Toilet biometric data collection device

Abstract

A biometric data collection device for a toilet includes a first compartment, a second compartment, and a bridge. The first compartment includes a first circuit board. The second compartment includes a second circuit board. The bridge is coupled to the first compartment and the second compartment. The bridge is configured to be supported by the rim of the toilet such that the first compartment is inside the bowl of the toilet and the second compartment is outside the bowl of the toilet. The bridge is adjustable in length to accommodate various widths of the rim.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 396,842, filed August 10, 2022 (Docket No. 10222-22033A), and U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 230,932, filed August 7, 2023, which applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] [Field] FIELD OF THE INVENTION This application relates to a data collection device for a toilet bowl, and more particularly to a structure for attaching a data collection device to the rim of a toilet bowl.

[0003] 〔background〕 Urine and fecal analysis can be useful in diagnosing health conditions. These health conditions can range from malnutrition to cancer. The health conditions may include infection with viruses, bacteria, parasites, or other microorganisms that may be harmful to the human body. Urine also provides a valuable source of information for diagnosing health conditions, such as urinary tract infections, kidney infections and other kidney diseases, and diabetes.

[0004] In some embodiments, urine and feces may be placed in containers and transported to a laboratory for analysis. This procedure is time-consuming and expensive. At-home analysis technology may reduce some of these drawbacks of laboratory testing.

[0005] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to the following drawings in accordance with exemplary embodiments.

[0006] FIG. 1 shows the toilet bowl data collection device in an unmounted position.

[0007] FIG. 2 shows the toilet bowl data collection device in the unretracted position.

[0008] FIG. 3 shows the toilet bowl data collection device in the installed position.

[0009] FIG. 4 shows the toilet data collection device in an installed position, with the toilet seat resting on the bridge of the toilet data collection device.

[0010] Figure 5 shows three modular, interchangeable bridges.

[0011] FIG. 6 shows the compliant bridge in the unattached position.

[0012] FIG. 7 shows the adaptive bridge in the installed position.

[0013] FIG. 8 shows an example of a pack-type compartment.

[0014] FIG. 9 shows an example of a circuit layout for the pack-type compartment of FIG.

[0015] FIG. 10 shows an example of an outer curved compartment.

[0016] FIG. 11 shows an example of a circuit layout for the outer curved compartment of FIG.

[0017] FIG. 12 shows an example of an inner curved compartment.

[0018] FIG. 13 shows an example of a circuit layout for the inner curved compartment of FIG.

[0019] FIG. 14 shows an example of a toilet seat compartment for a data collection device.

[0020] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a controller for any of the disclosed embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 16 shows an example of a flow chart for the controller of FIG.

[0022] FIG. 17 shows another embodiment of a data collection device.

[0023] 18A-18C show interchangeable pads for a data collection device.

[0024] 19A-19C show another replaceable pad for a data collection device.

[0025] FIG. 20 shows another embodiment of a data collection device.

[0026] Detailed Description Electronic devices within the bowl of a toilet or near the rim of the toilet face a dangerous situation. Water and urine inevitably come into contact with the electronic devices. If water and urine leak into the interior of the electronic device, it will cause catastrophic damage to the electronic device. The electronic device must be substantially airtight and sealed. The housing of the electronic device may be made of a hydrophobic material that repels water and urine.

[0027] Mounting structures that secure electronic devices to the rim of a toilet bowl may also be susceptible to water and urine. The moving parts of the mounting structures may be particularly at risk from liquids. Proteins in urine may also dry, become sticky, and may build up on the moving parts. For example, a screw clamp may become unusable if exposed to drying urine.

[0028] The following embodiments include techniques for securing an electronic device to a toilet rim using minimal moving parts. Toilets, and particularly toilet rims, are available in a variety of sizes and widths. Furthermore, the width of a toilet rim may vary around the circumference of the toilet. As such, the data collection device may be adjustable to fit different sizes of toilet rims. In a first embodiment, a spring-loaded sleeve allows the collection device to adjust to various rim sizes. In a second embodiment, modular extenders may be interchangeable to accommodate various rim sizes. In a third embodiment, the collection device may be flexible and adapt to the size of the rim.

