of water flow, the water channel 182 placed in the upper portion of the nozzle head 100 as shown in
Next, the overall configuration of the sanitary washing toilet seat device of this embodiment is described.
More specifically, this sanitary washing toilet seat device includes a sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 placed on a flat surface 900F at the rear top of a sit-down toilet bowl 900. The sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 is provided with a toilet seat 810 and a toilet lid 820. Furthermore, a seating sensor 830 for detecting the presence of a user sitting on the toilet seat 810 is suitably provided.
The sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 of this example can squirt water and wash the “bottom” and the like of a user sitting on the toilet seat 810, and has the same features as those widely used under the trade name of “Washlet” and the like. The sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 can be also provided with other features such as a “warm air drying feature” for drying the wet “bottom”, a “toilet seat heating feature” for warming the toilet seat 810, and a “deodorizing feature” for removing odors in the sit-down toilet bowl. Furthermore, it can be also provided with an “automatic opening/closing feature” for automatically opening the toilet lid 820 upon detecting the approaching user and automatically closing the toilet lid 820 when the user leaves. These features can be executed/configured by suitably manipulating a controller (not shown) provided on the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800, or can be executed by manipulating a remote controller (not shown) placed on the wail or the like of a toilet.
Furthermore, an “automatic flushing feature” for flushing the sit-down toilet bowl 900 with wash water by remote control can be added to the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800. This feature is based on a driving mechanism for actuating the draining mechanism of a low tank 920 and a flush valve. A signal for operating this driving mechanism is outputted from the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 to automatically flush the sit-down toilet bowl 900 with wash water.
In this example, the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 is placed on the flat surface 900F at the rear top of the flush sit-down toilet bowl 900, and its front face 805 is curved along the shape of the opening of the bowl 910 of the sit-down toilet bowl 900. Here, “rear” refers to the side on which the low tank 920, the flush valve and the like are typically placed as shown in
More specifically, in this example, the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 has a linear front edge, extending above the bowl 910 of the sit-down toilet bowl 900 and partly covering it as shown by the dashed line A. If the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 thus extends above the bowl 910, its backside is likely to become dirty by “spatters” from the pooled water. Furthermore, urine is likely to splash on the extended portion during male urination.
In contrast, in the first example, as shown in
More specifically, the washing nozzle described above with reference to
On the other hand, on the observers' left of the washing nozzle is provided a water channel system 860 for supplying warm water to the washing nozzle. This water channel system 860 illustratively includes a valve unit 862, a heat exchange unit 863, and a flow control unit 864. A control board 880 is incorporated in front of the water channel system 860. The control board 880 includes an electrical circuit for controlling various components of the sanitary washing toilet seat device. By placing the control board 880 above the water channel system 860, a short circuit and electrical leakage can be prevented in case of due condensation and unlikely water leakage. Furthermore, by allowing the control board 880 to protrude into the left extending portion 800P, the limited housing space can be effectively used.
In the housed state, the washing nozzle described above with reference to
According to this example, the multistage design of the washing nozzle allows it, in the housed state, to be compactly housed in the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800. On the other hand, after washing the “bottom” and the like of a user, the surface of the nozzle head 100 and the cylinders 200, 300 can be evenly cleaned. In particular, in this example, the front face of the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 does not cover the bowl 910, but is provided so as to be generally continuous to or set back from (in the direction away from the bowl 910) the curved sidewall of the opening of the bowl 910. Hence, the depth of the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 needs to be shortened. In this regard, the washing nozzle of this example is illustratively based on the three-stage structure, which allows it to be compactly housed in the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 having a limited depth. Furthermore, the three-stage design of the washing nozzle allows the water discharge port at its tip to be advanced sufficiently far from the front face 805 of the sanitary washing toilet seat device body 800 and squirt wash water reliably to the “bottom” and the like.
Furthermore, after use, the surface of the washing nozzle body can be evenly cleaned. Thus, it is possible to provide a sanitary washing toilet seat device which is always kept clean, saves the trouble of cleaning, and is resistant to malfunction, failure and the like.
In the foregoing, an example overall configuration of the sanitary washing device of this embodiment has been described.
Next, another variation of the washing nozzle that can be used in this embodiment is described. In this variation, the water supply tube connected to the nozzle head 100 is bent and in pressure contact with the cylinder inner wall or the stopper to produce a frictional force. This can apply a driving force for retraction to the cylinders, and each cylinder can be retracted in a prescribed order.
