Cleaning evaluation system for water-related space

Abstract

To provide a cleaning evaluation system for a water-related space allowing evaluation of a cleaning state without use of a dedicated sensor.SOLUTION: A cleaning evaluation system according to an embodiment includes: a water-related device configured to discharge toward a bowl portion; a sensor unit that is an optical sensor for detecting an internal state of the bowl portion including a bowl surface; a control unit configured to control discharge from the water-related device to the bowl portion according to an output value of the sensor unit; a storage unit configured to store the output value of the sensor unit; a first evaluation unit configured to evaluate a condition of the sensor unit based on the output value stored in the storage unit; a second evaluation unit configured to evaluate a cleaning state of the sensor unit based on the output value stored in the storage unit; and an output unit configured to output an evaluation result from the first evaluation unit or the second evaluation unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The disclosed embodiment relates to a cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there have been provided technologies relating to cleaning of spaces around water that are equipped with plumbing equipment such as faucets that discharge water. For example, a toilet facility management system has been disclosed for efficiently performing cleaning work and replacing consumables in toilet facilities used by an unspecified number of people, such as in shopping centers and public facilities (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-057298 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the above-mentioned conventional technology leaves room for improvement. While the above-mentioned conventional technology makes it possible to estimate the timing of cleaning work, it does not take into consideration the evaluation of cleaning work. For example, if the completion of cleaning of bathroom equipment by a cleaner is managed by the cleaner's self-reporting, it is difficult to objectively determine whether the cleaning work is sufficient. As a result, there is a possibility that the cleaner will not notice that the sensor (e.g., the light-receiving surface) that automatically controls the bathroom equipment is not clean enough, and dirt will accumulate on the sensor. On the other hand, installing a dedicated sensor solely for detecting dirt on the sensor will increase costs. Therefore, there is a need for a system that allows the cleaning status to be evaluated without using a dedicated sensor.

[0005] An object of the disclosed embodiment is to provide a cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces that enables evaluation of the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A cleaning evaluation system for a wet space in one embodiment is characterized by comprising: a wet equipment that discharges toward a bowl portion; a sensor unit that is an optical sensor that detects the internal state of the bowl portion including the bowl surface of the bowl portion; a control unit that controls the discharge from the wet equipment to the bowl portion based on the output value of the sensor unit; a memory unit that stores the output value of the sensor unit; a first evaluation unit that evaluates the state of the sensor unit based on the output value stored in the memory unit; a second evaluation unit that evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor unit based on the output value stored in the memory unit; and an output unit that outputs the evaluation result by the first evaluation unit or the second evaluation unit.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces, the cleaning state is evaluated based on information detected by a sensor unit used to control wet equipment. This allows the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces to evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. For example, if an optical sensor unit is installed in a wet space, the light-receiving surface of the light-receiving element of the sensor unit used to control the wet equipment may be difficult to see by the cleaner (cleaner), even if the area needs cleaning. Even if the cleaner cleans, it is difficult to determine whether the cleaning is sufficient. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can objectively evaluate the cleaning state of the sensor unit by determining whether the sensor unit is sufficiently cleaned based on the amount of light received by the sensor unit. In this way, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can determine the state of dirt, etc. of the sensor unit based on the amount of light received by the sensor unit, and based on the results, perform a cleaning evaluation of the entire wet space in which the wet equipment is installed. For example, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state using existing sensors.

[0008] In the wet space cleaning evaluation system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the second evaluation unit performs evaluation based on the evaluation result of the first evaluation unit.

[0009] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the wet space cleaning evaluation system can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating the cleaning state of the sensor unit based on the evaluation of the state of the sensor unit. Therefore, the wet space cleaning evaluation system can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor.

[0010] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a cleaning evaluation system for a wet space, the sensor unit has a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit, and the second evaluation unit performs evaluation based on the evaluation result of the first evaluation unit.

[0011] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating the cleaning state of the sensor unit based on the evaluation of the state of the sensor unit having the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor.

[0012] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a cleaning evaluation system for a wet space, the first evaluation unit evaluates the sensor unit as needing cleaning when the output value of the sensor unit exceeds a first threshold value when the discharge of the wet equipment is stopped, and the output unit outputs cleaning need information for the sensor unit.

[0013] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating the state of the wet equipment when the discharge is stopped. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. For example, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can determine whether the sensor unit needs cleaning based on the dirt assessment of the sensor's light-receiving surface, making it possible to evaluate the need for cleaning without adding a dedicated sensor.

[0014] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a cleaning evaluation system for a wet space, the memory unit stores the output value of the sensor unit when the discharge of the wet equipment stops, and the first evaluation unit evaluates that the sensor unit is in a cleaning completed state when the output value of the sensor unit drops by more than a first predetermined value compared to the immediately previous stored value stored in the memory unit.

[0015] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating the state of the wet equipment when the discharge is stopped. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. For example, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can determine that cleaning is complete based on a change in the output value (also simply referred to as the "output value") of the sensor unit, which is the amount of light received by the sensor unit (also referred to as the "sensor reception amount"), and can automatically evaluate the cleaning state. This eliminates the need for a cleaner to self-report, and can automatically determine whether cleaning is complete.

[0016] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces, the memory unit stores a sensor reference value, and the second evaluation unit evaluates that the cleaning of the sensor unit is insufficient if, in the cleaning completion state, the output value of the sensor unit deviates from the sensor reference value by more than a second predetermined value.

[0017] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the wet space cleaning evaluation system can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating based on a reference value. Therefore, the wet space cleaning evaluation system can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. For example, even if there is a change in the output value of the sensor unit, it is assumed that the cleaning is insufficient. Therefore, the wet space cleaning evaluation system determines whether the cleaning is sufficient or insufficient based on the output value of the sensor unit after it is determined that cleaning is complete. This allows the wet space cleaning evaluation system to appropriately evaluate the cleaning state.

[0018] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces, the memory unit stores the output value of the sensor unit in the previous cleaning completion state, and the second evaluation unit sets the output value of the sensor unit in the previous cleaning completion state stored in the memory unit as the sensor reference value.

[0019] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating based on the output value at the time of the previous cleaning completion. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. For example, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces stores the output value (sensor reception amount, etc.) after the previous cleaning and uses it as a reference value to determine the amount of light received by the sensor unit during the current cleaning, thereby making a judgment and evaluation that takes into account scratches on the light receiving surface, deterioration over time, etc.

[0020] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a cleaning evaluation system for a wet space, the memory unit stores an initial value of the output value of the sensor unit, and the second evaluation unit sets the initial value stored in the memory unit as the sensor reference value.

[0021] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating based on the initial output value of the sensor unit. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. For example, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can store the initial value of the output value (such as the amount of light received by the sensor) and use that as a reference value to determine the amount of light received by the sensor unit during the current cleaning, thereby making a judgment and evaluation based on the initial state of the sensor unit.

[0022] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces, the memory unit stores a predicted deterioration value of the sensor unit, and the second evaluation unit sets the predicted deterioration value stored in the memory unit as the sensor reference value.

[0023] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating it based on the predicted deterioration value of the sensor unit. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. For example, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can store a predicted deterioration value that takes into account the deterioration of the sensor's light-receiving surface over time, and use this as a reference value to determine the amount of light received by the sensor unit during the current cleaning, thereby making a judgment or evaluation that takes into account the deterioration of the light-receiving surface over time.

[0024] A cleaning evaluation system for a wet space in one embodiment comprises a wet equipment that discharges toward a bowl portion, a sensor unit which is an optical sensor that detects the internal state of the bowl portion including the bowl surface of the bowl portion, a control unit that controls the discharge from the wet equipment to the bowl portion according to the output value of the sensor unit, a memory unit that stores the output value of the sensor unit, an evaluation unit that evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor unit, an output unit that outputs the evaluation result by the evaluation unit, and a cleaning timing acquisition means, wherein the evaluation unit performs an evaluation after the cleaning timing indicated by the information acquired by the cleaning timing acquisition means.

