Toilet seat device and excrement sensing device

Abstract

A toilet seat device according to an embodiment of the present invention is a toilet seat device mounted on an upper portion of a toilet bowl having a bowl portion formed therein for receiving excrement, the toilet seat device comprising: a toilet seat for a user to sit on; a light emitting portion provided with a light emitting element for irradiating light; a light receiving portion provided with a light receiving element for receiving light; and a control portion for controlling the energization of the light emitting element and the application of a voltage to the light receiving element, the control portion performing light receiving control, in which a control instruction to open an electronic shutter is sent to the light receiving element and the light emitting element is energized so as to be able to receive reflected light from feces, and the control portion controls the interval from the start of execution of one light receiving control to the execution of the next light receiving control of the one light receiving control to be greater than 0.2 milliseconds.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a toilet seat device and a waste sensing device. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a toilet seat device that includes a sensor capable of sensing feces (hereinafter also referred to as excrement) discharged into the toilet bowl. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1)

[0003] The sensor used in the toilet seat device of the above-mentioned prior art has a light emitting unit that can irradiate light to stool and a light receiving unit that can receive reflected light from the stool, and can obtain biological information related to the health status of the user based on the stool.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5861977 Summary of the invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] However, as in the above-mentioned prior art, in order to sense falling stool, it is necessary to irradiate the falling stool with light. However, the timing of the falling stool is difficult to predict. At this time, in order not to miss the falling stool, it is necessary to shorten the time (shutter speed) that the light receiving element provided in the light receiving part is exposed to light. At this time, if the shutter speed is too fast, there is a problem that the information of the stool may not be accurately obtained due to insufficient light received by the light receiving element.

[0009] An object of embodiments of the present disclosure is to provide a toilet seat device and a waste sensor device that suppress the shortage of light quantity that may be caused by sensing.

[0010] Solutions for solving problems

[0011] A toilet seat device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a toilet seat device mounted on an upper portion of a toilet bowl having a bowl portion formed therein for receiving excrement, and is characterized in that it comprises: a toilet seat for a user to sit on; a light emitting portion provided with a light emitting element for irradiating light; a light receiving portion provided with a light receiving element for receiving light; and a control portion for controlling the energization of the light emitting element and the application of a voltage to the light receiving element, wherein the control portion performs light receiving control, in which a control instruction to open an electronic shutter is sent to the light receiving element and the light emitting element is energized so as to be able to receive reflected light from feces, and the control portion controls the interval from the start of execution of one light receiving control to the execution of the next light receiving control of the one light receiving control to be greater than 0.2 milliseconds.

[0012] According to a toilet seat device of one embodiment, in a toilet seat device provided with a control unit, the control unit can control an electronic shutter function that adjusts the time that the light receiving element is exposed to light by applying a voltage to the light receiving element, and by energizing the light emitting element while the electronic shutter is open, the interval from executing the light receiving control that can receive reflected light from feces once to executing it again is set to be greater than 0.2 milliseconds, that is, the light receiving control is executed at a speed of less than 5000 times / second, thereby not missing the falling of feces and suppressing the possibility of insufficient light received by the light receiving element.

[0013] In the toilet seat device according to one aspect of the embodiment, the light emitting unit irradiates light onto falling stool excreted by the user, and the light receiving unit receives reflected light from the stool with respect to the light irradiated by the light emitting unit.

[0014] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet seat device irradiates light onto feces excreted by the user when placed on the toilet bowl, and receives reflected light from the feces with respect to the irradiated light, thereby acquiring information on the feces excreted in the toilet bowl.

[0015] In the toilet seat apparatus according to one aspect of the embodiment, the control unit controls an interval from the start of execution of the one light reception control to execution of the next light reception control to be 600 milliseconds or less.

[0016] In a toilet seat device according to one embodiment, when the interval from the start of one light control to the execution of the next light control (hereinafter also referred to as the "light control interval") is 600 milliseconds, one type of light is scanned (irradiated) twice in an area with a length of 100 mm, so the presence or absence of stool can be detected.

[0017] In the toilet seat apparatus according to one aspect of the embodiment, the control unit controls an interval from the start of execution of the one light reception control to execution of the next light reception control to be 300 milliseconds or less.

[0018] According to the toilet seat device of one embodiment, when the interval of light control is 300 milliseconds, one type of light is scanned (irradiated) four times in an area of ​​100 mm in length, so the presence or absence of feces can be known with higher accuracy compared to the case where the interval of light control is 600 milliseconds. In addition, when the interval of light control is 300 milliseconds, two types of light are scanned (irradiated) twice in an area of ​​100 mm in length, so the representative color of feces can be estimated.

[0019] In the toilet seat apparatus according to one aspect of the embodiment, the control unit controls an interval from the start of execution of the one light reception control to execution of the next light reception control to be 100 milliseconds or less.

[0020] According to a toilet seat device of one embodiment, when the interval of light control is 100 milliseconds, one type of light is scanned (irradiated) 12 times in an area of ​​100 mm in length, so the outline of the stool can be known. In this way, when the interval of light control is 100 milliseconds, it can be known from the outline of the stool that the shape changes when the water content in the stool is large, or the shape remains the same when the water content in the stool is small.

[0021] In the toilet seat apparatus according to one aspect of the embodiment, the control unit controls an interval from the start of execution of the one light reception control to execution of the next light reception control to be 50 milliseconds or less.

[0022] According to a toilet seat device of one embodiment, when the interval of light control is 50 milliseconds, one type of light is scanned (irradiated) 25 times in an area of ​​100 mm in length, so that the pattern of cracks appearing on the surface of the stool due to the decrease in the amount of water contained in the stool can be known, and the properties of the stool corresponding to the amount of water contained in the stool can be estimated. In addition, when the interval of light control is 50 milliseconds, two types of light are scanned (irradiated) 12 times in an area of ​​100 mm in length, so the distribution of the color of the stool can be known.

[0023] In the toilet seat apparatus according to one aspect of the embodiment, the control unit controls an interval from the start of execution of the one light reception control to execution of the next light reception control to be 10 milliseconds or less.

[0024] If the light receiving element is exposed to light for a longer time, not only will the amount of light reflected by the stool increase, but also the amount of light reflected from the toilet bowl and the light of the lighting provided in the toilet space that enters between the legs of the seated user will increase, thereby possibly burying the data based on the light reflected by the stool. According to a toilet seat device of one embodiment, the interval from the execution of the light receiving control once to the execution again is set to be less than 10 milliseconds, that is, the light receiving control is executed at a speed of more than 100 times / second, thereby suppressing the inability to properly sense due to the slow control speed, and suppressing the possibility that the data based on the light reflected by the stool is buried due to the increase in the amount of light reflected from the toilet bowl and the light of the lighting provided in the toilet space.

[0025] In a toilet seat device of one embodiment, the light emitting portion includes a plurality of light emitting elements that irradiate light, and the plurality of light emitting elements can irradiate light of different wavelengths. The control portion energizes only one of the plurality of light emitting elements in the one light receiving control, and changes the light emitting element to be energized in the next light receiving control whenever the one light receiving control ends. The control portion controls the interval from the start of execution of the one light receiving control to the execution of the next light receiving control to be less than 1.6 milliseconds.

[0026] In order to sense the color of stool, there are the following methods: a method of irradiating the stool with all white light including wavelengths in the visible light region and splitting the reflected light from the stool on the light receiving part side (first method); and a method of irradiating the stool with multiple different wavelengths of light in sequence (second method). At this time, if the second method that can be implemented at a lower cost is to be used to sense the color of stool, it is necessary to irradiate multiple different wavelengths of light to the same part of the stool. At this time, if the light receiving element of each wavelength is exposed to the light for a long time, the problem of not being able to irradiate multiple different wavelengths of light to the same part of the stool arises. According to a toilet seat device of one embodiment, each time the light control ends, the power generation element to be energized next is changed, thereby irradiating multiple different wavelengths of light in sequence. In addition, the interval from executing the light control once to executing it again is set to less than 1.6 milliseconds, that is, the light control is executed at a speed of more than 625 times / second, thereby irradiating multiple different wavelengths of light to the same part of the stool.

[0027] In the toilet seat device according to one aspect of the embodiment, the control unit makes the energization time for the light emitting element different in accordance with the wavelength irradiated by the light emitting element in the light reception control.

[0028] In order to accurately sense the color of stool, it is preferred to make the amount of light received by the light-receiving element uniform with respect to light of multiple wavelengths. At this time, there is a problem that the light-emitting elements that can irradiate each wavelength have different amounts of light. For example, there is a tendency that the amount of light irradiated by the light-emitting element with a wavelength close to blue is large, and the amount of light irradiated by the light-emitting element with a wavelength close to green is small. Therefore, in terms of accurately sensing the color of stool, it is not appropriate to make the power-on time of all light-emitting elements uniform. According to a toilet seat device of one embodiment, the power-on time for the light-emitting element is different according to the wavelength irradiated by the light-emitting element, so that the color of stool can be sensed more accurately.

[0029] An excrement sensing device according to one embodiment of the present invention is an excrement sensing device, which is arranged on a toilet bowl having a bowl portion for receiving excrement, and is characterized in that it comprises: a light-emitting portion, which is provided with a light-emitting element for irradiating light; a light-receiving portion, which is provided with a light-receiving element for receiving light; and a control portion, which controls the energization of the light-emitting element and the application of a voltage to the light-receiving element, wherein the control portion performs light-receiving control, in which a control instruction to open an electronic shutter is sent to the light-receiving element and the light-emitting element is energized, thereby enabling the light reflected from feces to be received, and the interval from the start of execution of one light-receiving control to the execution of the next light-receiving control of the one light-receiving control is controlled to be greater than 0.2 milliseconds.

[0030] According to an excrement sensing device of one embodiment, in a toilet seat device provided with a control unit, the control unit can control an electronic shutter function that adjusts the exposure time of the light receiving element to light by applying a voltage to the light receiving element, and by energizing the light emitting element while the electronic shutter is open, the interval from executing the light receiving control that can receive reflected light from feces once to executing it again is set to be greater than 0.2 milliseconds, that is, the light receiving control is executed at a speed of less than 5000 times / second, thereby not missing the falling of feces and suppressing the possibility of insufficient light received by the light receiving element.

[0031] Effects of the Invention

[0032] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to suppress insufficient light amount from being caused in sensing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the toilet system according to the first embodiment.

[0034] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing an example of the structure of the toilet seat apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0035] Figure 3 It is a perspective view showing an example of the structure of the toilet seat apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the toilet seat apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0037] Figure 5 It is a figure which shows an example of the opening and closing operation of a cover part.

[0038] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of an optical unit having a window portion.

[0039] Figure 7It is a side view showing an example of the configuration of the toilet system according to the second embodiment.

[0040] Figure 8 It is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet system according to the second embodiment.

[0041] Fig. 9 It is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet system according to the third embodiment.

[0042] Fig.10 It is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet system according to the third embodiment.

[0043] Fig.11 This is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the toilet system according to the third embodiment.

[0044] Fig.12 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit.

[0045] Fig.13 It is a side view showing an example of the configuration of the light emitting section and the light receiving section.

[0046] Fig.14 This is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit.

[0047] Fig.15 It is a side view showing another example of the configuration of the light emitting section and the light receiving section.

[0048] Fig.16 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit using a cylindrical lens.

[0049] Fig.17 This is a side view showing an example of the configuration of a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit using a cylindrical lens.

[0050] Fig.18 This is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a toilet system related to the processing of collecting excretion information.

[0051] Fig.19 This is a conceptual diagram showing the control flow of the process of collecting excretion information.

[0052] Fig. 20 This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure in the standby mode.

[0053] Fig.21 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart in the standby mode.

[0054] Fig. 22 This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing sequence in the measurement mode.

[0055] Fig.23 This is a diagram showing an example of a time chart in the measurement mode.

[0056] Fig.24 This is a diagram showing an example of data in the process of excretion information collection.

[0057] Fig.25 This is a diagram showing an example of data analysis of the shape of excrement.

[0058] Fig.26 This is a diagram showing an example of data analysis of excrement color.

[0059] Fig. 27 This is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between excrement and blood.

[0060] Fig.28 This is a diagram showing an example of data analysis of excrement color.

[0061] Fig.29 This is a diagram showing an example of data analysis of excrement color.

[0062] Fig.30 This is a diagram showing an example of a hypothetical landing position of stool.

[0063] Fig.31 This is a graph showing the relationship between light intensity and sampling rate.

[0064] Fig.32 The diagram shows an image at each interval of light control. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the toilet seat device and the excrement sensing device disclosed in the present application will be described in detail. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown below. Hereinafter, the processing related to the collection of information on the excrement of toilet users (hereinafter also referred to as "excrement information collection") and the configuration for performing the processing will be described, but first, various configurations such as the toilet system as a premise will be described.

[0066] <1. Bathroom system structure>

[0067] First, refer to Figure 1 The configuration of the toilet system according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the toilet system according to the first embodiment.

[0068] like Figure 1 As shown, the toilet system 1 includes a toilet seat device 2 and an operating device 10. Figure 1 As shown, a Western-style toilet (hereinafter referred to as "toilet") 7 is provided on the floor F of the toilet R. It should be noted that the direction from the floor F to the space inside the toilet R is referred to as "up" hereinafter. The toilet seat device 2 is provided on the upper part of the toilet 7.

[0069] The toilet 7 is made of, for example, pottery. A bowl 8 is formed in the toilet 7. The bowl 8 is a downwardly concave shape, and is a part that receives the excrement of the user. It should be noted that the toilet 7 is not limited to the floor-standing type as shown in the figure, and can be in any form as long as the toilet system 1 can be applied, and can also be a wall-mounted type. On the toilet 7, a rim 9 is provided over the entire circumference of the end of the opening facing the bowl 8. In the bathroom R, for example, a flushing water tank for storing flushing water can be provided near the toilet 7, or it can be a so-called tankless type in which a flushing water tank is not provided.

[0070] For example, when the cleaning operation unit (not shown) for cleaning provided in the toilet R is operated by the user, the toilet is cleaned by supplying cleaning water to the bowl 8 of the toilet 7. The cleaning operation unit may also be an operation lever or a touch operation on the toilet cleaning object displayed on the operation device 10. It should be noted that the cleaning operation unit is not limited to the manual operation of the user such as an operation lever, and the toilet may also be cleaned by human body sensing of a sensor that senses the user such as a seat sensor.

[0071] The toilet seat device 2 is mounted on the upper part of the toilet bowl 7, and includes a main body 3, a toilet cover 4, a toilet seat 5, and a cleaning nozzle 6. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on the upper part of the toilet bowl 7 having a bowl 8 for receiving excrement. The toilet seat device 2 is arranged on the upper part of the toilet bowl 7 in such a manner that the cleaning nozzle 6 enters the bowl 8 before spraying cleaning water. It should be noted that the toilet seat device 2 can be detachably mounted on the toilet bowl 7, or can be assembled to be integrated with the toilet bowl 7.

[0072] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the toilet seat 5 is formed in a ring shape with an opening 50 in the center, and is arranged along the edge 9 at a position overlapping with the opening of the toilet bowl 7. The toilet seat 5 is for a user to sit on. The toilet seat 5 functions as a seat portion that supports the buttocks of the seated user. Figure 1 As shown, one end of the toilet cover 4 and the toilet seat 5 is axially supported on the main body 3, and is assembled to be rotatable (openable and closable) around the axial support portion of the main body 3. It should be noted that the toilet cover 4 is assembled to the toilet seat device 2 as needed, and the toilet seat device 2 may not have the toilet cover 4.

[0073] The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for spraying water for cleaning. The cleaning nozzle 6 can spray cleaning water. The cleaning nozzle 6 can spray cleaning water toward the user. The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for local cleaning. The cleaning nozzle 6 is configured to be driven by a driving source such as an electric motor ( Figure 4 The cleaning nozzle 6 is driven by the nozzle motor 61 in the main body 3 and moves forward and backward relative to the main body cover 30 as the shell of the main body 3. In addition, the cleaning nozzle 6 is connected to a water source such as a tap water pipe (not shown). Figure 1 As shown, when the washing nozzle 6 is in a position entering the main body cover 30 as the casing of the main body 3 (hereinafter also referred to as the "entered position"), the water from the water source is sprayed toward the user's body to wash the local area.

