Toilet device

Abstract

To provide a toilet device capable of preventing a wireless communication part from getting wet by water and capable of suppressing decrease in degree of freedom for layout in a toilet room.SOLUTION: A toilet device comprises: a casing; a biological information measurement sensor to measure biological information of a user; a control part that is provided inside the casing and transmits the biological information to a portable information terminal of the user; and a wireless communication part capable connecting the control part and the portable information terminal through wireless communication. The control part is connected to the portable information terminal when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication part is a prescribed distance or less. The wireless communication part is provided inside the casing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to toilet devices.

Background Art

[0002] There is a biological information measurement system in which wireless communication is performed when the distance between an authentication wearable device and a personal authentication device approaches a predetermined distance (for example, Patent Document 1). In such a biological information measurement system, for example, when a user wearing an authentication wearable device approaches a personal authentication device provided on the wall surface of a toilet room, wireless communication is performed.

[0003] However, when providing a personal authentication device on the wall surface of a toilet room, it is necessary to provide the personal authentication device at a position where it can communicate with the control unit of the toilet device and can be supplied with power, which may reduce the degree of freedom in layout within the toilet room. Further, when a personal authentication device is provided on the wall surface of a toilet room, the personal authentication device is likely to be watered, which may reduce the authentication accuracy.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Aspects of the present invention have been made based on the recognition of such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a toilet device capable of suppressing water ingress into a wireless communication unit and suppressing a decrease in the degree of freedom in layout within a toilet room.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The first invention is a toilet device comprising a casing, a biological information measurement sensor for measuring the biological information of a user, a control unit provided inside the casing for transmitting the biological information to the user's portable information terminal, and a wireless communication unit capable of connecting the control unit and the portable information terminal by wireless communication. When the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a predetermined distance, the control unit is connected to the portable information terminal, and the wireless communication unit is provided inside the casing.

[0007] According to this toilet device, by providing the wireless communication unit inside the casing, water ingress into the wireless communication unit can be suppressed. Also, by providing the wireless communication unit inside the casing, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the degree of freedom of layout in the toilet room compared to the case where the wireless communication unit is provided on the wall surface of the toilet room, for example.

[0008] The second invention is the toilet device according to the first invention, wherein at least a part of the wireless communication unit is located above the center in the vertical direction of the casing, and whether the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than the predetermined distance is determined by whether the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit and received by the portable information terminal is equal to or greater than a threshold value.

[0009] According to this toilet device, by determining whether the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than the predetermined distance based on whether the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit and received by the portable information terminal is equal to or greater than the threshold value, it is possible to easily determine whether the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than the predetermined distance based on the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the portable information terminal. Also, by arranging the wireless communication unit such that at least a part thereof is located above the center in the vertical direction of the casing, the detection accuracy of the wireless communication unit can be improved.

[0010] The third invention is the toilet device according to the second invention, wherein at least a part of the wireless communication unit is located behind the center in the front-rear direction of the casing.

[0011] According to this toilet device, by arranging the wireless communication unit so that at least a part of it is located behind the center in the front-rear direction of the casing, the wireless communication unit can be separated from the opening of the toilet seat. Thereby, for example, when performing user authentication by holding a portable information terminal over the wireless communication unit, it is possible to prevent the portable information terminal from falling from the opening of the toilet seat into the bowl of the toilet.

[0012] A fourth invention is the toilet device according to the second or third invention, wherein the wireless communication unit is located on the left side of the center in the left-right direction of the casing or on the right side of the center in the left-right direction of the casing.

[0013] According to this toilet device, by arranging the wireless communication unit so that it is located on the left side of the center in the left-right direction of the casing or on the right side of the center in the left-right direction of the casing, the wireless communication unit can be separated from the opening of the toilet seat. Thereby, for example, when performing user authentication by holding a portable information terminal over the wireless communication unit, it is possible to prevent the portable information terminal from falling from the opening of the toilet seat into the bowl of the toilet.

[0014] A fifth invention is the toilet device according to the third invention, wherein the casing has a first upper surface portion that does not overlap the wireless communication unit in the vertical direction, and a second upper surface portion that is located behind the first upper surface portion and overlaps the wireless communication unit in the vertical direction, and the inclination angle of the second upper surface portion with respect to the horizontal plane is smaller than the inclination angle of the first upper surface portion with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0015] According to this toilet device, by making the inclination angle of the second upper surface portion that overlaps the wireless communication unit in the vertical direction smaller than the inclination angle of the first upper surface portion that does not overlap the wireless communication unit in the vertical direction with respect to the horizontal plane, the second upper surface portion can be made into a more horizontal surface. Thereby, for example, when performing user authentication by holding a portable information terminal over the wireless communication unit, the portable information terminal is less likely to slide forward, and it is possible to prevent the portable information terminal from falling from the opening of the toilet seat into the bowl of the toilet.

[0016] The sixth invention is a toilet device which, in the second or third invention, has a display unit provided at a position overlapping the wireless communication unit in the vertical direction.

[0017] According to this toilet device, by providing the display unit at a position overlapping the wireless communication unit in the vertical direction, it becomes easier for the user to grasp the position of the wireless communication unit. As a result, for example, when performing user authentication by holding a portable information terminal over the wireless communication unit, it becomes easier to perform user authentication.

Effect of the Invention

[0018] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a toilet device capable of suppressing water ingress into the wireless communication unit and suppressing a decrease in the degree of freedom of layout in the toilet compartment.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019]

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MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted as appropriate.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet system including the toilet device according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a toilet system including the toilet device according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a front view showing the remote control of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the toilet system 500 according to the embodiment includes a toilet device 100 and a portable information terminal 200.

[0022] The toilet device 100 includes a toilet unit 10, a biological information measurement sensor 20, a control unit 30, a wireless communication unit 40, a storage unit 50, a human body detection sensor 60, and a remote control 70. The toilet device 100 is provided inside the toilet room TR.