[0025] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a wet space cleaning evaluation system evaluates the cleaning state based on information detected by a sensor unit used to control wet equipment. This allows the wet space cleaning evaluation system to evaluate the cleaning state without using dedicated sensors. For example, the wet space cleaning evaluation system determines changes in output values (such as sensor reception values) triggered by a cleaning completion input or a preset cleaning cycle, evaluates the cleaning state, and evaluates the cleaning based on the actual numerical value of the output value (such as sensor reception values), thereby providing feedback on the cleaning by the cleaner of the wet space.

[0026] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces, the memory unit stores a sensor reference value, and the evaluation unit evaluates that the cleaning of the sensor unit is insufficient if the output value of the sensor unit deviates from the sensor reference value by more than a second predetermined value after the cleaning timing indicated by the information acquired by the cleaning timing acquisition means.

[0027] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating it based on a reference value. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. For example, even if there is a change in the output value of the sensor unit, it is assumed that the cleaning is insufficient. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces determines whether the cleaning is sufficient or insufficient based on the output value of the sensor unit after the cleaning timing. This allows the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces to appropriately evaluate the cleaning state. For example, by setting a cleaning evaluation standard, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate whether the cleaning is sufficient and provide feedback.

[0028] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces, the memory unit stores the output value of the sensor unit in the previous cleaning completion state, and the evaluation unit sets the output value of the sensor unit in the previous cleaning completion state stored in the memory unit as the sensor reference value.

[0029] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating based on the output value at the time of the previous cleaning completion. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. For example, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces stores the output value (sensor reception amount, etc.) after the previous cleaning and uses it as a reference value to determine the amount of light received by the sensor unit during the current cleaning, thereby making a judgment and evaluation that takes into account scratches on the light receiving surface, deterioration over time, etc.

[0030] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a cleaning evaluation system for a wet space, the memory unit stores an initial value of the output value of the sensor unit, and the evaluation unit sets the initial value stored in the memory unit as the sensor reference value.

[0031] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating based on the initial output value of the sensor unit. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. For example, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can store the initial value of the output value (such as the amount of light received by the sensor) and use that as a reference value to determine the amount of light received by the sensor unit during the current cleaning, thereby making a judgment and evaluation based on the initial state of the sensor unit.

[0032] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces, the memory unit stores a predicted deterioration value of the sensor unit, and the evaluation unit sets the predicted deterioration value stored in the memory unit as the sensor reference value.

[0033] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state by evaluating it based on the predicted deterioration value of the sensor unit. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. For example, the cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces can store a predicted deterioration value that takes into account the deterioration of the sensor's light-receiving surface over time, and use this as a reference value to determine the amount of light received by the sensor unit during the current cleaning, thereby making a judgment or evaluation that takes into account the deterioration of the light-receiving surface over time. [Effects of the Invention]

[0034] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wet space cleaning evaluation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an automatic faucet device as an example of plumbing equipment according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the relationship between the amount of light received by the sensor and the threshold value, etc. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of processing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of processing according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wet space cleaning evaluation system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the wet space cleaning evaluation system disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0037] <1. First embodiment> First, the configuration of a cleaning evaluation system 1, which is a cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to the first embodiment, will be described, and then an example of processing executed by the cleaning evaluation system 1 will be described.

[0038] In the following, a space where a washroom is provided (also referred to as a "washroom space") will be described as an example of a wet space, but the wet space is not limited to a washroom space and may be any space (place) where water is used. For example, the wet space is not limited to a space where only a washroom is provided (washroom space), but may be any space (place) where the processing described below can be applied, such as a dressing room or toilet that has the function of a washroom.

[0039] In the following, an automatic flushing device 2, which is an automatic faucet, will be described as an example of a plumbing device, but the plumbing device is not limited to the automatic flushing device 2 and may be various devices to which the treatment can be applied. For example, the plumbing device may be an automatic liquid soap dispenser 3, a hand dryer, an electric water heater, etc.

[0040] A plumbing device such as an automatic flushing device 2 discharges liquid toward the bowl portion 20. For example, any plumbing device that discharges liquid toward the bowl portion 20 described below may be used. For example, the plumbing device may be an automatic liquid soap device 3 that discharges liquid soap toward the bowl portion 20, a hand dryer that discharges air toward the bowl portion 20, or an electric water heater that discharges hot water toward the bowl portion 20. For example, if a hand dryer is the target, the cleaning evaluation system 1 may include the hand dryer. For example, if an electric water heater is the target, the cleaning evaluation system 1 may include the electric water heater.

[0041] <1-1. Cleaning evaluation system configuration> The configuration of a cleaning evaluation system 1 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cleaning evaluation system according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an automatic faucet device, which is an example of plumbing equipment according to the first embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a cross section of a bowl portion 20 and the like as seen from the side.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 1, the cleaning evaluation system 1 includes an automatic flushing device 2, an automatic water soap device 3, a cloud 100, an output unit 200, and a GW (gateway device) 300.

[0043] 1 is merely an example, and the cleaning evaluation system 1 may include multiple automatic flushing appliances 2, multiple automatic liquid soap appliances 3, multiple clouds 100, multiple output units 200, and multiple GWs 300. The cleaning evaluation system 1 does not necessarily have to include the GW 300. In this case, the automatic flushing appliances 2 and other plumbing appliances may communicate with an external device such as the cloud 100 via the network N.

[0044] The automatic flushing device 2 is placed in the bathroom space where the bowl section 20 is provided. For example, the bowl section 20 is a washbasin. The bowl section 20 is used for washing people's hands, etc., and functions as a water receiving section that receives water from the water discharge section 30 of the automatic flushing device 2.

[0045] Bowl portion 20 has drain outlet 21 that communicates with drain channel 22, and water released into bowl portion 20, water accumulated in bowl portion 20, etc. is discharged from drain outlet 21 to drain channel 22. Bowl portion 20 is provided on the underside of washbasin counter 23. A water discharge portion 30 (discharge portion) that constitutes a spout for discharging water onto bowl surface 20a of bowl portion 20 is provided above washbasin counter 23.

[0046] The automatic flushing device 2 is a plumbing device that discharges water toward the bowl section 20. The automatic flushing device 2 is an automatic faucet that automatically discharges (spouts) water in response to detection by a sensor, etc. The automatic flushing device 2 has a sensor 10, a water discharge section 30, a solenoid valve 40, and a control section 50. In this way, the automatic flushing device 2 has the solenoid valve 40 and discharges water from the water discharge section 30 into the bowl section 20.

[0047] The sensor 10 is a sensor unit that acquires information used to control the automatic flushing device 2 (plumbing equipment). For example, the sensor 10 has a sensor device (detection device) such as an infrared light emitting / receiving optical sensor (photoelectric sensor). For example, the sensor 10 has an optical sensor that detects the internal state of the bowl portion 20, including the bowl surface 20a of the bowl portion 20.

[0048] The detection area of the sensor 10 is a predetermined area such as the inside of the bowl portion 20. The sensor 10 projects (radiates) infrared light toward the bowl portion 20 and receives light that includes reflected light from the bowl portion 20. As shown in FIG. 2, the sensor 10 is disposed above the bowl portion 20 and faces downward.

[0049] The sensor 10 includes a light-projecting unit 11 and a light-receiving unit 12. For example, the sensor 10 includes the light-projecting unit 11 and the light-receiving unit 12 that receives light that includes reflected light emitted from the light-projecting unit 11, and detects the amount of light received by the light-receiving unit 12.

