Wash stand

Abstract

To provide a wash stand provided with biological information measurement means and capable of improving usability.SOLUTION: A wash stand comprises: biological information measurement means for measuring biological information of a user; a detection unit for detecting a predetermined behavior of the user; a display unit for displaying a measurement result of the biological information measured by the biological information measurement means; and a control unit which, when the detection unit detects the predetermined behavior, causes the biological information measurement means to measure the biological information of the user and causes the display unit to display the measurement result.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Aspects of the present invention generally relate to bathroom vanities. [Background technology]

[0002] While people have become increasingly concerned about their health, measuring biological information on a daily basis has traditionally been a tedious task. To address this issue, for example, a healthcare sanitary room that automatically records weight, body temperature, and the like is known (Patent Document 1). With such biological information measuring devices, there is still room for improvement in ease of use when users measure biological information in their daily lives. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-130520 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present invention has been made based on the recognition of the above problem, and has an object to provide a bathroom vanity that is equipped with a biological information measuring means and can improve usability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The first invention is a washbasin vanity unit that includes a biometric information measuring means that measures a user's biometric information, a detection unit that detects a specified action of the user, a display unit that displays the measurement results of the biometric information measured by the biometric information measuring means, and a control unit that, when the detection unit detects the specified action, causes the biometric information measuring means to measure the user's biometric information and displays the measurement results on the display unit.

[0006] This bathroom vanity automatically starts measuring vital signs when the user takes a specific action on the vanity, making it possible to make vital signs measurement a habit in daily life. Automatically measuring vital signs and displaying the results is easy to use.

[0007] A second invention is a washbasin vanity characterized in that, in the first invention, the biometric information is stored in a personal data storage means in correspondence with personal data for identifying an individual, the specified action is a personal authentication operation, the detection unit is a personal authentication means that detects the personal authentication operation, and the control unit, if the input data from the personal authentication operation matches the personal data stored in the personal data storage means, starts a personal mode in which the measurement results are recorded in the personal data storage means in correspondence with the personal data, and if the input data does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means, does not start the personal mode.

[0008] This bathroom vanity unit makes it easier to manage each individual's biometric information by introducing personal authentication linked to personal data, in order to improve the convenience of daily health management in situations where multiple people use the vanity unit, such as in households with families.

[0009] A third invention is a bathroom vanity, characterized in that, in the second invention, the control unit initiates a guest mode in which the measurement results are not recorded if the input data does not match the personal data.

[0010] With this bathroom vanity, even users whose personal data has not been registered can have their biometric information measured without having the results of the biometric information measurement recorded.

[0011] A fourth aspect of the present invention is the device according to the third aspect of the present invention, further comprising a receiving unit capable of receiving a specific signal for identifying the user from an external device, The control unit is a bathroom vanity characterized in that, in the guest mode, when the receiving unit receives the specific signal within a predetermined time after the measurement result is displayed on the display unit, the control unit records the measurement result in the personal data storage means in association with the personal data of the user identified by the specific signal.

[0012] With this bathroom vanity, even if a user whose personal data has been registered in advance fails in personal authentication due to a malfunction of the personal authentication means, the measurement results can be recorded in association with the personal data after biometric information measurement.

[0013] A fifth invention is a bathroom vanity in which, in the third invention, after the control unit measures the biometric information in the guest mode, if the measurement result is similar to any of the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means, the control unit displays a suggestion on the display unit indicating that the user may be a person identified by the personal data associated with the biometric information similar to the measurement result, and accepts further personal authentication operations within a predetermined time from the display of the suggestion.

[0014] With this bathroom vanity, even if a user whose personal data has been registered in advance fails to be authenticated due to a malfunction of the personal authentication means, further personal authentication can be performed. As a result, after measuring biometric information, the measurement results can be recorded in association with the personal data.

[0015] The sixth invention is a washbasin vanity unit characterized in that, in the first invention, the specified action is a water discharge operation that causes a discharge device configured to discharge water into a washbasin bowl to discharge water, or a water stop operation that stops the discharge of water from the discharge device.

[0016] This bathroom vanity can start measuring biological information such as blood pressure and body temperature when it is assumed that the user is washing their hands or face, in other words, when the user is leaning forward toward the washbasin and maintaining a stable posture, thereby enabling highly accurate measurement of biological information.

[0017] The seventh invention is a washbasin vanity unit characterized in that, in the sixth invention, the biometric information measuring means has a measuring unit that measures the biometric information non-contact, the measuring unit is located above the washbasin and below a washbasin mirror located above the washbasin, and the detection direction of the measuring unit is facing diagonally upward toward the front.

