JP7636720B2 - Hand Dryer - Google Patents

Description

Aspects of the present invention generally relate to hand dryers.

There are hand dryers that are attached to the walls of toilets and washrooms and are used to dry the hands of users after washing their hands. For example, from the perspective of preventing infectious diseases, such hand dryers are required to be cleaned at an appropriate time. However, if the cleaner does not notice that the hand dryer needs to be cleaned, cleaning will not be performed and the hand dryer may be used in a state that requires cleaning (i.e., in a dirty state).

JP 2014-226297 A International Publication No. 2015/128987

The present invention was developed based on the recognition of this problem, and aims to provide a hand dryer that can more reliably inform the cleaner that cleaning is required.

The first invention is a hand dryer comprising a main body and a control unit that determines the state of dirt on the main body and outputs the determination result, the control unit determines whether the main body is in a non-cleaning state where cleaning is not required or in a cleaning required state where cleaning is required, and when it is determined that the main body is in the cleaning required state, outputs first information indicating that the main body is in the cleaning required state.

When the hand dryer determines that the main body needs cleaning, it outputs first information indicating that the main body needs cleaning, thereby more reliably informing the cleaner that cleaning is required. This makes it possible to encourage the cleaner to clean at an appropriate time, and to prevent the hand dryer from being used in a state that requires cleaning (i.e., a dirty state).

The second invention is the hand dryer according to the first invention, further comprising a notification unit that notifies the result of the determination, and when the control unit determines that the main body is in the cleaning required state, it outputs the first information to the notification unit, and when the first information is input, the notification unit notifies the user that the main body is in the cleaning required state.

According to this hand dryer, the first information is output to a notification unit provided in the hand dryer, and the notification unit notifies the user that cleaning is required, so that the cleaner can know that the hand dryer needs cleaning just by looking at it. This makes it possible to more reliably encourage the cleaner to clean.

The third invention is a hand dryer according to the second invention, further comprising an air blowing unit that blows air, and the control unit, when it is determined that the main body unit is in the cleaning required state, outputs the first information to the notification unit a predetermined time after the air blowing unit stops.

According to this hand dryer, when it is determined that the main body needs cleaning, the first information is output to the notification unit a predetermined time after the air blowing unit stops, so that a notification can be given after the user has used the hand dryer. This makes it easier to inform the cleaner that the hand dryer needs cleaning without the user realizing it.

The fourth invention is a hand dryer according to any one of the first to third inventions, further comprising a communication unit arranged to be able to communicate with an external device, and when it is determined that the main body unit is in the cleaning required state, the control unit outputs the first information to the external device via the communication unit, and when the first information is input, the external device reports that the main body unit is in the cleaning required state.

This hand dryer outputs the first information to an external device via the communication unit and notifies the external device that cleaning is required, so that the cleaner can know that cleaning is required on an external device such as a monitor in a management room where the cleaner is present or a smart mirror near the hand dryer. This makes it possible to more reliably encourage the cleaner to clean.

The fifth invention is a hand dryer according to the second or third invention, further comprising a communication unit arranged to be able to communicate with an external device, and when it is determined that the main body unit is in the cleaning required state, the control unit outputs the first information to the external device via the communication unit, and then outputs the first information to the notification unit, and when the first information is input, the external device notifies the user that the main body unit is in the cleaning required state.

According to this hand dryer, the first information is output to an external device via the communication unit, and then the first information is output to the notification unit, so that the cleaner can be notified in advance that cleaning is required, without the user being aware of it. This allows cleaning to be completed before the user is aware of it.

The sixth invention is a hand dryer according to the second or third invention, further comprising a communication unit arranged to be able to communicate with an external device, and when it is determined that the main body unit is in the cleaning required state, the control unit outputs the first information to the notification unit and then outputs the first information to the external device via the communication unit, and when the first information is input, the external device notifies the user that the main body unit is in the cleaning required state.

According to this hand dryer, after the first information is output to the notification unit, the first information is output to an external device via the communication unit, so that the notification on the external device can be used as a reminder notification function that notifies the cleaner only if the hand dryer continues to be used without being cleaned.

The seventh invention is a hand dryer according to any one of the first to sixth inventions, characterized in that the control unit, when the main body is in the cleaning-unnecessary state, determines whether the cleaning-necessary state is approaching, and if it is determined that the cleaning-necessary state is approaching, outputs second information indicating that the cleaning-necessary state is approaching.

When this hand dryer determines that a cleaning-necessity state is imminent, it outputs second information indicating that the cleaning-necessity state is imminent, thereby informing the cleaner that the cleaning-necessity state is imminent before the cleaning-necessity state actually occurs. This makes it easier for the cleaner to create an efficient cleaning plan.

The eighth invention is a hand dryer according to any one of the first to seventh inventions, characterized in that the control unit outputs information about the current soiling state when an output command signal is input.

According to this hand dryer, when an output command signal is input, information on the current soiling state is output, so that the cleaner can easily grasp the current soiling state, such as whether cleaning is required or whether the cleaning is about to be required. For example, when an output command signal is input via an operation unit provided in the hand dryer, information on the current soiling state is output to the notification unit, so that even if the notification indicating the soiling state is overlooked, the cleaner can easily grasp the current soiling state. In addition, for example, a decision can be made on site to clean the hand dryer together with other appliances in accordance with the cleaning timing, which reduces the cleaning load. In addition, for example, even if there are hand dryers with different usage conditions, it is possible to grasp the hand dryer that needs cleaning. In addition, for example, when an output command signal is input via an external device, information on the current soiling state is output to the external device, so that the cleaner can easily grasp the current soiling state via the external device. This makes it easier for the cleaner to create an efficient cleaning plan.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a hand dryer is provided that can more reliably inform the cleaner that cleaning is required.

1 is a perspective view showing a hand drying device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a hand dryer according to a first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. 8( a ) and 8 ( b ) are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a hand dryer according to a second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the hand dryer according to the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a hand dryer according to a third embodiment. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the hand dryer according to the third embodiment.

The present embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that in each drawing, similar components are given the same reference numerals and detailed descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

First Embodiment
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a hand dryer according to a first embodiment.
As shown in Fig. 1, the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment includes a main body 10. The main body 10 has a concave drying chamber 13 into which a user's hands can be inserted. The hand dryer 100 is attached to, for example, a wall surface of a toilet room when in use. The hand dryer 100 detects hands inserted into the drying chamber 13, and blows air onto the hands inside the drying chamber 13. In this way, the hand dryer 100 dries hands that are wet, for example, after washing their hands after using the toilet.

The drying chamber 13 opens, for example, upward, and dries the hands inserted therein. The main body 10 is, for example, in the shape of an open box that opens upward. Therefore, the user can dry their hands by inserting their hands into the drying chamber 13 from top to bottom. The opening direction of the drying chamber 13 is not limited to the upward direction, and may be, for example, forward or diagonally upward toward the front. The opening direction of the drying chamber 13 may be any direction that makes it easy for the user to insert their hands.

