Bathroom system

Abstract

To properly control a drying device of a bathroom.SOLUTION: A bathroom system includes: an electric wave sensor provided in a bathroom having a drying device, and for detecting a moisture amount in the bathroom in an upper space in the vertical direction above a bathtub out of the bathroom; setting means for setting a drive condition of the drying device based on the detection result of the electric wave sensor; and control means for controlling the drive of the drying device based on the setting result of the setting 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 the state of a bathroom, such as the conventional technology for detecting the state of a user in a bathroom, can be effectively used for various purposes other than 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 appropriately controls the objects to be dried, such as the dryer, when it becomes necessary to operate the dryer, such as when drying laundry in the bathroom.

[0005] In view of the above, it is important to appropriately control the bathroom drying device.

[0006] The disclosed embodiments aim to provide a bathroom system that can appropriately control a drying device in a bathroom. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment is installed in a bathroom having a drying device, and is characterized by comprising: a radio wave sensor that detects the amount of moisture in the bathroom in the upper space vertically above the bathtub; a setting means that sets the operating conditions of the drying device based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor; and a control means that controls the operation of the drying device based on the setting results of the setting means.

[0008] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system detects the amount of moisture in a bathroom (also referred to as a "bathroom"), sets operating conditions for the drying device based on the detection results, and controls the operation of the drying device, thereby enabling appropriate control of the drying device based on the situation in the bathroom. For example, by measuring the amount of moisture in an area higher than the bathtub in the bathroom, the bathroom system can measure the amount of moisture in the bathroom atmosphere without being affected by a heavily wet floor after use or a bathtub filled with water. This allows the bathroom system to accurately determine the drying state of clothes, which are often placed above the bathtub, and eliminates unnecessary energy consumption by the dryer. This allows the bathroom system to appropriately control the bathroom drying device. For example, when drying clothes in the bathroom, laundry is hung on a clothesline installed above the bathtub. Therefore, the bathroom system can accurately determine the degree of dryness of the clothes by detecting the amount of moisture in that area. Furthermore, because water flows on the floor during bathing and a relatively large number of water droplets remain after bathing, the bathroom system avoids these areas as much as possible and measures the moisture amount mainly in the upper space, thereby accurately determining the degree of dryness of the clothes.

[0009] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system is configured such that the setting means changes the operating conditions of the drying device at the start of operation from a first condition to a second condition based on the detection result after the drying device starts operating.

[0010] The degree of wetness of the floor and walls varies depending on the time elapsed since the end of a bath, the ambient temperature and humidity, and other factors. Therefore, a bathroom system according to one embodiment can appropriately control the drying device based on the bathroom conditions by changing the operating conditions of the drying device according to the situation. For example, the bathroom system can operate the drying device at an optimal time without waste by adjusting the operating time of the drying device according to the amount of moisture in the bathroom while the drying device is operating, thereby saving energy. This allows the bathroom system to appropriately control the drying device in the bathroom. For example, the bathroom system can detect the amount of moisture in the atmosphere after the drying operation has started and adjust the operating time (drying time) of the drying device according to the degree of dryness, thereby efficiently drying clothes.

[0011] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system sets the operating conditions of the drying device to a first operating time based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom before the drying device starts operating, the control means controls the operation of the drying device based on the first operating time, and the setting means changes the operating conditions of the drying device to a second operating time different from the first operating time based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom detected by the radio wave sensor at a predetermined timing after the drying device starts operating based on the first operating time.

[0012] Typically, when using a bathroom dryer, the moisture content in the bathroom is detected first, the dryer's operating time is set, and operation begins. However, factors such as the temperature and humidity outside the bathroom can sometimes cause the laundry to dry more slowly than expected, or even earlier than expected. Therefore, according to one embodiment of the bathroom system, the operating time (drying time) of the dryer can be adjusted midway to optimize the operating time, leading to energy savings. This allows the bathroom system to appropriately control the bathroom dryer. For example, even if the operating time (drying time) of the dryer is set based on the initial moisture content, the drying speed varies depending on factors such as the ambient temperature and humidity or the amount of laundry. Therefore, the bathroom system can efficiently dry clothes by adjusting the operating time (drying time) of the dryer based on the moisture content of the atmosphere during drying.

[0013] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system sets the operating conditions of the drying device to a first air volume condition based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom before the drying device starts operating, the control means controls the operation of the drying device based on the first air volume condition, and the setting means changes the operating conditions of the drying device to a second air volume condition different from the first air volume condition based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom detected by the radio wave sensor at a predetermined timing after the drying device starts operating based on the first air volume condition.

[0014] Typically, when using a bathroom dryer, the moisture content in the bathroom is first detected and the drying airflow (also simply referred to as "airflow") of the dryer is set before operation begins. However, factors such as the temperature and humidity outside the bathroom can sometimes cause the clothes to dry more slowly than expected, or even earlier than expected. Therefore, according to one embodiment of the bathroom system, the airflow of the dryer can be changed midway through operation, optimizing the operation time and saving energy. This allows the bathroom system to appropriately control the bathroom dryer. For example, even if the airflow of the dryer is set based on the initial moisture content, the drying speed will vary depending on factors such as the ambient temperature and humidity or the amount of laundry. Therefore, the bathroom system can efficiently dry clothes by adjusting the airflow of the dryer based on the moisture content of the atmosphere during drying.

