JP2022147113A - Excretion information management system - Google Patents

Abstract

To make it possible to recognize the time taken for evacuation of feces.SOLUTION: An excretion information management system has a toilet seat device installed at the upper part of a toilet bowl, a seating sensor for detecting that a person is seated on the toilet bowl, a detection part for detecting feces, and a display part for displaying excretion information of a user. The toilet seat device has a clock part for detecting time, and the clock part acquires the time taken for evacuation of feces composed of a difference between the time of detection by the seating sensor that a user is seated and the time of the first detection of feces acquired by the detection part, and the display part displays the time taken for evacuation of feces.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

The disclosed embodiments relate to an excretion information management system.

Conventionally, in order to be useful for health management, there has been known a technique for automatically detecting the properties and volume of stool (hereinafter also referred to as "stool") and blood adhesion to stool, and displaying the detection results (for example, patent documents 1, 2, etc.).

JP 2018-146244 A JP 2016-004005 A

However, the above-mentioned prior art detects and displays the characteristics (indicators) of the stool object itself, such as the properties of the stool, and the behavior of excreting the stool, such as the time required for the toilet user to excrete the stool. It does not detect and display the characteristics (indicators) of (excretion behavior). Therefore, in the conventional technology described above, it is difficult for the user to recognize the characteristics (indicator) of the excretion act itself, such as how long it took for the user to excrete. It is desired to be able to recognize the time taken.

An object of the disclosed embodiments is to provide an excretion information management system that enables recognition of the time required for stool excretion.

An excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a toilet seat device installed above a toilet bowl, a seating sensor that detects when a person sits on the toilet bowl, a detection unit that detects stool, and a user's and a display unit for displaying excretion information, wherein the toilet seat device has a clock unit for detecting time, and the clock unit detects that the user is seated by the seating sensor. The time required for stool is acquired from the difference between the detection time and the time when the stool acquired by the detection unit is first detected, and the display unit displays the time required for the stool.

According to the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the time required for excretion of feces (also referred to as "excretion") is the time required from when the user sits on the toilet bowl to when feces are first detected. (also referred to as "time required for defecation" or "time required for excretion"). Thereby, the excretion information management system can recognize the time required for stool excretion. In general, it is said that the shorter the time between sitting and leaving the bowels, the better. In general, it is good to go to the toilet and defecate smoothly and quickly. In other words, with good eliminations, the time between sitting on the toilet and elimination tends to be short. Constipation, on the other hand, takes a long time from sitting to defecation because the stool is hard. The excretion information management system shows the time required for defecation (excretion) to the user, so that the user himself/herself can recognize the time required for excretion, so that the user himself/herself can judge whether the excretion is good or bad. becomes possible.

In the excretion information management system according to an aspect of the embodiment, the display unit displays the time required for the excretion in chronological order for each date and time of excretion.

According to the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the time required for stool excretion (also referred to as “time required for stool” or “time required for excretion”) is calculated for each date and time of excretion of the stool. displayed in chronological order. As a result, the excretion information management system can recognize the time required for stool excretion in chronological order. For example, if a person working to improve constipation sees the process of shortening the time from sitting down to getting out of bed, he or she can see the effect of improvement, which motivates them to continue improving their behavior. The excretion information management system can make the user recognize the change in the time required for defecation (improvement effect) in chronological order, and can increase the user's motivation to continue improvement behavior.

In the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the detection unit detects stool by detecting a change in the water level of the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl.

According to the excretion information management system according to an aspect of the embodiment, since the user's stool is determined (observed) based on the tendency of the water level to increase, it is possible to easily acquire the presence or absence and type of excretion. For example, the water level of urine gradually increases with time, and the water level of stool (stool) increases steeply. Therefore, the excretion information management system can appropriately detect the user's stool based on the difference in water level changes as described above.

In the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the detection unit is a radiation thermometer that receives infrared rays emitted from stool, and detects stool by detecting radiation temperature.

According to the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by judging (observing) the user's stool by the radiation temperature, the user's stool can be appropriately controlled based on the temperature of the user's excreted stool. can be detected. For example, an excretion information management system can clearly distinguish between urine and feces.

In the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the detection unit detects stool by transmitting electromagnetic waves or ultrasonic waves to stool and receiving signals reflected from the stool.

According to the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by transmitting an electromagnetic wave or an ultrasonic wave to stool and receiving a signal reflected from the stool, stool by the user is determined based on the received signal. do. Thus, the excretion information management system can appropriately detect the user's stool by receiving the signal reflected from the stool. The signal to be transmitted may be any signal that can be used to detect stool, such as light (visible light, invisible light), electromagnetic waves such as microwaves, or ultrasonic waves.

In the excretion information management system according to an aspect of the embodiment, the detection unit detects stool by acquiring a signal emitted from falling stool or a signal reflected from falling stool.

According to the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by transmitting a signal to falling stool and receiving a signal reflected from the falling stool, the user's stool is detected based on the received signal. can judge. For example, by detecting dropping feces, the excretion information management system can detect the moment of defecation without missing a beat. can be measured. Thus, the excretion information management system can appropriately detect the user's stool by receiving the signal reflected from the falling stool. The signal to be transmitted may be any signal that can be used to detect stool, such as light (visible light, invisible light), electromagnetic waves such as microwaves, or ultrasonic waves.

In an excretion information management system according to an aspect of an embodiment, a storage unit that stores properties of stool is provided, and the storage unit determines which of at least three levels of hardness the properties of the stool are. and the display unit displays the properties of the stool stored in the storage unit together with the time required for the stool.

According to the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by displaying the properties of the stool (also referred to as "stool properties") together with the time required for defecation, the user can also recognize the properties of the stool. This allows the user to grasp information about excretion.

In the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the detection result of the stool properties by the detection unit is automatically input to the storage unit, and the display unit displays the time required for the stool as the date and time of excretion. displayed for each

According to the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, since the identification result of the stool properties is automatically input, it is possible to save the user's trouble. As a result, the excretion information management system can improve convenience for the user and encourage the user to use the information management service related to excretion. For example, according to the excretion information management system, in the case of soft stool, the time required for defecation is short, but since the condition of the intestines is not good, it is possible to automatically input whether the stool is soft or not.

The excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment has an evaluation unit that evaluates whether the excretion is good or bad according to the properties of the stool and the time required for the stool.

According to the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to appropriately evaluate the quality of excretion by using the properties of stool and the time required for stool. For example, good excretion is said to be smooth passage of banana-shaped, bright-colored stools (for example, normal stools). It is said that it is good to go to the toilet after feeling the urge to defecate and to be excreted immediately. Even if the stool can be excreted immediately, if the stool is of poor quality (for example, loose stool), the health condition is not good. Therefore, by quantitatively acquiring the time required for excretion, which represents the excretion act, and combining it with the properties of the stool to comprehensively indicate whether the excretion act is good or bad, the user can be provided with more detailed information on excretion. can be made recognizable.

In the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the evaluation unit evaluates such that the shorter the time required for the defecation, the higher the evaluation, and the property of the feces indicates normal among the three levels. Evaluation is performed so that the higher the level, the higher the evaluation.

According to the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, appropriate evaluation is possible by evaluating that the shorter the time required for defecation, the higher the evaluation and the higher the normality of the stool properties. For example, in the excretion information management system, the shorter the time required for stool is, the higher the evaluation is, and the stool with a normal stool shape (e.g., normal stool) is more likely to have a non-normal stool (e.g., soft stool, hard stool). Evaluate so that the evaluation is higher than In this way, the excretion information management system can display the quality of excretion using a unique index.

According to one aspect of the embodiment, the time required for excretion of stool can be made recognizable.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration inside a toilet room. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of arrangement of sensors according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the excretion information management system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the toilet seat device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing a detection relationship. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of display of the time required for excretion. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an excretion information management system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing an example of arrangement of sensors according to the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing a detection relationship. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an excretion information management system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an example of arrangement of sensors according to the third embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing a detection relationship. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of display of the time required for excretion. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of input of information on excretion. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an excretion information management system according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing an example of arrangement of sensors according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data acquisition method. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing a detection relationship. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an excretion information management system according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing a detection relationship. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of display of the time required for excretion.

An embodiment of the excretion information management system disclosed by the present application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, this invention is not limited by embodiment shown below.

<1. First Embodiment>
In the excretion information management system according to each embodiment described below, the time required for the user to excrete feces (hereinafter also referred to as "excretion time") is acquired by detection using a sensor. First, as a first embodiment, a case of acquiring the time required for excretion (excretion time) based on the water level in the toilet will be described.

<1-1. Configuration of excretion information management system>
The configuration of the excretion information management system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. FIG. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration inside a toilet room. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of arrangement of sensors according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the excretion information management system according to the first embodiment.

First, of the excretion information management system 1, a configuration example in the toilet room R common to each embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Hereinafter, the configuration inside the toilet room R shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 may be collectively referred to as a toilet system TS. As shown in FIG. 1, in the toilet room R, a Western-style toilet bowl (hereinafter referred to as "toilet bowl") 7 is installed on the floor surface F. As shown in FIG. In addition, below, the direction which faces the space of the toilet room R from the floor surface F is described as the top. The toilet seat device 2 is provided above the toilet bowl 7 .

The toilet bowl 7 is made of ceramics, for example. A bowl portion 8 is formed in the toilet bowl 7 . The bowl portion 8 has a downwardly recessed shape and is a portion that receives the excrement of the user. The toilet bowl 7 is not limited to the floor-mounted type as shown in the drawing, and may be of any type, such as a wall-mounted type, as long as the toilet system TS is applicable. The toilet bowl 7 is provided with a rim portion 9 over the entire circumference of the end of the opening facing the bowl portion 8 . In the toilet room R, for example, a flush water tank that stores flush water may be installed near the toilet 7, or a so-called tankless type in which a flush water tank is not installed may be used.

For example, when a user operates a cleaning operation unit (not shown) for cleaning provided in the toilet room R, the toilet bowl is cleaned by supplying cleaning water to the bowl portion 8 of the toilet bowl 7 . The cleaning operation part may be an operation lever or a touch operation on the toilet bowl cleaning object displayed on the operation device 10 . Note that the cleaning operation unit is not limited to the operation lever or the like that allows the user to manually clean the toilet bowl. It's okay.

The toilet seat device 2 is attached to the upper portion of the toilet bowl 7 and includes a body portion 3 , a toilet lid 4 , a toilet seat 5 and a washing nozzle 6 . The toilet seat device 2 is placed on top of a toilet bowl 7 having a bowl portion 8 for receiving excrement. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on the upper portion of the toilet bowl 7 so that the washing nozzle 6 advances into the bowl portion 8 before spraying washing water. The toilet seat device 2 may be detachably attached to the toilet bowl 7 or may be attached so as to be integrated with the toilet bowl 7 .

As shown in FIG. 1 , the toilet seat 5 is formed in an annular shape with an opening 50 in the center, and is arranged along the rim portion 9 at a position overlapping the opening of the toilet bowl 7 . A user sits on the toilet seat 5 . The toilet seat 5 functions as a seat that supports the buttocks of a seated user. As shown in FIG. 1, one end of each of the toilet lid 4 and the toilet seat 5 is pivotally supported by the main body 3, and attached so as to be rotatable (openable and closable) about the pivotal support of the main body 3. . The toilet lid 4 may be attached to the toilet seat device 2 as necessary, and the toilet seat device 2 may not have the toilet lid 4 .

