JP7186904B2 - hand dryer - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to hand dryers for drying wet hands.

In order to keep the hands in a hygienic condition, it is necessary to hygienically dry the hands after washing. For this reason, instead of wiping wet hands with a towel or handkerchief after washing, a hand drying apparatus is used that dries hands by jetting a high-speed air stream to blow away water adhering to the hands.

As a conventional hand drying device, a washbasin having a space for storing water, an air nozzle for blowing high-speed air into the washbasin, a blower for generating high-speed air, a hand detection sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a hand, and a washbasin. and a capacitance sensor that detects water accumulated in the basin by means of capacitance, and when the capacitance sensor detects that water has accumulated in the basin, the hand detection sensor detects the hand. There is known a washbasin-integrated hand dryer that prevents water accumulated in the washbasin from splashing by not supplying driving power to the blower even when the air blower is in use (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2014-50473 A

However, the above-mentioned hand drying apparatus is provided with a capacitive sensor for detecting that water is accumulated in the washbasin separately from the hand detection sensor, which causes a problem of increased cost.

The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-described problems, and is a hand dryer that can suppress an increase in cost by detecting the presence or absence of hands and the presence or absence of water in the washbasin with a single sensor. The purpose is to provide an apparatus.

The hand drying device according to the present disclosure includes a nozzle that blows an air flow toward a drying processing space for drying hands, a blower that generates the air flow, and two electrodes, and detects the capacitance between the two electrodes. and a capacitance sensor detecting that there is water in the washbowl receiving the airflow when the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor is equal to or greater than a first water detection threshold, and the capacitance sensor detects a detection unit that detects presence of a hand in the drying processing space when the detected capacitance is equal to or less than a first hand detection threshold that is smaller than the first water detection threshold; , and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the blower.

Further, the hand drying device according to the present disclosure includes a nozzle for blowing an air flow toward a drying processing space for drying the hands, a blower for generating the air flow, an infrared light emitting element for emitting infrared rays, and an infrared light receiving device for receiving infrared rays. an infrared sensor for detecting the amount of infrared light received by the infrared light receiving element; a detection unit for detecting the existence of a hand in the drying processing space when the amount of received light detected by the infrared sensor is equal to or greater than a third hand detection threshold, which is larger than the third water detection threshold; an operation control unit that controls the operation of the blower based on the detection result of the unit.

According to the hand drying device according to the present disclosure, it is possible to detect that there is a hand in the drying processing space and that there is water in the washbasin with a single sensor, so it is possible to suppress an increase in cost. can.

1 is a top view of a washbasin equipped with a hand dryer according to Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the washbasin equipped with the hand dryer according to Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing the AA cross section of FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the washbasin equipped with the hand dryer according to Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing the BB cross section of FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a washbasin equipped with a hand dryer according to Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing a CC cross section of FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining the principle of the capacitance sensor of the hand dryer according to Embodiment 1, and shows a state when the hand is not close to the capacitance sensor; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining the principle of the capacitance sensor of the hand dryer according to Embodiment 1, and shows a state when a hand approaches the capacitance sensor; 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of the hand dryer according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a processing circuit according to Embodiment 1; FIG. 4 is a flow chart diagram showing the operation of the control unit of the first embodiment; FIG. 4 is a time chart diagram showing changes in capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor of the hand dryer according to Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washbasin equipped with a hand dryer according to a modification of Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing a CC cross section of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washbasin equipped with a hand dryer according to a modification of Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing a CC cross section of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washbasin equipped with a hand dryer according to a modification of Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing a CC cross section of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washbasin equipped with a hand dryer according to a modification of Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing a CC cross section of FIG. 1; FIG. 10 is a flow chart diagram showing the operation of a control unit according to the second embodiment; FIG. 11 is a flow chart diagram showing the operation of a control unit according to Embodiment 3; It is the figure which looked at the washstand provided with the hand dryer of Embodiment 4 from upper direction. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the washbasin equipped with the hand dryer of Embodiment 4, and is a cross-sectional view showing the CC cross section of FIG. 17. FIG. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a washbasin equipped with a hand dryer according to Embodiment 5, and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the CC cross section of FIG. 1; FIG. 12 is a flow chart diagram showing the operation of a control unit according to Embodiment 5; FIG. 11 is a time chart diagram showing changes in the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor of the hand dryer according to Embodiment 5;

Embodiment 1.
The configuration of a hand dryer 100 according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. FIG. FIG. 1 is a top view of a washbasin 400 equipped with a hand dryer 100 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the washbasin 400 equipped with the hand dryer 100 according to Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing the AA cross section of FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the washbasin 400 equipped with the hand dryer 100 according to Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing the BB cross section of FIG. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the washbasin 400 equipped with the hand dryer 100 according to Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing the CC cross section of FIG.

1 to 4, the x-axis direction is defined as the front-back direction, the y-axis direction is defined as the left-right direction, and the z-axis direction is defined as the up-down direction. Also, the positive direction of the z-axis direction is defined as the upward direction.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a hand dryer 100, a water ejection device 200, and a detergent ejection device 300 are installed side by side in the horizontal direction on a box-shaped washbasin 400. As shown in FIG. The hand dryer 100 dries the hands by blowing off water adhering to the hands by blowing out high-speed airflow. The hand dryer 100 is fixed to the washstand 400 through a through hole 401 formed in the washstand 400 .

The water ejection device 200 ejects water for washing hands. The water discharge device 200 is fixed to the washstand 400 through a through hole 402 formed in the washstand 400 . As shown in FIG. 3, the water discharge device 200 has a water discharge pipe 210 through which water flows. A water discharge port 211 for discharging water is formed in the water discharge pipe 210 . The water ejection device 200 may, for example, detect a hand with a sensor such as an infrared sensor and automatically eject water, or may eject water manually by pressing a button. .

