JP2024046028A - Biometric information management system - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] Displaying biometric information so as to be comparable with other people. [Solution] A biometric information management system for collecting and managing people's biometric information in a water facility has a storage unit for storing at least one of information on stool, information on urine, information on bowel gas, information on blood flow, and information on heart rate as personal biometric information data, and a display unit for displaying the biometric information data, and the display unit displays the biometric information data of multiple people and the personal biometric information data, or displays information showing a comparison between the biometric information data of multiple people and the personal biometric information data, and the information showing a comparison between the biometric information data of multiple people and the personal biometric information data is stored in the storage unit by linking the personal biometric information data with information on personal attributes, and the collected data is tabulated by attribute, and is displayed on the display unit in a manner that compares the biometric information data of multiple people that match the personal attributes with the personal biometric information data. [Selected Figure] Figure 9

Description

The disclosed embodiment relates to a biometric information management system.

Conventionally, technology has been known to automatically detect stool-related information such as the properties and volume of stool (hereinafter also referred to as ``stool''), blood adhesion to the stool, and display the detection results to aid in health management. (For example, see Patent Document 1). There is also a health information management system that grasps the health status of a group from the acquired data on stool properties (see Patent Document 2, for example). A technology that automatically detects biological information such as information related to urine, information related to defecation gas, and information related to blood flow and displays the detection results can also be considered.

JP 2018-146244 A Patent No. 6689501

However, the above-mentioned conventional technology has room for improvement in terms of displaying information related to excretion. For example, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, the detection results for the person to whom the display is provided are displayed, but the person who sees the display cannot compare it with other people, and therefore cannot understand, for example, whether their own feces or excretory behavior is typical or different from other people's. Therefore, there is room for improvement in displaying information that is appropriate for the user.

The disclosed embodiments aim to provide a biometric information management system that displays biometric information in a way that allows comparison with other people's biometric information.

The biometric information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment is a biometric information management system that collects and manages human biometric information in a water-related facility, and has a storage unit that stores at least one of the following as personal biometric information data: information on stool, information on urine, information on bowel gas, information on blood flow, and information on heart rate; and a display unit that displays the biometric information data. The display unit displays the biometric information data of multiple people and the personal biometric information data, or displays information showing a comparison between the biometric information data of multiple people and the personal biometric information data. The information showing a comparison between the biometric information data of multiple people and the personal biometric information data is stored in the storage unit by linking the personal biometric information data with information on personal attributes, and the collected data is compiled by attribute, and is displayed on the display unit in a manner that compares the biometric information data of multiple people that match the personal attributes with the personal biometric information data.

According to the biometric information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by displaying the biometric information data of multiple people and the biometric information data of an individual, a person viewing the display can share his or her own personal data with that of others. You can compare data with other people's data. Thereby, the biometric information management system can display biometric information so that it can be compared with that of other people. According to the biometric information management system, for example, when the biometric information is information about stool, it is difficult to compare the characteristics of the stool and defecation behavior (parameters and time based on odor) with others, which is difficult to compare by yourself due to the lack of conventional standards. can. There are indicators of ideal stool properties, such as banana-shaped stools and bright colors, but how many people have stools with these characteristics, and how does your stool compare to other people's? I didn't know if it was okay or not. Since the general condition of stool differs depending on age and gender, I was unsure whether simply aiming for the ideal condition would be good enough for me, and I was worried about my own health. It is useful for health management because you can understand your position in relation to multiple people. For example, people who are better than others can stay motivated to stay in good shape. People who are at the same level as others can feel secure. Also, those who are inferior to others can increase their awareness of improving their health.

Furthermore, although many people pay attention to their intestinal environment, they do not have the opportunity to compare the characteristics of their stool with others, which is an indicator of the quality of their intestinal environment. The condition of stool differs depending on age and gender. Women have weaker abdominal muscles, so they have less ability to defecate. Similarly, as we get older, our ability to defecate weakens, making us more prone to constipation and hard stools. As we get older, the number of good bacteria such as Bifidobacterium decreases, and the number of bad bacteria increases, resulting in a poor intestinal environment. It is generally said that the stools become hard and dark in color. However, in general, almost no one watches other people's stool. Because they have a high level of privacy, they do not actively share their excrement with others. As a result, I sometimes worry about whether my own excrement is normal or not. There are no general values (standard values) for excrement data, such as height and weight. Therefore, I don't know if my stool is different from other people's. However, according to the biometric information management system, by displaying the biometric information data of multiple people and the biometric information data of an individual, the person viewing the display can easily compare their own personal data with that of other people. It can be compared and useful for health management.
Further, according to the biometric information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, biometric information data of a plurality of people matching the attributes of an individual can be aggregated for each attribute and displayed in a manner to compare the biometric information data of the individual. For example, other people who correspond to the attributes of the person to whom the information is provided can be displayed in a comparative manner. Thereby, the biometric information management system can display biometric information in a manner that can be compared with that of other people whose attributes correspond to one's own. For example, biological conditions differ depending on age and gender. Therefore, the biometric information management system can more accurately grasp a person's own condition by comparing them by age and gender.

In one embodiment of the biometric information management system, the display unit displays information obtained by processing an individual's biometric information data for a specified period into a representative value for comparison.

For example, if the biometric information is information about stool, the condition of the stool is likely to be influenced by meals, etc., and a single biometric information alone will yield specific data. Therefore, according to the excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, information obtained by processing personal defecation data over a predetermined period such as several days into a representative value is displayed on the display unit in a comparative manner. It is possible to compare the average condition of the stools of the two people, making it possible to make appropriate comparisons. Note that the representative value here may be any value, such as an average value, mode, median value, etc., as long as it is representative of the target data group. Information that has been processed into a representative value can be, for example, information that appears most frequently in a predetermined period, information in the center of a range that appears in a predetermined period, information averaged over a predetermined period, or information that excludes outliers within a predetermined period. It may be various information such as information averaged by That is, the averaged information processed into a representative value may be any information as long as it is representative of the target data group.

The excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment stores personal biological information data in an anonymized state in the storage unit.

According to the biometric information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by storing personal biometric information data in an anonymized state, collected biometric information data that is private information is converted into personally identifiable information ( For example, name, address, etc.). Thereby, the biometric information management system can appropriately provide services while taking private information into consideration.

The excretion information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment has a detection unit that detects at least one of information related to stool, information related to urine, information related to bowel gas, information related to blood flow, and information related to heart rate, and automatically stores the biological information data detected by the detection unit in the storage unit.

According to the biometric information management system according to one aspect of the embodiment, since data can be automatically acquired, input is easy, there is no input variation among individuals, and data can be recorded with high reliability.

According to one aspect of the embodiment, biometric information can be displayed so as to be comparable with that of other people.

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 the arrangement of sensors according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the excretion information management system according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a server device according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the defecation information database according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing the relationship of detection. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of defecation data. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of information display. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an excretion information management system according to a modification. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an example of an arrangement of sensors according to a modified example. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data acquisition method. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart illustrating the relationship of detection. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a display regarding the shape of stool. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a display regarding the shape of stool. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a display relating to the color of stool. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a display relating to the color of stool. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a display regarding the amount of stool. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a display relating to the amount of stool. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a display regarding the time required for excretion. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a display relating to the time required for excretion. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a display relating to the odor of stool. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a display relating to the odor of stool. FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a display relating to the excretion interval. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a display regarding the excretion interval.

Below, an embodiment of the biometric information management system disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.

<1. Embodiment>
The biological information management system according to each embodiment described below will be described as an excretion information management system 1 as an example. The excretion information management system 1 manages excretion information regarding a user's excretion based on information detected by a sensor. In the following example, a case will be described in which a camera 302 (two-dimensional image sensor) and a gas sensor unit 350 are used as the detection unit (sensor). In addition, the excretion information management system 1 uses at least one of predetermined parameters based on the time of defecation, the shape of the stool, the color of the stool, the amount of the stool, the time required for defecation, the odor at the time of defecation, and the time interval of the act of defecating. Any sensor other than the camera 302 or the like may be used as long as it is capable of detecting one or the other, but this point will be described later.

<1-1. Configuration of the Excretion Information Management System>
The configuration of the excretion information management system according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 3. 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 the arrangement of sensors according to the embodiment. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the excretion information management system according to the embodiment.

First, an example of the configuration of the toilet room R that is common to each embodiment of the excretion information management system 1 will be described using FIG. 1. 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 F. In addition, below, the direction facing into 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 ceramic, for example. A bowl part 8 is formed in the toilet bowl 7. The bowl part 8 has a downwardly recessed shape and is a part that receives the user's excrement. Note that the toilet bowl 7 is not limited to the floor-standing type as shown in the figure, but may be of any type as long as the toilet system TS is applicable, and may be of a wall-mounted type or the like. The toilet bowl 7 is provided with a rim part 9 around the entire circumference of the end of the opening where the bowl part 8 faces. For example, the toilet room R may be provided with a wash water tank for storing wash water near the toilet bowl 7, or may be of a so-called tankless type in which no wash water tank is installed.

For example, when a user operates a flushing operation unit (not shown) provided in the toilet room R, a toilet flush is performed by supplying flush water to the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7. The flushing operation unit may be an operation lever or a touch operation on a toilet flushing object displayed on the operation device 10. Note that the flushing operation unit is not limited to an operation lever or the like that allows the toilet to be flushed manually by the user, but may also be one that allows the toilet to be flushed by a sensor that detects the user, such as the seating sensor 301.

The toilet seat device 2 is attached to the top of the toilet bowl 7, and comprises a main body 3, a toilet lid 4, a toilet seat 5, and a cleaning nozzle 6. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on top of the toilet bowl 7, which is formed with a bowl portion 8 that receives excrement. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on top of the toilet bowl 7 so that the cleaning nozzle 6 advances into the bowl portion 8 before spraying cleaning water. The toilet seat device 2 may be attached removably 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 into an annular shape having 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 seating section that supports the buttocks of a seated user. Further, 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 the toilet lid 4 and the toilet seat 5 are attached to be rotatable (openable and closable) around the pivot of the main body 3. . Note that the toilet lid 4 is attached to the toilet seat device 2 as necessary, and the toilet seat device 2 does not need to have the toilet lid 4.

The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for discharging water for cleaning. The cleaning nozzle 6 is capable of spraying cleaning water. The cleaning nozzle 6 is capable of spraying cleaning water toward the user. The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for cleaning the private parts. The cleaning nozzle 6 is configured to be movable forward and backward relative to the main body cover 30, which is the housing of the main body 3, by driving a driving source such as an electric motor (such as the nozzle motor 61 in FIG. 4). The cleaning nozzle 6 is also connected to a water source such as a water pipe (not shown). Then, when the cleaning nozzle 6 is in a position advanced relative to the main body cover 30, which is the housing of the main body 3, as shown in FIG. 1 (hereinafter also referred to as the "advanced position"), it sprays water from the water source onto the user's body to clean the private parts.

Figure 1 shows the cleaning nozzle 6 in the advanced position. The cleaning nozzle 6 may also be used to clean the inside of the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8, etc.). The cleaning nozzle 6 may be used to switch between a private parts cleaning mode for cleaning the private parts of the user and a toilet bowl cleaning mode for spraying water inside the toilet bowl 7. For example, the cleaning nozzle 6 may be used to switch between the private parts cleaning mode and the toilet bowl cleaning mode according to the control by the control unit 23 (see Figure 4) of the toilet seat device 2.

The operating device 10 is provided in the toilet room R. The operating device 10 is provided at a position where the user can operate it. The operating device 10 is provided at a position where the user can operate it when sitting 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 when viewed from the user seated on the toilet seat 5. Note that the operating device 10 is not limited to the wall surface, and may be arranged in various ways as long as it can be used by a user seated on the toilet seat 5. 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. In FIG. 2, the toilet seat 5 is raised to show the arrangement of the sensor, excluding the toilet lid 4, and to illustrate the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5, which is the surface opposite to the surface on which the user sits (seating surface). FIG.

Figure 2 shows the cleaning nozzle 6 (see Figure 1) in a position where it is stored inside the main body cover 30 (hereinafter also referred to as the "storage position"). As shown in Figure 2, when the cleaning nozzle 6 is in the storage position, the nozzle lid 60 is closed and the cleaning nozzle 6 is hidden behind the nozzle lid 60. When cleaning is performed using the cleaning nozzle 6, the nozzle lid 60 opens and the cleaning nozzle 6 protrudes from the opening in the main body cover 30 (the opening covered by the nozzle lid 60 in the closed state in Figure 2), and the cleaning nozzle 6 transitions to an advanced state.

As shown in FIG. 2, a seating sensor 301 and a camera 302, which 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 removable 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 seating sensor 301 may be included in the configuration of the toilet seat device 2. Further, the camera 302 may be removable 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 camera 302 may be included in the configuration of the toilet seat device 2.