The washing nozzle 6 is a nozzle for spraying washing water. The washing nozzle 6 can jet washing water. The washing nozzle 6 can jet washing water toward the user. The washing nozzle 6 is a nozzle for washing private parts. The cleaning nozzle 6 is configured to be movable forward and backward with respect to a main body cover 30 that is a housing of the main body 3 by being driven by a driving source such as an electric motor (such as the nozzle motor 61 in FIG. 4). Also, the washing nozzle 6 is connected to a water source such as a water pipe (not shown). As shown in FIG. 1, the washing nozzle 6 is at a position (hereinafter also referred to as "advancing position") with respect to the main body cover 30, which is the housing of the main body 3, and removes water from the water source. It is sprayed onto the user's body to wash the private parts.

FIG. 1 shows a state in which the cleaning nozzle 6 is at the advanced position. Note that the cleaning nozzle 6 may also be used for cleaning the inside of the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8, etc.). The washing nozzle 6 may be used so as to be switchable between a private parts washing mode for washing the user's private parts and a toilet bowl washing mode for spraying water in the toilet bowl 7 . For example, the washing nozzle 6 may be used so as to be switchable between the private parts washing mode and the toilet bowl washing mode according to the control by the controller 23 (see FIG. 4) of the toilet seat device 2 .

The operating device 10 is provided in the toilet room R. As shown in FIG. The operating device 10 is provided at a position where it can be operated by the user. The operating device 10 is provided at an operable position when the user is seated on the toilet seat 5 . In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the operating device 10 is arranged on the wall surface W on the right side as seen from the user sitting on the toilet seat 5 . Note that the operating device 10 may be arranged in various ways other than on the wall surface as long as the user sitting on the toilet seat 5 can use the operating device 10 . For example, the operating device 10 may be provided integrally with the toilet seat device 2 .

Here, an example of sensor arrangement will be described with reference to FIG. 2 removes the toilet lid 4 to show the placement of the sensors and lifts the toilet seat 5 to illustrate the back surface 51, which is the opposite surface of the toilet seat 5 to the surface on which the user sits (seating surface). FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the

FIG. 2 shows a state in which the cleaning nozzle 6 (see FIG. 1) is in a position (hereinafter also referred to as "storage position") in which it is housed inside the main body cover 30. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2 , when the cleaning nozzle 6 is in the retracted position, the nozzle cover 60 is closed and the cleaning nozzle 6 is hidden behind the nozzle cover 60 . When cleaning is performed by the cleaning nozzle 6, the nozzle cover 60 is opened, and the cleaning nozzle 6 protrudes from the opening of the main body cover 30 (opening closed by the nozzle cover 60 in the closed state in FIG. 2). transitions to the advance state.

As shown in FIG. 2 , a seat sensor 301 and a water level sensor 302 that are sensors used in the excretion information management system 1 are arranged on the back surface 51 side of the toilet seat 5 . The seating sensor 301 may be detachable from the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5 or fixed to the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5 . The seating sensor 301 may be included in the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 . Moreover, the water level sensor 302 may be detachable from the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5 or may be fixed to the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5 . The water level sensor 302 may be arranged inside the body cover 30 . The water level sensor 302 may be included in the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 .

The seating sensor 301 may employ any detection method and may be placed at any location as long as it can detect that the user is seated on the toilet seat 5 . For example, if the seating sensor 301 is an infrared or μ (microwave) ranging sensor that detects seating based on a distance, the seating sensor 301 may be positioned to detect a person's feet from the side of the toilet bowl 7 or attached to the toilet bowl 7 . It may be placed in a position to detect a person's back from the tank that is being held. For example, when the seat sensor 301 detects a person's foot from the side of the toilet bowl 7, the seat sensor 301 may be arranged near the outer periphery of the toilet bowl 7 shown in FIG. For example, when the seat sensor 301 detects a person's back from the tank attached to the toilet 7, the seat sensor 301 may be arranged on the outer periphery of the tank provided at the rear of the toilet 7 shown in FIG. For example, if the seating sensor 301 is a distance measuring sensor and detects seating by distance, the seating sensor 301 may be arranged around the toilet bowl 7 . For example, when the seating sensor 301 detects seating by distance, it may be placed on the ceiling of the toilet room R. Further, for example, if the seat sensor 301 is a contact switch and detects sinking of the toilet seat due to being seated, the seat sensor 301 may be arranged at the pivotal portion of the toilet seat 5 . Further, for example, if the seating sensor 301 is a load sensor that detects seating based on the weight applied to the toilet seat, the seating sensor 301 may be arranged on the back surface of the toilet seat 5, which is in contact with the toilet bowl 7. Moreover, the water level sensor 302 may be arranged at any location as long as it can detect a change in the water level of the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 (for example, the portion where the water sealing of the bowl portion 8 is accumulated).

As shown in FIG. 3 , the excretion information management system 1 has a toilet system TS including a toilet seat device 2 , an operation device 10 , a seating sensor 301 and a water level sensor 302 , and a display device 200 . The excretion information management system 1 may include multiple toilet systems TS and multiple display devices 200 .

The toilet seat device 2 is a device arranged in the toilet room R. As shown in FIG. The toilet seat device 2 communicates with each device of the toilet system TS (the operation device 10 , the seating sensor 301 and the water level sensor 302 ) and the display device 200 . The toilet seat device 2 transmits to the display device 200 information to be displayed on the display device 200 . The toilet seat device 2 communicates with the display device 200, which is a user terminal used by the user in the toilet room R, by short-range communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), and displays information to be displayed on the display device 200. can be sent to Details such as the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described later.

The operating device 10 is communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network by wire or wirelessly. For example, the operation device 10 may be communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 by a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The toilet seat device 2 and the operation device 10 may be connected in any way as long as information can be transmitted and received. may For example, the operation device 10 may be communicatively connected to the toilet seat device 2 via the network N by wire or wirelessly.

The operation device 10 receives various operations from the user via a display surface (for example, the display screen 11) by, for example, a touch panel function. Further, the operation device 10 may include switches and buttons, and receive various operations through the switches, buttons, and the like. The display screen 11 is, for example, a display screen of a tablet terminal realized by a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like, and is a display device for displaying various information. That is, the operating device 10 accepts input from the user through the display screen 11 and also outputs to the user. The display screen 11 is a display device that displays various information.

The operation device 10 receives a user's operation for stopping the control being executed by the toilet seat device 2 . The operating device 10 receives a user's operation for starting the execution of washing the private parts by the toilet seat device 2 . The operating device 10 receives instructions to the cleaning nozzle 6 from the user. The operation device 10 receives a user's operation for causing the toilet seat device 2 to output a predetermined sound. The operation device 10 receives a user's operation for performing a sterilization process of sterilizing the washing nozzle 6 (see FIG. 1) of the toilet seat device 2 with sterilized water. The operation device 10 receives a user's operation for adjusting the momentum of the water spouted by the toilet seat device 2 when washing the private parts. The operating device 10 receives a user's operation for adjusting the volume of the sound output by the toilet seat device 2 . The operating device 10 accepts a user's operation for selecting a language for displaying information regarding the use of the restroom on the operating device 10 or outputting the information by voice.

For example, the operation device 10 may display on the display screen 11 the above-described object that accepts the user's operation, and execute various processes according to the user's contact with the displayed object. For example, the operating device 10 may have switches, buttons, and the like for receiving the user's operations described above, and may execute various processes according to the user's contact with the switches, buttons, and the like. Note that the above is just an example, and the operation device 10 may receive an operation by a user who executes various processes.

The seating sensor 301 has a function of detecting a person sitting on the toilet seat device 2 . The seating sensor 301 detects that the user has sat down on the toilet bowl 7 . The seating sensor 301 can detect the seating of the user on the toilet seat 5 . The seat sensor 301 also functions as a seat separation detection sensor that detects the user's separation from the toilet seat 5 . A seating sensor 301 detects the seating state of the user on the toilet seat 5 .

The seating sensor 301 is a switch that switches between ON and OFF according to the load of the user sitting on the toilet seat 5, for example. The seating sensor 301 detects that the user has sat on the toilet bowl 7 by switching on when the user sits down and the toilet seat 5 sinks.

The above is just an example, and the seating sensor 301 may detect the seating of a person on the toilet seat device 2 by various means, not limited to the above. The seating sensor 301 transmits a seating detection signal to the toilet seat device 2 .

The seating sensor 301 is communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network, either by wire or wirelessly. For example, the seating sensor 301 may be communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 by a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The toilet seat device 2 and the seating sensor 301 may be connected in any way as long as information can be transmitted and received. may For example, the seating sensor 301 may be communicatively connected to the toilet seat device 2 via the network N by wire or wirelessly.

The water level sensor 302 functions as a detector that detects changes in the water level of the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 . The water level sensor 302 detects stool by detecting a change in the water level of the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 . A water level sensor 302 detects the position of the water surface of the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 . For example, the water level sensor 302 is a ranging sensor. The water level sensor 302 detects a change in the water level of the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 in a state in which the toilet seat 5 is lowered (a state in which the user sits on the toilet seat 5 and can defecate). placed in For example, the water level sensor 302 is provided on the toilet seat 5 with its directivity facing the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 . Note that the water level sensor 302 may be arranged in any manner as long as it can detect changes in water due to the user's defecation. For example, the water level sensor 302 may detect the water level of a trap section connected to the water sealing section.

The water level sensor 302 is communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network, wired or wirelessly. For example, the water level sensor 302 may be communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 by a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Note that the toilet seat device 2 and the water level sensor 302 may be connected in any way as long as information can be transmitted and received, and may be connected by wire so as to be able to communicate, or by being connected so as to be able to communicate wirelessly. may For example, the water level sensor 302 may be communicatively connected to the toilet seat device 2 via the network N by wire or wirelessly.

The display device 200 functions as a display unit that displays various types of information (excretion information) related to excretion of the user. The display device 200 receives information indicating the time required for excretion from the toilet seat device 2 and displays the received information indicating the time required for excretion. For example, the display device 200 displays the time required for stool (time required for excretion) in chronological order for each date and time of excretion of the stool.

For example, the display device 200 is a user terminal (computer) used by a user. The display device 200 is realized by, for example, a smart phone, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet terminal, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), or the like. For example, the display device 200 is communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 via the network N by wire or wirelessly. For example, the display device 200 may be communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 by a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

The display device 200 transmits and receives information to and from the toilet seat device 2 . The display device 200 receives information about the user's excretion from the toilet seat device 2 and displays the received information. For example, the display device 200 receives content indicating the user's excretion time from the toilet seat device 2 and displays the received content.

