Biological information measurement system

Abstract

To properly estimate information on the health of a user.SOLUTION: The biological information measurement system includes a first detection part configured to detect feces, a second detection part configured to detect defecation gas, and a control part configured to execute estimation processing of estimating at least one of provision information related to health of the user and a score based on a detection result of the first detection part and a detection result of the second detection part, and execute control of outputting a result of the estimation processing to an outside.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a biological information measurement system. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, technologies for sensing various types of information in toilets have been provided. For example, a toilet device that senses the properties of stool is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). It is believed that information related to intestinal peristalsis can be inferred from such stool properties. Also, for example, a toilet device that senses defecation gas is known (see, for example, Patent Document 2). It is believed that information related to the intestinal environment can be inferred from such defecation gas. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 7107338 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 4385402 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, there is room for improvement in the above-mentioned conventional technologies. For example, although it is possible to estimate information about intestinal peristalsis from the properties of stool, it is difficult to estimate health-related information that takes into account the intestinal environment. Also, although it is possible to estimate information about the intestinal environment from fecal gas, it is difficult to estimate health-related information that takes into account intestinal peristalsis. As such, estimation using only one element, as in the above-mentioned conventional technologies, makes it difficult to estimate information based on multiple elements, and it may be difficult to appropriately estimate information about the user's health. Therefore, it is desirable to appropriately estimate information about the user's health.

[0005] An object of the disclosed embodiment is to provide a biological information measurement system that can appropriately estimate information related to a user's health. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A biometric information measuring system according to one aspect of the embodiment is a biometric information measuring system that measures the biometric information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, and is characterized by comprising: a first detection unit that detects feces; a second detection unit that detects fecal gas; and a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or score related to the health of the user based on the detection results of the first detection unit and the detection results of the second detection unit, and controls the output of the results of the estimation process to the outside.

[0007] The health status of the intestine is determined by the peristaltic movement of the outer wall of the intestine, which is primarily affected by stress, sleep, infections, etc., and the intestinal environment inside the intestine, which is primarily affected by diet. Furthermore, stool information (fecal properties) is one indicator of peristaltic movement, and bowel gas information (amount or concentration of bowel gas) is one indicator of the intestinal environment. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, a bioinformation measurement system outputs information and a score related to the user's health based on stool information related to the user's peristaltic movement and bowel gas information related to the user's intestinal environment. This allows the output of information and a score related to the user's health that takes into account the state of the outer wall and the state of the inner intestine, thereby enabling more accurate health support for the user.

[0008] Research by the inventors has revealed that the overall health of the intestine is determined by the peristaltic movement of the outer wall of the intestine, which is primarily influenced by stress, sleep, infections, etc., and the intestinal environment inside the intestine, which is primarily influenced by diet. Conventional toilet devices, either those that estimate only peristaltic movement or those that estimate the intestinal environment, can only capture information related to either peristaltic movement or the intestinal environment, making it impossible to accurately assess the overall health of the intestine. Furthermore, from only one type of information, it is difficult to determine which lifestyle factors, such as stress, sleep, or diet, are most problematic and what improvements are needed. Furthermore, even the practice of estimating intestinal health by visually observing the shape of excrement (stool observation) is difficult to solve. Therefore, a bioinformation measurement system according to one embodiment can accurately estimate the user's health information by estimating the user's health information based on the detection results of both stool and defecation gas.

[0009] In one aspect of the embodiment, the control unit of the biometric information measuring system is characterized in that it estimates first biometric information based on the characteristics of the stool from the detection result of the first detection unit, estimates second biometric information based on the amount or concentration of the fecal gas from the detection result of the second detection unit, and executes control to output the first biometric information and the second biometric information to the outside.

[0010] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the bioinformation measurement system displays the characteristics of the stool, which is an indicator of peristaltic movement, and the amount or concentration of fecal gas, which is an indicator of the intestinal environment, allowing the user to better understand the cause of their illness and how to improve their lifestyle, thereby enabling more accurate health support for the user.

[0011] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a bioinformation measurement system, the control unit is characterized in that it performs the estimation process using a larger number of samples of the detection results of the second detection unit than the number of samples of the detection results of the first detection unit.

