Toilet device and method for controlling toilet device

Abstract

To provide a toilet device and a control method for the toilet device that can prevent a mobile information terminal outside a toilet room from being erroneously connected to the toilet device.SOLUTION: A toilet device comprises: a control unit; a wireless communication unit capable of wirelessly connecting the control unit and a portable information terminal having an illuminance sensor of a user by wireless communication; and a light emitting unit for emitting light detectable by the illuminance sensor. 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 less than a predetermined distance and illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a toilet device and a control method for the toilet device.

Background Art

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

[0003] However, when it is determined whether or not the distance is equal to or less than a predetermined distance based on whether or not 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, even if the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit is the same, depending on the model of the portable information terminal, the presence or absence of a cover of the portable information terminal, the material, etc., the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the portable information terminal is different. Therefore, there is a risk that the toilet device cannot be connected, or that a portable information terminal outside the toilet room is erroneously connected to the toilet device.

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 and a control method for the toilet device that can suppress a portable information terminal outside the toilet room from being erroneously connected to the toilet device.

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 portable information terminal having an illuminance sensor of a user by wireless communication, and a light emitting unit that emits light detectable by the illuminance sensor, wherein the control unit is connected to the portable information terminal when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0007] According to this toilet device, when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition, the toilet device (control unit) is connected to the portable information terminal. That is, even if the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance, the toilet device (control unit) is not connected to the portable information terminal unless the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition. Therefore, when it is determined whether or not the distance is equal to or less than a predetermined distance based on whether or not 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, even if the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the portable information terminal varies depending on the model of the portable information terminal, the presence or absence of a cover of the portable information terminal, the material, etc., it is possible to suppress the portable information terminal outside the toilet room from being erroneously connected to the toilet device.

[0008] The second invention is the toilet device according to the first invention, wherein the predetermined condition is that the state in which the illuminance is within a predetermined range continues for a predetermined time.

[0009] According to this toilet device, when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the state in which the illuminance is within a predetermined range continues for a predetermined time, the toilet device (control unit) is connected to the portable information terminal. Thereby, for example, when the user holds the portable information terminal over the light emitting unit while the light emitting unit is lit, the toilet device (control unit) can be connected to the portable information terminal. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably suppress the portable information terminal outside the toilet room from being erroneously connected to the toilet device.

[0010] The third invention is a toilet device according to the first invention, wherein the predetermined condition is that the illuminance changes in a predetermined pattern.

[0011] According to this toilet device, when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance changes in a predetermined pattern, the toilet device (control unit) is connected to the portable information terminal. Thereby, for example, when the user holds the portable information terminal over the light-emitting unit while the light-emitting unit is blinking, the toilet device (control unit) can be connected to the portable information terminal. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent the portable information terminal outside the toilet compartment from being accidentally connected to the toilet device.

[0012] The fourth invention is a toilet device according to the first invention, wherein the predetermined condition is that the amount of change in the illuminance falls within a predetermined range.

[0013] According to this toilet device, when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the amount of change in the illuminance falls within a predetermined range, the toilet device (control unit) is connected to the portable information terminal. Thereby, for example, when the user holds the portable information terminal over the light-emitting unit while the light-emitting unit is blinking, the toilet device (control unit) can be connected to the portable information terminal. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent the portable information terminal outside the toilet compartment from being accidentally connected to the toilet device.

[0014] The fifth invention is a toilet device according to the first invention, wherein the light-emitting unit can notify the operating state of the toilet device.

[0015] According to this toilet device, by enabling the light-emitting unit to notify the operating state of the toilet device, the light-emitting unit can serve both as a means for connecting the toilet device (control unit) and the portable information terminal and as a notification means for notifying the operating state of the toilet device. That is, it is not necessary to provide a light-emitting unit as a means for connecting the toilet device (control unit) and the portable information terminal separately from the light-emitting unit as a means for notifying the operating state of the toilet device. Thereby, the number of components can be reduced and the manufacturing cost can be lowered.

[0016] The sixth invention is a toilet device which, in the first invention, determines whether or not the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than the predetermined distance based on whether or not 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.

[0017] According to this toilet device, 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 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. Thus, it is possible to easily determine whether or not 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.

[0018] The seventh invention is a toilet device which, in any one of the first to sixth inventions, further includes a storage unit, and 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 the execution of the registration mode, when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition, user authentication for specifying the user information and the identification information is performed.

