JP2024033417A - toilet management system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To appropriately manage a cleaning timing according to use purposes of a user.

SOLUTION: A toilet managing system includes a toilet device having a bowl for receiving a user's excrement; a detection part for detecting information on the user's use purposes of the toilet device; a determination part for determining whether or not the user's use purposes include at least one of defecating and urinating on the basis of a result of the detection by the detection part; a calculation part for calculating a contamination level of the toilet device by using different weighting for defecating and urinating on the basis of the number of use times of defecating and the number of use times of urinating, and determining whether or not the calculated contamination level exceeds a first predetermined value; and a notification part for notifying a cleaning timing when the first predetermined value is exceeded.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

COPYRIGHT: (C)2024,JPO&INPIT

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The disclosed embodiments relate to toilet management systems.

BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, a system has been known that detects the cleaning timing of a toilet room in which a toilet device (toilet bowl) is arranged in each toilet booth (private room) (for example, Patent Document 1). For example, in the system described in Patent Document 1, the frequency of use is determined from entry information, door opening/closing information, and usage status of the drain lever, and the timing for cleaning the toilet room is determined.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-166798

However, there is room for improvement in the above techniques. For example, in the prior art system described above, the purpose of use of the toilet device placed in the toilet booth is not considered, so even if the purpose of the user's use of the toilet device is to defecate, Since the usage is handled in the same way, the determined cleaning timing may not be appropriate as the timing for cleaning the toilet device. Therefore, it is desired to appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the intended use of the user.

In view of the above points, it is a challenge to appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the intended use of the user.

The disclosed embodiments aim to provide a toilet management system that can appropriately manage cleaning timing depending on the intended use of the user.

A toilet management system according to an aspect of the embodiment includes: a toilet device having a bowl for receiving excrement of a user; a detection unit that detects information regarding the usage of the toilet device by the user; and a detection result by the detection unit. a determining unit that determines whether the usage of the user includes at least one of large use or small use, based on the number of uses of the large use and the number of uses of the small use; a calculation unit that calculates the dirt level of the toilet device by weighting differently depending on the small use, and determines whether the calculated dirt level exceeds a first predetermined value; The present invention is characterized by comprising a notification section that notifies that it is cleaning timing when the cleaning time is reached.

According to the toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, even if the purpose of use of the toilet device (toilet) used for large use and small use is different, cleaning is performed according to the degree of dirt on the toilet, for example. It can guide the person in charge about the optimal timing for cleaning. Therefore, the toilet management system can prevent, for example, excessive visits to clean the toilet bowl in order to prevent it from becoming dirty, or the fact that the toilet bowl becomes extremely dirty by simply reducing the number of cleanings. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the intended use of the user. For example, the degree of dirt that adheres to the inner surface of the toilet bowl changes depending on the actual use of the toilet device (toilet bowl) provided in the toilet booth, such as whether the toilet bowl is used large or small. Therefore, even if the frequency of use of the toilet bowl is the same, the degree of soiling of the toilet bowl varies, and there is a concern that the cleaning person may be notified at a timing that is inappropriate for the degree of soiling of the toilet bowl. In such a case, the number of times of cleaning will increase and the burden on the cleaner will increase. On the other hand, according to the toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the degree of dirtiness (dirt level) of the toilet device can be estimated with high accuracy by taking into account the intended use of the toilet device. Accordingly, cleaning timing can be appropriately managed. Note that the toilet booth includes, for example, a toilet device that constitutes the toilet booth.

The toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment is characterized in that, in the weighting, the heavy use is set to have a larger weight than the light use.

According to the toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by assigning a larger weight to large-use toilets than to small-use toilets, dirt is generally more likely to adhere to the toilet bowl than when small-use toilets are used. For example, it is possible to guide cleaning personnel about the optimal timing for cleaning, depending on the level of dirt on the toilet bowl.

In the toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the detection unit is an imaging device that images the inside of the bowl, and the determination unit determines the nature of stool included in the image captured by the imaging device. The calculation unit is characterized in that the weighting is changed depending on the properties of the stool.

For example, even if the stool is the same, solid stool and muddy stool differ in the degree of dirt that adheres to the toilet bowl. Therefore, according to the toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the cleaning timing can be determined (calculated) more accurately by changing the weighting depending on the nature of multiple stools. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the intended use of the user.

In the toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the detection unit is an imaging device that captures an image of the inside of the bowl, and the calculation unit is configured to determine whether the purpose of use by a single user is the small use and the large use. If it is determined that the toilet device is used for both purposes, the dirt level of the toilet device is calculated assuming that the purpose of use by the one user is both the small use and the large use.

In one excretion act, if there is not only a small use or a large use, but also both, more dirt will be deposited than when only one is used. Therefore, according to the toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, when the usage purpose of the user is both heavy use and light use, cleaning timing can be more accurately determined by adding both the heavy use and light use. can be calculated. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the intended use of the user.

In the toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the determination unit determines the heavy use when the purpose of use by the user cannot be determined.

According to the toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, when it cannot be determined whether the user intends to use the toilet for a large amount of time or for a small amount of use, the state in which the toilet bowl is dirty before the cleaning timing is determined by counting it as heavy use. can be suppressed. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the intended use of the user.

In the toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the first predetermined value is set to decrease over time after at least one use of the toilet.

Dirt that adheres to the toilet bowl sticks to the toilet bowl over time and becomes difficult to clean. Therefore, according to the toilet management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, even if the toilet is not used for a certain period after using the toilet once, the timing of cleaning is accelerated by taking into consideration the possibility of sticking to the toilet bowl. It is possible to inform the person in charge of cleaning of the appropriate timing for cleaning. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the intended use of the user.

According to one aspect of the embodiment, cleaning timing can be appropriately managed according to the intended use of the user.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a toilet to be used according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of cleaning timing determination processing according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a toilet management system according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a placement information storage unit according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of processing executed by the toilet management system. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of changing the predetermined value.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the toilet management system disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

<1. Embodiment>
<1-1. Example of toilet room configuration>
Prior to explaining the cleaning timing determination process executed in the toilet management system 1 (see FIG. 3) according to the embodiment, an example of the configuration of a toilet room will be described using FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a toilet to be used according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 conceptually shows the physical layout of the people using the toilet.

The toilet room 2 shown in FIG. 1 has toilet booths TB1 to TB3 that form private room spaces, and a shared space CS1 that is a shared space that is a space other than the toilet booth. In addition, when describing the toilet booths provided in the toilet room 2, such as toilet booth TB1, toilet booth TB2, toilet booth TB3, etc., without distinguishing them, they may be described as "toilet booth TB."

