Urine analysis device and method

Abstract

Urine analysis device (12) comprising a housing (22) configured to be entirely positioned inside a toilet (10), the housing having a front face (25) for receiving a stream of urine directly from a user urinating while seated on the toilet, a rear face (26) opposite the front face, and a collection port (32), disposed on the front or rear face, in which the housing contains a test kit (24) configured to perform an analysis on the urine collected through the collection port. Collection and associated analysis method. Abstract figure: Figure 4

Description

Title of the invention: Device and method for urine analysis Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of urine analysis devices intended to be positioned inside a toilet. The present disclosure also relates to a method for analyzing urine being received in a toilet. Prior art

[0002] Many biological parameters are reflected in an individual's urine. From a urine sample, it is for example possible to detect health problems such as a urinary tract infection, diabetes or kidney failure. The urine sample can also reflect the quality of a diet, identify a period of fertility or pregnancy and detect drug or tobacco use. It is therefore interesting to monitor various biological parameters periodically.

[0003] It is known to propose devices installed in toilets having a urine analysis function. These devices are capable of taking urine samples from the toilets and analyzing them in order to determine the level of a biological parameter.

[0004] It is described in documents US5720054 and US 10383606 to collect a urine sample through a movable arm located in the toilet. However, this solution presents the difficulty of collecting enough urine without air bubbles to carry out a conclusive analysis. In addition, the use of a movable arm adds complexity to the device.

[0005] Document US20180188231 discloses a urine analysis device to be fixed to a toilet rim. However, it still appears possible to improve urine collection.

[0006] Document US20170284925 proposes integrating a urine sampler into the toilet bowl. However, this solution requires adapting the toilet for the installation and use of the device.

[0007] There is therefore a need for a urine analysis device capable of taking a urine sample from the toilet which does not have the drawbacks of the prior art. Statement of the invention

[0008] A urine analysis device is provided comprising a housing configured to be fully positioned inside a toilet, the housing having a front face intended to receive a jet of urine directly from a user urinating while seated on the toilet, a rear face opposite the front face, and a collection orifice, disposed on the front face or on the back face, wherein the housing contains a test assembly configured to perform an analysis on urine collected through the collection port.

[0009] Thus, advantageously, the urine analysis device can collect urine through the collection orifice directly by trickling onto the faces of the housing. A user does not need to worry about the position of the housing when urinating in the toilet. Furthermore, the housing is compact enough to be fully positioned inside the toilet. It can be discreet and be installed and removed easily. It can also adapt to any type of toilet. Furthermore, the housing does not have any protruding parts that are unpleasant to the user and that can accumulate dirt. The overall one-piece or monolithic appearance of the housing gives it an image of robustness and simplicity.

[0010] Urine collection is made easier and the user simply has to urinate without really worrying about the positioning of the device.

[0011] The features set out in the following paragraphs may optionally be implemented. They may be implemented independently of one another or in combination with one another.

[0012] The collection orifice may be located near a lower end of the housing in the normal position of use. Thus, urine flowing by gravity down the faces of the housing may be collected. The urine collection surface is increased; it is sufficient for a little urine to reach the housing for it to drip down the walls of the housing and reach the collection orifice.

[0013] The housing may be edgeless. As a result, urine may run off the housing without coming loose or forming air bubbles.

[0014] The front face and / or the rear face may comprise a relief forming a urine supply to the collection orifice. Regardless of where urine comes into contact with the housing, it will be conveyed to the collection orifice. Thus, the urine collection surface is increased.

[0015] The housing may have a general shape of a circular pebble. Thus, the shape of the housing is defined by curved surfaces, and constitutes a simple and natural shape that is pleasing to the user's view. Urine may run over the entire housing without coming loose or forming air bubbles.

[0016] The urine analysis device may be free of moving parts outside the housing. The urine analysis device does not require a seal. The housing is free of stagnation points where urine could stagnate. The urine analysis device is hygienic.

[0017] The housing may include a drain port configured to drain urine. Whereby, excess collected urine may be purged from the analysis device. urine. A urine collection is then not contaminated by a previous collection. Several consecutive urine collections can be carried out.

[0018] The drain port and the collection port may be equipped with a metal mesh filter. Thus, the filter can prevent the introduction of contaminants or elements that may clog the test system, and filter the urine before reaching the collection port.

[0019] The housing may be made of a hydrophilic material, preferably the hydrophilic material is one of: a ceramic, a polyamide, a silicone, a hydrophilic polymer, and / or the housing may be treated with a hydrophilic surface treatment. Thus, urine coming into contact with the housing sticks and spreads on the housing.