[0023] The toilet unit 10 includes a toilet bowl 11, a toilet seat 12, a toilet lid 13, and a casing 14. The toilet bowl 11 is a Western-style sitting toilet bowl. The toilet bowl 11 includes a concave bowl portion 11a that is recessed downward. The bowl portion 11a receives excrement, urine, etc. excreted by the user.

[0024] The toilet seat 12 and the toilet lid 13 are each pivotally supported with respect to the casing 14 so as to be openable and closable. In FIG. 1, a state where the toilet seat 12 is closed and the toilet lid 13 is open is shown. The toilet lid 13 covers above the toilet seat 12 in the closed state. The toilet lid 13 is provided as needed and can be omitted.

[0025] In the present specification, the upper, lower, front, rear, right side, and left side as viewed from the user sitting on the toilet seat 12 with the toilet lid 13 behind are defined as "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "right side", and "left side", respectively.

[0026] The casing 14 houses various functional parts. Inside the casing 14, for example, an automatic opening and closing unit that automatically opens and closes the toilet seat 12 and the toilet lid 13, a local cleaning unit including a nozzle for cleaning the user's local area, a local drying unit for drying the user's local area, and a deodorizing unit for deodorizing are housed. These various functional parts are provided as needed and can be omitted. Further, inside the casing 14, a control unit 30, a wireless communication unit 40, a storage unit 50, etc. are housed.

[0027] The biological information measurement sensor 20 measures the biological information of the user. The biological information includes, for example, information about the user's pulse and the state of excrement. The biological information measurement sensor 20 is electrically connected to the control unit 30. The biological information measurement sensor 20 outputs the measured biological information to the control unit 30.

[0028] The biological information measurement sensor 20 includes, for example, at least one of a pulsation sensor and an image sensor. The pulsation sensor is provided, for example, on the toilet seat 12. The pulsation sensor includes, for example, a laser sensor. The pulsation sensor measures the pulsation of a user sitting on the toilet seat 12 using, for example, hemoglobin infrared reflection. The image sensor is provided, for example, inside the casing 14. The image sensor includes, for example, at least one of an area camera and a line sensor in which a plurality of pixels are arranged in a line.

[0029] The control unit 30 is electrically connected to the biological information measurement sensor 20, the wireless communication unit 40, the storage unit 50, and the human body detection sensor 60. The control unit 30 acquires the measurement results (biological information) of the biological information measurement sensor 20 and the detection results of the human body detection sensor 60. The control unit 30 controls the biological information measurement sensor 20, the wireless communication unit 40, and the storage unit 50. The control unit 30 controls, for example, the start and stop of the measurement of biological information by the biological information measurement sensor 20. The control unit 30 is, for example, a control circuit including an IC element. The control unit 30 may be one or a plurality. Also, when a plurality are provided, the control units 30 may be provided in an aggregated manner or in a distributed manner. The control unit 30 includes, for example, a main body control unit (DC controller), a sensor control unit (processor unit), and a wireless control unit. The start and stop of the measurement by the biological information measurement sensor 20 are controlled by, for example, the main body control unit and / or the sensor control unit.

[0030] The control unit 30 obtains analysis information by analyzing the biological information acquired from the biological information measurement sensor 20. For example, the control unit 30 can obtain (estimate) information about vascular age, lower limb blood circulation state, fitness level, basal metabolism, body water level, body clock, and normal heart rate, etc. by analyzing the information (biological information) about the user's pulse acquired from the pulse sensor. Also, for example, the control unit 30 analyzes the state (shape, color, amount, etc.) of excrement using the image data acquired from the image sensor, and further obtains (estimates) information about the state of the intestinal environment by analyzing the information (biological information) about the state of excrement. The analysis of biological information is performed as necessary and can be partially or entirely omitted. The analysis of biological information is performed by, for example, the main body control unit and / or the sensor control unit.

[0031] The control unit 30 transmits the analysis information to the user's portable information terminal 200 via the wireless communication unit 40. When the analysis of biological information is omitted, the control unit 30 transmits the biological information to the user's portable information terminal 200 via the wireless communication unit 40, for example. Also, the control unit 30 stores the analysis information or the biological information in the storage unit 50. Further, the control unit 30 causes the analysis information or the biological information stored in the storage unit 50 to be erased from the storage unit 50. Note that the analysis of biological information may be performed on the portable information terminal 200 or may be performed on the cloud server via the portable information terminal 200. Also, the control unit 30 may transmit the analysis information or the biological information to the portable information terminal 200 via the cloud server.

[0032] The wireless communication unit 40 can connect the control unit 30 and the portable information terminal 200 through wireless communication. The wireless communication unit 40 is electrically connected to the control unit 30. The wireless communication unit 40 is a communication module that enables communication according to the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), for example. The wireless communication unit 40 can connect, for example, the control unit 30 and the portable information terminal 200 located inside the toilet room TR through wireless communication. The connection between the control unit 30 and the portable information terminal 200 is disconnected, for example, when the portable information terminal 200 is outside the toilet room TR. Also, the connection between the control unit 30 and the portable information terminal 200 is disconnected, for example, when a disconnection request signal is transmitted from the portable information terminal 200. The connection between the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 will be described later.

[0033] The storage unit 50 can store the information output from the control unit 30. The storage unit 50 is electrically connected to the control unit 30. There may be one storage unit 50 or a plurality of storage units 50. Also, when a plurality of storage units 50 are provided, they may be provided in an aggregated manner or in a distributed manner. The storage unit 50 includes, for example, a main body storage unit, a sensor storage unit, and a wireless storage unit. The main body storage unit is electrically connected to the main body control unit. The sensor storage unit is electrically connected to the sensor control unit. The wireless storage unit is electrically connected to the wireless control unit. The storage unit 50 stores, for example, analysis information or biological information. The storage unit 50 stores, for example, analysis information or biological information in association with user information for identifying the user in a state where user authentication has been performed. More specifically, the information associating the analysis information and the user information is stored, for example, in the sensor storage unit. User authentication will be described later.

