Patent Description:
A known sanitary washing device is mounted detachably to a toilet. <CIT> and <CIT> describe such known sanitary washing device. A water supply hose for supplying water from a water supply source into a casing is provided in such a sanitary washing device. If the water supply hose extends downward from the bottom surface of the casing, problems occur when cleaning, etc., when the sanitary washing device is detached from the toilet and temporarily placed on the floor or the toilet, such as kinking of the water supply hose when sandwiched between the floor and the casing or between the toilet and the casing, or difficulty temporarily placing the sanitary washing device due to tilting of the casing due to a reaction force of the water supply hose.

In recent years, it is desirable for the sanitary washing device to be more compact to improve the designability of the sanitary washing device. However, if the water supply hose extends downward from the bottom surface of the casing, it is necessary to connect the water supply hose that extends in the vertical direction to a water supply connection part by bending the water supply hose toward the horizontal direction in the casing, or it is necessary to provide a water supply pipe member inside the casing to change the direction of the pipe line from the vertical direction to the horizontal direction. Therefore, it is difficult to make the casing more compact in the vertical direction because a height sufficient to bend the water supply hose or provide the water supply pipe member is necessary.

According to the invention, a sanitary washing device includes the features of claim <NUM>.

A first invention is a sanitary washing device that includes a nozzle configured to discharge water toward an ano-genital region of a human body, a valve unit that includes an electromagnetic valve and is provided on a pipe line between a water supply source and the nozzle, a casing storing the nozzle and the valve unit, a water supply hose that is flexible and is configured to supply water from the water supply source into the casing, and a water supply connection part connecting the water supply hose and the valve unit; the casing has a concave portion recessed upward from a bottom surface of the casing; the concave portion has an upper surface and a side surface extending from the upper surface and facing backward or sideward; and the water supply connection part is provided on the side surface of the concave portion.

According to the sanitary washing device, the concave portion that is recessed upward from the bottom surface is provided in the casing, and the water supply connection part is provided on the side surface of the concave portion; thereby, the water supply hose can extend backward and/or sideward from the water supply connection part. Thereby, when detaching the sanitary washing device from the toilet and temporarily placing the sanitary washing device on the floor or the toilet, kinking of the water supply hose due to the water supply hose being sandwiched between the floor and the casing or between the toilet and the casing can be suppressed. Also, the temporary placement is easy because tilting of the casing due to a reaction force of the water supply hose can be suppressed. Also, the sanitary washing device easily can be more compact in the vertical direction because the water supply hose can extend backward and/or sideward from the water supply connection part.

A second invention is the sanitary washing device of the first invention, wherein a length of the concave portion in a direction in which the water supply connection part faces the water supply hose is greater than twice as much as an outer diameter of the water supply hose.

According to the sanitary washing device, the length of the concave portion in the direction in which the water supply connection part faces the water supply hose is set to be greater than twice as much as the outer diameter of the water supply hose; thereby, sufficient space for arranging the water supply hose can be provided even when the water supply hose is arranged by bending.

A third invention is the sanitary washing device of the first or second invention, wherein the concave portion is open in at least one of a backward direction and a sideward direction.

According to the sanitary washing device, the water supply hose can extend in at least one of the backward direction and the sideward direction of the concave portion because the concave portion is open in at least one of the backward direction and the sideward direction. Thereby, the concave portion can be smaller while ensuring sufficient space for arranging the water supply hose. Thereby, the space inside the casing can be increased so that other parts can be disposed. Also, the casing can be more compact.

A fourth invention is the sanitary washing device of any one of the first to third inventions, wherein a width of the concave portion increases along a direction in which the water supply connection part faces the water supply hose.

According to the sanitary washing device, the width of the concave portion increases along the direction in which the water supply connection part faces the water supply hose; thereby, the concave portion can be smaller while ensuring sufficient space for arranging the water supply hose. Thereby, the space inside the casing can be increased so that other parts can be disposed. Also, the casing can be more compact.

A fifth invention is the sanitary washing device of any one of the first to fourth inventions that further includes a cover member that is provided along a sideward direction of the concave portion and is detachable.

According to the sanitary washing device, for example, if a through-hole for inserting the water supply hose is not provided in the toilet, the water supply hose can be drawn out sideward of the concave portion by detaching the cover member. On the other hand, for example, if a through-hole for inserting the water supply hose is provided in the toilet, the side of the concave portion can be concealed by mounting the cover member. Thereby, the water supply connection part is not viewable by the user, and the designability can be improved.

A sixth invention is the sanitary washing device of any one of the first to fifth inventions that further includes a controller configured to control operations of the nozzle and the valve unit, and the controller is disposed inside the casing and above the concave portion.

According to the sanitary washing device, by disposing the controller inside the casing above the concave portion, for example, the controller can be disposed higher than the valve unit. Thereby, for example, in the case of water leakage from the valve unit, contact with the controller of water leaking from the valve unit can be suppressed.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Similar components in the drawings are marked with the same reference numerals, and a detailed description is omitted as appropriate.

<FIG> is a perspective view schematically illustrating a toilet device including a sanitary washing device according to an embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the toilet device <NUM> includes a sit-down flush toilet (a toilet) <NUM> and the sanitary washing device <NUM> mounted on the sit-down flush toilet <NUM>. The sanitary washing device <NUM> includes a casing <NUM>, a toilet seat <NUM>, and a toilet lid <NUM>. The toilet seat <NUM> and the toilet lid <NUM> each are pivotally supported to be openable and closable with respect to the casing <NUM>. The casing <NUM> includes a case plate 400a positioned at a lower portion, includes a case cover 400b positioned at an upper portion, and stores functional units such as a nozzle <NUM>, etc., in an internal space. A heater <NUM> for warming the toilet seat <NUM> is provided inside the toilet seat <NUM>.

Although "upward", "downward", "frontward", "backward", "rightward", and "leftward" are used in the description of the embodiments described below, these directions are directions when viewed by a user sitting on the toilet seat <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>.

An ano-genital region wash functional unit that realizes the washing of an ano-genital region such as a "bottom" or the like of the user sitting on the toilet seat <NUM>, etc., are included inside the casing <NUM>. The ano-genital region wash functional unit includes, for example, the nozzle <NUM>. A seating detection sensor <NUM> (referring to <FIG>) that detects the user seated on the toilet seat <NUM> also is provided in the sanitary washing device <NUM>. When the seating detection sensor <NUM> detects the user sitting on the toilet seat <NUM>, the nozzle <NUM> can be advanced into a bowl <NUM> of the toilet <NUM> and retracted from the interior of the bowl <NUM> when the user operates, for example, an operation part <NUM> such as a remote control, etc. (referring to <FIG>). A state in which the nozzle <NUM> is advanced into the bowl <NUM> is illustrated in the sanitary washing device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>.

The nozzle <NUM> washes the ano-genital region of a human body by discharging water (wash water) toward the ano-genital region of a human body. A bottom wash water discharge port 474a, a gentle wash water discharge port 474b, and a bidet wash water discharge port 474c are provided in the tip portion of the nozzle <NUM>. The nozzle <NUM> can wash the "bottom" of the user sitting on the toilet seat <NUM> by squirting water from the bottom wash water discharge port 474a or the gentle wash water discharge port 474b provided in the tip of the nozzle <NUM>. Or, the nozzle <NUM> can wash a female ano-genital region of a female sitting on the toilet seat <NUM> by squirting water from the bidet wash water discharge port 474c provided in the tip of the nozzle <NUM>. In this specification, "water" includes not only cold water but also warm water that is heated.

The modes of washing the "bottom" include, for example, a "bottom wash" and a "gentle wash" that gently washes using a softer water stream than the "bottom wash". For example, the nozzle <NUM> can perform the "bottom wash", the "gentle wash", and the "bidet wash".