[0019] According to this toilet device, by performing user authentication when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of cases where user authentication fails or a portable information terminal outside the toilet room is misauthenticated. Therefore, user authentication can be performed more reliably.

[0020] The eighth invention is a control method for a toilet device connectable to a portable information terminal having an illuminance sensor of a user via wireless communication, the method including a connection step of connecting the toilet device and the portable information terminal when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit of the toilet device is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0021] According to the control method of this toilet device, when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition, the toilet device (control unit) and the portable information terminal are connected. That is, even if the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance, the toilet device (control unit) and the portable information terminal are not connected unless the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition. Therefore, when it is determined whether or not the distance is equal to or less than a predetermined distance based on whether or not 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, even if the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the portable information terminal varies depending on the model of the portable information terminal, the presence or absence of a cover of the portable information terminal, the material, etc., it is possible to prevent a portable information terminal outside the toilet compartment from being erroneously connected to the toilet device.

Advantages of the Invention

[0022] According to an aspect of the present invention, there are provided a toilet device and a control method for the toilet device that can prevent a portable information terminal outside the toilet compartment from being erroneously connected to the toilet device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023]

Figure 1

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components, and detailed descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet system including a toilet device according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a toilet system including a toilet device according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a front view showing a remote controller 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.

[0026] 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, a remote control 70, and a light emitting unit 80. The toilet device 100 is provided inside a toilet room TR.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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 the upper part of the toilet seat 12 in the closed state. The toilet lid 13 is provided as needed and can be omitted.

[0029] 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.

[0030] The casing 14 houses various functional units. 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 units are provided as needed 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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 linearly.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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, etc., by analyzing 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 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 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.

[0035] 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 deleted 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.

[0036] The wireless communication unit 40 can connect the control unit 30 and the portable information terminal 200 by 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, by wireless communication, the control unit 30 and the portable information terminal 200 located inside the toilet room TR, for example. 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.

[0037] 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 in the sensor storage unit, for example. User authentication will be described later.

[0038] 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 the 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 at the time of pairing). The identification information preferably includes the pairing information. For example, when the portable information terminal 200 that has received the 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 at the time of 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.

[0039] 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 seating 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.

[0040] 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 by a user to the remote controller 70. 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] The light emitting unit 80 emits light that can be detected by the illuminance sensor 210 of the portable information terminal 200. The light emitting unit 80 has, for example, an LED (light emitting diode). The light emitting unit 80 is electrically connected to the control unit 30, for example. The light emitting unit 80 operates based on a signal from the control unit 30, for example. As will be described later, the light emitting unit 80 emits light for connecting the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200. Further, the light emitting unit 80 may be able to notify the operation state of the toilet device 100, for example. That is, the light emitting unit 80 may serve both as a means for connecting the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 and as a means for notifying the operation state of the toilet device 100.

[0043] The portable information terminal 200 is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet terminal owned by a user. However, the portable information terminal 200 is not limited to these, and may be any terminal that the user can carry. The portable information terminal 200 has an illuminance sensor 210. The illuminance sensor 210 can detect, for example, the illuminance in the toilet room TR. Further, the illuminance sensor 210 can detect the illuminance of the light emitted from the light emitting unit 80 when the portable information terminal 200 is held above the light emitting unit 80. As will be described later, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) is connected to the portable information terminal 200 when the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0044] 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 pre-installed in the portable information terminal 200.

[0045] 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 use 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 use mode.

[0046] 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.

[0047] The usage mode is a mode in which biometric information can be measured, biometric information can be analyzed, and analysis information or biometric information can be transmitted. When 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 user's portable information terminal 200. By performing user authentication, for example, analysis information or biometric information can be associated with the user information (user number) or the identification information of the user's portable information terminal 200 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.

[0048] 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 whose user information (user number) is 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 identified. User authentication using the portable information terminal 200 will be described later.

[0049] 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 whose user information (user number) is 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 control 70 will be described later.

[0050] 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 a user number selection signal has been received (step S101). The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats step S101 until a user number selection signal is received (step S101: No). The user number selection signal is a signal indicating the user number selected on the portable information terminal 200.

[0051] When a 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).

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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).

[0054] 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).

[0055] When the registration completion signal is received (step S202: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 stores (registers) the registered user number (step S203).

[0056] 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).

[0057] 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 biological information (step S302). As described above, the measurement of biological information is performed by the biological information measurement sensor 20 such as a pulsation sensor or an image sensor.

