JP2019178890A - Excretion sensor - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an excretion sensor that is easier to use.SOLUTION: An excretion sensor 110 includes a first tank 10, a first pump 16 and a smell sensor 17. The first tank 10 includes: a first bottom part; a first suction port 12 provided higher than the first bottom part; and a first duct including a first inside opening and a first outside opening. The first inside opening is provided higher than the first bottom part and connects to a space above the first bottom part. The first pump 16 sends gas in the first tank 10 to the smell sensor 17 from the first outside opening.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to an excretion sensor.

  For example, there is an excretion sensor that samples air in a bed and detects excretion. An excretion sensor that is easier to use is desired.

JP 2000-245777 A

  Embodiments of the present invention provide an excretion sensor that is easier to use.

  According to the embodiment, the excretion sensor includes a first tank, a first pump, and an odor sensor. The first tank includes a first bottom, a first intake port provided at a position higher than the first bottom, and a first duct including a first inner opening and a first outer opening. The first inner opening is provided at a position higher than the first bottom and is connected to a space above the first bottom. The first pump sends the gas inside the first tank to the odor sensor from the first outer opening.

  The embodiment of the present invention can provide an excretion sensor that is easier to use.

FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the second embodiment. FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the second embodiment. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D are schematic perspective views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D are schematic perspective views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the second embodiment. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the second embodiment. FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the third embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
The drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the size ratio between the parts, and the like are not necessarily the same as actual ones. Even in the case of representing the same part, the dimensions and ratios may be represented differently depending on the drawings.
In the present specification and drawings, the same elements as those described above with reference to the previous drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted as appropriate.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B, FIG. 2A, and FIG. 2B are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 1A is a perspective view. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the first lid portion 10Q removed from the first tank portion 10P. FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view taken along line A1-A2 of FIG. FIG. 2B is a perspective view when the first lid 10Q is removed.

  As shown in FIG. 1A, the excretion sensor 110 according to the embodiment includes a first tank 10, a first pump 16, and an odor sensor 17.

  In this example, the first tank 10 includes a first tank portion 10P and a first lid portion 10Q. The first lid portion 10Q is detachably attached to the first tank portion 10P.

  As shown in FIG.1 (b), the 1st cover part 10Q can be removed from the 1st tank part 10P.

  As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the first tank 10 includes a first bottom portion 11, a first air inlet 12, and a first duct 13. In this example, the 1st bottom part 11, the 1st inlet 12, and the 1st duct 13 are provided in the 1st tank part 10P.

  The first air inlet 12 is provided at a position higher than the first bottom portion 11. In the embodiment, the excretion sensor 110 is installed such that the first air inlet 12 is provided at a position higher than the first bottom portion 11.

  The first duct 13 includes a first inner opening 13a and a first outer opening 13b. The first inner opening 13 a is provided at a position higher than the first bottom 11. The first inner opening 13 a is connected to the space above the first bottom portion 11.

  The first pump 16 is connected to the first outer opening 13b. The first pump 16 sends the gas inside the first tank 10 to the odor sensor 17 from the first outer opening 13b.

  As shown in FIG. 1A, one end 21 e of the first tube 21 is connected to the first air inlet 12. One end 21 e of the first tube 21 may be detachably connected to the first air inlet 12. The other end 21f of the first tube 21 is provided in the vicinity of the subject's buttocks.

  For example, the first pump 16 discharges gas from the inside of the first tank 10. Along with this, gas is carried to the first tank 10 from the first tube 21 connected to the first intake port 12 of the first tank 10.

  When the subject is excreted, gas (detection target) containing odor accompanying excretion is sent to the first tank 10 from the other end 21f of the first tube 21. A gas containing an odor is sent to the odor sensor 17 by the first pump 16 via the first tank 10. Thereby, the smell sensor 17 can detect a subject's excretion.

  In the embodiment, the first tank 10 is provided with a first bottom portion 11 and a first duct 13. The first bottom portion 11 is provided at a position lower than the first air inlet 12 when in use. Furthermore, the 1st bottom part 11 is provided in the position lower than the 1st inner side opening part 13a of the 1st duct 13 at the time of use.

  As shown in FIG. 2B, the detection target 28 is sent from the first air inlet 12 to the space inside the first tank 10. The detection target 28 may include gas 28G and excrement 28L. When the subject is not excreting (such as defecation or urination), the gas 28G is substantially air. When the subject excretes, the gas 28G includes an odor accompanying excretion. For example, the excrement 28L is a solid or liquid (urine).

  As shown in FIG. 2B, the excrement 28L that has passed through the first air inlet 12 flows to the first bottom portion 11 due to gravity. The excrement 28L does not substantially flow into the first inner opening 13a of the first duct 13. On the other hand, the gas 28G that has passed through the first air inlet 12 passes through the first inner opening 13a of the first duct 13 and travels toward the first outer opening 13b. The gas 28G goes to the odor sensor 17 through the first outer opening 13b. The presence or absence of the odor of the gas 28G is detected by the odor sensor 17.

  As described above, the gas 28G containing the odor accompanying the excretion of the subject is selectively sent to the odor sensor 17.