In the nozzle <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the bidet wash water discharge port 474c is provided further toward the tip of the nozzle <NUM> than is the gentle wash water discharge port 474b, and the gentle wash water discharge port 474b is provided further toward the tip of the nozzle <NUM> than is the bottom wash water discharge port 474a; however, the placement positions of the bottom wash water discharge port 474a, the gentle wash water discharge port 474b, and the bidet wash water discharge port 474c are not limited thereto. Although three water discharge ports are provided in the nozzle <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, for example, the gentle wash water discharge port 474b may be omitted, or four or more water discharge ports may be provided.

<FIG> is a block diagram schematically illustrating the relevant components of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment.

The relevant components of the water channel system and the electrical system are illustrated together in <FIG>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the sanitary washing device <NUM> includes a water transfer part <NUM>. The water transfer part <NUM> includes a pipe line 20a that reaches the nozzle <NUM> from a water supply source <NUM> such as a service water line, a water storage tank, etc. The water transfer part <NUM> guides the water supplied from the water supply source <NUM> to the nozzle <NUM> via the pipe line 20a. For example, the pipe line 20a is formed of parts such as a water supply hose <NUM>, a water supply connection part <NUM>, a valve unit <NUM>, a heat exchanger unit <NUM>, a flow path switcher <NUM>, etc., described below and multiple pipes that connect these parts.

The water supply hose <NUM> supplies water from the water supply source <NUM> into the casing <NUM>. The water supply hose <NUM> is a flexible hose. The water supply connection part <NUM> connects the water supply hose <NUM> and the valve unit <NUM>. The water supply connection part <NUM> may be configured as an integral body with the valve unit <NUM> or may be configured as a separate body from the valve unit <NUM>.

The valve unit <NUM> is provided downstream of the water supply hose <NUM> on the pipe line 20a. The valve unit <NUM> includes at least an electromagnetic valve <NUM>. In the example, the valve unit <NUM> includes the electromagnetic valve <NUM>, a strainer <NUM> provided upstream of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>, a regulating valve <NUM> provided downstream of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>, and a check valve <NUM> provided downstream of the regulating valve <NUM>. For example, the valve unit <NUM> is provided downstream of the water supply hose <NUM> and upstream of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> on the pipe line 20a. The valve unit <NUM> may include the water supply connection part <NUM>.

The strainer <NUM> is provided at the upstream side of the valve unit <NUM>. The strainer <NUM> filters foreign matter, etc., included in the water supplied from the water supply source <NUM>. In the example, the water supply connection part <NUM> is configured to be an integral body with the strainer <NUM> at the upstream side of the strainer <NUM>.

The electromagnetic valve <NUM> is provided downstream of the strainer <NUM>. The electromagnetic valve <NUM> is an openable and closable electromagnetic valve and controls the supply of water based on a command from a controller <NUM> provided inside the casing <NUM>. In other words, the electromagnetic valve <NUM> opens and closes the pipe line 20a. The water that is supplied from the water supply source <NUM> is caused to flow in the pipe line 20a by setting the electromagnetic valve <NUM> to the open state.

The regulating valve <NUM> is provided downstream of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. The regulating valve <NUM> regulates the pressure and the flow rate of the water inside the pipe line 20a. The regulating valve <NUM> is, for example, a pressure regulator valve that regulates the pressure inside the pipe line 20a to be within a prescribed range. The regulating valve <NUM> may be, for example, a constant flow rate valve that regulates the flow rate of the water flowing through the pipe line 20a to be within a prescribed range.

The check valve <NUM> is provided downstream of the regulating valve <NUM>. The check valve <NUM> suppresses backflow of water toward the upstream side of the check valve <NUM> when the pressure inside the pipe line 20a decreases, etc. The check valve <NUM> is provided as necessary and is omissible.

The heat exchanger unit <NUM> (the heater) is provided downstream of the valve unit <NUM>. The heat exchanger unit <NUM> includes a heater and heats the water supplied from the water supply source <NUM> to, for example, a specified temperature. In other words, the heat exchanger unit <NUM> produces warm water.

The heat exchanger unit <NUM> is, for example, an instant heating-type (instantaneous-type) heat exchanger using a ceramic heater, etc. Compared to a warm water storage heating-type heat exchanger that uses a warm water storage tank, the instant heating-type heat exchanger can heat water to a specified temperature in a short period of time. The heat exchanger unit <NUM> is not limited to an instant heating-type heat exchanger and may be a warm water storage heating-type heat exchanger. The heater is not limited to a heat exchanger; for example, another heating technique such as one that utilizes microwave heating, etc., may be used.

The heat exchanger unit <NUM> is connected to the controller <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> heats the water to the temperature set by the operation part <NUM> by controlling the heat exchanger unit <NUM> according to an operation of the operation part <NUM> by the user.

A flow rate sensor <NUM> is provided downstream of the heat exchanger unit <NUM>. The flow rate sensor <NUM> detects the flow rate of the water discharged from the heat exchanger unit <NUM>. In other words, the flow rate sensor <NUM> detects the flow rate of the water flowing through the pipe line 20a. The flow rate sensor <NUM> is connected to the controller <NUM>. The flow rate sensor <NUM> inputs the detection result of the flow rate to the controller <NUM>. The flow rate sensor <NUM> may be provided upstream of the heat exchanger unit <NUM>.

An electrolytic cell unit <NUM> is provided downstream of the flow rate sensor <NUM>. The electrolytic cell unit <NUM> produces a liquid (functional water) including hypochlorous acid from tap water by electrolyzing the tap water flowing through the interior of the electrolytic cell unit <NUM>. The electrolytic cell unit <NUM> is connected to the controller <NUM>. The electrolytic cell unit <NUM> produces the functional water based on a control by the controller <NUM>. The electrolytic cell unit <NUM> is provided as necessary and is omissible.

The functional water that is produced by the electrolytic cell unit <NUM> may be, for example, a solution including metal ions such as silver ions, copper ions, etc. Or, the functional water that is produced by the electrolytic cell unit <NUM> may be a solution including electrolytic chlorine, ozone, etc. Or, the functional water that is produced by the electrolytic cell unit <NUM> may be acidic water or alkaline water.

A vacuum breaker (VB) <NUM> is provided downstream of the electrolytic cell unit <NUM>. The vacuum breaker <NUM> includes, for example, a flow channel where the water flows, an intake port for intaking air into the flow channel, and a valve mechanism that opens and closes the intake port. For example, the valve mechanism blocks the intake port when water is flowing in the flow channel, and intakes air into the flow channel by opening the intake port when the flow of the water stops. In other words, the vacuum breaker <NUM> intakes air into the pipe line 20a when water does not flow in the water transfer part <NUM>. The valve mechanism includes, for example, a float valve. The vacuum breaker <NUM> may be provided upstream of the electrolytic cell unit <NUM>.

For example, by intaking air into the pipe line 20a as recited above, the vacuum breaker <NUM> promotes the water drainage of the portion of the pipe line 20a downstream of the vacuum breaker <NUM>. For example, the vacuum breaker <NUM> promotes the water drainage of the nozzle <NUM>. Thus, by draining the water inside the nozzle <NUM> and intaking air into the nozzle <NUM>, for example, the vacuum breaker <NUM> suppresses the undesirable backflow of the wash water inside the nozzle <NUM>, the liquid waste collected in the bowl <NUM>, etc., toward the water supply source <NUM> (the fresh water) side.