[0029] 1 shows a toilet data collection device 20 in an unattached position relative to a toilet 10. The toilet 10 may include a rim 12 around a bowl 11. The data collection device 20 may include a first compartment 21 and a second compartment 22. The first compartment 21 is coupled to the second compartment 22 by a bridge 30. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0030] The bridge 30 includes an outer extender 24 and an inner extender 23 as a sleeve that fits within the outer extender 24. The inner extender 23 may be coupled to the first component 21. The outer extender 24 may be coupled to the second component 22. A spring within the outer extender 24 may be configured to push the inner extender 23, causing it to slide farther within the outer extender 24. The spring may pull the inner extender 23 against the outer extender 24. The spring may pull the inner extender 23 toward the rim 12. The spring may be a constant force spring, in which the force applied to the inner extender 23 and / or the outer extender 24 should be constant. Other examples may include progressive springs, in which the force exerted by the spring is proportional to the relative distance between the inner extender 23 and the outer extender 24. The progressive spring or springs have a spring rate that is variable depending on the relative positions of the inner extender 23 and the outer extender 24. In one alternative, the inner extender 23 and / or the outer extender 24 include a ratchet mechanism that allows the inner extender 23 and the outer extender 24 to be pressed together rather than partially together. The ratchet mechanism can be released via a release button.

[0031] The inner extender 23 and / or the first component 21 may include a bumper or grip 25 configured to compress against the rim 12 and hold the data collection device 20 against the toilet bowl 10. A user may manually push the inner extender 23 and the outer extender 24 one toward the other to bring the grip 25 into contact with the rim 12 and hold the data collection device 20 against the toilet bowl 10.

[0032] The toilet 10 may have a variety of shapes and configurations for the base of the toilet 10, which supports the bowl 11 and rim 12. It should be noted that the various components of the toilet may be made of a vitreous material (e.g., clay). It should also be noted that the various components of the toilet may be polymeric and / or secured to the toilet by methods such as overmolding. The toilets disclosed herein may have a wide variety of skirted toilet configurations, and all such configurations are intended to be encompassed by this specification. Therefore, it should be understood by those reviewing this specification that the following description of various toilet features is intended only as an example of one possible embodiment, and that similar concepts or features may be included in various other embodiments.

[0033] The base of the toilet 10 may have any suitable shape configured to provide a bowl 11 with an opening formed by a rim 12 at the top of the opening. The base may also be configured to include multiple walls having various shapes that cooperate to form a bowl with an opening formed by a rim. The pedestal walls supporting the base may extend downward and / or rearward from the bowl 11 to form a lower portion configured to support the toilet 10.

[0034] The base may also include a top member extending between two side walls (or between two opposing walls) and disposed behind (or behind) the bowl 11. The top member forms a platform for supporting the toilet seat assembly 17. For example, the top member may include one or more openings, each configured to receive a fastener (e.g., bolt, screw, etc.) for coupling (e.g., attaching) the toilet seat assembly 17 to the top member of the base. As another example, the top member may include one or more fasteners (e.g., bolt, recessed nut, etc.) integrally formed therewith (i.e., already connected or coupled to the base). The fasteners may be used to couple or secure at least a portion of the toilet seat assembly 17. The toilet seat assembly 17 may include a hinge, a hinge shoulder configured to receive a fastener, a toilet seat coupled to the hinge, and a cover coupled to the hinge.

[0035] Bowl 11 may be configured to include a receptacle (e.g., a sump) and an outlet opening. Water and waste collect in the receptacle until removed through the outlet opening, for example, upon activation of an actuator (e.g., a lever, a motor). The base may also include a base internal passageway (e.g., a trapway) connecting the outlet opening or outlet of bowl 11 to a drain or sanitary pipe. The passageway, or trapway, generally includes a first portion, a second portion, and a weir separating the first and second portions. The first portion of the passageway may extend diagonally upward from the outlet opening of bowl 11 to the weir. The second portion of the passageway may extend downward from the weir to an outlet device (e.g., a drain or sanitary pipe).

[0036] During an operating cycle (e.g., a flush cycle) of the toilet 10, water (and waste) collects in a first portion of the trapway (in addition to the bowl receptacle). A weir prevents water from passing through the weir and into a second portion of the trapway. A flush cycle may be initiated upon actuation of an actuator. Upon actuation of the actuator, additional water may be discharged into the bowl 11 through the rim opening 15 and / or the sump jet, resulting in flushing and waste removal. For example, water may be discharged from the rim opening 15 into the bowl along a swirling surface 16 on the inside of the bowl 11 below the rim 12. The swirling surface 16 forms a flow path below the rim 12 along which water from the rim opening 15 moves in a swirling motion that cleans the interior of the bowl 11. The swirling motion is circular around the inner surface of the bowl 11. The swirling motion may be clockwise or counterclockwise, as determined by the direction of the rim opening 15.