[0018] With this bathroom vanity, the measuring unit that measures biometric information non-contact is positioned opposite the user's face, which faces the washbasin below when washing hands, etc., and the sensing direction of the measuring unit is directed toward the user's face, making it possible to measure biometric information with even greater accuracy. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to an aspect of the present invention, a bathroom vanity unit is provided that is equipped with a biological information measuring means and that can improve usability. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a bathroom vanity according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a bathroom vanity according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a bathroom vanity according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a bathroom vanity according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] 8(a) to 8(c) are schematic diagrams showing the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate. (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the bathroom vanity 101 of the embodiment includes a support base 16, a washbasin unit 10, a mirror 20 (bathroom mirror), a display unit 24, a biometric information measuring means 30, a detection unit 50, and a human body detection sensor 56. Bathroom vanity 101 is a vanity capable of measuring and displaying the biological information (such as body temperature) of a user. Specifically, the biological information of the user is measured by biological information measuring means 30. Then, the measurement results of the biological information are displayed on display unit 24.

[0022] Hereinafter, in this specification, the terms "up," "down," "right," and "left" refer to up, down, right, and left, respectively, relative to a person standing in front of the bathroom vanity and looking at the vanity. In addition, in this specification, the direction from the bathroom vanity toward a person standing in front of the vanity 101 is referred to as the "front" direction, and the opposite direction is referred to as the "rear" direction.

[0023] The washbasin unit 10 has a washbasin 12 and a discharge device 14 (faucet device). The washbasin 12 has a washbowl 23. The washbowl 23 is formed in a concave shape that is recessed downward. If necessary, a back guard may be provided that extends upward from the rear end of the washbowl 23. The shape of the washbasin 12 may be any shape that has at least the washbowl 23.

[0024] The washbasin 12 is placed on a support base 16. The support base 16 supports the washbasin 12. The support base 16 has, for example, drawers and doors, and also functions as a cabinet capable of storing items in the internal space. In other words, the support base 16 is a lower cabinet (floor cabinet). The support base 16 does not necessarily have a storage function. The support base 16 may have any configuration capable of supporting the washbasin 12. Furthermore, the washbasin 12 may be attached directly to the wall of a bathroom, for example. In other words, the support base 16 is provided as needed and can be omitted.

[0025] Discharge device 14 is provided above washbasin 12. Discharge device 14 has a water discharge unit 42 and an operating unit 44. Water discharge unit 42 of discharge device 14 is configured to be able to discharge water into washbasin 23. Specifically, water discharge unit 42 has a water outlet, and discharges water from the water outlet into washbasin 23. Operating unit 44 switches the water discharge from water discharge unit 42 on and off in response to operation by the user. In other words, the user can operate operating unit 44 to perform a water discharge operation that discharges water from water discharge unit 42, and a water stop operation that stops the discharge of water from water discharge unit 42.

[0026] The operation unit 44 may be, for example, a lever, a handle, a button, or a switch. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , a lever is used as the operation unit 44. The water discharge operation and the water stop operation correspond to moving the lever or handle, or pressing a button or switch. The operation unit 44 may be a contact-type switch such as a mechanical push button, or a non-contact type sensor. The sensor emits light (radio waves) and detects the user or other human body based on the reflected waves of the emitted light. Specifically, an infrared sensor (pyroelectric sensor), a radio wave sensor (microwave sensor), or the like may be used. In this case, bringing a hand close to the sensor corresponds to the water discharge operation, and moving the hand away from the sensor corresponds to the water stop operation. The operation unit 44 may also be a sensor capable of detecting the user's gestures or a microphone capable of detecting voice. The operation unit 44 is not limited to the above, and may have any configuration capable of detecting a predetermined operation by the user.

[0027] In the example of Figure 1, the water discharge unit 42 and the operating unit 44 are provided together in one location, but the water discharge unit 42 and the operating unit 44 may also be provided separately from each other. The water discharge unit 42 and the operating unit 44 may be provided, for example, on the back guard of the washbasin 12 or on the rim surface around the washbasin 23. The water discharge unit 42 may have any configuration that is capable of discharging water into the washbasin 23. The operating unit 44 may have any configuration that is capable of switching at least the water discharge from the water discharge unit 42 on or off. The operating unit 44 may be configured, for example, to change the flow rate of water discharged from the water discharge unit 42 and the temperature of the water discharged from the water discharge unit 42.

[0028] The display unit 24 is provided on the discharge device 14. The display unit 24 emits light forward to display information (e.g., measurement results of biological information) to a user standing in front of the bathroom vanity 101. The display unit 24 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, or the like.