The opening of the drying chamber 13 is long horizontally. The horizontal length of the opening of the drying chamber 13 is longer than the front-to-rear length of the opening of the drying chamber 13. This allows the hand dryer 100 to insert the left and right hands into the drying chamber 13 from above with the hands lined up horizontally. In other words, the user can simply insert both hands into the drying chamber 13 with both hands hanging down, allowing the hands to be dried in a natural posture.

The main body 10 has a front surface 10a, a rear surface 10b, and a pair of side surfaces 10c, 10d. In this example, the main body 10 is a substantially rectangular box. The drying chamber 13 is, for example, a substantially rectangular recess surrounded at the front, rear, and both sides by the front surface 10a, the rear surface 10b, and the side surfaces 10c, 10d.

The drying chamber 13 has an inner surface on the front side formed by the front portion 10a, an inner surface on the back side formed by the back portion 10b, and a bottom surface that is continuous with the lower ends of each inner surface. In addition, both side ends of each inner surface and bottom surface are closed by each side portion 10c, 10d. Each surface of the drying chamber 13 receives water droplets blown off from wet hands.

The shapes of the main body 10 and the drying chamber 13 are not limited to this, and may be any shape that allows hands to be inserted. Each side portion 10c, 10d may be omitted, for example. That is, the drying chamber 13 may be in the shape of a groove that is open at the top and sides. In this way, the shape of the drying chamber 13 may be a shape in which a part other than the opening for inserting hands is open.

The main body 10 has a number of air outlets 15 for blowing air into the drying chamber 13. Each air outlet 15 is, for example, a substantially circular opening. Each air outlet 15 is provided on the inner surface on the front side of the front part 10a and on the inner surface on the rear side of the rear part 10b. Each air outlet 15 is, for example, arranged in a substantially straight line in the lateral direction (horizontal direction) on each inner surface.

Each air outlet 15 is provided, for example, near the upper end (opening end) of each inner surface, and blows air diagonally downward. That is, each air outlet 15 blows water droplets toward the bottom side of the drying chamber 13. This prevents the blown water droplets from splashing on the user.

The shape of the air outlet 15 may be any shape. The number of air outlets 15 may be any number. For example, one air outlet in the shape of a slit extending laterally may be provided in the main body 10. The air outlets may be any shape and number that can appropriately blow air onto the hands inserted in the drying chamber 13.

The main body 10 has, for example, a pair of ventilation holes 17 provided on each side portion 10c, 10d. Each ventilation hole 17 allows the air blown out from each air outlet 15 to escape to the outside of the drying chamber 13. This makes it possible to prevent, for example, air containing water droplets from being turned back inside the drying chamber 13 and heading toward the user. In other words, it is possible to prevent the blown-off water droplets from heading toward the user.

The main body 10 further includes a water receiving tray 18. The water receiving tray 18 is, for example, detachably attached to the bottom of the main body 10. The main body 10 has a drainage groove (not shown). Water droplets received on each surface of the drying chamber 13 are sent to the water receiving tray 18 via the drainage groove. In this way, the water receiving tray 18 collects water droplets blown away within the drying chamber 13.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hand dryer according to the first embodiment.
As shown in Figure 2, the hand dryer 100 of the first embodiment further includes an intake port 14, an air duct 16, a blower section 20, a heating section 25, a hand detection section 30, an operation section 40, a control section 50, a memory section 55, an alarm section 60, and a communication section 70.

The intake port 14 is provided, for example, at the bottom of the main body 10. The intake port 14 is an opening for taking in gas (air) from the outside into the main body 10. The air passage 16 connects the intake port 14 to each of the air outlets 15. The air passage 16 is composed of, for example, multiple ducts, and sends the gas taken in from the intake port 14 to each of the air outlets 15.

The blower 20 sends air into the drying chamber 13. The blower 20 is, for example, an electric blower (fan motor). The blower 20 is provided in the air passage 16. The blower 20, for example, draws in air from the room in which the hand dryer 100 is installed through the suction port 14 and supplies the air to the air passage 16, thereby blowing air out of each of the air outlets 15 provided at the downstream end of the air passage 16 toward the drying chamber 13. The blower 20 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The blower 20 operates in response to a signal from the control unit 50.

The heating unit 25 heats the air sent to the drying chamber 13. The heating unit 25 is, for example, a fin heater. The heating unit 25 may be any heater capable of heating the gas directed from the blower unit 20 to each outlet 15. The heating unit 25 is provided, for example, between the blower unit 20 and each outlet 15 in the air passage 16. The heating unit 25 heats the gas (air) directed from the blower unit 20 to each outlet 15, thereby warming the gas blown out from each outlet 15. As a result, in the hand drying device 100, the warm air warmed by the heating unit 25 can be blown out from each outlet 15. As a result, for example, the drying performance of the user's hands can be improved. For example, the user's hands can be dried in a shorter time than when unheated air is blown out. The heating unit 25 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The heating unit 25 operates in response to a signal from the control unit 50. The heating unit 25 is provided as necessary and can be omitted.

The hand detection unit 30 detects a hand inserted into the drying chamber 13. The hand detection unit 30 is, for example, a transmissive optical sensor (photointerrupter). The hand detection unit 30 is not limited to this and may be any sensor capable of detecting a user's hand. The hand detection unit 30 may be, for example, a reflective optical sensor, a distance sensor, a pyroelectric sensor, a capacitance sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a microwave sensor. The hand detection unit 30 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The hand detection unit 30 outputs the detection result to the control unit 50.

The operation unit 40 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The operation unit 40 receives operations from the user and inputs the user's operation instructions to the control unit 50. The control unit 50 controls the operation of each part of the hand dryer 100 in response to the input operation instructions. The operation unit 40 is disposed in an inconspicuous position where the user can operate it, such as the bottom of the main body 10. The operation unit 40 is used, for example, to switch the operation mode of the hand dryer 100.

The control unit 50 is electrically connected to the air blowing unit 20, the heating unit 25, the hand detection unit 30, and the operation unit 40. The control unit 50 controls the air blowing unit 20 and the heating unit 25. For example, when the hand detection unit 30 detects the user's hand, the control unit 50 outputs a signal to the air blowing unit 20 and the heating unit 25 to start operation. In addition, for example, when the hand detection unit 30 no longer detects the user's hand, the control unit 50 outputs a signal to the air blowing unit 20 and the heating unit 25 to stop operation.

The control unit 50 acquires information regarding dirt on the main body unit 10. In this example, the control unit 50 acquires operation information of the hand dryer 100. The operation information includes, for example, at least one of the time that power is supplied to the control unit 50, the number of times that the blower unit 20 is operated, and the operation time of the blower unit 20.

