Health condition estimation system for toilet users

Abstract

To provide a health condition estimation system for toilet users, which appropriately estimates health conditions of people.SOLUTION: In a health condition estimation system for toilet users disclosed herein, a condition estimation device comprises log information acquisition means (an acquisition unit) for acquiring a toilet log indicative of a usage status of a toilet apparatus, and condition estimation means (an estimation unit) for estimating a health condition of a toilet user based on the toilet log acquired by the log information acquisition means. The condition estimation means estimates an intestinal condition, including constipation or diarrhea, on the basis of a defecation record included in the toilet log.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The disclosed embodiment relates to a health condition estimation system for a toilet user. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, people have become more health-conscious, and there is an increasing need to check their health condition and improve their lifestyle as necessary by monitoring (observing) their health condition on a daily basis. For example, there is a health management system that can provide more personalized prediction results for each user (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-174168 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the above-mentioned conventional technology has room for improvement. For example, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, in order to grasp the health condition of a user (subject to health management), it is necessary to access a medical information database having the user's medical information, and if the medical information of the person (user) who is to be the subject of health management cannot be obtained, it is difficult to grasp the health condition of the person (user). Thus, the above-mentioned conventional technology has room for improvement in terms of the information used to grasp the person's health condition. Therefore, it is desired to appropriately estimate the person's health condition using, for example, information obtained from the person's daily life.

[0005] In view of the above, the challenge is to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0006] An object of the disclosed embodiment is to provide a toilet user's health condition estimation system that can appropriately estimate a person's health condition. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A toilet user's health condition estimation system in one aspect of an embodiment comprises a log information acquisition means for acquiring a toilet log indicating the usage status of a toilet device, and a state estimation means for estimating the toilet user's health condition based on the toilet log acquired by the log information acquisition means, wherein the state estimation means estimates intestinal condition, including constipation or diarrhea, based on the defecation record included in the toilet log.

[0008] According to a toilet user's health condition estimation system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by estimating the intestinal condition, including constipation or diarrhea, based on the defecation record included in the toilet log, the toilet user's intestinal condition can be appropriately estimated from the toilet log. This enables the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0009] In a toilet user's health condition estimation system according to one aspect of an embodiment, the condition estimation means estimates the intestinal condition based on a toilet log indicating multiple instances of toilet usage.

[0010] According to a toilet user's health condition estimation system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by estimating the toilet user's intestinal condition based on not only a single toilet usage log but multiple toilet usage logs, it is possible to increase the accuracy of estimating the intestinal condition, thereby enabling the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0011] A toilet user's health condition estimation system in one aspect of an embodiment further includes a notification means for notifying the toilet user of the intestinal condition estimation result estimated by the condition estimation means, and the notification means notifies the toilet user of the intestinal condition estimation result when the toilet log indicating the toilet usage status for multiple instances satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0012] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a toilet user's health condition estimation system, when a toilet log indicating multiple toilet usages meets specified conditions, the toilet user is notified of the estimated result of the toilet user's intestinal condition, making it possible to provide notification at a more appropriate time.

[0013] In a toilet user's health condition estimation system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet log indicating the toilet usage status for multiple instances includes a toilet log indicating the start and end of use of the toilet device.

[0014] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet user's health condition estimation system estimates the toilet user's intestinal condition based on multiple toilet usage logs that indicate the start and end of use of the toilet device, thereby increasing the accuracy of estimating the intestinal condition. This enables the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0015] In a toilet user's health condition estimation system according to one aspect of an embodiment, the condition estimation means estimates the intestinal condition based on the urination record included in the toilet log in addition to the defecation record.

[0016] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet user's health condition estimation system estimates the intestinal condition based on the urination record in addition to the defecation record, thereby making it possible to estimate the intestinal condition more accurately. This enables the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0017] In one aspect of an embodiment of a health condition estimation system for a toilet user, the condition estimation means estimates constipation when the number of defecations within a specified period does not satisfy a specified number condition and when the number of urinations within a specified period satisfies a specified number condition.

[0018] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet user's health condition estimating system can accurately estimate whether or not a person is constipated by inferring that the person is constipated when the number of defecations within a predetermined period does not satisfy a predetermined condition and when the number of urinations within a predetermined period does satisfy a predetermined condition. This allows the toilet user's health condition estimating system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0019] In a toilet user's health condition estimation system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the condition estimation means estimates the intestinal condition based on the defecation record as well as information on whether the toilet user is at home.

[0020] According to a toilet user's health condition estimation system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by estimating the intestinal condition based on information on whether the toilet user is at home in addition to the defecation record, it is possible to estimate the intestinal condition more accurately based on the period of time the toilet user is at home. This enables the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0021] In one aspect of an embodiment of a health condition estimation system for a toilet user, the condition estimation means estimates constipation when the sitting time recorded on the toilet device included in the toilet log is longer than a specified sitting condition.

[0022] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet user's health condition estimation system can more accurately estimate constipation by inferring that the person is constipated when the sitting time recorded in the toilet log as being longer than a predetermined sitting condition, thereby enabling the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate the person's health condition.

[0023] In a toilet user's health condition estimation system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the predetermined sitting condition is the average time that the toilet user sits on the toilet device during a predetermined period of time.

[0024] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet user's health condition estimation system can more accurately estimate constipation by inferring that the toilet user is constipated when the sitting time recorded in the toilet log as a sitting time on the toilet device is longer than the average time that the toilet user spent sitting on the toilet device over a specified period of time. This allows the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0025] In one aspect of an embodiment, in a health condition estimation system for a toilet user, the condition estimation means estimates constipation when the number of times the flushing function of the toilet device, which is included in the toilet log, is used is greater than a predetermined flush count condition.

[0026] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet user's health condition estimation system can more accurately estimate constipation by inferring that the toilet user is constipated when the number of times the flush function of the toilet device, which is included in the toilet log, is used is greater than a predetermined flush count condition. This allows the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0027] In a health condition estimation system for a toilet user according to one aspect of an embodiment, the predetermined flush count condition includes an average number of times the toilet user uses a flush function in a predetermined period of time.

[0028] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet user's health condition estimation system can more accurately estimate constipation by inferring that the toilet user is constipated when the number of times the flushing function of the toilet device, included in the toilet log, is used is greater than the average number of times the flushing function was used by the toilet user over a specified period of time. This allows the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0029] In a health condition estimation system for a toilet user in one aspect of an embodiment, the condition estimation means estimates the health condition of the toilet user to be frail if the number of times the constipation is estimated to be satisfied a predetermined condition.

[0030] According to an aspect of an embodiment, the toilet user's health condition estimation system is able to estimate frailty from the toilet usage situation, thereby enabling the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0031] In one aspect of an embodiment, a health state estimation system for a toilet user includes a notification unit that notifies a predetermined destination of a predetermined question regarding an estimation result of the state estimation unit, The notification means notifies the predetermined question when the estimation result of the state estimation means satisfies a predetermined notification condition.

[0032] According to a toilet user's health condition estimation system according to one aspect of the embodiment, when estimating the toilet user's health condition from the toilet usage status of the toilet user, by notifying the toilet user of a question based on the estimation result, the toilet usage status can be supplemented by the answer to the question, and the toilet user's health condition based on the toilet usage status can be easily and appropriately estimated. This allows the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition. Therefore, the toilet user's health condition estimation system can effectively utilize information obtained from a person's daily life.

[0033] In one aspect of an embodiment, the health condition estimation system for a toilet user further comprises a response result acquisition means for acquiring a response result of the toilet user to the predetermined question, When the state estimation means estimates the intestinal condition of the toilet user after the response result acquisition means acquires the toilet user's response result, the state estimation means estimates the intestinal condition of the toilet user based on the defecation record and the toilet user's response result.

[0034] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet user's health condition estimation system uses the toilet user's (user's) response to an initially estimated health condition in estimating the next health condition, thereby increasing the accuracy of the health condition estimation, thereby enabling the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition. Effect of the Invention

[0035] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a person's health condition can be appropriately estimated. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0036] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a state estimation process according to the embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a system chart relating to health conditions. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a health condition estimation system for a toilet user according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a state estimation device according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a system chart relating to intestinal conditions. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a system chart relating to overactive bladder. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of an estimation process related to overactive bladder. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a system chart relating to nocturia, frailty, and safety confirmation. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a determination pattern relating to nocturia. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a system chart relating to stress. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of a health condition estimation system for a toilet user. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a function sharing pattern in the health condition estimation system. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an estimation target and a notification condition in the health condition estimation system. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a notification process. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a notification process. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a notification process. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a notification process. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a notification process. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a notification process. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a notification process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0037] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a toilet user health condition estimation system (also simply referred to as a "health condition estimation system") disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.

[0038] <1. Example of information processing> First, an overview of information processing executed in a health condition estimation system 1 (see FIG. 3) according to an embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a condition estimation process according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a system chart related to a health condition. The health condition here indicates a person's health-related condition, and examples thereof include intestinal condition, nocturia, overactive bladder, menstrual cycle, stress, frailty, etc. Intestinal condition also includes various things that may indicate a person's intestinal condition, such as constipation, diarrhea, intestinal environment, etc. Note that the above is merely an example, and the health condition is not limited to the above, and is not limited to the above as long as it is related to a person's health.

[0039] First, an overview of the processing in the health condition estimation system 1, including transmission and reception of information between each device of the health condition estimation system 1, will be described using Fig. 1, and then each information processing will be described in detail using Fig. 2. In Fig. 1, a case in which a user U1 residing in a house provided with a toilet space PS1 is a subject of health condition estimation (a toilet user), will be described as an example, and a terminal device 10 used by the user U1 will be described as an example of a device. Note that the device is not limited to the terminal device 10 used by the user U1, and variations in the configuration of the health condition estimation system 1 including this point will be described later.

[0040] 1, the state estimation device 100 acquires information collected by the toilet device 50 arranged in the toilet space PS1 of the home of the user U1 from the toilet device 50 (step S1). For example, the state estimation device 100 acquires toilet data of the user U1 collected by the toilet device 50 in the toilet space PS1 from the toilet device 50. For example, the state estimation device 100 acquires information collected about the user U1 such as the number of urinations, urination date and time, number of defecations, defecation date and time, start of menstruation, sleeping hours, number of cleanings, etc. as the toilet data of the user U1.

[0041] Furthermore, state estimation device 100 acquires information collected by cloud 2 from cloud 2 (step S2). For example, state estimation device 100 acquires external data of user U1 collected by cloud 2 from a server device included in cloud 2. For example, state estimation device 100 acquires information such as dietary information, sleep information, and exercise information of user U1 as external data of user U1. Note that if state estimation device 100 does not use external data in the health state estimation process, it is not necessary to perform the process of step S2.

[0042] Furthermore, the state estimation device 100 acquires information collected by the terminal device 10 used by the user U1 who is a toilet user from the terminal device 10 (step S3). For example, the state estimation device 100 acquires user information of the user U1 collected by the terminal device 10 used by the user U1 from the terminal device 10. For example, the state estimation device 100 acquires, from the terminal device 10, user information that the user U1 inputs to the terminal device 10 by operating the terminal device 10. For example, the state estimation device 100 acquires information such as the mental state, physical state, start and end of menstruation, and type of defecation of the user U1 as the user information of the user U1.

[0043] If the condition estimation device 100 does not use user information in the health condition estimation process, it is not necessary to perform the process of step S3. Furthermore, the above-mentioned steps S1 to S3 may be performed at any timing as long as they are performed before step S4, for example, step S2 or step S3 may be performed before step S1, and each of steps S1 to S3 may be performed multiple times.

[0044] Then, the state estimation device 100 estimates the health state of the user U1 using the acquired information (step S4). For example, the state estimation device 100 estimates the health state of the user U1 using toilet data of the user U1, external data, user information, etc. For example, the state estimation device 100 estimates the health state of the user U1 based on a health state flag that associates the toilet usage status with a predetermined health state pattern.

[0045] Then, when the estimation result satisfies the conditions for notification, the state estimation device 100 notifies the user U1 of the estimation result (step S5). For example, when the estimation result satisfies the conditions for notification, the state estimation device 100 transmits information about the estimation result to the terminal device 10 used by the user U1. In this case, the terminal device 10 that has received the information from the state estimation device 100 notifies the user U1 by displaying the received information or outputting it as voice. Note that the notification destination of the information about the estimation result is not limited to the user U1, and may be the family of the user U1, other entities related to the health management of the user U1 (medical institutions such as medical institutions, etc.), etc.

