Flushing water control method, control device, and flushing water control program

Abstract

A control device (2) acquires image data captured by a camera (1) disposed in a toilet bowl portion of a toilet bowl in a manner that the toilet bowl portion can be captured, determines whether or not a foreign matter, which is an object that can cause the toilet bowl to be clogged, is disposed in the toilet bowl portion by performing image recognition on the image data, and transmits an outflow prohibition signal that prohibits the outflow of flush water to a flush water control device in a case where it is determined that the foreign matter is disposed in the toilet bowl portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a technique for controlling the outflow of flushing water into a toilet. Background Technology

[0002] In elderly care facilities and hospitals, toilet blockages frequently occur due to residents and patients throwing foreign objects such as diapers into the toilet. Once blocked, the toilet leaks water. To address this, Patent Document 1 proposes a leak-prevention mechanism that incorporates a water level sensor in the flushing toilet. When the water level exceeds the upper limit, an alarm is triggered, and the flush valve remains in a locked position, preventing it from opening.

[0003] However, the technology in Patent Document 1 is difficult to detect foreign objects in the toilet before the flushing water flows out, and further improvements are needed to prevent flushing water from leaking out of the toilet and to prevent the toilet from being blocked by foreign objects.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2000-282538 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a technology that can prevent flushing water from leaking from the toilet and prevent the toilet from being clogged by foreign objects.

[0008] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a flushing water control method, which is a flushing water control method of a control device communicatively connected to a flushing water control device for controlling the flow of flushing water into a flushing toilet. The method includes the following steps: acquiring image data captured by a camera, the camera being mounted on the toilet in a manner capable of capturing images of the toilet bowl; determining, by performing image recognition on the image data, whether a foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl, the foreign object being an object that could potentially clog the toilet; and, if it is determined that a foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl, sending a flow prohibition signal to the flushing water control device to prohibit the flow of flushing water.

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent flushing water from leaking from the toilet and to prevent the toilet from becoming clogged due to foreign objects. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the discharge management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration positions of the sensing unit and control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the water storage tank.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of the control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the discharge management system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of the control device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the discharge management system according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of the control device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the discharge management system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The process of making this invention

[0020] Patent Document 1 utilizes a water level sensor installed at the top of the toilet bowl to detect whether the water level in the toilet exceeds the upper limit. If the water level exceeds the upper limit, the flush valve is prevented from opening. Thus, Patent Document 1 attempts to prevent flushing water from leaking from the toilet.

[0021] However, in Patent Document 1, the water level does not rise significantly even if a foreign object is inserted into the toilet bowl before the flushing water flows out. As long as the flushing water does not flow out after the foreign object is inserted, the water level sensor cannot detect that the water level has exceeded the upper limit. In other words, Patent Document 1 cannot quickly detect the inserted foreign object after it has been inserted. In this case, because the foreign object will flow towards the drain with the flushing water, toilet blockage may occur.

[0022] Therefore, the inventors have come to the following insights, and thus conceived of the following embodiments of the present invention. The insights are that by taking pictures of the inside of the toilet bowl with a camera and analyzing the obtained image data to determine whether a foreign object has been inserted, if it is determined that a foreign object has been inserted, the outflow of flushing water can be prevented to prevent leakage of flushing water and to prevent toilet blockage caused by foreign objects.

[0023] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a flushing water control method, which is a flushing water control method of a control device communicatively connected to a flushing water control device for controlling the flow of flushing water into a flushing toilet. The method includes the following steps: acquiring image data captured by a camera, the camera being mounted on the toilet in a manner capable of capturing images of the toilet bowl; determining, by performing image recognition on the image data, whether a foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl, the foreign object being an object that could potentially clog the toilet; and, if it is determined that a foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl, sending a flow prohibition signal to the flushing water control device to prohibit the flow of flushing water.

[0024] According to this configuration, image recognition is performed on image data captured by a camera to determine whether a foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl. If a foreign object is detected, a flow prohibition signal is sent to the flushing water control device. Therefore, if a foreign object is detected, the flow of flushing water can be quickly stopped. This prevents flushing water from flowing out after a foreign object has been placed in the toilet but before it does, thus preventing leaks and blockages caused by foreign objects.

[0025] In the aforementioned flushing water control method, sensing data is also acquired from a sensor used to detect whether a user is sitting on the toilet. If it is determined that the foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl, the sensing data is also used to determine whether the user is sitting on the toilet. If it is determined that the user is not sitting on the toilet, the outflow prohibition signal is sent. If it is determined that the user is sitting on the toilet, the outflow prohibition signal is not sent.

[0026] Foreign object insertion is typically performed when the user is not seated. Based on this design, even if an image recognition result of a foreign object being inserted is obtained, a flow prohibition signal will not be sent as long as the user is not seated on the toilet. Therefore, it prevents the issuance of a flow prohibition signal when no foreign object has actually been inserted. Furthermore, it improves the accuracy of foreign object detection.

