Bathroom system

Abstract

To appropriately estimate a mental and physical condition of a bathroom user.SOLUTION: A bathroom system includes: detection means installed in a bathroom for detecting the state of respiration that a bathroom user performs in bathing; and estimation means for estimating a mental and physical condition of the bathroom user on the basis of a result of the detection by the detection means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a bathroom system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, technologies have been provided for estimating the state of various objects by sensing, etc. For example, as a method for detecting the state of a user in a bathroom, a technology is known in which a radio wave radar is provided to estimate the user's posture, etc., and if there is an abnormality such as a fall, an alert is given by displaying, notifying, sounding, etc. (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-158862 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The technology for detecting (detecting) the state of a bathroom, such as the above-mentioned conventional technology for detecting the state of a user in a bathroom, has the potential to be effectively used for various purposes, not just for detecting abnormalities, and it is desirable to provide useful services for users other than anomaly notification based on the detected state of the bathroom. For example, it is desirable to be able to provide a service that estimates the physical and mental state of a user in the bathroom, such as whether the user is relaxed.

[0005] In view of the above, the challenge is to appropriately estimate the physical and mental state of bathroom users.

[0006] The disclosed embodiment aims to provide a bathroom system that can appropriately estimate the physical and mental state of a bathroom user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment is characterized by comprising a detection means that is installed in a bathroom and detects the breathing state of a bathroom user while bathing, and an estimation means that estimates the physical and mental state of the bathroom user based on the detection results of the detection means.

[0008] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system detects the breathing state of a bathroom user (also referred to as a "bathroom") while bathing and estimates the mental and physical state of the bathroom user. For example, the bathroom system measures the interval, speed, volume (depth) of breathing, etc., and estimates the user's mental and physical state, such as the user's level of relaxation, thereby making the user aware of their mental and physical state and encouraging them to improve their lifestyle habits. This allows the bathroom system to appropriately estimate the mental and physical state of the bathroom user. For example, the bathroom system estimates the user's mental and physical state, such as the user's level of relaxation, taking into account the volume (depth), speed, and time it takes to settle the breathing, as well as the bathing time and water temperature, which can be useful for understanding the user's mental and physical state.

[0009] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a control means for controlling the operating state of the equipment constituting the bathroom based on the detection results of the detection means.

[0010] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system estimates the user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation, by observing the rhythm of breathing, etc., and can then change the brightness and color of the lighting, the amount and temperature of the circulating water in the bathtub, and the air volume and temperature of the indoor air conditioning to more appropriately change the user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation. For example, the bathroom system can encourage the user to relax by adjusting the lighting, the temperature of the bathtub water, the amount and temperature of the circulating water, the air volume and temperature of the air conditioning, etc. based on the estimation results.

[0011] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system controls the operating state of the equipment constituting the bathroom based on detection of the breathing rhythm of the bathroom user so as to guide the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm.

[0012] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system controls the operating states of bathroom devices to induce a breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm, thereby more appropriately changing the user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation. For example, by changing the operating states of the bathroom devices at a predetermined rhythm, the bathroom system can induce a breathing rhythm to a more relaxing breathing rhythm, thereby increasing the level of relaxation. For example, the bathroom system can induce a breathing rhythm to increase the level of relaxation by periodically changing the settings of the bathroom devices.

[0013] In a bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the operating status of the devices constituting the bathroom includes at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in the bathtub.

[0014] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can more appropriately change a user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation, by controlling the temperature, flow, and volume of hot water in the bathtub. For example, by changing the temperature of the water, the bathroom system can allow the user to feel the rhythm with their entire body, and can easily induce a breathing rhythm. For example, in a bathroom system, periodically changing the settings of devices related to the hot water in the bathtub can induce a breathing rhythm, and water temperature is effective because it can be felt with the entire body.

[0015] In one aspect of the embodiment, the operating state of the equipment constituting the bathroom includes the lighting state of a lighting device installed in the bathroom.

[0016] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can more appropriately change a user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation, by controlling the lighting conditions of lighting devices installed in the bathroom. For example, the bathroom system can provide visual stimulation to the user by changing the brightness of the lighting, thereby easily inducing a breathing rhythm. For example, the bathroom system can induce a breathing rhythm by periodically changing the settings of lighting-related devices, which is effective because lighting can also easily stimulate the user visually.

[0017] The bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a notification means for notifying the bathroom user of a predetermined recommendation based on the detection result of the detection means.

[0018] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can appropriately notify a user of information by providing a predetermined recommendation to the user based on the detection results. For example, the bathroom system can recommend exercises such as yoga that can be done after a bath to bring the user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation, to a more appropriate state based on the user's estimated mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation. For example, the bathroom system can recommend recommended post-bath exercises (such as yoga) to the user to maintain sustained relaxation.

[0019] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system includes a notification unit that notifies the user of the bathroom of the predetermined recommendation, including information about a predetermined breathing method based on the state of breathing performed by the user of the bathroom.

[0020] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can provide a notification encouraging a user to change their breathing state to an appropriate state by providing a predetermined recommendation notification including information about a predetermined breathing method. For example, the bathroom system can recommend a breathing method that can be practiced after bathing based on the user's mental and physical state, such as an estimated relaxation level, to bring the user's mental and physical state, such as the relaxation level, to a more appropriate state, thereby more appropriately changing the user's mental and physical state, such as the relaxation level. For example, the bathroom system can maintain sustained relaxation by recommending a breathing method to the user.

[0021] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a status detection means that is installed in the bathroom and detects the status of a user in the bathroom, and the detection means starts or stops detecting the user's breathing based on the detection result of the status detection means.

[0022] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system detects when a user assumes a resting position in a bathtub suitable for respiration detection, enabling stable estimation. Furthermore, the bathroom system can end respiration detection when the user stands up from the bathtub, thereby reducing loss of time by continuing detection when respiration is not possible. This allows the bathroom system to appropriately estimate the physical and mental state of the bathroom user. For example, the bathroom system can accurately measure respiration by observing the user's position in the bathtub and starting measurement when the user assumes a position suitable for respiration measurement.

[0023] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a state estimation means for estimating state changes within the bathroom based on output data from a radio wave sensor, the detection means being installed in the bathroom formed by a plurality of panels and having the radio wave sensor for detecting state changes within the bathroom, and the state estimation means estimating state changes in the space within the bathroom by excluding radio wave reflection areas including the surfaces of the panels.

[0024] For example, radio waves are strongly reflected by panels (wall surfaces), making it difficult to detect signals from objects such as people inside the bathroom. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, by excluding the position of the panel from the detection area, the bathroom system can accurately estimate the position and movement of objects such as people inside the bathroom without being affected by the strong reflected radio wave signals, thereby enabling appropriate estimation of changes in the bathroom's condition. For example, the bathroom system can estimate bathroom behavior by collecting and accumulating the behavior history of people in the bathroom using a radio wave sensor (radio wave radar). This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom's condition. For example, in a bathroom system, excluding areas with high reflection intensity using a radio wave sensor allows for clear detection of small movements such as breathing, thereby increasing reliability. Furthermore, in a bathroom system, excluding areas with high reflection intensity using a radio wave sensor allows for clear detection of people's movements, thereby increasing reliability of the behavior history. Therefore, the bathroom system can appropriately estimate the physical and mental state of bathroom users. [Effects of the Invention]

[0025] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the physical and mental state of a bathroom user can be appropriately estimated. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of a bathroom to which a bathroom system according to an embodiment is applied and a changing room adjacent to the bathroom. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the interior of a bathroom to which the bathroom system according to the embodiment is applied. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration related to control of the bathroom system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration related to state estimation according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of processing executed by the bathroom system. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a point cloud detected by the radio wave sensor of the bathroom system. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the intensity distribution of radio waves received by the radio wave sensor of the bathroom system. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the distribution of Doppler velocities of radio waves received by the radio wave sensor of the bathroom system. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a point cloud detected by the radio wave sensor of the bathroom system. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of antennas of radio wave sensors. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of antennas of radio wave sensors. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the bathroom system. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of detection of the breathing state of a user in a bathtub. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a recommendation notification. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the control unit. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure executed by the bathroom system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of the bathroom 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.

[0028] <1. Embodiment> <1-1. Bathroom system application examples> First, an overview of the information processing executed in a bathroom system 1 according to an embodiment (see FIG. 3) will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of a bathroom to which a bathroom system according to an embodiment is applied, and a changing room adjacent to the bathroom. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the interior of a bathroom to which a bathroom system according to an embodiment is applied. Note that the arrangement of radio wave sensor 10a shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is just one example, and other arrangement examples will be described later.

[0029] In Figures 1 and 2, the bathroom system 1 is applied to a space (water space) including a bathroom 2, which is a bathroom, and a changing room 3, which is a space (adjacent room) adjacent to the bathroom 2, and estimates changes in the state of the space within the bathroom 2.

[0030] For example, bathroom 2 is a room composed of four side panels 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d, a floor panel 2e, and a ceiling panel 2f. Note that side panels 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d, floor panel 2e, and ceiling panel 2f may be simply referred to as panels 2a to 2f. Hereinafter, the surface of panels 2a to 2f facing the space inside bathroom 2 will be referred to as the "front surface," and the surface opposite the front surface, facing outside bathroom 2, will be referred to as the "back surface." For example, a metal plate that forms a radio wave reflection area is disposed on the back surface of each of the multiple panels 2a to 2f.

[0031] Of the four side panels 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d, side panel 2d adjacent to the changing room 3 is partially open, forming a doorway 21 for entering and exiting the bathroom 2 from the changing room 3, and doorway 21 is provided with a door 22 that can be opened and closed. For example, a user of the bathroom 2 (also simply referred to as the "user") opens door 22, enters the bathroom 2 from the changing room 3 through doorway 21, and then closes door 22 to take a bath, shower, or other actions in the bathroom 2. Inside the bathroom 2, a bathtub 4, bathroom counter 5, shower device 6, mirror 7, shower bar 8, and other facilities are arranged. Figure 1 shows a user U positioned inside the bathroom 2.

[0032] The bathtub 4 is arranged along the side panel 2b of the bathroom 2, extending from one side panel 2a adjacent to the side panel 2b to the other side panel 2c, and is configured as a roughly rectangular shape in a top view. For example, the bathtub 4 has an end 41 on the side panel 2a side, an end 42 on the side panel 2b side, an end 43 on the side panel 2c side, and an end 44 on the side panel 2d side in a top view. For example, when bathing, a user positions their body in the longitudinal direction, i.e., along the ends 42 and 44, in a top view. In this way, the user bathes by positioning their head on the end 43 side of the bathtub 4, using the end 43 as a pillow, and their feet on the end 41 side. The end 43, which serves as a pillow, may be provided with a member (such as an air cushion) to stabilize the person's head.

[0033] The overhead shower 6a of the shower device 6 is a fixed shower head fixed to the ceiling panel 2f of the bathroom 2. The side panel 2a of the bathroom 2 may be equipped with a radio wave sensor 10a that emits radio waves into the bathroom 2 and a control unit 100 (see FIG. 3) that controls the water discharge from the shower device 6 based on the signal detected by the radio wave sensor 10a. A fixed shower head refers to a shower head in which the shower head or the piping supporting the shower head is fixed to the ceiling panel or side panel, and includes not only shower heads with a fixed water discharge direction but also shower heads with a variable water discharge direction. The area in the bathroom 2 other than where the bathtub 4 is located, such as an area that includes at least the area where the overhead shower 6a discharges water, may also be referred to as the "washing area."

[0034] The bathroom counter 5 is a shelf attached to the side panel 2a below the shower bar 8 and mirror 7, and extends horizontally at a predetermined height. The mirror 7 is attached to the side panel 2a to the side of the shower bar 8, and is configured as a vertically long rectangle.

[0035] As described above, an overhead shower 6a is fixed to the ceiling panel 2f. A shower bar 8, a mirror 7, and a bathroom counter 5 are attached to one of the side panels 2a of the bathroom 2. The radio wave sensor 10a may be provided on the front side of the side panel 2a, i.e., the side facing the bathroom 2 (front surface), or on the back side of the side panel 2a, i.e., the side facing outside the bathroom 2 (back surface).

[0036] 1 and 2, radio wave sensor 10a is provided on panel 2a, other than panel 2d, which is provided with entrance / exit 21 to bathroom 2, among multiple panels 2a to 2f that form bathroom 2. In this way, radio wave sensor 10a is provided on panels 2a to 2c, 2e, and 2f, other than panel 2d, which is provided with entrance / exit 21 to bathroom 2, among multiple panels 2a to 2f that form bathroom 2.

