Toilet device, toilet device control method, toilet device control program, and portable information terminal control program

Abstract

To provide a toilet device capable of definitely executing user authentication, a control method for the toilet device, a control program for the toilet device, and a control program for a portable information terminal.SOLUTION: A toilet device has a control part, a wireless communication part capable of connecting the control part and a portable information terminal of a user by wireless communication; and a storage part. The control part can execute a registration mode for making the storage part store identification information to identify the portable information terminal and user information to identify the user by associating them. When distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication part is a prescribed distance or less after executing the registration mode, the toilet device executes user authentication to specify the user information and the identification information. The prescribed distance can be changed by the portable information terminal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a toilet device, a control method for a toilet device, a control program for a toilet device, and a control program for a portable information terminal.

Background Art

[0002] There is a biometric information measurement system in which wireless communication is performed when an authentication wearing device and a personal authentication device approach each other (for example, Patent Document 1). In such a biometric information measurement system, for example, when the distance between the personal authentication device and the authentication wearing device becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance, user authentication is performed by wireless communication.

[0003] However, if the predetermined distance is fixed at a constant value, depending on the body posture of the user when using the toilet device and the physique of the user, user authentication may not be appropriately performed, resulting in poor usability.

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, a control method for a toilet device, a control program for a toilet device, and a control program for a portable information terminal that can perform user authentication more reliably.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The first invention is a toilet device, comprising a control unit, a wireless communication unit capable of connecting the control unit and a user's portable information terminal by wireless communication, and a storage unit. The control unit can execute a registration mode in which identification information for identifying the portable information terminal and user information for identifying the user are associated and stored in the storage unit. After the execution of the registration mode, when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance, user authentication for specifying the user information and the identification information is performed, and the predetermined distance can be changed by the portable information terminal.

[0007] According to this toilet device, by making it possible to change the predetermined distance by the portable information terminal, the distance (predetermined distance) at which user authentication is performed can be set to an appropriate distance regardless of the posture of the user when using the toilet device or the build of the user. Thereby, user authentication can be performed more reliably.

[0008] The second invention is a toilet device according to the first invention, 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 intensity of a 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, and the threshold value can be changed by the portable information terminal.

[0009] According to this toilet device, whether the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a 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. Thus, 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. On the other hand, when determining 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, even if the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit is the same, the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the portable information terminal differs depending on the model of the portable information terminal, the presence or absence of a cover of the portable information terminal, the material, etc. Therefore, if the threshold value is a fixed value, there is a risk that user authentication cannot be performed or a portable information terminal outside the toilet compartment may be misauthenticated. In contrast, by making it possible to change the threshold value with the portable information terminal, the radio wave intensity (threshold value) for user authentication can be set to an appropriate intensity regardless of the model of the portable information terminal, the presence or absence of a cover of the portable information terminal, the material, etc. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the situation where user authentication cannot be performed or a portable information terminal outside the toilet compartment is misauthenticated.

[0010] A third invention is the toilet device according to the first or second invention, further comprising a human body detection sensor for detecting the user, wherein the control unit performs the user authentication when the human body detection sensor detects the user and the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than the predetermined distance.

[0011] According to this toilet device, when the human body detection sensor detects the user and the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than the predetermined distance, user authentication is performed, thereby suppressing the misauthentication of a portable information terminal outside the toilet compartment.

[0012] A fourth invention is the toilet device according to the third invention, wherein the human body detection sensor includes a proximity sensor for detecting the approach of the user, and the distance at which the proximity sensor can detect the user is different from the predetermined distance.

[0013] According to this toilet device, since the distance at which the proximity sensor can detect the user is different from the predetermined distance, false authentication can be further suppressed.

[0014] A fifth invention is a control method for a toilet device connectable to a user's portable information terminal by wireless communication, including a registration step of associating and storing in a storage unit identification information for identifying the portable information terminal and user information for identifying the user, and a user authentication step that is performed after the registration step and that specifies the user information and the identification information when the distance between the portable information terminal and a wireless communication unit of the toilet device becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance, the portable information terminal being capable of changing the predetermined distance, the control method for a toilet device.

[0015] According to this control method for a toilet device, by making it possible to change the predetermined distance by the portable information terminal, the distance (predetermined distance) at which user authentication is performed can be set to an appropriate distance regardless of the posture of the user when using the toilet device or the build of the user. Thereby, user authentication can be performed more reliably.