The control unit 50 judges the state of dirtiness of the main body unit 10 based on the acquired information. More specifically, the control unit 50 judges whether the main body unit 10 is in a non-cleaning state where cleaning is not required, or in a cleaning required state where cleaning is required. The conditions for judgment can be set (i.e., changeable) to any condition by the cleaner, for example. More specifically, the parameters and thresholds of the judgment conditions can be set (i.e., changeable) to any parameter or threshold by the cleaner. The conditions for judgment can be changed, for example, by operating the operation unit 40 or the external device 200.

The memory unit 55 stores past operation information, which is past operation information of the hand dryer 100. The memory unit 55 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The control unit 50 determines the soiling state of the main body unit 10, for example, based on the operation information and the past operation information stored in the memory unit 55.

The control unit 50 outputs the determination result. More specifically, when the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning, it outputs first information indicating that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning. The control unit 50 outputs the first information to at least one of the notification unit 60 and the external device 200. The control unit 50 may, for example, output the first information to both the notification unit 60 and the external device 200.

In this example, the control unit 50 is a CPU, and acquires information about dirt on the main body unit 10, judges the dirt state of the main body unit 10, and outputs the judgment result. The control unit 50 may be structurally divided into, for example, a part that acquires information about dirt on the main body unit 10, a part that judges the dirt state of the main body unit 10, and a part that outputs the judgment result.

The notification unit 60 notifies the judgment result. More specifically, when the first information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies that the main body unit 10 needs cleaning. The notification unit 60 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The notification unit 60 notifies the judgment result, for example, by at least one of light and sound. The notification unit 60 includes, for example, at least one of a light output unit and a sound output unit. The light output unit is provided, for example, on the inner surface of the drying chamber 13. The light output unit, for example, lights up weakly when not in use (standby), lights up strongly when in use, and flashes when reporting. The light output unit, for example, flashes with different flashing patterns depending on the content of the report. The sound output unit is provided, for example, inside the main body unit 10. The sound output unit, for example, outputs a buzzer sound or voice when reporting. Furthermore, if the notification unit 60 has a display unit capable of displaying text and images, the notification unit 60 may notify the determination result by displaying text and images.

The communication unit 70 is provided so as to be able to communicate with the external device 200. The communication between the communication unit 70 and the external device 200 may be wired communication or wireless communication. The communication unit 70 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The control unit 50 outputs the first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70.

The external device 200 notifies the determination result. More specifically, when the first information is input, the external device 200 notifies that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning. The external device 200 is, for example, a monitor in a management room where a cleaner is present, or a smart mirror provided near the hand dryer. The external device 200 may be, for example, an information display terminal carried by a cleaner. The external device 200 has, for example, a display unit capable of displaying characters and images. The external device 200 notifies the determination result by, for example, displaying characters and images. The external device 200 may also notify the determination result by, for example, at least one of light and sound. In this case, the external device 200 includes, for example, at least one of a light output unit and a sound output unit.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment.
3, the control unit 50 acquires operation information of the hand dryer 100, and determines the dirt state of the main body unit 10 based on the operation information. In this example, the control unit 50 acquires two or more of the power supply time to the control unit 50, the number of times the blower unit 20 is operated, and the operation time of the blower unit 20, and determines the dirt state of the main body unit 10 based on the two or more.

More specifically, when the hand dryer 100 is turned on (i.e., when power is supplied to the control unit 50), the control unit 50 acquires operating information (step S101).

Next, the control unit 50 determines whether the operating information satisfies a first operating condition (step S102). The first operating condition is, for example, whether the time that power is supplied to the control unit 50 exceeds a threshold value (for example, two days). The first operating condition may be, for example, whether the number of times that the blower unit 20 is operated exceeds a threshold value (for example, 800 times). The first operating condition may be, for example, whether the time that the blower unit 20 is operated exceeds a threshold value (for example, two hours). The parameters and threshold value of the first operating condition can be set arbitrarily.

If the operation information satisfies the first operation condition (step S102: Yes), the control unit 50 judges whether the current operation information is similar to the past operation information stored in the memory unit 55 (step S103). Here, as an example, a case where the first operation condition is satisfied when the number of operations of the blower unit 20 exceeds 800 times will be described. In the past operation information, it is assumed that the power supply time to the control unit 50 at the time when the number of operations of the blower unit 20 exceeds 800 times is X hours. In the current operation information, it is assumed that the power supply time to the control unit 50 at the time when the number of operations of the blower unit 20 exceeds 800 times is Y hours. When Y is an approximation value of X, the control unit 50 judges that the current operation information is similar to the past operation information stored in the memory unit 55. For example, when Y is within the range of X ± 20% (i.e., when 0.8X ≦ Y ≦ 1.2X is satisfied), the control unit 50 judges that Y is an approximation value of X. The past operating information may be the operating information at the time when it was determined the main body 10 was in a state requiring cleaning the previous time, or may be the average value of the operating information at the time when it was determined the main body 10 was in a state requiring cleaning the past several times.

If it is determined that the current operating information is similar to the past operating information stored in the memory unit 55 (step S103: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning (step S104). Next, the control unit 50 stores the operating information in the memory unit 55 (step S105).

Next, the control unit 50 outputs the first information indicating that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S106). When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the current operating information is not similar to the past operating information stored in the memory unit 55 (step S103: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S107). Next, the control unit 50 corrects the operating information (step S108). For example, the control unit 50 corrects the current operating information to the average value of the past operating information stored in the memory unit 55. For example, the control unit 50 may reset the current operating information. That is, the control unit 50 may set at least one of the counts of the power supply time to the control unit 50, the number of times the blower unit 20 has been operated, and the operating time of the blower unit 20 to 0. If it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 does not output the first information.

Furthermore, if the operating information does not satisfy the first operating condition (step S102: No), the control unit 50 determines whether the operating information satisfies the second operating condition (step S109). The second operating condition is, for example, whether the number of times the blower unit 20 has been operated exceeds a threshold value (for example, 1200 times). The second operating condition may be, for example, whether the time that electricity has been supplied to the control unit 50 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, three days). The second operating condition may be, for example, whether the operating time of the blower unit 20 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, three hours). The parameters and threshold value of the second operating condition can be set arbitrarily. However, the parameters of the second operating condition are different from the parameters of the first operating condition.

If the operation information satisfies the second operation condition (step S109: Yes), the control unit 50 proceeds to step S103. If the operation information does not satisfy the second operation condition (step S109: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S110). If it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 does not output the first information.

Note that step S103 is performed as necessary and can be omitted. When step S103 is omitted, if the operation information satisfies the first operation condition (step S102: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning (step S104). Furthermore, when step S103 is omitted, steps S105, S107, and S108 are also omitted.