  In the embodiment, the excrement 28L can be prevented from flowing to the outside of the first tank 10 through the first inner opening 13a. For example, the excrement 28 </ b> L can be prevented from flowing back to the first tube 21 through the first air inlet 12. The 1st bottom part 11 functions as a storage part of excrement 28L, for example.

  For example, in the reference example in which the first bottom portion 11 is not provided, the excrement 28 </ b> L that has passed through the first tube 21 may be sent to the first pump 16 and the odor sensor 17. When the excrement 28L adheres to the first pump 16 and the odor sensor 17, it is difficult to correctly detect excretion. For example, in the reference example in which the first bottom portion 11 is not provided, the target person's guardian (caregiver or the like) needs to frequently check the presence or absence of excretion.

  In the embodiment, the target gas 28 </ b> G is selectively sent to the odor sensor 17 by providing the first tank 10. Thereby, excretion can be detected with high accuracy. Since it is possible to suppress the excrement 28L from adhering to the first pump 16 and the odor sensor 17, the maintenance of the excretion sensor 110 is facilitated. According to the embodiment, an excretion sensor that is easier to use can be provided.

  As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the first tank 10 may further include a first inner wall 14. At least a part (for example, the part 14 a) of the first inner wall 14 is provided between the first air inlet 12 and the first duct 13. Thereby, for example, when the excrement 28L enters the inside of the first tank 10 from the first intake port 12, the excretion 28L reaches the first inner opening 13a of the first duct 13 more effectively. it can.

  As shown in FIG. 2B, a part 14 w of the first inner wall 14 is provided between at least a part of the first duct 13 and a part of the outer wall 10 w of the first tank 10. Thereby, the excrement 28L passes between the part 14w of the first inner wall 14 and the outer wall 10w of the first tank 10, and falls to the first bottom portion 11. It is possible to further suppress the excrement 28 </ b> L from reaching the first inner opening 13 a of the first duct 13 by the part 14 w of the first inner wall 14.

  For example, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, at least a part of the side portion 13 s of the first duct 13 is between the first inner opening 13 a and the first air inlet 12. Thereby, it can suppress more that the excrement 28L reaches the 1st inner side opening part 13a.

  As shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, at least a part of the first inner wall 14 (for example, the portion 14a) is formed between the first air inlet 12 and the side portion 13s of the first duct 13. Between.

  In the embodiment, the elastic modulus of the first lid portion 10Q is lower than the elastic modulus of the first tank portion 10P. The elastic modulus is, for example, Young's modulus. For example, the first lid portion 10Q includes an elastic body such as rubber. The first tank portion 10P includes a resin (for example, an epoxy resin).

  For example, when the first lid portion 10Q is attached to the first tank portion 10P, the inside of the first tank 10 is decompressed by the first pump 16. At this time, the first lid portion 10 </ b> Q may be in contact with the top portion 13 t of the first duct 13. Thereby, the space between the first duct 13 and the first lid portion 10Q is closed. For example, it is possible to further suppress the excrement 28L entering from the first air inlet 12 from reaching the first inner opening 13a.

  The first lid portion 10Q is easier to deform than the first tank portion 10P. Thereby, the space between the 1st duct 13 and the 1st cover part 10Q can be substantially plugged up with the shape of the 1st tank part 10P maintained.

  As already explained, the first lid portion 10Q is detachable from the first tank portion 10P. This facilitates cleaning of the first tank 10. For example, parts can be easily replaced.

  As already described, the first tube 21 is detachable from the first air inlet 12. This facilitates cleaning of the first tank 10 or the first tube 21. For example, replacement of parts such as the first tube 21 is facilitated. For example, the first tube 21 may be disposable.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the excretion sensor 110 may further include a first filter 10F. The first filter 10F is provided in a flow path 16P between the first duct 13 and the first pump 16 (or odor sensor 17). The transmittance of the first filter 10F with respect to the liquid is lower than the transmittance of the first filter 10F with respect to the gas. For example, the first filter 10F selectively transmits the gas 28G. For example, it is possible to suppress the liquid or solid (such as excrement 28L and dust) inside the first tank 10 from being sent to the first pump 16 (or the odor sensor 17).

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the excretion sensor 110 may further include a first bottom sensor 15. The first bottom sensor 15 detects that liquid (for example, excrement 28L) has been introduced into the first bottom 11. The bottom sensor 15 includes, for example, at least one of a capacitance sensor and a contact sensor. For example, when a liquid (for example, excrement 28L) is introduced into the first bottom portion 11, the capacitance of the first bottom portion 11 changes from when it is not introduced. By detecting the capacitance, it is possible to detect that the excrement 28L has flown to the first bottom portion 11 (for example, the storage portion). The detection result can be notified to the guardian (caregiver or the like) of the target person via, for example, a communication unit described later.

  For example, it is possible to promptly notify a guardian (caregiver or the like) of the subject person that the excrement 28L or the like has flowed to the first bottom portion 11. Maintenance can be performed immediately. For example, hygiene can be improved. It can be suppressed that the first tank 10 is continuously used while the excrement 28L is sucked. For example, high detection accuracy can be obtained.

  In the embodiment, since the excretion of the subject can be accurately detected, the excrement can be quickly removed from the subject. For example, diapers can be changed quickly. For example, a subject's pressure ulcer can be suppressed. For example, the opportunity for the subject to touch the excreta can be reduced.

