Imaging apparatus and imaging method

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an imaging device and an imaging method for acquiring, on the basis of a marker, an image obtained by accurately imaging excrement inside a toilet bowl. This imaging device (100) for imaging the inside of a toilet bowl (21) is provided with: an imaging unit (110) for imaging the inside of the toilet bowl; and a semiconductor element that acquires image data obtained by the imaging unit and controls the imaging unit. The semiconductor element is provided with a control unit (126) and a storage unit. During operation, the control unit executes: a step (X1) in which the position of a mark (820) included in the image data is detected as mark position information; and a step (X2) in which a predetermined region included in the image data is set as an excrement detection region (901) on the basis of the mark position information, and the mark is provided in at least one selected from the group consisting of the toilet bowl, the imaging device, and the toilet seat.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an imaging device and an imaging method, and more particularly to an imaging device and an imaging method for imaging the interior of a toilet bowl. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a technique related to an imaging device that can be attached to a toilet bowl and captures an image of excrement discharged into the toilet bowl.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-126331 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] The size and shape of the toilet bowl on which the camera is installed, and the position of the accumulated water as the observation object are various. In the case where the camera for photographing the inside of the toilet bowl does not correctly identify the position of the accumulated water inside the toilet bowl, the accumulated water cannot be photographed in the image photographed by the camera. On the other hand, excrement usually falls into the accumulated water. Therefore, in the case where the accumulated water cannot be photographed in the image photographed by the camera, the excrement that falls into the accumulated water is not included in the image obtained by the camera.

[0008] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and provides an imaging device and an imaging method for accurately capturing an image of excrement inside a toilet bowl based on marker acquisition.

[0009] Solutions for solving problems

[0010] The camera device disclosed in the present invention is a camera device for photographing the interior of a toilet bowl, wherein:

[0011] The camera device has:

[0012] a camera unit for photographing the interior of the toilet bowl; and

[0013] a semiconductor element that acquires image data obtained by the imaging unit and controls the imaging unit,

[0014] The semiconductor device includes a control unit and a storage unit.

[0015] During operation, the control unit performs:

[0016] A step (X1) in which the position of a mark included in the image data is detected as mark position information; and

[0017] step (X2), in which a predetermined area included in the image data is set as a waste detection area based on the mark position information,

[0018] Here, the mark is provided on at least one selected from the group consisting of the toilet bowl, the imaging device, and a toilet seat.

[0019] The imaging method disclosed in the present invention is an imaging method for imaging the interior of a toilet bowl, wherein:

[0020] The camera method includes:

[0021] A step (X1) in which a mark included in the image data is detected as mark position information; and

[0022] step (X2), in which a predetermined area included in the image data is set as a waste detection area based on the mark position information,

[0023] Here, the image data is obtained by an imaging unit that captures an image of the interior of the toilet bowl, and the mark is provided on at least one selected from the group consisting of the toilet bowl, the imaging device, and a toilet seat.

[0024] Effects of the Invention

[0025] In the imaging device and imaging method of the present disclosure, an image is acquired by correctly imaging the excrement inside the toilet bowl based on the marker. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the appearance of a toilet device to which a camera device is attached in the embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 Yes means Figure 1 A perspective view of a toilet apparatus in a state where a toilet seat is lifted up is shown.

[0028] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the toilet device shown.

[0029] Figure 4 It means self Figure 2 The camera device shown is a three-dimensional view of a toilet device with the camera portion removed.

[0030] Figure 5 It means that Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of a toilet device with the mounting body of the mounting plate raised.

[0031] Figure 6 It is an exploded perspective view of the imaging device according to the embodiment.

[0032] Figure 7 It is a first perspective view showing the appearance of the imaging unit according to the embodiment.

[0033] Figure 8 It is a second perspective view showing the appearance of the imaging unit according to the embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 9 It is a first bottom view showing the structure and operation example of the first loading and unloading mechanism according to the embodiment.

[0035] Fig.10 It is a second bottom view showing the structure and operation example of the first loading and unloading mechanism according to the embodiment.

[0036] Fig.11 It is a third bottom view showing the structure and operation example of the first loading and unloading mechanism according to the embodiment.

[0037] Fig.12 It is an exploded perspective view of a fixing plate included in the mounting plate according to the embodiment.

[0038] Fig.13 It is a first schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration and operation example of a second attachment and detachment mechanism according to the embodiment.

[0039] Fig.14 It is a second schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration and operation example of a second loading and unloading mechanism according to the embodiment.

[0040] Fig.15 It is a third schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration and operation example of the second loading and unloading mechanism according to the embodiment.

[0041] Fig.16 It is a fourth schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration and operation example of the second loading and unloading mechanism according to the embodiment.

[0042] Fig.17 is a perspective view of a mounting plate having a shape of the letter U.

[0043] Fig.18 It is a plan view showing the positioning piece.

[0044] Fig.19 It is a top view showing a positioning piece arranged on the imaging device and the mounting plate.

[0045] Fig. 20 It is a perspective view showing a positioning piece arranged on the imaging device and the mounting plate.

[0046] Fig.21This is a perspective view of the adhesive portion viewed from the adhesive penetration portion.

[0047] Fig.22A Represents a marked plan view.

[0048] Fig. 22B Indicates a marked cross-sectional view.

[0049] Fig.23 It is a perspective view showing a first modified example of the positioning piece.

[0050] Fig.24 It is a perspective view showing a second modified example of the positioning piece.

[0051] Fig.25 This is a flowchart of a part of the process of acquiring an image obtained by photographing excrement inside a toilet bowl using markers.

[0052] Fig.26 This is a diagram showing an example of image data obtained by the imaging unit.

[0053] Description of Reference Numerals

[0054] 10. Toilet device; 21. Toilet bowl; 22. Annular upper end; 22L. Front; 22R. Front; 23. Toilet seat mounting hole; 50. Toilet seat; 51L. First seat surface; 51R. Second seat surface; 52. Imaginary line; 55. Seat switch; 90. Toilet seat mounting portion; 95. Bolt; 100. Camera device; 110. Camera portion; 111. Shell; 111a. Camera surface; 111b. Shell back; 111c. Upper surface; 115. Support portion; 115a. First flange portion; 115b. Second flange portion; 115c. Upper surface; 116. Cable holding portion; 117. Hook; 117a. Claw portion; 118. Corner; 119. Imaginary line; 120. Human body sensing sensor; 121, imaging element; 122, lighting unit; 123, illuminance sensor; 125, magnetic detection sensor; 126, control unit; 132, axial hole plate; 132a, axial hole; 140, position adjustment mechanism; 200, mounting plate; 210, mounting body; 210a, inner side; 211, first arm plate; 211F, front portion of first arm plate; 212, second arm plate; 212F, front portion of second arm plate; 215L, first protruding rod; 215R, second protruding rod; 215a, protruding rod groove; 216, side recess; 216a, first recess; 216b, second recess; 217, inclined surface; 218, imaginary line; 219, buffer member; 225, hinge; 225L, first 1 hinge; 225R, second hinge; 230, fixing plate; 231, fixing body; 235L, first recess; 235R, second recess; 237L, first insertion port; 237R, second insertion port; 238, guide portion; 238a, first guide body; 238b, second guide body; 239, buffer member; 240, mounting portion; 241a, first sliding groove; 241b, second sliding groove; 250, loading and unloading mechanism; 251, insertion port; 252, hook; 252b, claw portion; 253, hook rotation axis; 254, force member; 254a, arrow; 256, engagement release portion; 256a, release lever; 259, opening; 260, loading and unloading mechanism; 261, card dowel pin; 261a, force member; 261b, first end; 261c, second end; 261d, inclined surface; 263, guide plate; 300, magnet; 500, computer device; 550, cable; 600, box; 820, mark; 821, identification part; 822, adhesive layer; 823, backing paper; 830, pasted positioning sheet; 832, water accumulation visual recognition part; 833, mark passing area; 834, confirmation part; 835, positioning part; 836, interval selection part; 837, pasted indication part; 901, excrement detection area; 902, toilet color detection area; 903, dropped object detection area; 904, mark detection area; 912, water accumulation; 915, water surface center. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the embodiments described below all represent general or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, configuration positions and connection methods of the components shown in the following embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. In addition, in each figure, the dimensions are not strictly illustrated.

[0056] In the following description and drawings, the front-to-back direction is the X-axis direction. The left-to-right direction is the Y-axis direction. The up-down direction is the Z-axis direction. The X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction are orthogonal to each other.

[0057] The positive direction of the X-axis, the positive direction of the Y-axis, and the positive direction of the Z-axis represent the arrow directions of the X-axis, the Y-axis, and the Z-axis, respectively. The negative direction of the X-axis is the opposite direction of the positive direction of the X-axis, the negative direction of the Y-axis is the opposite direction of the positive direction of the Y-axis, and the negative direction of the Z-axis is the opposite direction of the positive direction of the Z-axis. The term "X-axis direction" means two directions or any direction parallel to the X-axis. The term "Y-axis direction" means two directions or any direction parallel to the Y-axis. The term "Z-axis direction" means two directions or any direction parallel to the Z-axis. Furthermore, expressions such as parallel and orthogonal that indicate relative directions or postures also include situations that are not strictly speaking such directions or postures. For example, two directions being orthogonal not only means the situation where the two directions are completely orthogonal, but also means the situation where they are substantially orthogonal, for example, the situation where the difference includes a few percent.

[0058] (Implementation Method)

[0059] [1. General Description of the Camera Device 100 and the Toilet Device 10]

[0060] First, the imaging device 100 and the toilet device 10 will be generally described.

[0061] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the toilet device 10 to which the camera device 100 is mounted. Figure 1 In FIG. 5 , a cable 550 connecting the imaging unit 110 and the computer device 500 is schematically indicated by a thick dotted line. Figure 2 1 is a perspective view showing the toilet apparatus 10 with the toilet seat 50 lifted. Figure 2 to Figure 16 , the computer device 500 is omitted. Figure 3 It is an exploded perspective view of the toilet apparatus 10 . Figure 4 It is a perspective view showing the toilet apparatus 10 with the imaging unit 110 removed from the imaging device 100 . Figure 5 1 is a perspective view showing the toilet apparatus 10 with the mounting body 210 of the mounting plate 200 lifted. The toilet apparatus 10 may include another member such as a valve cover (not shown) that covers the toilet seat 50.

[0062] like Figure 1 to Figure 3 As shown, the toilet device 10 includes a toilet bowl 21 and a toilet seat 50, similarly to a common toilet device. The camera device 100 of the embodiment is used in a state of being sandwiched between the toilet bowl 21 and the toilet seat 50. For the sake of convenience, the toilet seat 50 is arranged with an imaginary line 52 (see FIG. 1 ) parallel to the Y-axis direction. Figure 3 ) is separated into the first seat surface 51L and the second seat surface 51R in a manner sandwiched therebetween. In other words, the toilet seat 50 includes the first seat surface 51L and the second seat surface 51R separated by the imaginary line 52. Of course, in reality, Figure 1 to Figure 6 , the first seat surface 51L and the second seat surface 51R of the toilet seat 50 are formed integrally.

[0063] like Figure 1 As shown, the imaging device 100 of the embodiment captures the interior of the toilet bowl 21. In other words, the imaging device 100 of the embodiment functions as an imaging device inside the toilet bowl.

[0064] [1-1. Ring-shaped upper end 22]

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, the toilet bowl 21 has an annular upper end 22 at its upper end, similarly to a common toilet bowl. The annular upper end 22 includes an upper end rear portion 22B located at the rear thereof, an upper end first front portion 22L located below the first seat surface 51L of the toilet seat 50, and an upper end second front portion 22R located below the second seat surface 51R of the toilet seat 50.