[0074] Figure 1 The cleaning nozzle 6 is shown in the state of being in the entry position. It should be noted that the cleaning nozzle 6 can also be used for cleaning the inside of the toilet 7 (the bowl 8, etc.). The cleaning nozzle 6 can also be used to switch between a local cleaning mode for cleaning the user's local area and a toilet cleaning mode for spraying water into the toilet 7. For example, the cleaning nozzle 6 can also be used to switch between a local cleaning mode for cleaning the user's local area and a toilet cleaning mode for spraying water into the toilet 7. Figure 4 ) to switch between local cleaning mode and toilet cleaning mode.

[0075] The operating device 10 is provided in the toilet R. The operating device 10 is provided at a position where the user can operate it. The operating device 10 is provided at a position where the user can operate it when sitting on the toilet seat 5. Figure 1 In the example shown, the operating device 10 is arranged on the wall surface W on the right side from the user sitting on the toilet seat 5. It should be noted that the operating device 10 is not limited to the wall surface, and can be arranged in various ways as long as it can be used by the user sitting on the toilet seat 5. For example, the operating device 10 can also be provided integrally with the toilet seat device 2.

[0076] The operating device 10 is connected via a predetermined network (for example, Fig.11 The network N in the embodiment is connected to the toilet seat device 2 by wired or wireless communication. For example, as long as the toilet seat device 2 and the operating device 10 can send and receive information, any connection may be used, such as wired communication connection or wireless communication connection.

[0077] The operating device 10 accepts various operations from the user via a display surface (e.g., display screen 11) using, for example, a touch panel function. In addition, the operating device 10 may include switches and buttons, and accept various operations using switches and buttons. The display screen 11 is, for example, a display screen of a tablet terminal implemented by a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, etc., and is a display device for displaying various information. That is, the operating device 10 accepts input from the user using the display screen 11, and also performs output to the user. The display screen 11 is a display device that displays various information.

[0078] The operating device 10 receives a user's operation for stopping the control being performed by the toilet seat device 2. The operating device 10 receives a user's operation for starting the execution of local washing by the toilet seat device 2. The operating device 10 receives a user's instruction to the washing nozzle 6. The operating device 10 receives a user's operation for causing the toilet seat device 2 to output a predetermined sound. The operating device 10 receives a user's operation for performing sterilization of the washing nozzle 6 of the toilet seat device 2 (see Figure 1 ) The operation device 10 receives an operation by a user for performing a sterilization treatment for sterilization. The operation device 10 receives an operation by a user for adjusting the strength of the water spray during the local washing performed by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 receives an operation by a user for adjusting the volume of the sound output by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 receives an operation by a user for selecting a language when the operation device 10 displays or outputs the sound related to the use of the toilet.

[0079] For example, the operating device 10 may display the object that accepts the above-mentioned user operation on the display screen 11, and perform various processes according to the user's contact with the displayed object. For example, the operating device 10 may have a switch, button, etc. that accepts the above-mentioned user operation, and perform various processes according to the user's contact with the switch, button, etc. It should be noted that the above is an example, and the operating device 10 may also accept the operation performed by the user to perform various processes.

[0080] The toilet system 1 senses various properties of the user's excrement (feces), such as shape, size, quality, color, etc., through various structures and processes described later. The toilet system 1 senses the user's excrement (feces) optically. That is, the toilet system 1 is a toilet system that can sense excrement (feces) information using an optical unit. For example, the toilet system 1 changes to the standby mode described later by the user's personal authentication after sitting on the toilet seat 5 and operating the operating device 10, and automatically changes to the measurement mode according to the user's excretion. The toilet system 1 can also provide information to the user's terminal device such as a smartphone based on the measurement results.

[0081] <2. Composition of toilet seat device>

[0082] Next, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The structure of the toilet seat device 2 will be described. Figure 2 and Figure 3 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the structure of the toilet seat device according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing a state where the cover 110 of the optical unit 100 is in a closed state (hereinafter also referred to as a “closed state”). Figure 3 The figure shows a state where the cover portion 110 of the optical unit 100 is removed.

[0083] like Figure 2 As shown, in the closed state of the cover 110, the components of the optical unit 100 other than the cover 110 ( Figure 3 , Figure 5 The light emitting part 120, the light receiving part 130, etc. in the toilet 7 are hidden in the back of the cover 110. It should be noted that the closed state mentioned here is a term indicating a state in which the light receiving part 130 is kept out of water by the cover 110, and also includes a structure in which the part of the light receiving part 130 that is kept out of water is open. In the closed state of the cover 110, the cover 110 is located in front of the light emitting part 120 and the light receiving part 130. In this way, the cover 110 is located in front of the light receiving part 130 in the closed state. That is, in the closed state of the cover 110, the cover 110 is located in a direction facing the inside of the toilet 7 from the light emitting part 120 and the light receiving part 130. Therefore, in the closed state of the cover 110, the light emitting part 120 and the light receiving part 130 are covered by the main body cover 30 and the cover 110. In this way, the light emitting part 120 and the light receiving part 130 are arranged in the main body cover 30 as a shell. It should be noted that in Figure 2 In the example of FIG, the cover 110 is formed of a material having no light transmittance (low light transmittance) similarly to the main body cover 30, but the cover 110 may be formed of a material different from that of the main body cover 30. For example, (a part of) the cover 110 may be formed of a light transmittance material, and details of this will be described later.

[0084] also, Figure 2 The cleaning nozzle 6 is shown in FIG. Figure 1 ) is in a state where it is stored in the main body cover 30 (hereinafter also referred to as the "stored position"). Figure 2 As shown, when the cleaning nozzle 6 is in the storage position, the nozzle cover 60 is closed and the cleaning nozzle 6 is hidden behind the nozzle cover 60. When cleaning is performed by the cleaning nozzle 6, the nozzle cover 60 is opened and the cleaning nozzle 6 is inserted from the opening 31b of the main body cover 30 (see Figure 5 ) protrudes, and the cleaning nozzle 6 is transferred to the entry state.

[0085] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the cover 110 is removed, the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 of the optical unit 100 are exposed from the opening 31 of the main body cover 30. For example, when the cover 110 is opened (hereinafter also referred to as the “open state”), Figure 3As shown, the cover 110 is not located in front of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130. Thus, in the open state of the cover 110, the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 are exposed. Furthermore, in the open state of the cover 110, the light emitting unit 120 can irradiate light to the excrement in the toilet 7, and the light receiving unit 130 can receive the reflected light from the excrement in the toilet 7. As described above, the cover 110 is located in front of the light receiving unit 130 in the closed state, thereby covering the front of the light receiving unit 130, and is not located in front of the light receiving unit 130 in the open state, thereby opening the front of the light receiving unit 130. The cover 110 can be freely opened and closed relative to the light receiving unit 130 between the position covering the front of the light receiving unit 130 and the position opening the front of the light receiving unit 130. It should be noted that the details of the open state of the cover 110 will be described later.

[0086] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the toilet seat device 2 is configured such that the optical unit 100 is disposed adjacent to the cleaning nozzle 6. The optical unit 100 is not limited to the position adjacent to the cleaning nozzle 6, and may be disposed at various positions, which will be described later.

[0087] <3. Functional structure of toilet seat device>

[0088] Next, refer to Figure 4 The functional configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described. Figure 4 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the toilet seat device according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the toilet seat device 2 includes a human body sensing sensor 32, a seat sensing sensor 33, a control device 34, an electromagnetic valve 71, a nozzle motor 61, a cleaning nozzle 6, and an optical unit 100. Figure 4 In the Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a part of the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 described above (main body 3, toilet seat 5, toilet bowl 7, etc.).

[0089] For example, the human body sensing sensor 32, the seat sensing sensor 33, and the control device 34 are provided in the main body 3 of the toilet seat device 2. It should be noted that, although not shown in the figure, the toilet seat device 2 has a communication device (for example, Fig.11 For example, the communication device is implemented by a communication circuit, etc. Furthermore, the communication device communicates with a predetermined network (for example, Fig.11 The main body 3 may also have a storage unit ( Fig.18In this case, the toilet seat device 2 may send data from the control device 34 to the second memory 20 and store the data in the second memory 20, but details on this will be described later.

[0090] The human body sensing sensor 32 has a function of sensing a human body. For example, the human body sensing sensor 32 is implemented by a pyroelectric sensor using an infrared signal. For example, the human body sensing sensor 32 can also be implemented by a μ (micro) wave sensor. It should be noted that the above content is an example, and the human body sensing sensor 32 is not limited to the above content, and can also sense a human body through various units. For example, the human body sensing sensor 32 senses the entry into the bathroom R (refer to Figure 1 ) inside. The human body sensing sensor 32 outputs a sensing signal to the control device 34.

[0091] The seat sensing sensor 33 has a function of sensing a person sitting on the toilet seat device 2. The seat sensing sensor 33 senses that the user sits on the toilet seat 5. The seat sensing sensor 33 can sense that the user sits on the toilet seat 5. The seat sensing sensor 33 also functions as a seat leaving sensing sensor that senses that the user leaves the toilet seat 5. The seat sensing sensor 33 senses the user's seated state on the toilet seat 5.

[0092] For example, the seat sensing sensor 33 senses the user sitting on the toilet seat 5 through a load sensor. For example, the seat sensing sensor 33 is an infrared light-projecting and receiving type distance measuring sensor, and can also sense a human body that is present near the toilet seat 5 before the person (user) sits on the toilet seat 5, or a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. It should be noted that the above content is an example, and the seat sensing sensor 33 is not limited to the above content, and can also sense the person sitting on the toilet seat device 2 through various units. The seat sensing sensor 33 outputs a seat sensing signal to the control device 34.

[0093] The control device 34 functions as a control unit that controls various components and processes. The control device 34 controls the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the optical unit 100. The control device 34 controls the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the optical unit 100 based on a signal sent from the operating device 10. The control device 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 based on a signal of a control instruction related to local washing sent from the operating device 10. The control device 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 to advance and retreat the washing nozzle 6. The control device 34 controls the opening and closing of the solenoid valve 71. The control device 34 controls the optical unit 100 to open and close the cover 110. The control device 34 sends control information for opening the cover 110 to the optical unit 100. The control device 34 sends control information for closing the cover 110 to the optical unit 100. The control device 34 sends control information for turning the light emitting unit 120 on and off to the optical unit 100. The control device 34 controls the cover 110 to be in the closed state at a timing when light reception by the light receiving unit 130 is not necessary, such as before the user sits down or when sufficient data is acquired.

[0094] The control device 34 sends control information for controlling the function of the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130 to the optical unit 100. It should be noted that the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130 is different from a mechanical shutter such as a so-called lens shutter, and is a shutter method that reads exposure by electronically controlling the light receiving element 132 (photographing element). In other words, the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130 is a so-called electronic shutter or an electronically controlled shutter. The control device 34 sends control information to the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the optical unit 100 via wires. It should be noted that the control device 34 can also send control information to the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the optical unit 100 wirelessly.

[0095] The control device 34 controls the opening and closing of the lid 110. The control device 34 opens the lid 110 after the user sits down as sensed by the seat sensing sensor 33, and closes the lid 110 before the user leaves the seat as sensed by the seat sensing sensor 33. The control device 34 closes the lid 110 based on the fact that the light receiving unit 130 receives reflected light from excrement.

[0096] Control device 34 closes lid 110 in conjunction with a user's instruction to operate washing nozzle 6 to operating device 10. Control device 34 closes lid 110 based on light receiving unit 130 receiving reflected light from washing nozzle 6 entering bowl 8.

[0097] When the control device 34 controls the opening of the cover 110, the cover 110 is opened in such a manner that the central axis of the light irradiated by the light emitting unit 120 does not overlap with the cover 110. The control device 34 controls the cover 110 to a position that does not intersect with the central axis of the light irradiated by the light emitting unit 120 when the cover 110 is in the open state. The control device 34 controls the cover 110 to be outside the region of the half-value angle of the light irradiated by the light emitting unit 120 when the cover 110 is in the open state. The control device 34 controls the light emitting unit 120 to irradiate light of the same wavelength at the same time. For example, the control device 34 opens the cover 110 by setting a position closer to the closed position than the state in which the cover 110 is fully opened (fully opened state) as the open state. For example, the control device 34 opens the cover 110 by setting a position in which the cover 110 is located outside the region of the half-value angle of each light emitting element 121 and in front of the position in the fully opened state as the open state.

[0098] The control device 34 closes the cover 110 in conjunction with the movement of the washing nozzle 6. The control device 34 controls the cover 110 starting from the user's operation of the operating device 10 for controlling the washing nozzle 6. The control device 34 senses the movement of the washing nozzle 6 (the nozzle enters the bowl) and controls the cover 110.

[0099] The control device 34 controls so that the cover 110 is opened upward when placed on the toilet 7. The control device 34 controls so that the cover 110 is closed when the cleaning nozzle 6 is operated. The control device 34 controls so that the cover 110 is closed when the cleaning nozzle 6 provided in the toilet 7 is operated.

[0100] The control device 34 has: a measurement mode, irradiating light having a wavelength in the visible light region while the seating sensing sensor 33 senses the user's seating on the toilet seat 5; and a measurement standby mode (standby mode), irradiating light having a wavelength in the invisible light region, or irradiating light having a wavelength closer to the invisible light region than the wavelength of the light irradiated in the measurement mode. In this case, the control device 34 switches the mode of operation by switching between the measurement mode and the standby mode. The control device 34 executes the standby mode until the light receiving unit 130 receives the reflected light from the stool, and executes the measurement mode based on the fact that the light receiving unit 130 receives the reflected light from the stool.

[0101] The control device 34 controls the irradiation of light by the light emitting unit 120. The control device 34 controls the energization of the light emitting element 121 and the application of voltage to the light receiving element 132. The control device 34 performs light receiving control, in which a control instruction to open the electronic shutter is sent to the light receiving element 132 and the light emitting element 121 is energized, thereby enabling the light reflected from the stool to be received.

[0102] The control device 34 controls the interval from the start of execution of one light receiving control to the execution of the next light receiving control to be greater than 0.2 milliseconds. The control device 34 controls the interval from the start of execution of one light receiving control to the execution of the next light receiving control to be less than 10 milliseconds. The control device 34 energizes only one of the plurality of light emitting elements 121 in one light receiving control, and changes the light emitting element 121 to be energized in the next light receiving control each time one light receiving control ends, and controls the interval from the start of execution of one light receiving control to the execution of the next light receiving control to be less than 1.6 milliseconds. In the light receiving control, the control device 34 makes the energization time for the light emitting element 121 different according to the wavelength irradiated by the light emitting element 121.

[0103] In addition, the control device 34 controls Figure 1 The toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 are shown. The control device 34 controls the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 based on the signal sent from the operating device 10. The control device 34 controls the toilet lid 4 based on the signal of the control instruction related to the opening and closing of the toilet lid sent from the operating device 10. The control device 34 controls the toilet seat 5 based on the signal of the control instruction related to the opening and closing of the seat part sent from the operating device 10. The control device 34 sends the control information to the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 via wire. It should be noted that the control device 34 can also send the control information to the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 wirelessly.

[0104] The control device 34 determines whether the human body sensing sensor 32 senses the entry of a user. The control device 34 determines whether the human body sensing sensor 32 senses the entry of a user into the toilet R. The control device 34 determines whether the seat sensing sensor 33 senses the seat of a user. The control device 34 determines whether the seat sensing sensor 33 senses the seat of a user on the toilet seat 5. The control device 34 has a calculation processing device 342 (see FIG. 1 ) for performing calculations related to the above-mentioned control. Fig.18 ), storage unit, etc. For example, the arithmetic processing unit 342 is implemented by various methods such as a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an integrated circuit such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). It should be noted that the details of the structure of the control device 34 will be described later.

[0105] The electromagnetic valve 71 has a valve function that controls the flow of a fluid by electromagnetic means. The electromagnetic valve 71 switches, for example, the supply and stop of tap water from a water supply pipe. The electromagnetic valve 71 is controlled to open and close according to an instruction from the control device 34 .