[0034] In addition, the memory unit 50 stores, in association with each other, identification information for identifying the portable information terminal 200 and user information for identifying the user. More specifically, the information associating the identification information and the user information is stored, for example, in a wireless memory unit. The registration mode for storing the identification information and the user information in association with each other will be described later. The identification information includes, for example, at least any one of an ID number, a BD address, a MAC address, and pairing information (cryptographic information shared by the control programs of the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 during pairing). It is preferable that the identification information includes the pairing information. For example, when the portable information terminal 200 that has received an advertisement signal from the toilet device 100 issues a wireless communication request to the toilet device 100, and the toilet device 100 that has received the request permits the wireless communication and the communication is established. If communicating with the portable information terminal 200 of User 1, when the pairing information and the user number are transmitted during the wireless communication request, the toilet device 100 can determine that this connection request is from the portable information terminal 200 of User 1 because it is the paired User No. 1.

[0035] The human body detection sensor 60 detects the state of the user. The human body detection sensor 60 includes, for example, at least any one of a seating sensor 61 and a proximity sensor 62. The seating sensor 61 is provided, for example, on the toilet seat 12. The seating sensor 61 includes, for example, a capacitance sensor. The seating sensor 61 detects, for example, the user's sitting on the toilet seat 12 and the user's getting up from the toilet seat 12. The proximity sensor 62 is provided, for example, inside the casing 14. The proximity sensor 62 includes, for example, at least any one of a radio wave sensor and an infrared sensor. The proximity sensor 62 detects, for example, the user's approach to the toilet unit 10 and the user's separation from the toilet unit 10. The proximity sensor 62 detects, for example, the user's entry into the toilet room TR and the user's exit from the toilet room TR. The proximity sensor 62 may be provided outside the casing 14.

[0036] The remote controller 70 is provided, for example, on the wall surface WL of the toilet room TR. The remote controller 70 is an operation unit for remotely operating various functional units housed inside the casing 14. The remote controller 70 transmits, for example, a signal for operating various functional units to the control unit 30 based on an operation input to the remote controller 70 by the user. When receiving the signal from the remote controller 70, the control unit 30 controls various functional units based on the signal. The remote controller 70 is connected to the control unit 30 by wireless communication, for example. The wireless communication unit connecting the remote controller 70 and the control unit 30 is provided separately from the wireless communication unit 40, for example.

[0037] The remote controller 70 has, for example, an authentication switch 71 for transmitting an authentication signal. When an operation input is made at the authentication switch 71, the remote controller 70 transmits an authentication signal to the control unit 30. The control unit 30 can perform user authentication based on the authentication signal from the remote controller 70, for example. User authentication will be described later.

[0038] The portable information terminal 200 is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet terminal owned by the user. However, the portable information terminal 200 is not limited to these and may be any terminal that the user can carry.

[0039] A control program (application software) for connecting to the toilet device 100 and displaying information (for example, analysis information) transmitted from the toilet device 100 is installed in advance in the portable information terminal 200.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation in the registration mode of the toilet device and the portable information terminal according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation in the usage mode of the toilet device and the portable information terminal according to the embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) has a registration mode and a usage mode.

[0041] The registration mode is a mode in which user registration can be performed. User registration is to associate and store in the storage unit 50 the identification information for identifying the mobile information terminal 200 and the user information (for example, user number) for identifying the user. The registration mode is performed in a state where the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the mobile information terminal 200 are connected.

[0042] The usage mode is a mode in which measurement of biological information, analysis of biological information, and transmission of analysis information or biological information can be performed. If user registration has already been performed, user authentication can be performed in the usage mode. User authentication is to identify the user information (user number) of the user using the toilet device 100 and the identification information of the mobile information terminal 200 of that user. By performing user authentication, for example, analysis information or biological information can be associated with the user information (user number) and the identification information of the mobile information terminal 200 of that user and stored in the storage unit 50. Also, by performing user authentication, for example, the toilet device 100 and the mobile information terminal 200 identified by user authentication can be selectively connected.

[0043] User authentication is performed, for example, when the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the mobile information terminal 200 are connected. In this case, the mobile information terminal 200 connected to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits an authentication signal including the user information (user number) registered in the mobile information terminal 200 to the toilet device 100. When the toilet device 100 receives the authentication signal, it determines that the user of the user information (user number) included in the authentication signal is using the toilet device 100. Thereby, the user information (user number) of the user using the toilet device 100 and the identification information of the mobile information terminal 200 of that user can be identified. User authentication using the mobile information terminal 200 will be described later.

[0044] User authentication may be performed, for example, by an operation input on the authentication switch 71 of the remote control 70. In this case, when an operation input (for example, selection of a user number) is made on the authentication switch 71, the remote control 70 transmits an authentication signal including user information (user number) to the toilet device 100. When the toilet device 100 receives the authentication signal, it determines that the user of the user information (user number) included in the authentication signal is using the toilet device 100. Thereby, it is possible to identify the user information (user number) of the user using the toilet device 100 and the identification information of the user's portable information terminal 200. User authentication using the remote control 70 will be described later.

[0045] Hereinafter, the registration mode will be described in more detail. As shown in FIG. 4, in the registration mode, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether or not it has received a user number selection signal (step S101). The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats step S101 until it receives the user number selection signal (step S101: No). The user number selection signal is a signal indicating the user number selected on the portable information terminal 200.

[0046] When the user number selection signal is received (step S101: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) associates the selected user number with the identification number of the portable information terminal 200 that transmitted the user number selection signal and stores (registers) it in the storage unit 50 (step S102).

