Sensor unit and toilet device

Abstract

A sensor unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided with: a light-emitting element that emits light to an object; two light receiving elements that receive light from an object; and a transmission window that is disposed between the light-emitting element and the object and that transmits light from the light-emitting element. The two light-receiving elements are disposed on a concentric circle of the light-emitting element and within a range of less than 180 degrees centered on the light-emitting element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a sensor unit and a toilet seat. Background Art

[0002] In the past, a sensor has been proposed that measures blood flow status, etc. by irradiating a human body with light such as laser light, receiving and analyzing scattered light reflected by the human body (for example, see Japanese Patent No. 5785267). It should be noted that the sensor involved in the prior art is composed of a light-emitting element that emits light and two light-receiving elements that receive light.

[0003] However, when the above-mentioned sensor is placed on a toilet seat, for example, a transmissive window through which light from the light-emitting element passes may be arranged between the sensor and the human body (user) in order to protect the sensor. However, if a transmissive window is arranged, the light-receiving element may receive reflected light reflected by the transmissive window in addition to scattered light reflected by the user. Since the reflected light involved is not light reflected by the user, it may interfere with the process of measuring the blood flow state. In addition, for the sensor unit having the above-mentioned sensor, miniaturization is desired in view of the limitation of storage space or design.

[0004] An object of one aspect of the embodiment is to provide a sensor unit and a toilet seat which can suppress a light receiving element from receiving reflected light reflected by a transmission window and can be downsized. Summary of the invention

[0005] A sensor unit according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a light emitting element that emits light toward an object; two light receiving elements that receive light from the object; and a transmission window that is disposed between the light emitting element and the object and transmits the light from the light emitting element. The two light receiving elements are disposed on a concentric circle of the light emitting element and within a range of less than 180 degrees centered on the light emitting element.

[0006] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window, and to achieve miniaturization. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] By reading the following detailed description of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, a more comprehensive understanding of the present invention and its advantages can be more easily understood.

[0008] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a flush toilet device including a toilet seat device according to the first embodiment;

[0009] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a measurement system;

[0010] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The III-III line cross-sectional view;

[0011] Figure 4 is a side cross-sectional view showing a light emitting element, a light receiving element, and a transmission window from a side perspective;

[0012] Figure 5 is a side cross-sectional view showing a light emitting element, a light receiving element, and a transmission window from a side perspective;

[0013] Figure 6 is a top view showing a light emitting element and a light receiving element from a top view perspective;

[0014] Figure 7 is a top view showing a light emitting element and a light receiving element in a modified example of the first embodiment, when viewed from a top perspective;

[0015] Figure 8 is a side sectional view showing a light emitting element, a light receiving element, and a transmission window in a side view in the second embodiment;

[0016] Fig. 9 is a side sectional view showing a light emitting element, a light receiving element, and a transmission window in a side view in the second embodiment;

[0017] Fig.10 is a top view showing a light emitting element and a light receiving element in a second embodiment, when viewed from a top perspective;

[0018] Fig.11 In the third embodiment Figure 1 The III-III line cross-sectional view;

[0019] Fig.12 is a side cross-sectional view showing a light emitting element, a light receiving element, and a transmission window from a side perspective;

[0020] Fig.13 is a side cross-sectional view showing a light emitting element, a light receiving element, and a transmission window from a side perspective;

[0021] Fig.14 is a top view showing a light emitting element and a light receiving element from a top view perspective;

[0022] Fig.15 is a side sectional view showing a light emitting element, a light receiving element, and a transmission window in a side view in a fourth embodiment;

[0023] Fig.16 is a side sectional view showing a light emitting element, a light receiving element, and a transmission window in a side view in a fourth embodiment;

[0024] Fig.17 FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a light emitting element and a light receiving element in a plan view in the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the sensor unit and toilet seat disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0026] (First Embodiment)

[0027] Reference Figure 1 , a toilet seat apparatus including a sensor unit according to a first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of a flush toilet device having a toilet seat device according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 as well as Figure 3 All the following are schematic diagrams.

[0028] In addition, Figure 1 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, mutually orthogonal X-axis direction, Y-axis direction and Z-axis direction are specified, and the figure shows a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system in which the positive direction of the Z-axis is set as the vertical upward direction. In addition, in the following description, there is a case where the positive direction of the X-axis is recorded as "left", the negative direction of the X-axis is recorded as "right", the positive direction of the Y-axis is recorded as "back", and the negative direction of the Y-axis is recorded as "front". In other words, there is a case where the direction is recorded as "left", "right", "back", and "front" from the perspective of the user sitting on the toilet seat 30 described later. Therefore, in the following description, there is a case where the X-axis direction is called the left-right direction, the Y-axis direction is called the front-back direction, and the Z-axis direction is called the up-down direction (vertical direction).

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the flush toilet device 1 includes a flush toilet 10 and a toilet seat device 20. The flush toilet 10 includes a bowl 11. The bowl 11 is formed into a bowl shape capable of receiving waste. The bowl 11 is cleaned by the spitted clean water, and the clean water that cleans the bowl 11 is discharged through a drainage pipe not shown. In addition, for example, the flush toilet 10 is made of pottery. It should be noted that the flush toilet 10 is not limited to pottery, for example, it can be a flush toilet made of resin, and it can also be a flush toilet composed of a combination of pottery and resin.

[0030] The toilet seat 20 is mounted on the upper part of the flush toilet 10 and includes a toilet seat 30, a toilet cover 36, a functional part 38, and a sensor unit 40. The toilet seat 20 may be detachably mounted on the flush toilet 10 or may be integrally mounted therewith.

[0031] The toilet seat 30 is formed in a ring shape with an opening in the center, and is arranged along the edge 12 at a position overlapping with the opening of the flush toilet 10. For example, the toilet seat 30 is made of resin and has a seat surface 31 for a user to sit on. The seat surface 31 supports the buttocks or thighs of the seated user. In addition, the toilet seat 30 is formed in a hollow shape, and a sensor unit 40 and the like are provided inside.

[0032] The toilet lid 36 is installed on the toilet seat 30 in an openable and closable manner. The functional part 38 contains, for example, a nozzle device, and sprays washing water from the nozzle device to the user's body to wash the local area. It should be noted that the toilet seat device 20 may be a structure without the toilet lid 36 or the functional part 38 described above.