The toilet booth TB is a space (private room space) separated by a partition. Each toilet booth TB is equipped with a toilet device 10 and functions as a place where people defecate. Furthermore, each toilet booth TB includes an openable/closable door (not shown) for entering the toilet booth TB. Note that the door of each toilet booth TB is similar to the door provided in a general toilet booth TB, so a detailed explanation will be omitted. Furthermore, the toilet booth TB does not have to be a space completely separated by a partition, and there may be a portion at the top or bottom of the partition that is not separated from the adjacent toilet booth TB or common space. .

Moreover, when describing the shared space provided in the toilet room 2, such as the shared space CS1, without distinguishing it, it may be described as a "shared space CS." The shared space CS is a shared area in the toilet room 2 where a plurality of people can stay at the same time. For example, the shared space CS has an entrance to the toilet room 2, washroom facilities such as the washstand section 50, and a route to each toilet booth TB. The shared space CS functions as a place for entering the toilet room 2, washing hands, etc., moving to each toilet booth TB, etc. Note that when the toilet room 2 functions as a men's toilet room 2, a urinal may be arranged in the shared space CS. That is, the shared space CS may also function as a place where people defecate.

Next, with reference to the toilet room 2 shown in FIG. 1, the arrangement of each device in the toilet room 2 will be explained. The toilet bowl devices 10 to ₁₁ are arranged in the toilet booth TB1. Further, the toilet device ₁₀₁₂ is arranged in the toilet booth TB2. Further, the toilet device ₁₀₁₃ is arranged in the toilet booth TB3. Note that when describing the toilet device 10 ₁₁ , toilet device 10 ₁₂ , toilet device 10 ₁₃ , etc. without distinguishing them, they may be referred to as "toilet device 10."

In FIG. 1, the case where the number of toilet bowl devices 10 is three is shown as an example, but any number of toilet bowl devices 10 can be adopted, and the number of toilet bowl devices 10 can be two or less or four. It may be more than that. Note that details such as the functions of the toilet device 10 will be described later. Further, the description describing the toilet device 10 as a target of processing such as information collection and determination may be read as the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is arranged. Further, the description of the toilet booth TB as a target of processing such as information collection and determination may be read as the toilet device 10 disposed in the toilet booth TB. For example, the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} may be read as toilet booth TB1, and the toilet booth TB1 may be read as toilet bowl devices 10 to ₁₁ .

The washstand section 50 is arranged in the shared space CS1. The washstand section 50 is provided with a plurality of washbasins. Although FIG. 1 shows an example in which the number of wash basins provided in the vanity unit 50 is three, any number of wash basins can be adopted as long as the desired processing can be performed. .

Note that the toilet room 2 shown in FIG. 1 is only an example, and any configuration can be adopted for the toilet room 2. For example, the toilet room 2 may have any configuration as long as it includes the toilet device 10. For example, in FIG. 1, a case will be described in which the toilet room 2 has three toilet bowl devices 10, but the toilet room 2 may be a toilet in a residence (private residence) having only one toilet bowl device 10.

<1-2. Layout of toilet space＞
The arrangement of the toilet room 2 will be briefly explained. The toilet room 2 may be provided in any space as long as the toilet room 2 can be physically arranged. That is, any location can be adopted as the location where the toilet room 2 is provided. For example, the toilet room 2 may be provided in a commercial facility such as a department store. Further, the place where the toilet room 2 is provided is not limited to a commercial facility such as a store, but may be any other type of facility. For example, the location where the toilet room 2 is provided may be an amusement park, a stadium, an office building, or the like. For example, the place where the toilet room 2 is provided may be a toilet provided in a region such as a tourist spot. For example, the location where the toilet room 2 is provided may be a park, a parking lot, or the like. That is, the toilet may be provided outdoors, such as in a park or a parking lot. For example, the place where the toilet room 2 is provided may be a residential facility such as a private home. In this way, the place where the toilet room 2 is provided may be any place as long as there is a space where the toilet room 2 can be placed.

<1-3. First processing example of cleaning timing determination>
An overview of a first processing example of cleaning timing determination executed in the toilet management system 1 (see FIG. 3) will now be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of cleaning timing determination processing according to the embodiment.

The processing example shown in _FIG . 2 will be described below. Specifically, in FIG. _{2 ,} the toilet management system 1 determines the cleaning timing of each toilet device 10 based on the dirt level of each toilet device 10. For example, the soiling level is a value (score) indicating the estimated degree of soiling of the toilet device 10. Note that in FIG. 2, only a line LN11 indicating the dirt level of the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} is shown to show a case where the dirt level of one of the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} exceeds the first predetermined value. The first predetermined value FV11 is a predetermined value used to determine the cleaning timing. Although FIG. 2 shows a case where the first predetermined value FV11 is set to the value VL14, an arbitrary value can be set to the first predetermined value FV11.

In FIG. 2, the information processing device 100 (see FIG. 3) of the toilet management system 1 detects detected user information for each of the three toilet devices 10, toilet device 10 ₁₁ , toilet device 10 ₁₂ , and toilet device 10 ₁₃ . Information regarding the intended use of the toilet device 10 is obtained.

In the graph GR11 in FIG. 2, the vertical axis shows the dirt level of the toilet device ₁₀₁₁ , and the horizontal axis shows the passage of time. For example, the time at the origin of graph GR11 (start time t0) corresponds to the start time of stain level calculation. For example, the time at the origin of the graph GR11 (start time t0) corresponds to the time when cleaning of the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} is completed, and corresponds to the time when the dirt level of the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} is reset. Thus, line LN11 of graph GR11 indicates the dirt level of toilet device ₁₀₁₁ . For example, the line LN11 shows a change (transition) in the dirt level of the toilet device ₁₀₁₁ over time from the starting time t0.

In FIG. 2, the toilet device 10 ₁₁ is used for the first time after the soil level is reset at time t11, which is after the starting time t0. Based on the detected information, the information processing device 100 determines the intended use of the toilet device 10 _{to 11} for the first use at time t11. For example, the information processing device 100 uses an image of the inside of the bowl of the toilet device 10 _{to 11} captured when the toilet device 10 to ₁₁ is used at time t11 to determine whether the toilet device 10 _{to 11} is used for the first time. It is determined whether at least one of usage and minor usage is included.