[0047] When the user number and the identification number are associated and registered (step S102), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits a registration completion signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S103). The registration completion signal is a signal indicating that the registration has been completed.

[0048] When a user number is selected on the portable information terminal 200, the portable information terminal 200 transmits a user number selection signal to the toilet device 100 (step S201).

[0049] When a user number selection signal is sent to the toilet device 100 (step S201), the portable information terminal 200 determines whether a registration completion signal has been received from the toilet device 100 (step S202). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S202 until a registration completion signal is received (step S202: No).

[0050] When a registration completion signal is received (step S202: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 stores (registers) the registered user number (step S203).

[0051] Hereinafter, the usage mode will be described in more detail. As shown in FIG. 5, in the usage mode, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the seating sensor 61 has detected the user's seating on the toilet seat 12 (step S301). The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats step S301 until the seating sensor 61 detects the user's seating on the toilet seat 12 (step S301: No).

[0052] When the seating sensor 61 detects the user's seating on the toilet seat 12 (step S301: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) starts measuring biometric information (step S302). As described above, the measurement of biometric information is performed by the biometric information measurement sensor 20 such as a pulsation sensor or an image sensor.

[0053] When the measurement of biometric information is completed (step S303), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) starts analyzing the biometric information (step S304). As described above, the analysis of biometric information is performed by the control unit 30. In addition, if the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) detects the user's getting up from the toilet seat 12 before the measurement is completed, for example, it terminates the measurement of biometric information midway and starts analyzing the biometric information.

[0054] When the analysis of the biological information is completed (step S305), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits the analysis information obtained by the analysis to the portable information terminal 200 (step S306). As described above, the transmission of the analysis information is performed by the control unit 30 via the wireless communication unit 40.

[0055] The portable information terminal 200 displays, for example, the progress information of the measurement of the biological information (step S401). The display of the progress information will be described later.

[0056] The portable information terminal 200 determines whether or not it has received the analysis information (step S402). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S402 until it receives the analysis information (step S402: No).

[0057] When it receives the analysis information (step S402: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 displays the analysis information (step S403). The portable information terminal 200 may store the analysis information so that it can display the analysis information even after the connection between the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 is disconnected.

[0058] Note that the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may determine in step S301 whether or not the approach sensor 62 has detected the approach of the user to the toilet unit 10, or may determine whether or not the approach sensor 62 has detected the entry of the user into the toilet room TR. That is, for the toilet device 100 (control unit 30), the trigger for starting the measurement of the biological information may be the user's sitting on the toilet seat 12, the user's approach to the toilet unit 10, or the user's entry into the toilet room TR. Further, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may start the measurement of the biological information when the user authentication is completed. Further, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may drive the line sensor in a power-saving mode or the like, and start the measurement of the biological information when a dropped object is detected. Further, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may drive the laser sensor in a power-saving mode or the like, and start the measurement of the biological information when an output change is detected.

[0059] Next, the connection between the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 will be described in more detail. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of operations when the toilet device and the portable information terminal according to the embodiment are connected. As shown in FIG. 6, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits an activation signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S501). The activation signal is a signal for activating the portable information terminal 200 in the background. The background activation state is a state in which an advertisement signal can be received.

[0060] After transmitting the activation signal (step S501), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits an advertisement signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S502). The advertisement signal is a signal for causing the portable information terminal 200 to start connecting to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30).

[0061] After transmitting the advertisement signal (step S502), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether a connection request signal has been received (step S503). The connection request signal is a signal for causing the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) to start connecting to the portable information terminal 200.

[0062] When the connection request signal is received (step S503: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) starts connecting to the portable information terminal 200 (step S504). If the connection request signal is not received (step S503: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform step S504. That is, if the connection request signal is not received (step S503: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not start connecting to the portable information terminal 200.

[0063] The portable information terminal 200 determines whether the activation signal has been received (step S601). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S601 until the activation signal is received (step S601: No).

[0064] When the start signal is received (step S601: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 enters the background startup state (step S602).

[0065] When in the background startup state (step S602), the portable information terminal 200 determines whether an advertisement signal has been received (step S603). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S603 until an advertisement signal is received (step S603: No).

[0066] When an advertisement signal is received (step S603: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 transmits a connection request signal to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S604) and starts the connection with the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S605).

[0067] Hereinafter, user authentication using the portable information terminal 200 will be described in more detail. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation at the time of user authentication of the toilet device and the portable information terminal according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, when starting the connection with the portable information terminal 200 (step S701), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether an authentication signal has been received (step S702). The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats step S702 until an authentication signal is received (step S702: No). The authentication signal is, for example, a signal including user information (user number).

[0068] When an authentication signal is received (step S702: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) specifies the user information and the identification information based on the authentication signal (step S703). More specifically, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) specifies the user information included in the authentication signal and also specifies the portable information terminal 200 having the identification information associated with the user information included in the authentication signal.

[0069] When the user information and the identification information are specified (step S703), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits an authentication completion signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S704). The authentication completion signal is a signal indicating that the user authentication has been completed.

[0070] When the authentication completion signal is transmitted (step S704), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether a disconnection request signal has been received (step S705). The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats step S705 until a disconnection request signal is received (step S705: No). The disconnection request signal is a signal for causing the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) to disconnect the connection with the portable information terminal 200.

[0071] When the disconnection request signal is received (step S705: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) disconnects the connection with the portable information terminal 200 (step S706).

[0072] When starting the connection with the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S801), the portable information terminal 200 transmits an authentication signal (step S802).

[0073] When the authentication signal is transmitted (step S802), the portable information terminal 200 determines whether an authentication completion signal has been received (step S803). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S803 until an authentication completion signal is received (step S803: No).

[0074] When the authentication completion signal is received (step S803: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 transmits a disconnection request signal (step S804) and disconnects the connection with the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S805).