[0033] The sensor unit 40 includes a sensor 51 (see Figure 2 ), the sensor 51 can measure various conditions related to the user using the flush toilet device 1. For example, the sensor 51 is a sensor that can measure the blood flow state of the user sitting on the toilet seat 30. As the sensor 51 involved, an optical biosensor (for example, a blood flow sensor using a laser) can be used. Figure 2 A measurement system including the sensor 51 will be described. Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a measurement system.

[0034] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the measurement system 100 includes the above-mentioned sensor 51 , a control device 110 , and a display device 120 . The sensor 51 includes a light emitting element 52 and two light receiving elements 53 .

[0035] The light emitting element 52 emits, for example, laser light. Specifically, the light emitting element 52 irradiates, for example, laser light to the user seated on the toilet seat 30. More specifically, when the user is seated on the toilet seat 30, the light emitting element 52 irradiates the user's buttocks or thighs with laser light. It should be noted that the light emitting element 52 may also be a structure that emits other types of light, such as infrared rays or visible light, and is not limited to laser light. In addition, the user (more precisely, the user's measurement site) illuminated (irradiated) by the light is an example of an object.

[0036] The two light receiving elements 53 receive light from the user (more precisely, the measurement site of the user). It should be noted that there is a case where one of the two light receiving elements 53 is described as "the first light receiving element 53a" and the other is described as "the second light receiving element 53b". In addition, when the first light receiving element 53a and the second light receiving element 53b are not particularly distinguished for description, they are described as "the light receiving element 53" or "the two light receiving elements 53".

[0037] Specifically, the light irradiated by the light emitting element 52 (irradiation light, laser light) is reflected by the blood vessels (blood flow) of the user, and the reflected light (scattered light) is received by the two light receiving elements 53. The sensor 51 outputs a signal related to the irradiation light or scattered light, such as the frequency of the irradiation light or scattered light, to the control device 110.

[0038] The control device 110 includes a control unit 111, a storage unit 112, and a communication unit 113. The control device 110 is housed in, for example, the functional unit 38 of the toilet seat 20 (see Figure 1 ), but is not limited thereto.

[0039] For example, the control unit 111 uses a RAM (Random Access Memory) as a working area, and is implemented by executing a program stored in the storage unit 112 through a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). It should be noted that, for example, the control unit 111 can also be implemented by hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The storage unit 112 has a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory, and is implemented by a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory.

[0040] The control unit 111 measures the blood flow state such as the pulse rate, pulse fluctuation, and blood flow rate of the user based on the signal output from the sensor 51. For example, the control unit 111 performs processing such as detecting the flow rate change of red blood cells flowing in the blood vessels using laser light. The control unit 111 performs processing such as detecting the frequency of Doppler shift caused by the red blood cells flowing in the blood vessels.

[0041] In detail, the control unit 111 amplifies the difference between the electrical signal representing the scattered light received by the first light receiving element 53a and the electrical signal representing the scattered light received by the second light receiving element 53b (in other words, amplifies the difference). It should be noted that the above-mentioned differential amplification can be performed by a differential amplifier circuit. In addition, the control unit 111 performs a process of detecting the flow change of red blood cells or a process of detecting the frequency that produces Doppler shift based on the amplified signal. That is, the control unit 111 measures the blood flow state by analyzing the signal related to the irradiated light from the light emitting element 52 or the scattered light received by each of the two light receiving elements 53. It should be noted that the information representing the measured blood flow state is not limited to the above-mentioned pulse rate, pulse variation, and blood flow rate of the user, and any information that represents the state related to the blood flow of the user, in other words, any information that represents the biological information of the user, can be used.

[0042] The communication unit 113 transmits and receives information to and from the display device 120. It should be noted that the control device 110 and the display device 120 may be connected by wireless communication or by wired communication. The control unit 111 outputs information indicating the measured blood flow state to the display device 120 via the communication unit 113.

[0043] The display device 120 displays information indicating the measured blood flow state. Thus, the user can determine (understand) his own blood flow state. It should be noted that the display device 120 can be a display unit of a remote controller that outputs an operation instruction of the toilet device 20 or a flushing instruction of the water-flushing toilet 10, or a display unit of a portable terminal used by the user, etc. These are examples and are not limited thereto.

[0044] It should be noted that the sensor 51 is not limited to the above-mentioned sensor for measuring the user's blood flow state, and may also include other types of sensors such as a weight sensor for measuring the user's weight or a body fat sensor for measuring the user's body fat percentage.

[0045] Return to Figure 1 As described above, the opening 32 is formed in the seat surface 31 of the toilet seat 30. The sensor unit 40 according to the embodiment is fixed to the toilet seat 30 so as to be partially exposed from the opening 32.

[0046] In addition, when the sensor 51 is provided on the toilet seat 30, in order to protect the sensor 51 from dirt or impact, a transmission window 64 (see FIG. 6 ) is provided between the sensor 51 and the user to transmit light from the light emitting element 52. Figure 3). However, if the transmission window 64 is configured, the light receiving element 53 may receive the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 64 in addition to the scattered light reflected by the user. Since the reflected light involved is not the light reflected by the user and is not the light indicating the blood flow state, it may become interference in the process of measuring the blood flow state. In addition, the sensor unit 40 having the sensor 51 is expected to be miniaturized in view of the limitation of the storage space or the design.

[0047] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the configuration is made so as to suppress the light receiving element 53 from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 64 and to achieve miniaturization.

[0048] Reference Figure 3 , the sensor unit 40 and the like involved in this embodiment will be described in detail. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 It should be noted that in Figure 3 In FIG. 1 , a user A sitting on the seat surface 31 of the toilet seat 30 is indicated by a two-dot chain line, and a measurement site of the user A is indicated by a symbol “ A1 ”.

[0049] like Figure 3 As shown, the sensor unit 40 includes a sensor 51 , a sensor substrate 55 , and a sensor box 60 , and is fixed to the toilet seat 30 .

[0050] like Figure 3 As shown, the sensor 51 is mounted on a sensor substrate 55. For example, the sensor substrate 55 is made of resin, and its upper surface is a main surface 55a. The sensor 51 is mounted near the center of the main surface 55a of the sensor substrate 55.

[0051] As described above, the sensor 51 includes a light emitting element 52 and two light receiving elements 53 (in Figure 3 When the user A sits on the toilet seat 30, the light emitting element 52 irradiates light (for example, laser light) to the measurement area A1 of the buttocks or thigh of the user A (see arrow B1). It should be noted that the light emitting element 52 may also be referred to as a light emitting unit or an irradiating unit.