[0015] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system includes an area for drying clothes before drying, and the setting means sets the operating conditions of the drying device based on the output signal of the radio wave sensor that detects the upper space excluding the radio wave reflection area including the surface side of the interior wall panels that form the bathroom.

[0016] For example, because radio waves are strongly reflected by panels (wall surfaces), it is difficult to detect signals in the area in the bathroom where clothes are dried before drying. 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 status of the area in the bathroom where clothes are dried before drying without being affected by the strong reflected radio wave signals, thereby appropriately estimating changes in the state of the bathroom. For example, the bathroom system can estimate the drying status of the clothes in the bathroom by collecting and accumulating the amount of moisture 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 state of the bathroom. For example, by excluding areas with high reflection intensity using a radio wave sensor, the bathroom system can clearly capture small changes such as the drying status (moisture content) of the clothes in the bathroom, thereby increasing reliability. Furthermore, by excluding areas with high reflection intensity using a radio wave sensor, the bathroom system can clearly capture the status (moisture content of the space) of the area in the bathroom where clothes are dried before drying, thereby increasing reliability of estimation (determination). Therefore, the bathroom system can appropriately control the bathroom dryer. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the drying device in the bathroom can be appropriately controlled. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [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 showing 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 processing procedure 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 the arrangement of drying devices in a bathroom. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which an object to be dried is dried in a bathroom. [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

[0019] 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.

[0020] <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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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."

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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).

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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).

[0037] <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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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).

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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).

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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).

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] <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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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).

[0119] 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.

[0120] <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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] <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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] <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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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. When describing radio wave sensor 10a1, radio wave sensor 10a2, and radio wave sensor 10a3 without making any particular distinction, they will be referred to as radio wave sensor 10a. In this way, bathroom system 1A has three radio wave sensors 10a, each located in a different position.

[0153] 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.

[0154] <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.

[0155] <1-7-1. Example of controlling a bathroom dryer> For example, the bathroom system 1 may execute a control process (also called a "drying control process") that controls the operation of equipment such as a dryer (bathroom dryer) installed to dry clothes in the bathroom 2 based on operating conditions set based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 10a in the bathroom 2.

[0156] For example, as shown in Figure 13, bathroom system 1 controls the operation of drying device 108A, which is a device installed in bathroom 2 for drying clothes in bathroom 2. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the placement of drying devices in a bathroom. Figure 13 shows a case where drying device 108A is installed on ceiling panel 2f of bathroom 2 of bathroom system 1.

[0157] For example, in a bathroom system 1 equipped with a drying device 108A as shown in Figure 13, clothes to be dried (also referred to as "items to be dried") are placed in bathroom 2 in the manner shown in Figure 14. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of the manner in which items to be dried are dried in the bathroom. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted where appropriate.

[0158] FIG. 14 shows a case where three items LD to be dried, which are clothes, are placed in bathroom 2. As such, FIG. 14 shows an example where the items LD to be dried are washed clothes (laundry). Note that the items to be dried are not limited to laundry such as clothes or bath towels, and may be any object that is desired to be dried. In bathroom system 1 shown in FIG. 14, a U-shaped support member 23a with an open top is provided on side panel 2a, and a U-shaped support member 23b with an open top is provided on side panel 2c opposite side panel 2a.

[0159] For example, support member 23a is provided on side panel 2a at a position on the side of bathtub 4 in bathroom 2 and vertically above bathtub 4 in a plan view. Support member 23b is provided on side panel 2c at a position on the side of bathtub 4 in bathroom 2 and vertically above bathtub 4 in a plan view. In this way, support member 23a on side panel 2a and support member 23b on side panel 2c are positioned facing the upper space vertically above bathtub 4 (also referred to as the "upper space of bathtub 4"). The upper space of bathtub 4 here is, for example, the area that overlaps with bathtub 4 in bathroom 2 in a plan view and is above the top edge of bathtub 4.

[0160] 14, a rod-shaped member 24 that functions as a clothesline is placed in the space above the bathtub 4. The rod-shaped member 24 is fixed in position in the space above the bathtub 4 by having both longitudinal ends of the rod supported by support member 23a of side panel 2a and support member 23b of side panel 2c, respectively.

[0161] The items LD to be dried, which are the clothes to be dried in the bathroom 2, are placed in the space above the bathtub 4 by being hung on a rod-shaped member 24 using a hanger or the like. In this way, in the bathroom system 1 shown in Figures 13 and 14, the space above the bathtub 4 includes an area where the items LD to be dried, which are the clothes to be dried in the bathroom 2, are placed. For example, the space above the bathtub 4 includes an area where the items LD to be dried are dried before being dried.

