Closestool biometric data collection device

Abstract

A biometric data collection device for a toilet includes a first compartment, a second compartment, and a bridge. The first compartment includes a first circuit board. The second compartment includes a second circuit board. The bridge is coupled to the first compartment and the second compartment and is configured to be supported by the rim of the toilet such that the first compartment is inside the bowl of the toilet and the second compartment is outside the bowl of the toilet. The bridge portion is changeable in length to fit different widths of the edge.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 396,842 (File No.: 10222-22033A), filed on August 10, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 18 / 230,932, filed on August 7, 2023, the entire contents of both of which are hereby incorporated by reference into this document. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to a data collection device for a toilet, and more particularly, to a structure for mounting the data collection device on the edge of a toilet. Background Art

[0004] Analysis of urine and stool may help diagnose health conditions. These health conditions can range from malnutrition to cancer. Health conditions can include infections from viruses, bacteria, parasites, or other microbial entities that may be harmful to the human body. Urine is also a valuable source of diagnostic information for health conditions. Examples include urinary tract infections, kidney infections or other kidney diseases, and diabetes.

[0005] In some examples, urine and feces can be placed in containers and transported to a laboratory for analysis. This technique is time-consuming and expensive. Home analysis techniques can reduce some of the disadvantages of laboratory testing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] According to exemplary embodiments, exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to the following drawings.

[0007] Figure 1 The toilet data collection device is shown in an uninstalled position.

[0008] Figure 2 The toilet data collection device is shown in an unretracted position.

[0009] Figure 3 The toilet data collection device is shown in the installed position.

[0010] Figure 4 The toilet data collection device is illustrated in an installed position, with the toilet seat placed on a bridge portion of the toilet data collection device.

[0011] Figure 5 Three modular interchangeable bridge sections are illustrated.

[0012] Figure 6 The conformable bridge is shown in an uninstalled position.

[0013] Figure 7The conformable bridge is shown in an installed position.

[0014] Figure 8 An exemplary disc-type compartment is illustrated.

[0015] Fig. 9 The diagram shows the Figure 8 An exemplary circuit layout of a disc-type compartment.

[0016] Fig.10 An exemplary outer arc compartment is illustrated.

[0017] Fig.11 The diagram shows the Fig.10 An exemplary circuit layout of an outer arc compartment.

[0018] Fig.12 An exemplary inner arc compartment is illustrated.

[0019] Fig.13 The diagram shows the Fig.12 An exemplary circuit layout of an inner arc compartment.

[0020] Fig.14 An exemplary seat ring compartment for a data collection device is illustrated.

[0021] Fig.15 An exemplary controller for use with any of the disclosed embodiments is illustrated.

[0022] Fig.16 The diagram shows the Fig.15 An exemplary flow chart of a controller of FIG.

[0023] Fig.17 Another embodiment of a data collection device is illustrated.

[0024] 18A to 18C Illustrated is a replaceable gasket for a data collection device.

[0025] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C Another replaceable gasket for a data collection device is illustrated.

[0026] Fig. 20 Another embodiment of a data collection device is illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Electronic devices in toilet bowls or near toilet rims are exposed to hazardous conditions. Water and urine will inevitably come into contact with electronic devices. Any water and urine that leaks into the interior of electronic devices can wreak havoc on them. Electronic devices should be substantially airtight and hermetically sealed. The housing of electronic devices may be formed of a hydrophobic material to repel water and urine.

[0028] The mounting structure that secures the electronic device to the toilet rim may also be susceptible to water and urine. Any moving parts of the mounting structure may also be particularly vulnerable to liquids. In addition, proteins in urine may dry and become sticky and may cake on moving parts. For example, a screw clamp may become unusable when exposed to dried urine.

[0029] The following embodiments include techniques for securing an electronic device to the rim of a toilet with minimal moving parts. Toilets, and particularly toilet rims, come in a variety of sizes and widths. Additionally, the width of the toilet rim can vary around the circumference of the toilet. Thus, a data collection device can be adjustable to accommodate various sizes of toilet rims. In a first embodiment, a spring loaded sleeve allows the collection device to adjust to various rim sizes. In a second embodiment, modular extensions can be interchangeable to accommodate different rim sizes. In a third embodiment, the collection device can be flexible and responsive to the size of the rim.