[0075] In this way, after the execution of the registration mode (that is, in the state where the identification information and the user information are associated and stored in the storage unit 50), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) can perform user authentication for specifying the user information and the identification information when an authentication signal is received in the use mode.

[0076] Hereinafter, user authentication using the remote controller 70 will be described in more detail. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation at the time of user authentication of the remote controller of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, when an operation input is made on the authentication switch 71 (step S901), the remote controller 70 selects user information (step S902). More specifically, when the first operation input is made, the remote controller 70 selects, for example, user number 1.

[0077] When the user information is selected (step S902), the remote controller 70 determines whether or not there is a further operation input on the authentication switch 71 (step S903). When there is a further operation input on the authentication switch 71 (step S903: Yes), the remote controller 70 updates the user information (step S904). More specifically, when the second operation input is made, the remote controller 70 selects, for example, user number 2. When the third operation input is made, the remote controller 70 selects, for example, user number 3. When the Nth (N is a natural number) operation input is made, the remote controller 70 selects, for example, user number N. In other words, when an operation input is made, the remote controller 70 adds 1 to the numerical value of the user number, for example. When a further operation input is made in a state where the numerical value of the user number has reached the upper limit, the remote controller 70 selects, for example, user number 1.

[0078] When the user information is updated (step S904), the remote controller 70 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the previous operation input (step S905). When the predetermined time has not elapsed since the previous operation input (step S905: No), the remote controller 70 returns to step S903.

[0079] If no operation input is received further (step S903: No), the remote controller 70 performs step S905 without performing step S904. The remote controller 70 repeats steps S903, S904, and S905 until a predetermined time elapses from the previous operation input.

[0080] When a predetermined time elapses from the previous operation input (step S905: Yes), the remote controller 70 determines the user information to be included in the authentication signal and transmits the authentication signal to the control unit 30 (step S906). More specifically, the remote controller 70 transmits an authentication signal including the last selected user number.

[0081] By providing the remote controller 70 that transmits the authentication signal in this way, for example, compared to the case of operating an operation unit provided in a place other than the remote controller 70 (such as the toilet unit 10) to transmit the authentication signal, the authentication signal can be transmitted (user authentication) in a form closer to normal use, which is convenient.

[0082] Also, based on the number of times of operation input at the authentication switch 71 before the predetermined time elapses, the user information specified by the authentication signal is selected, and when the predetermined time elapses, the authentication signal is transmitted, so that the user information authenticated by the number of times of operating one authentication switch 71 can be switched. Thereby, false authentication can be suppressed.

[0083] Hereinafter, the progress confirmation of the measurement of biological information will be described in more detail. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation in the usage mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9, when the measurement of biological information is started (step S1001), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits a measurement start signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S1002). The measurement start signal is a signal indicating that the measurement of biological information has started.

[0084] When a measurement start signal is transmitted (step S1002), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether a progress request signal has been received (step S1003). The progress request signal is a signal for causing the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) to transmit progress information. The progress information is information indicating the progress status of the measurement of biological information. When the progress request signal is received (step S1003: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits the progress information (step S1004).

[0085] When the progress information is transmitted (step S1004), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the measurement of biological information has been completed (step S1005). When the progress request signal is not received (step S1003: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) performs step S1005 without performing step S1004.

[0086] When the measurement of biological information has not been completed (step S1005: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) returns to step S1003. The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats steps S1003, S1004, and S1005 until the measurement of biological information is completed.

[0087] When the measurement of biological information is completed (step S1005: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits a measurement completion signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S1006). The measurement completion signal is a signal indicating that the measurement of biological information has been completed.

[0088] When the portable information terminal 200 receives the measurement start signal, it becomes in a state where it can transmit a progress request signal until it receives the measurement completion signal. For example, when the portable information terminal 200 is in a state where it can transmit a progress request signal and an operation input for displaying progress information is performed on the portable information terminal 200, the portable information terminal 200 transmits a progress request signal to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S1101).

[0089] When a progress request signal is transmitted (step S1101), the mobile information terminal 200 determines whether it has received progress information (step S1102). Until the mobile information terminal 200 receives the progress information, step S1102 is repeated (step S1102: No).

[0090] When the progress information is received (step S1102: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 displays the progress information (step S1103).

[0091] The mobile information terminal 200 maintains a state in which it can transmit a progress request signal until it receives a measurement completion signal. When the mobile information terminal 200 receives the measurement completion signal, it becomes a state in which it cannot transmit a progress request signal.

[0092] In this example, when the mobile information terminal 200 receives a measurement start signal, it becomes a state in which it can transmit a progress request signal until it receives a measurement completion signal, so that the progress information is displayed on the mobile information terminal 200 only while the measurement is being performed. However, by causing the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) to transmit the progress information only while the measurement is being performed, the progress information may be displayed on the mobile information terminal 200 only while the measurement is being performed. That is, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not have to transmit the progress information even if it receives a progress request signal when the measurement is not being performed. In this case, steps S1102 and S1006 can be omitted.

[0093] Hereinafter, user authentication using the mobile information terminal 200 will be described in more detail. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation at the time of user authentication of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance (step S1201).

[0094] When the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance (step S1201: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the human body detection sensor 60 is detecting the user (step S1202). In step S1202, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the human body detection sensor 60 is detecting the user when, for example, the seating sensor 61 detects the user's seating on the toilet seat 12. In step S1202, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the human body detection sensor 60 is detecting the user when, for example, the proximity sensor 62 detects the user's approach to the toilet unit 10. In step S1202, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the human body detection sensor 60 is detecting the user when, for example, the proximity sensor 62 detects the user's entry into the toilet room TR.

[0095] When the human body detection sensor 60 is detecting the user (step S1202: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) starts user authentication (step S1203).