[0012] While peristalsis is subject to sudden changes due to the influence of daily lifestyle habits, the intestinal environment changes slowly without being significantly affected by recent lifestyle habits. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, the bioinformation measurement system estimates information about the user's health using a larger number of samples of data on the amount or concentration of fecal gas related to the intestinal environment than data on the properties of stool related to peristalsis, thereby enabling more accurate estimation of both peristalsis and the intestinal environment. Therefore, the bioinformation measurement system can appropriately estimate information about the user's health.

[0013] In one aspect of the embodiment, the biometric information measurement system is characterized in that the estimation process uses the detection result of the first detection unit obtained from a single toilet use and multiple detection results of the second detection unit obtained from multiple toilet use.

[0014] Stool characteristics can change significantly due to sudden stress, and may change if a person has multiple bowel movements in a day. On the other hand, the intestinal environment changes slowly over a period of more than a week, with changes of about 2-3 days being due to data variability caused by diet, etc. Therefore, according to a bioinformation measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment, data on stool characteristics related to peristalsis is obtained from a single excretion data, and data on the amount or concentration of bowel gas related to the intestinal environment is obtained from multiple excretion data, thereby making it possible to appropriately provide comprehensive health-related information and scores to the user. Therefore, the bioinformation measurement system can appropriately estimate information related to the user's health.

[0015] In one aspect of the embodiment, the control unit of the bioinformation measuring system is characterized in that the control unit executes the estimation process to estimate the score higher the higher the first evaluation corresponding to each classification of the stool characteristics based on the detection result of the first detection unit, and to estimate the score higher the higher the second evaluation of the stool gas based on the detection result of the second detection unit.

[0016] Stool properties are evaluated differently depending on their classification. For example, on the Bristol scale, a common indicator of stool properties, a banana-like shape in the middle indicates a good condition, with the condition worsening toward the ends. On the other hand, for fecal gas, which indicates the intestinal environment, a higher score indicates a more desirable condition. Therefore, according to a bioinformation measurement system according to one embodiment, when assessing intestinal condition, the better the classification of stool properties, the better the intestinal condition is estimated to be, and the higher the score of fecal gas, which indicates the intestinal environment, the better the intestinal condition is estimated to be. This allows for an appropriate estimation of the intestinal condition as a total score, and allows the user to be accurately informed of the intestinal condition. Therefore, the bioinformation measurement system can appropriately estimate information about the user's health.

[0017] A biometric information measuring system according to one aspect of the embodiment is a biometric information measuring system that measures the biometric information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, and is characterized by comprising: a first detection unit that detects information about intestinal peristalsis; a second detection unit that detects information about the intestinal environment; and a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or score related to the health of the user based on the detection results of the first detection unit and the detection results of the second detection unit, and executes control to output the results of the estimation process to the outside.

[0018] The health status of the intestine is determined by the peristaltic movement of the outer wall of the intestine, which is primarily affected by stress, sleep, infections, etc., and the intestinal environment inside the intestine, which is primarily affected by diet. Therefore, according to a bioinformation measurement system of one aspect of the embodiment, by outputting information and scores related to the user's health based on information on the user's peristaltic movement and information on the user's intestinal environment, the information and scores related to the user's health can be output taking into account the state of the outer wall of the intestine and the state of the inner intestine, thereby enabling more accurate health support for the user. Thus, according to a bioinformation measurement system of one aspect of the embodiment, by estimating information related to the user's health based on detection of both peristaltic movement and the intestinal environment, it is possible to appropriately estimate information related to the user's health.

[0019] A biometric information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment is a biometric information measurement system that measures the biometric information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, and is characterized by comprising: a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or score related to the health of the user based on the detection results from a first detection unit that detects feces and the detection results from a second detection unit that detects fecal gas, and that executes control to output the results of the estimation process to the outside.