[0029] The bathroom vanity 101 further includes, for example, a support part 46 provided on the discharge device 14. The display part 24 is provided, for example, inside the support part 46. The support part 46 may also be a cabinet capable of storing items therein.

[0030] The mirror 20 is provided on the discharge device 14. The mirror 20 is also provided in front of the display unit 24. For example, the mirror 20 is attached to the front surface of the support unit 46, and the display unit 24 is disposed behind the mirror 20. The mirror 20 is, for example, a one-way mirror (or a half mirror). A portion of the light incident on the mirror 20 is reflected by the mirror 20, and another portion of the light incident on the mirror 20 is transmitted through the mirror 20. In other words, the mirror 20 transmits a portion of the light emitted from the display unit 24 forward. At least a portion of the light incident on the mirror 20 from the front to the rear is reflected forward.

[0031] In this way, mirror 20 is positioned above washbasin 23. Display unit 24 is provided on the back of mirror 20. A user can see the display content of display unit 24 through mirror 20. For example, to the user, the display content of display unit 24 appears to be displayed on mirror 20. A user using bathroom vanity 101 can check the display content of display unit 24 while checking their own reflection in mirror 20. The reflectance and transmittance of mirror 20 are not particularly limited and may be any value that satisfies its function.

[0032] Lights 22a, 22b, 22c, and 22d are provided on mirror 20. These lights are arranged, for example, to surround the four sides of mirror 20. By adjusting the brightness of lights 22a to 22d and the brightness of display unit 24, it is possible to adjust the visibility of the content displayed on display unit 24 and the visibility of the user's image reflected in the mirror.

[0033] The human body detection sensor 56 emits radio waves forward and detects a human body, such as a user, based on the reflected waves of the emitted radio waves. The human body detection sensor 56 is, for example, a microwave sensor. A microwave sensor can detect, for example, the approach, departure, and moving speed of a detected object. The frequency of the microwaves transmitted by the human body detection sensor 56 is preferably in the GHz (gigahertz) band. In the example of FIG. 1, the human body detection sensor 56 is provided on the front surface of the support base 16. However, the position of the human body detection sensor 56 is not limited to this, and may be any position that allows appropriate detection of a user. The human body detection sensor 56 may be provided inside the bathroom vanity 101.

[0034] The biological information measuring means 30 measures the biological information of the user. The biological information may be, for example, body temperature or complexion. The biological information may also be blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, weight, etc. In this example, the biological information is body temperature. However, the biological information is not limited to the above and may be any information about the user's body.

[0035] The biological information measuring means 30 has a measuring unit 31 for measuring biological information. For example, the measuring unit 31 is a measuring device such as a sensor that measures biological information in a non-contact manner. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the measuring unit 31 is a radiation thermometer (clinical body temperature). A radiation thermometer receives light (e.g., infrared rays) emitted from an object with a light receiving element and measures the temperature of the object from the intensity of the received light. However, the measuring unit 31 is not limited to this, and may be any device that can measure information about the user's body. For example, the measuring unit 31 may be a sensor (e.g., a camera) that can detect light.

[0036] The detection unit 50 detects a predetermined action by the user. The predetermined action detected by the detection unit 50 triggers the start of biometric information measurement. The predetermined action may be, for example, an operation on the bathroom vanity 101 or a personal authentication operation. In the example of FIG. 1, the predetermined action is a personal authentication operation, and a personal authentication means 50a (fingerprint authentication device) is provided as the detection unit 50. The predetermined action may be, for example, an operation on the washbasin unit 10. The action detected by the detection unit 50 may be a contact operation in which the user directly touches the bathroom vanity 101, or a contactless operation in which the user does not touch the bathroom vanity 101. The detection unit 50 may be any sensor capable of detecting the predetermined action by the user. The detection unit 50 may be located, for example, on the support base 16 or the washbasin unit 10 (such as the back guard of the washbasin 12 or the rim surface of the washbasin 23). However, the location of the detection unit 50 is not limited to the above and may be any location that can detect the predetermined action by the user.

[0037] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the bathroom vanity 101 further includes a control unit 33. The control unit 33 is capable of communicating with the biological information measuring means 30 (measurement section 31), the detection section 50 (personal authentication section 50a), the human body detection sensor 56, the display section 24, the discharge device 14 (see FIG. 1), and the lights 22a to 22d (see FIG. 1). The control unit 33 is capable of controlling the operation of the biological information measuring means 30, the detection section 50, the human body detection sensor 56, the display section 24, the discharge device 14, and the lights 22a to 22d. The communication method with the control unit 33 may be wired or wireless.