[0016] A sixth invention is a control program installed in a toilet device connectable to a user's portable information terminal by wireless communication, the control program causing the toilet device to execute a registration step of associating and storing in a storage unit identification information for identifying the portable information terminal and user information for identifying the user, and a user authentication step that is performed after the registration step and that specifies the user information and the identification information when the distance between the portable information terminal and a wireless communication unit of the toilet device becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance, the portable information terminal being capable of changing the predetermined distance, the control program for a toilet device.

[0017] According to this control program for a toilet device, by making it possible to change the predetermined distance by the portable information terminal, the distance (predetermined distance) at which user authentication is performed can be set to an appropriate distance regardless of the posture of the user when using the toilet device or the build of the user. Thereby, user authentication can be performed more reliably.

[0018] The seventh invention is a control program installed in a portable information terminal that can be connected to a toilet device by wireless communication. The portable information terminal is caused to execute a registration step of associating identification information for identifying the portable information terminal and user information for identifying the user and storing them in the storage unit of the toilet device, and a user authentication step that is performed after the registration step and that specifies the user information and the identification information when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit of the toilet device becomes a predetermined distance or less, and the predetermined distance can be changed by the portable information terminal. It is a control program for a portable information terminal.

[0019] According to this control program for a portable information terminal, by making it possible to change the predetermined distance by the portable information terminal, the distance (predetermined distance) at which user authentication is performed can be set to an appropriate distance regardless of the posture of the user when using the toilet device or the build of the user. Thereby, user authentication can be performed more reliably.

Effect of the Invention

[0020] According to an aspect of the present invention, there are provided a toilet device, a control method for a toilet device, a control program for a toilet device, and a control program for a portable information terminal that can perform user authentication more reliably.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021]

Figure 1

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Figure 4

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Figure 13

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] 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.

[0023] (Toilet device) FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet system including a toilet device according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a toilet system including a toilet device according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a front view showing a remote controller of a toilet device according to an 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.

[0024] 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 memory unit 50, a human body detection sensor 60, and a remote controller 70. The toilet device 100 is provided inside a toilet room TR.

[0025] 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 waste, urine, etc. excreted by the user.

[0026] 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 necessary and can be omitted.

[0027] 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 respectively referred to as "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "right side", and "left side".

[0028] 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 necessary and can be omitted. Also, inside the casing 14, the control unit 30, the wireless communication unit 40, the memory unit 50, etc. are housed.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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, for example, using 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.

[0031] 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 result (biological information) of the biological information measurement sensor 20 and the detection result 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.

[0032] The control unit 30 acquires analysis information by analyzing the biological information acquired from the biological information measurement sensor 20. For example, the control unit 30 can acquire (estimate) information about vascular age, lower limb blood circulation state, fitness level, basal metabolism, body water level, body clock, and normal heart rate by analyzing information (biological information) about the user's pulsation acquired from a pulsation sensor. Further, the control unit 30 analyzes the state (shape, color, amount, etc.) of excrement using the image data acquired from an image sensor, and further acquires (estimates) information about the state of the intestinal environment by analyzing information (biological information) about the state of excrement. The analysis of biological information is performed as necessary, and part or all of it can be omitted. The analysis of biological information is performed, for example, by the main body control unit and / or the sensor control unit.

[0033] 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. Further, the control unit 30 stores the analysis information or the biological information in the storage unit 50. Also, the control unit 30 causes the analysis information or the biological information stored in the storage unit 50 to be deleted from the storage unit 50. Note that the analysis of biological information may be performed by the portable information terminal 200, or may be performed by a cloud server via the portable information terminal 200. Further, the control unit 30 may transmit the analysis information or the biological information to the portable information terminal 200 via the cloud server.

[0034] The wireless communication unit 40 can connect the control unit 30 and the mobile 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 based on 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 mobile information terminal 200 located inside the toilet room TR through wireless communication. The connection between the control unit 30 and the mobile information terminal 200 is disconnected, for example, when the mobile information terminal 200 is outside the toilet room TR. Also, the connection between the control unit 30 and the mobile information terminal 200 is disconnected, for example, when a disconnection request signal is transmitted from the mobile information terminal 200. The connection between the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the mobile information terminal 200 will be described later.

[0035] 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 that identifies 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.