[0046] In this way, by preparing predetermined criteria that associate toilet usage with predetermined health condition patterns in advance, health condition estimation system 1 can easily estimate the health condition of the toilet user based on the toilet usage. This enables the toilet user's health condition estimation system to appropriately estimate a person's health condition.

[0047] From here, an example of a system chart related to health condition will be described with reference to Fig. 2. System chart SC1 in Fig. 2 shows an example of a system chart related to health condition. As shown in the system chart SC1, the health condition estimation system 1 collects daily information, grasps daily and aging health conditions, grasps health conditions, and utilizes services.

[0048] The health state estimation system 1 collects toilet log data (also simply referred to as "toilet log"). For example, the health state estimation system 1 collects, as the toilet log, information such as the time spent sitting on the toilet seat, the number of times the user sat on the toilet seat, cleaning information such as rear washing or bidet use, toilet bowl cleaning information such as large flush or small flush, the time from entering the toilet space to sitting on the toilet seat, the time from leaving the toilet seat to leaving the toilet space, and execution of the cleaning mode. Note that the above is merely an example, and the health state estimation system 1 may collect various information as the toilet log, without being limited to the above. For example, the health state estimation system 1 may collect, as the toilet log, information such as the time from entering the toilet space to leaving the toilet space, and the time from sitting on the toilet seat to leaving the toilet seat.

[0049] The health condition estimation system 1 collects health care information. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 acquires information such as the number of urinations, urination date and time, number of defecations, defecation date and time, start of menstruation, sleep time, number of cleanings, etc. as toilet data. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 acquires information such as mental state, physical state, start of menstruation, end of menstruation, type of defecation, etc. as user information. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 acquires information such as dietary information, sleep information, exercise information, etc. as external data.

[0050] The health condition estimation system 1 performs visualization using the collected health care information. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 performs visualization by generating information showing changes in mental state, changes in physical state, a menstrual cycle chart, changes in frequency of urination, changes in bowel movement status, etc.

[0051] The health condition estimation system 1 performs flag-based processing using the collected health care information. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates the health condition of the toilet user based on the result of comparing the health care information with the health condition flag.

[0052] Health condition estimation system 1 confirms the condition of the toilet user based on the estimated health condition. For example, health condition estimation system 1 confirms the condition of the toilet user by having the toilet user respond as to whether or not the estimated health condition is correct. For example, health condition estimation system 1 confirms the condition of the toilet user by having the toilet user respond Yes if the estimated health condition is correct, i.e., correct, and No if the estimated health condition is incorrect, i.e., incorrect.

[0053] The health state estimation system 1 performs feedback (FB) based on the result of the state confirmation. For example, the health state estimation system 1 updates a health state flag based on the result of the state confirmation. For example, if the result of the state confirmation shows that the estimated health state is incorrect, i.e., the answer is No, the health state estimation system 1 lowers the priority of the flag used for the estimation or changes the conditions of the flag, as will be described in detail later.

[0054] Furthermore, the health condition estimation system 1 shares the result of the condition check with the family of the toilet user. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 may receive settings for the sharing range and sharing content of the result of the condition check.

[0055] Furthermore, health condition estimation system 1 asks the toilet user a question based on the result of the condition check. For example, health condition estimation system 1 may provide the toilet user with words of encouragement or suggest that they undergo a medical interview, based on the result of the condition check. For example, health condition estimation system 1 may ask the toilet user a health condition check. Furthermore, for example, health condition estimation system 1 may make recommendations to the toilet user regarding diet, sleep, exercise, bathing, (stress) relief, etc.

[0056] Furthermore, the health condition estimation system 1 may provide a reward to the toilet user. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 may award points according to the achievement of a behavioral goal.

[0057] <2. Example of toilet user health status estimation system configuration> Next, an example of the configuration of health condition estimation system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a health condition estimation system for a toilet user according to an embodiment. Fig. 3 shows an example of the configuration of health condition estimation system 1, and other configuration examples will be described later.

[0058] Health condition estimation system 1 includes cloud 2a, cloud 2b, terminal device 10a, terminal device 10b, and a toilet device 50. Note that health condition estimation system 1 may include multiple toilet devices 50. For example, terminal device 10a is a device used by a toilet user, and terminal device 10b is a device used by a user other than the toilet user (a third party).

[0059] When the cloud 2a, cloud 2b, etc. are not to be particularly distinguished from each other, they will be described as cloud 2. Note that while Fig. 3 shows an example in which two clouds, cloud 2a and cloud 2b, are included, the health state estimation system 1 may include one cloud 2 or three or more clouds 2.

[0060] When the terminal device 10a, the terminal device 10b, etc. are not particularly distinguished from each other, they will be described as the terminal device 10. Note that, while Fig. 3 shows an example in which two clouds, the terminal device 10a and the terminal device 10b, the health state estimation system 1 may include one terminal device 10, or may include three or more terminal devices 10.

[0061] Cloud 2a provides users with services related to the health condition of toilet users. Cloud 2a is a cloud that includes multiple server devices, etc. For example, the server devices of cloud 2a can transmit and receive information to and from other server devices of cloud 2b, toilet devices 50, terminal devices 10, etc. via a predetermined network such as the Internet.

[0062] For example, the state estimation device 100 shown in Fig. 1 may be a server device included in cloud 2a. In this case, the cloud 2 shown in Fig. 1 may be cloud 2b. The state estimation device 100 is an information processing device that estimates the health state of a toilet user. The state estimation device 100 is connected to a toilet device 50, a terminal device 10, other server devices of cloud 2b, etc., via a predetermined network such as the Internet, so as to be able to communicate with them via wired or wireless communication.

[0063] Cloud 2b provides users with a service different from that of cloud 2a. Cloud 2b is a cloud that includes multiple server devices, etc. For example, the server devices of cloud 2b can transmit and receive information to and from other server devices of cloud 2a, toilet devices 50, terminal devices 10, etc., via a predetermined network such as the Internet.

[0064] The terminal device 10 is a device used by a user. The terminal device 10 is realized by, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet terminal, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), etc. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the terminal device 10 is a smartphone used by a user.

[0065] The terminal device 10 is a device that collects user information and transmits it to the state estimation device 100. The terminal device 10 is also an output device that outputs information notified from the state estimation device 100. The terminal device 10 is communicatively connected to the cloud 2, the state estimation device 100, etc. via a predetermined network such as the Internet, and transmits and receives information between the cloud 2, the state estimation device 100, etc. The terminal device 10 displays the information received from the state estimation device 100. The terminal device 10 may also output the information received from the state estimation device 100 by voice.

[0066] The toilet device 50 is a toilet arranged in the residence of a toilet user. For example, the toilet device 50 is a toilet arranged in the residence of a user U1. The toilet device 50 has a function of collecting a toilet log. The toilet device 50 has various sensors for collecting the toilet log. For example, the toilet device 50 has a seating detection sensor, and collects behavioral information related to the toilet user's sitting and leaving the seat indicated by detection by the seating detection sensor as the toilet log. For example, the toilet device 50 has a human body detection sensor that functions as an entry detection sensor for collecting the entry and exit of the toilet user to the toilet space, and collects behavioral information related to the toilet user's entry and exit to the toilet space as the toilet log. Note that the toilet device 50 does not need to have an entry detection sensor, but this point will be described later.

[0067] The toilet device 50 collects, as a toilet log, information about the toilet user's use of the toilet, operation information for an operation device for operating the toilet device 50, etc. The operation device for the toilet device 50 may be in any form as long as it is capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from the toilet device 50, and may be provided integrally with the toilet device 50 or may be located at any position in the toilet space (for example, on the wall W in FIG. 1).

[0068] The toilet device 50 collects toilet logs such as the time the toilet user has sat, the number of times the user has sat, cleaning information such as rear cleaning or bidet use, toilet bowl cleaning information such as large flush or small flush, the time from entering the toilet space to sitting down, the time from leaving the seat to leaving, the time from entering the space to leaving, the time from leaving the seat to sitting back down, and execution of the cleaning mode.

[0069] The toilet device 50 has a communication function and can transmit and receive information to and from a server device of the cloud 2a or the like via a predetermined network such as the Internet. The toilet device 50 may also have a function as information analysis means. For example, the toilet device 50 analyzes at least one piece of information on the frequency, date and time, amount, and nature of urination or defecation based on the toilet log. For example, the toilet device 50 performs analysis of the frequency of urination and defecation based on the toilet log as information analysis means.

[0070] For example, when the toilet user operates the operating device of the toilet device 50 to perform a large flush, the toilet device 50 estimates that the toilet user's use is for defecation. For example, when the toilet user operates the operating device of the toilet device 50 to perform a small flush, the toilet device 50 estimates that the toilet user's use is for urination. Note that the above is merely an example, and the toilet device 50 may perform information analysis using various information to estimate how the toilet user used the toilet. In addition, the function of the information analysis means is not limited to the toilet device 50, and may be possessed by other components included in the health condition estimation system 1, and variations in the system configuration of the health condition estimation system 1 will be described later.

[0071] Note that the above is merely an example, and the health state estimation system 1 may have any device configuration as long as it can realize the desired processing. For example, the health state estimation system 1 may have various sensors for collecting toilet logs. For example, the health state estimation system 1 may have a door sensor that detects the opening and closing of the door to the toilet space as an entry detection sensor for collecting the entry and exit of the toilet user to the toilet space. In this case, the door sensor communicates with the toilet device 50 and transmits information regarding the entry and exit of the toilet user to the toilet device 50. Thus, the above system configuration is merely an example, and the health state estimation system 1 may have any system configuration as long as it can realize the desired processing.

[0072] <3. Functional configuration of the state estimation device> Hereinafter, a functional configuration of the state estimating device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the state estimating device according to the embodiment.

[0073] 4, the state estimation device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. The state estimation device 100 may also have an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) that accepts various operations from an administrator of the state estimation device 100, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) that displays various information.

[0074] The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a communication circuit. The communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 110 transmits and receives information to and from other devices having communication functions, such as a server device of the cloud 2, the terminal device 10, and the toilet device 50, via a predetermined network such as the Internet.

[0075] The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 120 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by the health condition estimation program.

[0076] The storage unit 120 according to the embodiment includes a toilet data storage unit 121, an external data storage unit 122, and a user information storage unit 123, as shown in FIG.

[0077] The toilet data storage unit 121 according to the embodiment stores various information related to toilet users. The toilet data storage unit 121 stores information related to the actions and conditions of toilet users in the toilet. For example, the toilet data storage unit 121 stores toilet data obtained from an analysis of a toilet log.

[0078] The toilet data storage unit 121 stores information related to the urination of the toilet user. For example, the toilet data storage unit 121 stores the number of urinations and the date and time of urination. The toilet data storage unit 121 also stores information related to the defecation of the toilet user. For example, the toilet data storage unit 121 stores the number of defecations and the date and time of defecation. The toilet data storage unit 121 also stores information related to the menstruation of the toilet user. For example, the toilet data storage unit 121 stores information indicating the start of menstruation.

[0079] The toilet data storage unit 121 stores information related to the sleep of the toilet user. For example, the toilet data storage unit 121 stores information indicating the sleeping hours. The toilet data storage unit 121 stores information related to the cleaning of the toilet device 50. For example, the toilet data storage unit 121 stores information indicating the number of cleanings.

[0080] The toilet data storage unit 121 may store various information according to the purpose, not limited to the above. For example, when there are multiple toilet users, the toilet data storage unit 121 stores information identifying the toilet user (e.g., a user ID) in association with the information on the toilet user.

[0081] The external data storage unit 122 according to the embodiment stores external data. For example, the external data storage unit 122 stores external data (external information) collected from other services or the like.

[0082] The external data storage unit 122 stores meal information related to meals. For example, the external data storage unit 122 stores meal information indicating the details of the meal of the toilet user. The external data storage unit 122 stores sleep information related to sleep. For example, the external data storage unit 122 stores sleep information indicating the details of the sleep of the toilet user. The external data storage unit 122 stores exercise information related to exercise. For example, the external data storage unit 122 stores exercise information indicating the details of the exercise of the toilet user.

[0083] Note that external data storage unit 122 is not limited to the above and may store various kinds of information according to the purpose. For example, when there are multiple toilet users, external data storage unit 122 stores information identifying the toilet user (e.g., a user ID) in association with information on the toilet user.

[0084] The user information storage unit 123 according to the embodiment stores user information. For example, the user information storage unit 123 stores various types of user information related to users who use the toilet. For example, the user information storage unit 123 stores user information collected by input from the user.