In addition, the seating sensor 301 may be of any detection type and may be placed in any location as long as it can detect a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. For example, if the seating sensor 301 is an infrared or μ (microwave) wave distance sensor that detects sitting by distance, the seating sensor 301 may be placed in a position that detects a person's feet from the side of the toilet bowl 7 or a position that detects a person's back from a tank attached to the toilet bowl 7. For example, if the seating sensor 301 detects a person's feet from the side of the toilet bowl 7, the seating sensor 301 may be placed near the outer periphery of the toilet bowl 7 shown in FIG. 2. For example, if the seating sensor 301 detects a person's back from a tank attached to the toilet bowl 7, the seating sensor 301 may be placed on the outer periphery of the tank provided at the rear of the toilet bowl 7 shown in FIG. 2. For example, if the seating sensor 301 is a distance sensor that detects sitting by distance, the seating sensor 301 may be placed around the toilet bowl 7. For example, if the seating sensor 301 detects sitting based on distance, it may be placed on the ceiling of the toilet room R. Or, for example, if the seating sensor 301 is a contact switch that detects the sinking of the toilet seat due to sitting, the seating sensor 301 may be placed on the pivot support part of the toilet seat 5. Or, for example, if the seating sensor 301 is a load sensor that detects sitting based on the weight placed on the toilet seat, the seating sensor 301 may be placed on the underside of the toilet seat 5, on the surface that comes into contact with the toilet bowl 7. Also, the camera 302 may be placed anywhere as long as it is possible to detect stool excreted in the toilet bowl 7.

2, the gas sensor unit 350 is disposed in the opening 31 of the main body 3. For example, the gas sensor unit 350 is disposed in an internal space that communicates with the opening 31 of the main body 3. The gas sensor unit 350 may be disposed in any manner as long as it can detect parameters based on the odor of stool in the toilet bowl 7. The gas sensor unit 350 may be included in the configuration of the toilet seat device 2. The gas sensor unit 350 may be a device that can be disposed separately from the toilet seat device 2. For example, the gas sensor unit 350 may be disposed outside the toilet seat device 2. For example, the gas sensor unit 350 may be attached to a tank or the like attached to the toilet bowl 7. The gas sensor unit 350 detects the presence or absence and concentration of odor components such as hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and ammonia as parameters based on odor.

As shown in FIG. 3, the excretion information management system 1 includes a toilet system TS including a toilet seat device 2, an operating device 10, a seating sensor 301, a camera 302, and a gas sensor unit 350, a user terminal 200, and a server device 400. The excretion information management system 1 may include multiple toilet systems TS, multiple user terminals 200, and server devices 400. The case where multiple toilet systems TS are included will be described later.

The toilet seat device 2 is a device placed in the toilet room R. The toilet seat device 2 communicates with each device of the toilet system TS (the operating device 10, the seating sensor 301, the camera 302, and the gas sensor unit 350), the user terminal 200, and the server device 400.

The toilet seat device 2 performs a process (personal identification) for acquiring information for identifying a user who uses the toilet bowl 7 in the toilet room R to defecate. For example, the toilet seat device 2 acquires information for identifying the user who uses the toilet bowl 7 to defecate through communication with the user terminal 200 owned by the user, the user's operation on the operating device 10, etc. and identify the user. For example, the toilet seat device 2 communicates with a user terminal 200 owned by the user, and receives a user ID (also simply referred to as "ID"), which is user identification information for identifying the user, from the user terminal 200. . Note that the toilet seat device 2 may use any method to identify the user as long as it is possible to identify the user who uses the toilet bowl 7 in the toilet room R to defecate.

In addition, the toilet seat device 2 manages the acquired user identification information and the excretion information (defecation information) related to the detected excretion (defecation) in association with each other. For example, the toilet seat device 2 associates the acquired user identification information with the excretion information (defecation information) and transmits them to the server device 400. The server device 400 associates the received excretion information with the received user identification information and registers it in the storage unit 420. In addition, the toilet seat device 2 may associate the user identification information and the excretion information (defecation information) with toilet seat identification information (toilet seat identification information) for identifying the toilet seat device 2 and transmit them to the server device 400. In this case, the server device 400 associates the received excretion information with information indicating a position (for example, home, school, etc.) corresponding to the toilet seat identification information with the received user identification information and registers it in the storage unit 420. In addition, the toilet seat device 2 may associate the user identification information and the excretion information (defecation information) with information indicating the arrangement position of the toilet seat device 2 (position information) and transmit it to the server device 400. In this case, the server device 400 associates the received user identification information with the received excretion information and position information, and registers them in the storage unit 420. Details of 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, either by wire or wirelessly. For example, the operating device 10 may be communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 using a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Note that the toilet seat device 2 and the operating device 10 may be connected in any manner as long as they can transmit and receive information, and may be connected communicably by wire or may be communicably connected wirelessly. You can. For example, the operating device 10 may be communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 via the network N by wire or wirelessly.

The operation device 10 accepts various operations from the user via a display surface (e.g., display screen 11) using, for example, a touch panel function. The operation device 10 may also be equipped with switches and buttons, and accept various operations via the switches and buttons. The display screen 11 is, for example, a display screen of a tablet terminal or the like realized by a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and is a display device for displaying various information. In other words, the operation device 10 accepts input from the user via 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 accepts a user's operation to stop control being performed by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to start the execution of local washing by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts an instruction from the user to the washing nozzle 6. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to cause the toilet seat device 2 to output a predetermined sound. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to perform a sterilization process to sterilize the washing nozzle 6 (see FIG. 1) of the toilet seat device 2 with disinfectant water. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to adjust the force of the water discharged during local washing by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to adjust the volume of the sound output by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to select a language when information regarding toilet use is displayed on the operation device 10 or output as audio.

For example, the operating device 10 may display the above-described object that accepts the user's operation on the display screen 11, and may perform various processes in response to the user's contact with the displayed object. For example, the operating device 10 may include a switch, a button, etc. that accepts the user's operation described above, and may execute various processes in response to the user's touch with the switch, button, or the like. Note that the above is an example, and the operating device 10 may accept operations by a user who executes various processes.

The seating sensor 301 has the function of detecting a person sitting on the toilet seat device 2. The seating sensor 301 detects when a user sits (takes a seat) on the toilet bowl 7. The seating sensor 301 can detect when the user sits on the toilet seat 5. The seating sensor 301 also functions as a seating-off detection sensor that detects when the user leaves the toilet seat 5. The seating sensor 301 detects when the user is seated on the toilet seat 5.

The seating sensor 301 is a switch that switches ON/OFF depending on, for example, the weight of a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. When the user sits down and the toilet seat 5 sinks, the seating sensor 301 turns on, thereby detecting that the user has sat on the toilet bowl 7.

Note that the above is just one example, and the seating sensor 301 may detect a person sitting on the toilet seat device 2 by various means other than the above. The seating sensor 301 transmits a seating detection signal to the toilet seat device 2.

The seating sensor 301 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network so as to be able to communicate with it wired or wirelessly. For example, the seating sensor 301 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 so as to be able to communicate with it 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 seating sensor 301 may be connected in any manner as long as it is possible to send and receive information, and may be connected to be able to communicate with it wired or wirelessly. For example, the seating sensor 301 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a network N so as to be able to communicate with it wired or wirelessly.

The camera 302 functions as a detection unit that detects defecation by capturing an image of the inside of the toilet bowl 7. The camera 302 is a camera that captures images, and generates two-dimensional images. For example, the camera 302 has an area sensor (two-dimensional image sensor) in which a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor is arranged in a planar (two-dimensional) manner.

The camera 302 photographs the water-sealed portion of the toilet bowl 7 (for example, the portion of the bowl portion 8 where water is collected). The camera 302 is placed on the back surface 51 of the toilet seat 5 at a position and orientation that allows it to detect (image) the water-sealed portion of the toilet bowl 7 . For example, the camera 302 is installed on the toilet seat 5 so as to direct the camera 302 toward the water sealing portion of the toilet bowl 7 when the toilet seat 5 is lowered (the user is seated on the toilet seat 5 and can defecate). Note that the camera 302 may be arranged in any manner as long as it can detect (image) the water-sealed portion of the toilet bowl 7. Note that the camera 302 may be placed at any location as long as it can photograph the water-sealed portion of the toilet bowl 7. Further, the camera 302 may take still images or moving images. Note that the camera 302 may be arranged to photograph (detect) falling stool. 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 camera 302 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a specified network so as to be able to communicate with it wired or wirelessly. For example, the camera 302 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 so as to be able to communicate with it by a specified wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Note that the toilet seat device 2 and the camera 302 may be connected in any manner as long as it is possible to send and receive information, and may be connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with them wired or wirelessly. For example, the camera 302 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a network N so as to be able to communicate with them wired or wirelessly.

The gas sensor unit 350 includes a fan 351, an odor sensor 352, and the like, and functions as a sensor that detects odor. Note that the gas sensor unit 350 is not limited to the fan 351 and the odor sensor 352, and has configurations necessary to perform desired processing, such as a communication circuit, for example.

The fan 351 is used to suck gas from within the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8). The fan 351 sucks gas from within the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8) through the opening 31 into the internal space of the main body portion 3 in which the odor sensor 352 is located.

The odor sensor 352 is arranged in the internal space of the main body 3 and detects gas sucked by the fan 351 from the opening 31 (toilet bowl 7 side). As the odor sensor 352, a semiconductor gas sensor, an electrochemical sensor, or the like is used. For example, the odor sensor 352 detects the presence or absence and concentration of odor components such as hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and ammonia as parameters.

Note that there may be a plurality of odor sensors 352. For example, the plurality of odor sensors 352 may include sensors that measure odorless gas. Examples of odorless gas components include hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide. The plurality of odor sensors 352 may include an optical sensor such as a semiconductor gas sensor or an NDIR gas sensor that performs detection using non-dispersive infrared absorption as a sensor that measures odorless gas. Note that the above is just an example, and the odor sensor 352 may include sensors that detect various components depending on the component (parameter) to be detected.

The gas sensor unit 350 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network so as to be able to communicate with the toilet seat device 2 in a wired or wireless manner. For example, the gas sensor unit 350 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 in a wired or wireless manner by a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The toilet seat device 2 and the gas sensor unit 350 may be connected in any manner as long as they are capable of transmitting and receiving information, and may be connected to each other in a wired or wireless manner. For example, the gas sensor unit 350 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a network N so as to be able to communicate with each other in a wired or wireless manner. The gas sensor unit 350 has a communication function realized by a communication circuit or the like, and transmits information related to the detected odor to the toilet seat device 2. For example, the gas sensor unit 350 transmits an output value output in response to the detection of gas to the toilet seat device 2 as information related to the detected odor.

In addition, if it is possible to detect at least one of the following: the time of defecation, the shape of the stool, the color of the stool, the amount of the stool, the time required for defecation, a predetermined parameter based on the odor at the time of defecation, and the time interval between defecation acts. , camera 302 and gas sensor unit 350, various sensors may be used. For example, a water level sensor may be used. In this case, the water level sensor detects defecation by detecting a change in the water level in the water sealing part of the toilet bowl 7. Also, a radiation thermometer may be used. In this case, the radiation thermometer detects defecation by receiving infrared rays emitted from defecation and detecting the radiation temperature.

Further, for example, a line sensor that takes a one-dimensional image may be used, but this point will be described later. Also, an ultrasonic sensor may be used. In this case, the ultrasonic sensor detects defecation by transmitting ultrasonic waves to defecation and receiving waves (ultrasonic waves) reflected from defecation. Note that the above is just an example, and at least one of the predetermined parameters based on the time of defecation, the shape of the stool, the color of the stool, the amount of the stool, the time required for defecation, the odor at the time of defecation, and the time interval of the act of defecating. Any sensor may be used as long as it can detect one.

The user terminal 200 functions as a display unit (display device) that displays various information (excretion information) related to the user's excretion, such as defecation data (excretion data). The user terminal 200 receives information indicating the defecation data from the toilet seat device 2, and displays the information indicating the received defecation data. For example, the user terminal 200 displays the defecation data in chronological order by the date and time of excretion.

For example, the user terminal 200 is a user terminal (computer) used by a user. The user terminal 200 is realized by, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet terminal, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), etc. For example, the user terminal 200 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a network N so as to be able to communicate with each other via a wired or wireless connection. For example, the user terminal 200 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 so as to be able to communicate with each other via a specified wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

The user terminal 200 transmits and receives information between the toilet seat device 2 and the server device 400. For example, the user terminal 200 receives information related to the user's excretion from the server device 400 and displays the received information. For example, the user terminal 200 receives content indicating the user's defecation data from the server device 400 and displays the received content.