It should be noted that the above is merely an example, and the excretion information management system 1 can adopt any device configuration as long as the desired processing can be realized. For example, the operation device 10 may function as a display unit that displays the time required for excretion. For example, the operation device 10 and the display device 200 may be integrated (one device). In this case, the user terminal does not have to be included in the excretion information management system 1 . Moreover, both the operation device 10 and the user terminal may be included in the excretion information management system 1 as devices that function as display units. Moreover, the toilet seat device 2 may have a sensor (detection unit) such as the water level sensor 302 included in the excretion information management system 1 .

The excretion information management system 1 may also include sensors other than the seating sensor 301 and the water level sensor 302 . For example, the excretion information management system 1 may include a human body detection sensor. The human body detection sensor has a function of detecting a human body. For example, the human body detection sensor is implemented by a pyroelectric sensor or the like using infrared signals. For example, the human body detection sensor may be realized by a μ (micro) wave sensor or the like. The above is just an example, and the human body detection sensor is not limited to the above, and may detect a human body by various means. For example, the human body detection sensor detects a person (such as a user) who has entered the toilet room R (see FIG. 1). The human body detection sensor transmits a detection signal to the toilet seat device 2 .

<1-2. Functional Configuration of Toilet Seat Device>
Next, the functional configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the toilet seat device according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4 , the toilet seat device 2 includes a communication section 21 , a storage section 22 , a control section 23 , an electromagnetic valve 71 , a nozzle motor 61 and a cleaning nozzle 6 . For example, the communication section 21 , storage section 22 and control section 23 are provided in the body section 3 of the toilet seat device 2 . 4, illustration of a part of the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 described in FIG. 1 (main body 3, toilet seat 5, toilet bowl 7, etc.) is omitted.

The communication unit 21 is realized by, for example, a communication device, a communication circuit, and the like. The communication unit 21 is connected to the network N (see FIG. 3) by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 21 transmits and receives information to and from the operating device 10, the seating sensor 301, the water level sensor 302, the display device 200, and the like.

The communication unit 21 communicates with the display device 200 under the control of the control unit 23 . The communication unit 21 transmits to the display device 200 information about the time required for excretion acquired by detection by the water level sensor 302 . For example, the communication unit 21 transmits content related to the time required for excretion generated by the clock unit 232 to the display device 200 . The communication unit 21 also receives operation information indicating user's operation from the operation device 10 .

The storage unit 22 is realized by, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a semiconductor memory device such as a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 22 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily stores data used by a measurement program for measuring the time required for excretion. The storage unit 22 stores various information such as information detected by the detection unit. The storage unit 22 stores various information used for determination processing.

For example, the storage unit 22 stores a threshold used for determination processing. For example, the storage unit 22 stores information for determining whether the increase in water level is due to stool. For example, the storage unit 22 stores a threshold used in the process of determining whether or not the slope of the water level rise is due to stool. The storage unit 22 stores information about the measured time. The storage unit 22 stores information indicating the time required for excretion. Note that the above is only an example, and the storage unit 22 stores various information regarding flights.

The control unit 23 may be, for example, a control device that controls various configurations and processes. The control unit 23, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or the like, a program stored inside the toilet seat device 2 (for example, an excretion time measurement program, a property determination program, etc. according to the present disclosure) It is realized by being executed using a RAM or the like as a work area. Also, the control unit 23 is implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 23 has an acquisition unit 231, a clock unit 232, and an evaluation unit 233, and implements or executes information processing functions and actions described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 23 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 4, and may be another configuration as long as it performs the information processing described later.

Acquisition unit 231 acquires information. The acquisition unit 231 acquires various types of information from the storage unit 22 . The acquisition unit 231 acquires detection information from a detection unit (sensor). Acquisition unit 231 receives information indicating detection by seating sensor 301 from seating sensor 301 . The acquisition unit 231 receives information indicating detection by the water level sensor 302 from the water level sensor 302 . The acquisition unit 231 receives various information indicating user's operations and the like from the operation device 10 . The acquisition unit 231 stores the received various information in the storage unit 22 .

The clock unit 232 measures the time required for the user to excrete based on the information detected by the sensor. The clock unit 232 measures the time required for excretion. The clock section 232 transmits information to the display device 200 via the communication section 21 . For example, the clock unit 232 transmits information indicating the time required for the user using the toilet seat device 2 to excrete to the display device 200 .

Clock unit 232 detects the time. The clock unit 232 measures the time when the seating sensor 301 detects that the user is seated. The clock unit 232 measures the time when the water level sensor 302 first detects stool. The clock unit 232 acquires the time required for excretion, which is the difference between the time when the seat sensor 301 detects that the user is sitting down and the time when the water level sensor 302 first detects stool. The clock unit 232 chronologically measures the time required for stool for each date and time of excretion of the stool. The clock unit 232 chronologically measures stool (excretion) based on detection by the water level sensor 302 .

The clock unit 232 functions as a determination unit that performs various determination processes. The clock unit 232 determines whether the rise in the water level detected by the water level sensor 302 is due to stool. For example, the clock unit 232 compares the slope of the rise in the water level detected by the water level sensor 302 with a threshold value (also referred to as a “water level threshold”) stored in the storage unit 22, and based on the comparison result, the water level rises. Determine whether or not it is due to stool. For example, when the slope of the increase in water level is equal to or greater than the water level threshold value, the clock unit 232 determines that the increase in water level is due to stool. For example, if the slope of the water level rise is less than the water level threshold (threshold value), the clock unit 232 determines that the water level rise is caused by something other than stool (eg, urine, wash water, dust, etc.). Then, when the clock unit 232 determines that the increase in the water level is due to stool, it acquires (measures) the time (date and time) when the increase in water level was detected as the time when the stool was excreted. Note that the above is only an example, and the clock unit 232 may acquire (measure) the time when stool is excreted by any process as long as stool excretion can be detected based on the water level. .

The clock unit 232 functions as a generation unit that performs various generation processes. The clock unit 232 generates content indicating the time required for excretion to be displayed on the display device 200 . The clock unit 232 generates a screen (content) indicating the time required for excretion. For example, the clock unit 232 generates content (image information) to be provided to the display device 200 by appropriately using various techniques related to image generation, image processing, and the like. For example, the clock unit 232 appropriately uses various technologies such as Java (registered trademark) to generate a screen (image information) to be provided to the display device 200 . Note that the clock unit 232 may generate content (image information) to be provided to the display device 200 based on CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), JavaScript (registered trademark), or HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) formats. . Further, for example, the clock unit 232 may generate content in various formats such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), and PNG (Portable Network Graphics).

The evaluation unit 233 evaluates excretion of the user. The evaluation section 233 transmits information to the display device 200 via the communication section 21 . For example, the evaluation unit 233 transmits information indicating the evaluation of excretion by the user using the toilet seat device 2 to the display device 200 .

The evaluation unit 233 evaluates whether excretion is good or bad according to the time required for excretion. The evaluation unit 233 evaluates so that the shorter the time required for excretion, the higher the evaluation. Moreover, the evaluation part 233 may evaluate that the excretion is normal, when the time required for excretion is within a predetermined range (appropriate time range). For example, the evaluation unit 233 evaluates that the excretion is normal when the time required for excretion is within the range from the lower limit (for example, 0 seconds) to the upper limit (for example, 30 seconds) of the appropriate time range. may

The evaluation unit 233 functions as a generation unit that performs various generation processes. The evaluation unit 233 generates content indicating the user's evaluation of excretion to be displayed on the display device 200 . The evaluation unit 233 generates a screen (content) showing the user's evaluation of excretion. For example, the evaluation unit 233 generates content (image information) to be provided to the display device 200 by appropriately using various techniques related to image generation, image processing, and the like. For example, the evaluation unit 233 appropriately uses various techniques such as Java (registered trademark) to generate a screen (image information) to be provided to the display device 200 . Note that the evaluation unit 233 may generate content (image information) to be provided to the display device 200 based on CSS, JavaScript (registered trademark), or HTML formats. Also, for example, the evaluation unit 233 may generate content in various formats such as JPEG, GIF, and PNG.

Also, the control unit 23 controls the nozzle motor 61 and the electromagnetic valve 71 . The control unit 23 controls the nozzle motor 61 and the electromagnetic valve 71 based on signals transmitted from the operating device 10 . The control unit 23 controls the nozzle motor 61 based on the control instruction signal regarding the washing of the private parts transmitted from the operating device 10 . The controller 23 controls the nozzle motor 61 to move the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward. The control unit 23 controls opening and closing of the solenoid valve 71 . The control unit 23 transmits control information for controlling the water level sensor 302 to the water level sensor 302 .

The control unit 23 also controls the toilet lid 4 and the toilet seat 5 as shown in FIG. The control unit 23 controls the toilet lid 4 and the toilet seat 5 based on signals transmitted from the operating device 10 . The control unit 23 controls the toilet lid 4 based on the control instruction signal regarding the opening and closing of the toilet lid transmitted from the operating device 10 . The control unit 23 controls the toilet seat 5 based on the control instruction signal regarding the opening and closing of the seating portion transmitted from the operation device 10 . The control unit 23 transmits control information to the toilet lid 4 and the toilet seat 5 by wire. Note that the control unit 23 may wirelessly transmit the control information to the toilet lid 4 and the toilet seat 5 .

The control unit 23 determines whether or not the seating sensor 301 has detected that the user is seated. The control unit 23 determines whether or not the seating sensor 301 detects that the user is seated on the toilet seat 5 . The control unit 23 has various configurations such as a calculation unit and a storage unit that perform calculations related to the control described above.

The solenoid valve 71 has the function of a valve that electromagnetically controls the flow of fluid. The electromagnetic valve 71 switches between supply and stop of tap water from a water supply pipe, for example. The solenoid valve 71 performs opening/closing control according to instructions from the control unit 23 .

The nozzle motor 61 is a drive source (motor) that drives the cleaning nozzle 6 to move forward and backward. The nozzle motor 61 performs control to move the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward with respect to the body cover 30 of the body portion 3 . The nozzle motor 61 performs control to move the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward according to instructions from the control unit 23 .

<1-3. Control flow example>
An example of a sensor-based control flow will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing a detection relationship.

A waveform LN1 in FIG. 5 indicates the result of detection of the user sitting on the toilet seat 5 by the seating detection sensor (seating sensor 301). A waveform LN2 in FIG. 5 indicates the detection result of the water level by the water level sensor 302. In FIG.

In the example of FIG. 5, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user is seated on the toilet seat 5 at time t1, as shown by the waveform LN1. For example, at time t1, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 is changed from "OFF" indicating that no seating on the toilet seat 5 has been detected to "ON" indicating that seating on the toilet seat 5 has been detected. be.

Further, as indicated by the waveform LN1, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user leaves the toilet seat 5 at time t4. For example, at time t4, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 is changed from "ON" indicating that the person is seated on the toilet seat 5 to "OFF" indicating that the person is no longer being seated on the toilet seat 5. be done. That is, in the example of FIG. 5, the user leaves the toilet (for example, toilet room R) after time t4. A detection MD indicating a falling point in the waveform LN1 indicates a case where the seating sensor 301 is turned off due to the user adjusting the sitting position of the toilet seat 5 (chattering). The toilet seat device 2 determines that the user continues to sit on the seat when it is switched from ON to OFF and vice versa in a short time (for example, about 1 to 5 seconds) like the detection MD.