[0027] In the flushing water control method, after sending the outflow prohibition signal, image recognition is performed on the image data to determine whether the foreign object has been removed from the toilet bowl. If it is determined that the foreign object has been removed, an outflow permission signal that allows the flushing water to flow out is sent to the flushing water control device.

[0028] According to this configuration, after sending an outflow prohibition signal, image recognition is performed on the image data to determine whether foreign objects have been removed. If it is determined that foreign objects have been removed, an outflow permission signal is sent. Therefore, the flushing water control device, which is in an outflow prohibited state due to the outflow prohibition signal, can automatically return to an outflowable state after the foreign objects are removed.

[0029] In the aforementioned flushing water control method, when determining the foreign object, if the image data contains an image of an object larger than a specified size other than defecation or urination, the object may be determined as the foreign object.

[0030] Foreign objects that can cause toilet blockages include, for example, disposable diapers inserted into the toilet bowl. Disposable diapers come in different colors depending on whether they are used for defecation or urination, and are of a size greater than a specified size. Based on this configuration, if the image data contains an image of an object of a specified size or larger than that representing defecation or urination, that object is identified as a foreign object. Therefore, foreign objects that cause toilet blockages can be accurately detected.

[0031] In the aforementioned flushing water control method, the image data may be color image data with multiple color components. When determining the foreign object, a difference image is calculated between the base image data representing the state of the toilet bowl where there is no defecation, urination, or the foreign object, and the image data. Based on the brightness of each color component of the difference image, it is determined whether the image data contains images representing defecation and urination.

[0032] According to this configuration, since a difference image is calculated between the base image data and the image data representing the state of the toilet bowl where there is no defecation, urination, or foreign objects, images representing defecation, urination, and foreign objects present in the toilet bowl can be correctly extracted from the image data. Furthermore, defecation and urination have the characteristic of high brightness of their respective specific color components. According to this configuration, whether images representing defecation and urination are included in the image data is determined based on the brightness of each color component in the difference image. Therefore, according to this configuration, defecation and urination can be correctly detected, and further, foreign objects can be correctly detected.

[0033] In the described flushing water control method, the foreign object may also include a diaper.

[0034] According to this design, since diapers are identified as foreign objects, toilet blockages caused by diapers, which frequently occur in elderly care facilities and hospitals, can be prevented.

[0035] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a control device communicatively connected to a flushing water control device for controlling the flow of flushing water into a flushing toilet. The device includes: an image data acquisition unit for acquiring image data captured by a camera, the camera being mounted on the toilet bowl in a manner capable of capturing images of the toilet bowl portion; a foreign object detection unit for determining, by image recognition of the image data, whether a foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl portion, the foreign object being an object that could potentially clog the toilet; and a communication control unit for sending a flow prohibition signal to the flushing water control device to prohibit the flow of flushing water when the foreign object detection unit determines that a foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl portion.

[0036] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a flushing water control program that enables a computer to function as a control device communicatively connected to a flushing water control device for controlling the flow of flushing water into a flushing toilet: acquiring image data captured by a camera mounted on the toilet bowl in a manner capable of capturing images of the toilet bowl portion; determining, through image recognition of the image data, whether a foreign object has been inserted into the toilet bowl portion, wherein the foreign object is an object that may clog the toilet; and, if it is determined that the foreign object has been inserted into the toilet bowl portion, sending a flow prohibition signal to the flushing water control device to prohibit the flow of flushing water.

[0037] This invention can also be implemented as a flushing water control system that operates through a flushing water control program. Furthermore, needless to say, such a computer program can be circulated via a computer-readable, non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a communication network such as the Internet.

[0038] Furthermore, the embodiments described below are all specific examples of the present invention. The numerical values, shapes, constituent elements, steps, and order of steps shown in the following embodiments are merely specific examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Moreover, among the constituent elements in the following embodiments, those not described in the independent claims representing the superior concept are described as arbitrary constituent elements. Furthermore, the contents of all embodiments can be combined arbitrarily.

[0039] First Implementation Method

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the discharge management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration positions of the sensing unit 105 and the control device 2 in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 1The discharge management system shown includes a camera 1, a control device 2, a flushing water control device 3, and a server 4. Figure 2 As shown, the toilet 101 includes a bowl portion 101a and a rim portion 101b. The rim portion 101b is a component disposed at the upper end of the toilet 101 to define the opening of the toilet 101. The bowl portion 101a is a component disposed below the rim portion 101b to receive defecation and urination. A sensing unit 105 is mounted on the rim portion 101b. The camera 1 is communicatively connected to the control device 2 via a wired or wireless means.

