Toilet device

Abstract

To provide a toilet device capable of issuing an alarm for the risk of theft of a detection unit.SOLUTION: A toilet device includes a detachable detection unit that optically detects excrement, a control unit including an acquisition unit that acquires information indicating that the detection unit has been detached when the detection unit is detached, and an alarm unit. The alarm unit issues an alarm when the acquisition unit acquires the information indicating that the detection unit has been detached.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE Aspects of the present invention relate generally to toilet systems. [Background technology]

[0002] A toilet device may be provided with a detection unit that detects excrement from a user. There is a risk that the detection unit may be removed from its designated installation location and stolen. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-055523 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 7253137 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present invention has been made based on the recognition of such problems, and has an object to provide a toilet device that can warn of the risk of theft of a detection unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A first invention is a toilet device comprising: a detection unit that is detachably provided and optically detects excrement; a control unit including an acquisition unit that acquires information indicating that the detection unit has been detached when the detection unit is detached; and an alarm unit, wherein the alarm unit issues an alarm when the acquisition unit acquires information indicating that the detection unit has been detached.

[0006] According to this toilet device, when the detection unit is detached, the notification unit issues a notification, thereby making it possible to notify the user of the risk of theft of the detection unit.

[0007] A second invention is the toilet device according to the first invention, characterized in that, when the detection unit detaches while the power supply to the control unit is off, the notification unit issues a notification.

[0008] According to this toilet device, even if the power is off, the alarm unit issues an alarm when the detection unit is detached. For example, even if the power is turned off and theft or tampering is attempted, the alarm is issued, so that theft, tampering, or voyeurism can be further suppressed.

[0009] A third invention is the toilet device according to the first or second invention, characterized in that, when firmware that controls the detection unit is rewritten, the notification unit issues a notification.

[0010] According to this toilet device, if any modification is made by rewriting the firmware, a notification is provided, and therefore it is possible to prevent the use of a modified detection unit.

[0011] A fourth invention is a toilet device according to the first or second invention, characterized in that, when the control unit cannot receive a predetermined signal from the detection unit, the notification unit issues a notification.

[0012] According to this toilet device, if a predetermined signal cannot be received, the alarm unit issues an alarm, thereby further preventing theft, tampering, or surreptitious photography of the detection unit.

[0013] A fifth invention is a toilet device according to the first or second invention, characterized in that after the detection unit is detached, operation of the detection unit is prohibited until a predetermined return process is performed.

[0014] According to this toilet device, operation is prohibited when the detection unit is removed, which further reduces voyeurism. Effect of the Invention

[0015] According to an aspect of the present invention, a toilet apparatus is provided that is capable of notifying a risk of theft of a detection unit. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a toilet device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating a portion of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a toilet device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a toilet device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0017] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a toilet device according to an embodiment. The toilet device 100 shown in Fig. 1 has a main body 400 (casing) and a toilet seat 200 on which a user sits. The main body 400 and the toilet seat 200 are provided on a Western-style seated toilet bowl 800 (hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, simply referred to as a "toilet bowl"). The toilet bowl 800 has a bowl portion 801 having a concave bowl surface that receives excrement. The toilet device 100 is, for example, a toilet seat device. The toilet device 100 may be a device that includes the toilet bowl 800. The toilet device 100 may further have a toilet lid 300.

[0019] The toilet seat 200 and the toilet lid 300 are each pivotally supported on the main body 400 so that they can be opened and closed freely. In the state shown in FIG. 1, the toilet seat 200 is in a closed state (lowered state), and the toilet lid 300 is in an open state (raised state). When closed, the toilet lid 300 covers the seat surface and bowl portion 801 of the toilet seat 200 from above. The main body 400 supports the rear end sides of the toilet seat 200 and the toilet lid 300 when in the closed state. When closed, the rest of the toilet seat 200 (the front and central portions) is located forward of the main body 400.

[0020] In the description of the embodiments, "front," "back," "left," "right," "upper," and "lower" refer to directions as seen by a user sitting on the toilet seat 200 with their back to the open toilet lid 300 as shown in Figure 1.