[0038] A processing device (computer) such as a microcomputer can be used as the control unit 33. In this example, one processing device functions as the control unit 33. However, this is not a limitation, and the control unit 33 may be distributed among multiple devices that are communicably connected by wire or wirelessly. In the example of FIG. 2, the control unit 33 is included in the biological information measurement means 30. However, this is not a limitation, and the control unit 33 may be provided separately from the biological information measurement means 30. The configuration of the control unit 33 is not limited to the above, and any configuration that can fulfill its functions may be used.

[0039] When the detection unit 50 detects a predetermined action of the user, a detection signal indicating that the predetermined action has occurred is transmitted from the detection unit 50 to the control unit 33. When the control unit 33 receives the detection signal, it sends a command signal to the biological information measurement means 30 (measurement unit 31) to start measuring the biological information. The biological information measurement means 30 transmits the measurement results of the biological information to the control unit 33. When the control unit 33 receives the measurement results of the biological information, it transmits a command signal to cause the display unit 24 to display the measurement results of the biological information. As a result, the control unit 33 causes the display unit 24 to display the measurement results of the biological information.

[0040] As described above, according to the embodiment, biological information measurement is automatically started when a predetermined action of the user on the bathroom vanity 101 is used as a trigger, so biological information measurement can become a habit in daily life. Since biological information measurement and the results are displayed automatically, it is easy to use.

[0041] Furthermore, since the measurement is performed automatically and the results are displayed on the mirror 20 (display unit 24), checking the results is easy. The user can naturally check the measurement results by looking at the mirror 20, without having to take the trouble of activating a separate display or performing an action to view the displayed content. Because the biological information measurement and result display are performed automatically in this way, and the user can naturally view the result display, the series of actions from starting the measurement to checking the results is extremely simple, making it easy to make understanding biological information a habit.

[0042] As described above, in this example, the predetermined action detected by the detection unit 50 is a personal authentication operation. The detection unit 50 is a personal authentication means 50a that detects the personal authentication operation and detects input data from the personal authentication operation. Personal authentication is an operation in which the control unit 33 specifies or identifies an individual. For example, personal data that identifies an individual, such as a user, is registered in advance. The personal authentication operation is an operation in which the control unit 33 identifies or specifies the user by inputting personal data. In other words, when the user performs a predetermined action (personal authentication operation) on the personal authentication means 50a, it is identified that the user who performed the personal authentication operation is one of the registered individuals. Specifically, personal authentication is fingerprint authentication, voice authentication (voiceprint authentication), face authentication, or the like.

[0043] For example, when fingerprint authentication is used, the personal data is data indicating the characteristics of the user's fingerprint, and the personal authentication means 50a has a sensor that can read the fingerprint characteristics. In this case, the personal authentication operation is to have the sensor read the fingerprint by touching the sensor, etc. In this way, the personal authentication means 50a detects the fingerprint characteristics of the individual user as input data.

[0044] For example, when voice authentication is used, the personal data is data indicating the characteristics of the user's voiceprint, and the personal authentication means 50a has a microphone that can detect voice. In this case, the personal authentication operation is to speak into the microphone. As a result, the personal authentication means 50a detects the characteristics of the user's voice as input data.

[0045] For example, when facial authentication is used, the personal data is data indicating the facial features of the user, and the personal authentication means 50a has a camera. In this case, the personal authentication operation is to point the face toward the camera within the camera's imaging range. As a result, the personal authentication means 50a detects the features of the user's facial image as input data. However, the personal authentication is not limited to the above, and any method capable of identifying an individual, such as pupil authentication (iris authentication) or vein authentication, may be used.

[0046] 2, the control unit 33 has a personal data storage means 35. The personal data storage means 35 stores biometric information, which is the measurement result of the biometric information measurement means 30, in association with personal data. This allows biometric information for each user to be stored. For example, it is possible to check daily changes in the biometric information for each user.

[0047] The personal data storage means 35 may be, for example, a storage device such as a hard disk or a flash memory. In the example of FIG. 2, the personal data storage means 35 is included in the control unit 33. However, the personal data storage means 35 may be provided separately from the control unit 33. The personal data storage means 35 is not limited to the above and may be any storage device that can fulfill the functions. For example, the personal data storage means 35 may be an external device that can communicate with the control unit 33 (for example, a cloud (server) via a network).

[0048] 2, personal data of multiple users is pre-registered. That is, personal data representing a first user is stored as "Registration 1," personal data representing a second user is stored as "Registration 2," and personal data representing a zth user is stored as "Registration z." Measurement results of biometric information are stored in association with one of the pre-registered personal data (personal mode 33a).