It is noted that this variation does not include the third cylinder 400 described above with reference to
From the extended state of the washing nozzle as shown in
Thus, the frictional force produced between the water supply tube 180 and the stopper 320 is used to apply a driving force for retraction to the second cylinder 300. The second cylinder 300 is retracted to its stroke end as shown in
When the flexible rack 610 is further pulled back in this state, the water supply tube 180 retracts while sliding on the inner wall of the through hole 325 of the stopper 320 because the second cylinder 300 is restrained by the stroke end. The frictional force produced between the water supply tube 180 and the inner wall of the through hole 225 of the stopper 220 applies a driving force for retraction to the stopper 220. In the case where this frictional force is larger than the frictional force produced between the first cylinder 200 and the second cylinder 300, the first cylinder 200 also retracts interlocking with the retraction of the water supply tube 180. Also in this case, according to the result of prototyping by the inventor, the frictional force produced between the water supply tube 180 and the stopper 220 was easily made larger than the frictional force produced between the first cylinder 200 and the second cylinder 300 by bending the water supply tube 180.
When the first cylinder 200 is retracted to its stroke end as shown in
As described above, according to this variation, the water supply tube 180 passing through the washing nozzle is bent to produce a frictional force between the water supply tube 180 and the stoppers 320, 220 so that the second cylinder 300, the first cylinder 200, and the nozzle head 100 can be retracted in this order. Hence, the outer periphery of these movable portions can be entirely and evenly cleaned in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500.
In this variation, the water supply tube 180 is in slidable contact with the inner wall of the through holes 325, 225 of the stoppers 320, 220. However, alternatively, the water supply tube 180 can be in slidable contact with the inner wall of the first and second cylinder 200, 300.
Furthermore, in this variation, the water supply tube 180 is bent. However, alternatively, a linear body having both flexibility and elasticity can be connected to the nozzle head 100, passed through the washing nozzle, and bent outside. Such a linear body has the same effect as the water supply tube 180 described with reference to
Furthermore, the number of water supply tubes or linear bodies provided to produce such a frictional force can be either one or more than one. As described below with reference to an example, providing a plurality of water supply tubes or linear bodies is advantageous in that a larger frictional force is easily obtained.
Next, an example of the washing nozzle shown in
A flow control unit 864 is adjacently provided beside the base 700 of the washing nozzle. The flow control unit 864 includes a switching valve for switching between the water supply path to the nozzle head 100 and the water supply path to the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 and adjusting the momentum of water, and a flow path switching valve for switching the modes of water discharge from the water discharge port of the nozzle head 100. Furthermore, it can also include a pulsator for providing pulsation to the momentum of the water discharged from the nozzle head 100. In the example shown in
On the other hand, rails 710 are provided on both sides of the top of the base 700. As described later in detail, these rails 700 are fitted into depressions of the stopper 320 provided on the second cylinder 300 and slidably support the second cylinder 300.
In this example, three water supply tubes 180A, 180B, 180C are bent and introduced into the washing nozzle. These three water supply tubes are in slidable contact with the stoppers of the washing nozzle, and thereby the retracting motion as described above with reference to
In this structure, the first cylinder 200 and the nozzle head 100 are housed in this order in the second cylinder 300. In the completely housed state of the washing nozzle, the tip portion of the nozzle head 100 is almost housed in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500. A stopper 220 is provided at the rear end of the first cylinder 200, and a stopper 320 is provided at the rear end of the second cylinder 300.
Water inlet terminals 130A, 130B, 130C for connecting the water supply tubes 180A, 180B, 180C, respectively, are provided at the rear end of the nozzle head 100. The water supply tube 180A is connected to the water inlet terminal 130A, which is supplied with wash water for the normal “bottom washing”. The water supply tube 180B is connected to the water inlet terminal 130B, which is supplied with wash water for the “bidet washing”. The water supply tube 180C is connected to the water Inlet terminal 130C, which is supplied with wash water for the “swirl washing”.
The stopper 220 is provided with four through holes 225A, 225B, 225C, 225D. The water supply tube 180A is inserted into the through hole 225A. The water supply tube 180B is inserted into the through hole 225B, and the water supply tube 180C is Inserted into the through hole 225C. The flexible rack 610 is inserted into the through hole 225D.