[0030] Figure 1 The toilet data collection device 20 is illustrated in an uninstalled position relative to the toilet 10. The toilet 10 may include a rim 12 surrounding a bowl 11. The data collection device 20 may include a first compartment 21 and a second compartment 22. The first compartment 21 is coupled to the second compartment 22 by a bridge 30. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0031] The bridge 30 includes an outer extension 24 and an inner extension 23 as a sleeve, so that the inner extension 23 is assembled in the outer extension 24. The inner extension 23 can be connected to the first component 21. The outer extension 24 can be connected to the second component 22. The spring in the outer extension 24 can be configured to push the inner extension 23 to slide further in the outer extension 24. The spring can pull the inner extension 23 relative to the outer extension 24. The spring can pull the inner extension 23 toward the edge 12. If the force applied to the inner extension 23 and / or the outer extension 24 is constant, the spring can be a constant force spring. Other examples can include a progressive spring, in which the force applied by the spring is proportional to the relative distance between the inner extension 23 and the outer extension 24. One or more progressive springs include a spring constant that varies depending on the relative position of the inner extension 23 and the outer extension 24. In one alternative, the inner extension 23 and / or the outer extension 24 include a ratchet device that allows the inner extension 23 and the outer extension 24 to be pressed together without being an integral part. The ratchet mechanism may be released via a release button.

[0032] The inner extension 23 and / or the first member 21 may include a bumper or handle 25 configured to press against the rim 12 to hold the data collection device 20 on the toilet 10. A user may manually press the inner extension 23 and the outer extension 24 toward each other to cause the handle 25 to contact the rim 12 and hold the data collection device 20 on the toilet 10.

[0033] The toilet 10 can include various shapes and configurations of the base of the toilet 10 for supporting the bowl 11 and the rim 12. It should be noted that the various components of the toilet can be made of a vitreous material (e.g., clay). It should be noted that the various components of the toilet can be polymeric and / or over molded or otherwise secured to the toilet. The toilets disclosed herein can have a variety of skirt toilet configurations, all of which are intended to be covered herein. Therefore, the following description of various toilet features is intended to illustrate only one possible embodiment, and those reading this specification should understand that similar concepts or features may also be included in various other embodiments.

[0034] The base of toilet 10 can have any suitable shape configured to form a bowl 11 having an opening formed at the top of the opening by a rim 12. The base can also be configured to include multiple walls having different shapes that together form a bowl having an opening formed by a rim. The walls of the base supporting the base can extend downwardly and / or rearwardly from the bowl 11 to form a lower portion that is configured to support the toilet 10.

[0035] The base may also include a top member extending between the two sides of the wall (or between two opposing walls) and disposed behind (or behind) the toilet bowl 11, wherein the top member forms a plateau for supporting the seat assembly 17. For example, the top member may include one or more openings, wherein each opening is configured to receive a fastening device (e.g., a bolt, a screw, etc.) to couple (e.g., attach) the seat assembly 17 to the top member of the base. As another example, the top member may include one or more fastening devices (e.g., bolts, embedded nuts, etc.) integrally formed therein (i.e., already provided for connection or coupling to the base), wherein the fastening device may be used to couple or secure at least a portion of the seat assembly 17. The seat assembly 17 may include a hinge, a hinge shoulder configured to receive a fastener, a seat coupled to the hinge, and a cover coupled to the hinge.

[0036] The toilet bowl 11 can be configured to include a container (e.g., a sump) and an outlet, wherein water and waste are collected in the container until removed through the outlet (e.g., upon activation of an actuator (e.g., a lever, a motor)). The base can also include an internal channel (e.g., a drain channel) within the base that connects the water outlet or drain of the toilet bowl 11 to a drain or sewer. The channel or drain channel generally includes a first portion, a second portion, and a weir separating the first and second portions. The first portion of the channel can extend upward from the outlet of the toilet bowl 11 at an oblique angle to the weir. The second portion of the channel can extend downward from the weir to an outlet device (e.g., a drain or sewer).