[0037] As shown in Figure 1, radio wave sensor 10a is installed in bathroom 2, which is a bathroom formed by multiple panels 2a to 2f, and detects changes in the state of bathroom 2. For example, radio wave sensor 10a is a radio wave radar. Radio wave sensor 10a irradiates radio waves into bathroom 2 and receives the reflected radio waves.

[0038] The detection range of radio wave sensor 10a is set to a predetermined range for detecting changes in the state of bathroom 2. For example, the detection range of radio wave sensor 10a includes a first space including a bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2 and a second space including a water discharge area of ​​shower device 6 installed in bathroom 2. In FIG. 1, the range including the space where bathtub 4 is located (approximately half the space on the left side) corresponds to the first space. Also in FIG. 1, the range including the area where water is discharged by overhead shower 6a corresponds to the second space.

[0039] The detection range of radio wave sensor 10a includes end 43, which functions as the headboard of bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2. For example, the detection range (e.g., the distance range over which radio waves can be received) of radio wave sensor 10a may include the back surface of at least one of panels 2a-2f that make up bathroom 2. For example, the detection range of radio wave sensor 10a may include an area exceeding at least one of panels 2a-2f that make up bathroom 2. For example, the detection range of radio wave sensor 10a may include the four corners of bathroom 2 when viewed from above. Note that the detection range of radio wave sensor 10a is not limited to the above and can be set to any range as long as the desired detection is possible. In addition, in FIGS. 1 and 2, radio wave sensor 10a is installed at a position higher than the top of bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2. Note that the above-described placement of radio wave sensor 10a is merely an example, and radio wave sensor 10a may be installed at a position lower than the top of bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2, for example, when floor panel 2e or the like is included in the detection range.

[0040] The shower device 6 is a shower device capable of shower water discharge and spout water discharge, and has an overhead shower 6a fixed to the ceiling panel 2f, a hand shower 6b held on the shower bar 8, and a spout 6c attached to the side panel 2a.

[0041] The overhead shower 6a is fixed to the ceiling panel 2f of the bathroom 2 and is configured to spray shower water from above toward the bather. In Figures 1 and 2, the overhead shower 6a is located closer to the side panels 2a and 2d than to the side panels 2b and 2c when viewed from above. In other words, of the four corners of the bathroom 2 when viewed from above, the overhead shower 6a is located closer to the corner where the side panel 2a, on which the mirror 7 and other components are mounted, intersects with the side panel 2d on the opposite side of the bathtub 4, and is configured to spray shower water from above the bather's head in front of the mirror 7.

[0042] The shower bar 8 is attached to the side panel 2a and includes a bar member 8a and a head holder 8b that holds the hand shower 6b. The bar member 8a is a vertically extending bar-shaped member fixed to the side panel 2a, extending parallel to the side panel 2a at a predetermined distance. The head holder 8b is attached to the bar member 8a so that it can slide up and down and be adjusted to any height above the bar member 8a. The head holder 8b is configured to hold the hand shower 6b, which can be removed from the head holder 8b for use. In other words, the hand shower 6b is not fixed to the side panel 2a. The hand shower 6b can be used by holding it in the user's hand or by holding it in the head holder 8b. A handrail can also be provided as a bar-shaped member attached to the side panel of the bathroom 2.

[0043] Based on the user's operation of each component of shower apparatus 6, shower apparatus 6 discharges water from the component corresponding to the user's operation in a manner appropriate to the user's operation. For example, when a user operates overhead shower 6a, shower apparatus 6 discharges water from overhead shower 6a in a manner appropriate to the user's operation. For example, bathroom system 1 may accept the user's operation of each component of shower apparatus 6 through physical components such as switches and levers. Bathroom system 1 may also accept the user's gestures, hand signals, etc., through sensors or the like as the user's operation of each component of shower apparatus 6.

[0044] Note that the configuration is merely an example, and the configuration of bathroom 2, etc. is not limited to the above. For example, bathroom 2 may be provided with an operation unit (e.g., an operation panel, etc.) that accepts user operations. For example, an operation unit such as an operation panel may have a display device that displays information and an operation device that accepts operations from any person, such as a user (also referred to as an "operator"). For example, the operation unit is used for mode switching operations, etc., as described below. Furthermore, the above-described manner of accepting user operations for each component of shower apparatus 6 is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may accept user operations for each component of shower apparatus 6 in various ways. For example, bathroom system 1 may accept user operations for each component of shower apparatus 6 via an operation unit provided in bathroom 2. Furthermore, bathroom system 1 may accept operations for each component of shower apparatus 6 by a user outside bathroom 2 (e.g., changing room 3).

[0045] <1-2. Bathroom system configuration example> Next, an example of the configuration of bathroom system 1 will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration related to control of the bathroom system according to the embodiment. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration related to state estimation according to the embodiment.

[0046] Bathroom system 1 includes, as control-related components (bathroom control system), shower device 6, microphone 9, sensor unit 10, control unit 100, data storage unit 101, input unit 102, notification unit 103, lighting 104, water temperature control unit 105a, water volume control unit 105b, bathtub water temperature control unit 106, shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107, air conditioning 108, and ventilation fan 109. Note that the control-related components shown in Figure 3 are merely an example, and the control-related components of bathroom system 1 are not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 3. For example, if bathroom system 1 does not have shoulder bath or waist bath functions, bathroom system 1 does not need to include shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107.

[0047] Shower device 6 has a water discharge / stop control unit 60a (indicated as ON / OFF in FIG. 3) that switches water discharge from the overhead shower 6a (indicated as OH in FIG. 3) on and off. For example, a flow path (water supply path) controlled by water discharge / stop control unit 60a is connected to the overhead shower 6a, and water discharge from the overhead shower 6a is switched on and off according to the control of water discharge / stop control unit 60a.

[0048] Shower device 6 also has a water discharge / stop control unit 60b (labeled ON / OFF in FIG. 3) that switches water discharge from hand shower 6b (labeled HS in FIG. 3) on and off. For example, a flow path (water supply path) controlled by water discharge / stop control unit 60b is connected to hand shower 6b, and water discharge from hand shower 6b is switched on and off according to the control of water discharge / stop control unit 60b.

[0049] Shower device 6 also has a water discharge / stop control unit 60c (labeled "ON / OFF" in FIG. 3) that switches water discharge from spout 6c (labeled "faucet" in FIG. 3) on and off. For example, a flow path (water supply passage) controlled by water discharge / stop control unit 60c is connected to spout 6c, and water discharge from spout 6c is switched on and off according to the control of water discharge / stop control unit 60c. Water discharge / stop control units 60a-60c may be solenoid valves, etc.

[0050] Microphone 9 is a sensor device (microphone) that detects sound. When bathroom system 1 performs personal identification by sound, microphone 9 detects the human voice for the personal identification. When bathroom system 1 performs abnormality inference by sound, microphone 9 detects the sound in bathroom 2 for the abnormality inference.

[0051] The microphone 9 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The microphone 9 transmits the acquired information to the control unit 100. The microphone 9 may perform detection in response to instructions from the control unit 100. For example, the microphone 9 is placed in a position where it can detect sound in a desired space, such as the bathroom 2 or the changing room 3. The microphone 9 may be included in the sensor unit 10. Furthermore, when the bathroom system 1 accepts input by sound, the microphone 9 may function as part of the input unit 102.

[0052] Sensor unit 10 has a sensor device that detects information used by bathroom system 1 for control. For example, sensor unit 10 functions as a detection means that detects changes in the state of the bathroom. Sensor unit 10 is connected to control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from control unit 100. Sensor unit 10 transmits the acquired information to control unit 100. Sensor unit 10 may perform detection in response to instructions from control unit 100. For example, sensor unit 10 is installed in a bathroom formed by multiple panels and has a sensor device for detecting changes in the state of the bathroom. Sensor unit 10 has a radio wave sensor 10a.

[0053] 4, the radio wave sensor 10a is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive information to and from the control unit 100. The radio wave sensor 10a outputs data (output data) in response to receiving radio waves. The radio wave sensor 10a transmits the output data to the control unit 100 in response to receiving radio waves.

[0054] Here, we will briefly explain the processing performed by radio wave sensor 10a. Radio wave sensor 10a radiates radio waves into bathroom 2 and receives the reflected radio waves. For example, radio wave sensor 10a radiates radio waves in all directions to scan bathroom 2. The radio waves radiated from radio wave sensor 10a are radiated in all directions to cover the entire detection range of radio wave sensor 10a. Radio wave sensor 10a receives reflected waves of the radiated radio waves. In this way, radio wave sensor 10a radiates radio waves radially into bathroom 2 and detects the radio waves that are reflected back.

[0055] Furthermore, the radio wave sensor 10a radiates radio waves of a predetermined frequency into the bathroom 2 at predetermined time intervals and receives the reflected radio waves. For example, the radio wave sensor 10a radiates millimeter waves in the 60 GHz frequency band and receives the reflected waves. Note that the above is merely an example, and any frequency can be used for the radio waves radiated by the radio wave sensor 10a as long as the desired processing can be performed. For example, the radio waves radiated by the radio wave sensor 10a are preferably in the 24 GHz to 3 THz band, and more preferably in the 60 GHz to 79 GHz band.

[0056] The radio wave sensor 10a can detect how far radio waves emitted in each direction have propagated before being reflected. This provides coordinate information for the point at which the radio waves are reflected, and the radio wave sensor 10a detects objects (reflecting objects) that are located within the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a and that reflect the radio waves emitted by the radio wave sensor 10a as a point cloud (see, for example, FIG. 6). Note that the detection performed by the radio wave sensor 10a is similar to that performed by conventional radio wave radar, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0057] Furthermore, sensor unit 10 is not limited to radio wave sensor 10a and may include any other sensor. For example, sensor unit 10 may include a door sensor that detects whether bathroom door 22 is open or closed. For example, sensor unit 10 may include multiple radio wave sensors 10a, including a radio wave sensor 10a for estimating the movement or position of a user in bathroom 2 and a radio wave sensor 10a for estimating the respiratory state of the user in bathroom 2. In this way, sensor unit 10 may include multiple radio wave sensors 10a, which will be described later.

[0058] The control unit 100 is an information processing device that performs various types of information processing in the bathroom system 1. The control unit 100 performs various types of information processing based on information detected by the sensor unit 10, microphone 9, etc. For example, the control unit 100 estimates state changes in the bathroom 2 based on signals detected by the radio wave sensor 10a. The control unit 100 receives output data from the radio wave sensor 10a, such as signals detected by the radio wave sensor 10a, and estimates state changes in the bathroom 2 based on the received output data from the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the control unit 100 estimates the user's movement or position based on the signal detected by the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the control unit 100 estimates the user's movement or position within the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0059] The control unit 100 is also a control device that controls the bathroom system 1. For example, the control unit 100 controls water discharge. The control unit 100 controls notifications by the notification unit 103. The control unit 100 performs various controls based on information detected by the sensor unit 10, microphone 9, etc. For example, the control unit 100 controls the water discharge mode by the shower device 6 based on information detected by the sensor unit 10. The control unit 100 controls the output of information by the notification unit 103 based on information detected by the sensor unit 10, microphone 9, etc. In this case, the control unit 100 controls the water discharge mode of at least one of the overhead shower 6a, hand shower 6b, and spout 6c based on the output data of the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0060] For example, the control unit 100 has a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). For example, the control unit 100 performs various information processing such as state estimation by executing a program (e.g., a control program according to the present disclosure) stored in the control unit 100 or in a data storage unit 101, etc., using a RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like as a working area. The control unit 100 may also have an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0061] As shown in Fig. 4, the control unit 100 has a state estimation unit 110 and a determination unit 111. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 100 is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 4, and may be any other configuration as long as it is capable of performing desired information processing.

[0062] The state estimation unit 110 functions as an estimation means that executes various estimation processes. For example, the state estimation unit 110 functions as a state estimation means that executes estimation processes related to various states. The state estimation unit 110 functions as a state estimation means that estimates state changes in the bathroom 2 based on output data from the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates state changes in the bathroom 2 based on signals detected by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0063] The state estimation unit 110 estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom 2 by excluding radio wave reflection areas including the surfaces of the panels 2a to 2f. The state estimation unit 110 estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom 2 by excluding areas with water droplets on the surfaces of the panels 2a to 2f as radio wave reflection areas. The state estimation unit 110 estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom 2 by excluding the four corner areas of the bathroom 2.

[0064] State estimation unit 110 estimates state changes within bathroom 2 based on data excluding received data obtained by reflection from the radio wave reflection area. State estimation unit 110 estimates state changes within bathroom 2 based on data excluding noise data based on vibration components input to radio wave sensor 10a. State estimation unit 110 estimates state changes within bathroom 2 based on data excluding noise data based on objects present in bathroom 2.