A pressure modulator <NUM> is provided downstream of the vacuum breaker <NUM>. The pressure modulator <NUM> applies a pulsatory motion to the water discharged from the bottom wash water discharge port 474a, the gentle wash water discharge port 474b, and the bidet wash water discharge port 474c of the nozzle <NUM> and/or the water discharged from the water discharger of a nozzle washer <NUM> by applying a pulsatory motion or an acceleration to the flow of the water inside the pipe line 20a of the water transfer part <NUM>. In other words, the pressure modulator <NUM> causes the fluidic state of the water flowing through the pipe line 20a to fluctuate. The pressure modulator <NUM> is connected to the controller <NUM>. The pressure modulator <NUM> causes the fluidic state of the water to fluctuate based on a control by the controller <NUM>. The pressure modulator <NUM> causes the pressure of the water inside the pipe line 20a to fluctuate. The pressure modulator <NUM> is provided as necessary and is omissible.

A flow regulator <NUM> is provided downstream of the pressure modulator <NUM>. The flow regulator <NUM> regulates the water force (the flow rate). The flow path switcher <NUM> is provided downstream of the flow regulator <NUM>. The flow path switcher <NUM> performs opening and closing and switching of the water supply to the nozzle <NUM> and/or the nozzle washer <NUM>. The flow regulator <NUM> and the flow path switcher <NUM> may be provided as one unit. The flow regulator <NUM> and the flow path switcher <NUM> are connected to the controller <NUM>. The operations of the flow regulator <NUM> and the flow path switcher <NUM> are controlled by the controller <NUM>.

The nozzle <NUM>, the nozzle washer <NUM>, and a spray nozzle <NUM> are provided downstream of the flow path switcher <NUM>. The nozzle <NUM> receives a drive force from a nozzle driver <NUM>, advances into the bowl <NUM> of the toilet <NUM>, and retracts from the interior of the bowl <NUM>.

For example, the nozzle washer <NUM> washes the outer circumferential surface (the body) of the nozzle <NUM> by squirting water or functional water from a water discharger. The spray nozzle <NUM> sprays wash water or functional water in a mist form toward the bowl <NUM>. In the example, the spray nozzle <NUM> is provided separately from the nozzle <NUM> for washing the human body. The spray nozzle <NUM> is not limited thereto; a water discharge port for spraying a mist-like liquid toward the bowl <NUM> may be provided in the nozzle <NUM>.

A bottom wash channel <NUM>, a gentle wash channel <NUM>, and a bidet wash channel <NUM> that supply, to the nozzle <NUM>, the water supplied from the water supply source <NUM> or the functional water produced by the electrolytic cell unit <NUM> via the water transfer part <NUM> also are provided downstream of the flow path switcher <NUM>. The bottom wash channel <NUM> connects the flow path switcher <NUM> and the bottom wash water discharge port 474a. The gentle wash channel <NUM> connects the flow path switcher <NUM> and the gentle wash water discharge port 474b. The bidet wash channel <NUM> connects the flow path switcher <NUM> and the bidet wash water discharge port 474c.

A surface wash channel <NUM> and a spray channel <NUM> also are provided downstream of the flow path switcher <NUM>. The surface wash channel <NUM> guides, toward the water discharger of the nozzle washer <NUM>, the water supplied from the water supply source <NUM> or the functional water produced by the electrolytic cell unit <NUM> via the water transfer part <NUM>. The spray channel <NUM> guides, to the spray nozzle <NUM>, the water supplied from the water supply source <NUM> or the functional water produced by the electrolytic cell unit <NUM> via the water transfer part <NUM>.

By controlling the flow path switcher <NUM>, the controller <NUM> switches the opening and closing of the flow channels of the bottom wash channel <NUM>, the gentle wash channel <NUM>, the bidet wash channel <NUM>, the surface wash channel <NUM>, and the spray channel <NUM>. Thus, the flow path switcher <NUM> switches between the state of communicating with the pipe line 20a and the state of not communicating with the pipe line 20a for each of the multiple water discharge ports of the bottom wash water discharge port 474a, the gentle wash water discharge port 474b, the bidet wash water discharge port 474c, the nozzle washer <NUM>, the spray nozzle <NUM>, etc..

Electrical power is supplied to the controller <NUM> from a power supply circuit <NUM>, and the controller <NUM> controls the operations of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>, the heat exchanger unit <NUM>, the electrolytic cell unit <NUM>, the pressure modulator <NUM>, the flow regulator <NUM>, the flow path switcher <NUM>, the nozzle driver <NUM>, etc., based on signals from a human body detection sensor <NUM>, the seating detection sensor <NUM>, the flow rate sensor <NUM>, the operation part <NUM>, etc. Thereby, the controller <NUM> is configured to control the operations of the nozzle <NUM>, the valve unit <NUM>, etc..

<FIG> is a plan view schematically illustrating a portion of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment.

<FIG> are cross-sectional views schematically illustrating portions of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment.

<FIG> illustrates a state in which the toilet seat <NUM> and the case cover 400b are detached. The position of the toilet seat <NUM> is illustrated by a virtual line in <FIG>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view along line A1-A2 shown in <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view along line B1-B2 shown in <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view along line C1-C2 shown in <FIG>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the valve unit <NUM>, the heat exchanger unit <NUM>, and the controller <NUM> are provided inside the casing <NUM> (i.e., in a space between the case plate 400a and the case cover 400b). In other words, the valve unit <NUM>, the heat exchanger unit <NUM>, and the controller <NUM> are stored in the casing <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the valve unit <NUM> and the heat exchanger unit <NUM> are disposed further frontward than the controller <NUM>. More specifically, the back end of the valve unit <NUM> is positioned further frontward than the front end of the controller <NUM>. The back end of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is positioned further frontward than the back end of the controller <NUM>. The front end of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is positioned further frontward than the front end of the controller <NUM>.

As described below, the case plate 400a is tilted frontward and toward the lateral-direction center; therefore, by disposing the valve unit <NUM> further frontward than the controller <NUM>, in the case of water leakage from the valve unit <NUM>, contact with the controller <NUM> of water leaking from the valve unit <NUM> can be suppressed. As described below, the case plate 400a is tilted frontward and toward the lateral-direction center; therefore, by disposing the heat exchanger unit <NUM> further frontward than the controller <NUM>, in the case of water leakage from the heat exchanger unit <NUM>, contact with the controller <NUM> of water leaking from the heat exchanger unit <NUM> can be suppressed.

A drain path <NUM> is provided in the inner bottom surface of the casing <NUM> to drain, into the toilet <NUM>, water leaking from the valve unit <NUM> and/or the heat exchanger unit <NUM> in the case of water leakage from the valve unit <NUM> and/or the heat exchanger unit <NUM>. In other words, the drain path <NUM> is provided in the upper surface of the case plate 400a. The drain path <NUM> is described below.

By disposing the valve unit <NUM> further frontward than the controller <NUM>, the drain path <NUM> from the valve unit <NUM> to the toilet <NUM> (a first region 415a described below) can be shortened. Thereby, the water that leaks from the valve unit <NUM> can be drained into the toilet <NUM> easily. Also, the tilt of the bottom surface of the casing <NUM> can be shortened because the drain path <NUM> can be shortened. Thereby, the length in the vertical direction of the casing <NUM> can be reduced, and the casing <NUM> can be more compact.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, at least a portion of the valve unit <NUM> is disposed below the toilet seat <NUM>. In other words, at least a portion of the valve unit <NUM> overlaps the toilet seat <NUM> in the vertical direction. More specifically, at least a portion of the valve unit <NUM> is disposed below the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>. In other words, at least a portion of the valve unit <NUM> overlaps the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM> in the vertical direction. For example, the valve unit <NUM> is disposed below the back portion of the toilet seat <NUM>. The back portion of the toilet seat <NUM> is a portion positioned backward of the longitudinal-direction center of the toilet seat <NUM>.

Thus, at least a portion of the valve unit <NUM> is disposed below the toilet seat <NUM> including the heater <NUM> inside the toilet seat <NUM>; thereby, freezing of the valve unit <NUM> can be suppressed by the heat from the heater <NUM>. Damage of the valve unit <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed thereby. In particular, the damage of the valve unit <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed even when the valve unit <NUM> includes a hard material such as PPS or the like to increase the strength of the valve unit <NUM>.