[0085] The user information storage unit 123 stores user information relating to the mental state of the toilet user. For example, the user information storage unit 123 stores user information indicating the mental state of the toilet user input by the toilet user himself / herself.

[0086] For example, user information storage unit 123 stores input information of health information that a toilet user wishes to input. For example, user information storage unit 123 stores input information including answer information of the toilet user to multiple choice questions about his / her health condition. For example, user information storage unit 123 stores input information including answer information of the toilet user to a question for checking a stress state.

[0087] The user information storage unit 123 stores user information relating to the physical condition of the toilet user. For example, the user information storage unit 123 stores user information indicating the physical condition of the toilet user input by the toilet user himself / herself.

[0088] User information storage unit 123 stores user information relating to the menstruation of the toilet user. For example, user information storage unit 123 stores user information indicating the start and end of the toilet user's menstruation input by the toilet user herself.

[0089] Note that the user information storage unit 123 is not limited to the above and may store various kinds of information according to the purpose. For example, when there are multiple toilet users (users), the user information storage unit 123 stores information identifying the toilet user (for example, a user ID) in association with the information on the toilet user.

[0090] Note that the above is merely an example, and storage unit 120 stores various information used in processing. Storage unit 120 stores various information used in estimation processing. Storage unit 120 stores information used to estimate a health condition. For example, storage unit 120 stores information indicating a predetermined standard that associates toilet usage with a predetermined health condition pattern. For example, storage unit 120 stores information indicating a predetermined estimation condition that associates toilet usage, answer information, and a predetermined health condition.

[0091] For example, the memory unit 120 stores flags (also called "health condition flags") indicating conditions for estimating various health conditions. For example, the memory unit 120 stores an intestinal condition flag indicating conditions for estimating intestinal condition. For example, the memory unit 120 stores a constipation flag indicating conditions for estimating constipation. For example, the memory unit 120 stores a diarrhea flag indicating conditions for estimating diarrhea.

[0092] Also, for example, the storage unit 120 stores an overactive bladder flag indicating a condition for estimating overactive bladder. For example, the storage unit 120 stores a frailty flag indicating a condition for estimating frailty. For example, the storage unit 120 stores a menstrual cycle flag indicating a condition for estimating a menstrual cycle. For example, the storage unit 120 stores a safety status flag indicating a condition for estimating a safety status.

[0093] For example, the storage unit 120 stores information for estimating a health condition such as nocturia. For example, the storage unit 120 stores a nocturia flag indicating a condition for estimating nocturia. For example, the storage unit 120 stores information indicating an estimation condition determined based on a toilet usage status during a predetermined time period in a predetermined period included in the toilet log.

[0094] For example, the storage unit 120 stores information for estimating a health condition such as stress. For example, the storage unit 120 stores a stress flag indicating a condition for estimating stress. For example, the storage unit 120 stores information indicating an estimation condition determined based on a toilet usage status during a predetermined period.

[0095] Furthermore, the storage unit 120 may store a toilet log. For example, when the state estimation device 100 analyzes the toilet log to obtain (generate) toilet data, the storage unit 120 stores the toilet log. In this case, for example, the storage unit 120 stores information for performing information analysis. For example, the storage unit 120 stores information for generating at least one piece of information from the toilet log, including the number of times, date and time, amount, and nature of urination or defecation.

[0096] The control unit 130 is realized, for example, by a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like executing a program (for example, a health state estimation program according to the present disclosure) stored inside the state estimation device 100 using a RAM or the like as a working area. The control unit 130 is also realized, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0097] The control unit 130 has an acquisition unit 131, an estimation unit 132, and a notification unit 133, and realizes or executes the functions and actions of information processing described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 3, and may be other configurations as long as they perform the information processing described below.

[0098] The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information. The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 receives various information from various computers such as the toilet device 50 and the terminal device 10. The acquisition unit 131 acquires health care information such as toilet data, external data, and user information. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires toilet data from the toilet data storage unit 121. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires external data from the external data storage unit 122. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires user information from the user information storage unit 123.

[0099] For example, the acquisition unit 131 receives health care information from another device included in the health condition estimation system 1. For example, the acquisition unit 131 receives toilet data from another device having a function as an information analysis means for analyzing at least one piece of information among the frequency, date and time, amount, and characteristics of urination or defecation based on the toilet log. For example, the acquisition unit 131 receives toilet data from the toilet device 50 having a function as an information analysis means.

[0100] The acquisition unit 131 may function as a log information acquisition means for acquiring a toilet log. In this case, the acquisition unit 131 receives a toilet log indicating the usage status of the toilet device 50 from the toilet device 50. For example, the acquisition unit 131 receives information indicating a user's operation on an operation device of the toilet device 50 from the toilet device 50. The acquisition unit 131 receives information indicating a user's sitting on the toilet device 50 from the toilet device 50. The acquisition unit 131 receives information indicating a user's leaving the toilet device 50 from the toilet device 50.

[0101] The acquisition unit 131 receives, from the toilet device 50, information indicating a user's entry into the toilet space PS1 in which the toilet device 50 is arranged. The acquisition unit 131 receives, from the toilet device 50, information indicating a user's exit from the toilet space PS1 in which the toilet device 50 is arranged.

[0102] Acquisition unit 131 may also function as input information acquisition means for acquiring input information of health information relating to the mental or physical state of the toilet user. In this case, acquisition unit 131 receives input information of health information relating to the mental or physical state of the toilet user from terminal device 10, which is entered by the toilet user to terminal device 10. In this way, acquisition unit 131 may acquire input information of health information relating to the mental or physical state of the toilet user. The input information of health information includes answer information of the toilet user to multiple choice questions about his or her health condition. The questions include questions to confirm the stress state.

[0103] Acquisition unit 131 may also function as a response result acquisition means for acquiring a response result of the toilet user to an inquiry about the toilet user's health condition notified by the information notification means. In this case, acquisition unit 131 receives from terminal device 10 the response result of the toilet user to the content notified to terminal device 10 of the toilet user who is the notification destination. In this way, acquisition unit 131 may acquire the response result of the toilet user to the inquiry about the toilet user's health condition notified by notification unit 133.

[0104] The estimation unit 132 functions as a state estimation means for estimating the health state of the toilet user. The estimation unit 132 performs state estimation processing using information stored in the storage unit 120. The estimation unit 132 performs state estimation processing using information received from various computers such as the toilet device 50 and the terminal device 10.

[0105] The estimation unit 132 estimates the health condition of the toilet user based on the toilet log acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The estimation unit 132 estimates the health condition of the toilet user based on a predetermined criterion that associates the toilet usage status acquired from the toilet log with a predetermined health condition pattern.

[0106] The estimation unit 132 estimates the health state of the toilet user based on predetermined estimation conditions that associate the toilet usage status and answer information acquired from the toilet log with a predetermined health state. The estimation unit 132 estimates the stress state of the toilet user as the health state of the toilet user.

[0107] When estimation unit 132 estimates the health condition of the toilet user after acquisition unit 131 acquires the toilet user's response result, estimation unit 132 estimates the health condition of the toilet user based on the toilet log and the toilet user's response result. Estimation unit 132 estimates the health condition of the toilet user based on the analysis result of the toilet log. Estimation unit 132 performs estimation of the toilet user's health condition based on the toilet log indicating multiple instances of toilet usage. The toilet log indicating multiple instances of toilet usage includes toilet logs indicating the start and end of use of the toilet device 50.

[0108] The estimation unit 132 may function as an information analysis means for analyzing at least one piece of information among the frequency, date and time, amount, and nature of urination or defecation based on the toilet log. The estimation unit 132 estimates the health condition of the toilet user based on the analysis results obtained by the analysis performed as the information analysis means.

[0109] The estimation unit 132 estimates the intestinal condition, including constipation or diarrhea, as the health condition of the toilet user based on the defecation record included in the toilet log. The estimation unit 132 estimates the intestinal condition based on the urination record included in the toilet log in addition to the defecation record. The estimation unit 132 estimates constipation when the number of defecations within a specified period does not satisfy a specified number of times condition and when the number of urinations within a specified period satisfies a specified number of times condition.

[0110] The estimation unit 132 estimates constipation when the sitting time on the toilet device, which is included in the toilet log and is a record of sitting on the toilet device, is longer than a predetermined sitting condition. The predetermined sitting condition is the average time that a toilet user sits on the toilet device in a predetermined period of time. The sitting record is a type of defecation record included in the toilet log. In this way, the defecation record may include a sitting record.

[0111] The estimation unit 132 estimates constipation when the number of uses of the flushing function of the toilet device included in the toilet log is greater than a predetermined flushing number condition. The predetermined flushing number condition includes the average number of times the toilet user uses the flushing function in a predetermined period. The estimation unit 132 estimates the health condition of the toilet user to be frail when the estimated number of times of constipation satisfies the predetermined condition. The number of uses of the flushing function of the toilet device is a type of defecation record included in the toilet log. In this way, the defecation record may include the number of uses of the flushing function of the toilet device. Note that the defecation record may include various information related to the user's defecation, not limited to the above, and the defecation record may be read as a defecation-related record.

[0112] When toilet usage during a specified time period is confirmed to exceed the estimation conditions determined based on toilet usage during a specified time period during a specified period included in the toilet log, the estimation unit 132 estimates nocturia as the toilet user's health condition. The estimation unit 132 refers to the number of toilet uses during time periods other than the specified time period included in the toilet log, changes the estimation conditions or judgment algorithm, and estimates nocturia. The estimation unit 132 estimates the presence or absence of nocturia based on the defecation record and urination record included in the toilet log.

[0113] The estimation unit 132 estimates frailty based on the number of times that nocturia is estimated to be occurring and the number of times that constipation is estimated to be occurring. The estimation unit 132 estimates frailty when the number of times that nocturia is estimated to be occurring exceeds a predetermined number.

[0114] Estimation unit 132 estimates the presence or absence of overactive bladder as a health condition of the toilet user based on the number of urinations obtained by analyzing the toilet log. Estimation unit 132 estimates the menstrual cycle as a health condition of the toilet user based on at least one of the toilet usage conditions of bidet flushing, flushing time, sitting time, and toilet entry and exit time obtained by analyzing the toilet log.

[0115] The estimation unit 132 estimates a stress state as the health state of the toilet user from the toilet usage status acquired based on the toilet log, based on estimation conditions determined based on the toilet usage status during a predetermined period acquired based on the toilet log. The estimation unit 132 estimates a stress state when a defecation record or urination record during a predetermined period that does not satisfy the estimation conditions is confirmed. The estimation unit 132 estimates the presence or absence of a disruption of the life rhythm when a change occurs in the toilet usage status during a predetermined time period that does not satisfy the estimation conditions, and estimates a stress state when the disruption of the life rhythm continues for a predetermined period or frequency.

[0116] The estimation unit 132 estimates frailty based on the number of times the stress state is estimated. The estimation unit 132 estimates a frailty state as the health condition of the toilet user based on at least one of the toilet usage conditions, including the number of defecations, the urination record, the sitting time, and nocturia, obtained by analyzing the toilet log.

[0117] Furthermore, the estimation unit 132 may have a function as an information generating means for generating various pieces of information to be notified by the notification unit 133. In this case, the estimation unit 132 generates various pieces of information using information acquired from other devices, information stored in the storage unit 120, etc. The estimation unit 132 generates information using information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The estimation unit 132 generates information using an estimation result.

[0118] The estimation unit 132 generates various information such as a screen (image information) to be provided to an external information processing device by appropriately using various techniques. The estimation unit 132 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to the terminal device 10. For example, the estimation unit 132 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to the terminal device 10 based on the information stored in the storage unit 120.

[0119] The estimation unit 132 may generate a screen (image information) or the like by any process as long as the screen (image information) or the like to be provided to an external information processing device can be generated. For example, the estimation unit 132 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to the terminal device 10 by appropriately using various technologies related to image generation, image processing, and the like. For example, the estimation unit 132 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to the terminal device 10 by appropriately using various technologies such as Java (registered trademark).

[0120] Notification unit 133 functions as an information notification means for notifying the toilet user of information related to the health condition of the toilet user. Notification unit 133 also functions as a notification means for notifying the toilet user of the estimation result of the health condition of the toilet user estimated by the condition estimation means.

[0121] The notification unit 133 transmits information to an external information processing device. For example, the notification unit 133 transmits various information to a computer such as the toilet device 50 or the terminal device 10. The notification unit 133 notifies the toilet user by transmitting information estimated by the estimation unit 132 to the terminal device 10. The notification unit 133 notifies the toilet user by transmitting information generated by the estimation unit 132 to the terminal device 10.

