Toilet private room management system and method

Abstract

To provide a toilet private room management system capable of managing a use purpose of a toilet private room.SOLUTION: There is provided a toilet private room management system for managing a use state of a toilet private room in which a toilet bowl is provided, the toilet private room management system comprises: a human body detection part for detecting entry / exit to / from the toilet private room; an excretion detection part which is provided in the toilet private room and detects excretions; and a control part for determining a use state of a user in the toilet private room on the basis of a detection result of the excretion detection part. The control part determines the use state of the toilet private room, on the basis of the detection of the excretion by the excretion detection part, when the human body detection part detects the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to toilet cubicle management systems and methods. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known a management system that detects the use of a toilet stall and notifies the user that the stall has been in use for an extended period of time (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-185701 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The management system in Patent Document 1 cannot distinguish whether a user is using the toilet stall to relieve themselves or to take a break without using the toilet, which means that the toilet stall manager may not be able to clearly grasp the purpose of the toilet stall.

[0005] The aspects of the present invention have been made based on the recognition of such problems, and aim to provide a toilet cubicle management system and a toilet cubicle management method that can manage the usage of toilet cubicles. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first invention is a toilet cubicle management system that manages the usage status of a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is installed, and includes a human body detection unit that detects entry and exit into the toilet cubicle, an excretion detection unit that is installed in the toilet cubicle and detects excrement, and a control unit that determines the usage status of a user in the toilet cubicle based on the detection result of the excretion detection unit, wherein the control unit determines the usage status of the toilet cubicle based on the detection of excrement by the excretion detection unit when the human body detection unit detects a user.

[0007] According to this toilet cubicle management system, the usage status of a toilet cubicle can be determined by detecting excrement using the excrement detection unit.

[0008] The second invention is a toilet cubicle management system characterized in that, in the first invention, the control unit determines the usage status of the toilet cubicle based on whether or not a state in which no excrement is detected continues for a predetermined period of time.

[0009] This toilet stall management system can determine whether a user is using the toilet stall for a long period of time while defecating, or whether the user is using the toilet stall for a long period of time to take a break without defecating.

[0010] The third invention is a toilet cubicle management system characterized in that, in the second invention, the control unit determines that the toilet cubicle has been used for a long time if no excrement is detected within a predetermined time after the state changes from one in which excrement is detected to one in which it is not detected.

[0011] This toilet cubicle management system makes it possible to identify users who spend more time in a toilet cubicle than necessary after they have finished using the toilet.

[0012] A fourth invention is a toilet cubicle management system, characterized in that, in the second invention, the control unit determines that the toilet cubicle has been used for a long time if no excrement is detected within a predetermined time after the human body detection unit detects a user.

[0013] This toilet cubicle management system makes it possible to identify users who spend time in a toilet cubicle without defecating after entering the cubicle.

[0014] The fifth invention is a toilet cubicle management system according to the third or fourth invention, characterized in that the control unit cancels the determination that the toilet cubicle has been used for a long time if excrement is detected while the control unit has determined that the toilet cubicle has been used for a long time.

[0015] According to this toilet cubicle management system, even if a toilet cubicle is determined to have been used for a long time, if excretion is detected during that time, the long-term use will be canceled. This makes it possible to cancel the long-term use even if the user is unable to defecate due to poor health such as constipation. This makes it possible to more accurately determine the use status of the toilet cubicle.

[0016] A sixth invention is the toilet cubicle management system according to the second invention, characterized in that the predetermined time can be set to any value by the manager of the toilet cubicle.

[0017] This toilet cubicle management system allows the toilet cubicle manager to set the predetermined time to any value, allowing the manager to determine how long a user should stay in a toilet cubicle to be considered a long time.

[0018] A seventh invention is the toilet cubicle management system according to the first invention, further comprising a notification unit that notifies the user of the toilet cubicle usage status.

[0019] According to this toilet cubicle management system, if the notification unit is a management terminal of the manager, the manager can check the notification unit to know which toilet cubicle has been used for a long time. Also, if the notification unit is installed in the toilet cubicle, the manager can urge the user who has been using the toilet cubicle for a long time to leave.

[0020] The eighth invention is a toilet cubicle management system characterized in that, in the first invention, the excretion detection unit is an odor sensor, and if the odor detected by the odor sensor is above an odor threshold, it is determined that excrement has been detected, and if the odor detected by the odor sensor is below the odor threshold, it is determined that excrement has not been detected.

[0021] As time passes after a user defecates, the odor level decreases. For example, if a user remains in the toilet stall after defecating without flushing the toilet bowl, the odor level will exceed a certain threshold at the time of defecation, but the odor level will gradually decrease as time passes. Therefore, even if the toilet bowl has not been flushed, if the odor level falls below a certain threshold, it can be determined that the user has not defecated. This toilet stall management system uses an odor sensor to more accurately grasp the time that has passed since defecation. It also makes it possible to more accurately determine the usage status of the toilet stall.

[0022] The ninth invention is a toilet cubicle management system that manages the usage status of a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is installed, comprising: a human body detection unit that detects users using the toilet cubicle; an excretion detection unit that is installed in the toilet cubicle and detects excrement; a control unit that determines the usage status of users in the toilet cubicle based on the detection results of the excretion detection unit and has a memory unit that stores the usage status of the toilet cubicle; and an alarm unit that is capable of communicating with the control unit and alarms the usage status of the toilet cubicle, wherein the usage status includes the number of users who have used the toilet cubicle and the number of users who have excreted, and the control unit calculates the proportion of users who have excreted among the users who used the toilet cubicle, and the alarm unit alarms the proportion of users who have excreted.