In FIG. 2, the information processing device 100 determines that the first use of the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} is a heavy use. Therefore, the information processing device 100 adds the first partial score a1 to the dirt level of the toilet device 10 for the first use of the toilet device 10 _{to 11} . As a result, the information processing device 100 increases the dirt level of the toilet device ₁₀₁₁ at time t11 from 0 to the value VL11. For example, the first partial score a1 is a value obtained by multiplying the number of uses of heavy use "1" by a weight corresponding to heavy use (also referred to as a "heavy use weight value").

The information processing device 100 determines the cleaning timing of the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} based on a comparison between the dirt level of the toilet bowl devices 10 to ₁₁ and the first predetermined value FV11. Since the dirt level value VL11 of the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} at time t11 does not exceed the first predetermined value FV11, the information processing device 100 determines that it is not time to clean the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} at time t11.

Note that when the information processing device 100 determines that the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user includes short-term use, the information processing device 100 may also add the second partial score a2 to the dirt level of the toilet device 10. In this case, the information processing device 100 also adds both the first partial score a1 and the second partial score a2 to the dirt level of the toilet device 10. Note that as long as the first partial score a1 is greater than the second partial score a2, arbitrary values can be set for the first partial score a1 and the second partial score a2. For example, the first partial score a1 may be "2" and the second partial score a2 may be "1". For example, the second partial score a2 is a value obtained by multiplying the number of uses of minor usage "1" by a weight corresponding to minor usage (also referred to as "minor usage weight value"). The small usage weight value is set smaller than the large usage weight value. For example, the heavy usage weight value may be "2" and the low usage weight value may be "1".

Further, in FIG. 2, the toilet device _10-11 is used for the second time at time t12 after time t11. Based on the detected information, the information processing device 100 determines the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 _{to 11} for the second time at time t12. The information processing device 100 determines that the second use of the toilet device 10 _{to 11} is a small use. Therefore, the information processing device 100 adds the second partial score a2 to the dirt level of the toilet device 10 for the second use of the toilet device 10 _{to 11} . Thereby, the information processing device 100 increases the dirt level of the toilet bowl device ₁₀₁₁ at time t12 from the value VL11 to the value VL12.

The information processing device 100 determines the cleaning timing of the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} based on a comparison between the dirt level of the toilet bowl devices 10 to ₁₁ and the first predetermined value FV11. Since the dirt level value VL12 of the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} at time t12 does not exceed the first predetermined value FV11, the information processing device 100 determines that it is not time to clean the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} at time t12.

Further, in FIG. 2, the toilet device _10-11 is used for the third time at time t13 after time t12. Based on the detected information, the information processing device 100 determines the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 _{to 11} for the third use at time t13. The information processing device 100 determines that the third use of the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} is a heavy use. Therefore, the information processing device 100 adds the first partial score a1 to the dirt level of the toilet device 10 for the third use of the toilet device 10 _{to 11} . Thereby, the information processing device 100 increases the dirt level of the toilet device ₁₀₁₁ at time t13 from the value VL12 to the value VL13.

The information processing device 100 determines the cleaning timing of the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} based on a comparison between the dirt level of the toilet bowl devices 10 to ₁₁ and the first predetermined value FV11. Since the dirt level value VL13 of the toilet bowl devices _10-11 at time t13 does not exceed the first predetermined value FV11, the information processing device 100 determines that it is not time to clean the toilet bowl devices _10-11 at time t13.

Further, in FIG. 2, the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} are used for the fourth time at time t14 after time t13. Based on the detected information, the information processing device 100 determines the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 _{to 11} for the fourth use at time t14. The information processing device 100 determines that the fourth use of the toilet device 10 _{to 11} is a small use. Therefore, the information processing device 100 adds the second partial score a2 to the dirt level of the toilet device 10 for the fourth use of the toilet device 10 _{to 11} . As a result, the information processing device 100 increases the dirt level of the toilet device ₁₀₁₁ at time t14 from the value VL13 to the value VL15.

The information processing device 100 determines the cleaning timing of the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} based on a comparison between the dirt level of the toilet bowl devices 10 to ₁₁ and the first predetermined value FV11. The information processing device 100 determines that it is time to clean the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} at time t14 because the dirt level value VL15 of the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} at time t14 exceeds the first predetermined value FV11.

Then, when the information processing device 100 determines that it is cleaning time, it notifies that it is cleaning time. In FIG. 2, the information processing device 100 notifies the administrator who manages the toilet room 2 that it is time to clean the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} at time t14. The information processing device 100 notifies information indicating the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} . For example, the information processing device 100 transmits information indicating that it is time to clean the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} to a computer (a personal computer, a smartphone, etc.) used by an administrator who manages the toilet room 2. Note that the method of notification from the information processing device 100 to the computer may include sending an email or pop-up display on the screen. Further, the notification may be displayed once or continuously.

Through the above-described process, the toilet management system 1 calculates the dirt level by varying the increase in dirt level between heavy use and light use, and determines the timing when the dirt level of the toilet device 10 exceeds the first predetermined value FV11. It is determined that it is time for cleaning. Thereby, the toilet management system 1 can have the person in charge of cleaning (cleaner) clean at an appropriate timing. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the intended use of the user.

Note that the above-mentioned example is only an example, and the toilet management system 1 may appropriately use various information such as the properties of stool to determine the cleaning timing and notify that the cleaning timing has arrived. However, this point will be discussed later.

<1-4. Toilet management system configuration>
Next, the configuration of the toilet management system 1 will be explained with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a toilet management system according to an embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 3 shows the configuration of the toilet management system 1.

The toilet management system 1 includes an information processing device 100 that collects information used in cleaning timing determination processing and executes the cleaning timing determination processing. The toilet management system 1 shown in FIG. 3 includes an information processing device 100, a plurality of toilet devices 10 ₁₁ , 10 ₁₂ , 10 ₁₃ , and a plurality of detection units 101 ₁₁ , 101 ₁₂ , 101 ₁₃ . Note that when the detection units 101 ₁₁ , detection units 101 ₁₂ , detection units 101 ₁₃ , etc. are described without distinction, they may be referred to as “detection unit 101”.

Further, the toilet management system 1 may include a detection unit (shared equipment detection unit) that detects shared equipment such as the washstand section 50. Note that the toilet management system 1 may include a plurality of information processing devices 100, a plurality of washstand units 50, and the like. Furthermore, the information processing device that collects information used in the cleaning timing determination process and the information processing device that executes the cleaning timing determination process may be separate devices.

In FIG. 1, the toilet device 10 is the subject of cleaning timing determination by the toilet management system 1, but the objects to be cleaned are not limited to the toilet device 10, but the entire toilet room 2, urinal, hand drying area, mirror, and toiletries. Shared equipment such as the platform 50 may also be included.