[0096] When the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 exceeds the predetermined distance (step S1201: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform step S1202 and step S1203. That is, when the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 exceeds the predetermined distance (step S1201: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not start user authentication.

[0097] Also, when the human body detection sensor 60 is not detecting the user (step S1202: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform step S1203. That is, when the human body detection sensor 60 is not detecting the user (step S1202: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not start user authentication.

[0098] Note that the determination as to whether or not the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance may be made by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) or may be made by the mobile information terminal 200.

[0099] Whether or not the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance is determined, for example, based on whether or not the intensity of a radio wave signal (e.g., an advertisement signal) emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than a threshold value. For example, when the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is less than the threshold value, it is determined that the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 exceeds the predetermined distance. Also, for example, when the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, it is determined that the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than the predetermined distance. The determination as to whether or not the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value may be made by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) or may be made by the mobile information terminal 200.

[0100] Thus, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not start user authentication, for example, when the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is less than the threshold value, and starts user authentication when the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

[0101] By determining whether or not the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance based on whether or not the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, it is possible to easily determine whether or not the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than the predetermined distance based on the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the mobile information terminal 200.

[0102] The threshold value can be changed by the mobile information terminal 200. The user can change the threshold value stored in the toilet device 100 or the mobile information terminal 200 to an arbitrary value, for example, by an operation input on the mobile information terminal 200.

[0103] When determining whether the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, even if the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 is the same, the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the mobile information terminal 200 varies depending on the model of the mobile information terminal 200, the presence or absence of a cover of the mobile information terminal 200, the material, etc. Therefore, if the threshold value is a fixed value, there is a risk that user authentication cannot be performed or that the mobile information terminal 200 outside the toilet room TR is misauthenticated. On the other hand, by making it possible to change the threshold value with the mobile information terminal 200, the radio wave intensity (threshold value) at which user authentication is performed can be set to an appropriate intensity regardless of the model of the mobile information terminal 200, the presence or absence of a cover of the mobile information terminal 200, the material, etc. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the situation where user authentication cannot be performed or the mobile information terminal 200 outside the toilet room TR is misauthenticated.

[0104] In addition, when the human body detection sensor 60 detects the user and the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance, user authentication is performed, thereby suppressing the misauthentication of the mobile information terminal 200 outside the toilet room TR.

[0105] Note that whether the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance may be determined by, for example, whether the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 measured by GPS (Global Positioning System) or the like is equal to or less than the predetermined distance.

[0106] In addition, step S1202 is performed as necessary and can be omitted. When step S1202 is omitted, when the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance (step S1201: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) starts user authentication (step S1203).

[0107] The following describes the case where the mobile information terminal 200 determines whether or not the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than a threshold value. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of operations at the time of user authentication of the toilet device and the mobile information terminal according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, when an advertisement signal is transmitted (step S1301), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether or not a connection request signal has been received (step S1302).

[0108] When a connection request signal is received (step S1302: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) starts connection with the mobile information terminal 200 (step S1303). When a connection request signal is not received (step S1302: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform step S1303. That is, when a connection request signal is not received (step S1302: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not start user authentication.

[0109] The mobile information terminal 200 determines whether or not an advertisement signal has been received (step S1401). The mobile information terminal 200 repeats step S1401 until an advertisement signal is received (step S1401: No).

[0110] When an advertisement signal is received (step S1401: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 determines whether or not the intensity of the received advertisement signal is equal to or greater than a threshold value (step S1402).

[0111] When the intensity of the received advertisement signal is equal to or greater than the threshold value (step S1402: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 transmits a connection request signal to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S1403) and starts user authentication (step S1404). Note that step S1404 is performed as necessary and can be omitted.

[0112] When the intensity of the received advertisement signal is less than the threshold value (step S1402: No), the mobile information terminal 200 does not perform steps S1403 and S1404. That is, when the intensity of the received advertisement signal is less than the threshold value (step S1402: No), the mobile information terminal 200 does not send a connection request signal to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and does not start user authentication.

[0113] In this way, the determination of whether the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value is performed, for example, by the mobile information terminal 200. That is, the determination of whether the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance is performed, for example, by the mobile information terminal 200.

[0114] Hereinafter, the case where the determination of whether the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value is performed by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation at the time of user authentication of the toilet device and the mobile information terminal according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, when transmitting an advertisement signal (step S1501), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether signal strength information has been received (step S1502). The signal strength information is information about the intensity of the advertisement signal received by the mobile information terminal 200. The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats step S1502 until the signal strength information is received (step S1502: No).

[0115] When the signal strength information is received (step S1502: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the intensity of the advertisement signal received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value (step S1503).

[0116] When the strength of the advertisement signal received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value (step S1503: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits a connection request signal to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S1504) and starts user authentication (step S1505).

[0117] When the strength of the advertisement signal received by the mobile information terminal 200 is less than the threshold value (step S1503: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform steps S1504 and S1505. That is, when the strength of the advertisement signal received by the mobile information terminal 200 is less than the threshold value (step S1503: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not transmit a connection request signal to the mobile information terminal 200 and does not start user authentication.

[0118] The mobile information terminal 200 determines whether it has received an advertisement signal (step S1601). The mobile information terminal 200 repeats step S1601 until it receives an advertisement signal (step S1601: No).

[0119] When it receives an advertisement signal (step S1601: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 transmits signal strength information to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S1602).

[0120] After transmitting the signal strength information to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S1602), the mobile information terminal 200 determines whether it has received a connection request signal (step S1603).

[0121] When it receives a connection request signal (step S1603: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 starts user authentication (step S1604). When it does not receive a connection request signal (step S1603: No), the mobile information terminal 200 does not perform step S1604. That is, when it does not receive a connection request signal (step S1603: No), the mobile information terminal 200 does not start user authentication.