[0050] The light projecting unit 11 functions as a transmitter that transmits a predetermined signal such as an electromagnetic wave. The light projecting unit 11 projects an electromagnetic wave (light) of a predetermined wavelength. For example, the light projecting unit 11 has a light emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) that outputs light of a predetermined wavelength. Note that the light projecting unit 11 is not limited to an LED, and may have any configuration that outputs light of a predetermined wavelength.

[0051] The light-projecting unit 11 emits infrared light. The light-projecting unit 11 irradiates the infrared light toward the bowl unit 20. The light-projecting unit 11 irradiates the infrared light in a detection direction corresponding to the detection range of the sensor 10.

[0052] The light receiving unit 12 functions as a receiving unit that receives a predetermined signal such as an electromagnetic wave. The light receiving unit 12 receives electromagnetic waves (light) of a predetermined wavelength. For example, the light receiving unit 12 has a light receiving element that receives light of a predetermined wavelength. The light receiving unit 12 receives infrared light. For example, the light receiving unit 12 has a light receiving element that receives infrared light. For example, the light receiving unit 12 has a light receiving element that receives light that is incident on the light receiving surface. The light receiving unit 12 receives light that includes reflected light from the bowl portion 20. The light receiving unit 12 receives light that includes reflected light from a detection direction that corresponds to the detection range of the sensor 10.

[0053] The sensor 10 outputs an output value (also referred to as a "sensor output value") of the sensor 10 in response to detection. The sensor 10 generates a sensor output value corresponding to light received by the light receiving unit 12. For example, the output value (sensor output value) of the sensor 10 is a value based on the amount of light received by the sensor 10, which is an example of a sensor reception amount. For example, the output value (sensor output value) of the sensor 10 is the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 12 (also referred to as a "sensor reception amount"). In this case, the sensor output value may be read as the sensor reception amount, and the sensor reception amount may be read as the sensor output value. Note that the sensor output value is not limited to the sensor reception amount itself, and may be various values based on the sensor reception amount. For example, the sensor output value may be a value derived (calculated) based on the sensor reception amount using a predetermined function or the like.

[0054] For example, the sensor 10 is connected to the control unit 50 by a wire. In FIG. 2, the sensor 10 is connected to the control unit 50 by a connection cable 13. In this case, the sensor 10 is supplied with a power supply voltage from the control unit 50 via the connection cable 13 and is controlled by the control unit 50. The sensor 10 also transmits various types of information to the control unit 50. For example, the sensor 10 transmits information acquired by detection (also referred to as "detection information") to the control unit 50. For example, the detection information includes various types of information acquired by the sensor 10. For example, the sensor 10 may transmit detection information such as a sensor output value to the control unit 50 via the connection cable 13.

[0055] The sensor 10 may be communicably connected to the control unit 50 using a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). That is, the control unit 50 and the sensor 10 may be connected in any manner as long as they are capable of transmitting and receiving information, and may be connected to each other via a wired or wireless connection.

[0056] Sensor 10 may be arranged in any manner as long as it can perform the desired detection. For example, sensor 10 is not limited to being arranged at water outlet 31, but may be arranged at any location on water discharge unit 30, such as somewhere along the water discharge pipe. Sensor 10 may also be arranged with light-emitting unit 11 and light-receiving unit 12 separated from each other. Sensor 10 is not limited to being an infrared sensor, and any sensor can be used as long as it can control water discharge using the process described below.

[0057] Water discharger 30 has a water discharge port 31 provided at the tip end of the water discharge pipe, and discharges (spouts) water from water discharge port 31. In this way, water discharger 30 has water discharge port 31 that discharges water, and is arranged so that the water discharged from water discharge port 31 is discharged into bowl surface 20a of bowl portion 20.

[0058] The water discharged from the water discharger 30 through the water outlet 31 is supplied by a water supply passage 32. The water supply passage 32 guides water supplied from a water supply source such as a water pipe to the water outlet 31. In the example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the water discharger 30 discharges water in response to control of the solenoid valve 40 by the control unit 50. The water discharger 30 may be able to change the flow rate of water in response to control of the solenoid valve 40.

[0059] The solenoid valve 40 functions as a valve for discharging water (raw water, etc.) from the water discharger 30. The solenoid valve 40 is connected to the control unit 50, and in response to control by the control unit 50, it is placed in a water discharge state (valve open state) in which water is discharged from the water discharger 30, or in a water stop state (valve closed state) in which water being discharged from the water discharger 30 is stopped. For example, the state of the solenoid valve 40 is controlled by the control unit 50 in response to detection by the sensor 10.

[0060] In Figure 2, solenoid valve 40 is provided in water supply passage 32 and opens and closes water supply passage 32. Solenoid valve 40 is connected to and driven by control section 50. Solenoid valve 40 is electrically controlled in accordance with a control signal from control section 50 and opens and closes water supply passage 32. In this way, solenoid valve 40 functions as a water supply valve that opens and closes water supply passage 32 for water to be discharged from water outlet 31.

[0061] For example, the solenoid valve 40 may be a self-holding solenoid valve (latching solenoid valve) known as a latching solenoid valve. In this case, the solenoid valve 40 operates from a closed state to an open state (opening operation) when current is applied to the solenoid coil in one direction, maintains the open state even when current is subsequently cut off to the solenoid coil, and operates from the open state to a closed state (closing operation) when current is applied to the solenoid coil in the other direction. The solenoid valve 40 maintains the closed state even when current is cut off to the solenoid coil. Note that the opening and closing of the water supply passage 32 is not limited to the solenoid valve 40, and may be performed by another on-off valve mechanism capable of opening and closing the water supply passage 32 under the control of the control unit 50.

[0062] The control unit 50 is a control device (information processing device) used for various processes such as controlling plumbing equipment. The control unit 50 controls the discharge from the automatic flushing device 2 (plumbing equipment) to the bowl unit 20 according to the output value of the sensor 10.

[0063] The control unit 50 has a communication function (communication unit) for transmitting and receiving information to and from other devices. The communication function (communication unit) of the control unit 50 is realized by a communication device, a communication circuit, etc. The control unit 50 is connected to an arbitrary network by wire or wirelessly using the communication function, and transmits and receives information to and from an external information processing device such as the GW 300.

[0064] The control unit 50 is connected to the sensor 10 via a wire. In FIG. 2, the control unit 50 is connected to the sensor 10 via a connection cable 13. The control unit 50 is also connected to the sensor 10 so as to be able to communicate information. The control unit 50 transmits and receives information to and from the sensor 10. Note that the control unit 50 may be connected to the sensor 10 in any manner as long as it is possible to transmit and receive information, and may also be connected so as to be able to communicate wirelessly.

[0065] The control unit 50 switches the opening and closing of the solenoid valve 40. The control unit 50 sends a control signal to the solenoid valve 40, and switches the opening and closing of the solenoid valve 40, thereby switching the water discharge state of the water discharge unit 30. The control unit 50 controls the solenoid valve 40 in accordance with a signal from the sensor 10. For example, when the amount of received light exceeds a set value that serves as a reference for discharging water, the control unit 50 opens the solenoid valve 40 and causes the automatic flushing device 2 to discharge water.

[0066] The control unit 50 acquires information. The control unit 50 acquires detection information detected by the sensor 10. The control unit 50 receives the detection information acquired by the sensor 10 from the sensor 10. The control unit 50 may store the acquired various pieces of information in a memory unit (such as a storage device) within the control unit 50.

[0067] The control unit 50 executes an output process to output various types of information. The control unit 50 functions as a transmission unit to transmit various types of information. The control unit 50 transmits information to an external information processing device such as the GW 300. For example, the control unit 50 transmits detection information detected by the sensor 10 to the GW 300 together with information identifying the plumbing device (such as the automatic flushing device 2) that the sensor 10 is detecting.