[0036] 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, for example, 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 paired with user 1.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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 a 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.

[0039] 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, for example, the authentication signal from the remote controller 70. User authentication will be described later.

[0040] 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.

[0041] A control program (application software) for connecting to the toilet device 100, performing user authentication, and displaying information (for example, analysis information) transmitted from the toilet device 100 is installed in advance in the portable information terminal 200.

[0042] Figure 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. Figure 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 Figures 4 and 5, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) has a registration mode and a usage mode.

[0043] 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 portable 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 portable information terminal 200 are connected.

[0044] The use 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 use 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 portable 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 portable 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 portable information terminal 200 identified by user authentication can be selectively connected.

[0045] User authentication is performed, for example, when the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 are connected. In this case, the portable 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 portable 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 portable information terminal 200 of that user can be identified. User authentication using the portable information terminal 200 will be described later.

[0046] User authentication may be performed, for example, by an operation input on the authentication switch 71 of the remote controller 70. In this case, when an operation input (for example, selection of a user number) is made on the authentication switch 71, the remote controller 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, 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 can be specified. User authentication using the remote controller 70 will be described later.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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).

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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).

[0051] When a user number selection signal is sent to the toilet device 100 (step S201), the portable information terminal 200 determines whether it has received a registration completion signal from the toilet device 100 (step S202). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S202 until it receives the registration completion signal (step S202: No).

[0052] When the registration completion signal is received (step S202: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 stores (registers) the registered user number (step S203).

[0053] 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).

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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).

[0059] 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.

[0060] Note that, in step S301, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may determine 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, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may use the sitting on the toilet seat 12 by the user, the approach of the user to the toilet unit 10, or the entry of the user into the toilet room TR as the trigger for starting the measurement of the biological information. 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.

[0061] 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 the operation 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 activation state. The background activation state is a state in which an advertisement signal can be received.

[0062] 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).

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] The portable information terminal 200 determines whether an activation signal has been received (step S601). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S601 until the activation signal is received (step S601: No).

[0066] When the start signal is received (step S601: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 enters the background startup state (step S602).

[0067] When in the background startup state (step S602), the portable information terminal 200 determines whether it has received an advertisement signal (step S603). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S603 until it receives an advertisement signal (step S603: No).

[0068] When the 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 connecting to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S605).

[0069] 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).

[0070] When the authentication signal is received (step S702: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) identifies the user information and the identification information based on the authentication signal (step S703). More specifically, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) identifies the user information included in the authentication signal and also identifies the portable information terminal 200 having the identification information associated with the user information included in the authentication signal.

[0071] 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.

[0072] After transmitting the authentication completion signal (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.

[0073] 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).

[0074] 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).

[0075] After transmitting the authentication signal (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).

[0076] 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).

[0077] In this way, after executing the registration mode (that is, in a state where the identification information and the user information are linked 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.

[0078] 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 at 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.

[0079] When the user information is selected (step S902), the remote controller 70 determines whether or not a further operation input has been made at the authentication switch 71 (step S903). When a further operation input is made at 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.

[0080] 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). If the predetermined time has not elapsed since the previous operation input (step S905: No), the remote controller 70 returns to step S903.

[0081] If no further operation input is received (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 has elapsed since the previous operation input.

[0082] When a predetermined time has elapsed since 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 user number selected last.

[0083] 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 at a location other than the remote controller 70 (such as the toilet unit 10) in order to transmit the authentication signal, the authentication signal can be transmitted (user authentication) in a form closer to normal use, which is convenient.

[0084] Also, based on the number of times of operation input at the authentication switch 71 before the predetermined time has elapsed, the user information specified by the authentication signal is selected, and when the predetermined time has elapsed, 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, misauthentication can be suppressed.

[0085] 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 starting the measurement of biological information (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.

[0086] 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).

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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).

[0091] When a progress request signal is transmitted (step S1101), the mobile information terminal 200 determines whether progress information has been received (step S1102). The mobile information terminal 200 repeats step S1102 until progress information is received (step S1102: No).

[0092] When progress information is received (step S1102: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 displays the progress information (step S1103).

[0093] The mobile information terminal 200 maintains a state in which a progress request signal can be transmitted until a measurement completion signal is received. When the mobile information terminal 200 receives a measurement completion signal, it becomes a state in which a progress request signal cannot be transmitted.