[0020] The diameter of the housing may be between 50 mm and 150 mm, preferably the diameter may be between 80 mm and 120 mm, and even more preferably, the diameter of the housing is close to 100 mm. The housing is then sufficiently compact to be entirely received in the toilet. The housing is discreet. The housing is also sufficiently large to systematically come into contact with urine being received in the toilet.

[0021] The housing may consist of a front shell and a rear shell. The front shell and the rear shell may be joined by screwing, gluing, clipping, magnetization, or ultrasonic welding. Then, the assembly of the housing is facilitated. In addition, the joint between the front shell and the rear shell may allow urine to run off between the front shell and the rear shell.

[0022] The urine analysis device may comprise a urine presence sensor, in the vicinity of the collection orifice, the sensor being configured to detect the presence of urine, preferably the sensor being a temperature sensor. Thus, the urine analysis device may trigger an analysis when urine is detected on the housing.

[0023] The urine presence sensor may be a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor can distinguish between urine and water being detected on the housing. In addition, the temperature sensor can detect a fertile period. Thus, the temperature sensor can both detect the presence of urine and perform an analysis. The number of components of the urine analysis device is reduced.

[0024] The urine analysis device may include a mounting element configured to position the housing on an inner wall of a toilet bowl. Then, the urine analysis device may be moved or removed from the toilet.

[0025] The urine analysis device may comprise a module for communication with a device and / or a server and / or a smartphone. Thus, the urine analysis device may be controlled to trigger an analysis. The urine analysis device may analyze and transmit one or more analysis results.

[0026] The apparatus may include a button. Whereby, an analysis may be triggered when a user presses the button.

[0027] The button may be provided with a biometric sensor. By means of this, the user may be identified and the analysis may only be triggered if a user is identified. An analysis may be adapted to the identified user.

[0028] The test assembly may comprise one or more of: a plurality of test strips, a microfluidic chip, a field effect transistor, a conductivity measuring device, a pH measuring device, a spectroscopic measuring device, an electrochemical measuring device. Thus, the same housing may be adapted to analyze various biological parameters contained in the urine. The urine analysis device is versatile.

[0029] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of collecting urine using the urine analysis device comprising: - detect the presence of urine near the collection orifice - collect urine running down the front and / or back; - analyze the collected urine to establish one or more analysis results.

[0030] The features set out in the following paragraphs may, optionally, be implemented. They may be implemented independently of one another or in combination with one another.

[0031] The method may be triggered by interaction with a user. The method may be triggered by pressing a button. The method may be initiated by detecting a user near the toilet. The method may also be initiated upon detection of urine on the urine analysis device.

[0032] The analysis result(s) can be transmitted to a user's smartphone and / or to a remote server. Brief description of the drawings

[0033] Other characteristics, details and advantages will appear on reading the detailed description below, and on analyzing the attached drawings, in which:

[0034] [fig. 1] schematically represents a sectional view of toilets equipped with a urine analysis device within the meaning of the invention.

[0035] [fig.2] schematically represents a detail of [fig.l].

[0036] [fig.3] illustrates a perspective view of a first housing, according to a first mode of embodiment, which can be implemented in the urine analysis device of [fig.l].

[0037] [fig.4] illustrates an exploded perspective view of the first case of [fig.3] and of a test set that can be implemented in the urine analysis device of [fig.l].

[0038] [fig.5] illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of a second housing, according to a second embodiment, which can be implemented in the urine analysis device of [fig.l].

[0039] [fig.6] illustrates a detail of a third box, according to a third mode of realization lization, which can be implemented in the urine analysis device of [fig.l].

[0040] [fig.7] illustrates another perspective view of the first case of [fig.3].

[0041] [fig.8] schematically illustrates a front view of a housing according to a fourth embodiment, which can be implemented in the urine analysis device of [fig.l].

[0042] [fig.9] schematically illustrates the test set.

[0043] [fig.10] schematically illustrates an organizational chart according to one embodiment.

[0044] [fig.l 1] schematically illustrates an organizational chart according to another mode of realization lization. Description of the embodiments

[0045] [fig.l] illustrates a toilet 10 equipped with a urine analysis device 12. In known manner, the toilet comprises a water tank 14, a bowl 16, a seat 18 and a cover 20. The urine analysis device 12 is arranged on an internal wall 16a of the bowl 16 of the toilet. Advantageously, the urine analysis device 12 is entirely received in the bowl 16 of the toilet. Indeed, the urine analysis device 12 does not protrude from the upper rim 16b of the bowl and thus it remains discreet.

