Toilet system

Abstract

Provided is a toilet system capable of providing a plurality of health indicators of a user, in which a part of the plurality of health indicators can be partially output in correspondence with a sitting time of the user. The invention has: a toilet seat; a sensor that measures a physical quantity that reflects blood flow information of the user; a health indicator calculation section that calculates a plurality of health indicators of the user based on a measurement result of the sensor; a health indicator output section that outputs the calculated plurality of health indicators; a timer that measures the sitting time; and a control section that controls an output manner of the health indicator output section based on a measurement result of the timer. In a case where the sitting time is greater than or equal to a first required time but has not reached a second required time, a first health indicator is output, and outputting is stopped with respect to a second health indicator. In a case where the sitting time is greater than or equal to the second required time, both the first health indicator and the second health indicator are output.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a toilet system capable of providing health indicators for users. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a system that measures blood flow information of a toilet user sitting on a toilet seat, calculates health indicators based on the measurement results, and outputs them (e.g., displayed on a display terminal).

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-68396

[0004] As mentioned earlier, it is possible to calculate (judge, diagnose) multiple health indicators of a user based on the blood flow status of the user sitting on the toilet seat.

[0005] For example, a laser sensor capable of measuring blood flow in the skin on the back of a user's thigh based on dynamic light scattering can be installed on a toilet seat. By performing Fourier transform on the output signal of the laser sensor, multiple health indicators such as pulse, blood flow, and heart rate can be calculated.

[0006] Here, the amount of laser sensor output signal required to calculate health indicators with a certain degree of accuracy (reliability), i.e., the measurement time spent by the laser sensor, varies for each health indicator.

[0007] For example, regarding "heart rate," a calculated value with a certain degree of accuracy (reliability) can be obtained from the output waveform signal corresponding to a measurement time of 10 seconds. On the other hand, regarding "vascular age" and "stress state," in order to obtain a calculated value with a certain degree of accuracy (reliability), it is required to use an output waveform signal corresponding to a measurement time of 60 seconds.

[0008] Previously, once all the desired health indicators were calculated, no further output was provided. Therefore, if the user desired "vascular age" or "stress level (sedation grade)," a sitting time of 60 seconds was required; otherwise, no health indicators were output. However, this lack of output could not be easily distinguished from a potential malfunction of the toilet system.

[0009] In the above-mentioned situation, if the inventor wishes to output health indicators such as "heart rate" that can be calculated when sitting for 10 seconds, then only the aforementioned health indicators such as "heart rate" will be output partially, which will improve the convenience for the user.

[0010] Specifically, for example, if users want to select two health indicators, namely "stress level" and "heart rate," and if the time spent sitting to urinate is less than 60 seconds, the existing toilet system will not output any health indicators. However, even just outputting the calculated value of "heart rate" could be useful to the user. In addition, it would also relieve users of concerns about the possibility of toilet system malfunctions. Summary of the Invention

[0011] This invention is based on the above insights. The purpose of this invention is to provide a toilet system that can provide multiple health indicators for a user, and in this toilet system, a portion of the multiple health indicators can be locally output in accordance with the user's sitting time.

[0012] One aspect of the present invention is a toilet system, characterized by comprising: a toilet seat having a seating surface for a user to sit on; a sensor disposed on the toilet seat for measuring a physical quantity reflecting blood flow information of the user; a health indicator calculation unit for calculating multiple health indicators of the user based on the measurement results of the sensor; a health indicator output unit for outputting the multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation unit; a timer for measuring the sitting time of the user on the seating surface; and a control unit for controlling the output mode of the health indicator output unit based on the measurement results of the timer, wherein the multiple health indicators include a first health indicator and a second health indicator, the health indicator calculation unit calculates the first health indicator by spending a first required time while the user is sitting on the seating surface, and calculates the second required time by spending a longer time than the first required time while the user is sitting on the seating surface. Meanwhile, the control unit calculates the second health indicator. Based on the measurement results of the timer, (1) if the sitting time is greater than or equal to the first required time but not the second required time, the control unit controls the health indicator output unit to output the calculated first health indicator. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, the control unit changes the output method to a different one than the first health indicator (e.g., 1: do not display the calculation result, 2: display the calculation result at the previous sitting time (= no update), 3: display the representative value up to this point (e.g., the average value in a specific period after the new update), 4: display the value measured this time (the change value before determination), 5: display the "message" in the measurement (including error message display), etc.), (2) if the sitting time is greater than or equal to the second required time, the control unit controls the health indicator output unit to output both the calculated first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator.

[0013] According to this method of the invention, when the sitting time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, the first health indicator that could not be output in the conventional system is output locally, which may be useful to the user and relieve them of the worry about the possibility of toilet system failure.

[0014] Furthermore, it is preferable that the control unit, based on the measurement results of the timer, controls the health indicator output unit when the seating time has not reached the first required time, and changes the output mode of the first health indicator and the second health indicator to a different mode than when the seating time is greater than or equal to the second required time.

[0015] Therefore, if the required sitting time has not been reached, the output of health indicators that are likely to be incorrectly calculated is stopped, or an error message indicating the main point is output along with (or replacing) the output of health indicators that are likely to be incorrectly calculated. This effectively prevents situations where health indicators that are likely to not accurately reflect the user's actual health status are output as correctly reflected health indicators. Thus, it effectively prevents useless confusion and disorientation from users who use health indicators obtained through this toilet system for, for example, daily health management.

