Toilet system, radio wave device for toilet device, and drainage abnormality detection method for toilet system

Abstract

To appropriately detect abnormality related to drainage in a toilet.SOLUTION: A toilet system according to an embodiment includes a bowl configured to receive excrement, a trap configured to form sealing water on a bottom side of the bowl, a radio wave sensor configured to detect a state change occurring in the sealing water on the trap side due to an object introduced into the sealing water, and an abnormality detector configured to detect an abnormality related to drainage based on a detection result of the radio wave sensor.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a toilet system, a radio wave device for a toilet system, and a method for detecting a drainage abnormality in a toilet system. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, technologies have been provided for detecting abnormalities in drainage, etc. in toilets. For example, technology related to a toilet device for preventing flush water from overflowing from a flush toilet bowl (also simply called a "toilet bowl") is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-72222 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, there is room for improvement in the above-mentioned conventional technology. For example, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, the clogged state of the toilet is determined based on detection information of at least one of the water level in the bowl of the toilet and an indicator related to the water level. However, the water level in the bowl is prone to fluctuate due to various factors, such as a cold, and it may take time to determine whether the water level fluctuation is due to a clog. Therefore, there is room for improvement in the detection of drainage abnormalities, such as a clogged toilet.

[0005] The disclosed embodiments aim to provide a toilet system, a radio wave device for a toilet device, and a method for detecting drainage abnormalities in a toilet system that can appropriately detect abnormalities related to drainage in a toilet. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A toilet system according to one embodiment of the present invention is characterized by comprising a bowl portion for receiving excrement, a trap portion for forming a water seal on the bottom side of the bowl portion, a radio wave sensor for detecting changes in the state of the water seal on the trap portion side due to an object introduced into the water seal, and an abnormality detection portion for detecting abnormalities related to drainage based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor.

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a toilet system detects changes in the trap seal with a radio wave sensor and detects drainage abnormalities based on the detection results, thereby enabling appropriate detection of drainage abnormalities in the toilet. For example, the toilet system can quickly identify abnormalities based on differences in water level fluctuations in the trap seal. Generally, during toilet flushing, the water in the trap rises, and when the trap is clogged, a siphon occurs, transporting the water in the bowl along with waste to the downstream drain pipe (also known as "piping"). However, when a clog occurs, the water level in the trap does not rise (almost) and the seal water does not sway. Therefore, the toilet system can instantly identify abnormalities based on this difference. Therefore, the toilet system can stop the toilet flush valve, minimize the supply of flush water to the bowl, and ensure a sufficient distance from the toilet overflow surface. Therefore, the toilet system can reliably prevent water leakage outside the bowl and reduce unnecessary work, such as lowering the water level in the bowl beforehand to perform clog prevention work (such as using a plunger).

[0008] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system is characterized in that the detection range of the radio wave sensor is set to an area including the apex of the trap portion.

[0009] In a toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by setting the detection range of the radio wave sensor to an area including the apex of the trap, it is possible to detect water overflowing (overflow) above the trap, and to appropriately detect abnormalities related to drainage in the toilet. For example, the toilet system can detect abnormalities more quickly by setting the detection range to the position where changes in the water level are most easily observed.

[0010] The toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment further includes an operating unit that performs a flushing operation on the bowl portion, and the abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the flushing operation being performed by the operating unit.

[0011] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a toilet system can appropriately detect drainage abnormalities in a toilet by detecting drainage abnormalities in response to flushing operations. For example, the toilet system can detect blockages by detecting abnormalities in the timing of toilet flushing and comparing the detected abnormalities with the water level changes specific to toilet flushing. Furthermore, the toilet system can prevent erroneous determination of changes in the water seal that occur during normal use or toilet cleaning as an abnormality.

[0012] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system is characterized in that the abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the time during which a change in the state of the seal water occurs.

[0013] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system can appropriately detect drainage abnormalities by detecting drainage abnormalities based on the time during which the seal water state changes. For example, the toilet system can determine abnormalities based on events such as the water level in the trap section continuing to rise or not rising even though it should.

[0014] In a toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the amount of change in the state of the seal water.

[0015] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system can appropriately detect drainage abnormalities by detecting drainage abnormalities based on the amount of change in the state of the seal water. For example, the toilet system can determine an abnormality when the amount of water level rise in the trap section is too small.

[0016] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system is characterized in that the abnormality detection unit determines the type of abnormality related to drainage based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor.

[0017] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system can appropriately detect drainage abnormalities in the toilet by determining the type of drainage abnormality based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor. For example, the toilet system can determine the location and severity of the clog based on the rise in the water level on the trap side.

[0018] The toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment further includes an alarm unit that notifies the outside world of the detection results of the abnormality detection unit, and the alarm unit changes the content or destination of the notification to the outside world based on the type of abnormality determined by the abnormality detection unit.

[0019] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a toilet system can appropriately notify an abnormality related to drainage in a toilet by changing the content or destination of the notification to be sent to the outside based on the type of abnormality. For example, depending on the location and severity of the clog, whether the problem can be dealt with by a cleaner or whether a contractor needs to be called in may vary. Therefore, by changing the destination and content of the notification depending on the type of abnormality, the toilet system can enable appropriate action to be taken promptly.

[0020] In one aspect of the embodiment, the introduced object in the toilet system includes flush water supplied to the bowl portion.

[0021] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system detects abnormalities in drainage based on the detection results of a radio wave sensor of cleaning water supplied to the bowl section, thereby making it possible to appropriately detect abnormalities in drainage in the toilet.

[0022] The toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment is characterized in that it further comprises a condition detection unit that detects a change in condition within the bowl portion, and a foreign object contamination determination unit that determines that a foreign object has been introduced into the bowl portion based on the detection result of the change in condition within the bowl portion detected by the condition detection unit before the bowl portion receives excrement and at a timing other than when the bowl portion is being cleaned.

[0023] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system determines that a foreign object has entered the bowl based on the detection result of a state change before the bowl receives excrement and at a timing other than when the bowl is being flushed, thereby appropriately notifying the user of the presence of a foreign object in the toilet. For example, by determining that a foreign object has entered the bowl, the toilet system can prevent clogging before the foreign object actually occurs.

[0024] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system is characterized in that the bowl portion is provided in a toilet or a urinal.

[0025] According to the toilet system of one aspect of the embodiment, by detecting an abnormality in drainage in a toilet bowl or urinal, an abnormality in drainage in a toilet can be appropriately detected.

[0026] A toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment further includes an estimation means for estimating information about the excrement, such as urine or feces, based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor, and the radio wave sensor is characterized in that it detects changes in the state of the water seal on the trap section side due to the excrement falling into the water seal.

[0027] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a toilet system can use the same radio wave sensor to both detect foreign objects in drainage and estimate information about urine or feces related to excrement. For example, the toilet system can perform both detection and urine checks using the same radio wave sensor. The toilet system can appropriately detect changes in the toilet's condition by using a radio wave sensor that detects changes in the seal water on the trap side due to excrement falling into the seal water. For example, the toilet system can detect overflow behavior associated with changes in the seal water condition, such as the swaying of the seal water on the trap side, using a radio wave sensor such as a microwave sensor or millimeter wave sensor. By detecting changes in the seal water condition, such as the swaying of the seal water due to objects (feces, urine) falling into the seal water on the bowl side, on the trap side, information about urine or feces can be easily obtained without placing a sensor in the drain pipe. Furthermore, the toilet system can estimate information about urine or feces related to excrement by detecting changes in the seal water condition on the trap side using the radio wave sensor.

[0028] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system is characterized in that the radio wave sensor detects a change in the state of the seal water based on water overflowing from the apex of the trap section.

[0029] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system detects changes in the state of the sealing water based on overflow from the top of the trap section, making it possible to detect water overflowing above the trap section (overflow), and to properly detect abnormalities in drainage in the toilet.

[0030] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system is characterized in that the estimation means estimates the urine flow rate or the feces volume based on a change in the state of the seal water.

[0031] According to one aspect of the embodiment of the toilet system, by estimating the urine flow rate or stool volume based on changes in the state of the seal water, information regarding excrement such as urine flow rate or stool volume can be appropriately estimated based on changes in the state that occur in the toilet.

[0032] In the toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the estimation means estimates the urine flow rate based on information about standing waves output from the radio wave sensor.

[0033] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system estimates the urine flow rate based on the information on standing waves output from the radio wave sensor, and thus information on excrement can be appropriately estimated based on the state changes occurring in the toilet.

[0034] In the toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the radio wave sensor is a millimeter wave sensor or a microwave sensor.

[0035] According to a toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment, by using a millimeter wave sensor or a microwave sensor as the radio wave sensor, it is possible to appropriately detect abnormalities related to drainage in the toilet.

[0036] In one aspect of the embodiment, a toilet system has a drainage channel from the bowl section passing between the radio wave sensor and the apex of the trap section, and the radio wave sensor detects a change in the state of the seal water based on overflow from the apex of the trap section.

[0037] In one aspect of the embodiment, a toilet system has a drainage path from the bowl section passing between the radio wave sensor and the apex of the trap section, and the radio wave sensor detects a change in the state of the seal water based on overflow from the apex of the trap section.By detecting a change in the state of the seal water based on overflow from the apex of the trap section, it is possible to detect water overflowing (overflow) passing between the radio wave sensor and the trap section, and to properly detect abnormalities in drainage in the toilet.

[0038] The toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment further includes a toilet seat device installed on top of the toilet body having the bowl portion, and the radio wave sensor is provided in the toilet seat device.

[0039] According to one aspect of the embodiment of the toilet system, a radio wave sensor is provided in a toilet seat device that is installed on top of the toilet body having a bowl portion, and the radio wave sensor installed in the toilet seat device can appropriately detect abnormalities related to drainage in the toilet.

[0040] In a toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment, an antenna portion of the radio wave sensor is disposed on the bottom side of the toilet seat device.

[0041] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system has an antenna portion of the radio wave sensor positioned on the bottom side of the toilet seat device, so that the antenna portion of the radio wave sensor that transmits and receives radio waves can be positioned near the apex of the trap portion, allowing for appropriate detection of abnormalities in drainage in the toilet.

[0042] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system is characterized in that the antenna portion of the radio wave sensor is provided on the outer wall of the drain pipe having the trap portion.

[0043] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system has an antenna portion of the radio wave sensor provided on the outer wall of the drain pipe having the trap portion, thereby preventing the antenna portion of the radio wave sensor from coming into contact with the drainage water flowing through the drain pipe, and enabling proper detection of abnormalities in the drainage water in the toilet.

[0044] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system is characterized in that the antenna portion of the radio wave sensor is positioned vertically above the trap portion.

[0045] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system has an antenna portion of the radio wave sensor positioned vertically above the trap portion, so that the antenna portion of the radio wave sensor that transmits and receives radio waves can be positioned near the apex of the trap portion, allowing for appropriate detection of abnormalities in drainage in the toilet.

[0046] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system is characterized in that the antenna portion of the radio wave sensor is positioned vertically above the water seal on the trap portion side.

[0047] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system has an antenna portion of the radio wave sensor positioned vertically above the water seal on the trap side, so that the antenna portion of the radio wave sensor that transmits and receives radio waves can be positioned near the apex of the trap, allowing for appropriate detection of abnormalities in drainage in the toilet.

[0048] A toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment further includes an optical sensor that detects changes in the state of the sealing water from the bowl side at multiple times, and the estimation means estimates information about the urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor and the optical sensor.

[0049] According to one aspect of the embodiment of the toilet system, information about excrement can be more appropriately estimated by estimating information about urine or feces using the detection results of an optical sensor that detects changes in the state of the sealing water from the bowl side at multiple times.

[0050] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system is characterized in that the estimation means estimates the urine or feces information when there is a correlation between the detection results of the radio wave sensor and the optical sensor.

[0051] According to one aspect of the embodiment, in a toilet system, when there is a correlation between the detection results of the radio wave sensor and the optical sensor, information about urine or feces can be estimated, thereby making it possible to more appropriately estimate information about excrement.

[0052] A toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment further includes an optical sensor that detects feces from the bowl side before it hits the sealed water, and the estimation means acquires information about the urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor and the optical sensor.

[0053] According to one aspect of the embodiment of the toilet system, information about the excrement can be more appropriately estimated by obtaining information about the urine or feces using the detection results of an optical sensor that detects feces from the bowl side before they hit the sealed water.

[0054] In a toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the estimation means acquires information about feces based on the detection results of the optical sensor, and acquires information about the urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor.

[0055] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet system obtains information about feces based on the detection results of the optical sensor, and obtains information about urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor, thereby enabling more appropriate estimation of information about excrement.

[0056] A radio wave device for a toilet device according to one aspect of the embodiment is a radio wave device for a toilet device that is installed in a toilet device, and is characterized by having a radio wave sensor that detects a change in state that occurs in the seal on the trap section side that forms the seal on the bottom side of the bowl section due to an object being introduced into the seal on the bowl section of the toilet device.

[0057] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a radio wave device for a toilet device detects state changes that occur in the water seal on the trap section side using a radio wave sensor, and detects abnormalities related to drainage based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor, thereby making it possible to appropriately detect abnormalities related to drainage in the toilet.

[0058] A method for detecting drainage abnormalities in a toilet system according to one aspect of the embodiment is characterized by including a detection process for detecting a change in state that occurs in the seal water on the trap section side that forms the seal water on the bottom side of the bowl section due to an object being introduced into the seal water in the bowl section of the toilet system.

[0059] According to a method for detecting drainage abnormalities in a toilet system relating to one aspect of the embodiment, a radio wave sensor detects state changes that occur in the seal water on the trap section side, and based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor, detects drainage abnormalities, thereby making it possible to properly detect drainage abnormalities in the toilet. [Effects of the Invention]

[0060] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to appropriately detect abnormalities related to drainage in a toilet. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0061] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the toilet seat device and the radio wave sensor according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of changes in water level on the bowl section side and the trap section side. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a change in the water level on the bowl side. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a change in water level on the trap side. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the location of the blockage and the change in water level. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the degree of clogging and the change in water level. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration related to dealing with clogging. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the toilet system. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an outline of the process of estimating information related to excrement. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the flow rate and the height of overflow water. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a state change accompanying a change in flow rate. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of detection information of the microwave sensor. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between wavelengths. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of the characteristics of a radio wave sensor. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a method for detecting a change in water level. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process for calculating a flow rate from a change in water level. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for calculating a flow rate. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for calculating a flow rate. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the area and the total urine volume. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of processing when defecation occurs during urination. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of processing when defecation occurs during urination. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of calculation using two outputs. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a radio wave sensor. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing using the relationship between two outputs. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing an example of processing including foreign object detection executed by the toilet system. [Figure 31]FIG. 31 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet device according to a modified example. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a side cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet device according to a modified example. [Figure 33] FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an example of changes caused by clogging of a urinal. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a toilet system according to a modified example. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is a front view showing an example of the arrangement of multiple urinals. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a top view showing an example of the arrangement of multiple urinals. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a side cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a multiple urinal. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the toilet system for multiple urinals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0062] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, an embodiment of the toilet system disclosed in the present application will be described in detail. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below. Below, the process for detecting abnormalities in drainage (also called "drainage abnormalities") executed by the toilet system 1 and the configuration for performing this process will be described, but first various configurations of the toilet system and other components that are the premise will be described.

[0063] Furthermore, the following describes an example in which, in addition to detecting drainage abnormalities, processing related to estimating information about the excrement of toilet users (customers), such as urine volume, and processing related to detecting foreign matter contamination are also performed; however, the toilet system 1 may only perform processing related to detecting drainage abnormalities. In this case, the toilet system 1 may have a configuration for executing processing related to detecting drainage abnormalities, and for example, the toilet device 20 may not have the optical sensor 34. In this case, the toilet device 20 may be configured to additionally have a configuration (such as a radio wave sensor 200) for detecting drainage abnormalities in an existing toilet bowl installed in a facility such as a commercial facility, office, or transportation facility (also referred to as a "public toilet"), or in a home (also referred to as a "residential toilet"), etc.

[0064] <1. Toilet system configuration> First, the configuration of a toilet system according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet system according to an embodiment.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 1, the toilet system 1 includes a toilet device 20 and an operating device 10. The toilet system 1 may include multiple toilet devices 20 and multiple operating devices 10. As shown in FIG. 1, a toilet room R includes a toilet bowl 7 installed on a floor F, and a toilet seat device 2 installed above the toilet bowl 7. In the following, the direction facing the interior of the toilet room R from the floor F will be referred to as "up." For example, in the case of a public toilet, the toilet room R is a private toilet (toilet booth) installed in the toilet space, and in the case of a residential toilet, the toilet room R is a toilet space installed in a house. For example, when the toilet system 1 detects drainage abnormalities in multiple toilet devices 20, the toilet system 1 may include multiple toilet devices 20, and the toilet system 1 may perform processing related to drainage abnormality detection for the toilet device 20 installed in each of the multiple toilet rooms R.

[0066] The toilet bowl 7 is a so-called toilet bowl (Western-style toilet bowl) and is made of materials such as ceramic or resin. The toilet bowl 7 is formed with a bowl portion 8. The bowl portion 8 is recessed downward and is the portion that receives the user's excrement. In this way, the toilet bowl 7 functions as the toilet body having the bowl portion 8. The bottom side of the bowl portion 8 is connected to a drain pipe 81, which will be described later.

[0067] Furthermore, the toilet 7 is not limited to being a floor-standing type as shown in the figure, and may be of any type, such as a wall-mounted type, as long as the toilet system 1 is applicable. The toilet 7 is provided with a rim 9 around the entire periphery of the edge of the opening facing the bowl 8. In the toilet room R, for example, a flush water tank for storing flush water may be installed near the toilet 7, or the toilet room R may be of a so-called tankless type, in which no flush water tank is installed.