[0046] Here, the urine analysis device 12 is positioned on the path of a urine stream secreted by a user. The urine analysis device receives a urine stream when a user urinates while sitting in the toilet. The position of the urine analysis device is then suitable for any type of user, male or female, regardless of age. The user can then urinate in the toilet without worrying about the position of the urine analysis device.

[0047] Here, the urine analysis device 12 is also positioned in the path of a flush from the cistern 14. Thus, the urine analysis device can be rinsed when the flush is actuated. The urine analysis device is hygienic.

[0048] The urine analysis device 12 comprises a housing 22 enclosing a test assembly 24. The test assembly is for analyzing urine being received in the urine analysis device.

[0049] The housing 22 is arranged in the toilet bowl 16 in a removable manner. The analysis device 12 can then be removed or repositioned in the toilet. The urine analysis device is discreet. In addition, the urine analysis device can be removed to recharge a battery 94 or a consumable 44 of the test set. 24.

[0050] In the example illustrated in [fig.2], the housing 22 is arranged on the wall 16a of the toilet. The housing is positioned by a fixing element 66. The fixing element 66 comprises a suction cup 88 intended to cooperate with the wall 16a of the toilet and magnets 70. The magnets 70 are intended to cooperate with magnets 23 (or pieces of ferromagnetic material) arranged inside the housing. This configuration makes it easy to remove or reposition the housing in the toilet.

[0051] The attachment element 66 may also include a ball joint. The ball joint allows the housing 22 to be oriented to increase the likelihood of contacting urine being received in the toilet bowl 16.

[0052] Alternatively, the fixing element 66 may be a hook mounted on a rim 16b of the toilet bowl 16.

[0053] General characteristics of the case

[0054] The housing 22 has an external shape of a circular pebble. In other words, the housing 22 has a flattened spheroid shape. An axis A is the median axis of the housing. The housing 22 has a front face 25 and a rear face 26, substantially normal to the axis A. Advantageously, the front face 25 can be substantially symmetrical in revolution, which gives a refined appearance to the device once installed. Thus, urine can be collected directly from the faces 25, 26 of the housing. The housing serves as a urine collector.

[0055] The front face 25 is oriented towards the inside of the bowl 16. The front face 25 is then intended to receive urine when the user urinates while sitting on the toilet 10. The rear face 26 is oriented facing the inner wall 16a of the bowl 16. The front face 25 and the rear face 26 are connected by curved edges 27. The respective curved edges 27 of the front face and the rear face meet flush at an equatorial junction zone. Then, the outer surface of the housing 22, consisting of the front face 25, the rear face 26 and the curved edges 27, is defined by curved lines, and forms a generally convex object. The housing 22 is devoid of edges. Urine may run over the entire exterior surface of the housing 22 without detaching from the housing or forming air bubbles, which may compromise a urine analysis.

[0056] Generally, the housing 22 has a diameter D22, measured in the direction normal to the axis A, between 50 mm and 150 mm. A diameter D22 of between 80 mm and 120 mm may preferably be chosen; in certain embodiments, a diameter close to 100 mm may be chosen. The housing 22 also has a thickness E, measured in the direction of the axis A, between 15 mm and 50 mm, preferably close to 30 mm. Thus, the housing 22 is sufficiently compact to be entirely received in the bowl 16 of the toilet 10. The urine analysis device 12 is discreet. Furthermore, the housing 22 is sufficiently extended to consistently contact urine being received in the bowl 16. The user can then urinate into the toilet without worrying about the urine analysis device.

[0057] From another point of view, in one embodiment, the housing has a general form factor such that the E / D22 ratio is within the range [0.2 - 0.5] and even preferably within the range [0.3 - 0.4]; such proportions are reminiscent of a natural pebble, and give the device a soothing appearance.

[0058] The outer surface of the housing 22 is smooth. Thus, the urine jet coming into contact with the housing 22 clings to and spreads over the outer surfaces of the housing. Preferably, the housing 22 is made of a hydrophilic material. For example, the material of the housing 22 may be one of: a ceramic, a polyamide (PA), a silicone or a hydrophilic polymer. The outer surface of the housing 22 may also be treated with a hydrophilic surface treatment, for example acuWet® from the company Aculon, a hydrophilic polymer, or Pebax® from the company Arkema.