The toilet room 2 is provided in a space such as a facility, and is a space where users who use the toilet enter and exit. For example, the toilet room 2 includes a toilet booth TB, a shared space CS, etc., and is a space in which structures related to the toilet are arranged. For example, the toilet room 2 shown in FIG. 1 includes toilet booths TB1 to TB3 in which a plurality of toilet devices 10 ₁₁ , 10 ₁₂ , and 10 ₁₃ are arranged, respectively, and a shared space CS1 in which a vanity unit 50 is arranged. . In this way, the toilet room 2 has a plurality of toilet booths TB in which the toilet device 10 is installed.

The toilet device 10 is used as a toilet used when a user uses the toilet to excrete stool or urine. The toilet device 10 has a bowl that receives the user's waste. The toilet device 10 is arranged in a toilet booth TB provided in the toilet room 2. For example, the toilet device 10 includes a toilet seat on which a user sits, and an operating section for operating a nozzle for discharging water for flushing. In addition to the toilet seat device, the toilet device 10 has various components such as a toilet lid and a toilet bowl for realizing the function of a toilet bowl, but detailed explanation thereof will be omitted.

The detection unit 101 of the toilet device 10 performs detection regarding the toilet device 10. The detection unit 101 functions as a detection unit that detects information regarding the intended use of the toilet device 10. The detection unit 101 detects information indicating the use of the toilet device 10. The detection unit 101 of the toilet device 10 performs detection regarding the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is placed.

The detection unit 101 is an imaging device that images the inside of the bowl of the toilet device 10. For example, the detection unit 101 is arranged below the toilet seat of the toilet device 10 and images the inside of the bowl. The detection unit 101 detects information (image) regarding the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user. Note that the detection unit 101 may be placed at any position as long as it can image the inside of the bowl of the toilet device 10 and image the excrement of the user of the toilet device 10.

For example, the detection unit 101 may be a line sensor (one-dimensional image sensor) that captures one-dimensional images, or may be an area sensor (two-dimensional image sensor) that captures two-dimensional images. For example, in the case of a line sensor, the detection unit 101 is arranged in the direction of photographing the space between the toilet seat and the water sealing part (the part where water seals accumulate) of the toilet device 10. In this way, the detection unit 101 may be arranged so as to photograph falling stool until it lands on the water sealing part (the part where water seals) of the toilet device 10 after the user defecates.

Further, for example, in the case of an area sensor, the detection unit 101 is arranged to face the direction in which the water sealing portion of the toilet device 10 is photographed. In this way, the detection unit 101 may be arranged so as to photograph the water-sealing portion of the toilet device 10. Note that the detection unit 101 may be arranged in any manner as long as it can detect (image) stool. Further, the detection unit 101 may take a still image or a moving image. Furthermore, if the inside of the toilet bowl becomes dark when the user sits on the toilet seat, and it is not possible to take pictures with sufficient brightness, a light source (light emitting section) may be provided.

The detection unit 101 of the toilet device 10 includes, for example, a communication unit (for example, a communication circuit) having a wireless communication function, and is connected to the information processing device 100 so as to be able to communicate wirelessly. For example, the detection unit 101 sends detection information indicating a captured image (video), the date and time of capturing, etc. together with identification information (ID, etc.) that identifies the toilet device 10 or the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is placed. It is transmitted to the processing device 100.

Note that the detection unit 101 may include a sensor that detects various information used to determine how the toilet device 10 is used by the user. For example, the detection unit 101 may include a sensor that detects large and small cleaning operations. For example, the detection unit 101 may include a sensor that detects the amount of rotation of the cleaning lever. For example, the detection unit 101 may include a sensor that detects the use of cleaning of a user's body part, such as the buttocks. For example, the detection unit 101 may include a sensor that detects the duration of sitting. For example, the detection unit 101 may include a sensor that detects the amount of toilet paper used. For example, the detection unit 101 may include a sensor (gas sensor) that detects odor.

The detection unit 101 may include a sensor that detects entry and exit of a person (user) to and from the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is arranged. For example, the detection unit 101 may include various sensors such as a human body detection sensor, an action detection sensor, and a seating detection sensor. The detection unit 101 may include a door sensor that is provided on the door of the toilet booth TB and detects whether the door of the toilet booth TB is opened or closed. The detection unit 101 may include an image sensor that images the vicinity of the door of the toilet booth TB. The detection unit 101 may include a seating sensor that detects whether a user is sitting on the toilet device 10.

The washstand section 50 is used in a toilet that has a washbasin that is used when a user of the toilet washes his hands, washes his face, and looks in the mirror. The vanity unit 50 is arranged in a shared space CS provided within the toilet room 2. For example, each washbasin in the vanity unit 50 has a faucet that functions as an automatic faucet and a water receiver that receives water from the faucet.

The information processing device 100 is an information processing device (computer) that executes a determination process for determining cleaning timing. For example, the information processing device 100 may be a cloud server or the like. The information processing device 100 is communicably connected to the detection unit 101 via a predetermined network N such as the Internet, either wirelessly or by wire. Note that the information processing device 100 may be connected to the detection unit 101 in any manner as long as it is capable of transmitting and receiving information, and may be connected to the detection unit 101 in a wireless communicable manner or a wired communicable connection. Good too.

The information processing device 100 uses the collected information to execute a determination process for determining whether it is time to clean the toilet. The information processing device 100 uses collected information that is information received from the detection unit 101 to execute a determination process for determining cleaning timing. The information processing device 100 determines the cleaning timing for the toilet device 10 using the collected information.

The information processing device 100 collects various information. For example, the information processing device 100 may be a gateway device or the like. The information processing device 100 is a device that collects detection information such as sensor data detected for each object of use. The information processing device 100 collects information from other devices. The information processing device 100 collects detection information that is information detected about the toilet room 2, the toilet device 10, the vanity unit 50, and the like. The information processing device 100 receives detection information from devices that detect information on the toilet room 2, the toilet device 10, the vanity unit 50, and the like.

The information processing device 100 receives detection information about the toilet device 10 from the detection unit 101 of the toilet device 10 . The information processing device 100 is connected to the detection unit 101 of the toilet device 10 so as to be able to communicate wirelessly. Note that the information processing device 100 may be connected to devices that detect information such as the toilet room 2, the toilet device 10, and the vanity unit 50 in any way as long as it is possible to send and receive information; They may be communicably connected.