[0023] This toilet cubicle management system can track the percentage of users who are not using the toilet at all, which can be useful information for managers to decide whether to open a rest room, etc. In addition, in the case of office facilities, managers can also track employee behavior.

[0024] The tenth invention is a toilet cubicle management system according to the ninth invention, characterized in that the usage status includes a number of people who have been determined to have used the toilet cubicle for a long time because no excrement has been detected for a predetermined period of time, the control unit calculates the proportion of users who have used the toilet cubicle for a long time among users who have defecated, and the notification unit notifies the proportion of users who have used the toilet cubicle for a long time.

[0025] This toilet stall management system makes it possible to ascertain the percentage of users who use a toilet stall for a long time after defecating in it, which allows managers, for example, to take measures to prevent congestion in the stalls.

[0026] The 11th invention is a toilet cubicle management method comprising: a human body detection unit that detects a user using a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is installed; an excretion detection unit that is installed in the toilet cubicle and detects excrement; and a control unit that determines the usage status of the user in the toilet cubicle based on the detection result of the excretion detection unit, wherein when the human body detection unit detects a user, the control unit determines the usage status of the toilet cubicle based on the detection of excrement by the excretion detection unit.

[0027] According to this toilet cubicle management method, the usage status of the toilet cubicle can be managed by detecting excrement using the excrement detection unit.

[0028] The 12th invention is a toilet cubicle management method comprising: a human body detection unit that detects users using a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is installed; an excretion detection unit that is installed in the toilet cubicle and detects excrement; and a control unit that determines the usage status of users in the toilet cubicle based on the detection results of the excretion detection unit and has a memory unit that stores the usage status of the toilet cubicle, wherein the control unit calculates the proportion of users who have defecated among users who used the toilet cubicle.

[0029] This toilet cubicle management method makes it possible to grasp the percentage of users who do not defecate at all despite using the cubicle. This information is useful for managers to decide whether to open a rest room, for example. In addition, in the case of office facilities, managers can also grasp the behavior of employees. [Effects of the Invention]

[0030] According to aspects of the present invention, a toilet cubicle management system and a toilet cubicle management method are provided that can manage the use of a toilet cubicle. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a toilet cubicle management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2]1 is a block diagram showing a toilet cubicle management system including a toilet room, a management device, and an alarm unit. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing private room use management control executed by a control unit of the management device. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart showing the use determination control after excretion in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] This is a time chart when the toilet cubicle is used normally. [Figure 6] This is a time chart for when you are taking a break in a toilet stall. [Figure 7] This is a time chart for when the device is used for a long time after excretion. [Figure 8] This is a time chart when a user suffering from constipation or the like uses a toilet stall. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the usage status of toilet cubicles within a specified period. [Figure 10] 10 is a graph showing the usage status in FIG. 9. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a toilet cubicle management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a toilet cubicle management system including a toilet cubicle, a management device, and a notification unit.

[0033] The toilet cubicle management system 1 manages the usage status of the toilet cubicles (hereinafter referred to as booths 10-12) in which toilet bowls 10a-12a are installed. The usage status includes whether or not a user has performed an excretory act, the length of time the user has stayed in the booths 10-12, etc.

[0034] The toilet room TR is installed, for example, in a public facility or building. As shown in FIG. 1, in this example, the toilet room TR has three booths 10 to 12. The toilet room TR is also equipped with a sink 20, a hand dryer (not shown), and the like. The toilet room TR is also equipped with a urinal 23 as needed. Note that the toilet cubicles are not limited to those installed in the toilet room TR, and may be, for example, general toilets or multi-purpose toilets.

[0035] The toilet cubicle management system 1 includes a management device 40 connected to the toilet rooms TR (booths 10 to 12) via a network 30, and a notification unit 50 connected to the management device 40 via the network 30.

[0036] The human body detection unit 15 detects users using each of the booths 10-12. The human body detection unit 15 is provided in each of the booths 10-12. The human body detection unit 15 can detect users entering and exiting the booths 10-12, for example, by using an entrance / exit sensor such as a door sensor, a seating sensor that detects sitting on the toilet bowls 10a-12a, and an infrared sensor that detects users in the booths 10-12. The detection results by the human body detection unit 15 are transmitted to the management device 40 via the network device 25.

[0037] The excretion detection unit 17 detects excrement by users in the booths 10-12. Here, excrement means at least one of feces, urination, and flatulence. The excretion detection unit 17 is, for example, an odor sensor, an image sensor, a line sensor, an area sensor, a water level sensor that indirectly detects excrement by detecting changes in the water level of the sealing water in the toilet bowls 10a-12a, and a radiation thermometer that receives infrared rays emitted from the excrement and detects the radiation temperature to detect excrement.

[0038] The excretion detection unit 17 detects, for example, feces, urine, and flatus excreted in the toilets 10a to 12a. The excretion detection unit 17 may be installed anywhere in the booths 10 to 12 as long as it can detect excrement. The detection results by the excretion detection unit 17 are transmitted to the management device 40 via the network device 25.

[0039] In this example, the excretion detection unit 17 is an odor sensor. If the odor detected by the odor sensor is equal to or greater than the odor threshold, it is determined that excrement has been detected. On the other hand, if the odor detected by the odor sensor is less than the odor threshold, it is determined that excrement has not been detected. The odor of excrement rises after the user defecates, and then gradually descends. The odor of excrement gradually descends as the excrement falls into the water seal of the toilet stools 10a-12a. The odor of excrement also gradually descends, for example, when the toilet stools 10a-12a are flushed.