[0049] The control unit 33 starts the personal mode 33a when the input data from the personal authentication operation (personal data of the user obtained from the personal authentication operation) matches the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35. Note that "match" means that it is presumed that they represent the same person, for example, because their characteristics correspond. In the personal mode, the measurement results of the biometric information are recorded in the personal data storage means in association with the matching personal data. On the other hand, if the input data from the personal authentication operation does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35, the control unit 33 does not start the personal mode.

[0050] Introducing personal authentication linked to personal data in this way makes it easier to manage each individual's biometric information, which can improve the convenience of daily health management in situations where multiple people use a bathroom vanity, such as in a family home.

[0051] Furthermore, the personal authentication operation serves as a trigger, and biometric information measurement is automatically started in conjunction with the detection of the personal authentication operation. In other words, the predetermined action of the user detected by the detection unit 50 serves two purposes: as a trigger to start biometric information measurement and as personal authentication. This eliminates the need for the user to perform input operations just to start biometric information measurement, making it highly convenient.

[0052] The control unit 33 starts a guest mode 33b in which the measurement results of the biometric information are not recorded if the input data from the personal authentication operation does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35. This allows a user whose personal data has not been registered in advance to have their biometric information measured without having the measurement results of the biometric information recorded.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 2, the bathroom vanity according to the embodiment may be provided with a re-authentication means 52 and a receiving unit 54, which will be described later.

[0054] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. 3, bathroom vanity 102 includes receiving unit 54. Other than this, the same explanation as for bathroom vanity 101 can be applied to bathroom vanity 102.

[0055] The receiving unit 54 can receive a signal (specific signal) that identifies the user from the outside. When the receiving unit 54 receives the specific signal, it transmits a signal corresponding to the specific signal to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 obtains information about the specific signal that identifies the user by receiving the signal from the receiving unit 54. In this way, the control unit 33 may identify who the user is based on the specific signal from the outside.

[0056] For example, in guest mode, during a predetermined time after the control unit 33 displays the measurement results of the biometric information on the display unit 24, the receiving unit 54 receives an identification signal and transmits a signal corresponding to the identification signal to the control unit 33. Based on the signal from the receiving unit 54, the control unit 33 identifies the user identified by the identification signal as one of the individuals whose personal data has been registered in advance. Then, the control unit 33 records the measurement results of the biometric information in the personal data storage means 35 in association with the personal data of the user identified by the identification signal.

[0057] With this configuration, even if personal authentication fails due to a malfunction of the personal authentication means 50a and guest mode is initiated, a user whose personal data has been registered in advance can record the measurement results in association with the personal data after measuring biometric information.

[0058] For example, as shown in Fig. 3, the receiving unit 54 receives a specific signal transmitted by a user U1 from an external communication terminal T1 (such as a smartphone). Communication between the receiving unit 54 and the communication terminal T1 may be performed via a network using an external cloud C1 or the like, as shown in Fig. 3, or the receiving unit 54 and the communication terminal T1 may communicate directly without going through the cloud C1 or the like. Communication with the receiving unit 54 may be wireless or wired. For example, communication with the receiving unit 54 may use a communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0059] For example, a communication module or a communication interface is used for the receiver 54. The specific signal is not limited to being transmitted from a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, and may be transmitted from any external device capable of transmitting a signal.

[0060] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. If there is no user around the bathroom vanity 101, the human body detection sensor 56 does not detect the user (step S101: NO). When a user approaches the bathroom vanity 101, the human body detection sensor 56 detects the user (step S101: YES) and transmits a detection signal to the control unit 33 indicating the presence of the user.

[0061] When the control unit 33 receives a detection signal from the human body detection sensor 56, it performs preparation for measuring biological information and preparation for personal authentication (step S102). The preparation includes, for example, turning on the power of the measurement unit 31, the personal authentication means 50a, the display unit 24, etc.

[0062] When the user performs a personal authentication operation, the personal authentication means 50a detects the personal authentication operation and transmits a signal indicating input data from the personal authentication operation to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 performs personal authentication based on the signal from the personal authentication means 50a (step S103).

[0063] If the input data from the personal authentication operation matches the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35 (step S103: YES), the control unit 33 starts the personal mode (step S104).

[0064] In the personal mode, the control unit 33 controls the biometric information measuring means 30 (measurement section 31) to measure the biometric information (step S105) and causes the display section 24 to display the measurement results (step S106). Also, in the personal mode, the personal data storage means 35 stores the measurement results of the biometric information in association with the personal data of the individual identified by personal authentication (step S107).