[0016] Another aspect of the present invention is a toilet system, characterized by comprising: a toilet seat having a seating surface for a user to sit on; a sensor disposed on the toilet seat for measuring a physical quantity reflecting the user's blood flow information; a health indicator calculation unit for calculating multiple health indicators of the user based on the measurement results of the sensor; a health indicator output unit for outputting the multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation unit; a timer for measuring the sitting time of the user on the seating surface; and a control unit for controlling the output mode of the health indicator output unit based on the measurement results of the timer, wherein the multiple health indicators include a first health indicator and a second health indicator, and the health indicator calculation unit calculates a first calculated value of the first health indicator by spending a first required time while the user is sitting on the seating surface, and in the... The second health indicator is calculated when the user is seated on the seating surface and a second required time is taken that is longer than the first required time. Furthermore, a second calculated value of the first health indicator is calculated at a predetermined time after the first required time has elapsed while the user is seated on the seating surface. Based on the measurement results of the timer, the control unit (1) controls the health indicator output unit to output the first calculated value of the first health indicator when the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but has not reached the second required time. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, the output method is changed to be different from that of the first health indicator. (2) When the seating time is greater than or equal to the second required time, the health indicator output unit is controlled to output the second calculated value of the first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator.

[0017] According to this invention, when the sitting time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, a first health indicator that could not be output in a conventional system is partially output, which may be useful to the user and also relieves them of concerns about the possibility of toilet system malfunction. Furthermore, according to this invention, when the sitting time is greater than or equal to the second required time, instead of outputting a first calculated value for the first health indicator, a second calculated value that can be calculated with higher accuracy by taking a longer required time is output, which is more beneficial to users who use the health indicators obtained through this toilet system for, for example, daily health management.

[0018] In this embodiment of the invention, it is preferable that the control unit also controls the health indicator output unit based on the measurement results of the timer, when the seating time has not reached the first required time, and changes the output mode of the first health indicator and the second health indicator to a different mode than when the seating time is greater than or equal to the second required time.

[0019] Therefore, if the required sitting time has not been reached, the output of health indicators that are likely to be incorrectly calculated is stopped, or an error message indicating the main point is output along with (or replacing) the output of health indicators that are likely to be incorrectly calculated. This effectively prevents situations where health indicators that are likely to not accurately reflect the user's actual health status are output as correctly reflected health indicators. Thus, it effectively prevents useless confusion and disorientation from users who use health indicators obtained through this toilet system for, for example, daily health management.

[0020] Furthermore, among the multiple health indicators, it is preferable that the second health indicator has more components compared to the first health indicator.

[0021] When a second health indicator, which requires more data points to calculate health indicators based on blood flow information, is incorporated compared to the first health indicator, the results of at least the first health indicator can be displayed even with a short sitting time. Therefore, even if the number of health indicators that can be incorporated is limited, it is possible to utilize more of the second health indicator, which requires more data points.

[0022] Furthermore, the present invention, in the category of methods, is also the subject of protection covered by this application.

[0023] That is, one aspect of the present invention relates to a method that uses a toilet system to provide health indicators, the toilet system comprising: a toilet seat having a seating surface for a user to sit on; a sensor disposed on the toilet seat to measure a physical quantity reflecting blood flow information of the user; and a timer to measure the sitting time of the user on the seating surface. The method is characterized by comprising: a health indicator calculation step, which calculates multiple health indicators of the user based on the measurement results of the sensor; and a health indicator output step, which outputs the multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation step according to an output method based on the measurement results of the timer, the multiple health indicators including a first health indicator and a second health indicator. In the process, the first health indicator is calculated while the user is seated on the seat surface for a first required time, and the second health indicator is calculated while the user is seated on the seat surface for a second required time longer than the first required time. In the health indicator output process, based on the measurement results of the timer, (1) if the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, the calculated first health indicator is output. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, the output method is changed to be different from that of the first health indicator. (2) if the seating time is greater than or equal to the second required time, both the calculated first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator are output.

[0024] Alternatively, another aspect of the invention relates to a method that provides health indicators using a toilet system comprising: a toilet seat having a seating surface for a user to sit on; a sensor disposed on the toilet seat to measure a physical quantity reflecting blood flow information of the user; and a timer to measure the time the user sits on the seating surface. The method is characterized by: a health indicator calculation step that calculates multiple health indicators for the user based on the measurement results of the sensor; and a health indicator output step that outputs the multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation step, according to an output method based on the measurement results of the timer, the multiple health indicators including a first health indicator and a second health indicator, wherein the first health indicator is calculated by spending a first required time while the user is seated on the seating surface. The first calculated value of the indicator is calculated, and the second health indicator is calculated when the user is seated on the seat surface and a second required time is spent that is longer than the first required time. Furthermore, the second calculated value of the first health indicator is calculated at a predetermined time after the first required time has elapsed while the user is seated on the seat surface. In the health indicator output process, based on the measurement results of the timer, (1) if the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but has not reached the second required time, the first calculated value of the first health indicator is output. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, the output method is changed to be different from that of the first health indicator. (2) if the seating time is greater than or equal to the second required time, the second calculated value of the first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator are output.

[0025] Furthermore, this invention is also a protected object within the category of procedures covered by this application.