[0040] The odor sensor may use other methods to determine whether excrement has been detected based on odor data. For example, it may determine that excrement is occurring while the detected odor value is on an increasing trend. Furthermore, for example, if the odor value before the user enters booth 10-12 is set to 0, and the odor increases by a predetermined value or more relative to this odor value of 0, it may be determined that excrement has occurred.

[0041] The network device 25 is provided in the toilet room TR. The network device 25 is a gateway that converts protocols. Note that the network device 25 is not limited to a gateway, and may be any communication device that can communicate with the outside.

[0042] The network devices 25 transmit a plurality of pieces of device information relating to the usage status and the need for maintenance of each of the booths 10-12 to the management device 40 via the network 30. In this way, the network devices 25 are connected to the plurality of booths 10-12 and transmit usage information and device information of each of the booths 10-12 to the management device 40. The network devices 25 also receive various command signals transmitted from the management device 40 and transmit them to the devices in each of the booths 10-12.

[0043] The network 30 is, for example, the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network), and connects the network devices 25 and the notification unit 50 via a management device 40. The network 30 may connect the management device 40 and the notification unit 50, and the management device 40 and the network devices 25, via a wired or wireless connection, or may be a combination of a wired and wireless connection. The network 30 may be any network that enables communication between the network devices 25, the management device 40, and the notification unit 50.

[0044] The management device 40 is installed at a location away from the toilet room TR. The management device 40 is, for example, a cloud server, and is connected to the notification unit 50 via the network 30 to manage information about the toilet room TR. The management device 40 may also be installed in the same building as the toilet room TR.

[0045] The management device 40 manages, for example, a plurality of restrooms TR. The management device 40 has a first communication unit 42, a second communication unit 44, and a control unit 46. The management device 40 acquires the usage status of each of the booths 10-12 and calculates how each of the booths 10-12 is being used.

[0046] The first communication unit 42 receives a command signal transmitted from the network device 25 in the toilet room TR. The first communication unit 42 also transmits a command signal to the network device 25. That is, the first communication unit 42 and the network device 25 communicate bidirectionally. The first communication unit 42 is controlled by the control unit 46.

[0047] The second communication unit 44 receives a command signal transmitted from the notification unit 50. The second communication unit 44 also transmits a command signal to the notification unit 50. That is, the second communication unit 44 and the notification unit 50 communicate bidirectionally. The second communication unit 44 is controlled by the control unit 46.

[0048] The control unit 46 controls the operation of the first communication unit 42 and the second communication unit 44. The control unit 46 stores, for example, command signals transmitted from the network device 25 (such as the usage status of the booths 10-12, device information on the toilet bowls 10a-12a, and information on the toilet room TR) and command signals transmitted from the notification unit 50 (such as cleaning information) in the storage unit 47. The control unit 46 also causes the first communication unit 42 to transmit command signals to the network device 25 and the second communication unit 44 to transmit command signals to the notification unit 50.

[0049] The control unit 46 acquires (receives) the usage status of each booth 10-12. Then, the control unit 46 associates the acquired usage status of each booth 10-12 with the date and time and stores it in the storage unit 47. Furthermore, based on the usage status of each booth 10-12 by the user, the control unit 46 calculates (determines) whether the user is using the booth 10-12 normally for the purpose of excretion, whether the user is using the booth for a long period of time, or whether the user is using the booth for an unintended purpose (for example, taking a break).

[0050] Normal use is a state in which a user uses the booths 10-12 for the purpose of excretion. Long-term use is a state in which a user stays in the booths 10-12 longer than necessary. A break is a state in which a user uses the booths 10-12 without excreting. The control unit 46 calculates the usage status of the booths 10-12 by the user based on the detection results of the human body detection unit 15 and the excretion detection unit 17. The control unit 46 causes the second communication unit 44 to transmit the calculated usage status of each booth 10-12 to the notification unit 50.

[0051] The notification unit 50 is an administrator terminal held by an administrator who manages the toilet room TR, and is, for example, a mobile terminal 50a or a PC terminal 50b. The notification unit 50 is connected to the management device 40 via the network 30.

[0052] The manager can, for example, connect to the management device 40 to obtain (view) various information about the toilet bowls 10a-12a installed in the toilet room TR. The manager can also operate the notification unit 50 to output various command signals from the management device 40 to the toilet room TR. Note that the mobile terminal 50a is only required to be capable of displaying various information about the toilet room TR, and is not limited to being owned by the manager, but may also be owned by a cleaner. The mobile terminal 50a and PC terminal 50b may also be capable of communicating with each other.

[0053] In this way, the toilet cubicle management system 1 enables the administrator to centrally manage the usage status of the toilet room TR, the need for maintenance, etc., by connecting the toilet room TR to the Internet of Things (IoT). This allows the administrator to grasp information about the toilet room TR from a location away from the toilet room TR.

[0054] Next, the calculation of the usage status of the booths 10 to 12 executed by the control unit 46 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the private room use management control executed by the control unit of the management device. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the use determination control after excretion in FIG. FIG. 5 is a time chart when the toilet stall is used normally. Figure 6 is a time chart for when you are taking a break in a toilet stall. FIG. 7 is a time chart showing the case where the device is used for a long time after excretion. FIG. 8 is a time chart showing the case where a user suffering from constipation or the like uses a toilet stall.

[0055] The control processing programs shown in Figures 3 and 4 are stored in advance in the memory unit 47 of the management device 40. The control processing programs shown in Figures 3 and 4 are repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle. Figure 3 shows the use determination control processing immediately after a user enters the booth 10. Figure 4 shows the use determination control processing after the user excretes. Note that in Figures 3 and 4, each step is indicated by "S", and for example, "step 1" is indicated by "S1". Below, an example will be described in which a user enters the booth 10.