[0065] If the input data from the personal authentication operation does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35 (step S103: NO), the control unit 33 starts the guest mode (step S108).

[0066] In the guest mode, the control unit 33 controls the biological information measurement means 30 (measurement unit 31) to measure the biological information (step S109) and causes the display unit 24 to display the measurement results (step S110). If the receiving unit 54 does not receive a specific signal identifying the user within a predetermined time from the start of displaying the measurement results (step S111: NO), the guest mode continues and the measurement results are not stored (step S112).

[0067] If the user transmits a specific signal from an external device such as a smartphone to the bathroom vanity unit within a predetermined time from the start of displaying the measurement results, and the receiver 54 receives the specific signal (step S111: YES), the control unit 33 starts executing the personal mode (step S113). In the personal mode, the personal data storage means 35 stores the measurement results of the biometric information in association with the personal data of the individual identified by the specific signal (step S114).

[0068] The predetermined time in step S111 is set based on, for example, the time it takes for the user to go from in front of the bathroom vanity to pick up the external terminal placed in another room and then return. This predetermined time is, for example, between 30 seconds and 2 minutes, e.g., about 1 minute.

[0069] Even if a user whose personal data has been registered in advance fails in personal authentication in step S103, step S111 allows for more reliable manual personal authentication to be performed later.

[0070] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the first embodiment. 5, bathroom vanity unit 101 includes re-authentication means 52 (see FIG. 2). Steps S201 to S210 are the same as steps S101 to S110 described with reference to FIG.

[0071] In guest mode, the control unit 33 analyzes whether the measurement result of the biometric information measured in step S209 is similar to the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means 35 (step S211). If the measurement result of step S209 is similar to the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means 35 (step S212: YES), there is a possibility that the person (already registered person) identified by the personal data associated with the similar biometric information is the same person as the current user of the bathroom vanity 101. Therefore, the control unit 33 controls the display unit 24 to display a suggestion (registered person suggestion) indicating that the user may be a registered person (step S213). For example, the display unit 24 displays, "Are you Mr. A?" "A" is a registered person whose personal data has been registered in advance and whose biometric information associated with that personal data has been recorded.

[0072] The control unit 33 accepts a re-authentication operation (further personal authentication operation) within a predetermined time from the start of displaying the registrant-specific proposal. In the re-authentication operation, the user performs a personal authentication operation on the re-authentication means 52 (step S214: YES). The re-authentication means 52 detects the re-authentication operation, detects input data resulting from the re-authentication operation, and transmits the data to the control unit 33. In this example, the re-authentication means 52 is a switch, and the re-authentication operation is operating the switch.

[0073] If the re-authentication operation confirms that the user is a specific registered person, the control unit 33 starts execution of the personal mode (step S215). In this personal mode, the personal data storage means 35 stores the measurement results of the biometric information in association with the personal data of the individual identified by the re-authentication operation (step S216).

[0074] On the other hand, if the measurement result in step S209 is not similar to the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means 35 (step S212: NO), or if a re-authentication operation is not performed or the user is not identified by the re-authentication operation (step S214: NO), the guest mode continues and the measurement result is not stored (step S217).

[0075] As described above, the control unit 33 analyzes whether the measurement result of the biometric information in the guest mode is similar to any of the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means. If the measurement result is similar to any of the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means, the control unit 33 causes the display unit 24 to display a suggestion (registered person suggestion) indicating that the user may be an individual (already registered person) associated with the similar biometric information. The control unit 33 then accepts further personal authentication operations within a predetermined time period after displaying the suggestion.

[0076] With this configuration, even if a user whose personal data has been registered in advance fails in personal authentication due to a malfunction of the personal authentication means 50a, by performing further personal authentication, the measurement results can be recorded in association with the personal data after biometric information measurement.

[0077] As described above, in this example, a switch is used as the re-authentication means 52. The switch may be any input means capable of inputting a signal, such as a mechanical button, a touch panel, or a non-contact sensor. For example, the user can respond by inputting a signal to the switch in response to the registrant suggestion, thereby indicating that the user is already registered. This identifies the user as a specific already registered person (one of the individuals whose personal data has been registered in advance). In this way, the re-authentication operation may include responding to the registrant suggestion by operating the switch. This allows the user to be identified. However, the re-authentication means 52 and the re-authentication operation are not limited to those described above. For example, any method capable of identifying an individual, such as fingerprint authentication, voice authentication, face authentication, pupil authentication, or vein authentication, may be used for re-authentication. In this case, the re-authentication means 52 includes, for example, a sensor, a microphone, or a camera, and the re-authentication operation is an act of causing the re-authentication means 52 to detect the user's characteristics (for example, fingerprint, voice, pupil, or vein characteristics). The re-authentication may be performed using the same method as the personal authentication means 50a, or a different method. Furthermore, the re-authentication means 52 may not be provided, and authentication may be performed again using the personal authentication means 50a as the re-authentication operation.