The information processing device 100 may be placed outside the toilet room 2 or may be placed inside the toilet room 2. For example, the information processing device 100 may be a server device placed in a facility where a toilet room 2 is provided. Note that the above is just an example, and any configuration and arrangement of the information processing device 100 can be adopted as long as it can communicate with the detection unit 101 and collect information.

<1-5. Functional configuration of information processing device>
The functional configuration of the information processing device will be described below with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 4, the information processing device 100 includes a communication section 110, a storage section 120, and a control section 130. Note that the information processing device 100 includes an input unit (for example, a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) that accepts various operations from an administrator of the information processing device 100, and a display unit (for example, a liquid crystal display, etc.) for displaying various information. May have.

The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a communication circuit. The communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined 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 110 is connected to a predetermined network N (see FIG. 3) by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from other devices such as the detection unit 101.

The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 120 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by a cleaning timing determination program such as a determination process.

The storage unit 120 according to the embodiment includes a placement information storage unit 121 and a collection information storage unit 122, as shown in FIG. Note that the storage unit 120 stores not only the arrangement information storage unit 121 and the collected information storage unit 122 but also various information necessary for processing. For example, the storage unit 120 stores various information (for example, information regarding threshold values) used in the determination process. For example, the storage unit 120 stores a function for calculating a threshold value used in the determination process, and information about the calculated function. For example, the storage unit 120 stores a first predetermined value used as a threshold value.

The arrangement information storage unit according to the embodiment stores various information regarding the arrangement of various objects of use that are detected by the toilet management system 1. For example, the arrangement information storage section stores information regarding the arrangement of the toilet room 2, the toilet device 10, and the vanity section 50. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a placement information storage unit according to the embodiment. The layout information storage shown in FIG. 5 includes items such as "facility", "toilet space", "layout location", and "layout element".

“Facility” indicates a location where a toilet space (toilet room) is located. Note that the "facility" is not limited to a structure, and various locations can be registered as long as it is a location where a toilet space is located. “Toilet space” indicates identification information for identifying each toilet space. In FIG. 5, for the sake of explanation, the numbers attached to each toilet space, such as "2" for "toilet space", are shown, but "toilet space" includes information that can identify the toilet space (toilet room) space ID, etc.) are stored.

“Placement location” indicates identification information for identifying each placement location. In FIG. 5, for the sake of explanation, the symbols attached to each configuration of the toilet room 2 such as "TB1", "TB2", "TB3", and "CS1" are shown in the "placement location". , information (eg, placement location ID, etc.) that allows identification of the placement location is stored.

The "placement element" indicates identification information for identifying the user of the toilet placed at the corresponding placement location. For example, the "arrangement element" indicates identification information for identifying the toilet to be used, such as the toilet device 10 and the vanity section 50, which are arranged at the corresponding arrangement location. In FIG. 5, for the sake of explanation, the numerals attached to each configuration such as ``10 <sub>11</sub> '', ``10 ₁₂ '', ``10 <sub>13</sub> '', and ``50'' are shown in the ``arrangement elements''. , any information may be registered as long as it is possible to identify each usage target.

For example, the "placement element" includes information that can identify the toilet device placed at the corresponding placement location (e.g., toilet device ID, etc.), identification information for identifying the urinal (e.g., urinal ID, etc.), or Identification information (eg, washbasin ID, etc.) for identifying the washbasin is stored.

In the example of FIG. 5, the toilet room 2 identified by "2" includes a toilet booth TB1 identified by "TB1", a toilet booth TB2 identified by "TB2", and a toilet booth identified by "TB3". Indicates that TB3 is included as a location. Further, it is shown that the toilet room 2 includes a shared space CS1 identified by "CS1" as an arrangement location.

It is shown that the toilet device 10 ₁₁ identified by “10 ₁₁ ” is placed in the toilet booth TB1, which is the location identified by “TB1”. Further, it is shown that the toilet device 10 ₁₂ identified by “10 ₁₂ ” is placed in the toilet booth TB2, which is the placement location identified by “TB2”. Furthermore, it is shown that the toilet device 10 ₁₃ identified by “10 ₁₃ ” is placed in the toilet booth TB3, which is the placement location identified by “TB3”.

Note that the arrangement information storage section 121 is not limited to the above, and may store various information depending on the purpose. For example, the placement information storage unit 121 stores information (such as a sensor ID) that can identify a sensor (sensing unit) that detects sensor data (sensing information) of each usage target to be detected, such as a sensor ID, etc. It may also be stored in association with the target.

Information (for example, latitude and longitude information) indicating the specific location of the object to be used in each toilet may be stored in association with the object to be used in each toilet. For example, information indicating the specific location of each toilet room 2 (for example, latitude and longitude information) may be stored in association with each toilet room 2. For example, information indicating the specific location of each toilet device 10 (for example, latitude and longitude information) may be stored in association with each toilet device 10. For example, the location information storage unit 121 associates information detected by the bathroom vanity unit 50 and information indicating the specific placement position of the bathroom vanity unit 50 (for example, latitude and longitude information, etc.) with the bathroom vanity unit 50. You can also memorize it.

The collected information storage unit 122 stores detection information such as sensor data collected for each toilet to be used. The collected information storage unit 122 stores information received from the detection unit 101. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the detection information detected by the detection unit 101. For example, the collected information storage unit 122 stores the usage history of each toilet user in association with information identifying the user of each toilet.

For example, the collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time when each toilet object was used in association with information identifying the object of use of each toilet. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time when each toilet device 10 was used in association with information that identifies each toilet device 10. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time when the toilet booth TB in which each toilet device 10 is arranged is used, in association with information identifying each toilet booth TB. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time when the bathroom vanity unit 50 was used in association with information that identifies the bathroom vanity unit 50. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time when each toilet room 2 was used in association with information that identifies each toilet room 2.

For example, the collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time when each toilet object was used, and the usage time for that use, in association with information identifying the object to use each toilet. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time when each toilet device 10 was used, and the usage time of the toilet device 10 in association with information that identifies each toilet device 10. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time when the toilet booth TB in which each toilet device 10 is placed is used, and the usage time in association with information identifying each toilet booth TB. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time when the vanity unit 50 was used, and the usage time of the vanity unit 50 in association with information that identifies the vanity unit 50. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time when each toilet room 2 was used, and the usage time during its use, in association with information that identifies each toilet room 2.

Note that the above is just an example, and the collected information storage unit 122 stores various collected information.