[0122] In this way, notification unit 133 notifies the toilet user of information regarding the toilet user's health condition. Notification unit 133 notifies the toilet user of information regarding the toilet user's health condition by transmitting the information regarding the toilet user's health condition to terminal device 10 used by the toilet user.

[0123] Notification unit 133 has a second notification mode in which it notifies the toilet user of suggested information regarding improving the toilet user's health based on the toilet user's response result acquired by acquisition unit 131. For example, in the second notification mode, notification unit 133 transmits the suggested information to terminal device 10 used by the toilet user.

[0124] Notification unit 133 has a first notification mode in which it notifies a predetermined destination other than the toilet user of the toilet user's answer information acquired by the answer acquisition means. For example, in the first notification mode, notification unit 133 transmits the toilet user's answer information to terminal device 10 used by other users, such as the toilet user's family or the administrator of the toilet user's medical interview institution.

[0125] Notification unit 133 notifies the toilet user of the estimation result of the toilet user's health condition estimated by estimation unit 132. Notification unit 133 notifies the toilet user of the estimation result of the toilet user's health condition when the toilet log indicating multiple toilet usages satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0126] <4. Examples of health conditions> From here, some specific examples of subjects to be estimated as health conditions will be described. Note that the following are merely examples, and the health conditions are not limited to the examples shown below, and any information related to human health can be used. Also, explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0127] <4-1. First Example (Intestinal Condition)> For example, health condition estimation system 1 may estimate the intestinal condition of the toilet user as the toilet user's health condition. In a first example, health condition estimation system 1 estimates the intestinal condition, including constipation or diarrhea, based on a defecation record included in a toilet log. Health condition estimation system 1 performs estimation of the intestinal condition based on the toilet log indicating multiple toilet usages. Health condition estimation system 1 estimates the intestinal condition based on information on whether the toilet user is at home, in addition to the defecation record.

[0128] The health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user of the estimated constipation result. The health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user of the estimated intestinal condition result when the toilet log indicating multiple toilet usages satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0129] From here, an example of a system chart related to intestinal condition will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a system chart related to intestinal condition. System chart SC2 in FIG. 5 shows an example of a system chart related to intestinal condition. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in FIG. 2 and the like will be omitted as appropriate. Also, FIG. 5 mainly shows constipation as an example of intestinal condition, but as described above, intestinal condition is not limited to constipation, and may include various things that can indicate a person's intestinal condition, such as diarrhea and intestinal environment.

[0130] The health condition estimation system 1 estimates the intestinal condition of the toilet user using an intestinal condition flag, which is a health condition flag related to the intestinal condition. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates the intestinal condition of the toilet user using a constipation flag, which is an example of an intestinal condition flag.

[0131] In the system chart SC2 of FIG. 5, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates the intestinal condition of the toilet user using the constipation flags (1) to (5).

[0132] Constipation flag (1) is a flag set under the condition that the toilet user who is to be the presumed subject has a bowel movement frequency of less than three times a week. Constipation flag (2) is a flag set under the condition that the toilet user who is to be the presumed subject has a record of urination but no record of a bowel movement for three or more consecutive days. Constipation flag (3) is a flag set under the condition that the sitting time of the toilet user who is to be the presumed subject is 1.5 times or more longer than the average. Note that the average here may be the average of the toilet user's own past sitting time, or the average of the sitting time of other users other than the toilet user (for example, users with similar attributes to the toilet user).

[0133] Furthermore, constipation flag (4) is a flag that is set as a condition when the toilet user who is to be the estimated subject has used the rear wash three or more times. Furthermore, constipation flag (5) is a flag that is set as a condition when the toilet user who is to be the estimated subject is around the time of menstruation (15 days before to after menstruation). Note that the above-mentioned flags are merely examples of intestinal condition flags, and health condition estimation system 1 may use flags that include various conditions related to intestinal condition as intestinal condition flags.

[0134] The health condition estimation system 1 estimates whether the toilet user is constipated depending on whether the conditions indicated by the constipation flags (1) to (5) are satisfied. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 may use all of the constipation flags (1) to (5) in one estimation process, and estimate that the toilet user is constipated if the condition of any of the constipation flags (1) to (5) is satisfied.

[0135] For example, the health state estimation system 1 may use some of the constipation flags (1) to (5) in one estimation process. In this case, for example, the health state estimation system 1 may execute the estimation process using a flag selected from the constipation flags (1) to (5) in one estimation process. For example, the health state estimation system 1 may execute the estimation process using a flag selected from the constipation flags (1) to (5) based on the priority assigned to each of the constipation flags (1) to (5).

[0136] Furthermore, the health state estimation system 1 performs feedback (FB) based on the result of the state confirmation. For example, the health state estimation system 1 performs feedback as shown in FB details in FIG.

[0137] For example, if the health state estimation system 1 finds that the estimated intestinal condition is not in line with the condition check, i.e., No, the health state estimation system 1 may lower the priority of the flag used for the estimation as an overall FB. In this case, the health state estimation system 1 may lower the frequency with which the flag used for the estimation is adopted. For example, if the estimated intestinal condition is not in line with the condition check, the health state estimation system 1 may use the flag used for the estimation only once in three times.

[0138] For example, if the estimated intestinal condition is not in line with the health condition estimation system 1, the flag used for the estimation may be invalidated for a certain period of time. For example, if the estimated intestinal condition is not in line with the health condition estimation system 1, the flag used for the estimation may not be used as a flag for one week from the time of the estimation process.

[0139] For example, if the health condition estimation system 1 finds that the intestinal condition is in good condition, i.e., Yes, as a result of checking the condition, the health condition estimation system 1 may increase the priority of the flag used in the estimation. In this case, the health condition estimation system 1 may increase the frequency with which the flag used in the estimation is adopted.

[0140] For example, if the health condition estimation system 1 finds that the intestinal condition is not in good condition as a result of checking the condition, i.e., the answer is No, the health condition estimation system 1 may update the content of the flag as an individual FB. In this case, the health condition estimation system 1 updates the content of the flag used for the estimation.

[0141] For example, if the intestinal condition estimated using constipation flag (2) is not in line with the intestinal condition, health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold number of days included in constipation flag (2). For example, if the intestinal condition estimated using constipation flag (3) is not in line with the intestinal condition, health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold time included in constipation flag (3). For example, if the intestinal condition estimated using constipation flag (4) is not in line with the intestinal condition, health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold number of times included in constipation flag (4). Note that the above-mentioned feedback is merely an example, and health condition estimation system 1 may provide any feedback depending on the results of the estimation process.

[0142] In the system chart SC2 of FIG. 5, the health condition estimation system 1 may conduct a symptom check on the toilet user as a medical interview.

[0143] <4-2. Second example (overactive bladder)> For example, the health condition estimation system 1 may estimate overactive bladder of the toilet user as the health condition of the toilet user. In a second example, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates overactive bladder based on the toilet log.

[0144] From here, an example of a system chart related to overactive bladder will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a system chart related to overactive bladder. A system chart SC3 in Fig. 6 shows an example of a system chart related to overactive bladder. Note that the same points as those described in Fig. 2, Fig. 5, etc. will not be described as appropriate.

[0145] The health state estimation system 1 estimates the overactive bladder of the toilet user using an overactive bladder flag, which is a health state flag related to overactive bladder. In the system chart SC3 of Fig. 6, the health state estimation system 1 estimates the overactive bladder of the toilet user using the overactive bladder flags (1) to (3).

[0146] Overactive bladder flag (1) is a flag set under a condition that the toilet user who is the subject of estimation urinates 8 times or more per day. Overactive bladder flag (2) is a flag set under a condition that the toilet user who is the subject of estimation urinates a certain number of times during the time between arriving at home and sleeping, i.e., the time spent at home excluding the time spent sleeping. Overactive bladder flag (3) is a flag set under a condition that the average weekly number of urinations of the toilet user who is the subject of estimation has been increasing compared to the previous week or earlier. Note that the above-mentioned flags are merely examples of overactive bladder flags, and health condition estimation system 1 may use flags including various conditions related to overactive bladder as the overactive bladder flag.

[0147] Health state estimation system 1 estimates whether or not the toilet user has overactive bladder depending on whether or not the conditions indicated by overactive bladder flags (1) to (3) are satisfied. For example, health state estimation system 1 may use all of overactive bladder flags (1) to (3) in one estimation process, and estimate that the toilet user has overactive bladder if the conditions of any of overactive bladder flags (1) to (3) are satisfied. For example, health state estimation system 1 may execute the estimation process using a flag selected from overactive bladder flags (1) to (3) based on the priority assigned to each of overactive bladder flags (1) to (3).

[0148] Furthermore, the health state estimation system 1 performs feedback (FB) based on the result of the state confirmation. For example, the health state estimation system 1 performs feedback as shown in FB details in FIG.

[0149] For example, if the health condition estimation system 1 checks the condition and finds that the estimated overactive bladder is incorrect, i.e., No, the overall FB is the same as that shown in Figure 5, so detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0150] For example, if the health state estimation system 1 finds that the estimated overactive bladder is not correct as a result of checking the state, i.e., the result is No, the health state estimation system 1 may update the content of the flag as an individual FB. In this case, the health state estimation system 1 updates the content of the flag used for the estimation.

[0151] For example, if the overactive bladder estimated using overactive bladder flag (1) is inaccurate, health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold number of times included in overactive bladder flag (1). Similarly, for overactive bladder flag (2) and overactive bladder flag (3), health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold number of times included in those flags if the overactive bladder estimated using those flags is inaccurate. Note that the above-mentioned feedback is merely an example, and health condition estimation system 1 may provide any feedback depending on the result of the estimation process.

[0152] In the system chart SC3 of FIG. 6, the health condition estimation system 1 may conduct an overactive bladder check on the toilet user as a medical interview.

[0153] Here, an example of an estimation process related to overactive bladder will be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an estimation process related to overactive bladder. Estimation example EX1 in FIG. 7 shows an estimation example using the overactive bladder flag (2) shown in FIG. 6. Estimation example EX1 shows a case where user U1, who is a toilet user, goes out between 8:00 and 18:00 in a day and is at home the rest of the time. In estimation example EX1, the periods when user U1 is at home are between 6:00 and 8:00 and between 18:00 and 22:00, and are periods when user U1 is awake (this is referred to as "at-home time").

[0154] For example, the health state estimation system 1 estimates the sleep time of user U1 using information acquired about user U1. For example, when the health state estimation system 1 acquires sleep information indicating the sleep time of user U1 as external data, it estimates the sleep time of user U1 using the acquired external data. In FIG. 7, the health state estimation system 1 estimates that the sleep time of user U1 is between midnight and 6:00 and between 22:00 and 24:00 in one day. Note that the above is merely an example, and the health state estimation system 1 may estimate the sleep time of the toilet user using various information, not limited to the sleep information.

[0155] For example, in the case of normal judgment, the condition is that urination occurs eight or more times during waking hours. In this case, for example, the condition is met for overactive bladder flag (2) when the number of times of urination while at home is equal to or greater than "time at home / time waking up x 8 times." In the estimation example EX1 in FIG. 7, the threshold value for overactive bladder flag (2) is 3 times, which is "time at home 6 hours / time waking up 16 hours x 8 times."

[0156] In the estimation example EX1 of Figure 7, the actual number of times the toilet user urinates while at home is 5 times, which is greater than the threshold value of "3 times," so the health condition estimation system 1 determines that the overactive bladder flag (2) is satisfied and estimates that the toilet user who is the estimation target has overactive bladder.

[0157] <4-3. Third example (nocturia, frailty, safety status)> For example, health condition estimation system 1 may estimate nocturia of the toilet user as the toilet user's health condition. In a third example, health condition estimation system 1 estimates nocturia when toilet usage during a specified time period is confirmed to exceed an estimation condition determined based on toilet usage during a specified time period in a specified period included in the toilet log. Health condition estimation system 1 performs an estimation of nocturia based on the toilet log indicating toilet usage multiple times.

[0158] The health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user of the estimated nocturia result. The health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user of the estimated nocturia result when a toilet log indicating multiple toilet usages satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0159] From here, an example of a system chart relating to nocturia, frailty, and safety status will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a system chart relating to nocturia, frailty, and safety status. System chart SC4 in Fig. 8 shows an example of a system chart relating to nocturia, frailty, and safety status. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in Figs. 2, 5, 6, etc. will be omitted as appropriate.