Further, it may include a sensor (position sensor) that detects the position of the user terminal 200. For example, the user terminal 200 may include a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor to detect the position of the user terminal 200 (user). For example, the user terminal 200 acquires information on excretion locations using a GPS function. In addition, the user terminal 200 acquires the location information of the base station with which it is communicating and the location information of the user terminal 200 (user) estimated using WiFi (registered trademark) (Wireless Fidelity) radio waves. Good too.

The user terminal 200 displays the defecation data. The user terminal 200 displays the defecation data of multiple people together with the individual's defecation data. The user terminal 200 displays the defecation data of multiple people that match the individual's attributes in a manner that compares the individual's defecation data. The user terminal 200 displays the defecation data of the individual in a manner that compares information that has been processed to a representative value. For example, the user terminal 200 displays the defecation data of the individual in a manner that compares information that has been averaged over a specified period of time. The user terminal 200 also displays at least two or more types of defecation data: the defecation data of multiple people, the individual's defecation data, and the results of comparing the defecation data of multiple people with the individual's defecation data.

The server device 400 is communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 and the user terminal 200 via a predetermined network (network N) such as the Internet, by wire or wirelessly. Note that the server device 400 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 and the user terminal 200 in any way as long as it is capable of transmitting and receiving information, and may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 and the user terminal 200 so that they can communicate by wire, or by being able to communicate wirelessly. May be connected.

The server device 400 collects individual defecation data for multiple individuals, which is stored in the memory unit 420. The server device 400 associates the individual defecation data with information on the individual's attributes and stores the data in the memory unit 420, and aggregates the collected data by attribute. The server device 400 stores the individual defecation data in an anonymous state in the memory unit 420. The server device 400 automatically stores defecation data detected by a detection unit (sensor) in the memory unit 420.

The device configuration and arrangement of the server device 400 may be of any form as long as it is capable of communicating with the toilet seat device 2 and the user terminal 200 and performing processing. For example, the server device 400 may be a portable terminal (device) such as a laptop computer that can be carried by an administrator of the excretion information management system 1. The server device 400 may also be placed in the toilet room R.

Note that the above is just an example, and the excretion information management system 1 can adopt any device configuration as long as it can realize the desired processing. For example, the operating device 10 may function as a display unit that displays defecation data. Furthermore, both the operating device 10 and the user terminal 200 may be included in the excretion information management system 1 as devices that function as display units. Further, the toilet seat device 2 may have a sensor (detection unit) such as the camera 302 included in the excretion information management system 1. Note that the above system configuration is merely an example, and the excretion information management system 1 may have any system configuration as long as the desired processing is possible.

Further, the excretion information management system 1 may also include sensors other than the seating sensor 301, the camera 302, and the gas sensor unit 350. 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, a human body detection sensor is realized by a pyroelectric sensor using an infrared signal. For example, the human body detection sensor may be realized by a μ (microwave) sensor or the like. Note that the above is 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 the toilet seat device>
Next, the functional configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 4, the toilet seat device 2 includes a communication unit 21, a storage unit 22, a control unit 23, a solenoid valve 71, a nozzle motor 61, and a cleaning nozzle 6. For example, the communication unit 21, the storage unit 22, and the control unit 23 are provided in the main body unit 3 of the toilet seat device 2. Note that Fig. 4 omits illustration of some of the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 described in Fig. 1 (such as the main body unit 3, the toilet seat 5, and the toilet bowl 7).

The communication unit 21 is realized by, for example, a communication device, a communication circuit, or 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 camera 302, the gas sensor unit 350, the user terminal 200, the server device 400, and the like.

The communication unit 21 communicates with the server device 400 in response to the control of the control unit 23. The communication unit 21 transmits excretion information acquired by detection using the camera 302 to the server device 400. The communication unit 21 transmits excretion information acquired by detection using the gas sensor unit 350 to the server device 400. The communication unit 21 also receives operation information indicating the user's operation from the operation device 10.

The storage unit 22 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element 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 22 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by a program for determining stool quality and the like. The storage unit 22 stores various information such as information detected by the detection unit. The storage unit 22 stores various information used in determination processing.

The memory unit 420 stores various information used in the judgment process related to stool, such as the characteristics of the stool. For example, the memory unit 420 stores a threshold value used in the judgment process related to stool. For example, it stores various models (judgment models) used in judgment related to stool. For example, it stores various judgment models used to judge the shape, color, amount, etc. of stool. The memory unit 22 stores information related to the measured time. The memory unit 22 stores information indicating the time required for defecation. Note that the above is merely an example, and the memory unit 22 stores various information related to stool.

The control unit 23 may be, for example, a control device that controls various configurations and processes. The control unit 23 is realized, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) executing a program stored inside the toilet seat device 2 (for example, a program for determining stool characteristics, etc., as disclosed herein) using a RAM or the like as a working area. The control unit 23 is also realized, for example, 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 includes an acquisition unit 231, a clock unit 232, and a request unit 233, and implements or executes information processing functions and operations 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 any other configuration as long as it performs information processing to be described later.

The acquisition unit 231 acquires information. The acquisition unit 231 acquires various information from the storage unit 22. The acquisition unit 231 acquires detection information from the detection unit (sensor). The acquisition unit 231 receives information indicating detection by the seating sensor 301 from the seating sensor 301 . The acquisition unit 231 receives information indicating detection by the camera 302 from the camera 302 . The acquisition unit 231 receives information indicating detection by the gas sensor unit 350 from the gas sensor unit 350 . The acquisition unit 231 receives various information indicating user operations and the like from the operating device 10 . The acquisition unit 231 stores the received various information in the storage unit 22.

The clock unit 232 acquires the time related to defecation. The clock unit 232 acquires the date and time when the excretion act was performed. The clock unit 232 acquires information indicating the date and time of excretion (date and time information). The clock unit 232 generates excretion information based on information detected by the sensor. The clock unit 232 transmits information to the server device 400 via the communication unit 21. For example, the clock unit 232 transmits excretion information of a user using the toilet seat device 2 to the server device 400. The clock unit 232 measures the time required for the user to defecate based on the information detected by the sensor. The clock unit 232 measures the time required for defecation.

The clock unit 232 detects the time. The clock unit 232 measures the time when the seating sensor 301 detects that the user has sat down. The clock unit 232 measures the time when the camera 302 first detects feces. The clock unit 232 acquires the time required for excretion, which is the difference between the time when the seating sensor 301 detects that the user has sat down and the time when the camera 302 first detects feces. For example, the clock unit 232 may measure the time required for excretion in chronological order for each defecation act. The clock unit 232 measures defecation over time based on detection by the camera 302.

The clock unit 232 functions as a determination unit that performs various determination processes. The clock unit 232 performs determination processing using information detected by the camera 302. The clock unit 232 uses the information stored in the storage unit 22 to perform determination processing. The clock unit 232 determines whether feces is included in the image captured by the camera 302. The clock unit 232 uses technology related to image recognition to determine whether feces is included in the image.

For example, the clock unit 232 uses an image as input and a model (feces determination model) that outputs information (score) indicating whether or not feces is included in the input image to determine whether or not feces is included in the image. In this case, the clock unit 232 compares the score output by the feces determination model to which the image is input with a threshold value (first threshold value), and determines that the image contains feces if the score is equal to or greater than the first threshold value. The clock unit 232 also compares the score output by the feces determination model to which the image is input with the first threshold value, and determines that the image does not contain feces if the score is less than the first threshold value. Note that the above is merely one example, and the clock unit 232 may determine whether or not feces is included in the image by appropriately using various information.

The clock unit 232 also determines the amount of stool based on the image captured by the camera 302. For example, the clock unit 232 determines the amount of stool based on the proportion of stool in the image. For example, the clock unit 232 may determine the amount of stool using a score output by a stool determination model. If the score output by the stool determination model to which an image is input is equal to or greater than a first threshold and less than a second threshold, the clock unit 232 may determine the amount of stool to be "very small." The second threshold is assumed to be a value greater than the first threshold. The clock unit 232 also may determine the amount of stool to be "small" if the score output by the stool determination model to which an image is input is equal to or greater than a second threshold and less than a third threshold. The third threshold is assumed to be a value greater than the second threshold.

Further, the clock unit 232 may determine the amount of stool to be "medium" when the score output by the stool determination model into which the image is input is greater than or equal to the third threshold and less than the fourth threshold. The fourth threshold value is assumed to be a larger value than the third threshold value. Further, the clock unit 232 may determine that the amount of stool is "large" when the score output by the stool determination model into which the image is input is greater than or equal to the fourth threshold and less than the fifth threshold. It is assumed that the fifth threshold value is larger than the fourth threshold value. Further, the clock unit 232 may determine that the amount of stool is "very large" when the score output by the stool determination model into which the image is input is equal to or higher than the fifth threshold. Note that the above-mentioned five-stage determination is only an example, and the clock unit 232 may determine the amount of stool by appropriately using various information.

The clock unit 232 determines the nature of the stool based on the detection result by the sensor. The clock unit 232 determines the nature of the user's stool by appropriately using various techniques for detecting the nature of the stool using optical methods. The clock unit 232 determines the nature of the stool corresponding to the stool image based on the stool image. For example, the clock unit 232 uses the stool image to determine the shape (also simply referred to as "shape") of the stool corresponding to the stool image. The clock unit 232 uses the stool image to determine whether the shape of the stool corresponding to the stool image is at one of multiple levels based on the shape. For example, the clock unit 232 uses the stool image to determine whether the shape of the stool corresponding to the stool image is rolly, crunchy, cracked, banana-shaped, soft (semi-kneaded), muddy, or watery. Determine if there is.

The clock unit 232 determines the shape of the stool from the detection results by the camera 302. The clock unit 232 determines the shape of the user's stool by appropriately using various techniques for detecting the shape of the stool using optical methods. The clock unit 232 determines whether the shape of the stool is round, hard, cracked, banana-shaped, soft, muddy, or watery by appropriately using various techniques for classifying the shape of the stool. For example, the clock unit 232 may determine (judge) the shape of the stool based on various information (feature quantities) such as the length of the stool image in the falling direction and the number of stool pieces (lumps).

The clock unit 232 may determine the shape of the stool using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. For example, the clock unit 232 may determine the shape of the stool using a learning model (shape determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the shape determination model is trained in advance using teacher data indicating a classification judgment. This teacher data includes multiple combinations of a stool image and a label (correct answer information) indicating the shape of the lump (stool) contained in the stool image (either rolling, hard, cracked, banana-shaped, soft, muddy, or watery). For example, the shape determination model is a model that inputs a stool image and outputs information indicating the shape of the lump (stool) contained in the input stool image. For example, the shape determination model is trained to output information of the label (shape of the stool) corresponding to the input stool image when a stool image is input. The shape determination model is trained using various methods related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the shape determination model is stored in the memory unit 22, and the clock unit 232 may determine the shape of the stool using the shape determination model stored in the memory unit 22. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may perform a learning process and generate a shape determination model. Note that the above is merely an example, and the clock unit 232 may determine the shape of the stool using various information as appropriate. Also, the above seven levels of rolling, ticking, cracked, banana-shaped, soft, muddy, and watery are merely examples of shapes, and the clock unit 232 may determine other shapes, or may determine the shape to be six levels or lower. Also, while an example of determining whether the shape of the stool is one of multiple levels has been shown here, this is not limited to this, and if multiple stool shapes are included in one excretion act, multiple stool shapes may be determined.

For example, the clock unit 232 uses a stool image to determine the color of the stool corresponding to the stool image. The clock unit 232 uses the stool image to determine whether the color of the stool corresponding to the stool image is one of multiple color-based levels. For example, the clock unit 232 uses the stool image to determine whether the color of the stool corresponding to the stool image is one of yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, and dark dark brown.

The clock unit 232 determines the color of the stool from the detection results of the camera 302. The clock unit 232 determines the color of the user's stool by appropriately using various technologies that detect stool color by optical methods. The clock unit 232 determines whether the color of the stool is yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, or dark brown by appropriately using various technologies related to classifying stool color. For example, the clock unit 232 determines (judges) the color of the stool based on various information (feature values) such as the brightness and lightness of the color image (RGB).