[0122] Thus, the determination of whether the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value may be performed, for example, by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30). That is, the determination of whether the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance may be performed, for example, by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30).

[0123] Note that the predetermined distance in the determination at the time of connection between the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the mobile information terminal 200 after user authentication is set, for example, to be longer than the predetermined distance in the determination at the time of user authentication. That is, the threshold value of the intensity of the radio wave signal in the determination at the time of connection between the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the mobile information terminal 200 after user authentication is set, for example, to be lower than the threshold value of the intensity of the radio wave signal in the determination at the time of user authentication. Thereby, the user can, for example, hold the mobile information terminal 200 over the toilet device 100 (casing 14) to perform user authentication, and then connect the mobile information terminal 200 to the toilet device 100 while remaining seated on the toilet seat 12. Note that the threshold value of the intensity of the radio wave signal in the determination at the time of connection between the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the mobile information terminal 200 after user authentication may not be provided.

[0124] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a part of the toilet device according to the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a side sectional view showing a part of the toilet device according to the embodiment. FIG. 15 is a side sectional view showing a part of the toilet device according to the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a sectional view taken along line A1 - A2 shown in FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of the region R1 shown in FIG. 14. As shown in FIGS. 13 to 15, the wireless communication unit 40 is provided inside the casing 14. More specifically, the casing 14 covers above, below, in front of, behind, to the left side, and to the right side of the wireless communication unit 40.

[0125] At least a part of the wireless communication unit 40 is located, for example, above the vertical center CL1 of the casing 14. That is, the upper end of the wireless communication unit 40 is located, for example, above the vertical center CL1 of the casing 14. In this example, the entire wireless communication unit 40 is located above the vertical center CL1 of the casing 14. That is, in this example, the lower end of the wireless communication unit 40 is located above the vertical center CL1 of the casing 14. Only a part of the wireless communication unit 40 may be located above the vertical center CL1 of the casing 14. That is, the lower end of the wireless communication unit 40 may be located below the vertical center CL1 of the casing 14.

[0126] Also, at least a part of the wireless communication unit 40 is located, for example, behind the front-rear center CL2 of the casing 14. That is, the rear end of the wireless communication unit 40 is located, for example, behind the front-rear center CL2 of the casing 14. In this example, the entire wireless communication unit 40 is located behind the front-rear center CL2 of the casing 14. That is, in this example, the front end of the wireless communication unit 40 is located behind the front-rear center CL2 of the casing 14. Only a part of the wireless communication unit 40 may be located behind the front-rear center CL2 of the casing 14. That is, the front end of the wireless communication unit 40 may be located in front of the front-rear center CL2 of the casing 14.

[0127] Also, the wireless communication unit 40 is located, for example, on the left side of the left-right center CL3 of the casing 14 or on the right side of the left-right center CL3 of the casing 14. That is, the wireless communication unit 40 is provided at a position that does not overlap with the left-right center CL3 of the casing 14. In this example, the wireless communication unit 40 is located on the right side of the left-right center CL3 of the casing 14. That is, the left end of the wireless communication unit 40 is located on the right side of the left-right center CL3 of the casing 14. The wireless communication unit 40 may be located on the left side of the left-right center CL3 of the casing 14. That is, the right end of the wireless communication unit 40 may be located on the left side of the left-right center CL3 of the casing 14.

[0128] The casing 14 has a first upper surface portion 14a and a second upper surface portion 14b. The first upper surface portion 14a does not overlap with the wireless communication unit 40 in the vertical direction. The second upper surface portion 14b overlaps with the wireless communication unit 40 in the vertical direction. The second upper surface portion 14b is located behind the first upper surface portion 14a. The user can perform user authentication, for example, by holding the portable information terminal 200 above the second upper surface portion 14b.

[0129] The inclination of the second upper surface portion 14b is, for example, smaller than the inclination of the first upper surface portion 14a. In other words, when the inclination angle of the first upper surface portion 14a with respect to the horizontal plane is angle θ1 and the inclination angle of the second upper surface portion 14b with respect to the horizontal plane is angle θ2, angle θ2 is, for example, smaller than angle θ1. Angle θ1 is the angle between the virtual line IL1 connecting the front end 14a1 and the rear end 14a2 of the first upper surface portion 14a and the horizontal plane HP1 passing through the front end 14a1. Angle θ2 is the angle between the virtual line IL2 connecting the front end 14b1 and the rear end 14b2 of the second upper surface portion 14b and the horizontal plane HP2 passing through the front end 14b1.

[0130] Also, the casing 14 has a display portion 14x. The display portion 14x is provided at a position that overlaps with the wireless communication unit 40 in the vertical direction. The display portion 14x may be, for example, a pattern or character printed or engraved on the upper surface of the casing 14, or a pattern or character formed by light irradiated on the upper surface of the casing 14, or an indicator such as a lamp provided on the upper surface of the casing 14. Further, the display portion 14x may be, for example, a casing 14 with a sticker containing a pattern or character attached thereto.

[0131] In this way, by providing the wireless communication unit 40 inside the casing 14, water ingress into the wireless communication unit 40 can be suppressed. Also, by providing the wireless communication unit 40 inside the casing 14, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the degree of freedom of layout in the toilet room TR compared to the case where the wireless communication unit 40 is provided on the wall surface WL of the toilet room TR.

[0132] Moreover, by arranging the wireless communication unit 40 such that at least a part thereof is located above the vertical center CL1 of the casing 14, the detection accuracy of the wireless communication unit 40 can be improved.

[0133] Moreover, by arranging the wireless communication unit 40 such that at least a part thereof is located behind the front-rear center CL2 of the casing 14, the wireless communication unit 40 can be separated from the opening of the toilet seat 12. Thereby, for example, when performing user authentication by holding the portable information terminal 200 over the wireless communication unit 40, it is possible to prevent the portable information terminal 200 from falling from the opening of the toilet seat 12 into the bowl portion 11a of the toilet 11.