[0059] As more visible in [fig.4], according to a particular embodiment, the housing 22 is formed as an assembly of two half-shells and is made up of a front shell 28 and a rear shell 30. The front shell 28 and the rear shell 30 form an annular joint 31 of the housing 22, in a plane normal to the axis A. The assembly of the urine analysis device 12 is facilitated when the housing 22 is made up of the front shell 28 and the rear shell 30.

[0060] The front shell 28 and the rear shell 30 are assembled to maintain the outer surface of the housing 22 defined by curved lines. Then, the annular joint 31 between the front shell and the rear shell allows the flow of urine between the front face 25 and the rear face 26. The impact of the joint 31 on the flow of urine on the housing is minimized.

[0061] The front shell 28 and the rear shell 30 can be assembled by screwing, gluing, clipping, by magnetization, or ultrasonic welding. Of course, other fixing means can be implemented to assemble the front shell 28 and the rear shell 30.

[0062] For example, the front shell 28 and the rear shell 30 are assembled by screwing. Then, an internal portion of the front shell 28 has a thread. The thread of the front shell 28 is intended to cooperate with a complementary thread of the rear shell 30. The housing 22 can thus easily be disassembled to access the test assembly 24 inside the housing.

[0063] A seal may be present at the joint 31 between the front shell 28 and the rear shell 30. Thus, the housing 22 is waterproof. The interior of the housing 22 is impervious to urine, water from the water tank 14 or the bowl 16, and any other type of contaminant. Only collection and drainage ports connect the exterior and interior of the case, as described in more detail later.

[0064] Other functions supported by the device

[0065] In the example illustrated in [fig.5], a removable cover 90 is arranged on the rear shell. The removable cover makes it easier to access the test assembly 24. The removable cover makes it possible in particular to reload the consumable 44 of the test assembly 24.

[0066] The removable cover 90 is here fixed to the rear shell 30 by clipping, screwing or by a bayonet mechanism. Of course, other fixing means can be implemented to fix the removable cover to the rear shell 30. Alternatively, in an example not illustrated, the removable cover could be fixed to the front shell 28

[0067] The removable cover 90 is arranged in a sealed manner. For example, a joint between the removable cover and the rear shell 30 may comprise a seal. Thus, the interior of the housing 22 remains impermeable to urine, water from the water tank 14 or the bowl 16, and any other type of contaminant.

[0068] The housing 22 has a collection orifice 32. The collection orifice can receive urine flowing by gravity onto the outer surface of the housing 22. Urine is collected directly from the faces 25, 26 of the housing.

[0069] The collection orifice 32 is located on a lower end 36 of the housing. The lower end 36 is oriented towards the bottom of the bowl 16 when the housing 22 is positioned in the toilet bowl. This position corresponds to a normal position of use. This position allows collection of urine flowing by gravity over the majority of the outer surface of the housing.

[0070] In this case, a distance D separating the collection orifice 32 from a lower edge 22a of the housing 22 is less than 40mm, preferably less than 20mm. According to a particular embodiment, the collection orifice 32 is arranged a few millimeters above the lower edge of the housing. Alternatively, the collection orifice could be on the lower edge 22a.

[0071] The collection orifice 32 is a circular opening, preferably with a diameter of between 0.3 mm and 2 mm. The diameter of the collection orifice may be chosen to maximize the volume of urine collected from the outer surface of the housing.

[0072] The housing 22 has a drain orifice 34. The drain orifice allows the urine analysis device to be purged of excess urine.

[0073] The drain orifice 34 may be separate from the collection orifice 32. Then, the drain orifice is also located on the lower end of the housing 22, in the vicinity of the collection orifice. The drain orifice is also a circular opening. The drain hole 34 has a diameter between 0.3 mm and 2 mm. In the normal position of use, the drain hole is located below the collection hole.

[0074] Alternatively, as illustrated in [fig.5], the drain orifice 34 may be the same as the collection orifice 32. A single orifice makes it possible to limit the number of openings towards the interior of the housing 22. Then, the risk of introducing contaminants or elements likely to obstruct the test assembly 24 is reduced.

[0075] As seen in [fig.6], the collection orifice 32 and the drain orifice 34 may be surmounted by a metal mesh filter 92. The filter covers the orifices 32, 34. The mesh filter 92 is, for example, oblong in shape covering the orifices 32, 34. The average mesh opening of the filter 92 is, for example, 20 microns. The filter 92 makes it possible to prevent the introduction of contaminants or elements likely to obstruct the test assembly 24, and to filter the urine received in the collection orifice 32. Furthermore, the filter 92 could be cleaned using an air flow generated by an air pump.