[0042] A drain outlet (not shown) is provided at the bottom of the toilet bowl 101a. Excrement and urine discharged into the toilet bowl 101a flow into the sewer pipe through the drain outlet. That is, the toilet 101 is a flush toilet. Furthermore, a toilet seat 102 for the user to sit on is provided at the top of the toilet 101. The toilet seat 102 can rotate up and down. The user sits on the toilet 101 with the toilet seat 102 lowered. A water tank 103 is provided at the rear of the toilet 101 to collect flushing water for excrement and urine.

[0043] Return to reference Figure 1 Camera 1 is mounted on the toilet 101 in a manner that allows it to capture images of the toilet bowl area 101a. Camera 1 is configured on... Figure 2 The sensor unit 105 shown contains a camera 1, which is, for example, a high-sensitivity, wide-angle camera capable of capturing color images containing R (red), G (green), and B (blue) components. In the field of object detection, cameras that illuminate objects with infrared and white LEDs are widely used. However, such existing cameras have difficulty detecting objects, especially those with a large amount of red, making it difficult to distinguish between defecation and urination. Therefore, in this embodiment, a high-sensitivity, wide-angle camera is used as camera 1. Specifically, camera 1 is a high-sensitivity camera with a 1 / 4-inch CMOS sensor. Furthermore, camera 1 is a wide-angle camera with a horizontal viewing angle of 120 degrees and a vertical viewing angle of 45 degrees. These inch and viewing angle values ​​are merely examples; other values ​​may also be used. Camera 1 is communicatively connected to control device 2 via wired or wireless means. Camera 1 captures images of the interior of the toilet bowl section 101a at a predetermined frame rate and transmits the acquired image data. Here, camera 1 always sends the captured image data to control device 2.

[0044] The control device 2 is a control device for the toilet 101 that is communicatively connected to the flushing water control device 3. The control device 2 includes a processor 21, a memory 22, a communication unit 23, and a switch 24.

[0045] The processor 21 is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit). The processor 21 includes an image data acquisition unit 211, a foreign object detection unit 212, and a communication control unit 213.

[0046] The image data acquisition unit 211 acquires the image data captured by the camera 1.

[0047] The foreign object detection unit 212 determines whether an object, which may clog the toilet 101, has been placed in the toilet bowl 101a by performing image recognition on image data. Details of the image recognition will be described later. Examples of foreign objects include diapers, large amounts of toilet paper, and paper cups—objects unrelated to defecation or urination—that may clog the toilet 101. The diaper can be either a disposable diaper or a cloth diaper.

[0048] Specifically, the foreign object detection unit 212 determines that a foreign object has been inserted when the image data includes an image of an object larger than a specified size, other than those representing defecation or urination. The specified size is, for example, the smaller of a large quantity of toilet paper (larger than the size of toilet paper normally used for defecation) and a diaper.

[0049] When the foreign object detection unit 212 determines that a foreign object has been inserted, the communication control unit 213 sends a flow prohibition signal to the flushing water control device 3 via the communication unit 23, prohibiting the outflow of flushing water. As a result, the flushing water control device 3 is in a flow prohibition state, preventing flushing water from flowing into the toilet bowl section 101a. When the flushing water control device 3 is in the flow prohibition state, the communication control unit 213 sets the flag F for managing the outflow status of the flushing water to 1.

[0050] Furthermore, in the outflow prohibited state, if switch 24 is pressed, the communication control unit 213 sends an outflow permission signal to the flushing water control device 3 to enable the flushing water to flow out of the toilet bowl section 101a. When the flushing water control device 3 is in the outflowable state, the communication control unit 213 sets flag F to 0.

[0051] The memory 22 is composed of a storage device capable of storing various types of information, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory. The memory 22 stores, for example, the flag F.

[0052] The communication unit 23 is configured with a communication loop that enables the control device 2 to be communicatively connected to the flushing water control device 3 via the communication path 60. The communication path 60 can be a wireless communication path or a wired communication path. For example, a wireless LAN such as Wi-Fi or a short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth can be used as a wireless communication path. For example, a communication path conforming to the IEEE 802.3 standard can be used as a wired communication path. Under the control of the communication control unit 213, the communication unit 23 transmits outflow prohibition signals and outflow permission signals.

[0053] Furthermore, the communication unit 23 has the function of connecting the control device 2 to the network 5. The network 5 is, for example, the Internet. The communication unit 23 sends excretion history information to the server 4. The excretion history information is information that correlates excretion behaviors (defecation, flatulence, urination, and both defecation and flatulence) with date and time information indicating the date and time of the excretion behavior. The processor 21 can generate excretion history information, for example, on a daily basis and send it to the server 4.

[0054] Switch 24 is a physical switch located at a predetermined position on the housing of control device 2, which is pressed by the user to release the flow prohibition state.