[0037] Between operating cycles of the toilet 10 (e.g., flush cycles), water (and waste) is collected in a first portion of the trapway (excluding the container of the bowl) such that the weir prevents water from passing through the weir and entering the second portion of the trapway. Upon activation of the actuator, a flush cycle may begin. Upon activation of the actuator, additional water may be discharged into the bowl 11 through the rim opening 15 and / or the sump spray holes, thereby causing a flushing action and waste removal. For example, water may be discharged from the rim opening 15 into the bowl along a vortex surface 16 on the interior of the bowl 11 below the rim 12. The vortex surface 16 forms a channel below the rim 12 such that water from the rim opening 15 travels along the channel, forming a vortex motion to clean the interior of the bowl 11. The vortex motion occurs in a circular manner around the interior of the bowl 11. The vortex motion may be clockwise or counterclockwise, as indicated by the direction of the rim opening 15.

[0038] Figure 1 The data collection device 20 is shown above the toilet 10. For example, Figure 1 Illustrated is a position where a user holds the data collection device 20 over the toilet 10 before the toilet 10 is installed or mounted on the rim 12 . Figure 2 The data collection device 20 is illustrated positioned on the rim 12 but not yet secured to the rim 12 . Figure 3 The data collection device 20 is shown secured to the rim 12. The inner extension 23 has been pushed inside the outer extension 24 to shorten the bridge 30 to fit snugly onto the rim 12.

[0039] The buffer 25 can be configured to separate the first component 21 from the rim 12 and / or the bowl 11 by a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance can be sized so that water traveling through the channel along the vortex surface 16 has enough space to maintain the vortex motion. In other words, the predetermined distance between the first component 21 and the rim 12 or the bowl 11 is selected so that the channel is large enough for enough water to flush the bowl 11 to travel between the first component 21 and the bowl 11. The water in the channel travels between the first component 21 and the second compartment 22. An imaginary line connecting the first component 21 and the second component 22 intersects the water in the channel along the vortex surface 16.

[0040] The buffer 25 can be formed of a variety of materials. The buffer 25 can be composed of rubber or a rubber-like resin. For example, the buffer 25 can be made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material, such as a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), a styrene block copolymer (TPE-S), a thermoplastic polyolefin (TPE-O), a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPE-U), a thermoplastic copolyester (TPE-E), a melt-processable rubber (MPR), a thermoplastic polyether block amide (TPE-A), an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the buffer 25 can be composed of two or more materials. In one example, the buffer 25 can include a polypropylene (PP) shell and be overmolded with a rubber or rubber-like resin. Accordingly, the gripping performance of the buffer can be maximized.

[0041] The bumper 25 may be flexible. In some embodiments, the bumper 25 may be configured to deform to set a predetermined distance to separate the first member 21 from the rim 12 and / or the bowl 11. The bumper 25 may be formed of one or more materials selected based on the hardness characteristics of the material.

[0042] Figure 4 The data collection device 20 is illustrated after the toilet seat 27 has been lowered above the bridge 30 of the data collection device 20. The toilet seat 27 can contact the bridge 30. The toilet seat 27 can include a recessed portion to receive the bridge 30. The bridge can be formed of a material having a predetermined brittle or compressive strength so that the weight of the seat 27 and a human user sitting on the seat does not deform or otherwise damage the bridge. The bridge can have a height of 3-10 millimeters (e.g., 6 mm). The bridge 30 can also include a protective pad, a collar, or other structure to protect the bridge 30. The protective pad can cover the bridge 30 using any of the materials described above with respect to the buffer 25. The collar can include at least one support arm or wall that contacts both the seat 27 and the rim 12 to support the seat 27 without placing significant weight or stress on the bridge 30.

[0043] The first compartment 21 includes at least one circuit component, and the second compartment 22 includes at least one circuit component. Various embodiments of the circuit are described below. The bridge 30 includes a cable, trace or other conductive member for providing power and / or communication between the circuit of the first compartment 21 and the circuit of the second compartment 22.

[0044] Because the bridge 30 changes size through the relative movement of the inner extension 23 and the outer extension 24, the conductive member should be adaptable. In some examples, the conductive member can be provided by a ribbon cable configured to extend or retract. In some examples, the conductive member can be provided by a loop or loose wiring in the bridge so that the cable moves within the cavity when the bridge 30 changes size. In some examples, the conductive member can include traces on the inner extension 23 and the outer extension 24 that slide relative to each other in parallel directions so as to maintain physical and electrical conduction and the inner extension 23 moves relative to the outer extension 24.