[0021] The inside of main body 400 includes a body washing function unit and the like that washes the body parts (such as the buttocks) of a user sitting on toilet seat 200. Furthermore, for example, main body 400 is provided with seating sensor 404 that detects a user sitting on toilet seat 200. When seating sensor 404 detects a user sitting on toilet seat 200, and the user operates remote control 500, for example, water discharger 473 (washing nozzle) can be advanced into bowl portion 801 of toilet 800. Note that FIG. 1 shows a state in which water discharger 473 has advanced into bowl portion 801.

[0022] One or more water outlets 474 are provided at the tip of water outlet 473. Water outlet 473 can spray water from water outlet 474 provided at its tip to wash the "buttocks" of a user sitting on toilet seat 200.

[0023] Furthermore, inside the main body 400, an air blowing section 30 (air blowing device) is provided. The air blowing section 30 can blow hot air, for example, forward. In this example, the air blowing section 30 is a drying device that blows hot air toward the "bottoms" of a user sitting on the toilet seat 200 to dry them. For example, the user can operate the remote control 500 to cause the air blowing section 30 to start blowing air or stop blowing air.

[0024] In the embodiment, a drying device for drying the user's private parts and a body washing function unit are provided as necessary and can be omitted. Furthermore, the main body 400 may incorporate various mechanisms such as a "deodorizing unit" and an "indoor heating unit."

[0025] The toilet apparatus 100 further includes a detection unit 20 (detection device) that optically detects a detection target. For example, the detection unit 20 is a camera that acquires image data and is capable of photographing the bowl portion 801. The detection target (e.g., the imaged target) of the detection unit 20 is the internal space of the toilet 800, i.e., the space on the bowl surface and / or objects within that space. The detection target of the detection unit 20 is, for example, excrement in the internal space of the toilet 800. For example, the detection unit 20 is capable of photographing the water seal portion 801w (see FIG. 3) in which water has accumulated within the toilet 800 and its surroundings.

[0026] The detection unit 20 includes a detection element (light receiving element) that receives light from the detection object, such as radiated light or reflected light from the detection object, and detects the detection object. The light from the detection object may be visible light or invisible light (infrared light, etc.). As an example, the detection element is a light detection element such as a photodiode. The detection element may be any element that can detect the detection object (excrement or the internal space of the toilet bowl) by light.

[0027] For example, the detection unit 20 may have an imaging element including a detection element. That is, the detection unit 20 may be an image sensor. The detection unit 20 may be any element that can obtain an image of the detection target (excrement or the internal space of the toilet) by light from the detection target. The detection unit 20 may be a line sensor or a thermosensor.

[0028] For example, the characteristics of the excrement (at least one of the amount, shape, and color, etc.) are determined from the image of the excrement acquired by the detection unit 20. This can be useful for, for example, health management of the user. For example, a computer identifies the characteristics of the excrement based on the feature amount of the image, thereby determining the characteristics of the excrement.

[0029] The detection unit 20 is detachably provided at a predetermined installation location. In this example, the detection unit 20 is attached to the toilet seat 200. However, the installation location of the detection unit 20 may be any position where the detection unit 20 can detect the detection target, and it is also possible to provide the detection unit 20 on the main body 400, for example.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the toilet device according to the embodiment. 2, the toilet device 100 includes a control unit 10, a detection unit 20, and an alarm unit 40. The control unit 10 is a control circuit such as a microcomputer. The control unit 10 is communicably connected to the detection unit 20 and the alarm unit 40. The control unit 10 controls the operation of the detection unit 20 and the alarm unit 40.

[0031] The control unit 10 has an acquisition unit 11 (part of the circuit). The acquisition unit 11 acquires information, for example, as to whether the detection unit 20 has been attached or detached. The acquisition unit 11 acquires information, for example, as to whether the detection unit 20 has been installed at a predetermined installation location and / or whether the detection unit 20 has been detached from the predetermined installation location. The notification unit 40 issues a notification based on the information regarding the attachment or detachment of the detection unit 20 acquired by the acquisition unit 11. A method for detecting whether the detection unit 20 has been attached or detached will be described later.

[0032] For example, when the detection unit 20 is detached from the installation location, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating that the detection unit 20 has been detached from the installation location. That is, for example, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating that the detection unit 20 has changed from a state in which it is installed at the installation location to a state in which it is removed from the installation location. In this way, when the detection unit 20 is removed from the installation location, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating that the detection unit 20 has been removed from the installation location.