The detergent discharge device 300 discharges detergent for washing hands. The detergent discharge device 300 penetrates through a through hole 403 formed in the washstand 400 and is fixed to the washstand 400 . The detergent dispensing device 300 has a detergent dispensing tube 310 through which detergent flows. A detergent discharge port 311 for discharging detergent is formed in the detergent discharge pipe 310 . The detergent discharge device 300 may detect a hand with a sensor such as an infrared sensor and automatically discharge the detergent, or may manually discharge the detergent by pressing a button. .

Washbasin 400 is installed on floor 501 so as to be in contact with wall 500 . A bowl-shaped washbasin 410 is provided above the washstand 400 . The washbasin 410 receives the airflow blown out from the hand dryer 100 , the water discharged from the water discharger 200 , and the detergent discharged from the detergent discharger 300 . A drain port 411 for discharging water is formed in the bottom surface of the washbowl 410 . A drain pipe 600 is connected to the drain port 411 .

As shown in FIG. 4, the hand dryer 100 includes a box 10 provided below the washstand 400, a main body 20 provided above the washstand 400, and a duct connecting the box 10 and the main body 20. has 30.

The box 10 is housed inside the washstand 400 . In Embodiment 1, the box 10 is attached to the wall 500 . Note that the box 10 may be installed on the floor 501 . Inside the box 10, a blower 2 for generating a high-pressure airflow and a control unit 40 for controlling the blower 2 are provided. An air filter (not shown) is detachably attached to the intake side of the blower 2 . Air filters collect dust and debris from the air. As the air filter, for example, a mesh filter or a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate) filter is used. One end of a duct 30 is connected to the exhaust side of the blower 2 .

The other end of duct 30 is connected to main body 20 . Inside the duct 30, a ventilation passage 31 is formed through which the airflow generated by the blower 2 passes. The duct 30 is made of a flexible resin that can be bent in order to improve workability. Note that the duct 30 may be made of metal such as stainless steel.

The main body 20 is fixed to the washstand 400 through a through hole 401 formed in the washstand 400 . When the detergent discharge device 300 is not installed in the washstand 400, the main body 20 may be passed through the through hole 403 for passing the detergent discharge pipe 310 therethrough. Also, the main body 20 may be fixed to the wall 500 above the washstand 400 instead of being fixed to the washstand 400 .

The main body 20 is provided with a nozzle 3 for blowing an air flow toward a drying processing space 50 for drying hands. One end of nozzle 3 is connected to duct 30 . The other end of the nozzle 3 is formed with a blowout port 3a through which the air flow generated by the blower 2 is blown. The drying processing space 50 is a space formed below the outlet 3 a of the nozzle 3 and is a space formed between the outlet 3 a and the bottom of the washbowl 410 .

The hand dryer 100 also includes a capacitance sensor 4 . The capacitance sensor 4 is a mutual capacitance type capacitance sensor that has two electrodes and detects the capacitance between the two electrodes. The capacitance sensor 4 is connected to the first electrode 4a, the second electrode 4b, and the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b. It has a circuit unit (not shown) for detecting capacitance. The capacitance sensor 4 is connected to the controller 40 by wiring (not shown).

In Embodiment 1, the first electrode 4a is installed inside the main body 20 and the second electrode 4b is installed inside the duct 30 . Specifically, the first electrode 4a is arranged above the through hole 401 of the washstand 400 inside the main body 20, and the second electrode 4b is arranged below the through hole 401 inside the duct 30. be.

The first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b have, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and are arranged vertically with their main surfaces parallel to each other. Also, the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b are installed so that the main surface faces forward, that is, in the direction in which the drying processing space 50 and the washbasin 410 are located. Thereby, the capacitance sensor 4 can detect the capacitance in the drying processing space 50 and the washbasin 410 .

The first electrode 4a is installed outside the nozzle 3 inside the main body 20 in order to prevent the high-speed airflow passing through the inside of the nozzle 3 from colliding. The second electrode 4b is installed inside the duct 30 and outside the ventilation passage 31 in order to prevent collision of the high-speed air flow passing through the inside of the ventilation passage 31 .

Here, the principle of the mutual capacitance type capacitance sensor 4 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining the principle of the capacitance sensor 4 of the hand dryer 100 according to Embodiment 1, and shows a state when the hand is not close to the capacitance sensor 4. FIG. . FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining the principle of the capacitance sensor 4 of the hand dryer 100 according to Embodiment 1, and shows a state when a hand approaches the capacitance sensor 4. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 5, the capacitance sensor 4 applies a voltage from the circuit section to the second electrode 4b to form an electric field between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4a. and the electrode 4b is detected. When a potential difference occurs between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b, an electric field is formed by capacitive coupling between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b. Since the magnitude of the capacitance is inversely proportional to the distance between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b, if a conductor such as a metal is in close proximity between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b, Then the capacitance increases. Also, when a dielectric such as water having a higher dielectric constant than air comes close, the capacitance between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b increases.

Further, as shown in FIG. 6, when a conductor, which is a part of the human body such as a hand, approaches between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b, part of the electric field is induced in the human body, The capacitance between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b is reduced. That is, since the human body in proximity between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b can be considered to be grounded, the state of electrostatic shielding is established, and the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b are in a state of electrostatic shielding. The capacitance between them becomes smaller. Thus, when a grounded conductor such as a hand comes close between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b, the static electricity between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b capacity becomes smaller.

In this embodiment, when there is water in the washbasin 410, the capacitance between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b increases, and when there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, The capacitance between the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b is reduced. Therefore, when the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 exceeds the water detection threshold used for determining whether or not there is water in the washbasin 410, it is detected that there is water in the washbasin 410. Then, when the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 becomes equal to or less than the hand detection threshold used for determining whether or not there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, it is detected that there is a hand in the drying processing space 50. Thus, the presence or absence of a hand in the drying processing space 50 and the presence or absence of water in the washbasin 410 can be detected with a single capacitance sensor 4 . Note that "there is water in the washbowl 410" means, for example, "the water is accumulated in the washbowl 410" or "the water discharged from the water discharge device 200 flows into the washbowl 410". means that there is

Next, the configuration of the control system of the hand dryer 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of the hand dryer 100 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7, the control unit 40 receives the detection result of the capacitance sensor 4 as a signal. The control unit 40 controls the operation of the blower 2 based on this received signal.