[0162] In the bathroom system 1 shown in Figures 13 and 14, the object to be dried LD, which is the target for drying clothes, is placed in the space above the bathtub 4, so by detecting the space above the bathtub 4, it is possible to estimate the state of the object to be dried LD, such as whether it is wet or dry. Radio wave sensor 10a is provided in bathroom 2, which has drying device 108A, and its detection range includes the space above the bathtub 4 in the bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1 estimates (detects) the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 based on the detection of the space above the bathtub 4 by radio wave sensor 10a.

[0163] For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate (detect) the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 based on detection of the space above bathtub 4 by radio wave sensor 10a by treating the target in the processing in Fig. 5 and other figures as an object to be dried. In this case, bathroom system 1 may process the user entry state in the processing in Fig. 5 and other figures as a state in which no one is in bathroom 2 and there is an object to be dried, such as clothes, present (also referred to as a "bathroom drying use state"). For example, in the bathroom drying use state, radio waves reflected by an object (reflecting object) including an object to be dried is detected by radio wave sensor 10a, and point cloud information representing the object (reflecting object) including the object to be dried is detected.

[0164] The acquisition of information by radio wave sensor 10a detecting the space above bathtub 4 is similar to the process described above with reference to FIG. 5 and other figures, except that the target in the process described above with reference to FIG. 5 and other figures is changed from a user to an object to be dried. An example of the process will be briefly described below. For example, bathroom system 1 acquires detection information (second detection information) based on reflection from an object (reflecting object) including an object to be dried while the bathroom is in the bathroom drying mode. For example, by performing detection while the bathroom is in the bathroom drying mode, bathroom system 1 acquires point cloud information (second point cloud information) detected by reflection from an object (reflecting object) including an object to be dried as the second detection information targeting the object to be dried.

[0165] For example, bathroom system 1 uses second detection information and first detection information targeting the object to be dried 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 second point cloud information and first point cloud information to generate third point cloud information targeting the object to be dried by removing point clouds based on reflections from walls and corners with high reflection intensity from the second point cloud information. As a result, bathroom system 1 excludes radio wave reflection areas other than the object to be dried, such as walls and corners with high reflection intensity, from the detection range. Furthermore, bathroom system 1 generates fourth point cloud information targeting the object to be dried using a process similar to the process described above with reference to FIG. 5, etc.

[0166] Note that the above is just one example, and the bathroom system 1 may acquire information from the detection of the space above the bathtub 4 by the radio wave sensor 10a using any method as long as the information can be acquired from the detection of the space above the bathtub 4 by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0167] For example, bathroom system 1 estimates (detects) information about the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 using the obtained point cloud information targeting the object to be dried. For example, bathroom system 1 estimates the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 based on detection information (third detection information, fourth detection information, etc.) such as point cloud information targeting the object to be dried (third point cloud information, fourth point cloud information, etc.).

[0168] For example, if the detection information on the object to be dried indicates that the object to be dried is wet, the bathroom system 1 estimates that the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2 is high. For example, if the reflection from the object to be dried is high, the bathroom system 1 estimates that the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2 is high. For example, if the detection information on the object to be dried indicates that the object to be dried is dry, the bathroom system 1 estimates that the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2 is low. For example, if the reflection from the object to be dried is low, the bathroom system 1 estimates that the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2 is low.

[0169] Note that the above is merely one example, and bathroom system 1 may estimate the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 using various information. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 using information for estimating the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 (also referred to as "moisture amount estimation information"). For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 using list information that associates values ​​based on detection by radio wave sensor 10a with the moisture amounts corresponding to those values ​​as moisture amount estimation information.

[0170] For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 using list information that associates values ​​based on the intensity (reflection intensity) of reflected waves from each point corresponding to the space in bathroom 2 where the objects to be dried are placed (for example, the space above bathtub 4) with the amount of moisture corresponding to that value. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 using list information that associates average values ​​of the intensity (reflection intensity) of reflected waves from each point corresponding to the space in bathroom 2 where the objects to be dried are placed (for example, the space above bathtub 4) with the amount of moisture corresponding to that average value.

[0171] Bathroom system 1 may also estimate the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 using a predetermined function (also referred to as a "moisture amount estimation function") for estimating (calculating) the amount of moisture as moisture amount estimation information. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 using detection information (such as point cloud information) targeting the object to be dried and the moisture amount estimation function. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 using a moisture amount estimation function that takes as input (independent variable) a value based on the intensity (reflection intensity) of reflected waves from each point corresponding to the space in bathroom 2 where the object to be dried is placed (for example, the space above bathtub 4) and outputs (dependent variable) the amount of moisture.

[0172] Bathroom system 1 also sets the operating conditions for drying device 108A according to the amount of moisture in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 sets the operating conditions for drying device 108A according to the amount of moisture in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 sets the operating conditions, including the operating time, for drying device 108A, using information for setting the operating time for drying device 108A according to the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 (also referred to as "time setting information").