[0052] The light receiving element 53 receives light from the user A (see arrow B2). Specifically, the light receiving element 53 receives light reflected by the measurement site A1 of the user A, i.e., scattered light. It should be noted that the light receiving element 53 may also be referred to as a light receiving unit. In addition, the sensor 51 may also be a unitized component in which the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements 53 are integrated.

[0053] It should be noted that the positions of the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements 53 are described in detail below. Figures 4 to 6 This will be described later.

[0054] The sensor box 60 accommodates the sensor substrate 55 and the like. The sensor box 60 is made of resin, but is not limited to this.

[0055] The sensor box 60 includes a main body 61, a protruding portion 62, and a bottom surface portion 63. For example, the main body 61 is formed in a hollow rectangular parallelepiped shape. The lower surface side of the main body 61 is open by an opening.

[0056] The protrusion 62 is formed to protrude upward from the upper portion of the main body 61. For example, the protrusion 62 is formed in a hollow cylindrical shape. A transmission window (sensor window) 64 is provided at the upper portion of the protrusion 62.

[0057] The sensor box 60 is fixed to the toilet seat 30 in a state where the transmission window 64 is exposed from the opening 32 of the toilet seat 30. In addition, the light emitting element 52 and the light receiving element 53 are arranged below the transmission window 64. That is, the transmission window 64 is arranged between the light emitting element 52 and the light receiving element 53, and the measurement site A1 of the user A. The transmission window 64 transmits the light from the light emitting element 52 (see arrow B1). In addition, the transmission window 64 transmits the scattered light reflected by the measurement site A1 of the user A (see arrow B2). That is, the light emitting element 52 of the sensor 51 irradiates light to the user A through the transmission window 64, and the light receiving element 53 receives the scattered light reflected by the blood vessels of the user A through the transmission window 64.

[0058] The bottom surface portion 63 is formed in a flat plate shape, for example. The bottom surface portion 63 is attached to the main body portion 61 from the opening side of the lower surface of the main body portion 61 and fixed to the main body portion 61. At this time, the sensor substrate 55 is arranged and fixed between the main body portion 61 and the bottom surface portion 63.

[0059] Next, refer to Figures 4 to 6 , the structures of the light emitting element 52, the two light receiving elements 53, and the transmission window 64 involved in this embodiment are described. Figure 4 It is a side cross-sectional view showing the light emitting element 52 , the light receiving element 53 , and the transmission window 64 in a side view (specifically, a Y-axis direction view when viewed from the Y-axis direction). Figure 5 It is a side cross-sectional view showing the light emitting element 52 , the light receiving element 53 , and the transmission window 64 in a side view (specifically, in an X-axis direction view when viewed from the X-axis direction). Figure 6 1 is a top view (plan view) showing the light emitting element 52 and the light receiving element 53 in a top view (top view). Figure 6 The illustration of the transmission window 64 is omitted. Figure 6 In FIG. 5 , the range on the sensor substrate 55 where the scattered light reflected by the blood vessels of the user A is irradiated is indicated by symbol E.

[0060] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged on the same plane. Specifically, the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged on the main surface 55 a of the same sensor substrate 55 .

[0061] like Figure 6 As shown, the two light receiving elements 53 are configured to be located on the concentric circles of the light emitting element 52. In detail, the two light receiving elements 53 are configured so that the center portions of the light receiving elements 53 are respectively located on the concentric circles of the light emitting element 52. In more detail, the first light receiving element 53a is configured so that its center portion 53ax is located on the concentric circles of the light emitting element 52, and the second light receiving element 53b is configured so that its center portion 53bx is located on the concentric circles of the light emitting element 52. The concentric circles are circles centered on the center portion 52x of the light emitting element 52, and an example of concentric circles is shown by the symbol D. In this way, the two light receiving elements 53 are located on the concentric circle D of the light emitting element 52, and therefore, it can also be said that the two light receiving elements 53 are respectively configured to be at the same distance from the light emitting element 52.

[0062] In addition, the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged to be located within a range of less than 180 degrees centered on the light emitting element 52. In other words, the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged to be located within a range of less than 180 degrees in the circumferential range centered on the light emitting element 52. Specifically, in a top view, 180 degrees (α) centered on the light emitting element 52 is shown by an imaginary straight line L passing through the center portion 52x of the light emitting element 52, and the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged to be located in the range La of less than 180 degrees (α).

[0063] More specifically, in a range La less than 180 degrees (α), the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged in such a manner that the angle α1 formed by the straight line connecting the first light receiving element 53a and the light emitting element 52 and the straight line connecting the second light receiving element 53b and the light emitting element 52 is, for example, 60 degrees to 90 degrees. Specifically, in a range La less than 180 degrees (α), the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged in such a manner that the angle α1 formed by the imaginary straight line connecting the center 53ax of the first light receiving element 53a and the center 52x of the light emitting element 52 and the imaginary straight line connecting the center 53bx of the second light receiving element 53b and the center 52x of the light emitting element 52 is, for example, 60 degrees to 90 degrees. It should be noted that in the above, the angle α1 is shown as a specific numerical value, but this is an example and is not limited thereto, and it can be set to any value as long as it is a value less than 180 degrees.

[0064] It should be noted that the two light receiving elements 53 receive scattered light reflected by the blood vessels of the user A, and are therefore arranged within the range E irradiated by the scattered light.

[0065] The two light receiving elements 53 according to the present embodiment are arranged at the above-mentioned positions, so that the light receiving elements 53 can be prevented from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 64 , and the size of the light receiving elements 53 can be reduced.

[0066] That is, Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the light emitted from the light emitting element 52 (see arrow B3) is reflected by the window 64 (see arrow B4). The reflected light reflected by the window 64 is irradiated to the light emitting element 52 and the periphery of the light emitting element 52 on the sensor substrate 55. Figure 4 as well as Figure 6 In FIG. 5 , the area on the sensor substrate 55 that is irradiated with reflected light is represented by symbol C. Figure 4 In the figure, for the sake of simplicity, the refraction of light passing through the window 64 is omitted.

[0067] For the region C irradiated with such reflected light, since the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged in the region outside the region C on the concentric circle of the light emitting element 52, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 64 does not irradiate the light receiving element 53, or is not easy to irradiate the light receiving element 53. That is, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element 53 from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 64. In detail, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element 53 from receiving the reflected light that becomes interference in the process of measuring, for example, the blood flow state.