[0068] The toilet seat device 2 is attached to the top of a toilet bowl 7, and includes a main body 3, a toilet lid 4, a toilet seat 5, and a flushing nozzle 6. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on top of the toilet bowl 7, which is formed with a bowl 8 that receives excrement. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on top of the toilet bowl 7 so that the flushing nozzle 6 advances into the bowl 8 before spraying flushing water. The toilet seat device 2 may be detachably attached to the toilet bowl 7, or may be attached so as to be integrated with the toilet bowl 7. The main body 3 also functions as a functional unit in which components for executing various functions (such as the control device 100) are located within the main body cover 30.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 1, the toilet seat 5 is formed in an annular shape with an opening 50 in the center, and is positioned along the rim portion 9 so as to overlap the opening of the toilet bowl 7. A user sits on the toilet seat 5. The toilet seat 5 functions as a seating section that supports the buttocks of the seated user. Also, as shown in FIG. 1, one end of each of the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 is pivotally supported on the main body portion 3, and they are attached so as to be rotatable (openable and closable) around the pivotal support portion of the main body portion 3. The toilet lid 4 is attached to the toilet seat device 2 as needed, and the toilet seat device 2 does not necessarily have to have a toilet lid 4.

[0070] The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for discharging water for cleaning. The cleaning nozzle 6 is capable of spraying cleaning water. The cleaning nozzle 6 is capable of spraying cleaning water toward the user. The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for cleaning private parts. The cleaning nozzle 6 is configured to be able to advance and retreat relative to the main body cover 30, which is the housing of the main body 3, by driving a driving source such as an electric motor (such as the nozzle motor 61 in Figure 5). The cleaning nozzle 6 is also connected to a water source such as a water pipe (not shown). When the cleaning nozzle 6 is in an advanced position (also referred to as the "advanced position") relative to the main body cover 30, which is the housing of the main body 3, as shown in Figure 1, it sprays water from the water source onto the user's body to clean the private parts.

[0071] 1 shows the state in which the cleaning nozzle 6 is in the advanced position. The cleaning nozzle 6 may also be used to clean the inside of the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8, etc.). The cleaning nozzle 6 may be used to be switchable between a private parts cleaning mode in which the private parts of the user are cleaned, and a toilet bowl cleaning mode in which water is sprayed inside the toilet bowl 7. For example, the cleaning nozzle 6 may be used to be switchable between the private parts cleaning mode and the toilet bowl cleaning mode according to the control by the toilet seat device 2.

[0072] The operating device 10 is provided in the toilet room R. The operating device 10 is provided in a position where it can be operated by a user. The operating device 10 is provided in a position where it can be operated by a user when seated on the toilet seat 5. In FIG. 1 , the operating device 10 is provided on a wall surface W on the right side as seen from a user seated on the toilet seat 5. Note that the operating device 10 may be provided in various ways, not just on a wall surface, as long as it is usable by a user seated on the toilet seat 5. For example, the operating device 10 may be provided integrally with the toilet seat apparatus 2.

[0073] The operating device 10 is connected to the toilet device 20 via a predetermined network so as to be able to communicate with each other via a wired or wireless connection. For example, the toilet device 20 and the operating device 10 may be connected in any manner as long as they are able to send and receive information, and may be connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0074] The operating device 10 is a flush operating unit (also simply referred to as an "operating unit") that accepts an operation by a user to perform a flushing operation on the bowl portion 8. For example, when the operating device 10 accepts an operation by a user to instruct the execution of a flushing operation on the bowl portion 8, it transmits information (a signal) to the toilet apparatus 20 requesting the execution of a toilet flush by supplying flush water to the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7. For example, in response to an instruction to flush the bowl portion 8, the toilet apparatus 20 controls the opening and closing of the toilet flush valve and controls the flushing of the bowl portion 8 using any configuration, such as an output circuit that outputs a predetermined signal and a drive circuit that drives the toilet flush valve. For example, when the toilet apparatus 20 receives an instruction to flush the bowl portion 8, it controls the opening of the toilet flush valve and flushes the bowl portion 8 using any configuration, such as an output circuit and a drive circuit. Note that the configuration related to toilet flushing is similar to the configuration of a normal toilet flush, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0075] The above is merely one example, and for example, the operating unit for flushing bowl 8 is not limited to operating device 10, but may be provided separately from operating device 10. For example, the operating unit may be one that flushes the toilet manually by the user, such as an operating lever, or one that flushes the toilet when a sensor that detects the user's body, such as a seat sensor, detects the user.

[0076] The operation device 10 accepts various operations from a user via a display surface (for example, a display screen 11) using, for example, a touch panel function. The operation device 10 may also be provided with switches and buttons and accept various operations via the switches, buttons, etc. The display screen 11 is a display screen of a tablet terminal or the like realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and is a display device for displaying various information. That is, the operation device 10 accepts input from the user via the display screen 11 and also outputs information to the user. At this time, the operation device 10 identifies which pre-registered user the user is. Thereafter, the control unit 130 links the user information with information related to excrement or information obtained from the information related to excrement, which will be described later, and transmits the linked information to the user's terminal. At this time, information on the date and time when the information related to excrement was obtained may also be transmitted to the user's terminal. The display screen 11 is a display device for displaying various information.

[0077] The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to stop a control being executed by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to start private parts washing by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts a user's instruction to the cleaning nozzle 6. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to cause the toilet seat device 2 to output a predetermined sound. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to perform a sterilization process to sterilize the cleaning nozzle 6 (see FIG. 1) of the toilet seat device 2 with disinfectant water. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to adjust the force of water spray when private parts are washed by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to adjust the volume of the sound output by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to select a language when information regarding toilet usage is displayed on the operation device 10 or output as audio.

[0078] For example, the operation device 10 may display the above-described object that accepts the user's operation on the display screen 11, and execute various processes in response to the user's touch on the displayed object. For example, the operation device 10 may have a switch, button, etc. that accepts the above-described user's operation, and execute various processes in response to the user's touch on the switch, button, etc. Note that the above is just an example, and the operation device 10 may also accept a user's operation that executes various processes.

[0079] <2. Configuration of the toilet device> The configuration of the toilet device 20 will be described below. The toilet device 20 has a toilet 7 with a bowl portion 8, a radio wave sensor 200 (see FIG. 4), and a control device 100 (see FIG. 6). The toilet device 20 detects changes in the state of the water seal on the trap portion 82 side (described later) due to an object introduced into the water seal by the radio wave sensor 200. The toilet device 20 also detects abnormalities related to drainage based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200, which will be described later.

[0080] <2-1. Configuration of the toilet seat device> In FIG. 1, the toilet apparatus 20 includes a toilet seat apparatus 2 that is installed above a toilet bowl 7. The configuration of the toilet seat apparatus 2 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views showing an example of the configuration of a toilet seat apparatus according to an embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a state in which the lid 110 of the toilet seat apparatus 2 is closed (also referred to as a "closed state"). FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a state in which the lid 110 of the toilet seat apparatus 2 is removed. As described above, the toilet apparatus 20 does not need to include the optical sensor 34, for example, when only detecting drainage abnormalities. The toilet apparatus 20 may also include various other components in addition to those shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. For example, the toilet apparatus 20 may include components for controlling a toilet flush valve, such as an output circuit and a drive circuit. For example, the toilet apparatus 20 may also include a toilet flush valve.

[0081] 2, when the lid 110 is in the closed state, the optical sensor 34 is hidden behind the lid 110. When the lid 110 is in the closed state, the lid 110 is located in front of the optical sensor 34. In this way, the lid 110 is located in front of the optical sensor 34 when in the closed state.

[0082] 2 shows the cleaning nozzle 6 (see FIG. 1) in a position (also referred to as the "storage position") where it is stored within the main body cover 30. As shown in FIG. 2, when the cleaning nozzle 6 is in the storage position, the nozzle cover 60 is closed, and the cleaning nozzle 6 is hidden behind the nozzle cover 60. When cleaning is performed using the cleaning nozzle 6, the nozzle cover 60 is opened, and the cleaning nozzle 6 protrudes from the opening for the cleaning nozzle 6 in the main body cover 30, and the cleaning nozzle 6 transitions to an advanced state.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 3, when the lid 110 is removed, the optical sensor 34 is exposed from the opening 31 of the main body cover 30. For example, when the lid 110 is open (also referred to as the "open state"), the lid 110 is not positioned in front of the optical sensor 34, as shown in FIG. 3. As a result, when the lid 110 is in the open state, the optical sensor 34 is exposed. When the lid 110 is in the open state, the optical sensor 34 can detect a change in the state of the water seal in the toilet bowl 7. Note that the toilet seat device 2 does not need to have the lid 110. In this case, the toilet seat device 2 does not need to have the lid 110 and the actuator 111, and the optical sensor 34 may be always exposed.

[0084] <2-2. Configuration of drain pipes in toilet devices and placement of radio wave sensors> Next, an example of the configuration of a drain pipe and the placement of a radio wave sensor in a toilet apparatus will be described using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a toilet apparatus according to an embodiment. Specifically, Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the toilet bowl 7, showing only the essential parts of the configuration of the toilet apparatus 20, such as the toilet bowl 7, in order to show the configuration of the drain pipe 81 and the placement of the radio wave sensor 200. Note that the cross-sectional shape of the toilet bowl 7 in Figure 4 is merely an example, and the cavity inside the toilet bowl 7 may be in any form as long as the radio wave sensor 200 can be placed in a desired position; for example, only the location where the radio wave sensor 200 is placed may be hollow.

[0085] A drain pipe 81 communicates with an opening provided at the bottom of the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7. The drain pipe 81 is a drain pipe from the bowl portion 8, and the internal space of the drain pipe 81 functions as a drainage channel. In FIG. 4, the drain pipe 81 has a U-shaped (V-shaped) shape that extends diagonally downward from the end connected to the bottom of the bowl portion 8 and then diagonally upward, before continuing downward. This forms a trap portion 82 in the drain pipe 81. The trap portion 82 forms a water seal WT including the bottom side of the bowl portion 8. Note that the configuration of the drain pipe 81 shown in FIG. 4 is merely one example, and any configuration can be adopted for the drain pipe 81 as long as it can form a trap that can perform the processing described below.

[0086] In Figure 4, the hatched areas in the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7 and the drain pipe 81 are shown filled with a water seal WT (water). Also, in Figure 4, the water seal surface WS1 in Figure 4 indicates the upper surface formed on the bottom side of the bowl portion 8 by the water seal WT, and the water seal surface WS2 in Figure 4 indicates the upper surface formed on the trap portion 82 side by the water seal WT.

[0087] In FIG. 4, an apex 821 is formed at the end of trap portion 82 opposite the end of drain pipe 81 that is connected to the bottom of bowl portion 8. Detection range DA11 of radio wave sensor 200 is set to an area that includes apex 821 of trap portion 82. For example, radio wave sensor 200 is positioned so that detection range DA11 includes apex 821 of trap portion 82. Note that the range shown in FIG. 4 is merely one example of detection range DA11 of radio wave sensor 200, and detection range DA11 of radio wave sensor 200 is not limited to the range shown in FIG. 4 and may be any range as long as it includes apex 821 of trap portion 82.

[0088] For example, the radio wave sensor 200 is a μ (microwave) wave sensor. In the following, a case where the radio wave sensor 200 is a microwave sensor will be described as an example, but the radio wave sensor 200 is not limited to a microwave sensor. For example, any sensor such as a millimeter wave sensor can be used as the radio wave sensor 200 as long as it is capable of performing the desired detection.

[0089] Radio wave sensor 200 can be positioned in any manner as long as detection range DA11 includes apex 821 of trap portion 82. For example, radio wave sensor 200 is positioned vertically above trap portion 82. For example, radio wave sensor 200 is positioned vertically above the water seal (e.g., water seal surface WS2) on the trap portion 82 side. For example, radio wave sensor 200 is provided along the outer wall of drain pipe 81 that has trap portion 82. In FIG. 4, radio wave sensor 200 is provided outside drain pipe 81 and above trap portion 82. In this case, a drainage channel from bowl portion 8 passes between radio wave sensor 200 and apex 821 of trap portion 82. As a result, a drainage channel from bowl portion 8 provided in toilet 7 passes between antenna portion 210 (see FIG. 5) of radio wave sensor 200 and apex 821 of trap portion 82.

[0090] The above-described arrangement is merely an example, and the radio wave sensor 200 may be arranged in various other ways. For example, the radio wave sensor 200 may be provided in the toilet seat device 2. When the radio wave sensor 200 is provided in the toilet seat device 2, the radio wave sensor 200 may be arranged on the bottom (lower side) of the toilet seat device 2. In this case, the antenna unit 210 of the radio wave sensor 200 is arranged on the bottom of the toilet seat device 2 on the toilet bowl 7 side. For example, the radio wave sensor 200 may be arranged in the main body unit 3, which is a functional unit. The radio wave sensor 200 may be arranged, for example, inside the main body cover 30. Below, an example will be described in which the radio wave sensor 200 is arranged above the trap unit 82, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0091] With the above-described arrangement, the radio wave sensor 200 detects a change in state that occurs in the water seal on the trap section 82 side. The radio wave sensor 200 detects a change in state that occurs in the water seal on the trap section 82 side due to an object introduced into the water seal. The object introduced includes flush water supplied to the bowl section 8. For example, the toilet system 1 has the radio wave sensor 200 as a first sensor.

[0092] Furthermore, radio wave sensor 200 detects changes in the state of the water seal, including water overflowing from apex 821 of trap portion 82. For example, radio wave sensor 200 detects changes in the state of the water seal on the trap portion 82 side due to excrement falling into the water seal on the bowl portion 8 side. For example, radio wave sensor 200 detects changes in the state of the water seal based on water overflowing from apex 821 of trap portion 82, which will be described later.

[0093] Note that radio wave sensor 200 may be separate from toilet device 20 and detachable from toilet device 20. In this case, for example, radio wave sensor 200 may be a toilet device radio wave device installed in toilet device 20. Radio wave sensor 200 detects a change in state that occurs in the water seal on the trap unit 82 side that forms the water seal on the bottom side of bowl unit 8 when excrement falls into the water seal in bowl unit 8 of toilet device 20.

[0094] <3. Configuration of the toilet seat device and radio wave sensor> Next, the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 and the radio wave sensor 200 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the toilet seat device and the radio wave sensor according to the embodiment.

[0095] <3-1. Functional configuration of the toilet seat device> First, we will explain the functional configuration of the toilet seat device 2. As shown in Fig. 5, the toilet seat device 2 includes a human body detection sensor 32, a seating detection sensor 33, an optical sensor 34, a control device 100, a nozzle motor 61, a flushing nozzle 6, a solenoid valve 71, a lid 110, and an actuator 111. Note that Fig. 5 omits illustration of some of the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 described in Fig. 1 (such as the main body 3, toilet seat 5, and toilet bowl 7).

[0096] 5 is merely an example, and the toilet seat device 2 can have any configuration. The human body detection sensor 32, seating detection sensor 33, optical sensor 34, control device 100, etc. are arranged in any desired locations. For example, the optical sensor 34 is provided in the main body 3 of the toilet seat device 2. The toilet seat device 2 transmits and receives information to and from an information processing device such as the operating device 10 via a predetermined network (such as the Internet) by a communication device (such as the communication unit 101 of the control device 100 in FIG. 6) in a wired or wireless manner.

[0097] The human body detection sensor 32 has a function of detecting a human body. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 is realized by a pyroelectric sensor using an infrared signal. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 may be realized by a μ (microwave) wave sensor. Note that the above is just an example, and the human body detection sensor 32 is not limited to the above and may detect a human body by various means. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 detects a person (such as a user) who enters the toilet room R (see FIG. 1). The human body detection sensor 32 outputs a detection signal to the control device 100.

[0098] The seating detection sensor 33 has a function of detecting a person sitting on the toilet seat device 2. The seating detection sensor 33 detects that a user is sitting on the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 can detect that a user is sitting on the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 also functions as a seat-leaving detection sensor that detects that a user has left the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 detects the seated state of the user on the toilet seat 5.

[0099] For example, the seating detection sensor 33 detects that a user has sat on the toilet seat 5 using a load sensor. For example, the seating detection sensor 33 is an infrared light emitting / receiving distance measuring sensor, and may detect a human body near the toilet seat 5 just before the person (user) sits on the toilet seat 5, or the user who has sat on the toilet seat 5. Note that the above is just one example, and the seating detection sensor 33 may detect that a person has sat on the toilet seat device 2 by various means other than the above. The seating detection sensor 33 outputs a seating detection signal to the control device 100.

[0100] The optical sensor 34 is a sensor that detects changes in the state of the toilet device 20. For example, the toilet system 1 has the optical sensor 34 as a second sensor. For example, the second sensor also functions as a sensor (foreign object detection sensor) for determining whether a foreign object has entered the bowl portion 8. Note that the foreign object may be an object other than water (such as flush water) or excrement that is intended to be introduced into the bowl portion 8. The optical sensor 34 detects changes in the state of the seal water in the toilet bowl 7. For example, the optical sensor 34 detects changes in the state of the bowl portion 8 side. The optical sensor 34 detects changes in the state of the seal water from the bowl portion 8 side at multiple times. For example, the optical sensor 34 includes the seal water on the bowl portion 8 side (e.g., the water seal surface WS1, etc.) in its detection range. Note that the above-described detection mode is merely an example, and the optical sensor 34 may perform any detection as long as the desired detection is possible.

[0101] For example, the optical sensor 34 may detect feces before they hit the sealed water from the bowl portion 8 side. The optical sensor 34 detects feces falling inside the bowl portion 8 (falling feces). In this case, the optical sensor 34 includes the inside of the bowl portion 8 in its detection range.

[0102] The optical sensor 34 may have any configuration as long as it can detect a desired state change. For example, depending on the type of sensor used, the optical sensor 34 is disposed at a position appropriate for the detection mode of the sensor. The optical sensor 34 may be a non-contact sensor. For example, FIG. 4 shows a case where the optical sensor 34 is a non-contact sensor. In this case, the optical sensor 34 may be a camera, a line sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an infrared sensor, or the like. The optical sensor 34 may also be a contact sensor. In this case, the optical sensor 34 may be a float sensor, a pressure sensor, or the like. Note that the above is merely an example, and any sensor may be used as the optical sensor 34 as long as it can detect a desired state change.