  As described below, in the embodiment, the excretion sensor 110 may include a plurality of tanks (such as the plurality of first tanks 10).

  FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3A, the excretion sensor 111 includes a plurality of tanks (for example, the first tank 10, the second tank 10B, the Xth tank 10X, etc.). The configuration of each of the plurality of tanks is the same as that of the first tank 10. As shown in FIG. 3C, the excretion sensor 111 includes a plurality of pumps (such as the first pump 16, the second pump 16B, and the X-th pump 16X).

  As shown in FIG. 3A, a tube is connected to each of the plurality of tanks. For example, the first tube 21 is connected to the first tank 10. For example, the second tube 22 is connected to the second tank 10B. For example, the Xth tube 20X is connected to the Xth intake port 12X of the Xth tank 10X. For example, one end 21 e of the first tube 21 is connected to the first intake port 12 of the first tank 10. For example, one end 22e of the second tube 22 is connected to the second intake port 12B of the second tank 10B.

  FIG. 3B illustrates the second tank 10B as an example. The second tank 10B includes a second bottom portion 11B, a second intake port 12B, and a second duct 13B. The second air inlet 12B is provided at a position higher than the second bottom portion 11B. The second duct 13B includes a second inner opening 13aB and a second outer opening 13bB. The second inner opening 13aB is provided at a position higher than the second bottom 11B. The second inner opening 13aB is connected to the space above the second bottom 11B. Also in this example, the second tank 10B includes the second tank portion 10PB and the second lid portion 10QB. The second bottom portion 11B, the second air inlet 12B, and the second duct 13B are included in the second tank portion 10PB. The second lid portion 10QB is detachably attached to the second tank portion 10PB.

  As shown in FIG. 3C, for example, the first pump 16 is connected to the first outer opening 13 b of the first tank 10. For example, the second pump 16B is connected to the second outer opening 13bB of the second tank 10B. For example, the Xth pump 16X is connected to the Xth outer opening 13bX of the Xth tank 10X. For example, the second pump 16B sends the gas inside the second tank 10B to the odor sensor 17 from the second outer opening 13bB. For example, the Xth pump 16X sends the gas inside the Xth tank 10X to the odor sensor 17 from the Xth outer opening 13bX. The gas sent to the odor sensor 17 is discharged to the outside through, for example, the exhaust port 30D.

  The excretion sensor 111 can provide an excretion sensor that is easier to use. For example, excretion can be detected more accurately by detecting the excretion of one subject using a plurality of tubes. For example, the excretion of a plurality of subjects may be detected by the excretion sensor according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 3B, the excretion sensor 111 may further include a second bottom sensor 15B (Xth bottom sensor or the like). The second bottom sensor 15B detects that liquid (for example, excrement 28L) has been introduced into the second bottom 11B.

  The excretion sensor according to the first embodiment can be applied to an arbitrary subject, for example. For example, the excretion of an elderly person sleeping on a bed can be detected. The excretion sensor according to the embodiment may be applied to, for example, excretion of an infant.

  In the above example, one pump is provided for each of the plurality of tanks. In the embodiment, one pump may be provided in a plurality of tanks. For example, the first tank 10 and the second tank 10B may be exhausted by the first pump 16. In the above example, one odor sensor 17 is provided corresponding to a plurality of tanks. In the embodiment, at least one odor sensor may be provided in each of the plurality of tanks.

(Second Embodiment)
In 2nd Embodiment, the gas collection part of an excretion sensor is provided on a bed etc., for example.

FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the second embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 4A, in the excretion sensor 120 according to the embodiment, the gas collection unit 38 is provided on a bed 210, for example. In this example, the sensor unit 30 of the excretion sensor 120 is also provided on the bed 210. A person who detects excretion uses the bed 210. The subject lies on the gas collection unit 38 provided on the bed 210.

  The gas collected by the gas collecting unit 38 is sent to the sensor unit 30. The sensor unit 30 detects an odor contained in the gas. The gas includes, for example, an odor accompanying excretion of the subject.

  The detection result detected by the sensor unit 30 is sent to the communication unit 61. Communication between the sensor unit 30 and the communication unit 61 is performed by a wired or wireless arbitrary method.

  In one example, the detection result is provided to the server 63 or the like. The server 63 accumulates detection results. The server 63 may analyze the detection result. The server 63 may provide the detection result and the analysis result to other communication devices.

  In one example, the detection result is provided to a portable terminal or the like possessed by a guardian of the subject. For example, the detection result may be provided from the communication unit 61 to a portable terminal of a guardian or the like. The detection result may be provided from the server 63 to a portable terminal of a guardian or the like.

  A guardian who receives the detection result changes the diaper of the target person. In the excretion sensor 120 according to the present embodiment, for example, the sensor unit 30 includes the first tank 10 described with respect to the first embodiment. Thereby, excretion can be detected more accurately. An easier-to-use excretion sensor can be provided.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, the operation unit 62 may be provided in the excretion sensor 120. For example, settings regarding the operation of the sensor unit 30 can be performed by the operation unit 62. For example, communication between the sensor unit 30 and the communication unit 61 may be set by the operation unit 62. For example, the operation of the communication unit 61 may be settable by the operation unit 62.