The water supply tubes 180A-180C are in slidable contact with the inner wall of the through holes 225A-225C, respectively, to produce a frictional force as described above with reference to
A notch 300S opened in the bending direction of the water supply tubes 180A-180C is provided at the rear end of the second cylinder 300. The stopper 320 is provided around the notch 300S. The stopper 320 has a single through hole 325. The three water supply tubes 180A-180C and the flexible rack 610 are all suitably Inserted into this through hole 325. Of the three water supply tubes 180A-180C that are bent, the water supply tubes 180A, 180B are particularly in slidable contact with the inner wall of the through hole 325 to produce a frictional force as described above with reference to
Furthermore, a pair of opposed depressions 326 are provided in the lower portion of the stopper 320. These depressions 326 are fitted into the rail 710 provided on the base 700 (see
The nozzle cleaning chamber 500 in this example is the same as that shown in
The supports 550 can be attached to both sides of the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 illustratively by snap fitting. These supports 550 support the second cylinder 300 from both sides in the extended state of the washing nozzle to serve to prevent horizontal wobbling. Furthermore, when pulsating water is discharged from the nozzle head 100, for example, the washing nozzle may vibrate. In such cases, the supports 550 made of an elastic body such as rubber can absorb vibration to achieve an antivibration effect.
On the other hand, this example includes a protective wall 720 extending forward from the base 700. The protective wall 720 occludes the rear of the opening at the bottom of the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 and serves to prevent wash water discharged in the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 from spattering backward inside the sanitary washing device body 800. Furthermore, when urine or the like enters from the front of the nozzle cleaning chamber 500, for example, the protective wall 720 can prevent the urine or the like from entering the rear inside of the sanitary washing device body 800.
As the second cylinder 300 retracts, the abutment condition between the inner wall of the through hole 325 of the stopper 320 and the water supply tubes 180A, 180B gradually changes. For example, the water supply tubes 180A, 180B can be configured to scarcely abut the inner wall of the through hole 325 of the stopper 320 when the second cylinder 300 is retracted to the stroke end as shown in
As shown in
As shown in
As described above, the water supply tubes 180A-180C are bent and in slidable contact with the stoppers so that the second cylinder 300, the first cylinder 200, and the nozzle head 100 can be retracted in this order.
It is noted that, even in the case where the frictional force between the water supply tubes 180A-180C and the stopper 320 is somewhat smaller, for example, if the frictional force between the nozzle head 100 and the first cylinder 200 and the frictional force between the first cylinder 200 and the second cylinder 300 are larger than the frictional force between the second cylinder 300 and the base 700, then the first cylinder 200 and the second cylinder 300 can be retracted interlocking with the retraction of the nozzle head 100. That is, in this example, the magnitude relationship between the frictional forces of such elements can also be used.
For example, the frictional force between the nozzle head 100 and the first cylinder 200 and the frictional force between the first cylinder 200 and the second cylinder 300 are easily increased in the completely extended state of the washing nozzle. For example, as described above with reference to
The embodiment of the invention has been described with reference to examples. However, the invention is not limited to these examples. For example, the shape, structure, number, layout and the like of the nozzle head and the cylinders can be modified, and such modifications are encompassed within the scope of the invention as long as they are based on the spirit of the invention. For example, it is possible to slide the third cylinder 400 relative to the base 700 so that, when the washing nozzle is advanced, the second cylinder 300 is completely exposed from the nozzle cleaning chamber 500 in the advancing direction.
The features described above with reference to
Various elements included in the sanitary washing toilet seat device and the toilet device of the invention such as the deodorizer, warm air dryer, seating sensor, enclosure, remote controller, sit-down toilet bowl, and low tank can be suitably modified in design by those skilled in the art to similarly practice the invention and achieve similar effects, and such modifications are also encompassed within the scope of the invention as long as they are based on the spirit of the invention.
All the other sanitary washing toilet seat devices and toilet devices, which can be implemented by those skilled in the art through suitable design change to the sanitary washing toilet seat device and the toilet device described above as the embodiment of the invention, are also similarly encompassed within the scope of the invention.
Industrial Applicability
According to this invention, in a sanitary washing toilet seat device and a toilet device equipped therewith, a multistage washing nozzle can be accurately advanced/retracted.
Number | Date | Country | Kind |
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2006-034531 | Feb 2006 | JP | national |
2006-043846 | Feb 2006 | JP | national |
2006-150744 | May 2006 | JP | national |
Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind | 371c Date |
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PCT/JP2007/052415 | 2/9/2007 | WO | 00 | 12/23/2008 |
Publishing Document | Publishing Date | Country | Kind |
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WO2007/091691 | 8/16/2007 | WO | A |
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20100162475 A1 | Jul 2010 | US |