[0055] The flushing water control device 3 is a device that controls the flow of flushing water into the toilet 101. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the water storage tank 103. Figure 3 This is a view showing the interior of the water tank 103 as seen from the front of the toilet 101. Figure 3 Looking at the toilet 101 from the front, the left side is the left, the right side is the right, the top is the top, and the bottom is the bottom. The water tank 103 is a tank for storing flushing water. The water tank 103 includes a side wall 306 and a bottom wall 308.

[0056] The flushing water control device 3 includes a switching unit 32, a lever 301, a relay rod 302, a chain 303, a rubber float 304, and a main body 305.

[0057] The control lever 301 is located at a predetermined position on the upper part of the side wall 306 outside the side wall 306. The control lever 301 is mounted on the side wall 306 in a manner that allows it to rotate about a rotation axis 309 orthogonal to the side wall 306.

[0058] The main body 305 is mounted inside the side wall 306, facing the control lever 301. The main body 305 includes a mechanism (not shown) that converts the rotational movement of the control lever 301 into the up-and-down movement of the relay lever 302. A rubber float 304 is mounted on the main body 305 between the relay lever 302 and the chain 303. The relay lever 302 is made of a rigid material such as metal or resin. The relay lever 302 is mounted on the main body 305 in a manner that allows it to rotate vertically about a rotation axis 310 orthogonal to the plane of the paper.

[0059] One end of the chain 303 is mounted on the relay rod 302, and the other end is mounted on the top of the rubber float 304. The rubber float 304 is composed of a dome-shaped component used to block the outlet 307 located on the bottom wall 308 of the water storage tank 103. The outlet 307 is connected to a piping (not shown) that supplies flushing water to the toilet bowl section 101a.

[0060] If the control lever 301 rotates around the rotation axis 309, the mechanism of the main body 305 pulls up the relay lever 302. As a result, the chain 303 opens the rubber float 304, and the flushing water in the water tank 103 flows from the outlet 307 to the toilet bowl 101a, thus flushing the toilet bowl 101a.

[0061] The switching unit 32 is installed inside the main body 305 and is composed of a solenoid containing a movable iron core 32a. When the switching unit 32 is energized, the movable iron core 32a slides to the right, pushing the operating lever 301 to the right. As a result, the engagement between the mechanism of the main body 305 and the operating lever 301 is released. Therefore, even if the operating lever 301 is rotated, its rotational force will not be transmitted to the chain 303, and the rubber float 304 remains in a closed state. Thus, the outflow of flushing water from the water tank 103 into the toilet bowl 101a can be prevented.

[0062] On the other hand, when the switching unit 32 is not energized, the movable iron core 32a returns to its original position. Thus, the control lever 301 connects with the mechanism of the main body 305. As a result, if the control lever 301 is rotated, its rotational force is transmitted to the chain 303, the rubber float 304 opens, and flushing water is supplied to the toilet bowl 101a.

[0063] Return to reference Figure 1The flushing water control device 3 includes a status control unit 31, a switching unit 32, a communication unit 33, and a memory 34. The status control unit 31 is configured using circuitry such as a CPU or an ASIC. When the status control unit 31 receives an outflow prohibition signal via the communication unit 33, it energizes the switching unit 32, placing it in an outflow prohibition state that prevents flushing water from flowing into the toilet bowl 101a. Furthermore, when the status control unit 31 receives an outflow permission signal via the communication unit 33, it de-energizes the switching unit 32, placing it in an outflow permission state that allows flushing water to flow into the toilet bowl 101a. Additionally, the status control unit 31 maintains the outflow prohibition state until it receives an outflow permission signal after being in an outflow prohibition state.

[0064] The switching unit 32 is, for example, composed of a solenoid, and under the control of the state control unit 31, it is in a prohibited state that prevents flushing water from flowing into the toilet bowl 101a.

[0065] The communication unit 33 is configured with a communication loop that enables the flushing water control device 3 to be communicatively connected to the control device 2 via the communication path 60. The communication unit 33 receives outflow prohibition signals and outflow permission signals from the control device 2.

[0066] The memory 34 is composed of storage devices such as RAM and flash memory, and is used as the working memory of the status control unit 31.

[0067] Server 4 receives discharge history information sent through control device 2. Server 4 has a database for storing discharge history information.

[0068] For example, when creating monitoring data for a patient, caregivers utilize the database of server 4. Specifically, the terminal device used by the caregiver retrieves discharge history information corresponding to the patient's identification information from server 4 to create the monitoring data. For instance, the terminal device can create monitoring data based on the number of times the patient farts, defecates, urinates, and defecates and farts within a specified period. The specified period for creating the monitoring data can be one day, one week, or one month. Furthermore, the terminal device can also create monitoring data based on the timing of farting, defecation, urination, and both defecation and farting within the specified period.