[0033] For example, when the detection unit 20 is installed at the installation location, the acquisition unit 11 may acquire information indicating that the detection unit 20 has been installed at the installation location. That is, for example, the acquisition unit 11 may acquire information indicating that the detection unit 20 has changed from a state where it is removed from the installation location to a state where it is installed at the installation location.

[0034] The acquisition unit 11 may acquire information indicating the attachment / detachment state of the detection unit 20 as information indicating that the detection unit 20 has been detached from the installation location or information indicating that the detection unit 20 has been installed at the installation location. Based on the attachment / detachment state, that is, whether the detection unit 20 is installed at the installation location or not, it can be determined that the detection unit 20 has been detached from the installation location or has been installed at the installation location.

[0035] When the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating that the detection unit 20 has been detached from the installation location, the control unit 10 causes the notification unit 40 to issue a notification. That is, when the detection unit 20 is removed from the installation location, the notification unit 40 notifies the detachment of the detection unit 20. Specifically, the notification unit 40 is, for example, a speaker or a buzzer, and emits a sound. Alternatively, the notification unit 40 is a light-emitting unit including a light source such as a light-emitting diode, and emits light. This notifies people around the notification unit 40 that the detection unit 20 has been detached. Not limited to this, the notification unit 40 may be one that issues a notification by any means such as sound, light, or vibration. The notification unit 40, such as a speaker or a light-emitting unit, is provided, for example, in a toilet room in which the toilet device 100 is arranged. For example, the notification unit 40 can be provided in the main body unit 400 or the toilet seat 200. However, in the embodiment, the location where the notification unit 40 is installed is not particularly limited, and the notification unit 40 may be provided as a separate unit from the main body 400 and the toilet seat 200.

[0036] The notification by the notification unit 40 may be a notification by transmitting information. In this case, the notification unit 40 is a communication unit (for example, a communication device such as a communication module) capable of transmitting information. For example, when the control unit 10 acquires information indicating that the detection unit 20 has been detached from the installation location, the control unit 10 causes the communication unit (notification unit 40) to transmit the information that the detection unit 20 has been detached to another device. This other device may be a device outside the toilet room in which the toilet device 100 is placed. For example, this other device may be a mobile terminal (for example, a smartphone) or a computer of a facility manager or the like connected via a network. As a result, the fact that the detection unit 20 has been detached is notified (notified) to, for example, the facility manager. The network used for communication between the communication unit (notification unit 40) and the other device may be the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network), but the communication method is not particularly limited.

[0037] The control unit 10 may control the operation of the seating sensor 404, the human body detection sensor 403, the body cleansing function unit having the water discharge unit 473, and the air blower unit 30.

[0038] The seating sensor 404 can detect whether or not a user is seated on the toilet seat 200. In other words, the seating sensor 404 has a seating detection state in which it detects that the user is seated on the toilet seat 200, and a seating non-detection state in which it does not detect that the user is seated on the toilet seat 200. In this way, the seating sensor 404 detects the user sitting and leaving the seat. Note that the range of the user being seated may include the user being directly above the toilet seat 200. The seating sensor 404 transmits the detection result (a signal corresponding to the seating detection state or the seating non-detection state) to the control unit 10. In this way, the control unit 10 can identify whether or not the user is seated.

[0039] For example, a microwave sensor, a distance measuring sensor (infrared light projecting sensor), an ultrasonic sensor, a tact switch, a capacitance switch (touch sensor), or a distortion sensor can be used as the seating sensor 404. When a contact type sensor such as a tact switch, a capacitance sensor, or a distortion sensor is used, the contact type sensor is provided on the toilet seat 200.

[0040] The human body detection sensor 403 can detect a user in front of the toilet bowl 800, i.e., a user who is positioned forward and away from the toilet seat 200. In other words, the human body detection sensor 403 can detect a user who has entered the toilet room and is approaching the toilet seat 200. The human body detection sensor 403 transmits the detection result (a signal according to whether or not a user is present) to the control unit 10. This allows the control unit 10 to identify whether or not a user is present.