  For example, the operation of the excretion sensor 120 may be temporarily stopped by the operation unit 62. For example, the odor when changing diapers is a disturbance. For example, the smell at the time of landing or leaving the floor becomes a disturbance. For example, odors such as meals can be a disturbance. When such a disturbance may occur, the operation of the excretion sensor 120 may be temporarily stopped by the operation unit 62. When the possibility of disturbance becomes low, the operation of the excretion sensor 120 may be started by the operation unit 62.

  Hereinafter, an example of the gas collection unit 38 will be described.

  FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5A, for example, the gas collection unit 38 and the sensor unit 30 are covered with a cover unit 38S. The cover portion 38S is, for example, a breathable sheet. An example of the sensor unit 30 will be described later.

  FIG. 5B illustrates a state where the cover portion 38S is removed. As illustrated in FIG. 5B, the gas collection unit 38 includes a sheet unit 37 and a plurality of tubes (in this example, first to sixth tubes 21 to 26). In FIG. 5B, the sheet portion 37 and the plurality of tubes are drawn apart from each other for the sake of easy viewing. FIG.5 (c) has illustrated the state (planar arrangement | positioning) seen from the arrow AR of FIG.5 (b).

  For example, the sheet part 37 includes a urethane resin or the like. The thickness of the sheet portion 37 is a thickness that does not give the subject a sense of incongruity regarding sleeping comfort. The thickness of the sheet part 37 is 3 mm or more and 15 mm or less, for example. When the subject lies on the seat portion 37 (on the cover portion 38S), the seat portion 37 can be deformed.

  The sheet part 37 has holes (in this example, first to sixth holes h1 to h6). The size of the hole is, for example, 20 mm or more and 30 mm or less.

  Each of the plurality of tubes (in this example, the first to sixth tubes 21 to 26) has an opening. For example, the first to sixth tubes 21 to 26 include first to sixth tube openings 21a to 26a, respectively.

  As shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C, the first tube opening 21a overlaps the first hole h1. Similarly, the second to sixth tube openings 22a to 26a overlap with the second to sixth holes h2 to h6, respectively.

  For example, the subject's buttocks are located on at least one of the first to sixth holes h1 to h6. When the subject excretes, the odor accompanying excretion is introduced into the first to sixth tube openings 21a to 26a from at least one of the first to sixth holes h1 to h6.

  As will be described later, the first to sixth tube openings 21 a to 26 a are connected to the sensor unit 30. In the sensor part 30, the smell accompanying excretion contained in the gas is detected.

  In the embodiment, the sheet portion 37 is provided with a plurality of holes. For example, when there is a subject's buttocks (for example, a diaper) on one of the plurality of holes, the degree of odor accompanying excretion is intense in the hole. Around the position of the hole, the sheet portion 37 is pushed by the subject's buttocks (eg, a diaper). For this reason, there is little gas uptake | capture from other than the one hole. On the other hand, the one hole cannot be suppressed by the subject's buttocks (for example, a diaper). From the one hole, the gas to be detected is effectively passed through the tube and sent to the sensor unit 30. For example, in the gas detected by the sensor unit 30, the original concentration of odor is high. Thereby, excretion can be detected with higher sensitivity.

  On the other hand, there is a reference example for collecting gas in a space between a bed and a blanket. In this case, since the accumulation of air is large, the original concentration of the odor contained in the gas is low. For this reason, in this reference example, the sensitivity of excretion detection cannot be sufficiently high.

  On the other hand, in embodiment, the original density | concentration of the odor contained in the gas to collect can be made high. For this reason, the sensitivity of excretion detection can be increased.

  In an embodiment, gas is collected using a plurality of holes. Thereby, the gas containing an odor at a high concentration can be supplied to the sensor unit 30. The distance between the plurality of holes is, for example, 60 mm to 110 mm in the direction from the first hole h1 to the fourth hole h4. The distance between the plurality of holes is, for example, 60 mm or more and 110 mm or less. This distance is, for example, 110 mm to 160 mm in the direction from the first hole h1 to the second hole h2. For example, even when the position of the subject's buttocks moves, gas containing odor can be collected in any of the plurality of holes. Thereby, excretion can be detected with higher accuracy.

  As shown in FIG. 5D, in this example, the first to third tube openings 21a to 23a form one bundle (set). The fourth to sixth tube openings 24a to 26a form another bundle (set). Thus, in the embodiment, at least two of the plurality of tubes may be combined with each other.

  The plurality of tubes can be attached to and detached from the seat portion 37, for example. For example, the plurality of tubes are, for example, disposable. By attaching some of these tubes to a bundle (set), it is easy to attach and detach.

  For example, the first to sixth tube openings 21a to 26a are provided on the respective side surfaces of the first to sixth tubes 21 to 26. For example, the first to sixth tube openings 21 a to 26 a face the sheet portion 37. Thereby, the gas containing an odor efficiently enters the first to sixth tubes 21 to 26 through the first to sixth holes h1 to h6.

  Hereinafter, an example of the sensor unit 30 will be described.

FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D are schematic perspective views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the second embodiment.
These drawings show examples of the sensor unit 30. The gas collected by the gas collecting unit 38 is supplied to the sensor unit 30.