[0076] In the examples illustrated in Figures 2 to 7, the collection orifice 32 and the drain orifice 34 are located on the rear face 26 of the housing. Then, the collection orifice and the drain orifice face the wall 16a of the bowl 16 when the urine analysis device 12 is positioned in the toilet 10. This position makes it possible to hide the collection orifice and the drain orifice from the user's view by the front face 25 of the housing. The front face visible to the user resembles a simple uniform pebble as already mentioned, without any singular points or orifices which gives a somewhat magical appearance to the urine analysis device (very simple in appearance, it produces very sophisticated results). Also, it should be noted that this position makes it possible to prevent the introduction of contaminants or elements likely to obstruct the test assembly 24.

[0077] The collection orifice 32 and the drain orifice 34 are located in a recess 37. The recess 37 comprises two lateral grooves 39 extending from the joint 31 of the housing towards a central part 43 of the recess 37 comprising the orifices 32, 34. The depth of the lateral grooves 39, i.e. the distance from the rear face 26 towards the inside of the housing 22 in the direction of the axis A, increases from the joint 31 to the central part 43. Thus, the recess 37 forms a urine supply from the front face 25 to the collection orifice 32. Advantageously, the recess 37 makes it possible to collect urine running down the front face 25 and convey it towards the collection orifice. Thus, the volume of urine reaching the collection orifice from the front face 25 of the housing is sufficient for the purposes of the analysis.

[0078] A border 40 delimiting the recess 37 is rounded. In other words, the border 40 is defined by curved surfaces. The border 40 is devoid of edges. Urine in contact with the rear face 26 can flow towards the collection orifice 32 without detaching from the housing or forming air bubbles. Thus, the volume of urine reaching the collection orifice from the rear face of the housing is increased.

[0079] In an exemplary embodiment, the collection orifice 32 is positioned 8 mm in below the border 40.

[0080] Alternatively, in the example illustrated in [fig.8], the collection orifice 32, merged with the drainage orifice 34, is located on the front face 25 of the housing. Thus, the urine running down the front face reaches the collection orifice more directly.

[0081] As illustrated, the collection orifice 32 is on a projection 43 of the front face 25. The projection 43 extends from the joint 31 towards the lower end 36 of the housing comprising the orifice 32. The projection also forms a urine supply from the joint 31 of the housing towards the collection orifice 32. The projection makes it possible to collect urine running down the front face 25 and convey it towards the collection orifice.

[0082] It should be noted that the collection orifice may have an upwardly directed mouth, or a downwardly directed mouth, without excluding a purely radially directed mouth (i.e. flat relative to the general surface of the housing).

[0083] The housing 22 is not limited to the embodiments described above with regard to the figures, but is, on the contrary, capable of numerous variants accessible to those skilled in the art.

[0084] The housing 22 may in particular take any geometric shape defined by curved lines. The housing may in particular have a diamond shape or an inverted drop shape. Then, the housing has a point on the lower part in order to direct the urine towards the collection orifice 32.

[0085] The collection orifice 32 and the drain orifice 34, if applicable, may be located on a positive relief, in particular a projection, or a negative relief, in particular a gutter or a recess. Generally, the relief may be of any geometry allowing the urine flowing over the housing 22 to be channeled and conveyed to the collection orifice 32 without detaching from the housing or forming air bubbles.

[0086] In an exemplary embodiment, the collection orifice 32 is arranged on the front face 25, while the drain orifice 34 is located on the rear face 26.

[0087] Test set

[0088] Subsequently, the test set 24 is described in more detail, with reference to [fig.9].

[0089] The test set 24 is controlled by an electronic control unit 45. The electronic control unit 45 makes it possible to control the components of the test set to carry out a urine analysis and obtain one or more analysis results.

[0090] The test assembly 24 comprises an analysis system 50. The analysis system 50 performs the analysis on the urine collected from the collection port 32 to establish one or more results. Here, the analysis may be one or more of: - an analysis with colorimetric strips, classic or of the lateral or vertical flow immunoassay type: urine is received on a strip containing one or more reagents sensitive to one or more components of the urine, and an analysis by optical detection allows to obtain an analysis result; - an analysis with a micro-fluidic chip, of the “lab on a chip” type: the chip mixes urine with one or more reagents contained in microdrops, and an analysis by optical detection allowing an analysis result to be obtained; - an analysis with a microfluidic chip on a porous support: the mixing of urine with one or more reagents is obtained by capillarity; - an analysis with a field effect transistor, as described in the published patent application Withings EP3562407; - an analysis by measuring the conductivity of the urine; - an analysis by a pH measurement using a metric pH probe; - an analysis by spectrophotometric measurement; - an analysis by electrochemical measurement.