[0065] The state estimation unit 110 operates in a first mode to estimate the movement or position of a user in the bathroom 2, and in a second mode to estimate the breathing of a user positioned in a bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2. The state estimation unit 110 also functions as a mode switching means that switches between the first mode and the second mode based on the operation of an operation unit (e.g., an operation panel) installed in the bathroom 2. For example, the state estimation unit 110 switches between the first mode and the second mode in response to the user's operation of the operation unit installed in the bathroom 2.

[0066] The above is merely an example, and the state estimation unit 110 may perform switching in various ways. For example, the state estimation unit 110 may also function as a mode switching means that switches between the first mode and the second mode based on the user's position in the bathroom 2. In this case, the state estimation unit 110 may set the mode to the second mode when the user is located inside the bathtub 4, and may set the mode to the first mode when the user is located outside the bathtub 4.

[0067] For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates a change in the state of the bathroom 2 using point cloud information obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates a moving object in the bathroom 2 using the point cloud information obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the state estimation unit 110 identifies a moving object in the bathroom 2 using the point cloud information obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0068] For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates that the identified moving object in the bathroom 2 is a user. For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates the height of the identified user located in the bathroom 2 based on the vertical length of the point cloud corresponding to the user in the bathroom 2. For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's behavior in the bathroom 2 based on changes in the point cloud obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0069] For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's movement in the bathroom 2 (such as stepping over into the bathtub 4) based on changes in the shape of the point cloud obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's movement in the bathroom 2 based on changes in the position of the point cloud obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0070] The above-described process is merely an example, and the state estimation unit 110 may estimate a state change in the bathroom 2 using various information. For example, the state estimation unit 110 may estimate a state change in the bathroom 2 using point cloud information when no user is located in the bathroom 2. For example, the state estimation unit 110 may estimate a state change in the bathroom 2 using point cloud information when no user is located in the bathroom 2 and point cloud information when a user is located in the bathroom 2. For example, the state estimation unit 110 may estimate the position and movement of a user in the bathroom 2 based on the difference between the point cloud information when no user is located in the bathroom 2 and the point cloud information when a user is located in the bathroom 2.

[0071] The state estimation unit 110 estimates that the state change in the bathroom 2 is an abnormal state based on the determination result of the determination unit 111. When the determination unit 111 determines that there is an abnormality with respect to a user located in the bathroom 2, the state estimation unit 110 estimates that there is an abnormal state in the bathroom 2. For example, when the determination unit 111 determines that the state of the user located in the bathroom 2 is abnormal, the state estimation unit 110 estimates that there is an abnormal state in the bathroom 2. For example, when the determination unit 111 determines that the posture of the user located in the bathroom 2 is abnormal, the state estimation unit 110 estimates that there is an abnormal state in the bathroom 2.

[0072] The state estimation unit 110 estimates the body movement or moving posture from the water discharge area of ​​the shower device 6 installed in the bathroom 2 to the bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2. The state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's movements within the water discharge area of ​​the shower device 6 installed in the bathroom 2. The state estimation unit 110 estimates the breathing state of the user located in the bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2. Note that the above-described processing is merely an example, and the state estimation unit 110 may estimate various state changes in the bathroom 2 using various information.

[0073] Furthermore, the state estimation unit 110 may have a function as information generation means for generating various types of information to be notified by the notification unit 103. In this case, the state estimation unit 110 generates various types of information using information acquired from other devices, information stored in the data storage unit 101, etc. The state estimation unit 110 generates information using information acquired from the sensor unit 10, etc. The state estimation unit 110 generates information using an estimation result.

[0074] The state estimation unit 110 generates various information such as a screen (image information) to be provided to an external information processing device by appropriately using various techniques. The state estimation unit 110 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to a display device or the like. For example, the state estimation unit 110 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to a display device or the like based on information stored in the data storage unit 101.

[0075] The state estimation unit 110 may generate a screen (image information) or the like by any process as long as it is possible to generate a screen (image information) or the like to be provided to an external information processing device. For example, the state estimation unit 110 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to a display device or the like by appropriately using various technologies related to image generation, image processing, etc. For example, the state estimation unit 110 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to a display device or the like by appropriately using various technologies such as Java (registered trademark).

[0076] The determination unit 111 functions as a determination means for making various determinations. The determination unit 111 determines whether or not an object other than the user is present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a based on the output data of the radio wave sensor 10a. The determination unit 111 determines, based on the output data of the radio wave sensor 10a when the user is not in the bathroom 2, that an object other than the user is present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a in an area where the intensity is equal to or greater than the threshold when the user is not in the bathroom 2.

[0077] For example, the determination unit 111 determines whether or not there is an object other than the user present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a, using point cloud information obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the determination unit 111 may determine whether or not there is an object other than the user present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a, using point cloud information when no user is present in the bathroom 2.

[0078] For example, the determination unit 111 may determine the presence or absence of an object other than the user present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a by using point cloud information when no user is present in the bathroom 2 and point cloud information when a user is present in the bathroom 2. For example, the determination unit 111 may determine the presence or absence of an object other than the user present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a based on the difference between the point cloud information when no user is present in the bathroom 2 and the point cloud information when a user is present in the bathroom 2. Note that the above is merely an example, and the determination unit 111 may determine the presence or absence of an object other than the user present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a by appropriately using various information.

[0079] Furthermore, the determination unit 111 may estimate (determine) an abnormality in the user located in the bathroom 2. For example, the determination unit 111 determines whether or not the state of the user located in the bathroom 2 is abnormal. For example, the determination unit 111 determines whether or not the state of the user located in the bathroom 2 estimated by the state estimation unit 110 is abnormal.

[0080] For example, when the position of the user in the bathroom 2 remains stationary for a predetermined period of time, the determination unit 111 determines that the user's condition is abnormal. For example, the determination unit 111 determines whether the posture of the user in the bathroom 2 is abnormal. For example, the determination unit 111 determines whether the posture of the user in the bathroom 2 estimated by the state estimation unit 110 is abnormal. For example, the determination unit 111 determines that the user's condition is abnormal when the user is sleeping somewhere other than the bathtub 4 in the bathroom 2. Note that the above is merely an example, and the determination unit 111 may estimate (determine) that various states are abnormal.

[0081] Note that the control unit 100 may include units that perform various processes other than those described above. For example, the control unit 100 may include an acquisition unit that acquires various information used for the processes. For example, the control unit 100 may include an alarm control unit that controls the alarm unit 103. In this case, the control unit 100 controls the output of information by the alarm unit 103, for example, using the alarm control unit.

[0082] The control unit 100 may also have a personal identification unit that performs processing for personal identification (personal authentication) of the user. The personal identification unit functions as an identification means that performs processing for personal identification of the user. The personal identification unit may perform personal identification of the user who uses a wet space such as the bathroom 2. For example, the personal identification unit may perform personal identification of the user using sensor information detected by the sensor unit 10. The personal identification unit performs personal identification (personal authentication) using information such as the physique, posture, and gait of the person in the bathroom 2 obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0083] For example, the personal identification unit may perform personal identification of a user based on point cloud information obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the personal identification unit may estimate that a user whose height is estimated based on the point cloud information obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a is the user who used the bathroom space on the date and time the point cloud information was obtained.

[0084] The above is just one example, and any process may be used to identify a user using a wet space such as the bathroom 2, as long as it is possible to identify the user. For example, the personal identification unit may identify the user based on the user's operation (such as pressing a switch) on an operating unit or the like installed in the bathroom 2. The personal identification unit may also identify the user through voice recognition using voice recognition technology. The personal identification unit may also identify the user using fingerprint information detected from a location touched by the user. In this case, the sensor unit 10 may have a fingerprint sensor on a location touched by a person (such as a doorknob) on a door 22 or the like installed in the wet space. For example, smooth personal identification (personal authentication) is possible by using a person's biometric information.

[0085] The data storage unit 101 is a storage means (storage device) that stores various types of information. The data storage unit 101 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the data storage unit 101 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by a control program. The data storage unit 101 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100.

[0086] Data storage unit 101 transmits the stored information to control unit 100 in response to a request from control unit 100. Data storage unit 101 stores information received from control unit 100. Data storage unit 101 is also connected to sensor unit 10 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from sensor unit 10, and stores information (sensor information) acquired by detection by sensor unit 10. Data storage unit 101 stores various types of information used for control in bathroom system 1.

[0087] The data storage unit 101 stores various information related to the space (wet space) including the bathroom 2 and the changing room 3. The data storage unit 101 stores the user's behavior history including information related to the user's behavior and status in the wet space. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores usage log data obtained from an analysis of the history (log) related to the use of the wet space as the user's behavior history.

[0088] The data storage unit 101 stores information regarding the user's use of the bathroom 2. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores the number of times the bathroom 2 has been used and the date and time of use. The data storage unit 101 also stores information regarding the user's bathing in the bathtub 4. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores the number of times the bath has been taken and the date and time of use. The data storage unit 101 also stores information regarding the user's use of the shower device 6. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores the number of times the shower device 6 has been taken and the date and time of use.

[0089] The data storage unit 101 stores information related to the cleaning of the wet space. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores information indicating the cleaning of the bathroom 2. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores the number of cleanings and the date and time of cleaning. For example, when multiple users are expected to use the space (wet space) including the bathroom 2 and the changing room 3, the data storage unit 101 stores information identifying the user (for example, a user ID) in association with the user's information.

[0090] The data storage unit 101 also stores information (also referred to as "user information") about users of the space (wet space) including the bathroom 2 and the changing room 3. For example, when multiple users of the wet space are expected, the data storage unit 101 stores user information including information for identifying each user (also referred to as "user identification information"). For example, the data storage unit 101 stores user information including user identification information indicating the physical characteristics of each user. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores user information including the height, weight, etc. of each user.

[0091] For example, the data storage unit 101 stores a list of users who have been pre-registered as users of the bathroom 2. The user list includes a list of users (e.g., multiple users such as a family) who have been pre-registered as users of the bathroom 2, as well as information used for personal identification (personal authentication) of each user included in the list. For example, the user list may include information indicating each user's physical characteristics, such as height, which is used for personal identification. Furthermore, if personal identification is performed by voice, the user list may also include audio information indicating the characteristics of each user's voice (audio).

[0092] Note that data storage unit 101 is not limited to the above and may store various types of information depending on the purpose. For example, data storage unit 101 stores information indicating conditions (also referred to as "abnormality estimation conditions") for estimating that an abnormality has occurred in bathroom 2. For example, data storage unit 101 stores information indicating abnormality estimation conditions including at least one of the following: a user has fallen in bathroom 2; the user has been in a low posture and has not moved for a predetermined period of time; an abnormal sound has been detected in bathroom 2; an abnormality related to the user's breathing has been detected; and an abnormality related to the user's heart rate has been detected.

[0093] For example, the data storage unit 101 stores external data. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores external data (external information) collected by other services, etc. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores information about a user collected by a terminal device (wearable terminal, etc.) carried by the user as external information. The data storage unit 101 stores information about the user's behavior collected by the user's terminal device as external information.

[0094] Note that the above is merely an example, and the data storage unit 101 stores various types of information used in processing. The data storage unit 101 stores information used for control. The data storage unit 101 stores information used by the control unit 100 to control various components such as the shower device 6. The data storage unit 101 stores various types of information used in estimation processing. The data storage unit 101 stores information used to estimate changes in the state of the bathroom. For example, the data storage unit 101 may store various types of detection information such as first detection information, which will be described later. For example, the data storage unit 101 may store various types of point cloud information such as first point cloud information, which will be described later.

[0095] Various types of information are input to the input unit 102. For example, the input unit 102 functions as a reception unit that receives input of various types of information. The input unit 102 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to transmit and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The input unit 102 transmits the acquired information to the control unit 100. The input unit 102 may receive input in response to an instruction from the control unit 100.

[0096] Input unit 102 receives various operations from an operator, such as a manager of bathroom system 1 or a user of the space (wet space) including bathroom 2 and changing room 3. For example, input unit 102 may be integrated with a display device for displaying information. In this case, input unit 102 may accept various operations from the operator using buttons provided on the display device. Input unit 102 may also accept various operations from the operator via a display surface (e.g., a liquid crystal display) of the display device using a touch panel function.

[0097] For example, input unit 102 may have a display device that displays information and an operation device that accepts operations from an operator such as a user, and may function as an operation unit such as an operation panel. For example, input unit 102 may be placed in any location, such as a wet area or a living room of a residence in which bathroom 2 is installed. In this case, input unit 102 may also function as a remote control device that is placed in a residence in which bathroom 2 is installed, displays information about bathroom 2, and accepts operations related to bathroom 2. For example, the remote control device may have the function of input unit 102 and the function of notification unit 103, and may perform processes such as accepting operations from an operator, displaying information, and outputting audio.