[0160] The health condition estimation system 1 estimates the nocturnal frequency of the toilet user using a nocturnal frequency of the toilet user, which is a health condition flag related to nocturnal frequency of the toilet user. The health condition estimation system 1 also estimates the frailty of the toilet user using a frailty flag, which is a health condition flag related to frailty. The health condition estimation system 1 also estimates the safety condition of the toilet user using a safety condition flag, which is a health condition flag related to safety condition. In the following description, when the nocturnal frequency of the toilet user flag, the frailty flag, and the safety condition flag are not differentiated, they may be referred to as nocturnal frequency of the toilet user flag. In the system chart SC4 of FIG. 8, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates the nocturnal frequency of the toilet user, frailty, and safety condition of the toilet user using the nocturnal frequency of the toilet user flags (1) to (7).

[0161] The nocturnal frequency of urination flag (1) is a flag that sets a condition that the toilet user who is the subject of estimation urinates at night once or more per day.

[0162] Frailty flag (2) is a flag that is set when the mental or physical condition of the toilet user who is to be presumed to be a subject is "bad" for three consecutive days. Frailty flag (3) is a flag that is set when the toilet user who is to be presumed to be a subject uses the toilet during the day for three consecutive days. Frailty flag (4) is a flag that is set when the toilet user has not cleaned the toilet for a week, for example. This is a flag that must not be present.

[0163] The frailty flag (5) is a flag that is set on the condition that the nocturia flag satisfies a condition, i.e., the toilet user who is the presumed subject is presumed to have nocturia. The frailty flag (6) is a flag that is set on the condition that the constipation flag satisfies a condition, i.e., the toilet user who is the presumed subject is presumed to have constipation.

[0164] Furthermore, the safety status flag (7) is a flag that is set on the condition that the toilet user who is the estimation subject does not use the toilet all day. Note that the above-mentioned flag is merely an example of the nocturia, etc. flag, and the health condition estimation system 1 may use a flag including various conditions related to nocturia, frailty, safety status, etc. as the nocturia, etc. flag.

[0165] The health condition estimation system 1 estimates whether the toilet user has nocturnal frequency of urination depending on whether the conditions indicated by the nocturnal frequency of urination flag (1) etc. are met. The health condition estimation system 1 estimates whether the toilet user is frail depending on whether the conditions indicated by the frailty flags (2)-(6) etc. are met. The health condition estimation system 1 estimates whether the toilet user is in a situation where it is necessary to check their safety depending on whether the conditions indicated by the nocturnal frequency of urination flag (7) etc. are met.

[0166] Furthermore, the health state estimation system 1 performs feedback (FB) based on the result of the state confirmation. For example, the health state estimation system 1 performs feedback as shown in FB details in FIG.

[0167] For example, if the health condition estimation system 1 checks the condition and finds that the estimation result is incorrect, i.e., No, it may lower the priority of the flag used for the estimation as an overall FB. For example, if the health condition estimation system 1 checks the condition and finds that the estimation result is correct, i.e., Yes, it may raise the priority of the flag used for the estimation. In addition, the health condition estimation system 1 may change the frequency with which flags are enabled depending on the mental state of the toilet user.

[0168] For example, if the health condition estimation system 1 checks the condition and finds that the estimation result is incorrect, i.e., No, the health condition estimation system 1 may update the contents of the flag as an individual FB. In this case, the health condition estimation system 1 updates the contents of the flag used in the estimation.

[0169] For example, if the estimation result using the nocturia flag (1) is inaccurate, the health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold number of times or period included in the nocturia flag (1). For example, if the estimation result using the frailty flag (2) is inaccurate, the health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold number of days included in the frailty flag (2). For example, if the estimation result using the frailty flag (3) is inaccurate, the health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold number of days included in the frailty flag (3).

[0170] For example, if the estimation result using the frailty flag (4) is inaccurate, the health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold period included in the frailty flag (4). For example, if the estimation result using the frailty flag (7) is inaccurate, the health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold period included in the frailty flag (7). Note that the above-mentioned feedback is merely an example, and the health condition estimation system 1 may perform any feedback depending on the result of the estimation process.

[0171] In the system chart SC4 of FIG. 8, the health condition estimating system 1 may ask the toilet user questions such as a nocturia check, a check for polyuria, a frailty check, and the like.

[0172] An example of an estimation process for nocturia will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a judgment pattern for nocturia. Pattern example PL1 in Fig. 9 shows five patterns A to E as examples of judgment patterns for nocturia. Note that patterns A to E are merely examples, and the health condition estimation system 1 may make a judgment for nocturia according to any pattern, not limited to patterns A to E.

[0173] For example, if the daytime urination frequency is normal, as in pattern A or pattern B, the health condition estimation system 1 determines nocturia using the normal threshold. For example, if the daytime urination frequency is abnormal and the nighttime urination frequency is within the normal threshold, as in pattern C or pattern D, the health condition estimation system 1 may also suspect polyuria, etc., and determine whether or not there is nocturia by asking additional questions. For example, if the daytime urination frequency is abnormal but the nighttime urination frequency is also higher than expected, as in pattern E, the health condition estimation system 1 determines there is nocturia.

[0174] As described above, the health condition estimation system 1 changes the estimation criteria or judgment algorithm for nocturia with reference to the number of urinations during the day. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold for judging nocturia, asks additional questions without changing the threshold, or judges nocturia by changing the threshold and asking additional questions. In this way, the health condition estimation system 1 refers to the number of toilet usages during time periods other than the specified time period included in the toilet log, changes the estimation conditions or judgment algorithm, and estimates nocturia.

[0175] <4-4. Fourth Example (Stress)> For example, health condition estimation system 1 may estimate the stress of the toilet user as the health condition of the toilet user. In a fourth example, health condition estimation system 1 estimates a stress state from toilet usage status acquired based on the toilet log, based on estimation conditions that are determined based on toilet usage status over a predetermined period acquired based on the toilet log. Health condition estimation system 1 performs stress state estimation based on the toilet log indicating multiple instances of toilet usage status.

[0176] The health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user of the estimated stress state. The health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user of the estimated stress state when a toilet log indicating multiple toilet usages satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0177] From here, an example of a system chart related to stress will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a system chart related to stress. System chart SC5 in Fig. 10 shows an example of a system chart related to stress. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in Figs. 2, 5, 6, 8, etc. will be omitted as appropriate.

[0178] Health condition estimation system 1 estimates the stress of the toilet user using a stress flag, which is a health condition flag related to stress. In system chart SC5 in Fig. 10, health condition estimation system 1 estimates the stress state of the toilet user using stress flags (1) to (6).

[0179] Stress flag (1) is a flag set as a condition when the mental state of the toilet user to be estimated is "bad" for three consecutive days. Stress flag (2) is a flag set as a condition when the average number of bowel movements per week of the toilet user to be estimated, for example the average number of bowel movements in the most recent week, increases or decreases by three or more times compared to the previous week. Stress flag (3) is a flag set as a condition when the average number of urinations per week of the toilet user to be estimated, for example the average number of urinations in the most recent week, increases or decreases by three or more times compared to the previous week.

[0180] Stress flag (4) is a flag set under the condition that the toilet user to be estimated is around the time of menstruation (10 days before to 7 days after). Stress flag (5) is a flag set under the condition that the toilet user to be estimated does not have a morning bowel movement more than twice a week, or the time of morning bowel movements varies by one hour or more. Stress flag (6) is a flag set under the condition that the average sleep time of the toilet user to be estimated is six hours or less, or the sleep time varies by two hours or more. Note that the above-mentioned flags are merely examples of stress flags, and health condition estimation system 1 may use flags including various conditions related to the stress state as stress flags.

[0181] Health condition estimating system 1 estimates whether the toilet user is constipated depending on whether the conditions indicated by stress flags (1) to (6) are met. For example, health condition estimating system 1 may use all of stress flags (1) to (6) in one estimation process, and estimate that the toilet user is constipated if the condition of any of stress flags (1) to (6) is met. For example, health condition estimating system 1 may execute the estimation process using a flag selected from stress flags (1) to (6) based on the priority assigned to each of stress flags (1) to (6).

[0182] Furthermore, the health state estimation system 1 performs feedback (FB) based on the result of the state confirmation. For example, the health state estimation system 1 performs feedback as shown in FB details in FIG.

[0183] For example, if the health condition estimation system 1 checks the condition and finds that the estimated stress state is incorrect, i.e., No, it may lower the priority of the flag used for the estimation as an overall FB. For example, if the health condition estimation system 1 checks the condition and finds that the estimated stress state is correct, i.e., Yes, it may raise the priority of the flag used for the estimation. In addition, the health condition estimation system 1 may change the frequency with which the flag is enabled depending on the mental state of the toilet user.

[0184] For example, if the health condition estimation system 1 checks the condition and finds that the estimated stress state is incorrect, i.e., the result is No, the health condition estimation system 1 may update the content of the flag as an individual FB. In this case, the health condition estimation system 1 updates the content of the flag used for the estimation.

[0185] For example, if the stress state estimated using stress flag (1) is inaccurate, health condition estimation system 1 changes the period included in stress flag (1). For example, if the stress state estimated using stress flag (2) is inaccurate, health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold number of times included in stress flag (2). For example, if the stress state estimated using stress flag (3) is inaccurate, health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold number of times included in stress flag (3).

[0186] For example, if the stress state estimated using the stress flag (5) is inaccurate, health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold number of times or time included in the stress flag (5). For example, if the stress state estimated using the stress flag (6) is inaccurate, health condition estimation system 1 changes the threshold time included in the stress flag (6). Note that the above-mentioned feedback is merely an example, and health condition estimation system 1 may provide any feedback depending on the result of the estimation process.

[0187] In the system chart SC5 of FIG. 10, the health condition estimation system 1 may conduct a stress check on the toilet user as a medical interview.

[0188] <5. Variations in health status estimation systems> It should be noted that the above-described configuration and processing are merely examples of the configuration and processing of the health condition estimation system, and the health condition estimation system may have various configurations and perform various processing. Some examples in this regard will be described below.

[0189] <5-1. System configuration examples> As described above, the configuration example of health condition estimation system 1 shown in FIG. 3 is merely one example of a health condition estimation system, and the health condition estimation system can have any configuration. For example, the health condition estimation system may have a configuration as shown in FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another configuration example of a health condition estimation system for a toilet user. Health condition estimation system 1A in FIG. 11 differs from the above-mentioned health condition estimation system 1 in that terminal device 10a communicates with and receives information from the toilet device 50.

[0190] 11, for example, the terminal device 10a is communicably connected to the toilet device 50 via a predetermined network such as the Internet, and transmits and receives information between the terminal device 10a and the toilet device 50. Any communication mode may be adopted, and the terminal device 10a may communicate with the toilet device 50 via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) (registered trademark).

[0191] In this way, the health condition estimation system may adopt either a system configuration of health condition estimation system 1, which is a pattern in which data from the toilet is transmitted to the cloud, or health condition estimation system 1A, which is a pattern in which data from the toilet is transmitted to a device.

[0192] For example, in the health state estimation systems 1, 1A, etc., the state estimation device 100 may cooperate with a cloud operated by another business operator or the like to obtain external data, and may receive data from the other business operator via the cloud or a device. The state estimation device 100 may communicate with another cloud of the business operator that manages the state estimation device 100 and receive data. The state estimation device 100 may also transmit data to a cloud operated by another business operator or the like.

[0193] For example, in the health condition estimation systems 1, 1A, etc., when providing a service such as monitoring, information on the toilet user may be transmitted from the toilet user's device or the cloud to a third party's device. Also, for example, in the health condition estimation systems 1, 1A, etc., for the purpose of communication, information may be transmitted from a third party's device to the toilet user's own device via the cloud or directly. For example, in the case of toilet-cloud communication such as in the health condition estimation system 1, software (applications) inside the toilet (for example, the toilet device 50) may be updated via the cloud.

[0194] <5-2. Example of functional allocation pattern in health status estimation system> A functional sharing pattern in the health condition estimation system will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a functional sharing pattern in the health condition estimation system. For example, Fig. 12 shows an example of a pattern of where the processes on the various system charts described above are performed.

[0195] As shown in FIG. 12, the process of "log data collection" is executed in the toilet. Furthermore, data from the toilet can be transmitted in two ways: via the cloud or via a device. For example, collection of toilet logs shown as "log data collection" in FIG. 12 is performed by a component arranged in the toilet, such as the toilet device 50. For example, conversion of toilet logs into toilet data (healthcare information, etc.) shown as "log to healthcare conversion" in FIG. 12 may be performed by any of the components arranged in the toilet, the cloud, or a device.