[0041] As such a human body detection sensor, for example, a pyroelectric sensor, a microwave sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a distance measuring sensor (infrared projection sensor) can be used. Furthermore, the human body detection sensor 403 may detect a user who has just opened the door of the toilet room and entered, or a user who is just about to enter the toilet room, that is, a user who is in front of the door about to enter the toilet room. For example, when a microwave sensor is used, it is possible to detect the presence of a user through the door of the toilet room. For example, when a microwave sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a distance measuring sensor (infrared projection sensor) is used, it is also possible to grasp the distance between the toilet bowl 800 and a user who is in front of the toilet bowl 800.

[0042] The control unit 10 can communicate with a remote control 500 (FIG. 1) by wireless communication using, for example, infrared rays or radio waves. The control unit 10 controls the operations of the water discharge unit 473, the air blower unit 30, and the detection unit 20 based on a signal from the remote control 500, the detection result of the seating sensor 404, the detection result of the human body detection sensor 403, and the like.

[0043] For example, when a user operates a switch for operating the body cleansing function unit provided on remote control 500, remote control 500 transmits to control unit 10 a signal instructing water discharger 473 to start discharging water (water discharge start signal) or a signal instructing water discharger 473 to stop discharging water (water discharge stop signal). Upon receiving the water discharge start signal or water discharge stop signal, control unit 10 controls the body cleansing function unit to start or stop discharging water from water discharger 473.

[0044] For example, when a user operates a switch for operating air blowing unit 30 provided on remote control 500, remote control 500 transmits to control unit 10 a signal (air blowing start signal) instructing air blowing to start from air blowing unit 30, or a signal (air blowing stop signal) instructing air blowing to stop from air blowing unit 30. Upon receiving the air blowing start signal or air blowing stop signal, control unit 10 controls air blowing unit 30 to start or stop air blowing from air blowing unit 30.

[0045] For example, when control unit 10 receives a detection result from seating sensor 404 that the user is seated, it controls detection unit 20 to start acquiring images. Detection unit 20 may, for example, perform imaging to acquire images (e.g., video) continuously over time, or may perform imaging to acquire images at predetermined time intervals. For example, detection unit 20 acquires images of excrement that has fallen into bowl portion 801, or excrement that is falling.

[0046] In this example, the control unit 10 is provided in the main body 400. However, the location of the control unit 10 is not particularly limited, and it may be provided, for example, in the toilet seat 200. The control unit 10 may also be provided in a distributed manner in multiple parts that are communicatively connected as appropriate. For example, at least a part of the control unit 10 that has the function of controlling the operation of the detection unit 20 may be provided integrally with the detection unit 20.

[0047] The components may be connected to each other via wired, wireless, or a combination of wired and wireless connections as appropriate, and any communication or connection method capable of transmitting signals may be used as appropriate.

[0048] When a detection unit is provided in a toilet device, there is a risk that the detection unit may be removed from a predetermined installation location and stolen. In addition, there is a risk that the detection unit may be removed and modified for, for example, voyeurism. In response to this, in the embodiment, the notification unit 40 issues a notification when the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating that the detection unit 20 has been detached from the installation location. In other words, when the detection unit 20 is detached from the predetermined installation location, the notification unit 40 issues a notification. This makes it possible to notify the possibility of theft of the detection unit 20. The theft of the detection unit 20 can be suppressed. For example, if a person who is attempting theft, modification, or voyeurism knows that a notification has been issued, the theft, modification, or voyeurism can be suppressed. In addition, for example, a manager who notices the notification can know that there is a risk of theft, modification, or voyeurism when the detachment of the detection unit 20 was not intended. For example, the manager can take measures such as patrol and inspection of the toilet device 100.

[0049] FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating a portion of the toilet device according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the toilet device according to the embodiment. Fig. 3 shows the toilet seat 200 and its surroundings in a top view from above. Fig. 4 corresponds to a cross section taken along line A1-A2 shown in Fig. 3.

[0050] As shown in Fig. 3, the seat surface of the toilet seat 200 is annular in top view. That is, in top view, the toilet seat 200 has an inner periphery 200a (inner edge) and an outer periphery 200b (outer edge). In top view, the inner periphery 200a surrounds the periphery of the water sealing portion 801w (lower part of the bowl portion 801) where water collects, and the outer periphery 200b surrounds the periphery of the inner periphery 200a. The annular shape may be a shape having an approximate annular shape, and is not limited to a completely closed annular shape, and may be, for example, a shape in which a part of the closed annular shape is interrupted.