[0058] When the measurement of biological information is completed (step S303), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) starts analyzing the biological information (step S304). As described above, the analysis of biological information is performed by the control unit 30. Note that 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 ends the measurement of biological information halfway and starts analyzing the biological information.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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).

[0062] 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.

[0063] Note that the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may determine in step S301 whether the approach sensor 62 has detected the approach of the user to the toilet unit 10, or whether 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. Also, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may start the measurement of the biological information after the user authentication is completed. Further, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may drive the line sensor in a form such as a power-saving mode, 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 form such as a power-saving mode, and start the measurement of the biological information when an output change is detected.

[0064] Hereinafter, 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.

[0065] 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).

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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). When the connection request signal is not received (step S503: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform step S504. That is, when 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.

[0068] 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).

[0069] When the start signal is received (step S601: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 enters the background startup state (step S602).

[0070] 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).

[0071] 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 the connection with the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S605).

[0072] Hereinafter, user authentication using the portable information terminal 200 will be described in more detail. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of operations 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).

[0073] When the authentication signal is received (step S702: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) specifies user information and 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 specifies the portable information terminal 200 having the identification information associated with the user information included in the authentication signal.

[0074] When the user information and 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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).

[0077] 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).

[0078] 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).

[0079] 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).

[0080] In this way, after the execution of the registration mode (that is, in a 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.

[0081] Hereinafter, the 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] When 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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 (e.g., the toilet unit 10, etc.) to transmit the authentication signal, the authentication signal can be transmitted (user authentication) in a form closer to normal use, which is convenient.

[0087] 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 for user authentication can be switched by the number of times of operating one authentication switch 71. Thereby, false authentication can be suppressed.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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).

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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).

[0094] 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).

[0095] When progress information is received (step S1102: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 displays the progress information (step S1103).

[0096] 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 a measurement completion signal, it becomes a state in which it cannot transmit a progress request signal.

[0097] 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 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.

[0098] 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).

[0099] 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 illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition (step S1202). The predetermined condition will be described later.

[0100] When the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies the predetermined condition (step S1202: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the human body detection sensor 60 is detecting a user (step S1203). In step S1203, 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 S1203, for example, when the proximity sensor 62 detects the approach of the user 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 S1203, for example, when the proximity sensor 62 detects the entry of the user into the toilet room TR, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the human body detection sensor 60 is detecting the user.

[0101] When the human body detection sensor 60 is detecting the user (step S1203: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) starts user authentication (step S1204).

[0102] 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, step S1203, and step S1204. 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.

[0103] Also, when the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 does not satisfy the predetermined condition (step S1202: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform steps S1203 and S1204. That is, when the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 does not satisfy the predetermined condition (step S1202: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not start user authentication.

[0104] Also, when the human body detection sensor 60 does not detect a user (step S1203: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform step S1204. That is, when the human body detection sensor 60 does not detect a user (step S1203: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not start user authentication.

[0105] Note that the determination as to 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 made by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) or may be made by the portable information terminal 200. Also, the determination as to whether the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition may be made by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) or may be made by the portable information terminal 200.

[0106] In this way, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) is connected to the portable information terminal 200, for example, when the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition. That is, even if the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) is not connected to the portable information terminal 200 unless the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition. Therefore, when it is determined whether the distance is equal to or less than a predetermined distance based on 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, even if the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the portable information terminal 200 varies depending on the model of the portable information terminal 200, the presence or absence of a cover of the portable information terminal 200, the material, etc., it is possible to prevent the portable information terminal 200 outside the toilet room TR from being erroneously connected to the toilet device 100.

[0107] In addition, when the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) performs user authentication. As a result, it is possible to suppress the situation where user authentication fails or the portable information terminal 200 outside the toilet room TR is misauthenticated. Therefore, user authentication can be performed more reliably.

[0108] 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, based on whether the intensity of a radio wave signal (e.g., an advertisement 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. For example, when the intensity of the radio wave signal emitted from the wireless communication unit 40 and received by the portable information terminal 200 is less than the threshold value, it is determined that the distance between the portable 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 portable information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, it is determined that the distance between the portable 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 portable information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value may be performed by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) or by the portable information terminal 200.

[0109] By determining whether the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance based on whether the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the portable information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than a threshold value, it is possible to easily determine whether the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than the predetermined distance according to the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the portable information terminal 200.