[0056] In S1, it is determined whether or not a human body has been detected. That is, the control unit 46 determines whether or not the human body detection unit 15 has detected that a user has entered the booth 10. If the determination in S1 is "YES," that is, that a human body has been detected, the process proceeds to S2. On the other hand, if the determination in S1 is "NO," that is, that a human body has not been detected, the process ends and the control unit 46 continues to monitor entry into the booth 10.

[0057] In S2, the timer measurement is started (ON). That is, the control unit 46 starts measuring the time spent by the user after entering the booth 10. Time t1 in FIGS. 5 to 8 corresponds to S2.

[0058] In S3, it is determined whether or not excretion has occurred within a predetermined time ta. That is, the control unit 46 determines whether or not the excretion detection unit 17 of the booth 10 has detected that excretion has occurred within the predetermined time ta from entry into the booth 10. That is, the predetermined time ta is a threshold value of the time elapsed since entry, which is used to monitor the usage status of a user who has entered the booth 10.

[0059] The predetermined time ta is set to, for example, the normal time that elapses between when a user enters the booth 10 and when they defecate in the toilet bowl 10a. The predetermined time ta is, for example, about 1 to 3 minutes (preferably about 1 minute), and is stored in the memory unit 47. The predetermined time ta may be set or changed by the administrator via the notification unit 50, for example.

[0060] If S3 returns "YES," i.e., if it is determined that excretion has occurred within the predetermined time ta, the process proceeds to S4. On the other hand, if S3 returns "NO," i.e., if it is determined that no excretion has occurred within the predetermined time ta, the process proceeds to S6. Time t2 in Figures 5 and 7 corresponds to "YES" in S3.

[0061] In S4, the timer measurement is stopped (OFF). That is, when the user excretes within the predetermined time ta, the control unit 46 stops the timer measurement started in S2 and proceeds to the post-excretion use determination control process in S5. The post-excretion use determination control process in S5 is shown in FIG. 4 and will be described later. Time t2 in FIGS. 5 and 7 corresponds to S4.

[0062] In S6, it is determined whether a human body has been detected. That is, the control unit 46 monitors whether the user remains in the booth 10 or has left, based on the detection by the human body detection unit 15. If the determination in S6 is "YES", that is, that a human body has been detected, the process proceeds to S7. On the other hand, if the determination in S6 is "NO", that is, that a human body has not been detected, the process proceeds to S9.

[0063] In S7, it is determined that the booth 10 has been used for a long time. That is, the control unit 46 determines that the booth 10 has been used for a long time when the user has not excreted within a predetermined time ta since entering the booth 10.

[0064] The control unit 46 causes the second communication unit 44 to transmit to the notification unit 50, as the usage status of the booth 10, information indicating that the booth 10 has been used for a long time. The notification unit 50 notifies the user that the booth 10 has been used for a long time without excretion after entering the booth 10. This allows the manager to know, for example, that the booth 10 may be being used for purposes other than excretion. The control unit 46 also stores the time when the booth 10 has been used for a long time in the memory unit 47. The period from time t2 to time t3 in Figures 6 and 8 corresponds to S7.

[0065] In S8, it is determined whether or not there has been defecation. For example, if the user is in poor health due to constipation or the like, there is a risk that the user will not defecate within the predetermined time ta. Therefore, the control unit 46 monitors the user's defecation using the defecation detection unit 17 even while determining that the booth 10 has been used for a long time.

[0066] If S8 returns "YES," i.e., if it is determined that excretion has occurred, the process proceeds to S4. In this case, the control unit 46 cancels the determination of long-term use. When the notification unit 50 receives a command signal to cancel long-term use, it stops notifying of long-term use. On the other hand, if S8 returns "NO," i.e., if it is determined that no excretion has occurred, the process proceeds to S6, where it continues to monitor the user's exit from the booth 10 and the user's excretory behavior. Time t3 in FIG. 8 corresponds to "YES" in S8.

[0067] In S9, the timer measurement is stopped. That is, when the control unit 46 determines that the user has left the booth 10, the timer measurement started in S2 is stopped and the process proceeds to S10.

[0068] In S10, it is determined that the user is taking a rest (no excretion). In other words, if the user is using the booth 10 without excreting, the control unit 46 determines that the booth 10 is being used for an unintended purpose (taking a rest), and ends the process. The control unit 46 stores in the memory unit 47 the fact that the user who used the booth 10 has not excreted, as well as the times of entry and exit and duration of stay in the booth 10. The control unit 46 may also cause the notification unit 50 to notify that the booth 10 has been used for a rest. Time t3 in FIG. 6 corresponds to S9 and S10.

[0069] In this way, the control unit 46 monitors whether or not the user is defecating when the user enters the booth 10. This allows the manager to determine whether or not the user is using each of the booths 10 to 12 for purposes other than defecating.

[0070] Next, the use determination control process after excretion in S5 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0071] In S11, it is determined whether or not excretion has occurred. That is, the control unit 46 determines whether or not the excretion detection unit 17 has changed from detecting excretion to detecting no excretion. For example, as time passes from S3 and S8 in FIG. 3, the odor of excretion decreases, and no excretion is detected. Furthermore, flushing the toilet bowl 10a results in no excretion, and no excretion is detected. If S11 returns "YES," i.e., excretion has occurred, monitoring of excretion detection continues. On the other hand, if S11 returns "NO," i.e., no excretion is detected, the process proceeds to S12. Time t3 in FIG. 5, time t3, time t5, time t8 in FIG. 7, and time t4 in FIG. 8 correspond to "NO" in S11.