[0068] Furthermore, the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged to be located on the concentric circle of the light emitting element 52, so that the scattered light can be equally received between the two light receiving elements 53, in other words, the deviation of the received scattered light can be suppressed. Therefore, in the case of performing differential amplification of signals representing the scattered light received by the two light receiving elements 53, for example, if the scattered light is biased, the measurement accuracy of the blood flow state may be reduced, but by arranging the two light receiving elements 53 as described above, the reduction in measurement accuracy due to the deviation of the scattered light can be suppressed.

[0069] Furthermore, since the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged within a range La of less than 180 degrees centered on the light emitting element 52 , the range in which the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged can be relatively small, thereby miniaturizing the sensor unit 40 .

[0070] Furthermore, the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Specifically, the first light receiving element 53a and the second light receiving element 53b are arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance F. It should be noted that the predetermined distance F can be set to any value.

[0071] In this way, the influence of reflected light (interference) can be suppressed as much as possible by arranging the two light receiving elements 53 at a distance. That is, in a case where the transmission window 64 is tilted due to an angle deviation, for example, there is a case where reflected light slightly irradiates the light receiving element 53. Even in such a case, since the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged at a distance, the two light receiving elements 53 are not easily affected by the reflected light at the same time, so the influence of reflected light (interference) can be suppressed as much as possible.

[0072] In addition, if Figure 6 As shown, the two light receiving elements 53 are quadrilaterals in a top view. Furthermore, the light receiving element 53 is configured so that one side is parallel to the tangent D1 of the concentric circle D of the light emitting element 52. Specifically, the first light receiving element 53a is configured so that one side 53ay is parallel to the tangent D1 of the concentric circle D of the light emitting element 52. Similarly, the second light receiving element 53b is configured so that one side 53by is parallel to the tangent D1 of the concentric circle D of the light emitting element 52. It should be noted that the one side 53ay and one side 53by mentioned here are, for example, at least one of the four sides of the light receiving element 53, the side opposite to the light emitting element 52 and the side located on the opposite side of the opposite side.

[0073] Thus, since the light receiving element 53 is arranged with one side parallel to the tangent line D1 of the concentric circle D of the light emitting element 52, for example, the reflected light can be less likely to enter the corner of the light receiving element 53. That is, the light receiving element 53 can be effectively prevented from receiving the reflected light.

[0074] As described above, the sensor unit 40 according to the first embodiment includes: the light emitting element 52 that emits light toward the object (user A); two light receiving elements 53 that receive light from the object; and the transmission window 64 that is disposed between the light emitting element 52 and the object and transmits the light from the light emitting element 52. The two light receiving elements 53 are disposed so as to be located on the concentric circle D of the light emitting element 52 and within a range La of less than 180 degrees centered on the light emitting element 52. Thus, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element 53 from receiving reflected light reflected by the transmission window 64, and to achieve miniaturization.

[0075] (Modification of the first embodiment)

[0076] Next, refer to Figure 7 , a modified example of the first embodiment is described. Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a light emitting element 52 and a light receiving element 53 in a plan view in a modification of the first embodiment. Figure 6 It should be noted that, hereinafter, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description may be omitted.

[0077] like Figure 7 As shown, in a modified example of the first embodiment, the quadrilateral light receiving element 53 in a top view is configured so that its four sides intersect with the tangent D1 of the concentric circle D of the light emitting element 52. Specifically, the first light receiving element 53a is configured so that its four sides 53az intersect with the tangent D1 of the concentric circle D of the light emitting element 52. Similarly, the second light receiving element 53b is configured so that its four sides 53bz intersect with the tangent D1 of the concentric circle D of the light emitting element 52.

[0078] In this manner, even when the four sides of the light receiving element 53 are arranged to intersect the tangent line D1 of the concentric circle D of the light emitting element 52 , it is possible to suppress the light receiving element 53 from receiving reflected light, similarly to the first embodiment.

[0079] (Second Embodiment)

[0080] Next, refer to Figures 8 to 10 , the sensor unit 40 and the like according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 8 It is a side cross-sectional view showing the light emitting element 52 , the light receiving element 53 , and the transmission window 64 in a side view (specifically, a Y-axis direction view as viewed from the Y-axis direction). Fig. 9 It is a side cross-sectional view showing the light emitting element 52 , the light receiving element 53 , and the transmission window 64 in a side view (specifically, in an X-axis direction view as viewed from the X-axis direction). Fig.10 It is a plan view showing the light emitting element 52 and the light receiving element 53 in a plan view.

[0081] It should be noted that for ease of understanding, Fig.10 As shown, there is a case where the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements 53 are virtually connected to each other by a straight line G and a straight line H, and the description is made using the straight line G and the straight line H involved. Specifically, in a top view, the straight line connecting the center 52x of the light emitting element 52 and the center 53ax of the first light receiving element 53a is recorded as a "first straight line Ga". In addition, in a top view, the straight line connecting the center 52x of the light emitting element 52 and the center 53bx of the second light receiving element 53b is recorded as a "second straight line Gb". In addition, in a top view, the straight line connecting the two light emitting elements 52, in other words, the straight line connecting the center 53ax of the first light receiving element 53a and the center 53bx of the second light receiving element 53b is recorded as a "straight line H between light receiving elements".

[0082] like Fig.10As shown in FIG. 1 , the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged so that the straight line G connecting the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements 53 and the straight line H between the light receiving elements form a triangle in a top view. For example, the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged so that the first straight line Ga and the second straight line Gb are the same length to form an isosceles triangle. That is, the two light receiving elements 53 are arranged so as to be located on the concentric circle D of the light emitting element 52.

[0083] In the second embodiment, the transmission window 64 is provided obliquely with respect to the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements 53 arranged as described above so that the reflected light from the transmission window 64 does not irradiate the light receiving element 53 .

[0084] Specifically, if Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the transmission window 64 is provided in a manner inclined relative to the straight line G connecting the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements. Specifically, the transmission window 64 is provided relative to the straight line G connecting the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements (to be precise, the first straight line Ga and the second straight line Gb (see FIG. 1 )). Fig.10 )), and is tilted at an angle β in a side view. In other words, the transmission window 64 is provided to be tilted at an angle β in a side view relative to the main surface 55a of the sensor substrate 55 including the first straight line Ga and the second straight line Gb.