[0020] The health status of the intestine is determined by the peristaltic movement of the outer wall of the intestine, which is primarily influenced by stress, sleep, infections, etc., and the intestinal environment inside the intestine, which is primarily influenced by diet. Furthermore, peristaltic movement depends on stool information, and the intestinal environment inside the intestine depends on bowel gas information. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, the bioinformation measurement system outputs information and scores related to the user's health based on stool information related to the user's peristaltic movement and bowel gas information related to the user's intestinal environment. This allows the output of information and scores related to the user's health that takes into account the condition of the outer wall and the condition of the intestine, thereby enabling more accurate health support for the user. Thus, according to one aspect of the embodiment, the bioinformation measurement system estimates information related to the user's health based on the detection of both stool and bowel gas, thereby enabling appropriate estimation of information related to the user's health.

[0021] A biometric information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment is a biometric information measurement system that measures the biometric information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, and is characterized by comprising: a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or scores related to the health of the user based on the detection results from a first detection unit that detects information about intestinal peristalsis and the detection results from a second detection unit that detects information about the intestinal environment, and that executes control to output the results of the estimation process to the outside.

[0022] The health status of the intestine is determined by the peristaltic movement of the outer wall of the intestine, which is primarily influenced by stress, sleep, infections, etc., and the intestinal environment inside the intestine, which is primarily influenced by diet. Furthermore, peristaltic movement depends on stool information, and the intestinal environment inside the intestine depends on bowel gas information. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, the bioinformation measurement system outputs information and scores related to the user's health based on stool information related to the user's peristaltic movement and bowel gas information related to the user's intestinal environment. This allows the output of information and scores related to the user's health that takes into account the condition of the outer wall and the condition of the intestine, thereby enabling more accurate health support for the user. Thus, according to one aspect of the embodiment, the bioinformation measurement system estimates information related to the user's health based on the detection of both stool and bowel gas, thereby enabling appropriate estimation of information related to the user's health. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] According to one aspect of the embodiment, information about the health of a user can be appropriately estimated. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet room according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of the measurement device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of an overall outline of the biological information measuring system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a biological information measuring system according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a toilet seat device according to an 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 illustrating an example of processing executed by the biological information measuring system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a gas sensor. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second evaluation based on a plurality of data. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an estimation of the first evaluation according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of estimation of the second evaluation according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of estimation of provided information according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of information used to estimate a score according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of information used to estimate information to be provided according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of information used to estimate information to be provided according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of information provided by the biological information measuring system. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of information provided by the biological information measuring system. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of information provided by the biological information measuring system. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of information according to an estimation result. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of information according to an estimation result. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of information relating to the user's intestinal activity. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of recommendation information for a user. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of recommendation information for a user. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of information about other users provided to a user. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode of information provided to a user. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of recommendation information for a user. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of information about other users provided to a user. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of information about users who have a relationship with the user. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of rank information related to users. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of information notification to a user. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of information notification according to the usage status of the user. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of information notification according to the usage status of the user. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the biological information measurement system disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0026] <1. Embodiment> The biological information measuring system according to each embodiment described below manages information about the user's health estimated based on the detection results of the first detector 21, which is a detector that detects stool, and the detection results of the second detector 22, which is a detector that detects defecation gas. In the following example, an imaging device that has a line sensor and generates an image is described as an example of the first detector 21, and a gas detection device that has a semiconductor gas sensor is described as an example of the second detector 22. Note that the first detector 21 and the second detector 22 can have any configuration as long as they can acquire (detect) the desired information, and this will be described later. Note that defecation gas here refers to gas released from the intestines, and includes, for example, gas released simultaneously with defecation and gas that is not released simultaneously with defecation.

[0027] Below, we will explain the toilet room R, where image and gas information is collected, and an overview of the vital information measurement system 1, and then explain the various processes performed by the vital information measurement system 1 and the configuration for performing those processes.

[0028] <1-1. Example of toilet room configuration> First, the configuration of a biological information measurement 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 biological information measurement system according to an embodiment. Note that Fig. 1 shows a toilet seat 5 and a toilet lid 9 in a see-through state in order to illustrate the configuration of a measurement device 4 and a first detection unit 21.