[0173] For example, bathroom system 1 sets the operating conditions, including the operating time, of drying device 108A, using list information that associates the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 with the operating time of drying device 108A corresponding to that amount of moisture as time setting information. For example, bathroom system 1 references the time setting information and determines the operating time corresponding to the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 at that time as an estimated optimal value. Bathroom system 1 sets the operating conditions, including the operating time of drying device 108A, based on a comparison between the set value for the operating time of drying device 108A at that time and the optimal value.

[0174] For example, if the set value for the drive time of drying device 108A at that time is greater than the optimal value, bathroom system 1 changes the drive time of drying device 108A by decreasing the set value for the drive time of drying device 108A to bring it closer to the optimal value. Also, if the set value for the drive time of drying device 108A at that time is less than the optimal value, bathroom system 1 changes the drive time of drying device 108A by increasing the set value for the drive time of drying device 108A to bring it closer to the optimal value.

[0175] Furthermore, bathroom system 1 may maintain the set value of the drive time of drying device 108A if the set value of the drive time of drying device 108A at that time is equal to the optimal value. Furthermore, when starting to drive drying device 108A, bathroom system 1 sets the estimated optimal value as the drive time (initial setting value) at the start of drive of drying device 108A. Note that when starting to drive drying device 108A, bathroom system 1 may start to drive drying device 108A using the initial drive values ​​of drying device 108A (initial setting value of drive time, initial setting value of air volume, initial setting value of temperature, etc.) stored in advance in data storage unit 101.

[0176] This allows bathroom system 1 to appropriately set the operating conditions for drying device 108A according to the amount of moisture in bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1 controls drying device 108A based on the operating conditions for drying device 108A that are set according to the amount of moisture in bathroom 2.

[0177] The above-described process is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may appropriately set various operating conditions for drying device 108A based on any information. For example, bathroom system 1 may set the air volume of drying device 108A according to the amount of moisture in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 may set the temperature of the air output from drying device 108A (air blowing temperature) according to the amount of moisture in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 may set the direction of the air output from drying device 108A (wind direction) according to the amount of moisture in bathroom 2.

[0178] 13 and 14 are merely examples, and bathroom system 1 may have drying device 108A in any form as long as the desired drying control process can be performed. For example, bathroom system 1 may have drying device 108A integrated with the air conditioning unit of air conditioner 108. In this case, air conditioner 108 may have drying device 108A. For example, if drying is performed by ventilation, bathroom system 1 may have drying device 108A integrated with the ventilation unit of ventilation fan 109. In this case, ventilation fan 109 may have drying device 108A.

[0179] <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.

[0180] Sensor unit 10 detects information used by bathroom system 1 for the drying control process. Sensor unit 10 detects information used by control unit 100A for the drying control process. Radio wave sensor 10a of sensor unit 10 is provided in bathroom 2 having drying device 108A, and detects the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 in the upper space vertically above bathtub 4.

[0181] The control unit 100A performs various processes similar to those of the control unit 100. The control unit 100A also performs drying control processing. An example of the 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 has a setting unit 112 and a device control unit 113 in addition to the configuration of the control unit 100 shown in FIG.

[0182] 15, the control unit 100A has a state estimation unit 110, a determination unit 111, a setting 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.

[0183] 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 presence or absence of a person in bathroom 2 based on output data from radio wave sensor 10a1, etc. State estimation unit 110 estimates the user's behavior in bathroom 2, including the user's position, movement, etc.

[0184] The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) information indicating the estimated state inside the bathroom 2 in the data storage unit 101 in association with information indicating the time point when the estimation was made (time information). For example, the state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) information indicating the estimated presence or absence of a person in the bathroom 2 in association with information indicating the time point when the estimation was made (time information) in the data storage unit 101. The state estimation unit 110 may also register (store) information indicating the estimated behavior of the user inside the bathroom 2 in the data storage unit 101 as the behavior history of the user. In this case, 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).

[0185] Setting unit 112 performs various settings. For example, setting unit 112 sets the operating conditions (setting values, etc.) of each bathroom dryer registered in data storage unit 101. Setting unit 112 performs settings related to the control of the devices that make up bathroom 2 (also referred to as "bathroom-related devices") based on changes in the state of bathroom 2 estimated by state estimation unit 110. Setting unit 112 performs settings related to the control of the bathroom-related devices based on the determination result by determination unit 111. For example, the devices that make up bathroom 2 (bathroom-related devices) include at least drying device 108A.

[0186] Setting unit 112 functions as a setting means for setting the operating conditions of drying device 108A based on the detection results of radio wave sensor 10a. For example, setting unit 112 sets the operating conditions of drying device 108A based on the output signal of radio wave sensor 10a, whose detection target is the upper space excluding the radio wave reflection area including the surface side of the interior wall panel that forms bathroom 2. Setting unit 112 changes the operating conditions of drying device 108A at the start of operation from the first condition to the second condition based on the detection results after the start of operation of drying device 108A.