The clock unit 232 may determine the color of stool using technology related to AI (artificial intelligence). For example, the clock unit 232 may determine the color of stool using a learning model (color determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the color judgment model is trained in advance using teacher data indicating classification judgments. This training data includes a stool image and a label (correct answer information) indicating the color of the lump (feces) contained in the stool image (yellow, light ocher, ocher, brown, dark brown, or deep dark brown). Includes multiple combinations. For example, a color determination model is a model that receives a stool image as input and outputs information indicating the color of a lump (feces) included in the input stool image. For example, the color determination model is trained to output information on a label (color of stool) corresponding to the input stool image when a stool image is input. Learning of the color determination model is performed using various methods related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the color determination model is stored in the storage unit 22, and the clock unit 232 may determine the color of the stool using the color determination model stored in the storage unit 22. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may perform a learning process to generate a color determination model. Note that the above is just an example, and the clock unit 232 may determine the color of stool using various information as appropriate. Further, the six levels of yellow, light ocher, ocher, brown, dark brown, and deep dark brown described above are only examples of colors, and the clock portion 232 may determine other shapes or five levels. The determination may be made as follows. In addition, although we have shown an example of determining whether the color of stool is in one of multiple stages, this is not limited to this, and if multiple stool colors are included in one act of defecation, multiple colors may be used. The color of the stool may also be determined.

The clock unit 232 performs a judgment process using information detected by the gas sensor unit 350. The clock unit 232 judges the odor at the time of excretion by the user. The clock unit 232 judges the odor at the time of excretion using information detected by the gas sensor unit 350 at the date and time when the presence of feces is judged from the detection result by the camera 302. The clock unit 232 judges the odor of the user's excrement (feces) using the information of the odor detected by the gas sensor unit 350. The clock unit 232 judges the odor of the feces from the detection result by the gas sensor unit 350. The clock unit 232 judges the odor of the user's feces based on the presence or absence or concentration of odorous components detected by the gas sensor unit 350 as a predetermined parameter of the odor, or the ratio of the concentration of odorous components and odorless (odorless gas) components. The clock unit 232 appropriately uses various technologies related to odor classification to determine whether the odor of the stool is no odor, not smelly, slightly smelly, smelly, or very smelly. Note that odor determination may also be made on dates and times other than when the presence of stool is determined based on the detection results by the camera 302, that is, when only gas comes out of the body (in the case of a fart).

The clock unit 232 may determine the odor of stool using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. For example, the clock unit 232 may determine the odor of stool using a learning model (odor determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the odor determination model is trained in advance using teacher data indicating classification judgment. This teacher data includes multiple combinations of the output value of the gas sensor unit 350 and a label (correct answer information) indicating the odor corresponding to the output value of the gas sensor unit 350 (any of no odor, no odor, slight odor, odor, and very odor). For example, the odor determination model is a model that inputs the output value of the gas sensor unit 350 and outputs information indicating the odor of gas corresponding to the input output value of the gas sensor unit 350. For example, the odor determination model is trained to output information of the label (gas odor) corresponding to the input output value of the gas sensor unit 350 when the output value of the gas sensor unit 350 is input. The odor determination model is trained using various methods related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the odor determination model may be stored in the memory unit 22, and the clock unit 232 may determine the odor of stool using the odor determination model stored in the memory unit 22. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may perform a learning process to generate the odor determination model.

Note that the above is merely an example, and the clock unit 232 may determine the odor of stool using various information as appropriate. Furthermore, the above-mentioned five levels of odorless, odorless, slightly odorous, odorous, and very odorous are merely an example of odors, and the clock unit 232 may determine the type of odor (strongly odorous components) or may determine four levels or less. Note that the clock unit 232 may determine (classify) the odor using various processes other than the above, as long as the desired classification of odors is possible. Furthermore, the various determination processes described above may be performed by the server device 400. In this case, the information used in the above-mentioned determination processes and the functions of the determination processes are possessed by the server device 400, and the toilet seat device 2 transmits information detected by the camera 302 and the gas sensor unit 350 to the server device 400.

The request unit 233 requests the server device 400 to register the excretion information of the detected user. The request unit 233 requests the server device 400 to register the excretion information by transmitting the excretion information to the server device 400 via the communication unit 21. The request unit 233 requests the server device 400 to register the excretion information as information of the user identified by the user identification information by transmitting the excretion information to the server device 400 together with the user identification information.

Further, the control unit 23 controls the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71. The control unit 23 controls the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71 based on the signal transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 23 controls the nozzle motor 61 based on a control instruction signal regarding private part cleaning transmitted from the operating device 10 . The control unit 23 controls the nozzle motor 61 to move the cleaning nozzle 6 forward or backward. The control unit 23 controls opening and closing of the solenoid valve 71. The control unit 23 transmits control information for controlling the camera 302 to the camera 302. The control unit 23 transmits control information for controlling the gas sensor unit 350 to the gas sensor unit 350.

The control unit 23 also controls the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 as shown in FIG. 1. The control unit 23 controls the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 based on a signal transmitted from the operation device 10. The control unit 23 controls the toilet lid 4 based on a control instruction signal transmitted from the operation device 10 regarding the opening and closing of the toilet lid. The control unit 23 controls the toilet seat 5 based on a control instruction signal transmitted from the operation device 10 regarding the opening and closing of the seat. The control unit 23 transmits control information to the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 via a wired connection. The control unit 23 may also transmit control information to the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 wirelessly.

The control unit 23 determines whether or not the seating sensor 301 detects that a user is seated on the toilet seat 5. The control unit 23 determines whether or not the seating sensor 301 detects that a user is seated on the toilet seat 5. The control unit 23 has various components such as a calculation unit that executes calculations related to the above-mentioned control and a memory unit.

The solenoid valve 71 functions as a valve that controls the flow of a fluid by electromagnetic means. The solenoid valve 71 switches between supplying and stopping tap water from a water supply pipe, for example. The solenoid valve 71 controls opening and closing in response to instructions from the control unit 23.

The nozzle motor 61 is a drive source (motor) that drives the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retreat. The nozzle motor 61 controls the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retreat relative to the body cover 30 of the main body 3. The nozzle motor 61 controls the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retreat in response to instructions from the control unit 23.

<1-3. Functional configuration of server device>
Next, the functional configuration of the server device will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the server device according to the embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a server device 400, which is an example of a server device.

As shown in FIG. 5, the server device 400 has a communication unit 410, a storage unit 420, and a control unit 430. The server device 400 may also have an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) that accepts various operations from an administrator of the server device 400, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) that displays various information.

The communication unit 410 is realized by, for example, a communication circuit. The communication unit 410 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 410 transmits and receives information to and from the toilet seat device 2, the user terminal 200, and the like. For example, the communication unit 410 transmits information (content) indicating defecation data to the user terminal 200.

The storage unit 420 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 420 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by a management program that manages excretion information and a generation program that generates information such as content to be provided. The storage unit 420 according to the embodiment has a defecation information database 421 as shown in FIG. 5. As shown in the defecation information database 421, the storage unit 420 stores at least one of the following as individual defecation data: time of defecation, shape of the stool, color of the stool, amount of the stool, time required for defecation, a predetermined parameter based on the odor at the time of defecation, and time interval between defecation actions. Note that the storage unit 420 stores various information, not limited to the defecation information database 421.

The defecation information database according to the embodiment stores various information regarding defecation of the user. For example, the defecation information database stores the user's defecation history. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the defecation information database according to the embodiment. The defecation information database shown in Figure 6 includes "ID", "gender", "age", "date", "time", "shape", "color", "amount", "defecation time", and "odor". , "interval" are included.

"ID" indicates identification information for identifying a user. In this way, in the excretion information management system 1, each user is managed by an anonymous ID rather than by their real name.

“Gender” indicates the gender of the user identified by the ID. "Age" indicates the age of the user identified by the ID. Note that the "age" may include information indicating the age, such as 20's or 30's. Furthermore, the year of birth may be managed in the defecation information database 421 and converted into "age" by the server device 400.

"Date" indicates the date (day) on which the excretory act took place. "Time" indicates the time (hour) on which the excretory act took place.

"Shape" indicates the shape of the acquired stool. For "shape", classification results are registered into a plurality of shapes, such as "rolly", "ticky", "cracked", "banana-like", "soft", "muddy", and "water-like". Note that the above is just an example, and the "shape" is not limited to the above, and information indicating various shapes may be registered.

"Color" indicates the color of the obtained stool. For example, "color" is registered as a classification into multiple colors such as "yellow," "light ocher," "ocher," "brown," "dark brown," and "dark brown." For example, the colors are darker in the order of "yellow," "light ocher," "ocher," "brown," "dark brown," and "dark brown," with "dark brown" being the darkest color. Note that the above is merely an example, and "color" is not limited to the above, and information indicating various colors may be registered.

"Amount" indicates the amount of stool obtained. For example, for "amount", classification results into a plurality of quantities such as "very large", "large", "medium", "small", and "very small" are registered. For example, the amount decreases in the order of ``very large,'' ``large,'' ``normal,'' ``small,'' and ``very small,'' with ``very small'' being the one with the smallest amount. Note that the above is just an example, and the "amount" is not limited to the above, and information indicating various amounts may be registered.

"Excretion time" indicates the time required for excretion. For example, "defecation time" indicates the time from when the user sits down to when the user defecates.

"Odor" indicates the amount of stool obtained. For example, for "odor", classification results are registered into multiple odor intensities such as "no odor," "no odor," "slight odor," "smell," and "very odor." For example, the odor becomes stronger in the order of "no odor," "no odor," "slight odor," "smell," and "very odor," with "very odor" indicating the strongest odor. Note that the above is just an example, and the "smell" is not limited to the above, and information indicating various odors may be registered.

"Interval" indicates the interval (time) of excretion. For example, "excretion time" indicates the time interval from the previous (immediate) excretion date and time.

In the example of FIG. 6, the attributes of the user identified by ID "AAA" (hereinafter also referred to as "user AAA") are gender "female" and age "52 years old." In addition, for the user identified by ID "AAA" (user AAA), excretion information of an excretion act performed at 7:15 on January 5th and excretion information of an excretion act performed at 7:30 on January 7th, etc. are registered.

For example, the following is displayed for the excretion act that took place at 7:30 on January 7th: the shape was banana-shaped, the color was dark brown, the amount was small, the excretion time was 35 seconds, there was a slight odor, and the interval was 48 hours and 15 minutes (2 days and 15 minutes). For example, the interval "48 hours and 15 minutes" indicates the difference between the previous excretion date and time "January 5th, 7:15" and the current excretion date and time "January 7th, 7:30". The server device 400 calculates the interval "48 hours and 15 minutes" by calculating the difference between the previous excretion date and time "January 5th, 7:15" and the current excretion date and time "January 7th, 7:30".

For example, the excretion act that took place at 7:15 on January 5th shows that the shape was banana-shaped, the color was yellowish brown, the amount was large, the excretion time was 20 seconds, there was no odor, and the interval was 23 hours and 52 minutes.

Note that the defecation information database 421 is not limited to the above, and may store various information depending on the purpose. As described above, the defecation information database 421 in FIG. 6 stores the defecation information of a plurality of users. For example, the defecation information database 421 may store fecal images as the defecation information. The defecation information database 421 stores information about the stool corresponding to the stool image in association with the stool image. The defecation information database 421 stores determination results (shape, color, amount, odor, etc.) determined for the stool corresponding to the stool image in association with the stool image. The defecation information database 421 stores information such as the properties of the stool corresponding to the stool image and the amount of stool corresponding to the stool image. Further, the defecation information database 421 may store the date and time when the stool image was acquired, information identifying the user who defecated the stool corresponding to the stool image, etc. in association with the stool image. Further, the defecation information database 421 may store residence area and body weight as personal attributes. The defecation information database 421 may store information on the place where the user defecated as defecation data.

The control unit 430 is realized, for example, by a CPU, a GPU, or the like executing a program stored inside the server device 400 (for example, a management program or a generation program related to the present disclosure) using a RAM or the like as a working area. The control unit 430 is also realized, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 430 includes a reception unit 431, a registration unit 432, and a provision unit 433, and implements or executes information processing functions and operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 430 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 5, and may be any other configuration as long as it performs information processing to be described later.

The reception unit 431 receives information. The reception unit 431 receives information to be stored in the storage unit 420. The reception unit 431 receives information manually input by the user. The reception unit 431 receives information input by the user by operating the user terminal 200. The reception unit 431 receives input of defecation data to be added and registered in the defecation information database 421. The reception unit 431 receives input of defecation data regarding defecation in a toilet bowl other than the toilet bowl 7 of the toilet system TS. The receiving unit 431 receives from the user terminal 200 the defecation data that the user manually inputs into the user terminal 200 . The reception unit 431 receives manual input of defecation data of the user's defecation using a toilet other than the toilet 7 of the toilet system TS. Further, all the information accepted by the reception unit 431 may be manually input by the user.