[0106] The nozzle motor 61 is a driving source (motor) for driving the washing nozzle 6 forward and backward. The nozzle motor 61 controls the washing nozzle 6 to advance and retreat relative to the main body cover 30 of the main body 3. The nozzle motor 61 controls the washing nozzle 6 to advance and retreat according to instructions from the control device 34.

[0107] The optical unit 100 includes a cover 110, an actuator 111, a light emitting unit 120, and a light receiving unit 130. The optical unit 100 functions as an excrement sensing device (excrement measuring device). It should be noted that the optical unit that functions as an excrement sensing device may also be provided separately from the toilet seat device, but this will be described later.

[0108] The cover 110 can be located in front of the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130, and function as a cover. The cover 110 can be located on the side (front) facing the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting unit 120. The cover 110 can be located on the side (front) facing the light-receiving surface of the light-receiving unit 130. In order to set the cover 110 to reduce the possibility of visual recognition of the optical unit 100 and take into account the privacy of the user, the cover 110 is preferably formed of an opaque material. For example, the cover 110 can also be formed into an opaque state by coloring. The cover 110 can also be coated with an opaque material (paint) on the surface. It should be noted that the cover 110 is not limited to an opaque structure, but can also be transparent. The cover 110 is arranged in front of the light-receiving unit 130 and can be opened and closed freely. The cover 110 can be switched between an open state and a closed state by the actuator 111, and can be located in front of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 or can expose the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130. The cover 110 is closed at a timing when light reception by the light receiving unit 130 is not required, such as before the user takes a seat or when sufficient data is acquired. Thus, the cover 110 can suppress the reduction in the sensing accuracy of the light receiving unit 130 due to stains.

[0109] The cover 110 does not intersect the central axis of the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 in the open state. The cover 110 is located outside the region of the half-value angle of the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 in the open state. The cover 110 is opened upward when placed on the toilet 7. The cover 110 is in a closed state when the cleaning nozzle 6 is in operation. The cover 110 is in a closed state when the cleaning nozzle 6 provided on the toilet 7 is in operation.

[0110] The actuator 111 is a driving source (motor) for opening or closing the cover 110. The actuator 111 controls the cover 110 to be opened or closed according to instructions from the control device 34. The actuator 111 closes the cover 110 at a timing when light reception by the light receiving unit 130 is not required, such as before the user takes a seat or when sufficient data is acquired.

[0111] The actuator 111 positions the cover 110 at a position that does not intersect with the central axis of the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 when the cover 110 is in an open state. The actuator 111 positions the cover 110 outside the region of the half-value angle of the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 when the cover 110 is in an open state. The actuator 111 opens the cover 110 upward when the toilet 7 is placed. The actuator 111 closes the cover 110 when the cleaning nozzle 6 is in operation. The actuator 111 closes the cover 110 when the cleaning nozzle 6 provided in the toilet 7 is in operation.

[0112] The light emitting unit 120 emits light. The light emitting unit 120 includes a light emitting element 121 (see Figure 5 ). The light emitting unit 120 emits light toward the excrement discharged by the user. The light emitting unit 120 emits light toward the feces discharged by the user. The light emitting unit 120 emits light toward the feces falling downward.

[0113] The light emitting unit 120 is provided with a light emitting element 121 for emitting light. The light emitting unit 120 is provided with a light emitting element 121 for emitting light forward. The light emitting unit 120 is provided with a light emitting element 121 for emitting light forward toward excrement discharged by the user.

[0114] The light emitting unit 120 irradiates light forward. The light emitting unit 120 is configured such that the central axis of the light emitting unit 120 is parallel to the central axis of the light receiving unit 130, or is inclined in a direction close to the central axis of the light receiving unit 130 on the front side. It should be noted that the central axis of the light receiving unit 130 mentioned here is a line passing through the center of the lens 131 and intersecting the lens 131 perpendicularly. The light emitting unit 120 is configured such that the direction of the central axis of the light emitting unit 120 is inclined relative to the central axis of the light receiving unit 130. The central axis of the light receiving unit 130 may, for example, be a central axis extending in the thickness direction of the lens 131 of the light receiving unit 130 and passing through the center of the lens 131. In addition, when the light receiving unit 130 does not include the lens 131, the central axis of the light receiving unit 130 may, for example, be a central axis extending in the thickness direction of the light receiving element 132 of the light receiving unit 130 and passing through the center of the light receiving element 132. The light emitting unit 120 is configured such that the direction of the central axis of each light emitting element 121 is inclined relative to the central axis of the light receiving element 132. The light emitting unit 120 radiates light forward toward the stool excreted by the user.

[0115] The light emitting unit 120 includes a plurality of light emitting elements 121. The light emitting unit 120 includes a plurality of light emitting elements 121 for emitting light. The light emitting unit 120 is provided with a plurality of light emitting elements 121 for emitting light of the same wavelength. The light emitting unit 120 irradiates light to falling feces excreted by the user. The light emitting unit 120 includes a plurality of light emitting elements 121 for irradiating light of different wavelengths. Each light emitting element 121 is configured so that the direction of the central axis is inclined relative to the central axis of the light receiving element 132.

[0116] When the main body cover 30 as a housing is viewed from the side or from above, the light emitting element 121 is arranged in parallel with the light receiving unit 130 or arranged in front of the light receiving unit 130. When the main body cover 30 as a housing is viewed from the side or from above, the light emitting element 121 is arranged in parallel with the lens 131 or arranged in front of the lens 131.

[0117] A reflecting unit is provided around the light emitting element 121 so that the light emitted by the light emitting element 121 has a single directivity toward the front. The reflecting unit may be an inclined surface formed by an inclined member, or a concave surface (outer surface of the concave portion) formed around the light emitting element 121. The plurality of light emitting elements 121 can emit light of different wavelengths. The plurality of light emitting elements 121 are arranged so that when the toilet seat 5 is viewed from above, the half-angle regions of the light emitted by the plurality of light emitting elements 121 overlap within the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5. The plurality of light emitting elements 121 are arranged so that the half-angle regions of the light emitted by the plurality of light emitting elements 121 respectively overlap with the imaginary falling positions of the feces excreted by the user.

[0118] A plurality of light emitting elements 121 are arranged around the light receiving portion 130. When the toilet 7 is placed on the toilet 7, the light emitting elements 121 used in the standby mode are arranged above the light emitting elements 121 used only in the measuring mode. The number of light emitting elements 121 used in the standby mode is less than the number of light emitting elements 121 used in the measuring mode. When the toilet 7 is placed on the toilet 7, the plurality of light emitting elements 121 are arranged above the light receiving portion 130. It should be noted that the details of the configuration of the light emitting portion 120 and the light emitting elements 121 will be described later.

[0119] The light receiving unit 130 receives light. The light receiving unit 130 has a lens 131 (see Figure 5 ), the light receiving element 132 (refer to Fig.13 ). The light receiving unit 130 receives reflected light from excrement with respect to the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120. The light receiving unit 130 receives reflected light from excrement with respect to the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120. The light receiving unit 130 receives reflected light from falling excrement with respect to the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120.

[0120] The light receiving unit 130 is provided with a light receiving element 132 for receiving light. The light receiving unit 130 is provided with a lens 131 for collecting light in front of the light receiving element 132. A housing 133 is provided around the light receiving element 132 as a cover for suppressing the incidence of light other than the front of the light receiving element 132. The housing 133 is provided around the light receiving element 132 as a cover for suppressing the incidence of light other than the light passing through the lens 131 arranged in the front to the light receiving element 132. The housing 133 is provided around the light receiving element 132 as a cover for suppressing the incidence of light from the side direction of the light receiving element 132.

[0121] The housing 133 functions as an incident suppression cover that blocks or attenuates light other than that coming from the front of the light receiving element 132. The housing 133 is colored in a color that is difficult for light to pass through, such as black. It should be noted that various materials such as resin can be used in the housing 133 as long as the desired shape can be formed. The light receiving portion 130 receives reflected light from stool with respect to the light irradiated by the light emitting portion 120. The light receiving portion 130 receives reflected light from falling stool with respect to the light irradiated by the light emitting portion 120. The light receiving portion 130 receives reflected light from stool with respect to the light irradiated by the light emitting portion 120. It should be noted that the details of the structure of the light receiving portion 130 will be described later.

[0122] <4. Opening and closing the cover>

[0123] Here, use Figure 5 The opening and closing of the cover 110 of the optical unit 100 will be described. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the opening and closing action of the cover. Specifically, Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the cover 110 switching between the open state and the closed state. The cover 110 switches between the open state and the closed state by driving the actuator 111. Figure 5 In the description, the cover 110 is described as the cover 110 - 1 to 110 - 4 according to the position of the cover 110 , but is simply referred to as the “cover 110 ” except when a special distinction is made for the description. Figure 5 In order to show the opening and closing of the cover 110, only a part of the main body cover 30 is shown, and the nozzle cover 60 and the like covering the opening 31b for the cleaning nozzle 6 are omitted. Figure 5 As shown, the main body cover 30 is provided with two openings, namely, an opening 31 for the optical unit 100 and an opening 31b for the cleaning nozzle 6. The opening 31 for the optical unit 100 may be covered by the cover 110. In addition, the opening 31b for the cleaning nozzle 6 may be covered by the nozzle cover 60. For example, the opening 31b is provided at the center of the rear side of the toilet 7, and the opening 31 is provided at a position adjacent to the opening 31b.

[0124] Figure 5 The cover 110-1 shown in the figure shows the cover 110 in a closed state. The cover 110-1 in the closed state is located in front of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130. The cover 110-1 is substantially coplanar with the main body cover 30, and covers the front of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130. In this way, the main body cover 30 as a housing is located in front of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130.

[0125] Before the user of the toilet R sits on the toilet seat 5, when cleaning the nozzle 6, or when the defecation-related sensing is completed, the cover 110 is located at the cover 110-1 and becomes a closed state. As a result, the cover 110 prevents the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 from being exposed, prevents the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 from being seen by the user when entering the toilet R, or prevents the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 from being wetted.

[0126] The cover 110 is controlled by the actuator 111 implemented by the control device 34 and is located at the cover 110-1, becoming a closed state. Then, the cover 110 is controlled by the actuator 111 implemented by the control device 34 and is transferred from the closed state to the open state. The cover 110 is transferred in the order of the cover 110-1, 110-2, 110-3, and 110-4, and is transferred from the closed state to the open state. For example, after the user of the toilet R sits on the toilet seat 5 or the action of washing the nozzle 6 is completed, the cover 110 is transferred from the cover 110-1 in the closed state to the cover 110-4 in the open state.

[0127] The cover 110 opens and closes relative to the main cover 30 with one end portion adjacent to the upper end of the opening 31 of the main cover 30 as an axis. The cover 110 rotates with one end portion as an axis, thereby moving the other end portion opposite to the one end portion from bottom to top. Figure 5 In the example of FIG. 1 , the cover 110 is rotated relative to the main body cover 30 , thereby switching from the cover 110 - 1 in the closed state to the cover 110 - 4 in the open state.

[0128] The cover parts 110-2 and 110-3 represent the state of the cover part 110-1 in the middle of the transition from the closed state to the open state. In this way, from the cover part 110-1 to the cover parts 110-2, 110-3, and 110-4, the other end of the cover part 110 gradually moves upward, thereby exposing the light emitting part 120 and the light receiving part 130. Specifically, the other end of the cover part 110 moves upward, thereby exposing the light emitting element 121 of the light emitting part 120, the lens 131 of the light receiving part 130, etc. from the opening 31 of the main body cover 30.

[0129] As described above, the cover portion 110-4 in the open state is located in front of and above the light-emitting portion 120 and the light-receiving portion 130, thereby preventing the light-emitting portion 120 and the light-receiving portion 130 from being affected by external light (such as the lighting in the bathroom R) and preventing the light-emitting portion 120 and the light-receiving portion 130 from being stained by water from above.

[0130] In addition, the cover 110 is controlled by the actuator 111 implemented by the control device 34 to transfer from the open state to the closed state. It should be noted that the transfer from the open state to the closed state is the opposite action of the transfer from the closed state to the open state described above, and the detailed description is omitted, but the cover 110 is transferred from the open state to the closed state by transferring the position in the order of the cover 110-4, 110-3, 110-2, and 110-1. The cover 110 rotates with one end side as the axis, thereby moving the other end from top to bottom. For example, the cover 110 is transferred from the cover 110-4 in the open state to the cover 110-1 in the closed state after the user of the toilet R leaves the toilet seat 5, when the nozzle 6 is cleaned, or when the sensing related to defecation is completed.

[0131] It should be noted that in Figure 5 In the example, the cover 110 is opened and closed relative to the main cover 30 with one end side adjacent to the upper end of the opening 31 of the main cover 30 as an axis, and is opened and closed in the vertical direction, but the structure of the cover 110 is not limited to Figure 5 Examples of various schemes are also possible. For example, the cover 110 may be a storage portion that is accommodated in the upper end side of the opening 31 provided in the main cover 30. For example, the cover 110 may also be configured as an opening and closing portion (shutter) that connects several slender members. In addition, for example, the cover 110 may also be an axis that opens and closes relative to the main cover 30 at one end side of the lateral end of the opening 31 adjacent to the main cover 30, and performs an opening and closing action in the lateral direction. In addition, for example, the cover 110 can be separated into multiple parts, and is not limited to a single-sided opening structure, and may also be a double-sided opening structure.

[0132] <5. Window>

[0133] The entire cover 110 is formed of a material that is not light-transmissive (has low light-transmissiveness), but a portion of the cover may be light-transmissive. Details on this will be described later. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of an optical unit having a window portion.

[0134] exist Figure 6In the example of , the optical unit 100 includes: a cover 110A having a window 1101 for transmitting light; a light emitting unit 120 having a plurality of light emitting elements 121; and a light receiving unit 130. The cover 110A has a window 1101 in a frame surrounding the cover. As long as the window 1101 transmits light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 and transmits light received by the light receiving unit 130, it can be formed of any material. It should be noted that the light mentioned here is not limited to visible light, but also includes invisible light such as infrared rays.

[0135] exist Figure 6 In the example of FIG. 1 , the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 of the optical unit 100 are arranged in the housing 101. In this way, the housing 101 is provided with the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130. In addition, the cover 110A is supported at the end of the housing 101 and is located in front of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130. In this way, the end of the housing 101 is located in front of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130.

[0136] exist Figure 6 In the example of , the cover 110A is configured so that the window 1101 is located in front of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130, and the optical unit 100 is configured to be able to perform defecation sensing regardless of the opening and closing action of the cover 110A. It should be noted that the cover 110A can be fixed relative to the housing 101, or can be opened and closed relative to the housing 101. In addition, the analog-to-digital converter (AD Converter) 341 and the operation processing unit 342 of the control device 34 will be described later.

[0137] <6. Other device configuration and configuration examples>

[0138] It should be noted that the device configuration and the arrangement of the optical unit are not limited to the above-mentioned contents, and various configurations and arrangements are possible.

[0139] <6-1. Other examples of optical unit arrangement>

[0140] For example, the optical unit is not limited to being arranged in the main body cover 30 of the main body 3, but can also be arranged in various positions. Figure 7 and Figure 8 Provide explanation. Figure 7 It is a side view showing an example of the configuration of the toilet system according to the second embodiment. Figure 8 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the structure of the toilet system of the second embodiment. Specifically, Figure 7 1 is a diagram showing a state where the cover 110 of the optical unit 100A is in a closed state. Figure 81 and 1 , which are diagrams showing a state where the cover 110 of the optical unit 100A is removed. Note that the same reference numerals are given to the same points as those of the toilet system 1 of the first embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0141] The toilet system 1A includes a toilet seat device 2A and an operating device 10 (not shown). Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the toilet system 1A shown in the figure, only the components necessary for explaining the toilet seat device 2A are shown, and the other components (such as the operating device 10) are omitted. The toilet seat device 2A is provided in the toilet R (see Figure 1 ).like Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the toilet seat apparatus 2A is different from the toilet seat apparatus 2 in that the main body cover 30A of the main body portion 3A does not have the opening 31 for the optical unit.