[0029] As shown in Fig. 1, a toilet 7 is installed on a floor surface F in a toilet room R. In the following, the direction facing the interior of the space of the toilet room R from the floor surface F may be referred to as "up." In the toilet room R, components of a biological information measurement system 1, such as a suction device 10, a measuring device 4 that detects gas including a second detection unit 22 that is a gas detection device, and a first detection unit 21, are arranged.

[0030] The toilet bowl 7 is a toilet bowl, and has a bowl portion 8 formed therein. The bowl portion 8 has a downwardly concave shape and is the portion that receives the user's excrement. The toilet bowl 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 biological information measurement system 1 is applicable. The toilet bowl 7 has a rim portion around the entire periphery of the edge of the opening that faces the bowl portion 8. In the toilet room R, for example, a flush water tank that stores flush water may be installed near the toilet bowl 7, or a so-called tankless type may be used in which no flush water tank is installed.

[0031] For example, when a user operates a flushing operation unit (not shown) for flushing provided in the toilet room R, toilet flushing is performed by supplying flush water to the bowl 8 of the toilet 7. The flushing operation unit may be an operation lever or a touch operation on a toilet flushing object displayed on the operation device 30. Note that the flushing operation unit is not limited to an operation lever or the like that causes toilet flushing to be performed manually by the user, but may also be one that causes toilet flushing to be performed by a human body detection sensor that detects the user, such as a seat sensor.

[0032] The toilet seat device 2 is attached to the top of the toilet bowl 7, and includes a main body 3, a measuring device 4, a toilet seat 5, a flushing nozzle 6, and a first detection unit 21. The measuring device 4 and the first detection unit 21 may be provided as separate devices from the toilet seat device 2, but this will be described later. 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 attached detachably to the toilet bowl 7, or may be attached so as to be integrated with the toilet bowl 7.

[0033] The toilet seat device 2, using a configuration including a measuring device 4, measures the biological information of a user of the toilet room R based on the feces gas discharged into the bowl portion 8 of the toilet stool 7 installed in the toilet room R. The measuring device 4 has a suction device 10 and a second detection unit 22. The toilet seat device 2, using a configuration including a first detection unit 21, measures the biological information of a user of the toilet room R based on the feces discharged into the bowl portion 8 of the toilet stool 7 installed in the toilet room R. The measuring device 4 and the first detection unit 21 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 2.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 1, the toilet seat 5 is formed in an annular shape and is arranged along the edge (rim portion) of the bowl portion 8 in a position overlapping the opening of the toilet bowl 7. A user sits on the toilet seat 5. The toilet seat 5 functions as a seating portion that supports the buttocks of the seated user. A toilet lid 9 is attached to the toilet seat device 2 as needed, but the toilet seat device 2 does not necessarily have to have a toilet lid 9.

[0035] The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for spraying water for cleaning. The cleaning nozzle 6 is configured to be movable forward and backward relative to the housing of the main body 3 by being driven by a drive source such as an electric motor (such as the nozzle motor 61 in FIG. 5). The cleaning nozzle 6 is connected to a water source such as a water pipe (not shown). When the cleaning nozzle 6 is in an advanced position relative to the housing of the main body 3 (also referred to as the "advanced position") as shown in FIG. 1, it sprays water from the water source onto the user's body to cleanse the private parts.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The operating device 30 is provided in the toilet room R. The operating device 30 is provided in a position where it can be operated by a user. The operating device 30 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 30 is provided on a wall surface W on the left side as seen from a user seated on the toilet seat 5. Note that the operating device 30 may be provided in various ways, not limited to on a wall surface, as long as it is usable by a user seated on the toilet seat 5. For example, the operating device 30 may be provided integrally with the toilet seat device 2.

[0038] The operating device 30 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network so as to be able to communicate with the toilet seat device 2 via a wired or wireless connection. For example, the toilet seat device 2 and the operating device 30 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.

[0039] The operation device 30 accepts various operations from the user via a display surface (for example, a display screen 31) using, for example, a touch panel function. The operation device 30 may also be provided with switches and buttons, and may accept various operations via the switches, buttons, etc. The display screen 31 is the 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. In other words, the operation device 30 accepts input from the user via the display screen 31 and also outputs to the user. The display screen 31 is a display device that displays various information.