The reception unit 431 also functions as an acquisition unit that acquires information. The reception unit 431 acquires various information from the storage unit 420. The reception unit 431 receives various information from the toilet seat device 2 and the user terminal 200. The reception unit 431 receives information related to stool from the toilet seat device 2. The reception unit 431 receives defecation data from the toilet seat device 2. The reception unit 431 receives the defecation data of the user from the toilet seat device 2 together with an ID that identifies the user. The reception unit 431 receives a stool image (data) from the toilet seat device 2. The reception unit 431 is provided in the toilet seat device 2 that is placed on top of the toilet bowl 7 in which the bowl portion 8 that receives excrement is formed, and acquires a stool image based on information from the camera 302 to detect stool. The reception unit 431 stores the acquired stool image in the defecation information database 421.

The registration unit 432 performs a process of registering various types of information. The registration unit 432 registers excretion information (defecation data) acquired from the toilet seat device 2. The registration unit 432 stores the excretion information in the storage unit 420. For example, the registration unit 432 registers the excretion information in the defecation information database 421 in association with the user identification information.

The registration unit 432 registers the information received by the reception unit 431 in the storage unit 420. The registration unit 432 stores defecation data (defecation records) of manual excretion in a toilet other than the toilet 7 received by the reception unit 431 in the defecation information database 421. The registration unit 432 automatically stores defecation data including excretion information detected by various sensors (detection units) and date and time information of excretion acquired by the clock unit 232 in the defecation information database 421. The registration unit 432 stores information on the position of the toilet together with the defecation data in the defecation information database 421.

The providing unit 433 provides information. The providing unit 433 transmits information to an external information processing device via the communication unit 410. For example, the providing unit 433 transmits various information to the user terminal 200 and the toilet seat device 2. The providing unit 433 transmits the defecation data stored in the memory unit 420 to the user terminal 200, etc.

The providing unit 433 functions as a generation unit that performs generation processing of various types of information. The providing unit 433 generates content indicating defecation data to be displayed on the user terminal 200. The providing unit 433 generates a screen (content) showing the defecation data. For example, the providing unit 433 generates content (image information) to be provided to the user terminal 200 using various techniques related to image generation, image processing, etc. as appropriate. For example, the providing unit 433 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to the user terminal 200 using various technologies such as Java (registered trademark) as appropriate. Note that the providing unit 433 may generate content (image information) to be provided to the user terminal 200 based on the format of CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), JavaScript (registered trademark), or HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language). . Further, for example, the providing unit 433 may generate content in various formats such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), and PNG (Portable Network Graphics).

The providing unit 433 generates information that shows both the defecation data of multiple people and the individual's defecation data. The providing unit 433 generates information that shows a comparison between the defecation data of multiple people that match the individual's attributes and the individual's defecation data. The providing unit 433 generates information that shows a comparison between information obtained by processing the individual's defecation data into a representative value. For example, the providing unit 433 generates information that shows a comparison between information obtained by averaging the individual's defecation data over a specified period. The providing unit 433 transmits the generated content to the user terminal 200, etc. For example, the providing unit 433 generates content that includes graphs such as those shown in Figures 14 to 25, and transmits the generated content to the user terminal 200.

<1-4. Control flow example>
An example of a control flow based on a sensor will be described using FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing the relationship of detection.

A waveform LN1 in FIG. 7 indicates the detection result of the seating detection sensor (seating sensor 301) detecting that the user is sitting on the toilet seat 5. Moreover, waveform LN2 in FIG. 7 shows the detection result of the amount of stool based on the image photographed by the camera 302. Note that the eight rectangles arranged in chronological order in FIG. 7 are images of the water sealing portion in the toilet bowl 7 taken at each corresponding time point.

In the example of FIG. 7, as shown by waveform LN1, at time t1, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user is sitting on the toilet seat 5. For example, at time t1, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 changes from "OFF", which indicates that the user is not sitting on the toilet seat 5, to "ON", which indicates that the user is sitting on the toilet seat 5.

As shown in the waveform LN1, at time t4, the seat sensor 301 detects the user leaving the toilet seat 5. For example, at time t4, the detection result of the seat sensor 301 changes from "ON", which indicates that the user is seated on the toilet seat 5, to "OFF", which indicates that the user is no longer seated on the toilet seat 5. That is, in the example of FIG. 7, the user leaves the toilet (e.g., toilet room R) after time t4. Note that the detection MD, which indicates a falling point in the waveform LN1, indicates that the seat sensor 301 turns OFF (chattering) due to the user adjusting the seating position on the toilet seat 5, etc. The toilet seat device 2 determines that the user continues to sit when the detection MD switches from ON to OFF and from OFF to ON in a short time (e.g., about 1 to 5 seconds).

In the waveform LN2, an example is shown 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. 7 are merely an example, and there may be three stages or less, or five stages or more. For example, the waveform LN2 may have two stages: "none," which indicates that stool has not been detected, and "present," which indicates that stool has been detected. For example, there may be three stages: "none," which indicates that stool has not been detected, "after excretion," in which stool has been detected but there is no change in the image, and "during excretion," which is the other state.

As shown in waveform LN2, immediately after time t2, one stool is included in the image detected by camera 302, and the user's defecation is detected. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 detects that the amount of stool is "small" and determines that the user has defecated for the first time at time t2.

Furthermore, as shown by waveform LN2, between times t2 and t3, new stool is added to the image detected by camera 302, so that it now contains two stools, and the user's defecation is detected. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 detects the amount of stool as "large" and determines that the user has defecate a second time. Thereafter, there is no change in the amount of stool. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 determines that time t3 is the timing of the user's final defecation, and that the user's defecation has ended at time t3.

The toilet seat device 2 acquires the time from when the user sits until the first stool comes out. The toilet seat device 2 obtains the time required for defecation from the difference between time t1 and 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 defecate. Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 obtains a period TM2 from time t2 to time t3 as the time from the start to the end of defecation. The toilet seat device 2 also acquires a period TM3 from time t3 to time t4 as the time from the end of defecation until the user leaves the toilet.

<1-5. Example of defecation data>
Here, an example of user's defecation data will be explained using FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of defecation data. The defecation data shown in FIG. 8 indicates defecation data regarding one defecation act of user AAA. Regarding the excretion act performed by the user identified by the personal ID "AAA" (user AAA) at 7:30 on January 7th, the shape was normal (banana-like), the color was dark brown, and the amount was small. , the excretion time is 35 seconds, there is a slight odor, and the interval is 48 hours and 15 minutes.

<1-6. Information display example＞
Here, an example of displaying information will be explained using FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of information display. Specifically, FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a display showing the proportion of users for each excretion time. In the following display example, the user AAA is assumed to be the information provider ("you" in the figure), and the display on the user terminal 200 used by the user AAA will be described as an example.

For example, the server device 400 obtains the excretion time of each user from the defecation information database 421. The server device 400 may divide the excretion time into predetermined time intervals (e.g., 30 minutes) and determine the most frequent excretion time among the defecation data for a predetermined period (e.g., the most recent week or month) among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421 for a certain user as the excretion time of that user. For example, if the most frequent excretion time among the defecation data for a predetermined period (e.g., the most recent week or month) among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421 for user AAA is between 8:00 and 8:29, the server device 400 determines the excretion time of user AAA to be "8:00 (to 8:29)". The server device 400 determines the excretion times for all users whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421. The server device 400 then calculates the proportion of users at each time by dividing the number of users who had each time as their excretion time by the total number of users.

The server device 400 then generates graph GR1 shown in FIG. 9 using the calculated proportion of users at each time. The horizontal axis of graph GR1 indicates the excretion time, and the vertical axis indicates the proportion of users (%). The curve RT1 in graph GR1 indicates the proportion of users at each time. Also, the bar BR1 pointed to by the arrow labeled "you" in graph GR1 indicates the proportion of users at 8 o'clock, which includes you, user AAA. The server device 400 transmits graph GR1 to the user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of the user AAA that has received the graph GR1 displays the graph GR1. This allows the user AAA to recognize the percentage of users who defecate at each time. In addition, in the excretion information management system 1, the arrow labeled "you" pointing to the bar BR1 allows the user AAA, who is the information provider, to recognize that he/she belongs to the user at the time 8 o'clock indicated by the bar BR1. be able to.

The display of the excretion time may be at any time interval, such as in 1-minute or 5-minute increments. It may also be displayed as numerical data (continuous values) without intervals. The method for determining the excretion time for a specified period may be the average value, trimmed average value, or median value within the specified period.

<2. Modified example>
In the example described above, an example is shown in which the camera 302 (two-dimensional image sensor) is used, but the sensor (detection unit) is not limited to the two-dimensional image sensor, and may be any other type of sensor. For example, the sensor (detection section) may be a license sensor (one-dimensional image sensor), and the detection section may perform detection based on one-dimensional images taken over time of falling stool. This point will be explained below. Note that in the excretion information management system 1A according to the modified example, descriptions of the same points as those in the excretion information management system 1 according to the embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

<2-1. Configuration of the Excretion Information Management System>
The configuration of the excretion information management system according to the modified example will be described with reference to Fig. 10 and Fig. 11. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the excretion information management system according to the modified example. Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing an example of the arrangement of sensors according to the modified example.

As shown in FIG. 15, the excretion information management system 1A includes a toilet system TS including a toilet seat device 2, an operating device 10, a seating sensor 301, an optical unit 100, and a gas sensor unit 350, a user terminal 200, and a server device 400. have In this way, the excretion information management system 1A differs from the excretion information management system 1 in that it includes the optical unit 100 instead of the camera 302.

An example of the placement of the sensors will be described with reference to Figure 11. Figure 11 shows the toilet seat 5 in a raised state to show the placement of the sensors, with the toilet lid 4 removed, and the underside 51 of the toilet seat 5 opposite the surface on which the user sits (seating surface).

As shown in FIG. 11, the optical unit 100, which is a sensor used in the excretion information management system 1A, is arranged inside the main body cover 30 in a position and orientation that allows it to detect feces falling inside the toilet bowl 7. For example, the optical unit 100 is provided in a position exposed from the opening 32 with its directionality facing inside the toilet bowl 7. Note that the optical unit 100 may be arranged in any manner as long as it is capable of detecting feces falling inside 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, similar to the camera 302 shown in FIG. 2.

The optical unit 100 functions as a detection unit that detects defecation over time by emitting light onto the stool using the light emitting unit 120 and receiving the light reflected from the stool using the light receiving unit 130. The light emitting section 120 and the light receiving section 130 of the optical unit 100 are exposed through the opening 32 of the main body cover 30. The light emitting section 120 can emit light toward the excrement in the toilet bowl 7, and the light receiving section 130 can receive reflected light from the excrement in the toilet bowl 7.

The optical unit 100 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network so as to be able to communicate with it in a wired or wireless manner. For example, the optical unit 100 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 so as to be able to communicate with it 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 manner so long as they are able to send and receive information, and may be connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other in a wired or wireless manner. For example, the optical unit 100 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a network N so as to be able to communicate with each other in a wired or wireless manner. Details of the optical unit 100 will be described later.

The toilet seat device 2 according to the modification determines the nature of stool based on the stool image, similarly to the toilet seat device 2 according to the embodiment. The toilet seat device 2 has an opening 32 in the main body cover 30 for arranging the optical unit 100. When the optical unit 100 is placed on the toilet seat 5 or the like, the toilet seat device 2 does not need to have the opening 32.

The toilet seat device 2 according to the modified example captures an image of the stool excreted by the user (stool image) by photographing the stool as it falls inside the toilet bowl 7. The communication unit 21 according to the modified example transmits the user's stool data to the server device 400 together with identification information (ID) that identifies the user, similar to the communication unit 21 according to the embodiment. The memory unit 22 according to the modified example stores various information, similar to the memory unit 22 according to the embodiment.

The control unit 23 according to the modified example performs various processes based on detection by the optical unit 100. The clock unit 232 according to the modified example measures defecation 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 image detected by the optical unit 100, and performs determination processes using the generated feces image.

For example, the clock unit 232 generates a stool image based on information detected by the optical unit 100. The clock unit 232 generates a two-dimensional image by arranging in time series multiple one-dimensional data (linear still images), which is data acquired over time at predetermined time intervals by the light receiving unit 130, which has a line sensor (light receiving element) with multiple elements arranged in a straight line. For example, the clock unit 232 generates a two-dimensional stool image based on the one-dimensional image detected by the optical unit 100, but this point will be explained in Figure 12. Note that the processing using the two-dimensional stool image is similar to the processing in the toilet seat device 2 according to the embodiment, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

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 section 23 transmits control information for controlling lighting and extinguishing of the light emitting section 120 to the optical unit 100.

The control unit 23 transmits control information to the optical unit 100 for controlling the function of the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130. The electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130 is a shutter type that electronically controls the light receiving element (image sensor) to read out the exposure, unlike a mechanical shutter such as a so-called lens shutter. In other words, the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130 is a so-called electronic shutter or electronically controlled shutter. The control unit 23 transmits control information to the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the optical unit 100 via wires. The control unit 23 may transmit control information to the optical unit 100 wirelessly.