[0187] Setting unit 112 sets the operating time of drying device 108A based on the amount of moisture in bathroom 2. Setting unit 112 sets the operating condition of drying device 108A to a first operating time based on the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 before drying device 108A starts operating. Setting unit 112 changes the operating condition of drying device 108A to a second operating time different from the first operating time based on the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 detected by radio wave sensor 10a at a predetermined timing after drying device 108A starts operating based on the first operating time.

[0188] The setting unit 112 estimates information related to the moisture content in the bathroom 2 using the obtained point cloud information on the objects to be dried. Note that the information related to the moisture content in the bathroom 2 may be estimated by the state estimation unit 110. For example, the setting unit 112 estimates the moisture content in the bathroom 2 based on detection information such as point cloud information on the objects to be dried.

[0189] If the detection information on the object to be dried indicates that the object to be dried is wet, the setting unit 112 estimates that the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2 is high. If the reflection from the object to be dried is high, the setting unit 112 estimates that the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2 is high. If the detection information on the object to be dried indicates that the object to be dried is dry, the setting unit 112 estimates that the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2 is low. If the reflection from the object to be dried is low, the setting unit 112 estimates that the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2 is low.

[0190] The setting unit 112 uses the moisture amount estimation information to estimate the moisture amount in the bathroom 2. The setting unit 112 estimates the moisture amount in the bathroom 2 using list information that associates values ​​based on detection by the radio wave sensor 10a with the moisture amounts corresponding to those values ​​as the moisture amount estimation information.

[0191] Setting unit 112 estimates the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 using moisture amount estimation information that associates values ​​based on the intensity (reflection intensity) of reflected waves from each point corresponding to the space above bathtub 4 with the amount of moisture corresponding to that value. Setting unit 112 estimates the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 using moisture amount estimation information that associates, for example, the average value of the intensity (reflection intensity) of reflected waves from each point corresponding to the space above bathtub 4 with the amount of moisture corresponding to that average value.

[0192] The setting unit 112 estimates the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2 using a moisture amount estimation function. The setting unit 112 estimates the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2 using detection information (point cloud information, etc.) targeting the object to be dried and the moisture amount estimation function. The setting unit 112 estimates the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2 using the moisture amount estimation function, which takes as input values ​​based on the intensity (reflection intensity) of reflected waves from each point corresponding to the space above the bathtub 4 and outputs the moisture amount.

[0193] Setting unit 112 sets the operating conditions for drying device 108A according to the amount of moisture in bathroom 2. For example, setting unit 112 sets the operating time for drying device 108A according to the amount of moisture in bathroom 2. For example, setting unit 112 uses time setting information to set the operating conditions, including the operating time for drying device 108A.

[0194] Setting unit 112 sets the operating time of drying device 108A using time setting information that associates the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 with the operating time of drying device 108A corresponding to that moisture amount. If the set value of operating time of drying device 108A is greater than the estimated optimal value, setting unit 112 changes the operating time of drying device 108A by decreasing the set value of operating time of drying device 108A to bring it closer to the optimal value. Furthermore, if the set value of operating time of drying device 108A at that time is smaller than the estimated optimal value, setting unit 112 increases the set value of operating time of drying device 108A to bring it closer to the optimal value, thereby changing the operating time of drying device 108A.

[0195] Setting unit 112 sets the air volume (also referred to as the "driving air volume") of drying device 108A based on the amount of moisture in bathroom 2. Setting unit 112 sets the driving conditions of drying device 108A to a first air volume condition based on the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 before driving of drying device 108A begins. Setting unit 112 changes the driving conditions of drying device 108A to a second air volume condition different from the first air volume condition based on the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 detected by radio wave sensor 10a at a predetermined timing after driving of drying device 108A begins based on the first air volume condition.

[0196] Setting unit 112 sets the mode. Setting unit 112 sets the mode to either a mode for drying clothes in bathroom 2 (also called "clothes drying mode") or a mode other than the clothes drying mode (also called "normal control mode"). For example, setting unit 112 sets the mode to the clothes drying mode or the normal control mode based on various conditions, such as whether or not there is a person in bathroom 2 and whether or not there is wet clothing on bathtub 4.

[0197] For example, when it is determined that no one is in bathroom 2 and there is wet clothing on bathtub 4, setting unit 112 sets the mode to clothes drying mode. For example, when it is determined that no one is in bathroom 2 and the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, setting unit 112 sets the mode to clothes drying mode. Furthermore, for example, setting unit 112 sets the mode to normal control mode except when setting the mode to clothes drying mode. Note that the above is merely an example, and setting unit 112 may set any mode using various information.

[0198] For example, the setting unit 112 may have multiple types of clothes drying modes corresponding to each drying mode. For example, the setting unit 112 may have multiple types of clothes drying modes, such as a drying mode which is a clothes drying mode for normal drying, a heating mode which is a clothes drying mode for drying using warm air, and a ventilation mode which is a clothes drying mode for drying using ventilation. In this case, the setting unit 112 may switch between the modes to dry the clothes based on various information such as a user's instruction and detection by the sensor unit 10.