[0072] In S12, a timer measurement is started. That is, the control unit 46 starts measuring the time the user has stayed in the room since the detection switched from detection of excretion to detection of no excretion. Time t3 in FIG. 5, time t3, time t5, and time t8 in FIG. 7, and time t4 in FIG. 8 correspond to S12.

[0073] In S13, it is determined whether or not excretion has occurred within a predetermined time tb. That is, the control unit 46 determines whether or not the excretion detection unit 17 of the booth 10 has detected that the next excretion act occurred within the predetermined time tb. That is, the predetermined time tb is a threshold value of the time elapsed since excretion, which is used to monitor the usage status of the user after excretion.

[0074] The predetermined time tb is set to a time that takes into consideration, for example, the time required for washing the local area after excretion and for adjusting clothes. In other words, the predetermined time tb is set to the normal time that elapses from the time the user excretes until they leave the booth 10. The predetermined time tb is set to a time that is longer than the predetermined time ta. The predetermined time tb is, for example, about 2 to 5 minutes (preferably about 2 minutes), and is stored in the memory unit 47. The predetermined time tb may be set or changed by the administrator at will, for example, via the notification unit 50.

[0075] If S13 returns "NO," i.e., if it is determined that no excretion has occurred within the predetermined time tb, the process proceeds to S14. On the other hand, if S13 returns "YES," i.e., if it is determined that excretion has occurred within the predetermined time tb, the process proceeds to S18. Time t4 in FIG. 7 corresponds to "YES" in S13. Times t6 and t9 in FIG. 7 correspond to "NO" in S13.

[0076] In S14, it is determined whether a human body has been detected. That is, the control unit 46 monitors whether the user remains in the booth 10 or has left, based on the detection by the human body detection unit 15. If the determination in S14 is "NO", that is, no human body has been detected, the process proceeds to S15. On the other hand, if the determination in S14 is "YES", that is, a human body has been detected, the process proceeds to S16. Time t4 in FIG. 5, time t10 in FIG. 7, and time t5 in FIG. 8 correspond to "NO" in S14.

[0077] In S15, the timer measurement is stopped. That is, when the control unit 46 determines that the user has left the booth 10, the timer measurement started in S12 is stopped and the process ends. The control unit 46 stores in the memory unit 47 information on the user who used the booth 10 having excreted, the times of entry and exit to and stay in the booth 10, and whether or not the booth was used for a long period of time. Time t4 in FIG. 5, time t10 in FIG. 7, and time t5 in FIG. 8 correspond to S15.

[0078] In S16, it is determined that the booth 10 has been used for a long time. That is, the control unit 46 determines that the booth 10 has been used for a long time if no excrement is detected during the predetermined time tb after the state where excrement is detected is switched to the state where it is not detected.

[0079] The control unit 46 causes the second communication unit 44 to transmit to the notification unit 50, as the usage status of the booth 10, information indicating that the booth 10 has been used for a long time. The notification unit 50 notifies the user that the booth 10 has been used for a long time after excretion. This allows the manager to know, for example, that the booth 10 may have been used for a long time. The control unit 46 also stores the time when the booth 10 has been used for a long time in the memory unit 47. The period from time t6 to time t7 and the period from time t9 to time t10 in FIG. 7 correspond to S16.

[0080] In S17, it is determined whether or not there has been defecation. For example, if the user is in poor health, there is a risk that the user will not defecate within the predetermined time tb. Therefore, the control unit 46 monitors the user's defecation using the defecation detection unit 17 even while determining that the booth 10 has been used for a long time.

[0081] If S17 returns "YES," i.e., if it is determined that excretion has occurred, the process proceeds to S18. In this case, the control unit 46 cancels the determination of long-term use. When the notification unit 50 receives a command signal to cancel long-term use, it stops notifying of long-term use. On the other hand, if S17 returns "NO," i.e., if it is determined that no excretion has occurred, the process proceeds to S14, and monitoring for exit from the booth 10 and monitoring for excretory behavior by the user continues. Time t7 in FIG. 7 corresponds to "YES" in S17.

[0082] In S18, the timer measurement is stopped. That is, when the excretion detection unit 17 detects the occurrence of excretion, the control unit 46 stops the timer measurement, returns to S11, and monitors for the occurrence of no excretion. Times t4 and t7 in Fig. 7 correspond to S18.

[0083] In this way, when the human body detection unit 15 detects a user, the control unit 46 determines the usage status of the booths 10 to 12 (toilet cubicles) based on the detection of excrement by the excretion detection unit 17. This allows the manager to understand how the booths 10 to 12 are being used.

[0084] The control unit 46 determines the usage status of the booths 10 to 12 based on whether or not a state in which no excrement is detected continues for a predetermined time period. This allows the manager to identify users who are spending more time than necessary in the booths 10 to 12.

[0085] If no excrement is detected within a predetermined time period after the excrement detection state is switched from the detected state to the non-detected state, the control unit 46 determines that the booths 10 to 12 have been used for a long time. This makes it possible to identify users who have remained in the booths 10 to 12 for a long time after excreting.

[0086] If no excrement is detected within a predetermined time after the human body detection unit 15 detects a user, the control unit 46 determines that the booths 10-12 have been used for a long time. This makes it possible to identify users who are using the booths 10-12 for purposes other than excretory activities (for example, resting).

[0087] If excrement is detected while the control unit 46 determines that the booths 10-12 have been used for a long time, the control unit 46 cancels the determination of long-term use. As a result, it is possible to determine that a user who has been using the booths 10-12 for a long time due to poor physical condition such as constipation is using the booths 10-12 normally.