[0037] FIG. 1 shows data collection device 20 above toilet bowl 10. For example, FIG. 1 shows a position where a user is holding data collection device 20 above toilet bowl 10 before it is placed or attached onto rim 12. FIG. 2 shows data collection device 20 resting on rim 12 but not yet secured to rim 12. FIG. 3 shows data collection device 20 secured to rim 12. Inner extender 23 is pressed inside outer extender 24, shortening bridge 30 to fit securely onto rim 12.

[0038] Bumper 25 may be configured to space first component 21 a predetermined distance from rim 12 and / or bowl 11. The predetermined distance may be large enough so that water moving through the flow path along pivoting surface 16 has enough space to maintain a swirling motion. In other words, the predetermined distance between first component 21 and rim 12 or bowl 11 is selected so that the flow path is large enough to allow enough water to move between first component 21 and bowl 11 to rinse bowl 11. Water in the flow path moves between first component 21 and second compartment 22. An imaginary line connecting first component 21 and second component 22 intersects the water in the flow path along pivoting surface 16.

[0039] The bumper 25 may be formed from a variety of materials. The bumper 25 may be composed of rubber or a rubber-like resin. For example, the bumper 25 may be composed of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), such as a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), a styrenic block copolymer (TPE-S), a thermoplastic polyolefin (TPE-O), a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPE-U), a thermoplastic copolyester (TPE-E), a melt-processable rubber (MPR), a thermoplastic polyether block amide (TPE-A), an ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the bumper 25 may be composed of two or more materials. In one example, the bumper 25 may include a polypropylene (PP) shell overmolded with rubber or a rubber-like resin. In this way, the grip performance of the bumper can be maximized.

[0040] Bumper 25 may be flexible. In some embodiments, bumper 25 may be configured to deform to set the predetermined distance and space first component 21 from rim 12 and / or bowl 11. Bumper 25 may be formed from a material(s) selected based on the durometer characteristics of the material.

[0041] FIG. 4 shows the data collection device 20 after a toilet seat 27 has been lowered onto the bridge 30 of the data collection device 20. The toilet seat 27 may contact the bridge 30. The toilet seat 27 may include a recess to receive the bridge 30. The bridge may be formed of a material having a predetermined brittleness or compressive strength such that the weight of the toilet seat 27 and a human user sitting on the toilet seat will not deform or otherwise damage the bridge. The bridge may have a height of 3 to 10 millimeters (e.g., 6 millimeters). The bridge 30 may include a protective cushion, collar, or other structure to protect the bridge 30. The protective cushion may cover the bridge 30 with any of the materials described above for the bumper 25. The collar may include at least one support arm or wall that contacts both the toilet seat 27 and the rim 12 to support the toilet seat 27 without placing substantial weight or stress on the bridge 30.

[0042] First compartment 21 includes at least one circuit component, and second compartment 22 includes at least one circuit component. Various embodiments of the circuitry are described below. Bridge 30 includes wires, traces, or other conductors for providing power and / or communication between the circuitry in first compartment 21 and the circuitry in second compartment 22.

[0043] The bridge 30 changes size due to the relative movement of the inner extender 23 and the outer extender 24. Therefore, the conductors must be adaptable. In some embodiments, the conductors may be provided by ribbon cables configured to expand or contract. In some embodiments, the conductors may be provided by looped or loose wires within the bridge, allowing the wires to move within the cavity as the bridge 30 changes size. In some embodiments, the conductors may include traces on the inner extender 23 and traces on the outer extender 24 that slide in parallel directions relative to each other to maintain physical and electrical continuity, and the inner extender 23 moves relative to the outer extender 24.

[0044] In other words, when the size of bridge 30 is adjusted, one or more electrical conductors (e.g., power and / or data connections) are also changed in response to the adjustment of the size of bridge 30. In some embodiments, the one or more electrical conductors include a first electrical connection corresponding to bridge 30 at a first size (e.g., a reduced size) and a second electrical connection corresponding to bridge 30 at a second size (e.g., an enlarged size).