[0040] The operation device 30 accepts user operations to control various functions provided in the toilet room R. The operation device 30 accepts user operations to control the execution of private parts washing by the toilet seat device 2. For example, the operation device 30 may have switches, buttons, etc. that accept the above-mentioned user operations, and execute various processes in response to the user's contact with the switches, buttons, etc. Note that the above is just an example, and the operation device 30 may also accept user operations to execute various processes. Furthermore, a user terminal such as a user's smartphone (corresponding to the display device 300 in FIG. 3) may have functions equivalent to those of the operation device 30.

[0041] The biological information measurement system 1 measures the biological information of a user of the toilet room R based on the feces and defecation gas discharged into the bowl portion 8 of the toilet stool 7 installed in the toilet room R, using various configurations and processes described below. The biological information measurement system 1 executes control to appropriately measure the feces and defecation gas. The biological information measurement system 1 provides information to a user terminal (corresponding to the display device 300 in FIG. 3) such as the user's smartphone based on the information collected by measurement, etc. The biological information measurement system 1 may also provide information to an operating device 30 (or display screen 31) of the toilet room R based on the information collected by measurement, etc.

[0042] <1-2. Configuration of the measuring device> Next, the configuration of the measuring device 4 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of a measuring device according to an embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the measuring device 4 and first detection unit 21 are arranged inside the main body 3. Fig. 2 illustrates the configuration of the measuring device 4 and first detection unit 21 with the housing (cover) of the main body 3 removed from the location where the measuring device 4 and first detection unit 21 are arranged.

[0043] The measuring device 4 has a suction device 10 that sucks gas from within the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7, and a second detection unit 22 that detects the components of the sucked gas.

[0044] The suction device 10 has a fan for sucking gas within the bowl portion 8 of the toilet bowl 7. A duct 11 that communicates with the inside of the bowl portion 8 of the toilet bowl 7 is connected to the suction device 10. The duct 11 functions as a flow path that allows gas within the bowl portion 8 to flow into the measuring device 4. By driving the fan, the suction device 10 sucks gas within the bowl portion 8 using the duct 11 as a flow path. For example, the suction device 10 performs suction-related processing under the control of the control device 100. Note that when the suction device 10 is used in common with a deodorizing device or the like that is incorporated into the toilet seat device 2, the suction device 10 may be controlled by a control means (device) separate from the control device 100.

[0045] The second detection unit 22 detects fecal gas. The second detection unit 22 detects information related to the intestinal environment. The second detection unit 22 executes processing related to the detection of components of gas aspirated by the suction device 10. In FIG. 2, the second detection unit 22 is disposed downstream of the suction device 10 as viewed from the bowl 8 side. Note that FIG. 2 is merely an example, and the second detection unit 22 may be disposed in any position as long as it is capable of introducing gas aspirated by the suction device 10. The second detection unit 22 is connected to a duct 12 that communicates with the outside of the main body 3. The duct 12 functions as a flow path for discharging gas in the second detection unit 22 from the measurement device 4. For example, when the suction device 10 is driven, the gas in the second detection unit 22 is discharged to the outside of the measurement device 4 via the duct 12.

[0046] For example, the second detection unit 22 executes processing related to gas detection under the control of the control device 100. The second detection unit 22 includes a gas sensor 40 that reacts to gas contained in the air. The gas sensor 40 detects specific components of the gas. For example, a semiconductor gas sensor is used as the gas sensor 40. Note that the above is merely an example, and the gas sensor is not limited to the semiconductor gas sensor 40, and multiple types of sensors of any type may be used. Note that the gas sensor 40 may also be used as a single unit combining sensors of multiple principles, such as a semiconductor type and an infrared absorption type. For example, the gas sensor 40 detects fecal gas, which indicates the user's intestinal environment; this point will be described later.