[0085] In other words, the transmission window 64 has a lower window surface 64a disposed opposite to the light emitting element 52, and an upper window surface 64b which is the opposite side of the window surface 64a, and the window surfaces 64a and 64b are disposed in a manner inclined relative to the straight line G.

[0086] The transmission window 64 involved in the second embodiment is tilted as described above, so that the light receiving element 53 can be further suppressed from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 64. That is, since the transmission window 64 is tilted as described above, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 64 is irradiated to a position different from the light receiving element 53 on the sensor substrate 55. In other words, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 64 does not irradiate the light receiving element 53 or is not easily irradiated to the light receiving element 53 due to the tilt of the transmission window 64.

[0087] As described above, in the present embodiment, the transmission window 64 is provided to be inclined relative to the straight lines G (first straight line Ga and second straight line Gb) connecting the light emitting element 52 and the two light receiving elements 53. Thus, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element 53 from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 64. Specifically, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element 53 from receiving the reflected light that becomes interference in the process of measuring, for example, the blood flow state.

[0088] In addition, if Fig.10As shown in FIG. 1 , the transmission window 64 is tilted so that the reflected light (see region C) reflected by the transmission window 64 is irradiated to the region J2 other than the region J1 where two light receiving elements 53 are arranged. Thus, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 64 is not irradiated to the light receiving element 53 due to the tilt of the transmission window 64, so that the light receiving element 53 can be further suppressed from receiving the reflected light.

[0089] In addition, if Fig. 9 As shown, the transmission window 64 is arranged so that the window surface 64a and the window surface 64b are parallel to the straight line H between the two light receiving elements 53. Specifically, the transmission window 64 is arranged so that the lower window surface 64a and the upper window surface 64b are parallel to the straight line H between the light receiving elements.

[0090] Thus, it is possible to suppress the reflected light from being biased toward the first light receiving element 53a side or the second light receiving element 53b side. That is, if the window surface 64a and the window surface 64b of the transmission window 64 are inclined relative to the straight line H between the light receiving elements, the reflected light will be biased toward either the first light receiving element 53a side or the second light receiving element 53b side, so that the incident reflected light (interference) will differ between the two light receiving elements 53, and the measurement accuracy may be reduced. Therefore, by setting the transmission window 64 so that the window surface 64a and the window surface 64b are parallel to the straight line H between the light receiving elements connecting the two light receiving elements 53, even if, for example, the reflected light is slightly irradiated to the light receiving element 53, the incident reflected light (in other words, interference) can be made equal between the two light receiving elements 53. Therefore, when performing differential amplification of signals representing light received by the two light receiving elements 53, for example, the influence of the reflected light (interference) can be suppressed as much as possible, and as a result, the reduction in measurement accuracy can be suppressed.

[0091] It should be noted that, in the above description, although the transmission window 64 is arranged so that the window surface 64a and the window surface 64b are parallel to the straight line H between the light receiving elements, this is not limited to this. Fig. 9 As shown by the imaginary line in the middle, the transmission window 64 may be provided so that the window surface 64a and the window surface 64b are inclined so as not to be parallel to the straight line H between the light receiving elements.

[0092] (Third Embodiment)

[0093] Next, refer to Figures 11 to 14, the sensor unit 40 and the like involved in the third embodiment are described. It should be noted that in the third embodiment and the fourth embodiment described later, for a part of the structure corresponding to the structure of the first embodiment and the second embodiment, there is a case where "1" is added in front of the symbol for description. Specifically, there is a case where the sensor 51 is recorded as "sensor 151", the light emitting element 52 is recorded as "light emitting element 152", the light receiving element 53 is recorded as "light receiving element 153", and the transmission window 64 is recorded as "transmission window 164".

[0094] As described above, the transmissive window 164 (see FIG. 164 ) for transmitting light from the light emitting element 152 is disposed between the sensor 151 and the user. Fig.11 ). However, due to the configuration or angle of the transmission window 164 relative to the sensor 151, the light receiving element 153 may receive not only the scattered light reflected by the user, but also the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164. Since the reflected light involved is not the light reflected by the user and is not light indicating the blood flow state, it may become interference in the process of measuring the blood flow state.

[0095] Therefore, in the third embodiment, it is set to be possible to suppress the light receiving element 153 from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164 .

[0096] Reference Fig.11 , the sensor unit 40 and the like according to the third embodiment will be described in detail. Fig.11 In the third embodiment Figure 1 Cross-sectional view along line III-III.

[0097] like Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , the sensor unit 40 according to the third embodiment includes a sensor 151, a sensor substrate 55, and a sensor box 60, and is fixed to the toilet seat 30. As described above, the sensor 151 includes a light emitting element 152 and two light receiving elements 153 (in Fig.11 It should be noted that the positions of the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153 are shown in FIG. Figures 12-14 In addition, the detailed structure of the transmission window 164 of the sensor box 60 will also be referred to. Figures 12-14 This will be described later.

[0098] Next, refer to Figures 12-14 , the structures of the light emitting element 152, the two light receiving elements 153, and the transmission window 164 involved in the third embodiment are described. Fig.12It is a side cross-sectional view showing the light emitting element 152 , the light receiving element 153 , and the transmission window 164 in a side view (specifically, a Y-axis direction view when viewed from the Y-axis direction). Fig.13 It is a side cross-sectional view showing the light emitting element 152 , the light receiving element 153 , and the transmission window 164 in a side view (specifically, in an X-axis direction view when viewed from the X-axis direction). Fig.14 1 is a top view (plan view) showing the light emitting element 152 and the light receiving element 153 in a top view (top view). Fig.14 In the figure, for ease of understanding, the illustration of the transmission window 164 is omitted.

[0099] like Figures 12-14 As shown in FIG. 1 , the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153 are arranged on the same plane. Specifically, the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153 are arranged on the main surface 55 a of the same sensor substrate 55 .

[0100] It should be noted that for ease of understanding, Fig.14 As shown, there is a case where the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153 are virtually connected to each other by a straight line K and a straight line M, and the description is made using the straight line K and the straight line M involved. Specifically, in a top view, a straight line connecting the center 152x of the light emitting element 152 and the center 153ax of the first light receiving element 153a is recorded as a "first straight line Ka". In addition, in a top view, a straight line connecting the center 152x of the light emitting element 152 and the center 153bx of the second light receiving element 153b is recorded as a "second straight line Kb". In addition, in a top view, a straight line connecting the two light emitting elements 152, in other words, a straight line connecting the center 153ax of the first light receiving element 153a and the center 153bx of the second light receiving element 153b is recorded as a "straight line M between light receiving elements".