[0069] Next, the operation of control device 2 will be explained. Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of the control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The flowchart shows that the process is executed at a predetermined sampling period. This sampling period can be the same as the shooting period of camera 1, or it can be n times the shooting period (n is an integer greater than or equal to 2).

[0070] In step S1, the image data acquisition unit 211 acquires image data from the camera 1. In step S2, the foreign object detection unit 212 performs image recognition processing on the image data to determine whether a foreign object has been inserted into the toilet bowl 101a. Specifically, the foreign object detection unit 212 determines that a foreign object has been inserted if the image data contains an object larger than a specified size other than feces or urine.

[0071] An example of processing to determine whether image data contains images of defecation is described below. First, the foreign object detection unit 212 calculates a difference image representing the difference between the image data acquired in step S1 and the base image data. Here, the base image data is image data generated by calibration performed when the sensing unit 105 is placed in the toilet 101. The base image data is generated, for example, based on multiple color image data obtained by taking multiple photos of the toilet bowl 101a in a state where there is no defecation or urination with the camera 1. That is, the base image data is color image data of the toilet bowl 101a in its default state where there is no defecation or urination. Therefore, by acquiring the difference between the image data taken during defecation or urination and the base image data, image data representing defecation, urination, or foreign objects can be extracted.

[0072] Next, the foreign object detection unit 212 calculates the RGB ratios of the R, G, and B components contained in the calculated difference image data. Then, the foreign object detection unit 212 calculates the distance between the calculated RGB ratios and a predetermined defecation reference ratio. Here, the RGB ratio is, for example, the ratio of the total brightness of the R component, the total brightness of the G component, and the total brightness of the B component in the difference image data. The defecation reference ratio is a typical RGB ratio of defecation calculated by analyzing multiple image data containing various defecation images. The distance is, for example, Euclidean distance. Finally, if the calculated distance is below the reference distance, the foreign object detection unit 212 determines that the image data captured by the camera 1 contains a defecation image.

[0073] Furthermore, the foreign object detection unit 212 can perform the same processing on urination images as it does on defecation images to determine whether the image data contains a urination image. That is, the foreign object detection unit 212 calculates the distance between the RGB ratio contained in the difference image and a predetermined urination reference ratio. If the distance is less than the reference distance, it determines that the image data captured by the camera 1 contains a urination image.

[0074] Furthermore, the foreign object detection unit 212 can determine that the image data contains a foreign object if it determines that the image data does not contain either a defecation image or a urination image, and the size of the difference image is greater than or equal to a specified size.

[0075] When the foreign object detection unit 212 determines in step S3 that a foreign object has been inserted into the toilet bowl section 101a (yes in step S3), the communication control unit 213 sends a flow prohibition signal to the flushing water control device 3 via the communication unit 23 (step S4). On the other hand, when the foreign object detection unit 212 determines that no foreign object has been inserted into the toilet bowl section 101a (no in step S3), the process returns to step S1. If the process in step S4 is completed, the process returns to step S1. Thus, the flushing water control device 3 is in a flow prohibition state. Thereafter, the flushing water control device 3 maintains the flow prohibition state until the foreign object is removed from the toilet bowl section 101a and the switch 24 is pressed.

[0076] Thus, according to the control device 2 of the first embodiment, if the insertion of a foreign object is detected, the outflow of flushing water can be quickly stopped. Therefore, the outflow of flushing water can be stopped after the foreign object is inserted but before it flows out, preventing leakage of flushing water from the toilet 101 and preventing blockage of the toilet 101 due to the foreign object.

[0077] Second Implementation Method

[0078] The second embodiment is an example in which the flushing water control device 3 is in a state of prohibiting outflow after confirming that the user is seated. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the discharge management system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same constituent elements as in the first embodiment, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0079] The control device 2A is further connected to a seating sensor 6. The seating sensor 6 is disposed within the sensing unit 105 and is used to detect whether a user is sitting on the toilet seat 102. The seating sensor 6 is communicatively connected to the control device 2A. The seating sensor 6 includes an illuminance sensor for detecting the ambient light around the toilet bowl 101a and a distance sensor for detecting the distance to objects around the toilet bowl 101a. Because if the opening of the toilet seat 102 is blocked by the user's buttocks when sitting on it, the area around the toilet bowl 101a becomes dark, and objects are present near the sensing unit 105. Therefore, the illuminance sensor and the distance sensor can be used to detect whether a user is sitting on the toilet seat 102. Alternatively, the seating sensor 6 can be a pressure sensor for detecting the pressure of the user sitting on the toilet seat 102, instead of an illuminance sensor and a distance sensor. In the case where the seating sensor 6 is a pressure sensor, it is installed on the toilet seat 102. Furthermore, the seating sensor 6 can also be configured to use either an illuminance sensor or a distance sensor.