[0103] Furthermore, when optical sensor 34 detects the presence or absence of feces, imaging means such as a camera or a line sensor may be used for optical sensor 34. In this case, for example, optical sensor 34 may be a line sensor arranged facing the inside of bowl portion 8, and may detect fallen objects such as excrement falling inside bowl portion 8. Furthermore, optical sensor 34 may be a camera arranged facing the sealed water inside bowl portion 8, and may detect fallen objects such as excrement that have landed on the sealed water.

[0104] The above-described sensors are merely examples, and the toilet system 1 may include any desired sensors. For example, the toilet system 1 may include a radio wave sensor (also referred to as a "bowl-side radio wave sensor") whose detection range is on the bowl 8 side as the second sensor. For example, if the toilet system 1 does not perform processing related to estimating information related to the user's excrement, such as urine volume, but instead performs processing related to detecting the presence of foreign matter, the toilet seat device 2 may include a bowl-side radio wave sensor as the second sensor instead of the optical sensor 34. The toilet system 1 may include both the optical sensor 34 and the bowl-side radio wave sensor.

[0105] The control device 100 controls various components and processes. The control device 100 is a computer (information processing device) that executes various information processes, such as detecting (determining) abnormalities related to drainage. The control device 100 functions as a drainage abnormality detection means that performs processes related to the detection of drainage abnormalities. The control device 100 detects abnormalities related to drainage based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200. The control device 100 detects abnormalities related to drainage based on a cleaning operation performed by the operation unit. The control device 100 detects abnormalities related to drainage based on the time during which a change in the state of the seal water occurs. The control device 100 detects abnormalities related to drainage based on the amount of change in the state of the seal water. The control device 100 determines the type of abnormality related to drainage based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200. The control device 100 notifies the outside of the detection result. The control device 100 changes the content or destination of the notification to be sent to the outside based on the determined type of abnormality.

[0106] Control device 100 also executes processing related to the detection of foreign matter contamination. In this case, control device 100 determines (judges) whether or not a foreign matter has been introduced into bowl portion 8 based on the detected change in state within bowl portion 8. Control device 100 detects the change in state within bowl portion 8. Control device 100 determines that a foreign matter has been introduced into bowl portion 8 based on the detection result of the change in state within bowl portion 8 detected by state detection unit 134 before bowl portion 8 receives excrement and at a timing other than when the inside of bowl portion 8 is being cleaned.

[0107] The control device 100 may also perform various information processing such as estimating (calculating) information related to excrement, such as urine flow rate (urine volume) or feces volume. In this case, the control device 100 may also function as an estimation means for estimating information related to excrement, such as urine or feces, based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200. In this case, the toilet system 1 may provide information to a terminal device (also referred to as a "user device"), such as a smartphone of the user, based on the information estimated by the control device 100. The toilet system 1 may also provide information to an operating device 10 (or a display screen 11) of the toilet room R based on the estimated information.

[0108] The control device 100 estimates the urine flow rate or feces volume based on changes in the state of the water seal. For example, the control device 100 estimates the urine flow rate based on information about standing waves output from the radio wave sensor 200. For example, the control device 100 estimates information about urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200 and the optical sensor 34.

[0109] For example, the control device 100 estimates information about urine or feces when there is a correlation between the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200 and the optical sensor 34. For example, the control device 100 acquires information about urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200 and the optical sensor 34. For example, the control device 100 acquires information about feces based on the detection results of the optical sensor 34, and acquires information about urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200.

[0110] The control device 100 also controls various components of the toilet system 1. The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the actuator 111. The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the actuator 111 based on signals transmitted from the operating device 10.

[0111] The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61 based on a control instruction signal related to local cleaning transmitted from the operation device 10. The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61 to advance and retract the cleaning nozzle 6. The control device 100 controls the opening and closing of the solenoid valve 71.

[0112] The control device 100 controls the actuator 111 to open and close the lid 110. The control device 100 transmits control information to the actuator 111 to put the lid 110 in an open state. The control device 100 transmits control information to the actuator 111 to put the lid 110 in a closed state. The control device 100 controls the lid 110 to be in a closed state while the optical sensor 34 is not detecting anything, such as before the user uses the toilet 7.

[0113] The control device 100 transmits control information to the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the actuator 111 via wires. The control device 100 may also transmit control information to the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the actuator 111 wirelessly. For example, if the control device 100 is configured as a device separate from the toilet seat device 2, it may transmit control information for the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the actuator 111 wirelessly to the toilet seat device 2. In this case, the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the actuator 111 may be controlled based on the control information received by the control device of the toilet seat device 2.

[0114] The control device 100 controls the opening and closing operation of the lid portion 110. The control device 100 opens the lid portion 110 when a user, as detected by the human body detection sensor 32 or the seating detection sensor 33, starts using the toilet bowl 7, and closes the lid portion 110 when the user, as detected by the human body detection sensor 32 or the seating detection sensor 33, finishes using the toilet bowl 7. The control device 100 also opens the lid portion 110 when the seating detection sensor 33 detects that the user has sat on the toilet seat 5, and closes the lid portion 110 when the seating detection sensor 33 detects that the user has left the toilet seat 5. For example, the control device 100 opens the lid portion 110 when the human body detection sensor 32 detects that the user has entered the toilet room R, and closes the lid portion 110 when the human body detection sensor 32 detects that the user has left the toilet room R.

[0115] Note that the opening and closing of the lid portion 110 described above is merely an example, and the control device 100 may control the opening and closing of the lid portion 110 based on various information. The control device 100 may open the lid portion 110 when the human body detection sensor 32 detects that a user is approaching the toilet bowl 7. For example, the control device 100 may open the lid portion 110 when it detects that the user is located within a predetermined range (e.g., 50 cm) from the toilet bowl 7. Furthermore, the control device 100 closes the lid portion 110 when the human body detection sensor 32 detects that the user has moved away from the toilet bowl 7. For example, the control device 100 closes the lid portion 110 when it detects that the user is located outside the predetermined range (e.g., 50 cm) from the toilet bowl 7.

[0116] The control device 100 closes the lid portion 110 in conjunction with a user's instruction to operate the cleaning nozzle 6 via the operating device 10. The control device 100 closes the lid portion 110 in conjunction with the operation of the cleaning nozzle 6. The control device 100 controls the lid portion 110 based on the user's operation of the operating device 10, which controls the cleaning nozzle 6. The control device 100 detects the operation of the cleaning nozzle 6 (the nozzle advancing into the bowl portion 8) and controls the lid portion 110.

[0117] The control device 100 controls the lid part 110 to open upward when placed on the toilet bowl 7. The control device 100 controls the lid part 110 to close when the cleaning nozzle 6 is in operation. The control device 100 controls the lid part 110 to close when the cleaning nozzle 6 arranged on the toilet bowl 7 is in operation.

[0118] The control device 100 may also control the optical sensor 34. In this case, the optical sensor 34 starts or stops detection in accordance with the control of the control device 100. The control device 100 transmits control information to the optical sensor 34 to control the start or end of detection by the optical sensor 34. For example, when the human body detection sensor 32 or the seating detection sensor 33 detects that a user has started using the toilet 7, the control device 100 transmits control information to the optical sensor 34 to cause the optical sensor 34 to start detection. For example, when the human body detection sensor 32 or the seating detection sensor 33 detects that a user has stopped using the toilet 7, the control device 100 transmits control information to the optical sensor 34 to cause the optical sensor 34 to end detection.

[0119] The control device 100 may also control the radio wave sensor 200. In this case, the radio wave sensor 200 starts or stops detection in accordance with the control of the control device 100. The control device 100 transmits control information to the radio wave sensor 200 to control the start or end of detection by the radio wave sensor 200. For example, when the human body detection sensor 32 or the seating detection sensor 33 detects that a user has started using the toilet 7, the control device 100 transmits control information to the radio wave sensor 200 to cause the radio wave sensor 200 to start detection. For example, when the human body detection sensor 32 or the seating detection sensor 33 detects that a user has stopped using the toilet 7, the control device 100 transmits control information to the radio wave sensor 200 to cause the radio wave sensor 200 to end detection.

[0120] The control device 100 also controls the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 as shown in FIG. 1. The control device 100 controls the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 based on signals transmitted from the operating device 10. The control device 100 controls the toilet lid 4 based on control instruction signals transmitted from the operating device 10 regarding the opening and closing of the toilet lid. The control device 100 controls the toilet seat 5 based on control instruction signals transmitted from the operating device 10 regarding the opening and closing of the seat. The control device 100 transmits control information to the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 via a wired connection. The control device 100 may also transmit control information to the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 wirelessly.

[0121] The control device 100 determines whether or not the human body detection sensor 32 has detected the entry of a user into the toilet room R. The control device 100 determines whether or not the human body detection sensor 32 has detected the entry of a user into the toilet room R. The control device 100 determines whether or not the seating detection sensor 33 has detected the sitting of a user. The control device 100 determines whether or not the seating detection sensor 33 has detected the sitting of a user on the toilet seat 5.

[0122] The solenoid valve 71 functions as a valve that electromagnetically controls the flow of a fluid. The solenoid valve 71 switches between supplying and stopping tap water from a water supply pipe, for example. The solenoid valve 71 controls opening and closing in response to instructions from the control device 100.

[0123] The nozzle motor 61 is a drive source (motor) that drives the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retract. The nozzle motor 61 controls the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retract relative to the main body cover 30 of the main body 3. The nozzle motor 61 controls the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retract in accordance with instructions from the control device 100.

[0124] The lid unit 110 can be positioned in front of the optical sensor 34 and functions as a lid. The lid unit 110 is preferably formed of an opaque material to reduce the possibility that the optical sensor 34 is visible and to ensure a configuration that respects the user's privacy. For example, the lid unit 110 may be formed in an opaque state by coloring. The lid unit 110 may have an opaque material (paint) applied to its surface. Note that the lid unit 110 is not limited to an opaque configuration and may be transparent. The lid unit 110 can transition between an open state and a closed state by an actuator 111, and is positioned in front of the optical sensor 34 or exposes the optical sensor 34.

[0125] The actuator 111 is a drive source (motor) that puts the lid 110 into an open state or a closed state. The actuator 111 executes control to put the lid 110 into an open state or a closed state in response to instructions from the control device 100. The actuator 111 puts the lid 110 into a closed state when the cleaning nozzle 6 is operating. The actuator 111 puts the lid 110 into a closed state when the cleaning nozzle 6 arranged on the toilet bowl 7 is operating.

[0126] In the configuration shown in FIG. 5, the toilet seat device 2 includes the control device 100 and other components. However, the control device 100, the human body detection sensor 32, the seating detection sensor 33, the optical sensor 34, and other components may be configured as separate devices from the toilet seat device 2. For example, the control device 100 may be configured as a separate device from the toilet seat device 2. For example, the control device 100 may be a server device located at a location separate from the toilet seat device 2. In this case, the control device 100 communicates with each device, such as the toilet seat device 2, the human body detection sensor 32, the seating detection sensor 33, and the optical sensor 34, and receives information necessary for estimating information related to excrement, such as urine flow rate (urine volume) or feces volume, from each device. In this case, the toilet seat device 2 may also have a configuration (such as a control circuit) for controlling various components of the toilet seat device 2, such as the nozzle motor 61, the solenoid valve 71, and the actuator 111. Note that the above is merely an example, and the toilet system 1 can employ any device configuration as long as the desired processing is possible.

[0127] <3-2. Functional configuration of radio wave sensor> Next, a description will be given of the functional configuration of the radio wave sensor 200. As shown in FIG.

[0128] The antenna unit 210 has a function for transmitting and receiving radio waves, and includes a transmitting antenna 211 that transmits predetermined radio waves, and a receiving antenna 212 that receives the radio waves.

[0129] Any arrangement may be adopted for the arrangement of the antenna unit 210. For example, the antenna unit 210 is arranged near the trap unit 82. For example, the antenna unit 210 is provided on the outer wall of the drain pipe 81 that has the trap unit 82. The antenna unit 210 is provided along the outer wall of the drain pipe 81 that has the trap unit 82. Furthermore, for example, the antenna unit 210 is arranged vertically above the trap unit 82. Furthermore, for example, the antenna unit 210 is arranged vertically above the seal water on the trap unit 82 side.

[0130] Furthermore, when the radio wave sensor 200 is provided in the toilet seat apparatus 2, for example, the antenna unit 210 is disposed on the bottom (lower side) of the toilet seat apparatus 2. Note that the above-described arrangement of the antenna unit 210 is merely an example, and any arrangement of the antenna unit 210 can be adopted as long as the desired detection is possible. For example, the antenna unit 210 may be disposed outside the drain pipe 81, such as on the outer wall of the drain pipe 81, or may be disposed inside the drain pipe 81, as long as the desired detection is possible.

[0131] Circuit unit 220 has the function of executing processes related to transmitting and receiving radio waves. Circuit unit 220 includes a transmitter circuit 221 that functions as an electronic circuit that generates repeated electrical vibrations, and a detector circuit 222 that detects waves received by receiving antenna 212. Note that the configuration shown in FIG. 5 is merely an example, and radio wave sensor 200 can have any configuration. For example, it may have multiple detector circuits 222 as shown in FIG. 28, etc., but this will be described later. For example, the circuit configuration of radio wave sensor 200 that uses one output may be a configuration that has only one detector circuit 222 (e.g., detector circuit #1) obtained by omitting the part corresponding to detector circuit #2 from the circuit schematic diagram shown in FIG. 28.

[0132] The radio wave sensor 200 also has a function of transmitting information collected by detection to the control device 100. For example, the radio wave sensor 200 may be connected to the control device 100 by a wire and be able to communicate information with the control device 100. The radio wave sensor 200 may also be connected to the control device 100 and be able to communicate information with the control device 100. The radio wave sensor 200 may have a communication device for communicating with the control device 100.

[0133] <4. Functional configuration of the control device> The functional configuration of the control device will be described below with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device according to the embodiment.

[0134] 6, the control device 100 includes a communication unit 101, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. The control device 100 may also include an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) that accepts various operations from an administrator of the control device 100, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) that displays various information.

[0135] The communication unit 101 is a component of, for example, a communication device having a function for communicating with the outside. The communication unit 101 is realized by, for example, a communication circuit. The communication unit 101 is connected to a predetermined network via a wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information to and from an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 101 is connected to a predetermined network via a wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information to and from another device such as the operating device 10. For example, the communication unit 101 transmits various information to a notification destination device (such as a computer) in accordance with the control of the notification unit 137 described below. Furthermore, the control device 100 may be connected to a radio wave sensor 200 via a wired or wireless connection via the communication unit 101 and transmit and receive information to and from the radio wave sensor 200. Note that the communication unit 101 may be configured as a device (communication device) separate from the control device 100 and may be included in the toilet seat device 2.

[0136] The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 120 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by various information processing programs and the like.

[0137] The storage unit 120 according to the embodiment stores various pieces of information necessary for processing. The storage unit 120 stores various pieces of information acquired from other devices such as various sensors. For example, the storage unit 120 stores various pieces of information used for anomaly detection (e.g., information used for anomaly determination). For example, the storage unit 120 stores thresholds used for anomaly detection. For example, the storage unit 120 stores thresholds used for determining the type of anomaly. For example, the storage unit 120 stores multiple thresholds used for determining the location of the anomaly. For example, the storage unit 120 stores multiple thresholds used for determining the severity of the anomaly. Note that the above is merely an example, and the storage unit 120 stores various pieces of information necessary for processing other than the above.

[0138] For example, the memory unit 120 stores various information used to determine whether a foreign substance has been present (e.g., information used to determine whether a foreign substance has been present). For example, the memory unit 120 stores thresholds used to determine whether a foreign substance has been present. For example, the memory unit 120 stores information related to a learning model (also simply referred to as a "model") used in processing. For example, the memory unit 120 stores a model used in estimating information related to excrement, such as urine flow rate (urine volume) or feces volume. For example, the memory unit 120 stores various information (e.g., information related to thresholds) used in various types of information processing.

[0139] 6, the explanation will be continued. The control unit 130 is realized, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or the like executing a program (for example, various information processing programs related to the present disclosure) stored inside the control device 100 using a RAM or the like as a work area. The control unit 130 is also a controller, and is realized, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0140] 6, the control unit 130 has an acquisition unit 131, a measurement unit 132, an abnormality detection unit 133, a state detection unit 134, a foreign matter contamination determination unit 135, an estimation unit 136, and a notification unit 137, and realizes or executes the functions and actions of information processing described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 6, and may be any other configuration that performs the information processing described below.

[0141] The acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information. The acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 receives information from other devices. The acquisition unit 131 receives information (detection information, etc.) detected by various sensors from the various sensors. The acquisition unit 131 receives information (detection information, etc.) detected by each sensor, such as the human body detection sensor 32, the seating detection sensor 33, the optical sensor 34, and the radio wave sensor 200, from each sensor. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information to be used for processing from the storage unit 120.

[0142] The measurement unit 132 performs various measurements. The measurement unit 132 performs various measurements using information stored in the memory unit 120. The measurement unit 132 measures the sensor values ​​detected by the radio wave sensor 200 using information acquired by the radio wave sensor 200. The measurement unit 132 measures the water level on the trap unit 82 side based on detection by the radio wave sensor 200. The measurement unit 132 measures the flow velocity of water flowing on the trap unit 82 side based on Doppler detection by the radio wave sensor 200.

[0143] The measuring unit 132 uses the information detected by the radio wave sensor 200 to measure information relating to a change in the state of the seal water on the trap section 82 side. The measuring unit 132 uses the information detected by the radio wave sensor 200 to measure information relating to a change in the state of the seal water based on the overflow from the apex 821 of the trap section 82.