[0110] The threshold value can be changed by the portable information terminal 200. For example, the user can change the threshold value stored in the toilet device 100 or the portable information terminal 200 to an arbitrary value by performing an operation input on the portable information terminal 200.

[0111] 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 for the mobile information terminal 200, the material, etc. Therefore, if the threshold value is set as 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 contrary, 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 for 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.

[0112] Also, when the human body detection sensor 60 detects a 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, and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition, by performing user authentication, it is possible to further suppress the misauthentication of the mobile information terminal 200 outside the toilet room TR.

[0113] 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, 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.

[0114] Also, step S1203 is performed as necessary and can be omitted. When step S1203 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), and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition (step S1202: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) starts user authentication (step S1204).

[0115] 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).

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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).

[0118] 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).

[0119] 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 determines whether or not the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition (step S1403). The predetermined condition will be described later.

[0120] When the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition (step S1403: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 transmits a connection request signal to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S1404) and starts user authentication (step S1405).

[0121] When the intensity of the received advertisement signal is less than the threshold value (step S1402: No), the portable information terminal 200 does not perform step S1403, step S1404, and step S1405. That is, when the intensity of the received advertisement signal is less than the threshold value (step S1402: No), the portable information terminal 200 does not transmit a connection request signal to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and does not start user authentication.

[0122] Also, when the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 does not satisfy a predetermined condition (step S1403: No), the portable information terminal 200 does not perform step S1404 and step S1405. That is, when the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 does not satisfy a predetermined condition (step S1403: No), the portable information terminal 200 does not transmit a connection request signal to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and does not start user authentication.

[0123] Thus, 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 portable information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value is made by, for example, the portable information terminal 200. That is, the determination as to 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 made by, for example, the portable information terminal 200. Also, the determination as to whether or not the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition is made by, for example, the portable information terminal 200.

[0124] Hereinafter, a case where 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 portable information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than the threshold value is made 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 portable 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 and illuminance information have 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 illuminance information is information about the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210. The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats step S1502 until the signal strength information and the illuminance information are received (step S1502: No).

[0125] When the signal strength information and the illuminance information are 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).

[0126] If 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) determines whether the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition (step S1504). The predetermined condition will be described later.

[0127] If the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies the predetermined condition (step S1504: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits a connection request signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S1505) and starts user authentication (step S1506).

[0128] If 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, step S1505, and step S1506. That is, if 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.

[0129] Also, when the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 does not satisfy the predetermined condition (step S1504: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform steps S1505 and S1506. That is, when the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 does not satisfy the predetermined condition (step S1504: 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.

[0130] The portable information terminal 200 determines whether it has received an advertisement signal (step S1601). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S1601 until it receives an advertisement signal (step S1601: No).

[0131] When it receives an advertisement signal (step S1601: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 transmits signal strength information and illuminance information to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S1602).

[0132] After transmitting the signal strength information and the illuminance information 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).

[0133] When it receives a connection request signal (step S1603: Yes), the portable information terminal 200 starts user authentication (step S1604). When it does not receive a connection request signal (step S1603: No), the portable information terminal 200 does not perform step S1604. That is, when it does not receive a connection request signal (step S1603: No), the portable information terminal 200 does not start user authentication.

[0134] 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). Also, the determination of whether the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition may be performed, for example, by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30).

[0135] 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.

[0136] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a part of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, 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, and to the right of the wireless communication unit 40.

[0137] Further, the casing 14 has a display unit 14x. The display unit 14x is provided at a position overlapping the wireless communication unit 40 in the vertical direction. The display unit 14x may be, for example, a pattern or character printed or engraved on the upper surface of the casing 14, 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 unit 14x may be, for example, a casing 14 with a sticker including a pattern or character attached thereto.

[0138] The display unit 14x displays, for example, a target portion at a position where the user holds the portable information terminal 200. Further, the display unit 14x displays, for example, information about the operating state of the toilet device 100. The display unit 14x displays, for example, information such as whether the power of the toilet device 100 is on or off. The light emitting unit 80 is provided, for example, in the display unit 14x. That is, the light emitting unit 80 can notify the operating state of the toilet device 100.

[0139] In this way, since the light emitting unit 80 can notify the operating state of the toilet device 100, the light emitting unit 80 can serve as both a means for connecting the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 and a notification means for notifying the operating state of the toilet device 100. That is, it is not necessary to provide a light emitting unit as a means for connecting the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 separately from the light emitting unit as a means for notifying the operating state of the toilet device 100. Thereby, the number of parts can be reduced and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0140] Further, by providing the display unit 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.