[0051] In a top view, the distance between the detection unit 20 and the inner circumference 200a is shorter than the distance between the detection unit 20 and the outer circumference 200b. That is, for example, the detection unit 20 is disposed inside the center 200c in the width direction of the toilet seat 200. Alternatively, the portion of the detection unit 20 located inside the center 200c in the width direction of the toilet seat 200 is larger than the portion of the detection unit 20 located outside the center 200c in the width direction of the toilet seat 200.

[0052] The width direction of the toilet seat 200 is the direction that connects the inner periphery 200a and the outer periphery 200b at the shortest distance. The center 200c of the width direction of the toilet seat 200 is the middle between the inner periphery 200a and the outer periphery 200b when viewed from above.

[0053] By arranging the detection unit 20 on the inner periphery side of the toilet seat 200 in this manner, for example, the detection unit 20 can easily detect the inside of the bowl portion 801 and excrement.

[0054] The blower unit 30 is provided in the main body 400 located behind the toilet seat 200. In a top view, the blower unit 30 is located on the opposite side to the blower unit 30 when viewed from the center C in the left-right direction of the toilet seat 200.

[0055] As shown in Fig. 4, the toilet seat 200 has a back surface 200d that faces downward when in a closed state. The detection unit 20 is disposed on the back surface of the toilet seat 200. In this example, a recess 220 that is recessed toward the front surface of the toilet seat 200 is formed on the back surface of the toilet seat 200. The detection unit 20 is disposed within the recess 220.

[0056] For example, the detection unit 20 is fixed to the toilet seat 200 or the main body 400 by a rigid member such as a screw. In this example, the detection unit 20 is fixed to the toilet seat 200 by a screw (fastening member). The detection unit 20 may also be connected to the toilet seat 200 or the main body 400 by a flexible member such as a wire. The flexible member may include a power cable. By attaching the detection unit 20 in this manner, theft can be further suppressed. The method of installing the detection unit 20 is not limited to this, and any method that allows the detection unit 20 to be detachably attached to the installation location, such as engagement or fitting with a claw, can be used.

[0057] 4, the toilet seat 200 is provided with a light-transmitting window 55. The detection element of the detection unit 20 detects light incident on the detection element from inside the toilet bowl 800 through the light-transmitting window 55. The light-transmitting window 55 may be any material that transmits light from a detection target detected by the detection element, and is, for example, transparent.

[0058] The light-transmitting window portion 55 is engaged with the toilet seat 200, for example, by a claw portion or the like provided on the toilet seat 200. The light-transmitting window portion 55 can be installed by any means, without being limited to this. For example, the light-transmitting window portion 55 may be detachably attached to the toilet seat 200 or the detection unit 20. Furthermore, the light-transmitting window portion 55 is provided as necessary, and can be omitted as appropriate.

[0059] 3, the toilet seat 200 has a plurality of cushion portions 210 provided on the back surface 200d. The cushion portions 210 have a downwardly convex shape when the toilet seat 200 is closed. The cushion portions 210 are capable of contacting the upper surface of the toilet bowl 800 when the toilet seat 200 is closed.

[0060] In this example, four cushion portions 210 are provided as the multiple cushion portions 210, including a first cushion portion 211 and a second cushion portion 212. When the toilet seat 200 is closed, the first cushion portion 211 and the second cushion portion 212 are lined up in front-to-back on the left or right side of the toilet seat 200 (the right side in the example of FIG. 3). When the toilet seat 200 is closed, the second cushion portion 212 is located forward of the first cushion portion 211.

[0061] When the toilet seat 200 is closed, the detection unit 20 is located in the front-rear direction between the first cushion portion 211 and the second cushion portion 212. At least a part of the detection unit 20 may be between the first cushion portion 211 and the second cushion portion 212.

[0062] If the detection unit 20 is located at the rear of the toilet seat 200, for example, when water is discharged from a nozzle (water discharge portion 473) provided on the main body portion 400, the detection unit 20 (or the light-transmitting window portion 55) may be easily wet. If the detection unit 20 is located at the front of the toilet seat 200, the detection unit (or the light-transmitting window portion 55) may be easily wet by water (water droplets and urine) scattered when the user's urine falls into the toilet bowl 800.