[0066] [1-2. Mounting plate 200]

[0067] The camera device 100 includes: a camera unit 110 for capturing images of the interior of the toilet bowl 21; and a mounting plate 200 for detachably mounting the camera unit 110. The mounting plate 200 includes a first arm plate 211, a second arm plate 212, and a fixing plate 230, so as to have a shape of the letter O or the letter U when viewed from above. When viewed from above, an opening 259 surrounded by the first arm plate 211, the second arm plate 212, and the fixing plate 230 is formed.

[0068] The rear end of the first arm plate 211 is connected to the fixed plate 230. The first arm plate 211 is configured to be arranged along the upper end first front portion 22L of the toilet bowl 21 from the rear end to the front end. Similarly, the rear end of the second arm plate 212 is connected to the fixed plate 230. The second arm plate 212 is configured to be arranged along the upper end second front portion 22R of the toilet bowl 21 from the rear end to the front end. In this way, the first arm plate 211 is configured to be clamped by the toilet seat 50 and the upper end first front portion 22L, and is arranged on the upper end first front portion 22L. Similarly, the second arm plate 212 is configured to be clamped by the toilet seat 50 and the upper end second front portion 22R and is arranged on the upper end second front portion 22R.

[0069] [1-2-1. Fixed plate 230]

[0070] The fixing plate 230 is configured to be fixed to the upper end rear portion 22B of the toilet bowl 21. The thickness of the fixing plate 230 is substantially the same as the thickness of the mounting plate 200. As an example, the thickness of the mounting plate 200 is greater than or equal to 5 mm and less than or equal to 15 mm.

[0071] [1-3. Camera unit 110]

[0072] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the camera unit 110 has an image pickup element 121 therein. The image pickup element 121 has an optical axis LA parallel to a direction extending obliquely downward from the first arm plate 211 toward the inside of the toilet bowl 21, so as to photograph the inside of the toilet bowl 21. In other words, the camera unit 110 photographs at least one of the group consisting of feces and urine discharged into the inside of the toilet bowl 21 by the user of the toilet device 10.

[0073] [1-4. Effect of mounting plate 200]

[0074] The first arm plate 211 and the second arm plate 212 are respectively arranged along the first front portion 22L and the second front portion 22R of the upper end of the toilet bowl 21 and respectively arranged on the first front portion 22L and the second front portion 22R of the upper end, and the mounting plate 200 is configured to have the shape of the letter O or the shape of the letter U (refer to Fig.17 ). Therefore, the mounting plate 200 can be stably mounted on the annular upper end 22 of the toilet bowl 21.

[0075] After the camera device 100 is installed on the toilet device 10, the first arm plate 211 and the second arm plate 212 are respectively arranged along the first front portion 22L and the second front portion 22R of the upper end of the toilet bowl 21 and are respectively arranged on the first front portion 22L and the second front portion 22R of the upper end. Therefore, when the user sits on the toilet seat 50, the toilet seat 50 can be prevented from tilting left and right or shaking. Thus, the positional deviation of the camera unit 110 can be suppressed. Suppressing the positional deviation of the camera unit 110 solves the problem that it is impossible to photograph at least one of the group of feces and urine discharged into the toilet bowl 21 by the user selected from the toilet device 10.

[0076] [2. More preferred method]

[0077] From the viewpoint of effectively suppressing the shaking of the toilet seat 50 and the positional deviation of the camera unit 110, it is preferable that Figure 1 to Figure 5As shown, the mounting plate 200 has a shape of the letter O when viewed from above. In other words, preferably, the front end of the first arm plate 211 is connected to the front end of the second arm plate 212, and the first arm plate 211 and the second arm plate 212 are formed integrally. Figure 3 In the embodiment, the first arm plate 211 and the second arm plate 212 are separated in such a manner that an imaginary line 218 parallel to the Y axis is sandwiched therebetween. Figure 3 In the embodiment, the first arm plate 211 and the second arm plate 212 are integrally formed.

[0078] like Fig.17 As shown, the mounting plate 200 can have a shape that is a letter U instead of a letter O when viewed from above. Fig.17 FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a mounting plate 200 having a shape of the letter U. The mounting plate 200 in the shape of the letter U can also suppress the shaking of the toilet seat 50 and the positional deviation of the camera unit 110. Figure 3 The mounting plate 200 shown is different in that Fig.17 In the illustrated mounting plate 200 , the front end of the first arm plate 211 is separated from the front end of the second arm plate 212 .

[0079] From the viewpoint of effectively suppressing the shaking of the mounting plate 200 and the positional deviation of the imaging unit 110, it is preferable that Figure 1 to Figure 5 As shown, the first arm plate 211 and the second arm plate 212 are bilaterally symmetrical. Furthermore, preferably, the thickness of the first arm plate 211 and the thickness of the second arm plate 212 are substantially the same. Preferably, the thickness of the fixing plate 230 is also the same as the thickness of the first arm plate 211 and the thickness of the second arm plate 212.

[0080] As described above, the imaging unit 110 is detachably mounted on the mounting plate 200. The imaging unit 110 is mounted on the first arm plate 211, the second arm plate 212, or the fixing plate 230. Preferably, the imaging unit 110 is detachably mounted on the first arm plate 211.

[0081] [3. Details of the Mounting Structure of the Image Capture Unit 110]

[0082] Figure 6 It is an exploded perspective view of the imaging device 100 according to the embodiment. Figure 7 1 is a first perspective view showing the appearance of the imaging unit 110 according to the embodiment. Figure 7 In FIG. 1 , a rough boundary between the upper surface 111 c of the housing 111 and the upper surface 115 c of the support portion 115 is indicated by an imaginary line 119 .

[0083] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown in FIG. 1 , the imaging unit 110 may include a housing 111 and a support 115. The housing 111 has an imaging element 121 therein. The support 115 is extended from the housing 111. The support 115 is configured to overlap a portion of the first arm plate 211 when viewed from above. Preferably, the support 115 has a plate shape. Figure 7 As shown, the housing 111 can have an upper surface 111c. The support portion 115 can also have an upper surface 115c. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, from the viewpoint of effectively suppressing the shaking of the toilet seat 50 and the positional deviation of the imaging unit 110 , it is preferable that the upper surface 115 c of the support portion 115 and the upper surface 111 c of the housing 111 are flush with each other.

[0084] like Figure 6 As shown, it is preferred that a first sliding groove 241a and a second sliding groove 241b are formed on the upper surface of the first arm plate 211. The first sliding groove 241a and the second sliding groove 241b are formed parallel to the X-axis direction which is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the first arm plate 211. The support portion 115 includes a first flange portion 115a and a second flange portion 115b. The first flange portion 115a and the second flange portion 115b are formed parallel to the X-axis. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the upper surface 115c of the support portion 115 is clamped by the first flange portion 115a and the second flange portion 115b. The first flange portion 115a protrudes from the first end of the upper surface 115c of the support portion 115 located in the positive direction of the Y axis. The second flange portion 115b protrudes from the second end of the upper surface 115c of the support portion 115 located in the negative direction of the Y axis. By moving the camera unit 110 from the opening 259 to the first arm plate 211 in parallel with the X-axis direction, the first flange portion 115a and the second flange portion 115b are respectively engaged with the first sliding groove 241a and the second sliding groove 241b. In this way, the camera unit 110 is mounted on the mounting plate 200 in a manner that the support portion 115 easily overlaps with a part of the first arm plate 211 when viewed from above. Meanwhile, the imaging unit 110 mounted on the mounting plate 200 is moved from the first arm plate 211 toward the opening 259 in parallel with the negative direction of the X axis, thereby removing the imaging unit 110 from the mounting plate 200. This makes it easy to attach and detach the imaging unit 110 to and from the mounting plate 200.

[0085] [3-1. First loading and unloading mechanism 250]

[0086] Figure 8 2 is a second perspective view showing the appearance of the imaging unit 110 according to the embodiment. Figure 8 , a perspective view of the camera unit 110 viewed from the back side of the housing 111 (i.e., the housing back side 111b) is shown. Figure 8In FIG. 1 , the general outlines of the control unit 126 and the magnetic detection sensor 125 housed in the housing 111 are indicated by dotted lines. The cable 550 is schematically indicated by a thick dotted line.

[0087] Fig. 9 1 is a first bottom view showing a structure and an operation example of a first loading and unloading mechanism 250 according to an embodiment, Fig.10 2 is a second bottom view showing the structure and operation example of the first loading and unloading mechanism 250 according to the embodiment. Fig.11 3 is a bottom view showing the structure and operation example of the first loading and unloading mechanism 250 according to the embodiment. Figures 9 to 11 In the figure, the structure of the first attachment and detachment mechanism 250 is illustrated by partially cutting out the back surface of the mounting plate 200 so that the first attachment and detachment mechanism 250 housed inside the mounting plate 200 can be seen. Figures 9 to 11 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation and illustration, the insertion / extraction direction of the first hook 117 relative to the first loading and unloading mechanism 250 is the X-axis direction. However, the insertion / extraction direction may deviate from the X-axis direction. That is, the insertion / extraction direction may not be parallel to the X-axis direction.

[0088] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown, it is preferred that the first arm plate 211 includes a first detachable mechanism 250 for detachably attaching the camera unit 110, and the camera unit 110 includes a first hook 117. The first hook 117 extends from the housing 111 in the X-axis direction. The first claw 117a protrudes from the tip of the first hook 117 in the Y-axis direction.

[0089] The first attachment and detachment mechanism 250 includes a first insertion port 251, a second hook 252, a hook rotation shaft 253, and a first urging member 254. The first insertion port 251 is provided on the inner side surface 210a of the first arm plate 211 (see Figure 6 The inner side surface 210 a is a side surface facing the opening 259 . The second hook 252 , the hook rotation shaft 253 , and the first urging member 254 are provided inside the first arm plate 211 .

[0090] The second hook 252 swings around the hook rotating shaft 253 as the swing center. A second claw portion 252b is formed at the top end of the second hook 252. Fig. 9 and Fig.11 As shown, while the first hook 117 is stationary, the second hook 252 is moved by the first biasing member 254 in the direction of arrow 254a (i.e., in Fig. 9 In the middle, force is applied in the upward and right direction.

[0091] like Fig.10As shown, the first hook 117 is inserted from the first insertion port 251 into the first loading and unloading mechanism 250. During the movement of the first hook 117 from the first insertion port 251 into the first loading and unloading mechanism 250 in the positive direction of the X axis, the first hook 117 applies force to the first biasing member 254 in the direction indicated by arrow 254a (see Fig. 9 Strictly speaking, the first claw 117a contacts the second claw 252b, and a pressing force is applied to the first force applying member 254 from the first claw 117a of the first hook 117 via the second claw 252b of the second hook 252, and the first hook 117 moves from the first insertion port 251 to the inside of the first loading and unloading mechanism 250.

[0092] like Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , after the first hook 117 is inserted into the first attachment and detachment mechanism 250 from the first insertion port 251, the first hook 117 is engaged with the second hook 252 (i.e., locked). Strictly speaking, the first claw 117a of the first hook 117 is engaged with the second claw 252b of the second hook 252. In this way, the camera unit 110 is mounted on the first attachment and detachment mechanism 250 provided inside the first arm plate 211.

[0093] Next, a method for removing the imaging unit 110 from the first mounting and dismounting mechanism 250 will be described. Figures 9 to 11 As shown in FIG. 2 , the second hook 252 is provided with an engagement release portion 256. The engagement release portion 256 can be provided on the upper surface, the lower surface, the inner side surface or the outer side surface of the second hook 252. Figures 9 to 11 In the embodiment, the engagement release portion 256 is provided as a release lever 256a on the side of the second hook 252 and protrudes from the outer side of the first arm plate 211. When the camera unit 110 is removed from the first mounting and dismounting mechanism 250, the release lever 256a is pulled by a finger. By this movement of the finger, the second hook 252 is swung around the hook rotation axis 253 in a direction parallel to the arrow 254a (see FIG. Fig. 9 At the same time, the first force applying member 254 is swung in the direction opposite to the direction of arrow 254a (refer to Fig. 9 ). As a result, the first claw 117a is released from the engagement with the second claw 252b (i.e., unlocked). Next, the camera unit 110 is moved in the negative direction of the X-axis to remove the first hook 117 from the first loading and unloading mechanism 250. In this way, the camera unit 110 is removed from the first loading and unloading mechanism 250. An example of the first force applying member 254 is a spring or rubber.