[0144] The abnormality detection unit 133 performs processing related to abnormality detection in the toilet. The abnormality detection unit 133 performs processing related to abnormality detection using various information stored in the storage unit 120. The abnormality detection unit 133 performs processing related to abnormality detection using various information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The abnormality detection unit 133 performs processing related to abnormality detection related to drainage.

[0145] The abnormality detection unit 133 detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 200. The abnormality detection unit 133 detects an abnormality related to drainage based on a cleaning operation being performed by the operation unit. The abnormality detection unit 133 detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the time during which a change in the state of the seal water occurs. The abnormality detection unit 133 detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the amount of change in the state of the seal water. The abnormality detection unit 133 determines the type of abnormality related to drainage based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 200.

[0146] For example, the abnormality detection unit 133 estimates the water level on the trap unit 82 side based on the measurement by the measurement unit 132. For example, the abnormality detection unit 133 estimates the water level on the trap unit 82 side based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 200. For example, the abnormality detection unit 133 estimates the water level on the trap unit 82 side by various processes described below. Note that the abnormality detection unit 133 may estimate the water level on the trap unit 82 side by any method as long as it is possible to estimate the water level on the trap unit 82 side based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 200.

[0147] For example, the abnormality detection unit 133 detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the estimated water level on the trap unit 82 side and a threshold value. For example, the abnormality detection unit 133 compares a change in the estimated water level on the trap unit 82 side with a threshold value, and detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the comparison result. For example, if the estimated water level on the trap unit 82 side does not change, the abnormality detection unit 133 determines that an abnormality related to drainage has occurred.

[0148] The state detection unit 134 performs a determination process. The state detection unit 134 performs a determination process using various information stored in the storage unit 120. The state detection unit 134 performs a determination process using various information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The state detection unit 134 detects a change in state within the bowl unit 8.

[0149] The state detection unit 134 determines the cause of the change in state of the water seal of the toilet bowl 7 based on the detection results of the optical sensor 34. The state detection unit 134 classifies the change in state of the water seal of the toilet bowl 7 based on the detection results of the optical sensor 34. The state detection unit 134 determines which object is causing the change in state of the water seal of the toilet bowl 7 based on the detection results of the optical sensor 34.

[0150] For example, the state detection unit 134 determines the type of object introduced into the bowl portion 8. For example, the state detection unit 134 determines the type of object introduced into the bowl portion 8, whether it is water, excrement, or something else (unexpected). For example, the state detection unit 134 uses a model generated by machine learning to classify the type of object introduced, similar to the water seal state change determination model described below, to determine the type of object introduced into the bowl portion 8, whether it is water, excrement, or something else (unexpected). Note that the above is merely an example, and the state detection unit 134 may determine the type of object introduced into the bowl portion 8 by appropriately using various information.

[0151] The status detection unit 134 determines whether an object has fallen (landed) into the seal water of the toilet bowl 7 based on the detection results of the optical sensor 34. The status detection unit 134 determines whether an object has landed in the seal water of the toilet bowl 7 based on the detection results of the optical sensor 34. The status detection unit 134 determines whether the object is excrement of the user based on the detection results of the optical sensor 34.

[0152] For example, the state detection unit 134 classifies a plurality of types of changes in the state of the water seal, including a first type of change in the state of the water seal that is a change in the state of the water seal due to feces, a second type of change in the state of the water seal that is a change in the state of the water seal due to urine, and a third type of change in the state of the water seal that is a change in the state of the water seal due to feces and urine. For example, the state detection unit 134 classifies the change in the state of the water seal detected by the optical sensor 34 as a change in the state of the water seal due to feces, a change in the state of the water seal due to urine, or a change in the state of the water seal due to feces and urine.

[0153] The state detection unit 134 may determine a change in the state of the seal water by any method. For example, the state detection unit 134 may determine a change in the state of the seal water by exceeding a signal level threshold or by using AI (artificial intelligence). The state detection unit 134 may determine a change in the state of the seal water by frequency analysis, image processing, machine learning, deep learning, etc.

[0154] For example, the state detection unit 134 may determine a change in the state of the seal water using AI technology. For example, the state detection unit 134 may determine a change in the state of the seal water using a model (also referred to as a "seal water state change determination model") generated by machine learning. In this case, the seal water state change determination model is trained in advance using training data that indicates a classification judgment. This training data includes multiple combinations of information (seal water change information), such as images, regarding the change in the state of the seal water, and labels (correct answer information) indicating the type of seal water state change corresponding to the seal water change information. The type here indicates, for example, the object that caused the change in the state of the seal water, such as feces, urine, or both feces and urine. For example, the training data includes multiple combinations of seal water change information and labels (correct answer information) indicating the object that landed (fell) on the seal water when the change in the state of the seal water corresponding to the seal water change information occurred in the seal water.

[0155] The seal water state change determination model is a model that receives seal water change information as input and outputs information indicating the type of seal water state change corresponding to the input seal water change information. For example, when seal water change information is input, the seal water state change determination model is trained to output information on a label (type of seal water state change) corresponding to the input seal water change information. The seal water state change determination model is trained using various techniques related to so-called supervised learning, as appropriate. In this case, the seal water state change determination model is stored in the memory unit 120, and the state detection unit 134 may determine a change in the seal water state using the seal water state change determination model stored in the memory unit 120. For example, the control device 100 may perform a learning process to generate the seal water state change determination model. Note that the above is merely an example, and the state detection unit 134 may determine a change in the seal water state using various information, as appropriate.

[0156] Furthermore, the state detection unit 134 may determine whether or not a defecation (faecal discharge) has occurred based on information detected by a stool detection means. The state detection unit 134 may determine whether or not the user has defecate using information detected by a stool detection means such as the optical sensor 34. The state detection unit 134 determines whether or not a defecation has occurred based on an image captured by the stool detection means. Note that the above determination of whether or not a defecation has occurred is merely an example, and the state detection unit 134 may determine whether or not a defecation has occurred by appropriately using various information when determining whether or not a defecation has occurred.

[0157] The foreign matter contamination determination unit 135 executes processing related to determining whether a foreign matter has been mixed into the bowl portion 8. The foreign matter contamination determination unit 135 executes processing related to determining whether a foreign matter has been mixed into the bowl portion 8, using various types of information stored in the memory unit 120. The foreign matter contamination determination unit 135 executes processing related to determining whether a foreign matter has been mixed into the bowl portion 8, using various types of information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The foreign matter contamination determination unit 135 executes processing related to determining whether a foreign matter has been mixed into the bowl portion 8, based on the result of the state detection by the state detection unit 134.

[0158] Foreign matter entry determination unit 135 determines that a foreign matter has entered bowl portion 8 based on the detection result of a state change within bowl portion 8 detected by state detection unit 134 before bowl portion 8 receives excrement and at a timing other than cleaning the inside of bowl portion 8. Foreign matter entry determination unit 135 determines whether a foreign matter has entered bowl portion 8 based on the type of matter introduced into bowl portion 8 detected by state detection unit 134.

[0159] If the type of object to be introduced into bowl portion 8 detected by status detection unit 134 is other than the above (unexpected), foreign matter detection unit 135 determines that a foreign object has been introduced into bowl portion 8. If the type of object to be introduced into bowl portion 8 detected by status detection unit 134 is water or excrement, foreign matter detection unit 135 determines that a foreign object has not been introduced into bowl portion 8.

[0160] For example, if the state detection unit 134 determines that an object other than water or excrement has fallen into the bowl portion 8 at a timing other than when the bowl portion 8 is being cleaned, the foreign matter contamination determination unit 135 determines that the fallen object is a foreign matter. For example, if the state detection unit 134 determines that an object other than excrement has fallen into the bowl portion 8 at a timing other than when the bowl portion 8 is being cleaned, the foreign matter contamination determination unit 135 determines that the fallen object is a foreign matter.

[0161] If the foreign matter detection unit 135 determines that the object that has fallen into the bowl portion 8 is a foreign matter, it determines that a foreign matter has been introduced into the bowl portion 8. Note that the above is merely an example, and the foreign matter detection unit 135 may perform processing related to the foreign matter detection determination using various information. Furthermore, the foreign matter detection unit 135 may be integrated with the status detection unit 134. In this case, the status detection unit 134 may have the function of the foreign matter detection unit 135.

[0162] The estimation unit 136 performs estimation processing. For example, the estimation unit 136 performs estimation processing based on an arbitrary estimation method. For example, the estimation unit 136 performs estimation processing by calculating information through calculation processing based on an arbitrary calculation method. The estimation unit 136 performs estimation processing using various information stored in the memory unit 120. The estimation unit 136 performs estimation processing using various information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The estimation unit 136 estimates (calculates) information related to excrement, such as urine flow rate (urine volume) or feces volume, based on the determination result by the state detection unit 134.

[0163] For example, the estimation unit 136 estimates information about urine or feces related to excrement based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200. The estimation unit 136 estimates the urine flow rate or feces volume based on changes in the state of the seal water. The estimation unit 136 estimates the urine flow rate based on information about standing waves output from the radio wave sensor 200.

[0164] For example, the estimation unit 136 estimates information about urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200 and the optical sensor 34. For example, the estimation unit 136 estimates information about urine or feces when there is a correlation between the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200 and the optical sensor 34. When the detection result of the optical sensor 34 indicates that the user's excrement is urine, the estimation unit 136 estimates information about urine based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 200. When the detection result of the optical sensor 34 indicates that the user's excrement is urine, the estimation unit 136 estimates the amount of urine based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 200. When the detection result of the optical sensor 34 indicates that the user's excrement is feces (stool), the estimation unit 136 estimates information about feces based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 200. When the detection result of the optical sensor 34 indicates that the user's excrement is feces (stool), the estimation unit 136 estimates the amount of feces based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 200.

[0165] For example, the estimation unit 136 acquires information about urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200 and the optical sensor 34. For example, the estimation unit 136 acquires information about feces based on the detection results of the optical sensor 34, and acquires information about urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200. The estimation unit 136 estimates the amount of feces based on the detection results of the optical sensor 34, and estimates the amount of urine based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200. For example, the estimation unit 136 estimates the amount of urine by subtracting the amount of feces estimated based on the detection results of the optical sensor 34 from the total amount of excrement estimated based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200.

[0166] The notification unit 137 executes notification processing related to notification of processing results. The notification unit 137 executes output processing to output various types of information as the notification processing. The notification unit 137 functions as a transmission unit that transmits various types of information. The notification unit 137 executes notification processing (output processing) by transmitting information to an external information processing device. The notification unit 137 transmits information to the external information processing device. For example, the notification unit 137 transmits various types of information to an administrator device such as a personal computer or smartphone used by an administrator such as a facility manager. For example, the notification unit 137 transmits various types of information to a worker device used by a field worker such as a cleaner. For example, the notification unit 137 transmits various types of information to an external maintenance company device used by an external maintenance company. The notification unit 137 may also execute notification processing by transmitting information to the operation device 10 (or the display screen 11).

[0167] The notification unit 137 notifies the outside of the detection result of the abnormality detection unit 133. The notification unit 137 changes the content or destination of the notification to the outside, based on the type of abnormality determined by the abnormality detection unit 133. For example, if the severity of the abnormality is low, the notification unit 137 determines a field worker such as a cleaner as the notification destination (destination). In this case, the notification unit 137 transmits information indicating the abnormality to a worker device used by the field worker such as a cleaner. For example, if the severity of the abnormality is high, the notification unit 137 determines a manager such as a facility manager as the notification destination (destination). In this case, the notification unit 137 transmits information indicating the abnormality to a manager device used by a manager such as a facility manager.

[0168] The notification unit 137 transmits information to cause the notification device to make a notification. The notification unit 137 transmits notification information about an abnormality to the notification device. The notification unit 137 transmits notification information about prohibition of use to the notification device. For example, the notification unit 137 transmits notification information indicating that the use of a toilet booth is prohibited to a notification device that displays a toilet booth. Also, for example, the notification unit 137 transmits notification information indicating that the toilet booth is closed to a notification device that displays a toilet entrance.

[0169] The notification unit 137 may also transmit information related to excrement, such as the urine flow rate (urine volume) or feces volume, estimated by the estimation unit 136. The notification unit 137 transmits information indicating the urine volume estimated by the estimation unit 136. The notification unit 137 outputs information indicating any one of "large," "medium," or "small" indicating the total urine volume (level) categorized by the estimation unit 136. The notification unit 137 transmits information indicating the level of the total urine volume.

[0170] <5. Processing example> From here, an example of processing based on detection by various sensors such as radio wave sensor 200 will be described, assuming the configuration of toilet system 1 described above. Note that in the following explanation, explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, each process described with toilet system 1 as the processing subject may be performed by any device, such as control device 100, operating device 10, first sensor (radio wave sensor 200), second sensor (optical sensor 34, bowl-side radio wave sensor), etc., depending on the device configuration included in toilet system 1.

[0171] <5-1. First processing example (anomaly detection, etc.)> First, a first processing example will be described, which will be described below, including the process of detecting an abnormality by the toilet system 1. Note that the process described below is merely an example, and the toilet system 1 may detect an abnormality by any process based on detection by the radio wave sensor 200, and is not limited to the process described below.

[0172] <5-1-1. Water level changes> First, changes in water level on the bowl section side and trap section side will be described using Figures 7 to 9. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of changes in water level on the bowl section side and trap section side. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of changes in water level on the bowl section side. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of changes in water level on the trap section side.

[0173] The normal state in Figure 7 shows the change in water level on the bowl side and trap side when there is no clogging. The clogging state in Figure 7 shows the change in water level on the bowl side and trap side when there is a clogging. The clogging state in Figure 7 shows an example where a clogging occurs at the bottom of the U (V) shape of the trap.

[0174] The standby state in Figure 7 shows the water levels on the bowl and trap sides before the toilet flushes. The example in Figure 7 shows the case where the water levels on the bowl and trap sides in standby state are h1 both under normal conditions and when a clog occurs.

[0175] Additionally, the initial stage of toilet flushing (t1) in Figure 7 indicates the water levels on the bowl side and trap side at a predetermined time after the start of toilet flushing (for example, after elapsed time t1). The example in Figure 7 shows that under normal circumstances, the water level on the bowl side at the initial stage of toilet flushing (t1) is h2, and the water level on the trap side also exceeds h1 due to overflow (from the apex).

[0176] For example, the water level on the bowl side under normal conditions at the beginning of toilet flushing (t1) in Figure 7 corresponds to the water level on the bowl side under normal conditions at elapsed time t1 in Figure 8, and the water level on the trap side under normal conditions at the beginning of toilet flushing (t1) corresponds to the water level on the trap side under normal conditions at elapsed time t1 in Figure 9. The vertical axis of the graphs in Figures 8 and 9 represents water level, and the horizontal axis represents time. Note that normal times in Figures 8 and 9 correspond to normal times in Figure 7, and clogging times in Figures 8 and 9 correspond to clogging occurrence times in Figure 7. Hereinafter, normal times may be read as normal times, and clogging occurrence times may be read as clogging times.

[0177] Also, the example in Figure 7 shows a case where, when a clog occurs, the water level on the bowl side at the beginning of the toilet flush (t1) becomes h2 + α, and the water level on the trap side remains at h1 due to a drainage abnormality. For example, when a clog occurs, the seal water that would normally be drained through the drain pipe due to overflow (from the top) on the trap side does not drain due to the clog, so the water level on the bowl side becomes a higher level than normal (α in Figure 7).

[0178] For example, the water level on the bowl side when a clog occurs at the beginning of toilet flushing (t1) in Figure 7 corresponds to the water level on the bowl side when a clog occurs at elapsed time t1 in Figure 8, and the water level on the trap side when a clog occurs at the beginning of toilet flushing (t1) corresponds to the water level on the trap side when a clog occurs at elapsed time t1 in Figure 9.

[0179] Additionally, the middle stage of toilet flushing (t2) in Figure 7 indicates the water levels on the bowl side and trap side at a point when a predetermined time has passed since the start of toilet flushing (for example, the point when elapsed time t2 has passed). The example in Figure 7 shows that under normal circumstances, the water level on the bowl side at the middle stage of toilet flushing (t2) is h3, and the water level on the trap side also exceeds h1 due to overflow (from the peak).

[0180] For example, the water level on the bowl side under normal conditions during the middle of the toilet flush (t2) in Figure 7 corresponds to the water level on the bowl side under normal conditions at elapsed time t2 in Figure 8, and the water level on the trap side under normal conditions during the middle of the toilet flush (t2) corresponds to the water level on the trap side under normal conditions at elapsed time t2 in Figure 9.

[0181] Also, in the example of Figure 7, when a clog occurs, the water level on the bowl side in the middle of the toilet flush (t2) becomes h3 + β, and the water level on the trap side remains at h1 due to a drainage abnormality. For example, when a clog occurs, the seal water that would normally be drained through the drain pipe due to overflow (from the top) on the trap side does not drain due to the clog, so the water level on the bowl side becomes a higher level than normal (β in Figure 7).

[0182] For example, the water level on the bowl side when a clog occurs in the middle of the toilet flush (t2) in Figure 7 corresponds to the water level on the bowl side when a clog occurs at elapsed time t2 in Figure 8, and the water level on the trap side when a clog occurs in the middle of the toilet flush (t2) corresponds to the water level on the trap side when a clog occurs at elapsed time t2 in Figure 9.

[0183] <5-1-2. Advantages based on water level changes on the trap side> As shown in Figures 7 to 9, under normal circumstances, the water level in the bowl rises significantly when a blockage is detected, but changes in the water level occur on both the bowl and trap sides. Therefore, when attempting to detect drainage abnormalities such as blockages based on water level changes on the bowl side, it is difficult to determine whether the change is normal or due to a drainage abnormality.