[0045] FIG. 5 shows three modular, interchangeable bridges 31 having a small length X, a medium length Y, and a large length Z. As an example, the bridges 31 in FIG. 5 are not adjustable in size. Instead, the bridges 31 are removable, replaceable, modular, and interchangeable such that a first size bridge can be removed and replaced with a second size bridge. The bridges 31 may be removable from the first compartment 21 and the second compartment 22. The bridges 31 may snap into recesses in each of the first compartment 21 and the second compartment 22. The bridges 31 may be fastened to the first compartment 21 and / or the second compartment 22 using screws, pins, springs, or other fasteners. The bridges 31 may be magnetically coupled to the first compartment 21 and / or the second compartment 22.

[0046] A user may interchange bridges so that a bridge 31 is selected to fit a particular rim 12. A particular size of bridge 31 may be selected based on the width of rim 12. For example, a user may measure the width of rim 12 and order a data collection device 20 having a bridge of the corresponding width. In one embodiment, a user may order by phone or via a website according to a particular model of toilet, and the size of the bridge is looked up according to the model of toilet.

[0047] Figure 6 shows the compliant bridge 50 in an unattached position. Figure 7 shows the compliant bridge 50 in an attached position. The compliant bridge 50 is configured to change shape to bend towards the contours of the rim 12. The compliant bridge 50 may include a rigid but flexible metal strap surrounded by plastic or resin. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0048] The cleat 28 may be attached directly to the rim 12. The compliant bridge 50 may rest on the cleat 28. The cleat may include a magnet or magnetic material with a corresponding magnet or magnetic material attached to the compliant bridge 50. Alternatively, the cleat may include an adhesive or tactile material.

[0049] FIG. 8 shows an example of a puck-style compartment including a puck 60 connected to a sensor module 61. The puck 60 may have the shape of a cylinder or a rounded rectangular prism. FIG. 9 shows an example of a circuit layout for the puck-style compartment of FIG. 8. In this example, the sensor module 61 includes a sensor board 63 and a light-emitting diode (LED) board 65. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0050] The sensor board 63 may include various sensors for detecting or measuring urine or feces in the toilet bowl 10. The sensors may include a camera. The LED board 65 may be coupled with LEDs that project light onto (e.g., illuminate) the urine, feces, or other contents of the toilet bowl 10 to facilitate image collection. In any of these examples, the camera may be configured to collect images of the feces, urine, or other contents of the bowl 11. The sensor board 63, including the camera, may collect data for spectroscopy. In any of the examples, the sensor board 61 receives or collects sensor data indicative of urine, feces, or other substances deposited in the bowl 11.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 9 , pack 60 may include a driver board 62, a battery 66, and a controller 64 arranged in at least two layers parallel to the perimeter of rim 12. Controller 64 may include a microcontroller chip, flash memory, and a universal serial bus (USB) port 126 for power, data, and programming. Controller 64 may further include a serial wire debug (SWD) port for troubleshooting and monitoring. Driver board 62 may include such a port and memory for programming controller 64. Driver board 62 may also be omitted.

[0052] The battery 66 is on a separate layer within the pack 60, the controller 64 is on a separate layer within the pack 60, and the driver board 62 is on a separate layer within the pack 60. The controller 64 may be configured to analyze images collected by the camera. The controller 64 may identify one or more medical conditions or other measurements from the images.

[0053] Controller 64 receives sensor data from sensor board 61 via one or more data connections through bridge 30. Controller 64 may compare the sensor data from sensor board 61 to one or more thresholds or templates to determine when a predetermined condition occurs. The thresholds or templates may be stored in memory. In some examples, controller 64 identifies the presence of urine and / or feces in addition to identifying the predetermined condition.

[0054] FIG. 10 shows an example of an outer curved compartment including an outer curved compartment 70 and a sensor module 71. FIG. 11 shows an example of a circuit layout for the outer curved compartment of FIG. 10. In this example, the outer curved compartment 70 includes a driver card 72, a battery 76, and a controller 74 arranged in a single layer parallel to the rim 12. The sensor module 71 includes a sensor board 73 and an LED driver board 75. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0055] Controller 74 receives sensor data from sensor module 71 via one or more data connections through bridge 30. Controller 74 may compare the sensor data from sensor module 71 to one or more thresholds or templates to determine when a predetermined condition occurs. The thresholds or templates may be stored in memory. In some examples, controller 74, in addition to identifying the predetermined condition, also identifies the presence of urine and / or feces.