[0094] [4. Second loading and unloading mechanism 260]

[0095] Fig.12 It is an exploded perspective view of the fixing plate 230 included in the mounting plate 200 according to the embodiment. Fig.13 1 is a first cross-sectional schematic diagram showing a structure and an operation example of a second loading and unloading mechanism 260 according to an embodiment. Fig.14 2 is a second cross-sectional schematic diagram showing a structure and an operation example of the second loading and unloading mechanism 260 according to the embodiment. Fig.15 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a structure and an operation example of the second loading and unloading mechanism 260 according to the embodiment. Fig.16 It is a fourth schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration and an operation example of the second attachment and detachment mechanism 260 according to the embodiment. Figure 13 to Figure 16 FIG. 2 shows a cross section when the upper end of the fixing plate 230 is cut along a plane parallel to the XY plane. Figure 13 to Figure 16 In order to clearly show the structure and operation example of the second loading and unloading mechanism 260, the existence range of the main body of the fixing plate 230 (i.e., the fixing main body 231) and the existence range of the mounting main body 210 when viewed from above are represented by areas with diagonal lines.

[0096] like Fig.12 As shown, the fixing plate 230 preferably includes a second detachable mechanism 260 for detachably attaching the first arm plate 211 and the second arm plate 212. The first arm plate 211 further includes a first protruding rod 215L protruding rearward (ie, in the negative direction of the Y axis) at its rear end.

[0097] The second loading and unloading mechanism 260 has a second insertion port 237L and a first recess 235L. The second insertion port 237L is formed on the front surface of the fixing plate 230. The first recess 235L is provided inside the fixing plate 230. Fig.13 As shown, the first recess 235L communicates with the second insertion port 237L.

[0098] like Figure 13 to Figure 16 As shown, the first protruding rod 215L is configured to be inserted into the first recessed portion 235L through the second insertion port 237L, and to be pulled out from the first recessed portion 235L through the second insertion port 237L. In this way, the first arm plate 211 can be freely attached and detached using the first protruding rod 215L and can be easily installed on the second attachment and detachment mechanism 260, so that the first arm plate 211 can be removed from the fixed plate 230, and then the first arm plate 211 can be cleaned. In this way, the sanitary state of the toilet device 10 can be properly maintained.

[0099] More preferably, the second arm plate 212 also has a second protruding rod 215R protruding toward the rear (i.e., the negative direction of the Y axis) at its rear end. The second loading and unloading mechanism 260 corresponding to the second protruding rod 215R has a third insertion port 237R and a second recess 235R. The third insertion port 237R is formed on the front surface of the fixed plate 230. The second recess 235R is provided inside the fixed plate 230. The second recess 235R is connected to the third insertion port 237R. The second protruding rod 215R is configured to be inserted into the second recess 235R via the third insertion port 237R and to be withdrawn from the second recess 235R via the third insertion port 237R. In such a structure, as in the case of the first arm plate 211, the second arm plate 212 can be removed from the fixed plate 230, and then the second arm plate 212 can be cleaned.

[0100] like Figure 13 to Figure 16 As shown, it is more preferred that the fixing plate 230 has a locking pin 261 for fixing the first protruding rod 215L, and a side first recess 216a is provided on the side of the first protruding rod 215L. The locking pin 261 is provided along the X-axis direction. The first end 261b of the locking pin 261 is configured to protrude toward the first recess 235L, that is, in the negative direction of the X-axis. The second end 261c of the locking pin 261 protrudes from the side of the fixing plate 230 in the positive direction of the X-axis.

[0101] like Fig.16 As shown in the figure, when the first protruding rod 215L is inserted into the first recess 235L via the second insertion port 237L, the engaging pin 261 engages with the first recess 216a on the side surface. More specifically, the first end 261b of the engaging pin 261 is inserted into the first recess 216a on the side surface. In this way, the first arm plate 211 is easily fixed to the fixed plate 230. Of course, when the first arm plate 211 is removed from the fixed plate 230, the engaging pin 261 is pulled out in the positive direction of the X-axis to release the engagement of the engaging pin 261 with the first recess 216a on the side surface, and then the first arm plate 211 is pulled out from the fixed plate 230.

[0102] It is further preferred that the fixed plate 230 further includes a second force member 261a, which applies force to the first end 261b of the engaging pin 261 in the negative direction of the X-axis. The second force member 261a can be provided inside the engaging pin 261. Preferably, the length direction of the second force member 261a is parallel to the X-axis direction. An example of the second force member 261a is a spring or rubber. The first arm plate 211 is reliably fixed to the fixed plate 230 by the second force member 261a. The first end 261b has an inclined surface 261d. The inclined surface 261d is formed so that the length of the engaging pin 261 in the X-axis direction becomes longer as it moves toward the negative direction of the Y-axis when viewed from above.

[0103] It is further preferred that Figure 13 to Figure 16 As shown in FIG. 2 , a second side recess 216b is further provided on the side surface of the first protruding rod 215L. Fig.14 As shown, when the first protruding rod 215L is pulled out from the first recess 235L via the second insertion port 237L, the engaging pin 261 engages with the second side recess 216b. In this way, the first arm plate 211 can be easily maintained in a state where it is pulled out from the fixing plate 230 and fixed on the toilet bowl 21.

[0104] Preferably, if Figure 12 to Figure 16 As shown, the fixing plate 230 has a guide portion 238 on its front surface. More preferably, the guide portion 238 includes a left and right pair of first guide bodies 238a and second guide bodies 238b. A second insertion port 237L is sandwiched between the left and right pairs of first guide bodies 238a and second guide bodies 238b. Each left and right pair of first guide bodies 238a and second guide bodies 238b is inclined in such a manner that the interval between the left and right pairs of first guide bodies 238a and second guide bodies 238b in the left and right direction (i.e., the X-axis direction) gradually decreases in the insertion direction of the first protruding rod 215L (i.e., the negative direction of the Y-axis).

[0105] When the first protruding rod 215L is inserted into the first recess 235L via the second insertion port 237L, the first protruding rod 215L is guided by the guide portion 238. Therefore, the first protruding rod 215L is easily inserted into the first recess 235L by the guide portion 238.

[0106] Reference Figure 13 to Figure 16 The above description of the first protruding rod 215L and the second attachment and detachment mechanism 260 thereof can also be applied to the second protruding rod 215R and the second attachment and detachment mechanism 260 thereof.

[0107] [5. Hinge 225]

[0108] like Fig.12 As shown, it is preferred that the first arm plate 211 has a hinge 225. Specifically, the first arm plate 211 has a first hinge 225L. The first arm plate 211 includes a first arm plate front portion 211F and a first arm plate rear portion 211B. The first arm plate front portion 211F and the first arm plate rear portion 211B are connected in a manner that the first hinge 225L is sandwiched between the first arm plate front portion 211F and the first arm plate rear portion 211B. Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the camera unit 110 is mounted on the first arm plate front portion 211F. The first protruding rod 215L is provided on the first arm plate rear portion 211B.

[0109] like Fig.12As shown, it is preferred that the second arm plate 212 has a hinge 225. Specifically, the second arm plate 212 has a second hinge 225R. The second arm plate 212 includes a second arm plate front portion 212F and a second arm plate rear portion 212B. The second arm plate front portion 212F and the second arm plate rear portion 212B are connected in a manner that the second hinge 225R is sandwiched between the second arm plate front portion 212F and the second arm plate rear portion 212B. The above-mentioned second protruding rod 215R is provided at the second arm plate rear portion 212B.

[0110] The first arm plate front portion 211F is configured to stand vertically relative to the first arm plate rear portion 211B using the first hinge 225L. The second arm plate front portion 212F is configured to stand vertically relative to the second arm plate rear portion 212B using the second hinge 225R. In a state where the first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F stand vertically, it is easier to clean the back of the first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F. Since the back of the first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F are arranged along the annular upper end 22 of the toilet bowl 21, care should be taken to prevent them from being easily contaminated.

[0111] [6. Additional explanation on the toilet device 10 and the camera device 100]

[0112] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the toilet device 10 includes a toilet bowl 21, a toilet seat 50, and a tank 600 for storing washing water. The toilet seat 50 includes a toilet seat mounting portion 90 for mounting the toilet seat 50 on the toilet bowl 21. The toilet seat mounting portion 90 is a box body having a sanitary cleaning device built therein, and the sanitary cleaning device cleans the local part of the user of the toilet device 10 who sits on the toilet seat 50. The sanitary cleaning device includes a cleaning nozzle (not shown) and a driving portion for driving the cleaning nozzle to extend / retract. Figure 3 As shown, the toilet seat mounting part 90 is fixed to the rear end of the annular upper end 22 of the toilet bowl 21, that is, the upper end rear part 22B, by two bolts 95. Specifically, two toilet seat mounting holes 23 are arranged separately in the left-right direction (i.e., the X-axis direction) at the upper end rear part 22B, and the toilet seat mounting part 90 is fixed to the toilet bowl 21 by screwing the bolts 95 that pass through the two toilet seat mounting holes 23 and tightening the nuts not shown in the figure. Figure 1As shown, the toilet seat 50 is pivotally supported on the toilet seat mounting portion 90 so as to swing around a swing axis A parallel to the X-axis direction. The toilet seat mounting portion 90 only needs to have a structure for mounting the toilet seat 50 on the toilet bowl 21, and does not necessarily need to have a sanitary cleaning device. The toilet seat mounting portion 90 may also be a plate-shaped member that supports the toilet seat 50 so as to be able to swing. The toilet device 10 does not need to have a box 600. For example, the toilet device 10 may also have a structure in which excrement is flushed away using water that is sent to the toilet bowl 21 through a pipe from the outside of the room where the toilet bowl 21 is installed.

[0113] like Figure 3 As shown, the camera device 100 is installed in the toilet device 10. Specifically, the camera device 100 includes a camera unit 110 and a mounting plate 200. The mounting plate 200 includes a mounting body 210 and a fixing plate 230. The fixing plate 230 is fixed to the upper end rear portion 22B in a state of being sandwiched between the toilet seat mounting portion 90 and the upper end rear portion 22B of the toilet seat 50. Thus, the mounting plate 200 is fixed to the toilet bowl 21.

[0114] More specifically, the fixing plate 230 has an axial hole plate 132, and the axial hole plate 132 has an axial hole 132a for the bolt 95 to pass through. The axial hole plate 132 can change the position of the fixing plate 230 in the front, back, left and right directions. That is, the fixing plate 230 is provided with a position adjustment mechanism 140 composed of a plurality of elements including the axial hole plate 132. The position adjustment mechanism 140 can be used to change the relative position of the fixing plate 230 with respect to the toilet bowl 21. Thus, the relative position of the camera unit 110 connected to the fixing plate 230 via the mounting body 210 with respect to the toilet bowl 21 can be changed (i.e., the position is adjusted). Two position adjustment mechanisms 140 are arranged in the X-axis direction on the fixing plate 230, and a buffer member 239 (see FIG. 2 ) formed of, for example, rubber is arranged on the outer side in the X-axis direction which is the arrangement direction thereof. Figure 6 ).