[0196] Moreover, collection of external information (external data) is performed by a cloud, for example, a server device, or a device. Moreover, estimation of the health state is performed by the cloud or a device, for example, a device functioning as condition estimation device 100. For example, when a device estimates the health state, in health state estimation system 1, terminal device 10a may have the function of condition estimation device 100.

[0197] In this way, the "log data collection" process is performed in the restroom, but other processes ("log to healthcare conversion," "user information collection," "external information collection," and "health condition estimation" in Fig. 12) may be performed anywhere: in the restroom, on a device, or in the cloud. Furthermore, other than the items shown in Fig. 12, such as "visualization," "condition confirmation," "questioning," "medical interview," and "recommendations," are performed on the user's or a third party's device.

[0198] It should be noted that the pattern shown in FIG. 12 is merely an example, and the functional allocation pattern in the health condition estimation system is not limited to the pattern shown in FIG. 12, and any pattern can be adopted as long as the desired processing can be realized.

[0199] <6. Examples of processing (notifications, etc.)> As described above, health state estimation systems 1, 1A, etc. perform estimation processing for estimating various types of information and notification processing for notifying various types of information. A specific example of the above content will be described in this regard. Below, a case where health state estimation system 1 performs processing will be described as an example, but health state estimation systems with various configurations, such as health state estimation system 1A, may perform the processing shown below. Note that each process described with health state estimation system 1 as the processing entity may be performed by any device capable of executing that process, such as state estimation device 100, toilet device 50, terminal device 10, cloud 2, etc., depending on the device configuration included in health state estimation system 1.

[0200] As described above, health condition estimation system 1 executes estimation processing to estimate various pieces of information as estimation targets. Note that the estimation targets may be various targets related to toilet users, such as being at home, sleeping, urination, defecation, menstruation, cleaning, health condition, etc.

[0201] Health state estimation system 1 is a toilet system that estimates the health or behavior of a toilet user based on a toilet log. For example, estimation unit 132 of state estimation device 100 estimates the health or behavior of the toilet user based on the toilet log acquired by acquisition unit 131. For example, estimation unit 132 estimates at least one of the toilet user's being at home, sleeping, and cleaning (of a toilet such as toilet device 50) as the behavior of the toilet user. Note that the above is merely one example of behavior, and health state estimation system 1 may estimate various behaviors of the toilet user.

[0202] Furthermore, health condition estimation system 1 is a condition estimation system that estimates a toilet user's condition related to excretion based on a toilet log. For example, estimation unit 132 of condition estimation device 100 estimates at least one of the toilet user's urination or defecation as the toilet user's condition related to excretion. Note that health condition estimation system 1 estimates various conditions of the toilet user, including but not limited to the above. For example, estimation unit 132 estimates a menstrual condition based on the toilet log.

[0203] Moreover, health state estimation system 1 is a health state estimation system that estimates a health state based on a toilet log. For example, estimation unit 132 of state estimation device 100 estimates at least one of constipation, nocturia, stress, and overactive bladder as the health state of the toilet user based on the toilet log. For example, estimation unit 132 estimates a state related to the toilet user's defecation or urination based on the toilet log, and estimates the toilet user's health state based on that state. Estimation unit 132 may estimate a state related to the toilet user's excrement, such as feces or urine, based on the toilet log, and estimate the toilet user's health state based on that state.

[0204] As described above, the health state estimation system 1 also executes a notification process for notifying various pieces of information. For example, the notification unit 133 of the state estimation device 100 notifies a predetermined destination of a predetermined question regarding the estimation result. For example, the notification unit 133 notifies a predetermined destination of a predetermined question regarding the estimation result of the estimation unit 132. For example, the notification unit 133 notifies the predetermined question when the estimation result of the estimation unit 132 satisfies a predetermined notification condition.

[0205] When the estimation result satisfies a predetermined notification condition, the notification unit 133 notifies the toilet user of a predetermined question. The notification unit 133 notifies the toilet user of a confirmation by notifying the toilet user of the predetermined question. For example, when the estimation result satisfies a predetermined notification condition, the notification unit 133 notifies the toilet user of a question to confirm whether or not the estimation result matches the toilet user's recognition, i.e., whether or not the estimation result is correct.

[0206] For example, when the estimation result satisfies a predetermined notification condition, notification unit 133 transmits information including a predetermined question to terminal device 10 used by the toilet user. For example, when the estimation result satisfies a predetermined notification condition, notification unit 133 notifies the toilet user of the confirmation by transmitting a question to terminal device 10 used by the toilet user to confirm whether or not the estimation result is correct (for example, matches the toilet user's recognition).

[0207] Here, an example of the notification conditions etc. will be described with reference to FIG. 13. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an estimation target and notification conditions in a health state estimation system. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate. For example, health state estimation system 1 performs processing on at least one of at home, sleep, urination, defecation, menstruation, cleaning, and health state shown in FIG. 13 as a target (estimation target). The judgment item column in FIG. 13 indicates the estimation target. Also, the category column in FIG. 13 indicates the category to which the corresponding estimation target falls. Note that the categories shown in FIG. 13 are merely examples, and each estimation target may fall into various categories.

[0208] Also, the column of judgment conditions in Fig. 13 indicates the inference conditions (judgment conditions) for the corresponding inference target. For example, the column of judgment conditions in Fig. 13 indicates the conditions under which a user infers (judges) that the corresponding inference target is in a state (situation). Also, the column of confirmation notification conditions in Fig. 13 indicates the notification conditions for the corresponding inference target. For example, the column of confirmation notification conditions in Fig. 13 indicates the conditions (confirmation notification conditions) for issuing a confirmation notification for the corresponding inference target.

[0209] The health condition estimation system 1 executes various processes such as estimation processing and notification processing for various estimation targets based on the conditions shown in Fig. 13. Note that the estimation conditions and notification conditions for each estimation target shown in Fig. 13 are merely examples, and any conditions can be set as the estimation conditions and notification conditions for each estimation target.

[0210] If the predetermined conditions for being at home are met, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates (determines) that the toilet user is at home. If the predetermined conditions for being at home are not met, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates (determines) that the toilet user is absent.

[0211] If there is no use of the toilet for a predetermined period of time, the health condition estimation system 1 presumes (determines) that the toilet user is absent, since the predetermined condition for being at home is not met. For example, if the toilet is used within a predetermined period of time, the health condition estimation system 1 presumes that the toilet user is at home for the period in between, since the predetermined condition for being at home is met. If the predetermined condition for confirmation notification of at-home status is met, the health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user of a predetermined question. For example, if the health condition estimation system 1 presumes (determines) that the toilet user is absent, it notifies the toilet user to confirm that the toilet user is at home. In addition, the health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user if it detects that the toilet user has been at home for a predetermined period of time or longer.

[0212] If the predetermined sleep conditions are met, the health state estimation system 1 estimates (determines) that the toilet user is sleeping. If the predetermined sleep conditions are not met, the health state estimation system 1 estimates (determines) that the toilet user is not sleeping (awake).

[0213] Furthermore, if there is no use of the toilet for a predetermined period of time, health condition estimation system 1 estimates (determines) that the toilet user is sleeping, since the predetermined conditions for sleep are met. For example, if there is no use of the toilet between night and morning, health condition estimation system 1 estimates that the toilet user is sleeping, since the predetermined conditions for sleep are met. If the predetermined conditions for sleep confirmation notification are met, health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user of a predetermined question. For example, health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm their sleep if the difference between the sleep time on that day (such as the day targeted for estimation processing) and the average sleep time for a predetermined period of time is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0214] Furthermore, when the log data (toilet log) meets a predetermined condition, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates (determines) that the toilet user has urinated. For example, when the log data meets a predetermined condition for an excretion state (small), the health condition estimation system 1 estimates that the toilet user has excreted urine (urine). Furthermore, when the log data (toilet log) meets a predetermined condition, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates (determines) that the toilet user has defecate. For example, when the log data meets a predetermined condition for an excretion state (large), the health condition estimation system 1 estimates that the toilet user has excreted feces (defecated).

[0215] The health condition estimating system 1 notifies a predetermined question when a predetermined condition for confirmation notification of excretion state is satisfied. For example, the health condition estimating system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm defecation when no defecation has been recorded throughout the day. The health condition estimating system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm defecation when two or more defecations have been recorded within a short period of time. The health condition estimating system 1 may also notify the toilet user to confirm urination. For example, the health condition estimating system 1 may notify the toilet user to confirm urination when no urination has been recorded throughout the day.

[0216] Furthermore, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates (determines) that the toilet user is in the menstrual state when the log data (toilet log) meets a predetermined condition. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates that the toilet user is in the menstrual state when the log data meets a predetermined condition for menstruation. The health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user of a predetermined question when a predetermined condition for menstruation confirmation notification is met. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm menstruation when there is a large difference from the cycle (menstrual cycle) predicted by the previous record. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm menstruation when the start of menstruation is recorded earlier than the cycle. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm menstruation when the start of menstruation is not recorded even after the cycle has passed.

[0217] Furthermore, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates (determines) that the toilet user has cleaned when the log data (toilet log) satisfies a predetermined condition. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates that the toilet user has cleaned when the log data satisfies a predetermined condition for cleaning. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates that the toilet user has cleaned when the cleaning mode is executed. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates that the toilet user has cleaned when the user presses the cleaning button to execute the cleaning mode. Note that whether or not the toilet user has cleaned may be estimated based on any information, such as operation information for the toilet device 50, rather than being limited to whether or not the cleaning mode is executed.

[0218] The health state estimation system 1 notifies a predetermined question when a predetermined condition for a cleaning confirmation notification is met. For example, the health state estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm cleaning if cleaning has been performed multiple times in one day. The health state estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm cleaning if cleaning has not been performed for a while (e.g., three days, one week, etc.). The health state estimation system 1 does not need to notify the toilet user to confirm cleaning within a predetermined period of time after the cleaning mode is executed. For example, the health state estimation system 1 does not notify the toilet user to confirm cleaning if the cleaning button is pressed.

[0219] Furthermore, when the user's condition satisfies a predetermined condition for a health condition, health condition estimating system 1 estimates (determines) that the toilet user is in that health condition. For example, when log data satisfies a predetermined condition for a certain health condition, health condition estimating system 1 estimates that the toilet user is in that health condition.

[0220] For example, if the log data meets a predetermined condition for constipation, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates that the toilet user has constipation. For example, if the log data meets a predetermined condition for nocturia, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates that the toilet user has nocturia. For example, if the log data meets a predetermined condition for stress, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates that the toilet user is in a stressed state. For example, if the log data meets a predetermined condition for overactive bladder, the health condition estimation system 1 estimates that the toilet user has overactive bladder.

[0221] The health condition estimation system 1 notifies a predetermined question when a predetermined condition for health condition confirmation notification is met. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm his / her health condition when there is a change in the health condition. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm his / her health condition when there is a change from a state estimated to be constipated to a state estimated not to be constipated. The health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm his / her health condition when the health condition has not changed for a certain period of time. For example, the health condition estimation system 1 notifies the toilet user to confirm his / her health condition when a state estimated to be a stress state has continued for a certain period of time.

[0222] Here, the processing flow for each of the above-mentioned estimation targets will be described with reference to Figs. 14 to 20. Note that the description of the same points as those described above will be omitted as appropriate. For example, health condition estimation system 1 executes at least one of the processes shown in Figs. 14 to 20. Note that health condition estimation system 1 may execute various processes such as estimation processing and notification processing by combining the processes shown in Figs. 14 to 20.

[0223] First, a process flow shown in Fig. 14 will be described. Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a process related to a notification. Specifically, Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a process related to a notification of presence at home.

[0224] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S101). For example, the state estimation device 100 receives the toilet log from the toilet device 50 and acquires the toilet log. Note that step S101 shown in FIG. 14 is merely an example, and step S101 may be a determination of processing timing. In this case, the health state estimation system 1 may perform processing from step S102 onwards when the processing timing has arrived, and may wait until the processing timing has arrived (suspending processing from step S102 onwards) when the processing timing has not arrived.

[0225] Regardless of whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S101: Yes, No), health state estimation system 1 determines whether a predetermined condition for being at home is met (step S102). For example, state estimation device 100 estimates whether the toilet user is at home or not based on whether the toilet log data meets the predetermined condition for being at home.