The control unit 40 has a detection unit 41 and an operation control unit 42 . The detection unit 41 detects the presence or absence of a hand in the drying processing space 50 and the presence or absence of water in the washbasin 410 based on the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 . The detection unit 41 transmits the detection results of the presence or absence of a hand in the drying processing space 50 and the presence or absence of water in the washbasin 410 to the operation control unit 42 as signals. The operation control section 42 controls the operation of the blower 2 based on the detection result of the detection section 41 .

The control unit 40 is realized, for example, as a processing circuit having the hardware configuration shown in FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a processing circuit according to Embodiment 1. FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the control unit 40 includes, for example, a processor 91 that is an arithmetic unit and a memory 92 that is a storage unit. Each function of the control unit 40 is realized by the processor 91 executing the program stored in the memory 92 . That is, the control of the detection unit 41 and the operation control unit 42 is implemented by the processor 91 and the memory 92 . Note that each function of the control unit 40 may be realized by cooperation of a plurality of processors and a plurality of memories.

Next, the operation of the hand dryer 100 of this embodiment will be described. When the user places his hand in the drying space 50 after washing his hands, the detection unit 41 receives the detection result from the capacitance sensor 4 and detects that the hand is in the drying space 50 . The operation control unit 42 receives the detection result of the detection unit 41 and drives the blower 2 . As a result, a high-speed airflow generated by the blower 2 is blown out from the nozzle 3 to blow off the water droplets adhering to the hands. The blown water droplets fall into the basin 410 and are drained from the drain port 411. - 特許庁

Here, the washbowl 410 is provided with a shut-off valve (not shown) capable of closing the drain port 411 . Therefore, the user may try to dry his/her hands while the washbasin 410 is filled with water. At this time, the high-speed air flow blown out from the nozzle 3 may collide with the water stored in the washbowl 410 without hitting the hand, causing the water to scatter. Further, even when the washbowl 410 is not filled with water, when water is being discharged from the water discharging device 200, the high-speed airflow collides with the water discharged from the water discharging device 200. , there is a risk of water splashing. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the presence or absence of water in the washbasin 410 is detected based on the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4, and when there is water in the washbasin 410, the air blower 2 is turned on. Stop driving.

Next, the operation of the control section 40 will be explained using FIG. FIG. 9 is a flow chart diagram showing the operation of the control unit 40 according to the first embodiment.

When the hand dryer 100 is powered on, the controller 40 starts control from "start" in FIG. In step S1, the detection unit 41 updates the reference value. The reference value is a value obtained from the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4, and is, for example, the average value of the capacitances detected by the capacitance sensor 4.

Next, in step S2, the detection unit 41 sets a water detection threshold used for determining whether or not there is water in the washbasin 410 and a hand detection threshold used for determining whether or not there is a hand in the drying processing space 50. set. Embodiment 1 has a first water detection threshold as a water detection threshold, and has a first hand detection threshold and a second hand detection threshold as hand detection thresholds.

The detection unit 41 sets a first water detection threshold by adding a first fixed value to the reference value updated in step S1. Further, the detection unit 41 sets the first hand detection threshold by subtracting the second fixed value from the reference value. Further, the detection unit 41 sets the second hand detection threshold by adding the first fixed value to the first hand detection threshold. That is, the first hand detection threshold is less than the first water detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold is greater than the first hand detection threshold.

The capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 fluctuates due to changes in the installation environment of the hand dryer 100, such as temperature and installation conditions of surrounding conductors, and changes over time. Therefore, the reference value is updated from the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4, and the first water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold are set based on the reference value. By doing so, the effects of changes in the installation environment of the hand dryer 100 and aging can be eliminated.

Here, the first water detection threshold may be set so that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 when water is accumulated in the washbasin 410 is greater than or equal to the first water detection threshold. Alternatively, the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 when the water discharged from the water discharge device 200 is flowing into the washbowl 410 may be set to be equal to or greater than the first water detection threshold. good.

The first hand detection threshold is set such that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 when there is no water in the washbasin 410 and there is a hand in the drying processing space 50 is equal to or less than the first hand detection threshold. Set to be The second hand detection threshold is that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 when there is water in the washbasin 410 and when there is a hand in the drying processing space 50 is equal to or less than the second hand detection threshold. Set to be Although the second hand detection threshold is set by adding the first fixed value to the first hand detection threshold, a value different from the first fixed value may be added.

Next, in step S3, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the first set time has elapsed after setting the first water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold. do. The first set time is a preset value and is a time corresponding to the update period of the water detection threshold and the hand detection threshold. The first set time is stored in the detector 41 .

In step S3, when the detection unit 41 determines that the first set time has passed after setting the first water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold, the process proceeds to step S1. Go back and update the reference values to re-set the first water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold.

As a result, the first water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold can be updated periodically, eliminating the effects of changes in the installation environment of the hand dryer 100 and aging. can do.

In step S3, if the detection unit 41 determines that the first set time has not elapsed after setting the first water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold, step Proceed to S4.

In step S4, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is greater than or equal to the first water detection threshold. When the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is greater than or equal to the first water detection threshold, the detection unit 41 detects that there is water in the washbowl 410, and the capacitance sensor 4 detects it. If the capacitance is less than the first water detection threshold, it detects that there is no water in the basin 410 .

In step S4, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is greater than or equal to the first water detection threshold value, the process proceeds to step S5. In step S5, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the second hand detection threshold. When the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the second hand detection threshold, the detection unit 41 detects that there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, and the capacitance sensor 4 detects the presence of the hand. If the capacitance is greater than the second hand detection threshold, it detects that there is no hand in the drying space 50 .