In the waveform LN2, the water level of the water sealing portion when the user's urine and feces are not excreted is indicated as a low level, and the water level of the water sealing portion when the user's defecation is finished is indicated as a high water level. As shown by waveform LN2, at time t2, water level sensor 302 detects a sudden rise in the water level. In the example of FIG. 5, as shown by waveform LN2, the water level gradually rises before time t2 due to the user's urination, etc., and the water level rises sharply from time t2 with an amount of change equal to or greater than the threshold. Accordingly, the toilet seat device 2 determines that the user first defecated at time t2. As shown in FIG. 5, the water level change due to urine increases with time. On the other hand, the water level change due to faeces becomes steeper as the clumps fall. The toilet seat device 2 detects the presence of stool from the difference.

Further, as indicated by the waveform LN2, the water level sensor 302 detects a sudden rise in the water level at time t3. In the example of FIG. 5, as shown by the waveform LN2, the water level rises sharply at time t3 after time t2 with an amount of change greater than or equal to the threshold. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 determines that the user also defecated at time t3. After that, as shown by the waveform LN2, the user's defecation is completed and the water level does not change substantially. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 determines that time t3 is the timing of the user's last defecation, and determines that the user has finished defecation at time t3.

The toilet seat device 2 acquires the time from when the user sits until the first flight comes out. The toilet seat device 2 acquires the time required for excretion from the difference between the time t1 and the time t2. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires the period TM1 from time t1 to time t2 as the time required for the user to excrete. Also, the toilet seat device 2 acquires a period TM2 from time t2 to time t3 as the time from the start to the end of excretion. Further, the toilet seat device 2 acquires a period TM3 from time t3 to time t4 as the time from the end of excretion until the user leaves the toilet (leaves the toilet seat device 2).

The period TM1, which is the time from sitting down to leaving, should be short. After stool accumulates in the rectum and you feel the urge to defecate, it is best to go to the toilet and excrete smoothly and quickly. In other words, with good elimination, the time from sitting on the toilet to elimination is short. In the case of constipation, even if you feel the urge to defecate, it takes a long time from sitting to defecation because the stool is hard.

Regarding the period TM2, which is the time from the start to the end of excretion, it is said that it is preferable to excrete the stool with moderate softness easily without applying force. If the stool is hard, it will be excreted with force, so the time from the beginning of excretion (beginning of excretion) to the end of excretion (end of excretion) will be longer. However, in the case of diarrhea-like stool, the health condition is not good. There, the excretion information management system 1 automatically acquires the time required for excretion and also displays the properties of feces.

The period TM3, which is the time from the end of excretion until the user leaves the toilet (leaves the seat), is preferably as short as possible. Sit on the toilet seat until the feeling of incomplete bowel movement is eliminated, but may not be able to void. In this case, the time from the end of excretion to leaving the toilet becomes longer. Good excretion is clean excretion without feeling of incomplete bowel movement. In other words, the shorter the time away from the toilet after the end of excretion, the better the excretion.

<1-4. Display example>
Here, an example of display of the time required for excretion by the display device 200 will be described with reference to FIG. 6 . FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of display of the time required for excretion.

The toilet seat device 2 generates information (contents) to be displayed as shown in FIG. The display device 200 receives information (contents) to be displayed as shown in FIG. 6 from the toilet seat device 2 . The display device 200 displays information indicating the time required for excretion, such as "I left 10 seconds after I sat down." Thereby, the excretion information management system 1 can make the user recognize the time required for stool excretion.

<2. Second Embodiment>
From here, as a second embodiment, a case of acquiring the time required for excretion based on the temperature will be described. In addition, in the excretion information management system 1A according to the second embodiment, description of the same points as the excretion information management system 1 according to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

<2-1. Configuration of excretion information management system>
The configuration of the excretion information management system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an excretion information management system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing an example of arrangement of sensors according to the second embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 7, the excretion information management system 1A has a toilet system TS including a toilet seat device 2, an operation device 10, a seating sensor 301 and a radiation thermometer 303, and a display device 200. FIG. Thus, the excretion information management system 1A is different from the excretion information management system 1 in that it includes a radiation thermometer 303 instead of the water level sensor 302 .

An example of sensor arrangement will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 shows the toilet seat 5 raised to illustrate the back surface 51, which is the opposite surface of the toilet seat 5 to the surface on which the user sits (seating surface), except for the toilet lid 4, to show the placement of the sensors. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the

As shown in FIG. 8, a radiation thermometer 303, which is a sensor used in the excretion information management system 1A, is hooked between the rim portion 9 and the toilet seat 5. As shown in FIG. Specifically, the radiation thermometer 303 is arranged by being hooked on the rim portion 9 by a hook portion (hook structure). The radiation thermometer 303 is arranged along the inner peripheral wall of the rim portion 9 so as to face the inside of the toilet bowl 7 . In addition, the radiation thermometer 303 may be included in the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 .

The radiation thermometer 303 functions as a detection unit that receives infrared rays emitted from stool and detects stool (excretion) over time by detecting radiation temperature. A radiation thermometer 303 measures the temperature of the stool while it is falling (before it lands on the sealed water). The radiation thermometer 303 is arranged at a position and in an orientation capable of detecting stool falling on the toilet bowl 7 . For example, the radiation thermometer 303 is provided in the toilet bowl 7 with directivity. The radiation thermometer 303 may be arranged in any manner as long as it can detect falling stool. For example, the radiation thermometer 303 may be arranged on the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5 .

The radiation thermometer 303 is communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network by wire or wirelessly. For example, the radiation thermometer 303 may be communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 by a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Note that the toilet seat device 2 and the radiation thermometer 303 may be connected in any way as long as information can be transmitted and received. may be For example, the radiation thermometer 303 may be communicatively connected to the toilet seat device 2 via the network N by wire or wirelessly.

The toilet seat device 2 according to the second embodiment measures the temperature of stool during falling (before landing on the sealed water) with the radiation thermometer 303 . The controller 23 according to the second embodiment performs various processes based on detection by the radiation thermometer 303 .

A clock unit 232 according to the second embodiment measures stool (excretion) over time based on detection by the radiation thermometer 303 . The clock unit 232 determines whether the temperature detected by the radiation thermometer 303 is due to stool. For example, the clock unit 232 compares the temperature detected by the radiation thermometer 303 with a predetermined temperature range (also referred to as “temperature range”) stored in the storage unit 22, and based on the comparison result, the temperature is determined by stool. determine whether or not For example, when the temperature is within the temperature range, the clock unit 232 determines that the temperature is due to stool. For example, when the temperature is less than the upper limit (for example, 38.5° C.) and equal to or higher than the lower limit (35.5° C.) of the temperature range, the clock unit 232 determines that the temperature is due to stool. Stool may be detected from changes in temperature over time.

Further, when the temperature is outside the temperature range, the clock unit 232 determines that the temperature is due to something other than stool (for example, urine, wash water, dust, etc.). For example, the clock unit 232 determines that the temperature is not due to stool when the temperature is equal to or higher than the upper limit value or less than the lower limit value of the temperature range. Then, when determining that the temperature is due to stool, the clock unit 232 acquires (measures) the time (date and time) when the temperature was detected as the time when stool was excreted. Note that the above is only an example, and the clock unit 232 may acquire (measure) the time when fecal excretion is performed by any process as long as the excretion of feces can be detected based on the temperature. .

<2-2. Control flow example>
An example of a sensor-based control flow will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing a detection relationship. Note that description of the same points as in FIG. 5 will be omitted as appropriate.

A waveform LN11 in FIG. 9 indicates the result of detection of the user sitting on the toilet seat 5 by the seating detection sensor (seating sensor 301). A waveform LN12 in FIG. 9 indicates the result of temperature detection by the radiation thermometer 303 .

In the example of FIG. 9, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user is seated on the toilet seat 5 at time t11, as shown by the waveform LN11. For example, at time t11, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 is changed from "OFF" indicating that no seating on the toilet seat 5 has been detected to "ON" indicating that seating on the toilet seat 5 has been detected. be.

Further, as indicated by the waveform LN11, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user leaves the toilet seat 5 at time t14. For example, at time t14, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 is changed from "ON" indicating that the person is seated on the toilet seat 5 to "OFF" indicating that the person is no longer being seated on the toilet seat 5. be done. That is, in the example of FIG. 9, the user leaves the toilet (for example, toilet room R) after time t14.

Waveform LN12 indicates the temperature detected by radiation thermometer 303 when the user does not defecate as room temperature (about 25° C.), and the temperature detected by radiation thermometer 303 of the user's stool is 37. °C. The temperature of 37° C. shown in FIG. 9 is merely an example, and the temperature of stool detected by the radiation thermometer 303 may be any temperature within the temperature range.

As shown by waveform LN12, at time t12, the temperature detected by radiation thermometer 303 reaches 37° C., and the user's stool is detected. Thereby, the toilet seat device 2 determines that the first defecation was performed by the user at time t12.

Further, as shown by the waveform LN12, after time t13, the radiation thermometer 303 makes the temperatures match around room temperature. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 determines that time t13 is the timing of the user's final defecation, and determines that the user has finished defecation at time t13. In the example of FIG. 9, the toilet seat device 2 determines that three bowel movements have been performed from time t12 to time t13. In this example, the number of times of defecation is three times in one defecation action, but the toilet seat device 2 determines the timing of the last defecation of the user and It is possible to determine whether it is performed once or multiple times.

The toilet seat device 2 acquires the time from when the user sits until the first flight comes out. The toilet seat device 2 acquires the time required for excretion from the difference between time t11 and time t12. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires the period TM1 from time t11 to time t12 as the time required for the user to excrete. Further, the toilet seat device 2 acquires a period TM2 from time t12 to time t13 as the time from the start to the end of excretion. Further, the toilet seat device 2 acquires a period TM3 from time t13 to time t14 as the time from the end of excretion until the user leaves the toilet (leaves the toilet seat device 2).

<3. Third Embodiment>
The detection unit (sensor) may detect the user's stool (bowel movements) over time by an optical method. This point will be described below. Below, as a third embodiment, the detection unit is a camera (two-dimensional image sensor) that acquires the reflected light from the light source, and the camera image (two-dimensional image) detected by the detection unit is used for excretion. Indicates when to get the time. In the excretion information management system 1B according to the third embodiment, the same points as those of the excretion information management system 1 according to the first embodiment or the excretion information management system 1A according to the second embodiment will be explained appropriately. omitted.

<3-1. Configuration of excretion information management system>
The configuration of the excretion information management system according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an excretion information management system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an example of arrangement of sensors according to the third embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 10, the excretion information management system 1B has a toilet system TS including a toilet seat device 2, an operating device 10, a seating sensor 301, a camera 304 and a light source 305, and a display device 200. Thus, the excretion information management system 1B is different from the excretion information management system 1 in that it includes a camera 304 and a light source 305 instead of the water level sensor 302 .