[0226] Regardless of whether a predetermined condition for being at home is met (step S102: Yes, No), health state estimation system 1 records the at-home status (step S103). For example, state estimation device 100 stores the estimation result of whether the toilet user is at home or not in storage unit 120 or the like as information indicating the at-home status. Note that health state estimation system 1 may perform the processes from step S702 onwards shown in Fig. 20 in parallel with the following step S104, depending on the processing of step S103.

[0227] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether or not a predetermined condition for a confirmation notification of a home-at-home status is satisfied (step S104). For example, the state estimation device 100 determines whether or not the estimation result satisfies a predetermined condition for a confirmation notification of a home-at-home status. If the predetermined condition for a confirmation notification of a home-at-home status is not satisfied (step S104: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S101 and performs processing.

[0228] Furthermore, if a predetermined condition for a confirmation notification of at-home status is met (step S104: Yes), health state estimation system 1 notifies a predetermined user of a predetermined question (step S105). For example, if the estimation result satisfies a predetermined condition for a confirmation notification of at-home status, state estimation device 100 transmits a question to terminal device 10 used by the toilet user to confirm whether or not the estimation result about at-home status is correct. Then, state estimation device 100 receives an answer to the predetermined question (answer result) from terminal device 10 used by the toilet user.

[0229] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether there is a discrepancy between the estimation result and the answer result (step S106). For example, if the answer result from the toilet user indicates that the estimation result is correct, the state estimation device 100 determines that there is no discrepancy between the estimation result and the answer result. For example, if the answer result from the toilet user indicates that the estimation result is incorrect, the state estimation device 100 determines that there is a discrepancy. If there is no discrepancy between the estimation result and the answer result (step S106: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S101 and performs processing.

[0230] Furthermore, if there is a discrepancy between the estimation result and the response result (step S106: Yes), health state estimation system 1 corrects the result (step S107) and returns to step S103 to perform the process. For example, if the response result from the toilet user indicates that the estimation result is incorrect, state estimation device 100 changes the estimation result to match the response result, and updates the information stored in storage unit 120 based on the changed estimation result.

[0231] Next, the process flow shown in Fig. 15 will be described. Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a process procedure related to notification. Specifically, Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a process procedure related to notification of sleep. Note that the same points as those described in Fig. 14 and the like will not be described as appropriate.

[0232] The health condition estimation system 1 determines whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S201). Step S201 is similar to step S101 shown in FIG. 14, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0233] Regardless of whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S201: Yes, No), the health condition estimation system 1 determines whether a predetermined condition for sleep has been met (step S202). For example, the condition estimation device 100 estimates whether the toilet user has engaged in sleeping behavior based on whether the toilet log data has satisfied the predetermined condition for sleep.

[0234] Regardless of whether a predetermined condition for sleep is met (step S202: Yes, No), health state estimation system 1 records the sleeping state (step S203). For example, state estimation device 100 stores the estimation result of whether the toilet user has performed sleeping behavior in storage unit 120 or the like as information indicating the sleeping state. Note that health state estimation system 1 may perform the processes from step S702 onwards shown in Fig. 20 in parallel with the following step S204, depending on the processing of step S203.

[0235] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether or not a predetermined condition for a sleep confirmation notification is satisfied (step S204). For example, the state estimation device 100 determines whether or not the estimation result satisfies the predetermined condition for a sleep confirmation notification. If the predetermined condition for a sleep confirmation notification is not satisfied (step S204: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S201 and performs processing.

[0236] Furthermore, if a predetermined condition for a sleep confirmation notification is met (step S204: Yes), health state estimation system 1 notifies a predetermined user of a predetermined question (step S205). For example, if the estimation result meets a predetermined condition for a sleep confirmation notification, state estimation device 100 transmits a question to terminal device 10 used by the toilet user to confirm whether or not the estimation result regarding sleep is correct. Then, state estimation device 100 receives an answer to the predetermined question (answer result) from terminal device 10 used by the toilet user.

[0237] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether the estimation result and the answer result differ (step S206). For example, if the answer result indicates that the estimation result is correct, such as when the answer result from the toilet user matches the estimation result, the state estimation device 100 determines that the estimation result and the answer result do not differ. For example, if the answer result indicates that the estimation result is incorrect, such as when the answer result from the toilet user does not match the estimation result, the state estimation device 100 determines that the estimation result and the answer result differ. If the estimation result and the answer result do not differ (step S206: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S201 and performs processing.

[0238] Furthermore, if the estimation result differs from the answer result (step S206: Yes), health state estimation system 1 corrects the result (step S207) and returns to step S203 to perform the process. For example, if the answer result from the toilet user differs from the estimation result, state estimation device 100 changes the estimation result to the content of the answer result, and updates the information stored in storage unit 120 based on the changed estimation result.

[0239] Next, the process flow shown in Fig. 16 will be described. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a process procedure related to notification. Specifically, Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a process procedure related to notification of excretion (urination) related to urination (urinary). Note that the same points as those described in Fig. 14, Fig. 15, etc. will not be described as appropriate.

[0240] The health condition estimation system 1 determines whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S301). This step is similar to step S101 shown in Fig. 14, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0241] Regardless of whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S301: Yes, No), health condition estimation system 1 determines whether a predetermined condition for the excretion state (small) is met (step S302). For example, state estimation device 100 estimates whether the toilet user was in a urination state based on whether the toilet log data has met a predetermined condition for the excretion state (small).

[0242] The health condition estimating system 1 records the excretion state (step S303) regardless of whether a predetermined condition for the excretion state (small) is met (step S302: Yes, No). For example, the state estimating device 100 stores the estimation result of whether the toilet user was in a state of urinating in the storage unit 120 or the like as information indicating the excretion state. Note that the health condition estimating system 1 may perform the processes from step S702 onwards shown in Fig. 20 in parallel with the following step S304, depending on the processing of step S303.

[0243] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether or not a predetermined condition for the confirmation notification of the excretion state is satisfied (step S304). For example, the state estimation device 100 determines whether or not the estimation result satisfies the predetermined condition for the confirmation notification of the excretion state. If the predetermined condition for the confirmation notification of the excretion state is not satisfied (step S304: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S301 and performs processing.

[0244] Furthermore, if a predetermined condition for confirmation notification of an excretion state is met (step S304: Yes), the health state estimation system 1 notifies a predetermined user of a predetermined question (step S305). For example, if the estimation result satisfies a predetermined condition for confirmation notification of an excretion state, the state estimation device 100 transmits a question to the terminal device 10 used by the toilet user to confirm whether or not the estimation result regarding urination (urination) is correct. Then, the state estimation device 100 receives an answer (answer result) to the predetermined question from the terminal device 10 used by the toilet user.

[0245] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether the estimation result and the answer result differ (step S306). If the estimation result and the answer result do not differ (step S306: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S301 and performs processing. If the estimation result and the answer result differ (step S306: Yes), the health state estimation system 1 corrects the result (step S307) and returns to step S303 and performs processing.

[0246] Next, the process flow shown in Fig. 17 will be described. Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of a process procedure related to notification. Specifically, Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of a process procedure related to notification of excretion (defecation) related to stool. Note that the same points as those explained in Figs. 14 to 16 etc. will not be explained as appropriate.

[0247] The health condition estimation system 1 determines whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S401). This step is similar to step S101 shown in Fig. 14, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0248] Regardless of whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S401: Yes, No), the health condition estimation system 1 determines whether a predetermined condition for an excretion state (large) is met (step S402). For example, the condition estimation device 100 estimates whether the toilet user was in a defecation state based on whether the toilet log data satisfied a predetermined condition for an excretion state (large).

[0249] The health condition estimating system 1 records the excretion state (step S403) regardless of whether a predetermined condition for the excretion state (large) is met (step S402: Yes, No). For example, the state estimating device 100 stores the estimation result of whether the toilet user was in a state of defecation in the storage unit 120 or the like as information indicating the excretion state. Note that the health condition estimating system 1 may perform the processes from step S702 onwards shown in FIG. 20 in parallel with the following step S404, depending on the processing of step S403.

[0250] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether or not a predetermined condition for the confirmation notification of the excretion state is satisfied (step S404). For example, the state estimation device 100 determines whether or not the estimation result satisfies the predetermined condition for the confirmation notification of the excretion state. If the predetermined condition for the confirmation notification of the excretion state is not satisfied (step S404: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S401 and performs processing.

[0251] Furthermore, if a predetermined condition for confirmation notification of the excretion state is met (step S404: Yes), the health state estimation system 1 notifies a predetermined user of a predetermined question (step S405). For example, if the estimation result satisfies a predetermined condition for confirmation notification of the excretion state, the state estimation device 100 transmits a question to the terminal device 10 used by the toilet user to confirm whether or not the estimation result regarding stool excretion (defecation) is correct. Then, the state estimation device 100 receives an answer (answer result) to the predetermined question from the terminal device 10 used by the toilet user.

[0252] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether the estimation result and the answer result differ (step S406). If the estimation result and the answer result do not differ (step S406: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S401 and performs processing. If the estimation result and the answer result differ (step S406: Yes), the health state estimation system 1 corrects the result (step S407) and returns to step S403 and performs processing.

[0253] Next, the process flow shown in Fig. 18 will be described. Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a process procedure related to notification. Specifically, Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a process procedure related to menstruation notification. Note that explanations of the same points as those explained in Figs. 14 to 17 etc. will be omitted as appropriate.

[0254] The health condition estimation system 1 determines whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S501). This step is similar to step S101 shown in Fig. 14, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0255] Regardless of whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S501: Yes, No), health condition estimation system 1 determines whether a predetermined menstrual condition has been met (step S502). For example, state estimation device 100 estimates whether the toilet user was menstruating based on whether the toilet log data satisfied the predetermined menstrual condition.

[0256] Regardless of whether a predetermined menstrual condition is met (step S502: Yes, No), health condition estimating system 1 records the physiological state (step S503). For example, state estimating device 100 stores the estimation result as to whether the toilet user was menstruating in storage unit 120 or the like as information indicating the physiological state. Note that health condition estimating system 1 may perform the processes from step S702 onwards shown in Fig. 20 in parallel with the following step S504, depending on the processing of step S503.

[0257] The health condition estimation system 1 determines whether or not a predetermined condition for confirmation and notification of a physiological state is satisfied (step S504). For example, the condition estimation device 100 determines whether or not the estimation result satisfies a predetermined condition for confirmation and notification of a physiological state. If the predetermined condition for confirmation and notification of a physiological state is not satisfied (step S504: No), the health condition estimation system 1 returns to step S501 and performs processing.

[0258] Furthermore, if a predetermined condition for confirmation and notification of a physiological state is met (step S504: Yes), health state estimation system 1 notifies a predetermined user of a predetermined question (step S505). For example, if the estimation result satisfies a predetermined condition for confirmation and notification of a physiological state, state estimation device 100 transmits a question to terminal device 10 used by the toilet user to confirm whether or not the estimation result regarding menstruation is correct. Then, state estimation device 100 receives an answer (answer result) to the predetermined question from terminal device 10 used by the toilet user.

[0259] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether the estimation result and the answer result differ (step S506). If the estimation result and the answer result do not differ (step S506: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S501 and performs processing. If the estimation result and the answer result differ (step S506: Yes), the health state estimation system 1 corrects the result (step S507) and returns to step S503 and performs processing.

[0260] Next, the process flow shown in Fig. 19 will be described. Fig. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a process procedure related to notification. Specifically, Fig. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a process procedure related to a cleaning notification. Note that the same points as those described in Figs. 14 to 18 etc. will not be described as appropriate.

[0261] The health condition estimation system 1 determines whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S601). This step is similar to step S101 shown in Fig. 14, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0262] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether or not a predetermined condition for cleaning is satisfied (step S602), regardless of whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S601: Yes, No). For example, the state estimation device 100 estimates whether or not the toilet user performed a cleaning behavior based on whether or not the toilet log data satisfied the predetermined condition for cleaning.

[0263] Regardless of whether a predetermined cleaning condition is met (step S602: Yes, No), health state estimation system 1 records the cleaning implementation status (step S603). For example, state estimation device 100 stores the estimation result of whether the toilet user performed cleaning behavior in storage unit 120 or the like as information indicating the cleaning implementation status. Note that health state estimation system 1 may perform the processes from step S702 onward shown in FIG. 20 in parallel with the following step S604, depending on the processing of step S603.

[0264] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether or not a predetermined condition for a cleaning confirmation notification is satisfied (step S604). For example, the state estimation device 100 determines whether or not the estimation result satisfies the predetermined condition for a cleaning confirmation notification. If the predetermined condition for a cleaning confirmation notification is not satisfied (step S604: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S601 and performs processing.