  As shown in FIG. 6A, the sensor unit 30 includes a housing 30A and a housing lid 30B. The housing 30A includes a drive unit 30C. An exhaust port 30D is provided in the housing 30A. For example, the gas supplied from the gas collecting unit 38 and passing through the odor sensor 17 is discharged from the exhaust port 30D.

  As shown in FIG. 6B, the housing lid 30B can be opened and closed. A plurality of tanks (the first tank 10, the second tank 10B, the Xth tank 10X, etc.) are provided under the housing lid 30B. The plurality of tanks are set in the housing 30A and fixed by the stopper 30S.

  A plurality of tubes (for example, the first to sixth tubes 21 to 26) are connected to the plurality of tanks. For example, one of the plurality of tubes is detachably connected to one of the plurality of tanks.

  As shown in FIG. 6C, the stopper 30S can be opened and closed. When the stopper 30S is closed, the first lid 10Q of the first tank 10 is suppressed by the stopper 30S. In the first tank 10, the first lid portion 10Q and the first tank portion 10P (see FIG. 1A) are in close contact with each other. The inside of the first tank 10 becomes substantially airtight.

  As shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D, the tank (for example, the first tank 10) can be removed from the housing 30A by opening the stopper 30S. When removing from the housing 30 </ b> A, the tube (for example, the first tube 21) may be removed from the first tank 10.

  As shown in FIG.6 (d), the 1st tank 10 contains the 1st cover part 10Q and the 1st tank part 10P. The first lid portion 10Q and the first tank portion 10P can be separated from each other. A first filter 10F is provided at the lower part of the tank (for example, the first tank 10). The first filter 10F can be removed from the housing 30A. When the tank is set in the housing 30A, the first filter 10F is pressed against the housing 30A through the first tank 10 by the stopper 30S.

  For example, the first tube 21, the first tank 10, and the first filter 10F can be easily detached from the housing 30A. This facilitates cleaning and the like. For example, these parts (the first tube 21, the first tank 10, and the first filter 10F) can be easily replaced. For example, the housing 30A can be easily cleaned.

  Thus, the excretion sensor 120 according to the embodiment may further include the first tube 21 in addition to the first tank 10, the first pump 16, and the odor sensor 17. One end 21e of the first tube 21 can be connected to the first air inlet 12 (see FIG. 3A). Excretion sensor 120 may further include a sheet portion 37 having a first hole h1. The first tube 21 includes a first tube opening 21a. The first tube opening 21a overlaps the first hole h1.

  The excretion sensor 120 may further include a second tank 10B and a second tube 22. The excretion sensor 120 may further include a second pump 16B. As already described with reference to FIG. 3B, the second tank 10B includes the second bottom portion 11B, the second intake port 12B provided at a position higher than the second bottom portion 11B, and the second duct 13B. Including. The second duct 13B includes a second inner opening 13aB and a second outer opening 13bB. The second inner opening 13aB is provided at a position higher than the second bottom 11B, and is connected to the space above the second bottom 11B.

  For example, the second pump 16B sends the gas inside the second tank 10B to the odor sensor 17 from the second outer opening 13bB. The first pump 16 may send the gas inside the second tank 10B to the odor sensor 17 from the second outer opening 13bB.

  One end 22e of the second tube 22 can be connected to the second air inlet 12B (see FIG. 3A).

  The sheet portion 37 further includes a second hole h2 in addition to the first hole h1 (see FIG. 5B). The second hole h2 is provided at a position different from the first hole h1. The second tube 22 includes a second tube opening 22a. The 2nd tube opening part 22a overlaps with the 2nd hole h2 (refer FIG.5 (b) and FIG.5 (c)).

  As already described with reference to FIG. 5A, the excretion sensor 120 may include a cover portion 38S. The cover portion 38S is provided around at least a part of the seat portion 37. The cover part 38S has air permeability. By providing the cover portion 38S, foreign matter (such as dust) or liquid can be prevented from entering the tube from the tube opening (for example, the first tube opening 21a).

FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D are schematic perspective views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the second embodiment.
These drawings show examples of the sensor unit 30. In these drawings, the direction from the bottom to the top is the Z-axis direction.

  FIG. 7A illustrates a state when the housing lid 30B and the stopper 30S are removed. In this example, the Xth tank 10X is inserted into the tank insertion portion 30Z in the housing 30A. The first tank 10 and the second tank 10B are removed from the tank insertion portion 30Z. The first tank 10 and the second tank 10B are not drawn. A filter (for example, the first filter 10F) is provided in the tank insertion portion 30Z from which the tank has been removed. Outlets (first to fifth outlets 31a to 31e, etc.) are provided at the bottom of the tank insertion part 30Z. The gas 28G flows from the outer opening of each tank toward these outlets.

  FIG. 7B illustrates a state when the tank insertion portion 30Z and the like are removed. However, in FIG. 7B, the Xth tank 10X is illustrated for easy understanding. Pumps (such as the first pump 16 and the second pump 16B) are provided at the bottom of the outlet (such as the first outlet 31a and the second outlet 31b). Furthermore, a bottom sensor (for example, the first bottom sensor 15 and the second bottom sensor 15B) is provided at the position of the bottom of the tank (for example, the first bottom 11 and the second bottom 11B). The bottom sensor is provided on a part of the printed circuit board 30CB, for example.