[0056] Alternatively, the sensor data from the sensor module 71 may be transmitted wirelessly to the controller 74. For example, the sensor data may be transmitted from the sensor module 71 to the controller 74 using radio waves, a cellular network, an 802.11, 802.16, 802.20, or WiMax network, Bluetooth pairing of the device, or a Bluetooth mesh network.

[0057] FIG. 12 shows an example of an inner curved compartment including an inner curved component 80 and a battery module 81. FIG. 13 shows an example of a circuit layout for the inner curved compartment of FIG. 12. The inner curved component 80 may include a sensor board 83, a light board 85, a driver card 82, and a controller 84. The battery module 81 may include only a battery 86. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0058] 12, only an electrical connection is provided between the battery module 81 and the inner curve component 80. That is, the bridge 30 includes at least one electrical connection between the battery module 81 and the inner curve component 80, but does not include a data connection between the battery module 81 and the inner curve component 80. Instead, the sensor board 83 and controller 84 are co-located within the inner curve component 80 and communicate via a direct connection (e.g., wire or printed circuit board).

[0059] The controller 84 receives sensor data directly from the sensor board 83. The controller 84 may compare the sensor data from the sensor board 83 to one or more thresholds or templates to determine when a predetermined condition occurs. The thresholds or templates may be stored in memory. In some examples, the controller 84 identifies the presence of urine and / or feces in addition to identifying the predetermined condition.

[0060] In any of these embodiments, the battery (e.g., battery module) may include two batteries. One battery may be a removable battery and one battery may be a permanent battery. The removable battery may provide the primary power source for the sensor board, light board, driver card, battery, and controller. The removable battery may be removed from the collection device 20 and charged via wire and outlet, induction, or other techniques. The permanent battery provides power to at least one of the sensor board, light board, driver card, battery, and controller when the removable battery is removed for charging. In this way, a power source for the data collection device is potentially always present.

[0061] Any of the data collection devices of these embodiments may further include a user identification module. The user identification module may include a fingerprint reader. The user identification module may include a near field communication or radio frequency identification component that interacts with the user's mobile device or tag. The user identification module generates data indicative of the user's identity (e.g., a username, code, or alphanumeric word) and transmits the identifier to a controller (e.g., sometimes through the electrical conductors of the bridge). The controller may store the analyzed biometric data in memory in association with the user's identifier. The controller may also transmit (e.g., via a communication interface) the analyzed biometric data paired with the user identifier to another device (e.g., a server, mobile device, or network device).

[0062] 14 includes another embodiment including a biometric data collection device embedded within toilet seat 27. Circuitry 90 may include any combination of a sensor board, a light board, a driver card, a battery, and a controller. Circuitry 90 is configured to slide in and out of toilet seat 27 using a handle or latch 91. A collection sensor 93 (e.g., a camera) may be mounted on the underside of toilet seat 27.

[0063] FIG. 15 shows an example control system or controller 100 for any of the embodiments described herein. The controller 100 may include a processor 300, a memory 352, and a communication interface 353 for interacting with devices or with the Internet and / or other networks 346. In addition to the communication interface 353, a sensor interface may be configured to receive data from the sensors described herein or from any source. The controller 100 may include an integrated display 350, a speaker 351, or other output device. Components of the control system may communicate using a bus 348. The control system may be connected to a workstation or another external device (e.g., a control panel), and / or a database to receive user input, system characteristics, and any of the values ​​described herein.

[0064] 16 shows an example flowchart of the operation of a biometric data collection device. Additional, different, or fewer operations may be performed.

[0065] In operation S101, a length of a bridge between a first compartment and a second compartment of the biometric data collection device is adjusted. The length may be adjusted using a spring clamp, a modular bridge extender, or an adaptable bridge.

[0066] In operation S103, the biometric data collection device is fitted to the rim of the toilet bowl. For example, after adjusting the length of the bridge to fit the rim, the user may place the collection device on the rim.

[0067] Once placed on the rim, the collection device may be turned on to begin collecting data. In operation S105, a sensor collects data in a first compartment of the biometric data collection device. In operation S107, a controller analyzes the data. In operation S109, an identification module including another sensor identifies the user associated with the data. In operation S111, the controller stores the data in memory along with an indicator of the user or transmits the analyzed data and indicator to another device.