[0063] In contrast, in the embodiment, the detection unit 20 is located between the first cushion portion 211 and the second cushion portion 212 in the front-rear direction. That is, the detection unit 20 is located in the center of the toilet seat 200 in the front-rear direction when viewed from above. This makes it possible to prevent the detection unit 20 (or the light-transmitting window portion 55) from being wetted by water discharged from a nozzle provided in the main body portion 400, while also preventing the detection unit 20 (or the light-transmitting window portion 55) from being wetted by water (water droplets or urine) scattered when the user's urine falls into the toilet bowl 800.

[0064] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a toilet device according to an embodiment. 2, a control unit 10, a detection unit 20, and a notification unit 40 are provided. In this example, the toilet device 100 is further provided with an attachment / detachment detection means 15 for detecting attachment / detachment of the detection unit 20, a circuit unit 16, and a control circuit 17. The attachment / detachment detection means 15, the circuit unit 16, and the control circuit 17 are provided as necessary, and can be omitted as appropriate.

[0065] For example, a reed switch and a magnet can be used for the attachment / detachment detection means 15. For example, the magnet is fixed to the detection unit 20. The reed switch is fixed near the detection unit 20 installed at a predetermined installation location (for example, the toilet seat 200). When the detection unit 20 is installed at the installation location, the reed switch is turned off by the magnet. When the detection unit 20 is removed from the installation location, the reed switch is turned on. When the reed switch is turned on, the circuit unit 16 and the acquisition unit 11 are connected via the reed switch so that they can communicate with each other. A signal from the circuit unit 16 is transmitted to the acquisition unit 11 via the reed switch. For example, the potential of the circuit unit 16 is input to the acquisition unit 11 via the reed switch. In this way, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating that the detection unit 20 has been detached from the installation location.

[0066] However, the attachment / detachment detection means 15 may use a magnet and a Hall sensor (Hall element). For example, the magnet is fixed to the detection unit 20. The Hall sensor is fixed near the detection unit 20 installed at a predetermined installation location (for example, the toilet seat 200). When the detection unit 20 is installed at the installation location, the magnet and the Hall sensor are close to each other, and the output of the Hall sensor becomes a first value. When the detection unit 20 is removed from the installation location, the magnet moves away from the Hall sensor, and the output of the Hall sensor becomes a second value. The output of the Hall sensor is input to the acquisition unit 11. In this way, the acquisition unit 11 can acquire information on the attachment / detachment state of the detection unit 20.

[0067] The method of detecting whether the detection unit 20 has been attached or detached is not limited to the above. For example, whether the detection unit 20 has been attached or detached may be determined based on the communication state between the detection unit 20 and the control unit 10. Specifically, when the detection unit 20 is removed from the installation location, the connection between the detection unit 20 and the control unit 10 is released, and the detection unit 20 and the control unit 10 may not be able to communicate with each other. When the control unit 10 (acquisition unit 11) and the detection unit 20 communicate with each other and the acquisition unit 11 can receive a signal from the detection unit 20, it may be determined that the detection unit 20 is attached to the installation location, and when the acquisition unit 11 cannot receive a signal from the detection unit 20, it may be determined that the detection unit 20 is removed from the installation location.

[0068] For example, the detection unit 20 is connected to a transmission path (such as a cable or a connector) connected to the control unit 10, thereby being wired to the control unit 10. For example, in a case where the transmission path is fixed, if the detection unit 20 is detached from the installation location, the connection between the detection unit 20 and the transmission path is released, and the connection between the detection unit 20 and the control unit 10 is also released. If the control unit 10 cannot receive a signal from the detection unit 20, there is a possibility that the detection unit 20 has been detached.

[0069] In the embodiment, even if the detection unit 20 is detached from the installation location, the detection unit 20 and the control unit 10 may be maintained in a communicatively connected state. For example, when a cable serving as a transmission path is not fixed and can move together with the detection unit 20, or when the detection unit 20 and the control unit 10 are wirelessly connected, the connection between the detection unit 20 and the control unit 10 is not immediately released.

[0070] Not being limited to the above, in the embodiment, the acquisition unit 11 may acquire any signal capable of indicating that the detection unit 20 has been detached from the predetermined installation location.