[0045] In other words, when the size of bridge 30 is adjusted, one or more electrical conductors (e.g., power connections and / or data connections) are also modified in response to the adjustment of the size of bridge 30. In some examples, the one or more electrical conductors include a first electrical connection corresponding to a first size of bridge 30 (e.g., a reduced size) and a second electrical connection corresponding to a second size of bridge 30 (e.g., an expanded size).

[0046] Figure 5 Three modular interchangeable bridges 31 are shown, including a small length X, a medium length Y, and a large length Z. As an example, Figure 5 The bridge 31 in the embodiment of the present invention does not adjust the size; instead, the bridge 31 is removable, replaceable, modular and interchangeable, so that a bridge of a first size can be removed and replaced by a bridge of a second size. The bridge 31 is removable from the first compartment 21 and the second compartment 22. The bridge 31 can be snap-fit ​​into a groove in each of the first compartment 21 and the second compartment 22. The bridge 31 can be fastened to the first compartment 21 and / or the second compartment 22 using a screw, a pin, a spring or other fastener. The bridge 31 can be magnetically coupled to the first compartment 21 and / or the second compartment 22.

[0047] The user can interchange the bridges to select a bridge 31 that fits a particular rim 12. The specific size of the bridge 31 can be selected based on the width of the rim 12. For example, the user can measure the width of the rim 12 and order the data collection device 20 with a bridge of the corresponding width. In one example, the user can order by phone or website based on a specific model of toilet and can look up the size of the bridge based on the model of toilet.

[0048] Figure 6 The conformable bridge 50 is illustrated in an uninstalled position. Figure 7 The conformable bridge 50 is shown in an installed position. The conformable bridge 50 is configured to change shape to bend against the contour of the rim 12. The conformable bridge 50 may include a rigid, bendable metal strip surrounded by plastic or resin. Additional, different or fewer components may be included.

[0049] The cleats 28 may be attached directly to the rim 12. The conformable bridge 50 may be placed on the cleats 28. The cleats may include corresponding magnets or magnetic materials that can attach to the magnets or magnetic materials in the conformable bridge 50. Alternatively, the cleats may include an adhesive or tactile material.

[0050] Figure 8 An exemplary disc-type compartment is illustrated that includes a disc 60 connected to a sensor module 61. The disc 60 may have the shape of a cylinder or a rounded rectangular prism. Fig. 9 The diagram shows the Figure 8 6. In this example, sensor module 61 includes sensor board 63 and light emitting diode (LED) board 65. Additional, different or fewer components may be included.

[0051] The sensor board 63 may include various sensors for detecting or measuring urine or feces in the toilet 10. The sensors may include cameras. The LED board 65 may be coupled to an LED that projects light onto urine, feces, or other contents of the toilet 10 to facilitate image collection (e.g., illumination). In any of these examples, the camera may be configured to collect images of feces, urine, or other contents of the toilet bowl 11. The sensor board 63 including the camera may collect data for spectroscopy. In any example, the sensor board 61 receives or collects sensor data indicating urine, feces, or other substances deposited at the toilet bowl 11.

[0052] The disk 60 may include a driver board 62, a battery 66, and a controller 64 arranged in at least two layers parallel to the circumference of the edge 12, such as Fig. 9 As shown. The controller 64 may include a microcontroller chip, flash memory, and a universal serial bus (USB) port 126 for power, data, and programming. The controller 64 may also include a serial wire debug (SWD) port for troubleshooting and monitoring. The driver board 62 may include such ports and memory for programming the controller 64. The driver board 62 may also be omitted.

[0053] The battery 66 is located in a separate layer in the disk 60, the controller 64 is located in a separate layer in the disk 60, and the driver board 62 is located in a separate layer in the disk 60. The controller 64 can be configured to analyze the images collected by the camera. The controller 64 can identify one or more medical conditions or other measurements from the images.

[0054] The controller 64 receives sensor data from the sensor board 61 through one or more data connections across the bridge 30. The controller 64 can compare the sensor data from the sensor board 61 to one or more thresholds or templates to determine when a predetermined condition has occurred. The thresholds or templates can be stored in a memory. In some examples, in addition to identifying a predetermined condition, the controller 64 identifies the presence of urine and / or feces.