In step S5, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the second hand detection threshold value, the process returns to step S5, and the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is detected. is greater than the second hand detection threshold, step S5 is repeated. As described above, in step S5, even if the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the second hand detection threshold and it is detected that there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, the blower 2 is not driven. Since it is stopped, when there is water in the washbasin 410, the blower 2 can be driven to prevent the water in the washbasin 410 from scattering.

In step S5, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is greater than the second hand detection threshold value, the process proceeds to step S4. In step S4, the detection unit 41 repeats the operations of steps S4 and S5 until it determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is smaller than the first water detection threshold. In step S4, the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is smaller than the first water detection threshold, and when it detects that there is no water in the washbasin 410, the process proceeds to step S6. .

In step S6, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the first hand detection threshold. When the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the first hand detection threshold, the detection unit 41 detects that there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, and the capacitance is detected by the first hand detection threshold. If it is larger than the detection threshold, it is detected that there is no hand in the drying processing space 50 .

If it is determined in step S6 that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is greater than the first hand detection threshold, the process returns to step S3. When it is determined in step S6 that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the first hand detection threshold, the process proceeds to step S7, and the operation control unit 42 drives the blower 2 at the first air volume. .

In step S7, when the operation control unit 42 drives the blower 2, in step S8, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the first hand detection threshold. do. In step S8, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the first hand detection threshold value, the process returns to step S8, and the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is detected. Step S8 is repeated until it is determined that the capacitance is greater than the first hand detection threshold.

In step S8, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is greater than the first hand detection threshold value, the process proceeds to step S9, and the operation control unit 42 stops driving the blower 2. do. When the operation control unit 42 stops driving the blower 2 in step S9, the process proceeds to step S3.

FIG. 10 is a time chart showing changes in capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 10, the first water detection threshold is indicated by a dashed line, the first hand detection threshold and the second hand detection threshold are indicated by a dashed line, and the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is indicated by a solid line. Time intervals of times T0, T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T8, T9, and T10 are update cycles of the first water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold. be.

At time T1, the detection unit 41 updates the reference value, and further updates the first water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold. At time T1a, water begins to accumulate in washbasin 410 . At time T1b, the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 becomes equal to or greater than the first water detection threshold, and the detection unit 41 detects that there is water in the washbowl 410 . At times T2 and T3, the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or greater than the first water detection threshold, and it is detected that there is water in the washbowl 410. 1 water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold are stopped updating.

At time T3a, when a hand is placed in the drying processing space 50, the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 becomes equal to or less than the second hand detection threshold, and the detection unit 41 determines that the hand is in the drying processing space 50. to detect. In Embodiment 1, even if the detection unit 41 detects that a hand is present in the drying processing space 50 at time T3a, the operation control unit 42 stops driving the blower 2 . At times T4 and T5, the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or greater than the first water detection threshold, and it is detected that there is water in the washbowl 410. 1 water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold are stopped updating.

At time T4a, the water in washbasin 410 begins to be drained. When the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 falls below the first water detection threshold at time T5a, the detection unit 41 detects that there is no water in the washbasin 410 . At times T6 and T7, the detection unit 41 updates the reference value, and further updates the first water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold.

At time T7a, when a hand is placed in the drying processing space 50, the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 becomes equal to or less than the first hand detection threshold, and the detection unit 41 detects that the hand is in the drying processing space 50. to detect. At time T7a, the detection unit 41 detects that there is no water in the washbasin 410 and that there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, so the operation control unit 42 causes the blower 2 to move to the first position. Driven by airflow. At times T8, T9, and T10, the detection unit 41 updates the reference value, and further updates the first water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold.

According to the hand dryer 100 of Embodiment 1, the presence or absence of the hand is detected by detecting the presence or absence of the hand in the drying processing space 50 and the presence or absence of water in the washbasin 410 with one capacitance sensor 4. There is no need to provide a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of water in the washbowl 410 separately from the sensor for detecting water. As a result, it is possible to realize the hand dryer 100 having the hand detection function and the water detection function while suppressing an increase in cost.

In addition, since it is not necessary to provide a space for installing a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of water in the washbasin 410 separately from the space for installing the sensor for detecting the presence or absence of hands, the size of the hand dryer 100 can be suppressed. can realize the hand dryer 100 having a hand detection function and a water detection function.

Further, if a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of water in the basin 410 is used separately from the sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a hand, it is necessary to update the reference value for each sensor. By performing water detection, it is possible to update the reference values all at once.

Further, since the blower 2 is driven only when there is no water in the washbasin 410 and there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, the blower 2 is driven when there is water in the washbasin 410. As a result, it is possible to prevent the water in the washbasin 410 from splashing.

Further, when there is no water in the washbasin 410 and there is no hand in the drying processing space 50, the reference value is periodically updated to set the water detection threshold value and the hand detection threshold value. It is possible to eliminate the effects of changes in the installation environment of the hand dryer 100, such as temperature and installation conditions of surrounding conductors, and aging.

Further, when there is water in the washbasin 410 and when there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, updating of the reference value is stopped. The reference value can be updated when there is a hand in the water to prevent the water detection threshold and hand detection threshold from being changed to erroneous values.

In the first embodiment, the first electrode 4a is installed inside the main body 20, and the second electrode 4b is installed inside the duct 30. Both the electrodes 4b may be installed inside the main body 20, or both may be installed inside the duct 30. FIG. In addition, although the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b are arranged so as to sandwich the through hole 401 of the washstand 400 in the vertical direction, both the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b are arranged through the through hole. It may be installed above 401 , or both may be installed below through hole 401 . Even in this case, the main surfaces of the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b are installed to face forward, that is, in the direction of the drying processing space 50 and the washing basin 410, and the drying processing space 50 and the washing basin 410 are installed. If the capacitance in the device 410 can be detected, the control of the first embodiment can be performed.