The control unit 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 light and receive light during the period when the seating sensor 301 detects that the user is sitting on the toilet seat 5.

The control unit 23 controls the emission of light by the light emitting unit 120. The control unit 23 controls the energization of the light emitting element of the light emitting unit 120 and the application of voltage to the light receiving element. The control unit 23 performs light receiving control to enable reception of reflected light from feces by sending a control instruction to open the electronic shutter to the light receiving element and energizing the light emitting element of the light emitting unit 120. The control unit 23 controls the interval from the start of execution of one light receiving control until the execution of the next light receiving control of one light receiving control to an arbitrary time (for example, 0.2 milliseconds or more) within a range in which control processing is possible. Note that the above is only an example, and the control mode by the control unit 23 may be any mode as long as the optical unit 100 is capable of desired light emission and reception. In addition, when the light irradiated from the light emitting unit 120 is in one wavelength band, the light from the light emitting unit 120 does not need to be blinked in accordance with the light receiving control, and may be irradiated continuously. In addition, when a color type light receiving element as described later is used, even if the light irradiated from the light emitting unit 120 is in multiple wavelength bands, it may be irradiated continuously.

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

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

The arithmetic processing device is realized by various means such as a CPU or a microcomputer, and executes various processes. For example, the arithmetic processing device executes various processes using digital data converted by the ADConverter. The arithmetic processing unit executes various processes using 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 device is realized by executing a program stored in a ROM using a temporarily used storage area or the like in the arithmetic processing device as a work area.

The processing unit 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 unit 130. The first memory stores digital data converted by the AD converter. For example, the first memory is a static random access memory (SRAM). Note that the first memory is not limited to an SRAM, and other random access memories (RAMs) such as dynamic random access memories (DRAMs) or programmable read only memories (PROMs) capable of high-speed processing may be used.

The first memory stores data according to control by the arithmetic processing unit. For example, the first memory may be a storage device with a storage capacity of 96 kilobytes or 512 kilobytes. The data received by the light receiving unit 130 and 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).

Note that the configuration of the control unit 23 described above is only an example, and the control unit 23 may have any configuration as long as it can perform desired processing. The toilet seat device 2 also includes a second memory. The toilet seat device 2 stores the data acquired by the control unit 23 in a 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 unit 23. For example, the second memory may be an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). The second memory may also be various storage devices (memories) such as an SD (Secure Digital) card memory or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) 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 is a storage device with a larger storage capacity than the first memory, such as 4 gigabytes. The 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 a communication device of the toilet seat device 2 or the like.

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

The optical unit 100 includes a light emitting section 120 and a light receiving section 130. The optical unit 100 functions as a detection section (detection device) having a light receiving element in which a plurality of elements are arranged in a linear manner 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 onto excrement excreted by the user. The light-emitting unit 120 emits light onto stool excreted by the user. The light-emitting unit 120 emits light onto stool as it falls.

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 the excrement excreted by the user. For example, the light emitting element is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). Note that the light emitting element is not limited to an 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. The light emitting section 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 emits light onto falling stool excreted by the user. The light emitting unit 120 includes a plurality of light emitting elements for emitting light of different wavelengths. Note that the above is just an example, and as long as desired light emission is possible for the light emitting elements of the light emitting unit 120, any configuration can be adopted for the number of light emitting elements and the wavelength at which they emit light.

The light receiving unit 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 light reflected from excrement in response to the light irradiated by the light emitting unit 120. The light receiving unit 130 receives light reflected from stool in response to the light irradiated by the light emitting unit 120. The light receiving unit 130 receives light reflected from falling stool in response to the light irradiated 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 multiple elements are arranged in a line to detect falling feces. 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 line. Note that 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 unit 130 includes a lens 131 for collecting light in front of the light receiving element. A case is provided around the light receiving element, which is a cover for preventing light from entering the light receiving element from any direction other than the front. A case is provided around the light receiving element, which is a cover for preventing light other than that passing through the lens 131 arranged in front from entering the light receiving element. A case is provided around the light receiving element, which is a cover for preventing light from entering the light receiving element from the side direction.

The case functions as an incidence suppression cover that blocks or attenuates light from any direction other than the front of the light receiving element. The case is colored in a color that reflects less light, such as black, to suppress reflected light from the case itself from entering the light receiving element. Note that various materials, such as resin, may be used for the case as long as it can be formed into the desired shape. The light receiving unit 130 receives light reflected from the stool in response to the light irradiated by the light emitting unit 120. The light receiving unit 130 receives light reflected from the falling stool in response to the light irradiated by the light emitting unit 120. The light receiving unit 130 receives light reflected from the stool in response to the light irradiated by the light emitting unit 120.

<2-2. How to obtain stool image data＞
Here, the specific operation of the stool image (data) acquisition method will be described with reference to FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data acquisition method. Descriptions of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

Each element shown in FIG. 12 will be explained. Object OB1 schematically shows feces (excrement) 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.

The light emitting device LE is a light emitting unit 120 having a light emitting element. Note that, in FIG. 12, for simplicity of explanation, a case in which the light emitting device LE emits light of one wavelength is described as an example, but the light emitting device LE may emit light of different wavelengths.

In the example of FIG. 12, the process of irradiating the falling object OB1 with light from the light emitting device LE and acquiring (generating) a stool image (two-dimensional image) based on the result of light reception by the light receiving device PD is performed. Show 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 indicates the object that the light receiving device PD receives. Reflected light from OB1 is schematically shown. Further, a rectangular frame overlapping the object OB1 schematically indicates a range (one dimension) of the object OB1 detected by corresponding light emission and light reception.

In the example of FIG. 12, the scene SN1 conceptually shows the process of irradiating the falling object OB1 with light from the light emitting device LE and receiving the light by the light receiving device PD at time _t1 . The data acquired in the scene SN1 (time t ₁ ) corresponds to the one-dimensional image PI1 of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) the one-dimensional image PI1 by emitting and receiving light in the scene SN1 (time t ₁ ).

Moreover, the data acquired at time _t2 corresponds to the one-dimensional image PI2 of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, by emitting and receiving light at time _t2 , the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) a one-dimensional image PI2. The data at time _t2 is the data acquired next to 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.

Moreover, scene SNi conceptually illustrates the process of irradiating light from the light-emitting device LE to the falling object OB1 at time _ti and receiving the light by the light-receiving device PD. The data acquired in scene SNi (time _ti ) corresponds to one-dimensional image PIi of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) one-dimensional image PIi by emitting and receiving light in scene SNi (time _ti ).

Moreover, scene SNj conceptually illustrates the process of irradiating light from light-emitting device LE to falling object OB1 at time _tj and receiving the light by light-receiving device PD. Data acquired in scene SNj (time _tj ) corresponds to one-dimensional image PIj of two-dimensional image EI. That is, by emitting light and receiving light in scene SNj (time _tj ), toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) one-dimensional image PIj.

The toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image (stool information) by arranging the one-dimensional images (received light data) in the order of time when the one-dimensional images were acquired. In FIG. 12, the toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image EI by arranging the one-dimensional images PI1, PI2..., PIi..., PIj... in that order.

In the above example, the case where light is emitted at one wavelength has been described as an example, but when light is emitted at multiple wavelengths, the toilet seat device 2 generates stool information (two-dimensional image) by arranging in chronological order the data (one-dimensional image) acquired over time for each emitted wavelength. In this regard, the case where light is emitted and received by three light-emitting elements that irradiate light at three different wavelengths will be described as an example.

In this case, the toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image corresponding to the first light-emitting element by arranging in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from a light-emitting element (also referred to as the "first light-emitting element") that emits light of a first wavelength. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates stool information (first two-dimensional image) corresponding to the first wavelength by arranging in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light of a first wavelength such as 590 nm.

The toilet seat device 2 also generates a two-dimensional image corresponding to the second light-emitting element by arranging in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from a light-emitting element (also called the "second light-emitting element") that emits light of a second wavelength. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates stool information (second two-dimensional image) corresponding to the second wavelength by arranging in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light of a second wavelength such as 670 nm.

In addition, the toilet seat device 2 arranges received light data (one-dimensional images) 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 can generate stool information (third two-dimensional image) corresponding to the third wavelength by arranging received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting a third wavelength such as 870 nm in chronological order. generate.

In this way, the toilet seat device 2 can obtain a color image by generating two-dimensional images for each of the three wavelengths corresponding to the first light-emitting element, the second light-emitting element, and the third light-emitting element. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may generate a color image by combining the first two-dimensional image, the second two-dimensional image, and the third two-dimensional image described above. In addition, the light-receiving element of the light-receiving unit 130, such as a line sensor, may be a color light-receiving element, and light-emitting elements of multiple colors may be irradiated simultaneously, and the color of the reflected light may be detected by the light-receiving unit to generate a color image.

<2-3. Control flow example>
An example of a control flow based on a sensor will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart showing a detection relationship. Note that a description of the same points as in Fig. 7 will be omitted as appropriate.

A waveform LN11 in FIG. 13 shows the detection result of the seating detection of the user on the toilet seat 5 by the seating detection sensor (seating sensor 301). Further, a waveform LN12 in FIG. 13 indicates a detection result based on an image photographed by the optical unit 100.

In the example of FIG. 13, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user is sitting on the toilet seat 5 at time t11, as shown by a waveform LN11. For example, at time t11, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 changes from "OFF" indicating that sitting on the toilet seat 5 is not detected to "ON" indicating that seating on the toilet seat 5 is detected. Ru.

Further, as shown in waveform LN11, at time t14, the seating sensor 301 detects that the user leaves the toilet seat 5. For example, at time t14, the detection result of the seating sensor 301 changes from "ON" indicating that seating on the toilet seat 5 is detected to "OFF" indicating that seating on the toilet seat 5 is no longer detected. be done. That is, in the example of FIG. 13, the user leaves the toilet (for example, toilet room R) after time t14.

In waveform LN12, detection is performed based on the image (line data) taken by the optical unit 100 in two stages: "No stool" indicating that stool is not detected and "Feces present" indicating that stool is detected. Show the results.

As shown in waveform LN12, at time t12, the state changes from "no stool" indicating that stool is not detected to "feces present" indicating that stool is detected, and the user's defecation is detected. Thereby, the toilet seat device 2 determines that the user defecated for the first time at time t12.

Further, as shown in waveform LN12, after time t13, the state of "no stool" indicating that no stool is detected continues. Thereby, the toilet seat device 2 determines that the time t13 is the timing of the user's last defecation, and determines that the user has finished defecating at the time t13. In the example of FIG. 13, the toilet seat device 2 determines that defecation was performed three times between time t12 and time 33. In this example, the number of times of defecation is 3 in one defecation act, but the toilet seat device 2 determines the timing of the last defecation of the user, and the number of times of defecation is 3 times in one defecation act. It is possible to determine whether the event occurs once or multiple times.

The toilet seat device 2 acquires the time from when the user sits until the first stool comes out. The toilet seat device 2 obtains the time required for defecation 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 defecate. Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 obtains a period TM2 from time t12 to time t13 as the time from the start to the end of defecation. Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 acquires a period TM3 from time t13 to time t14 as the time from the end of defecation until the user leaves the toilet.

<3. Display example>
An example of display of defecation data by the user terminal 200 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 14 to 25. FIGS. 14 to 25 show examples of display of defecation data for each type, such as shape, color, amount, time, odor, and interval between defecation (interval from previous time). In FIGS. 14 to 25, bar graphs are shown as an example of the display mode of defecation data. The display format of defecation data is not limited to bar graphs, but may also be other formats such as line graphs, pie graphs, radar charts, bubble charts that show the count of each shape by the size of the circle, or text information. Alternatively, a display mode may be used in which a plurality of these are displayed. Note that when each of the graphs GR11 to GR22 shown in FIGS. 14 to 25 is described without distinction, they will be collectively referred to as "graph GR."

In the display examples of Figures 14 to 25, user AAA is the information recipient ("you" in the figures), and the display on the user terminal 200 used by user AAA is described as an example. Each graph GR is generated by the server device 400 and displayed by the user terminal 200. For example, the server device 400 generates the graph GR11 shown in Figure 14 using the user's defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421. The server device 400 then transmits information (contents) including the graph GR11 shown in Figure 14 to the user terminal 200. The user terminal 200 receives information (contents) including the graph GR11 shown in Figure 14 from the server device 400. The user terminal 200 then displays the information (contents) including the graph GR11 shown in Figure 14.

<3-1. Example of displaying the shape of stool>
First, a display example of the shape of stool will be described using FIGS. 14 and 15. FIGS. 14 and 15 are diagrams showing examples of displays regarding the shape of stool. Specifically, FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a display showing the proportion of each stool shape for all users. Further, FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a display showing the ratio of each flight shape for users corresponding to the user attribute to which the user to be displayed belongs.