Returning to FIG. 4, the explanation will be continued. The control unit 130 uses a program (for example, a cleaning timing determination program such as a determination process according to the present disclosure) stored inside the information processing apparatus 100 by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). This is realized by executing using RAM or the like as a work area. Further, the control unit 130 is a controller, and is realized by, for example, 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 130 includes an acquisition unit 131, a determination unit 132, a calculation unit 133, and a notification unit 134, and realizes or executes information processing functions and operations described below. . Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 4, and may be any other configuration as long as it performs information processing to be described later.

The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information. The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 receives information from other devices. The acquisition unit 131 receives information (detection information, etc.) collected by the detection unit 101 from the detection unit 101. The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected about the person using the toilet from the detection unit 101. The acquisition unit 131 receives, from the detection unit 101, detection information detected by a sensor or the like corresponding to the person using the toilet.

The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected by the detection unit 101 regarding the toilet device 10 from the detection unit 101. The acquisition unit 131 receives, from the detection unit 101, detection information detected by the detection unit 101 regarding the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is placed. The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected by the shared equipment detection unit for each shared equipment such as the bathroom vanity unit 50 from the shared equipment detection unit.

The acquisition unit 131 acquires information used for processing from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information used for determination processing from the collected information storage unit 122. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information corresponding to the toilet device 10 to be determined from the collected information storage unit 122.

The determination unit 132 performs determination processing. The determining unit 132 functions as a first determining unit that performs a process of determining how the toilet device 10 is used by the user. The determination unit 132 performs determination processing using various information stored in the storage unit 120. The determination unit 132 performs determination processing using various types of information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The determination unit 132 determines the usage of the toilet device 10 by the user based on the detection result of the detection unit 101.

The determination unit 132 determines whether the usage of the user includes at least one of heavy use and light use, based on the detection result by the detection unit 101. If the purpose of use by the user cannot be determined, the determination unit 132 determines that the usage is heavy.

The determination unit 132 determines whether the image captured by the detection unit 101 contains feces or urine. The determination unit 132 recognizes (identifies) an object included in an image using various techniques related to image recognition. For example, the determination unit 132 analyzes the image captured by the detection unit 101 and determines whether the image contains feces. Further, the determining unit 132 analyzes the image captured by the detecting unit 101 and determines whether or not the image contains urine.

The determination unit 132 determines whether the usage of the user includes at least one of heavy use and light use, based on the detection result by the detection unit 101. If the image captured by the detection unit 101 includes feces, the determination unit 132 determines that the usage of the toilet device 10 by the user corresponding to the image is heavy use. If the image captured by the detection unit 101 includes urine, the determination unit 132 determines that the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user corresponding to the image is small use. Note that when the image captured by the detection unit 101 includes both feces and urine, the determination unit 132 determines that the usage of the toilet device 10 by the user corresponding to the image is both heavy use and light use. judge. The determination unit 132 determines that the image captured by the detection unit 101 is heavily used when neither feces nor urine is included and the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user corresponding to the image cannot be determined.

The determination unit 132 may determine the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user using various information other than images. For example, the determining unit 132 may determine how the toilet device 10 is used by the user, depending on the size of the cleaning operation. For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user based on the detection of the rotation amount of the cleaning lever. For example, the determining unit 132 may determine the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user in response to the detection of usage of cleaning of the user's body part such as the buttocks. For example, the determining unit 132 may determine the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user based on the detection of the sitting duration.

For example, the determining unit 132 may determine how the toilet device 10 is used by the user, depending on the amount of toilet paper used. If the amount of toilet paper used exceeds a predetermined value, the determining unit 132 may determine that the user is using the toilet device 10 extensively. If the amount of toilet paper used is less than or equal to a predetermined value, the determination unit 132 may determine that the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user is light use.

For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the presence or absence of odor components and the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user. The determination unit 132 determines whether the user uses the toilet device 10 for a large amount of use, for a small amount of use, or for both large and small amounts of use, using information detected by a gas sensor that detects odor. The determination unit 132 may determine the usage of the toilet device 10 by the user based on the presence or absence of odor components detected by the gas sensor. The determination unit 132 may determine the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user based on the presence or absence and concentration of a specific component detected by the gas sensor as a predetermined odor parameter.

Note that the above is just an example, and the determination unit 132 may determine the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user using various information. That is, the determination unit 132 may use any information to perform the purpose determination process as long as it is possible to determine the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user.

The determination unit 132 uses the information detected by the detection unit 101 to perform determination processing. The determination unit 132 uses the information stored in the storage unit 120 to perform determination processing. The determining unit 132 uses the information detected by the detecting unit 101 to determine the nature of the stool included in the image. The determining unit 132 determines the nature of stool included in the image captured by the imaging device.

The determining unit 132 determines the type of stool corresponding to the stool image based on the image including the stool photographed by the detection unit 101 (also referred to as a “stool image”). The determining unit 132 uses the stool image to determine whether the type of stool corresponding to the stool image is one of a plurality of types based on the shape (also simply referred to as "shape"). The determination unit 132 may classify stool types into seven types based on the Bristol scale. For example, the determining unit 132 uses a stool image to determine whether the type of stool corresponding to the stool image is one of Types 1 to 7 based on the Bristol scale. For example, type 1 is korokoro, type 2 is hard (hard), type 3 is cracked (slightly hard), type 4 is normal (banana-shaped), type 5 is slightly soft, Type 6 is muddy, and Type 7 is liquid (watery). The determination unit 132 determines the type (shape) of the user's stool by appropriately using various techniques for detecting the shape of the stool using an optical method.

The determination unit 132 may determine the type of stool using technology related to AI (artificial intelligence). For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the type of stool using a learning model (type determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the type determination model is trained in advance using training data indicating classification determination. This teacher data includes a plurality of combinations of a stool image and a label (correct information) indicating the type (any of Type 1 to Type 7) of the lump (feces) included in the stool image. For example, the type determination model is a model that receives a stool image as input and outputs information indicating the type of lump (feces) included in the input stool image. For example, the type determination model is trained to output label (type of stool) information corresponding to the input stool image when a stool image is input. Learning of the type determination model is performed using various methods related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the type determination model may be stored in the storage unit 120, and the determination unit 132 may determine the type of stool using the type determination model stored in the storage unit 120. For example, the information processing device 100 may perform a learning process and generate a type determination model. Note that the above is just an example, and the determination unit 132 may determine the type of flight using various information as appropriate.