The excretion information management system 1B uses various configurations and processes to be described later to determine whether the properties of the user's excrement (stool) are at one of three levels (properties) based on hardness. Detected as properties. The following example shows the case of detecting (determining) whether stool is soft or hard as an example of three levels based on hardness, but the properties based on hardness are not limited to two types. , three or more types. For example, the three levels based on hardness may be three properties of soft stool, normal stool, and hard stool. The excretion information management system 1B may detect the shape, size, quality, color, and the like of the user's excrement (stool) as the stool properties, in addition to the hardness of the stool. The excretion information management system 1B detects a user's stool by an optical method. That is, the excretion information management system 1B is an excretion information management system capable of detecting information on excrement (stool) by optical means. The excretion information management system 1B may provide information to a user's terminal device such as a smart phone based on the measured result.

The display device 200 (display unit) according to the third embodiment displays the time required for excretion and the properties of stool such as the shape of the stool stored in the storage unit (stool properties). The display device 200 displays the time required for stool in chronological order for each date and time of excretion of the stool.

The camera 304 functions as a detection unit that detects stool (bowel movements) over time by capturing an image of the inside of the toilet bowl 7 . A camera 304 is a camera that captures an image and generates a two-dimensional image. For example, the camera 304 has an area sensor (two-dimensional image sensor) in which CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensors or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensors are arranged in a plane (two-dimensional).

An example of sensor arrangement will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 removes the toilet lid 4 to show the placement of the sensors, and lifts the toilet seat 5 to illustrate the back surface 51, which is the opposite surface of the toilet seat 5 to the surface on which the user sits (seating surface). FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the

As shown in FIG. 11, a camera 304, which is a sensor used in the excretion information management system 1B, is arranged on the back surface 51 side of the toilet seat 5. As shown in FIG. The camera 304 may be detachable from the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5 or may be fixed to the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5 . Also, the camera 304 may be arranged inside the body cover 30 . Also, the camera 304 may be included in the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 . In this way, the installation position of the camera 304 is not particularly limited as long as it can detect the nature of the stool.

A light source 305 is provided with a light-emitting element that emits light. The light source 305 is provided with a light emitting element that emits light forward. The light source 305 is provided with a light emitting element that emits light forward toward the excrement excreted by the user. For example, the light emitting element is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). In addition, the light-emitting element is not limited to the LED, and various elements may be used. Moreover, the installation position of the light source 305 is not particularly limited as long as it is installed adjacent to the camera 304 and the camera 304 can detect the nature of the stool.

The camera 304 functions as a detection unit that detects stool (excretion) over time by detecting (picturing) the inside of the toilet bowl 7 . The camera 304 photographs the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 (for example, the portion of the bowl portion 8 where the sealing water is accumulated). The camera 304 is arranged on the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5 at a position and in an orientation capable of detecting (imaging) the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 . For example, the camera 304 is provided on the toilet seat 5 so as to direct its directivity toward the water-sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 when the toilet seat 5 is lowered (a state in which the user is seated on the toilet seat 5 and can defecate). Note that the camera 304 may be arranged in any manner as long as it can detect (image) the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 . Note that the camera 304 may be placed at any location as long as the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 can be photographed. In addition, the camera 304 may shoot still images continuously (in chronological order), or may shoot moving images. Note that the camera 304 may be arranged so as to photograph (detect) falling stools.

The camera 304 is communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network, wired or wirelessly. For example, the camera 304 may be communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 by a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Note that the toilet seat device 2 and the camera 304 may be connected in any way as long as information can be transmitted and received. good too. For example, the camera 304 may be communicatively connected to the toilet seat device 2 via the network N by wire or wirelessly.

The toilet seat device 2 according to the third embodiment captures an image of feces excreted by the user (feces image) by capturing an image of the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 . The communication unit 21 according to the third embodiment transmits information indicating the time required for excretion and information indicating the properties of stool stored in the storage unit 22 to the display device 200 .

The storage unit 22 according to the third embodiment stores fecal properties. The storage unit 22 stores at least information indicating which of at least three levels based on hardness the stool properties are. The storage unit 22 is automatically input with the result of detection of fecal properties by the camera 304 (detection unit). The control unit 23 automatically inputs (registers) the information in the storage unit 22 when the stool properties are determined. The storage unit 22 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily stores data used by a property determination program for determining the property of stool. The storage unit 22 stores various information used for determination processing. For example, the storage unit 22 stores a threshold used for determination processing.

The storage unit 22 stores information about the detected stool (excretion). The storage unit 22 stores stool images. The storage unit 22 stores information about the flight corresponding to the flight image in association with the flight image. The storage unit 22 stores the determination result of the flight corresponding to the flight image in association with the flight image. The storage unit 22 stores information such as the properties of stool corresponding to the stool image and the amount of stool corresponding to the stool image. In addition, the storage unit 22 may store the date and time when the stool image was acquired, information identifying the user who excreted the stool corresponding to the stool image, etc., in association with the stool image. Note that the above is only an example, and the storage unit 22 stores various information regarding flights.

A control unit 23 according to the third embodiment performs various processes based on detection by the camera 304 . A clock unit 232 according to the third embodiment measures stool over time based on detection by the camera 304 .

The clock unit 232 performs determination processing using information detected by the camera 304 . The clock unit 232 uses information stored in the storage unit 22 to perform determination processing. The clock unit 232 determines whether the image captured by the camera 304 contains stool. The clock unit 232 uses technology related to image recognition to determine whether the image contains stool.

For example, the clock unit 232 receives an image as an input and uses a model (stool determination model) that outputs information (score) indicating whether or not the input image contains stool. determine whether the In this case, the clock unit 232 compares the score output by the stool determination model to which the image is input with a threshold (first threshold), and if the score is equal to or greater than the first threshold, the image contains stool. I judge. In addition, the clock unit 232 compares the score output by the stool determination model to which the image is input with the first threshold, and if the score is less than the first threshold, determines that the image does not contain stool. . Note that the above is just an example, and the clock unit 232 may use various information as appropriate to determine whether or not the image includes stool.

The clock unit 232 also determines the amount of stool based on the image captured by the camera 304 . For example, the clock unit 232 determines the amount of stool based on the ratio of stool in the image. For example, the clock unit 232 may determine the amount of stool using the score output by the stool determination model. The clock unit 232 may determine the amount of stool to be “small” when the score output by the stool determination model to which the image is input is greater than or equal to the first threshold and less than the second threshold. It is assumed that the second threshold is a value greater than the first threshold. Further, the clock unit 232 may determine that the amount of stool is "medium" when the score output by the stool determination model to which the image is input is equal to or greater than the second threshold and less than the third threshold. It is assumed that the third threshold is a value greater than the second threshold. Further, the clock unit 232 may determine that the amount of stool is “large” when the score output by the stool determination model to which the image is input is equal to or greater than the third threshold. Note that the above is just an example, and the clock unit 232 may use various information as appropriate to determine the amount of stool.

For example, the clock unit 232 determines the properties of the stool corresponding to the stool image based on the stool image. The clock unit 232 uses the stool image to determine the properties of the stool corresponding to the stool image. Using the stool image, the clock unit 232 determines whether the hardness of the stool corresponding to the stool image is one of three levels based on hardness. For example, the clock unit 232 uses the stool image to determine whether the hardness of the stool corresponding to the stool image is soft stool, normal stool, or hard stool.

The clock unit 232 determines the nature of stool from the results of detection by the camera 304 . The clock unit 232 determines the properties of the user's feces by appropriately using various techniques for detecting the properties of feces by an optical method. The clock unit 232 appropriately uses various techniques for classifying stool properties to determine whether the stool is soft, normal, or hard. For example, the clock unit 232 determines the properties of stool based on various information (feature amounts) such as the length of the stool image in the falling direction, the number of stools (lumps), and the surface pattern (color difference, wrinkles, etc.). (to decide.

The clock unit 232 may determine the properties of stool using technology related to AI (artificial intelligence). For example, the clock unit 232 may determine the properties of stool using a learning model (property determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the property determination model is learned in advance using teacher data indicating classification determination. This training data includes a plurality of combinations of stool images and labels (correct information) indicating properties of lumps (stool) included in the stool images (either soft stool, normal stool, or hard stool). For example, the property determination model is a model that receives a stool image as input and outputs information indicating the properties of lumps (stool) included in the input stool image. For example, the property determination model is learned to output label (property of stool) information corresponding to the input stool image when the stool image is input. Learning of the property determination model is performed by using various techniques related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the property determination model is stored in the storage unit 22, and the clock unit 232 may use the property determination model stored in the storage unit 22 to determine the property of stool. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may perform learning processing to generate a property determination model.

Note that the above is just an example, and the clock unit 232 may use various information as appropriate to determine the nature of feces. For example, if the stool image is broken (separated) into a plurality of small lumps, the clock unit 232 determines that the property (hardness) of the stool corresponding to the stool image is loose stool. For example, when there are a plurality of lumps whose length is less than a predetermined value in the stool image, the clock unit 232 determines that the property of the plurality of lumps (stool) is loose stool. For example, in the stool image, if lumps with a length less than a predetermined value continue, the clock unit 232 determines that the continuous lumps (stool) are loose stools. For example, when the pattern (wrinkles) on the surface of one stool (lump) in the stool image is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, the clock unit 232 determines that the property of that one stool (lump) is hard stool. . For example, if the stool image includes a lump whose length is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the clock unit 232 determines that the lump (stool) is loose stool. Further, when determining that the stool is neither soft nor hard stool, the clock unit 232 may determine that the stool is normal stool.

In addition, the clock unit 232 does not need to determine the properties of stool when acquiring information on the properties of stool from another device. For example, when another device determines the properties of stool and acquires information on the properties of stool from the other device, the clock unit 232 does not need to determine the properties of stool. For example, a server that can communicate with the toilet seat device 2 is installed, the stool information (feature amount) acquired by the toilet seat device 2 is transmitted to the server, and the property of stool is determined using the property determination database stored in the server. may

The evaluation unit 233 according to the third embodiment evaluates whether excretion is good or bad according to the properties of stool and the time required for excretion. The evaluation unit 233 evaluates so that the shorter the time required for excretion, the higher the evaluation, and evaluates the evaluation so that the evaluation is higher when the property (shape) of the stool is at the normal level among the three levels. . The evaluation unit 233 adds a higher score as the time required for excretion is shorter, and stool with a normal level of stool shape (eg, normal stool) is higher than stool with a stool shape other than the normal level (eg, soft stool, hard stool). Excretion may be evaluated by calculating an evaluation score indicating evaluation of excretion by adding a large score. Here, stool with a normal stool shape (for example, normal stool) means, for example, hard or hard stool with low water content (so-called constipation stool), or muddy or hard stool with high water content. It is not watery loose stool (so-called diarrhea stool), but banana-like stool with a moderate amount of water and a smooth, soft surface.

For example, the evaluation unit 233 may evaluate that the health condition of the user is good when the time required for excretion is within the appropriate time range and the nature of the stool is normal. Further, for example, the evaluation unit 233 may evaluate that the health condition of the user is not good when the time required for excretion is outside the appropriate time range or the nature of the stool is other than normal stool. .

<3-2. Control flow example>
An example of a sensor-based control flow will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing a detection relationship. 5 and 9 will be omitted as appropriate.