[0026] That is, one aspect of the present invention involves a program that uses a toilet system to provide health indicators, the toilet system having: a toilet seat having a seating surface for a user to sit on; a sensor disposed on the toilet seat to measure a physical quantity reflecting the user's blood flow information; and a timer to measure the time the user sits on the seating surface. The program is characterized in that it is executed by a computer, thereby enabling the following steps: a health indicator calculation step, calculating multiple health indicators for the user based on the sensor's measurement results; and a health indicator output step, outputting the multiple health indicators calculated by the health indicator calculation step for the user according to an output method based on the timer's measurement results, the multiple health indicators including a first health indicator and a second health indicator. In the health indicator calculation process, the first health indicator is calculated while the user is seated on the seat surface for a first required time, and the second health indicator is calculated while the user is seated on the seat surface for a second required time that is longer than the first required time. In the health indicator output process, based on the measurement results of the timer, (1) if the sitting time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, the calculated first health indicator is output. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, the output method is changed to be different from that of the first health indicator. (2) if the sitting time is greater than or equal to the second required time, both the calculated first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator are output.

[0027] Alternatively, another aspect of the invention involves a program that provides health indicators using a toilet system, the toilet system comprising: a toilet seat having a seating surface for a user to sit on; a sensor disposed on the toilet seat to measure a physical quantity reflecting blood flow information of the user; and a timer to measure the time the user spends sitting on the seating surface. The program is characterized in that it is executed by a computer, thereby enabling the implementation of the following steps: a health indicator calculation step, calculating multiple health indicators for the user based on the sensor measurements; and a health indicator output step, outputting the multiple health indicators calculated by the health indicator calculation step, including a first health indicator and a second health indicator, according to the output method based on the timer measurements. In the health indicator calculation step, the user spends a first required time while seated on the seating surface. The first calculated value of the first health indicator is calculated, and the second health indicator is calculated when the user is seated on the seat surface for a second required time that is longer than the first required time. The second calculated value of the first health indicator is calculated at a predetermined time after the first required time has elapsed while the user is seated on the seat surface. In the health indicator output process, based on the measurement results of the timer, (1) if the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but has not reached the second required time, the first calculated value of the first health indicator is output. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, the output method is changed to be different from that of the first health indicator. (2) if the seating time is greater than or equal to the second required time, the second calculated value of the first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator are output.

[0028] The effects of the invention

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, when the sitting time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, a first health indicator that could not be output in a conventional system is output locally, which may be useful to the user and relieve them of concerns about the possibility of toilet system malfunction.

[0030] Alternatively, according to another aspect of the invention, when the sitting time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, a first health indicator that could not be output in a conventional system is output locally, which may be useful to the user and also relieves them of concerns about the possibility of toilet system malfunction. Moreover, according to this aspect of the invention, when the sitting time is greater than or equal to the second required time, instead of outputting a first calculated value for the first health indicator, a second calculated value that can be calculated with higher accuracy by taking a longer required time is output, which is more beneficial to users who use the health indicators obtained through the toilet system for, for example, daily health management. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of a toilet system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the toilet seat in a toilet system.

[0033] Figure 3 It means Figure 1 A rough outline diagram of the main components of a toilet system.

[0034] Figure 4 It is a general representation Figure 1 A diagram showing the structure of the laser sensor in the toilet system.

[0035] Figure 5 It means based on Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the calculation process for various health indicators based on the measurement results of the laser sensor.

[0036] Figure 6 It means Figure 1 The flowchart of the first action example of the toilet system.

[0037] Figure 7 It means Figure 1 The flowchart of the second action example of the toilet system. Detailed Implementation

[0038] (structure)

[0039] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of a toilet system 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded oblique view of the toilet seat 20 of the toilet system 10. Figure 3 It means Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the main components of the toilet system 10.

[0040] The toilet system 10 of this embodiment is as follows: Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the toilet includes a toilet seat 20, a main body 12, and a toilet lid 14. The toilet seat 20 and the toilet lid 14 are each rotatably supported by a shaft relative to the main body 12.

[0041] The toilet seat 20 includes a laser sensor 40 for measuring physical quantities reflecting the user's blood flow information and an electrostatic sensor 50 for seating. Additionally, the toilet seat 20 includes a health indicator calculation unit 60 (specifically, a microprocessor) that calculates the user's health indicators based on the measurement results from the laser sensor 40.

[0042] The toilet seat 20 has an opening 20a. In this embodiment, an O-shaped opening 20a is formed in the center of the toilet seat 20. The opening of the toilet seat 20 is not limited to an O-shape, and may also be U-shaped, etc. The outer edge of the toilet seat 20 is formed by curving along the outer shape of the toilet 4. The toilet seat 20 is generally made of an opaque resin material (e.g., polypropylene) and has a seat surface 21 for the user to sit on and a bottom surface 25 opposite to the seat surface 21.

[0043] The seating surface 21 is the upward-facing surface of the toilet seat 20 when it is placed on the upper surface 4b of the toilet 4, and is the surface for the user to sit on. The bottom surface 25 is the surface opposite to the upper surface 4b of the toilet 4 when the toilet seat 20 is lowered. In addition, the toilet seat 20 is composed of a thick-walled portion 22 that is formed almost integrally, and a thin-walled portion 23 that is thinner than the thick-walled portion 22 is locally formed at the position corresponding to the laser sensor 40.

[0044] like Figure 2 As shown, a heater wire 30 (an example of a heater) and heat insulation material 32 are provided inside the toilet seat 20 to heat and keep the seat surface 21 warm. The heater wire 30 is controlled by the toilet seat heating unit 12b provided in the main body 12 and is distributed inside the toilet seat 20 in a manner that does not interfere with the laser sensor 40, the electrostatic sensor 50, and the health indicator calculation unit 60. The heat insulation material 32 is disposed below the heater wire 30, the laser sensor 40, the electrostatic sensor 50, and the health indicator calculation unit 60.