[0068] Optionally, the control system may include sensing circuitry 356 and / or input devices 355 in communication with any of a plurality of sensors. The sensing circuitry receives sensor measurements from the sensors described above. The input devices may include any of a user input, such as buttons, a touchscreen, a keyboard, a microphone for voice input, a camera for gesture input, and / or another mechanism.

[0069] Optionally, the control system may include a drive unit 340 for receiving and reading a non-transitory computer medium 341 having instructions 342. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included. The processor 300 is configured to execute instructions 342 stored in memory 352 for performing the algorithms described herein. The display 350 may be an indicator or other screen output device. The display 350 may be coupled to a user input device 355.

[0070] Processor 300 may be a general-purpose or special-purpose processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more programmable logic controllers (PLCs), one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a collection of processing components, or other suitable processing components. Processor 300 is configured to execute computer code or instructions stored in memory 352 or received from other computer-readable media (e.g., embedded flash memory, local hard disk storage, local ROM, network storage, a remote server, etc.). Processor 300 may be a single device or a combination of multiple devices, for example, associated with a network, distributed processing, or cloud computing.

[0071] Memory 352 may include one or more devices (e.g., memory units, memory devices, storage devices, etc.) for storing data and / or computer code for completing and / or facilitating the various processes described in this disclosure. Memory 352 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard drive storage, temporary storage, non-volatile memory, flash memory, optical memory, or any other suitable memory for storing software objects and / or computer instructions. Memory 352 may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in this disclosure. Memory 352 may be communicatively coupled to processor 300 via processing circuitry and may include computer code for executing (e.g., by processor 300) one or more processes described herein. For example, memory 352 may include graphics, web pages, HTML files, XML files, script code, shower configuration files, or other resources for use in generating a displayed graphical user interface and / or for use in interpreting user interface inputs to make command, control, or communication decisions.

[0072] In addition to ingress and egress ports, the communication interface 353 may include any operable connection. An operable connection may be one through which signals, physical communications, and / or logical communications may be sent and / or received. An operable connection may include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and / or a data interface. The communication interface 353 may be connected to a network. The network may include a wired network (e.g., Ethernet), a wireless network, or a combination thereof. The wireless network may be a cellular network, an 802.11, 802.16, 802.20, or WiMax network, Bluetooth pairing of devices, or a Bluetooth mesh network. Furthermore, the network may be a public network such as the Internet, a private network such as an intranet, or a combination thereof, and may utilize various currently available or later-developed networking protocols, including, but not limited to, TCP / IP-based networking protocols.

[0073] While the computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 352) is illustrated as being a single medium, the term "computer-readable medium" includes a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or distributed database and / or associated caches and servers that store one or more sets of instructions. The term "computer-readable medium" is also intended to include any medium that can store, encode, or carry a set of instructions for execution by a processor, or that cause a computer system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein.

[0074] In one specific, non-limiting, exemplary embodiment, the computer-readable medium may include solid-state memory, such as a memory card or other package containing one or more non-volatile read-only memories. Additionally, the computer-readable medium may be random access memory or other volatile rewritable memory. Additionally, the computer-readable medium may include optical or magnetic media, such as disks or tapes, or other storage devices for capturing carrier signals (e.g., signals communicated over a transmission medium). A digital file attached to an email or other self-contained information archive or set of archives may be considered a distribution medium that is a tangible storage medium. Accordingly, the present disclosure is considered to include any one or more of computer-readable media or distribution media, and other equivalent and successor media on which data or instructions may be stored. The computer-readable medium may be non-transitory, including all tangible computer-readable media.

[0075] In an alternative embodiment, dedicated hardware implementations (e.g., application specific integrated circuits, programmable logic arrays, and other hardware devices) can be constructed to implement one or more of the methods described herein. Applications that may include the devices and systems of various embodiments may broadly include a variety of electronic and computer systems. One or more embodiments described herein may implement functionality using two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices, or as part of an application specific integrated circuit, with associated control and data signals that can be communicated between and through the modules. Thus, the system encompasses software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

[0076] FIG. 17 illustrates another embodiment of a data collection device 30 including a first compartment 21 and a second compartment 22. The first compartment 21 is coupled to the second compartment 22 by a bridge 30 including an inner extender 23 that fits within an outer extender 24. In addition to the port 126 described above, the data collection device 30 may include a window 118 adjacent to a sensor (e.g., a motion sensor) configured to detect user movement or gestures from the user. The data collection device 30 may include a window 117 adjacent to a light (e.g., an LED) that indicates power operation or mode or the data collection device 30. The data collection device 30 may include one or more buttons or inputs 119 for selecting a mode or turning the data collection device 30 on or off. Additional, different, or fewer components may be included.