Also, the first electrode 4 a and the second electrode 4 b may be installed outside the hand dryer 100 instead of inside the main body 20 or inside the duct 30 . FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of washbasin 400 having hand dryer 100 according to a modification of Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing a CC cross section of FIG. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of washbasin 400 equipped with hand dryer 100 according to a modification of Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing a CC cross section of FIG.

The first electrode 4a may be attached to the outer surface of the main body 20 and the second electrode 4b may be attached to the outer surface of the duct 30, as shown in FIG. Also, as shown in FIG. 12, the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b may be attached to the outer surface of the washbasin 410, that is, to the inner side of the washbasin 400 on the outer periphery of the washbasin 410. FIG. Even in this case, the main surfaces of the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b are installed to face forward, that is, in the direction of the drying processing space 50 and the washing basin 410, and the drying processing space 50 and the washing basin 410 are installed. If the capacitance in the device 410 can be detected, the control of the first embodiment can be performed.

In addition, in the first embodiment, the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b are arranged side by side in the vertical direction with their main surfaces parallel to each other and their side surfaces facing each other. The arrangement relationship between the electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b is not limited to this. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of washbasin 400 equipped with hand dryer 100 according to a modification of Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing a CC cross section of FIG. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of washbasin 400 equipped with hand dryer 100 according to a modification of Embodiment 1, and is a cross-sectional view showing a CC cross section of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 13, the first electrode 4a is installed in front of the outlet 3a of the nozzle 3 inside the main body 20 so that the main surface faces downward, and the second electrode 4b is installed inside the main body 20. It may be installed behind the outlet 3a of 3 so that the main surface faces downward. Further, as shown in FIG. 14, the first electrode 4a is installed in front of the outlet 3a of the nozzle 3 inside the main body 20 so that the main surface faces downward, and the second electrode 4b is installed inside the main body 20. may be installed behind the outlet 3a of the nozzle 3 in such that the main surface faces forward. In this case, it is necessary to widen the detection range so that the capacitance sensor 4 can detect the capacitance in the drying processing space 50 and the washbasin 410. Although the accuracy of detecting the presence or absence of water is lowered, the main surfaces of the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b are installed so as to face the direction of the drying processing space 50 and the wash basin 410, and the drying processing space 50 and the wash basin 410 are installed. If the capacitance in the device 410 can be detected, the control of Embodiment 1 can be performed.

Further, in Embodiment 1, the detection unit 41 inside the control unit 40 detects the presence or absence of a hand in the drying processing space 50 and water in the washbasin 410 based on the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 . Although the presence or absence is detected, the detection unit 41 may be provided outside the control unit 40 . For example, a detection unit 41 is provided inside the capacitance sensor 4, and the operation control unit 42 in the control unit 40 receives the detection result of the detection unit 41 inside the capacitance sensor 4 as a signal, You may make it control the operation|movement of the air blower 2. FIG.

Embodiment 2.
In the second embodiment, the configuration of the hand dryer 100 is the same as in the first embodiment, but the operation of the control unit 40 is different from that in the first embodiment. In Embodiment 1, when it is detected that there is water in the washbasin 410, even if it is detected that there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, the driving of the blower 2 is stopped. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, when it is detected that there is water in the washbasin 410, when it is detected that there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, the blower blows at a smaller air volume than when there is no water in the washbasin 410. 2. Items that are not particularly described are the same as those in Embodiment 1, and the same functions and configurations are described using the same reference numerals. Further, descriptions of functions and configurations that are the same as those of the first embodiment will be omitted.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing the operation of the control unit 40 according to the second embodiment. In step S4, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is greater than or equal to the first water detection threshold value, the process proceeds to step S5. In step S5, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the second hand detection threshold.

In step S5, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is greater than the second hand detection threshold value, the process returns to step S4. In step S5, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the second hand detection threshold, the process proceeds to step S10.

In step S10, the operation control unit 42 drives the blower 2 at the second air volume. The second air volume is an air volume smaller than the first air volume, which is the air volume when the blower 2 is driven in step S7. For example, when the operation control unit 42 can drive the blower 2 with two air volumes, "strong" and "weak," the first air volume is "strong" and the second air volume is "weak."

Next, in step S11, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the second hand detection threshold. In step S11, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or less than the second hand detection threshold value, the process returns to step S11, and the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is detected. Step S11 is repeated until it is determined that the capacity is greater than the second hand detection threshold.

In step S11, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is greater than the second hand detection threshold value, the process proceeds to step S12, and the operation control unit 42 drives the blower 2. to stop. In step S12, if the drive of the air blower 2 is stopped, it will progress to step S4.

In the hand drying apparatus 100 of Embodiment 1, the driving of the blower 2 is stopped when there is water in the washbasin 410, so the hands can be dried when there is water in the washbasin 410. However, there is a problem of poor usability. According to the hand drying apparatus 100 of Embodiment 2, when there is water in the washbasin 410 and there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, the blower 2 is dried at the second air volume smaller than the first air volume. is driven, even if there is water in the washbasin 410, it is possible to dry the hands while suppressing splashing of water in the washbasin 410. - 特許庁

Embodiment 3.
In the third embodiment, the configuration of the hand dryer 100 is the same as in the second embodiment, but the operation of the control unit 40 is different from that in the second embodiment. Embodiment 3 has a second water detection threshold used to determine whether or not the washbasin 410 is full of water. Items that are not particularly described are the same as those in the second embodiment, and the same functions and configurations are described using the same reference numerals. Also, descriptions of the same functions and configurations as those of the second embodiment will be omitted.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing the operation of the controller 40 according to the third embodiment. After updating the reference value in step S1, the process proceeds to step S21. In step S21, the detection unit 41 sets a water detection threshold and a hand detection threshold. Embodiment 3 has a first water detection threshold and a second water detection threshold as water detection thresholds, and has a first hand detection threshold and a second hand detection threshold as hand detection thresholds.