[0094] In this example, when the mobile information terminal 200 receives a measurement start signal, it becomes a state in which a progress request signal can be transmitted until a measurement completion signal is received, so that 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 progress information only while the measurement is being performed, 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 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.

[0095] 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).

[0096] 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 a user (step S1202). In step S1202, for example, when the seating sensor 61 detects that the user has seated on the toilet seat 12, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the human body detection sensor 60 is detecting the user. In step S1202, for example, when the proximity sensor 62 detects the user's approach to the toilet unit 10, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the human body detection sensor 60 is detecting the user. In step S1202, for example, when the proximity sensor 62 detects the user's entry into the toilet room TR, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the human body detection sensor 60 is detecting the user.

[0097] 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).

[0098] 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 S902 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] Note that 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 made by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30), or may be made by the mobile information terminal 200.

[0101] The predetermined distance can be changed by the mobile information terminal 200. For example, the user can change the predetermined distance stored in the toilet device 100 or the mobile information terminal 200 to an arbitrary value by operating and inputting on the mobile information terminal 200.

[0102] In this way, by making the predetermined distance changeable by the mobile information terminal 200, the distance (predetermined distance) at which user authentication is performed can be set to an appropriate distance regardless of the posture of the user when using the toilet device 100 or the build of the user. Thereby, user authentication can be performed more reliably.

[0103] 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 determined, for example, by whether the intensity of a radio wave signal (for example, 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 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 made by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30), or may be made by the mobile information terminal 200.

[0104] In this way, 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.

[0105] 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 determined by 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 a threshold value. Thus, it is possible to easily determine whether 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.

[0106] The threshold value can be changed by the mobile information terminal 200. For example, the user can change the threshold value stored in the toilet device 100 or the mobile information terminal 200 to an arbitrary value by operating the mobile information terminal 200.

[0107] 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, whether there is a cover on the mobile information terminal 200, the material of the cover, etc. Therefore, if the threshold value is a fixed value, there is a risk that user authentication cannot be performed or that a mobile information terminal 200 outside the toilet compartment TR is misauthenticated. On the other hand, by making it possible to change the threshold value by the mobile information terminal 200, it is possible to set the radio wave intensity (threshold value) at which user authentication is performed to an appropriate intensity regardless of the model of the mobile information terminal 200, whether there is a cover on the mobile information terminal 200, the material of the cover, etc. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of cases where user authentication cannot be performed or a mobile information terminal 200 outside the toilet compartment TR is misauthenticated.

[0108] 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 a mobile information terminal 200 outside the toilet compartment TR.

[0109] 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, for example, based on 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.

[0110] 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).

[0111] Hereinafter, a case where the mobile information terminal 200 determines whether the intensity of the radio wave signal transmitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the mobile information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than a threshold value will be described. 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 a connection request signal has been received (step S1302).

[0112] 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.

[0113] The mobile information terminal 200 determines whether 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).

[0114] When the mobile information terminal 200 receives an advertisement signal (step S1401: Yes), it determines whether the intensity of the received advertisement signal is equal to or greater than a threshold value (step S1402).

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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 step S1403 and step 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 transmit a connection request signal to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and does not start user authentication.

[0117] As described above, 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.

[0118] Hereinafter, a case where the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines 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 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 an advertisement signal is transmitted (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 strength of the advertisement signal received by the portable information terminal 200. The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats step S1502 until the signal strength information is received (step S1502: No).

[0119] When the signal strength information is received (step S1502: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the strength of the advertisement signal received by the portable information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than a threshold value (step S1503).

[0120] When the strength of the advertisement signal received by the portable 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 portable information terminal 200 (step S1504) and starts user authentication (step S1505).

[0121] When the strength of the advertisement signal received by the portable information terminal 200 is less than the threshold value (step S1503: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform step S1504 and step S1505. That is, when the strength of the advertisement signal received by the portable 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 portable information terminal 200 and does not start user authentication.

[0122] The portable information terminal 200 determines whether an advertisement signal has been received (step S1601). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S1601 until an advertisement signal is received (step S1601: No).

[0123] When an advertisement signal is received (step S1601: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 transmits the signal strength information to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S1602).

[0124] When the signal strength information is transmitted to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S1602), the portable information terminal 200 determines whether it has received a connection request signal (step S1603).