First, an example of processing for all users will be described with reference to FIG. 14. For example, the server device 400 obtains the stool shape of each user from the defecation information database 421. The server device 400 may determine the most frequent stool shape in the defecation data for a specific period (e.g., the most recent week or month) among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421 for a certain user as the stool shape of that user. For example, if the most frequent stool shape in the defecation data for a specific period (e.g., the most recent week or month) among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421 for user AAA is hard, the server device 400 determines the stool shape of user AAA to be "hard". The server device 400 determines the most frequent stool shape in the defecation data for a specific period for all users whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421, and tally it up for all users. The server device 400 then calculates the percentage of users that fall into each stool type by dividing the total number of stool types for all users by the total number of users.

Then, the server device 400 generates a graph GR11 shown in FIG. 14 using the calculated proportion of users corresponding to each flight shape. The horizontal axis of graph GR11 shows the shape of stool, and the vertical axis shows the proportion (%) of users. A plurality of bar graphs (bars) in graph GR11 indicate the proportion of users corresponding to each stool type. In addition, a bar BR11 indicated by an arrow labeled "You" in the graph GR11 indicates the percentage of users with the flight shape "Tick" to which you, the user AAA, belong. Server device 400 transmits graph GR11 to user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of the user AAA that has received the graph GR11 displays the graph GR11. Thereby, the user AAA can recognize the proportion of users in the form of stool. In addition, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow indicating "you" pointing to the bar BR11 indicates that the user AAA, who is the information provider, belongs to the user whose stool shape is "ticky" indicated by the bar BR11. can be recognized.

Note that the information shown in the graph GR is not limited to the information shown in the graph GR11, and may include various information. For example, out of a plurality of bar graphs (bars), a bar corresponding to a desirable mode (ideal) may be marked and displayed. In this case, the server device 400 stores, in the storage unit 420, information indicating the ideal for each type, such as predetermined parameters based on the shape, color, amount, time, and odor of stool, and the interval between excretions (interval from the previous time), The ideals of each type are identified using the information indicating the memorized ideals. For example, the server device 400 may attach a mark such as "ideal" to a banana shape, which is an ideal shape, among the plurality of bar graphs (bars) in the graph GR11. The user terminal 200 may display a graph GR11 in which a bar (center bar) corresponding to the ideal banana shape is marked among the plurality of bar graphs (bars). Thereby, the user AAA can recognize what kind of stool shape is ideal. Further, for example, the user may set a target mode in advance, and display a mark on a bar corresponding to the target among a plurality of bar graphs (bars). Thereby, the user AAA can recognize the distribution among all users, his/her own goals, and the current situation.

Next, using FIG. 15, an example of processing will be described when targeting only users who correspond to the user attribute "female in their 50s" to which user AAA belongs (hereinafter also referred to as "users corresponding to the attribute"). . For example, the server device 400 acquires the shape of the stool of the user corresponding to the attribute from the defecation information database 421. Among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421, the server device 400 identifies a user whose age corresponds to "50s" and whose gender corresponds to "female" as a user corresponding to the attribute, and selects a user corresponding to the specified attribute. Obtain the shape of the user's stool.

If the most frequent stool shape in the defecation data for user AAA for a specified period (e.g., the most recent week or month) among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421 is hard, the server device 400 determines the stool shape of user AAA to be "hard." For attribute-matching users whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421, the server device 400 determines the most frequent stool shape in the defecation data for each individual for a specified period, and tallys up the results for all attribute-matching users. The server device 400 then calculates the percentage of users that fall into each stool shape by dividing the number of stool shapes for all attribute-matching users that have been tallied by the number of all attribute-matching users.

Then, the server device 400 generates a graph GR12 shown in FIG. 15 using the calculated proportion of users corresponding to each flight shape. The horizontal axis of graph GR12 indicates the shape of stool, and the vertical axis indicates the proportion (%) of users. A plurality of bar graphs (bars) in graph GR12 indicate the proportion of users corresponding to each stool type. In addition, a bar BR12 indicated by an arrow labeled "You" in the graph GR12 indicates the percentage of users with the flight shape "Tick" to which you, the user AAA, belong. Server device 400 transmits graph GR12 to user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of the user AAA that has received the graph GR12 displays the graph GR12. Thereby, the user AAA can recognize the proportion of users who have the same user attribute as the user AAA and who are in the form of stool. In addition, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow indicating "you" pointing to the bar BR12 indicates to the user AAA, who is the information provider, that he/she belongs to the user whose stool shape is "ticky" as indicated by the bar BR12. can be recognized.

<3-2. Example of stool color display>
Next, an example of display of stool color will be described with reference to Fig. 16 and Fig. 17. Fig. 16 and Fig. 17 are diagrams showing an example of display regarding stool color. Specifically, Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of display showing the ratio of each stool color for all users. Also, Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of display showing the ratio of each stool color for users corresponding to the user attribute to which the user to be displayed belongs. Note that explanations of the same points as those in Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 described above will be omitted.

First, an example of processing when all users are targeted will be explained using FIG. 16. For example, the server device 400 acquires the color of each user's stool from the defecation information database 421. The server device 400 determines, for the user AAA, the most frequent color of stool in the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421 for a predetermined period (for example, the most recent week or month). If it is dark brown, the color of user AAA's stool is determined to be "dark brown." Similarly, the server device 400 determines the color of feces for each user whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421.

The server device 400 generates graph GR13 shown in FIG. 16 using the percentage of users whose stool corresponds to each stool color. The horizontal axis of graph GR13 indicates the stool color, and the vertical axis indicates the percentage of users (%). Multiple bar graphs (bars) in graph GR13 indicate the percentage of users whose stool corresponds to each stool color. In addition, bar BR13 pointed to by an arrow labeled "you" in graph GR13 indicates the percentage of users whose stool color is "dark brown," which includes you, user AAA. The server device 400 transmits graph GR13 to the user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of the user AAA that has received the graph GR13 displays the graph GR13. Thereby, the user AAA can recognize the percentage of the user based on the color of the stool. In addition, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow indicating "you" pointing to bar BR13 indicates to the user AAA, who is the information provider, that the user belongs to the user whose stool color is "dark brown" indicated by bar BR13. can be made aware of this.

Next, using FIG. 17, an example of processing will be described in a case where only users corresponding to the user attribute "Female in 50s" to which the user AAA belongs (users corresponding to the attribute) are targeted. For example, the server device 400 acquires the color of the stool of the user corresponding to the attribute from the defecation information database 421. Among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421, the server device 400 identifies a user whose age corresponds to "50s" and whose gender corresponds to "female" as a user corresponding to the attribute, and selects a user corresponding to the specified attribute. Gets the color of the user's stool.

The server device 400 determines the color of feces for the user whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421 and compiles the color of the feces. Then, the server device 400 calculates the proportion of users corresponding to each flight color by dividing the total number of flight colors of all attribute applicable users by the number of all attribute applicable users.

The server device 400 then generates graph GR14 shown in FIG. 17 using the calculated percentage of users for each stool color. The horizontal axis of graph GR14 indicates the stool color, and the vertical axis indicates the percentage of users (%). Multiple bar graphs (bars) in graph GR14 indicate the percentage of users for each stool color. Also, bar BR14 pointed to by an arrow labeled "you" in graph GR14 indicates the percentage of users for the "dark brown" stool color to which you, user AAA, belong. The server device 400 transmits graph GR14 to the user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of user AAA, which has received graph GR14, displays graph GR14. This allows user AAA to recognize the percentage of users with the same user attributes as user AAA who have the same stool color. Furthermore, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow labeled "you" pointing to bar BR14 allows user AAA, who is the recipient of the information, to recognize that he or she belongs to the group of users whose stool color is "dark brown," as indicated by bar BR14.

<3-3. Example of stool volume display>
Next, an example of displaying the amount of stool will be described with reference to Figs. 18 and 19. Figs. 18 and 19 are diagrams showing an example of displaying the amount of stool. Specifically, Fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of displaying the ratio of each amount of stool for all users. Also, Fig. 19 is a diagram showing an example of displaying the ratio of each amount of stool for users corresponding to the user attribute to which the user to be displayed belongs. Note that explanations of the same points as those in Figs. 14 to 17 above will be omitted.

First, an example of processing when all users are the target will be described with reference to FIG. 18. For example, the server device 400 obtains the amount of stool for each user from the defecation information database 421. If the average amount of stool per day is low in the defecation data for user AAA stored in the defecation information database 421 for a specified period (e.g., the most recent week or month), the server device 400 determines the amount of stool for user AAA to be "low." Similarly, the server device 400 determines the amount of stool for each user whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421.

The server device 400 generates a graph GR15 shown in FIG. 18 using the proportion of users corresponding to the amount of each stool. The horizontal axis of graph GR15 indicates the amount of stool, and the vertical axis indicates the proportion (%) of users. A plurality of bar graphs (bars) in graph GR15 indicate the proportion of users corresponding to each amount of stool. Moreover, the bar BR15 indicated by the arrow labeled "You" in the graph GR15 indicates the percentage of users whose stool volume is "low" to which you, the user AAA, belong. Server device 400 transmits graph GR15 to user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of the user AAA that has received the graph GR15 displays the graph GR15. Thereby, the user AAA can recognize the user's proportion of the amount of stool. In addition, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow indicating "you" pointing to bar BR15 indicates to the user AAA, who is the information provider, that he or she belongs to the user whose stool volume is "low" as indicated by bar BR15. can be recognized.

Next, with reference to FIG. 19, an example of processing will be described in which only users corresponding to the user attribute "50s female" to which the user AAA belongs (users corresponding to the attribute) are targeted. For example, the server device 400 acquires the amount of feces of the user corresponding to the attribute from the defecation information database 421. Among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421, the server device 400 identifies a user whose age corresponds to "50s" and whose gender corresponds to "female" as a user corresponding to the attribute, and selects a user corresponding to the specified attribute. Obtain the amount of stool of the user.

The server device 400 determines and totals the amount of feces for the user whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421. Then, the server device 400 calculates the proportion of users corresponding to each stool amount by dividing the total number of stool amounts of all attribute applicable users by the number of all attribute applicable users.

The server device 400 then generates graph GR16 shown in FIG. 19 using the percentage of users that fall into each calculated stool volume. The horizontal axis of graph GR16 indicates the stool volume, and the vertical axis indicates the percentage of users (%). Multiple bar graphs (bars) in graph GR16 indicate the percentage of users that fall into each stool volume. Also, bar BR16 pointed to by an arrow labeled "you" in graph GR16 indicates the percentage of users with a "low" stool volume, which includes you, user AAA. The server device 400 transmits graph GR16 to the user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of user AAA that receives graph GR16 displays graph GR16. This allows user AAA to recognize the percentage of users with the same user attributes as user AAA who have a large amount of stool. Furthermore, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow labeled "you" pointing to bar BR16 allows user AAA, who is the recipient of the information, to recognize that he or she belongs to the group of users with a "small" amount of stool, as indicated by bar BR16.

<3-4. Example of excretion time display>
Next, a display example of the time required for excretion (also called "excretion time") will be described with reference to Figs. 20 and 21. Figs. 20 and 21 are diagrams showing an example of a display regarding the time required for excretion. Specifically, Fig. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a display showing the proportion of the time required for each excretion for all users. Also, Fig. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a display showing the proportion of the time required for each excretion for users corresponding to the user attribute to which the user to be displayed belongs. In Figs. 20 and 21, the server device 400 counts the excretion time based on a time range divided by a predetermined length (e.g., 10 seconds, 30 seconds, etc.), but the time range can be set arbitrarily (e.g., 1 second intervals, 5 second intervals, etc.). Note that the same points as those in Figs. 14 to 19 described above will not be described.

First, an example of processing when all users are targeted will be explained using FIG. 20. For example, the server device 400 acquires each user's defecation time from the defecation information database 421. The server device 400 determines that, for the user AAA, among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421, the average value of the defecation time in the defecation data for a predetermined period (for example, the most recent week or month) is in the 40 second range. If so, the user AAA's excretion time is determined to be "40 seconds". Similarly, the server device 400 determines the defecation time for each user whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421.

The server device 400 generates a graph GR17 shown in FIG. 20 using the proportion of users corresponding to each excretion time. The horizontal axis of graph GR17 shows the excretion time, and the vertical axis shows the proportion (%) of users. A plurality of bar graphs (bars) in graph GR17 indicate the proportion of users corresponding to each excretion time. Moreover, the bar BR17 indicated by the arrow labeled "You" in the graph GR17 indicates the proportion of users with an excretion time of "40 seconds" to which you, the user AAA, belong. Server device 400 transmits graph GR17 to user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of the user AAA that has received the graph GR17 displays the graph GR17. This allows the user AAA to recognize the user's rate of excretion time. In addition, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow indicating "you" pointing to bar BR17 indicates to user AAA, who is the information provider, that he or she belongs to the user whose excretion time is "40 seconds" indicated by bar BR17. can be recognized.