[0101] like Fig.14 As shown, the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153 are arranged so that the straight line K connecting the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153, and the straight line M between the light receiving elements form a triangle in a top view. For example, the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153 are arranged so that the first straight line Ka and the second straight line Kb form an isosceles triangle with the same length.

[0102] The transmission window 164 according to the third embodiment is provided to be inclined with respect to the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153 arranged in this way so that the reflected light from the transmission window 164 does not irradiate the light receiving element 153 .

[0103] like Fig.12As shown, the transmission window 164 is arranged to be inclined relative to the straight line K connecting the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements. Specifically, the transmission window 164 is arranged to be inclined relative to the straight line K connecting the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements (to be precise, the first straight line Ka and the second straight line Kb (see Fig.14 )), and is inclined at an inclination angle β1 in a side view. In other words, the transmission window 164 is provided to be inclined at an inclination angle β1 in a side view relative to the main surface 55a of the sensor substrate 55 including the first straight line Ka and the second straight line Kb.

[0104] In other words, the transmission window 164 is provided with a lower window surface 164a opposite to the light emitting element 152 and an upper window surface 164b opposite to the window surface 164a, and the window surfaces 164a and 164b are inclined relative to the straight line K.

[0105] The transmission window 164 according to the third embodiment is tilted as described above, so that the light receiving element 153 can be prevented from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164. Fig.12 As shown, the light emitted from the light emitting element 152 (see arrow B5) is reflected by the transmission window 164 (see arrow B6). Since the transmission window 164 is tilted as described above, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164 is irradiated to a position on the sensor substrate 55 different from the position of the light receiving element 153. In other words, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164 will not irradiate the light receiving element 153 or will not easily irradiate the light receiving element 153 due to the tilt of the transmission window 164. It should be noted that in Fig.12 as well as Fig.14 In FIG. 5 , the area on the sensor substrate 55 that is irradiated with reflected light is represented by symbol C. Fig.12 In the figure, for the sake of simplicity, the refraction of light passing through the window 164 is omitted.

[0106] As described above, in the third embodiment, the transmission window 164 is provided to be inclined relative to the straight line K (first straight line Ka, second straight line Kb) connecting the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153. Thus, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element 153 from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164. Specifically, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element 153 from receiving the reflected light that would interfere with the process of measuring, for example, the blood flow state.

[0107] In addition, if Fig.14As shown, the transmission window 164 is tilted so that the reflected light (see area C) reflected by the transmission window 164 is irradiated to the area N2 other than the area N1 where two light receiving elements 153 are arranged. Thus, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164 can be prevented from irradiating the light receiving element 153 due to the tilt of the transmission window 164, so that the light receiving element 153 can be further suppressed from receiving the reflected light.

[0108] In addition, if Fig.14 As shown, the two light receiving elements 153 are arranged at the same distance from the light emitting element 152. Specifically, the two light receiving elements 153 are arranged so that the first straight line Ka and the second straight line Kb have the same length (Ka=Kb).

[0109] Thus, even if, for example, reflected light slightly irradiates the light receiving element 153, the incident reflected light (in other words, interference) can be made equal between the two light receiving elements 153. Therefore, when differential amplification of signals representing light received by the two light receiving elements 153 is performed, the influence of the reflected light (interference) can be suppressed as much as possible.

[0110] In addition, if Fig.13 As shown, the transmission window 164 is arranged so that the window surface 164a and the window surface 164b are parallel to the light receiving element straight line M connecting the two light receiving elements 153. Specifically, the transmission window 164 is arranged so that the lower window surface 164a and the upper window surface 164b are parallel to the light receiving element straight line M.

[0111] Thus, it is possible to suppress the reflected light from being biased toward the first light receiving element 153a side or the second light receiving element 153b side. That is, if the window surface 164a and the window surface 164b of the transmission window 164 are inclined relative to the straight line M between the light receiving elements, the reflected light will be biased toward either the first light receiving element 153a side or the second light receiving element 153b side, so that the incident reflected light (interference) will differ between the two light receiving elements 153, and the measurement accuracy may be reduced. Therefore, the transmission window 164 is set so that the window surface 164a and the window surface 164b are parallel to the straight line M between the light receiving elements connecting the two light receiving elements 153, so that even if, for example, the reflected light is slightly irradiated to the light receiving element 153, the incident reflected light (in other words, interference) can be made equal between the two light receiving elements 153. Therefore, for example, when differential amplification of signals representing light received by the two light receiving elements 153 is performed, the influence of reflected light (interference) can be suppressed as much as possible, and as a result, a decrease in measurement accuracy can be suppressed.

[0112] It should be noted that, in the above description, the transmission window 164 is arranged so that the window surface 164a and the window surface 164b are parallel to the straight line M between the light receiving elements, but this is not limited to this. Fig.13As shown by the imaginary line in the middle, the transmission window 164 may be configured so that the window surfaces 164a and 164b are not parallel to the straight line M between the light receiving elements.

[0113] As described above, the sensor unit 40 according to the third embodiment includes: a light emitting element 152 that emits light toward an object (user A); two light receiving elements 153 that receive light from the object; and a transmission window 164 that is disposed between the light emitting element 152 and the object and transmits light from the light emitting element 152. The light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153 are disposed on the same plane. The transmission window 164 is provided to be inclined with respect to the straight line K that connects the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153, respectively. Thus, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element 153 from receiving reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164.

[0114] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0115] Next, refer to Figures 15 to 17 , the sensor unit 40 and the like according to the fourth embodiment will be described. Fig.15 It is a side cross-sectional view showing the light emitting element 152 , the light receiving element 153 , and the transmission window 164 in a side view (specifically, a Y-axis direction view when viewed from the Y-axis direction). Fig.16 It is a side cross-sectional view showing the light emitting element 152 , the light receiving element 153 , and the transmission window 164 in a side view (specifically, in an X-axis direction view when viewed from the X-axis direction). Fig.17 1 is a top view showing the light emitting element 152 and the light receiving element 153 in a top view. Fig.17 In order to facilitate understanding, the transmissive window 164 is omitted from the illustration. It should be noted that, hereinafter, the same components as those in the third embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description may be omitted.

[0116] like Figures 15 to 17 As shown, the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153 are arranged so that the straight line K connecting the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153 and the straight line M between the light receiving elements are parallel in a plan view, in other words, are in the same straight line.