[0142] like Figure 7 As shown, in the toilet system 1A, the optical unit 100A is arranged between the edge 9 of the toilet bowl 7 of the toilet seat device 2A and the toilet seat 5. Specifically, the optical unit 100A is arranged on the back side 51, which is the surface opposite to the surface of the toilet seat 5 on which the user sits. The optical unit 100A is arranged between the toilet seat 5 and the edge 9 so that the cover 110, the light emitting unit 120, and the light receiving unit 130 face the inside of the toilet bowl 7. In this way, in the toilet seat device 2A, the optical unit 100A is arranged on the back side 51 of the toilet seat 5, thereby reducing the possibility of the optical unit 100A being seen by the user of the toilet R. It should be noted that the optical unit 100A may also be arranged in the buffer portion 52 provided on the back side 51 of the toilet seat 5.

[0143] The cover 110 is provided to accommodate components other than the cover 110 of the optical unit 100A ( Figure 8 The housing 101A (see Figure 8 ) side. The cover 110 covers the opening surface of the shell 101A corresponding to the front surface side of the light emitting part 120 and the light receiving part 130. When the cover 110 is in a closed state, the light emitting part 120, the light receiving part 130, etc. are hidden in the back of the cover 110. When the cover 110 is in a closed state, the cover 110 is located in front of the light emitting part 120 and the light receiving part 130. That is, when the cover 110 is in a closed state, the cover 110 is located in the direction from the light emitting part 120 and the light receiving part 130 to the inside of the toilet 7. Therefore, when the cover 110 is in a closed state, the light emitting part 120 and the light receiving part 130 are covered by the shell 101A and the cover 110. It should be noted that Figure 7In the example shown, the cover 110 is formed of a material with no light transmittance (low light transmittance) similarly to the housing 101A, but the cover 110 may be formed of a material different from that of the housing 101A.

[0144] like Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the cover 110 is removed, the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 of the optical unit 100A are exposed from the housing 101A. Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the cover 110 is in an open state, and the cover 110 is not located in front of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130. Thus, in the open state of the cover 110, the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 are exposed. It should be noted that the opening and closing action of the cover 110 relative to the housing 101A is the same as the opening and closing action of the cover 110 relative to the main body cover 30, and the description thereof is omitted. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the case of the toilet system 1A shown, the optical unit 100A is arranged outside the toilet seat device 2A. Therefore, in the toilet system 1A, there is no need to change the design of the toilet seat device 2A in which various equipment are arranged in a complex and dense manner, so it is easier to manufacture than a structure in which the optical unit is arranged inside the toilet seat device (such as the toilet seat device 2 of the toilet system 1).

[0145] <6-2. Other device configuration examples>

[0146] The toilet seat device and the optical unit may also be separate. Figures 9 to 11 First, use Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , explain the composition of the bathroom system. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 : is a perspective view showing an example of the structure of the toilet system of the third embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 9 1 is a diagram showing a state where the cover 110 of the optical unit 100B is in a closed state. Fig.10 The figure shows a state where the cover 110 of the optical unit 100B is removed. It is to be noted that the same reference numerals are given to the same points as those of the toilet system 1 of the first embodiment and the toilet seat apparatus 2A of the second embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted as appropriate.

[0147] The toilet system 1B includes a toilet seat device 2B, an optical unit 100B, and an operating device 10 (not shown). Fig. 9 and Fig.10 In the toilet system 1B shown in the figure, only the configurations necessary for the description of the toilet seat device 2B and the optical unit 100B are shown, and the other configurations (such as the operating device 10) are omitted. The toilet seat device 2B is provided in the toilet R (see FIG. 1 ) in the same manner as the toilet seat device 2. Figure 1 ).like Fig. 9 As shown, the toilet seat device 2B is different from the toilet seat device 2 in that the main body cover 30B of the main body 3B does not have the opening 31 for the optical unit and the optical unit 100B is a separate body. Thus, in the toilet system 1B, the optical unit 100B functions as a waste sensor separate from the toilet seat device 2B. Fig. 9 As shown, an optical unit 100B as a waste sensing device is provided on a toilet bowl 7 having a bowl 8 for receiving waste.

[0148] like Fig. 9 As shown, in the toilet system 1B, the optical unit 100B is configured to be hung between the edge 9 of the toilet seat device 2B and the toilet seat 5. Specifically, the optical unit 100B is configured to be hung on the edge 9 by the hook portion (hook structure) of the housing 101B that accommodates the optical unit 100B. The optical unit 100B is configured along the inner peripheral wall of the edge 9 so that the cover portion 110, the light emitting portion 120, and the light receiving portion 130 face the inside of the toilet 7. In the housing 101B, the main body that accommodates the light emitting portion 120 and the light receiving portion 130 is arranged along the inner peripheral wall of the edge 9, and is hung on the edge 9 by the hook portion provided on the opposite side of the end portion provided with the main body.

[0149] The cover 110 is provided to accommodate components other than the cover 110 of the optical unit 100B ( Figure 8 The cover 110 covers the opening surface of the shell 101B corresponding to the front surface side of the light emitting portion 120 and the light receiving portion 130. When the cover 110 is in a closed state, the light emitting portion 120, the light receiving portion 130, etc. are hidden in the back of the cover 110. When the cover 110 is in a closed state, the cover 110 is located in front of the light emitting portion 120 and the light receiving portion 130. That is, when the cover 110 is in a closed state, the cover 110 is located in a direction from the light emitting portion 120 and the light receiving portion 130 to the inside of the toilet 7. Therefore, when the cover 110 is in a closed state, the light emitting portion 120 and the light receiving portion 130 are covered by the shell 101B and the cover 110. It should be noted that in Figure 7 In the example shown, the cover 110 is formed of a material having no light transmittance (low light transmittance) similarly to the housing 101B, but the cover 110 may be formed of a material different from that of the housing 101B.

[0150] like Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the cover 110 is removed, the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 of the optical unit 100B are exposed from the housing 101B. Fig.10As shown in FIG. 1 , the cover 110 is in an open state, and the cover 110 is not located in front of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130. Thus, in the open state of the cover 110, the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 are exposed. It should be noted that the opening and closing action of the cover 110 relative to the housing 101B is the same as the opening and closing action of the cover 110 relative to the main body cover 30, and the description thereof is omitted. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 In the case of the toilet system 1B shown, the optical unit 100B can be assembled to the existing toilet 7. Therefore, in the toilet system 1B, there is no need to purchase a toilet seat device (such as the toilet seat device 2 of the toilet system 1) or a toilet device (such as the toilet device including the optical unit 100A and the toilet seat 5 of the toilet system 1A), and the purchase price becomes lower.

[0151] <6-2-1. Functional structure of toilet system>

[0152] Next, refer to Fig.11 The functional configuration of the restroom system 1B will be described. Fig.11 FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the toilet system according to the third embodiment. Fig.11 As shown, the toilet system 1B includes a toilet seat device 2B and an optical unit 100B communicating with the toilet seat device 2B. As described above, the toilet system 1B includes other devices such as an operating device 10 (not shown), but description of the same points as the toilet systems 1 and 1A is omitted.

[0153] like Fig.11 As shown, the toilet seat device 2B includes a human body sensing sensor 32, a seat sensing sensor 33, a control device 34B, a communication device 35, an electromagnetic valve 71, a nozzle motor 61, a cleaning nozzle 6, and an optical unit 100B. Fig.11 In, with Figure 4 Similarly, illustration of a part of the configuration of the toilet seat apparatus 2 (main body 3, toilet seat 5, toilet bowl 7, etc.) is omitted.

[0154] The communication device 35 is implemented by a communication circuit or the like, and communicates with the optical unit 100B. Furthermore, the communication device 35 is connected to the network N by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information with information processing devices such as the optical unit 100B. The communication device 35 communicates with the optical unit 100B under the control of the control device 34B. In addition, the communication device 35 can also transmit and receive information with information processing devices such as the operating device 10 via the network N or other networks.

[0155] The control device 34B functions as a control unit that controls various configurations and processes. The control device 34B controls the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71 in the same manner as the control device 34. In addition, the control device 34B controls the optical unit 100B via the communication device 35. In order to open and close the cover 110, the control device 34B controls the optical unit 100B via the communication device 35. The control device 34B sends control information for putting the cover 110 in an open state to the optical unit 100B via the communication device 35. The control device 34B sends control information for putting the cover 110 in a closed state to the optical unit 100B via the communication device 35. The control device 34B, like the control device 34, may also have a calculation processing device 342 implemented in various ways such as a processor such as a CPU, an MPU, or an ASIC, or an integrated circuit such as an FPGA (see Fig.18 ), various storage units, etc.

[0156] The optical unit 100B includes a cover 110, an actuator 111, a light emitting unit 120, a light receiving unit 130, a control device 140, and a communication device (not shown). The optical unit 100B functions as a waste sensing device (waste measuring device) similarly to the optical unit 100.

[0157] The communication device of the optical unit 100B is implemented by a communication circuit or the like, and communicates with the toilet seat device 2B. Furthermore, the communication device of the optical unit 100B is connected to the network N by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information with an information processing device such as the toilet seat device 2B. The communication device of the optical unit 100B communicates with the toilet seat device 2B under the control of the control device 140. In addition, the communication device of the optical unit 100B may also transmit and receive information with an information processing device such as the operating device 10 via the network N or other networks.

[0158] The control device 140 functions as a control unit that controls various components and processes. The control device 140 controls various components of the optical unit 100. The control device 140 cooperates with the control device 34 to control the cover 110, the actuator 111, the light emitting unit 120, and the light receiving unit 130. The control device 140 controls the cover 110, the actuator 111, the light emitting unit 120, and the light receiving unit 130 based on a signal (control information, etc.) received from the control device 34.

[0159] The control device 140 controls the opening and closing of the cover 110. The control device 140 controls the opening and closing of the cover 110 by controlling the actuator 111. The control device 140 receives control information for opening the cover 110 from the control device 34, and controls the actuator 111 to open the cover 110. The control device 140 receives control information for closing the cover 110 from the control device 34, and controls the actuator 111 to close the cover 110.

[0160] The control device 140 controls the lighting and extinguishing of the light emitting unit 120. The control device 140 receives control information for controlling the lighting and extinguishing of the light emitting unit 120 from the control device 34, and controls the lighting and extinguishing of the light emitting unit 120. The control device 140 receives control information for controlling the function of the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130 from the control device 34, and controls the function of the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130. The control device 140 controls the function of the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130.

[0161] The control device 140 sends control information to the cover 110, the actuator 111, the light emitting unit 120, and the light receiving unit 130 via wires. It should be noted that the control device 140 may also send control information to the cover 110, the actuator 111, the light emitting unit 120, and the light receiving unit 130 wirelessly.

[0162] The control device 140 , like the control device 34 and the control device 34B, may include a calculation processing device implemented in various ways such as a processor such as a CPU, an MPU, or an ASIC, or an integrated circuit such as an FPGA, various storage units, and the like.

[0163] <7. Various structures and processes>

[0164] Hereinafter, various configurations and processes will be described by taking the toilet system 1, toilet seat device 2, and optical unit 100 of the first embodiment as an example. It should be noted that in the following description, various configurations of the toilet system 1 may also be referred to as configurations corresponding to the toilet system 1A and the toilet system 1B. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may be referred to as the toilet seat device 2A and the toilet seat device 2B, and the optical unit 100 may be referred to as the optical unit 100A and the optical unit 100B.

[0165] <8. Example of configuration of light emitting unit and light receiving unit>

[0166] First, refer to Figure 12 to Figure 17 Various structures of the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit are described. Figure 12 to Figure 17 The configurations of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving units 130, 130A, 130B shown in the drawings can be adopted in any of the optical units 100, 100A, 100B as long as the configurations are adopted. Fig.12 and Fig.13 The structure of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 shown in FIG. 1 is described as a “first structure”. Fig.14 and Fig.15 The configuration of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130A shown in FIG. 1 is described as a “second configuration”. Fig.16 and Fig.17 The configuration of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130B shown is described as a “third configuration.” For example, the configuration of the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 of the optical unit 100 may be any of the first to third configurations shown below.

[0167] <8-1. First Configuration of Light Emitting Unit and Light Receiving Unit>

[0168] First of all, Fig.12 and Fig.13 The first configuration shown will be described. Fig.12 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit. Fig.13 It is a side view showing an example of the configuration of the light emitting section and the light receiving section.

[0169] like Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown, the light emitting unit 120 of the first structure has six light emitting elements 121-1, 121-2, 121-3, 121-4, 121-5, and 121-6. It should be noted that, hereinafter, except for the cases where special distinction is made for explanation, the light emitting elements 121-1, 121-2, 121-3, 121-4, 121-5, and 121-6 are described as "light emitting elements 121". For example, the light emitting element 121 is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). It should be noted that the light emitting element 121 is not limited to an LED, and various elements may also be used.

[0170] It should be noted that, hereinafter, sometimes, the light emitting element 121 that irradiates light of a wavelength in the invisible light region or a wavelength close to the invisible light region is described as a “first light emitting element”, and the light emitting element 121 that irradiates light of a wavelength in the visible light region is described as a “second light emitting element”, “third light emitting element”, “fourth light emitting element”, etc. For example, the first light emitting element may be used for both the standby mode and the measurement mode described later, and the second light emitting element may be used only for the measurement mode, but details on this point will be described later.

[0171] like Fig.12 and Fig.13As shown, the light receiving unit 130 of the first structure has a lens 131, a light receiving element 132, and a housing 133 for supporting the lens 131. For example, the light receiving element 132 is a line sensor. For example, the light receiving element 132 is a line sensor in which CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensors or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensors are arranged in a row. It should be noted that the light receiving element 132 is not limited to a line sensor (one-dimensional image sensor), and various sensors such as an area sensor (two-dimensional image sensor) can also be used. In the case where the optical unit 100 is an excrement sensing device, a control device 140 can also be provided in a rectangular member located on the back side of the light receiving element 132.

[0172] The support portion 150 supports the light emitting portion 120 and the light receiving portion 130. The support portion 150 may be formed of various materials as long as it can support the light emitting portion 120 and the light receiving portion 130. The support portion 150 supports the light emitting portion 120 and the light receiving portion 130 in a manner that the light emitting portion 120 and the light receiving portion 130 are exposed on one surface (hereinafter also referred to as the "front surface") of the support portion 150. For example, the support portion 150 supports the light emitting portion 120 and the light receiving portion 130 in a manner that each light emitting element 121 and the lens 131 of the light receiving portion 130 are exposed. Each light emitting element 121 irradiates light in the direction facing the front surface of the support portion 150, and the light receiving portion 130 receives light from the direction facing the front surface of the support portion 150. For example, each light emitting element 121 and the light receiving portion 130 are connected to a power supply device (not shown) on the side opposite to the front surface (back surface) of the support portion 150, and are supplied with power.

[0173] like Fig.12 As shown, each light emitting element 121 of the light emitting unit 120 is arranged around the light receiving unit 130. In the first configuration, the size of the lens 131 of the light receiving unit 130 is larger than the size of the light emitting element 121 of the light emitting unit 120.

[0174] <8-1-1. Light-emitting wavelength and arrangement example of light-emitting element>

[0175] Here, an example of the wavelength of light radiated by each light emitting element (emission wavelength) is shown. Fig.12In the example, the two light emitting elements 121, 121-3 and 121-4, are the first light emitting elements 121 that emit light of a wavelength in the invisible light region or a wavelength close to the invisible light region, and the four light emitting elements 121, 121-1, 121-2, 121-5, and 121-6, are the second light emitting elements 121 that emit visible light. It should be noted that each of the first light emitting elements 121 may emit light of the same wavelength or light of different wavelengths. In addition, each of the second light emitting elements 121 may emit light of the same wavelength or light of different wavelengths. For example, the second light emitting elements 121-1 and 121-2 may also emit light of the same wavelength. In addition, the light emitting elements 121-5 and 121-6 may also be the third light emitting elements 121-5 and 121-6 that emit light of the same wavelength or light of a wavelength different from that of the light emitted by the second light emitting elements 121-1 and 121-2. For example, in order to identify the color of excrement, it is ideal that the light emitting unit 120 can emit light of three or more wavelength regions.