The detection unit 41 sets a first water detection threshold by adding a first fixed value to the reference value updated in step S1, and sets a second water detection threshold by adding a third fixed value to the reference value. Set the detection threshold. The third fixed value is greater than the first fixed value. That is, the second water detection threshold is greater than the first water detection threshold. Further, the detection unit 41 sets the first hand detection threshold by subtracting the second fixed value from the reference value, and sets the second hand detection threshold by adding the first fixed value to the first hand detection threshold. Set the hand detection threshold.

The second water detection threshold is a value used to determine whether or not the inside of washbasin 410 is full of water. 2 water detection threshold or more. Here, full water means, for example, a state in which 80% or more of the capacity of the washbowl 410 is filled with water. It should be noted that the full water state is not limited to a state in which 80% or more of the capacity of washbasin 410 is filled with water. It means a state in which the inside of the washbasin 410 is filled with water to such an extent that there is a risk of water splashing.

Next, in step S22, the detection unit 41 sets a first water detection threshold, a second water detection threshold, a first hand detection threshold, and a second hand detection threshold, and then sets a preset first threshold. determines whether or not the set time has elapsed. When the detection unit 41 determines that the first set time has elapsed after setting the first water detection threshold, the second water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold, Return to step S1. In step S22, the detection unit 41 sets the first water detection threshold, the second water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold until the first set time has passed. If it is determined that it is not, the process proceeds to step S23.

In step S23, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is greater than or equal to the second water detection threshold. When the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or greater than the second water detection threshold, the detection unit 41 detects that the washbasin 410 is full of water, and the capacitance sensor 4 detects it. If the capacitance is smaller than the second water detection threshold, it is detected that the washbasin 410 is not full of water.

In step S23, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is equal to or greater than the second water detection threshold value, the process returns to step S23, and the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is detected. Step S23 is repeated until it is determined that the capacity is smaller than the second water detection threshold. In step S23, when the detection unit 41 determines that the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 is smaller than the second water detection threshold, the process proceeds to step S4.

In the hand dryer 100 of Embodiment 2, when there is water in the washbasin 410 and there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, even if the inside of the washbasin 410 is full of water, the air volume is higher than the first air volume. Since the blower 2 is driven with a small second air volume, there is a risk that the water in the washbowl 410 will splash. According to the hand dryer 100 of Embodiment 3, when the inside of the washbasin 410 is full of water, the driving of the blower 2 is stopped.

Further, when the washbasin 410 is not full of water, even if there is water in the washbasin 410, the blower 2 is driven at the second airflow rate smaller than the first airflow rate. You can dry your hands while suppressing scattering.

As described above, according to the hand dryer 100 of Embodiment 3, the operation of the blower 2 can be changed according to the amount of water in the washbasin 410 . In Embodiment 3, the first water detection threshold and the second water detection threshold are set as the water detection thresholds, but three or more water detection thresholds are set according to the amount of water in washbasin 410. However, the air volume of the blower 2 may be adjusted according to the amount of water in the washbasin 410 .

Embodiment 4.
Embodiment 4 differs from Embodiments 1 to 3 in the configuration of hand dryer 100 . The hand dryer 100 of Embodiments 1 to 3 has the box 10, the main body 20, and the duct 30, but the hand dryer 100 of Embodiment 4 has a main body installed on the washstand 400. have 60. Items that are not particularly described are the same as those in Embodiments 1 to 3, and the same functions and configurations are described using the same reference numerals. Also, descriptions of the same functions and configurations as those of the first to third embodiments will be omitted.

FIG. 17 is a top view of washbasin 400 equipped with hand dryer 100 of Embodiment 4. As shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of washbasin 400 equipped with hand dryer 100 of Embodiment 4, and is a cross-sectional view showing cross section CC of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 18, the main body 60 installed on the washbasin 400 includes a blower 2 that generates a high-pressure air flow, a control unit 40 that controls the blower 2, and a drying processing space 50 that dries hands. A nozzle 3 is provided for blowing out an air stream. The main body 60 is fixed to the washstand 400 by inserting the screws 5 through the through holes 404 formed in the washstand 400 and tightening them into screw holes (not shown) formed in the main body 60 .

Further, in the fourth embodiment, the first electrode 4a of the capacitance sensor 4 is installed in the lower part of the main body 60 so that the main surface faces forward, that is, in the direction of the drying processing space 50 and the washbasin 410. be done. Also, the second electrode 4 b of the capacitance sensor 4 is installed on the outer surface of the washbasin 410 , that is, on the inner side of the washbasin 400 on the outer periphery of the washbasin 410 .

The first electrode 4 a and the second electrode 4 b may both be installed on the outer surface of the washbowl 410 , or both may be installed inside the main body 60 .

The operation of the control unit 40 of Embodiment 4 is the same as that of Embodiments 1 to 3, so description thereof will be omitted.

Like the hand dryer 100 of Embodiment 4, even if the configuration of the hand dryer 100 is different from that of Embodiments 1 to 3, the first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b allow the drying processing space 50 and If the capacitance in washbasin 410 can be detected, effects similar to those of the first to third embodiments can be obtained.

Embodiment 5.
In Embodiments 1 to 4, the presence or absence of a hand in the drying processing space 50 and the presence or absence of water in the washbasin 410 are detected based on the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 4 . On the other hand, in Embodiment 5, an infrared sensor 6 is used instead of the capacitance sensor 4 to detect the presence or absence of a hand in the drying processing space 50 and the presence or absence of water in the washbasin 410 . Items that are not particularly described are the same as those in Embodiments 1 to 4, and the same functions and configurations are described using the same reference numerals. Also, descriptions of the same functions and configurations as those of the first to fourth embodiments are omitted.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of washbasin 400 equipped with hand dryer 100 of Embodiment 5, and is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the CC cross section of FIG. As shown in FIG. 19 , the hand dryer 100 has an infrared sensor 6 instead of the capacitance sensor 4 . The infrared sensor 6 is provided, for example, inside the main body 20 in front of the outlet 3 a of the nozzle 3 .