[0117] And, if Fig.15 As shown, the transmission window 164 involved in the fourth embodiment is provided to be inclined relative to the straight line K connecting the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements, and the straight line M between the light receiving elements. Specifically, the transmission window 164 is provided to be inclined relative to the straight line K (more precisely, the first straight line Ka and the second straight line Kb (see Fig.17)), and the straight line M between the light receiving elements are inclined at an inclination angle β2 in a side view. In other words, the transmission window 164 is provided to be inclined at an inclination angle β2 in a side view relative to the main surface 55a of the sensor substrate 55 including the first straight line Ka, the second straight line Kb, and the straight line M between the light receiving elements.

[0118] The transmission window 164 according to the fourth embodiment is tilted as described above, so that the light receiving element 153 can be prevented from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164, similarly to the third embodiment. Fig.15 As shown in FIG. 1 , the light emitted from the light emitting element 152 (see arrow B5) is reflected by the transmission window 164 (see arrow B6). Since the transmission window 164 is tilted as described above, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164 is irradiated to a position different from the light receiving element 153 on the sensor substrate 55. In other words, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164 does not irradiate the light receiving element 153 or is not easily irradiated to the light receiving element 153 due to the tilt of the transmission window 164.

[0119] As described above, in the fourth embodiment, the transmission window 164 is provided to be inclined with respect to the straight line K (first straight line Ka, second straight line Kb) connecting the light emitting element 152 and the two light receiving elements 153, and the light receiving element inter-element straight line M. Thus, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element 153 from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164. Specifically, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element 153 from receiving the reflected light that becomes interference in the process of measuring, for example, the blood flow state.

[0120] In addition, if Fig.17 As shown, the transmission window 164 is tilted so that the reflected light (see area C1) reflected by the transmission window 164 is irradiated to the area N2 other than the area N1 where two light receiving elements 153 are arranged. Thus, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window 164 can be prevented from irradiating the light receiving element 153 due to the tilt of the transmission window 164, so that the light receiving element 153 can be further suppressed from receiving the reflected light.

[0121] It should be noted that, in the fourth embodiment described above, the reflected light (reference area C1) is irradiated to the area N2 located on the positive side of the X-axis relative to the light receiving element 153, but the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, the transmission window 164 may be tilted so that the reflected light (reference area C1a) is irradiated to the area N2a located on the negative side of the X-axis relative to the light receiving element 153.

[0122] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate. For example, when there are a plurality of sensor units 40, the first embodiment and the second embodiment can be combined, or the third embodiment and the fourth embodiment can be combined.

[0123] A sensor unit according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: a light emitting element that emits light toward an object; two light receiving elements that receive light from the object; and a transmission window that is disposed between the light emitting element and the object and transmits the light from the light emitting element. The two light receiving elements are disposed on a concentric circle of the light emitting element and within a range of less than 180 degrees centered on the light emitting element.

[0124] As described above, by arranging the two light receiving elements so as to be located on the concentric circle of the light emitting element, the scattered light can be equally received between the two light receiving elements, in other words, the deviation of the received scattered light can be suppressed. Therefore, in the case of, for example, differential amplification of signals representing the scattered light received by the two light receiving elements, if the scattered light is biased, the measurement accuracy of the blood flow state may be reduced, but by arranging the two light receiving elements as described above, the reduction in measurement accuracy due to the deviation of the scattered light can be suppressed.

[0125] Furthermore, since the two light receiving elements are arranged within a range of less than 180 degrees centered on the light emitting element, the range in which the two light receiving elements are arranged can be made relatively small, thereby miniaturizing the sensor unit.

[0126] Furthermore, the two light receiving elements are arranged to be spaced apart from each other.

[0127] In this way, by configuring the two light receiving elements to be spaced apart, the influence of reflected light (interference) can be suppressed as much as possible. That is, in the case where the transmission window is tilted due to angle deviation, for example, there is a situation where reflected light slightly irradiates the light receiving element. Even in such a case, since the two light receiving elements are configured to be spaced apart, the two light receiving elements are not easily affected by the reflected light at the same time, so the influence of reflected light (interference) can be suppressed as much as possible.

[0128] Furthermore, the two light receiving elements are configured to be a quadrilateral in a plan view, and one side thereof is parallel to a tangent line of a concentric circle of the light emitting element.

[0129] As described above, since the light receiving element is arranged with one side parallel to the tangent line of the concentric circle of the light emitting element, for example, it is possible to make it difficult for reflected light to enter the corner of the light receiving element. That is, it is possible to effectively prevent the light receiving element from receiving reflected light.

[0130] Furthermore, the light emitting element and the two light receiving elements are arranged on the same plane, and the transmission window is arranged to be inclined with respect to a straight line connecting the light emitting element and the two light receiving elements.

[0131] Thus, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window. In detail, the light emitted from the light emitting element is reflected by the transmission window. Since the transmission window is tilted as described above, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window is irradiated to, for example, a position different from the light receiving element on the sensor substrate. In other words, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window will not irradiate the light receiving element or will not easily irradiate the light receiving element due to the tilt of the transmission window. Thus, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window. In detail, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element from receiving the reflected light that becomes interference in the process of measuring, for example, the blood flow state.

[0132] Furthermore, the two light receiving elements are respectively arranged so that the center portions of the light receiving elements are located on concentric circles of the light emitting element.

[0133] As described above, the two light receiving elements are respectively arranged so that the center of the light receiving element is located on the concentric circle of the light emitting element, so that the scattered light can be equally received between the two light receiving elements, in other words, the deviation of the received scattered light can be suppressed. Therefore, in the case of performing differential amplification of signals representing the scattered light received by the two light receiving elements, if the scattered light is biased, the measurement accuracy of the blood flow state may be reduced, but by arranging the two light receiving elements as described above, the reduction in measurement accuracy caused by the deviation of the scattered light can be suppressed.

[0134] Furthermore, the two light receiving elements are respectively arranged at the same distance from the light emitting element.

[0135] Thus, even if, for example, reflected light slightly irradiates the light receiving element, the incident reflected light (in other words, interference) can be made equal between the two light receiving elements. Therefore, when differential amplification of signals representing light received by the two light receiving elements is performed, the influence of reflected light (interference) can be suppressed as much as possible.

[0136] In addition, the transmission window is arranged so that the window surface is parallel to a straight line connecting the two light receiving elements.