In the embodiment, it is favorable for <NUM>% or more of the valve unit <NUM> to be positioned below the toilet seat <NUM>. Here, "<NUM>%" is <NUM>% of the surface area of the valve unit <NUM> when viewed in plan. That is, it is favorable for the surface area of the portion of the valve unit <NUM> overlapping the toilet seat <NUM> in the vertical direction when viewed in plan to be <NUM>% or more of the surface area of the valve unit <NUM> entirety when viewed in plan. Also, in the embodiment, it is more favorable for <NUM>% or more of the valve unit <NUM> to be positioned below the toilet seat <NUM>.

Thus, because <NUM>% or more of the valve unit <NUM> is positioned below the toilet seat <NUM>, the heat from the toilet seat <NUM> can be transmitted to the valve unit <NUM> more efficiently. Thereby, the damage of the valve unit <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed more reliably.

In the embodiment, the entire valve unit <NUM> may be disposed below the toilet seat <NUM>. For example, the back end of the valve unit <NUM> may be positioned further frontward than the back end of the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>. Thereby, the heat from the toilet seat <NUM> can be transmitted to the valve unit <NUM> more efficiently.

In the example as illustrated in <FIG>, the valve unit <NUM> includes the strainer <NUM>, the electromagnetic valve <NUM>, the regulating valve <NUM>, and the check valve <NUM>.

The strainer <NUM> is disposed below the toilet seat <NUM>. In other words, the strainer <NUM> overlaps the toilet seat <NUM> in the vertical direction. More specifically, the strainer <NUM> is disposed below the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>. In other words, the strainer <NUM> overlaps the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM> in the vertical direction. For example, the back end of the strainer <NUM> is positioned frontward of the back end of the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>.

Thus, damage of the strainer <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed by disposing the strainer <NUM> below the toilet seat <NUM>. Thereby, the damage of the valve unit <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed more reliably.

The electromagnetic valve <NUM> is disposed below the toilet seat <NUM>. In other words, the electromagnetic valve <NUM> overlaps the toilet seat <NUM> in the vertical direction. More specifically, the electromagnetic valve <NUM> is disposed below the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>. In other words, the electromagnetic valve <NUM> overlaps the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM> in the vertical direction. For example, the back end of the electromagnetic valve <NUM> is positioned frontward of the back end of the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>.

Thus, damage of the electromagnetic valve <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed by disposing the electromagnetic valve <NUM> below the toilet seat <NUM>. Thereby, the damage of the valve unit <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed more reliably.

The valve unit <NUM> also includes a reduced-diameter part <NUM> positioned between the strainer <NUM> and the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. The reduced-diameter part <NUM> connects the strainer <NUM> and the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. The inner diameter of the reduced-diameter part <NUM> is less than the inner diameter of the strainer <NUM>.

The reduced-diameter part <NUM> is disposed below the toilet seat <NUM>. In other words, the reduced-diameter part <NUM> overlaps the toilet seat <NUM> in the vertical direction. More specifically, the reduced-diameter part <NUM> is disposed below the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>. In other words, the reduced-diameter part <NUM> overlaps the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM> in the vertical direction. For example, the back end of the reduced-diameter part <NUM> is positioned frontward of the back end of the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>.

Thus, freezing of the reduced-diameter part <NUM> can be suppressed by disposing the reduced-diameter part <NUM> below the toilet seat <NUM>. Clogging of the reduced-diameter part <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed thereby. Accordingly, the damage of the valve unit <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed more reliably.

The regulating valve <NUM> is disposed below the toilet seat <NUM>. The check valve <NUM> is disposed below the toilet seat <NUM>. A connection part <NUM> of the valve unit <NUM> and the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is disposed below the toilet seat <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the casing <NUM> includes a low portion <NUM> positioned frontward and a high portion <NUM> positioned backward. The low portion <NUM> is positioned frontward of the high portion <NUM> and positioned below the toilet seat <NUM>. The high portion <NUM> is positioned backward of the low portion <NUM> and positioned backward of the toilet seat <NUM>. A length L2 in the vertical direction of the high portion <NUM> is greater than a length L1 in the vertical direction of the low portion <NUM>. The valve unit <NUM> is disposed in the low portion <NUM> of the casing <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, an upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> becomes lower from the back toward the front. More specifically, the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> becomes lower from the back end toward the front end.

Thus, by setting the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> to become lower from the back toward the front, the joint between the toilet seat <NUM> and the casing <NUM> can be smooth. The designability can be improved thereby.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> becomes lower from the lateral-direction center toward the side. More specifically, the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> becomes lower from the lateral-direction center toward the side end. In the example, the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> becomes lower from the center (the left side) toward the right side.

The valve unit <NUM> will now be described in detail.

<FIG> is a plan view schematically illustrating the valve unit of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment.

<FIG> is a front view schematically illustrating the valve unit of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment.

<FIG> are side views schematically illustrating the valve unit of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment. <FIG> is a side view of the valve unit <NUM> when viewed from the right. <FIG> is a side view of the valve unit <NUM> when viewed from the left.

As illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, a length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM> is less than a length D1 in the longitudinal direction of the valve unit <NUM>. That is, the length D1 in the longitudinal direction of the valve unit <NUM> is greater than the length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM>. The length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM> is less than a length W1 in the lateral direction of the valve unit <NUM>. That is, the length W1 in the lateral direction of the valve unit <NUM> is greater than the length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM>.

Here, the length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM> is the distance from the lower end of the lowermost part included in the valve unit <NUM> to the upper end of the uppermost part included in the valve unit <NUM>. In the example, the length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM> is the distance from the lower end of the strainer <NUM> to the upper end of the regulating valve <NUM>.

The length D1 in the longitudinal direction of the valve unit <NUM> is the distance from the front end of the frontmost part included in the valve unit <NUM> to the back end of the backmost part included in the valve unit <NUM>. In the example, the length D1 in the longitudinal direction of the valve unit <NUM> is the distance from the front end of the strainer <NUM> to the back end of the regulating valve <NUM>.

The length W1 in the lateral direction of the valve unit <NUM> is the distance from the right end of the rightmost part included in the valve unit <NUM> to the left end of the leftmost part included in the valve unit <NUM>. In the example, the length W1 in the lateral direction of the valve unit <NUM> is the distance from the right end of the strainer <NUM> to the left end of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>.

Thus, by setting the length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM> to be less than the length D1 in the longitudinal direction of the valve unit <NUM> and less than the length W1 in the lateral direction of the valve unit <NUM>, the valve unit <NUM> can be disposed in the low portion <NUM> at the front portion of the casing <NUM> which conventionally is a dead space. Thereby, the dead space inside the casing <NUM> can be reduced, and the casing <NUM> can be more compact.

By setting the length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM> to be less than the length D1 in the longitudinal direction of the valve unit <NUM> and less than the length W1 in the lateral direction of the valve unit <NUM>, in the case of water leakage from the valve unit <NUM>, the contact with the controller <NUM> of water leaking from the valve unit <NUM> can be suppressed more reliably.

By setting the length D1 in the longitudinal direction of the valve unit <NUM> and the length W1 in the lateral direction of the valve unit <NUM> to be greater than the length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM>, the surface area of the valve unit <NUM> opposing the toilet seat <NUM> can be increased. Thereby, the heat from the toilet seat <NUM> can be transmitted to the valve unit <NUM> more efficiently, and the damage of the valve unit <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed more reliably. By reducing the length in the vertical direction of the casing <NUM>, the casing <NUM> can be more compact.