[0080] The processor 21 of the control device 2A, in addition to the control device 2, also includes a communication control unit 213A, a sensor data acquisition unit 214, and a seating determination unit 215.

[0081] The sensor data acquisition unit 214 acquires sensor data from the seating sensor 6. This sensor data includes the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor and the distance to the object detected by the distance measuring sensor. Additionally, if the seating sensor 6 is a pressure sensor, the sensor data includes the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor.

[0082] The seating determination unit 215 determines whether the user is seated on the toilet seat 102 based on the detection results of the seating sensor 6. For example, the seating determination unit 215 can determine that the user is seated if the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor of the seating sensor 6 is less than a predetermined reference illuminance and the distance of the object detected by the distance measuring sensor of the seating sensor 6 is less than a reference distance. However, this is only one example. The seating determination unit 215 can also determine that the user is seated on the toilet seat 102 based on the detection results of either the illuminance sensor or the distance measuring sensor, or it can determine that the user is seated on the toilet seat 102 if the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor is above a reference pressure.

[0083] The communication control unit 213A, when the foreign object detection unit 212 determines that a foreign object has been inserted, and when the seating detection unit 215 determines that the user is not sitting on the toilet seat 102, sends a flow prohibition signal to the flushing water control device 3 via the communication unit 23. On the other hand, the communication control unit 213A does not send a flow prohibition signal when the foreign object detection unit 212 determines that a foreign object has been inserted, and when the seating detection unit 215 determines that the user is sitting on the toilet seat 102.

[0084] Next, the processing of the control device 2A in the second embodiment will be described. Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of the control device 2A according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, in Figure 6 In the flowchart, for the... Figure 4 The same treatment assigns the same symbols, and omits their descriptions.

[0085] In step S11, following the "Yes" in step S3, the sensor data acquisition unit 214 acquires sensor data from the seating sensor 6. In step S12, the seating determination unit 215 determines whether the user is sitting on the toilet seat 102 based on the sensor data acquired by the sensor data acquisition unit 214.

[0086] If the seating determination unit 215 determines that the user is not seated on the toilet seat 102 (No in step S12), the communication control unit 213A sends a flow prohibition signal to the flushing water control device 3 via the communication unit 23 (step S4).

[0087] On the other hand, if the seating determination unit 215 determines that the user is sitting on the toilet seat 102 (yes in step S12), the process returns to step S1.

[0088] Foreign objects are typically inserted into the toilet bowl 101a when the user is not seated. The control device 2A of the second embodiment, even if it obtains an image recognition result indicating that a foreign object has been inserted, will not send a discharge prohibition signal as long as the user is not seated on the toilet seat 102. Therefore, the control device 2A of the second embodiment can prevent the discharge prohibition signal from being sent even when no foreign object has actually been inserted. Furthermore, it can improve the accuracy of foreign object detection.

[0089] Third Implementation Method

[0090] The third embodiment is an example in which the flushing water control device 3 automatically returns to a flowable state after the foreign matter has been removed. Figure 7This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the discharge management system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same constituent elements as in the first and second embodiments, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0091] The control device 2B of the third embodiment is based on the control device 2A. In the third embodiment, since the foreign object is automatically determined to have been removed, the switch 24 is omitted from the control device 2B. The foreign object determination unit 212B, after determining that a foreign object has been inserted into the toilet bowl 101a, performs image recognition processing on the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit 211 to determine whether the foreign object has been removed from the toilet bowl 101a. Specifically, the foreign object determination unit 212B calculates the difference image between the image data captured by the camera 1 and the base image data. If the difference image does not contain an image representing an object of a specified size or larger, it can be determined that a foreign object has been removed from the toilet bowl 101a, wherein the object refers to an object other than defecation or urination.

[0092] When the foreign object detection unit 212B determines that the foreign object has been removed, the communication control unit 213B sends an outflow permission signal to the flushing water control device 3 via the communication unit 23.

[0093] Next, the processing of the control device 2B in the third embodiment will be described. Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing of the control device 2B according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, in Figure 8 In the flowchart, for the... Figure 6 The same processing is assigned the same symbols to the flowcharts.

[0094] In step S21, the communication control unit 213B determines whether flag F is 0. If flag F is 0 (yes in step S21), the process proceeds to step S1. That is, when the flushing water control device 3 is in a flow-out state, the process proceeds to steps S1, S2, S3, S11, S12, and S4, similar to the second embodiment. In step S22, following step S4, because a flow-out prohibition signal is sent, the communication control unit 213B sets flag F to 1. If the processing in step S22 is completed, the process returns to step S21.

[0095] On the other hand, if flag F is 1 (No in step S21), the process proceeds to step S23. That is, if the flushing water control device 3 is in the outflow prohibited state, the process after step S23 is executed.