[0176] For example, the wavelength region of the light irradiated by the first light emitting element 121 (also referred to as the "first wavelength region") is a wavelength region of 700 nm or more. In this way, the first wavelength region becomes a wavelength region of the invisible light region or a wavelength region close to the invisible light region. For example, the first wavelength region becomes a wavelength region corresponding to infrared rays, red, etc. In addition, for example, the wavelength region of the light irradiated by the second light emitting element 121 (also referred to as the "second wavelength region") is a wavelength region of less than 700 nm to more than 600 nm. In this way, the second wavelength region becomes a wavelength region of the visible light region. For example, the second wavelength region becomes a wavelength region corresponding to orange to red, etc. In addition, for example, the wavelength region of the light irradiated by the third light emitting element 121 (also referred to as the "third wavelength region") is a wavelength region of less than 600 nm to more than 450 nm. In this way, the third wavelength region is a region with a shorter wavelength than the second wavelength region, and becomes a wavelength region of the visible light region. For example, the third wavelength region becomes a wavelength region corresponding to blue to yellow, etc. It should be noted that the specific numerical values ​​of the first wavelength region, the second wavelength region, and the third wavelength region mentioned above are each an example, and each wavelength region is not limited thereto. The first wavelength region may be a wavelength region corresponding to infrared (red), the second wavelength region may be a wavelength region corresponding to green, and the third wavelength region may be a wavelength region corresponding to blue close to green.

[0177] In addition, it is preferred that the light emitting elements 121 emitting the same wavelength are arranged adjacent to each other. As described above, two adjacent light emitting elements 121-3 and 121-4 are set as the first light emitting element 121, two adjacent light emitting elements 121-1 and 121-2 are set as the second light emitting element 121, and two adjacent light emitting elements 121-5 and 121-6 are set as the third light emitting element 121. In addition, it is desirable that the first light emitting elements 121-3 and 121-4 are arranged above the other light emitting elements 121-1, 121-2, 121-5, and 121-6. It should be noted that the arrangement of the first to third light emitting elements 121 to 121 described above is an example and is not limited thereto.

[0178] In this way, the toilet system 1 performs sensing related to the user's excrement by means of a light emitting unit 120 having a light emitting element 121 (LED) corresponding to each of the three wavelength regions and a light receiving unit 130 having a line sensor or the like. It should be noted that the toilet system 1 is not limited to three wavelength regions, and for example, the toilet system 1 may also perform sensing related to the user's excrement by means of a light emitting unit 120 having a light emitting element 121 (LED) corresponding to each of the five wavelength regions. For example, in Fig.12 and Fig.13 In the embodiment, the two light emitting elements 121, the first light emitting element 121-3 and 121-4, emit light in the first wavelength region, and the remaining four light emitting elements 121-1, 121-2, 121-5, and 121-6 emit light in different wavelength regions (the second wavelength region to the fifth wavelength region). In this case, the first wavelength region may be the longest wavelength region, and the second wavelength region, the third wavelength region, the fourth wavelength region, and the fifth wavelength region may be wavelength regions with successively shorter wavelengths. In addition, the structure of sensing related to the user's excrement is not limited to the above content. For example, it can also be performed by a light emitting portion having a light emitting element (LED) that irradiates white light and a light receiving portion having a spectroscopic function such as a spectroscopic filter.

[0179] <8-2. Second Configuration of Light Emitting Unit and Light Receiving Unit>

[0180] Next, Fig.14 and Fig.15 The second configuration shown will be described. Fig.14 This is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit. Fig.15 2 is a side view showing another example of the configuration of the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit. It should be noted that the description of the same points as the first configuration will be appropriately omitted.

[0181] like Fig.14 and Fig.15As shown, the light emitting unit 120 of the second configuration has six light emitting elements 121. The light receiving unit 130A of the second configuration has a lens 131A, a light receiving element 132, and a housing 133A for supporting the lens 131A. The supporting unit 150A supports the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130A in the same manner as the supporting unit 150.

[0182] like Fig.14 As shown, each light emitting element 121 of the light emitting unit 120 is arranged around the light receiving unit 130A. In addition, in the second configuration, the lens 131A of the light receiving unit 130A is of the same size as the light emitting element 121 of the light emitting unit 120. Therefore, by designing the appropriate arrangement of the light emitting unit 120 (each light emitting element 121), the overall size can be made more compact compared to the first configuration.

[0183] <8-3. Third Configuration of Light Emitting Unit and Light Receiving Unit>

[0184] Next, Fig.16 and Fig.17 The third configuration shown will be described. Fig.16 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit using a cylindrical lens. Fig.17 It is a side view showing an example of the configuration of a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit using a cylindrical lens. It should be noted that the description of the same points as the first configuration and the second configuration will be appropriately omitted.

[0185] like Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown, the light emitting unit 120 of the third configuration has six light emitting elements 121. The light receiving unit 130B of the third configuration has a lens 131B as a cylindrical lens, a light receiving element 132B, and a housing 133B for supporting the lens 131B. The light receiving element 132B is a line sensor. In this way, the light receiving unit 130B of the third configuration is composed of the lens 131B as a cylindrical lens and the light receiving element 132B as a line sensor. The support unit 150B supports the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130B in the same manner as the support unit 150.

[0186] like Fig.16As shown, each light emitting element 121 of the light emitting unit 120 is arranged around the light receiving unit 130B. In addition, in the third configuration, the light receiving element 132B is a line sensor, and the lens 131B is a cylindrical lens. The light receiving element 132B as a line sensor is a sensor that is long in one direction (laterally), so if the lens is set to be circular, the lens is also set in the area where there is no line sensor (light receiving element 132B). On the other hand, as shown in the third configuration, by adopting a cylindrical lens (cylindrical lens) that is long in one direction (laterally), the lens can be set only in the area with the sensor, so the overall size (especially the height direction) can be made compact compared to the first and second configurations.

[0187] It should be noted that in any of the first to third configurations described above, the optical axis (central axis) of the light-emitting element 121 is inclined relative to the central axis of the light-receiving unit 130 (lens 131), but the details of this point will be described later. It should be noted that the optical axis of the light-emitting element 121 refers to an axis that passes through the strongest illumination at an equidistant position from the light-emitting element 121. In addition, the position at half the illumination of the optical axis of the light-emitting element 121 is set as the half-value angle.

[0188] <9. Processing of collected excretion information>

[0189] Next, the process of collecting excretion information in the toilet system 1 will be described.

[0190] <9-1. Structure of excretion information collection>

[0191] First, refer to Fig.18 The specific structure for realizing the collection of excretion information in the toilet system 1 is described. Fig.18 This is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a toilet system related to the processing of collecting excretion information. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are given to the same points as those of the toilet systems 1 , 1A, and 1B described above, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0192] like Fig.18 As shown in FIG. 1 , the toilet system 1 includes an actuator 111, a light emitting unit 120, a light receiving unit 130, a control device 34, and a second memory 20. Fig.18 In the toilet system 1 shown, only the components necessary for the description of the collection of excretion information are illustrated, and the illustration of other components (such as the operating device 10) is omitted. In addition, when the optical unit 100B functions as an excrement sensing device separate from the toilet seat device 2B as in the toilet system 1B, the components and processes of the control device 34 described below may also be referred to as the components and processes of the control device 140.

[0193] The actuator 111 is a driving source that makes the cover 110 open or closed. The light-emitting unit 120 has a plurality of light-emitting elements 121, such as a first light-emitting element 121-3 and a second light-emitting element 121-1. It should be noted that the light-emitting unit 120 may also have only one light-emitting element, and the light-emitting element may emit light of multiple wavelengths. That is, the light-emitting unit 120 may also have only one light-emitting element, and the light-emitting element may emit invisible light and visible light. In this way, the light-emitting unit 120 may also have only one light-emitting element, and the light-emitting element may have the functions of both the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element. The light-receiving unit 130 has a lens 131 and a light-receiving element 132.

[0194] The control device 34 of the toilet seat device 2 includes an analog-to-digital converter 341 , a processing unit 342 , a ROM 343 , and a first memory 344 .

[0195] The analog-to-digital converter 341 is a so-called A / D converter (AD Converter), and has a function of converting an analog signal into a digital signal. The analog-to-digital converter 341 may also be an analog-to-digital conversion circuit. For example, the analog-to-digital converter 341 converts analog data received (sensed) by the light receiving unit 130 into digital data. The analog-to-digital converter 341 converts analog data from which data in a specified range is deleted into digital data. For example, the analog-to-digital converter 341 only retains data corresponding to pixels in a predetermined range (e.g., a predetermined range in the center), and deletes data corresponding to pixels in the remaining range. It should be noted that, in the case where a dedicated sensor such as a line sensor with a set number of pixels is used in the light receiving element 132 for excrement sensing, the analog-to-digital converter 341 converts the analog data as a whole into digital data without deleting data in a specified range.

[0196] The operation processing device 342 is implemented by various means such as a CPU and a microcomputer, and performs various processes. For example, the operation processing device 342 performs various processes using digital data converted by the analog-to-digital converter 341. The operation processing device 342 performs various processes by using a program (such as an excretion determination program) stored in the ROM 343. For example, the operation processing device 342 is implemented by executing a program stored in the ROM 343 using a temporarily used storage area in the operation processing device 342 as a working area.

[0197] The processing unit 342 analyzes the data. The processing unit 342 analyzes the data temporarily stored in the first memory 344. The processing unit 342 performs: forwarding the data received by the light receiving unit 130 to the first memory 344, analyzing and deleting the data stored in the first memory 344. The processing unit 342 forwards the data received by the light receiving unit 130 to the first memory 344, and when it is analyzed that the data temporarily stored in the first memory 344 is not based on the reflected light from the falling feces, the processing unit 342 sets the data to a deletable state.

[0198] The processing device 342 deletes a part of the data received by the light receiving unit 130 before forwarding the data received by the light receiving unit 130 to the first memory 344. When the processing device 342 analyzes that the data temporarily stored in the first memory 344 is data based on the reflected light from the falling feces, the processing device 342 keeps the data stored in the first memory 344, and when the period during which the data temporarily stored in the first memory 344 is continuously analyzed as not being data based on the reflected light from the falling feces for more than a predetermined period of time, the processing device 342 forwards the data based on the reflected light from the falling feces stored in the first memory 344 to the second memory 20. When the amount of data based on the reflected light from the falling feces temporarily stored in the first memory 344 becomes more than a predetermined threshold, the processing device 342 forwards the data based on the reflected light from the falling feces stored in the first memory 344 to the second memory 20.

[0199] The ROM 343 is a so-called read-only memory (ROM), and stores various programs such as an excretion determination program.

[0200] The first memory 344 is a storage device (memory) for temporarily storing various data. The first memory 344 stores the data received by the light receiving unit 130. The first memory 344 stores the digital data converted by the analog-to-digital converter 341. For example, the first memory 344 is an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory). It should be noted that the first memory 344 is not limited to SRAM, and other RAMs (Random Access Memory) such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory) and other ROMs capable of high-speed processing can be used.

[0201] The first memory 344 stores data under the control of the arithmetic processing unit 342. For example, a storage device with a storage capacity of 96 kilobytes, 512 kilobytes, etc. is used in the first memory 344. The data received by the light receiving unit 130 and temporarily stored in the first memory 344 include raw data (analog data) sensed by the light receiving unit 130 and data (digital data) processed by A / D conversion.

[0202] The second memory 20 is a storage device (memory) for storing various data. The second memory 20 stores digital data acquired from the control device 34. For example, the second memory 20 uses an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) or the like. The second memory 20 may also be various storage devices (memory) such as an SD (Secure Digital) card memory and a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory.

[0203] The second memory 20 can forward the data stored in the first memory 344. The storage area of ​​the second memory 20 is larger than that of the first memory 344. For example, a storage device having a larger storage capacity than the first memory 344, such as 4 gigabytes, is used in the second memory 20. The data stored in the second memory 20 can also be sent to an external device. The toilet system 1 can also wirelessly send the data stored in the second memory 20 to an external device such as a terminal device used by the user through the communication device of the toilet seat device 2.

[0204] It should be noted that the second memory 20 may be provided in either the toilet seat device 2 or outside the toilet seat device 2. For example, the second memory 20 may be a MicroSD in the toilet seat device 2, or an external memory outside the toilet seat device 2 that communicates with the toilet seat device 2 via Wi-Fi (registered trademark) (Wireless Fidelity) or the like. In this case, the processing unit 342 forwards the data temporarily stored in the first memory 344 to the second memory by communicating with the second memory, which is an external memory having a larger storage area than the first memory 344. It should be noted that the communication between the second memory 20 and the toilet seat device 2 is not limited to Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and may be based on various communication standards, such as ZigBee (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), and the like.

[0205] <9-2. Control flow of excretion information collection and processing>

[0206] Next, refer to Fig.19 The control flow of the process of collecting excretion information implemented by the toilet system 1 will be described. Fig.19 This is a conceptual diagram showing the control flow of the process of collecting excretion information.

[0207] First, the restroom system 1 senses the user's entry into the restroom R (step S1 ). The restroom system 1 senses the user's entry into the restroom R based on human body detection by the human body detection sensor 32 .

[0208] Then, the restroom system 1 senses the user sitting on the toilet seat 5 in the restroom R (step S2 ). The restroom system 1 senses the user sitting on the toilet seat 5 in the restroom R based on the sitting sensing by the sitting sensing sensor 33 .

[0209] Then, the toilet system 1 performs shooting preparation (step S3). The toilet system 1 performs personal authentication of the user who enters the toilet R. For example, the toilet system 1 performs personal authentication of the user by operating the operating device 10 by the user, communicating with the portable terminal owned by the user, etc. It should be noted that the toilet system 1 can perform personal authentication of the user by any method as long as it can perform personal authentication of the user who enters the toilet R. The toilet system 1 obtains the user's consent to the sensing related to defecation. For example, the toilet system 1 obtains the user's consent to the sensing by operating the operating device 10 by the user, communicating with the portable terminal owned by the user, etc. It should be noted that the toilet system 1 can obtain the user's consent to the sensing by any method as long as it can perform personal authentication of the user who enters the toilet R. For example, when the toilet system 1 obtains the user's consent, the cover 110 of the optical unit 100 is opened and transferred to a state where the user's defecation can be sensed. Then, the toilet system 1 obtains initial data. The toilet system 1 obtains data captured after the user sits on the toilet seat 5 in a state where there is no defecation of the user as initial data. Then, after the person is seated, the toilet system 1 uses the initial data not including reflected light from excrement stored in the first memory 344 for subsequent excretion determination. It should be noted that the number of initial data stored varies depending on the number of wavelengths of the light emitting element 121 .

[0210] Then, the toilet system 1 performs excretion sensing (step S4). The toilet system 1 performs excretion sensing by a mode of waiting for the user's excretion (also referred to as a "standby mode") and a mode of measuring the user's excretion (also referred to as a "measurement mode"). For example, in the standby mode, the toilet system 1 causes only a part of the light emitting elements 121 (the first light emitting elements 121) to radiate light, and senses the falling of excrement from the user. Thus, in the standby mode, for example, among the light emitting elements 121 of each wavelength, only the first light emitting element 121 that radiates light of a wavelength in the invisible light region or a wavelength region (the first wavelength region) close to the invisible light region is lit. For example, in the standby mode, among the light emitting elements 121 of each wavelength, only the first light emitting element 121 that radiates light of a wavelength region (the first wavelength region) above 700nm is lit. That is, in the standby mode, among the above-mentioned first wavelength region, the second wavelength region, and the third wavelength region, only the light emitting element 121 that radiates light in the first wavelength region is lit. Then, when the toilet system 1 senses the falling of excrement in the standby mode, the mode is switched to the measurement mode. For example, in the measurement mode, the toilet system 1 sequentially lights up each of the light emitting elements 121 of each wavelength to measure (sense) the falling excrement. Thus, in the measurement mode, for example, the light emitting elements 121 of each wavelength, including the first light emitting element 121 that radiates light of a wavelength in the invisible light region or a wavelength region close to the invisible light region (first wavelength region), are sequentially lit. For example, in the measurement mode, the light emitting elements 121 of each wavelength, including the first light emitting element 121 that radiates light of a wavelength region above 700nm (first wavelength region), are sequentially lit. That is, in the measurement mode, the light emitting elements 121 that radiate light of different wavelengths such as the first wavelength region, the second wavelength region, and the third wavelength region described above are sequentially lit. Then, the toilet system 1 performs data analysis. For example, the toilet system 1 uses the data measured in the measurement mode to perform analysis related to the properties of the user's excrement, such as the color and shape of the excrement.