  As shown in FIG. 7B, an odor sensor 17 and an exhaust port 30D are provided. In this example, a battery 30T is provided. Various operations are possible even when power is not supplied from the outside by the battery 30T.

  FIG. 7C illustrates a state in which the lower portion of the housing 30A of the sensor unit 30 is removed as viewed from below. A plate portion 32 which is a part of the outer wall of the flow path is provided in a portion located below the tank.

  FIG.7 (d) has illustrated the state which removed the board part 32 from the state of FIG.7 (c). A groove is provided corresponding to the outlet (first to sixth outlets 31a to 31f, etc.). A part of these grooves becomes the flow path 16P. The gas 28G flowing through the groove passes around the odor sensor 17 and flows to the outside from the exhaust port 30D.

  FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the second embodiment. As shown to Fig.8 (a), also in the excretion sensor 121 which concerns on embodiment, a some tube (for example, the 1st-6th tubes 21-26) is provided. The first to sixth tubes 21 to 26 overlap with the first to sixth holes h1 to h6 of the sheet portion 37, respectively.

  As shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, in this example, the diameters of the plurality of tubes are different from each other.

  Hereinafter, attention is focused on the first tube 21 and the second tube 22. As shown in FIG. 8A, the distance along the first tube 21 between the first tube opening 21a and the one end 21e of the first tube 21 is the second tube opening 22a and the second tube opening 21a. The distance between the one end 22e of the tube 22 and the distance along the second tube 22 is shorter. In this example, the cross-sectional area S1 of the first flow path 21p of the first tube 21 is smaller than the cross-sectional area S2 of the second flow path 22p of the second tube 22.

  For example, in the first tube 21, the distance between the one end 21e of the first tube 21 and the first tube opening 21a is relatively short. In the second tube 22, the distance between the one end 22e of the second tube 22 and the second tube opening 22a is relatively long. At this time, when the cross-sectional areas of these tubes are the same, the resistances of the flow paths in these tubes are different from each other.

  As in the above example, by changing the cross-sectional area of the tube flow path according to the distance between the end of the tube and the opening, for example, the resistance of the flow path can be made uniform in multiple tubes. it can. Thereby, for example, the amount of inhalation of gas containing odor accompanying excretion can be made more uniform in a plurality of tubes (that is, a plurality of holes). More accurate detection is possible.

  As shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, when the cross-sectional shape of the plurality of tubes is substantially circular and the size of the flow path is substantially uniform, instead of the cross-sectional area, A diameter (first to sixth diameters d1 to d6) may be used. For example, the first diameter d 1 of the first tube 21 is smaller than the second diameter d 2 of the second tube 22.

  In the embodiment, a distance along the first flow path 21p between the one end 21e of the first tube 21 and the first tube opening 21a is defined as a first distance L1. A distance along the second flow path 22p between the one end 22e of the second tube 22 and the second tube opening 22a is defined as a second distance L2. For example, L1 / S1 is substantially the same as L2 / S2. For example, L1 / S1 may be 0.8 times or more and 1.2 times L2 / S2.

(Third embodiment)
FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B are schematic views illustrating the excretion sensor according to the third embodiment.
As shown to Fig.9 (a), the excretion sensor 130 which concerns on this embodiment contains the 1st tube 21, the 1st tank 10, the 1st pump 16, the odor sensor 17, and the 1st inlet-port side filter 10G. The first tube 21 has a first tube opening 21a. The 1st tube opening part 21a is provided in the vicinity of a subject's buttocks (for example, diaper). One end 21 e of the first tube 21 is connected to the first air inlet 12 of the first tank 10. The connection is detachable, for example. The first pump 16 sends the gas inside the first tank 10 to the odor sensor 17.

  The first air inlet side filter 10 </ b> G is provided in a path between the first tube 21 and the first pump 16.

  In this example, an attachment 10GA is provided. One end 21e of the first tube 21 is connected to the intake port of the attachment 10GA.

  As shown in FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, the first air inlet side filter 10G is provided inside the attachment 10GA.

  As shown in FIG. 9A, the exhaust hole of the attachment 10 </ b> GA is connected to the first intake port 12 of the first tank 10.

  The first air inlet side filter 10G is, for example, a dust filter. The first air inlet side filter 10G has air permeability, for example. For example, the first inlet-side filter 10G may not substantially pass liquid.

  In the first inlet side filter 10G, for example, the mesh is fine. The first air inlet side filter 10G can suppress entry of foreign matter (such as dust) or liquid from the first tube 21 into the first tank 10. Thereby, for example, adverse effects on the first pump 16 or the odor sensor 17 can be suppressed. For example, damage to the first pump 16 or the odor sensor 17 can be suppressed.

  The cross-sectional area of the first tank 10 that intersects the flow path is larger than the cross-sectional area of the first tube 21 that intersects the flow path. Thereby, the suction force in the 1st tank 10 can be made small. As a result, for example, even if foreign matter or liquid enters the first tank 10 through the first inlet side filter 10G, the foreign matter or liquid tends to stay inside the first tank 10. For example, adverse effects on the first pump 16 or the odor sensor 17 can be further suppressed.

  The first inlet-side filter 10G has, for example, a sufficiently large area. Thereby, it can suppress substantially that the attraction | suction force of the 1st pump 16 falls.