[0115] The imaging unit 110 of the imaging device 100 includes an imaging element 121 (see Figure 5 ). The camera unit 110 is detachably mounted on a mounting portion 240 which is a part of the mounting body 210 of the mounting plate 200. The camera unit 110 is mounted on the mounting portion 240 of the mounting plate 200, so that it is arranged on one side of the annular upper end 22 of the toilet bowl 21 in the X-axis direction (specifically, in the positive direction of the X-axis) in a state where the fixing plate 230 is fixed to the upper end rear portion 22B. The imaging object of the imaging element 121 possessed by the camera unit 110 is excrement. Therefore, the imaging element 121 is provided in the camera unit 110 in a posture facing obliquely downward. Thus, the imaging element 121 can photograph a predetermined range including the water accumulation part of the toilet bowl 21.

[0116] The camera unit 110 is connected to the cable 550 (see Figure 1 ) is connected to the computer device 500. The cable 550 is, for example, in accordance with the Universal Serial Bus (commonly referred to as USB) specification. The camera unit 110 can receive power for camera operation from the computer device 500 via the cable 550. Furthermore, the camera unit 110 can send image data obtained by camera to the computer device 500 via the cable 550. The computer device 500 can save the image data received from the camera unit 110 and send the image to the server device.

[0117] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the mounting body 210 of the mounting plate 200 on which the camera unit 110 is mounted has a pair of left and right arm plates (i.e., a first arm plate 211 and a second arm plate 212). Relative to the annular upper end 22 of the toilet bowl 21, the first arm plate 211 is extended along the first front portion 22L of the upper end, and the second arm plate 212 is extended along the second front portion 22R of the upper end. In this way, the mounting body 210 has at least the first arm plate 211 and the second arm plate 212 corresponding to the left and right sides of the annular upper end 22 of the toilet bowl 21, thereby suppressing the left and right tilting or shaking of the toilet seat 50 when the user of the toilet device 10 sits on the toilet seat 50. Furthermore, for example, in a case such as Figure 2 As shown, when the seat switch 55 is provided on the back side of the toilet seat 50, when the user of the toilet apparatus 10 sits on the toilet seat 50, the mounting plate 200 is arranged, thereby increasing the possibility that the seat switch 55 is pressed.

[0118] More specifically, the mounting body 210 of the mounting plate 200 has a shape that connects the front ends of the first arm plate 211 and the second arm plate 212. Figure 3 As can be seen, the mounting body 210 is in the shape of the letter U when viewed from above. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the mounting body 210 is configured to be bendable at a position in the middle of the Y-axis direction. Specifically, hinges 225 are arranged on both sides of the mounting body 210 in the X-axis direction. In the first arm plate 211, the hinge 225 is arranged between the fixing plate 230 and the camera unit 110. Figure 3 As shown, the hinge 225 is installed on the portion of the main body 210 that is closer to the positive direction of the Y axis than the hinge 225 (i.e. Figure 6The first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F shown in the figure are supported by a shaft so as to swing around the swing axis B. Therefore, by arranging along the annular upper end 22 of the toilet bowl 21, it is easier to maintain the portion that is easily dirty, that is, the installation body 210. As an example of such maintenance work, cleaning or disinfecting the back of each of the first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F can be cited. Figure 5 As shown, a plurality of cushioning members 219, for example, made of rubber, are disposed on the backs of the first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F. Thus, the backs of the first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F and the annular upper end 22 of the toilet bowl 21 can be protected from each other.

[0119] like Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , there is a case where the first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F of the mounting body portion 210 are lifted up, which is simply referred to as the "mounting body portion 210 lifted up state". Figure 5 FIG. 2 shows a state where the camera unit 110 is mounted on the mounting body 210. Figure 4 The figure shows the state where the camera unit 110 is removed from the mounting main body 210. Figure 5 As shown, the installation body 210 is lifted. Figure 12 to Figure 16 As shown, the mounting body 210 can be moved forward relative to the fixing plate 230 and can be removed from the fixing plate 230 .

[0120] [6-1. Configuration and operation example of the imaging unit]

[0121] like Figure 6 to Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the imaging unit 110 includes a housing 111 and a support portion 115 extending from the housing 111. The housing 111 is a housing constituting the main body of the imaging unit 110. The housing 111 includes an imaging element 121, a human body sensing sensor 120, an illumination unit 122, and an illuminance sensor 123. Figure 8 As shown, the housing 111 accommodates a control unit 126 and a magnetic detection sensor 125. The control unit 126 controls the imaging element 121, the lighting unit 122, the illuminance sensor 123, and the magnetic detection sensor 125.

[0122] The imaging element 121 has an image sensor that converts input light into image data. The human body sensing sensor 120 detects the presence of a person. An example of the human body sensing sensor 120 is a distance sensor. The lighting unit 122 is a lighting device having a light source. An example of the light source is a light emitting diode: Light Emitting Diode (commonly referred to as LED). Figure 6As shown, the lighting unit 122 is respectively arranged at both ends in the length direction of the housing 111. The illuminance sensor 123 detects the illuminance within the imaging range of the imaging element 121. The magnetic detection sensor 125 is a device for detecting a magnetic field (i.e., magnetism). An example of the magnetic detection sensor 125 is a Hall sensor. The magnetic detection sensor 125 detects a predetermined magnetic field generated by a magnet 300 fixed to the mounting plate 200.

[0123] exist Figure 7 In the figure, the reference numeral "121" designating the imaging element is marked on the lens portion of the housing 111 that is exposed to the outside, and the imaging element 121 is physically housed inside the housing 111. This is also the same for the human body sensing sensor 120, the lighting unit 122, and the illuminance sensor 123. For example, the reference numeral "120" designating the human body sensing sensor is marked on the window portion of the housing 111 that is exposed to the outside, and the sensor element for detecting a person is housed inside the housing 111.

[0124] The operation of the camera unit 110 having the above-mentioned structure is as follows. When the user of the toilet device 10 sits on the toilet seat 50, the human body sensor 120 detects the person. When the human body sensor 120 detects the person, the control unit 126 turns on the two lighting units 122. In this state, if the camera unit 110 is properly mounted on the mounting plate 200, the distance between the magnetic detection sensor 125 and the magnet 300 fixed to the mounting plate 200 is within a predetermined range, so the magnetic detection sensor 125 detects the predetermined magnetic field generated by the magnet 300. When the magnetic detection sensor 125 detects the predetermined magnetic field, the control unit 126 allows the imaging element 121 to perform imaging. Specifically, the control unit 126 starts the imaging element 121. After that, the human body sensor 120 no longer detects the user of the toilet device 10, and thus the control unit 126 turns off the two lighting units 122 and stops the imaging element 121. The imaging result (e.g., image data of excrement) by the imaging unit 110 is transmitted to the computer device 500 via the cable 550 under the control of the control unit 126. The image captured by the imaging element 121 may be a moving image or one or more still images.

[0125] If the camera unit 110 is removed from the mounting plate 200 or is not properly mounted on the mounting plate 200, the magnetic detection sensor 125 does not detect the predetermined magnetic field generated by the magnet 300. Therefore, regardless of whether the human body sensing sensor 120 detects a person, the control unit 126 cannot perform imaging by the imaging element 121. That is, the control unit 126 controls the imaging element 121 in such a manner that imaging by the imaging element 121 is allowed only when the camera unit 110 is properly mounted on the mounting plate 200, because the predetermined magnetic field from the magnet 300 is detected by the magnetic detection sensor 125. Thus, for example, in the case where the camera unit 110 is removed from the mounting plate 200, improper use or misuse of the camera unit 110 can be prevented. An example of improper use or misuse of the camera unit 110 is a case where the camera unit 110 captures the face of the user of the toilet device 10.

[0126] When the control unit 126 attempts to control the two lighting units 122 to light, the illumination information indicating the illumination within the imaging range is obtained from the illumination sensor 123. The control unit 126 sends the image data obtained by the imaging element 121 to the computer device 500 together with the illumination information indicating the illumination at a specific time when the image data is obtained. In the computer device 500, for example, when the illumination is normal but the brightness of the image shown in the image data is extremely low, it is determined that the imaging element 121 has a fault. In this case, for example, the occurrence of the fault of the imaging element 121 is notified to the server device communicating with the computer device 500. The computer device 500 stores the image data obtained from the imaging unit 110 in the storage unit together with the time information indicating the imaging time and the above-mentioned illumination information.

[0127] The control unit 126 controls the imaging element 121 in such a manner that the imaging element 121 cannot perform imaging when the illumination obtained by the illumination sensor 123 is lower than a predetermined value despite the control for lighting the two illumination units 122. In this case, the control unit 126 may notify the computer device 500 of the occurrence of the failure of the two illumination units 122. In addition, the control unit 126 may, for example, automatically Figure 4 The seat switch 55 shown receives the detection result of the presence or absence of a person by wired communication or wireless communication. In this case, the imaging unit 110 may not include the human body detection sensor 120.

[0128] The control of the operations of the imaging element 121 , the lighting unit 122 , the illuminance sensor 123 , and the magnetic detection sensor 125 by the control unit 126 is achieved by, for example, a computer including a central processing unit and a memory executing a predetermined program.

[0129] Such a camera device 100 having the function of detecting excretion status is installed, for example, in a toilet 21 provided in a single room of a nursing facility. Examples of excretion status are the number of excretions, the time of excretion, or the state of excrement. Thus, the excretion status of the person requiring care living in the single room can be remotely and automatically monitored and confirmed. As a result, it is possible to efficiently or more reliably administer a drug for treatment or prevention suitable for the person requiring care.

[0130] The housing 111 having the imaging element 121 is mechanically connected to the mounting plate 200 by the support portion 115. Specifically, when the imaging unit 110 is mounted on the mounting plate 200, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 6 As can be seen, the support portion 115 is overlapped with the mounting portion 240 which is a part of the first arm plate 211. At this time, as described above, the imaging unit 110 is detachably mounted on the first mounting and detaching mechanism 250 provided on the first arm plate 211.

[0131] like Figure 8 As shown, a cable holding portion 116 is provided on the back side of the support portion 115 (i.e., the surface in the negative direction of the Z axis). The cable holding portion 116 holds the cable 550 inside, and the cable 550 connects the computer device 500 and the camera portion 110. The cable holding portion 116 also has the function of protecting the cable 550 protruding from the housing 111. Specifically, in a state where the support portion 115 overlaps the mounting portion 240 of the first arm plate 211, the cable holding portion 116 is inserted into the second sliding groove 241b together with the second flange portion 115b. As a result, the cable 550 protruding from the housing 111 in the positive direction of the X axis is guided by the cable holding portion 116 to the external space in the positive direction of the X axis of the mounting plate 200. As a result, for example, the possibility that the cable 550 is sandwiched between the mounting plate 200 and the annular upper end 22 of the toilet bowl 21 can be reduced.

[0132] [6-2. Control of allowing or not allowing image capture by the control unit 126]

[0133] When the imaging unit 110 is properly mounted on the mounting plate 200, the imaging unit 110 is disposed on Fig.11 In this case, as described above, the magnetic detection sensor 125 detects a predetermined magnetic field generated by the magnet 300 as the detection object. The detection result indicating that the magnetic detection sensor 125 has detected the predetermined magnetic field is acquired by the control unit 126. When acquiring the detection result, the control unit 126 allows the imaging element 121 to capture images. The imaging element 121 can capture images of excrement from an appropriate position and in an appropriate posture.