[0055] Fig.10 An exemplary outer arc compartment including an outer arc compartment 70 and a sensor module 71 is illustrated. Fig.11 The diagram shows the Fig.10 1. An exemplary circuit layout of an outer arc compartment. In this example, the outer arc compartment 70 includes a driver card 72, a battery 76, and a controller 74 arranged in a single layer parallel to the edge 12. The sensor module 71 includes a sensor board 73 and an LED driver board 75. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0056] The controller 74 receives sensor data from the sensor module 71 via one or more data connections across the bridge 30. The controller 74 may compare the sensor data from the sensor module 71 to one or more thresholds or templates to determine when a predetermined condition has occurred. The thresholds or templates may be stored in a memory. In some examples, in addition to identifying a predetermined condition, the controller 74 also identifies the presence of urine and / or feces.

[0057] Alternatively, the sensor data from the sensor module 71 may be sent wirelessly to the controller 74. For example, radio waves, a cellular phone network, an 802.11, 802.16, 802.20 or WiMax network, Bluetooth pairing of devices, or a Bluetooth mesh network may be used to transmit the sensor data from the sensor module 71 to the controller 74.

[0058] Fig.12 An exemplary inner arc compartment including an inner arc member 80 and a battery module 81 is illustrated. Fig.13 The diagram shows the Fig.12 The inner arc component 80 may include a sensor board 83, a light board 85, a driver card 82, and a controller 84. The battery module 81 may include only batteries 86. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0059] exist Fig.12 In the example of FIG. 8 , only an electrical connection is provided between the battery module 81 and the inner arc-shaped component 80. That is, the bridge 30 includes at least one electrical connection between the battery module 81 and the inner arc-shaped component 80, but does not include any data connection between the battery module 81 and the inner arc-shaped component 80. Instead, the sensor board 83 and the controller 84 are co-located in the inner arc-shaped component 80 and communicate through a direct connection (e.g., wires or a printed circuit board).

[0060] The controller 84 receives sensor data directly from the sensor board 83. The controller 84 can compare the sensor data from the sensor board 83 to one or more thresholds or templates to determine when a predetermined condition has occurred. The thresholds or templates can be stored in a memory. In some examples, in addition to identifying a predetermined condition, the controller 84 also identifies the presence of urine and / or feces.

[0061] In any of these examples, the battery (e.g., a battery module) may include two batteries. One battery may be a removable battery and the other battery may be permanent. The removable battery may provide the main power source for the sensor board, light board, driver card, battery, and controller. The removable battery may be removed from the collection device 20 and charged via a cable and socket, induction, or other technology. When the removable battery has been removed for charging, the permanent battery provides power to at least one of the sensor board, light board, driver card, battery, and controller. In this way, there is potentially always a power source for the data collection device.

[0062] Any of these embodiments of the data collection device may also include a user identification module. The user identification module may include a fingerprint reader. The user identification module may include near field communication or radio frequency identification that interacts with a user's mobile device or tag. The user identification module generates data indicating the identity of the user (e.g., a user name, code, or alphanumeric word) and sends the identifier to the controller (e.g., sometimes through an electrical conductor of the bridge). The controller may store the analyzed biometric data in a memory in association with the user's identifier. The controller may also send the analyzed biometric device paired with the user identifier to another device (e.g., a server, a mobile device, or a network device) (e.g., via a communication interface).

[0063] Fig.14Another embodiment is included that includes a biometric data collection device embedded in the toilet seat 27. The circuit 90 may include any combination of a sensor board, a light board, a driver card, a battery, and a controller. The circuit 90 is configured to slide in and out of the toilet seat 27 using a handle or latch 91. A collection sensor 93 (e.g., a camera) may be mounted on the underside of the toilet seat 27.

[0064] Fig.15 An example of a control system or controller 100 for any embodiment described herein is shown. The controller 100 may include a processor 300, a memory 352, and a communication interface 353 for interacting with a device or the Internet and / or other network 346. In addition to the communication interface 353, a sensor interface may also be configured to receive data from a sensor as described herein or data from any source. The controller 100 may include an integrated display 350, a speaker 351, or other output device. The components of the control system may communicate using a bus 348. The control system may be connected to a workstation or other external device (such as a control panel) and / or a database for receiving user input, system characteristics, and any values ​​described herein.