As illustrated in <FIG>, for example, the length D1 in the longitudinal direction of the valve unit <NUM> is less than the length W1 in the lateral direction of the valve unit <NUM>.

Thus, by setting the length D1 in the longitudinal direction of the valve unit <NUM> to be less than the length W1 in the lateral direction of the valve unit <NUM>, the valve unit <NUM> can be disposed further frontward in the low portion <NUM>. Thereby, the dead space inside the casing <NUM> can be reduced further, and the casing <NUM> can be even more compact.

By setting the length D1 in the longitudinal direction of the valve unit <NUM> to be less than the length W1 in the lateral direction of the valve unit <NUM>, the drain path <NUM> from the valve unit <NUM> to the toilet <NUM> (the first region 415a described below) can be shortened. Thereby, the water that leaks from the valve unit <NUM> can be drained into the toilet <NUM> more easily, and the casing <NUM> can be more compact.

By setting the length D1 in the longitudinal direction of the valve unit <NUM> to be less than the length W1 in the lateral direction of the valve unit <NUM>, even when the valve unit <NUM> is disposed below the back portion of the toilet seat <NUM>, a wider range of the valve unit <NUM> can be disposed below the toilet seat <NUM>. Thereby, the heat from the toilet seat <NUM> can be transmitted to the valve unit <NUM> more efficiently, and the damage of the valve unit <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed more reliably. By reducing the length in the longitudinal direction of the casing <NUM>, the casing <NUM> can be more compact.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> becomes lower from the back toward the front. That is, the valve unit <NUM> is provided so that the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> conforms to the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> in the longitudinal direction. More specifically, the highest part included in the valve unit <NUM> is disposed at the back of the valve unit <NUM>, and the lowest part is disposed at the front of the valve unit <NUM>.

In the example, the height of the strainer <NUM> is less than the height of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. The strainer <NUM> is disposed further frontward than the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. More specifically, the front end of the strainer <NUM> is positioned further frontward than the front end of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. Also, the height of the regulating valve <NUM> is greater than the height of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. The regulating valve <NUM> is disposed further backward than the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. More specifically, the front end of the regulating valve <NUM> is positioned further backward than the front end of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>.

Thus, by setting the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> to become lower from the back toward the front, the valve unit <NUM> is easily disposed in the low portion <NUM> even when the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> becomes lower from the back toward the front.

By setting the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> to become lower from the back toward the front, the valve unit <NUM> can be prevented from being too proximate to the upper portion (the case cover 400b) of the casing <NUM> even when the valve unit <NUM> is disposed in the low portion <NUM> of which the upper surface 410a becomes lower from the back toward the front. Thereby, in the case of water leakage from the valve unit <NUM>, contact with the upper portion (the case cover 400b) of the casing <NUM> can be suppressed for water leaking from the valve unit <NUM>, and water leakage outside the device from the valve unit <NUM> through a gap in the casing (a gap between the case plate 400a and the case cover 400b) can be suppressed.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> becomes lower from the lateral-direction center toward the side. That is, the valve unit <NUM> is provided so that the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> conforms to the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> in the lateral direction. More specifically, the highest part included in the valve unit <NUM> is disposed at the lateral-direction center of the valve unit <NUM>, and the lowest part is disposed sideward in the valve unit <NUM>.

In the example, the height of the strainer <NUM> is less than the height of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. The strainer <NUM> is disposed further toward the side end (in the example, rightward) than the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. More specifically, the right end of the strainer <NUM> is positioned further toward the side end (rightward) than the right end of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. The height of the regulating valve <NUM> is greater than the height of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. The regulating valve <NUM> is disposed further toward the center (in the example, leftward) than the electromagnetic valve <NUM>. More specifically, the right end of the regulating valve <NUM> is positioned further toward the center (leftward) than the right end of the electromagnetic valve <NUM>.

Thus, by setting the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> to become lower from the lateral-direction center toward the side, the valve unit <NUM> is easily disposed in the low portion <NUM> even when the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> becomes lower from the lateral-direction center toward the side.

By setting the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> to become lower from the lateral-direction center toward the side, the valve unit <NUM> being too proximate to the upper portion (the case cover 400b) of the casing <NUM> can be suppressed even when the valve unit <NUM> is disposed in the low portion <NUM> of which the upper surface 410a becomes lower from the lateral-direction center toward the side. Thereby, in the case of water leakage from the valve unit <NUM>, the contact with the upper portion (the case cover 400b) of the casing <NUM> can be suppressed for water leaking from the valve unit <NUM>, and the water leakage outside the device from the valve unit <NUM> through a gap in the casing (a gap between the case plate 400a and the case cover 400b) can be suppressed.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the toilet seat <NUM> is provided along the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> in the longitudinal direction. As described above, the valve unit <NUM> is provided so that the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> conforms to the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> in the longitudinal direction.

Thus, by setting the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> to become lower from the back toward the front to conform to the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> in the longitudinal direction, and by providing the toilet seat <NUM> along the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> in the longitudinal direction, the heat from the toilet seat <NUM> can be transmitted to the valve unit <NUM> more efficiently. Thereby, the damage of the valve unit <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed more reliably.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the toilet seat <NUM> is provided along the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> in the lateral direction. As described above, the valve unit <NUM> is provided so that the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> conforms to the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> in the lateral direction.

Thus, by setting the upper end of the valve unit <NUM> to become lower from the lateral-direction center toward the side to conform to the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> in the lateral direction, and by providing the toilet seat <NUM> along the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> in the lateral direction, the heat from the toilet seat <NUM> can be transmitted to the valve unit <NUM> more efficiently. Thereby, the damage of the valve unit <NUM> due to freezing can be suppressed more reliably.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is disposed further backward than the valve unit <NUM>. More specifically, the front end of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is positioned backward of the front end of the valve unit <NUM>. The back end of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is positioned backward of the back end of the valve unit <NUM>. In the example, the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is disposed between the controller <NUM> and the valve unit <NUM> in the longitudinal direction. A length H2 in the vertical direction of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is greater than the length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM>.

Thus, by disposing the heat exchanger unit <NUM> further backward than the valve unit <NUM>, the heat exchanger unit <NUM> can be disposed at a position having few height constraints. Thereby, the length H2 in the vertical direction of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> can be greater than the length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM>, and the stored water amount of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> can be increased.

By disposing the heat exchanger unit <NUM> between the controller <NUM> and the valve unit <NUM> in the longitudinal direction, the distance between the controller <NUM> and the valve unit <NUM> can be increased. Thereby, in the case of water leakage from the valve unit <NUM>, the contact with the controller <NUM> of water leaking from the valve unit <NUM> can be suppressed more reliably. Also, when the length H2 in the vertical direction of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is greater than the length H1 in the vertical direction of the valve unit <NUM>, the heat exchanger unit <NUM> acts as a wall; thereby, the contact with the controller <NUM> of water leaking from the valve unit <NUM> can be suppressed more reliably.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is disposed further backward than the back end of the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>. More specifically, the front end of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is positioned further backward than the back end of the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>.

For example, the controller <NUM> performs freeze prevention control so that the heat exchanger unit <NUM> does not freeze. Because the heat exchanger unit <NUM> does not freeze easily due to the freeze prevention control, it is unnecessary to suppress the freezing of the valve unit <NUM> or the like due to the heat from the toilet seat <NUM>. Therefore, the heat exchanger unit <NUM> may be disposed further backward than the back end of the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>. Thus, by disposing the heat exchanger unit <NUM> further backward than the back end of the heater <NUM> of the toilet seat <NUM>, it is easy to ensure space for disposing the valve unit <NUM> below the toilet seat <NUM>. Thereby, the space below the toilet seat <NUM> can be effectively used, and the casing <NUM> can be more compact.