[0184] For example, when attempting to detect drainage abnormalities such as clogging from changes in the water level on the bowl side, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the water surface in the bowl sways due to the inflow of flush water at elapsed time t1, and in order to detect changes in water level caused by clogging (for example, an increase in α), it is necessary to set the threshold to a sufficiently high value (for example, a value greater than α). As such, because the fluctuations of the sealing water on the bowl side are large even under normal circumstances, when attempting to detect drainage abnormalities such as clogging from changes in the water level on the bowl side, a large threshold value is required, and it may take a long time to detect the abnormality.

[0185] On the other hand, as shown in Figures 7 to 9, when there is a blockage, the water level rises on the bowl side and does not change on the trap side. In other words, the difference in change on the trap side depending on whether there is a blockage or not is large, so when trying to detect drainage abnormalities such as blockages based on water level changes on the trap side, it is easy to distinguish whether the water level change is normal or due to a drainage abnormality.

[0186] For example, when attempting to detect drainage abnormalities such as clogging by detecting changes in the water level on the trap side, the water level rise that normally occurs as time elapses up to t1 is unlikely to occur due to the occurrence of clogging, as shown in Figures 7 and 9. Therefore, by detecting drainage abnormalities such as clogging by detecting changes in the water level on the trap side, the toilet system 1 can detect drainage abnormalities such as clogging at elapsed time t1', before elapsed time t1.

[0187] In this way, the toilet system 1 can detect drainage abnormalities such as clogs early by detecting changes in the water level on the trap side. For example, the toilet system 1's ability to detect drainage abnormalities such as clogs early allows for early response to the drainage abnormality. For example, when using a plunger to remove a clog (such as by suctioning foreign objects), it is desirable for the difference between the overflow surface (e.g., the top of the toilet bowl) and the water seal surface to be 10 cm or more. If the difference between the overflow surface and the water seal surface is less than 10 cm, drainage may be required to make the difference 10 cm or more. In the toilet system 1, early detection of changes in the water level on the trap side can prevent the water level from rising, reducing the possibility of sewage splashing when removing a clog and the need to lower the water level.

[0188] <5-1-3. Types of drainage abnormalities (location of blockages, etc.)> Furthermore, the toilet system 1 can determine (judge) the type of drainage abnormality by detecting a drainage abnormality such as a blockage based on a change in the water level on the trap side. For example, by detecting a drainage abnormality such as a blockage based on a change in the water level on the trap side, the toilet system 1 can determine the location (location) of the blockage, as shown in Figure 10. Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the location of the blockage and the change in water level.

[0189] As shown on the trap inlet side in Figure 10, if a blockage occurs on the trap inlet side, such as at the bottom of the U (V) shape of the trap section, the water level on the trap section side (corresponding to the trap seal water in the graph in Figure 10) will be the same as normal, so if the water level on the trap section side is the same as normal (for example, low), the toilet system 1 can determine that a blockage has occurred on the trap inlet side.

[0190] 10, if a clog occurs in the drain pipe beyond the point where overflow occurs (such as the apex of the trap), the water level on the trap side will also be constantly high, so if the water level on the trap side is high, the toilet system 1 can determine that a clog has occurred on the trap side. In this way, the toilet system 1 can determine (judge) the location (place) of the clog by detecting a drainage abnormality such as a clog from a change in the water level on the trap side.

[0191] On the other hand, as shown in the graph in Figure 10, when detecting drainage abnormalities such as clogs by detecting changes in the water level on the bowl side, the water level on the bowl side (corresponding to the bowl seal in the graph in Figure 10) is high regardless of where the clog occurs, making it difficult to determine (judge) the location (location) of the clog. As described above, toilet system 1 can identify the location (location) of the clog by detecting the trap seal, enabling appropriate measures to be taken against drainage abnormalities such as clogs.

[0192] <5-1-4. Degree of drainage abnormality (strength of blockage, etc.)> Furthermore, the toilet system 1 can determine (judge) the degree of drainage abnormality by detecting a drainage abnormality such as a blockage from a change in the water level on the trap side. For example, the toilet system 1 can determine the degree of blockage by detecting a drainage abnormality such as a blockage from a change in the water level on the trap side, as shown in Figure 11. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the degree of blockage and a change in the water level.

[0193] As shown by the "strong clog" in Figure 11, a drainage abnormality may occur in which no drainage occurs downstream of the trap. For example, if a clog occurs on the trap inlet side, where the drain pipe is completely blocked by a foreign object or the like, a drainage abnormality may occur in which no drainage occurs downstream of the trap. Therefore, if there is no change in the water level on the trap side, the toilet system 1 can determine (estimate) that a strong clog has occurred. For example, if there is no change in the water level on the trap side, the toilet system 1 may determine that the severity of the drainage abnormality, such as a clog, is high.

[0194] On the other hand, as shown by the "weak" clog in Figure 11, a drainage abnormality may occur in which a small amount of water is drained downstream of the trap, although it is less than normal. For example, if a clog occurs on the trap inlet side, causing a portion of the drain pipe to be blocked by a foreign object or the like, a drainage abnormality may occur in which a small amount of water is drained downstream of the trap, although it is less than normal. Therefore, if there is a change in the water level on the trap side but it is smaller than normal, the toilet system 1 can determine (estimate) that a weak clog has occurred. For example, if there is a change in the water level on the trap side but it is smaller than normal, the toilet system 1 may determine that the severity of the drainage abnormality, such as a clog, is low.

[0195] In this way, the toilet system 1 may estimate the strength of the blockage based on the fluctuation range of the seal water (water level). The toilet system 1 also notifies (contacts) an appropriate person about the drainage abnormality. The toilet system 1 may determine the notification recipient based on the severity of the drainage abnormality. For example, if the toilet system 1 estimates that the blockage is weak, i.e., the severity of the drainage abnormality is low, it may determine a field worker, such as a cleaner, of the toilet in which the toilet device 20 is installed as the notification recipient. Furthermore, if the toilet system 1 estimates that the blockage is strong, i.e., the severity of the drainage abnormality is high, it may determine a manager of the facility in which the toilet in which the toilet device 20 is installed (also referred to as a "facility manager") as the notification recipient. For example, if the toilet system 1 estimates that the blockage is weak, i.e., the severity of the drainage abnormality is low, it may determine a field worker, such as a cleaner, as the notification recipient, thereby enabling the field worker (field staff), such as a cleaner, to return to work quickly.

[0196] <5-1-5. Example of a configuration related to blockage> An example of components related to responding to clogging, which is one example of the above-mentioned drainage abnormality, will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration related to responding to clogging. Note that Fig. 12 only shows the toilet device 20 and the configuration that is the destination of clogging information in the toilet system 1. Also, the components shown in Fig. 12 are merely an example, and any other components may be included.

[0197] For example, the radio wave sensor in FIG. 12 corresponds to the radio wave sensor 200 described above. For example, the remote control (toilet flush switch) in FIG. 12 corresponds to the operation unit described above. For example, the control unit in FIG. 12 corresponds to the control unit 130 described above. For example, the memory unit in FIG. 12 corresponds to the memory unit 120 described above. For example, the determination unit in FIG. 12 corresponds to the abnormality detection unit 133 described above.

[0198] For example, the output circuit in Fig. 12 corresponds to the output circuit described above. For example, the drive circuit in Fig. 12 corresponds to the drive circuit described above. For example, the toilet flush valve in Fig. 12 corresponds to the toilet flush valve described above. For example, the communication device in Fig. 12 corresponds to the communication unit 101 described above. The toilet device 20 transmits information via the communication device, i.e., to the device to be handled and the device to notify the user.

[0199] For example, the response destinations in FIG. 12 correspond to the devices used by each response destination. For example, the users in FIG. 12 correspond to the devices (user devices) used by the (toilet) users described above. For example, the cleaners in FIG. 12 correspond to the devices (also referred to as "worker devices") used by the cleaners described above. For example, the facility manager in FIG. 12 corresponds to the device (administrator device) used by the facility manager described above. For example, the external maintenance company in FIG. 12 corresponds to the device (external maintenance company device) used by an external maintenance company.

[0200] For example, the user notification in Fig. 12 corresponds to a device for notifying users (also referred to as a "notification device"). For example, when the notification device displays a toilet booth, it may also notify users that use is prohibited. Also, for example, when the notification device displays a toilet entrance, it may also notify users that the toilet booth is closed.

[0201] For example, the notification device may be a notification device placed in the toilet room R, or may be a notification device placed outside the toilet room R. For example, if the toilet room R is a toilet booth in a toilet space such as a public toilet, and the notification device is a device placed individually in each toilet booth, the notification device may display an individual message in the toilet booth.

[0202] Furthermore, if the toilet room R is a toilet booth in a toilet space such as a public toilet, and the notification device is a device such as a signage device placed at the entrance of the toilet space, the notification device such as a signage device may notify about an abnormality, notify about a prohibition on use, etc. For example, the notification device such as a signage device may display information indicating that a toilet device 20 has a drainage abnormality, or display information indicating that the toilet device 20 has a drainage abnormality and is prohibited from use.

[0203] <5-1-6. Example of processing for detecting abnormalities in drainage pipes> Next, an example of a flowchart of the process of detecting a discharge pipe abnormality executed by the toilet system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed by the toilet system.

[0204] The toilet system 1 detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the trap water level (step S101). For example, the toilet system 1 determines based on the water level of the trap unit 82 whether an abnormality related to clogging has been detected.

[0205] If the toilet system 1 does not detect any abnormality related to drainage (step S101: normal), it branches the process depending on whether the toilet is being flushed or not (step S102). For example, the toilet system 1 may determine whether the toilet is being flushed or not based on control of the toilet flush valve. Note that the above is just one example, and the toilet system 1 may use any information as long as it can estimate whether the toilet is being flushed or not. For example, the toilet system 1 may determine whether the toilet is being flushed or not based on detection by a sensor, for example.

[0206] If the toilet flushing has not been performed (step S102: NO), the toilet system 1 returns to step S101 and repeats the process. If the toilet flushing has been performed (step S102: YES), the toilet system 1 determines whether the trap water level is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (step S103). For example, the toilet system 1 determines whether the trap water level is equal to or greater than a predetermined value based on a comparison between the water level of the trap unit 82 and a threshold value (water level threshold), such as a predetermined value, that indicates the water level for determination.

[0207] If the trap water level is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (step S103: equal to or greater than predetermined value), the toilet system 1 determines whether the trap full time is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (step S104). For example, the toilet system 1 determines whether the trap full time is equal to or greater than a predetermined value based on a comparison between the period during which the water level in the trap unit 82 is at a water level indicating that the trap unit 82 is full (also referred to as the "full water level") and a threshold value (time threshold), such as a predetermined value, indicating the determination time. For example, the toilet system 1 estimates the trap full time by counting the period during which the water level in the trap unit 82 detected by the radio wave sensor 200 is at the full water level.

[0208] If the trap full time is less than a predetermined value (step S104: less than predetermined value), the toilet system 1 determines that there is no problem (step S105). For example, if the period during which the water level in the trap section 82 is at the full water level (trap full time) is less than a predetermined value, the toilet system 1 determines that no drainage abnormality has occurred.

[0209] When the toilet system 1 detects an abnormality related to drainage (step S101: abnormality), it determines that a blockage has occurred downstream of the trap (step S106). For example, when the toilet system 1 detects an abnormality related to a blockage based on the water level in the trap unit 82 when the toilet is not flushed, it determines that a blockage has occurred downstream of the trap.

[0210] Then, the toilet system 1 prohibits toilet flushing (step S107). For example, the toilet system 1 prohibits toilet flushing by not performing control to open the toilet flush valve.

[0211] The toilet system 1 also prohibits the use of the toilet (step S108). For example, the toilet system 1 prohibits the use of the toilet in which a clog-related abnormality has been detected by displaying information indicating the toilet device 20 in which a drainage abnormality has occurred on a signage, a door of the toilet room R such as a toilet booth, or the like.

[0212] The toilet system 1 also contacts the outside (company) (step S109). For example, the toilet system 1 contacts the outside by transmitting information indicating that an abnormality related to clogging has occurred to an external maintenance company device used by a maintenance company, which is the outside (company).

[0213] Furthermore, if the trap water level is below a predetermined value (step S103: below predetermined value), the toilet system 1 determines that the trap inlet is clogged (step S110). For example, if the toilet system 1 detects an abnormality related to clogging based on the water level of the trap unit 82 while the toilet is being flushed, it determines that a clogging has occurred at the trap inlet.

[0214] Then, the toilet system 1 prohibits toilet flushing (step S111). For example, the toilet system 1 prohibits toilet flushing by not performing control to open the toilet flush valve.

[0215] The toilet system 1 also prohibits the use of the toilet (step S112). For example, the toilet system 1 prohibits the use of the toilet in which a clog-related abnormality has been detected by displaying information indicating the toilet device 20 in which a drainage abnormality has occurred on a signage, a door of the toilet room R such as a toilet booth, or the like.

[0216] Then, the toilet system 1 branches the process depending on the strength of the clogging (step S113). If the toilet system 1 determines that the degree of clogging is strong (step S113: strong), it executes the process of step S109.

[0217] Furthermore, when the toilet system 1 determines that the degree of clogging is weak (step S113: weak), the toilet system 1 causes an on-site response to be performed (step S114). For example, the toilet system 1 causes an on-site worker, such as a cleaner, to perform an on-site response by transmitting information indicating that an abnormality related to clogging has occurred to an operator device used by the on-site worker.

[0218] Furthermore, if the trap full time is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (step S104: equal to or greater than predetermined value), the toilet system 1 executes the processes of steps S106 to S109.

[0219] Generally, in order to efficiently transport waste, the flow rate of flush water flowing into the bowl during toilet flushing is high, causing the seal water level to rise while oscillating greatly. Then, in sync with the siphoning in the trap, the water and waste in the bowl are transported out of the toilet in one go. During this process, the seal water in the trap is not affected by the bowl side, and the water level changes with relatively little oscillating. Therefore, changes in the seal water status due to the presence or absence of blockages are more easily detected on the trap side. Therefore, as described above, the toilet system 1 can properly detect drainage abnormalities in the toilet by detecting drainage abnormalities such as blockages based on changes in the water level on the trap side.

[0220] For example, the toilet system 1 can detect clogs in the drain pipe in real time by installing a microwave sensor above the trap and detecting changes in the water seal within the trap. Conventionally, toilets in busy locations (e.g., train terminals) often experience clogs once a day due to blockages in the drain pipe downstream of the toilet or excessive use of toilet paper or other foreign objects in the bowl. When a clog occurs, users tend to want to avoid the situation themselves, often repeatedly flushing the toilet. As a result, flush water may leak onto the floor or below, causing extensive damage such as the closure of the toilet space. Therefore, the toilet system 1 can quickly detect a clog and prohibit flushing to prevent further leakage. It also identifies the clog condition and notifies the appropriate notification point so that appropriate measures can be taken.

[0221] For example, the toilet system 1 uses a microwave sensor to detect the state of the water seal in the trap after the toilet flush begins, and if it detects a state that differs from normal flushing, it determines that the toilet is clogged. Unlike changes in the water seal in the bowl, changes in the trap, such as shaking and water level changes, are significantly different from normal (high S / N ratio), allowing the toilet system 1 to quickly detect a clog. Therefore, by stopping the toilet flush immediately after detection, the toilet system 1 can minimize the water level in the bowl and, by not forcing foreign objects to the back of the trap, minimize the burden of the clog removal work. Note that the toilet system 1 can be used not only to detect clogs in toilets, but also to detect clogs caused by the accumulation of urinary stones in urinals (combined toilets), as will be discussed later.

[0222] For example, the toilet system 1 can determine whether a clog has occurred from changes in the state of the sealing water in the trap when the toilet is flushed, can quickly detect the introduction of foreign objects using detection sensors on the bowl side, can identify the location of the clog from changes in the signals of each sensor, and can also capture the degree of the clog (strength), quickly prohibit flushing the toilet, stop the supply of excess flushing water to the bowl to prevent overflow, and, depending on the clog condition, determine whether on-site action or work by a specialist is required and notify the appropriate contact person.

[0223] For example, under normal circumstances, flushing the toilet causes the water in the trap to rise, and if the trap becomes clogged, a siphon occurs, transporting the water in the bowl along with the waste to the subsequent stages of the piping, causing the water level to rise and then drop. On the other hand, when a clog occurs, flushing the toilet causes almost no rise in the water level if the clog is in the front, but causes an excessive rise in the water level if the clog is in the back. Because the behavior of the water level change on the trap side differs depending on the location of the clog, the toilet system 1 can detect drainage abnormalities such as clogs from water level changes on the trap side, and can appropriately estimate the cause (location) of the drainage abnormality.

[0224] For example, if there is no rise in the water level on the trap side (0), the toilet system 1 can estimate that the clog is a front clog of high severity. For example, if the rise in the water level on the trap side is small (greater than 0), the toilet system 1 can estimate that the clog is a front clog of low severity. Also, for example, if the rise in the water level on the trap side is excessive, the toilet system 1 can determine that the clog is a rear clog. In this way, the toilet system 1 can estimate the severity of the drainage abnormality by detecting a clog or other drainage abnormality from a change in the water level on the trap side, which allows subsequent repairs to be carried out efficiently.

[0225] <5-2. Second processing example (estimation processing, etc.)> From here, we will explain the estimation process etc. by the toilet system 1 as a second processing example. Note that the process shown below is just an example, and the toilet system 1 is not limited to the process shown below, and may estimate the urine volume by any process based on detection by the radio wave sensor 200.

[0226] <5-2-1. Example of processing to estimate information about excrement> First, an outline of the process of estimating information related to excrement through detection by radio wave sensor 200 will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an outline of the process of estimating information related to excrement. Note that in Fig. 14, in order to show an outline of detection by radio wave sensor 200, some of the symbols shown in Fig. 4 (for example, vertex 821, detection range DA11, etc.) are omitted.