[0091] The test assembly 24 comprises a urine conveying means 48. The urine conveying means 48 makes it possible to convey urine from the collection orifice 32 to the drainage orifice 34, through the analysis system 50. Preferably, the urine conveying means 48 comprises a collection channel 82, a purge channel 84 and a pump 86.

[0092] The collection channel 82 connects the collection port 32 to the analysis system 50. The collection channel 82 allows urine to be conveyed from the collection port 32 to the analysis system 50.

[0093] The purge channel 84 connects the analysis system 50 to the drain orifice 34. The purge channel allows in particular evacuation of the urine contained in the urine conveying means 48. Preferably, the purge channel 84 is hydrophobic, allowing better evacuation of the urine. Then, the risk of contamination of the urine conveyed between two successive collections is reduced.

[0094] The pump 86 is arranged between a first portion 82a and a second portion 82b of the collection channel 82.

[0095] The pump 86 can draw urine from the collection port 32. The pump 86 draws, for example, between 5 microliters and 1 mL, preferably about 20 microliters. Then, the pump can deliver a sufficient volume of urine to perform a conclusive analysis. A suction flow rate of the pump is chosen according to the diameter of the collection port. Then, the pump can draw urine from the collection port to the analysis system 50 without forming air bubbles.

[0096] The pump 86 may also draw air from the collection port 32. The air passes through the urine conveying means 48 to the drain port 34 to evacuate the urine contained in the urine conveying means. The urine collected for analysis is then protected from possible contamination by a previous collection.

[0097] Alternatively, the pump 86 could draw water when activating the flushing of the toilet 10 to evacuate the urine contained in the urine conveying means 48.

[0098] The pump 86 is here a piezoelectric type pump. By using a piezoelectric pump, the urine analysis device can be free of controlled valves, which simplifies the urine analysis device.

[0099] Alternatively, the pump may be a pneumatic system. Then, the pneumatic system is configured to create negative pressure to draw urine from the collection port, and positive pressure to push urine toward the analysis system 50 and the drain port. This solution allows for precise control of the volume collected by the urine analysis device 12.

[0100] The test assembly 24 comprises a urine presence sensor 38. The urine presence sensor 38 is arranged in the vicinity of the collection orifice 32. The urine presence sensor then makes it possible to detect when urine is present in the vicinity of the collection orifice.

[0101] Preferably, the urine presence sensor 38 is a temperature sensor, for example a thermistor. The temperature sensor makes it possible to distinguish between urine and water coming from the toilet 10. In addition, the temperature sensor can also be used to measure the temperature of the urine. The temperature of the urine makes it possible in particular to detect periods of fertility. The use of a temperature sensor then makes it possible to reduce the number of components used by the test assembly 24 to carry out an analysis. The complexity and costs associated with the manufacture of the urine analysis device are reduced.

[0102] Alternatively, the urine presence sensor 38 may be any type of liquid detector, for example a capacitive or resistive type sensor. Then, a temperature sensor is distinct from the urine presence sensor. The temperature sensor may be dedicated to measuring the temperature of the urine, in particular to detect a period of fertility.

[0103] Communication and system aspects

[0104] The urine analysis device comprises a communication module 41. The communication module 41 is wireless. The communication module 41 uses a local network, for example of the Bluetooth, Low-Energy Bluetooth (BLE) or Wi-Fi type. The local network makes it possible to preserve a battery 94 of the test assembly 24. Thus, the autonomy of the analysis device 12 is increased.

[0105] Alternatively, the communication module 41 may operate a cellular telecommunications network. The cellular telecommunications network may, for example, be GSM, 3G, 4G, 5G, 4G-LTE. The communication module 41 then has a longer range.

[0106] Alternatively, the communication module 41 may operate a gateway connected to the cellular telecommunications network. The gateway may in particular be a router, for example a Wi-Fi router connected to the cellular network, a hub, i.e. a device connected directly to the cellular network, or the user's smartphone. Then, the urine analysis device 12 may be connected to the cellular network without compromising the autonomy of the battery 94.

[0107] The communication module 41 makes it possible to trigger an analysis via a remote command.