[0125] When the connection request signal is received (step S1603: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 starts user authentication (step S1604). When the connection request signal is not received (step S1603: No), the portable information terminal 200 does not perform step S1604. That is, when the connection request signal is not received (step S1603: No), the portable information terminal 200 does not start user authentication.

[0126] Thus, the determination of whether the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the portable 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 portable 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).

[0127] Note that the predetermined distance in the determination at the time of connection between the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable 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 portable 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 portable information terminal 200 over the toilet device 100 (casing 14) to perform user authentication, and then connect the portable 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 portable information terminal 200 after user authentication may not be provided.

[0128] Hereinafter, the case where the proximity sensor 62 is provided as the human body detection sensor 60 will be described. FIG. 13 is a plan view schematically showing a toilet device according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, when the portable information terminal 200 is located within the detection range DR1 indicated by the two-dot chain line, for example, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) performs user authentication. The distance D1 from the wireless communication unit 40 to the outer peripheral end of the detection range DR1 is the distance (predetermined distance) at which user authentication is performed. Further, when the portable information terminal 200 is located within the detection range DR1, the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the portable information terminal 200 becomes equal to or greater than a threshold value.

[0129] The proximity sensor 62 detects the user when the user is located within the detection range DR2 indicated by the two-dot chain line, for example. That is, the distance D2 from the proximity sensor 62 to the outer peripheral end of the detection range DR2 is the distance at which the proximity sensor 62 can detect the user.

[0130] The distance D2 at which the human body detection sensor 60 (proximity sensor 62) can detect the user is preferably different from the distance D1 (predetermined distance) at which user authentication is performed, for example. More specifically, the distance D2 at which the human body detection sensor 60 (proximity sensor 62) can detect the user is preferably longer than the distance D1 (predetermined distance) at which user authentication is performed, for example. That is, the upper limit of the predetermined distance that can be changed by the portable information terminal is preferably set shorter than the distance D2 at which the human body detection sensor 60 (proximity sensor 62) can detect the user. For example, in the portable information terminal 200, it is preferable that the value or range of the distance D1 (predetermined distance) is restricted so that it can be changed only to be different from the distance D2. In other words, for example, the portable information terminal 200 preferably displays only values or ranges that do not overlap with the distance D2 as the selectable values or ranges of the distance D1 (predetermined distance).

[0131] In this way, since the distance D2 at which the human body detection sensor 60 (proximity sensor 62) can detect the user is different from the distance D1 (predetermined distance) at which user authentication is performed, misauthentication can be further suppressed.

[0132] In addition, for user authentication, for example, it is conceivable to hold the mobile information terminal 200 above the casing 14. In this case, if the proximity sensor 62 is set to have a detectable distance D2 for the user that is longer than a predetermined distance D1 for user authentication, the proximity sensor 62 can detect the user before user authentication and automatically open the toilet lid 13 covering the casing 14. This can further improve the usability.

[0133] (Control method of toilet device) In addition, in the embodiment, a control method for the toilet device 100 that can be connected to the user's mobile information terminal 200 by wireless communication is provided. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 12, the control method for the toilet device according to the embodiment includes a registration step and a user authentication step. The registration step is a step of associating and storing in the storage unit 50 identification information for identifying the mobile information terminal 200 and user information for identifying the user. The user authentication step is performed after the registration step, and is a step of specifying the user information and the identification information when the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 of the toilet device 100 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance.

[0134] In the control method for the toilet device according to the embodiment, the predetermined distance can be changed by the mobile information terminal 200.

[0135] In addition, in the control method for the toilet device according to the embodiment, 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 determined, for example, based on 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 a threshold value. The threshold value can be changed by the mobile information terminal 200.

[0136] (Control program of toilet device) In addition, in the embodiment, a control program installed in the toilet device 100 that can be connected to the user's portable information terminal 200 through wireless communication is provided. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 12, the control program of the toilet device according to the embodiment causes the toilet device 100 to execute a registration process and a user authentication process. The registration process is a process of associating and storing in the storage unit 50 identification information for identifying the portable information terminal 200 and user information for identifying the user. The user authentication process is performed after the registration process, and is a process of specifying the user information and the identification information when the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 of the toilet device 100 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance.

[0137] In the control program of the toilet device according to the embodiment, the predetermined distance can be changed by the portable information terminal 200.