[0088] The predetermined times ta and tb can be set to any values ​​by the managers of the booths 10 to 12. This allows the managers to determine whether the booths 10 to 12 are being used for a long period of time, for example, according to the characteristics and environment of the facility.

[0089] The toilet cubicle management system 1 further includes a notification unit 50 that notifies the usage status of the booths 10 to 12. This allows the manager to know the usage status of the booths 10 to 12.

[0090] Furthermore, excretion detection unit 17 is an odor sensor, and if the odor detected by the odor sensor is equal to or greater than the odor threshold, it is determined that excretion has been detected, and if the odor detected by the odor sensor is less than the odor threshold, it is determined that excretion has not been detected. By using an odor sensor for excretion detection unit 17, the passage of time after excretion can be efficiently monitored.

[0091] According to the embodiment, in the toilet cubicle management method, when the human body detection unit 15 detects a user, the control unit 46 determines the usage status of the booths 10-12 based on the detection of excrement by the excretion detection unit 17. The usage status of the booths 10-12 is then notified by the notification unit 50. This allows the manager to understand how the booths 10-12 of the toilet room TR are being used.

[0092] Next, the statistics of each of the booths 10 to 12 calculated by the control unit 46 and the statistics of each of the booths 10 to 12 notified (displayed) by the notifying unit 50 will be described. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the usage status of toilet cubicles within a predetermined period. FIG. 10 is a graph showing the usage status in FIG.

[0093] The notification unit 50 is connected to the management device 40 to display the usage status of each booth 10 to 12 in real time. In addition, the manager can connect the notification unit 50 to the management device 40 and have the notification unit 50 display the usage history of each booth 10 to 12.

[0094] As an example, Figure 9 shows the usage history of each booth 10-12 in the toilet room TR from 9:00 to 10:00. The usage history of each booth 10-12 includes the time when use of each booth 10-12 began (entry time), whether excretion was detected, whether prolonged use was performed, and whether use was performed for a break. In Figure 9, "◯" indicates that excretion occurred, prolonged use was performed, and a break was performed, while "X" indicates that no excretion occurred, no prolonged use, or no break was performed. The notification unit 50 may also display the time of exit from each booth 10-12 as part of the usage history.

[0095] For example, the user who used booth 10 (number 1) at 9:00 has the following records: "Yes" for toileting, "No" for extended use, and "No" for breaks. Therefore, the administrator can recognize that booth 10 was used normally. Also, the user who used booth 11 (number 2) at 9:05 has the following records: "Yes" for toileting, "Yes" for extended use, and "No" for breaks. Therefore, the administrator can recognize that the user stayed in booth 11 for a long time after toileting. Also, the user who used booth 12 (number 3) at 9:10 has the following records: "No" for toileting, "Yes" for extended use, and "Yes" for breaks. Therefore, the administrator can recognize that the user took a long break in booth 12.

[0096] The control unit 46 also calculates the number of users who used booths 10-12 during a predetermined time period (9:00-10:00), the number of users who defecated, the number of users who used booths for a long time, and the number of users who took a break. In Fig. 9, the number of users who used booths 10-12 during the period from 9:00 to 10:00 is "10 people," the number of users who defecated is "7 people," the number of users who used booths for a long time is "5 people," and the number of users who took a break is "3 people."

[0097] The control unit 46 calculates a match rate from the usage history of each booth 10-12. The match rate may be, for example, the percentage of users who have used the booths 10-12 and have defecated, or the percentage of users who have used the booths 10-12 for a long period of time among those who have defecated. The control unit 46 may also calculate a match rate such as the percentage of users who have used the booths 10-12 for a long period of time among those who have used the booths 10-12, or the percentage of users who have used the booths 10-12 for a break among those who have used the booths 10-12. The match rate may be calculated for all the booths 10-12 in the toilet room TR, or may be calculated for each booth 10-12 individually.

[0098] Fig. 10 shows an example of a graph of the history shown in Fig. 9 and the calculation results of the matching rate. The graph of Fig. 10 and the calculation results of the matching rate are notified (displayed) by the notifying unit 50.

[0099] As shown in the graph in Figure 10, the manager can grasp the number of users of booths 10-12 in toilet room TR between 9:00 and 10:00, the number of users who used them to relieve themselves, the number of users who used them for long periods of time, and the number of users who were resting without urinating.

[0100] This graph shows, for example, the ratio of users who defecated (7 people) to the total number of users (10 people) using booths 10-12 (7 ÷ 10 × 100 = 70%), the ratio of users who used booths 10-12 for long periods of time (5 people) to the total number of users (10 people) using booths 10-12 (5 ÷ 10 × 100 = 50%), and the ratio of users who took a break (3 people) to the total number of users (10 people) using booths 10-12 (3 ÷ 10 × 100 = 30%).

[0101] Also, below the graph, the percentage of long-term users (3 people) out of the total number of users who excreted (7 people) (3 ÷ 7 × 100 = 43%), the percentage of long-term users (2 people) out of the total number of resting users (3 people) (2 ÷ 3 × 100 = 67%), and the percentage of short-term users (1 person) out of the total number of resting users (3 people) (1 ÷ 3 × 100 = 33%) are displayed. A short-term break is when a user leaves booths 10-12 without excreting within the specified time ta from entering booth 10-12.

[0102] This allows the manager to understand how the booths 10-12 of the toilet room TR are being used within a predetermined period (9:00-10:00). In other words, the manager can understand the usage status of the toilet room TR by time and by facility.