Further, the determination unit 132 determines the amount of stool based on the image taken by the detection unit 101. For example, the determination unit 132 determines the amount of feces based on the area and proportion of the feces in the image. For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the amount of stool using the score output by the stool amount determination model. The determining unit 132 may determine that the amount of stool is "small" when the score output by the stool amount determination model into which the image is input is greater than or equal to the first threshold and less than the second threshold. The second threshold value is assumed to be a larger value than the first threshold value. Further, the determining unit 132 may determine that the amount of stool is "medium" when the score output by the stool amount determination model into which the image is input is greater than or equal to the second threshold and less than the third threshold. The third threshold value is assumed to be a larger value than the second threshold value. Further, the determining unit 132 may determine the amount of stool to be "large" if the score output by the stool volume determination model into which the image is input is greater than or equal to the third threshold and less than the fourth threshold. . It is assumed that the fourth threshold value is larger than the third threshold value. Note that the above three-stage determination is only an example, and the determination unit 132 may determine the amount of stool by appropriately using various information. Further, the above is just an example, and the determination unit 132 may determine various stool properties such as color in addition to the type and amount.

The calculation unit 133 performs calculation processing. The calculation unit 133 performs calculation processing using various information stored in the storage unit 120. The calculation unit 133 performs calculation processing using various types of information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The calculation unit 133 calculates the dirt level of the toilet device 10 based on the usage of the toilet device 10 determined by the determination unit 132.

The calculation unit 133 performs determination processing. The calculation unit 133 functions as a second determination unit that performs determination processing to determine whether the dirt level exceeds a first predetermined value. The calculation unit 133 performs determination processing using various information stored in the storage unit 120. The calculation unit 133 performs a determination process using various types of information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The calculation unit 133 performs a determination process using the various information determined by the determination unit 132.

The calculation unit 133 performs a determination process using the threshold value stored in the storage unit 120. The calculation unit 133 performs the determination process using the first predetermined value stored in the storage unit 120. The calculation unit 133 performs determination processing using the calculated information. The calculation unit 133 determines whether or not it is the cleaning timing for one toilet device 10.

The calculation unit 133 calculates the dirt level of the toilet device 10 based on the number of times of heavy use and the number of times of light use by weighting heavy use with a higher weight than light use. The calculation unit 133 determines whether the calculated dirt level exceeds a first predetermined value. When it is determined that the intended use of one user is both small use and large use, the calculation unit 133 determines that the intended use of one user is both small use and large use. The dirt level of the toilet device 10 is calculated.

The calculation unit 133 changes the weighting (heavily used weight value) depending on the properties of the stool. The calculation unit 133 increases the value of the heavy use weight value as the type of stool is closer to soft stool. The calculation unit 133 may increase the value of the first partial score a1 as the type of stool is closer to soft stool. The calculation unit 133 increases the value of the heavy use weight value as the amount of stool increases. The calculation unit 133 may increase the value of the first partial score a1 as the amount of stool increases.

Further, the calculation unit 133 may change the weighting according to the amount of toilet paper used. The calculation unit 133 may determine that the more toilet paper is used, the dirtier the toilet device 10 is. For example, the calculation unit 133 may determine that the user is in poor physical condition as the amount of toilet paper used increases, and may increase the increase in the dirt level due to use by the user. The calculation unit 133 may increase the weighting of the increase in the dirt level due to use by the user as the amount of toilet paper used increases. The calculation unit 133 may increase the partial score corresponding to usage by the user as the amount of toilet paper used increases and add it to the soiling level.

The notification unit 134 executes notification processing to notify various information. The notification unit 134 executes notification processing by transmitting information to an external information processing device.

The notification unit 134 issues a notification when the calculation unit 133 determines that it is cleaning timing. The notification unit 134 notifies that it is cleaning timing when the first predetermined value is exceeded. The notification unit 134 notifies that it is time to clean the one toilet device 10 when the first predetermined value of the one toilet device 10 is exceeded. The notification unit 134 suspends notification when one toilet device 10 is in use, and issues the suspended notification when one toilet device 10 is no longer in use.

The notification unit 134 transmits information regarding the determination result by the calculation unit 133 to the administrator device used by the administrator who manages the toilet management system 1. When the determination by the calculation unit 133 indicates cleaning timing, the notification unit 134 transmits information regarding the toilet device 10 for which the cleaning timing has been determined.

When the determination by the calculation unit 133 indicates cleaning timing, the notification unit 134 transmits information identifying the toilet device 10 for which cleaning timing has been determined to the administrator device. When the determination by the calculation unit 133 indicates cleaning timing, the notification unit 134 transmits information indicating the location where the toilet device 10 determined to be cleaning timing is located to the administrator device. Note that the notification unit 134 may transmit information to the detection unit 101. For example, the notification unit 134 transmits information requesting information collected by the detection unit 101 to the detection unit 101.

<1-6. Processing flow>
From here, the processing flow of the cleaning timing determination process will be described using FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of processing executed by the toilet management system. Specifically, FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the first process of cleaning timing determination.

The toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet device (step S101). For example, the toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet device 10 by the detection unit 101. If the toilet management system 1 does not detect the use of the toilet device (step S101: No), the process ends.

When the toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet device (step S101: Yes), it determines whether it is used for large or small purposes (step S102). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 uses the image captured by the detection unit 101 to determine how the toilet device 10 is used by the user.

When the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user includes heavy use (step S103: Yes), the toilet management system 1 adds a1 (step S104). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 adds the first partial score a1 to the dirt level of the toilet device 10 when determining that the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user includes extensive use. Note that when the information processing device 100 determines that the usage of the toilet device 10 by the user includes short-term use, the information processing device 100 may also add the second partial score a2 to the dirt level of the toilet device 10. In this case, the information processing device 100 adds both the first partial score a1 and the second partial score a2 to the dirt level of the toilet device 10.

If the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user does not include large use but only small use (step S103: No), the toilet management system 1 adds a2 (step S105). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 also adds the second partial score a2 to the dirt level of the toilet device 10 when determining that the user uses the toilet device 10 only for short-term use.

The toilet management system 1 determines whether the dirt level exceeds a first predetermined value (step S106). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines whether the dirt level of the toilet device 10 exceeds a first predetermined value.

If the dirt level does not exceed the first predetermined value (step S106: No), the toilet management system 1 ends the process. For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that it is not the cleaning timing when the dirt level of the toilet device 10 does not exceed the first predetermined value.

When the dirt level exceeds the first predetermined value (Step S106: Yes), the toilet management system 1 determines that it is time for cleaning (Step S107). For example, when the dirt level of the toilet device 10 exceeds a first predetermined value, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean the toilet device 10.

The toilet management system 1 notifies the user of cleaning timing (step S108). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 notifies that it is time to clean the toilet device 10 whose dirt level exceeds a first predetermined value.