In addition, step S109 is performed as necessary and can be omitted. When step S109 is omitted, if the operation information does not satisfy the first operation condition (step S102: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S110).

In this way, by determining the state of dirt on the main body 10 based on information about the dirt on the main body 10, it is possible to accurately determine the degree of dirt on the main body 10 in the usage environment. As a result, even if the degree of dirt changes depending on the usage environment, it is possible to know the appropriate cleaning timing according to the usage environment, and the cleaner can clean the hand dryer 100 at the appropriate time.

In addition, by determining the state of dirt on the main body 10 based on the operating information of the hand dryer 100, it is possible to accurately determine the degree of dirt on the main body 10 with a simple configuration without making major changes to the configuration of conventional hand dryers. This allows the cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at the appropriate time.

In addition, since the operating information includes at least one of the time that power is supplied to the control unit 50, the number of times that the air blower unit 20 is operated, and the operating time of the air blower unit 20, the degree of dirt on the main body unit 10 can be accurately determined from information that can also be collected with conventional hand dryers. This allows the cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at an appropriate time.

In addition, by determining the state of dirt on the main body 10 based on two or more of the time that power is supplied to the control unit 50, the number of times that the air blower 20 is operated, and the operation time of the air blower 20, the degree of dirt on the main body 10 can be determined more accurately. This allows the cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at a more appropriate time.

In addition, by determining the state of dirt on the main body 10 based on the operation information and past operation information, noise such as tampering and false detection can be eliminated, and the degree of dirt on the main body 10 can be determined more accurately. This allows the cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at a more appropriate time.

In addition, by making it possible to change the judgment conditions for determining whether cleaning is not required or required, the cleaner can set the parameters and thresholds of the judgment conditions as desired. This allows for appropriate judgments to be made according to the usage environment, allowing the cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at a more appropriate time.

In addition, when it is determined that the main body 10 is in a state requiring cleaning, the first information indicating that the main body 10 is in a state requiring cleaning is output, thereby making it possible to more reliably inform the cleaner that cleaning is required. This makes it possible to encourage the cleaner to perform cleaning at an appropriate time, and makes it possible to prevent the hand dryer 100 from being used in a state requiring cleaning (i.e., a dirty state).

In addition, by outputting the first information to the notification unit 60 provided in the hand dryer 100 and having the notification unit 60 notify that cleaning is required, the cleaner can know that cleaning is required just by looking at the hand dryer 100. This makes it possible to more reliably encourage the cleaner to clean.

In addition, by outputting the first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70 and notifying that the external device 200 is in a state in which cleaning is required, the cleaner can know that the external device 200, such as a monitor in a management room where the cleaner is present or a smart mirror in the vicinity of the hand dryer 100, is in a state in which cleaning is required. This makes it possible to more reliably encourage the cleaner to clean.

The main body 10 also has, for example, a plurality of cleaning points. The plurality of cleaning points include, for example, at least one of the drying chamber 13, the water receiving tray 18, the filter provided in the suction port 14, and the outer surface. The control unit 50 judges the dirt state of each of the plurality of cleaning points based on the operation information. The judgment conditions for the dirt state of one of the plurality of cleaning points (for example, the drying chamber 13) are different from the judgment conditions for the dirt state of another of the plurality of cleaning points (for example, the water receiving tray 18).

More specifically, if one of the multiple cleaning locations is the first portion and the other of the multiple cleaning locations is the second portion, the first operating condition in determining the dirt state of the first portion is different from, for example, the first operating condition in determining the dirt state of the second portion. Also, the second operating condition in determining the dirt state of the first portion is different from, for example, the second operating condition in determining the dirt state of the second portion. Note that "the first operating condition (second operating condition) is different" means that at least one of the parameters and the threshold value is different. In other words, not only when the parameters are different, but also when the parameters are the same but the threshold value is different, it can be considered that "the first operating condition (second operating condition) is different."

In this way, when the main body 10 has multiple cleaning locations, the criteria for determining the dirtiness of one of the multiple cleaning locations is different from the criteria for determining the dirtiness of another of the multiple cleaning locations, so that the degree of dirt can be accurately determined at each of the multiple cleaning locations. This allows the cleaner to clean each of the multiple cleaning locations at the appropriate time.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment.
As shown in Figure 4, when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the alarm unit 60, if the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning, the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the alarm unit 60 after a predetermined time has elapsed after the blower unit 20 has stopped.

More specifically, when it is determined that the main body 10 needs to be cleaned (step S201), the control unit 50 determines whether the blower 20 is stopped (step S202). The control unit 50 repeats step S202 until the blower 20 is stopped (step S202: No).

When the blower unit 20 stops, or if the blower unit 20 is already stopped (step S202: Yes), the control unit 50 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the blower unit 20 stopped (step S203). The control unit 50 repeats step S203 until the predetermined time has elapsed since the blower unit 20 stopped (step S203: No). The predetermined time is, for example, about 2 to 5 seconds.

When a predetermined time has elapsed since the blower 20 was stopped (step S203: Yes), the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the notification unit 60 (step S204). When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies the user that the main body 10 needs to be cleaned.

In this way, when it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning, the first information is output to the notification unit 60 a predetermined time after the air blowing unit 20 stops, so that a notification can be given after the user has used the hand dryer 100. This makes it easier to inform the cleaner that cleaning is required without the user realizing it.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 5, when a reset signal is input, the control unit 50 resets information related to dirt on the main body unit 10 .

More specifically, the control unit 50 determines whether a reset signal has been input (step S301). If a reset signal has been input (step S301: Yes), the control unit 50 resets the count of the operation information (step S302). For example, the control unit 50 resets the count of at least one of the following to 0: the time that power has been supplied to the control unit 50, the number of times that the blower unit 20 has been operated, and the operating time of the blower unit 20.

If a reset signal is not input (step S301: No), the control unit 50 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the previous output of the first information (step S303). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S303: No), the control unit 50 returns to step S301.

When the predetermined time has elapsed (step S303: Yes), the control unit 50 reacquires the operation information (step S304). Next, the control unit 50 determines whether the operation information satisfies the reminder condition (step S305). The reminder condition is, for example, whether the time that the power is supplied to the control unit 50 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 4 days). The reminder condition may be, for example, whether the number of times that the blower unit 20 has been operated has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 1600 times). The reminder condition may be, for example, whether the operation time of the blower unit 20 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 4 hours). The parameters and threshold value of the reminder condition can be set arbitrarily. If the operation information does not satisfy the reminder condition (step S305: No), the control unit 50 returns to step S301.

If the operation information satisfies the reminder condition (step S305: Yes), the control unit 50 determines whether the operation information satisfies the operation prohibition condition (step S306). The operation prohibition condition is, for example, whether the time that power has been supplied to the control unit 50 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 5 days). The operation prohibition condition may be, for example, whether the number of times that the blower unit 20 has been operated has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 2000 times). The operation prohibition condition may be, for example, whether the operation time of the blower unit 20 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 5 hours). The parameters and threshold value of the operation prohibition condition can be set arbitrarily.