[0065] Fig.16 A schematic flow chart of the operation of a biometric data collection device is illustrated. Additional, different, or fewer actions may be performed.

[0066] At action S101, the length of the bridge between the first compartment and the second compartment of the biometric data collection device is adjusted. The length can be adjusted using a spring clip, a modular bridge extension, or a conformable bridge.

[0067] At action S103, the biometric data collection device is mounted to the rim of the toilet. For example, after adjusting the length of the bridge to fit the rim, the user can place the collection device on the rim.

[0068] Once mounted on the edge, the collection device can be turned on to begin the collection of data. At action S105, the sensor collects data at the first compartment of the biometric data collection device. At action S107, the controller analyzes the data. At action S109, the identification module including another sensor identifies the user associated with the data. At action S111, the controller stores the data with an indicator of the user in a memory or sends the analyzed data and the indicator to another device.

[0069] Optionally, the control system may include an input device 355 and / or a sensing circuit 356 in communication with any sensor. The sensing circuit receives sensor measurements from the above sensors. The input device may include any user input, such as a button, a touch screen, a keyboard, a microphone for voice input, a camera for gesture input, and / or other mechanisms.

[0070] Optionally, the control system may include a drive unit 340 for receiving and reading a non-transitory computer medium 341 having instructions 342. Additional, different or fewer components may be included. The processor 300 is configured to execute instructions 342 stored in a memory 352 for executing the algorithms described herein. The display 350 may be an indicator or other screen output device. The display 350 may be combined with a user input device 355.

[0071] The processor 300 may be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more programmable logic controllers (PLC), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), a group of processing components, or other suitable processing components. The processor 300 is configured to execute computer code or instructions stored in the memory 352 or received from other computer-readable media (e.g., embedded flash memory, local hard disk memory, local ROM, network memory, remote server, etc.). The processor 300 may be a single device or a combination of devices, such as associated with a network, distributed processing, or cloud computing.

[0072] The memory 352 may include one or more devices (e.g., memory units, memory devices, storage devices, etc.) for storing data and / or computer code for completing and / or facilitating the various methods described in the present disclosure. The memory 352 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk storage, temporary storage, non-volatile memory, flash memory, optical storage, or any other suitable storage for storing software objects and / or computer instructions. The memory 352 may include a database component, an object code component, a script component, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present disclosure. The memory 352 may be communicatively connected to the processor 300 via a processing circuit, and may include computer code for executing (e.g., by the processor 300) one or more methods described herein. For example, the memory 352 may include graphics, web pages, HTML files, XML files, script code, spray configuration files, or other resources for generating a graphical user interface for display and / or for interpreting user interface input to make command, control, or communication decisions.

[0073] In addition to including an inlet port and an outlet port, the communication interface 353 can also include any operable connection. An operable connection can be a connection in which signals, physical communications, and / or logical communications can be sent and / or received. An operable connection can include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and / or a data interface. The communication interface 353 can be connected to a network. The network can include a wired network (e.g., Ethernet), a wireless network, or a combination thereof. The wireless network can be a cellular telephone network, an 802.11, 802.16, 802.20, or WiMax network, a Bluetooth pairing of a device, or a Bluetooth mesh network. In addition, the network can be a public network (e.g., the Internet), a private network (e.g., an intranet), or a combination thereof, and can utilize various network protocols that are now available or developed later, including but not limited to a network protocol based on TCP / IP.

[0074] Although the computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 352) is shown as a single medium, the term "computer-readable medium" includes a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized database or a distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers that store one or more sets of instructions. The term "computer-readable medium" should also include any medium that can store, encode, or carry a set of instructions for execution by a processor, or cause a computer system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein.