[0134] Moreover, by arranging the wireless communication unit 40 to be located on the left side of the horizontal center CL3 of the casing 14 or on the right side of the horizontal center CL3 of the casing 14, the wireless communication unit 40 can be separated from the opening of the toilet seat 12. Thereby, for example, when performing user authentication by holding the portable information terminal 200 over the wireless communication unit 40, it is possible to prevent the portable information terminal 200 from falling from the opening of the toilet seat 12 into the bowl portion 11a of the toilet 11.

[0135] Moreover, by making the inclination angle (angle θ2) of the second upper surface portion 14b overlapping the wireless communication unit 40 in the vertical direction with respect to the horizontal plane smaller than the inclination angle (angle θ1) of the first upper surface portion 14a not overlapping the wireless communication unit 40 in the vertical direction with respect to the horizontal plane, the second upper surface portion 14b can be made into a more horizontal surface. Thereby, for example, when performing user authentication by holding the portable information terminal 200 over the wireless communication unit 40, the portable information terminal 200 is less likely to slide forward, and it is possible to prevent the portable information terminal 200 from falling from the opening of the toilet seat 12 into the bowl portion 11a of the toilet 11.

[0136] Moreover, by providing the display portion 14x at a position overlapping the wireless communication unit 40 in the vertical direction, it becomes easier for the user to grasp the position of the wireless communication unit 40. Thereby, for example, when performing user authentication by holding the portable information terminal 200 over the wireless communication unit 40, it becomes easier to perform user authentication.

[0137] The embodiment may include the following configurations.

[0138] (Configuration 1) A casing, A biological information measurement sensor that measures the biological information of the user, A control unit provided inside the casing that transmits the biological information to the user's portable information terminal, A wireless communication unit that can connect the control unit and the portable information terminal by wireless communication, Comprising, When the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than the predetermined distance, the control unit is connected to the portable information terminal, The wireless communication unit is provided inside the casing, a toilet device.

[0139] (Configuration 2) At least a part of the wireless communication unit is located above the center of the casing in the vertical direction, Whether the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than the predetermined distance is determined by whether the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit and received by the portable information terminal is equal to or greater than a threshold value. The toilet device according to Configuration 1.

[0140] (Configuration 3) At least a part of the wireless communication unit is located behind the center of the casing in the front-rear direction. The toilet device according to Configuration 1 or 2.

[0141] (Configuration 4) The wireless communication unit is located on the left side of the center of the casing in the left-right direction or on the right side of the center of the casing in the left-right direction. The toilet device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3.

[0142] (Configuration 5) The casing, A first upper surface portion that does not overlap the wireless communication unit in the vertical direction, A second upper surface portion that is located behind the first upper surface portion and overlaps the wireless communication unit in the vertical direction, Having, The toilet device according to Configuration 3, wherein an inclination angle of the second upper surface portion with respect to a horizontal plane is smaller than an inclination angle of the first upper surface portion with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0143] (Configuration 6) The toilet device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 5, wherein the casing has a display portion provided at a position overlapping the wireless communication portion in a vertical direction.

[0144] As described above, according to the embodiment, there is provided a toilet device capable of suppressing water ingress into the wireless communication portion and suppressing a decrease in the degree of freedom of layout in the toilet compartment.

[0145] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Regarding the foregoing embodiments, those obtained by appropriately making design changes by those skilled in the art are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they have the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, material, arrangement, installation form, etc. of each element included in the toilet device are not limited to those illustrated and can be appropriately changed. In addition, each element included in each of the above-described embodiments can be combined as long as it is technically possible, and those obtained by combining these are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0146] 10: Toilet unit 11: Toilet bowl 11a: Bowl portion 12: Toilet seat 13: Toilet lid 14: Casing 14a: First upper surface portion 14a1: Front end 14a2: Rear end 14b: Second upper surface portion 14b1: Front end 14b2: Rear end 14x: Display portion 20: Biosignal measurement sensor 30: Control unit 40: Wireless communication unit 50: Memory unit 60: Human body detection sensor 61: Seating sensor 62: Proximity sensor 70: Remote control 100: Toilet device 200: Portable information terminal 500: Toilet system CL1~CL3: Center IL1, IL2: Virtual line HP1, HP2: Horizontal plane TR: Toilet room WL: Wall surface θ1, θ2: Angle

Claims

1. A casing; A biometric information measuring sensor that measures biometric information of a user; a control unit provided inside the casing and configured to transmit the biometric information to a portable information terminal of the user; a wireless communication unit capable of connecting the control unit and the portable information terminal via wireless communication; Equipped with the control unit is connected to the portable information terminal when a distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or shorter than a predetermined distance; The toilet device, wherein the wireless communication unit is provided inside the casing.

2. At least a portion of the wireless communication unit is located above a center of the casing in a vertical direction, 2. The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein whether or not the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than the predetermined distance is determined by whether or not the strength of the radio signal emitted from the wireless communication unit and received by the portable information terminal is equal to or greater than a threshold value.

3. The toilet device according to claim 2 , wherein at least a portion of the wireless communication unit is located rearward of a center of the casing in a front-rear direction.

4. The toilet device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the wireless communication unit is located to the left of a center in a left-right direction of the casing or to the right of a center in a left-right direction of the casing.

5. The casing comprises: a first upper surface portion that does not overlap with the wireless communication unit in a vertical direction; a second upper surface portion located behind the first upper surface portion and overlapping with the wireless communication unit in a vertical direction; having The toilet device according to claim 3 , wherein an inclination angle of the second upper surface portion with respect to a horizontal plane is smaller than an inclination angle of the first upper surface portion with respect to the horizontal plane.

6. The toilet device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the casing has a display unit provided at a position overlapping with the wireless communication unit in the up-down direction.

Images