[0199] Device control unit 113 controls the operating state of devices (bathroom-related devices) that make up bathroom 2. Device control unit 113 functions as a control means that controls the operation of drying device 108A based on the setting result of setting unit 112.

[0200] The device control unit 113 controls the driving of the drying device 108A based on the setting value related to the time of the drying device 108A set by the setting unit 112. The device control unit 113 controls the driving of the drying device 108A based on the drying time (driving time) set for the drying device 108A. For example, the device control unit 113 controls the driving of the drying device 108A based on a first driving time.

[0201] The device control unit 113 controls the driving of the drying device 108A based on a setting value related to the air volume of the drying device 108A set by the setting unit 112. The device control unit 113 controls the driving of the drying device 108A based on the drying air volume (air volume condition) set for the drying device 108A. For example, the device control unit 113 controls the driving of the drying device 108A based on a first air volume condition.

[0202] It should be noted that device control unit 113 may also control the operating state of bathroom-related devices other than drying device 108A. For example, the devices (bathroom-related devices) that make up bathroom 2 may include, in addition to drying device 108A, at least one of shower device 6, microphone 9, sensor unit 10, 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.

[0203] For example, device control unit 113 controls the operating state of each bathroom-related device based on the operating conditions of the bathroom-related devices set by setting unit 112. For example, device control unit 113 controls the operating state of each bathroom-related device based on the operating conditions of each bathroom-related device registered in data storage unit 101.

[0204] For example, device control unit 113 performs control according to the mode set by setting unit 112. For example, when the clothes drying mode is set by setting unit 112, device control unit 113 performs control on bathroom-related devices such as drying device 108A that are to be controlled in the clothes drying mode. Furthermore, when the normal control mode is set by setting unit 112, device control unit 113 performs control on bathroom-related devices such as shower device 6 that are to be controlled in the normal control mode.

[0205] 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 of information related to clothes drying by the alarm unit 103. For example, the notification setting unit sets various notification conditions related to clothes drying, including the timing of clothes drying notification, such as the timing when clothes drying is completed and the timing when the operating conditions of the clothes drying device 108A are changed. For example, the notification setting unit accepts user operations via a remote control device, a terminal device, etc., and sets notification conditions based on the accepted user operations. For example, the notification setting unit registers (stores) the set notification conditions, such as the notification destination and the timing of clothes drying notification, in the data storage unit 101.

[0206] Data storage unit 101 stores information related to various controls of bathroom-related devices. For example, data storage unit 101 stores information related to various controls of bathroom-related devices such as drying device 108A that are controlled in the clothes drying mode. Data storage unit 101 also stores information related to various controls of each bathroom-related device that is controlled in the normal control mode.

[0207] The data storage unit 101 stores various types of information related to the drying control process. The data storage unit 101 stores various types of information related to estimating (calculating) the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores moisture amount estimation information used to estimate the amount of moisture in the bathroom 2. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores a moisture amount estimation function as the moisture amount estimation information.

[0208] The moisture content estimation function is merely an example, and the data storage unit 101 may store various information other than the moisture content estimation function as moisture content estimation information. For example, the data storage unit 101 may store, as moisture content estimation information, a list of information that associates values ​​based on detection by the radio wave sensor 10a with the moisture content corresponding to those values.

[0209] For example, data storage unit 101 stores, as moisture content estimation information, list information associating values ​​based on the intensity (reflection intensity) of reflected waves from each point corresponding to the space in bathroom 2 where clothes are placed (for example, the space above bathtub 4) with the moisture content corresponding to that value. For example, data storage unit 101 stores, as moisture content estimation information, list information associating average values ​​of the intensity (reflection intensity) of reflected waves from each point corresponding to the space in bathroom 2 where clothes are placed (for example, the space above bathtub 4) with the moisture content corresponding to that average value.

[0210] Data storage unit 101 stores various information set regarding the drying control process. For example, data storage unit 101 stores information (setting values, etc.) related to the operating conditions of each bathroom-related device set by setting unit 112. For example, data storage unit 101 stores information (setting values, etc.) related to the operating conditions of drying device 108A set by setting unit 112.

[0211] Data storage unit 101 stores drive conditions related to the drive time of drying device 108A. Data storage unit 101 stores information (time setting information) used to determine drive conditions related to the drive time of drying device 108A. For example, data storage unit 101 stores, as time setting information, list information that associates the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 with the drive time of drying device 108A corresponding to that moisture amount.

[0212] Data storage unit 101 stores drive conditions related to the drive air volume of drying device 108A. Data storage unit 101 stores information (also referred to as "air volume setting information") used to determine drive conditions related to the drive air volume of drying device 108A. For example, data storage unit 101 stores, as air volume setting information, a list of information associating the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 with the drive air volume of drying device 108A corresponding to that moisture amount.

[0213] The data storage unit 101 stores the notification conditions set by the notification setting unit. The data storage unit 101 stores the notification conditions in response to input from a user. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores the notification conditions set by the notification setting unit in response to a person (operator)'s operation on a remote control device, a terminal device, or the like.