[0078] Also, for example, in the analysis in step S211, the control unit 33 compares the measurement result of the biological information with at least one or more past data (i.e., biological information recorded in the personal data storage means 35). For example, the measurement result in step S209 is compared with one or more past data of each individual, and the past data that is closest to the measurement result is determined to be similar to the measurement result. Also, for example, the measurement result in step S209 is compared with one or more past data of each individual, and the past data that is different from the measurement result by a predetermined value or less is determined to be similar to the measurement result. Furthermore, the analysis in step S211 may further take into consideration the time at which the past data was acquired. For example, it is conceivable that individuals tend to measure their biological information periodically in the morning or at night. Therefore, similarity may be analyzed taking into consideration the measurement time and measurement interval for each individual. For example, a registered person whose past data was measured within the past week is considered to be a candidate for the current user.

[0079] (Second embodiment) FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment. The bathroom vanity 201 is also provided with a biological information measuring means 30 (measuring unit 31), a control unit 33, a human body detection sensor 56, a mirror 20, a display unit 24, and a discharge device 14. It is also provided with a washbasin 12 (such as a washbowl 23), which is not shown in the figure. The bathroom vanity 201 may also be provided with a support base 16, a support unit 46, etc. as appropriate.

[0080] In the second embodiment, the predetermined action of the user detected by the detection unit 50 is a water discharge operation or a water stop operation on the operation unit 44. In the example of FIG. 6, the detection unit 50 is provided in the operation unit 44 of the discharge device 14. The detection unit 50 can be a sensor that can detect the operation of the operation unit 44, such as a switch with mechanical contacts, or an electrostatic or optical switch. The detection unit 50 is not limited to the above, and can have any configuration that can detect a water discharge operation or a water stop operation. The detection unit 50 may be provided integrally with the operation unit 44 or separately from the operation unit 44, as long as it can detect a water discharge operation or a water stop operation.

[0081] When the detection unit 50 detects a water discharge or water stop operation by the user, the detection unit 50 transmits a detection signal indicating that a water discharge or water stop operation has been performed to the control unit 33. When the control unit 33 receives the detection signal, it transmits a command signal to the biological information measurement means 30 (measurement unit 31) to start measuring the biological information. The biological information measurement means 30 transmits the measurement results of the biological information to the control unit 33. When the control unit 33 receives the measurement results of the biological information, it transmits a command signal to cause the display unit 24 to display the measurement results of the biological information.

[0082] In this way, in the second embodiment, too, biological information measurement is automatically initiated when a predetermined action by the user on the bathroom vanity 201 is used as a trigger, allowing biological information measurement to become a habit in daily life. Automatic biological information measurement and display of the results are performed, making it easy to use. Furthermore, automatic measurement and display of the results on the mirror 20 (display unit 24) make it easy to check the results.

[0083] The detector 50 also detects the water discharge or stop operation. This allows measurement of biological information such as blood pressure and body temperature to begin when the user is likely to be washing their hands or face, in other words, when the user is leaning toward the washbasin and maintaining a stable posture. This allows for highly accurate measurement of biological information.

[0084] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment. 8(a) to 8(c) are schematic diagrams showing the operation of the bathroom vanity according to the second embodiment. 7 and 8(a) to 8(c), the detection unit 50 detects a water discharge operation. Also, body temperature is measured as biological information.

[0085] 7, when there is no user around bathroom vanity 201, human body detection sensor 56 does not detect the user (step S301: NO). When a user approaches bathroom vanity 201, human body detection sensor 56 detects the user (step S301: YES) and transmits a detection signal indicating the presence of the user to control unit 33.

[0086] When the control unit 33 receives the detection signal from the human body detection sensor 56, the control unit 33 executes preparation for measuring biological information (step S302, FIG. 8(a)).

[0087] If the user does not operate the operation unit 44 of the discharge device 14 (step S303: NO), the biological information measurement means is in a standby state. If the user operates the operation unit 44 to discharge water (step S303: YES), the detection unit 50 detects the water discharge operation and transmits a signal indicating that a water discharge operation has been performed to the control unit 33. Based on the signal from the detection unit 50, the control unit 33 causes the biological information measurement means 30 (measurement unit 31) to start measuring the biological information (step S304, FIG. 8(b)).