[0098] Furthermore, for example, the input unit 102 may be provided in a terminal device (such as a display device) owned by the operator. The terminal device is a device used by the operator. The terminal device may be realized by, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet terminal, or a notebook PC (Personal Computer). For example, the terminal device may be a smartphone used by a family member or the like residing in a house in which the bathroom 2 is installed. For example, the terminal device may function as an output device that outputs information notified (transmitted) from the notification unit 103.

[0099] The notification unit 103 functions as a notification means for notifying various types of information. The notification unit 103 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The notification unit 103 performs various types of notifications in response to instructions from the control unit 100. For example, the notification unit 103 notifies a predetermined target person of information. The notification unit 103 notifies the predetermined target person of information by displaying the information, communicating the information, outputting the information as sound, etc.

[0100] For example, the notification unit 103 has a configuration with a communication function such as a communication circuit or a communication device, and transmits information to be notified to a predetermined target person to a device (information processing device) corresponding to the predetermined target person. For example, the notification unit 103 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet via a wired or wireless connection, and transmits and receives information to and from an external information processing device. For example, the notification unit 103 transmits and receives information to and from other devices with communication functions, such as a remote control device or a terminal device, via a predetermined network such as the Internet.

[0101] The notification unit 103 transmits information to an external information processing device. For example, the notification unit 103 transmits various information to a remote control device, a terminal device, etc. The notification unit 103 notifies a predetermined target person by transmitting information estimated by the control unit 100 to the remote control device, the terminal device, etc. The notification unit 103 notifies a predetermined target person by transmitting information generated by the control unit 100 to the remote control device, the terminal device, etc.

[0102] Note that the above is merely an example, and the notification unit 103 may be in any form and may have any configuration as long as it is capable of providing the desired notification. For example, the notification unit 103 may have a display function when displaying information to a predetermined target person. In this case, the notification unit 103 may be a display device. The notification unit 103 may also be integrated with a display device having a function of displaying information, such as a remote control device or a terminal device. The notification unit 103 may also have an audio output function when outputting information as audio (audio output) to a predetermined target person. In this case, the notification unit 103 may be an audio output device. The notification unit 103 may also be integrated with a device having a function of audio outputting information, such as a remote control device or a terminal device.

[0103] The lighting 104 has a lighting device that illuminates a predetermined space. The lighting 104 has a lighting device that illuminates the bathroom 2. The lighting 104 has a lighting device that illuminates the changing room 3. The lighting 104 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The lighting 104 may dim the lighting device in response to an instruction from the control unit 100. The lighting 104 may turn on the lighting device in response to an instruction from the control unit 100. The lighting 104 may turn off the lighting device in response to an instruction from the control unit 100.

[0104] For example, the lighting 104 receives control instruction information from the control unit 100 and controls the lighting device based on the received control instruction information. The lighting 104 performs dimming control of the lighting device based on the control instruction information. For example, the lighting 104 turns the lighting device on or off based on the control instruction information.

[0105] Hot water temperature control unit 105a functions as a hot water temperature control means that controls the temperature of hot water (water) supplied to shower device 6. Hot water temperature control unit 105a is connected to control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from control unit 100. Hot water temperature control unit 105a controls the temperature of hot water (water) supplied to shower device 6 in accordance with instructions from control unit 100. For example, hot water temperature control unit 105a has a valve (temperature adjustment valve) for adjusting the temperature of hot water (water) supplied to shower device 6. For example, the flow path (water supply path) controlled by hot water temperature control unit 105a is connected to the flow path (water supply path) controlled by hot water volume control unit 105b.

[0106] Hot water quantity control unit 105b functions as hot water quantity control means that controls the amount of hot water (cold water) supplied to shower device 6. Hot water quantity control unit 105b is connected to control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from control unit 100. Hot water quantity control unit 105b controls the amount of hot water in accordance with instructions from control unit 100. For example, hot water quantity control unit 105b has a valve (flow rate adjustment valve) for adjusting the flow rate of hot water (cold water) supplied to shower device 6. For example, the flow path (water supply path) controlled by hot water quantity control unit 105b is connected to the flow path (water supply path) controlled by water discharge / stop control units 60a to 60c.

[0107] The bathtub water temperature control unit 106 functions as a water temperature control means that controls the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the bathtub 4. The bathtub water temperature control unit 106 is connected to the control unit 100 so that signals (information) can be sent and received between the control unit 100. The bathtub water temperature control unit 106 controls the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the bathtub 4 in accordance with instructions from the control unit 100. For example, the bathtub water temperature control unit 106 has a valve (temperature adjustment valve) for adjusting the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the bathtub 4.

[0108] The shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107 functions as a water temperature control means for controlling the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the shoulder bath outlet and the waist bath outlet provided in the bathtub 4. The shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107 controls the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to at least one of the shoulder bath outlet and the waist bath outlet in accordance with instructions from the control unit 100. For example, the shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107 has a valve (temperature adjustment valve) for adjusting the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the shoulder bath outlet and the waist bath outlet.

[0109] The air conditioning 108 has an air conditioning device that adjusts the state of air in a specified space. The air conditioning 108 has an air conditioning device that adjusts the state of air in the bathroom 2. The air conditioning 108 has an air conditioning device that adjusts the state of air in the undressing room 3. For example, the air conditioning device has the function of adjusting at least one of temperature, humidity, and flow rate (airflow). The air conditioning 108 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The air conditioning 108 may control the operation of the air conditioning device in accordance with instructions from the control unit 100.

[0110] For example, the air conditioner 108 receives control instruction information from the control unit 100 and controls the air conditioner based on the received control instruction information. The air conditioner 108 controls the operation of the air conditioner based on the control instruction information. For example, the air conditioner 108 starts or stops the air conditioner based on the control instruction information. The air conditioner 108 may have various functions as long as they are capable of adjusting the air condition in a specified space. For example, the air conditioner 108 may have a function (drying function) for drying laundry in the bathroom 2, i.e., a so-called bathroom drying function.

[0111] Ventilation fan 109 has a ventilation device that ventilates a predetermined space. Ventilation fan 109 has a ventilation device that ventilates bathroom 2. Ventilation fan 109 has a ventilation device that ventilates undressing room 3. Ventilation fan 109 is connected to control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from control unit 100. Ventilation fan 109 may control the driving of the ventilation device in response to instructions from control unit 100.

[0112] For example, the ventilation fan 109 receives control instruction information from the control unit 100 and controls the ventilation device based on the received control instruction information. The ventilation fan 109 performs dimming control of the ventilation device based on the control instruction information. For example, the ventilation fan 109 drives or stops the ventilation device based on the control instruction information.

[0113] Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 can employ any device configuration that can achieve the desired processing. In bathroom system 1, air conditioning 108 may have all the functions of regulating the air condition of a specified space, including ventilation. In this case, air conditioning 108 and ventilation fan 109 may be integrated. For example, if air conditioning 108 has a ventilation function, bathroom system 1 does not need to have ventilation fan 109.

[0114] Furthermore, for example, bathroom system 1 may have various sensors for collecting information about the space (wet space) including bathroom 2 and changing room 3. For example, sensor unit 10 of bathroom system 1 may have a door sensor that detects the opening and closing of the door to changing room 3 as an entry detection sensor for collecting information about users entering and leaving changing room 3. For example, bathroom system 1 functions as a bathroom management system that provides services related to bathroom management with the above configuration. Also, for example, bathroom system 1 functions as a bathroom monitoring system that provides services related to bathroom monitoring with the above configuration.

[0115] <1-3. Processing example using radio wave sensor> Next, we will outline an example of processing using a radio wave sensor. Radio wave sensor 10a, which is a radio wave radar as described above, emits radio waves into bathroom 2 and receives the reflected radio waves. In this way, radio wave sensor 10a receives the reflected radio waves, and bathroom system 1 can detect the coordinates of the point from which the radio waves are reflected, the intensity of the reflected radio waves, and the speed in the direction of travel of the radio waves at the point from which the radio waves are reflected (Doppler velocity). Therefore, bathroom system 1 can obtain, from the detection signal by radio wave sensor 10a, coordinate information of the point group from which the radio waves are reflected, information on the intensity of the reflected waves from each point, and information on the moving speed of each point.

[0116] For example, when a user is located (entered) in bathroom 2 (also referred to as the "user entry state"), radio waves reflected by an object (reflecting object) including the user are detected by radio wave sensor 10a, and point cloud information representing the object (reflecting object) including the user is detected.

[0117] 1 and 2, when user U is located in bathroom 2 (user entered state), radio wave sensor 10a detects radio waves reflected by objects such as the configuration related to panels 2a-2f in addition to user U. As a result, when user U is located in bathroom 2, bathroom system 1 acquires point cloud information representing objects such as the configuration related to panels 2a-2f in addition to user U.

[0118] On the other hand, for example, when a user is not present (entered) in bathroom 2 (also referred to as a "user-absent state"), radio waves reflected by objects (reflecting objects) that do not include the user are detected by radio wave sensor 10a, and point cloud information representing objects (reflecting objects) that do not include the user, i.e., objects other than the user, is detected. In this way, when a user is not present in bathroom 2 (user-absent state), point cloud information representing objects that are not necessary for estimating the user's position or movement is detected.

[0119] 1 and 2, when no user is present in bathroom 2 (user absent state), radio wave sensor 10a detects radio waves reflected by objects other than the user, such as the components related to panels 2a-2f. As a result, when no user is present in bathroom 2, bathroom system 1 can acquire point cloud information representing objects other than the user, such as the components related to panels 2a-2f.

[0120] Here, radio waves reflected from the components related to panels 2a-2f of bathroom 2 may affect the estimation of changes in the state of the space within bathroom 2, such as the estimation of the location and movement of a user within bathroom 2. Panels 2a-2f of bathroom 2 are made of panel-shaped materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), resin, or hard plastic. Furthermore, for example, metal plates may be provided on the back surfaces of panels 2a-2f. When metal plates are provided on the back surfaces of panels 2a-2f, the metal plates form radio wave reflection areas, increasing the strength of radio waves reflected from the components related to panels 2a-2f of bathroom 2, which may affect the estimation of changes in the state of the space within bathroom 2.

[0121] Furthermore, even if no metal plate is provided on the backside or the like of panels 2a-2f, water droplets may adhere to the surfaces of panels 2a-2f due to the user's use or cleaning of shower device 6. In such cases, the areas on the surfaces of panels 2a-2f where water droplets adhere (water droplet adhesion areas) constitute radio wave reflection areas, and the strength of radio waves reflected from the configuration related to panels 2a-2f in bathroom 2 increases, which may affect the estimation of changes in the state of the space within bathroom 2.

[0122] In this way, when there are radio wave reflection areas where the strength of reflected radio waves can be strong, it can be difficult to properly estimate changes in the state of the space within bathroom 2. Therefore, bathroom system 1 excludes such radio wave reflection areas to estimate changes in the state of the space within bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 excludes wall surfaces such as panels 2a-2f from the detection range because the reflection strength is high on those surfaces. Note that exclusion is not limited to excluding these areas from the data when bathroom system 1 performs estimation processing, and can take any form as long as the desired processing can be performed, such as excluding them from the output data output by radio wave sensor 10a.

[0123] For example, bathroom system 1 acquires detection information (also referred to as "first detection information") due to reflection from objects (reflecting objects) other than the user, such as radio wave reflection areas, when a user is not present. For example, bathroom system 1 performs detection when a user is not present, and acquires, as first detection information, point cloud information (also referred to as "first point cloud information") detected due to reflection from objects (reflecting objects) other than the user, such as radio wave reflection areas.

[0124] Then, bathroom system 1 acquires detection information (also referred to as "second detection information") due to reflection from objects (reflecting objects) including the user when the user has entered the room. For example, bathroom system 1 performs detection when the user has entered the room and acquires, as second detection information, point cloud information (also referred to as "second point cloud information") detected due to reflection from objects (reflecting objects) including the user.

[0125] Then, bathroom system 1 uses the first detection information and the second detection information to generate detection information (also referred to as "third detection information") in which the influence of the radio wave reflection area has been removed. For example, bathroom system 1 generates point cloud information (also referred to as "third point cloud information") in which the influence of the radio wave reflection area has been removed from the second point cloud information based on a comparison between the second point cloud information (for example, point cloud information such as that shown in FIG. 6) and the first point cloud information, as the third detection information. For example, bathroom system 1 generates the third point cloud information by deriving the difference between the second point cloud information and the first point cloud information.

[0126] Then, bathroom system 1 uses the third detection information to estimate state changes in the space within bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 uses the third point cloud information to estimate state changes in the space within bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1 may further remove information that could be noise (such as dynamic noise) from the third detection information. For example, bathroom system 1 may generate detection information (also referred to as "fourth detection information") from which noise has been further removed from the third detection information. In this case, bathroom system 1 uses the fourth detection information to estimate state changes in the space within bathroom 2. Dynamic noise may include, for example, radio waves reflected from an object that is not stationary due to vibrations or the like (such as a washing machine).