As illustrated in <FIG>, for example, the front end of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is positioned in the low portion <NUM>. Thus, by positioning the front end of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> in the low portion <NUM>, at least a portion of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> can be disposed in the low portion <NUM>. Thereby, the heat exchanger unit <NUM> can be disposed at the front of the casing <NUM>, and the casing <NUM> can be even more compact.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the connection part <NUM> of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> and the valve unit <NUM> is disposed frontward of the heat exchanger unit <NUM>. In other words, the valve unit <NUM> is connected to the heat exchanger unit <NUM> at the front of the heat exchanger unit <NUM>.

Thus, by disposing the connection part <NUM> of the heat exchanger unit <NUM> and the valve unit <NUM> frontward of the heat exchanger unit <NUM>, in the case of water leakage from the connection part <NUM>, contact with the controller <NUM> of water leaking from the connection part <NUM> can be suppressed. In other words, by positioning the heat exchanger unit <NUM> between the connection part <NUM> and the controller <NUM>, the heat exchanger unit <NUM> acts as a wall, and the contact with the controller <NUM> of water leaking from the connection part <NUM> can be suppressed.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, for example, the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> is a curved surface that is upwardly convex in the longitudinal direction. For example, the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> may have multiple tilted surfaces in the longitudinal direction. In such a case, for example, the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> is configured so that the tilt angle with respect to the horizontal plane increases frontward.

Thus, by setting the upper surface 410a of the low portion <NUM> to be a curved surface that is upwardly convex in the longitudinal direction, the space in the low portion <NUM> can be wider. Thereby, the valve unit <NUM> is easier to dispose in the low portion <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, for example, at least a portion of the valve unit <NUM> is disposed further backward than a longitudinal-direction center CL1 of the low portion <NUM>. In other words, the longitudinal-direction center CL1 of the low portion <NUM> overlaps the valve unit <NUM> in the longitudinal direction.

Thus, by disposing at least a portion of the valve unit <NUM> further backward than the longitudinal-direction center CL1 of the low portion <NUM>, the valve unit <NUM> can be disposed at a position having few height constraints.

<FIG> is a plan view schematically illustrating a portion of the casing of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment.

<FIG> are cross-sectional views schematically illustrating portions of the casing of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment.

<FIG> is a perspective view schematically illustrating a portion of the casing of the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment.

The flow of water on the case plate 400a is illustrated by arrows in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>.

In <FIG>, the positions of the valve unit <NUM>, the heat exchanger unit <NUM>, the controller <NUM>, and the nozzle <NUM> are illustrated by virtual lines. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view along line D1-D2 shown in <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view along line E1-E2 shown in <FIG>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the casing <NUM> includes the drain path <NUM> at the inner bottom surface. For example, the drain path <NUM> is provided at the upper surface of the case plate 400a. The water that is on the inner bottom surface of the casing <NUM> (the upper surface of the case plate 400a) is drained into the toilet <NUM> via the drain path <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the drain path <NUM> does not overlap the controller <NUM> in the vertical direction. The drain path <NUM> includes, for example, the first to third regions 415a to 415c. At least a portion of the first region 415a overlaps the valve unit <NUM> in the vertical direction. The water that leaks from the valve unit <NUM> is drained into the toilet <NUM> via the first region 415a. At least a portion of the second region 415b overlaps the heat exchanger unit <NUM> in the vertical direction. The water that leaks from the heat exchanger unit <NUM> is drained into the toilet <NUM> via the second region 415b. At least a portion of the third region 415c overlaps the nozzle <NUM> in the vertical direction. The water that leaks from the nozzle <NUM> is drained into the toilet <NUM> via the third region 415c.

The first region 415a and the second region 415b are positioned frontward of the controller <NUM>. More specifically, the back end of the first region 415a and the back end of the second region 415b are positioned frontward of the front end of the controller <NUM>. The first region 415a is positioned frontward of the second region 415b. The third region 415c is positioned sideward of the controller <NUM>. The third region 415c is positioned sideward the first region 415a and the second region 415b. The third region 415c is positioned further toward the lateral-direction center than are the first region 415a and the second region 415b.

As illustrated in <FIG>, a tilted surface that is tilted downward from the lateral-direction end portion toward the center is provided in the first region 415a of the drain path <NUM>. Similarly, a tilted surface that is tilted downward from the lateral-direction end portion toward the center is provided in the second region 415b. The water that is on the first region 415a and the second region 415b flows toward the lateral-direction center along the tilted surfaces.

As illustrated in <FIG>, a tilted surface that is tilted downward from the back toward the front is provided in the third region 415c of the drain path <NUM>. The water that is on the third region 415c flows frontward along the tilted surface.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, a drain guide part <NUM> is provided at the upper surface of the case plate 400a. The drain guide part <NUM> is provided frontward of the valve unit <NUM>. The drain guide part <NUM> is, for example, a vertical surface (a rib) extending upward from the upper surface of the case plate 400a. The water that is on the case plate 400a is dammed by the drain guide part <NUM> so that water does not flow frontward of the drain guide part <NUM>. In other words, the drain guide part <NUM> guides the water on the case plate 400a toward the lateral-direction center.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the casing <NUM> has a first drain port 417a and a second drain port 417b provided in the bottom portion of the casing <NUM>. For example, the first drain port 417a and the second drain port 417b are provided in the case plate 400a. The water that is on the case plate 400a is drained into the toilet <NUM> via the first drain port 417a and the second drain port 417b. That is, the first drain port 417a and the second drain port 417b are positioned inside the opening of the bowl <NUM> in the state in which the sanitary washing device <NUM> is mounted on the toilet <NUM>. The first drain port 417a and the second drain port 417b may be notches.

The first drain port 417a is a drain port provided proximately to the nozzle <NUM>. The second drain port 417b is a drain port provided proximately to the valve unit <NUM>. In other words, the distance between the first drain port 417a and the nozzle <NUM> is less than the distance between the second drain port 417b and the nozzle <NUM>. Also, the distance between the second drain port 417b and the valve unit <NUM> is less than the distance between the first drain port 417a and the valve unit <NUM>.

Thus, because the second drain port 417b is proximate to the valve unit, the water that leaks from the valve unit <NUM> can be drained from the second drain port 417b proximate to the valve unit <NUM> without needing to guide the water to the first drain port 417a proximate to the nozzle <NUM>. Thereby, the drain path <NUM> (the first region 415a) from the valve unit <NUM> to the toilet <NUM> can be shortened, and the water that leaks from the valve unit <NUM> can be drained more easily into the toilet <NUM>. Since the drain path <NUM> can be shortened, the length in the vertical direction of the casing <NUM> can be reduced, and the casing <NUM> can be more compact.

<FIG> is a plan view schematically illustrating the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment.

<FIG> is a plan view of the sanitary washing device <NUM> when viewed from below.

<FIG> are cross-sectional views schematically illustrating the sanitary washing device according to the embodiment.

The state in which the toilet seat <NUM> is detached is illustrated in <FIG>.

The position of the water supply hose <NUM> is illustrated by a virtual line in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>. The position of a through-hole <NUM> of the toilet <NUM> is illustrated by a virtual line in <FIG>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view along line F1-F2 shown in <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view along line G1-G2 shown in <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view along line H1-H2 shown in <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view along line J1-J2 shown in <FIG>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the casing <NUM> includes a concave portion <NUM> recessed upward from a bottom surface 400d. The bottom surface 400d of the casing <NUM> is a surface positioned at the lower end of the case plate 400a. For example, the bottom surface 400d of the casing <NUM> is a surface opposing the upper surface of the toilet <NUM> in the state in which the sanitary washing device <NUM> is mounted to the toilet <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the concave portion <NUM> has an upper surface 412b, and a side surface 412a facing backward or sideward. The upper surface 412b of the concave portion <NUM> is a surface positioned at the upper end of the concave portion <NUM>. The upper surface 412b of the concave portion <NUM> is positioned higher than the bottom surface 400d of the casing <NUM>. The depth of the concave portion <NUM> is greater than an outer diameter R1 of the water supply hose <NUM>. In other words, the distance in the vertical direction between the upper surface 412b of the concave portion <NUM> and the bottom surface 400d of the casing <NUM> is greater than the outer diameter R1 of the water supply hose <NUM>.