[0047] The first detection unit 21 detects feces. The first detection unit 21 detects information related to the peristaltic movement of the intestines. The first detection unit 21 detects feces (defecation) excreted by the user by capturing an image of the inside of the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7. The first detection unit 21 is an image sensor. The first detection unit 21 has a light receiving unit 50. For example, the light receiving element is a line sensor in which a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor is arranged in a line. Note that the light receiving element is not limited to a line sensor (one-dimensional image sensor), and various types of sensors such as an area sensor (two-dimensional image sensor) may also be used. Note that the first detection unit 21 may have a configuration that emits light of a predetermined wavelength (such as the light-emitting element 51 in FIG. 7), which will be described later.

[0048] In FIG. 2, the light receiving unit 50 of the first detection unit 21 is positioned to receive light from an area AD1 within the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7. For example, the light receiving unit 50 is positioned to receive light reflected from stool falling within the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7. The imaging of stool falling by the first detection unit 21 will be described with reference to FIG. 7. Note that the light receiving unit 50 of the first detection unit 21 may detect stool in any state, such as after it has hit water, as long as it is possible to acquire information necessary for estimating (determining) the properties of the stool, not just while it is falling.

[0049] For example, the light receiving unit 50 may detect the feces after it has fallen. In this case, the light receiving unit 50 may be positioned to capture an image of the water seal portion of the toilet bowl 7 (for example, the portion of the bowl portion 8 where the water seal collects). The light receiving unit 50 may be an area sensor (a two-dimensional image sensor). In this way, the first detection unit 21 may be positioned in any location and any image sensor may be used as long as it is capable of detecting feces excreted in the toilet bowl 7 and is capable of estimating the desired information.

[0050] <1-3. Example of an overall overview of a biological information measurement system> Next, an example of an overall overview of the biological information measurement system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an overall overview of the biological information measurement system according to an embodiment. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the biological information measurement system according to an embodiment. Note that Figs. 3 and 4 only show a part of the configuration of the biological information measurement system 1 that is necessary for explanation, and explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0051] 4, the biological information measurement system 1 includes a toilet seat device 2 having components such as a first detection unit 21, a second detection unit 22, and a control device 100, a display device 300, and a server device 400. The biological information measurement system 1 may include a plurality of toilet seat devices 2, a plurality of display devices 300, and a plurality of server devices 400.

[0052] The toilet seat device 2 is a device disposed in the toilet room R. The toilet seat device 2 communicates with other devices such as the display device 300 and the server device 400. The toilet seat device 2 may perform a process (personal identification) to acquire information for identifying a user who uses the toilet bowl 7 in the toilet room R to perform excretion. The toilet seat device 2 collects information on each of a plurality of users, such as a family, by personal identification. For example, the toilet seat device 2 acquires information for identifying a user who uses the toilet bowl 7 to perform excretion, and identifies the user, by communicating with the display device 300 owned by the user or by the user's operation of the operation device 30, and performs personal identification of the user. For example, the toilet seat device 2 communicates with the display device 300 owned by the user and receives a user ID (also simply referred to as "ID"), which is user identification information for identifying the user, from the display device 300. The toilet seat device 2 may identify a user by any method as long as it is possible to identify a user who uses the toilet bowl 7 in the toilet room R.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 3, the first detection unit 21 has a light receiving unit 50 and detects feces. The second detection unit 22 has a gas sensor 40 and detects fecal gas. The control device 100 is a computer (information processing device) that executes a process (also referred to as an "estimation process") to estimate information about the user's health based on the detection results of the first detection unit 21 and the second detection unit 22, and controls the output of the results of the estimation process to the outside. The control device 100 estimates provided information or a score (hereinafter also referred to as an "intestinal score") about the user's health through the estimation process, which will be described later.

[0054] The control device 100 also communicates with a device that displays information to a user, such as the display device 300, using a short-range wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), or infrared. The control device 100 may be able to communicate with the display device 300 without going through the network N. Note that the control device 100 may be connected to a device such as the display device 300 in any way as long as it is possible to send and receive information, and may be connected to enable communication via a predetermined network (such as the network N) such as the Internet, either wired or wirelessly.