[0108] Preferably, the analysis is launched from a smartphone 61 of the user. The user can launch an analysis from an application on the smartphone. The user has control over the urine analysis device 12, and can choose when he wishes to carry out an analysis. The user can also be identified through the use of the smartphone. The analysis carried out can then be adapted to the user. The user can also select the analysis he wishes to carry out.

[0109] Alternatively, the analysis is initiated by communication with a remote device 42 near the toilet. The remote device includes a button 55. The user can then press the button to initiate an analysis. The user has control over the urine analysis device, and can choose when to perform an analysis.

[0110] The button 55 may be provided with a biometric sensor 57. The button may then identify the user pressing the button. Then, an analysis relevant to the identified user may be performed by the urine analysis device. Furthermore, the analysis performed may be chosen based on the identified user, and the results sent to enrich the history of this identified user.

[0111] The remote device 42 also comprises a display 59. For example, the display may consist of one or more colored light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The display may also comprise a screen. The display makes it possible to inform the user. For example, the user may be informed that a button press has been perceived, and / or that the user has been identified and / or that an analysis will be carried out.

[0112] Alternatively, the remote device 42 may be a connected bracelet associated with the user. In this case, the user may be automatically detected when he is near the toilet. The user may also be identified by the connected bracelet. Thus, an analysis may be launched automatically, without action by the user. Note that the connected bracelet may be in the form of a connected watch.

[0113] The communication module 41 also makes it possible to communicate the analysis result(s). The analysis result(s) may be one or more of: a fertile period, a pregnancy, urinary infections, problems with liver, kidney failure, uric acid lithiasis, dehydration, heart disease and / or diabetes.

[0114] The communication module 41 can send the analysis result(s) directly to the display 59 or to the smartphone 61. The communication module can then be without a connection to the cellular telecommunications network. The analysis result(s) can be interpreted locally by the electronic control unit 45, or by the smartphone application. Thus, the operating costs of the urine analysis device 12 are reduced.

[0115] Alternatively, the communication module 41 can send the result(s) to a remote server 98. The remote server 98 can interpret the result(s). The use of a server makes it possible to reduce the computing capacity required locally for the interpretation of the analysis result(s).

[0116] The remote server 98 may also be provided with a storage capacity. Thus, the remote server may store the result(s) of a plurality of successive analyses.

[0117] The user can view and exploit one or more results, received directly from the analysis device 12 or from the server. For example, the user can view and exploit the results from the smartphone application. Alternatively, the user can access a website from a computer.

[0118] It may be provided that the housing 22 comprises one or more light indicators (for example light-emitting diodes, i.e. LEDs) arranged inside the housing opposite a translucent portion of the front face of the housing so as to be able to provide the user with visual feedback on the operation of the analysis device 12. Several colors and flashing patterns may be provided to indicate various statuses of the device to the user.

[0119] Process aspects

[0120] Two methods for initiating a urine analysis and receiving the result(s) are described in more detail below. The methods are implemented by the electronic control unit 45.

[0121] In the example illustrated in [fig. 10], the process is initiated by interaction with the user.

[0122] In step E0, the urine analysis device 12 is in an inactive state. In the inactive state, the urine analysis device waits to receive an analysis request.

[0123] Then, step E1 corresponds to the reception of the analysis request. The analysis request can come from the user pressing the button 55. The analysis request can also be ordered from the smartphone 61. The analysis request can also be carried out automatically, when the user is near the toilets 10. The display 59 can indicate to the user that his press has been received. The display can also indicate whether a user was recognized when the button was pressed.

[0124] In step E2, the urine analysis device 12 enters an active state. In the active state, the urine analysis device waits to detect urine near the collection port 32. The housing 22 may further be equipped with LEDs to alert a user that the urine analysis device is in the active mode.

[0125] If no urine stream is received within a given time, then the urine analysis device 12 returns to the inactive state of step E0. If, on the contrary, a urine stream is detected, the pump 86 is activated to convey the urine from the collection port 32 to the analysis system 50 (Step E3).

[0126] Step E4 consists of carrying out an analysis on the collected urine. The analysis carried out depends on the analysis device 50 in the housing 22. The analysis carried out may also depend on the user identified by the button 55. The analysis carried out may also depend on the choice made by the user.

[0127] Step E5 corresponds to the transmission of the result(s). The result(s) may be transmitted directly to the user. The result(s) may also be sent to the server 98. The user may, for example, view and use the result(s) on the smartphone application 61, or on a website. The result(s) may also be sent to a healthcare professional.