[0211] Then, the toilet system 1 displays the result (step S5). When the data analysis is completed, the toilet system 1 turns on the display. For example, the toilet system 1 displays the analysis results related to the user's excrement, such as the properties of the user's excrement, on a display device (such as the display screen 11 of the operating device 10, etc.). In this way, the user can confirm the properties of his or her own excrement. It should be noted that the above-mentioned personal authentication can be performed after the result of step S5 is displayed. In the absence of authentication, the data is deleted and not accumulated in the second memory 20. In the case where personal authentication is not obtained from the user of the toilet R, for example, the control device 34 does not forward (send) the data collected during the use of the user to the second memory 20, but deletes the data.

[0212] Then, the toilet system 1 senses that the user leaves the toilet seat 5 or leaves the toilet R (step S6). The toilet system 1 senses that the user leaves the toilet seat 5 in the toilet R based on the seat leaving sensing implemented by the seat sensing sensor 33. The toilet system 1 senses that the user leaves the toilet R based on the human body sensing implemented by the human body sensing sensor 32. After sensing that the user leaves the toilet R, the toilet system 1 turns off the display. For example, when the user leaves the toilet R, the toilet system 1 sets the result displayed on the display device (such as the display screen 11 of the operating device 10, etc.) to non-display. Thereby, the toilet system 1 can appropriately protect the privacy of the user.

[0213] <9-3. Standby mode>

[0214] Next, refer to Fig. 20 and Fig.21 The specific operation of the standby mode is described below. Fig. 20 This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure in the standby mode. Fig.21 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart in the standby mode.

[0215] First, refer to Fig. 20 The process of standby mode processing is described below. Fig. 20 As shown, in the bathroom system 1, the control device 34 receives analog data from the light receiving unit 130 (step S101).

[0216] Then, in the bathroom system 1, the analog-to-digital converter 341 converts the analog data into digital data (step S102). For example, the analog-to-digital converter 341 converts the analog data from which a specified range of data is deleted into digital data. For example, the analog-to-digital converter 341 converts the analog data from which a specified range of data at both ends is deleted into digital data. Then, in the bathroom system 1, the processing unit 342 stores the digital data in the first memory 344 (step S103). The processing unit 342 stores the digital data converted by the analog-to-digital converter 341 in the first memory 344. It should be noted that the processing unit 342 may also delete a portion of the converted digital data and store the remaining digital data in the first memory 344.

[0217] Then, the toilet system 1 performs an excretion determination (step S104). For example, in the toilet system 1, the control device 34 performs an excretion determination. For example, the control device 34 uses the excretion determination program stored in the ROM 343 and the digital data stored in the first memory 344 to perform an excretion determination. For example, the control device 34 determines whether the output value of the light receiving element 132 has changed by more than a specified value relative to the initial data obtained after the user is seated, thereby performing an excretion determination. For example, the control device 34 determines that excretion has occurred when the output value of the light receiving element 132 has changed by more than a specified value relative to the initial data obtained after the user is seated. In addition, for example, the control device 34 determines that no excretion has occurred when the change in the output value of the light receiving element 132 relative to the initial data obtained after the user is seated is less than a specified value.

[0218] Then, when the toilet system 1 determines that excretion has occurred (step S104: Yes), the standby mode ends and the measurement mode is switched. That is, when the toilet system 1 determines that the light received by the light receiving element 132 is light reflected from excrement, the standby mode ends and the measurement mode is switched.

[0219] On the other hand, when the toilet system 1 determines that excretion has not been performed (step S104: No), the processing unit 342 deletes the digital data stored in the first memory 344 (step S105). That is, in the toilet system 1, when it is determined that the light received by the light receiving element 132 is not light reflected from excrement, the digital data stored in the first memory 344 in step S103 is deleted. It should be noted that the processing unit 342 may also set the digital data stored in the first memory 344 in step S103 to a rewritable state, etc., to be deletable. Then, the toilet system 1 returns to step S101 and repeats the process.

[0220] Next, refer to Fig.21 The timing diagram of standby mode is explained below. Fig.21 As shown, in the standby mode, the processing of various components of the bathroom system 1 is controlled. For example, the processing of the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130, the first light emitting element 121, the second light emitting element 121, the third light emitting element 121, the analog-to-digital converter 341, and the data forwarding to the first memory 344 are controlled.

[0221] The first light emitting element 121 emits light having a wavelength in the invisible light region or a wavelength close to the invisible light region. The second light emitting element 121 and the third light emitting element 121 emit light having a wavelength in the visible light region. The second light emitting element 121 and the third light emitting element 121 emit light having different wavelengths. Fig.21The control shown in the time diagram can also be performed by the control device 34.

[0222] The electronic shutter switches ON and OFF at specified intervals. Fig.21 In the example of , the electronic shutter is controlled so that the interval from opening to the next opening is the period between time t1 and time t2 (first period). For example, when the electronic shutter is in the open state (open state), sensing (shooting) is performed by the light receiving element 132 of the light receiving unit 130.

[0223] First, in Fig.21 In the example of , the electronic shutter opens at time t1. Then, after the electronic shutter opens, the first light emitting element 121 opens and starts to emit light. The first light emitting element 121 opens after time t1 and starts to emit light. That is, the first light emitting element 121 is controlled so that the first light emitting element 121 starts to emit light after the electronic shutter opens. Thus, the light from the first light emitting element 121 is irradiated to the excrement, etc., and the light receiving unit 130 receives the reflected light from the excrement, etc. In this way, the toilet system 1 collects the simulation data of the excrement corresponding to the light irradiated by the first light emitting element 121.

[0224] Then, after the electronic shutter is turned off, the analog-to-digital converter 341 is turned on to convert the analog data sensed by the light receiving unit 130 into digital data. That is, when the electronic shutter is in the off state (closed state), the analog-to-digital converter 341 is controlled so that the analog-to-digital converter 341 converts the analog data sensed by the light receiving unit 130 into digital data.

[0225] Then, after the analog-to-digital converter 341 is turned off, data is forwarded to the first memory 344. That is, the arithmetic processing device 342 is controlled to start data forwarding to the first memory 344 after the conversion of analog data to digital data by the analog-to-digital converter 341 is completed. Thus, the digital data of excrement corresponding to the light irradiated by the first light emitting element 121 is stored in the first memory 344. In this way, the toilet system 1 collects the digital data of excrement corresponding to the light irradiated by the first light emitting element 121.

[0226] Then, after the data forwarding to the first memory 344 is completed, the electronic shutter is opened again. Fig.21 In the example, the electronic shutter is opened at time t2. Then, after the electronic shutter is opened, the first light emitting element 121 is opened again and starts to emit light. The first light emitting element 121 is opened again after time t2 and starts to emit light. That is, the first light emitting element 121 is controlled so that the first light emitting element 121 starts to emit light after the electronic shutter is opened. Then, in the standby mode, as Fig.21 As shown, the same process is repeated.

[0227] <9-4. Measurement mode>

[0228] Next, refer to Fig. 22 and Fig.23 The specific operation of the measurement mode is described. Fig. 22 This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing sequence in the measurement mode. Fig.23 This is a diagram showing an example of a time chart in the measurement mode.

[0229] First, refer to Fig. 22 The following describes the process flow of the measurement mode. Fig. 22 As shown, in the bathroom system 1, the control device 34 receives analog data from the light receiving unit 130 (step S201).

[0230] Then, in the bathroom system 1, the analog-to-digital converter 341 converts the analog data into digital data (step S202). For example, the analog-to-digital converter 341 converts the analog data from which a specified range of data is deleted into digital data. For example, the analog-to-digital converter 341 converts the analog data from which a specified range of data at both ends is deleted into digital data. Then, in the bathroom system 1, the processing unit 342 stores the digital data in the first memory 344 (step S203). The processing unit 342 stores the digital data converted by the analog-to-digital converter 341 in the first memory 344. It should be noted that the processing unit 342 may also delete a part of the converted digital data and store the remaining digital data in the first memory 344.

[0231] Then, the toilet system 1 performs an excretion determination (step S204). For example, in the toilet system 1, the control device 34 performs an excretion determination. For example, the control device 34 uses the excretion determination program stored in the ROM 343 and the digital data stored in the first memory 344 to perform an excretion determination. For example, the control device 34 determines whether the output value of the light receiving element 132 has changed by more than a specified value relative to the initial data obtained after the user sits down, thereby performing an excretion determination. It should be noted that the excretion determination in step S204 can also be performed in conjunction with Fig.21 The excretion determination in step S104 in the standby mode is the same.

[0232] Then, when the toilet system 1 determines that excretion is not performed (step S204: No), the processing unit 342 determines whether the period of light determined not to be from excrement is longer than a predetermined value (step S205). For example, in the toilet system 1, the control unit 34 determines whether the period of light determined not to be from excrement is longer than a predetermined value.

[0233] The toilet system 1 terminates the measurement mode when it is determined that the period of light determined not to be from excrement is longer than a prescribed period (step S205: Yes). The toilet system 1 terminates the measurement mode when it is determined that the period of light determined not to be from excrement is longer than a prescribed period, and sets the user's excretion to be temporarily stopped or ended. Then, in the toilet system 1, the processing unit 342 transfers to the standby mode again after forwarding data to the second memory 20. For example, the processing unit 342 transfers to the standby mode again after sending the digital data stored in the first memory 344 to the second memory 20.

[0234] Furthermore, when the toilet system 1 determines that the period of light determined not to be from excrement is not longer than the prescribed period (step S205: No), it returns to step S201 and repeats the process. When the toilet system 1 determines that the period of light determined not to be from excrement is shorter than the prescribed period, it is assumed that the user's excretion may resume soon and the measurement mode is maintained.

[0235] On the other hand, when it is determined that excretion has occurred (step S204: Yes), the toilet system 1 determines whether the duration of the light determined to be from excrement is longer than a prescribed value (step S206). For example, in the toilet system 1, the control device 34 determines whether the duration of the light determined to be from excrement is longer than a prescribed value.

[0236] The toilet system 1 terminates the measurement mode when it is determined that the period of light determined to be from excrement is longer than a prescribed period (step S206: Yes). The toilet system 1 terminates the measurement mode when it is determined that the period of light determined to be from excrement is longer than a prescribed period, assuming that sufficient information related to the user's excrement has been collected. Then, in the toilet system 1, the processing unit 342 transfers to the standby mode again after forwarding the data to the second memory 20. For example, the processing unit 342 transfers to the standby mode again after sending the digital data stored in the first memory 344 to the second memory 20.

[0237] Furthermore, when the toilet system 1 determines that the period of light determined to be from excrement is not longer than the prescribed period (step S206: No), it returns to step S201 and repeats the process. When the toilet system 1 determines that the period of light determined to be from excrement is shorter than the prescribed period, it is determined that information related to the user's excrement is not sufficiently collected and the measurement mode is maintained.

[0238] Next, refer to Fig.23The time chart of the measurement mode is explained below. Fig.23 As shown, in the measurement mode, various components and processes of the bathroom system 1 are controlled. For example, the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130, the first light emitting element 121, the second light emitting element 121, the third light emitting element 121, the analog-to-digital converter 341, and the data forwarding to the first memory 344 are controlled. It should be noted that the control related to the measurement mode is appropriately omitted. Fig.21 Same point of explanation.

[0239] The first light emitting element 121 emits light having a wavelength in the invisible light region or a wavelength close to the invisible light region. The second light emitting element 121 and the third light emitting element 121 emit light having a wavelength in the visible light region. The second light emitting element 121 and the third light emitting element 121 emit light having different wavelengths. Fig.23 The control shown in the time diagram can also be performed by the control device 34.

[0240] The electronic shutter switches on and off at regular intervals. Fig.23 In the example of FIG. 1 , the electronic shutter is controlled so that the interval from when the shutter is opened to when the shutter is opened next time is the period between time t11 and time t12 (second period). Fig.23 The second period shown can also be Fig.21 The first period shown is the same.

[0241] First, in Fig.23 In the example of , the electronic shutter opens at time t11. Then, after the electronic shutter opens, the first light emitting element 121 opens and starts to emit light. The first light emitting element 121 opens after time t11 and starts to emit light. Thus, the light from the first light emitting element 121 is irradiated to the excrement, etc., and the light receiving unit 130 receives the reflected light from the excrement, etc. In this way, the toilet system 1 collects the simulation data of the excrement corresponding to the light irradiated by the first light emitting element 121.

[0242] Then, after the electronic shutter is turned off, the analog-to-digital converter 341 is turned on to convert the analog data sensed by the light receiving unit 130 into digital data. Then, after the analog-to-digital converter 341 is turned off, data is forwarded to the first memory 344. Thus, the digital data of the excrement corresponding to the light irradiated by the first light emitting element 121 is stored in the first memory 344. In this way, the toilet system 1 collects the digital data of the excrement corresponding to the light irradiated by the first light emitting element 121.

[0243] Then, after the data forwarding to the first memory 344 is completed, the electronic shutter is opened again. Fig.23In the example of , the electronic shutter opens at time t12. Then, after the electronic shutter opens, the second light emitting element 121 opens and starts to emit light. The second light emitting element 121 opens after time t12 and starts to emit light. That is, the second light emitting element 121 is controlled so that the second light emitting element 121 starts to emit light after the electronic shutter opens. Thus, the light from the second light emitting element 121 is irradiated to the excrement, etc., and the light receiving unit 130 receives the reflected light from the excrement, etc. In this way, the toilet system 1 collects the simulation data of the excrement corresponding to the light irradiated by the second light emitting element 121.

[0244] Then, after the electronic shutter is turned off, the analog-to-digital converter 341 is turned on to convert the analog data sensed by the light receiving unit 130 into digital data. Then, after the analog-to-digital converter 341 is turned off, data is forwarded to the first memory 344. Thus, the digital data of the excrement corresponding to the light irradiated by the second light emitting element 121 is stored in the first memory 344. In this way, the toilet system 1 collects the digital data of the excrement corresponding to the light irradiated by the second light emitting element 121.

[0245] Then, in measurement mode, Fig.23 For example, in the next repetition, the toilet system 1 makes the third light emitting element 121 emit light, and collects digital data of excrement corresponding to the light emitted by the third light emitting element 121.

[0246] <9-5. Data>

[0247] Here, refer to Fig.24 The data in the process of excretion information collection will be described. Fig.24 1 is a diagram showing an example of data in the process of excretion information collection. It should be noted that, in the following, only the configuration and processing necessary for the flow of data are described, and the description of the light emission of the light emitting unit 120 is omitted. In addition, in the following, the processing in the measurement mode is described as an example, but the same processing can be performed in the standby mode.

[0248] First, the light receiving element 132 of the light receiving unit 130 performs sensing. The light receiving unit 130 senses analog data AD1 of N pixels (N is an arbitrary number). The light receiving unit 130 sends the sensed analog data AD1 to the analog-to-digital converter 341 (step S11).

[0249] The analog-to-digital converter 341 converts analog data AD1 of an analog value into digital data of a digital value. For example, the operation processing device 342 determines the pixel to be AD-converted by the analog-to-digital converter 341, and determines the pixel to be converted by the analog-to-digital converter 341 from the analog data AD1 of N pixels. The operation processing device 342 determines a value "n" below N, and determines the number of pixels "n" to be converted by the analog-to-digital converter 341. For example, the operation processing device 342 can reduce the amount of data stored in the first memory 344 by determining the value below N as "n".

[0250] The analog-to-digital converter 341 performs AD conversion on analog data of a predetermined pixel (n pixel) in the analog data AD1 of N pixels under control of the arithmetic processing device 342. The analog-to-digital converter 341 performs AD conversion on analog data of n pixels in the analog data AD1 of N pixels to generate digital data DD1.