[0103] For example, if the ratio (matching rate) of the number of users who defecate to the number of users who use booths 10-12 is high and the number of users who use booths for a long period of time is low, the manager can determine that there are not enough booths 10-12 in the toilet room TR. Also, if the ratio (matching rate) of the number of users who take a break (3 people) to the number of users who use booths 10-12 is high, the manager can, for example, install a new rest area or inform users to refrain from using booths 10-12 for breaks.

[0104] 9 and 10 have been described with reference to an example of a notification mode targeting the total number of users of all booths 10-12 in the restroom TR. However, the control unit 46 may, for example, calculate the number of users and usage status for each booth 10-12 and cause the notification unit 50 to notify them. The control unit 46 may also, for example, cause the notification unit 50 to notify the match rate for each day and for each predetermined time period. The control unit 46 may also, for example, calculate the number of users and usage status for each floor of a building and cause the notification unit 50 to notify them. This allows the manager to have a detailed understanding of the usage status of each booth 10-12 and the usage status of the restroom TR.

[0105] In this way, the usage status includes the number of users who used the booths 10-12 and the number of users who defecated. The control unit 46 calculates the percentage of users who defecated among the users who used the booths 10-12. The notification unit 50 notifies the percentage of users who defecated. This allows the manager to know the percentage of users who used the booths 10-12 without the purpose of defecating.

[0106] The usage status also includes the number of people who have been determined to have used the booths 10-12 for a long time, based on the fact that no excrement has been detected for a predetermined period of time, and the control unit 46 calculates the percentage of users who have used the booths 10-12 for a long time among users who have excreted. The notification unit 50 notifies the percentage of users who have used the booths 10-12 for a long time. This allows the manager to know the percentage of users who have used the booths 10-12 for a long time, even if they have excreted.

[0107] According to the embodiment, the toilet cubicle management method is such that the control unit 46 calculates the ratio of users who have excreted among users who have used the booths 10-12. The toilet cubicle management method also calculates the above-mentioned coincidence rate. The calculated coincidence rate is then notified by the notification unit 50. This allows the manager to understand how the booths 10-12 of the toilet room TR are being used.

[0108] In the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the control unit 46 of the management device 40 calculates the usage status of the booths 10 to 12. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the calculation of the usage status of the booths 10 to 12 may be performed by the control unit of the notification unit 50 or the control unit of the toilet room, for example.

[0109] In the above-described embodiment, the notification unit 50 is an administrator terminal (mobile terminal 50a or PC terminal 50b). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the notification unit may be installed in each of the booths 10-12. The notification unit installed in the booths 10-12 can urge users of the booths 10-12 to leave the booths 10-12 by notifying them of extended use, for example.

[0110] In the above-described embodiment, an example was described in which long-term use was canceled if excretion was detected while the booth was determined to be in use for a long time. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the determination of long-term use may be canceled if a remote control installed in the booths 10-12 is operated (such as the cleaning button or the private parts cleaning button is operated). Furthermore, the notification unit 50 may notify the user that long-term use has been canceled, the number of times it has been canceled, and the duration of the cancellation, based on the usage history shown in FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0111] Embodiments may include the following features. (Configuration 1) A toilet cubicle management system that manages the usage status of a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is installed, A human body detection unit that detects entry and exit into the toilet cubicle; An excretion detection unit provided in the toilet cubicle that detects excretion; a control unit that determines the usage status of the user in the toilet stall based on the detection result of the excretion detection unit; Equipped with The control unit A toilet cubicle management system characterized in that when the human body detection unit detects a user, the usage status of the toilet cubicle is determined based on the detection of excrement by the excretion detection unit. (Configuration 2) The toilet cubicle management system described in configuration 1 is characterized in that the control unit determines the usage status of the toilet cubicle based on whether or not a state in which no excrement is detected continues for a predetermined period of time. (Configuration 3) The toilet cubicle management system described in configuration 2 is characterized in that the control unit determines that the toilet cubicle has been used for a long time if no excrement is detected within a predetermined time after the state where excrement detection is present changes to the state where excrement detection is not present. (Configuration 4) A toilet cubicle management system as described in configuration 2 or 3, characterized in that the control unit determines that the toilet cubicle has been used for a long time if no excrement is detected within a predetermined time after the human body detection unit detects a user. (Configuration 5) A toilet cubicle management system as described in configuration 3 or 4, characterized in that the control unit cancels the determination of long-term use if excrement is detected while determining that the toilet cubicle has been used for a long time. (Configuration 6) 6. The toilet cubicle management system according to any one of configurations 2 to 5, wherein the predetermined time can be set to any value by a manager of the toilet cubicle. (Configuration 7) 7. The toilet cubicle management system according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, further comprising a notification unit that notifies the user of the toilet cubicle. (Configuration 8) the excretion detection unit is an odor sensor, If the odor detected by the odor sensor is equal to or greater than the odor threshold, it is determined that excrement has been detected. 8. The toilet cubicle management system according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein if the odor detected by the odor sensor is less than an odor threshold, it is determined that no excrement has been detected. (Configuration 9) A toilet cubicle management system that manages the usage status of a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is installed, a human body detection unit that detects a user using the toilet cubicle; An excretion detection unit provided in the toilet cubicle that detects excretion; a control unit that determines the usage status of the user in the toilet cubicle based on the detection result of the excretion detection unit and has a memory unit that stores the usage status of the toilet cubicle; a notification unit capable of communicating with the control unit and notifying the use status of the toilet cubicle; Equipped with The usage status includes the number of users who used the toilet cubicle and the number of users who excreted, The control unit calculates the ratio of users who have excreted among users who have used the toilet cubicle, The toilet cubicle management system is characterized in that the notification unit notifies the percentage of users who have excreted. (Configuration 10) The usage status includes a number of people who have been determined to be using the toilet cubicle for a long time because a state in which no excrement has been detected continues for a predetermined time, and The control unit calculates the ratio of users who used the toilet cubicle for a long time among users who excreted, 10. The toilet cubicle management system according to claim 9, wherein the notification unit notifies the percentage of users who have used the toilet cubicle for a long period of time. (Configuration 11) a human body detection unit that detects a user using a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is provided; An excretion detection unit provided in the toilet cubicle that detects excretion; a control unit that determines the usage status of the user in the toilet stall based on the detection result of the excretion detection unit; Equipped with A toilet cubicle management method characterized in that, when the human body detection unit detects a user, the control unit determines the usage status of the toilet cubicle based on the detection of excrement by the excretion detection unit. (Configuration 12) a human body detection unit that detects a user using a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is provided; An excretion detection unit provided in the toilet cubicle that detects excretion; a control unit that determines the usage status of the user in the toilet cubicle based on the detection result of the excretion detection unit and has a memory unit that stores the usage status of the toilet cubicle; Equipped with A toilet cubicle management method characterized in that the control unit calculates the percentage of users who have urinated among users who have used the toilet cubicle.