[0128] Finally, step E6 consists of activating the pump 86 to purge the urine analysis device 12 of excess urine. The urine analysis device subsequently returns to the inactive state of step E0.

[0129] Alternatively, in the example illustrated in [fig.l 1], the method is initiated when urine is detected on the housing 22.

[0130] In step E100, the urine analysis device 12 is in the inactive state. Here, the inactive state corresponds to waiting for urine to be detected near the collection orifice 32.

[0131] Then, step E101 consists of detecting the presence of urine near the collection orifice.

[0132] In step E102, the pump 86 is activated to suck the urine from the collection port to the analysis system 50. The display 59 may indicate that an analysis is ready to be performed. Alternatively, the housing 22, provided with LEDs, may indicate that an analysis is ready to be performed.

[0133] In step E103, the urine analysis device 12 waits to receive an analysis request from a user. The analysis request may come from the user pressing the button 55. The analysis request may also be ordered from the smartphone 61.

[0134] If the analysis request is not received within a given time, then the pump 86 is activated to purge the urine analysis device 12 of the collected urine (Step E106). The urine analysis device returns to the inactive state of step E100.

[0135] If, on the contrary, the analysis request is received, then an analysis is carried out, in step E104. In addition, the display 59 can indicate to the user that his or her press has been received. The display can also indicate whether a user has been recognized when pressing the button 55.

[0136] Step E105 corresponds to the transmission of the result(s). The result(s) may be transmitted directly to the user. The result(s) may also be sent to the server 98. The user may, for example, view the result(s) on the smartphone application 61, or on a website. The result(s) may also be sent to a healthcare professional.

[0137] Finally, step E106 consists of activating the pump 86 to purge the urine analysis device 12 of excess urine. The urine analysis device subsequently returns to the inactive mode of step E100.

Claims

Claims

1. A urine analysis device (12) comprising a housing (22) configured to be positioned entirely within a toilet (10), the housing having a front face (25) for receiving a stream of urine directly from a user urinating while seated on the toilet, a rear face (26) opposite the front face, and a collection port (32), disposed on the front face or the rear face, wherein the collection port (32) is located adjacent a lower end (36) of the housing (22) in a normal position of use, and wherein the housing contains a test assembly (24) configured to perform an analysis on urine collected through the collection port.

2. The urine analysis device (12) of claim 1, wherein the housing (22) is edgeless.

3. Urine analysis device (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the front face (25) and / or the rear face (26) comprises a relief (37, 43) forming a urine supply towards the collection orifice (32).

4. A urine analysis device (12) according to any preceding claim, wherein the housing (22) has a general circular pebble shape.

5. A urine analysis device (12) according to any preceding claim, wherein the housing (22) comprises a drain port (34) configured to drain urine.

6. A urine analysis device (12) according to any preceding claim, wherein the housing (22) is made of a hydrophilic material, preferably the hydrophilic material is one of: a ceramic, a polyamide, a silicone, a hydrophilic polymer and / or the housing is treated with a hydrophilic surface treatment.

7. A urine analysis device (12) according to any preceding claim, wherein the diameter of the housing (22) is between 50 mm and 150 mm, preferably the diameter of the housing is 100 mm.

8. A urine analysis device (12) according to any preceding claim, further comprising a urine presence sensor (38) in the vicinity of the collection port (32), the sensor being configured to detect the presence of urine, preferably the sensor being a temperature sensor.

9. A urine analysis device (12) according to any preceding claim, further comprising a fixing element (66) configured to position the housing on an inner wall (16a) of a toilet bowl (16) (10).

10. Urine analysis device (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a communication module (41) with an apparatus (42) and / or a smartphone (61) and / or a server (98).

11. A urine analysis device (12) according to any preceding claim, wherein the test assembly (24) comprises one or more of: a plurality of test strips, a microfluidic chip, a field effect transistor, a conductivity measuring device, a pH measuring device, a spectroscopic measuring device, an electrochemical measuring device.

12. A method of collecting urine using the urine analysis device (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: - detecting the presence of urine in the vicinity of the collection orifice (32) - collecting urine flowing on the front face (25) and / or the rear face (26); - analyzing the collected urine to establish one or more analysis results.

13. Method according to the preceding claim in which the method is triggered by an interaction with a user.

14. Method according to one of claims 12 or 13, in which the analysis result(s) are transmitted to a smartphone (61) of a user and / or to a remote server (98).

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