[0141] Hereinafter, predetermined conditions of illuminance will be described. FIG. 14(a) to FIG. 14(c) are graphs showing examples when the illuminance satisfies a predetermined condition. As shown in FIG. 14(a), for example, the predetermined condition is that a state where the illuminance is within a predetermined range continues for a predetermined time. The state where the illuminance is within the predetermined range is a state where the illuminance is equal to or higher than a first illuminance IL1 and equal to or lower than a second illuminance IL2. The second illuminance IL2 is larger than the first illuminance IL1 and smaller than a third illuminance IL3 in the toilet room TR. The first illuminance IL1 is, for example, 30 Lux. The second illuminance IL2 is, for example, 100 Lux.

[0142] For example, when the human body detection sensor 60 detects a user, the control unit 30 starts the light emission (lighting) of the light emitting unit 80. For example, when the light emitting unit 80 is emitting light (lit), if the user holds the portable information terminal 200 over the light emitting unit 80 so that the illuminance sensor 210 faces the light emitting unit 80 (for example, turns the illuminance sensor 210 downward), the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 will be within a predetermined range. When this state continues for a predetermined time or more, it can be determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied, that is, when the user holds the portable information terminal 200 over the light emitting unit 80 for a predetermined time, it can be determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied. More specifically, for example, when a state where the illuminance is 30 Lux or more and 100 Lux or less continues for 5 seconds or more, it can be determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0143] In this way, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) is connected to the portable information terminal 200, for example, when the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and a state where the illuminance is within a predetermined range continues for a predetermined time. Thereby, for example, when the light emitting unit 80 is lit and the user holds the portable information terminal 200 over the light emitting unit 80, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) can be connected to the portable information terminal 200. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent the portable information terminal 200 outside the toilet room TR from being accidentally connected to the toilet device 100.

[0144] As shown in FIG. 14(b), the predetermined condition is, for example, that the illuminance changes in a predetermined pattern. The state in which the illuminance changes in a predetermined pattern is, for example, a state in which the bottoms of the illuminance (for example, bottoms B1, B2, B3, and B4) and the peaks of the illuminance (for example, peaks P1, P2, and P3) are alternately repeated. In this example, the illuminance changes in the order of bottom B1, peak P1, bottom B2, peak P2, bottom B3, peak P3, and bottom B4. The bottom of the illuminance is a state in which the illuminance is smaller than the bottom threshold THB. The peak of the illuminance is a state in which the illuminance is larger than the peak threshold THP. The bottom threshold THB is smaller than the third illuminance IL3 in the toilet room TR. The peak threshold THP is larger than the bottom threshold THB and smaller than the third illuminance IL3 in the toilet room TR. The bottom threshold THB is, for example, 50 Lux. The peak threshold THP is, for example, 80 Lux. The illuminance of the peak is, for example, 100 Lux or less.

[0145] For example, when the human body detection sensor 60 detects a user, the control unit 30 starts the light emission (flashing) of the light emitting unit 80. For example, in a state where the light emitting unit 80 is emitting light (flashing), when the user holds the portable information terminal 200 over the light emitting unit 80 so that the illuminance sensor 210 faces the light emitting unit 80 (for example, turns the illuminance sensor 210 downward), the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 changes in a predetermined pattern. For example, when the set of the bottom and the peak of the illuminance is repeated a plurality of times within a predetermined time, it can be determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied when the user holds the portable information terminal 200 over the flashing light emitting unit 80. More specifically, for example, when the set of the bottom and the peak of the illuminance is repeated 3 times within 5 seconds from the first bottom (bottom B1), it can be determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0146] In this example, the set of bottom B1 and peak P1, the set of bottom B2 and peak P2, and the set of bottom B3 and peak P3 are sets of the bottom and peak of the illuminance. The control unit 30 can determine that a predetermined condition is satisfied, for example, when the illuminance reaches the state of peak P3.

[0147] In this way, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) is connected to the portable information terminal 200, for example, when the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance changes in a predetermined pattern. Thereby, for example, when the user holds the portable information terminal 200 over the light emitting unit 80 while the light emitting unit 80 is blinking, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) can be connected to the portable information terminal 200. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent the portable information terminal 200 outside the toilet room TR from being accidentally connected to the toilet device 100.