[0075] In a specific non-limiting, exemplary embodiment, the computer-readable medium may include a solid-state memory, such as a memory card or other package that houses one or more non-volatile read-only memories. In addition, the computer-readable medium may be a random access memory or other volatile rewritable memory. In addition, the computer-readable medium may include a magneto-optical or optical medium, such as a disk or tape or other storage device to capture carrier signals, such as signals communicated through a transmission medium. A digital file or other self-contained information archive or archive set attached to an e-mail may be considered a distribution medium that is a tangible storage medium. Therefore, the present disclosure should be understood to include any one or more of a computer-readable medium or distribution medium and other equivalent and alternative media in which data or instructions may be stored. The computer-readable medium may be non-temporary, which includes all tangible computer-readable media.

[0076] In another embodiment, a dedicated hardware implementation, such as an application-specific integrated circuit, a programmable logic array, and other hardware devices, may be constructed to implement one or more of the methods described herein. Applications that may include the devices and systems of various embodiments may broadly include various electronic systems and computer systems. One or more embodiments described herein may use two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices to implement functions, which have associated control signals and data signals that can communicate between and through the modules, or as part of an application-specific integrated circuit. Therefore, the present system encompasses software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

[0077] Fig.17 Another embodiment of a data collection device 30 is illustrated, comprising a first compartment 21 and a second compartment 22. The first compartment 21 is coupled to the second compartment 22 by a bridge 30, the bridge 30 comprising an inner extension 23 fitted within an outer extension 24. In addition to the port 126 described above, the data collection device 30 may include a window 118 adjacent to a sensor (e.g., a motion sensor) configured to detect movement of a user or gestures from a user. The data collection device 30 may include a window 117 adjacent to a light (e.g., an LED) that indicates the power operation or mode of the data collection device 30. The data collection device 30 may include one or more buttons or inputs 119 to select a mode or turn the data collection device 30 on / off. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0078] The handle / bumper described above may be replaced with a replaceable spacer 125 . 18A to 18C Later View( Fig.18A )、Side view( Fig.18B ) and the main view ( Fig. 18C ) illustrates a replaceable gasket for a data collection device. The replaceable gasket 125 may include an outer cover 126 and an inner core 127 coupled together.

[0079] The replaceable gasket 125 includes at least one magnet 121. The magnet 121 is configured to align the replaceable gasket 125 with the first component at a predetermined angle. The replaceable gasket 125 includes a ridge 128, which is configured to separate the first compartment 21 from the rim 11. The magnet 121 allows the replaceable gasket 125 to be easily removed and replaced with a new replaceable gasket. The first component 21 may include another magnet or a magnetizable material to selectively couple with the magnet 121. Different replaceable gaskets can be used with different models of data collection devices 30 and / or different models of toilets 10.

[0080] Replaceable pad 125 may be formed from various materials described herein with respect to bumper 25 (eg, resins, elastomers, rubbers, etc.).

[0081] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C Another replaceable spacer for a data collection device is shown. Spacers 131 may be used as cleats 28 to separate bridge 31 from rim 12. FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C Multiple views of the spacer 131 are included, including a rear view ( Fig.18A )、Side view( Fig.18B ) and the main view ( Fig. 18C ).

[0082] The spacer 131 may include a rounded side 132 and a flat side in a horizontal direction (e.g., parallel to the edge 12). The spacer 131 may also include a rounded edge 134. The spacer 131 may be formed of a rigid material. The spacer 131 may optionally include a magnet 135 for selectively coupling the spacer 131 to the bridge 31, which includes opposing magnets or magnetic materials.

[0083] Fig. 20 Another embodiment of a data collection device 151 is illustrated. The data collection device 151 may include multiple parts including a controller compartment 152 and a battery 153. A coupling device is configured to couple the data collection device 151 to the battery 153. The electrical connection provides power from the battery 153 to the compartment 152.

[0084] The bridge 30 may also include an identifier or indicator 154 that identifies the data collection device 151. The indicator may also include the manufacturer of the device, compatible toilets, or other information.

[0085] The drawings of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structures of the various embodiments. These drawings are not intended to be used as a complete description of all elements and features of the devices and systems utilizing the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments are apparent to those skilled in the art who review the present disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived according to the present disclosure, thereby making structural and logical substitutions and changes without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the drawings are merely representative and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions in the drawings may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Therefore, the present disclosure and the drawings should be considered to be illustrative, rather than restrictive.