[0251] The analog-to-digital converter 341 stores the digital data DD1 after AD conversion in the first memory 344 (step S12). The analog-to-digital converter 341 stores the digital data DD1 in the first memory 344 under the control of the arithmetic processing unit 342. As shown in the storage area FM1, the first memory 344 stores digital data of n pixels.

[0252] Then, the operation processing device 342 performs operation processing on the digital data of n pixels stored in the first memory 344 (step S13). For example, the operation processing device 342 performs excretion determination on the digital data of n pixels (for example, digital data DD1) stored in the first memory 344. For example, the operation processing device 342 performs threshold determination on the specified pixels n-m in the digital data of n pixels. It should be noted that the operation processing device 342 can also perform threshold determination on the digital data of n pixels.

[0253] The processing unit 342 performs processing on the first memory 344 according to the result of the threshold determination (step S14). When the number of pixels where the output value of the light receiving element 132 changes by a predetermined value or more relative to the initial data is less than the threshold, the processing unit 342 deletes the data as shown in the storage area FM2. That is, when it is determined that the light received by the light receiving element 132 is not light reflected from excrement, the processing unit 342 deletes the digital data (for example, digital data DD1) stored in the first memory 344. In this way, the processing unit 342 deletes the data temporarily stored in the first memory 344 in the case of light receiving data that is not light reflected from excrement.

[0254] Furthermore, when the number of pixels at which the output value of the light receiving element 132 changes from the initial data by a predetermined value or more is greater than a threshold value, the processing unit 342 accumulates the data as shown in the storage area FM3. That is, when it is determined that the light received by the light receiving element 132 is light reflected from excrement, the digital data (e.g., digital data DD1) stored in the first memory 344 is not deleted. Thus, as shown in the storage area FM3, the processing unit 342 accumulates the data in the first memory 344 until a predetermined time is reached or a predetermined amount is reached.

[0255] <10. Data Analysis>

[0256] Next, use Fig.25 and Fig.26 Data analysis related to properties such as shape and color of excrement (stool) will be described. Hereinafter, a case where the control device 34 of the toilet system 1 performs processing for data analysis related to properties such as shape and color of excrement (stool) will be described as an example.

[0257] <10-1. Shape of excrement>

[0258] First, refer to Fig.25 The data analysis related to the shape of excrement is described. Fig.25 This is a diagram showing an example of data analysis of the shape of excrement.

[0259] Fig.25 The object OB1 in the figure schematically represents the feces (excrement) to be sensed (measured), and the object OB1 is used as an example to describe how the shape of the excrement is measured (observed). It should be noted that in the following description, the long dimension direction of the object OB1 is set as the up-down direction, and the direction orthogonal to the long dimension direction (short dimension direction) is set as the lateral direction. Such an object OB1 falls in the direction along the up-down direction.

[0260] Each measurement result RS1 to RS3 is a graph showing the relationship between each pixel and its reflectivity. Each measurement result RS1 to RS3 shows the measurement result corresponding to each position in the vertical direction of the object OB1. The measurement result RS1 shows the measurement result corresponding to the upper end of the object OB1. The measurement result RS2 shows the measurement result corresponding to the central part in the vertical direction of the object OB1. The measurement result RS3 shows the measurement result corresponding to the lower end of the object OB1.

[0261] The control device 34 senses the reflectivity of each pixel received by the light receiving element 132. The control device 34 obtains the peak value from the pixels with reflection. In each of the measurement results RS1 to RS3, the central part becomes the peak. For example, the control device 34 determines that the pixel X0 is an image with a peak in the measurement result RS2.

[0262] When the control device 34 compares the difference in reflectance between the pixel having the peak and the adjacent pixel and confirms that the reflectance is greater than or less than a predetermined value, it estimates that the light is reflected from excrement. It should be noted that the control device 34 also performs the same processing on color.

[0263] When the control device 34 determines that the reflected light is from excrement, it further performs the same processing on the pixels adjacent to the pixel. In this way, the control device 34 identifies the end of the excrement and estimates the width of the excrement. For example, the control device 34 estimates that the range from pixel X1 to image X2 in the measurement result RS2 is excrement. The control device 34 estimates the width L in the measurement result RS1 that is narrower than the range from pixel X1 to image X2 in the measurement result RS2 as the width of the excrement. The control device 34 analyzes the shape of the excrement by stacking the measurement results RS1 to RS3, etc. Fig.25 In the example, the control device 34 analyzes the shape in which the width of the portion corresponding to the measurement result RS2 (central portion) is the largest and the width becomes narrower toward the portion corresponding to the measurement result RS1 (upper end portion) and the portion corresponding to the measurement result RS3 (lower end portion).

[0264] Through the above-mentioned processing, the object OB1 dropped from the user to the bowl 8 of the toilet 7 is sensed. For example, the object OB1, which is the falling excrement, passes in the front facing the light-emitting part 120 and the light-receiving part 130 in the order of the lower end, the middle part, and the upper end, and is thus sensed in the order from bottom to top. Specifically, the object OB1, which is the falling excrement, is sensed in the order of the measurement result RS3, the measurement result RS2, and the measurement result RS1. Thus, the toilet system 1 can sense the excrement (feces) dropped from the user. It should be noted that the toilet system 1 is not limited to the falling excrement, and the toilet system 1 can also sense the excrement after it contacts the water in the bowl 8 after falling.

[0265] <10-2. Color of excrement>

[0266] First, refer to Fig.26 The data analysis related to the color of feces is described. Fig.26 This is a diagram showing an example of data analysis of excrement color. Fig.26FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of data analysis related to the detection of blood contained in excrement. Fig.25 The same points are given the same reference numerals and the like, and the description thereof will be appropriately omitted.

[0267] Fig.26 The object OB2 in the figure represents a hypothetical stool (excrement), and the object OB2 includes a blood region BD in the center. Fig.25 The object OB1 in is different. Fig.26 The measurement results RS1 to RS3 shown are compared with the blood-free area BD. Fig.25 The measurement results RS1 to RS3 of the object OB1 in correspondence.

[0268] The control device 34 identifies a pixel having a peak value for light of a wavelength having a characteristic reflectivity with respect to blood among the light of a plurality of wavelengths irradiated to the object OB2 as excrement. For example, the control device 34 identifies a pixel having a peak value for light of 670 nm having a characteristic reflectivity with respect to blood among the light of a plurality of wavelengths irradiated to the object OB2 as excrement.

[0269] Then, the control device 34 calculates the reflectance of the pixel having the peak value with respect to the detected light of other wavelengths. The control device 34 determines the color according to the ratio of the reflectance of the pixel with respect to the detected light of other wavelengths including 670 nm. Fig.26 The measurement result RS4 shown shows the measurement result for a part including the blood area BD such as the object OB2. Fig.26 The measurement result RS4 shown shows the measurement result when light of a region not including 670 nm (eg, the first wavelength region) is irradiated onto a portion including the blood region BD of the object OB2.

[0270] It should be noted that the wavelength with characteristic reflectivity relative to blood is not limited to 670nm, but can also be in the range of 600nm to 800nm. This is because, in this wavelength band, when there is blood attached to the stool, the reflectivity relative to the color of the blood will be significantly detected compared to the color of the stool.

[0271] Here, refer to Fig. 27 Explain the relationship between excrement and blood. Fig. 27 This is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between excrement and blood. Fig. 27 The graph GR1 shown is a diagram showing the relationship between the reflection of stool with respect to each wavelength and the reflection of blood attached to stool with respect to each wavelength.

[0272] Fig. 27The line FL1 in the graph GR1 of FIG. 1 represents the reflectivity of each wavelength (about 600 nm to about 870 nm) for excrement (feces). Fig. 27 As shown by line FL1 in FIG. , in the case of excrement (feces), the reflectivity increases as the wavelength becomes longer. Fig. 27 As shown by line FL1 in FIG. 1 , for excrement (feces), the reflectivity is lowest near 600nm and highest near 870nm. Fig. 27 The line BD1 in the graph GR1 of FIG. 1 represents the reflectivity of each wavelength (about 600 nm to about 870 nm) for blood adhering to stool. Fig. 27 As shown by line BD1 in the figure, in the case of blood attached to stool, the difference between the reflectivity near 670 nm and the line FL1 is the smallest, and the difference between the reflectivity and the line FL1 increases as the distance from 670 nm increases.

[0273] exist Fig. 27 In the graph GR1 in FIG. 1 , the ratio of the reflectivity of the blood adhering to the stool to the reflectivity of the stool is the largest near 670 nm and decreases as it moves away from 670 nm. Fig. 27 In the graph GR1 shown, at a wavelength of 670 nm, the ratio of the reflectivity of blood attached to stool to the reflectivity of stool is large, and at a wavelength of 870 nm, the ratio of the reflectivity of blood to the reflectivity of stool is small.

[0274] Therefore, the toilet system 1 can sense blood contained in the excrement based on the ratio of the reflectance of each wavelength as described above. In addition, the toilet system 1 can analyze the color of the excrement based on the ratio of the reflectance of each wavelength as described above. In this regard, using Fig.28 and Fig.29 Provide explanation. Fig.28 and Fig.29 This is a diagram showing an example of data analysis of excrement color.

[0275] Fig.28 The measurement results RS11 to RS13 shown represent the measurement results when the excrement (stool) of different colors is the measurement object. For example, the color of the excrement (stool) that becomes the measurement object may also become darker in the order of the measurement results RS11, RS12, and RS13. For example, the measurement result RS11 may be the measurement result of the excrement (stool) of yellow earth color, the measurement result RS12 may be the measurement result of the excrement (stool) of brown color, and the measurement result RS13 may be the measurement result of the excrement (stool) of brown color.

[0276] also, Fig.28Each of the measurement results RS11 to RS13 shows that each of LED#1, LED#2 and LED#3 is a light-emitting element 121 that irradiates light, and the respective curves of LED#1, LED#2 and LED#3 represent the relationship between the pixel and the reflectivity. Each of LED#1, LED#2 and LED#3 can correspond to any one of the first light-emitting element, the second light-emitting element and the third light-emitting element. For example, LED#1 can be the third light-emitting element, LED#2 can be the second light-emitting element, and LED#3 can be the first light-emitting element. It should be noted that the above is an example, and each of LED#1, LED#2 and LED#3 can also be a light-emitting element that irradiates light in any wavelength region.

[0277] For example, the darker the stool, the lower the reflectivity at each wavelength. Fig.28 In the example of , among the measurement results RS11 to RS13 , the reflectance for each wavelength becomes smaller in the measurement result RS13 in which the color of excrement (feces) is the darkest, and the ratio of the respective reflectances becomes larger.

[0278] On the other hand, for example, the lighter the color of stool, the greater the reflectivity for each wavelength. Fig.28 In the example of RS11, the reflectivity of each wavelength becomes larger in RS11, which is the lightest color of excrement (feces) among the measurement results RS11 to RS13, and the ratio of each reflectivity becomes smaller. For example, the closer to the light color, the stronger the reflection of each wavelength, so the difference of reflectivity of each wavelength becomes smaller.

[0279] Therefore, the toilet system 1 can analyze the relationship between wavelength and reflectivity as described above, thereby classifying the color of excrement (feces). Fig.29 As shown in the classification result RS21, the toilet system 1 classifies the measurement results RS11 to RS13 based on the reflectance ratio for each of LED #1, LED #2, and LED #3, thereby classifying the color of the excrement (feces) in each measurement.

[0280] For example, the toilet system 1 uses the ratio of the reflectivity of LED#1 to the reflectivity of LED#2, and the ratio of the reflectivity of LED#3 to the reflectivity of LED#2 to classify the color of the excrement (feces) of each measurement result RS11 to RS13. For example, the toilet system 1 sets "reflectivity of LED#1 / reflectivity of LED#2" as the X-axis and "reflectivity of LED#3 / reflectivity of LED#2" as the Y-axis, and classifies the color of the excrement (feces) in each measurement according to the position of each measurement result RS11 to RS13. For example, when the toilet system 1 is less than X1 in the X-axis direction and less than Y1 in the Y-axis direction, the color of the excrement (feces) in its measurement is classified as "yellow earth color". For example, when the toilet system 1 is greater than X1 and less than X2 in the X-axis direction and greater than Y1 and less than Y2 in the Y-axis direction, the color of the excrement (feces) in its measurement is classified as "brown". For example, when the color of the excrement (stool) measured by the toilet system 1 is greater than X2 in the X-axis direction and greater than Y2 in the Y-axis direction, the color of the excrement (stool) measured by the toilet system 1 is classified as "brown". It should be noted that the above content is an example, and the toilet system 1 can also classify the color of the excrement (stool) measured in each measurement by any method.

[0281] <11. Where excrement falls>

[0282] Below, refer to Fig.30 The position where excrement (feces) is assumed to fall (hypothetical falling position) is described. Fig.30 It is a diagram showing an example of a hypothetical falling position of feces. It should be noted that, as described above, the main body 3 side of the toilet seat 5 is set as the rear, and the side of the toilet seat 5 away from the main body 3 is set as the front.

[0283] The toilet system 1 may also set various positions (ranges) as the virtual dropping position of the stool. For example, the toilet system 1 may also set the range of the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5 when the toilet seat 5 is viewed from above as the virtual dropping position of the stool. It should be noted that, as shown below, the toilet system 1 may also set a predetermined range within the opening 50 as the virtual dropping position of the stool.

[0284] For example, the toilet system 1 can also Fig.30 The range DR1 in the toilet seat 5 is set as the virtual falling position of the stool. Specifically, the toilet system 1 can also set the range DR1 located on the rear side when the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5 is divided into the front side and the rear side as the virtual falling position of the stool. The toilet system 1 can also divide the opening 50 into two in the front-to-back direction using the center line LN2 passing through the center of the front-to-back direction of the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5, and set the range DR1 located on the rear side as the virtual falling position of the stool.

[0285] For example, it is preferred that the toilet system 1 Fig.30 The range DR2 in the toilet system 1 is set as the virtual falling position of the stool. Specifically, the toilet system 1 may also set the range DR2 surrounded by a perfect circle having a diameter connecting the center of the center line LN2 that divides the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5 into the front side and the rear side and the rear end of the left and right center of the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5 as the virtual falling position of the stool. The toilet system 1 may also set the range DR2 surrounded by a circle centered on the midpoint between the first point and the second point in the center line LN1 that passes through the rear end of the left and right center of the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5 (the first point) and the center of the center line LN2 (the second point) as the virtual falling position of the stool.

[0286] For example, it is preferred that the toilet system 1 Fig.30 The range DR3 in the range is set as the imaginary falling position of the stool. Specifically, the toilet system 1 may also set the range DR3 surrounded by a perfect circle with a radius of 30 mm as the center, which is 70 mm forward from the rear end of the left and right center of the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5, as the imaginary falling position of the stool. The toilet system 1 may also set the range DR3 surrounded by a perfect circle with a radius of 30 mm as the center, which is 70 mm forward from the first point, in the center line LN1 passing through the rear end of the left and right center of the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5 (the first point) and the center of the center line LN2 (the second point), as the imaginary falling position of the stool. It should be noted that the above content is an example, and the toilet system 1 may also set any range as the imaginary falling position of the stool.

[0287] <12. Relationship between light intensity and sampling rate>

[0288] Below, refer to Fig.31 The relationship between the light emitted by the light emitting unit 120 and other components will be described. Fig.31 This is a graph showing the relationship between light intensity and sampling rate. Fig.31 The toilet system 1 is used as an example for description, but the present invention is not limited to the toilet system 1, and toilet systems 1A and 1B may also be objects. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are attached to the same points as the above-mentioned various configurations and processes, and the description is appropriately omitted.

[0289] Fig.31 Graph SR1 shown is a graph indicating the measurement results of the light amount at each sampling rate. Fig.31 The measurement conditions of the graph SR1 shown are, for example, that the falling speed of excrement at a position 40 mm below the anus of a user sitting on the toilet seat 5 of the toilet system 1 is set to 1.23 m / s.