[0077] The grips / bumpers described above may be replaced with replaceable pads 125. Figures 18A-18C show a replaceable pad for a data collection device in a rear view (Figure 18A), a side view (Figure 18B), and a front view (Figure 18C). Replaceable pad 125 may include an outer cover 126 and an inner core 127 joined together.

[0078] The replaceable pad 125 includes at least one magnet 121. The magnet 121 is configured to align the replaceable pad 125 at a predetermined angle relative to the first component. The replaceable pad 125 includes a ridge 128 configured to space the first compartment 21 from the rim 11. The magnet 121 allows the replaceable pad 125 to be easily removed and replaced with a new replaceable pad. The first component 21 may include a magnetizable material or another magnet that selectively couples with the magnet 121. Different replaceable pads may be used with different models of data collection device 30 and / or different models of toilet bowls 10.

[0079] The replaceable pad 125 may be formed from various materials described herein for the bumper 25 (eg, plastic, elastomer, rubber, etc.).

[0080] 19A-19C show another replaceable pad for the data collection device. A spacer 131 may be used as a cleat 28 to space the bridge 31 from the rim 12. FIGS. 19A-19C include multiple views of the spacer 131, including a back view (FIG. 18A), a side view (FIG. 18B), and a front view (FIG. 18C).

[0081] The spacer 131 may include rounded sides 132 and flat sides in the horizontal direction (e.g., parallel to the rim 12). The spacer 131 may also include rounded edges 134. The spacer 131 may be formed of a rigid material. The spacer 131 may optionally include a magnet 135 for selectively coupling the spacer 131 to an opposing magnet or bridge 31 that includes a magnetic material.

[0082] 20 illustrates another embodiment of a data collection device 151. The data collection device 151 may include multiple portions, including a controller compartment 152 and a battery 153. A coupling device is configured to couple the data collection device 151 to the battery 153. An electrical connection provides power from the battery 153 to the compartment 152.

[0083] Bridge 30 may further include an identifier or indicia 154 that identifies data collection device 151. The indicia may include the manufacturer of the device, the toilet it is compatible with, or other information.

[0084] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structures of various embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to serve as a complete description of all of the elements and features of apparatus and systems that utilize the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reviewing this disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from this disclosure, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, the illustrations are merely representative and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions in the figures may be exaggerated, and other proportions may be minimized. As such, the disclosure and the drawings should be regarded as illustrative and not limiting.

[0085] Although many specificities are set forth herein, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention or the claimed subject matter, but rather as describing features specific to particular embodiments of the invention. Certain features that are described herein in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Furthermore, while features may be described above as functioning in a certain combination and may even be claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excluded from the combination, and the claimed combination may relate to a subcombination or a variation of that subcombination.

[0086] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may be referred to herein, individually and / or collectively, by the term "invention" for convenience only, without any intention to intentionally limit the scope of the present application to any particular invention or inventive idea. Furthermore, while specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it is to be understood that any subsequent configuration designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may replace the specific illustrated embodiment. The present disclosure is intended to cover any subsequent adaptations or variations of the various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, as well as other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this specification.