[0214] Notification unit 103 issues a notification regarding the drying control process for bathroom 2 by bathroom system 1. For example, notification unit 103 issues a notification in response to clothes drying by bathroom system 1. Notification unit 103 issues a notification in accordance with set notification conditions.

[0215] For example, the notification unit 103 notifies the user by transmitting information about clothes drying to a device that displays the 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 information about clothes drying by transmitting the information about clothes drying to a notification destination in accordance with the control of the control unit 100A.

[0216] <1-7-3. Drying control processing flow example> Based on the above, an example of the drying control process executed by bathroom system 1 will now be described with reference to Figure 16. Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the process executed by the bathroom system. Note that while the description will be made with bathroom system 1 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 1.

[0217] Bathroom system 1 estimates the position of the person from the data from which noise has been removed (step S201). For example, state estimation unit 110 of control unit 100A estimates the position of the person based on detection by radio wave sensor 10a arranged in bathroom 2.

[0218] Bathroom system 1 determines whether or not there is a person in bathroom 2 (step S202). For example, determination unit 111 of control unit 100A determines whether or not there is a person in bathroom 2 based on the estimated state inside bathroom 2.

[0219] If bathroom system 1 determines that there is a person in bathroom 2 (step S202: No), it sets the mode to the normal control mode (step S203) and returns to step S201 to repeat the process. For example, when it determines that there is a person in bathroom 2, setting unit 112 of control unit 100A sets the mode to the normal control mode.

[0220] For example, if the mode at the time when it is determined that someone is in bathroom 2 is the normal control mode, setting unit 112 maintains the mode in the normal control mode, and if the mode at the time when it is determined that someone is in bathroom 2 is the clothes drying mode, setting unit 112 changes (switches) the mode to the normal control mode. For example, normal control mode differs from clothes drying mode in that it does not perform any control related to clothes drying. For example, in normal control mode, control unit 100A controls the water supply and stop of shower device 6 in response to, for example, someone entering bathroom 2.

[0221] If bathroom system 1 determines that there is no one in bathroom 2 (step S202: Yes), it determines whether there is anything wet on bathtub 4 (step S204). For example, determination unit 111 of control unit 100A determines whether there is anything wet on bathtub 4 based on the estimated state of bathroom 2. For example, determination unit 111 determines that there is something wet on bathtub 4 if the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and determines that there is nothing wet on bathtub 4 if the amount of moisture in bathroom 2 is less than the predetermined threshold.

[0222] If bathroom system 1 determines that there is nothing wet on bathtub 4 (step S204: No), it sets the mode to normal control mode (step S203) and returns to step S201 to repeat the process. For example, if setting unit 112 of control unit 100A determines that there is nothing wet on bathtub 4, it sets the mode to normal control mode.

[0223] If bathroom system 1 determines that there is something wet on bathtub 4 (step S204: Yes), it sets the mode to clothes drying mode (step S205). For example, if setting unit 112 of control unit 100A determines that there is something wet on bathtub 4, it sets the mode to clothes drying mode.

[0224] Bathroom system 1 sets the drying time, drying air volume, etc. based on the amount of moisture on bathtub 4 (step S206). For example, setting unit 112 of control unit 100A sets the operating conditions of drying device 108A, including the drying time and drying air volume, based on the amount of moisture on bathtub 4.

[0225] Bathroom system 1 checks the amount of moisture in bathtub 4 during drying and changes the drying time (step S207). For example, setting unit 112 of control unit 100A changes the set value of the drying time based on the amount of moisture in bathtub 4 while drying device 108A is running, i.e., while the clothes are drying. For example, if the amount of moisture in bathtub 4 while the clothes are drying is less than the expected amount by a predetermined value or more, setting unit 112 changes the set value to shorten the drying time. For example, if the amount of moisture in bathtub 4 while the clothes are drying is more than the expected amount by a predetermined value or more, setting unit 112 changes the set value to lengthen the drying time.

[0226] Bathroom system 1 checks the amount of moisture in bathtub 4 during drying and changes the drying airflow volume (step S208). For example, setting unit 112 of control unit 100A changes the setting value of the drying airflow volume based on the amount of moisture in bathtub 4 while drying device 108A is running, i.e., while the clothes are drying. For example, setting unit 112 changes the setting value to decrease (weaken) the drying airflow volume if the amount of moisture in bathtub 4 while the clothes are drying is less than the expected moisture amount by a predetermined value or more. For example, setting unit 112 changes the setting value to increase (stronger) the drying airflow volume if the amount of moisture in bathtub 4 while the clothes are drying is more than the expected moisture amount by a predetermined value or more.

[0227] Bathroom system 1 may repeat steps S207 and S208 at predetermined intervals (e.g., every 30 minutes, every hour, etc.) until clothes drying by drying device 108A is complete, or may perform steps S207 and S208 at different intervals. Bathroom system 1 may also perform either step S207 or step S208. In this way, bathroom system 1 controls drying device 108A according to the situation by changing at least one setting value of the driving conditions of drying device 108A, such as drying time and drying air volume, depending on the progress of clothes drying by drying device 108A, and performs the clothes drying process.