[0290] It should be noted that in Fig.31In the example, the sampling rate is expressed in milliseconds (ms). For example, the sampling rate represents the interval (time) from the start of the light control to the execution of the next light control. Fig.21 , Fig.23 In the timing diagram shown, the sampling rate represents the interval (time) from when the electronic shutter is opened once to when the electronic shutter is opened again. Fig.21 In the example of , the interval (time) from time t1 to time t2 corresponds to the sampling rate. Fig.23 In the example of , the interval (time) from time t11 to time t12 corresponds to the sampling rate. Fig.31 The light amount shown indicates, for example, the light amount when light is irradiated once at the corresponding sampling rate (time).

[0291] Fig.31 The graph SR1 shown shows the light amount at each sampling rate when the light amount at a predetermined time (for example, 0.038 milliseconds) shorter than 0.2 milliseconds is set to "1".

[0292] exist Fig.31 In the example shown, when the sampling rate is set to 0.2 milliseconds, the light amount becomes "6". That is, when the sampling rate is set to 0.2 milliseconds, the light amount becomes 6 times that of the case of the predetermined time. In this case, the control device 34 controls the interval (time) from the opening of the electronic shutter to the next opening of the electronic shutter to 0.2 milliseconds. That is, the control device 34 performs control at a speed (sampling rate) of 5000 times / second or less.

[0293] In addition, Fig.31 In the example shown, when the sampling rate is set to 0.33 milliseconds, the light amount becomes "10". That is, when the sampling rate is set to 0.33 milliseconds, the light amount becomes 10 times that of the case of the specified time. In this case, the control device 34 controls the interval (time) from the opening of the electronic shutter to the next opening of the electronic shutter to 0.33 milliseconds. It should be noted that when the sampling rate is set to 0.33 milliseconds, as shown in the scan image SC1, the five types of light are scanned (irradiated) five times in the φ (diameter) 10mm area.

[0294] In addition, Fig.31In the example shown, when the sampling rate is set to 1.6 milliseconds, the light amount becomes "60". That is, when the sampling rate is set to 1.6 milliseconds, the light amount becomes 60 times that of the case of the specified time. In this case, the control device 34 controls the interval (time) from the opening of the electronic shutter to the next opening of the electronic shutter to 1.6 milliseconds. It should be noted that when the sampling rate is 1.6 milliseconds, as shown in the scan image SC2, one type of light is scanned (irradiated) five times in the φ (diameter) 10mm area.

[0295] Furthermore, when the sampling rate is set to 10 milliseconds, as shown in the scan image SC3 , one type of light is scanned (irradiated) twice in an area of ​​φ (diameter) 10 mm.

[0296] For example, in the bathroom system 1, a value within the range RG1 of 0.2 milliseconds to 10 milliseconds is set as the sampling rate. That is, in the bathroom system 1, a time of 0.2 milliseconds to 10 milliseconds is set as the sampling rate. The control device 34 controls the interval (sampling rate) from the opening of the electronic shutter to the next opening of the electronic shutter to 0.2 milliseconds to 10 milliseconds. That is, the control device 34 controls the sampling rate to be within the range of 0.2 milliseconds to 10 milliseconds. In other words, the control device 34 controls in a manner that is executed at a speed (sampling rate) of 100 times / second to 5000 times / second. The control device 34 controls in a manner that is executed at a speed (sampling rate) of 100 times / second to 5000 times / second.

[0297] In addition, the control device 34 may also control the interval (sampling rate) from the opening of the electronic shutter to the next opening of the electronic shutter to be greater than 0.33 milliseconds and less than 1.6 milliseconds. That is, the control device 34 may also control the sampling rate to be within the range of greater than 0.33 milliseconds to less than 1.6 milliseconds. In other words, the control device 34 performs control in a manner that is executed at a speed (sampling rate) of greater than 625 times / second and less than 3000 times / second. The control device 34 performs control in a manner that is executed at a speed (sampling rate) of greater than 625 times / second to less than 3000 times / second.

[0298] For example, it is known that if a colon polyp of φ (diameter) 5 mm is found, a device effective for 99% of the cases of colon cancer can be provided. Therefore, if the color within the region of φ (diameter) 5 mm can be determined, colon polyps related to the onset of colon cancer can be appropriately detected.

[0299] <13. Interval of light control longer than 10 milliseconds>

[0300] It should be noted that, in the above example, the light control interval (also referred to as "sampling rate") is set to be less than 10 milliseconds, but the light control interval may be longer than 10 milliseconds. For example, the light control interval is not limited to less than 10 milliseconds, and may be controlled to be less than 50 milliseconds, less than 100 milliseconds, less than 300 milliseconds, or less than 600 milliseconds. Below, each of the light control intervals of 10 milliseconds, 50 milliseconds, 100 milliseconds, 300 milliseconds, and 600 milliseconds is described.

[0301] First, the case where the interval of light control is 10 milliseconds is explained. Here, a case where a spherical stool with a diameter of 10 mm is used as an example for explanation. Thus, in the case of a spherical stool with a diameter of 10 mm, unlike the case of stool of about 100 mm described later, at a position 40 mm below the anus, the stool is no longer connected to the anus, and the entire stool passes the position 40 mm below the anus at a speed of 1.23 m / s. Based on this premise, the following describes the interval of light control of 10 milliseconds to 600 milliseconds.

[0302] When the interval of light control is set to 10 milliseconds, as mentioned above, one type of light is scanned (irradiated) twice in the φ10mm area, so the texture of the stool irradiated with light can be sensed based on the difference in information (image) obtained by the two scans. The texture mentioned here refers to the concept of various changes on the surface of the stool, including the unevenness of the stool surface, color changes, etc. Therefore, when the interval of light control is set to 10 milliseconds and one type of light is irradiated to the φ10mm stool, it can be known whether the stool has texture.

[0303] In addition, when the interval of light control is 10 milliseconds, the two types of light are scanned (irradiated) once in the φ10mm area, so the representative color of the stool irradiated with light can be estimated based on the difference in information (image) obtained by the two scans. In this way, by irradiating the stool with two types of light of different wavelengths, the representative color of the stool can be estimated based on the difference in their reflection intensity. For example, based on the difference and slope of the reflection intensity of the two types of light of different wavelengths from the stool, the representative color of the stool can be estimated.

[0304] Here, it can be said that the amount of ordinary feces is 100g to 250g, and the length is about 100mm. In this case, at a position 40mm below the anus, the feces are excreted in a state connected to the anus. Therefore, the feces in a state connected to the anus do not fall from the lower end to 60mm, and the discharge speed is the same as the speed of feces discharged from the anus, which is 0.05m / s. For example, when the length of the feces is set to 100mm, the range from the top to 60mm of the feces passes through the position 40mm below the anus at 0.05m / s, and the remaining range from 40mm to the terminal passes through the position 40mm below the anus at 0.89m / s. Based on this premise, each of the light-controlled intervals of less than 50 milliseconds, less than 100 milliseconds, less than 300 milliseconds, or less than 600 milliseconds is explained.

[0305] When the interval of light control is 50 milliseconds, one type of light is scanned (irradiated) 25 times in an area of ​​100 mm in length, so the pattern of cracks on the surface of the stool due to the decrease in the amount of water contained in the stool can be known, and the properties of the stool corresponding to the moisture content of the stool can be inferred. When the interval of light control is 50 milliseconds, two types of light are scanned (irradiated) 12 times in an area of ​​100 mm in length, so the distribution of the color of the stool can be known.

[0306] In addition, when the interval of light control is 100 milliseconds, one type of light is scanned (irradiated) 12 times in an area of ​​100 mm in length, so the outline of the stool can be known. And, from the outline of the stool, it can be known that the shape of the stool changes when the water content in the stool is high, or the shape of the stool remains unchanged when the water content in the stool is low. As mentioned above, in the case of a stool with a length of 100 mm, the range from the top to 60 mm passes through the position 40 mm below the anus at 0.05 m / s, so when the interval of light control is 100 milliseconds, it can be scanned 12 times (=60 (mm) / 50 (mm / s) / 0.1 (s / time)).

[0307] When the interval of light control is 300 milliseconds, one type of light is scanned (irradiated) four times in an area of ​​100 mm in length, so the presence or absence of feces can be known. In addition, when the interval of light control is 300 milliseconds, two types of light are scanned (irradiated) twice in an area of ​​100 mm in length, so the representative color of feces can be inferred.

[0308] In addition, when the interval of light control is 600 milliseconds, one type of light is scanned (irradiated) twice in an area with a length of 100 mm, so the presence or absence of feces can be known.

[0309] It should be noted that the longer the interval of light control (sampling period) is extended, the easier it is to control and the increase in data volume can be suppressed. In other words, the lower the sampling frequency (slower the sampling speed), the easier it is to control and the increase in data volume can be suppressed. In addition, the longer the interval of light control is extended, the longer the light receiving time under the light source (light emitting element 121, etc.) with the same output intensity can be extended. The longer the light receiving time becomes, the more light (reflected light from the stool) can be taken into the sensor (light receiving element 132, etc.).

[0310] Next, use Fig.32 The following describes the images of each light-controlled interval. Fig.32 The diagram shows an image at each interval of light control. Fig.32 This represents data obtained by continuously sampling stool before it is actually discharged and contacts the sealing water in the toilet bowl using a toilet seat device (corresponding to toilet seat device 2) having a line sensor (corresponding to light receiving element 132) with a one-dimensional arrangement of light detectors (light receiving elements). Fig.32 In the example, a hard stool is used as an example. Specifically, Fig.32 The example shown is stool with less water and more uneven surface.

[0311] On the outer surface of the stool, the reflectivity of the brightly colored parts such as yellow and light yellow earth is high. That is, the amount of light received by the light receiving element is large. On the other hand, the reflectivity of the darker parts such as brown and the parts with less moisture that produce shadows when the outer surface of the stool is uneven is low, and the amount of light received by the light receiving element is small. When the sensor with light receiving elements arranged one-dimensionally takes a horizontal shot (captures) of the stool, data with different intensities depending on the color and shadow are obtained. Fig.32 Each image represents a two-dimensional image formed by continuously arranging one-dimensional data obtained by horizontal shooting in the vertical direction. Fig.32 In order to determine whether the stool texture in the image is different in color or has a shadow, for example, two or more lights of different wavelengths are continuously irradiated to the stool. Then, by relatively comparing the reflectivity of the light of each wavelength, the Fig.32 The stool texture in the image is either a different color or has a shadow.

[0312] When the light control interval is 10 milliseconds, Fig.32 As shown in the image IM1 in FIG. 1 , the detailed texture of the stool can be seen. Specifically, when the interval of light control is 10 milliseconds, Fig.32The white area in the image IM1 is mixed with thin black areas that are mainly linear, and the detailed texture of the stool can be seen. In this way, when the interval of light control is 10 milliseconds, the detailed texture of the stool can be seen, so the water content in the stool can be estimated like the Bristol Stool Scale.

[0313] In addition, when the interval of light control is 50 milliseconds, Fig.32 As shown in the image IM2 in FIG. 1 , the texture of the stool can be seen. Specifically, when the interval of light control is 50 milliseconds, Fig.32 In the image IM2, the upper part of the white area extending in the vertical direction is mixed with a black area, and the texture of the stool can be seen. In this way, when the interval of light control is 50 milliseconds, the texture of the stool can be seen, so the approximate moisture content of the stool can be inferred, such as hard (less moisture), normal, soft (more moisture), etc.

[0314] In addition, when the interval of light control is 100 milliseconds, Fig.32 As shown in the image IM3 in FIG. 1 , the shape of the stool can be seen. Specifically, when the interval of light control is 100 milliseconds, a Fig.32 The shape of the stool can be known from the white area extending from the center of the left-right direction to the right side in the vertical direction in the image IM3. In this way, the shape of the stool can be known when the interval of light control is 100 milliseconds, so the outline of the stool with deformed shape (high water content) or shape-maintained (low water content or normal) can be estimated.

[0315] In addition, when the interval of light control is 300 milliseconds, Fig.32 As shown in the image IM4 in FIG. 1 , the approximate shape of the stool can be seen. Specifically, when the interval of light control is 300 milliseconds, Fig.32 In the image IM4, there is a linear white area extending in the up-down direction, and the approximate shape of the stool can be known through the white area. In this way, when the interval of light control is 300 milliseconds, the approximate shape of the stool can be known, so the presence or absence of stool and the size of the stool can be known.

[0316] In addition, when the light control interval is 600 milliseconds, Fig.32 As shown in the image IM5 in FIG. 1 , it can be seen that the situation has already passed. Specifically, when the interval of light control is 600 milliseconds, Fig.32 In the image IM5, there is a linear white area extending in the vertical direction, and the white area shows that the defecation has occurred. In this way, when the interval of light control is 600 milliseconds, it can be seen that the defecation has occurred, so it can be known whether there is a defecation. Fig.32 As shown, the shorter the interval of light control, the more detailed information about the stool can be obtained.

[0317] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications may be appropriately combined within the scope where no contradiction occurs in the processing contents.

[0318] Those skilled in the art can easily derive further effects and variations. Therefore, the broader aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Therefore, various changes can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the concept of the general invention defined by the claims and their equivalents.

[0319] Description of reference numerals:

[0320] R: toilet; 1: toilet system; 2: toilet seat device; 20: second memory; 3: main body; 30: main body cover; 31: opening; 31b: opening; 32: human body sensing sensor; 33: seat sensing sensor; 34: control device (control unit); 341: analog-to-digital converter; 342: operation processing device; 343: ROM; 344: first memory; 4: toilet cover; 5: toilet seat; 6: cleaning nozzle; 60: nozzle cover; 7: Western-style toilet (toilet); 71: solenoid valve; 8: bowl; 9: rim; 10: operating device; 11: display screen; 100: optical unit; 110: cover; 111: actuator; 120: light-emitting unit; 121: light-emitting element; 130: light-receiving unit; 131: lens; 132: light-receiving element; 133: casing.

Claims

1. A toilet seat device, mounted on the upper part of a toilet bowl having a bowl portion for receiving excrement, It is characterized in that have: Toilet seat, for users to sit on; A light emitting unit, provided with a light emitting element for emitting light; a light receiving unit, provided with a light receiving element for receiving light; and a control unit that controls the energization of the light emitting element and the application of voltage to the light receiving element, The light emitting unit irradiates light toward the falling stool excreted by the user. The light receiving unit receives reflected light from the stool in response to the light emitted by the light emitting unit. The control unit performs light receiving control, in which a control instruction to open the electronic shutter is sent to the light receiving element and power is supplied to the light emitting element, thereby enabling the light reflected from the stool to be received. The control unit controls the interval from the start of execution of one light reception control to the execution of the next light reception control to be 0.2 milliseconds or more and 10 milliseconds or less, The toilet seat device is used to estimate the properties of stool.

2. The toilet seat device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The toilet seat is further provided with a seat sensor for sensing that the user sits on the toilet seat. The control unit has a measurement mode in which light having a wavelength in a visible light region is irradiated while the seat sensor detects that the user is sitting on the toilet seat.

3. The toilet seat device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The light emitting unit includes a plurality of light emitting elements for emitting light. The plurality of light emitting elements can emit light of different wavelengths. The control unit energizes only one of the plurality of light emitting elements in the one light receiving control, and changes the light emitting element to be energized in the next light receiving control whenever the one light receiving control ends. The control unit controls an interval from the start of execution of the one light reception control to execution of the next light reception control to be 1.6 milliseconds or less.

4. The toilet seat device according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized in that The control unit varies the energization time of the light emitting element in accordance with the wavelength irradiated by the light emitting element in the light reception control.

5. An excrement sensing device, arranged on a toilet bowl having a bowl for receiving excrement, It is characterized in that have: A light emitting unit, provided with a light emitting element for emitting light; a light receiving unit, provided with a light receiving element for receiving light; and a control unit that controls the energization of the light emitting element and the application of voltage to the light receiving element, The control unit performs light receiving control, in which a control instruction to open the electronic shutter is sent to the light receiving element and power is supplied to the light emitting element, thereby enabling the light reflected from the stool to be received. The light emitting unit irradiates light toward the falling stool excreted by the user. The light receiving unit receives reflected light from the stool in response to the light emitted by the light emitting unit. The control unit controls the interval from the start of execution of one light reception control to the execution of the next light reception control to be 0.2 milliseconds or more and 10 milliseconds or less, The excrement sensing device is used to estimate the properties of stool.

Images