[0134] When the user of the toilet device 10 uses the toilet device 10, it is assumed that the imaging unit 110 stops at Fig.10 In this case, the support portion 115 and the first hook 117 are inserted into the mounting plate 200, and as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, a toilet seat 50 is overlapped on the support portion 115. Therefore, there is a possibility that the user mistakenly believes that the camera unit 110 is in a proper position at first glance. However, in this case, the magnetic detection sensor 125 does not detect the predetermined magnetic field generated by the magnet 300, so the control unit 126 cannot perform the camera element 121. Thus, the camera element 121 in an improper position or improper posture can be prevented from performing the camera. Furthermore, it is also possible that the control unit 126, when the magnetic detection sensor 125 does not detect the predetermined magnetic field, notifies the computer device 500 that the camera unit 110 is not properly installed (i.e., the camera unit 110 is poorly installed). In this case, the computer device 500 can notify the upper server device of the poor installation of the camera unit 110. It is also possible that the computer device 500 has a display panel that displays information to the user. The computer device 500 can display text or images indicating that the camera unit 110 is poorly installed on the display panel. By recognizing the text or image, the user can push the camera unit 110 into the Fig.11 As a result, the poor installation of the camera unit 110 can be eliminated, and the camera element 121 can perform the image capture. Alternatively, the poor installation of the camera unit 110 can be notified to the user by sound. Alternatively, the poor installation of the camera unit 110 can be notified to the user by lighting or flashing a light.

[0135] like Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 2 , when the camera unit 110 is mounted on the mounting plate 200, the camera unit 110 is removed from the mounting plate 200 by operating the release lever 256a of the second hook 252. Specifically, when the camera unit 110 is removed, the release lever 256a is pressed in the positive direction of the Y axis. As a result, the second hook 252 returns to the mounting plate 200. Fig.10 As a result, the second claw 252b is disengaged from the first claw 117a. That is, the engagement between the first hook 117 and the second hook 252 is released. As a result, the first hook 117 and the support portion 115 are pulled out from the mounting plate 200. That is, the camera unit 110 is removed from the mounting plate 200.

[0136] like Figure 2 As shown, if the toilet seat 50 is lifted, even if the camera unit 110 is mounted on the mounting plate 200, the upper surface of the camera unit 110 and the camera surface 111a (see Figure 7 ) for cleaning. Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the embodiment, the upper surface 111c of the housing 111 is coplanar with the upper surface 115c of the support portion 115. Therefore, unlike the case where there is a groove or a step between the housing 111 and the support portion 115, urine does not intrude into the boundary between the housing 111 and the support portion 115. Figure 5 As shown, if the mounting plate 200 is lifted, the back surface of the imaging unit 110 can also be cleaned.

[0137] However, for example, it is difficult or impossible to clean the portion of the camera unit 110 hidden in the mounting plate 200 when the camera unit 110 is mounted on the mounting plate 200. Examples of the portion hidden in the mounting plate 200 are the back surface of the support portion 115, the first flange portion 115a, the second flange portion 115b, and the first hook 117. Preferably, the portion that can be cleaned when the camera unit 110 is mounted on the mounting plate 200 (for example, the upper surface 111c of the housing 111) is also cleaned and disinfected in more detail. As described above, the camera unit 110 is freely attachable and detachable to the mounting plate 200. Therefore, the entire camera unit 110 can be cleaned and disinfected. In addition, the portion of the mounting portion 240 of the mounting plate 200 that is hidden in the camera unit 110 can also be cleaned and disinfected.

[0138] Furthermore, even if the camera unit 110 fails or is damaged, it is possible and easy to replace only the camera unit 110 while the mounting plate 200 is fixed to the toilet bowl 21. In other words, in the replacement operation of the camera unit 110, it is easy to remove the old camera unit 110 from the mounting plate 200 and to install the new camera unit 110 on the mounting plate 200.

[0139] The back side of the mounting body 210 of the mounting plate 200, especially the portion facing the first front portion 22L at the upper end and the second front portion 22R at the upper end, requires regular cleaning like the back side of the toilet seat 50. In response to this requirement, as described above, the mounting body 210 has a hinge 225, whereby the portion in front of the hinge 225 (i.e., the first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F) can swing. Therefore, it is possible to Figure 5As shown, the first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F are lifted. More specifically, the front ends of the first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F are connected to each other. Therefore, the first arm plate front portion 211F and the second arm plate front portion 212F are lifted together. If it is in this state, the back of the installation body 210, which is opposite to the first front portion 22L at the upper end and the second front portion 22R at the upper end, can be cleaned. However, there is a possibility that urine, for example, will also reach the vicinity of the hinge 225, so there is also a situation where the part of the installation body 210 that is further to the rear (i.e., the negative direction of the Y axis) needs to be cleaned. In this case, for example, it is possible to consider the situation where the mounting plate 200 is removed from the toilet bowl 21 as a whole. However, in this case, it is necessary to remove the nuts fastened to the two bolts 95, and remove the toilet seat mounting portion 90 located on the fixing plate 230 from the toilet bowl 21. That is, the work for removing the mounting plate 200 is not easy.

[0140] In order to solve the above problem, the mounting plate 200 is provided with a second mounting and dismounting mechanism 260, which mounts the mounting body 210 to the fixing plate 230 in a detachable manner. Figures 1 to 11 Based on Figure 12 to Figure 16 An additional explanation will be given regarding the second loading and unloading mechanism 260 and its peripheral structure.

[0141] [6-3. Additional explanation on the second loading and unloading mechanism 260 and its surrounding structure]

[0142] As described above, the fixing plate 230 of the mounting plate 200 has two second loading and unloading mechanisms 260 corresponding to the first protruding rod 215L and the second protruding rod 215R. The structures of the two second loading and unloading mechanisms 260 are bilaterally symmetrical, and the operations of the two second loading and unloading mechanisms 260 are identical to each other. Therefore, the following is an additional description of the second loading and unloading mechanism 260 on the left side (i.e., the positive direction of the X-axis) and the structure of the surrounding area.

[0143] like Fig.13 As shown, the fixing body 231 of the fixing plate 230 has a first recess 235L and a second insertion port 237L. The first recess 235L has an insertion space inside for inserting the first protruding rod 215L. The second insertion port 237L is the entrance of the first recess 235L. Fig.12 and Fig.13As shown, a guide plate 263 is also arranged in the fixed body part 231. A part of the guide plate 263 protrudes into the inside of the first recess 235L. The part of the guide plate 263 that protrudes into the inside of the first recess 235L is inserted into the protruding rod groove 215a provided on the left and right sides of the first protruding rod 215L. The protruding rod groove 215a extends along the protruding direction of the first protruding rod 215L (i.e., the Y-axis direction). As a result, the first protruding rod 215L is smoothly inserted into and pulled out of the first recess 235L while being guided by the guide plate 263. The guide plate 263 is also arranged in the second recess 235R of the fixed body part 231. Therefore, the second protruding rod 215R is smoothly inserted into and pulled out of the second recess 235R while being guided by the guide plate 263.

[0144] The first protruding rod 215L has a side recess 216. The engaging pin 261 of the second loading and unloading mechanism 260 is inserted / pulled out relative to the side recess 216. The side recess 216 is recessed in the negative direction of the X-axis. The side recess 216 includes two side recesses 216, namely, the first side recess 216a and the second side recess 216b. The first side recess 216a and the second side recess 216b are arranged in a row along the Y-axis direction. The first protruding rod 215L has such a first side recess 216a and a second side recess 216b. The first side recess 216a is located at the root of the first protruding rod 215L. On the other hand, the second side recess 216b is located at the top end portion of the first protruding rod 215L. As Figure 12 to Figure 16 As shown, the second loading and unloading mechanism 260 has a locking pin 261 and a second force member 261a. The locking pin 261 is inserted / pulled out relative to either the first side recess 216a or the second side recess 216b. The second force member 261a applies force to the locking pin 261 toward the first protruding rod 215L (i.e., toward the negative direction of the X-axis). The locking pin 261 has not only a first end 261b but also a second end 261c. The second end 261c protrudes to the outside from the fixed main body 231. The user of the toilet device 10 can grasp the second end 261c and then pull the locking pin 261 out from the fixed main body 231 along the positive direction of the X-axis.

[0145] When the mounting body 210 is mounted on the fixing plate 230, the first protruding rod 215L extends from Fig.13 Move the position shown to Fig.14 The location shown. Fig.13In the state shown, the first end 261b of the engagement pin 261 of the second attachment and detachment mechanism 260 protrudes toward the inside of the first recess 235L. When the first protruding rod 215L is inserted from the second insertion port 237L in this state, the inclined surface 261d provided at the first end 261b of the engagement pin 261 is pressed by the first protruding rod 215L. As a result, the engagement pin 261 moves in the positive direction of the X axis.

[0146] When the second side recess 216b of the first protruding rod 215L reaches the position of the engaging pin 261, the first end 261b of the engaging pin 261 is inserted into the second side recess 216b due to the force of the second force applying member 261a. After that, even if the first protruding rod 215L is tried to be pulled out from the first recess 235L in the positive direction of the Y axis, the first protruding rod 215L cannot be pulled out because the first end 261b of the engaging pin 261 is hooked (i.e., engaged) in the second side recess 216b. However, when the first protruding rod 215L is inserted deeper into the first recess 235L in the negative direction of the Y axis, the inclined surface 261d of the first end 261b of the engaging pin 261 and the inclined surface 217 of the second side recess 216b slide against each other. As a result, the locking pin 261 moves in the positive direction of the X-axis, and the engagement between the second concave portion 216b of the side surface and the locking pin 261 is released. In other words, the user can move the locking pin 261 in the positive direction of the X-axis without pulling the second end 261c of the locking pin 261 in the positive direction of the X-axis. Fig.15 As shown, the first protruding rod 215L is inserted deeper into the first recess 235L.

[0147] Afterwards, if Fig.16 As shown, when the first protruding rod 215L is substantially entirely inserted into the first recess 235L, the first recess 216a on the side reaches the position of the engaging pin 261. As a result, the first end 261b of the engaging pin 261 is inserted into the first recess 216a on the side due to the force of the second force applying member 261a. As a result, the first end 261b is hooked (i.e., engaged) with the first recess 216a on the side. In other words, the first protruding rod 215L is in a state where it cannot be pulled out of the first recess 235L. In this way, the first protruding rod 215L is inserted into and engaged with the fixing plate 230. The second protruding rod 215R of the second arm plate 212 is also inserted into the fixing plate 230 and engaged with the second loading and unloading mechanism 260. As a result, the mounting body 210 is mounted on the fixing plate 230. The user can mount the mounting body 210 to the fixing plate 230 without pulling the second end 261 c of the engagement pin 261 outward.

[0148] When removing the installation body 210 from the fixing plate 230, the user grasps the second end 261c of the engaging pin 261 with a finger and pulls the engaging pin 261 in the positive direction of the X-axis. As a result, the first end 261b of the engaging pin 261 is disengaged from the first side recess 216a. In other words, the engagement of the engaging pin 261 with the first side recess 216a is released. The user can completely pull the first protruding rod 215L out of the fixing plate 230 by pulling the installation body 210 forward (i.e., in the positive direction of the Y-axis) while pulling the second end 261c of the engaging pin 261. The second protruding rod 215R can also be completely pulled out of the fixing plate 230. In other words, the installation body 210 can be removed from the fixing plate 230.

[0149] When the engagement of the engagement pin 261 with the first concave portion 216a on the side surface is released, the user slightly pulls out the mounting body 210 in the positive direction of the Y axis and then removes the finger from the engagement pin 261. In the above case, the second mounting and dismounting mechanism 260 becomes Fig.15 Afterwards, when the user further pulls out the mounting body 210, the state of the second mounting and dismounting mechanism 260 changes from Fig.15 The status changes shown are Fig.14 The state shown. That is, when the second side recess 216b of the first protruding rod 215L reaches the position of the engaging pin 261, the first end 261b of the engaging pin 261 is inserted into the second side recess 216b due to the force of the second force applying member 261a. As a result, the first end 261b of the engaging pin 261 is engaged with the second side recess 216b, and the first protruding rod 215L becomes unable to be pulled out of the first recess 235L. Similarly, the second protruding rod 215R also becomes unable to be pulled out of the second recess 235R. In this state, the mounting body 210 is located, for example Figure 4 Position shown.