If the operation information satisfies the operation prohibition condition (step S306: Yes), the control unit 50 prohibits the operation of the hand dryer 100 (step S307). More specifically, the control unit 50 prohibits, for example, the operation of the air blower 20. Next, the control unit 50 outputs operation prohibition information indicating that the hand dryer 100 is in an operation prohibited state to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S308). When the operation prohibition information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the hand dryer 100 is in an operation prohibited state.

Next, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a reset signal has been input (step S309). The control unit 50 repeats step S309 until a reset signal is input (step S309: No). If a reset signal is input (step S309: Yes), the control unit 50 resets the count of driving information (step S302).

On the other hand, if the operation information does not satisfy the operation prohibition condition (step S306: No), the control unit 50 outputs reminder information to the external device 200 (communication unit 70) indicating that the hand dryer 100 is in a state requiring cleaning (step S310). When the reminder information is input, the external device 200 notifies the user that the hand dryer 100 is in a state requiring cleaning.

In this way, by resetting information about dirt on the main body unit when a reset signal is input, it is possible to maintain the determination that the main body unit is in a state requiring cleaning until, for example, the cleaner performs an operation to input a reset signal after cleaning is completed. This makes it possible to prevent the determination that the main body unit is in a state requiring cleaning from continuing even after cleaning is completed, or to prevent the determination that the main body unit is in a state requiring cleaning from being automatically released even when cleaning is not completed.

In addition, by outputting reminder information when the operation information satisfies the reminder condition, the cleaner can be more reliably informed that cleaning is required. This makes it possible to prevent the hand dryer 100 from being used in a state in which cleaning is required (i.e., a dirty state).

In addition, by prohibiting operation of the hand dryer 100 when the operation information satisfies the operation prohibition condition, it is possible to prevent the hand dryer 100 from being used in a state requiring cleaning (i.e., a dirty state).

In addition, by outputting operation prohibition information when the operation of the hand dryer 100 is prohibited, the user can be notified that the hand dryer 100 is in an operation prohibited state, and the cleaner can be prompted to clean.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment.
As shown in Figure 6, when the main body 10 is in a state where cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a state where cleaning is required is imminent, and if it determines that a state where cleaning is required is imminent, it outputs second information (warning information) indicating that a state where cleaning is required is imminent.

More specifically, when it is determined that the main body 10 does not require cleaning (step S401), the control unit 50 determines whether the operation information satisfies the first notice condition (step S402). The first notice condition is, for example, whether the time that power is supplied to the control unit 50 exceeds a threshold value (for example, one day). The first notice condition may be, for example, whether the number of times that the blower unit 20 has been operated exceeds a threshold value (for example, 400 times). The first notice condition may be, for example, whether the operation time of the blower unit 20 exceeds a threshold value (for example, one hour). The parameters and threshold value of the first notice condition can be set arbitrarily.

If the operation information satisfies the first advance notice condition (step S402: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is close to being in a state requiring cleaning (step S403). Next, the control unit 50 determines whether the operation information satisfies the second advance notice condition (step S404). The second advance notice condition is, for example, whether the number of times the blower unit 20 has been operated exceeds a threshold value (for example, 600 times). The second advance notice condition may be, for example, whether the time that power has been supplied to the control unit 50 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 1.5 days). The second advance notice condition may be, for example, whether the operation time of the blower unit 20 has exceeded a threshold value (for example, 1.5 hours). The parameters and threshold value of the second advance notice condition can be set arbitrarily. However, the parameters of the second advance notice condition are different from the parameters of the first advance notice condition.

If the operating information satisfies the second advance notice condition (step S404: Yes), the control unit 50 outputs second information indicating that a cleaning-necessity state is approaching to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S405). When the second information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that a cleaning-necessity state is approaching. The second information may be, for example, information simply indicating that a cleaning-necessity state is approaching, or information indicating a predicted time until a cleaning-necessity state occurs or a predicted number of uses until a cleaning-necessity state occurs.

On the other hand, if the operation information does not satisfy the second advance notice condition (step S404: No), the control unit 50 outputs second information to the external device 200 (communication unit 70) indicating that a state requiring cleaning is approaching (step S406). When the second information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies that a state requiring cleaning is approaching.

If the operation information does not satisfy the first advance notice condition (step S402: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is not close to a state in which cleaning is required (step S407). If it is determined that the main body unit 10 is not close to a state in which cleaning is required, the control unit 50 does not output the second information.

Note that step S404 is performed as necessary and can be omitted. If step S404 is omitted, when it is determined that the main body unit 10 is close to being in a state where cleaning is required (step S403), the control unit 50 outputs second information indicating that the main body unit 10 is close to being in a state where cleaning is required to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S405). Furthermore, if step S404 is omitted, step S406 is also omitted.

In this way, when it is determined that a cleaning-necessity state is approaching, the second information indicating that the cleaning-necessity state is approaching is output, so that the cleaner can be notified that the cleaning-necessity state is approaching before the cleaning-necessity state actually occurs. This makes it easier for the cleaner to create an efficient cleaning plan.

This flowchart may be executed repeatedly until it is determined that cleaning is required. In this case, the predicted time until the cleaning is required and the predicted number of uses until the cleaning is required are updated as needed and output as the second information. In other words, the control unit 50 may output the second information that is updated as needed, causing the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 to count down and notify the predicted time until the cleaning is required and the predicted number of uses until the cleaning is required.

When the notification unit 60 notifies that a cleaning-needed state is present when the first information is input and notifies that a cleaning-needed state is approaching when the second information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies in a state in which it is possible to distinguish between a cleaning-needed state and a cleaning-needed state approaching. In other words, the notification pattern of the notification unit 60 when notifying that a cleaning-needed state is approaching is different from the notification pattern of the notification unit 60 when notifying that a cleaning-needed state is present. For example, when the notification unit 60 notifies by light, the blinking pattern of the notification unit 60 when notifying that a cleaning-needed state is approaching is different from the blinking pattern of the notification unit 60 when notifying that a cleaning-needed state is present. For example, when the notification unit 60 notifies by sound, the sound of the notification unit 60 when notifying that a cleaning-needed state is approaching is different from the sound of the notification unit 60 when notifying that a cleaning-needed state is present.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 7, when an output command signal is input, the control unit 50 outputs information regarding the current contamination state.

More specifically, the control unit 50 determines whether or not an output command signal has been input (step S501). The control unit 50 repeats step S501 until an output command signal is input (step S501: No).

When the output command signal is input (step S501: Yes), the control unit 50 determines whether or not cleaning is required (step S502). If cleaning is required (step S502: Yes), the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S503). When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that cleaning is required.