[0227] In Figure 14, the radio wave sensor 200 detects overflow OF1 from the apex 821 of the trap portion 82. As a result, the toilet system 1 acquires trap overflow information, such as overflow OF1 from the apex 821 of the trap portion 82, using the radio wave sensor 200. For example, the overflow OF1 from the apex 821 of the trap portion 82 shown in Figure 14 occurs in response to an inflow IF1 into the bowl portion 8 due to, for example, urination by a user. The toilet system 1 detects the overflow OF1 from the apex 821 of the trap portion 82 using the radio wave sensor 200, and estimates information related to excrement, such as the amount of urine, based on the detection by the radio wave sensor 200.

[0228] As a premise, radio wave sensors such as microwave sensors and millimeter wave sensors can penetrate ceramics and resins but are reflected by water. Therefore, the toilet system 1 detects the distance from the water surface by detecting the waves reflected from the water using the radio wave sensor 200.

[0229] For example, if the sensor is placed above the trap, when the amount of water in the seal water increases due to urination, the water will flow over the top of the trap and into the drain. As the water flows, the water level near the top of the trap rises, and when detected from above, the distance to the water surface will decrease in accordance with the rise in water level. Therefore, by measuring the change in water level from the initial value (how much the distance has decreased) with the sensor, information that can be used to estimate information about excrement can be obtained. In this way, there is a correlation between the change in water level and the flow rate of urine. Therefore, the flow rate can be calculated from the sensor output using the relationship between the three pieces of information: sensor output, water level change, and flow rate.

[0230] In the toilet system 1, for example, if the radio wave sensor 200 is placed above the trap portion 82, when the amount of water in the seal water increases due to urination, the water will flow over the apex 821 of the trap portion 82 and into the drain side. In the toilet system 1, when water flows into the drain pipe 81 in response to the increase in the amount of water in the seal water, the water level near the apex of the trap portion 82 (apex portion 821) rises, and when detected from above the trap portion 82, the distance between the radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface decreases in response to the rise in water level. Therefore, in the toilet system 1, by measuring the change in water level from the initial value (how much the distance has decreased) through detection by the radio wave sensor 200, it is possible to obtain information used to estimate information related to excrement. In the toilet system 1, the flow rate is calculated (estimated) from the output of the radio wave sensor 200 using the relationship between the three pieces of information: the output of the radio wave sensor 200, the change in water level, and the flow rate.

[0231] <5-2-2. State changes due to flow rate changes> Here, an example of a change in state accompanying a change in flow rate will be described. For example, the relationship between the flow rate of water flowing (falling) into the seal water from the bowl portion 8 side of the toilet 7 and the height of the overflow water will be described.

[0232] First, an overview will be provided using Figure 15. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between flow rate and overflow height. Figure 15 shows the results of an experiment observing the phenomenon of trap overflow behavior, which is behavior associated with changes in flow rate, when water is introduced from 200 mm above the top surface of the bowl portion 8. For example, Figure 15 is a diagram schematically illustrating the change in the seal water on the trap portion 82 side due to the inflow of water on the bowl portion 8 side. As shown in Figure 15, the water level in the trap portion 82 changes depending on the inflow of water into the seal water from the bowl portion 8 side. For example, the water level in the trap portion 82 rose by approximately 5 mm when the inflow rate was 40 mL / s compared to when the inflow rate was 10 mL / s. In this way, the rise in the water level in the trap due to the urine flow rate was confirmed. Furthermore, when the flow rate was changed, changes in the movement of water over the apex 821 of the trap portion 82 were observed.

[0233] Next, the relationship between the flow rate and the water level change shown in FIG. 16 will be described. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the change in state accompanying a change in flow rate. Specifically, FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the flow rate and the height of each overflow point. The experimental results shown in FIG. 16 represent the results of measurements of the water level change accompanying a change in flow rate at four discharge flow rates (inflow rates): 10 mL / s, 20 mL / s, 30 mL / s, and 40 mL / s. For example, each column in the row corresponding to the head (dash-dotted line) in FIG. 16 indicates the change in water level at the head due to the corresponding discharge flow rate (inflow rate). Furthermore, each column in the row corresponding to the trap apex (dash-dotted line) in FIG. 16 indicates the change in water level at the trap apex due to the corresponding discharge flow rate (inflow rate). Note that 0 mL / s in FIG. 16 indicates a state without inflow (initial state). In FIG. 16, a microwave sensor was placed on the outer wall above the trap apex (apex portion 821) to perform the measurements.

[0234] The dashed-dotted lines shown on the drain pipe 81 corresponding to each flow rate in FIG. 16 indicate the height of the water head. For example, the water head is the position of the tip of the water (overflow) that exceeds the apex 821 of the trap section 82. Also, the dashed-two-dotted lines shown on the drain pipe 81 corresponding to each flow rate in FIG. 16 indicate the height of the trap apex. For example, the trap apex is the position directly above the apex 821 of the trap section 82 of the water (overflow) that exceeds the apex 821 of the trap section 82. For all four amounts, the water head was found to have a higher height of overflow than the trap apex. Also, the results showed that both the water head and the trap apex increased with increasing inflow. As shown in FIG. 16, changes in the water levels at the water head level, trap apex, etc. were confirmed as the flow rate changed.

[0235] <5-2-3. Detection by radio wave sensor> Next, information obtained by detection by a radio wave sensor (detection information) will be described using a microwave sensor as an example with reference to Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of detection information from a microwave sensor.

[0236] Examples of information (detection information) obtained by detection using a radio wave sensor such as a microwave sensor include information such as (1) to (5) in Fig. 17. For example, as shown in (1) in Fig. 17, detection by a radio wave sensor provides information on standing waves that can indicate the distance between the radio wave sensor and a target (such as the surface of water). Note that the graph corresponding to (1) in Fig. 17 shows the relationship between the DC component corresponding to the output value of the sensor and the angle corresponding to the spatial wavelength, but it may also be a graph showing the relationship between the output (value) of the sensor and the distance, as shown in Fig. 19 and subsequent figures.

[0237] Here, an example of the characteristics of standing waves will be briefly explained using FIG. 18. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between wavelengths. Specifically, FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between media and wavelengths. As shown in FIG. 18, the wavelength in air λ (hereinafter also referred to as "spatial wavelength λ0") is calculated by dividing the speed of light by the transmission frequency. When the transmission frequency is 24.15 gigahertz (24.15×10^9 Hz), the wavelength in air λ is 0.0124 m (12.4 mm).

[0238] Furthermore, the wavelength λd when passing through a material changes depending on the material's dielectric constant. For example, when passing through a material such as resin (e.g., a dielectric constant of 2 to 3.5) or ceramic (e.g., a dielectric constant of 5 to 6), the wavelength λd becomes shorter than the spatial wavelength λ0, resulting in wavelength shortening. The wavelength λd is calculated by dividing the spatial wavelength λ0 by the square root (value) of the material's dielectric constant. The information (standing wave) in Figure 17 (1) makes it possible to estimate, for example, the distance between the radio wave sensor and an object that reflects the radio waves from the radio wave sensor; this will be discussed later.

[0239] Furthermore, as shown in (2) of Fig. 17, detection by the radio wave sensor provides information on fluctuations (vibrations) such as frequency. Furthermore, as shown in (3) of Fig. 17, detection by the radio wave sensor provides information on changes in distance such as the approach or receding of the target, such as reflection intensity. Furthermore, as shown in (4) of Fig. 17, detection by the radio wave sensor provides information such as the distance traveled by the target. Furthermore, as shown in (5) of Fig. 17, detection by the radio wave sensor provides information such as the amount of reflection.

[0240] The following describes an example of processing using distance information (standing waves) based on the spatial wavelength corresponding to (1) in Fig. 17, among the information (1) to (5) in Fig. 17 obtained by the radio wave sensor of the microwave sensor. Note that any of the information (1) to (5) in Fig. 17, such as (2) to (5) in Fig. 17, may be used, not just (1) in Fig. 17. For example, when using information on the amount of reflection corresponding to (5) in Fig. 17, the toilet system 1 may estimate the distance between the radio wave sensor and the target based on the relationship that the reflection amount increases as the distance decreases and the area increases, and then estimate information related to excrement, such as urine volume, based on the estimated distance.

[0241] <5-2-4. Example of how to measure urine flow rate using a radio wave sensor> Next, an example of a method for determining the urine flow rate using the radio wave sensor 200 in the toilet system 1 described above will be described. First, an overall overview will be described with reference to FIG. 19. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of the characteristics of a radio wave sensor. In the graph shown in FIG. 19, for example, the vertical axis corresponds to the output (value) of the radio wave sensor 200, and the horizontal axis corresponds to the distance between the radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface (for example, water (overflow) exceeding the apex 821 of the trap section 82). As shown in FIG. 19, the sensor output is related to the distance from the water surface. Also, as shown in FIG. 19, the sensor output is a sine curve, and one period of the sine curve matches the wavelength of the radio wave sensor. For example, in the case of a 24 GHz microwave, one wavelength (one period) is approximately 12.5 mm.

[0242] Here, based on the contents described in FIG. 19 etc., an example of the processing executed by the toilet system 1 will be described using FIG. 20. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a method for detecting a change in water level. FIG. 20 shows a method for determining a change in water level due to urination from the output of one sensor. The following describes an example in which the initial value of a sensor (e.g., radio wave sensor 200), i.e., the value before the water level changes due to urination (e.g., the output value of radio wave sensor 200), is 100. Here, since the water level rises when urination begins, the distance between the sensor and the water surface inevitably decreases due to urination. Therefore, the toilet system 1 determines the change in water level due to urination using the following processing. As described below, the processing shown in FIG. 20 aims to obtain information on the change rather than the absolute value of the water level, so it is possible to obtain information on the initial value of radio wave sensor 200 and the change in the value of radio wave sensor 200 during urination.

[0243] 20, the candidate distances between a sensor (e.g., radio wave sensor 200) and the water surface are 124.0 mm, 126.0 mm, 136.5 mm, and 138.5 mm, based on the positions of the sensor and trap unit (e.g., trap unit 82) in the configuration. For example, based on the output of radio wave sensor 200, toilet system 1 estimates that the distance between radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface is one of 124.0 mm, 126.0 mm, 136.5 mm, and 138.5 mm.

[0244] If the output value drops due to urination, the distance candidates can be narrowed down to either 124.0 mm or 136.5 mm, which is one wavelength away from 124.0 mm, as shown in Figure 20. For example, based on the output of radio wave sensor 200, toilet system 1 estimates that the distance between radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface is either 124.0 mm or 136.5 mm.

[0245] 20, if the value when the sensor output has changed the most is 70, then the distance candidates are 119.0 mm or 130.5 mm, which is one wavelength away from that. For example, based on the output of radio wave sensor 200, toilet system 1 estimates that the distance between radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface when the output of radio wave sensor 200 has changed the most (for example, when the distance between radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface is closest) is either 119.0 mm or 130.5 mm.

[0246] 20, when the distance between the radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface changes from 124.0 mm to 119.0 mm, or when the distance between the radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface changes from 136.5 mm to 130.5 mm, the maximum change in water level is 5.0 mm. For example, based on the output of the radio wave sensor 200, the toilet system 1 estimates that the change in water level due to urination will be 5.0 mm.

[0247] 20, we want to know the change in water level, not the absolute value, and this can be determined from the initial value of the radio wave sensor and the change in the sensor value during urination. There are three key points to note when calculating urine flow rate using radio wave sensor 200:

[0248] The first point about how changes in water level due to urination can be determined from the output of radio wave sensor 200 is that at the start of urination, the water level only rises and does not fall. Therefore, if the sensor is placed above the trap, the distance between radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface will always be short.

[0249] A second point about how water level changes due to urination can be determined from the output of radio wave sensor 200 is that the flow rate of urine continuously rises and falls. However, the output value of radio wave sensor 200 does not deviate significantly from the previous output value. Therefore, by analyzing the signal of radio wave sensor 200 in a time series based on the characteristics of the first and second points, the distance between radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface can be narrowed down to a value for each wavelength.

[0250] The second point about determining water level changes due to urination from the output of radio wave sensor 200 is that it is sufficient to know the water level change, not the absolute value of the water level. Also, even if there are multiple distances between radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface per wavelength, the water level change will be the same regardless of the distance range. And because it is the water level change that is of interest, sufficient information can be obtained by measuring the distance with radio wave sensor 200.

[0251] Based on the above-mentioned premise, the toilet system 1 can estimate the amount of urine flowing into the bowl portion 8 (e.g., the amount of urine) from the change in water level determined by the radio wave sensor 200, as shown in Fig. 21. Fig. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a process for calculating the flow rate from the change in water level. For example, the toilet system 1 estimates the amount of urine from the change in water level determined by the radio wave sensor 200, based on the relationship between the flow rate and the water level shown in Fig. 16 and the information obtained by detecting the change in water level shown in Fig. 20.

[0252] In the graph shown in Fig. 21, for example, the vertical axis corresponds to the urine flow rate, i.e., the amount of urine, and the horizontal axis corresponds to the water level change determined by the radio wave sensor 200. The graph shown in Fig. 21 is derived from the relationship between the flow rate and the water level shown in Fig. 16. For example, the toilet system 1 determines the urine flow rate from a conversion formula or conversion table between the water level change and the urine flow rate. For example, information about the conversion formula or conversion table between the water level change and the urine flow rate may be stored in the memory unit 120, etc.

[0253] For example, the toilet system 1 estimates a water level change by the process shown in Fig. 20, and estimates the amount of urine using the estimated water level change and a conversion formula (function) corresponding to the graph shown in Fig. 21. For example, the toilet system 1 estimates a water level change by the process shown in Fig. 20, and estimates the amount of urine using the estimated water level change and a conversion table corresponding to the graph shown in Fig. 21. For example, if the toilet system 1 estimates that the water level change is 6 mm, it estimates the amount of urine to be, for example, 40 mL / s.

[0254] The flow rate (amount of urine, etc.) estimated by the toilet system 1 may be a number or may be in several levels, such as large, medium, and small. When estimating the amount of urine in three levels, large, medium, and small, the toilet system 1 may estimate the estimated amount as small when it is less than 15 mL / s, medium when it is 15 mL / s or more but less than 30 mL / s, and large when it is 30 mL / s or more. The correspondence between the above amount ranges and levels is merely an example, and any correspondence can be adopted.

[0255] <5-2-5. Example of how to calculate total urine volume> Furthermore, the toilet system 1 may estimate the total amount of urine excreted by the user (also referred to as "total urine volume") based on the amount of urine estimated by the above-mentioned process. An example of this point will be explained using FIG. 22. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a method for calculating the flow rate. Specifically, FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a method for estimating the total urine volume. The vertical axis of FIG. 22 corresponds to the estimated urine flow rate (per unit time), and the horizontal axis corresponds to time.

[0256] For example, as shown in Figure 22, the toilet system 1 measures (estimates) the flow rate of urine in time series based on the detection by the radio wave sensor 200. Then, the toilet system 1 integrates the time series flow rate to convert it into a volume (total volume). For example, the toilet system 1 estimates the total volume of urine by calculating the area of ​​the region (diagram) formed by the waveform shown in Figure 22 and the X-axis. In Figure 22, the toilet system 1 estimates that the total volume of urine (total urine volume) is 144 mL.

[0257] Furthermore, the toilet system 1 may also estimate the total urine volume in a similar manner when the urine volume is estimated in several stages (levels) of large, medium, and small. An example of this point will be described with reference to Fig. 23. Fig. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a method for calculating the flow rate. Specifically, Fig. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a method for estimating the total urine volume. The vertical axis of Fig. 23 corresponds to the level of the estimated urine flow rate (per unit time), and the horizontal axis corresponds to time.

[0258] For example, as shown in Figure 23, the toilet system 1 measures (estimates) the flow rate (level) of urine over time based on the detection by the radio wave sensor 200. Then, the toilet system 1 calculates the area of ​​the region enclosed by the horizontal axis and the lines connecting the points, and calculates the total urine volume from the area. In Figure 23, the toilet system 1 calculates the area of ​​the hatched region and converts the area into urine volume to calculate the total urine volume.

[0259] In this case, the toilet system 1 may have a predefined relationship between changes in the seal water state and urine flow rate. For example, the toilet system 1 may store information indicating the correspondence between each urine volume level and a numerical value indicating a specific volume (e.g., small volume = 10 mL / s, medium volume = 20 mL / s, large volume = 30 mL / s, etc.) in, for example, the storage unit 120. In this case, the toilet system 1 may calculate the total urine volume, for example, 220 mL, by converting the level at each time into a numerical value indicating a specific volume and integrating it based on the information indicating the correspondence between each urine volume level and a numerical value indicating a specific volume.

[0260] Furthermore, for example, the toilet system 1 may store information indicating the correspondence between each level of urine volume and a numerical value corresponding to the area, for example, in the storage unit 120. In this case, the toilet system 1 calculates the area by converting the level at each time into a numerical value corresponding to the area and integrating it, based on the information indicating the correspondence between each level of urine volume and a numerical value corresponding to the area (for example, 1 for small, 2 for medium, 3 for large, etc.). For example, the toilet system 1 calculates the area as 22.

[0261] The toilet system 1 then calculates the total urine volume from the calculated area. For example, the toilet system 1 calculates the total urine volume using the area and a conversion formula based on the relationship shown in FIG. 24. FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between area and total urine volume. For example, FIG. 24 shows an example of a calibration curve for calculating the total urine volume from the area. For example, the toilet system 1 calculates the total urine volume to be 220 mL from the calculated area of ​​"22."

[0262] The toilet system 1 may provide (display) information using any of the acquired information. For example, the toilet system 1 may display information in stages such as large, medium, and small instead of displaying numerical values.

[0263] <5-2-6. Example of when defecation occurs during urination> Furthermore, if there is defecation during urination, the toilet system 1 may perform processing to eliminate the effect of this. For example, the toilet system 1 may perform processing as shown in FIG. 25. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of processing when there is defecation during urination. For example, FIG. 25 shows an example of a method for detecting feces from the output of the radio wave sensor 200. The vertical axis of FIG. 25 corresponds to the output value of the radio wave sensor 200, and the horizontal axis corresponds to time. FIG. 25 shows a case where there is defecation during urination around 20 seconds into the graph.