A waveform LN21 in FIG. 12 indicates the result of detection of the user sitting on the toilet seat 5 by the seating detection sensor (seating sensor 301). A waveform LN22 in FIG. 12 indicates the detection result of the amount of stool based on the image captured by the camera 304. In FIG. Eight rectangles arranged in chronological order in FIG. 12 are images of the water sealing portion in the toilet bowl 7 photographed at corresponding points in time.

In the example of FIG. 12, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user is seated on the toilet seat 5 at time t21, as indicated by the waveform LN21. For example, at time t21, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 is changed from "OFF" indicating that the person is not seated on the toilet seat 5 to "ON" indicating that the person is seated on the toilet seat 5. be.

Further, as indicated by waveform LN21, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user leaves the toilet seat 5 at time t24. For example, at time t24, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 is changed from "ON" indicating that the person is seated on the toilet seat 5 to "OFF" indicating that the person is no longer being seated on the toilet seat 5. be done. That is, in the example of FIG. 12, the user leaves the toilet (for example, toilet room R) after time t24.

Waveform LN22 shows an example in which the amount of stool detected is detected in four stages: "none", "small", "medium", and "large". Note that the four stages shown in FIG. 12 are merely an example, and may be three stages or less, or may be five stages or more. For example, the waveform LN22 may have two stages, "absent" indicating that stool has not been detected and "yes" indicating that stool has been detected. For example, there are three stages: "none" indicating that stool is not detected, "after excretion" that indicates that stool is detected but the image does not change, and "during excretion". good too.

As indicated by waveform LN22, immediately after time t22, one stool is included in the image detected by camera 304, and the user's stool is detected. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 detects that the amount of stool is "small" and determines that the user first defecated at time t22.

Further, as shown by waveform LN22, from time t22 to t23, a new stool is added to the image detected by camera 304, two stools are included, and the user's stool is detected. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 detects that the amount of stool is "large" and determines that the user has performed the second bowel movement. After that, there is no change in the amount of stool. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 determines that time t23 is the timing of the user's last defecation, and determines that the user has finished defecation at time t23.

The toilet seat device 2 acquires the time from when the user sits until the first flight comes out. The toilet seat device 2 acquires the time required for excretion from the difference between the time t21 and the time t22. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires the period TM1 from time t21 to time t22 as the time required for the user to excrete. Further, the toilet seat device 2 acquires a period TM2 from time t22 to time t23 as the time from the start to the end of excretion. The toilet seat device 2 also acquires a period TM3 from time t23 to time t24 as the time from the end of excretion until the user leaves the toilet.

<3-3. Display example>
Here, an example of display of the time required for excretion by the display device 200 will be described with reference to FIG. 13 . FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of display of the time required for excretion.

The toilet seat device 2 generates information (contents) to be displayed as shown in FIG. When the toilet seat device 2 does not determine the properties of the stool, it may generate information (content) that does not include information indicating the properties of the stool, such as "The properties were normal."

The display device 200 receives information (contents) to be displayed as shown in FIG. 13 from the toilet seat device 2 . The display device 200 displays information indicating the time required for excretion, such as "I left 10 seconds after I sat down." The display device 200 displays information indicating the properties of the stool, such as "The properties were normal." Note that the display device 200 may not display information indicating the properties of stool. In addition, the display device 200 displays information indicating an evaluation such as "Your health is good." Note that the display device 200 may not display information indicating the user's health condition.

<3-4. Input example>
In addition, the user may be allowed to input information regarding excretion. This point will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of input of information on excretion. FIG. 14 shows a case where the user is asked to input which of the three levels of stool properties, ie, hard stool, normal stool, and soft stool.

The display device 200 displays character information such as "10 seconds after sitting down. What was the shape?", along with three levels of character strings of hard stool, normal stool, and soft stool, and their images. In FIG. 14, the user inputs information indicating that the nature of the stool is ordinary stool by touching the area where ordinary stool is displayed on the display device 200 with the hand UA. The display device 200 transmits to the toilet seat device 2 information indicating that the nature of the stool is normal.

When the toilet seat device 2 receives the information indicating that the stool is normal stool, the time required for excretion is "10 seconds" within the proper time range, and the stool is "normal". assess that the person is in good health. The toilet seat device 2 transmits to the display device 200 information indicating that the health condition of the user is evaluated as good. When the display device 200 receives the information indicating that the user's health condition is evaluated as good, the display device 200 displays the information indicating the evaluation such as "Your health condition is good, isn't it?", as shown in FIG.

<4. Fourth Embodiment>
The detection unit (sensor) may detect stool over time by acquiring a signal emitted from falling stool or a signal reflected from falling stool. For example, the detection unit (sensor) may detect stool over time by transmitting electromagnetic waves or ultrasonic waves to the stool and receiving signals reflected from the stool. This point will be described below. First, as a fourth embodiment, a case where the detection unit is a licensor (one-dimensional image sensor) and the time required for excretion is acquired based on the one-dimensional image detected by the detection unit will be described. For example, the toilet seat device 2 according to the fourth embodiment acquires the time required for excretion based on a feces image (two-dimensional image) acquired from a one-dimensional image detected by a licensor (one-dimensional image sensor).

In the excretion information management system 1C according to the fourth embodiment, the excretion information management system 1 according to the first embodiment, the excretion information management system 1A according to the second embodiment, or the excretion information management system 1A according to the third embodiment Description of the same points as in the excretion information management system 1B will be omitted as appropriate. For example, the excretion information management system 1C according to the fourth embodiment is similar to the excretion information management system 1B according to the third embodiment in that images are used. Since it is the same as the information management system 1B, detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

<4-1. Configuration of excretion information management system>
The configuration of the excretion information management system according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. FIG. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an excretion information management system according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing an example of arrangement of sensors according to the fourth embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 15, the excretion information management system 1C has a toilet system TS including a toilet seat device 2, an operating device 10, a seating sensor 301 and an optical unit 100, and a display device 200. FIG. Thus, the excretion information management system 1C is different from the excretion information management system 1B in that the optical unit 100 is included instead of the camera 304 .

An example of sensor arrangement will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 16 removes the toilet lid 4 to show the placement of the sensors, and lifts the toilet seat 5 to illustrate the back surface 51, which is the opposite surface of the toilet seat 5 to the surface on which the user sits (seating surface). FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the

As shown in FIG. 16, an optical unit 100, which is a sensor used in the excretion information management system 1C, is arranged inside the main body cover 30 in a position and orientation that allows detection of stool falling inside the toilet bowl 7. As shown in FIG. For example, the optical unit 100 is provided at a position exposed from the opening 31 with directivity inside the toilet bowl 7 . Note that the optical unit 100 may be arranged in any manner as long as it can detect stool dropping in the toilet bowl 7 . The optical unit 100 may be included in the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 . For example, the optical unit 100 may be arranged on the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5 or the like in the same manner as the camera 304 shown in FIG.

The optical unit 100 functions as a detection section that detects stool (excretion) over time by irradiating stool with light from the light emitting section 120 and receiving the light reflected from the stool with the light receiving section 130 . The light emitting portion 120 and the light receiving portion 130 of the optical unit 100 are exposed through the opening 31 of the body cover 30 . The light emitting unit 120 can irradiate the excrement in the toilet 7 with light, and the light receiving unit 130 can receive reflected light from the excrement in the toilet 7 .

The optical unit 100 is communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network, either by wire or wirelessly. For example, the optical unit 100 may be communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 by a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The toilet seat device 2 and the optical unit 100 may be connected in any way as long as information can be transmitted and received. may For example, the optical unit 100 may be communicatively connected to the toilet seat device 2 via the network N by wire or wirelessly. Details of the optical unit 100 will be described later.

The toilet seat device 2 according to the fourth embodiment determines the properties of stool from the stool image in the same manner as the toilet seat device 2 according to the third embodiment. The toilet seat device 2 has an opening 31 for arranging the optical unit 100 in the body cover 30 . When the optical unit 100 is arranged on the toilet seat 5 or the like, the toilet seat device 2 does not have to have the opening 31 .

The toilet seat device 2 according to the fourth embodiment acquires an image of stool excreted by the user (stool image) by photographing stool falling in the toilet bowl 7 . As with the communication unit 21 according to the third embodiment, the communication unit 21 according to the fourth embodiment displays information indicating the time required for excretion and information indicating the properties of stool stored in the storage unit 22. Send to device 200 . The storage unit 22 according to the fourth embodiment stores various information in the same manner as the storage unit 22 according to the third embodiment.

A controller 23 according to the fourth embodiment performs various processes based on detection by the optical unit 100 . A clock unit 232 according to the fourth embodiment measures feces over time based on detection by the optical unit 100 .

The clock unit 232 performs various determination processes. The clock unit 232 generates a two-dimensional image (feces image) from the one-dimensional images detected over time by the optical unit 100, and performs determination processing using the generated feces image.

For example, the clock section 232 generates a stool image based on information detected by the optical unit 100 . The clock unit 232 receives one-dimensional data (line-shaped still images) obtained over time at predetermined time intervals by the light-receiving unit 130 having a line sensor (light-receiving element) in which a plurality of elements are linearly arranged. ) are arranged in chronological order to generate one two-dimensional image. For example, the clock section 232 generates a two-dimensional image of stool based on the one-dimensional image detected by the optical unit 100, which will be explained with reference to FIG. Note that the processing using the two-dimensional feces image is the same as the processing in the toilet seat device 2 according to the third embodiment, so detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The evaluation unit 233 according to the fourth embodiment, like the evaluation unit 233 according to the third embodiment, evaluates whether excretion is good or bad according to the properties of stool and the time required for excretion.

The control section 23 controls the optical unit 100 . The control section 23 controls the optical unit 100 based on the signal transmitted from the operating device 10 . The control unit 23 transmits control information for controlling lighting and extinguishing of the light emitting unit 120 to the optical unit 100 .

The control unit 23 transmits control information for controlling the electronic shutter function of the light receiving unit 130 to the optical unit 100 . Note that the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130 is a shutter system that electronically controls a light receiving element (imaging element) to read exposure, unlike a mechanical shutter such as a so-called lens shutter. That is, the electronic shutter of the light receiving section 130 is a so-called electronic shutter or electronically controlled shutter. The control unit 23 transmits control information to the nozzle motor 61, the electromagnetic valve 71, and the optical unit 100 by wire. Note that the control section 23 may wirelessly transmit the control information to the optical unit 100 .

The controller 23 causes the optical unit 100 to emit light and receive light. The control unit 23 controls the optical unit 100 to cause the light emitting unit 120 to emit light and the light receiving unit 130 to receive light. The control unit 23 causes the optical unit 100 to emit and receive light while the seating sensor 301 detects that the user is seated on the toilet seat 5 .

The control unit 23 controls light emission by the light emitting unit 120 . The control unit 23 controls energization to the light emitting element of the light emitting unit 120 and application of voltage to the light receiving element. The control unit 23 sends a control instruction to the light receiving element to open the electronic shutter, and energizes the light emitting element of the light emitting unit 120 to perform light receiving control so that reflected light from stool can be received. The control unit 23 sets the interval from the start of execution of one light reception control to the execution of the next light reception control of one light reception control to an arbitrary time (for example, 0.2 milliseconds or more) within a range in which control processing is possible. etc.). Note that the above is merely an example, and the control mode by the control unit 23 may be any mode as long as the optical unit 100 can emit and receive light as desired. Further, when the light emitted from the light emitting unit 120 is in one wavelength band, the light emitted from the light emitting unit 120 does not have to blink in accordance with the light receiving control, and may be emitted continuously.