[0045] The thin-walled portion 23 is of a thickness through which the illumination light from the laser sensor 40 and the reflected light from the user sitting on the seat surface 21 can pass. The thickness of the thin-walled portion 23 is set according to the intensity of the illumination light and reflected light from the laser sensor 40 and the durability of the toilet seat 20, for example, about 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0046] In this instruction manual, “above,” “below,” “front,” “back,” “left,” and “right” each indicate the direction of view from the back of a user sitting on the toilet seat 20 with the toilet seat 14 open.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, the thin-walled portion 23 is formed on the left front side relative to the center of the front-rear length of the opening 20a of the toilet seat 20, and is located on the left front side relative to the center of gravity of the user sitting on the toilet seat 20. As a result, the thin-walled portion 23 is opposite (abutting) to the back side of the left thigh of the user sitting on the toilet seat 20.

[0048] The thin-walled portion 23 is formed to be as small as possible within the range where the laser sensor 40 can detect the blood flow information of the user sitting on the toilet seat 20, for example, it is a circle with a diameter of less than or equal to 12 mm (preferably less than or equal to 8 mm).

[0049] The laser sensor 40 is disposed inside the toilet seat 20 on the back side of the thin-walled portion 23. The laser sensor 40 is a reflective sensor that detects the reflected light (scattered light after Doppler shift caused by red blood cells) reflected in accordance with the blood flow state in the blood vessels under the skin when infrared light is irradiated toward the back side of the user's left thigh. Figure 4 This is a diagram that roughly shows the structure of the laser sensor 40.

[0050] On the other hand, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the electrostatic sensor 50 is located on the front right side relative to the center of the front-back length of the opening 20a of the toilet seat 20, and is also located on the front right side relative to the center of gravity of the user sitting on the toilet seat 20. Therefore, the electrostatic sensor 50 can detect the sitting position when it is facing (abutting) against the back of the right thigh of the user sitting on the toilet seat 20.

[0051] In this embodiment, the health indicator calculation unit 60 is located near the front end of the toilet seat 20 (close to the laser sensor 40), and processes the output signal of the laser sensor 40 to convert it into a signal with stronger noise immunity. Specifically, based on the measurement results of the laser sensor 40, the health indicator calculation unit 60 calculates the health indicators (specifically, such as pulse rate, pulse variability, blood flow, etc.) of the user sitting on the toilet seat 20, and sends the signal corresponding to the calculation result to the communication unit 75 via the control unit 70. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the calculation process of various health indicators based on the measurement results of laser sensor 40.

[0052] The control unit 70 and the communication unit 75 are housed within the main body 12. The health indicator calculation unit 60 may also be housed within the main body 12, instead of within the toilet seat 20. When the health indicator calculation unit 60 is housed within the main body 12, it can be installed separately from the control unit 70, or it can be integrated as part of the control unit 70.

[0053] Furthermore, the health indicator calculation unit 60 and the control unit 70 may not be located in the main body 12, but may be set (built) in an external device or external network (e.g., in the cloud) that communicates via the communication unit 75.

[0054] Return to Figure 1 The main body 12 is located behind the basin of the toilet 4 and is mounted on the upper surface 4b of the toilet 4. Inside the main body 12 are an opening / closing unit 12a that controls the opening and closing of the toilet seat 20 and toilet lid 14, a toilet seat heating unit 12b that controls the temperature of the toilet seat 20, a cleaning unit 12c that performs localized body cleaning, and a deodorizing unit 12d that reduces odor components. Each unit 12a to 12d is centrally controlled by a control unit 70. In this embodiment, the control unit 70 is also connected to an electrostatic sensor 50.

[0055] Furthermore, the control unit 70 of this embodiment is connected to a communication unit 75 (an example of a health indicator output unit) for outputting the user's health indicators calculated by the health indicator calculation unit 60. The communication unit 75 sends the calculated user's health indicators to, for example, the remote control 80 in the bathroom or the user's portable terminal 85. Moreover, the user sitting on the toilet seat 20 can check various health indicators (vital characteristics such as pulse rate) through the display unit 80a of the remote control 80 and the display unit 85a of the portable terminal 85.

[0056] In addition, the toilet system 10 of this embodiment has a timer 95 that measures the duration of the user's seated state in conjunction with an electrostatic sensor 50 (an example of a seating sensor). The timer 95 is also connected to the control unit 70.

[0057] Here, as mentioned earlier, the amount of output signal of the laser sensor 40 required to calculate health indicators with a certain degree of accuracy (reliability), i.e., the measurement time of the laser sensor 40, varies for each health indicator.

[0058] In this embodiment, regarding "heart rate" (an example of a first health indicator), a first calculated value with a certain degree of accuracy (reliability) is obtained from the output waveform signal corresponding to a measurement time of 10 seconds (an example of the first required time minus the calculation time (e.g., 1 second)). On the other hand, regarding "stress state" (an example of a second health indicator), a calculated value with a certain degree of accuracy (reliability) is obtained from the output waveform signal corresponding to a measurement time of 60 seconds (an example of the second required time minus the calculation time).

[0059] In addition, as a second health indicator, other indicators include "vascular age", "metabolic level", "blood circulation status", "biological clock", "fitness level" and "body water level".