[0228] As described above, bathroom system 1 sets the operating conditions for drying device 108A based on the detected amount of moisture in bathroom 2, and controls the operation of drying device 108A based on the set operating conditions, thereby enabling appropriate control of the bathroom drying device. This allows bathroom system 1 to provide new value based on the detected state of the bathroom.

[0229] For example, installing a radio wave sensor to deal with unusual situations such as falls or drowning may not be cost-effective. Therefore, bathroom system 1 provides new value by analyzing moisture with a radio wave sensor. For example, a bathroom has a function for drying clothes using a dryer (heater, etc.). Bathroom system 1 detects the dryness of the laundry using a radio wave sensor and stops the dryer (heater, etc.) when the laundry is adequately dry. Bathroom system 1 can change any operating conditions, such as air volume, as well as the drying time, depending on the wetness of the clothes. Bathroom system 1 can also adjust any operating conditions, such as drying time and air volume, depending on the humidity in the bathroom. This allows bathroom system 1 to provide new value based on the detected conditions in the bathroom.

[0230] For example, bathroom system 1 can detect the presence or absence of water using a radio wave sensor. For example, bathroom system 1 can also detect whether the bathroom walls are wet or whether there is wet clothing in the bathroom. This allows bathroom system 1 to dry clothes without wasting electricity by adjusting the operating time and airflow of the heating equipment depending on the degree of wetness of the clothes and the humidity level in the room.

[0231] 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.

[0232] The above-described embodiments and modifications may have the following configurations, but are not limited to these. (1) a radio wave sensor provided in a bathroom having a drying device, the radio wave sensor detecting the amount of moisture in the bathroom in an upper space vertically above the bathtub; a setting means for setting the operating conditions of the drying device based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor; a control means for controlling the operation of the drying device based on the setting result of the setting means; A bathroom system comprising: (2) The setting means changes the driving conditions of the drying device at the start of driving from a first condition to a second condition based on the detection result after the driving of the drying device is started. A bathroom system as described in (1). (3) the setting means sets the operation condition of the drying device to a first operation time based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom before the operation of the drying device is started; the control means controls the driving of the drying device based on the first driving time, The setting means changes the operating conditions of the drying device to a second operating time different from the first operating time based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom detected by the radio wave sensor at a predetermined timing after the start of operation of the drying device based on the first operating time. A bathroom system according to (1) or (2). (4) the setting means sets the operating condition of the drying device to a first air volume condition based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom before the drying device starts to operate; the control means controls the driving of the drying device based on the first air volume condition, The setting means changes the operating conditions of the drying device to a second air volume condition different from the first air volume condition based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom detected by the radio wave sensor at a predetermined timing after the start of operation of the drying device based on the first air volume condition. The bathroom system according to any one of (1) to (3) above. (5) The upper space includes an area for drying clothes before drying, The setting means sets the operating conditions of the drying device based on the output signal of the radio wave sensor that detects the upper space excluding the radio wave reflection area including the surface side of the interior wall panel that forms the bathroom. The bathroom system according to any one of (1) to (4) above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0233] 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 108A Drying equipment 109 Ventilation fan 110 State estimation unit 111 Judgment section 112 Setting section 113 Equipment control section

Claims

1. a radio wave sensor provided in a bathroom having a drying device, the radio wave sensor detecting the amount of moisture in the bathroom in an upper space vertically above the bathtub; a setting means for setting the operating conditions of the drying device based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor; a control means for controlling the operation of the drying device based on the setting result of the setting means; A bathroom system comprising:

2. The setting means changes the driving conditions of the drying device at the start of driving from a first condition to a second condition based on the detection result after the driving of the drying device is started.

2. The bathroom system according to claim 1.

3. the setting means sets the operation condition of the drying device to a first operation time based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom before the operation of the drying device is started; the control means controls the driving of the drying device based on the first driving time, The setting means changes the operating conditions of the drying device to a second operating time different from the first operating time based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom detected by the radio wave sensor at a predetermined timing after the start of operation of the drying device based on the first operating time.

2. The bathroom system according to claim 1.

4. the setting means sets the operating condition of the drying device to a first air volume condition based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom before the drying device starts to operate; the control means controls the driving of the drying device based on the first air volume condition; The setting means changes the operating conditions of the drying device to a second air volume condition different from the first air volume condition based on the amount of moisture in the bathroom detected by the radio wave sensor at a predetermined timing after the start of operation of the drying device based on the first air volume condition.

2. The bathroom system according to claim 1.

5. The upper space includes an area for drying clothes before drying, The setting means sets the operating conditions of the drying device based on the output signal of the radio wave sensor that detects the upper space excluding the radio wave reflection area including the surface side of the interior wall panel that forms the bathroom.

2. The bathroom system according to claim 1.

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