[0265] Furthermore, if a predetermined condition for a cleaning confirmation notification is satisfied (step S604: Yes), the health state estimation system 1 notifies a predetermined user of a predetermined question (step S605). For example, if the estimation result satisfies a predetermined condition for a cleaning confirmation notification, the state estimation device 100 transmits a question to the terminal device 10 used by the toilet user to confirm whether or not the estimation result regarding cleaning is correct. Then, the state estimation device 100 receives an answer (answer result) to the predetermined question from the terminal device 10 used by the toilet user.

[0266] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether the estimation result and the answer result differ (step S606). If the estimation result and the answer result do not differ (step S606: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S601 and performs processing. If the estimation result and the answer result differ (step S606: Yes), the health state estimation system 1 corrects the result (step S607) and returns to step S603 and performs processing.

[0267] Next, the process flow shown in Fig. 20 will be described. Fig. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a process related to notification. Specifically, Fig. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a process related to notification of a health condition. Note that explanations of the same points as those explained in Figs. 14 to 19 etc. will be omitted as appropriate.

[0268] The health condition estimation system 1 determines whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S701). This step is similar to step S101 shown in Fig. 14, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0269] Regardless of whether toilet log data has been acquired (step S701: Yes, No), health state estimating system 1 determines whether a predetermined health condition condition has been met (step S702). For example, state estimating device 100 estimates whether the toilet user was stressed based on whether the toilet log data met a predetermined stress condition. Note that health state estimating system 1 may perform the processes of step S702 and onwards when, for example, any of the processes of steps S103, S203, S303, S403, S503, and S603 described above has been performed, regardless of the process of step S701.

[0270] Regardless of whether a predetermined condition for the health condition is met (step S702: Yes, No), health condition estimation system 1 records the health condition (step S703). For example, state estimation device 100 stores the estimation result as to whether the toilet user was in a stressed state in storage unit 120 or the like as information indicating the health condition.

[0271] The health condition estimation system 1 determines whether or not a predetermined condition for a health condition confirmation notification is satisfied (step S704). For example, the condition estimation device 100 determines whether or not the estimation result satisfies the predetermined condition for a health condition confirmation notification. If the predetermined condition for a health condition confirmation notification is not satisfied (step S704: No), the health condition estimation system 1 returns to step S701 and performs processing.

[0272] Furthermore, when a predetermined condition for health condition confirmation notification is met (step S704: Yes), the health condition estimating system 1 asks the predetermined user about the health condition (step S705). In Fig. 20, the health condition estimating system 1 notifies the user of information including a predetermined question about the health condition as well as additional questions about the health condition. For example, the health condition estimating system 1 notifies the user of information including a question to confirm whether the stress estimation result is correct as well as additional questions about stress (e.g., some of the questions in a stress check).

[0273] For example, when the estimation result satisfies a predetermined condition for a confirmation notification of the health condition, the state estimation device 100 transmits a question to confirm whether the estimation result about the health condition is correct, and an additional question about the health condition, to the terminal device 10 used by the toilet user. Then, the state estimation device 100 receives answer results (a group of answers) such as answers to the predetermined questions and answers to the additional questions from the terminal device 10 used by the toilet user.

[0274] The health state estimation system 1 determines whether or not the result (also referred to as the "first estimation result") estimated using the health state confirmation result or the answer result obtained in response to a predetermined question deviates from the original estimation result (also referred to as the "second estimation result") (step S706). For example, the original estimation result (second estimation result) is an estimation result estimated without using the answer result used to estimate the first estimation result (e.g., an estimation result before feedback of the answer result, etc.). For example, the health state estimation system 1 determines whether or not the result (first estimation result) estimated using an answer result including at least one of the answers to the predetermined question or the answers to the additional question deviates from the original estimation result (second estimation result). If there is no deviation between the estimation result based on the answer result (first estimation result) and the original estimation result (second estimation result) (step S706: No), the health state estimation system 1 returns to step S701 and performs processing.

[0275] Furthermore, if there is a discrepancy between the estimation result based on the answer (first estimation result) and the original estimation result (second estimation result) (step S706: Yes), health state estimation system 1 corrects the result (step S707) and returns to step S703 to perform processing. For example, if the result estimated using the answer to a predetermined question or the answer to an additional question (first estimation result) differs from the original estimation result (second estimation result), health state estimation device 100 changes the estimation result to match the first estimation result, and updates the information stored in storage unit 120 based on the changed estimation result.

[0276] In the above example, a case where one user (user U1) uses the toilet device 50 arranged in the toilet space PS1 has been described as an example, but the health condition estimation system 1 is also applicable to a case where multiple users use the same toilet device 50. That is, the health condition estimation system 1 is not limited to a toilet device 50 arranged in a residence in which one person resides, but is also applicable to a user of a toilet device 50 arranged in a residence in which multiple people reside. An example of this case will be briefly described.

[0277] As described above, when it is assumed that multiple users will use the toilet device 50 arranged in the toilet space PS1, the health state estimation system 1 may identify the toilet user who uses the toilet device 50 in any manner. In this case, in FIG. 1, the toilet user may be identified using an operation device of the toilet device 50 installed in the toilet space PS1. For example, the health state estimation system 1 identifies the toilet user by the toilet user operating the operation device of the toilet device 50 and designating the toilet user. In the example of FIG. 1, user U1 operates the operation device of the toilet device 50 and designates user U1, and the health state estimation system 1 identifies the toilet user as user U1.

[0278] For example, the health condition estimation system 1 identifies a toilet user by the toilet user designating a user from a group of users displayed on the operation device of the toilet device 50. Also, in FIG. 1, the terminal device 10 of the user U1 may be paired with the operation device of the toilet device 50, for example, by Bluetooth, to identify the user U1 as a toilet user using the toilet space PS1. Also, the toilet user may be identified based on the detection results of various sensors installed in the toilet space PS1. Note that the above is just one example, and as long as it is possible to identify the toilet user of the toilet space, any process may be used to identify the toilet user.

[0279] The toilet space in which the toilet device 50 is installed is not limited to the toilet space PS1 of a house as shown in Fig. 1, but may be a toilet space in a facility other than a residence (house). As described above, if it is possible to identify the user of the toilet space, the toilet space in which the toilet device 50 is installed may be a toilet space provided in any location. For example, the toilet space in which the toilet device 50 is installed may be a toilet space in a store such as a department store, an amusement park, a stadium, an office building, a park, a parking lot, etc.

[0280] Further advantages and modifications may readily occur to those skilled in the art. Thus, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

[0281] The above-described embodiments and modifications may have the following configurations, but are not limited to these. (1) A log information acquisition means for acquiring a toilet log indicating the usage status of the toilet device; a state estimation means for estimating a health state of the toilet user based on the toilet log acquired by the log information acquisition means; Equipped with The condition estimation means estimates the condition of the intestines, including constipation or diarrhea, based on the defecation record included in the toilet log. A system for estimating the health condition of a toilet user. (2) The state estimation means estimates the intestinal condition based on a toilet log indicating toilet usage status for a plurality of times. A toilet user health condition estimation system as described in (1). (3) a notification means for notifying the toilet user of the intestinal condition estimation result estimated by the state estimation means; Further equipped with The notification means notifies the toilet user of the intestinal condition estimation result when the toilet log indicating the toilet usage status for the plurality of times satisfies a predetermined condition. A toilet user health condition estimation system as described in (2). (4) The toilet log indicating the toilet usage status for the plurality of times includes a toilet log indicating the start and end of use of the toilet device. A toilet user's health condition estimation system according to (2) or (3). (5) The state estimation means estimates the intestinal condition based on the urination record included in the toilet log in addition to the defecation record. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to any one of (1) to (4). (6) The condition estimating means estimates constipation when the number of defecations within a predetermined period does not satisfy a predetermined number condition and the number of urinations within a predetermined period satisfies a predetermined number condition. A toilet user health condition estimation system as described in (5). (7) The condition estimation means estimates the intestinal condition based on the defecation record as well as information on whether the toilet user is at home. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to any one of (1) to (6). (8) The state estimation means estimates constipation when a sitting time on the toilet device, which is a sitting record included in the toilet log in addition to the defecation record, is longer than a predetermined sitting condition. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to any one of (1) to (7). (9) The predetermined seating condition is the average time that the toilet user sits on the toilet device during a predetermined period of time. A toilet user health condition estimation system as described in (8). (10) The state estimation means estimates constipation when the number of times a flushing function of the toilet apparatus, which is included in the toilet log in addition to the defecation record, is used is greater than a predetermined flushing number condition. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to any one of (1) to (9). (11) The predetermined flush count condition includes an average number of times the toilet user uses a flush function during a predetermined period of time. A toilet user health condition estimation system as described in (10). (12) The condition estimation means estimates the health condition of the toilet user to be frail if the number of times the toilet user is estimated to be constipated satisfies a predetermined condition in addition to the defecation record. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to any one of (1) to (11) above. (13) a notification means for notifying a predetermined destination of a predetermined question regarding the estimation result of the state estimation means, the notification means notifies the predetermined question when the estimation result of the state estimation means satisfies a predetermined notification condition. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to any one of (1) to (12). (14) a response result acquisition means for acquiring a response result of the toilet user to the predetermined question, When the state estimation means estimates the intestinal condition of the toilet user after the response result acquisition means acquires the response result of the toilet user, the state estimation means estimates the intestinal condition of the toilet user based on the defecation record and the response result of the toilet user. A toilet user health condition estimation system according to (13). [Explanation of symbols]

[0282] 1. Health status estimation system 2. Cloud 10 Terminal equipment (devices) 50 Toilet equipment 100 State Estimation Device 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Toilet data storage unit 122 External data storage unit 123 User information storage unit 130 Control section 131 Acquisition Department 132 Estimation Department 133 Notification Department

Claims

1. A log information acquisition means for acquiring a toilet log indicating the usage status of the toilet device; a state estimation means for estimating a health state of the toilet user based on the toilet log acquired by the log information acquisition means; Equipped with The condition estimation means estimates the condition of the intestines, including constipation or diarrhea, based on the defecation record included in the toilet log. A system for estimating the health condition of a toilet user.

2. The state estimation means estimates the intestinal condition based on a toilet log indicating toilet usage status for a plurality of times. The health condition estimation system for a toilet user according to claim 1 .

3. a notification means for notifying the toilet user of the intestinal condition estimation result estimated by the state estimation means; Further equipped with The notification means notifies the toilet user of the intestinal condition estimation result when the toilet log indicating the toilet usage status for the plurality of times satisfies a predetermined condition. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to claim 2 .

4. The toilet log indicating the toilet usage status for the plurality of times includes a toilet log indicating the start and end of use of the toilet device. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to claim 2 .

5. The state estimation means estimates the intestinal condition based on the urination record included in the toilet log in addition to the defecation record.

2. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to claim 1 .

6. The condition estimating means estimates constipation when the number of defecations within a predetermined period does not satisfy a predetermined number condition and the number of urinations within a predetermined period satisfies a predetermined number condition. The health condition estimation system for a toilet user according to claim 5 .

7. The condition estimation means estimates the intestinal condition based on the defecation record as well as information on whether the toilet user is at home. The health condition estimation system for a toilet user according to claim 1 .

8. The state estimation means estimates that the user is constipated when a sitting time recorded in the toilet log as a sitting time on the toilet device is longer than a predetermined sitting condition.

2. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to claim 1 .

9. The predetermined seating condition is the average time that the toilet user sits on the toilet device during a predetermined period of time. The health condition estimation system for a toilet user according to claim 8.

10. The condition estimating means estimates that the user is constipated when the number of times a flush function of the toilet device included in the toilet log is used is greater than a predetermined flush number condition.

2. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to claim 1 .

11. The predetermined flush count condition includes an average number of times the toilet user uses a flush function during a predetermined period of time. The health condition estimation system for a toilet user according to claim 10.

12. The condition estimating means estimates the health condition of the toilet user to be frail if the number of times the constipation is estimated to be satisfied a predetermined condition.

2. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to claim 1 .

13. a notification means for notifying a predetermined destination of a predetermined question regarding the estimation result of the state estimation means, the notification means notifies the predetermined question when the estimation result of the state estimation means satisfies a predetermined notification condition. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. a response result acquisition means for acquiring a response result of the toilet user to the predetermined question, When the state estimation means estimates the intestinal condition of the toilet user after the response result acquisition means acquires the response result of the toilet user, the state estimation means estimates the intestinal condition of the toilet user based on the defecation record and the response result of the toilet user. The toilet user's health condition estimation system according to claim 13 .

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