[0060] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second health indicator is equipped with more data points than the first health indicator. Even if the second health indicator, which requires more data points to calculate health indicators based on blood flow information, is equipped with more data points than the first health indicator, the result of the first health indicator can still be indicated even with a short sitting time. Therefore, even if the number of health indicators that can be equipped is limited, it is possible to use more of the second health indicator, which requires more data points.

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in order to perform the action example 2 described later, regarding the "heart rate", a second calculated value with higher accuracy (reliability) is obtained from the output waveform signal corresponding to 60 seconds (the measurement time) (an example of the second required time - the calculation time).

[0062] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 70 acts as a seating determination unit, determining whether the user is seated on the seating surface 21 based on the measurement results of the electrostatic sensor 50. Also, the control unit 70 acts as a seating time determination unit, determining whether the seating time (the elapsed time since the user sat on the seating surface 21) is greater than or equal to 11 seconds (an example of the first required time) based on the measurement results of the timer 95, and whether the seating time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds (an example of the second required time).

[0063] Furthermore, based on this determination result, the control unit 70

[0064] (0) If the sitting time has not reached 11 seconds (an example of the first required time), the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) is controlled to stop the output regarding both "heart rate" (an example of the first health indicator) and "stress state" (an example of the second health indicator).

[0065] (1) If the sitting time is greater than or equal to 11 seconds (an example of the first required time) but less than 61 seconds (an example of the second required time), the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) is controlled to output the first calculated value of the "heart rate". On the other hand, the output is stopped regarding the "stress state".

[0066] (2) When the sitting time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds (an example of the second required time), the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) is controlled to output the calculated "heart rate" (the first calculated value in the first action example described later, and the second calculated value in the second action example described later) and the calculated "stress state".

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the sitting time does not exceed the preset required time, the output is stopped and the health indicators based on the blood flow information obtained when the required time has not been exceeded are not output. For example, the health indicators calculated based on the blood flow information measured when the user sat on the seating surface 21 last time can continue to be output.

[0068] (Example of action 1: effect)

[0069] Regarding the toilet system 10 of this embodiment, using Figure 6 The first action example will be explained. (Refer to...) Figure 6 The control unit 70 first determines whether the user is seated on the seating surface 21 (STEP11). If it is determined that the user is not yet seated on the seating surface 21 (STEP11 is NO), this determination process is repeated.

[0070] If it is determined that the user is seated on the seating surface 21 (STEP11 is YES), the measurement of the sitting time by the timer 95 begins (STEP12). In addition, the calculation of the user's health indicators by the health indicator calculation unit 60 based on the measurement results of the laser sensor 40 begins in parallel (in this example, the "heart rate" is calculated in 11 seconds (an example of the first required time), and the "stress state" is calculated in 61 seconds (an example of the second required time).

[0071] Control unit 70 continues to determine whether the seating time is greater than or equal to 11 seconds (an example of the first required time) (STEP13).

[0072] If the user leaves the seat 11 seconds or more before the sitting time (STEP13 is NO), the electrostatic sensor 50 detects that the user has left the seat (STEP14 is YES), and the control unit 70 controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to stop the output regarding "heart rate" (an example of the first health indicator) and "stress state" (an example of the second health indicator) (STEP15).

[0073] After the seating time is greater than or equal to 11 seconds (STEP13 is YES), the control unit 70 continues to determine whether the seating time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds (an example of the second required time) (STEP16).

[0074] If the user does not leave the seat for a period of time before the sitting time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds (STEP16 is NO), the electrostatic sensor 50 waits for the elapsed time to be greater than or equal to 61 seconds (returning to STEP16).

[0075] If the user leaves the seat before 61 seconds or more of the sitting time (STEP16 is NO), and the electrostatic sensor 50 detects that the user has left the seat (STEP17 is YES), the control unit 70 controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to output the calculated "heart rate" (first calculated value), and on the other hand, stops the output regarding the "stress state" (STEP18).

[0076] If the sitting time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds (STEP16 is YES), the control unit 70 controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to output the calculated "heart rate" (first calculated value) and the calculated "stress state" (STEP19).

[0077] (Example of action 1: effect)

[0078] Based on the first action example above, when the sitting time is greater than or equal to 11 seconds but less than 61 seconds, the calculated value of "heart rate", which could not be output in the previous system, is output locally. Therefore, it may be useful to the user and can relieve them of the worry about the possibility of toilet system malfunction.

[0079] On the other hand, if the sitting time is less than 11 seconds, the output of information regarding "heart rate" and "stress state" stops. This effectively prevents health indicators that are likely not accurately reflecting the user's actual health status from being output as accurate. Thus, it effectively prevents unnecessary confusion and instability for users who use the health indicators obtained through this toilet system for daily health management.

[0080] (Example of the first action: variation)

[0081] In the aforementioned first action example, if the electrostatic sensor 50 detects that the user has left the seat 11 seconds or more before the sitting time (STEP13 is NO) (STEP14 is YES), the control unit 70 controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to stop the output regarding "heart rate" (an example of the first health indicator) and "stress state" (an example of the second health indicator) (STEP15). However, instead of this, the control unit 70 controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to output error information regarding "heart rate" (an example of the first health indicator) and "stress state" (an example of the second health indicator).

[0082] The error message can be output along with the output of "heart rate" and "stress status" (which are likely not calculated correctly), or it can replace the output of "heart rate" and "stress status".