[0071] The control unit 10 may check whether there is an abnormality in the detection unit 20. When the control unit 10 determines that there is an abnormality, it causes the notification unit 40 to issue a notification. The check for the presence or absence of an abnormality in the detection unit 20 is, for example, whether the control unit 10 can receive a predetermined signal from the detection unit 20. The check for the presence or absence of an abnormality in the detection unit 20 is, for example, a check of the communication state.

[0072] The predetermined signal in the check may be a signal including information (e.g., ID information for distinguishing the detection unit 20) determined for each detection unit 20. If the predetermined signal cannot be received in the check, it is possible that a detection unit 20 different from the correct detection unit 20 is connected, or that no detection unit 20 is connected.

[0073] For example, the control unit 10 transmits a signal requesting a predetermined signal to the detection unit 20. Thereafter, when the control unit 10 receives the predetermined signal from the detection unit 20, it determines that there is no abnormality, and when the control unit 10 does not receive the predetermined signal from the detection unit 20, it determines that there is an abnormality.

[0074] In this way, when a predetermined signal cannot be received, the alarm unit 40 issues an alarm, thereby further preventing theft, tampering, or surreptitious photography of the detection unit 20.

[0075] The control unit 10 stores firmware for controlling the operation of the detection unit 20. When the firmware is rewritten, the notification unit 40 may issue a notification. Since a notification is issued when a modification that rewrites the firmware is made, the modified detection unit 20 can be prevented from being used. For example, the person who performed the modification can be prevented from using the detection unit. For example, the administrator can be alerted. When the detection unit 20 is an image sensor, voyeurism caused by firmware rewriting can be prevented.

[0076] Specifically, in this example, the control circuit 17 is a controller that checks the firmware of the detection unit 20. The control circuit 17 includes, for example, a microcomputer. The control circuit 17 communicates with the control unit 10 and transmits a signal requesting a predetermined signal (for example, a signal including information on the software version of the firmware) to the control unit 10. If the control circuit 17 cannot receive the predetermined signal (correct software version) from the control unit 10, it determines that the firmware has been rewritten. The control circuit 17 transmits the determination result to the control unit 10, and the control unit 10 causes the notification unit 40 to issue a notification. Alternatively, the control circuit 17 may control the notification unit 40 to issue a notification.

[0077] The detection unit 20 is checked for abnormalities and the firmware is checked automatically by, for example, the control unit 10 or the control circuit 17. The detection unit 20 is checked for abnormalities and the firmware is checked at a predetermined timing, for example, when the user enters the toilet room, when the user sits on the toilet seat, while the user is staying in the toilet room, or while the user is sitting. The detection unit 20 may be checked for abnormalities and the firmware may be checked periodically.

[0078] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a toilet device according to an embodiment. 6, the control unit 10 is electrically connected to a first power source 61. The first power source 61 is a main power source that supplies power to the control unit 10 for operating the control unit 10. The first power source 61 is a power source that supplies power to various functional units built into the main body unit 400, for example, for operating the various functional units. The first power source 61 may supply power to the detection unit 20 and the notification unit 40 for operating the detection unit 20 and the notification unit 40.

[0079] When the toilet device 100 is powered off, that is, when the power for operating the control unit 10, the detection unit 20, and the notification unit 40 is not being supplied from the first power source 61, the notification unit 40 will issue a notification if the detection unit 20 is detached from the specified installation location. As a result, even if the power is turned off and theft or tampering is attempted, the notification will be issued, so that theft, tampering, or voyeurism can be further suppressed.

[0080] Specifically, in the example of Fig. 6, a second power source 62 separate from the first power source 61, and a switch 63 are provided. The second power source 62 is a sub-power source that supplies power to the control unit 10 for operating the control unit 10. For example, a battery may be used as the sub-power source. The second power source 62 may supply power to the detection unit 20 and the notification unit 40. The switch 63 is a switch that turns on and off the electrical connection between the second power source 62 and the control unit 10 (and the detection unit 20 and the notification unit 40).