[0068] In addition, when a plumbing device communicates with the cloud 100 without going through the GW300, the control unit 50 transmits the detection information detected by the sensor 10 to the cloud 100 via the network N, together with information identifying the plumbing device (such as the automatic flushing device 2) that the sensor 10 is detecting.

[0069] Furthermore, the control unit 50 may be located in any location. For example, the control unit 50 may be located inside the automatic flushing device 2. The device configuration and location of the control unit 50 may be any configuration as long as it is possible to realize switching control of the solenoid valve 40, communication with the sensor 10, and processing. The control unit 50 may be located outside the automatic flushing device 2, rather than inside it.

[0070] Here, an example of automatic water discharge (automatic water ejection) by the automatic flushing device 2 will be described. When an object such as a human hand is present in the bowl portion 20, as shown in Figure 2, the distance L1 from when the light emitted from the sensor 10 (detection light) is reflected by the object is shorter than the distance L2 from when the detection light is reflected by the bowl portion 20.

[0071] Therefore, when an object such as a human hand is present inside bowl portion 20, light (detection light) emitted from sensor 10 is reflected from an object closer than the inner surface of bowl portion 20 (bowl surface 20a), increasing the amount of reflected light returning to sensor 10. In other words, when light-receiving portion 12 of sensor 10 receives light reflected from bowl portion 20, the amount of light received is smaller than when an object such as a human hand is present inside bowl portion 20. Therefore, by appropriately setting the setting value that serves as the standard for performing water discharge and which is compared with the amount of received light, automatic flushing device 2 can perform automatic water discharge, appropriately discharging water in response to the placement of a person's hand, etc.

[0072] Also, in FIG. 1, an automatic liquid soap dispenser 3 is placed in the bathroom space where the bowl section 20 is provided. The automatic liquid soap dispenser 3 is a bathroom device that dispenses liquid soap toward the bowl section 20. The automatic liquid soap dispenser 3 is an automatic liquid soap dispenser (device) that automatically dispenses (spouts) liquid soap in response to detection by a sensor, etc. For example, the automatic liquid soap dispenser 3 has a tank that stores liquid soap, a discharge pipe for discharging liquid soap toward the bowl section 20, a pump that supplies the liquid soap stored in the tank to the discharge pipe, etc. Furthermore, like the automatic flushing device 2, the automatic liquid soap dispenser 3 has a sensor, a control unit, etc. for automatic dispensing. Note that the automatic liquid soap dispenser 3 can have any configuration as long as it is capable of automatic dispensing.

[0073] The cloud 100 is a computer (information processing device) that provides cloud services. For example, the cloud 100 is a server device managed by a service provider that provides a service related to cleaning evaluation of plumbing equipment. Details of the cloud 100 will be described later.

[0074] The output unit 200 is an information processing device (computer) for outputting various types of information. The output unit 200 also functions as a notification unit for notifying information. For example, the output unit 200 has a display device such as a display, and displays the various types of information received from the cloud 100 on the display device. Note that the output unit 200 may output the various types of information received from the cloud 100 as audio using an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0075] The output unit 200 may be a terminal device (computer) used by a predetermined user. For example, the output unit 200 may be any device such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet terminal, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), or a desktop PC. For example, the output unit 200 may be a computer such as a PC (Personal Computer) such as a notebook PC used by the manager of the cleaning evaluation system 1. Furthermore, for example, the output unit 200 may be a portable device such as a smartphone carried by a cleaner of the wet area (also simply referred to as a "cleaner").

[0076] The output unit 200 outputs information indicating the result (evaluation result) of the evaluation of the state of the sensor 10 (also referred to as the "first evaluation") or the evaluation of the cleaning state of the sensor 10 (also referred to as the "second evaluation"). For example, the first evaluation is an evaluation regarding whether cleaning has been performed, i.e., whether cleaning has been performed. Furthermore, for example, the second evaluation is an evaluation regarding whether cleaning is sufficient or insufficient, i.e., the content of the cleaning. The output unit 200 outputs the evaluation result by the first evaluation unit 120 that performs the first evaluation or the second evaluation unit 130 that performs the second evaluation.

[0077] For example, the output unit 200 displays the evaluation result by the first evaluation unit 120. For example, the output unit 200 outputs the evaluation result by the first evaluation unit 120 by voice. For example, the output unit 200 displays the evaluation result by the second evaluation unit 130. For example, the output unit 200 outputs the evaluation result by the second evaluation unit 130 by voice.

[0078] The output unit 200 outputs information indicating that the sensor 10 needs to be cleaned (also referred to as "cleaning required information"). For example, the output unit 200 displays the cleaning required information of the sensor 10. For example, the output unit 200 outputs the cleaning required information of the sensor 10 as sound.

[0079] The GW300 is a computer (information processing device) that also functions as a gateway. The GW300 collects information related to the wet space and provides the information to other devices via the network N. The GW300 may be located outside the wet space or inside the wet space. For example, the GW300 may be a device located in a facility that has a wet space.

[0080] For example, the GW300 may be communicably connected to a plumbing device such as the automatic flushing device 2 using a predetermined wireless communication function such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Note that the GW300 and a plumbing device such as the automatic flushing device 2 may be connected in any manner as long as they are capable of transmitting and receiving information, and may be connected to each other via a wired or wireless connection. For example, the GW300 may be communicably connected to a control device (e.g., the control unit 50) of a plumbing device (e.g., the automatic flushing device 2) via a wired or wireless connection.

[0081] The GW300 receives various types of information and transmits the received information to the cloud 100. The GW300 collects information acquired about plumbing appliances such as the automatic flushing appliance 2 and transmits the collected information about the plumbing space to the cloud 100. For example, the GW300 communicates with the control unit 50 of the automatic flushing appliance 2 and transmits the information about the automatic flushing appliance 2 received from the automatic flushing appliance 2 to the cloud 100.

[0082] <1-2. Cloud Configuration> Next, an example of the configuration of the cloud 100 will be described. As shown in Fig. 1, the cloud 100 has a storage unit 110, a first evaluation unit 120, and a second evaluation unit 130. Note that the cloud 100 is not limited to the above and may have a configuration having various functions.

[0083] The storage unit 110 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 110 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by various information processing programs and the like.

[0084] The storage unit 110 stores various information necessary for processing. The storage unit 110 stores information collected about plumbing equipment such as the automatic flushing appliance 2. The storage unit 110 stores various information used in various information processing such as cleaning evaluation of the plumbing equipment. For example, the storage unit 110 stores information used in processing including various values such as reference values, threshold values, predetermined values, and set values.

[0085] The memory unit 110 stores the output value of the sensor 10. For example, the memory unit 110 stores the output value of the sensor 10 when the discharge of the plumbing equipment is stopped. The memory unit 110 stores the sensor reference value. The memory unit 110 stores the output value of the sensor 10 when the previous cleaning was completed. The memory unit 110 stores the initial value of the output value of the sensor 10. The memory unit 110 stores the predicted deterioration value of the sensor 10. For example, the memory unit 110 stores information that associates the elapsed time since the start of use of the sensor 10 with the predicted output value of the sensor 10. For example, the memory unit 110 stores an aging deterioration prediction curve of the sensor 10.

[0086] The first evaluation unit 120, the second evaluation unit 130, etc. (sometimes collectively referred to as "information processing unit") are realized by, for example, an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) or a CPU (Central Processing Unit) executing a program (for example, various information processing programs related to the present disclosure) stored inside the cloud 100 using RAM or the like as a working area. The information processing unit may also be realized by, for example, an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0087] The first evaluation unit 120 performs a first evaluation. The first evaluation unit 120 evaluates the state of the sensor 10 based on the output value stored in the memory unit 110. When the output value of the sensor 10 exceeds a first threshold value when the discharge of the plumbing equipment is stopped, the first evaluation unit 120 evaluates the sensor 10 as being in a state in which cleaning of the sensor 10 is required (also referred to as a "cleaning required state"). When the output value of the sensor 10 drops by a first predetermined value or more compared to the immediately preceding stored value stored in the memory unit 110, the first evaluation unit 120 evaluates the sensor 10 as being in a state in which cleaning of the sensor 10 has been completed (also referred to as a "cleaning completed state").