The infrared sensor 6 includes an infrared light emitting element that emits infrared light and an infrared light receiving element that receives the infrared light emitted from the infrared light emitting element, and detects the amount of infrared light received by the infrared light receiving element. The infrared sensor 6 is connected to the controller 40 by wiring (not shown).

The infrared sensor 6 is installed so that an infrared light emitting element emits infrared rays toward the interior of the washbasin 410 . The infrared light receiving element receives infrared rays emitted from the infrared light emitting element and reflected by the washbasin 410 and outputs a signal indicating the amount of received infrared rays to the detection unit 41 .

The detection unit 41 detects the presence or absence of a hand in the drying processing space 50 and the presence or absence of water in the washbasin 410 based on the amount of received infrared light detected by the infrared sensor 6 . The operation control section 42 controls the operation of the blower 2 based on the detection result of the detection section 41 .

Here, when there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, the infrared rays emitted from the infrared light emitting element are reflected by the hand, so the amount of received infrared rays increases. Also, when there is water in the washbowl 410, the infrared rays emitted from the infrared light emitting element are absorbed by the water, so the amount of received infrared rays decreases.

Therefore, when the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 becomes equal to or less than the water detection threshold used for determining whether or not there is water in the washbasin 410, it is detected that there is water in the washbasin 410. , by detecting that there is a hand in the drying processing space 50 when the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 exceeds the hand detection threshold used for determining whether or not there is a hand in the drying processing space 50. , the presence or absence of a hand in the drying processing space 50 and the presence or absence of water in the basin 410 can be detected with one infrared sensor 6 .

The operation of the control section 40 will be explained using FIG. 20 . FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing the operation of the controller 40 according to the fifth embodiment.

In step S31, the detection unit 41 updates the reference value. The reference value is a value obtained from the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 , for example, the average value of the received amount of infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 .

In step S<b>32 , the detection unit 41 sets a water detection threshold used for determining whether or not there is water in the washbasin 410 and a hand detection threshold used for determining whether or not there is a hand in the drying processing space 50 . Embodiment 5 has a third water detection threshold as a water detection threshold and a third hand detection threshold as a hand detection threshold. The detection unit 41 sets the third water detection threshold by subtracting the third fixed value from the reference value updated in step S31. Further, the detection unit 41 sets a third hand detection threshold by adding a fourth fixed value to the reference value.

In step S33, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not a preset first set time has elapsed after setting the third water detection threshold value and the third hand detection threshold value. When the detection unit 41 determines that the first set time has elapsed after setting the third water detection threshold value and the third hand detection threshold value, the process returns to step S31 to update the reference value and set the third water detection threshold value. The detection threshold and the third hand detection threshold are set again.

In step S33, when the detection unit 41 determines that the first set time has not elapsed after setting the third water detection threshold value and the third hand detection threshold value, the process proceeds to step S34.

In step S34, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is equal to or less than the third water detection threshold. When the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is equal to or less than the third water detection threshold, the detection unit 41 detects that there is water in the washbasin 410, and detects the received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6. If the amount is greater than the third water detection threshold, it detects no water in the basin 410 .

In step S34, when the detection unit 41 determines that the amount of received infrared light detected by the infrared sensor 6 is equal to or less than the third water detection threshold value, the process proceeds to step S35. In step S35, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is equal to or greater than the third hand detection threshold. When the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is greater than or equal to the third hand detection threshold value, the detection unit 41 detects that there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, and detects the reception of infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6. If the amount is less than the third hand detection threshold, then the absence of a hand in the drying process space 50 is detected.

In step S35, when the detection unit 41 determines that the amount of received infrared light detected by the infrared sensor 6 is equal to or greater than the third hand detection threshold value, the process returns to step S35, and the amount of received infrared light detected by the infrared sensor 6 reaches the third threshold. Step S35 is repeated until it is determined that the hand detection threshold is smaller than 3. In step S35, when the detection unit 41 determines that the amount of received infrared light detected by the infrared sensor 6 is smaller than the third hand detection threshold value, the process proceeds to step S34. In step S34, the detection unit 41 repeats the operations of steps S34 and S35 until it determines that the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is greater than the third water detection threshold.

In step S34, when the detection unit 41 determines that the amount of received infrared light detected by the infrared sensor 6 is greater than the third water detection threshold value, the process proceeds to step S36. In step S36, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is greater than or equal to the third hand detection threshold.

If it is determined in step S36 that the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is smaller than the third hand detection threshold, the process returns to step S33. If it is determined in step S36 that the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is greater than or equal to the third hand detection threshold, the operation control unit 42 proceeds to step S37 and drives the blower 2 at the first air volume.

In step S38, the detection unit 41 determines whether or not the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is greater than or equal to the third hand detection threshold. In step S38, when the detection unit 41 determines that the amount of received infrared light detected by the infrared sensor 6 is equal to or greater than the third hand detection threshold value, the process returns to step S38, and the amount of received infrared light detected by the infrared sensor 6 is Step S38 is repeated until it is determined to be smaller than the third hand detection threshold.

In step S38, when the detection unit 41 determines that the amount of received infrared light detected by the infrared sensor 6 is smaller than the third hand detection threshold value, the process proceeds to step S39, and the operation control unit 42 stops driving the blower 2. . In step S39, if the drive of the air blower 2 is stopped, it will progress to step S33.

FIG. 21 is a time chart showing changes in the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 of the hand dryer 100 according to the fifth embodiment. In FIG. 21, the third water detection threshold is indicated by a dashed line, the third hand detection threshold is indicated by a dashed line, and the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is indicated by a solid line. Time intervals of times T0, T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T8, T9, and T10 are update cycles of the third hand detection threshold and the third water detection threshold.