[0150] Thus, in this embodiment, the mounting body 210 of the mounting plate 200 is located relative to the fixing plate 230. Figure 2 and Fig.16 The general location shown and Figure 4 and Fig.14 The two positions of the withdrawn position shown are locked. The mounting body 210 is located in the normal position during normal use. On the other hand, the mounting body 210 is located in the withdrawn position in a state of being withdrawn to the front.

[0151] like Figure 2 As shown, when the mounting body 210 is in the normal position, the two hinges 225 are hidden in the toilet seat mounting portion 90. Figure 4As shown in FIG. 1 , when the mounting body 210 is in the withdrawn position, the two hinges 225 are exposed to the outside. Since each hinge 225 has a concave-convex shape, dirt is easily accumulated on the hinge 225. Figure 4 As shown, the two hinges 225 are exposed to the outside, so the two hinges 225 can be easily cleaned or disinfected. Figure 4 In the embodiment, the first protruding rod 215L and the second protruding rod 215R are engaged with the second mounting and dismounting mechanism 260. As a result, the user can clean and disinfect the mounting body 210 while the mounting body 210 is in a stable state. Figure 6 As shown, when the mounting body 210 is completely removed from the fixing plate 230 (see Figure 6 ) under the condition that the user can of course clean and disinfect a wider range of the installation main body 210, including the back side of the hinge 225.

[0152] The fixing plate 230 has a guide portion 238 outside the second insertion port 237L. The guide portion 238 is formed by an inclined surface that guides the tip of the first protruding rod 215L to the first recess 235L. Specifically, a first guide body 238a and a second guide body 238b provided as a pair on the left and right are arranged outside the second insertion port 237L.

[0153] If available from Figure 2 to Figure 4 As will be understood, the second insertion opening 237L is normally hidden in the toilet seat mounting portion 90, so the user cannot visually recognize the second insertion opening 237L. Therefore, when the toilet seat mounting portion 90 is mounted on the toilet bowl 21, it is difficult to insert the first protruding rod 215L into the second insertion opening 237L.

[0154] In order to solve this problem, a guide portion 238 is provided outside the second insertion port 237L of the fixing plate 230. Since the first guide body 238a and the second guide body 238b are provided, the user can easily insert the first protruding rod 215L of the mounting body 210 into the second insertion port 237L even when the toilet seat mounting portion 90 is mounted on the toilet bowl 21. Similarly, a pair of first guide bodies 238a and second guide bodies 238b are provided outside the third insertion port 237R of the fixing plate 230. The user can easily insert each of the first protruding rod 215L and the second protruding rod 215R into the second insertion port 237L and the third insertion port 237R, respectively.

[0155] In the present embodiment, the first arm plate 211 and the second arm plate 212 are integrally provided, so the positions of the first protruding rod 215L and the second protruding rod 215R are fixed. Therefore, it is also possible to provide the guide portion 238 only in the second insertion port 237L, and not in the third insertion port 237R. Alternatively, it is also possible to provide the guide portion 238 only in the third insertion port 237R, and not in the second insertion port 237L. Preferably, the guide portion 238 is provided in each of the second insertion port 237L and the third insertion port 237R.

[0156] [7. Regarding Modifications]

[0157] The camera device of the present disclosure is described above based on the embodiments. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments. As long as it does not deviate from the main purpose of the present disclosure, the various deformations that a person skilled in the art can conceive of are applied to the above embodiments, or the methods of combining the above-described multiple components can also be included in the scope of the present disclosure.

[0158] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the support portion 115 overlaps the first arm plate 211. However, the support portion 115 may be provided below the first arm plate 211. In this case, for example, a recessed portion recessed upward may be provided on the back of the first arm plate 211, and the support portion 115 may be inserted into the recessed portion. In this case, the first hook 117 (see FIG. 1 ) may be provided on the back of the first arm plate 211. Figure 8 ) is arranged above the support portion 115. However, it is preferred that the support portion 115 overlaps the first arm plate 211. In this case, there are advantages that the support portion 115 is easier to clean, a gap where dirt is easily accumulated is not formed between the housing 111 and the mounting plate 200 when viewed from above, and the camera unit 110 is easier to attach and detach when the mounting plate 200 is lowered.

[0159] In the first mounting and dismounting mechanism 250, the first hook 117 is inserted into the mounting body 210 along the X-axis direction, and then engages with the second hook 252 that is rotatably supported by the shaft. However, the structure of the first mounting and dismounting mechanism 250 is not limited to this. For example, the first mounting and dismounting mechanism 250 may include a link mechanism that can engage with the first hook 117 and can be disengaged from the first hook 117. Even in this case, the imaging unit 110 can be detachably mounted on the mounting plate 200.

[0160] Alternatively, the structure for detachably mounting the camera unit 110 on the mounting plate 200 does not utilize mechanical engagement and the release of the mechanical engagement. For example, the structure for detachably mounting the camera unit 110 on the mounting plate 200 may be realized by utilizing the magnetic force acting between a magnet provided in one of the camera unit 110 and the mounting plate 200 and a metal provided in the other of the camera unit 110 and the mounting plate 200. In this case, the magnet 300 for detecting whether the camera unit 110 is properly mounted may be utilized in the structure. In addition, the structure for detachably mounting the camera unit 110 on the mounting plate 200 may be realized by providing one of the camera unit 110 and the mounting plate 200 with a suction cup that is attached to the other.

[0161] Alternatively, a mechanism such as the first attachment and detachment mechanism 250 for detachably attaching the camera unit 110 to the mounting plate 200 may be provided in the camera unit 110 instead of the mounting plate 200. For example, a mechanism for engaging with and releasing a hook protruding from the mounting plate 200 may be provided in the camera unit 110. However, from the viewpoint of miniaturization of the camera unit 110 or suppression of manufacturing cost, it is preferred that the mounting plate 200 be provided with a mechanism such as the first attachment and detachment mechanism 250.

[0162] The first hook 117 of the camera unit 110 does not need to be Figure 8 to Figure 11 As shown, the plate-like portion (i.e., component) with the thickness direction facing the Z-axis direction. For example, the first hook 117 may be a rod-like portion (i.e., component) such as a round rod or a square rod protruding from the shell 111. However, it is preferred that the first hook 117 is formed by a plate with the thickness direction facing the Z-axis direction from the viewpoint of ensuring the strength of the connection portion between the camera unit 110 and the mounting plate 200 and suppressing the thickness of the mounting plate 200. In particular, considering the case where the camera device 100 is installed on the toilet bowl 21 used by the elderly, it is important that the position of the toilet seat 50 in the height direction does not change significantly relative to the case where the camera device 100 is not installed, that is, the thickness of the mounting plate 200 is suppressed.

[0163] The fixing plate 230 of the mounting plate 200 does not necessarily have the position adjustment mechanism 140. For example, when the size and shape of the toilet bowl 21 to which the camera device 100 is mounted are predetermined, the mounting plate 200 may be manufactured in a size and shape corresponding to the size and shape. In this case, the fixing plate 230 may not have the position adjustment mechanism 140 for adjusting the position of the camera unit 110 or the distance between the two shaft holes 132a.

[0164] The mounting plate 200 is configured so that the mounting body 210 and the fixing plate 230 can be separated, but this is not essential. For example, in the case where the mounting plate 200 has two hinges 225 and the two hinges 225 are normally located at a position exposed from the toilet seat mounting portion 90, the portion in front of the hinges 225 can be separated. Figure 5 Thus, the user can easily clean the back side of the mounting plate 200, at least the part in front of the hinge 225.

[0165] The mounting plate 200 may not have the two hinges 225. Even in this case, the user can easily clean the entire mounting body 210 by, for example, removing the mounting body 210 from the fixing plate 230. Furthermore, the mounting plate 200 may not have the two hinges 225, and the mounting body 210 and the fixing plate 230 are not separated. Even in this case, the user can remove the mounting plate 200 from the toilet bowl 21 by removing the toilet seat mounting part 90 from the toilet bowl 21. Thus, the user can clean the entire mounting plate 200.

[0166] The imaging unit 110 may include at least the imaging element 121, but may not include the human body sensing sensor 120 and the illuminance sensor 123. In addition, for example, when the imaging element 121 can capture images in a relatively dark environment, the imaging unit 110 may not include the lighting unit 122. The imaging unit 110 may receive the detection result of the presence of a person from the seat occupancy switch 55 of the toilet seat 50 as described above without the human body sensing sensor 120.

[0167] In addition, in the present embodiment, the camera unit 110 receives power supply from the computer device 500 as the transmission destination of the image data, but the camera unit 110 may also have a built-in battery as a power supply source for operation. Furthermore, the camera unit 110 may have a wireless communication function for transmitting image data to the computer device 500. In other words, the camera device 100 can also be made completely wireless. As a result, the cable used for communication or power supply will not become an obstacle when installing or using the camera device 100.

[0168] [8. Method for attaching the marker 820]

[0169] Before the camera unit 110 starts to shoot, the camera unit 110 performs calibration in order to identify the position of the accumulated water 912. On the other hand, since the water contained in the accumulated water 912 is transparent, it tends to be difficult for the camera unit 110 to identify the position of the accumulated water 912 accumulated inside the toilet bowl 21. It is even more difficult to identify the center of the water surface of the accumulated water 912.

[0170] To solve this problem, the camera 100 is calibrated by attaching a marker 820 to the toilet bowl 21 or the camera 100 mounted on the toilet bowl 21. Needless to say, the marker 820 is attached so as to be included in the viewing angle of the camera 100 (strictly speaking, the camera unit 110).

[0171] The following describes a method for attaching a marker 820 to a toilet bowl 21 or a camera device 100 mounted on the toilet bowl 21. Hereinafter, the method is referred to as "this method". As an example, this method is implemented by a worker who is dispatched to a nursing facility, a public facility, or a residence in order to mount the camera device 100 on the toilet bowl 21.

[0172] [Tag 820]

[0173] Fig.22A is a top view of mark 820. Fig. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the mark 820. Fig.22A As shown, the mark 820 has a marking portion 821 on its front side. Fig.22A In the figure, the marking portion 821 is shaded, but the shaded line does not represent the cross section. For calibration and for the camera 100 to capture (i.e., to be recognized), the marking portion 821 is preferably colored. More preferably, the color of the marking portion 821 is red or pink. Fig. 22B As shown, it is preferable that the mark 820 is prepared in a state where the mark 820 is provided on the backing paper 823 via the adhesive layer 822, similarly to a normal sealing member.

[0174] This method includes the following steps (a) to (c).

[0175] (a) The following process: Fig.19 As shown, the pasting positioning sheet 830 is arranged on the upper end first front portion 22L and the upper end second front portion 22R in such a manner that the water accumulation is visually recognized through the water accumulation visual recognition portion 832 of the pasting positioning sheet 830 when viewed from above (i.e., when viewed from above);

[0176] (b) the step of selecting, from among a plurality of section identifiers (e.g., rear side, standard side, and front side) applied to the section selection unit 836, one section identifier at which a predetermined portion of the accumulated water when viewed from above (e.g., the center of the surface of the accumulated water) is located as a selected section identifier (e.g., selecting the standard side from among the rear side, standard side, and front side as the selected section identifier); and

[0177] (c) The following process: based on one pasting position marker (standard in the above case) contained in the pasting position markers (as an example, the rear side, standard and front side) applied to the pasting indication portion 837 and corresponding to the selected interval marker, the mark 820 is pasted to the toilet bowl 21 or the camera device 100 through the mark passing area 833.

[0178] Hereinafter, steps (a) to (c) will be described in detail.

[0179] [Step (a)]

[0180] In step (a), if Fig.19 As shown, the adhesive positioning sheet 830 is arranged on the first front portion 22L of the upper end and the second front portion 22R of the upper end. After the arrangement, the accumulated water 912 inside the toilet bowl 21 is visually recognized through the accumulated water visual recognition portion 832 when viewed from above (i.e., when the adhesive positioning sheet 830, the toilet bowl 21 and the camera device 100 are observed from above).