If the cleaning-necessity state is not reached (step S502: No), the control unit 50 determines whether the cleaning-necessity state is approaching (step S504). If the cleaning-necessity state is approaching (step S504: Yes), the control unit 50 outputs the second information to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S505). When the second information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the cleaning-necessity state is approaching.

If the cleaning-necessity state is not approaching (step S504: No), the control unit 50 outputs third information indicating that the cleaning-necessity state is not approaching to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S506). When the third information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the cleaning-necessity state is not approaching and that the cleaning-necessity state is not approaching.

The output command signal is input, for example, by a predetermined operation on the operation unit 40. More specifically, for example, a cleaner can perform a predetermined operation on the operation unit 40 to cause the control unit 50 to output information on the current dirt state to the notification unit 60, and can check whether cleaning is required or whether a cleaning-required state is approaching. Also, the output command signal is input, for example, by a predetermined operation on the external device 200. More specifically, for example, a cleaner can perform a predetermined operation on the external device 200 to cause the control unit 50 to output information on the current dirt state to the external device 200, and can check whether cleaning is required or whether a cleaning-required state is approaching.

In this way, by outputting information on the current soiling state when an output command signal is input, the cleaner can easily grasp the current soiling state, such as whether cleaning is required or whether the cleaning is about to be required. For example, when an output command signal is input via the operation unit 40 provided in the hand dryer 100, information on the current soiling state is output to the notification unit 60, so that even if the notification indicating the soiling state is overlooked, the cleaner can easily grasp the current soiling state. In addition, for example, a decision can be made on site to clean the hand dryer 100 together with the cleaning timing of other appliances, reducing the cleaning load. In addition, for example, even if there are hand dryers with different usage conditions, it is possible to grasp the hand dryer that needs cleaning. In addition, for example, when an output command signal is input via the external device 200, information on the current soiling state is output to the external device 200, so that the cleaner can easily grasp the current soiling state via the external device 200. This makes it easier for the cleaner to make an efficient cleaning plan.

8( a ) and 8 ( b ) are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 8 (a), when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to both the notification unit 60 and the external device 200, the control unit 50, for example, outputs the first information to the external device 200 and then outputs the first information to the notification unit 60.

More specifically, when it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning (step S601), the control unit 50 first outputs the first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70 (step S602). When the first information is input, the external device 200 notifies that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning.

Next, the control unit 50 judges whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed (step S603). The control unit 50 repeats step S603 until the predetermined time has elapsed (step S603: No). When the predetermined time has elapsed (step S603: Yes), the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the notification unit 60 (step S604). When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies that the main body unit 10 needs cleaning.
The predetermined time is, for example, 24 hours. This allows the cleaning schedule to be set the day before cleaning, so that cleaning can be done in advance if the timing is right.

In this way, by outputting the first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70 and then outputting the first information to the notification unit 60, it is possible to notify the cleaner in advance that cleaning is required, without the user being aware of it. This allows cleaning to be completed before the user is aware of it.

As shown in FIG. 8(b), when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to both the notification unit 60 and the external device 200, the control unit 50 may, for example, output the first information to the notification unit 60 and then output the first information to the external device 200.

More specifically, when it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning (step S701), the control unit 50 first outputs the first information to the notification unit 60 (step S702). When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 notifies that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning.

Next, the control unit 50 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed (step S703). The control unit 50 repeats step S703 until the predetermined time has elapsed (step S703: No). When the predetermined time has elapsed (step S703: Yes), the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70 (step S704). When the first information is input, the external device 200 notifies the user that the main body unit 10 needs cleaning. The predetermined time is, for example, 12 hours. In this way, if cleaning is not possible in the morning, the notification is sent again when the user leaves, allowing cleaning to be performed within the cleaning timing of the day.

In this way, by outputting the first information to the notification unit 60 and then outputting the first information to the external device 200 via the communication unit 70, the notification on the external device 200 can be used as a reminder notification function that notifies the cleaner only if the hand dryer 100 continues to be used without being cleaned.

Second Embodiment
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a hand dryer according to the second embodiment.
9, the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment further includes an environmental information acquisition unit 80. The configuration other than the environmental information acquisition unit 80 is the same as that of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

The environmental information acquisition unit 80 acquires environmental information about the surroundings of the main body unit 10. The environmental information acquisition unit 80 includes, for example, at least one of a dust sensor, a temperature sensor, and a humidity sensor. The environmental information acquisition unit 80 may be, for example, a communication unit that acquires information about the number of uses of a water faucet device provided in the vicinity of the main body unit 10. The environmental information acquisition unit 80 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The environmental information acquisition unit 80 outputs the acquired environmental information to the control unit 50.

As described above, the hand dryer sucks in air around the main body 10 and blows it out into the drying chamber 13. Therefore, the degree of dirt on the filters installed in the drying chamber 13 and the suction port 14 is related to the dust condition in the environment surrounding the main body 10. By using a dust sensor as the environmental information acquisition unit 80, information on the dust condition in the surrounding environment can be acquired. The dirt condition of the main body 10 can be determined by determining the dirt condition of the main body 10 based on the information on the dust condition in the surrounding environment.

Many bacteria prefer high temperatures and humidity. Therefore, the degree of dirt on the main body unit 10 is related to the temperature and humidity of the environment surrounding the main body unit 10. By using a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor as the environmental information acquisition unit 80, information on the temperature and humidity of the surrounding environment can be acquired. The degree of dirt on the main body unit 10 can be determined by determining the degree of dirt on the main body unit 10 based on information on the temperature and humidity of the surrounding environment.

The hand dryer is often used after the water tap device provided around the main body 10 has been used. Therefore, the degree of dirt on the main body 10 is related to the number of times the water tap device provided around the main body 10 has been used. The environmental information acquisition unit 80 acquires information on the number of times the water tap device provided around the main body 10 has been used, and based on this information, the dirt state of the main body 10 can be determined.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the second embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 10, the control unit 50 acquires environmental information from an environmental information acquisition unit 80, and determines the soiling state of the main body unit 10 based on the environmental information.

More specifically, when the hand dryer 100 is turned on (i.e., when power is supplied to the control unit 50), the control unit 50 acquires environmental information from the environmental information acquisition unit 80 (step S801).

Next, the control unit 50 determines whether the environmental information satisfies a first environmental condition (step S802). The first environmental condition is, for example, a temperature of 25° C. or more and 30° C. or less, and a humidity of 50% or more and 60% or less. The first environmental condition may be, for example, whether the amount of dust exceeds a threshold value (for example, 0.15 mg/m ³ ). The first environmental condition may be, for example, whether the number of times a water faucet device provided around the main body 10 has been used exceeds a threshold value (for example, 400 times). The parameters and threshold value of the first environmental condition can be set arbitrarily.