<1-7. Example of dynamic predetermined value>
Note that the above-mentioned example is merely an example, and the toilet management system 1 may appropriately use various information to determine the cleaning timing, notify that the cleaning timing has arrived, and the like. For example, the toilet management system 1 may dynamically change the first predetermined value, which is a threshold value used to determine the cleaning timing, as time passes. This point will be explained using FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of changing the predetermined value.

The processing example shown in FIG. 7 will be described below. Specifically, in FIG. 7, the toilet management system 1 performs cleaning timing determination for the toilet bowl devices 10 _{to 11} . That is, the line LN21 shown in FIG. 7 indicates the dirt level of the toilet device ₁₀₁₁ . Note that descriptions of points similar to those in FIG. 2 will be omitted as appropriate.

In the graph GR21 in FIG. 7, the vertical axis shows the dirt level of the toilet device ₁₀₁₁ , and the horizontal axis shows the passage of time. For example, the time at the origin of graph GR21 (start time t0) corresponds to the start time of stain level calculation. For example, the time at the origin of graph GR21 (start time t0) corresponds to the time when cleaning is completed and corresponds to the time when the dirt level is reset.

In FIG. 7, the initial value of the first predetermined value FV21 is set to the value VL21. Further, in FIG. 7, the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} are used for the first time at time t20, which is after the start time t0. The toilet management system 1 gradually decreases the first predetermined value FV21 as time passes from time t20. In this way, the first predetermined value FV21 is set to decrease over time after the toilet device 10 is used at least once.

In FIG. 7, the dirt level of the toilet device ₁₀₁₁ exceeds the first predetermined value FV21 at time t21 when the value of the first predetermined value FV21 becomes a value VL22, which is decreased from the value VL21. Therefore, the information processing device 100 determines that it is time to clean the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} at time t21 when the dirt level of the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} exceeds the first predetermined value FV21. The information processing device 100 determines that it is time to clean the toilet device ₁₀₁₁ at time t21.

Then, when the information processing device 100 determines that it is cleaning time, it notifies that it is cleaning time. In FIG. 7, the information processing device 100 notifies the administrator who manages the toilet room 2 that it is time to clean the toilet devices 10 _{to 11} at time t21.

Through the above-described processing, the toilet management system 1 takes into consideration the possibility of the toilet device 10 being stuck for a certain period of time after one use of the toilet, and accelerates the cleaning timing to improve the cleaning timing. The appropriate time can be notified to the person in charge of cleaning. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the intended use of the user.

Note that in the embodiments described above, the weighting is set to be heavier for heavy use than for light use. In this case, it is also possible to set a heavier weight for small use than for large use. In this case, the large usage weight value is set smaller than the small usage weight value. For example, the heavy usage weight value may be "1" and the low usage weight value may be "2". The toilet management system 1 may perform processing such as the above-mentioned cleaning timing determination and notification using the small-use weight value and the large-use weight value that is set smaller than the small-use weight value.

Note that the embodiments and modifications described above can be combined as appropriate within a range that does not conflict with the processing contents.

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

Each of the embodiments and modifications described above may have the following configuration, but is not limited to the following.
(1)
a toilet device having a bowl for receiving the user's waste;
a detection unit that detects information regarding the intended use of the toilet device by the user;
a determination unit that determines whether the intended use of the user includes at least one of heavy use and light use, based on the detection result by the detection unit;
Based on the number of uses of the large use and the number of uses of the small use, the dirt level of the toilet device is calculated by different weighting for the large use and the small use, and the calculated dirt level is a first predetermined level. a calculation unit that determines whether the value exceeds the value;
a notification unit that notifies that it is time for cleaning when the first predetermined value is exceeded;
A toilet management system characterized by comprising:
(2)
The toilet management system according to (1), wherein the weighting is set so that the heavy use is given a larger weight than the light use.
(3)
The detection unit includes:
An imaging device that images the inside of the bowl,
The determination unit includes:
Determining the properties of stool included in the image captured by the imaging device,
The calculation unit is
The toilet management system according to (1) or (2), wherein the weighting is changed depending on the properties of the stool.
(4)
The detection unit includes:
An imaging device that images the inside of the bowl,
The calculation unit is
If it is determined that the purpose of use of a single user is both the small use and the large use, the purpose of use of the one time user is both the small use and the large use, The toilet management system according to any one of (1) to (3), characterized in that the dirt level of the toilet device is calculated.
(5)
The determination unit includes:
The toilet management system according to any one of (1) to (4), characterized in that when the purpose of use by the user cannot be determined, the heavy use is determined.
(6)
Toilet management according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the first predetermined value is set to decrease over time after at least one use of the toilet. system.

1 Toilet management system 2 Toilet room (toilet space)
10 Toilet device 50 Washroom vanity unit 100 Information processing device 101 Detection unit (detection unit)
110 Communication section 120 Storage section 121 Arrangement information storage section 122 Collected information storage section 130 Control section 131 Acquisition section 132 Judgment section 133 Calculation section 134 Notification section CS Shared space TB Toilet booth

Claims (6)

a toilet device having a bowl for receiving the user's waste;
a detection unit that detects information regarding the intended use of the toilet device by the user;
a determination unit that determines whether the intended use of the user includes at least one of heavy use and light use, based on the detection result by the detection unit;
Based on the number of uses of the large use and the number of uses of the small use, the dirt level of the toilet device is calculated by different weighting for the large use and the small use, and the calculated dirt level is a first predetermined level. a calculation unit that determines whether the value exceeds the value;
a notification unit that notifies that it is time for cleaning when the first predetermined value is exceeded;
A toilet management system characterized by comprising: The toilet management system according to claim 1, wherein the weighting is set so that the heavy use is given a larger weight than the light use. The detection unit includes:
An imaging device that images the inside of the bowl,
The determination unit includes:
Determining the properties of stool included in the image captured by the imaging device,
The calculation unit is
The toilet management system according to claim 2, wherein the weighting is changed depending on the properties of the stool. The detection unit includes:
An imaging device that images the inside of the bowl,
The calculation unit is
If it is determined that the purpose of use of a single user is both the small use and the large use, the purpose of use of the one time user is both the small use and the large use, The toilet management system according to claim 2, further comprising calculating the dirt level of the toilet device. The determination unit includes:
3. The toilet management system according to claim 2, wherein if the purpose of use by the user cannot be determined, the system is determined to be in heavy use. The toilet management system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first predetermined value is set to decrease over time after using the toilet at least once.

Images