[0181] The water accumulation visual recognition unit 832 is composed of the following areas: (i) Fig.23 The through-area of ​​the through-pasted positioning sheet 830 is shown, or (ii) as Fig.18 The notch area is formed from the periphery of the adhesive positioning sheet 830 toward the center. In short, the accumulated water is visually recognized through the accumulated water visual recognition portion 832 when viewed from above.

[0182] Or, if Fig.24 As shown, when the pasting positioning sheet 830 is formed of a transparent plate such as an acrylic plate, the accumulated water visual confirmation portion 832 does not need to be a through region or a notch region.

[0183] [Details of pasting the positioning sheet 830]

[0184] The details of attaching the positioning sheet 830 will be described below.

[0185] like Fig.18 and Fig.19 As shown, the pasting positioning sheet 830 includes a water accumulation visual recognition portion 832, a zone selection portion 836, a mark passing area 833, and a pasting indication portion 837. As described above, the pasting positioning sheet 830 is arranged on the upper end first front portion 22L and the upper end second front portion 22R, and then the water accumulation is visually recognized through the water accumulation visual recognition portion 832.

[0186] [Section selection unit 836]

[0187] The zone selection portion 836 is located at the periphery of the water accumulation visual recognition portion 832. A plurality of zone signs are provided on the zone selection portion 836. Preferably, the plurality of zone signs are printed on the front surface of the positioning sheet 830 to which the positioning sheet 830 is attached.

[0188] As an example, three interval identifiers, namely, rear side, standard side, and front side, are applied to the interval selection unit 836 in a row in the front-to-back direction. The interval identifier may also be a text such as "1, 2, 3", "A, B, C" or a graphic such as "circle, triangle, square". The term "text" includes the meaning of numbers (i.e., numerical values) and symbols. Alternatively, two interval identifiers or four or more interval identifiers may be applied to the interval selection unit 836 instead of three interval identifiers.

[0189] [Mark through area 833]

[0190] The mark passing area 833 is composed of the following areas: (i) Fig.24 The through-area of ​​the through-pasted positioning sheet 830 is shown, or (ii) as Fig.18 , Fig.19 and Fig.23 The notch area is formed from the periphery of the self-adhesive positioning sheet 830 toward the center. In the step (c) described later, the mark 820 passes through the mark passing area 833, and then Fig.21 As shown, it is attached to the toilet bowl 21 or the camera device 100. More specifically, the mark 820 moves from the front side of the adhesive positioning sheet 830 to the back side, passing through the mark passing area 833 composed of the through area or the notch area, and then attached to the toilet bowl 21 or the camera device 100.

[0191] like Fig.24 As shown, even when the pasting positioning sheet 830 is formed of a transparent plate, the mark passing area 833 is different from the water accumulation visual recognition portion 832 and is formed of a through area or a notch area.

[0192] [Paste instruction unit 837]

[0193] like Fig. 20 As shown, the pasting indicator 837 is located at the periphery of the mark passing area 833. The pasting indicator 837 is provided with a plurality of pasting position marks of the mark 820. Similar to the section selection part 836, the pasting position marks are printed on the front side of the pasting positioning sheet 830.

[0194] The plurality of section marks applied to the section selection unit 836 correspond to one of the plurality of pasting position marks applied to the pasting instruction unit 837. Fig.18 and Fig.19As shown in the figure, when three section marks, namely, rear side, standard side, and front side, are applied to the section selection section 836, three pasting position marks, namely, rear side, standard side, and front side, are also applied to the pasting instruction section 837. The "rear side", "standard side", and "front side" applied to the section selection section 836 correspond to the "rear side", "standard side", and "front side" applied to the pasting instruction section 837, respectively. In this way, the plurality of section marks applied to the section selection section 836 and the pasting position marks applied to the pasting instruction section 837 correspond to each other in a 1:1 ratio.

[0195] Similarly, when three interval identifiers "1, 2, 3" are applied to the interval selection unit 836, three pasting position identifiers "1, 2, 3" are also applied to the pasting indication unit 837. The "1", "2", and "3" applied to the interval selection unit 836 correspond to the "1", "2", and "3" applied to the pasting indication unit 837, respectively. When two interval identifiers are applied to the interval selection unit 836, two pasting position identifiers are also applied to the pasting indication unit 837. When more than four interval identifiers are applied to the interval selection unit 836, more than four pasting position identifiers are also applied to the pasting indication unit 837. The number of interval identifiers is consistent with the number of pasting position identifiers.

[0196] [Step (b)]

[0197] In step (b), one interval identifier at which a predetermined portion of the accumulated water 912 when viewed from above (for example, the center 915 of the water surface of the accumulated water) is located is selected as the selected interval identifier from among multiple interval identifiers (for example, the rear side, standard side, and front side) applied to the interval selection unit 836.

[0198] like Fig.19 As shown in FIG. 8 , the accumulated water is visually recognized through the accumulated water visual recognition unit 832 when viewed from above. In the following description, as an example, the predetermined portion of the accumulated water is the center 915 of the surface of the accumulated water 912. Fig.19 In the example, the water surface center 915 is within the range of the standard interval. Fig.19 In the example, the standard interval marker is selected as the selected interval marker. When the center 915 of the surface of the pond 912 is located at position 915A, the rear interval marker is selected as the selected interval marker. When the center 915 of the surface of the pond 912 is located at position 915B, the front interval marker is selected as the selected interval marker.

[0199] [Step (c)]

[0200] In step (c), based on one affixing position mark corresponding to the selected section mark, the mark 820 is affixed to the toilet bowl 21 or the imaging device 100 by passing through the mark passing area 833 .

[0201] As described above, when the three section marks of rear side, standard side, and front side are applied to the section selection unit 836, the three pasting position marks of rear side, standard side, and front side are also applied to the pasting instruction unit 837. As described above, the plurality of section marks and the plurality of pasting position marks correspond to each other in a 1:1 manner. Fig.19 As shown, when the standard interval marker is selected as the selected interval marker, the mark 820 is pasted on the toilet bowl 21 or the camera device 100 based on the pasting position marker corresponding to the standard interval marker (i.e., the standard pasting position marker). More specifically, the mark 820 is pasted on a part of the toilet bowl 21 or the camera device 100 that is close to the standard pasting position marker.

[0202] When the mark 820 is affixed to the toilet bowl 21 or the camera device 100, the mark 820 passes through the mark passing area 833 composed of a through area or a notch area. In other words, the operator makes the mark 820 pass from the surface facing the back side of the mark passing area 833 according to the pasting position mark corresponding to the interval mark selected as the selected interval mark, and then affixes the mark 820 to the toilet bowl 21 or the camera device 100. In more detail, the mark 820 is peeled off from the backing paper 823, and then the mark 820 is affixed in a manner of being adhered to the toilet bowl 21 or the camera device 100 by the adhesive layer 822. In this way, as Fig.21 As shown, the marker 820 is simply affixed in a manner that facilitates calibration. Fig.21 In FIG. 1 , the inner side surface of the imaging device 100 (strictly speaking, the second arm plate 212 ) is emphasized.

[0203] There is a tendency to believe that bringing a computer such as a notebook personal computer, a smart phone or a tablet into the toilet is undesirable, however, the operator can affix the mark 820 to the toilet bowl 21 or the camera device 100 installed on the toilet bowl 21 without bringing the computer (i.e., without using the computer).

[0204] [Preferred method]

[0205] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments will be described.

[0206] [Positioning unit 835]

[0207] like Figures 18 to 20 As shown, the adhesive positioning sheet 830 further includes a positioning portion 835. In step (a), the positioning portion 835 is aligned with a predetermined portion of the toilet bowl 21 or the camera device 100, thereby placing the adhesive positioning sheet 830 on the first front portion 22L of the upper end and the second front portion 22R of the upper end. Fig.19As shown, the predetermined portion of the toilet bowl 21 or the imaging device 100 (hereinafter referred to as “target portion”) is a corner 118 of the imaging device 100 .

[0208] By aligning the positioning portion 835 with the target portion (for example, the corner 118), the pasting positioning sheet 830 is arranged at the correct position on the upper end first front portion 22L and the upper end second front portion 22R. Therefore, the marker 820 is pasted at the correct position.

[0209] [Confirmation section 834]

[0210] like Figures 18 to 20 As shown, the pasting positioning sheet 830 also includes a confirmation portion 834 that can visually identify a part of the camera device 100. The confirmation portion 834 is composed of a through area or a notch area, similar to the water visual identification portion 832. When the pasting positioning sheet 830 is composed of a transparent plate, the confirmation portion 834 does not need to be such a through area or a notch area.

[0211] In step (a), a portion of the camera device 100 is visually identified via the confirmation portion 834. In this way, the pasted positioning sheet 830 is arranged at the correct position above the upper end first front portion 22L and the upper end second front portion 22R. Therefore, the marker 820 is pasted at the correct position. In other words, if the portion of the camera device 100 cannot be visually identified via the confirmation portion 834, the pasted positioning sheet 830 is not arranged at the correct position above the upper end first front portion 22L and the upper end second front portion 22R. In detail, by visually identifying that the line indicating the center of the camera applied to the edge portion of the rear side of the confirmation portion 834 is consistent with the center of the camera element 121, it is possible to confirm that the pasted positioning sheet 830 is arranged at the correct position.

[0212] [Differentiation of terms]

[0213] The terms through-region and notch region are used for the water accumulation visual identification portion 832, the mark passing region 833, and the confirmation portion 834. In order to strictly distinguish these terms, the through-region of the water accumulation visual identification portion 832, the through-region of the mark passing region 833, and the through-region of the confirmation portion 834 are respectively referred to as the first through-region, the second through-region, and the third through-region. Similarly, the notch region of the water accumulation visual identification portion 832, the notch region of the mark passing region 833, and the notch region of the confirmation portion 834 are respectively referred to as the first notch region, the second notch region, and the third notch region.

[0214] In addition, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. For example, other embodiments that are realized by arbitrarily combining the constituent elements described in this specification and excluding some constituent elements may also be used as embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, modifications obtained by applying various modifications that a person skilled in the art would think of to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the main purpose of the present disclosure, i.e., the meaning of the sentences described in the claims, are also included in the present disclosure.

[0215] In addition, the case where the camera unit 110 is mounted on the toilet bowl 21 via the mounting plate 200 has been described, but the camera unit 110 may be directly mounted on the toilet bowl 21 or on the toilet seat 50. In this case, the mark 820 may be attached to the inner surface of the toilet seat 50.

[0216] [9. Using the camera of Mark 820]

[0217] Fig.25 This is a flowchart of a part of the process of acquiring an image obtained by photographing the excrement inside the toilet bowl using the mark 820. Fig.26 12 is a diagram showing an example of image data obtained by the camera unit 110. Typically, the semiconductor element includes a control unit 126. Alternatively, the control unit 126 may be composed of a semiconductor element. Semiconductor elements are generally referred to as "microcomputers." Examples of semiconductor elements are integrated circuits (hereinafter referred to as "ICs") or large-scale integrated circuits (hereinafter referred to as "LSIs"). In addition to the control unit 126, the semiconductor element also includes a storage unit.

[0218] The imaging device 100 includes a distance measuring sensor and an illumination sensor. The imaging device 100 performs the following steps S001 to perform calibration (ie, correction).

[0219] First, in S001, the inside of the toilet bowl is darkened. Specifically, the inside of the toilet bowl is darkened by (i) closing the toilet lid or (ii) covering the upper end of the toilet bowl with an opaque plate or a sheet such as cloth.

[0220] Next, in S002, the control unit operates the distance measuring sensor (hereinafter referred to as "distance measuring sensor", not shown) to measure the distance from the camera unit 110 to the toilet lid. The illumination sensor (not shown) is used to measure the illumination inside the toilet bowl. The measured distance and illumination are sent to the semiconductor element and then stored in the storage unit.