[0127] For example, bathroom system 1 may further perform processing to remove dynamic noise and the like using the third point cloud information. As a result, bathroom system 1 generates point cloud information (also referred to as "fourth point cloud information") from which various influences (noises) other than the influence of the radio wave reflection area have been removed as fourth detection information. In this case, bathroom system 1 uses the fourth point cloud information (for example, point cloud information as shown in FIG. 9) to estimate state changes in the space within bathroom 2.

[0128] <1-4. Processing example> Based on the above, an example of the processing performed by bathroom system 1 will now be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of processing performed by the bathroom system. For example, Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a state estimation processing performed by bathroom system 1 according to the embodiment. Note that although the processing will be described with bathroom system 1 as the processing subject, each processing may be performed by any device, such as sensor unit 10 (radio wave sensor 10a, etc.), control unit 100, etc., depending on the device configuration included in bathroom system 1.

[0129] Bathroom system 1 emits radar and derives the distance to each reflection point, azimuth angle, elevation angle, radio wave intensity, and Doppler velocity from the received signal (step S101). For example, bathroom system 1 emits radar from radio wave sensor 10a, and control unit 100 derives the distance to each reflection point, azimuth angle, elevation angle, radio wave intensity, and Doppler velocity based on the received signal received by radio wave sensor 10a, thereby acquiring second detection information.

[0130] For example, bathroom system 1 derives the distance to each reflection point, azimuth angle, elevation angle, radio wave intensity, and Doppler velocity based on detection when a user enters bathroom 2, and acquires point cloud information (second point cloud information) from objects (reflecting objects) including the user as second detection information. For example, bathroom system 1 acquires point cloud information (second point cloud information) including the user, as shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a point cloud detected by a radio wave sensor of the bathroom system. FIG. 6 shows an example of a point cloud (point cloud data) when a user is located in bathroom 2.

[0131] When there is no moving object, bathroom system 1 excludes wall surfaces and corners with high reflection intensity from the detection range (step S102). For example, bathroom system 1 excludes wall surfaces and corners with high reflection intensity from the detection range based on detection when no user is present in bathroom 2.

[0132] For example, bathroom system 1 acquires first detection information obtained by detection in a user-absent state, where a user is not located in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 acquires first point cloud information as the first detection information from data storage unit 101. For example, bathroom system 1 may perform detection in a user-absent state before the processing of step S101, derive the distance to each reflection point, azimuth angle, elevation angle, radio wave intensity, and Doppler velocity based on the detection in the user-absent state, and acquire point cloud information (first point cloud information) from objects (reflecting objects) that do not include a user.

[0133] For example, bathroom system 1 uses the second detection information and the first detection information to generate third detection information by removing the influence (noise) of reflections from walls and corners with high reflection intensity from the second detection information. For example, bathroom system 1 uses the second point cloud information and the first point cloud information to generate point cloud information (third point cloud information) by removing from the second point cloud information point clouds based on reflections from walls and corners with high reflection intensity. In this way, bathroom system 1 excludes radio wave reflection areas such as walls and corners with high reflection intensity from areas other than the user from its detection range.

[0134] Bathroom system 1 then executes the processes of steps S103 and S104. Note that steps S103 and S104 are step numbers used for convenience in explaining the processes, and may be executed in any order. For example, step S104 may be executed before step S103.

[0135] Bathroom system 1 removes low-intensity noise from reflection points based on the radio wave intensity (step S103). For example, bathroom system 1 automatically adjusts a threshold using a CFAR (Constant False Alarm Rate) detection process, and removes information from reflection points with an intensity below that threshold as noise.

[0136] An overview of the processing in step S103 will now be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the intensity distribution of radio waves received by the radio wave sensor of the bathroom system. FIG. 7 is a graph showing a schematic diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the intensity of the radio waves reflected from each point, and the vertical axis represents the frequency (number of points) of the points indicating that intensity. For example, if no metal plate is placed on the backside of panels 2a-2f or if there are no water droplet-adhered areas on the surfaces of panels 2a-2f, the intensity of the waves emitted from radio wave sensor 10a and reflected by panels 2a-2f will be low. In such cases, the influence (noise) of reflections from panels 2a-2f may be included in the third point cloud information.

[0137] Furthermore, because many of the radio waves emitted from radio wave sensor 10a are reflected by panels 2a-2f, etc., the frequency (number of points) of such radio waves increases. As a result, the graph in FIG. 7 shows one peak in the region of low reflected wave intensity. On the other hand, the reflected waves reflected by a user entering bathroom 2 have relatively high intensity, so the graph in FIG. 7 shows another peak due to the reflected waves reflected by the user in the region of high reflected wave intensity. Of the received reflected waves, radio waves below a predetermined intensity threshold (corresponding to the threshold in FIG. 7) are determined to be noise and are deleted from the data (point cloud information, etc.) used for processing. As a result, bathroom system 1 can appropriately remove reflected waves with low intensity and noise that were not removed in the processing of step S102.

[0138] Furthermore, the predetermined intensity threshold (corresponding to the threshold in FIG. 7) for determining that a received radio wave is noise can be changed based on the detected reflected wave. In bathroom system 1, the predetermined intensity threshold is determined using the CFAR method. Generally, the lower the predetermined intensity threshold is set, the higher the detection probability of the target to be detected, but the higher the probability of a false alarm (detection). On the other hand, setting the predetermined intensity threshold higher reduces the false alarm probability, but decreases the target detection probability. Thus, the target detection probability and the false alarm probability change depending on the setting of the predetermined intensity threshold, resulting in a trade-off. The CFAR method is generally known as a method for setting a predetermined intensity threshold based on the intensity distribution of the received reflected wave so that the false alarm probability remains constant.

[0139] Bathroom system 1 also removes static noise from the reflection points (step S104). For example, bathroom system 1 removes noise with a small Doppler velocity from the reflection points.

[0140] An overview of this processing will be explained using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the distribution of Doppler velocities of radio waves received by the radio wave sensors of the bathroom system. Figure 8 is a graph showing a schematic diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the Doppler velocity of each point that reflected the radio waves, and the vertical axis represents the frequency (number of points) of the points that indicate that velocity. Here, the Doppler velocity calculated from the waves irradiated from radio wave sensor 10a and reflected by stationary objects such as panels 2a-2f is almost zero.

[0141] Furthermore, because many of the radio waves emitted from radio wave sensor 10a are reflected by panels 2a-2f, etc., the frequency (number of points) of such radio waves increases. As a result, the graph in FIG. 8 shows a single peak near the Doppler velocity of zero. Meanwhile, because a user who has entered bathroom 2 moves, the reflected waves reflected by the user are distributed from the area where the Doppler velocity is negative (approaching radio wave sensor 10a) to the area where the Doppler velocity is positive (moving away from radio wave sensor 10a). Of the received reflected waves, radio waves whose absolute value of the Doppler velocity is below a predetermined velocity threshold (for example, corresponding to the range between the dashed dotted lines in FIG. 8) are determined to be noise and are deleted from the data (point cloud information, etc.) used for processing.

[0142] Bathroom system 1 obtains point cloud information representing users in bathroom 2 by multiplying the information on the strength of the radio waves reflected from each point obtained in steps S103 and S104 with the information on the speed of each point (step S105). For example, bathroom system 1 generates point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) representing users from which various influences other than those in the radio wave reflection area have been removed by removing data determined to be noise based on the information on the strength of the radio waves reflected from each point and the information on the speed of each point.

[0143] This allows bathroom system 1 to detect users more accurately. Figure 9 shows an example of a user detected as a point cloud in this way. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a point cloud detected by the radio wave sensor of the bathroom system.

[0144] Bathroom system 1 estimates the position of the person from the data from which noise has been removed (step S106). For example, as shown in FIG. 9, bathroom system 1 estimates the position of the user from point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) corresponding to the user from which various influences other than those in the radio wave reflection area have been removed. For example, bathroom system 1 estimates the position of the user based on the relationship between the space and coordinates of bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1 obtains information about the user's position within bathroom 2 by calculating the center of gravity of the point cloud that reflects the radio waves.

[0145] Note that the processing flow shown in Figure 5 is merely an example, and the processing flow executed by bathroom system 1 is not limited to the processing flow shown in Figure 5, and may be any processing flow as long as the desired processing can be executed. For example, bathroom system 1 may not execute at least one of steps S103 and S104. For example, bathroom system 1 may not execute step S104.

[0146] Bathroom system 1 may also estimate various information using fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user. Bathroom system 1 may also estimate the user's height, posture, etc. based on the height of the highest point in the point cloud. Bathroom system 1 may also acquire information such as the user's height, posture, etc. based on the height of the highest point in the point cloud.

[0147] Bathroom system 1 may also estimate bodily movement or moving posture from the water discharge area of ​​shower device 6 provided in bathroom 2 to bathtub 4 also provided in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate information related to the user's movement based on changes in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate at least one of the user's bodily movement or moving posture based on changes over time in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user.

[0148] For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's physical movement from the water spouting area of ​​shower device 6 to bathtub 4 based on a time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when the user is located in the water spouting area of ​​shower device 6 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when the user is located in bathtub 4. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's movement posture from the water spouting area of ​​shower device 6 to bathtub 4 based on a time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when the user is located in the water spouting area of ​​shower device 6 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when the user is located in bathtub 4. Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may use various information to estimate the user's physical movement or movement posture from the water spouting area of ​​shower device 6 installed in bathroom 2 to bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2.

[0149] Bathroom system 1 may also estimate the user's movements within the water discharge area of ​​shower device 6 installed in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate information related to the user's movements based on changes in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's movements based on changes over time in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user.

[0150] For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's movements within the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6 based on a time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when the user is located within the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when the user is located within the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6. Note that the above is merely one example, and bathroom system 1 may use various information to estimate the user's movements within the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6 installed in bathroom 2. For example, if multiple radio wave sensors 10a are installed, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's movements within the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6 using information obtained by detection by radio wave sensors 10a located near the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6.

[0151] Bathroom system 1 may also estimate the respiratory state of a user positioned in bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate information related to the user's breathing based on changes in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's respiratory state based on changes over time in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user.

[0152] For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the respiratory state of a user in bathtub 4 based on a time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when the user is in bathtub 4 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when the user is in bathtub 4. Note that the above is merely one example, and bathroom system 1 may use various information to estimate the respiratory state of a user in bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2. For example, if multiple radio wave sensors 10a are provided, bathroom system 1 may estimate the respiratory state of a user in bathtub 4 using information obtained by detection by radio wave sensors 10a (e.g., radio wave sensors 10a2 and 10a3 in FIG. 12 ) arranged near end 43 that functions as a pillow section.

[0153] <1-5. Radio wave sensor antenna placement example> Here, an example of the arrangement of the antenna of the radio wave sensor will be described. For example, the arrangements shown in Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 may be used. Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 are diagrams showing an example of the arrangement of the antenna of the radio wave sensor. Specifically, Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the orientation of the antenna of the radio wave sensor when the bathroom is viewed from above. Also, Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the orientation of the antenna of the radio wave sensor when the bathroom is viewed from the side. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0154] 10 and 11 show a schematic configuration of the radio wave sensor 10a. Note that in order to explain the orientation of the antenna 12 of the radio wave sensor, only the housing 11 and the antenna 12 are shown in Fig. 10 and 11, but the radio wave sensor 10a has various components other than the housing 11 and the antenna 12 to function as a radio wave radar.

[0155] 10 and 11, radio wave sensor 10a is disposed so that antenna surface 121 of antenna 12 disposed within housing 11 intersects with the surface of panel 2a on which radio wave sensor 10a is mounted. In this manner, the plane direction of antenna surface 121 of antenna 12 of radio wave sensor 10a intersects with the surface of the panel on which radio wave sensor 10a is mounted. Radio wave sensor 10a is disposed so that antenna surface 121 of antenna 12 disposed within housing 11 faces the center of bathroom 2. In this manner, antenna surface 121 of antenna 12 of radio wave sensor 10a is oriented to face the center of bathroom 2.

[0156] Area AR11 shown in Figures 10 and 11 shows an example of the range in which radio wave sensor 10a receives reflected waves. Radio wave sensor 10a transmits radio waves at a predetermined angle and receives reflections from panels 2a-2f of bathroom 2. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, depending on the placement position of radio wave sensor 10a, antenna surface 121 of antenna 12 can be positioned so that it faces the center of bathroom 2, eliminating the need to place radio wave sensor 10a in the center of bathroom 2 and improving the flexibility of placement of radio wave sensor 10a.