[0086] Although this specification contains many specific contents, these contents should not be understood as limitations on the scope of the invention or the scope of the content that may be claimed, but should be understood as descriptions of specific features of specific embodiments of the invention. Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments individually or in any suitable sub-combination. In addition, although the above-mentioned features may be described as working in certain combinations, or even initially required, in some cases, one or more features may be removed from the required combination, and the required combination may be directed to a sub-combination or a variation of a sub-combination.

[0087] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may be referred to herein, individually and / or collectively, by the term "invention", which is merely for convenience and is not intended to voluntarily limit the scope of the present application to any particular invention or inventive concept. In addition, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that any subsequent arrangements intended to achieve the same or similar purposes may replace the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adjustments or variations of the various embodiments. Combinations of the above-described embodiments, as well as other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the specification.

[0088] It is intended that the above detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive, and that the following claims, including all equivalents, are intended to define the scope of the invention. The claims should not be construed as limited to the described order or elements unless so stated. Therefore, all embodiments and their equivalents within the scope and spirit of the following claims are deemed to be protected by the present invention.

Claims

1. A biometric data collection device for a toilet, the biometric data collection device comprising: a first compartment, the first compartment comprising a first circuit board; a second compartment, the second compartment comprising a second circuit board; as well as A bridge portion is connected to the first compartment and the second compartment and is configured to be supported by the rim of the toilet so that the first compartment is located inside the toilet bowl and the second compartment is located outside the toilet bowl, wherein the bridge portion is variable in length to accommodate different widths of the rim.

2. The biometric data collection device according to claim 1, further comprising: A camera is configured to collect images from an interior of the bowl, wherein the first circuit board is electrically coupled to the camera.

3. The biometric data collection device according to claim 1, further comprising: A battery is electrically coupled to the second circuit board.

4. The biometric data collection device according to claim 1, further comprising: A lamp is coupled to the first circuit board.

5. The biometric data collection device according to claim 1, further comprising: A communication interface is coupled to the second circuit board.

6. The biometric data collection device of claim 1, wherein the bridge portion is deformable against the rim of the toilet.

7. The biometric data collection device of claim 1, wherein the bridge portion comprises a modular extension that is removable from the first compartment and the second compartment.

8. The biometric data collection device of claim 1, wherein the bridge portion comprises an outer extension member and an inner extension member, the inner extension member being configured to extend within the outer extension member.

9. The biometric data collection device according to claim 8, further comprising: A spring causes the inner extension to extend within the outer extension.

10. The biometric data collection device according to claim 8, further comprising: A conductive member is configured to change the length of the conductive path based on the relative positions of the inner extension member and the outer extension member.

11. The biometric data collection device of claim 1 , further comprising: A battery module includes a removable battery and a non-removable battery.

12. The biometric data collection device of claim 11, wherein the non-removable battery provides power to the first circuit board or the second circuit board when the removable battery is removed.

13. The biometric data collection device of claim 11, wherein the removable battery is configured to charge the non-removable battery.

14. The biometric data collection device of claim 1, further comprising: A controller is configured to analyze data from the first circuit board.

15. The biometric data collection device of claim 14, further comprising: A user identification sensor is configured to identify a user associated with the toilet, wherein the controller is configured to store the analyzed data based on the user.

16. A toilet with a biometric data collection function, the toilet comprising: an edge, the edge having a set width; a first compartment, the first compartment comprising a first circuit board; a second compartment, the second compartment comprising a second circuit board; as well as a bridge portion coupled to the first compartment and the second compartment and configured to be supported by the rim of the toilet so that the first compartment is located inside the bowl of the toilet and the second compartment is located outside the bowl of the toilet, wherein the bridge portion is variable in length to accommodate the set width of the rim.

17. The toilet of claim 16, wherein the bridge portion includes a conductor between the first circuit board and the second circuit board.

18. The toilet of claim 17, wherein the conductor is configured to change length in cooperation with the bridge portion.

19. A method for collecting biometric data at a toilet, the method comprising: adjusting a length of a bridge between a first compartment and a second compartment of a biometric data collection device; as well as The biometric data collection device is mounted to the rim of the toilet.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising: collecting data at the first compartment of the biometric data collection device; analyzing the data; Identify the user associated with the data; as well as The data is stored with an indicator of the user.

Images