Next, with reference to FIG. 21, an example of a process in which only users who correspond to the user attribute "female in 50s" to which user AAA belongs (attribute applicable users) will be described. For example, the server device 400 acquires the defecation time of the user corresponding to the attribute from the defecation information database 421. Among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421, the server device 400 identifies a user whose age corresponds to "50s" and whose gender corresponds to "female" as a user corresponding to the attribute, and selects a user corresponding to the specified attribute. Obtain the user's excretion time.

The server device 400 determines and tally up the excretion times for attribute-matching users whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421. The server device 400 then calculates the proportion of users who fall into each excretion time by dividing the number of excretion times of all attribute-matching users that have been tallied by the number of all attribute-matching users.

The server device 400 then generates graph GR18 shown in FIG. 21 using the calculated proportion of users that fall into each excretion time. The horizontal axis of graph GR18 indicates the excretion time, and the vertical axis indicates the proportion of users (%). Multiple bar graphs (bars) in graph GR18 indicate the proportion of users that fall into each excretion time. Also, bar BR18 pointed to by an arrow labeled "you" in graph GR18 indicates the proportion of users with an excretion time of "40 seconds", which includes you, user AAA. The server device 400 transmits graph GR18 to the user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of user AAA that receives graph GR18 displays graph GR18. This allows user AAA to recognize the percentage of users with the same user attributes as user AAA who have the same excretion time. Furthermore, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow labeled "you" pointing to bar BR18 allows user AAA, who is the recipient of the information, to recognize that he or she belongs to the group of users with an excretion time of "40 seconds" as indicated by bar BR18.

<3-5. Example of fecal odor display>
Next, an example of a display of stool odor will be described with reference to Figs. 22 and 23. Figs. 22 and 23 are diagrams showing an example of a display related to stool odor. Specifically, Fig. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a display showing the proportion of each stool odor for all users. Also, Fig. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a display showing the proportion of each stool odor for users who fit the user attribute to which the user to be displayed belongs. Note that a description of the same points as those in Figs. 14 to 21 above will be omitted.

First, an example of processing when all users are targeted will be explained using FIG. 22. For example, the server device 400 acquires the smell of each user's stool from the defecation information database 421. The server device 400 determines, for the user AAA, the most frequent fecal odor in the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421 for a predetermined period (for example, the most recent week or month). If it is "not smelly", the odor of user AAA's stool is determined to be "not smelly". Similarly, the server device 400 determines the smell of feces for each user whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421.

The server device 400 generates a graph GR19 shown in FIG. 22 using the proportion of users corresponding to each stool odor. The horizontal axis of graph GR19 indicates the smell of stool, and the vertical axis indicates the proportion (%) of users. A plurality of bar graphs (bars) in graph GR19 indicate the percentage of users who correspond to each stool odor. In addition, a bar BR19 indicated by an arrow labeled "You" in the graph GR19 indicates the percentage of users who agree that the stool smell "doesn't smell" to which you, the user AAA, belongs. Server device 400 transmits graph GR19 to user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of the user AAA that has received the graph GR19 displays the graph GR19. Thereby, the user AAA can recognize the percentage of the user who smells stool. In addition, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow indicating "you" pointing to bar BR19 indicates to the user AAA, who is the information provider, that the user belongs to the user whose stool odor is "not smelly" as indicated by bar BR19. can be made aware of this.

Next, with reference to FIG. 23, an example of a process in which only users corresponding to the user attribute "Female in 50s" to which user AAA belongs (attribute applicable users) will be described. For example, the server device 400 acquires the odor of the feces of the user corresponding to the attribute from the defecation information database 421. Among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421, the server device 400 identifies a user whose age corresponds to "50s" and whose gender corresponds to "female" as a user corresponding to the attribute, and selects the user corresponding to the specified attribute. Obtain the smell of the user's stool.

The server device 400 determines and totals the odor of feces for users whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421. Then, the server device 400 calculates the proportion of users corresponding to each stool odor by dividing the total number of stool odors of all attribute applicable users by the number of all attribute applicable users.

The server device 400 then generates graph GR20 shown in FIG. 23 using the calculated percentage of users for each stool odor. The horizontal axis of graph GR20 indicates the stool odor, and the vertical axis indicates the percentage of users (%). Multiple bar graphs (bars) in graph GR20 indicate the percentage of users for each stool odor. Also, bar BR20 pointed to by an arrow labeled "you" in graph GR20 indicates the percentage of users for whom you, user AAA, fall under the category of "not smelly" stool odor. The server device 400 transmits graph GR20 to the user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of user AAA that has received graph GR20 displays graph GR20. This allows user AAA to recognize the percentage of users with the same user attributes as user AAA who have stool odor. Furthermore, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow labeled "you" pointing to bar BR20 allows user AAA, who is the recipient of the information, to recognize that he or she belongs to the group of users whose stool odor is "not smelly," as indicated by bar BR20.

<3-6. Example of display of excretion interval>
Next, a display example of the excretion interval (interval from the previous time) will be described using FIGS. 24 and 25. FIGS. 24 and 25 are diagrams showing examples of displays related to excretion intervals. Specifically, FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a display showing the ratio of each excretion interval for all users. Further, FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a display showing the ratio of each excretion interval for users corresponding to the user attribute to which the user to be displayed belongs. In FIGS. 24 and 25, the server device 400 aggregates the excretion intervals based on time ranges divided by predetermined intervals (for example, three or more times a day, twice a day, etc.), but the intervals can be set as desired. (For example, every 12 hours, once every 1.5 days, etc.) is possible. Note that explanations of points similar to those in FIGS. 14 to 23 described above will be omitted.

First, an example of processing when all users are targeted will be described using FIG. 24. For example, the server device 400 obtains the defecation interval of each user from the defecation information database 421. The server device 400 determines, for the user AAA, a trimmed average of defecation intervals (for example, the top 5% and the average when excluding the bottom 5%) is greater than 24 hours and less than 48 hours, the user AAA's excretion interval is determined to be "every two days." Similarly, the server device 400 determines the defecation interval for each user whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421.

The server device 400 generates a graph GR21 shown in FIG. 24 using the proportion of users corresponding to each excretion interval. The horizontal axis of graph GR21 indicates the excretion interval, and the vertical axis indicates the proportion (%) of users. A plurality of bar graphs (bars) in graph GR21 indicate the proportion of users corresponding to each excretion interval. Furthermore, a bar BR21 indicated by an arrow labeled "You" in the graph GR21 indicates the proportion of users with the excretion interval "every two days" to which you, the user AAA, belong. Server device 400 transmits graph GR21 to user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of the user AAA that has received the graph GR21 displays the graph GR21. Thereby, the user AAA can recognize the user's ratio of the excretion interval. In addition, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow indicating "you" pointing to bar BR21 indicates to the user AAA, who is the information provider, that he or she belongs to the user whose excretion interval is "every 2 days" indicated by bar BR21. can be recognized.

Next, with reference to FIG. 25, an example of processing will be described when only users corresponding to the user attribute "Female in 50s" to which the user AAA belongs (users corresponding to the attribute) are targeted. For example, the server device 400 obtains the defecation interval of the user corresponding to the attribute from the defecation information database 421. Among the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421, the server device 400 identifies a user whose age corresponds to "50s" and whose gender corresponds to "female" as a user corresponding to the attribute, and selects a user corresponding to the specified attribute. Obtain the user's excretion interval.

The server device 400 determines and totals the defecation interval for the user whose defecation data is stored in the defecation information database 421. Then, the server device 400 calculates the proportion of users corresponding to each excretion interval by dividing the total number of excretion intervals for all attributes applicable users by the number of all attribute applicable users.

The server device 400 then generates graph GR22 shown in FIG. 25 using the calculated percentage of users that fall into each excretion interval. The horizontal axis of graph GR22 indicates the excretion interval, and the vertical axis indicates the percentage of users (%). Multiple bar graphs (bars) in graph GR22 indicate the percentage of users that fall into each excretion interval. Also, bar BR22 pointed to by an arrow labeled "you" in graph GR22 indicates the percentage of users with an excretion interval of "every 2 days," which includes you, user AAA. The server device 400 transmits graph GR22 to the user terminal 200 used by user AAA.

The user terminal 200 of user AAA that has received graph GR22 displays graph GR22. This allows user AAA to recognize the proportion of users with the same user attributes as user AAA who have the same excretion interval. Furthermore, in the excretion information management system 1, an arrow labeled "you" pointing to bar BR22 allows user AAA, who is the recipient of the information, to recognize that he or she belongs to the group of users with an excretion interval of "every two days" as indicated by bar BR22.

The above-described embodiments and variations can be combined as appropriate to the extent that they do not cause any inconsistencies in the processing content.

The user's attributes may be the area of residence or weight. For example, if the area of residence differs greatly, the food culture will differ, and the characteristics of the stool will also differ. Therefore, defecation data may be displayed for each area of residence. For example, if the weight differs greatly, the amount of food eaten will also differ. In addition, the intestinal flora of obese people and thin people will differ, and the characteristics of the stool will also differ. Therefore, defecation data may be displayed for each weight.

When a user ID, which is user identification information, is registered in the defecation information database 421, user attribute information may be registered together with the user information.

The specified period for tallying up the defecation data stored in the defecation information database 421 is set to the most recent week or month from the date and time of measurement, but is not limited to this and may be a single defecation, a day, or a year. In addition, the user can change the display period by operating the user terminal 200 to switch the specified period for tallying up.

The range of users to be collected in the defecation information database 421 is not limited, and may be all users of the excretion information management system, or a range may be set. For example, the database may be targeted at employees of a single company. In this case, the user himself/herself can know his/her own position among employees of the single company. Also, for example, the database may be targeted at users in a specific residential area.

In the above-described embodiments and modified examples, examples have been described in which defecation data is automatically input, but the user may input all defecation records manually. In this case, after the user defecates, the user can visually and olfactory check the stool, and input the defecation data by operating the user terminal 200.

In each of the embodiments and modifications described above, a toilet room is used as the plumbing equipment, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be applied to, for example, a bathroom, a bathtub, a vanity, a kitchen, etc.

In each of the embodiments and modifications described above, the excretion information management system 1 has been described as a biological information management system. The present invention is not limited to the excretion information management system 1, that is, a system that manages excretion information, but may also be a system that manages biological information. The biological information may be at least one of information regarding feces, information regarding urine, information regarding defecation gas, information regarding blood flow, and information regarding heartbeat.

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.

R Toilet room 1 Excretion information management system (biometric information management system)
2 Toilet seat device 21 Communication unit 22 Memory unit 23 Control unit 231 Acquisition unit 232 Clock unit 233 Request unit 3 Main body unit 30 Main body cover 31 Opening 4 Toilet lid 5 Toilet seat 6 Cleansing nozzle 60 Nozzle cover 7 Western-style toilet bowl (toilet bowl)
71 Solenoid valve 8 Bowl portion 9 Rim portion 10 Operation device 11 Display screen 200 User terminal 301 Sitting sensor 302 Camera 350 Gas sensor unit 351 Fan 352 Odor sensor 400 Server device 410 Communication unit 420 Storage unit 421 Defecation information database (biological information database)
430 Control unit 431 Reception unit 432 Registration unit 433 Provision unit

Claims (4)

A biological information management system for collecting and managing biological information of a person in a water-related facility, comprising:
a storage unit that stores at least one of information on stool, information on urine, information on bowel gas, information on blood flow, and information on heart rate as biological information of an individual;
A display unit that displays the biometric information data;
having
The display unit,
Displaying biometric information data of a plurality of people and biometric information data of an individual;
or displaying information showing a comparison between the biometric data of a plurality of people and the biometric data of an individual;
The biometric information management system is characterized in that the information displayed in a manner comparing the biometric information data of the multiple people with an individual's biometric information data is stored in the memory unit in association with information on the individual's attributes, the collected data is compiled by attribute, and the biometric information data of the multiple people that match the individual's attributes is displayed on the display unit in a manner comparing the individual's biometric information data. The biometric information management system according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays information obtained by processing personal biometric information data into representative values for a predetermined period in a manner that compares the information. The biometric information management system according to claim 2, wherein personal biometric information data is stored in the storage unit in an anonymized state. a detection unit that detects at least one of information regarding feces, information regarding urine, information regarding defecation gas, information regarding blood flow, and information regarding heartbeat;
has
The biological information management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the biological information data detected by the detection unit is automatically stored in the storage unit.