[0138] In addition, in the control program of the toilet device according to the embodiment, whether or not the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance is determined, for example, by whether or not the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the portable information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than a threshold value. The threshold value can be changed by the portable information terminal 200.

[0139] (Control Program of Portable Information Terminal) In addition, in the embodiment, a control program installed in a portable information terminal that can be connected to the toilet device through wireless communication is provided. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 12, the control program of the portable information terminal according to the embodiment causes the portable information terminal 200 to execute a registration process and a user authentication process. The registration process is a process of associating and storing in the storage unit 50 of the toilet device 100 identification information for identifying the portable information terminal 200 and user information for identifying the user. The user authentication process is performed after the registration process, and is a process of specifying the user information and the identification information when the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 of the toilet device 100 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance.

[0140] In the control program of the portable information terminal according to the embodiment, the predetermined distance can be changed by the portable information terminal 200.

[0141] In the control program of the portable information terminal according to the embodiment, whether the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance is determined, for example, by whether the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the portable information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than a threshold value. The threshold value can be changed by the portable information terminal 200.

[0142] (Recording medium) In the embodiment, a recording medium on which the above-described control program of the toilet device or the control program of the portable information terminal is recorded is provided. The recording medium is at least readable by a computer. The recording medium may be a read-only one or a rewritable one.

[0143] As described above, according to the control method of the toilet device, the control program of the toilet device, the control program of the portable information terminal, and the recording medium according to the embodiment, by making it possible to change the predetermined distance by the portable information terminal 200, regardless of the posture of the user when using the toilet device or the physique of the user, the distance (predetermined distance) at which user authentication is performed can be set to an appropriate distance. Thereby, user authentication can be performed more reliably.

[0144] In addition, whether the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance is determined by whether the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the portable information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than a threshold value, and by making it possible to change the threshold value by the portable information terminal 200, regardless of the model of the portable information terminal 200, the presence or absence of a cover of the portable information terminal 200, the material, etc., the radio wave intensity (threshold value) at which user authentication is performed can be set to an appropriate intensity. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the situation where user authentication fails or the portable information terminal 200 outside the toilet room TR is misauthenticated.

[0145] The embodiment may include the following configuration.

[0146] (Configuration 1) A control unit, a wireless communication unit capable of connecting the control unit and the user's portable information terminal by wireless communication; a storage unit; comprising: the control unit is: capable of executing a registration mode in which identification information for identifying the portable information terminal and user information for identifying the user are associated and stored in the storage unit; after execution of the registration mode, when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance, user authentication for specifying the user information and the identification information is performed; the toilet device according to Configuration 1, wherein the predetermined distance is changeable by the portable information terminal.

[0147] (Configuration 2) 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 based on whether or not the intensity of a 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, wherein the threshold value is changeable by the portable information terminal.

[0148] (Configuration 3) further comprising a human body detection sensor for detecting the user; the control unit performs the user authentication when the human body detection sensor detects the user and the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than the predetermined distance, according to the toilet device of Configuration 1 or 2.

[0149] (Configuration 4) the human body detection sensor includes a proximity sensor for detecting the approach of the user, and a distance at which the proximity sensor can detect the user is different from the predetermined distance, according to the toilet device of Configuration 3.

[0150] (Configuration 5) A control method for a toilet device capable of connecting to a user's portable information terminal by wireless communication, comprising: A registration step of associating identification information for identifying the portable information terminal and user information for identifying the user and storing them in a storage unit; A user authentication step that is performed after the registration step and that identifies the user information and the identification information when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit of the toilet device becomes a predetermined distance or less; comprising; A control method for a toilet device, wherein the predetermined distance can be changed by the portable information terminal.

[0151] (Configuration 6) A control program installed in a toilet device that can be connected to a user's portable information terminal by wireless communication, for the toilet device, a registration step of associating identification information for identifying the portable information terminal and user information for identifying the user and storing them in a storage unit; a user authentication step that is performed after the registration step and that identifies the user information and the identification information when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit of the toilet device becomes a predetermined distance or less; causing the steps to be executed; A control program for a toilet device, wherein the predetermined distance can be changed by the portable information terminal.