[0087] It is intended that the foregoing detailed description be considered illustrative and not limiting, with the understanding that the following claims, including all equivalents, are intended to define the scope of the invention. The claims should not be read as limited to the described order or elements unless so stated. Accordingly, all embodiments that come within the scope and spirit of the following claims and equivalents thereto are claimed as the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0088] [Figure 1] 1 shows the toilet bowl data collection device in an unmounted position. [Figure 2] 1 shows the toilet bowl data collection device in a non-retracted position. [Figure 3] 1 shows the toilet bowl data collection device in an installed position. [Figure 4] 1 shows the toilet data collection device in an installed position with the toilet seat resting on the bridge of the toilet data collection device. [Figure 5] Three modular, interchangeable bridges are shown. [Figure 6] 1 shows the matching bridge in the unattached position. [Figure 7]1 shows the matching bridge in the installed position. [Figure 8] An example of a pack-type compartment is shown. [Figure 9] 9 shows an example of a circuit layout for the pack-type compartment of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] 1 shows an example of an outer curved compartment. [Figure 11] 11 shows an example of a circuit layout for the outer curved compartment of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] 1 shows an example of an inner curved compartment. [Figure 13] 13 shows an example of a circuit layout for the inner curved compartment of FIG. 12. [Figure 14] 1 shows an example of a toilet seat compartment for a data collection device. [Figure 15] 1 illustrates an example of a controller for any of the disclosed embodiments. [Figure 16] 16 shows an example of a flow chart for the controller of FIG. 15. [Figure 17] 1 illustrates another embodiment of a data collection device. [Figure 18A] 1 shows a replaceable pad for the data acquisition device. [Figure 18B] 1 shows a replaceable pad for the data acquisition device. [Figure 18C] 1 shows a replaceable pad for the data acquisition device. [Figure 19A] 10 illustrates an alternative replaceable pad for the data acquisition device. [Figure 19B] 10 illustrates an alternative replaceable pad for the data acquisition device. [Figure 19C] 10 illustrates an alternative replaceable pad for the data acquisition device. [Figure 20] 1 illustrates another embodiment of a data collection device.

Claims

1. 1. A biometric data collection device for a toilet bowl, comprising: a first compartment containing a first circuit board; a second compartment containing a second circuit board; a bridge coupled to the first compartment and the second compartment, the bridge configured to be supported by a rim of the toilet bowl such that the first compartment is inside the bowl of the toilet and the second compartment is outside the bowl of the toilet; Including, The biometric data collection device, wherein the bridge is variable in length to accommodate different widths of the rim.

2. further comprising a camera configured to collect images from an interior of the bowl; The biometric data collection device of claim 1 , wherein the first circuit board is electrically coupled to the camera.

3. The biometric data collection device of claim 1 , further comprising a battery electrically coupled to the second circuit board.

4. The biometric data collection device of claim 1 , further comprising a light coupled to the first circuit board.

5. The biometric data collection device of claim 1 , further comprising a communications interface coupled to the second circuit board.

6. The biometric data collection device of claim 1 , wherein the bridge is deformable toward the rim of the toilet bowl.

7. The biometric data collection device of claim 1 , wherein the bridge includes a modular extender that is removable from the first compartment and the second compartment.

8. The bridge is An outer extender; an inner extender configured to extend within the outer extender; The biometric data collection device of claim 1 , comprising:

9. The biometric data collection device of claim 8 , further comprising a spring that extends the inner extender within the outer extender.

10. The biometric data collection device of claim 8 , further comprising a conductor configured to change the length of an electrical path based on the relative positions of the inner extender and the outer extender.

11. The biometric data collection device of claim 1 , further comprising a battery module including a removable battery and a non-removable battery.

12. The biometric data collection device of claim 11 , wherein the non-removable battery provides power to the first circuit board or the second circuit board when the removable battery is removed.

13. The biometric data collection device of claim 11 , wherein the removable battery is configured to charge the non-removable battery.

14. The biometric data collection device of claim 1 , further comprising a controller configured to analyze data from the first circuit board.

15. further comprising a user identification sensor configured to identify a user associated with the toilet bowl; The biometric data collection device of claim 14 , wherein the controller is configured to store the analyzed data according to the user.

16. 1. A toilet that performs biometric data collection, comprising: a rim having a set width; a first compartment containing a first circuit board; a second compartment containing a second circuit board; a bridge coupled to the first compartment and the second compartment, the bridge configured to be supported by the rim of the toilet bowl such that the first compartment is inside the bowl of the toilet and the second compartment is outside the bowl of the toilet; Including, The bridge is adjustable in length to fit the set width of the rim.

17. 17. The toilet of claim 16, wherein the bridge includes a conductor between the first circuit board and the second circuit board.

18. 18. The toilet of claim 17, wherein the conductor is configured to vary in length in coordination with the bridge.

19. 1. A method for biometric data collection at a toilet bowl, comprising: adjusting a length of a bridge between the first compartment and the second compartment of the biometric data collection device; fitting the biometric data collection device to the rim of the toilet bowl; A method comprising:

20. collecting data in the first compartment of the biometric data collection device; analyzing the data; identifying a user associated with the data; storing said data together with an indicator of said user; 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:

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