  By using the detachable attachment 10GA, parts can be easily replaced or cleaned. By providing the first air inlet side filter 10G in the attachment 10GA, replacement or cleaning is facilitated.

  In the embodiment, a plurality of tubes (for example, the second tube 22), a plurality of tanks (for example, the second tank 10B), a plurality of pumps (for example, the second pump 16B), and a plurality of inlet side filters are provided. May be.

  For example, in the excretion detection device of the reference example, a pump or a suction fan for sucking air is provided outside, and the gas containing the smell of excrement is sucked. The sucked gas is detected by a sensor such as a gas sensor or a temperature / humidity sensor. Based on the detection result, excretion is detected (or identified).

  In such a reference example, a hanging blanket or a mattress is used as means for sucking gas. When trying to use a hanging blanket, the hanging blanket may not be used depending on the usage environment. When using a mattress, if excrement adheres to the mattress, the burden of maintenance is large.

  In the reference example, when the excrement leaks from the diaper, the excrement may be accidentally sucked. In order to prevent accidental suction of excrement, it is conceivable to use a special sheet that does not transmit liquid but transmits gas. However, special sheets are expensive. If a special sheet is used, the air resistance during suction increases, so the pump becomes large.

  Furthermore, in the reference example, it is difficult to know that the excrement has been accidentally sucked.

  In this reference example, a wide range of gases is collected. For this reason, it is susceptible to disturbance. The disturbance is, for example, an odor when changing diapers. The disturbance is, for example, a smell at the time of landing, a smell at the time of leaving the floor, or another smell. False detection is likely to occur due to the influence of disturbance.

  In the embodiment, for example, a sheet-like gas collecting unit 38 having a size corresponding to the installation position of the diaper and the movable range of the diaper is used. The gas collection unit 38 includes a sheet unit 37. For example, by using the sheet portion 37 having a minimum size, for example, an excretion sensor can be easily installed. For example, maintenance becomes easy.

  In the embodiment, for example, a tube that can be easily detached is used. For example, when excrement has been aspirated, or periodic exchange becomes easy. For example, the tube can be made of a common material (such as vinyl chloride). Cost can be reduced.

  In the embodiment, a sensor (for example, the first bottom sensor 15 or the like) that detects that excrement has entered the tank is provided. It can be detected that the excrement is accidentally sucked. Maintenance can be performed promptly. Hygiene can be improved. Since the use of the excrement while sucked can be suppressed, the detection accuracy can be improved.

  In the embodiment, the excretion sensor may have a function of temporarily stopping the operation of the excretion sensor. For example, when a disturbance may occur, the operation of the excretion sensor may be temporarily stopped. When the possibility of disturbance becomes low, the operation of the excretion sensor may be started.

Embodiments may include the following configurations (for example, technical solutions).
(Configuration 1)
A first tank;
A first pump;
Smell sensor,
With
The first tank is
A first bottom;
A first air inlet provided at a position higher than the first bottom;
A first duct including a first inner opening and a first outer opening;
The first inner opening is provided at a position higher than the first bottom and is connected to a space above the first bottom;
The first pump is an excretion sensor that sends the gas in the first tank to the odor sensor from the first outer opening.
(Configuration 2)
The first tank includes a first tank part and a first lid part,
The first tank part includes the first bottom part, the first air inlet, and the first duct,
The excretion sensor according to Configuration 1, wherein the first lid portion is detachably attached to the first tank portion.
(Configuration 3)
The excretion sensor according to Configuration 2, wherein the elastic modulus of the first lid portion is lower than the elastic modulus of the first tank portion.
(Configuration 4)
The first tank further includes a first inner wall,
The excretion sensor according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein at least a part of the first inner wall is provided between the first air inlet and the first duct.
(Configuration 5)
The part of the first inner wall is according to any one of configurations 1 to 4 provided between at least a part of the first duct and a part of the outer wall of the first tank. Excretion sensor.
(Configuration 6)
The excretion sensor according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein at least a part of a side portion of the first duct is between the first inner opening and the first air inlet.
(Configuration 7)
The excretion sensor according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, further comprising a first bottom sensor that detects that liquid has been introduced into the first bottom.
(Configuration 8)
The excretion sensor according to Configuration 7, wherein the first bottom sensor includes at least one of a capacitance sensor and a contact sensor.
(Configuration 9)
The excretion sensor according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, further comprising a first filter provided in a flow path between the first duct and the first pump.
(Configuration 10)
A first tube;
The excretion sensor according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, wherein one end of the first tube can be connected to the first air inlet.
(Configuration 11)
A sheet portion having a first hole;
The first tube includes a first tube opening,
The excretion sensor according to Configuration 10, wherein the first tube opening overlaps the first hole.
(Configuration 12)
A second tank,
A second pump;
A second tube;
Further comprising
The second tank is
A second bottom;
A second air inlet provided at a position higher than the second bottom;
A second duct including a second inner opening and a second outer opening;
The second inner opening is provided at a position higher than the second bottom and is connected to a space above the second bottom,
The second pump sends the gas inside the second tank to the odor sensor from the second outer opening,
One end of the second tube can be connected to the second air inlet,
The sheet portion further includes a second hole provided at a position different from the first hole,
The second tube includes a second tube opening,
The excretion sensor according to Configuration 11, wherein the second tube opening overlaps the second hole.
(Configuration 13)
The distance along the first tube between the first tube opening and the one end of the first tube is between the second tube opening and the one end of the second tube. Shorter than the distance along the second tube,
The excretion sensor according to Configuration 12, wherein a cross-sectional area of the first flow path of the first tube is smaller than a cross-sectional area of the second flow path of the second tube.
(Configuration 14)
The excretion sensor according to any one of configurations 10 to 13, further comprising a breathable cover portion provided around at least a part of the seat portion.
(Configuration 15)
The excretion sensor according to any one of configurations 10 to 14, further comprising a first air inlet side filter provided in a path between the first tube and the first pump.