[0083] Similarly, in the first action example mentioned above, if the electrostatic sensor 50 detects that the user has left the seat before the sitting time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds (STEP16 is NO) (STEP17 is YES), the control unit 70 controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to output the calculated "heart rate" (first calculated value), and stops the output in relation to "stress state" (STEP18). However, instead of this, the control unit 70 controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to output the calculated "heart rate" (first calculated value), and outputs an error message in relation to "stress state".

[0084] The error message can be output along with the output of the "stress state" (which is likely not calculated correctly), or it can replace the output of the "stress state".

[0085] (Example of action 2: effect)

[0086] Regarding the toilet system 10 of this embodiment, using Figure 7 The second action example will be explained. (Refer to...) Figure 7 The control unit 70 first determines whether the user is seated on the seating surface 21 (STEP 21). If it is determined that the user is not yet seated on the seating surface 21 (STEP 21 is NO), this determination process is repeated.

[0087] If it is determined that the user is seated on the seating surface 21 (STEP21 is YES), the measurement of the sitting time by the timer 95 begins (STEP22). In addition, the calculation process of the user's health indicators by the health indicator calculation unit 60 based on the measurement results of the laser sensor 40 begins in parallel (in this example, the first calculated value of "heart rate" is calculated in 11 seconds (an example of the first required time), the "stress state" is calculated in 61 seconds (an example of the second required time), and the second calculated value of "heart rate" is calculated).

[0088] Control unit 70 continues to determine whether the seating time is greater than or equal to 11 seconds (an example of the first required time) (STEP23).

[0089] If the user leaves the seat 11 seconds or more before the sitting time (STEP23 is NO), and the electrostatic sensor 50 detects that the user has left the seat (STEP24 is YES), the control unit 70 controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to stop the output regarding "heart rate" (an example of the first health indicator) and "stress state" (an example of the second health indicator) (STEP25).

[0090] After the seating time is greater than or equal to 11 seconds (STEP23 is YES), the control unit 70 continues to determine whether the seating time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds (an example of the second required time) (STEP26).

[0091] If the user does not leave the seat during the period before the sitting time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds (STEP26 is NO), wait for the elapsed time to be greater than or equal to 61 seconds (return to STEP26).

[0092] If the user leaves the seat before the sitting time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds (STEP26 is NO), and the electrostatic sensor 50 detects that the user has left the seat (STEP27 is YES), the control unit 70 controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to output the first calculated value of the calculated "heart rate". On the other hand, the output stops due to "stress state" (STEP28).

[0093] If the sitting time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds (STEP26 is YES), the control unit 70 controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to output the second calculated value of the "heart rate" and the calculated "stress state" (STEP29). That is, regarding the "heart rate", instead of outputting the first calculated value based on the measurement data over a 10-second period, the second calculated value based on the measurement data over a 60-second period (the measurement data that took a longer time) is output.

[0094] (Example of action 2: effect)

[0095] Based on the second action example above, when the sitting time is greater than or equal to 11 seconds but less than 61 seconds, the calculated value of "heart rate", which could not be output in the previous system, is output locally. Therefore, it may be useful to the user and can relieve them of the worry about the possibility of toilet system malfunction.

[0096] On the other hand, if the sitting time is less than 11 seconds, the output of information regarding "heart rate" and "stress state" stops. This effectively prevents health indicators that are likely not accurately reflecting the user's actual health status from being output as accurate. Thus, it effectively prevents unnecessary confusion and instability for users who use the health indicators obtained through this toilet system for daily health management.

[0097] Furthermore, when the sitting time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds, the "heart rate" is not output as a first calculated value based on the measurement data during the 10-second period, but as a second calculated value calculated with higher precision based on the longer measurement data (60 seconds). Therefore, it is more beneficial for users who use the health indicators obtained through the toilet system 10 for, for example, daily health management.

[0098] (Example of the second action: variation)

[0099] In the aforementioned second action example, if the electrostatic sensor 50 detects that the user has left the seat 11 seconds or more before the sitting time (STEP23 is NO) (STEP24 is YES), the control unit 70 also controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to stop the output regarding "heart rate" (an example of the first health indicator) and "stress state" (an example of the second health indicator) (STEP25). However, instead of this, the control unit 70 controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to output error information regarding "heart rate" (an example of the first health indicator) and "stress state" (an example of the second health indicator).

[0100] The error message can be output along with the output of "heart rate" and "stress status" (which are likely not calculated correctly), or it can replace the output of "heart rate" and "stress status".

[0101] Similarly, in the aforementioned second action example, if the electrostatic sensor 50 detects that the user has left the seat before the sitting time is greater than or equal to 61 seconds (STEP26 is NO) (STEP27 is YES), the control unit 70 also controls the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to output the calculated "heart rate" (first calculated value). On the other hand, the output is stopped in relation to "stress state" (STEP18). However, instead of this, the control unit 70 can control the communication unit 75 (health indicator output unit) to output the calculated "heart rate" (first calculated value) and output an error message in relation to "stress state".

[0102] The error message can be output along with the output of the "stress state" (which is likely not calculated correctly), or it can replace the output of the "stress state".

[0103] (Supplementary information regarding the program)

[0104] The various functions of the health indicator calculation unit 60, control unit 70, and communication unit 75 can be realized by a microcomputer or the like executing the corresponding program. This program and the storage medium storing the program are also protected under this application.