If the environmental information does not satisfy the first environmental condition (step S802: No), the control unit 50 maintains the threshold value of the first operating condition (step S803). The first operating condition is the same as that described in the first embodiment. If the environmental information does not satisfy the first environmental condition, the first operating condition is, for example, whether or not the time that power is supplied to the control unit 50 exceeds a threshold value (for example, two days). If the environmental information does not satisfy the first environmental condition, the first operating condition may be, for example, whether or not the number of times that the blower unit 20 is operated exceeds a threshold value (for example, 800 times). If the environmental information does not satisfy the first environmental condition, the first operating condition may be, for example, whether or not the operation time of the blower unit 20 exceeds a threshold value (for example, two hours).

When the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition (step S802: Yes), the control unit 50 changes the threshold of the first operating condition (step S804). The control unit 50 changes the threshold of the first operating condition, for example, according to the surrounding environment. For example, if the control unit 50 determines that the environmental state is one in which dirt is likely to occur, the control unit 50 lowers the threshold of the first operating condition. For example, if the control unit 50 determines that the environmental state is one in which dirt is unlikely to occur, the control unit 50 may raise the threshold of the first operating condition. More specifically, when the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition, the first operating condition is, for example, whether or not the power supply time to the control unit 50 exceeds a threshold (for example, one day). When the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition, the first operating condition may be, for example, whether or not the number of times the blower unit 20 is operated exceeds a threshold (for example, 400 times). When the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition, the first operating condition may be, for example, whether or not the operation time of the blower unit 20 exceeds a threshold (for example, one hour).

Next, the control unit 50 acquires the driving information (step S805) and determines whether the driving information satisfies the first driving condition (step S806).

If the driving information satisfies the first driving condition (step S806: Yes), the control unit 50 determines whether the current driving information is similar to the past driving information stored in the storage unit 55 (step S807). Step S807 is performed in the same manner as step S103 in the first embodiment.

If it is determined that the current operating information is similar to the past operating information stored in the memory unit 55 (step S807: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning (step S808), stores the operating information in the memory unit 55 (step S809), and outputs first information indicating that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S810). Steps S808 to S810 are performed in the same manner as steps S104 to S106 in the first embodiment. When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the current driving information is not similar to the past driving information stored in the memory unit 55 (step S807: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state where cleaning is not required (step S811) and corrects the driving information (step S812). Steps S811 and S812 are performed in the same manner as steps S107 and S108 in the first embodiment. If it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state where cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 does not output the first information.

If the operation information does not satisfy the first operation condition (step S806: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S813). If it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 does not output the first information.

Note that step S807 is performed as necessary and can be omitted. When step S807 is omitted, if the operation information satisfies the first operation condition (step S806: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning (step S808). Furthermore, when step S807 is omitted, steps S809, S811, and S812 are also omitted.

Also, similar to the flowchart shown in FIG. 3, if the operating information does not satisfy the first operating condition (step S806: No), the control unit 50 may determine whether the operating information satisfies the second operating condition. If the operating information satisfies the second operating condition, the control unit 50 proceeds to step S807. If the operating information does not satisfy the second operating condition, the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S811). If the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition, the control unit 50 may change the threshold value of the second operating condition to match the surrounding environment.

In this way, by determining the state of dirt on the main body unit 10 based on environmental information around the main body unit 10, the degree of dirt on the main body unit can be accurately determined. Furthermore, by determining the state of dirt on the main body unit 10 based on the operating information and environmental information, the degree of dirt on the main body unit 10 can be more accurately determined. This allows the cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at an appropriate time.

In this example, the control unit 50 determines the dirt state of the main body unit 10 by combining the environmental information and the operating information, but the control unit 50 may determine the dirt state of the main body unit 10 based on the environmental information alone. For example, the control unit 50 may determine that the main body unit 10 requires cleaning when the number of times a water faucet device installed near the main body unit 10 has been used exceeds a threshold value.

The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 4 above may also be applied to the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment. That is, when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the notification unit 60, if the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 needs cleaning, the control unit 50 may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after a predetermined time has elapsed after the blower unit 20 has stopped.

The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5 may also be applied to the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment. That is, the control unit 50 may reset information related to dirt on the main body 10 when a reset signal is input. The control unit 50 may also output reminder information when the operation information satisfies a reminder condition. When the environmental information satisfies a first environmental condition, the control unit 50 may change the threshold value of the reminder condition in accordance with the surrounding environment. The control unit 50 may also prohibit the operation of the hand dryer 100 when the operation information satisfies an operation prohibition condition. When the environmental information satisfies a first environmental condition, the control unit 50 may change the threshold value of the operation prohibition condition in accordance with the surrounding environment.

The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6 above may also be applied to the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment. That is, when the main body 10 is in a state where cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 may determine whether or not a state requiring cleaning is imminent, and if it is determined that a state requiring cleaning is imminent, output second information (notice information) indicating that a state requiring cleaning is imminent. When the environmental information satisfies the first environmental condition, the control unit 50 may change the threshold value of the first notice condition and the threshold value of the second notice condition to suit the surrounding environment.

Furthermore, the operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 7 above may be applied to the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment. That is, the control unit 50 may output information regarding the current soiling state when an output command signal is input.

The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Figs. 8(a) and 8(b) above may also be applied to the hand dryer 100A according to the second embodiment. That is, when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to both the notification unit 60 and the external device 200, the control unit 50 may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after outputting the first information to the external device 200, or may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after outputting the first information to the external device 200.

Third Embodiment
FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a hand dryer according to the third embodiment.
11 , the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment further includes an optical sensor 85. The configuration other than the optical sensor 85 is the same as that of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

The optical sensor 85 detects optical information related to dirt on the main body 10. The optical sensor 85 includes, for example, at least one of an image sensor and a photoelectric sensor. The optical sensor 85 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The optical sensor 85 outputs the detection result to the control unit 50.

By using an image sensor as the optical sensor 85, an image showing the degree of dirt at a specific location on the main body 10 can be obtained, and the dirt state of the main body 10 can be determined based on this image. The image sensor includes, for example, at least one of a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor and a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor.

By using a photoelectric sensor as the optical sensor 85, the reflectance of a predetermined location on the main body 10 can be obtained, and the state of dirt on the main body 10 can be determined based on this reflectance. The photoelectric sensor has a light-projecting unit and a light-receiving unit, and measures the reflectance of the predetermined location on the main body 10 by detecting light irradiated from the light-projecting unit and reflected at the predetermined location on the main body 10 with the light-receiving unit.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hand dryer according to the third embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 12, the control unit 50 acquires optical information from the optical sensor 85, and determines the soiling state of the main body unit 10 based on the optical information.