  For example, in the embodiment, false detection is reduced.

  The excretion sensor according to the embodiment may be used in a nursing facility, for example. By using the excretion sensor according to the embodiment, for example, the QOL of the subject can be improved. For example, the work burden of the nursing staff can be reduced.

  According to the embodiment, an excretion sensor that is easier to use can be provided.

  The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to specific examples. However, the present invention is not limited to these specific examples. For example, the specific configuration of each element such as a tank, a pump, an odor sensor, a tube, a seat unit, a communication unit, and a control unit included in the excretion sensor is appropriately selected from a known range by those skilled in the art. Are included in the scope of the present invention as long as they can be carried out in the same manner and the same effects can be obtained.

  Combinations of any two or more elements of each specific example within the technically possible range are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they include the gist of the present invention.

  In addition, all excretion sensors that can be implemented by those skilled in the art based on the excretion sensor described above as an embodiment of the present invention are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they include the gist of the present invention.

  In addition, various changes and modifications can be conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the idea of the present invention, and these changes and modifications are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. .

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... 1st tank, 10B ... 2nd tank, 10F ... 1st filter, 10G ... 1st inlet side filter, 10GA ... Attachment, 10P ... 1st tank part, 10PB ... 2nd tank part, 10Q ... 1st cover , 10QB ... second lid, 10X ... X tank, 10w ... outer wall, 11 ... first bottom, 11B ... second bottom, 12 ... first inlet, 12B ... second inlet, 12X ... X intake Mouth, 13 ... first duct, 13B ... second duct, 13a ... first inner opening, 13aB ... second inner opening, 13b ... first outer opening, 13bB ... second outer opening, 13bX ... X Outer opening, 13s ... side, 13t ... top, 14 ... inner wall, 14a ... part, 14w ... part, 15 ... first bottom sensor, 15B ... second bottom sensor, 16 ... first pump, 16B ... 2 pumps, 16P ... flow path, 16X ... Xth pump, 17 ... odor sensor, 20X ... Xth tube, 21-26 ... 1st-6th tube, 21a-26a ... 1st-6th tube opening, 21e ... one end, 21f ... the other end, 21p ... flow path, 22e ... one end, 22p ... flow path, 28 ... detection object, 28G ... gas, 28L ... excrement, 30 ... sensor part, 30A ... housing, 30B ... housing Body cover, 30C ... drive unit, 30CB ... printed circuit board, 30D ... exhaust port, 30S ... stopper, 30T ... battery, 30Z ... tank insertion part, 31a-31f ... first to sixth outlets, 32 ... plate part, 37 ... Sheet part 38 ... Gas collection part 38S ... Cover part 61 ... Communication part 62 ... Operation part 63 ... Server 110, 111, 120, 121, 130 ... Excretion center Sa, 210 ... beds, AR ... arrows, S1, S2 ... cross-sectional area, d1 to d6 ... first to sixth diameter, H1 to H6 ... first to sixth holes

Claims (11)

A first tank;
A first pump;
Smell sensor,
With
The first tank is
A first bottom;
A first air inlet provided at a position higher than the first bottom;
A first duct including a first inner opening and a first outer opening;
The first inner opening is provided at a position higher than the first bottom and is connected to a space above the first bottom;
The first pump is an excretion sensor that sends the gas in the first tank to the odor sensor from the first outer opening. The first tank includes a first tank part and a first lid part,
The first tank part includes the first bottom part, the first air inlet, and the first duct,
The excretion sensor according to claim 1, wherein the first lid part is detachably attached to the first tank part.   The excretion sensor according to claim 2, wherein an elastic modulus of the first lid portion is lower than an elastic modulus of the first tank portion. The first tank further includes a first inner wall,
The excretion sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least a part of the first inner wall is provided between the first air inlet and the first duct.   The part of the first inner wall is provided between at least a part of the first duct and a part of the outer wall of the first tank. Excretion sensor.   The excretion sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least a part of a side portion of the first duct is between the first inner opening and the first air inlet.   The excretion sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a first bottom sensor that detects that liquid has been introduced into the first bottom.   The excretion sensor according to claim 7, wherein the first bottom sensor includes at least one of a capacitance sensor and a contact sensor.   The excretion sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a first filter provided in a flow path between the first duct and the first pump. A first tube;
The excretion sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein one end of the first tube can be connected to the first intake port. A sheet portion having a first hole;
The first tube includes a first tube opening,
The excretion sensor according to claim 10, wherein the first tube opening overlaps the first hole.