[0157] <1-6. Other examples of bathroom system configurations> The above-described configuration and processing are merely examples of the configuration and processing of the bathroom system, and the bathroom system may have various configurations and perform various processes. Some examples will be described below.

[0158] 3, i.e., the arrangement of the sensor devices of the sensor unit 10, is an example, and the bathroom system may arrange the sensor devices of the sensor unit 10 in any location. The sensor unit 10 may have multiple radio wave sensors 10a.

[0159] For example, the sensor unit 10 may have multiple radio wave sensors 10a, including a first radio wave sensor 10a whose detection range is a first space including a bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2, and a second radio wave sensor 10a that detects a second space including a water discharge area of ​​a shower device 6 installed in the bathroom 2. In this case, the output data of the sensor unit 10 includes first output data from the first radio wave sensor 10a and second output data from the second radio wave sensor 10a.

[0160] The bathroom system may also have three or more radio wave sensors 10a. An example of this case will be described using FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing another example configuration of a bathroom system. Bathroom system 1A in FIG. 12 has radio wave sensor 10a1, radio wave sensor 10a2, and radio wave sensor 10a3. Note that when describing radio wave sensor 10a1, radio wave sensor 10a2, and radio wave sensor 10a3 without making any particular distinction, radio wave sensor 10a will be referred to. In this way, bathroom system 1A has three radio wave sensors 10a, each located in a different position.

[0161] Radio wave sensors 10a1, 10a2, and 10a3 are each installed at a position higher than the upper end of bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2. In FIG. 12, radio wave sensor 10a1 is positioned similarly to radio wave sensor 10a in FIG. 3. Radio wave sensor 10a2 is positioned along panel 2b near end 43, which functions as the pillow section of bathtub 4. Radio wave sensor 10a2 is positioned along panel 2c near the pillow section and end 43, which functions as the pillow section of bathtub 4. In this way, by placing radio wave sensor 10a near end 43, which functions as the pillow section of bathtub 4, the accuracy of detecting the breathing of a user bathing in bathtub 4 can be improved.

[0162] <1-7. Other processing examples> Bathroom system 1 may execute various processes in addition to the processes described above. For example, bathroom system 1 may provide new value by providing various services using various information, such as information acquired through the processes described above. In this regard, the processes executed by bathroom system 1 will be explained below. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted where appropriate.

[0163] <1-7-1. Examples of estimating the user's physical and mental state> For example, bathroom system 1 may execute a process (also referred to as a "mental and physical state estimation process") to estimate the mental and physical state of a user in bathroom 2 based on the breathing state of the user. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the mental and physical state of a user based on the breathing state of the user while immersed in bathtub 4 of bathroom 2. Below, a case where the mental and physical state of a user is estimated will be described using as an example the configuration of bathroom system 1A in which three radio wave sensors 10a, namely radio wave sensor 10a1, radio wave sensor 10a2, and radio wave sensor 10a3 shown in FIG. 12, are provided in bathroom 2.

[0164] In this case, for example, of the three radio wave sensors 10a, two of them, namely, radio wave sensor 10a2 and radio wave sensor 10a3, located near the upper body of the bathing user, function as detection means (also referred to as "breath detection means") that mainly detect the breathing state of the user in bathroom 2 while bathing. Also, for example, of the three radio wave sensors 10a, radio wave sensor 10a1 functions as condition detection means that mainly detects the condition of the user in bathroom 2. Note that radio wave sensor 10a1 may also function as detection means (breath detection means) that detects the breathing state of the user in bathroom 2 while bathing. Also, radio wave sensors 10a2 and 10a3 may function as condition detection means that detect the condition of the user in bathroom 2.

[0165] Hereinafter, sensors such as radio wave sensor 10a2 and radio wave sensor 10a3 that primarily detect the breathing state of a user of bathroom 2 while bathing may be referred to as "breath detection sensors," and sensors such as radio wave sensor 10a1 that primarily detect the state of the user in bathroom 2 may be referred to as "state detection sensors." Note that any configuration that can detect the state of breathing is not limited to the configuration of bathroom system 1A shown in Figure 12, and may be adopted.

[0166] For example, bathroom system 1 may be configured to have two radio wave sensors 10a: a status detection sensor (such as radio wave sensor 10a1) that detects the status of a user in bathroom 2, and a breathing detection sensor (such as radio wave sensor 10a2 or 10a3) that detects the breathing status of a user of bathroom 2 while bathing. In this way, bathroom system 1 may be configured to have two sensors: one status detection sensor for estimating the movement or position of a user of bathroom 2, and one breathing detection sensor for estimating the breathing status of a user of bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1 may also have four or more radio wave sensors 10a.

[0167] The above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may include any sensor capable of detecting the state of breathing. For example, bathroom system 1 may employ any configuration as long as it is capable of estimating the movement or position of a user of bathroom 2 and estimating the state of breathing of the user in bathroom 2. The breathing detection sensor is not limited to radio wave sensor 10a, and any sensor may be used as long as it is capable of detecting the state of breathing of a user of bathroom 2 while bathing. The breathing detection sensor may be located at any location, not limited to the location shown in FIG. 12, as long as it is capable of detecting the state of breathing of a user of bathroom 2 while bathing. For example, the breathing detection sensor may be located in the pillow section of bathtub 4 (end 43, etc.).

[0168] Furthermore, for example, bathroom system 1 may be configured to have only one radio wave sensor 10a (e.g., radio wave sensor 10a1) if it is possible to estimate the movement or position of a user of bathroom 2 and the breathing state of the user in bathroom 2 with one radio wave sensor 10a. In this case, one radio wave sensor 10a functions as a breathing detection means that detects the breathing state of the user of bathroom 2 while bathing, and as a state detection means that detects the state of the user in bathroom 2.

[0169] An example of the mental and physical state estimation process will be described below. For example, a user immersed in bathtub 4 of bathroom 2 of bathroom system 1A (taking a bath) positions their head on end 43, which functions as a pillow section of bathtub 4, and their feet on end 41, as shown in Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of detection of the breathing state of a user in the bathtub. Fig. 13 shows a state in which user U is bathing in bathtub 4 of bathroom 2, with the lower part of their body below the chest positioned in the hot water in bathtub 4 and their chest and head positioned outside the hot water.

[0170] In FIG. 13, bathroom system 1A performs a mental and physical state estimation process on user U while bathing, using information detected by respiration detection sensors such as radio wave sensor 10a2 and radio wave sensor 10a3. The respiration detection sensors detect the respiration state of user U while bathing in bathtub 4. For example, radio wave sensor 10a2, radio wave sensor 10a3, etc. detect the movement of parts of the body of user U that are outside the hot water in bathtub 4 as the respiration state. For example, radio wave sensor 10a2, radio wave sensor 10a3, etc. detect the movement of the chest of user U while bathing in bathtub 4 as the respiration state.

[0171] Bathroom system 1A estimates information related to the breathing of user U based on the movement of the user U's chest while bathing in bathtub 4, detected by a breathing detection sensor. For example, bathroom system 1A estimates information related to breathing, such as the depth and rate of breathing of user U, based on the movement of the user U's chest while bathing in bathtub 4. Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1A may estimate information related to breathing, such as the time it takes for user U's breathing to stabilize, in addition to the depth and rate of breathing of user U.

[0172] For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the depth of breathing of user U based on changes in the position of the user U's chest while bathing in bathtub 4. For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the breathing rate of user U based on information (time information) such as the interval between changes in the position of the user U's chest while bathing in bathtub 4. For example, bathroom system 1A estimates information related to breathing using point cloud information obtained by detection by breathing detection sensors such as radio wave sensor 10a2 and radio wave sensor 10a3.

[0173] For example, bathroom system 1A estimates information related to user U's breathing based on changes in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating user U. For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the depth of breathing based on changes over time in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating user U. For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the breathing rate based on the time interval between changes in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating user U.

[0174] For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the depth of breathing of user U while bathing based on the time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when user U is located in bathtub 4 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when user U is located in bathtub 4. For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the breathing rate of user U while bathing based on the time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when user U is located in bathtub 4 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when user U is located in bathtub 4. Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1A may use various information to estimate information related to the breathing of user U while bathing.

[0175] Bathroom system 1A then uses information about user U's breathing while bathing to estimate the mental and physical state of user U while bathing. For example, bathroom system 1A uses information about user U's breathing while bathing to estimate user U's degree of relaxation (also referred to as "relaxation level") as the mental and physical state of user U while bathing. Note that the user's degree of relaxation (relaxation level) is merely one example of the user's mental and physical state, and bathroom system 1A may estimate various information about the user's mental and physical state, such as the user's degree of alertness (alertness level), in addition to the user's relaxation degree.

[0176] Bathroom system 1A estimates that user U has a high level of relaxation if the estimated depth of breathing of user U while bathing satisfies a condition related to the depth of breathing (also referred to as a "depth condition"). For example, bathroom system 1A estimates that user U has a high level of relaxation if the depth of breathing of user U while bathing is equal to or greater than a predetermined depth threshold.

[0177] If the estimated breathing rate of the bathing user U satisfies a condition related to the breathing rate (also referred to as a "rate condition"), the bathroom system 1A estimates that the user U has a high level of relaxation. For example, if the breathing rate of the bathing user U is less than a predetermined rate threshold, the bathroom system 1A estimates that the user U has a high level of relaxation.

[0178] For example, bathroom system 1A may estimate that user U's level of relaxation is the highest if the depth of user U's breathing while bathing satisfies a depth condition and the rate of user U's breathing while bathing satisfies a rate condition. For example, bathroom system 1A may estimate whether user U's level of relaxation is at one of four levels, from level 0 to level 3.

[0179] For example, if user U's breathing while bathing satisfies only the depth condition, bathroom system 1A may estimate that user U's relaxation level is level 1. Also, for example, if user U's breathing while bathing satisfies only the speed condition, bathroom system 1A may estimate that user U's relaxation level is level 2. Also, for example, if user U's breathing while bathing satisfies both the depth condition and the speed condition, bathroom system 1A may estimate that user U's relaxation level is level 3. Also, for example, if user U's breathing while bathing does not satisfy both the depth condition and the speed condition, bathroom system 1A may estimate that user U's relaxation level is level 0.

[0180] Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1A may use various information to estimate the relaxation level of user U. For example, bathroom system 1A may estimate the relaxation level of user U using a predetermined function (also referred to as a "relaxation level estimation function") for estimating (calculating) the relaxation level.

[0181] In this case, bathroom system 1A may estimate the relaxation level of user U using information about the breathing of user U while bathing and a relaxation level estimation function. For example, bathroom system 1A may estimate the relaxation level of user U using a relaxation level estimation function that takes breathing depth, breathing rate, the time it takes for breathing to become regular, etc. as inputs (independent variables) and the relaxation level as an output (dependent variable).

[0182] Bathroom system 1A may also estimate user U's relaxation level by taking into account information such as bathing time and water temperature. For example, bathroom system 1A may estimate user U's relaxation level using a relaxation level estimation function that takes as inputs (independent variables) information about breathing as well as bathing time, the temperature of the water in bathtub 4, and the temperature of the water discharged from shower device 6.

[0183] Bathroom system 1A also controls the operating states of the devices that make up bathroom 2 (also referred to as "bathroom-related devices") according to the breathing state of user U while bathing. For example, bathroom system 1A controls the operating states of the bathroom-related devices based on the breathing rhythm of user U while bathing so as to guide the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm. For example, bathroom system 1A controls the operating states of the bathroom-related devices based on the breathing rate of user U while bathing so as to guide the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm.

[0184] For example, bathroom system 1A uses information related to the control of bathroom-related devices stored in data storage unit 101 (also referred to as "device control information") to control the operating states of bathroom-related devices so as to guide user U's breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm. For example, bathroom system 1A controls the lighting state of lighting device 104 by referencing device control information that associates an ideal value for breathing rate with information indicating a lighting state (driving state of lighting device) for guiding the user's breathing rate to that ideal value. For example, bathroom system 1A controls the lighting state of lighting device 104 by referencing device control information that indicates changes in the output of lighting device 104, such as the interval at which a predetermined on / off state is repeated, in order to guide user U's breathing rate to the ideal value.

[0185] This allows bathroom system 1A to guide the breathing rhythm, such as the breathing rate, of user U to a desired rhythm. Note that the bathroom-related equipment whose operating state is controlled by bathroom system 1A is not limited to the lighting device of light 104, but may be any equipment such as bathtub water temperature control unit 106.

[0186] For example, when controlling the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106, bathroom system 1A controls the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106 by referring to device control information that associates an ideal value for breathing rate with information indicating the temperature, water flow, water volume, etc. of the hot water in bathtub 4 for guiding the user's breathing rate to that ideal value (the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106). For example, bathroom system 1A controls the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106 by referring to device control information that indicates the operating conditions of bathtub water temperature control unit 106, such as the set temperature and set water volume, in order to guide user U's breathing rate to the ideal value.