[0264] As shown in FIG. 25, when there is defecation, the output value of the radio wave sensor 200 becomes discontinuous. Therefore, the toilet system 1 estimates (estimates) the output value from the points before and after the discontinuous point, as shown by the dotted line in the enlarged view of the graph around 20 seconds. For example, the toilet system 1 estimates the output value of the radio wave sensor 200 for the discontinuous time period, excluding the influence of feces, based on the line connecting the start and end points of the discontinuous time period, as shown by the dotted line in the enlarged view of the graph around 20 seconds. The toilet system 1 may then use the estimated output value of the radio wave sensor 200 to estimate the amount of urine in that time period, and thereby estimate the total amount of urine. In FIG. 25, the toilet system 1 calculates (estimates) the total amount of urine (total urine volume) to be 342 mL after converting it to a flow rate.

[0265] For example, the toilet system 1 may perform the process shown in Fig. 26. Fig. 26 is a diagram showing an example of the process when defecation occurs during urination. For example, Fig. 26 shows an example of a method for detecting feces after changing the output of the radio wave sensor 200 to a flow rate. The vertical axis of Fig. 26 corresponds to the urine flow rate, and the horizontal axis corresponds to time. Fig. 26 shows a case where defecation occurs during urination around 20 seconds into the graph.

[0266] As shown in Figure 26, the flow rate becomes discontinuous when there is a defecation. Therefore, the toilet system 1 estimates the flow rate from the points before and after the discontinuity, as shown by the dotted line in the enlarged view of the graph around 20 seconds. For example, the toilet system 1 estimates that the amount corresponding to the hatched area in the enlarged view of the graph around 20 seconds is the amount of feces. The toilet system 1 may calculate the amount of feces from the area of ​​the hatched area in the enlarged view of the graph around 20 seconds, and estimate the total amount of urine (total urine volume) by subtracting the amount of feces from the total excretion volume, which is the sum of the entire area. In Figure 26, the toilet system 1 estimates the maximum urine flow rate to be 23.1 mL / sec and calculates (estimates) the total amount of urine (total urine volume) to be 342 mL.

[0267] As mentioned above, whether the output of the radio wave sensor is viewed directly or converted into water level or flow rate, the value will be discontinuous if there is a defecation. Therefore, when a value becomes discontinuous, the toilet system 1 deletes the discontinuous value and uses the value before or after the discontinuity, or averages the values ​​before and after the discontinuity to delete the signal due to defecation. The toilet system 1 integrates all values, including signal changes due to defecation, and may further extract only the signal portion of the defecation to calculate the amount of defecation, and then subtract the amount of defecation from the total amount of excretion to obtain the amount of urine.

[0268] <5-2-7. When using two pieces of information with different phases> In the above example, a case where one output (information) is used has been described as an example, but the toilet system 1 may also use two pieces of information with different phases. For example, the toilet system 1 may determine the change in water level due to urination from two outputs with different phases. An example of this point will be explained using FIG. 27. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of calculation using two outputs. Note that, regarding FIG. 27, explanations of points similar to those in FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0269] In Figure 27, one output (first output) is shown by a solid line, and another output (second output) that is out of phase with the first output is shown by a dashed line. Figure 27 shows a method for determining the change in water level due to urination from two outputs of the sensor. Below, we will explain an example where the initial values ​​of the sensor are a first output of 100 and a second output of 50.

[0270] In Figure 27, there are two possible distances between the sensor and the water surface, based on the positions of the sensor and trap unit (e.g., trap unit 82) in the configuration: 124.0 mm and 136.5 mm, which is one wavelength away from 124.0 mm. For example, based on the first output and the second output, the toilet system 1 estimates that the distance between the radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface is either 124.0 mm or 136.5 mm. The processing thereafter is the same as in the case of one output shown in Figure 20, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0271] In this way, when there is one output from the sensor, the initial water level is determined by measuring the water level change over time at the beginning of urination, but when there are multiple (two) outputs, as shown in Figure 27, the water level can be narrowed down from those output values. For example, if the water level drops momentarily due to sitting down, there is a possibility that the initial water level will be misjudged with only one sensor output, but with multiple (two) outputs, this possibility can be reduced.

[0272] The toilet system 1 may be configured to obtain two outputs with different phases. For example, the toilet system 1 may obtain two outputs with different phases by using two radio wave sensors 200. In this case, the toilet system 1 may have two radio wave sensors 200: one radio wave sensor 200 (first radio wave sensor) that outputs the first output in FIG. 27, and another radio wave sensor 200 (second radio wave sensor) that outputs the second output in FIG. 27. In other words, the toilet system 1 may obtain an output from each of the two radio wave sensors 200.

[0273] For example, with one sensor, the initial water level is determined by measuring the water level change over time at the beginning of urination, but with multiple sensors, the water level can be narrowed down from their output values. For example, if the water level drops momentarily due to sitting down, a single sensor may misjudge the initial water level, but with multiple sensors, this possibility can be reduced. Note that the toilet system 1 may use any information, such as differential information from signals from multiple sensors.

[0274] Furthermore, the toilet system 1 may obtain two outputs with different phases from one radio wave sensor 200. An example of this point will be described with reference to FIG. 28. For example, the radio wave sensor 200 may have a configuration as shown in FIG. 28. FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a radio wave sensor. Specifically, FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a radio wave sensor for obtaining two outputs.

[0275] When two outputs with different phases are obtained from one radio wave sensor 200, the radio wave sensor 200 may have two detection circuits 222. For example, the radio wave sensor 200 has two detection circuits 222: detection circuit 222a shown as detection circuit #1 in FIG. 28 and detection circuit 222b shown as detection circuit #2 in FIG. 28. In FIG. 28, the radio wave sensor 200 has a configuration in which the line length on the detection circuit 222b side is longer than the line length of detection circuit 222a so that the phase difference between the detection circuit 222b and the transmission circuit 221 is 60 degrees. As a result, detection circuit 222b (detection circuit #2) is shifted (delayed by 60 degrees) relative to detection circuit 222a (detection circuit #1) by the line length. This allows the toilet system 1 to estimate distance using the combination (relationship) of two wavelengths.

[0276] For example, the toilet system 1 may estimate the distance using the relationship between two outputs, as shown in Fig. 29. Fig. 29 is a diagram showing an example of processing using the relationship between two outputs. In Fig. 29, the output (first output) by the detection circuit 222a is shown by a solid line, and the output (second output) by the detection circuit 222b is shown by a dashed line. For example, the toilet system 1 may estimate the distance between the radio wave sensor 200 and the water surface based on the relationship between the first output and the second output at A in Fig. 29, the first output and the second output at B in Fig. 29, the first output and the second output at C in Fig. 29, etc.

[0277] <5-3. Third processing example (foreign object detection processing, etc.)> Next, a third processing example will be described, which is a foreign object detection process performed by the toilet system 1. Note that the process described below is merely an example, and the toilet system 1 may detect a foreign object by any process based on detection by the radio wave sensor 200, and is not limited to the process described below.

[0278] For example, the toilet system 1 detects a foreign object through processing as shown in Figure 30. Figure 30 is a flowchart showing an example of processing including foreign object detection executed by the toilet system. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in Figure 13 and elsewhere will be omitted as appropriate. Also, Figure 30 explains an example of a processing flow in which blockage detection is performed in addition to foreign object detection, but the toilet system 1 may also perform only foreign object detection.

[0279] The toilet system 1 branches the process depending on whether the toilet has been flushed (step S201). If the toilet has been flushed (step S201: Yes), the toilet system 1 detects a blockage based on the first sensor signal (step S202). For example, the toilet system 1 determines whether a blockage has occurred based on the water level in the trap section 82 detected by the first sensor, the radio wave sensor 200. If no blockage is detected (step S202: No), the toilet system 1 returns to step S201 and repeats the process.

[0280] If a clog is detected (step S202: Yes), the toilet system 1 stops toilet flushing (step S203). For example, the toilet system 1 stops toilet flushing by not controlling the toilet flush valve to close when it is open. For example, the toilet system 1 stops the toilet flush valve when it detects a clog.

[0281] Furthermore, the toilet system 1 prohibits the use of the booth (step S204). For example, the toilet system 1 prohibits the use of the toilet room R, such as the toilet booth, in which the toilet device 20 is installed by displaying information indicating the toilet device 20 in which an abnormality has occurred on a signage, a door of the toilet room R, such as the toilet booth, or the like.

[0282] The toilet system 1 also notifies a person in charge of handling the problem (step S205). For example, the toilet system 1 notifies a person in charge of handling the problem, such as a manager or a cleaner. For example, the toilet system 1 notifies a person in charge of handling the problem by transmitting information indicating the toilet device 20 in which the problem has occurred (for example, information indicating the location of the toilet room R, such as a toilet booth) to an administrator device used by a manager such as a facility manager, or an operator device used by a field worker such as a cleaner.

[0283] If the countermeasure has not been completed (step S206: not yet), the toilet system 1 repeats step S206. For example, the toilet system 1 continues the prohibited state until the countermeasure for the abnormality is completed by the countermeasure person.

[0284] When the countermeasure has been completed (step S206: completed), the toilet system 1 lifts the prohibition on flushing the toilet and the prohibition on using the booth (step S207). For example, when the toilet system 1 acquires information from the person who has dealt with the problem that the countermeasure has been completed, the toilet system 1 lifts the prohibition on flushing the toilet and the prohibition on using the booth. For example, when the toilet system 1 receives information from the device used by the person who has dealt with the problem that the countermeasure has been completed, the toilet system 1 lifts the prohibition on flushing the toilet and the prohibition on using the booth.

[0285] Furthermore, if the toilet flushing has not been performed (step S201: NO), the toilet system 1 performs foreign object detection based on the second sensor signal (step S208). For example, the toilet system 1 determines whether a foreign object has entered the bowl portion 8 based on detection by the second sensor, optical sensor 34 or the bowl portion-side radio wave sensor. If a foreign object has not been detected (step S208: NO), the toilet system 1 returns to step S201 and repeats the process.

[0286] If a foreign object is detected (step S208: YES), the toilet system 1 prohibits toilet flushing (step S209). For example, the toilet system 1 prohibits toilet flushing by not controlling the toilet flush valve to open. Then, the toilet system 1 executes the processes of steps S204 to S207.

[0287] <6. Modifications (Application to urinals)> In the above example, the toilet system 1 is applied to a toilet apparatus 20 having a toilet bowl 7, which is a toilet bowl provided with a bowl portion 8, i.e., a toilet bowl. However, the toilet system 1 may be applied not only to toilet bowls but also to urinals. This point will be described below as a modified example. The toilet system 1 according to the modified example has a toilet apparatus 20A. For example, the toilet apparatus 20A is a toilet apparatus having a urinal 300 provided with a bowl portion 301. Note that the toilet system 1 according to the modified example may have a toilet apparatus 20 having a toilet bowl 7, which is a toilet bowl. Furthermore, the toilet system 1 according to the embodiment may have a toilet apparatus 20A having a urinal 300. In other words, the toilet system may be a combination of the toilet system 1 according to the embodiment and the toilet system 1 according to the modified example.

[0288] First, the configuration of a toilet device according to a modified example will be described with reference to Figures 31 and 32. Figure 31 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet device according to a modified example. Figure 32 is a side cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet device according to a modified example. Note that, for a toilet device 20A according to a modified example, explanations of the same points as those of the toilet device 20 described above will be omitted as appropriate. For example, the control device 100 of the toilet device 20A is similar to the control device 100 of the toilet device 20A, and therefore detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0289] As shown in Figures 31 and 32, the toilet apparatus 20A has a urinal 300. The urinal 300 is installed along a floor surface F. As in Figure 1, the floor surface F is the lower surface and the direction facing the floor surface F is the upper side. The toilet system 1 according to the modified example may include multiple urinals 300 (toilet apparatus 20A), which will be described later.

[0290] The urinal 300 is a toilet bowl specifically designed for male urination, and is made of materials such as ceramic or resin. The urinal 300 has a bowl portion 301 formed on its underside. The bowl portion 301 is concave downwards and is the portion that receives the user's urine. In this way, the urinal 300 functions as a toilet body having the bowl portion 301. The urinal 300 is not limited to a floor-standing type as shown in the figure, and may be of any type, such as a wall-mounted type, as long as the toilet system 1 is applicable.

[0291] A drain pipe 302 communicates with an opening provided in the bottom of the bowl portion 301 of the urinal 300. The drain pipe 302 is a drain pipe extending from the bowl portion 301, and the internal space of the drain pipe 302 functions as a drainage channel. In FIG. 32, the drain pipe 302 has a U-shaped (V-shaped) shape that extends diagonally downward from the end connected to the bottom of the bowl portion 301 and then diagonally upward, before continuing downward again. This forms a trap portion 303 in the drain pipe 302. Note that the configuration of the drain pipe 302 shown in FIG. 32 is merely one example, and any configuration can be adopted for the drain pipe 302 as long as it is possible to form a trap that can perform the processing described below.

[0292] In Figure 32, a peak 304 is formed at the end of the trap section 303 of the drain pipe 302 opposite the end connected to the bottom of the bowl section 301. A strainer 305 is disposed in an opening provided in the bottom of the bowl section 301 of the urinal 300. The drain pipe 302 is filled with sealing water. For example, the drain pipe 302 is filled with sealing water from below the strainer 305 to below the peak 304 of the trap section 303.

[0293] The urinal 300 is provided with a radio wave sensor 200A that detects changes in the state of the water seal on the trap section 303 side. The radio wave sensor 200A is provided above the trap section 303. For example, the radio wave sensor 200A is a μ (microwave) wave sensor. Any sensor, such as a millimeter wave sensor, can be used as the radio wave sensor 200A as long as it is capable of the desired detection. Note that the radio wave sensor 200A is similar to the radio wave sensor 200, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0294] The detection range of radio wave sensor 200A is set to an area including vertex 304 of trap portion 303. For example, radio wave sensor 200A is positioned so that the detection range includes vertex 304 of trap portion 303. Note that the detection range of radio wave sensor 200A may be any range as long as it includes vertex 304 of trap portion 303. Radio wave sensor 200A detects the water level or flow velocity at vertex 304 of trap portion 303.

[0295] The control device 100 of the toilet device 20A functions as a drainage abnormality detection means that performs processing related to the detection of drainage abnormalities. The control device 100 of the toilet device 20A detects drainage abnormalities based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200A. The control device 100 of the toilet device 20A detects drainage abnormalities based on a flush operation performed by the operating unit. The control device 100 of the toilet device 20A detects drainage abnormalities based on the time during which a change in the seal water state occurs. The control device 100 of the toilet device 20A detects drainage abnormalities based on the amount of change in the seal water state. The control device 100 of the toilet device 20A determines the type of drainage abnormality based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 200A. The control device 100 of the toilet device 20A notifies the detection results to the outside. The control device 100 of the toilet device 20A changes the content or destination of the external notification based on the determined type of abnormality.

[0296] For example, the control device 100 of the toilet apparatus 20A estimates the degree of adhesion of urinary stones to the drain pipe 302, etc., based on the state of the water seal (water level, flow rate, etc.) in the trap section 303. Here, changes in the state of the water seal due to clogging of the urinal 300 will be described using Figure 33. Figure 33 is a diagram showing an example of changes due to clogging of the urinal.

[0297] The vertical axis of the graph in Figure 33 represents the state of the seal water, such as flow velocity or water level, and the horizontal axis represents time. The solid line in the graph in Figure 33 represents the change in the state of the seal water under normal conditions. The dashed line in the graph in Figure 33 represents the change in the state of the seal water at the beginning of the blockage (e.g., when the severity is low). The dashed line in the graph in Figure 33 represents the change in the state of the seal water just before a leak occurs (e.g., when the severity is high).

[0298] For example, the toilet system 1 according to the modified example determines that the system is normal if the drainage end time is before the first end threshold (the vertical line on the left side of FIG. 33). For example, the toilet system 1 according to the modified example determines that a warning (i.e., an early stage) is required if the drainage end time is after the first end threshold and before the second end threshold (the vertical line on the right side of FIG. 33). For example, the toilet system 1 according to the modified example determines that pipe (drain) cleaning is necessary (a water leak is imminent) if the drainage end time is after the second end threshold.

[0299] Next, an example of a flowchart of the process of detecting a discharge pipe abnormality executed by the toilet system 1 according to a modified example will be described with reference to Fig. 34. Fig. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed by the toilet system according to a modified example. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in Fig. 13 etc. will be omitted as appropriate.

[0300] The toilet system 1 detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the trap water level (step S301). For example, the toilet system 1 determines based on the water level of the trap unit 303 whether an abnormality related to clogging has been detected.

[0301] If the toilet system 1 does not detect a drainage abnormality (step S301: normal), it branches the process depending on whether the toilet is being flushed or not (step S302). For example, the toilet system 1 may determine whether the toilet is being flushed or not based on control of the toilet flush valve. Note that the above is just one example, and the toilet system 1 may use any information as long as it can estimate whether the toilet is being flushed or not. For example, the toilet system 1 may determine whether the toilet is being flushed or not based on detection by a sensor, for example.

[0302] If the toilet flushing has not been performed (step S302: NO), the toilet system 1 returns to step S301 and repeats the process. If the toilet flushing has been performed (step S302: YES), the toilet system 1 determines whether the trap water level drop time is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value (step S303). For example, the toilet system 1 determines whether the trap water level drop time is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value based on a comparison between the period during which the water level in the trap unit 303 is at the original water level (also referred to as the "reference water level") and a threshold value (time threshold), such as a first predetermined value, indicating the determination time. For example, the toilet system 1 estimates the trap water level drop time by counting the period during which the water level in the trap unit 303 detected by the radio wave sensor 200 is at the reference water level.