[0088] The second evaluation unit 130 performs a second evaluation. The second evaluation unit 130 evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor 10 based on the output value stored in the memory unit 110. The second evaluation unit 130 performs the evaluation based on the evaluation result of the first evaluation unit 120. The second evaluation unit 130 evaluates that the cleaning of the sensor 10 is insufficient when the output value of the sensor 10 deviates from the sensor reference value by a second predetermined value or more in the cleaning completed state.

[0089] The second evaluation unit 130 evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor 10 using the output value of the sensor 10 in the previous cleaning completion state stored in the memory unit 110 as a sensor reference value. The second evaluation unit 130 evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor 10 using the initial value stored in the memory unit 110 as the sensor reference value. The second evaluation unit 130 evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor 10 using the predicted deterioration value stored in the memory unit 110 as the sensor reference value.

[0090] Note that the configuration shown in Fig. 1 is only a part of the configuration, and the cloud 100 may have various configurations other than the configuration shown in Fig. 1. For example, the cloud 100 may have an acquisition unit that acquires various pieces of information from the storage unit 110 or the like. The acquisition unit acquires various pieces of information from other information processing devices via a communication unit described later. Furthermore, for example, the cloud 100 may have a provision unit that transmits (provides) information to other information processing devices via a communication unit described later.

[0091] For example, the cloud 100 has a communication unit realized by a communication device, a communication circuit, etc. The communication unit enables the cloud 100 to communicate with external information processing devices such as the output unit 200 and the GW 300. The cloud 100 is connected via a network N by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from the external information processing devices.

[0092] The cloud 100 receives information about plumbing equipment such as the automatic flushing appliance 2 from the GW 300 via the communication unit. In this way, the cloud 100 acquires information about plumbing equipment such as the automatic flushing appliance 2. Note that the cloud 100 may be able to communicate directly with plumbing equipment such as the automatic flushing appliance 2 without going through the GW 300. In this case, the cloud 100 may receive information about the plumbing equipment from the plumbing equipment such as the automatic flushing appliance 2 via the network N. The cloud 100 transmits information to be output by the output unit 200 via the network N.

[0093] <1-3. Relationship between sensor light reception amount and threshold value, etc.> Here, the relationship between the detection (light reception) of the sensor and the threshold value, etc. will be described using Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the relationship between the amount of light received by the sensor and the threshold value, etc. For example, Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the relationship between the change over time in the amount of light received by the sensor when water is stopped and the threshold value, etc.

[0094] Graph GR1 in Fig. 3 shows an example of the amount of received light and the threshold value in each state of the plumbing equipment. The vertical axis of graph GR1 represents the amount of received light detected by the sensor 10 (amount of sensor received light). For example, the vertical axis of graph GR1 represents the sensor output value of the sensor 10.

[0095] 3 indicates a threshold value for determining whether or not a plumbing appliance should discharge. For example, the threshold value TH10 indicates a set value (threshold value for determining whether or not a plumbing appliance should discharge) that is a reference for causing the automatic flushing appliance 2 to discharge water.

[0096] 3 indicates a first threshold value in the cleaning evaluation of the plumbing equipment. For example, the threshold value TH11 indicates a threshold value that serves as a criterion for determining whether cleaning of the automatic flushing equipment 2 (the sensor 10 thereof) is necessary.

[0097] 3 indicates a reference value related to the amount of light received by the sensor when the plumbing appliance stops discharging. For example, the reference value SV11 indicates the initial value of the sensor output value (amount of light received by the sensor) of the sensor 10 when the automatic flushing appliance 2 stops discharging water.

[0098] 3 shows the change in the amount of light received by the sensor when the discharge of the plumbing appliance is stopped. For example, the line LN11 shows the change over time in the sensor output value (amount of light received by the sensor) of the sensor 10 when the automatic flushing appliance 2 stops water flowing.

[0099] As indicated by the downward arrow in Figure 3, the cleaning evaluation system 1 determines (estimates) that cleaning has been performed based on a decrease in the amount of reflected light, i.e., a decrease in the amount of light received by the sensor. The cleaning evaluation system 1 may also determine (estimate) whether cleaning has been performed using various information as appropriate. For example, the cleaning evaluation system 1 determines (estimates) whether cleaning has been performed based on a change in the amount of light received by the sensor before and after cleaning. For example, the cleaning evaluation system 1 may estimate that cleaning has been performed when the sensor output value of the sensor 10 is lower than the sensor output value of the sensor 10 immediately before the plumbing appliance stopped discharging.

[0100] <1-4. Processing example> Based on the above-mentioned premise, the processing executed by the cleaning evaluation system 1 according to the first embodiment will now be described. Note that, although the following description will be made with the cleaning evaluation system 1 as the processing subject, each processing may be performed by any device capable of executing that processing, depending on the device configuration included in the cleaning evaluation system 1.

[0101] First, the initial measurement process will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the process according to the first embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing the initial measurement process executed by the cleaning evaluation system 1.

[0102] The cleaning evaluation system 1 checks the amount of light received by the sensor as an initial measurement (step S101). For example, the cloud 100 acquires the amount of light received by the sensor 10 in a state where cleaning of the automatic flushing device 2, which is the plumbing device to be evaluated, is completed (cleaning completed state) as the sensor output value of the sensor 10 in the cleaning completed state.

[0103] The cleaning evaluation system 1 stores it in the storage unit (step S102). For example, the cloud 100 stores in the storage unit 110 the sensor output value (amount of sensor received light) of the sensor 10 confirmed in step S101.

[0104] Next, the cleaning evaluation process will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the process according to the first embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the cleaning evaluation process executed by the cleaning evaluation system 1.

[0105] The cleaning evaluation system 1 acquires the amount of light received by the sensor (step S201). For example, the cloud 100 acquires the amount of light received by the sensor 10 of the automatic flushing appliance 2, which is the plumbing appliance to be evaluated, as the sensor output value of the sensor 10.

[0106] The cleaning evaluation system 1 determines whether the amount of received light from the sensor is greater than a first threshold (step S202). For example, the cloud 100 compares the sensor output value of the sensor 10 with the first threshold and determines whether the sensor output value of the sensor 10 exceeds the first threshold. In this way, in step S202, the cleaning evaluation system 1 determines whether the amount of received light from the sensor exceeds a line that should not be exceeded based on the first threshold. For example, the first threshold is used to determine a state in which normal operation cannot be guaranteed if the device becomes soiled any further, that is, a state in which a cleaning alert should be issued.

[0107] If the amount of received light from the sensor is not greater than the first threshold (step S202: No), the cleaning evaluation system 1 determines whether the amount of received light from the sensor has decreased by a first predetermined value or more (step S203). For example, if the sensor output value of the sensor 10 is equal to or less than the first threshold, the cloud 100 determines whether the sensor output value of the sensor 10 has decreased by a first predetermined value or more from the immediately preceding value stored in the storage unit 110 (e.g., the previous sensor output value). In this way, in step S203, the cleaning evaluation system 1 determines (estimates) whether cleaning has been performed by determining whether the amount of received light from the sensor (its value) has significantly improved.