[0187] Bathroom system 1A also sends a predetermined recommendation notification to the user of bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1A sends a predetermined recommendation notification including information about a predetermined breathing method based on the breathing state of the user of bathroom 2. Below, using FIG. 14, we will explain as an example a case where terminal device DV, which is a tablet terminal used by user U, is set as the recommendation notification destination. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a recommendation notification.

[0188] For example, an application related to the display of information notified from the bathroom system 1A is already installed on the terminal device DV, and the application related to the display of information causes the terminal device DV to perform various processes related to the display of the information notified from the bathroom system 1A.

[0189] For example, bathroom system 1A notifies user U of a recommendation by displaying recommendation information such as that shown in Fig. 14 on terminal device DV. For example, bathroom system 1A notifies (transmits) recommendation information including information about a predetermined breathing method to terminal device DV based on the breathing state of user U in bathroom 2. Note that the timing of the recommendation notification may be set to, for example, a predetermined time (e.g., 9 p.m.), and is not limited to timing based on time, but may also be timing based on the user's behavior, such as after bathing is completed.

[0190] The terminal device DV displays the information about the recommendation including the information about the predetermined breathing method using an application related to displaying information in response to receiving the information about the recommendation including the information about the predetermined breathing method based on the breathing state of the user U in the bathroom 2. Figure 14 shows a case where the terminal device DV displays content CT11 including the information about the predetermined breathing method based on the breathing state of the user U in the bathroom 2.

[0191] For example, in response to a notification (reception of information) from bathroom system 1A, terminal device DV displays content CT11 including recommendation information RC11 regarding a predetermined breathing method recommended for the breathing state of user U in bathroom 2. Note that in FIG. 14, recommendation information RC11 is abstractly shown as "XXXXXXXXXXXX," but recommendation information RC11 may also include text information indicating the breathing method recommended for user U, image information such as an illustration indicating the breathing method recommended for user U, video information indicating the breathing method recommended for user U, etc. Note that the above is merely an example, and content CT11 may also include various information recommended (encouraged) to user U based on the breathing state of user U in bathroom 2, without being limited to the above.

[0192] For example, control unit 100A may generate content CT11 including information about a predetermined breathing method based on the breathing state of user U in bathroom 2. In this case, control unit 100A transmits the generated content CT11 to terminal device DV via notification unit 130. Then, terminal device DV displays the content CT11. Note that content CT11 may be generated by any device other than control unit 100A. For example, content CT11 may be generated by terminal device DV. In this case, control unit 100A may transmit information indicating a usage notification of bathroom 2 including a behavior history of user U to terminal device DV, and terminal device DV may generate and display content CT11 using the information received from control unit 100A.

[0193] The recommendation notification described above is merely one example, and bathroom system 1A may issue recommendation notifications in various ways. For example, if a display device is installed in bathroom 2, recommendation notifications may be issued to a user taking a bath by displaying information about the recommendation on the display device installed in bathroom 2. In this case, terminal device DV shown in FIG. 14 may be a display device installed in bathroom 2, and terminal device DV may display information about the recommendation while the user is located in bathroom 2.

[0194] <1-7-2. Bathroom system configuration example> The configuration of the bathroom system that performs the above-mentioned processing will be described below, with the same points as those described in Figures 3, 4, 12, etc. being omitted where appropriate.

[0195] The sensor unit 10 detects information that the bathroom system 1 (bathroom system 1A, etc.) uses to estimate the physical and mental state of a user of the bathroom 2. The sensor unit 10 detects information that the control unit 100A uses for the physical and mental state estimation process. The state detection sensors of the sensor unit 10, such as the radio wave sensor 10a1, are installed in the bathroom 2 and function as state detection means that detect the state of the user in the bathroom 2.

[0196] Furthermore, for example, the breathing detection sensors such as radio wave sensors 10a2 and 10a3 of sensor unit 10 are installed in bathroom 2 and function as detection means (breath detection means) that detect the breathing state of a user of bathroom 2 while bathing. For example, the breathing detection sensors such as radio wave sensors 10a2 and 10a3 of sensor unit 10 start or stop detecting the user's breathing based on the detection results of the state detection sensors such as radio wave sensor 10a1 of sensor unit 10.

[0197] For example, the breath detection sensor starts detecting the user's breath when the state detection sensor detects that the user is located in the bathtub 4. For example, when the state detection sensor detects that the user is located in the bathtub 4, the sensor unit 10 activates (drives) the breath detection sensor, and starts detecting the user's breath with the breath detection sensor.

[0198] For example, the breath detection sensor terminates and stops detecting the user's breath when the state detection sensor detects that the user positioned in the bathtub 4 has moved out of the bathtub 4. For example, when the state detection sensor detects that the user positioned in the bathtub 4 has moved out of the bathtub 4, the sensor unit 10 stops driving the breath detection sensor and terminates detection of the user's breath by the breath detection sensor.

[0199] For example, the breathing detection sensor stops detecting the user's breathing when the status detection sensor detects that the user is outside the bathtub 4. For example, when the status detection sensor detects that the user is outside the bathtub 4, the sensor unit 10 stops driving the breathing detection sensor and stops detecting the user's breathing by the breathing detection sensor. Note that the above is just one example, and the sensor unit 10 may start or stop detecting the user's breathing by the breathing detection sensor at any timing.

[0200] The control unit 100A performs various processes similar to those of the control unit 100. The control unit 100A also performs mental and physical state estimation processing. An example of the mechanical configuration of the control unit 100A will be described with reference to FIG. 15. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control unit. The control unit 100A shown in FIG. 15 includes a mental and physical state estimation unit 112 and a device control unit 113 in addition to the configuration of the control unit 100 shown in FIG.

[0201] 15, the control unit 100A has a state estimation unit 110, a determination unit 111, a mental and physical state estimation unit 112, and a device control unit 113. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 100A is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 15, and may be any other configuration as long as it is capable of performing desired information processing.

[0202] State estimation unit 110 of control unit 100A performs various estimation processes in the same manner as state estimation unit 110 of control unit 100. Determination unit 111 of control unit 100A performs various determinations in the same manner as determination unit 111 of control unit 100. For example, state estimation unit 110 of control unit 100A estimates the user's behavior in bathroom 2 based on output data from state detection sensors such as radio wave sensor 10a1. State estimation unit 110 estimates the user's behavior in bathroom 2, including the user's position, movement, etc.

[0203] The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) information indicating the estimated behavior of the user in the bathroom 2 as the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101. The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101 in association with information identifying the user (e.g., a user ID, etc.).

[0204] The mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates the mental and physical state of the user. The mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates the mental and physical state of the user based on the state change in the bathroom 2 estimated by the state estimation unit 110. The mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates the mental and physical state of the user based on the determination result by the determination unit 111. Note that the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 may perform processing related to the estimation (determination) of the user's state performed by the state estimation unit 110, the determination unit 111, etc. For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 may be integrated with the state estimation unit 110.

[0205] The mental and physical state estimation unit 112 functions as an estimation means for estimating the mental and physical state of the user of the bathroom 2 based on the detection results of the breathing detection sensor. The mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates information about the user's breathing based on the chest movement of the user while bathing in the bathtub 4 detected by the breathing detection sensor. For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates information about the user's breathing, such as the depth and rate of the user's breathing and the time it took for the user's breathing to become regular, based on the chest movement of the user while bathing in the bathtub 4.

[0206] For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates information related to breathing based on the movement of parts of the body that are outside the hot water in the bathtub 4. For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates information related to breathing based on changes in the position of the chest of the user while bathing in the bathtub 4. For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates information related to breathing using point cloud information obtained by detection by a breathing detection sensor.

[0207] For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 may estimate information related to the user's breathing based on changes in fourth detection information such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user. For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates the depth of breathing based on changes over time in the fourth detection information such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user. For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates the breathing rate based on the time interval of changes in the fourth detection information such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user.

[0208] Furthermore, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates the mental and physical state of the user while bathing using information about the user's breathing while bathing. For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates the user's level of relaxation using information about the user's breathing while bathing. If the user's breathing while bathing satisfies a depth condition, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates that the user's level of relaxation is high. If the user's breathing while bathing satisfies a speed condition, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates that the user's level of relaxation is high.

[0209] For example, if the depth of the user's breathing while bathing satisfies a depth condition and the rate of the user's breathing while bathing satisfies a rate condition, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates that the user's level of relaxation is the highest. For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates which of a plurality of levels the user is at. For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates which of a plurality of levels the user is at using level estimation information (level information) stored in the data storage unit 101.

[0210] For example, if the user's breathing while bathing satisfies only the speed condition, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates that the user's relaxation level is level 1. Also, for example, if the user's breathing while bathing satisfies only the depth condition, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates that the user's relaxation level is level 2. Also, for example, if the user's breathing while bathing satisfies both the depth condition and the speed condition, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates that the user's relaxation level is level 3. Also, for example, if the user's breathing while bathing does not satisfy both the depth condition and the speed condition, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates that the user's relaxation level is level 0.

[0211] Furthermore, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 may estimate the relaxation level of the user using a relaxation level estimation function. For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112 estimates the relaxation level of the user using the relaxation level estimation function stored in the data storage unit 101 and information about the user's breathing while taking a bath.

[0212] The device control unit 113 functions as a control means that controls the operating state of the devices (bathroom-related devices) that make up the bathroom 2 based on the detection results of the breath detection sensor. For example, the devices that make up the bathroom 2 (bathroom-related devices) include at least one of the shower device 6, microphone 9, sensor unit 10, alarm unit 103, lighting 104, water temperature control unit 105a, water volume control unit 105b, bathtub water temperature control unit 106, shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107, air conditioning 108, and ventilation fan 109. For example, the device control unit 113 controls the operating state of the bathroom-related devices that may affect the physical and mental state of the user.

[0213] Device control unit 113 controls the operating states of devices (bathroom-related devices) that make up bathroom 2 according to the breathing state of the bathing user. Device control unit 113 controls the operating states of the bathroom-related devices based on the detection of the breathing rhythm of the bathing user so as to guide the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm. For example, device control unit 113 controls the operating states of the bathroom-related devices based on the breathing rhythm of the bathing user so as to guide the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm.

[0214] Device control unit 113 controls the operating states of bathroom-related devices to change the breathing state of the bathroom user from a first rhythm, which is the current breathing rhythm of the bathroom user, to a second rhythm, which is the desired rhythm to be induced. For example, device control unit 113 controls the operating states of bathroom-related devices to induce the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm based on the breathing rate of the bathroom user while bathing. Device control unit 113 controls the operating states of bathroom-related devices to change the breathing state of the bathroom user from the first rate, which is the current breathing rate of the bathroom user, to the second rate, which is the desired breathing rate to be induced.

[0215] For example, the operating state of the bathroom-related devices includes at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in the bathtub 4. The device control unit 113 controls the operating state of the bathroom-related devices including at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in the bathtub 4. For example, the device control unit 113 controls at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in the bathtub 4 by controlling the bathtub water temperature control unit 106. For example, the device control unit 113 may control at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in the bathtub 4 by controlling the shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107.

[0216] For example, the operating states of the bathroom-related devices include the lighting states of the lighting devices installed in bathroom 2. Device control unit 113 controls the operating states of the bathroom-related devices, including the lighting states of the lighting devices installed in bathroom 2. For example, device control unit 113 may control the lighting states of the lighting devices installed in bathroom 2 by controlling lighting 104 installed in bathroom 2.

[0217] The device control unit 113 controls the operating state of the bathroom-related devices using the device control information stored in the data storage unit 101. For example, the device control unit 113 controls the lighting state of the lighting device by referencing the device control information that associates an ideal value for breathing rate with information indicating the operating state of the lighting device of the lighting 104 for guiding the user's breathing rate to the ideal value. For example, the device control unit 113 controls the lighting state of the lighting device of the lighting 104 by referencing the device control information that indicates a change in the output of the lighting device for guiding the user's breathing rate to the ideal value.

[0218] For example, device control unit 113 references device control information that associates an ideal value for breathing rate with information indicating the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106 for guiding the user's breathing rate to that ideal value, and controls the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106. For example, device control unit 113 references device control information that indicates the operating conditions of bathtub water temperature control unit 106 for guiding the user's breathing rate to the ideal value, and controls the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106.