Here, an example of the configuration of the control unit 23 will be described. The control unit 23 has an ADConverter, an arithmetic processing unit, a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a first memory.

The ADConverter is a so-called A/D converter (analog-digital conversion circuit) and has an A/D conversion function of converting an analog signal into a digital signal. The ADConverter may be an analog-to-digital conversion circuit. For example, the ADConverter converts analog data received (detected) by the light receiving unit 130 into digital data. The ADConverter may convert analog data obtained by deleting data within a predetermined range from the analog data into digital data. For example, the ADConverter may leave only data corresponding to pixels in a preset range (eg, a predetermined range in the center) and delete data corresponding to pixels in the remaining range. Note that when a dedicated sensor such as a line sensor with the number of pixels set for excrement detection is used as the light receiving element, the ADConverter converts the entire analog data into digital data without deleting data in a predetermined range. Convert to

The arithmetic processing unit is realized by various means such as a CPU and a microcomputer, and executes various processes. For example, the arithmetic processing unit executes various processes using digital data converted by the ADConverter. The arithmetic processing unit executes various processes according to programs stored in the ROM (for example, various programs related to detection processing such as a stool detection program and a stool quality determination program). For example, an arithmetic processing unit is realized by executing a program stored in a ROM using a temporarily used storage area or the like in the arithmetic processing unit as a work area.

The processor analyzes the data. The arithmetic processing unit analyzes data temporarily stored in the first memory. The arithmetic processing unit transfers the data received by the light receiving unit 130 to the first memory, and analyzes and deletes the data stored in the first memory.

The ROM stores various programs related to stool detection processing, such as a stool detection program.

The first memory is an internal memory (storage device) that temporarily stores various data. The first memory stores data received by the light receiving section 130 . The first memory stores digital data converted by the ADConverter. For example, the first memory is SRAM (Static Random Access Memory). The first memory is not limited to the SRAM, and may be a RAM (Random Access Memory) such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or a ROM capable of high-speed processing such as a PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory).

The first memory stores data under control of the arithmetic processing unit. For example, the first memory uses a storage device with a storage capacity of 96 kilobytes, 512 kilobytes, or the like. The data received by the light receiving unit 130 temporarily stored in the first memory includes raw data (analog data) detected by the light receiving unit 130 and data processed by A/D conversion (digital data). data).

The configuration of the control unit 23 described above is merely an example, and the control unit 23 may have any configuration as long as it is configured to perform desired processing. The toilet seat device 2 also has a second memory. The toilet seat device 2 stores the data acquired by the control section 23 in the second memory.

For example, the second memory is an external memory (storage device) that stores various data. The second memory stores digital data acquired from the control section 23 . For example, the second memory may be EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) or the like. The second memory may be an SD (Secure Digital) card memory, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, or any other storage device (memory).

The second memory is capable of transferring data stored in the first memory. The second memory has a larger storage area than the first memory. For example, the second memory uses a storage device with a larger storage capacity than the first memory, such as 4 gigabytes. Data stored in the second memory may be transmitted to an external device. The excretion information management system 1 may wirelessly transmit the data stored in the second memory to an external device such as a terminal device used by the user, using the communication device or the like of the toilet seat device 2 .

The second memory may be provided inside the toilet seat device 2 or outside the toilet seat device 2 or the like. For example, the second memory may be a MicroSD inside the toilet seat device 2, or may be an external memory located outside the toilet seat device 2 and communicating with the toilet seat device 2 via Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or the like. . In this case, the processing unit transfers the data temporarily stored in the first memory to the second memory by communicating with the second memory, which is an external memory having a larger storage area than the first memory. transfer to The communication between the second memory and the toilet seat device 2 is not limited to Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and may be communication using various communication standards such as ZigBee (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). good.

The optical unit 100 includes a light emitter 120 and a light receiver 130 . The optical unit 100 functions as a detection section (detection device) having a light-receiving element in which a plurality of elements are linearly arranged to detect falling stool.

The light emitting unit 120 emits light. The light emitting unit 120 has a light emitting element that emits light. The light emitting unit 120 emits light to the excrement excreted by the user. The light emitting unit 120 irradiates light to stool excreted by the user. The light emitting unit 120 irradiates the falling stool with light.

The light emitting unit 120 is provided with a light emitting element that emits light. The light emitting unit 120 is provided with a light emitting element that emits light forward. The light emitting unit 120 is provided with a light emitting element that emits light forward toward excrement excreted by the user. For example, the light emitting element is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). In addition, the light-emitting element is not limited to the LED, and various elements may be used.

The light emitting unit 120 emits light forward. The light emitting unit 120 emits light forward toward the stool excreted by the user. Light emitting unit 120 includes a plurality of light emitting elements. The light emitting unit 120 includes a plurality of light emitting elements that emit light. The light emitting unit 120 irradiates light onto falling stool excreted by the user. The light emitting unit 120 includes a plurality of light emitting elements for emitting light with different wavelengths. It should be noted that the above is only an example, and as for the light emitting elements of the light emitting section 120, any configuration can be adopted as long as the desired light emission is possible with respect to the number and wavelength of light emitted.

The light receiving section 130 receives light. The light receiving unit 130 has a lens 131 and a light receiving element that receives light. The light receiving unit 130 receives the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 and reflected from the excrement. The light receiving unit 130 receives the reflected light from the stool with respect to the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 . The light receiving unit 130 receives the reflected light from the falling stool with respect to the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 .

The light receiving unit 130 is provided with a light receiving element that receives light. The light-receiving unit 130 has a light-receiving element in which a plurality of elements are linearly arranged to detect falling stool. For example, the light receiving element is a line sensor. For example, the light receiving element is a line sensor in which CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensors or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensors are arranged in a row. The light receiving element is not limited to a line sensor (one-dimensional image sensor), and various sensors such as an area sensor (two-dimensional image sensor) may be used.

The light receiving section 130 includes a lens 131 for condensing light in front of the light receiving element. A case, which is a cover for suppressing incidence of light from other than the front of the light-receiving element, is provided around the light-receiving element. A case serving as a cover is provided around the light-receiving element to prevent light other than light passing through the lens 131 arranged in front from entering the light-receiving element. A case, which is a cover for suppressing incidence of light from the lateral direction of the light receiving element, is provided around the light receiving element.

The case functions as an incident suppression cover that blocks or attenuates light from other than the front of the light receiving element. The case is colored in a color such as black that does not easily reflect light, thereby suppressing light reflected from the case itself from entering the light receiving element. Various materials such as resin may be used for the case as long as it can be formed into a desired shape. The light receiving unit 130 receives the reflected light from the stool with respect to the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 . The light receiving unit 130 receives the reflected light from the falling stool with respect to the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 . The light receiving unit 130 receives the reflected light from the stool with respect to the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 .

<4-2. How to acquire flight image data>
Here, a specific operation of the method for acquiring the stool image (data) will be described with reference to FIG. 17 . FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data acquisition method. Description of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

Each element shown in FIG. 17 will be described. An object OB1 schematically shows stool (excretion) to be detected (measured). Further, the light receiving device PD is a light receiving section 130 having a light receiving element such as a line sensor, for example.

Also, the light emitting device LE is a light emitting section 120 having a light emitting element. In FIG. 17, for the sake of simplicity, the case where the light emitting device LE emits light of one wavelength will be described as an example, but the light emitting device LE may emit light of different wavelengths.

In the example of FIG. 17, the falling object OB1 is irradiated with light from the light emitting device LE, and a process of obtaining (generating) a flight image (two-dimensional image) based on the result of light reception by the light receiving device PD is performed. shown conceptually. A dotted line extending from the light emitting device LE to the object OB1 schematically shows the irradiation of light from the light emitting device LE to the object OB1, and a dotted line extending from the object OB1 to the light receiving device PD represents the object received by the light receiving device PD. Reflected light from OB1 is shown schematically. A rectangular frame overlapping the object OB1 schematically shows the range (one-dimensional) of the object OB1 detected by corresponding light emission and light reception.

_In the example of FIG. 17, the scene SN1 conceptually shows the process of irradiating the falling object OB1 with light from the light emitting device LE and receiving light by the light receiving device PD at time t1. Data acquired in scene SN1 (time t ₁ ) corresponds to one-dimensional image PI1 of two-dimensional image EI. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) the one-dimensional image PI1 by light emission and light reception in scene SN1 (time t ₁ ).

Also, the data acquired at time t2 corresponds to the one-dimensional image PI2 of the _two -dimensional image EI. That is, the toilet seat device ₂ acquires (detects) the one-dimensional image PI2 by light emission and light reception at time t2. _The data at time _t2 is the data acquired after the data at time t1. Therefore, the toilet seat device 2 generates the two-dimensional image EI by arranging the one-dimensional image PI2 next to the one-dimensional image PI1.

Further, the scene SNi conceptually shows the process of irradiating the falling object OB1 with light from the light emitting device LE and receiving light by the light receiving device PD at time t _i . The data acquired in the scene SNi (time t _i ) correspond to the one-dimensional image PIi of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) the one-dimensional image PIi by light emission and light reception in the scene SNi (time t _i ).

A scene _SNj conceptually shows the process of irradiating the falling object OB1 with light from the light emitting device LE and receiving light by the light receiving device PD at time tj. Data acquired at scene SNj (time t _j ) corresponds to one-dimensional image PIj of two-dimensional image EI. That is, the toilet seat device 2 obtains (detects) the one-dimensional image PIj by light emission and light reception at the scene SNj (time _tj ).

The toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image (stool information) by arranging the one-dimensional images side by side in the order of the time when the one-dimensional images (light receiving data) were acquired. 17, the toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image EI by arranging one-dimensional images PI1, PI2, . . . , PIi, .

In the above-described example, the case where light emission is of one wavelength has been described as an example. images) are arranged in chronological order to generate flight information (two-dimensional images). Regarding this point, a case in which three light-emitting elements that emit light of three different wavelengths emit light and receive light will be described as an example.

In this case, the toilet seat device 2 arranges light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by causing a light emitting element (also referred to as a “first light emitting element”) that emits light of a first wavelength to emit light, in chronological order. The placement produces a two-dimensional image corresponding to the first light emitting element. For example, the toilet seat device 2 arranges light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light of a first wavelength such as 590 nm in time series to obtain fecal information (first two-dimensional image) corresponding to the first wavelength. to generate

In addition, the toilet seat device 2 arranges light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from a light emitting element that emits light of a second wavelength (also referred to as a “second light emitting element”) in chronological order. By doing so, a two-dimensional image corresponding to the second light emitting element is generated. For example, the toilet seat device 2 arranges the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light of a second wavelength such as 670 nm in chronological order to obtain fecal information (second two-dimensional image) corresponding to the second wavelength. to generate

In addition, the toilet seat device 2 arranges light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from a light emitting element that emits light of a third wavelength (also referred to as a “third light emitting element”) in chronological order. By doing so, a two-dimensional image corresponding to the third light emitting element is generated. For example, the toilet seat device 2 arranges the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light of a third wavelength such as 870 nm in time series to obtain fecal information (third two-dimensional image) corresponding to the third wavelength. to generate

Thus, the toilet seat device 2 acquires a color image by generating a two-dimensional image for each of three wavelengths corresponding to each of the first light emitting element, the second light emitting element and the third light emitting element. be able to. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may generate a color image by synthesizing the above-described first two-dimensional image, second two-dimensional image, and third two-dimensional image. Further, a color image may be generated by using a color light receiving element as the light receiving element such as a line sensor of the light receiving unit 130 and simultaneously irradiating the light emitting elements of a plurality of colors.