[0152] (Configuration 7) A control program installed in a portable information terminal that can be connected to a toilet device by wireless communication, for the portable information terminal, a registration step of associating identification information for identifying the portable information terminal and user information for identifying the user and storing them in the storage unit of the toilet device; a user authentication step that is performed after the registration step and that identifies the user information and the identification information when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit of the toilet device becomes a predetermined distance or less; causing the steps to be executed; A control program for a portable information terminal, wherein the predetermined distance can be changed by the portable information terminal.

[0153] As described above, according to the embodiment, there are provided a toilet device, a control method for the toilet device, a control program for the toilet device, and a control program for a portable information terminal, which can more reliably perform user authentication.

[0154] 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 exemplified 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 them 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

[0155] 10: Toilet unit 11: Toilet bowl 11a: Bowl part 12: Toilet seat 13: Toilet lid 14: Casing 20: Biometric information measurement sensor 30: Control unit 40: Wireless communication unit 50: Storage 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 D1, D2: Distance TR: Toilet room WL: Wall surface

Claims

1. Control unit and A wireless communication unit capable of connecting the control unit and the user's portable information terminal via wireless communication, Memory unit and, A human body detection sensor that detects the user, Equipped with, The control unit, A registration mode can be executed in which identification information that identifies the mobile information terminal and user information that identifies the user are linked and stored in the storage unit. After the execution of the registration mode, when the human body detection sensor detects the user and the distance between the mobile information terminal and the wireless communication unit becomes less than or equal to a predetermined distance, user authentication is performed to identify the user information and the identification information. The predetermined distance can be changed by the portable information terminal. The human body detection sensor includes a proximity sensor that detects the approach of the user, The distance at which the proximity sensor can detect the user is different from the predetermined distance. A toilet device wherein the predetermined distance used in determining the connection between the control unit and the mobile information terminal after user authentication is set to be longer than the predetermined distance used in determining the connection during user authentication.

2. Whether the distance between the mobile information terminal and the wireless communication unit is less than or equal to the predetermined distance is determined by whether the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit and received by the mobile information terminal is above a threshold. The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the threshold can be changed by the portable information terminal.

3. A method for controlling a toilet device that can be connected to a user's mobile device via wireless communication, A registration step involves linking identification information that identifies the mobile information terminal and user information that identifies the user and storing them in a storage unit. A user authentication step is performed after the registration step, in which a human body detection sensor detects the user and the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit of the toilet device becomes less than or equal to a predetermined distance, thereby identifying the user information and the identification information. Equipped with, The predetermined distance can be changed using the aforementioned portable information terminal. The human body detection sensor includes a proximity sensor that detects the approach of the user, The distance at which the proximity sensor can detect the user is different from the predetermined distance. A method for controlling a toilet device, wherein the predetermined distance used in determining the connection between the control unit and the mobile information terminal after user authentication is set to be longer than the predetermined distance used in determining the connection during user authentication.

4. A control program installed on a toilet device that can connect wirelessly to the user's mobile device, The aforementioned toilet device, A registration step involves linking identification information that identifies the mobile information terminal and user information that identifies the user and storing them in a storage unit. A user authentication step is performed after the registration step, in which a human body detection sensor detects the user and the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit of the toilet device becomes less than or equal to a predetermined distance, thereby identifying the user information and the identification information. Make it run, The predetermined distance can be changed using the aforementioned portable information terminal. The human body detection sensor includes a proximity sensor that detects the approach of the user, The distance at which the proximity sensor can detect the user is different from the predetermined distance. A control program for a toilet device, wherein the predetermined distance used in determining the connection between the control unit and the mobile information terminal after user authentication is set to be longer than the predetermined distance used in determining the connection during user authentication.

5. A control program installed on a portable information terminal that can connect to a toilet device via wireless communication, The aforementioned mobile information terminal, A registration step involves linking identification information that identifies the mobile information terminal and user information that identifies the user, and storing them in the storage unit of the toilet device. A user authentication step is performed after the registration step, in which a human body detection sensor detects the user and the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit of the toilet device becomes less than or equal to a predetermined distance, thereby identifying the user information and the identification information. Make it run, The predetermined distance can be changed using the aforementioned portable information terminal. The human body detection sensor includes a proximity sensor that detects the approach of the user, The distance at which the proximity sensor can detect the user is different from the predetermined distance. A control program for a mobile information terminal, wherein the predetermined distance used in determining the connection between the control unit and the mobile information terminal after user authentication is set to be longer than the predetermined distance used in determining the connection during user authentication.

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