[0108] When the amount of received light from the sensor has decreased by a first predetermined value or more (step S203: Yes), the cleaning evaluation system 1 determines whether the deviation from the reference value is a second predetermined value or more (step S204). For example, when the sensor output value of the sensor 10 has decreased by a first predetermined value or more from the immediately previous stored value (e.g., the previous sensor output value) stored in the storage unit 110, the cloud 100 determines that the cleaning is complete, and determines whether the deviation between the sensor output value of the sensor 10 and the reference value is a second predetermined value or more.

[0109] In this way, in step S204, the cleaning evaluation system 1 determines whether the cleaning has been performed sufficiently. Note that the cleaning evaluation system 1 may use various values as reference values in step S204 and make the determination based on a comparison with the reference values. Some examples of this point are described below.

[0110] For example, the cleaning evaluation system 1 may use the previous measurement result (e.g., the previous sensor output value) as the reference value. In this case, the cleaning evaluation system 1 compares the sensor output value of the sensor 10 with the previous measurement result to determine whether the deviation between the sensor output value of the sensor 10 and the previous measurement result is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value.

[0111] Furthermore, the cleaning evaluation system 1 may use an initial value (for example, the sensor output value in the initial measurement in FIG. 4) as the reference value. In this case, the cleaning evaluation system 1 compares the sensor output value of the sensor 10 with the initial value to determine whether the deviation between the sensor output value of the sensor 10 and the initial value is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value.

[0112] Furthermore, the cleaning evaluation system 1 may use a value indicated by an aging deterioration prediction curve (for example, a predicted output value of the sensor 10 corresponding to elapsed time) as a reference value. In this case, the cleaning evaluation system 1 compares the sensor output value of the sensor 10 with the value indicated by the aging deterioration prediction curve (predicted output value) to determine whether the deviation between the sensor output value of the sensor 10 and the predicted output value is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value.

[0113] If the deviation from the reference value is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value (step S204: Yes), the cleaning evaluation system 1 issues an external notification (step S205). For example, if the deviation between the sensor output value of the sensor 10 and the reference value is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value, the cloud 100 evaluates (determines) that the cleaning is insufficient, transmits information indicating that the (sensor 10 of) the water-related equipment to be evaluated is insufficiently cleaned to the output unit 200, and causes the output unit 200 to output the information, thereby issuing an external notification.

[0114] Then, the cleaning evaluation system 1 stores it in the storage unit (step S206). For example, the cloud 100 stores the sensor output value (amount of sensor received light) of the sensor 10 acquired in step S201 in the storage unit 110. For example, the cloud 100 uses the sensor output value (amount of sensor received light) stored in the storage unit 110 in step S206 as the previous stored value (e.g., the previous sensor output value) in the next process.

[0115] Furthermore, if the amount of light received by the sensor is greater than the first threshold (step S202: Yes), an external notification is issued (step S205). For example, if the sensor output value of the sensor 10 exceeds the first threshold, the cloud 100 determines that a cleaning is required, transmits information indicating that the water-related equipment (the sensor 10 of the water-related equipment) to be evaluated is in a cleaning-required state to the output unit 200, and issues an external notification by having the output unit 200 output the information. In this way, if the conditions of step S202 are met, the cleaning evaluation system 1 determines that early cleaning is required and issues a notification that immediate cleaning is required. Then, the cleaning evaluation system 1 executes the processing of step S206.

[0116] If the amount of received light from the sensor has not decreased by the first predetermined value or more (step S203: No), the cleaning evaluation system 1 executes the process of step S206. For example, if the sensor output value of the sensor 10 has not decreased by the first predetermined value or more from the immediately previous stored value (e.g., the previous sensor output value) stored in the storage unit 110, the cloud 100 executes the process of step S206 without executing the process of step S205.

[0117] If the deviation from the reference value is not equal to or greater than the second predetermined value (step S204: No), the cleaning evaluation system 1 executes the process of step S206. For example, if the deviation between the sensor output value of the sensor 10 and the reference value is less than the second predetermined value, the cloud 100 evaluates (determines) that the cleaning is sufficient, and executes the process of step S206 without executing the process of step S205.

[0118] Through the above-described processing, the cleaning evaluation system 1 can appropriately evaluate (determine) the cleaning state of the water-related equipment (sensor 10) to be evaluated, and can provide appropriate notification regarding cleaning as necessary. In this way, the cleaning evaluation system 1 can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor for cleaning evaluation.

[0119] For example, public spaces (private-purpose facilities) such as buildings and train stations are regularly cleaned by cleaners, but it is desirable for wet areas to be even cleaner. For example, if cleaning is not performed properly, limescale and soap scum may accumulate on the light-receiving surface of the sensor 10's light-receiving unit 12, reducing the accuracy of hand detection and potentially causing the automatic discharge of water by a wet area device that automatically discharges water in response to the sensor 10's detection to be inappropriate. Therefore, the light-receiving surface of the sensor 10's light-receiving unit 12 is an area where thorough cleaning is desirable, but because the light-receiving surface of the sensor 10's light-receiving unit 12 faces the bowl 20 (washbasin), it is difficult for the cleaner to see and clean, making it difficult to determine whether the cleaner has properly cleaned the area. Therefore, the cleaning evaluation system 1 can objectively evaluate the sensor 10's cleaning sufficiency by determining whether the sensor 10 is insufficient based on the amount of light received by the sensor 10.

[0120] 2. Second embodiment In the first embodiment, the cloud 100 determines the cleaning completion state, that is, determines (estimates) the timing at which cleaning was performed (also referred to as "cleaning timing"), but information indicating the cleaning timing may be acquired. This point will be described below.

[0121] <2-1. Cleaning evaluation system configuration> The configuration of a cleaning evaluation system 1A according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to the second embodiment. Note that in the cleaning evaluation system 1A according to the second embodiment, the same components as those in the cleaning evaluation system 1 according to the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again as appropriate. For example, the cleaning evaluation system 1A according to the second embodiment is similar to the cleaning evaluation system 1 for a wet space according to the first embodiment except that it does not perform processing related to the first evaluation and acquires information indicating the timing of cleaning, and therefore, description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0122] 6, cleaning evaluation system 1A includes an automatic flushing device 2, an automatic water soaping device 3, cloud 100A, output unit 200, and GW 300. In this manner, cleaning evaluation system 1A includes cloud 100A instead of cloud 100.

[0123] The cleaning evaluation system 1A also has a cleaning timing acquisition means for acquiring information indicating the cleaning timing. For example, the cleaning timing acquisition means may be a means for acquiring information indicating the cleaning timing through an input by a cleaner that the cleaning has been completed. In this case, the cleaning evaluation system 1A has a configuration (device) for accepting the input by the cleaner that the cleaning has been completed. For example, the cleaning evaluation system 1A may have a mobile device such as a smartphone carried by a cleaner of a wet area as the cleaning timing acquisition means.

[0124] The cleaning evaluation system 1A may have an output unit 200 used by the cleaner as cleaning timing acquisition means. In this case, the cleaner who cleaned the plumbing equipment operates the output unit 200 to input information indicating the plumbing equipment for which cleaning has been completed to the output unit 200. The output unit 200, which has received the information indicating the plumbing equipment for which cleaning has been completed from the cleaner, transmits the information indicating the plumbing equipment for which cleaning has been completed to the cloud 100A. As a result, the cloud 100A receives the information indicating the plumbing equipment for which cleaning has been completed from the output unit 200 as information indicating the cleaning timing of that plumbing equipment. In this way, the cloud 100A can acquire information indicating the cleaning timing of each plumbing equipment. In this case, the cleaning evaluation system 1A may determine (estimate) whether cleaning has been performed based on the input of cleaning completion from the cleaner.