[0088] The biological information measurement means 30 continues measuring the biological information until the measurement is completed (step S305: NO). When the measurement is completed (step S305: YES), the biological information measurement means 30 transmits the measurement results to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 displays the measurement results on the display unit 24 (step S306, FIG. 8(c)).

[0089] In this example, the measurement unit 31 of the biological information measurement means 30 is a radiation thermometer that measures biological information non-contact. The measurement unit 31 has, for example, a light-receiving element. As shown in FIGS. 8(a) to 8(c), the measurement unit 31 (light-receiving element) is located above the washbasin 23 and below the mirror 20 provided above the washbasin 23. Also, as shown in FIG. 8(b), the detection direction of the measurement unit 31 faces diagonally upward toward the front. That is, the measurement unit 31 is positioned so that it can easily receive light (e.g., infrared rays) emitted from an object in front of and above the measurement unit 31. With this configuration, the measurement unit that measures biological information non-contact is positioned opposite the face of the user who faces the lower washbasin when washing their hands, and the detection direction of the measurement unit is directed toward the user's face. This enables more accurate measurement of biological information. The measuring unit 31 may be provided, for example, on the back guard of the washbasin 12 or on a surface facing a user standing in front of the bathroom vanity 201.

[0090] 8(a) to 8(c), the water discharger 42 and the operating unit 44 are aligned with the measuring unit 31 in the left-right direction. The water discharger 42 and the operating unit 44 are also positioned above the washbasin 23 and below the mirror 20. This causes the user's face to face downward when operating the water discharger, stopping the water flow, washing their hands, or washing their face. In other words, the user's face is likely to face the measuring unit 31 and is likely to face the detection direction of the measuring unit 31. This makes it easier to measure light from the user's face (forehead, etc.), for example, thereby improving the accuracy of the measurement.

[0091] In addition, in the bathroom vanity 101 according to the first embodiment, the measurement unit 31 and the detection unit 50 may also be arranged below the mirror 20, as shown in FIG. 1, for example. The measurement unit 31 and the detection unit 50 may also be arranged side by side. The measurement unit 31 and the detection unit 50 may also be arranged adjacent to each other. This makes it easier for the user's face to face the direction of the measurement unit 31 when the detection unit 50 detects a predetermined action of the user. Therefore, when measurement of biometric information is automatically started following the user's predetermined action, the user's face is more likely to face the detection direction of the measurement unit 31.

[0092] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they incorporate the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, installation form, etc. of each element of the bathroom vanity are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of each of the above-described embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 10 Washing unit, 12 Washbasin, 14 Discharge device, 16 Support stand, 20 Mirror, 22a-22d Lighting, 23 Washing bowl, 24 Display unit, 30 Biometric information measurement means, 31 Measurement unit, 33 Control unit, 35 Personal data storage means, 42 Water discharge unit, 44 Operation unit, 46 Support unit, 50 Detection unit, 50a Personal authentication means, 52 Re-authentication means, 54 Receiving unit, 56 Human body detection sensor, 101, 102, 201 Bathroom vanity, C1 Cloud, S101-S114, S201-S217, S301-S306 Steps, T1 Communication terminal, U1 User

Claims

1. a biological information measuring means for measuring biological information of a user; a detection unit that detects a predetermined action of the user; a display unit that displays the measurement results of the biological information measured by the biological information measuring means; a control unit that, when the detection unit detects the predetermined behavior, causes the biological information measurement means to measure the biological information of the user and causes the display unit to display the measurement results; Equipped with the biological information measuring means has a measuring unit that measures the biological information in a non-contact manner, The measuring unit is provided above the washbasin, A bathroom vanity unit characterized in that the detection direction of the measuring unit faces diagonally upward toward the front.

2. The vanity unit according to claim 1, wherein the measuring unit is provided below a lower end of a bathroom mirror provided above the washbasin.

3. The vanity unit according to claim 1, wherein the measuring unit is provided behind a human body detection sensor that detects approach to the washbowl.

4. a discharge device provided with a water discharge part that discharges water into the washbasin, A shelf is provided above the water discharge section, The vanity unit according to claim 1, wherein the measuring unit is provided below the shelf in a top view.

5. a discharge device including a water discharge unit that discharges water into the washbasin and an operating unit that switches the water discharge from the water discharge unit on or off; The bathroom vanity unit according to claim 2, wherein the measuring unit is arranged side by side with the operating unit in the left-right direction.

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