<4-3. Control flow example>
An example of a sensor-based control flow will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing a detection relationship. 5, 9, and 12 will be omitted as appropriate.

A waveform LN31 in FIG. 18 indicates the result of detection of the user sitting on the toilet seat 5 by the seating detection sensor (seating sensor 301). A waveform LN32 in FIG. 18 indicates the result of detection by the image captured by the optical unit 100. FIG.

In the example of FIG. 18, as indicated by waveform LN31, seating sensor 301 detects that the user is seated on toilet seat 5 at time t31. For example, at time t31, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 is changed from "OFF" indicating that seating on the toilet seat 5 has not been detected to "ON" indicating that seating on the toilet seat 5 has been detected. be.

Further, as indicated by the waveform LN31, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user leaves the toilet seat 5 at time t34. For example, at time t34, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 is changed from "ON" indicating that the person is seated on the toilet seat 5 to "OFF" indicating that the person is no longer being seated on the toilet seat 5. be done. That is, in the example of FIG. 18, the user leaves the toilet (for example, toilet room R) after time t34.

In the waveform LN32, detection based on the image (line data) captured by the optical unit 100 in two stages: "no stool" indicating that no stool has been detected and "with stool" indicating that stool has been detected. Show the results.

As shown by waveform LN32, at time t32, "no stool" indicating that stool is not detected changes to "stool present" indicating that stool is detected, and the user's stool is detected. Thereby, the toilet seat device 2 determines that the first defecation was performed by the user at time t32.

Further, as indicated by waveform LN32, the state of "no stool" indicating that stool is not detected continues after time t33. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 determines that time t33 is the timing of the user's last defecation, and determines that the user has finished defecation at time t33. In the example of FIG. 18, the toilet seat device 2 determines that three bowel movements have been performed from time t32 to time t33. In this example, the number of times of defecation is three times in one defecation action, but the toilet seat device 2 determines the timing of the last defecation of the user and It is possible to determine whether it is performed once or multiple times.

The toilet seat device 2 acquires the time from when the user sits until the first flight comes out. The toilet seat device 2 obtains the time required for excretion from the difference between time t31 and time t32. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires the period TM1 from time t31 to time t32 as the time required for the user to excrete. Further, the toilet seat device 2 acquires a period TM2 from time t32 to time t33 as the time from the start to the end of excretion. Further, the toilet seat device 2 acquires a period TM3 from time t33 to time t34 as the time from the end of excretion until the user leaves the toilet (leaves the seat).

<5. Fifth Embodiment>
Note that the object to be transmitted and received is not limited to light (visible light, invisible light), and any object may be used as long as the presence of stool can be recognized by transmitting and receiving light. For example, signals to be transmitted and received may be microwaves or ultrasonic waves in addition to light. Regarding this point, an example in which the detection unit detects electromagnetic waves other than electromagnetic waves (such as light) will be described. Below, the case where a detection part detects an ultrasonic wave and acquires the time required for excretion based on the detected ultrasonic wave as 5th Embodiment is shown. In the excretion information management system 1D according to the fifth embodiment, the excretion information management system 1 according to the first embodiment, the excretion information management system 1A according to the second embodiment, and the excretion information management system 1D according to the third embodiment Description of the same points as those of the information management system 1B or the excretion information management system 1C according to the fourth embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

<5-1. Configuration of excretion information management system>
The configuration of the excretion information management system according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20. FIG. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an excretion information management system according to the fifth embodiment. Since the arrangement of the sensors is the same as in the fourth embodiment, illustration thereof is omitted.

The sensor unit 100A serves as a detection unit that detects stool (excretion) over time by transmitting ultrasonic waves to stool using the transmitting unit 120A and receiving waves (ultrasonic waves) reflected from the stool using the receiving unit 130A. Function. 120 A of transmission parts are transmitters which transmit an ultrasonic wave. The receiver 130A is a receiver that receives ultrasonic waves. For example, the sensor unit 100A is provided in the toilet bowl 7 with directivity. Note that the sensor unit 100A may be arranged in any manner as long as it can detect stool dropping in the toilet bowl 7 . The sensor unit 100A may be included in the toilet seat device 2 configuration. For example, the sensor unit 100A may be arranged on the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5 or the like, like the camera 304 shown in FIG.

<5-2. Control flow example>
An example of a sensor-based control flow will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing a detection relationship. 5, 9, 12 and 18 will be omitted as appropriate.

A waveform LN41 in FIG. 20 indicates the result of detection of the user sitting on the toilet seat 5 by the seating detection sensor (seating sensor 301). A waveform LN42 in FIG. 20 indicates the detection result based on the reception signal received by the sensor unit 100A.

In the example of FIG. 20, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user is seated on the toilet seat 5 at time t41, as shown by the waveform LN41. For example, at time t41, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 is changed from "OFF" indicating that no seating on the toilet seat 5 has been detected to "ON" indicating that seating on the toilet seat 5 has been detected. be.

Further, as indicated by waveform LN41, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user leaves the toilet seat 5 at time t44. For example, at time t44, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 is changed from "ON" indicating that the person is seated on the toilet seat 5 to "OFF" indicating that the person is no longer being seated on the toilet seat 5. be done. That is, in the example of FIG. 20, the user leaves the toilet (for example, toilet room R) after time t44.

Waveform LN42 shows the detection result based on the reception signal received by sensor unit 100A in two stages: "no stool" indicating that no stool has been detected and "with stool" indicating that stool has been detected. .

As shown by waveform LN42, at time t42, "no stool" indicating that stool is not detected changes to "stool present" indicating that stool is detected, and the user's stool is detected. Thereby, the toilet seat device 2 determines that the first defecation was performed by the user at time t42.

In addition, as indicated by waveform LN42, the state of "no stool" continues after time t43, indicating that stool is not detected. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 determines that time t43 is the timing of the user's final defecation, and determines that the user has finished defecation at time t43. In the example of FIG. 20, the toilet seat device 2 determines that three bowel movements were performed between time t42 and time t43. In this example, the number of times of defecation is three times in one defecation action, but the toilet seat device 2 determines the timing of the last defecation of the user and It is possible to determine whether it is performed once or multiple times.

The toilet seat device 2 acquires the time from when the user sits until the first flight comes out. The toilet seat device 2 acquires the time required for excretion from the difference between time t41 and time t42. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires the period TM1 from time t41 to time t42 as the time required for the user to excrete. Further, the toilet seat device 2 acquires a period TM2 from time t42 to time t43 as the time from the start to the end of excretion. Further, the toilet seat device 2 acquires a period TM3 from time t43 to time t44 as the time from the end of excretion until the user leaves the toilet (leaves the seat).

<5-3. Display example>
It should be noted that the display mode of the information on the time required for excretion in the above-described first to fifth embodiments may be in various modes. For example, the display device 200 may display the time required for stool in chronological order for each date and time of excretion of the stool. This point will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of display of the time required for excretion.

In this case, the display device 200 may store the information on the time required for excretion received from the toilet seat device 2 for each date and time, and display the stored information on the time required for excretion in chronological order. In the example of FIG. 21 , the display device 200 displays the time required for excretion for one month in chronological order using the history of the user's stools (defecation) for one month. By displaying in chronological order as shown in FIG. 21, the user can confirm the time required for excretion in chronological order, and confirm that the time required for excretion himself is gradually shortening. be able to.

The above is only an example, and if the excretion information management system 1 to 1D can display the time required for stool in chronological order for each date and time of excretion of the stool, what kind of processing will be used to The required time may be displayed in chronological order for each date and time of excretion of the stool. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may generate information (content) to be displayed as shown in FIG. 21 and transmit it to the display device 200 . The display device 200 receives information (contents) to be displayed as shown in FIG. 21 from the toilet seat device 2 . The display device 200 displays the information (content) shown in FIG. 21 received from the toilet seat device 2 .

It should be noted that the above-described embodiments and modifications can be appropriately combined within a range that does not contradict the processing content.

Further effects and modifications can be easily derived by those skilled in the art. Therefore, the broader aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments so shown and described. Accordingly, various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

R Toilet room 1 Excretion information management system 2 Toilet seat device 21 Communication unit 22 Storage unit 23 Control unit 231 Acquisition unit 232 Clock unit 233 Evaluation unit 3 Main unit 30 Main unit cover 4 Toilet lid 5 Toilet seat 6 Cleaning nozzle 60 Nozzle lid 7 Western-style large Toilet bowl (urinal)
71 electromagnetic valve 8 bowl portion 9 rim portion 10 operating device 11 display screen 200 display device 301 seating sensor 302 water level sensor

Claims (10)

a toilet seat device installed above the toilet;
a seating sensor that detects that a person has sat on the toilet;
a detection unit that detects stool;
a display unit for displaying user's excretion information;
An excretion information management system comprising
The toilet seat device is
having a clock unit for detecting time,
The clock section
Acquiring the time required for defecation, which is the difference between the time when the seating sensor detects that the user is seated and the time when the detection unit first detects the defecation,
The display unit
An excretion information management system characterized by displaying the time required for the defecation. The display unit
2. The excretion information management system according to claim 1, wherein the time required for defecation is displayed in chronological order for each date and time of excretion. The detection unit is
The excretion information management system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein stool is detected by detecting a change in the water level of the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl. The detection unit is
3. The excretion information management system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the thermometer is a radiation thermometer that receives infrared rays emitted from stool, and stool is detected by detecting radiation temperature. The detection unit is
3. The excretion information management system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein stool is detected by transmitting electromagnetic waves or ultrasonic waves to stool and receiving signals reflected from stool. The detection unit is
6. The excretion information management system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein stool is detected by acquiring a signal emitted from falling stool or a signal reflected from falling stool. Having a storage unit that stores the properties of stool,
The storage unit
storing at least information indicating which of at least three levels based on hardness the stool properties are, and
The display unit
The excretion information management system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the time required for the stool and the properties of the stool stored in the storage unit are displayed. The detection result of the property of the stool by the detection unit is automatically input to the storage unit,
The display unit
8. The excretion information management system according to claim 7, wherein the time required for defecation is displayed for each date and time of excretion. an evaluation unit that evaluates the quality of excretion according to the properties of the stool and the time required for the stool;
The excretion information management system according to claim 7 or 8, characterized by comprising: The evaluation unit
Evaluation is performed so that the shorter the time required for defecation, the higher the evaluation, and the evaluation is performed so that the evaluation is higher when the property of the stool is at a normal level among the three levels. The excretion information management system according to claim 9.

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