[0125] Furthermore, for example, the cleaning timing acquisition means may be means for acquiring information indicating a preset cleaning cycle. In this case, the cleaning evaluation system 1A has a configuration (device) for storing information indicating the preset cleaning cycle. For example, the cleaning evaluation system 1A may have a memory unit 110A of the cloud 100A as the cleaning timing acquisition means. In this case, the cloud 100A stores information indicating a preset cleaning cycle for each plumbing appliance in the memory unit 110A. For example, the memory unit 110A may store information indicating the timing of cleaning for each day, such as a weekday cleaning pattern (e.g., 10:00, 15:00, etc.) and a Saturday and Sunday cleaning pattern (e.g., 1:00, etc.), as information indicating the cleaning cycle.

[0126] Then, the cloud 100A acquires the information indicating the cleaning cycle of the plumbing device stored in the storage unit 110A as information indicating the cleaning timing of the plumbing device. In this way, the cloud 100A can acquire information indicating the cleaning timing of each plumbing device. In this case, the cleaning evaluation system 1A may determine (estimate) whether cleaning has been performed based on the pre-set cleaning cycle.

[0127] The cleaning timing acquisition means described above is merely an example, and cleaning evaluation system 1A may have any means as cleaning timing acquisition means as long as it can acquire information indicating cleaning timing. For example, cleaning evaluation system 1A may have, as cleaning timing acquisition means, a computer or the like used by the manager of cleaning evaluation system 1 to register information indicating cleaning timing.

[0128] Like the cloud 100, the cloud 100A is a computer (information processing device) that provides cloud services. As shown in Fig. 6, the cloud 100A includes a storage unit 110A and an evaluation unit 140. Note that the cloud 100A is not limited to the above and may have a configuration having various functions.

[0129] The storage unit 110A is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as RAM or flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or optical disk. For example, the storage unit 110A is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by various information processing programs. The storage unit 110A stores various information necessary for processing, similar to the storage unit 110, but because it is similar to the storage unit 110, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0130] The information processing unit such as the evaluation unit 140 is realized by, for example, an MPU, a CPU, etc. executing a program stored in the cloud 100A (for example, various information processing programs according to the present disclosure) using a RAM, etc. as a work area. The information processing unit may also be realized by, for example, an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0131] The evaluation unit 140 evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor 10. The evaluation unit 140 performs the evaluation after the cleaning timing indicated by the information acquired by the cleaning timing acquisition unit. If the output value of the sensor 10 deviates from the sensor reference value by a second predetermined value or more after the cleaning timing indicated by the information acquired by the cleaning timing acquisition unit, the evaluation unit 140 evaluates that the cleaning of the sensor 10 is insufficient.

[0132] The evaluation unit 140 evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor 10 using the output value of the sensor 10 in the previous cleaning completion state stored in the memory unit 110 as a sensor reference value. The evaluation unit 140 evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor 10 using the initial value stored in the memory unit 110 as the sensor reference value. The evaluation unit 140 evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor 10 using the predicted deterioration value stored in the memory unit 110 as the sensor reference value.

[0133] Note that the configuration shown in FIG. 6 is only a part of the configuration, and the cloud 100A may have various configurations other than the configuration shown in FIG. 6. For example, the cloud 100A may have an acquisition unit that acquires various information from the storage unit 110A, etc. The acquisition unit acquires various information from other information processing devices via a communication unit described below. For example, the acquisition unit acquires information indicating the cleaning timing acquired by a cleaning timing acquisition means. For example, the cloud 100A, like the cloud 100, has a communication unit realized by a communication device, a communication circuit, etc.

[0134] The output unit 200 according to the second embodiment outputs various types of information in the same manner as the output unit 200 according to the first embodiment. The output unit 200 outputs the evaluation result by the evaluation unit 140. For example, the output unit 200 displays the evaluation result by the evaluation unit 140. For example, the output unit 200 outputs the evaluation result by the evaluation unit 140 as sound.

[0135] <2-2. Processing example> Next, the processing executed by the cleaning evaluation system 1A according to the second embodiment will be described. Note that, although the following description will be given with the cleaning evaluation system 1A as the processing subject, each processing may be performed by any device capable of executing that processing, depending on the device configuration included in the cleaning evaluation system 1A. Furthermore, among the processing executed by the cleaning evaluation system 1A, explanations of points similar to the processing executed by the cleaning evaluation system 1 according to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate. For example, the initial measurement processing executed by the cleaning evaluation system 1A according to the second embodiment is similar to that shown in FIG. 4, and therefore will not be described.

[0136] The cleaning evaluation process will be described below with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the process according to the second embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing the cleaning evaluation process executed by the cleaning evaluation system 1A.

[0137] First, the cleaning evaluation system 1A acquires the amount of received light from the sensor. For example, the cloud 100A acquires the amount of received light from the sensor 10 of the automatic flushing appliance 2, which is the plumbing appliance to be evaluated, as the sensor output value of the sensor 10.

[0138] The cleaning evaluation system 1A determines whether the amount of light received by the sensor is greater than a first threshold (step S301). For example, the cloud 100A compares the sensor output value of the sensor 10 with the first threshold, and determines whether the sensor output value of the sensor 10 exceeds the first threshold.

[0139] If the amount of light received by the sensor is not greater than the first threshold (step S301: No), the cloud 100A acquires cleaning end input (step S302). For example, if the sensor output value of the sensor 10 is equal to or less than the first threshold, the cloud 100A acquires information indicating the cleaning timing from the cleaning end input by the cleaner. Note that the cloud 100A may acquire information indicating the cleaning timing by various means, not limited to the cleaning end input. Then, the cloud 100A executes the processes from step S303 onwards after the cleaning timing indicated by the acquired information indicating the cleaning timing (after cleaning is performed).

[0140] The cleaning evaluation system 1A determines whether the deviation from the reference value is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value (step S303). For example, after the cleaning timing, the cloud 100A determines whether the deviation between the sensor output value of the sensor 10 and the reference value is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value.

[0141] In this way, cleaning evaluation system 1A determines whether cleaning has been sufficiently performed in step S303. Cleaning evaluation system 1A may also use various values as reference values in step S303 and make a determination based on a comparison with those reference values, but this is similar to the processing of cleaning evaluation system 1 in step S204 in Figure 5, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0142] If the deviation from the reference value is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value (step S303: Yes), the cleaning evaluation system 1A issues an external notification (step S304). For example, if the deviation between the sensor output value of the sensor 10 and the reference value is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value, the cloud 100A evaluates (determines) that the cleaning is insufficient, transmits information indicating that the (sensor 10 of) the water-related equipment to be evaluated is insufficiently cleaned to the output unit 200, and issues an external notification by having the output unit 200 output the information.

[0143] Then, the cleaning evaluation system 1A stores it in the storage unit (step S305). For example, the cloud 100A stores the sensor output value (amount of sensor received light) of the sensor 10 used in the processes from step S301 onwards in the storage unit 110A. For example, the cloud 100A uses the sensor output value (amount of sensor received light) stored in the storage unit 110A in step S206 as the previous stored value (e.g., the previous sensor output value) in the next process.

[0144] Furthermore, if the amount of light received by the sensor is greater than the first threshold (step S301: Yes), an external notification is issued (step S304). For example, if the sensor output value of the sensor 10 exceeds the first threshold, the cloud 100A determines that a cleaning is required, transmits information indicating that the water-related equipment (the sensor 10 of the water-related equipment) to be evaluated is in a cleaning-required state to the output unit 200, and issues an external notification by having the output unit 200 output the information. In this way, if the conditions of step S301 are met, the cleaning evaluation system 1A determines that early cleaning is required and issues a notification that immediate cleaning is required. Then, the cleaning evaluation system 1A executes the processing of step S305.

[0145] Through the above-described processing, the cleaning evaluation system 1A can appropriately determine the cleaning state of the water-related equipment (sensor 10) to be evaluated and can provide appropriate notification regarding cleaning as necessary. In this way, the cleaning evaluation system 1A can appropriately evaluate the cleaning state without using a dedicated sensor for cleaning evaluation.