At time T1, the detection unit 41 updates the reference value, and further updates the third hand detection threshold and the third water detection threshold. At time T1a, water begins to accumulate in washbasin 410 . At time T1b, the amount of received infrared rays detected by infrared sensor 6 becomes equal to or less than the third water detection threshold, and detection unit 41 detects that there is water in wash basin 410 . At times T2 and T3, the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is equal to or less than the third water detection threshold, and it is detected that there is water in the washbasin 410. The update of the second hand detection threshold and the third water detection threshold is stopped.

At time T3a, when a hand is placed in the drying processing space 50, the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 becomes equal to or greater than the third hand detection threshold, and the detection unit 41 detects that the hand is in the drying processing space 50. to detect. In Embodiment 5, even if the detection unit 41 detects that a hand is present in the drying processing space 50 at time T3a, the operation control unit 42 stops driving the blower 2 . At time T3a, when the detection unit 41 detects that there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, the blower 2 is driven with a second air volume smaller than the first air volume, as in the second embodiment. may

At times T4 and T5, the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 is equal to or less than the third water detection threshold, and it is detected that there is water in the washbasin 410. The update of the second hand detection threshold and the third water detection threshold is stopped.

At time T5a, the water in washbasin 410 begins to be drained. At time T5b, when the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 exceeds the third water detection threshold, the detection unit 41 detects that there is no water in the washbasin 410 . At times T6 and T7, the detection unit 41 updates the reference value, and further updates the third hand detection threshold and the third water detection threshold.

At time 7a, when a hand is placed in the drying processing space 50, the amount of received infrared rays detected by the infrared sensor 6 becomes equal to or greater than the third hand detection threshold value, and the detection unit 41 detects that the hand is in the drying processing space 50. to detect. At time 7a, the detection unit 41 detects that there is no water in the washbasin 410 and that there is a hand in the drying processing space 50, so the operation control unit 42 sets the blower 2 to the first position. Driven by airflow. At times T8, T9, and T10, the detection unit 41 updates the reference value, and further updates the third hand detection threshold and the third water detection threshold.

According to the hand drying apparatus 100 of Embodiment 5, one infrared sensor 6 detects the presence or absence of the hand in the drying processing space 50 and the presence or absence of water in the washbasin 410, thereby detecting the presence or absence of the hand. Separately, there is no need to provide a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of water in the washbowl 410 . As a result, the hand dryer 100 having the hand detection function and the water detection function can be realized while suppressing an increase in cost. As described above, even if the infrared sensor 6 is used instead of the capacitance sensor 4, the effects of the present disclosure can be obtained by detecting the presence of hands and the presence of water in the washbasin with a single sensor. be done.

The configuration shown in the above embodiment shows an example of the content of the present disclosure, and can be combined with another known technology. It is also possible to omit or change parts.

Reference Signs List 2 air blower 3 nozzle 3a outlet 4 capacitance sensor 4a first electrode 4b second electrode 5 screw 6 infrared sensor 10 box 20 main body 30 duct 31 ventilation path 40 Control Part 41 Detection Part 42 Operation Control Part 50 Drying Processing Space 60 Main Body 91 Processor 92 Memory 100 Hand Dryer 200 Water Discharge Device 210 Water Discharge Pipe 211 Water Discharge Port 300 Detergent Discharge Device , 310 detergent discharge pipe, 311 detergent discharge port, 400 washstand, 401 to 404 through holes, 410 washbasin, 411 drain port, 500 wall, 501 floor, 600 drain pipe.

Claims (8)

a nozzle for blowing an air flow toward a drying treatment space for drying hands;
a blower for generating the airflow;
a capacitance sensor comprising two electrodes and detecting a capacitance between the two electrodes;
When the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor is equal to or greater than a first water detection threshold, the presence of water in the washbasin that receives the air flow is detected, and the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor. a detection unit that detects the presence of a hand in the drying processing space when the capacity is equal to or less than a first hand detection threshold that is smaller than the first water detection threshold;
an operation control unit that controls the operation of the blower based on the detection result of the detection unit;
Hand dryer with. When the detection unit detects that there is water in the washbasin, the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor is equal to or less than a second hand detection threshold that is greater than the first hand detection threshold. 2. The hand drying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein it is detected that a hand is present in the drying processing space when . The detection unit detects the first water when a preset time has elapsed after setting the first water detection threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold. 3. The hand dryer of claim 2, wherein the threshold, the first hand detection threshold, and the second hand detection threshold are updated. When the detection unit detects that there is water in the washbasin and that a hand is in the drying processing space, the detection unit sets the first water detection threshold and the first hand detection threshold. 4. The hand dryer of claim 3, wherein the second hand detection threshold is stopped updating. The hand dryer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the operation control unit stops driving the blower when the detection unit detects that there is water in the washbasin. When the detection unit detects that there is no water in the washbasin and that there is a hand in the drying processing space, the operation control unit drives the blower at a first air volume. when the detection unit detects that there is water in the washbasin and that there is a hand in the drying processing space, the blower is set to a second air flow rate smaller than the first air flow rate. 5. A hand dryer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, driven by a. The detection unit detects that the washbasin is full of water when the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor is equal to or greater than a second water detection threshold that is larger than the first water detection threshold. ,
7. The hand dryer according to claim 6, wherein the operation control unit stops driving the blower when the detection unit detects that the inside of the washbasin is full of water. a nozzle for blowing an air flow toward a drying treatment space for drying hands;
a blower for generating the airflow;
an infrared sensor that includes an infrared light emitting element that emits infrared light and an infrared light receiving element that receives the infrared light, and detects the amount of received infrared light received by the infrared light receiving element;
When the amount of received light detected by the infrared sensor is equal to or less than a third water detection threshold, it is detected that there is water in the washbasin that receives the air flow, and the amount of received light detected by the infrared sensor exceeds the third threshold. a detection unit that detects presence of a hand in the drying processing space when the third hand detection threshold is greater than the water detection threshold;
an operation control unit that controls the operation of the blower based on the detection result of the detection unit;
Hand dryer with.

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