[0303] If the trap water level fall time is less than the first predetermined value (step S303: less than first predetermined value), the toilet system 1 records it as normal (step S304). For example, if the period during which the water level in the trap unit 303 is at the reference water level (trap water level fall time) is less than the first predetermined value, the toilet system 1 determines that no drainage abnormality has occurred and registers the determination result in the memory unit 120.

[0304] If the toilet system 1 detects an abnormality related to drainage (step S301: abnormality), it prohibits toilet flushing (step S305). For example, if the toilet system 1 detects an abnormality related to clogging based on the water level in the trap unit 303 when no toilet flushing is performed, it prohibits toilet flushing by not controlling the toilet flush valve to open.

[0305] The toilet system 1 also prohibits the use of the toilet (step S306). For example, the toilet system 1 prohibits the use of the toilet in which a clogging-related abnormality has been detected by displaying information indicating the urinal 300 (toilet device 20A) in which a drainage abnormality has occurred on a signage or the like.

[0306] The toilet system 1 also contacts the outside (company) (step S307). For example, the toilet system 1 contacts the outside by transmitting information indicating that an abnormality related to clogging has occurred to an external maintenance company device used by a maintenance company, which is the outside (company).

[0307] In addition, if the trap water level fall time is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value (step S303: equal to or greater than first predetermined value), the toilet system 1 branches the processing depending on whether the trap water level fall time is less than a second predetermined value (step S308).

[0308] If the trap water level fall time is less than a second predetermined value that is greater than the first predetermined value (step S308: less), the toilet system 1 issues a urinary stone warning alert (step S309). For example, if the trap water level fall time is less than a second predetermined value that is greater than the first predetermined value, the toilet system 1 transmits a urinary stone warning alert to an administrator device or the like.

[0309] The toilet system 1 also discourages the use of the toilet (step S310). For example, the toilet system 1 notifies the user that the use of the toilet that is the target of the urinary stone warning alert is not recommended by displaying information indicating the urinary stone warning alert target urinary stone warning alert on a signage or the like.

[0310] Then, the toilet system 1 contacts the cleaning company and the manager (step S311). For example, the toilet system 1 contacts the cleaning company and the manager by transmitting information indicating that a urinary stone warning alert has occurred to a worker device used by a field worker such as a cleaner, a manager device used by a manager such as a facility manager, etc.

[0311] Furthermore, if the trap water level fall time is equal to or longer than the second predetermined value (step S308: equal to or longer), the toilet system 1 executes the processes of steps S305 to S307.

[0312] <6-1. Example of multiple urinals> In the above-mentioned example (Figure 31, etc.), a case where there is one urinal 300 is shown as an example, but multiple urinals 300 may be arranged as shown in Figures 35 and 36. Note that multiple urinals 300 arranged side by side as in Figures 35 and 36 may be referred to as a multi-unit urinal. Figure 35 is a front view showing an example of the arrangement of multi-unit urinals. Figure 36 is a top view showing an example of the arrangement of multi-unit urinals. Note that the hatched circle in Figure 36 is for explaining clogging and is not included in the configuration of the multi-unit urinal.

[0313] Figures 35 and 36 show a case where urinal 3001, urinal 3002, and urinal 3003 are arranged side by side. When describing the urinals without distinguishing between them, such as urinals 3001 to 3003, they may be referred to as "urinal 300." Figures 35 and 36 show a case where there are three urinals 300 as an example, but any number of urinals 300 can be used as long as the desired processing can be performed, and the number of urinals 300 may be two or less or four or more.

[0314] The toilet system 1 shown in Figures 35 and 36 includes a toilet apparatus 20A1 having a urinal 3001, a toilet apparatus 20A2 having a urinal 3002, and a toilet apparatus 20A3 having a urinal 3003. When describing the toilet apparatuses 20A1 to 20A3 without distinguishing between the urinals, they may be referred to as "toilet apparatus 20A." As such, the toilet system 1 shown in Figures 35 and 36 includes three toilet apparatuses 20A, but the number of toilet apparatuses 20A may be two or less or four or more.

[0315] As shown in Figures 36 and 37, the drain pipes 302 of each urinal 300 in a multi-unit urinal are connected to a connecting pipe 310. The connecting pipe 310 has drain pipes 311 extending from the drain pipes 302 of each urinal 300 to the outside of the urinal 300, and horizontal piping 312 through which each drain pipe 311 communicates. Figure 37 is a side cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a multi-unit urinal.

[0316] In Figure 36, in a urinal 3001, drain pipe 302 is connected to horizontal piping 312 by drain pipe 3111, and urine received in bowl portion 3011 is drained into horizontal piping 312 by drain pipe 3111. In addition, in a urinal 3002, drain pipe 302 is connected to horizontal piping 312 by drain pipe 3112, and urine received in bowl portion 3012 is drained into horizontal piping 312 by drain pipe 3112. In a urinal 3003, drain pipe 302 is connected to horizontal piping 312 by drain pipe 3113, and urine received in bowl portion 3013 is drained into horizontal piping 312 by drain pipe 3113.

[0317] Here, if the drain pipe 311 corresponding to a urinal 300 becomes clogged, as in case #1 shown by a clog in the drain pipe 3111 in Figure 36, then only that urinal 300 will experience drainage problems. On the other hand, if the horizontal pipe 312 becomes clogged, as in case #2 shown by a clog downstream of the horizontal pipe 312, then multiple urinals 300 may experience drainage problems.

[0318] Therefore, when targeting multiple urinals, the toilet system 1 may perform processing as shown in Figure 38. Figure 38 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the toilet system for multiple urinals. Note that Figure 38 explains an example where processing is performed for three urinals 300, similar to Figures 35 and 36. Furthermore, explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted where appropriate.

[0319] The toilet system 1 branches the process according to the trap detection times of the μ-wave sensors #1 to #3 (step S401). For example, the toilet system 1 branches the process according to the trap detection time, which is the trap water level drop time of the radio wave sensor 200A of the urinal 3001 which is μ-wave sensor #1, the radio wave sensor 200A of the urinal 3002 which is μ-wave sensor #2, and the radio wave sensor 200A of the urinal 3002 which is μ-wave sensor #3.

[0320] If the trap detection times of the μ-wave sensors #1 to #3 are all less than the predetermined time (step S401: all within the predetermined time), the toilet system 1 determines that there is no problem and records the confirmation (step S402). For example, if the trap detection times, which are the trap water level drop times detected by the radio wave sensors 200A of the urinals 3001 to 3003, are all less than the predetermined time, the toilet system 1 determines that there is no problem and registers the determination result in the storage unit 120.

[0321] If at least one of the trap detection times of the μ-wave sensors #1 to #3 is equal to or longer than a predetermined time (step S401: equal to or longer than predetermined time), the toilet system 1 prohibits flushing of the corresponding toilet (step S403). For example, the toilet system 1 prohibits use of the toilet in which an abnormality has been detected by displaying information on a signage or the like indicating the urinal 300 (toilet device 20A) whose trap detection time, which is the trap water level drop time, is equal to or longer than a predetermined time.

[0322] The toilet system 1 branches the process depending on the number of abnormalities (step S404). For example, the toilet system 1 branches the process depending on the number (number of abnormalities) of urinals 300 (toilet devices 20A) whose trap detection time, which is the trap water level fall time, is equal to or longer than a predetermined time.

[0323] If the number of abnormalities is one (step S404: any one unit (clogged rear of toilet bowl)), the toilet system 1 contacts a cleaner (step S405). For example, the toilet system 1 contacts the cleaner by transmitting information indicating that a clog-related abnormality has occurred to a worker device used by a field worker such as a cleaner. The cleaner who receives the contact deals with the abnormality. For example, the cleaner who receives the contact applies chemicals during cleaning (step S406).

[0324] If the number of abnormalities is two or more (step S404: any two or more (cross pipe clogged)), the toilet system 1 branches the process depending on the estimated location of the clog. For example, the toilet system 1 estimates the location of the clog based on the detection of each of the multiple radio wave sensors 200A.

[0325] If the clogged location is the most downstream location (step S407: most downstream), the toilet system 1 closes the urinal area (step S408). For example, if the clogged location is the most downstream location, that is, if it is estimated that all urinals 300 are affected by the abnormality, the toilet system 1 closes the urinal area and prohibits the use of all urinals 300 by displaying information indicating that the use of all urinals 300 is prohibited on signage or the like.

[0326] The toilet system 1 contacts an administrator (step S409). For example, the toilet system 1 contacts an administrator by transmitting information indicating that a clog-related abnormality has occurred to an administrator device used by an administrator such as a facility administrator. The administrator who receives the contact deals with the abnormality. For example, the administrator who receives the contact performs pipe cleaning or the like (step S410).

[0327] If the blockage location is not at the most downstream side (step S407: upstream side), the toilet system 1 executes the processes of steps S409 to S410 without executing the process of step S408.

[0328] The above-described embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradiction in the processing content.

[0329] 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.

[0330] The above-described embodiments and modifications may have the following configurations, but are not limited to these. (1) a bowl portion for receiving excrement; a trap portion that forms a water seal on the bottom side of the bowl portion; a radio wave sensor that detects a change in state of the water seal on the trap section side due to an object being introduced into the water seal; an abnormality detection unit that detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor; A toilet system comprising: (2) The detection range of the radio wave sensor is set to an area including the apex of the trap portion. The toilet system according to (1) above. (3) an operating unit for performing a cleaning operation on the bowl unit; Furthermore, The abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the fact that the cleaning operation is performed by the operation unit. The toilet system according to (1) or (2) above. (4) The abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality related to drainage based on a time period during which a change in the state of the sealing water occurs. The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (3) above, characterized in that: (5) The abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality related to drainage based on an amount of change in the state change of the seal water. The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (4) above, characterized in that: (6) The abnormality detection unit determines the type of abnormality related to drainage based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor. The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (5) above, characterized in that: (7) a notification unit that notifies the outside of the detection result of the abnormality detection unit; Furthermore, The notification unit changes the content or destination of a notification to be sent to the outside based on the type of abnormality determined by the abnormality detection unit. The toilet system according to (6) above. (8) The object to be introduced includes cleaning water to be supplied to the bowl portion. The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (7) above, characterized in that: (9) a state detection unit that detects a state change in the bowl portion; a foreign matter detection unit that determines that a foreign matter has entered the bowl portion based on a detection result of a state change in the bowl portion detected by the state detection unit before the bowl portion receives excrement and at a timing other than cleaning the bowl portion; and The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (8) further comprises: (10) The bowl portion is provided in a toilet or urinal. The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (9) above, characterized in that: (11) an estimation means for estimating information about urine or feces related to the excrement based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor; Furthermore, The radio wave sensor detects a change in state that occurs in the water seal on the trap section side due to the excrement falling into the water seal. The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (10) above, characterized in that: (12) The radio wave sensor detects a change in the state of the seal water based on the overflow of water from the apex of the trap portion. The toilet system according to (2) above. (13) The estimation means estimates the urine flow rate or the feces volume based on the change in the state of the seal water. The toilet system according to (11) above. (14) The estimation means estimates the urine flow rate based on information about standing waves output from the radio wave sensor. The toilet system according to (11) above. (15) The radio wave sensor is a millimeter wave sensor or a microwave sensor. The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (14) above, characterized in that: (16) a drainage path from the bowl portion passes between the radio wave sensor and the apex of the trap portion; The radio wave sensor detects a change in the state of the seal water based on the overflow of water from the apex of the trap portion. The toilet system according to (2) above. (17) a toilet seat device installed on top of a toilet body having the bowl portion; Furthermore, The radio wave sensor is provided in the toilet seat device. The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (16) above, characterized in that: (18) The antenna portion of the radio wave sensor is disposed on the bottom side of the toilet seat device. The toilet system according to (17) above. (19) The antenna portion of the radio wave sensor is provided on the outer wall of the drain pipe having the trap portion. The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (18) above, characterized in that: (20) The antenna portion of the radio wave sensor is disposed vertically above the trap portion. The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (19) above, characterized in that: (twenty one) The antenna part of the radio wave sensor is disposed vertically above the water seal on the trap part side. The toilet system according to any one of (1) to (20) above, characterized in that: (twenty two) an optical sensor that detects changes in the state of the sealing water from the bowl portion side at multiple times; Furthermore, The estimation means estimates information about the urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor and the optical sensor. The toilet system according to (11) above. (twenty three) The estimation means estimates the urine or feces information when there is a correlation between the detection results of the radio wave sensor and the optical sensor. The toilet system according to (22) above. (twenty four) an optical sensor that detects feces from the bowl portion side before they land in the sealed water; Furthermore, The estimation means acquires information about the urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor and the optical sensor. The toilet system according to (11) above. (twenty five) The estimation means acquires information about feces based on the detection result of the optical sensor, and acquires information about the urine or feces based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor. The toilet system according to (24) above. (26) A radio wave device for a toilet device that is installed in a toilet device, a radio wave sensor that detects a change in state that occurs in the trap section seal that forms the water seal on the bottom side of the bowl section due to an object that is introduced into the water seal of the bowl section of the toilet device; A radio wave device for a toilet device, comprising: (27) A detection process for detecting a change in state of the trap seal that forms a seal on the bottom side of the bowl portion due to an object introduced into the seal of the bowl portion of the toilet system; A method for detecting a drainage abnormality in a toilet system, comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0331] 1. Toilet System 2 Toilet seat device 3 Main body (functional part) 4 Toilet lid 5 toilet seats 6 Cleaning nozzle 7 Toilet bowl (toilet body) 8 Bowl section 9 Rim 20 Toilet equipment 34 Optical Sensor 81 Drainage pipe (drainage channel) 82 Trap section 100 Control device (estimation means) 101 Communications Department 120 Storage section 130 control section 131 Acquisition Department 132 Measuring section 133 Abnormality detection unit 134 Status detection unit 135 Foreign matter detection section 136 Estimation Department 137 Information Department 200 Radio wave sensor (radio wave device for toilet equipment) 210 Antenna section 220 Circuit section R Toilet Room

Claims

1. a bowl portion for receiving excrement; a trap portion that forms a water seal on the bottom side of the bowl portion; a radio wave sensor that detects a change in state of the water seal on the trap section side due to an object being introduced into the water seal; an abnormality detection unit that detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor; A toilet system comprising:

2. The detection range of the radio wave sensor is set to an area including the apex of the trap portion.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

3. an operating unit for performing a cleaning operation on the bowl unit; Furthermore, The abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality related to drainage based on the fact that the cleaning operation is performed by the operation unit.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

4. The abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality related to drainage based on a time period during which a change in the state of the sealing water occurs.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

5. The abnormality detection unit detects an abnormality related to drainage based on an amount of change in the state change of the seal water.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

6. The abnormality detection unit determines the type of abnormality related to drainage based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

7. a notification unit that notifies the outside of the detection result of the abnormality detection unit; Furthermore, The notification unit changes the content or destination of a notification to be sent to the outside based on the type of abnormality determined by the abnormality detection unit.

7. The toilet system according to claim 6.

8. The object to be introduced includes cleaning water to be supplied to the bowl portion.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

9. a state detection unit that detects a state change in the bowl portion; a foreign matter detection unit that determines that a foreign matter has entered the bowl portion based on a detection result of a state change in the bowl portion detected by the state detection unit before the bowl portion receives excrement and at a timing other than cleaning the bowl portion; and 10. The toilet system of claim 1, further comprising:

10. The bowl portion is provided in a toilet or urinal.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

11. an estimation means for estimating information about urine or feces related to the excrement based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor; Furthermore, The radio wave sensor detects a change in state that occurs in the water seal on the trap section side due to the excrement falling into the water seal.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

12. The radio wave sensor detects a change in the state of the seal water based on the overflow of water from the apex of the trap portion.

3. The toilet system according to claim 2.

13. The estimation means estimates the urine flow rate or the feces volume based on the change in the state of the seal water.

12. The toilet system of claim 11.

14. The estimation means estimates the urine flow rate based on information about standing waves output from the radio wave sensor.

12. The toilet system of claim 11.

15. The radio wave sensor is a millimeter wave sensor or a microwave sensor.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

16. a drainage path from the bowl portion passes between the radio wave sensor and the apex of the trap portion; The radio wave sensor detects a change in the state of the seal water based on the overflow of water from the apex of the trap portion.

3. The toilet system according to claim 2.

17. a toilet seat device installed on top of a toilet body having the bowl portion; Furthermore, The radio wave sensor is provided in the toilet seat device.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

18. The antenna portion of the radio wave sensor is disposed on the bottom side of the toilet seat device.

18. The toilet system of claim 17.

19. The antenna portion of the radio wave sensor is provided on the outer wall of the drain pipe having the trap portion.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

20. The antenna portion of the radio wave sensor is disposed vertically above the trap portion.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

21. The antenna part of the radio wave sensor is disposed vertically above the water seal on the trap part side.

2. The toilet system of claim 1.

22. an optical sensor that detects changes in the state of the sealing water from the bowl portion side at multiple times; Furthermore, The estimation means estimates information about the urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor and the optical sensor.

12. The toilet system of claim 11.

23. The estimation means estimates the urine or feces information when there is a correlation between the detection results of the radio wave sensor and the optical sensor.

23. The toilet system of claim 22.

24. an optical sensor that detects feces from the bowl portion side before they land in the sealed water; Furthermore, The estimation means acquires information about the urine or feces based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor and the optical sensor.

12. The toilet system of claim 11.

25. The estimation means acquires information about feces based on the detection result of the optical sensor, and acquires information about the urine or feces based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor.

25. The toilet system of claim 24.

26. A radio wave device for a toilet device that is installed in a toilet device, a radio wave sensor that detects a change in state that occurs in the trap section seal that forms the water seal on the bottom side of the bowl section due to an object that is introduced into the water seal of the bowl section of the toilet device; A radio wave device for a toilet device, comprising:

27. A detection process for detecting a change in state of the trap seal that forms a seal on the bottom side of the bowl portion due to an object introduced into the seal of the bowl portion of the toilet system; A method for detecting a drainage abnormality in a toilet system, comprising:

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