[0148] As shown in FIG. 14(c), the predetermined condition is, for example, that the change amount of the illuminance is within a predetermined range. The state where the change amount of the illuminance is within a predetermined range is, for example, a state where the difference between the bottom of the illuminance (for example, bottoms B1, B2, B3, and B4) and the peak of the illuminance (for example, peaks P1, P2, and P3) is equal to or greater than a first value and equal to or less than a second value. In this example, the illuminance changes in the order of bottom B1, peak P1, bottom B2, peak P2, bottom B3, peak P3, and bottom B4. The bottom of the illuminance is a state where the illuminance is less than the bottom threshold THB. The peak of the illuminance is a state where the illuminance is greater than the peak threshold THP. The bottom threshold THB is less than the third illuminance IL3 in the toilet room TR. The peak threshold THP is greater than the bottom threshold THB and less than the third illuminance IL3 in the toilet room TR. The bottom threshold THB is, for example, 50 Lux. The peak threshold THP is, for example, 80 Lux. The first value is, for example, greater than the difference between the bottom threshold THB and the peak threshold THP. The second value is, for example, less than the difference between the third illuminance IL3 and the bottom threshold THB. The first value is, for example, 50 Lux. The second value is, for example, 100 Lux.

[0149] When the human body detection sensor 60 detects a user, for example, the control unit 30 starts the light emission (flashing) of the light emitting unit 80. For example, when the light emitting unit 80 is emitting light (flashing), if the user holds the portable information terminal 200 over the light emitting unit 80 so that the illuminance sensor 210 faces the light emitting unit 80 (for example, turns the illuminance sensor 210 downward), the change amount of the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 will be within a predetermined range. For example, when the difference between the bottom and peak of the illuminance becomes not less than a first value and not more than a second value within a predetermined time, it can be determined that a predetermined condition is satisfied. That is, when the user holds the portable information terminal 200 over the flashing light emitting unit 80, it can be determined that a predetermined condition is satisfied. Also, for example, when the difference between the bottom and peak of the illuminance becomes not less than a first value and not more than a second value within a predetermined time is repeated a plurality of times, it can be determined that a predetermined condition is satisfied. More specifically, for example, when the change in illuminance of not less than 50 Lux and not more than 100 Lux is repeated 3 times within 5 seconds from the first bottom (bottom B1), it can be determined that a predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0150] In this example, the change amount of the illuminance from the peak P1 to the bottom B2, the change amount of the illuminance from the bottom B2 to the peak P2, the change amount of the illuminance from the peak P2 to the bottom B3, and the change amount of the illuminance from the bottom B3 to the peak P3 are not less than 50 Lux and not more than 100 Lux. The change amount of the illuminance from the bottom B1 to the peak P1 and the change amount of the illuminance from the peak P3 to the bottom B4 are less than 50 Lux. The control unit 30 can determine that a predetermined condition is satisfied, for example, when the illuminance reaches the state of the bottom B3.

[0151] In this way, when the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the amount of change in illuminance is within a predetermined range, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) is connected to the mobile information terminal 200. Thereby, for example, when the user holds the mobile information terminal 200 over the light emitting unit 80 while the light emitting unit 80 is blinking, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) can be connected to the mobile information terminal 200. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent the mobile information terminal 200 outside the toilet compartment TR from being accidentally connected to the toilet device 100.

[0152] For example, when a pre-installed control program (application software) of the mobile information terminal 200 is activated, the mobile information terminal 200 starts detecting illuminance by the illuminance sensor 210. The mobile information terminal 200 may detect illuminance by the illuminance sensor 210, for example, with the control program running in the background. For example, when the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined distance, the mobile information terminal 200 may start detecting illuminance by the illuminance sensor 210. More specifically, 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 becomes equal to or greater than a threshold value, the mobile information terminal 200 may start detecting illuminance by the illuminance sensor 210.

[0153] (Control method of toilet device) Further, in the embodiment, a control method for the toilet device 100 that can be connected to a mobile information terminal 200 having an illuminance sensor 210 of the user by wireless communication is provided. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 12, the control method of the toilet device according to the embodiment includes a connection step. In the connection step, when the distance between the mobile information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 of the toilet device 100 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the mobile information terminal 200 are connected.

[0154] (Control program of toilet device) In addition, in the embodiment, a control program installed in a toilet device 100 that can be connected to a portable information terminal 200 having an illuminance sensor 210 of a user by 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 connection process. In the connection process, when the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 of the toilet device 100 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 are connected.