[0219] Note that the control unit 100A may include a unit that performs various processes other than those described above. For example, the control unit 100A may include a notification setting unit that performs various settings related to notifications. The notification setting unit may perform various settings related to notifications, such as the timing at which the notification unit 103 notifies the user of information related to recommendations (recommendation notification timing). For example, if the notification setting unit is to notify the user of information related to recommendations at a time other than while the user is bathing (for example, after the user leaves the bathroom 2), the notification setting unit sets various conditions related to notifications, such as the recommendation notification timing and the notification destination. For example, the notification setting unit accepts a user operation via a remote control device, a terminal device, etc., and sets the recommendation notification timing, the notification destination, etc. based on the accepted user operation. For example, the notification setting unit registers (stores) in the data storage unit 101 information related to notifications that have been set, such as the notification destination and the recommendation notification timing.

[0220] The data storage unit 101 stores various types of information related to the estimation of the user's mental and physical state. The data storage unit 101 stores various types of information used in the mental and physical state estimation process. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores information for estimating the relaxation level. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores level information such as information indicating the relaxation level and the conditions for falling into that level. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores a relaxation level estimation function.

[0221] Data storage unit 101 stores the user's behavior history in bathroom 2, which is acquired based on the detection results of status detection sensors such as radio wave sensor 10a1. Data storage unit 101 stores the user's behavior history together with time. For example, data storage unit 101 stores information indicating the user's behavior as behavior history, in association with the time at which the information indicating the behavior was acquired.

[0222] The data storage unit 101 stores a history of the breathing state (respiratory state history) of a user of the bathroom 2 while bathing, which is acquired based on the detection results of the breathing detection sensors, such as the radio wave sensors 10a2 and 10a3. The data storage unit 101 stores the user's respiratory state history together with time. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores information indicating the user's respiratory state as the respiratory state history, in association with the time at which the information indicating the respiratory state was acquired.

[0223] Data storage unit 101 stores information related to the control of bathroom-related devices (device control information). For example, data storage unit 101 stores device control information indicating the correspondence between the state of breathing and the bathroom-related device to be controlled. For example, data storage unit 101 stores device control information indicating the correspondence between the rhythm of breathing and the bathroom-related device to be controlled. For example, data storage unit 101 stores, as device control information, information that associates an ideal value for breathing rate with information indicating the control content of the bathroom-related device to guide the user's breathing rate to the ideal value.

[0224] For example, the data storage unit 101 stores device control information that associates an ideal value of breathing rate with information indicating the lighting state (driving state) of the lighting device of the lighting 104 for guiding the user's breathing rate to the ideal value. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores device control information that associates an ideal value of breathing rate with information indicating a change in output of the lighting device of the lighting 104 (for example, an interval at which a predetermined on state and an off state are repeated) for guiding the user's breathing rate to the ideal value.

[0225] Furthermore, for example, data storage unit 101 stores device control information that associates an ideal value for breathing rate with information indicating the operating conditions of bathtub water temperature control unit 106, including at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in bathtub 4, for guiding the user's breathing rate to that ideal value. For example, data storage unit 101 stores device control information that associates an ideal value for breathing rate with information indicating the operating conditions (e.g., set temperature, set water volume, etc.) of bathtub water temperature control unit 106 for guiding the user's breathing rate to that ideal value.

[0226] For example, the data storage unit 101 stores device control information that associates an ideal value of the depth of breathing with information indicating the lighting state (driving state) of the lighting device of the lighting 104 for guiding the depth of breathing of the user to the ideal value. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores device control information that associates an ideal value of the depth of breathing with information indicating a change in the output of the lighting device of the lighting 104 for guiding the depth of breathing of the user to the ideal value.

[0227] Furthermore, for example, data storage unit 101 may store device control information indicating the correspondence between the physical and mental states and the bathroom-related devices to be controlled. For example, data storage unit 101 stores device control information that associates ideal values ​​for the physical and mental states with information indicating the control content of the bathroom-related devices to guide the physical and mental states of the user to the ideal values.

[0228] For example, data storage unit 101 stores device control information indicating the correspondence between the relaxation level and the bathroom-related devices to be controlled. For example, data storage unit 101 stores device control information that associates an ideal value for the relaxation level with information indicating the control content of the bathroom-related devices to guide the user's breathing to the ideal value.

[0229] For example, data storage unit 101 stores device control information that associates an ideal value for the relaxation level with information indicating the operating conditions of bathtub water temperature control unit 106, including at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in bathtub 4, for guiding the user's relaxation level to that ideal value. For example, data storage unit 101 stores device control information that associates an ideal value for the relaxation level with information indicating the operating conditions (e.g., set temperature, set water volume, etc.) of bathtub water temperature control unit 106 for guiding the user's relaxation level to that ideal value.

[0230] The data storage unit 101 stores notification conditions including the recommendation notification timing etc. set by the notification setting unit. The data storage unit 101 stores notification conditions including the recommendation notification timing etc. set by the notification setting unit in response to input from the user.

[0231] For example, the data storage unit 101 stores notification conditions including recommendation notification timing and the like set by the notification setting unit in response to a person's (operator's) operation on a remote control device, a terminal device, etc. The data storage unit 101 stores the notification conditions including recommendation notification timing and the like set by the notification setting unit for each notification content in association with information identifying each user (e.g., a user ID, etc.). The data storage unit 101 stores, for each user, a notification destination to which notifications related to that user are to be sent in association with the information identifying each user. The data storage unit 101 stores, for each user, information identifying a terminal device to be the notification destination, an email address, etc., as notification destination information in association with the information identifying each user.

[0232] Notification unit 103 provides notification regarding the mental and physical state of the user of bathroom 2 estimated by bathroom system 1A. For example, notification unit 103 provides notification according to the mental and physical state of the user, such as the degree of relaxation of the user of bathroom 2 estimated by bathroom system 1A.

[0233] The notification unit 103 functions as a notification means for notifying the user of the bathroom 2 of a predetermined recommendation based on the detection result of the breathing detection sensor. The notification unit 103 notifies the user of the bathroom 2 of a predetermined recommendation, including information about a predetermined breathing method, based on the breathing state of the user of the bathroom 2.

[0234] For example, the notification unit 103 notifies the recommendation by transmitting information about the recommendation to a device that displays information (such as a terminal device or a remote control device) in accordance with the control of the control unit 100A. For example, the notification unit 103 notifies the user of the recommendation by transmitting information about the recommendation to a notification destination in accordance with the control of the control unit 100A.

[0235] <1-7-3. Example of mental and physical state estimation processing flow> Based on the above, an example of the physical and mental state estimation process executed by bathroom system 1A will now be described with reference to Fig. 16. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the process executed by the bathroom system. Note that while the bathroom system 1A will be described as the main processor, each process may be performed by any device, such as sensor unit 10 (radio wave sensor 10a, etc.), control unit 100, etc., depending on the device configuration included in bathroom system 1A.

[0236] Bathroom system 1A detects the breathing state of a bathroom user while taking a bath (step S201). For example, bathroom system 1A uses radio wave sensor 10a to detect the breathing state of a bathroom user while taking a bath in bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1A estimates the mental and physical state of the bathroom user based on the detection result (step S202). For example, mental and physical state estimation unit 112 of control unit 100A estimates the mental and physical state of the bathroom user based on the detection result of radio wave sensor 10a.

[0237] As described above, bathroom system 1 such as bathroom system 1A can appropriately estimate the mental and physical state of a bathroom user by estimating the mental and physical state of the bathroom user based on the detection results of the breathing detection sensor. This allows bathroom system 1 to provide new value based on the detection of the state within the bathroom. Furthermore, bathroom system 1 such as bathroom system 1A can appropriately notify the user of information according to the mental and physical state of the bathroom user by notifying the user of bathroom 2 of a predetermined recommendation based on the detection results of the breathing detection sensor.

[0238] For example, installing a radio wave sensor only to respond to unusual situations such as falls or drowning may not be cost-effective. Therefore, bathroom system 1 uses a radio wave sensor to measure the surface movements of the human body and acquire information on breathing patterns to provide new value. For example, when a person (user) enters the bathroom, bathroom system 1 measures and records the surface movements to estimate the breathing patterns. Furthermore, bathroom system 1 estimates the user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation, from the timing, duration, and magnitude of the fluctuations, and provides information based on the estimation. This allows bathroom system 1 to provide new value based on the state detection within the bathroom.

[0239] For example, bathroom system 1 can estimate the user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation, and then control bathroom equipment accordingly, or vary the strength of the equipment in accordance with the user's breathing rhythm. Bathroom system 1 can also guide breathing by adjusting the behavior of bathroom equipment to match the user's ideal breathing timing, and by accumulating data over time and estimating changes in the user's condition, it can suggest various information, such as recommended after-bath activities.

[0240] 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.

[0241] The above-described embodiments and modifications may have the following configurations, but are not limited to these. (1) a detecting means installed in the bathroom for detecting the state of breathing of a user of the bathroom while bathing; an estimation means for estimating the physical and mental state of the bathroom user based on the detection result of the detection means; A bathroom system comprising: (2) a control means for controlling the operating state of the appliances constituting the bathroom based on the detection result of the detection means; A bathroom system as described in (1), characterized by comprising: (3) The control means controls the driving state of the devices constituting the bathroom based on the detection of the breathing rhythm of the bathroom user so as to induce the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm. A bathroom system as described in (2). (4) The operating status of the devices constituting the bathroom includes at least one of the temperature, flow, and volume of hot water in the bathtub. A bathroom system as described in (3). (5) The operating state of the devices constituting the bathroom includes the lighting state of a lighting device installed in the bathroom. A bathroom system according to (3) or (4). (6) a notification means for notifying a user of the bathroom of a predetermined recommendation based on the detection result of the detection means; The bathroom system according to any one of (1) to (5) above, characterized in that it comprises: (7) The notification means issues the predetermined recommendation notification including information about a predetermined breathing method based on the breathing state of the bathroom user. A bathroom system as described in (6). (8) a state detection means that is installed in the bathroom and detects the state of a user in the bathroom; Equipped with The detection means starts or stops detecting the breathing of the user based on the detection result of the state detection means. The bathroom system according to any one of (1) to (7) above. (9) a state estimation means for estimating a state change in the bathroom based on output data from a radio wave sensor; Equipped with the detection means is installed in the bathroom formed by a plurality of panels and has the radio wave sensor that detects changes in the state of the bathroom; The state estimation means estimates a state change in the space within the bathroom, excluding a radio wave reflection area including the surface of the panel. The bathroom system according to any one of (1) to (8) above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0242] 1. Bathroom System 2 Bathroom 2a~2d Side panels 2e Floor panel 2nd floor ceiling panel 3. Dressing room (adjacent room) 4. Bathtub 5. Bathroom counter 6. Shower equipment 6a Overhead shower (OH) 6b Hand shower (HS) 6c Spout (Flange) 7 mirror 8. Shower Bar 8a Bar member (bar-shaped member) 8b Head holding part 9. Mike 10 Sensor section 10a Radio wave sensor 11. Housing 12 Antenna 100, 100A Control unit (control device) 101 Data storage unit 102 Input section 103 Information Department 104 Lighting 105a Water temperature control unit 105b Hot water volume control unit 106 Bathtub water temperature control unit 107 Shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 108 Air conditioning 109 Ventilation fan 110 State estimation unit 111 Judgment section 112 Mental and physical state estimation unit 113 Equipment control section

Claims

1. a detecting means installed in the bathroom for detecting the state of breathing of a user of the bathroom while bathing; an estimation means for estimating the physical and mental state of the bathroom user based on the detection result of the detection means; A bathroom system comprising:

2. a control means for controlling the operating state of the appliances constituting the bathroom based on the detection result of the detection means; The bathroom system according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. The control means controls the driving state of the devices constituting the bathroom based on the detection of the breathing rhythm of the bathroom user so as to induce the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm. The bathroom system according to claim 2 .

4. The operating status of the devices constituting the bathroom includes at least one of the temperature, flow, and volume of hot water in the bathtub. The bathroom system according to claim 3.

5. The operating state of the devices constituting the bathroom includes the lighting state of a lighting device installed in the bathroom. The bathroom system according to claim 3.

6. a notification means for notifying a user of the bathroom of a predetermined recommendation based on the detection result of the detection means; The bathroom system according to claim 1, further comprising:

7. The notification means issues the predetermined recommendation notification including information about a predetermined breathing method based on the breathing state of the bathroom user. The bathroom system according to claim 6.

8. a state detection means that is installed in the bathroom and detects the state of a user in the bathroom; Equipped with The detection means starts or stops detecting the breathing of the user based on the detection result of the state detection means.

2. The bathroom system according to claim 1.

9. a state estimation means for estimating a state change in the bathroom based on output data from a radio wave sensor; Equipped with the detection means is installed in the bathroom formed by a plurality of panels and has the radio wave sensor that detects changes in the state of the bathroom; The state estimation means estimates a state change in the space within the bathroom, excluding a radio wave reflection area including the surface of the panel.

2. The bathroom system according to claim 1.

Images