The water supply connection part <NUM> is provided on the side surface 412a of the concave portion <NUM>. The water supply connection part <NUM> is open backward or sideward. That is, the water supply connection part <NUM> is open in the horizontal direction. In the example, the water supply connection part <NUM> is open backward and is provided on the side surface 412a of the concave portion <NUM> facing backward. The water supply hose <NUM> is directly connected to the water supply connection part <NUM> in the horizontal direction, and the water supply connection part <NUM> is open in the horizontal direction.

Thus, by providing the concave portion <NUM> recessed upward from the bottom surface 400d in the casing <NUM> and by providing the water supply connection part <NUM> at the side surface 412a of the concave portion <NUM> facing backward or sideward, the water supply hose <NUM> can extend backward and/or sideward from the water supply connection part <NUM>. Thereby, when the sanitary washing device <NUM> is detached from the toilet <NUM> and temporarily placed on the floor or the toilet <NUM>, the kinking of the water supply hose <NUM> sandwiched between the floor and the casing <NUM> or between the toilet <NUM> and the casing <NUM> can be suppressed. Also, the temporary placement is easy because the tilt of the casing <NUM> due to the reaction force of the water supply hose <NUM> can be suppressed. By using the water supply hose <NUM> that is flexible, the water supply hose <NUM> can be arranged while suppressing the kinking when inserting the water supply hose <NUM> into the through-hole <NUM> provided in the toilet <NUM> even if the position of the through-hole <NUM> is shifted from the water supply connection part <NUM>. Also, the sanitary washing device <NUM> easily can be more compact in the vertical direction because the water supply hose <NUM> can extend backward and/or sideward from the water supply connection part <NUM>.

Because the water supply hose <NUM> is directly connected to the water supply connection part <NUM> in the horizontal direction and the water supply connection part <NUM> is open in the horizontal direction, it is unnecessary to provide a water supply pipe member connecting the water supply hose <NUM> and the water supply connection part <NUM>. Thereby, the number of parts can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced.

When the sanitary washing device <NUM> is mounted on a toilet that has the through-hole <NUM> passing through in the vertical direction, the water supply hose <NUM> that extends from the water supply connection part <NUM> in the horizontal direction is inserted into the through-hole <NUM> by being bent toward the vertical direction. Therefore, in the embodiment, the casing <NUM> includes a hose container <NUM> in which a portion of the water supply hose <NUM> can be stored by bending. When the hose container <NUM> is mounted on the toilet <NUM> having the through-hole <NUM>, there is space in which the water supply hose <NUM> can be bent while storing the water supply hose <NUM> within the outer perimeter of the casing <NUM>.

Thus, because the casing <NUM> includes the hose container <NUM> that can store the water supply hose <NUM> by bending a portion of the water supply hose <NUM>, the water supply hose <NUM> can be inserted easily into the through-hole <NUM> regardless of the position of the through-hole <NUM> provided in the toilet <NUM>. The through-holes <NUM> of diverse toilets <NUM> can be accommodated thereby. The height of the sanitary washing device <NUM> can be reduced by connecting the water supply hose <NUM> to the water supply connection part <NUM> in the horizontal direction. By providing the hose container <NUM>, the kinking of the water supply hose <NUM> sandwiched between the floor and the casing <NUM> or between the toilet <NUM> and the casing <NUM> can be suppressed when the sanitary washing device <NUM> is detached from the toilet <NUM> and temporarily placed on the floor or the toilet <NUM>.

The hose container <NUM> is the concave portion <NUM>. That is, the hose container <NUM> is provided outside the case plate 400a. In the embodiment, the hose container <NUM> may be provided inside the case plate 400a. As recited above, the water supply connection part <NUM> is provided on the side surface 412a of the concave portion <NUM>.

Thus, by using the hose container <NUM> as the concave portion <NUM> recessed upward from the bottom surface 400d of the casing <NUM> and by providing the water supply connection part <NUM> at the side surface 412a of the concave portion <NUM> facing backward or sideward, it is unnecessary to connect the water supply hose <NUM> to the water supply connection part <NUM> inside the casing <NUM>; therefore, the water supply hose <NUM> can be connected to the water supply connection part <NUM> more easily.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the concave portion <NUM> is provided at the side portion of the casing <NUM>. More specifically, the concave portion <NUM> is provided at a position not overlapping a lateral-direction center CL2 of the casing <NUM>. For example, when the casing <NUM> is divided uniformly into three regions in the lateral direction, the concave portion <NUM> is provided in a region (i.e., a region at the side portion) that does not include the lateral-direction center CL2 of the casing <NUM>.

Thus, by providing the concave portion <NUM> at a position not overlapping the lateral-direction center CL2 of the casing <NUM>, the interference between the concave portion <NUM> and parts such as the nozzle <NUM>, etc., stored at the lateral-direction center CL2 vicinity inside the casing <NUM> can be suppressed. Thereby, sufficient space for arranging the water supply hose <NUM> can be provided in the concave portion <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, a length D2 of the concave portion <NUM> in the direction in which the water supply connection part <NUM> faces the water supply hose <NUM> is greater than twice as much as the outer diameter R1 of the water supply hose <NUM>. In the example, the direction in which the water supply connection part <NUM> faces is backward. In the example, the length D2 is the distance between the front end and the back end of the concave portion <NUM>. In the embodiment, the direction in which the water supply connection part <NUM> faces may be sideward (e.g., rightward). In such a case, the length D2 is the distance between the left end and the right end of the concave portion <NUM>.

Thus, by setting the length D2 of the concave portion <NUM> in the direction in which the water supply connection part <NUM> faces the water supply hose <NUM> to be greater than twice as much as the outer diameter R1 of the water supply hose <NUM>, sufficient space for arranging the water supply hose <NUM> can be provided even when the water supply hose <NUM> is arranged by bending.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, a width W2 of the concave portion <NUM> increases along the direction in which the water supply connection part <NUM> faces the water supply hose <NUM>. In the example, the direction in which the water supply connection part <NUM> faces is backward. In the example, the width W2 is the length in the lateral direction of the concave portion <NUM>. That is, in the example, the length in the lateral direction of the front end of the concave portion <NUM> is less than the length in the lateral direction of the back end of the concave portion <NUM>. More specifically, in the example, the concave portion <NUM> includes a front portion that has a short length in the lateral direction, and a back portion that is provided backward of the front portion and has a larger length in the lateral direction than the front portion. In the embodiment, the direction in which the water supply connection part <NUM> faces may be sideward. In such a case, the width W2 is the length in the longitudinal direction of the concave portion <NUM>.

Thus, by setting the width W2 of the concave portion <NUM> to increase along the direction in which the water supply connection part <NUM> faces, the concave portion <NUM> can be smaller while ensuring sufficient space for arranging the water supply hose <NUM>. The space where other parts can be disposed inside the casing <NUM> can be increased thereby. Also, the casing <NUM> can be more compact.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the water supply connection part <NUM> is provided further frontward than a longitudinal-direction center CL3 of the casing <NUM>. More specifically, the front end of the water supply connection part <NUM> is positioned further frontward than the longitudinal-direction center CL3 of the casing <NUM>. Also, the back end of the water supply connection part <NUM> is positioned further frontward than the longitudinal-direction center CL3 of the casing <NUM>. The back end of the water supply connection part <NUM> may be positioned further backward than the longitudinal-direction center CL3 of the casing <NUM>. That is, the water supply connection part <NUM> may be provided at a position overlapping the longitudinal-direction center CL3 of the casing <NUM>.