[0105] For example, the program involved in this invention provides health indicators using a toilet system 10, which includes: a toilet seat 20 having a seating surface 21 for a user to sit on; a laser sensor 40 disposed on the toilet seat 20 to measure a physical quantity reflecting the user's blood flow information; and a timer 95 to measure the time the user sits on the seating surface 21. The program is characterized by being executed by a computer, thereby enabling the implementation of: a health indicator calculation step, calculating the user's health indicators based on the measurement results of the laser sensor 40; and a health indicator output step, outputting multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation step according to the output method based on the measurement results of the timer 95, the multiple health indicators including a first health indicator. In the health indicator calculation process, the first health indicator is calculated when the user is seated on the seating surface 21 and the first required time is spent, and the second health indicator is calculated when the user is seated on the seating surface 21 and the second required time is spent longer than the first required time. In the health indicator output process, based on the measurement results of the timer 95, (1) if the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but the second required time is not reached, the calculated first health indicator is output. On the other hand, the output is stopped or an error message is output regarding the second health indicator. (2) if the seating time is greater than or equal to the second required time, both the calculated first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator are output.

[0106] Alternatively, the program of the present invention provides health indicators using a toilet system 10, which includes: a toilet seat 20 having a seating surface 21 for a user to sit on; a laser sensor 40 disposed on the toilet seat 20 to measure a physical quantity reflecting the user's blood flow information; and a timer 95 to measure the time the user sits on the seating surface 21. The program is characterized by being executed by a computer, thereby enabling the implementation of: a health indicator calculation step, calculating the user's health indicators based on the measurement results of the laser sensor 40; and a health indicator output step, outputting multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation step according to the output method based on the measurement results of the timer 95, the multiple health indicators including a first health indicator and a second health indicator. In the health indicator calculation step, when using... The user is seated on the seating surface 21 and spends a first required time to calculate a first health indicator. The user is seated on the seating surface 21 and spends a second required time longer than the first required time to calculate a second health indicator. The user is seated on the seating surface 21 and spends a second required time to calculate a second calculated value of the first health indicator. In the health indicator output process, based on the measurement results of the timer 95, (1) if the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, the calculated first health indicator is output. On the other hand, the output is stopped or an error message is output regarding the second health indicator. (2) if the seating time is greater than or equal to the second required time, both the calculated second calculated value of the first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator are output.

[0107] Explanation of the label

[0108] 4 toilets

[0109] 4b upper surface

[0110] 10 Toilet System

[0111] 12 main body sections

[0112] 12a Opening and Closing Unit

[0113] 12b toilet seat heating unit

[0114] 12c cleaning unit

[0115] 12D deodorization unit

[0116] 14 Toilet Seats

[0117] 20 toilet seats

[0118] 20a opening

[0119] 21Seating surfaces

[0120] 22 Thick-walled section

[0121] 23 Thin-walled section

[0122] 25 bottom

[0123] 30 heater wire

[0124] 32 Thermal Insulation Material

[0125] 40 laser sensors

[0126] 50 electrostatic sensor

[0127] 60 Health Indicator Calculation Department

[0128] 70 Control Department

[0129] 75 Ministry of Communications

[0130] 80 remote control

[0131] 80a Display Unit

[0132] 85 External terminals (mobile phones, etc.)

[0133] 85a Display Section

[0134] 95 timer

Claims

1. A toilet system, characterized in that, have: A toilet seat has a seating surface for the user to sit on; A sensor, which is installed on the toilet seat, measures a physical quantity that reflects the user's blood flow information; The health indicator calculation unit calculates multiple health indicators of the user based on the measurement results of the sensor. A health indicator output unit outputs the multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation unit. A timer that measures the time the user sits on the seating surface; as well as The control unit controls the output mode of the health indicator output unit based on the measurement results of the timer. The multiple health indicators include a first health indicator and a second health indicator. The health indicator calculation unit calculates the first health indicator while the user is seated on the seating surface, taking a first required time, and calculates the second health indicator while the user is seated on the seating surface, taking a second required time longer than the first required time. The control unit, based on the measurement results of the timer, (1) If the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, the health indicator output unit is controlled to output the calculated first health indicator. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, as an output method different from the first health indicator, the health indicator output unit is controlled not to output the calculated second health indicator. (2) If the sitting time is greater than or equal to the second required time, the health indicator output unit is controlled to output the calculated first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator.

2. The toilet system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit, based on the measurement results of the timer, If the seating time does not reach the first required time, the health indicator output unit is controlled to change the output mode of the first health indicator and the second health indicator to be different from the output mode of the first health indicator and the second health indicator when the second required time is greater than or equal to the first health indicator and the second health indicator, so that the calculated first health indicator and the second health indicator are not output.

3. A toilet system, characterized in that, have: A toilet seat has a seating surface for the user to sit on; A sensor, which is installed on the toilet seat, measures a physical quantity that reflects the user's blood flow information; The health indicator calculation unit calculates multiple health indicators of the user based on the measurement results of the sensor. A health indicator output unit outputs the multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation unit. A timer that measures the time the user sits on the seating surface; as well as The control unit controls the output mode of the health indicator output unit based on the measurement results of the timer. The multiple health indicators include a first health indicator and a second health indicator. The health indicator calculation unit calculates a first value for the first health indicator while the user is seated on the seating surface, and calculates a second health indicator while the user is seated on the seating surface, taking a second time longer than the first required time. Furthermore, while the user is seated on the seating surface, the unit calculates a second value for the first health indicator at a predetermined time after the first required time has elapsed. The control unit, based on the measurement results of the timer, (1) If the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, the health indicator output unit is controlled to output the first calculated value of the first health indicator. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, as an output method different from the first health indicator, the health indicator output unit is controlled not to output the calculated second health indicator. (2) When the sitting time is greater than or equal to the second required time, the health indicator output unit is controlled to output the second calculated value of the first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator.