[0081] When the detection unit 20 is installed at the installation location, the switch 63 is off and power is not supplied from the second power source 62 to the control unit 10, the detection unit 20, and the notification unit 40. For example, when power is not supplied from the first power source 61 and the second power source 62 and the power sources of the control unit 10, the detection unit 20, and the notification unit 40 are off, if the detection unit 20 is detached from the installation location, the switch 63 is turned on and power is supplied from the second power source 62 to the control unit 10, the detection unit 20, and the notification unit 40. This allows the control unit 10 to control the notification unit 40 to perform notification.

[0082] The switch 63 may be any switch that switches from off to on when the detection unit 20 is detached, such as a reed switch or a push switch. The switch 63 and the second power source 62 may also function as the attachment / detachment detection means 15 (e.g., a reed switch) and the circuit unit 16 described with reference to Fig. 5, respectively, or may be provided separately from the attachment / detachment detection means 15 and the circuit unit 16. The embodiment is not limited to the above, and any configuration may be used in which power is supplied to the control unit 10 (and the detection unit 20 and the notification unit 40) when the detection unit 20 is detached.

[0083] Also, for example, after the detection unit 20 is detached from the installation location, the operation of the detection unit may be prohibited until a predetermined return process is performed. Since the operation is prohibited when the detection unit 20 is detached, voyeurism can be further suppressed. For example, when the control unit 10 acquires information indicating that the detection unit 20 has been detached from the installation location, the control unit 10 goes into a prohibition mode in which control for causing the detection unit 20 to perform a detection operation such as imaging is not executed. When the predetermined return process is executed, the control unit 10 returns to a normal mode in which control for causing the detection unit 20 to perform a detection operation such as imaging can be executed. The predetermined return process is, for example, a user pressing a predetermined button to send a return signal to the control unit 10. The predetermined button is provided on the main body unit 400, the detection unit 20, or the like.

[0084] Note that each component in the block diagram described in the embodiment is a functional concept, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as illustrated. The components may be consolidated or divided as appropriate. For example, each circuit may be functionally or physically distributed or integrated as appropriate.

[0085] The embodiment may include the following features. (Configuration 1) A detection unit that is detachably provided and optically detects excrement; a control unit including an acquisition unit that acquires, when the detection unit is detached, information indicating that the detection unit has been detached; A notification department; Equipped with The toilet device, wherein the notification unit issues a notification when the acquisition unit acquires information indicating that the detection unit has been detached. (Configuration 2) The toilet device according to configuration 1, wherein the notification unit issues a notification when the detection unit is detached while the power supply to the control unit is off. (Configuration 3) 3. The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit issues a notification when firmware that controls the detection unit is rewritten. (Configuration 4) 4. The toilet device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the notification section issues a notification when the control section cannot receive a predetermined signal from the detection section. (Configuration 5) 5. The toilet device according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein, after the detection unit is detached, operation of the detection unit is prohibited until a predetermined return process is performed.

[0086] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Any design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the characteristics of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, installation form, etc. of each element are not limited to those exemplified, and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of each of the above-described embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 10: Control unit 11: Acquisition part 15: Attachment / detachment detection means 16:Circuit section 17: Control circuit 20: Detection unit 30: Blower section 40: Notification Department 55: Light-transmitting window 61: 1st power supply 62:Second power supply 63: Switch 100:Toilet equipment 200:Toilet seat 200a: Inner circumference 200b: Outer circumference 200c:center 200d: Back 210: Cushion section 211: First cushion section 212: Second cushion section 220: Recess 300: Toilet lid 400: Main body 403: Human body detection sensor 404: Seat sensor 473: Water outlet 474: Water outlet 500:Remote control 800:Toilet 801: Bowl section 801w: Water sealing part C: Center

Claims

1. A detection unit that is detachably provided and optically detects excrement; a control unit including an acquisition unit that acquires, when the detection unit is detached, information indicating that the detection unit has been detached; A notification department; Equipped with The toilet device, wherein the notification unit issues a notification when the acquisition unit acquires information indicating that the detection unit has been detached.

2. The toilet device according to claim 1 , wherein the notification unit issues a notification when the detection unit is detached while the power supply of the control unit is off.

3. The toilet device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the notification unit issues a notification when firmware that controls the detection unit is rewritten.

4. 3. The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit issues a notification when the control unit cannot receive a predetermined signal from the detection unit.

5. The toilet device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, after the detection unit is detached, operation of the detection unit is prohibited until a predetermined return process is performed.

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