Thus, by providing the water supply connection part <NUM> further frontward than the longitudinal-direction center CL3 of the casing <NUM>, sufficient space for bending the water supply hose <NUM> can be ensured while suppressing the kinking of the water supply hose <NUM>. Thereby, the water supply hose <NUM> can be arranged easily with respect to the through-hole <NUM> of the toilet <NUM> disposed further backward than the water supply connection part <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the water supply connection part <NUM> is provided at a position next to a side end 400e of the casing <NUM>. The distance in the lateral direction between the water supply connection part <NUM> and the side end 400e of the casing <NUM> is, for example, <NUM> or less.

Thus, by providing the water supply connection part <NUM> at a position next to the side end 400e of the casing <NUM>, the hose container <NUM> can be more proximate to the side end 400e of the casing <NUM>. Thereby, when mounted on the toilet <NUM> that has no through-hole <NUM>, the hose container <NUM> can be smaller while ensuring sufficient space for arranging the water supply hose <NUM>. The space where other parts can be disposed inside the casing <NUM> can be increased thereby. Also, the casing <NUM> can be more compact.

When the sanitary washing device <NUM> is mounted to the toilet <NUM> that has the through-hole <NUM>, for example, the water supply connection part <NUM> is provided at a position separated from the position where the through-hole <NUM> is open in the state in which the sanitary washing device <NUM> is mounted to the toilet <NUM>. More specifically, for example, the water supply connection part <NUM> is provided at a position not overlapping the through-hole <NUM> in the vertical direction in the state in which the sanitary washing device <NUM> is mounted to the toilet <NUM>.

For example, the water supply connection part <NUM> is provided further frontward than the through-hole <NUM> in the state in which the sanitary washing device <NUM> is mounted to the toilet <NUM>. For example, the water supply connection part <NUM> may be provided further sideward (toward the side end 400e side) than the through-hole <NUM> in the state in which the sanitary washing device <NUM> is mounted to the toilet <NUM>. The distance between the water supply connection part <NUM> and the through-hole <NUM> is, for example, greater than twice as much as the outer diameter R1 of the water supply hose <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, a cover member <NUM> is provided along a sideward direction of the concave portion <NUM>. The cover member <NUM> is provided detachably. In the example, the cover member <NUM> covers the back and the side of the concave portion <NUM>. For example, the cover member <NUM> may cover only the side of the concave portion <NUM>.

For example, when the through-hole <NUM> for inserting the water supply hose <NUM> is not provided in the toilet <NUM>, the water supply hose <NUM> can be arranged sideward of the concave portion <NUM> by detaching the cover member <NUM>. On the other hand, for example, when the through-hole <NUM> for inserting the water supply hose <NUM> is provided in the toilet <NUM>, the side of the concave portion <NUM> can be concealed by mounting the cover member <NUM>. Thereby, the water supply connection part <NUM> is not viewable by the user, and the designability can be improved.

By detaching the cover member <NUM>, the hose container <NUM> (the concave portion <NUM>) is open in at least one of the backward direction and the sideward direction. That is, the casing <NUM> is not provided in the direction in which the water supply connection part <NUM> faces.

Thus, by opening the hose container <NUM> toward at least one of backward or sideward, the water supply hose <NUM> can extend toward at least one of backward or sideward of the hose container <NUM>. Thereby, even when the through-hole <NUM> is not provided in the toilet <NUM>, the water supply hose <NUM> can be arranged while suppressing the kinking of the water supply hose <NUM>. That is, the sanitary washing device <NUM> can be mounted on either the toilet <NUM> that has the through-hole <NUM> or the toilet <NUM> that has no through-hole <NUM>.

Because the water supply hose <NUM> can extend toward at least one of backward or sideward of the concave portion <NUM>, the concave portion <NUM> can be smaller while ensuring sufficient space for arranging the water supply hose <NUM>. The space where other parts can be disposed inside the casing <NUM> can be increased thereby. Also, the casing <NUM> can be more compact.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the sanitary washing device <NUM> further includes a guide part <NUM> guiding the water supply hose <NUM> in the regular direction. For example, the guide part <NUM> guides the water supply hose <NUM> in the regular direction by restricting movement of the water supply hose <NUM> in the upward direction and/or the lateral direction.

Thus, by providing the guide part <NUM> that guides the water supply hose <NUM> in the regular direction, the kinking of the flexible water supply hose <NUM> can be suppressed in the state of being connected to the water supply connection part <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, for example, the guide part <NUM> includes the upper surface 412b of the concave portion <NUM>. In other words, for example, the upper surface 412b of the concave portion <NUM> functions as the guide part <NUM>.

Thus, because the upper surface 412b of the concave portion <NUM> guides the water supply hose <NUM>, the kinking of the water supply hose <NUM> can be suppressed by reducing the extension of the water supply hose <NUM> upward.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the guide part <NUM> includes the cover member <NUM> and a side surface 412c of the concave portion <NUM> opposing the cover member <NUM>. In other words, for example, the cover member <NUM> and the side surface 412c of the concave portion <NUM> function as the guide part <NUM>.

Thus, by guiding the water supply hose <NUM> by providing the cover member <NUM> provided sideward of the concave portion <NUM> and the side surface 412c of the concave portion <NUM> opposing the cover member <NUM>, the water supply hose <NUM> can be connected easily to the water supply connection part <NUM> even when the water supply hose <NUM> is connected by bending toward the lateral direction.

As illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the controller <NUM> is disposed inside the casing <NUM> above the concave portion <NUM>. More specifically, the lower end of the controller <NUM> is positioned higher than the upper surface 412b of the concave portion <NUM>. Also, the controller <NUM> is provided at a position overlapping the concave portion <NUM> in the vertical direction.

Thus, by disposing the controller <NUM> above the concave portion <NUM> inside the casing <NUM>, for example, the controller <NUM> can be disposed at a position higher than the valve unit <NUM>. Thereby, for example, in the case of water leakage from the valve unit <NUM>, the contact with the controller <NUM> of water leaking from the valve unit <NUM> can be suppressed.

According to the embodiments as described above, the kinking of the water supply hose <NUM> and/or the tilt of the casing <NUM> can be suppressed when the sanitary washing device <NUM> is detached from the toilet <NUM> and temporarily placed, and the sanitary washing device <NUM> easily can be more compact in the vertical direction.

While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions. Indeed, the novel embodiments described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the inventions. For example, the shape, the dimension, the material, the disposition, the installation feature or the like of the components included in the sanitary washing apparatus <NUM> are not limited to the illustration and can be appropriately modified.

Claim 1:
A sanitary washing device (<NUM>), comprising:
a nozzle (<NUM>) configured to discharge water toward an ano-genital region of a human body;
a valve unit (<NUM>) provided on a pipe line between a water supply source (<NUM>) and the nozzle, the valve unit including an electromagnetic valve (<NUM>); and
a casing (<NUM>) storing the nozzle and the valve unit;
characterized by further comprising:
a water supply hose (<NUM>) configured to supply water from the water supply source into the casing, the water supply hose being flexible; and
a water supply connection part (<NUM>) connecting the water supply hose and the valve unit,
the casing having a concave portion (<NUM>) recessed upward from a bottom surface of the casing, the concave portion having an upper surface and a side surface extending from the upper surface and facing backward or sideward, the concave portion being a hose container (<NUM>) which is configured to store the water supply hose by bending a portion of the water supply hose,
the water supply connection part being provided on the side surface of the hose container,
a width of the hose container increases along a direction in which the water supply connection part faces the water supply hose,
wherein the sanitary washing device further comprises:
a controller (<NUM>) configured to control operations of the nozzle and the valve unit,
the controller being disposed inside the casing and above the hose container.