4. The toilet system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The control unit, based on the measurement results of the timer, If the seating time does not reach the first required time, the health indicator output unit is controlled to change the output mode of the first health indicator and the second health indicator to be different from the output mode of the first health indicator and the second health indicator when the seating time is greater than or equal to the second required time. Instead, the calculated first health indicator and the second health indicator are not output.

5. The toilet system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, Of the multiple health indicators, the second health indicator carries more data than the first health indicator.

6. A method that uses a toilet system to provide health indicators. This toilet system has the following features: A toilet seat has a seating surface for the user to sit on; A sensor, disposed on the toilet seat, measures a physical quantity reflecting the user's blood flow information; and A timer that measures the time the user spends sitting on the seating surface. The method is characterized by having: The health indicator calculation process calculates multiple health indicators for the user based on the measurement results from the sensor; and The health indicator output process outputs the multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation process, according to the output method based on the measurement results of the timer. The multiple health indicators include a first health indicator and a second health indicator. In the health indicator calculation process, the first health indicator is calculated while the user is seated on the seating surface, taking a first required time, and the second health indicator is calculated while the user is seated on the seating surface, taking a second required time that is longer than the first required time. In the health indicator output process, based on the measurement results of the timer, (1) If the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, the calculated first health indicator is output. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, as a different output method from the first health indicator, the calculated second health indicator is not output. (2) If the sitting time is greater than or equal to the second required time, output the calculated first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator.

7. A method that uses a toilet system to provide health indicators. This toilet system has the following features: A toilet seat has a seating surface for the user to sit on; A sensor, disposed on the toilet seat, measures a physical quantity reflecting the user's blood flow information; and A timer that measures the time the user spends sitting on the seating surface. The method is characterized by having: The health indicator calculation process calculates multiple health indicators for the user based on the measurement results from the sensor; and The health indicator output process outputs the multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation process, according to the output method based on the measurement results of the timer. The multiple health indicators include a first health indicator and a second health indicator. In the health indicator calculation process, a first calculated value of the first health indicator is calculated while the user is seated on the seating surface, taking a first required time. A second calculated health indicator is then calculated while the user is seated on the seating surface, taking a second required time longer than the first required time. Finally, a second calculated value of the first health indicator is calculated at a predetermined time after the first required time has elapsed while the user is seated on the seating surface. In the health indicator output process, based on the measurement results of the timer, (1) If the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, the first calculated value of the first health indicator is output. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, as a different output method from the first health indicator, the calculated second health indicator is not output. (2) If the sitting time is greater than or equal to the second required time, output the second calculated value of the first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator.

8. A computer program product that provides health indicators using a toilet system. This toilet system has the following features: A toilet seat has a seating surface for the user to sit on; A sensor, disposed on the toilet seat, measures a physical quantity reflecting the user's blood flow information; and A timer that measures the time the user spends sitting on the seating surface. The computer program product is characterized by, This computer program product is executed by a computer, thereby enabling the following processes to be performed: The health indicator calculation process calculates multiple health indicators for the user based on the measurement results from the sensor; and The health indicator output process outputs the multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation process, according to the output method based on the measurement results of the timer. The multiple health indicators include a first health indicator and a second health indicator. In the health indicator calculation process, the first health indicator is calculated while the user is seated on the seating surface, taking a first required time, and the second health indicator is calculated while the user is seated on the seating surface, taking a second required time that is longer than the first required time. In the health indicator output process, based on the measurement results of the timer, (1) If the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, the calculated first health indicator is output. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, as a different output method from the first health indicator, the calculated second health indicator is not output. (2) If the sitting time is greater than or equal to the second required time, output the calculated first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator.

9. A computer program product that provides health indicators using a toilet system. This toilet system has the following features: A toilet seat has a seating surface for the user to sit on; A sensor, disposed on the toilet seat, measures a physical quantity reflecting the user's blood flow information; and A timer that measures the time the user spends sitting on the seating surface. The computer program product is characterized by, This computer program product is executed by a computer, thereby enabling the following processes to be performed: The health indicator calculation process calculates multiple health indicators for the user based on the measurement results from the sensor; and The health indicator output process outputs the multiple health indicators of the user calculated by the health indicator calculation process, according to the output method based on the measurement results of the timer. The multiple health indicators include a first health indicator and a second health indicator. In the health indicator calculation process, a first calculated value of the first health indicator is calculated while the user is seated on the seating surface, taking a first required time. A second calculated health indicator is then calculated while the user is seated on the seating surface, taking a second required time longer than the first required time. Finally, a second calculated value of the first health indicator is calculated at a predetermined time after the first required time has elapsed while the user is seated on the seating surface. In the health indicator output process, based on the measurement results of the timer, (1) If the seating time is greater than or equal to the first required time but does not reach the second required time, the first calculated value of the first health indicator is output. On the other hand, regarding the second health indicator, as a different output method from the first health indicator, the calculated second health indicator is not output. (2) If the sitting time is greater than or equal to the second required time, output the second calculated value of the first health indicator and the calculated second health indicator.

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