More specifically, when the hand dryer 100 is turned on (i.e., when power begins to be supplied to the control unit 50), the control unit 50 acquires optical information from the optical sensor 85 (step S901).

Next, the control unit 50 determines whether the optical information satisfies a first optical condition (step S902). The first optical condition is, for example, whether a dirt value calculated by image analysis from an image captured by an image sensor exceeds a threshold value (for example, 200% of the dirt value of a reference image). The reference image is, for example, an image of the same location in a dirt-free state. The first optical condition may be, for example, whether the reflectance measured by a photoelectric sensor is less than a threshold value (for example, 60% of the reference reflectance). The reference reflectance is, for example, the reflectance of the same location in a dirt-free state. The parameters and threshold value of the first optical condition can be set arbitrarily.

If the optical information satisfies the first optical condition (step S902: Yes), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning (step S903), and outputs first information indicating that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning to the notification unit 60 or the external device 200 (communication unit 70) (step S904). Steps S903 and S904 are performed in the same manner as steps S104 and S106 in the first embodiment. When the first information is input, the notification unit 60 and the external device 200 each notify that the main body unit 10 is in a state requiring cleaning.

On the other hand, if the optical information does not satisfy the first optical condition (step S902: No), the control unit 50 determines that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required (step S905). If it is determined that the main body unit 10 is in a state in which cleaning is not required, the control unit 50 does not output the first information.

In this way, by determining the state of dirt on the main body 10 based on optical information related to the dirt on the main body 10, the degree of dirt on the main body 10 can be accurately determined. This allows the cleaner to clean the hand dryer 100 at an appropriate time.

In this example, the control unit 50 determines the dirt state of the main body unit 10 based only on the optical information, but the control unit 50 may determine the dirt state of the main body unit 10 by combining the optical information and the driving information. The control unit 50 may also determine the dirt state of the main body unit 10 by combining the optical information and the environmental information. The control unit 50 may also determine the dirt state of the main body unit 10 by combining the optical information, the driving information, and the environmental information. By combining the optical information with other information such as the driving information, the degree of dirt of the main body unit 10 can be determined more accurately.

The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 4 above may also be applied to the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment. That is, when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to the notification unit 60, if it is determined that the main body unit 10 needs cleaning, the control unit 50 may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after a predetermined time has elapsed after the blower unit 20 has stopped.

The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5 may be applied to the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment. That is, the control unit 50 may reset information about dirt on the main body 10 when a reset signal is input. The control unit 50 may output reminder information when the optical information satisfies a reminder condition. The reminder condition may be, for example, whether the dirt value exceeds a threshold value (for example, 250% of the dirt value of the reference image). The reminder condition may be, for example, whether the reflectance is less than a threshold value (for example, 50% of the reference reflectance). The control unit 50 may also prohibit the operation of the hand dryer 100 when the optical information satisfies an operation prohibition condition. The operation prohibition condition may be, for example, whether the dirt value exceeds a threshold value (for example, 300% of the dirt value of the reference image). The operation prohibition condition may be, for example, whether the reflectance is less than a threshold value (for example, 40% of the reference reflectance).

The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6 may also be applied to the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment. That is, when the main body 10 is in a cleaning-unnecessary state, the control unit 50 may determine whether or not a cleaning-necessary state is imminent, and if it is determined that a cleaning-necessary state is imminent, output second information (notice information) indicating that a cleaning-necessary state is imminent. The first notice condition is whether or not the dirt value exceeds a threshold value (e.g., 150% of the dirt value of the reference image). The first optical condition may be, for example, whether or not the reflectance is less than a threshold value (e.g., 80% of the reference reflectance). The second notice condition is whether or not the dirt value exceeds a threshold value (e.g., 180% of the dirt value of the reference image). The first optical condition may be, for example, whether or not the reflectance is less than a threshold value (e.g., 70% of the reference reflectance).

The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 7 above may also be applied to the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment. That is, the control unit 50 may output information regarding the current soiling state when an output command signal is input.

The operation of the hand dryer 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Figs. 8(a) and 8(b) above may be applied to the hand dryer 100B according to the third embodiment. That is, when the control unit 50 outputs the first information to both the notification unit 60 and the external device 200, the control unit 50 may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after outputting the first information to the external device 200, or may output the first information to the notification unit 60 after outputting the first information to the external device 200.

As described above, according to the embodiment, a hand dryer is provided that can more reliably inform the cleaner that cleaning is required.

The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Any design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-mentioned embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, material, arrangement, etc. of each element of a hand dryer are not limited to those exemplified, and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of each of the above-mentioned embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 main body section, 10a front section, 10b rear section, 10c, 10d side sections, 13 drying chamber, 14 intake port, 15 outlet port, 16 air passage, 17 ventilation port, 18 water receiving tray, 20 air blowing section, 25 heating section, 30 hand detection section, 40 operation section, 50 control section, 55 memory section, 60 notification section, 70 communication section, 80 environmental information acquisition section,
85 Optical sensor, 100, 100A, 100B Hand dryer, 200 External device

Claims (6)

A main body portion,
A control unit that determines a dirt state of the main body and outputs the determination result;
A notification unit that notifies the result of the determination;
A blower for blowing air;
Equipped with
The control unit is
determining whether the main body is in a non-cleaning state where cleaning is not required or in a cleaning required state where cleaning is required;
When it is determined that the main body is in the cleaning required state, outputting first information indicating that the main body is in the cleaning required state to the notification unit after a predetermined time has elapsed after the blower unit has stopped ,
The hand drying device according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit notifies the user that the main body is in the cleaning required state when the first information is input . A communication unit is further provided so as to be capable of communicating with an external device,
When it is determined that the main body is in the cleaning required state, the control unit outputs the first information to the external device via the communication unit,
The hand dryer according to claim 1 , wherein the external device notifies the user that the main body is in the cleaning required state when the first information is input. A communication unit is further provided so as to be capable of communicating with an external device,
When it is determined that the main body is in the cleaning required state, the control unit outputs the first information to the external device via the communication unit, and then outputs the first information to the notification unit;
The hand dryer according to claim 1 , wherein the external device notifies the user that the main body is in the cleaning required state when the first information is input. A communication unit is further provided so as to be capable of communicating with an external device,
When it is determined that the main body is in the cleaning required state, the control unit outputs the first information to the notification unit, and then outputs the first information to the external device via the communication unit.
The hand dryer according to claim 1 , wherein the external device notifies the user that the main body is in the cleaning required state when the first information is input. The control unit is
When the main body is in the cleaning unnecessary state, determining whether the cleaning necessary state is approaching;
The hand dryer according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , characterized in that, when it is determined that the cleaning-necessary state is approaching, second information indicating that the cleaning-necessary state is approaching is output. The hand dryer according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , wherein the control unit outputs information relating to the current soiling state when an output command signal is input.

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