[0112] The above describes embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they incorporate the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, and arrangement of each element of the toilet cubicle management system and toilet cubicle management method are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of each of the above-described embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they incorporate the features of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1. Toilet cubicle management system 10~12 Toilet cubicles (booths) 10a~12a Toilet bowl 15 Human body detection unit 17 Excretion detection unit 20 Washbasin 23 Urinal 25 Network Equipment 30 Network 40 Management device 42 First Communications Department 44 Second Communications Department 46 Control Unit 47 Memory section 50 Information Department 50a Mobile Device 50b PC terminal TR Toilet Room

Claims

1. A toilet cubicle management system that manages the usage status of a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is installed, A human body detection unit that detects entry and exit into the toilet cubicle; An excretion detection unit provided in the toilet cubicle that detects excretion; a control unit that determines the usage status of the user in the toilet stall based on the detection result of the excretion detection unit; Equipped with The control unit A toilet cubicle management system characterized in that when the human body detection unit detects a user, the usage status of the toilet cubicle is determined based on the detection of excrement by the excretion detection unit.

2. The toilet cubicle management system according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit determines the usage status of the toilet cubicle based on whether or not a state in which no excrement is detected continues for a predetermined period of time.

3. The toilet cubicle management system described in claim 2, characterized in that the control unit determines that the toilet cubicle has been used for a long period of time if no excrement is detected within a predetermined time after the state changes from one in which excrement is detected to one in which excrement is not detected.

4. The toilet cubicle management system described in claim 2, characterized in that the control unit determines that the toilet cubicle has been used for a long period of time if no excrement is detected within a predetermined time after the human body detection unit detects a user.

5. A toilet cubicle management system as described in claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the control unit cancels the determination of long-term use if excrement is detected while the control unit determines that the toilet cubicle has been used for a long time.

6. 3. The toilet cubicle management system according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined time can be set to any value by the manager of the toilet cubicle.

7. The toilet cubicle management system according to claim 1, further comprising an alarm unit that notifies the usage status of the toilet cubicle.

8. the excretion detection unit is an odor sensor, If the odor detected by the odor sensor is equal to or greater than the odor threshold, it is determined that excrement has been detected.

2. The toilet cubicle management system according to claim 1, wherein if the odor detected by the odor sensor is less than an odor threshold, it is determined that no excrement has been detected.

9. A toilet cubicle management system that manages the usage status of a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is installed, a human body detection unit that detects a user using the toilet cubicle; An excretion detection unit provided in the toilet cubicle that detects excretion; a control unit that determines the usage status of the user in the toilet cubicle based on the detection result of the excretion detection unit and has a memory unit that stores the usage status of the toilet cubicle; a notification unit capable of communicating with the control unit and notifying the use status of the toilet cubicle; Equipped with The usage status includes the number of users who used the toilet cubicle and the number of users who excreted, The control unit calculates the ratio of users who have excreted among users who have used the toilet cubicle, The toilet cubicle management system is characterized in that the notification unit notifies the percentage of users who have excreted.

10. The usage status includes a number of people who have been determined to be using the toilet cubicle for a long time because a state in which no excrement has been detected continues for a predetermined time, and The control unit calculates the ratio of users who used the toilet cubicle for a long time among users who excreted, The toilet cubicle management system according to claim 9, wherein the notification unit notifies the percentage of users who have used the toilet cubicle for a long period of time.

11. a human body detection unit that detects a user using a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is provided; An excretion detection unit provided in the toilet cubicle that detects excretion; a control unit that determines the usage status of the user in the toilet stall based on the detection result of the excretion detection unit; Equipped with A toilet cubicle management method characterized in that, when the human body detection unit detects a user, the control unit determines the usage status of the toilet cubicle based on the detection of excrement by the excretion detection unit.

12. a human body detection unit that detects a user using a toilet cubicle in which a toilet bowl is provided; An excretion detection unit provided in the toilet cubicle that detects excretion; a control unit that determines the usage status of the user in the toilet cubicle based on the detection result of the excretion detection unit and has a memory unit that stores the usage status of the toilet cubicle; Equipped with A toilet cubicle management method characterized in that the control unit calculates the percentage of users who have urinated among users who have used the toilet cubicle.

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