[0146] The above-described embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradiction in the processing content.

[0147] Further advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0148] The above-described embodiments and modifications may have the following configurations, but are not limited to these. (1) A plumbing device that discharges water toward the bowl section; a sensor unit that is an optical sensor that detects an internal state of the bowl portion including the bowl surface of the bowl portion; a control unit that controls discharge from the plumbing equipment to the bowl unit in accordance with an output value of the sensor unit; a storage unit that stores an output value of the sensor unit; a first evaluation unit that evaluates a state of the sensor unit based on the output value stored in the storage unit; a second evaluation unit that evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor unit based on the output value stored in the storage unit; an output unit that outputs an evaluation result by the first evaluation unit or the second evaluation unit; A cleaning evaluation system for a wet space, comprising: (2) The second evaluation unit performs evaluation based on the evaluation result of the first evaluation unit. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to (1) is characterized in that: (3) the sensor unit has a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit, The second evaluation unit performs evaluation based on the evaluation result of the first evaluation unit. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to (1) or (2) is characterized in that: (4) the first evaluation unit evaluates the sensor unit as requiring cleaning when an output value of the sensor unit exceeds a first threshold value when discharge of the plumbing equipment is stopped; The output unit outputs cleaning requirement information for the sensor unit. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to any one of (1) to (3) above. (5) the storage unit stores an output value of the sensor unit when the discharge of the plumbing equipment is stopped; The first evaluation unit evaluates that the sensor unit is in a cleaning completed state when the output value of the sensor unit is lower than the immediately preceding stored value stored in the storage unit by a first predetermined value or more. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to any one of (1) to (4) above. (6) the storage unit stores a sensor reference value; The second evaluation unit evaluates that cleaning of the sensor unit is insufficient when the output value of the sensor unit deviates from the sensor reference value by a second predetermined value or more in the cleaning completed state. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to (5) above. (7) the storage unit stores an output value of the sensor unit in a state where cleaning was completed the previous time; The second evaluation unit sets the output value of the sensor unit in the previous cleaning completion state stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to (6) above. (8) the storage unit stores an initial value of the output value of the sensor unit; The second evaluation unit sets the initial value stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to (6) above. (9) the storage unit stores a deterioration prediction value of the sensor unit; The second evaluation unit sets the deterioration prediction value stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to (6) above. (10) A plumbing device that discharges water toward the bowl section; a sensor unit that is an optical sensor that detects an internal state of the bowl portion including the bowl surface of the bowl portion; a control unit that controls discharge from the plumbing equipment to the bowl unit in accordance with an output value of the sensor unit; a storage unit that stores an output value of the sensor unit; an evaluation unit that evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor unit; an output unit that outputs an evaluation result by the evaluation unit; A cleaning timing acquisition means; Equipped with The evaluation unit performs evaluation after the cleaning timing indicated by the information acquired by the cleaning timing acquisition unit. A cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces. (11) the storage unit stores a sensor reference value; The evaluation unit evaluates that the cleaning of the sensor unit is insufficient when the output value of the sensor unit deviates from the sensor reference value by a second predetermined value or more after the cleaning timing indicated by the information acquired by the cleaning timing acquisition means. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to (10) above. (12) the storage unit stores an output value of the sensor unit in a state where cleaning was completed the previous time; The evaluation unit sets the output value of the sensor unit in the previous cleaning completion state stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to (11) above. (13) the storage unit stores an initial value of the output value of the sensor unit; The evaluation unit sets the initial value stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to (11) above. (14) the storage unit stores a deterioration prediction value of the sensor unit; The evaluation unit uses the deterioration prediction value stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to (11) above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0149] 1 Cleaning evaluation system (cleaning evaluation system for wet areas) 2 Automatic flushing equipment (water-related equipment) 3 Automatic water soap machine (water equipment) 10 Sensor (Sensor Unit) 11 Light projector 12 Light receiving part 20 Bowl section 30 Water outlet 31 Outlet 40 Solenoid valve 50 control section 100 Cloud 110 Storage section 120 First Evaluation Section 130 Second Evaluation Section 200 Output section 300 GW (gateway device)

Claims

1. A plumbing device that discharges water toward the bowl section; a sensor unit that is an optical sensor that detects an internal state of the bowl portion including the bowl surface of the bowl portion; a control unit that controls discharge from the plumbing equipment to the bowl unit in accordance with an output value of the sensor unit; a storage unit that stores an output value of the sensor unit; a first evaluation unit that evaluates a state of the sensor unit based on the output value stored in the storage unit; a second evaluation unit that evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor unit based on the output value stored in the storage unit; an output unit that outputs an evaluation result by the first evaluation unit or the second evaluation unit; A cleaning evaluation system for a wet space, comprising:

2. The second evaluation unit performs evaluation based on the evaluation result of the first evaluation unit.

2. The wet space cleaning evaluation system according to claim 1.

3. the sensor unit has a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit, The second evaluation unit performs evaluation based on the evaluation result of the first evaluation unit.

2. The wet space cleaning evaluation system according to claim 1.

4. the first evaluation unit evaluates the sensor unit as requiring cleaning when an output value of the sensor unit exceeds a first threshold value when discharge of the plumbing equipment is stopped; The output unit outputs cleaning requirement information for the sensor unit. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to claim 3.

5. the storage unit stores an output value of the sensor unit when the discharge of the plumbing equipment is stopped; The first evaluation unit evaluates that the sensor unit is in a cleaning completed state when the output value of the sensor unit is lower than the immediately preceding stored value stored in the storage unit by a first predetermined value or more. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to claim 3.

6. the storage unit stores a sensor reference value; The second evaluation unit evaluates that cleaning of the sensor unit is insufficient when the output value of the sensor unit deviates from the sensor reference value by a second predetermined value or more in the cleaning completed state. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to claim 5.

7. the storage unit stores an output value of the sensor unit in a state where cleaning was completed the previous time; The second evaluation unit sets the output value of the sensor unit in the previous cleaning completion state stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to claim 6.

8. the storage unit stores an initial value of the output value of the sensor unit; The second evaluation unit sets the initial value stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to claim 6.

9. the storage unit stores a deterioration prediction value of the sensor unit; The second evaluation unit sets the deterioration prediction value stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to claim 6.

10. A plumbing device that discharges water toward the bowl section; a sensor unit that is an optical sensor that detects an internal state of the bowl portion including the bowl surface of the bowl portion; a control unit that controls discharge from the plumbing equipment to the bowl unit in accordance with an output value of the sensor unit; a storage unit that stores an output value of the sensor unit; an evaluation unit that evaluates the cleaning state of the sensor unit; an output unit that outputs an evaluation result by the evaluation unit; A cleaning timing acquisition means; Equipped with The evaluation unit performs evaluation after the cleaning timing indicated by the information acquired by the cleaning timing acquisition unit. A cleaning evaluation system for wet spaces.

11. the storage unit stores a sensor reference value; The evaluation unit evaluates that the cleaning of the sensor unit is insufficient when the output value of the sensor unit deviates from the sensor reference value by a second predetermined value or more after the cleaning timing indicated by the information acquired by the cleaning timing acquisition means. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to claim 10.

12. the storage unit stores an output value of the sensor unit in a state where cleaning was completed the previous time; The evaluation unit sets the output value of the sensor unit in the previous cleaning completion state stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to claim 11.

13. the storage unit stores an initial value of the output value of the sensor unit; The evaluation unit sets the initial value stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to claim 11.

14. the storage unit stores a deterioration prediction value of the sensor unit; The evaluation unit uses the deterioration prediction value stored in the storage unit as the sensor reference value. The cleaning evaluation system for a wet space according to claim 11.

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