[0137] Thereby, it is possible to suppress the reflected light from being biased toward any one of the two light receiving elements. That is, if the window surface of the transmission window is inclined relative to the straight line connecting the light receiving elements, the reflected light will be biased toward any one of the two light receiving elements, so that the incident reflected light (interference) will produce a difference between the two light receiving elements, and the measurement accuracy may be reduced. Therefore, by setting the transmission window so that the window surface is parallel to the straight line connecting the two light receiving elements, the incident reflected light (in other words, interference) can be made equal between the two light receiving elements even in the case where, for example, it is assumed that the reflected light slightly irradiates the light receiving elements. Therefore, when performing differential amplification of signals representing light received by the two light receiving elements, for example, the influence of the reflected light (interference) can be suppressed as much as possible, and as a result, the reduction in measurement accuracy can be suppressed.

[0138] Furthermore, the transmission window is inclined so that the reflected light emitted from the light emitting element and reflected by the transmission window is irradiated to a region other than a region where the two light receiving elements are arranged.

[0139] Thus, the reflected light reflected by the transmission window can be prevented from irradiating the light receiving element due to the inclination of the transmission window, and the light receiving element can be further suppressed from receiving the reflected light.

[0140] In addition, the toilet seat device comprises: a sensor unit; and a toilet seat provided with the sensor unit. The sensor unit comprises: a light emitting element that emits light to an object; two light receiving elements that receive light from the object; and a transmission window that is arranged between the light emitting element and the object and transmits light from the light emitting element. The two light receiving elements are arranged so as to be located on a concentric circle of the light emitting element and within a range of less than 180 degrees centered on the light emitting element.

[0141] Thus, in the sensor unit provided in the toilet seat, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window, and to achieve miniaturization.

[0142] Furthermore, in the toilet seat device, the light emitting element and the two light receiving elements are arranged on the same plane, and the transmission window is provided to be inclined with respect to a straight line connecting the light emitting element and the two light receiving elements.

[0143] Thus, in the sensor unit provided in the toilet seat, it is possible to suppress the light receiving element from receiving the reflected light reflected by the transmission window.

[0144] <Note>

[0145] (1) A sensor unit comprising:

[0146] a light emitting element that emits light toward an object;

[0147] two light receiving elements that receive light from the object; and

[0148] a transmission window disposed between the light emitting element and the object and transmitting light from the light emitting element,

[0149] The two light receiving elements are arranged to be located on a concentric circle of the light emitting element and within a range of less than 180 degrees centered on the light emitting element.

[0150] (2) The sensor unit according to (1), wherein:

[0151] The two light receiving elements are arranged to be spaced apart from each other.

[0152] (3) The sensor unit according to (1) or (2), wherein:

[0153] The two light receiving elements are configured to be a quadrilateral in a plan view, and one side thereof is parallel to a tangent line of a concentric circle of the light emitting element.

[0154] (4) The sensor unit according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein:

[0155] The light emitting element and the two light receiving elements are arranged on the same plane,

[0156] The transmission window is arranged to be inclined with respect to straight lines connecting the light emitting element and the two light receiving elements.

[0157] (5) The sensor unit according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein:

[0158] The two light receiving elements are respectively arranged such that the center of the light receiving element is located on a concentric circle of the light emitting element.

[0159] (6) The sensor unit according to (4), wherein:

[0160] The two light receiving elements are respectively arranged to be at the same distance from the light emitting element.

[0161] (7) The sensor unit according to (4) or (6), wherein:

[0162] The transmission window is arranged so that the window surface is parallel to a straight line connecting the two light receiving elements.

[0163] (8) The sensor unit according to any one of (4) to (7), wherein:

[0164] The transmission window is inclined so that the reflected light emitted from the light emitting element and reflected by the transmission window is irradiated to a region other than a region where the two light receiving elements are arranged.

[0165] (9) A toilet device comprising:

[0166] a sensor unit; and

[0167] A toilet seat provided with the sensor unit,

[0168] The sensor unit comprises:

[0169] a light emitting element that emits light toward an object;

[0170] two light receiving elements that receive light from the object; and

[0171] a transmission window disposed between the light emitting element and the object and transmitting light from the light emitting element,

[0172] The two light receiving elements are arranged to be located on concentric circles of the light emitting element and within a range of less than 180 degrees centered on the light emitting element.

[0173] (10) The toilet seat device according to (9), wherein:

[0174] The light emitting element and the two light receiving elements are arranged on the same plane,

[0175] The transmission window is arranged to be inclined with respect to straight lines connecting the light emitting element and the two light receiving elements.

Claims

1. A sensor unit comprising: a light emitting element that emits light toward an object; two light receiving elements that receive light from the object; and a transmission window disposed between the light emitting element and the object and transmitting light from the light emitting element, The two light receiving elements are arranged to be located on a concentric circle of the light emitting element and within a range of less than 180 degrees centered on the light emitting element.

2. The sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein: The two light receiving elements are arranged to be spaced apart from each other.

3. The sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein: The two light receiving elements are configured to be a quadrilateral in a plan view, and one side thereof is parallel to a tangent line of a concentric circle of the light emitting element.

4. The sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein: The light emitting element and the two light receiving elements are arranged on the same plane, The transmission window is arranged to be inclined with respect to straight lines connecting the light emitting element and the two light receiving elements.

5. The sensor unit according to claim 1, wherein: The two light receiving elements are respectively arranged such that the center of the light receiving element is located on a concentric circle of the light emitting element.

6. The sensor unit according to claim 4, wherein: The two light receiving elements are respectively arranged to be at the same distance from the light emitting element.

7. The sensor unit according to claim 4, wherein: The transmission window is arranged so that the window surface is parallel to a straight line connecting the two light receiving elements.

8. The sensor unit according to claim 4, wherein: The transmission window is inclined so that the reflected light emitted from the light emitting element and reflected by the transmission window is irradiated to a region other than a region where the two light receiving elements are arranged.

9. A toilet device, comprising: a sensor unit; and A toilet seat provided with the sensor unit, The sensor unit comprises: a light emitting element that emits light toward an object; two light receiving elements that receive light from the object; and a transmission window disposed between the light emitting element and the object and transmitting light from the light emitting element, The two light receiving elements are arranged to be located on a concentric circle of the light emitting element and within a range of less than 180 degrees centered on the light emitting element.

10. The toilet device according to claim 9, wherein: The light emitting element and the two light receiving elements are arranged on the same plane, The transmission window is arranged to be inclined with respect to straight lines connecting the light emitting element and the two light receiving elements.

Images