[0096] In step S23, the image data acquisition unit 211 acquires image data from the camera 1. In step S24, the foreign object detection unit 212B performs image recognition processing on the image data to determine whether the foreign object has been removed.

[0097] In step S25, if the foreign object detection unit 212B determines that the foreign object has been removed (yes in step S25), the communication control unit 213B sends a flow permission signal to the flushing water control device 3 via the communication unit 23 (step S26).

[0098] In step S27, because an outflow permission signal has been sent, the communication control unit 213B sets flag F to 0. If the processing in step S27 is complete, the process returns to step S21.

[0099] On the other hand, if the foreign object detection unit 212B determines that the foreign object has not been removed (no in step S25), the process returns to step S21.

[0100] Thus, according to the control device 2B of the third embodiment, the flushing water control device 3, which is in a flow-out prohibited state, can automatically return to a flow-out permitted state after the foreign matter is removed. Therefore, the flushing water control device 3 can be quickly returned to a flow-out permitted state after the foreign matter is removed.

[0101] Fourth Implementation Method

[0102] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the discharge management system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. The fourth embodiment is an example in which the control device 2C is applied to the flushing water control device 3C, which instructs the flow of flushing water via a remote control operating device 7. Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same constituent elements as in the first to third embodiments, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0103] Control device 2C has the same configuration as control device 2B.

[0104] The remote control device 7 is communicatively connected to the flushing water control device 3C via communication path 8. Communication path 8 can be a short-range wireless communication such as wireless LAN or Bluetooth (registered trademark), or a wired LAN such as IEEE 802.3. The remote control device 7 includes a flush button that instructs the flushing water control device 3C to direct flushing water to the toilet bowl 101a. If the user presses the flush button, the remote control device 7 sends a flushing command signal to the flushing water control device 3C.

[0105] The flushing water control device 3C, based on the flushing water control device 3, also includes a drive unit 35, a drive unit 36, a drain valve 37, and a flow valve 38, but omits the switching unit 32.

[0106] When the communication unit 33 receives a water flow command signal, the status control unit 31C inputs a valve opening command signal to the drive unit 35, causing the drive unit 35 to open the drain valve 37. Alternatively, the status control unit 31C may input a valve closing command signal to the drive unit 35 after a predetermined time has elapsed after inputting the valve opening command signal, causing the drive unit 35 to close the drain valve 37.

[0107] When the communication unit 33 receives a water flow command signal, the status control unit 31C inputs a valve opening command signal to the drive unit 36, causing the drive unit 36 ​​to open the water flow valve 38. Alternatively, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the state control unit 31C sent the valve opening command signal to the drive unit 36, it inputs a valve closing command signal to the drive unit 36, causing the drive unit 36 ​​to close the water flow valve 38.

[0108] The drive unit 35 is, for example, a motor. If an opening valve command signal is input from the status control unit 31C, it operates to open the drain valve 37. If a closing valve command signal is input from the status control unit 31C, it operates to close the drain valve 37.

[0109] The drive unit 36 ​​is, for example, a motor. If an opening command signal is input from the status control unit 3IC, it operates to open the flow valve 38. If a closing command signal is input from the status control unit 31C, it operates to close the flow valve 38.

[0110] A drain valve 37 is installed at the bottom of the toilet bowl section 101a, and opening the valve connects the drain outlet at the bottom of the toilet bowl section 101a with the sewer pipe.

[0111] The water flow valve 38 is a valve that closes the outlet 307 located on the bottom wall 308 of the water storage tank 103. The water flow valve 38 supplies flushing water from the water storage tank 103 to the toilet bowl section 101a by opening the valve.

[0112] The status control unit 31C opens the flow valve 38 and the drain valve 37 simultaneously. As a result, the excrement and urine discharged into the toilet bowl 101a flow into the sewer pipe via flushing water.

[0113] If a flow prohibition signal is sent from the control device 2C, the status control unit 31C puts the flushing water control device 3C into a flow prohibition state. Furthermore, in the flow prohibition state, if the communication unit 33 receives a water flow command signal from the remote control device 7, the status control unit 31C will not input a valve opening command signal to the drive unit 35 and drive unit 36. Thus, the opening of the drain valve 37 and the water flow valve 38 can be prevented. Therefore, if a foreign object is inserted into the toilet bowl 101a, flushing water can be prevented from flowing into the toilet bowl 101a. As a result, flushing water leakage can be prevented, and toilet blockage caused by foreign objects can be prevented.