[0155] (Control Program of Portable Information Terminal) In addition, in the embodiment, a control program installed in a portable information terminal 200 having an illuminance sensor 210 and capable of being connected to the toilet device 100 by 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 connection process. In the connection process, when the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 of the toilet device 100 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 are connected.

[0156] (Recording Medium) In addition, in the embodiment, a recording medium in 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 read-only or may be capable of both reading and writing.

[0157] Thus, 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, when the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies a predetermined condition, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 are connected. That is, even if the distance between the portable information terminal 200 and the wireless communication unit 40 becomes equal to or less than the predetermined distance, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 are not connected unless the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 210 satisfies the predetermined condition. Therefore, when it is determined whether the distance 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 40 and received by the portable information terminal 200 is equal to or greater than a threshold value, even if the intensity of the radio wave signal received by the portable information terminal 200 varies depending on the model of the portable information terminal 200, the presence or absence of a cover of the portable information terminal 200, the material, etc., it is possible to prevent the portable information terminal 200 outside the toilet room TR from being erroneously connected to the toilet device 100.

[0158] The embodiment may include the following configurations.

[0159] (Configuration 1) A control unit, A wireless communication unit capable of connecting the control unit and a portable information terminal having an illuminance sensor of a user by wireless communication, A light emitting unit that emits light detectable by the illuminance sensor, and the control unit is a toilet device that is connected to the portable information terminal when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0160] (Configuration 2) The toilet device according to Configuration 1, wherein the predetermined condition is that the state where the illuminance is within a predetermined range continues for a predetermined time.

[0161] (Configuration 3) The toilet device according to Configuration 1 or 2, wherein the predetermined condition is that the illuminance changes in a predetermined pattern.

[0162] (Configuration 4) The toilet device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3, wherein the predetermined condition is that the amount of change in the illuminance is within a predetermined range.

[0163] (Configuration 5) The toilet device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 4, wherein the light emitting unit can notify the operating state of the toilet device.

[0164] (Configuration 6) The toilet device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 5, wherein whether the distance between the portable 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 portable information terminal is greater than or equal to a threshold value.

[0165] (Configuration 7) Further comprising a storage unit, 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 the execution of the registration mode, when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is less than or equal to a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition, user authentication for specifying the user information and the identification information is performed. The toilet device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 6.

[0166] (Configuration 8) A control method for a toilet device connectable by wireless communication to a portable information terminal having an illuminance sensor of a user, comprising: a connection step of connecting the toilet device and the portable information terminal when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit of the toilet device is less than or equal to a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition. The control method for a toilet device.

[0167] As described above, according to the embodiment, there are provided a toilet device and a control method for the toilet device that can prevent a portable information terminal outside the toilet room from being accidentally connected to the toilet device.

[0168] 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 changed as appropriate. In addition, each element included in the foregoing 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.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0169] 10: Toilet unit 11: Toilet bowl 11a: Bowl part 12: Toilet seat 13: Toilet lid 14: Casing 14x: Display part 20: Biometric information measurement sensor 30: Control part 40: Wireless communication part 50: Storage part 60: Human body detection sensor 61: Seating sensor 62: Proximity sensor 70: Remote control 71: Authentication switch 80: Light emitting part 100: Toilet device 200: Portable information terminal 210: Illuminance sensor 500: Toilet system TR: Toilet room WL: Wall surface

Claims

1. A control unit, a wireless communication unit capable of connecting the control unit and a portable information terminal having an illuminance sensor of a user by wireless communication, a light emitting unit that emits light detectable by the illuminance sensor, comprising: The control unit is a toilet device that is connected to the portable information terminal when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition.

2. The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined condition is that a state where the illuminance is within a predetermined range continues for a predetermined time.

3. The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined condition is that the illuminance changes in a predetermined pattern.

4. The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined condition is that a change amount of the illuminance is within a predetermined range.

5. The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting unit can notify an operation state of the toilet device.

6. 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 an 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 claim 1.

7. further comprising a storage unit, 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 is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition, user authentication for specifying the user information and the identification information is performed. The toilet device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A control method for a toilet device capable of being connected to a portable information terminal having an illuminance sensor of a user by wireless communication, comprising: a connection step of connecting the toilet device and the portable information terminal when the distance between the portable information terminal and the wireless communication unit of the toilet device is equal to or less than a predetermined distance and the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor satisfies a predetermined condition. A control method for a toilet device.

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