[0221] In S003, when the control unit 126 determines that the illumination inside the toilet bowl is greater than a predetermined value (even if the inside of the toilet bowl is not dark), the process proceeds to S013 (described later) as an error, and then returns to S001 to measure the distance from the camera unit 110 to the toilet lid again, and to measure the illumination inside the toilet bowl. Next, in S004, when it is determined that the distance from the camera unit 110 to the toilet lid is too close, the process proceeds to S013 (described later) as an error, and then returns to S001 to measure the distance from the camera unit 110 to the toilet lid again, and to measure the illumination inside the toilet bowl.

[0222] In S003 and S004, when the control unit 126 determines that the illumination inside the toilet bowl is lower than a predetermined value and the distance from the imaging unit 110 to the toilet lid is not too close, the following steps are executed.

[0223] First, in S005, the control unit 126 calculates the seating threshold by subtracting a predetermined value from the distance from the imaging unit 110 to the toilet lid. Fig.25 In the example, the predetermined value is 1 cm. However, the predetermined value can be changed arbitrarily. For example, the predetermined value is greater than 5 mm and less than 50 mm.

[0224] Next, in S006, the control unit 126 operates the lighting unit 122 in such a manner that the lighting unit 122 is turned on. As a result, the interior of the toilet bowl becomes brighter. As a result, the illumination inside the toilet bowl increases. After waiting for a predetermined time in order to stabilize the camera device 100 (refer to S007), in S008, the camera unit 110 is operated in such a manner that the camera unit 110 photographs the interior of the toilet bowl. In this way, image data is acquired by the camera unit 110. The image acquired by the camera unit 110 is sent to the semiconductor element and stored in the storage unit.

[0225] (Process X1)

[0226] In S009, the control unit 126 included in the semiconductor device determines whether the mark 820 is captured in the image data. That is, in S009, the control unit 126 detects the mark 820 included in the image data. From the viewpoint of improving the processing speed of the control unit 126, it is preferable that in S009, the control unit 126 determines whether the mark 820 is captured in a predetermined area (hereinafter referred to as "mark detection area 904") of the image data.

[0227] When the control unit 126 determines that the marker 820 is captured in the image data (i.e., when the marker 820 included in the image data is detected), control is performed so that the position of the detected marker 820 is stored in the storage unit as marker position information. Fig.26As shown, the mark position information includes information of the coordinates (Xm, Ym) of one point. When the control unit 126 determines that the mark 820 is not photographed in the image data (i.e., the mark 820 included in the image data is not detected), it enters S013 (described later) as an error, and then returns to S001 to measure the distance from the camera unit 110 to the toilet cover and the illumination inside the toilet bowl again.

[0228] (Process X2)

[0229] Next, in S010, the control unit 126 sets the excrement detection area 901 based on the information of the coordinates (Xm, Ym) of one point included in the mark position information. Fig.26 In , the image data includes 320 pixels × 240 pixels. The coordinates (Xm, Ym) of one point included in the marker position information are (126, 23).

[0230] A specific example of a method of setting the excrement detection area 901 will be described below.

[0231] (Specific Example 1 of the Method for Setting the Excrement Detection Area 901)

[0232] In specific example 1, the excrement detection area 901 is a rectangle. The control unit 126 adds a predetermined vector value (Xp, Yp) to the coordinates (Xm, Ym) of one point included in the mark position information to calculate the coordinates (Xr, Yr) of one point. That is, Xr=Xm+Xp, and Yr=Ym+Yp. Next, the coordinates (Xr1, Yr1), (Xr2, Yr2) and (Xr3, Yr3) of the remaining three points are calculated using a predetermined vector value (Xp1, Yp1) so that the calculated coordinates (Xr, Yr) of the one point become one vertex of the rectangle constituting the excrement detection area 901. In example 1, the excrement detection area 901 is an area surrounded by a rectangle constituted by these four coordinates (Xr, Yr), (Xr1, Yr1), (Xr2, Yr2) and (Xr3, Yr3).

[0233] As an example, in Fig.26 In , the predetermined vector value is (-63, 97). Therefore, the coordinates (Xr, Yr) of one vertex of the rectangle constituting the excrement detection area 901 are calculated as (126, 23) + (-63, 97) = (63, 120). Fig.26, the vector value (Xp1, Yp1) is (120, 60). The coordinate (Xr1, Yr1) is calculated as (63, 120) + (120, 0) = (183, 120). The coordinate (Xr2, Yr2) is calculated as (63, 120) + (0, 60) = (63, 180). The coordinate (Xr3, Yr3) is calculated as (63, 120) + (120, 60) = (183, 180). Therefore, in this example, the excrement detection area 901 is an area surrounded by a rectangle consisting of the four coordinates (63, 120), (183, 120), (63, 180) and (183, 180).

[0234] (Specific Example 2 of the Method for Setting the Excrement Detection Area 901)

[0235] In the specific example 2, the excrement detection area 901 is a rectangle. The control unit 126 adds a predetermined vector value (Xp, Yp) to the coordinates (Xm, Ym) of the point included in the mark position information to calculate the coordinates (Xr, Yr) of the point. That is, Xr = Xm + Xp, and Yr = Ym + Yp. Next, the coordinates (Xr1, Yr1), (Xr2, Yr2), (Xr3, Yr3) and (Xr4, Yr4) of the four points constituting the vertices of the rectangle constituting the excrement detection area 901 are calculated using the predetermined vector value (Xp1, Yp1) so that the calculated coordinates (Xr, Yr) of the point become the intersection of the diagonal lines of the rectangle constituting the excrement detection area 901. In Example 2, the excrement detection area 901 is an area surrounded by a rectangle formed by these four coordinates (Xr1, Yr1), (Xr2, Yr2), (Xr3, Yr3), and (Xr4, Yr4).

[0236] (Specific Example 3 of the Method for Setting the Excrement Detection Area 901)

[0237] In specific example 3, the excrement detection area 901 has a circular shape. The control unit 126 adds a predetermined vector value (Xp, Yp) to the coordinates (Xm, Ym) of the point included in the mark position information to calculate the coordinates (Xr, Yr) of the point. That is, Xr = Xm + Xp, and Yr = Ym + Yp. Next, the area of ​​the circle constituting the excrement detection area 901 is calculated using a predetermined radius value r so that the calculated coordinates (Xr, Yr) of the point become the center of the circle constituting the excrement detection area 901. The calculated area is the excrement detection area 901.

[0238] In specific examples 1 to 3 of the method for setting the excrement detection area 901, the predetermined vector value (Xp, Yp) may be a value fixed in the semiconductor element. Alternatively, the predetermined vector value (Xp, Yp) may be a value that can be changed by inputting it into the semiconductor element by a worker (or an operator of the imaging device 100) who is dispatched to a nursing facility, a public facility, or a residence to install the imaging device 100 on the toilet bowl 21.

[0239] After the excrement detection area 901 is set as described above, the control unit 126 controls the lighting unit 122 to be turned off in S011. After waiting for a predetermined time in order to stabilize the imaging device 100 (see S012), the calibration process is terminated (see S014). Fig.25 In S013, if there are five consecutive errors, the calibration process is also terminated.

[0240] Preferably, the excrement detection area 901 corresponds to the accumulated water 912 located inside the toilet bowl 21. This is because excrement usually falls into the accumulated water 912.

[0241] Alternatively, when setting the excrement detection area 901 (i.e., in S010), the control unit 126 sets the toilet bowl color detection area 902. This is because some operations of the camera device 100 may depend on the color of the toilet bowl (strictly speaking, the color of the toilet bowl 21). Fig.26 In the present invention, a toilet color detection area 902 is set between the coordinates (Xm, Ym) of a point included in the mark position information and the coordinates (Xr, Yr) of a point included in the excrement detection area 901. The method of setting the toilet color detection area 902 is the same as that of the excrement detection area 901.

[0242] Alternatively, when setting the excrement detection area 901 (i.e., in S010), the control unit 126 sets the falling object detection area 903. Excrement discharged from the human body and then falling downward passes through the falling object detection area 903 in the image data. This is because there are cases where the camera device 100 needs information on excrement falling downward toward the falling object detection area 903 (i.e., passing through the falling object detection area 903). Fig.26 In FIG. 9 , a dropped object detection region 903 is set above the coordinates (Xr, Yr) of one point included in the excrement detection region 901. The method of setting the dropped object detection region 903 is the same as that of the excrement detection region 901.

[0243] It can also be, Fig.26As shown, in order to suppress the situation where useless data is included in the image data, a predetermined local area including the four corners of the image data is deleted from the image data. In other words, the predetermined local area including the four corners of the image data may always be composed of black pixels.

[0244] The mark 820 is provided on at least one selected from the group consisting of the toilet bowl 21, the camera device 100, and the toilet seat 50. Two marks may also be used. There is no limitation on the method of providing the mark 820, but in the above description, as an example of the method, the mark 820 is attached to at least one selected from the group consisting of the toilet bowl 21, the camera device 100, and the toilet seat.

[0245] Industrial Applicability

[0246] As an example, the imaging device of the present disclosure is used to image excrement of a subject in a nursing facility.

Claims

1. A camera device, which is a camera device for photographing the interior of a toilet bowl, wherein: The camera device has: a camera unit for photographing the interior of the toilet bowl; and a semiconductor element that acquires image data obtained by the imaging unit and controls the imaging unit, The semiconductor device includes a control unit and a storage unit. During operation, the control unit performs: A step (X1) in which the position of a mark included in the image data is detected as mark position information; and step (X2), in which a predetermined area included in the image data is set as a waste detection area based on the mark position information, Here, the mark is provided on at least one selected from the group consisting of the toilet bowl, the imaging device, and a toilet seat.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: The excrement detection area corresponds to the accumulated water located inside the toilet bowl.

3. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: The mark is arranged on the bedpan.

4. The imaging device according to claim 3, wherein: The mark is arranged on the inner peripheral surface of the toilet bowl.

5. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: The mark is provided on the imaging device.

6. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: The mark is arranged on the toilet seat.

7. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: The mark is attached to at least one selected from the group consisting of the toilet bowl, the imaging device, and a toilet seat.

8. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: The mark position information includes the coordinates (Xm, Ym) of a point. The excrement detection area includes information of coordinates (Xr, Yr) of at least one point, In the step (X2), The control unit calculates information on the coordinates (Xr, Yr) of the at least one point included in the excrement detection area by adding a predetermined vector (Xa, Yb) to the coordinates (Xm, Ym) of one point included in the mark position information.

9. The imaging device according to claim 8, wherein: The control unit determines the excrement detection area based on information on coordinates (Xr, Yr) of the at least one point included in the excrement detection area.

10. The imaging device according to claim 8, wherein: The excrement detection area is rectangular. The control unit determines the excrement detection area so that the coordinates (Xr, Yr) of the at least one point included in the excrement detection area become one vertex of the rectangle.

11. The imaging device according to claim 8, wherein: The excrement detection area is rectangular. The control unit determines the excrement detection area so that the coordinates (Xr, Yr) of the at least one point included in the excrement detection area become the intersection of the diagonal lines of the rectangle.

12. The imaging device according to claim 8, wherein: The excrement detection area has a circular shape, The control unit determines the excrement detection area so that the coordinates (Xr, Yr) of the at least one point included in the excrement detection area become the center of the circle.

13. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit further performs a step (X3) of capturing an image of excrement included in the excrement detection area as excrement image data after the step (X2).

14. A photographing method, which is a photographing method for photographing the interior of a toilet bowl, wherein: The camera method includes: A step (X1) in which a mark included in the image data is detected as mark position information; and step (X2), in which a predetermined area included in the image data is set as a waste detection area based on the mark position information, Here, the image data is obtained by an imaging unit that captures an image of the interior of the toilet bowl, and the mark is provided on at least one selected from the group consisting of the toilet bowl, the imaging device, and a toilet seat.

Images