[0114] On the other hand, if a flow permission signal is sent from the control device 2C, the status control unit 31C puts the flushing water control device 3C into a flow-allowed state. Furthermore, in the flow-allowed state, if the communication unit 33 receives a flow command signal from the remote control device 7, the status control unit 31C inputs a valve opening command signal to the drive unit 35 and drive unit 36. As a result, the drain valve 37 and the flow valve 38 open. Consequently, without any foreign objects being inserted into the toilet bowl 101a, flushing water can flow into the toilet bowl 101a, allowing waste and urine to flow into the sewer pipe.

[0115] The present invention can be modified in the following ways.

[0116] (1) The foreign object detection unit 212 can also determine whether a foreign object has been introduced by applying pattern matching, which uses a reference image representing foreign objects such as diapers, paper cups, and large amounts of toilet paper, to the image data captured by the camera 1. This method of determination is also applicable to the foreign object detection units 212A, 212B, and 212C.

[0117] (2) The control device 2B of the third embodiment may also be based on the control device 2.

[0118] (3) The switching unit 32 may also be a component other than a solenoid. For example, see reference. Figure 3 The flushing water control device 3 may also include a gear on the control lever 301 side and a gear on the relay lever 302 side that meshes with the gear on the control lever 301 side. Alternatively, if the control lever 301 rotates, the rotational force is transmitted to the relay lever 302 via the gear on the control lever side and the gear on the relay lever side, causing the relay lever 302 to rotate upwards, thereby raising the rubber float 304. In this case, the switching unit 32 may also be configured as a motor for disengaging the gear on the control lever side from the gear on the relay lever side.

[0119] Alternatively, the flushing water control device 3 may also include a sensor and a motor for detecting the rotation of the joystick 301. If rotation of the joystick 301 is detected, the motor receives a drive signal from the status control unit 31 and operates to raise the relay lever 302. In this case, even if the flow is prohibited, the status control unit 31 may not output a drive signal to the motor even if rotation of the joystick 301 is detected by the sensor.

[0120] Industrial availability

[0121] According to the present invention, foreign objects can be quickly detected when they are put into the toilet, which has practical value in the field of toilet technology.

Claims

1. A flushing water control method, which is a flushing water control method communicatively connected to a flushing water control device for controlling the flow of flushing water into a flushing toilet, characterized in that... Includes the following steps: Acquire image data captured by a camera, wherein the camera is mounted on the toilet in a manner that allows it to capture images of the toilet bowl portion; By performing image recognition on the image data, it can be determined whether a foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl, and the foreign object is an object that may clog the toilet. If it is determined that the foreign object has been put into the toilet bowl, an outflow prohibition signal is sent to the flushing water control device to prohibit the outflow of flushing water.

2. The flushing water control method according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also acquires sensor data from sensors used to detect whether a user is sitting on the toilet. If it is determined that the foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl, the sensor data is also used to determine whether the user is sitting on the toilet. If it is determined that the user is not sitting on the toilet, the outflow prohibition signal is sent. If it is determined that the user is sitting on the toilet, the outflow prohibition signal is not sent.

3. The flushing water control method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, After sending the outflow prohibition signal, image recognition is performed on the image data to determine whether the foreign object has been removed from the toilet bowl. If it is determined that the foreign object has been removed, an outflow permission signal that allows the flushing water to flow out is sent to the flushing water control device.

4. The flushing water control method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, When identifying the foreign object, if the image data contains an image of an object larger than a specified size other than defecation or urination, the object is identified as the foreign object.

5. The flushing water control method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The image data is color image data with multiple color components. When determining the foreign object, a difference image is calculated between the base image data representing the state of the toilet bowl where there is no defecation, urination, or the foreign object, and the image data. Based on the brightness of each color component of the difference image, it is determined whether the image data contains an image representing defecation and urination.

6. The flushing water control method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The foreign object contained a diaper.

7. A control device communicatively connected to a flushing water control device for controlling the flow of flushing water into a flushing toilet, characterized in that... include: An image data acquisition unit is used to acquire image data captured by a camera, wherein the camera is installed in the toilet in such a way that it can capture images of the toilet bowl portion of the toilet. The foreign object detection unit performs image recognition on the image data to determine whether a foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl, and whether the foreign object is an object that may clog the toilet; and, When the foreign object detection unit determines that a foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl, the communication control unit sends a flow prohibition signal to the flushing water control device to prevent the flushing water from flowing out.

8. A flushing water control program product, comprising a computer program, characterized in that, The computer program enables the computer to function as a control device communicatively connected to a flushing water control device for controlling the flow of flushing water into a flushing toilet: Acquire image data captured by a camera, wherein the camera is mounted on the toilet in a manner that allows it to capture images of the toilet bowl portion; By performing image recognition on the image data, it can be determined whether a foreign object has been placed in the toilet bowl, and the foreign object is an object that may clog the toilet. If it is determined that the foreign object has been put into the toilet bowl, an outflow prohibition signal is sent to the flushing water control device to prohibit the outflow of flushing water.

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