[0055] 4 shows a case where the toilet seat device 2 has the first detection unit 21, the second detection unit 22, and the control device 100, but is not limited to this. For example, the control device 100 may be provided separately from the first detection unit 21 and the second detection unit 22, and may control the first detection unit 21 and the second detection unit 22 and acquire each piece of information by communicating with the first detection unit 21 and the second detection unit 22 wirelessly or via a wire.

[0056] The control device 100 may also be a device located outside the toilet room R. In this case, the control device 100 may be communicably connected to devices located inside the toilet room R, such as the toilet seat device 2, the first detection unit 21, and the second detection unit 22, via a predetermined network (such as the network N) such as the Internet, either wired or wirelessly, and may be able to acquire desired information.

[0057] Furthermore, the first detection unit 21 and the second detection unit 22 may be controlled by a control unit other than the control unit 100. In this case, the control unit 100 is a first control unit that performs various information processing such as estimation processing, and the biological information measurement system 1 may have a second control unit that is a device other than the control unit 100 as a device that controls the first detection unit 21 and the second detection unit 22. In this way, the biological information measurement system 1 may have the control unit 100 that is a first control unit that performs various information processing such as estimation processing using information from the first detection unit 21 and the second detection unit 22, and a detection unit control unit that is a second control unit that controls the first detection unit 21 and the second detection unit 22.

[0058] For example, the first control device and the second control device may be connected to each other via a predetermined network (such as network N) such as the Internet in a wired or wireless manner so as to be able to communicate with each other, and the first control device may execute the estimation process using the detection result of the first detection unit 21 and the detection result information of the second detection unit 22 received from the second control device. For example, the first control device may be a mobile terminal (device) such as a smartphone or laptop computer that can be carried by an administrator of the biological information measurement system 1 or the like.

[0059] The display device 300 is a display device (computer) that displays information to be provided to a user. For example, the display device 300 may be a user terminal (mobile terminal) owned by the user. In this case, the display device 300 is realized by, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet terminal, or a notebook PC (Personal Computer). For example, the display device 300 is connected to devices included in the biological information measurement system 1, such as the control device 100, via a predetermined network (such as network N) in a wired or wireless manner so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0060] The display device 300 transmits and receives information to and from the control device 100. The display device 300 receives information to be provided to the user from the control device 100. The display device 300 receives information about the user's health estimated by the estimation process of the control device 100. The display device 300 receives provided information or a score (intestinal score) about the user's health as information about the user's health. The display device 300 displays the information about the user's health received from the control device 100. Examples of information displayed by the display device 300 will be described later.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 3, the server device 400 is a computer such as a cloud server. The server device 400 is connected to devices such as the display device 300 via a predetermined network (e.g., network N) such as the Internet in a wired or wireless manner so as to be able to communicate with the devices. The server device 400 may be connected to devices such as the display device 300 in any manner as long as it is possible to send and receive information, and may be connected to devices such as the display device 300 in a wired or wireless manner so as to be able to communicate with the devices. The server device 400 may also be connected to the control device 100 in a communicable manner, receive raw data from measurements, process the data, and transmit the results to the display device 300.

[0062] The server device 400 stores the information collected from the display device 300 in a storage unit. The server device 400 collects information about the health of each user for each user and stores the information in the storage unit. For example, the server device 400 stores the information about the health of each user in the storage unit in association with information (such as an ID) that identifies the user.

[0063] <1-3-1. Other configuration examples of biological information measurement systems> Note that the above is merely an example, and any device configuration that can realize the desired processing can be adopted for the biological information measurement system 1. In this regard, several examples of system configurations other than those described above will be described below.

[0064] Furthermore, the biological information measurement system 1 does not necessarily have to include at least one of the first detector that detects stool and the second detector that detects defecation gas. In this case, the control device 100 receives information from a detector that is not included in the biological information measurement system 1, and performs various information processing such as estimation processing using the received information. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 does not necessarily have to include at least one of the measurement device 4 and the first detector 21.

[0065] For example, if the biological information measurement system 1 does not include the measuring device 4, the control device 100 of the biological information measurement system 1 is communicatively connected to the measuring device 4 via wired or wireless communication, and receives information about the fecal gas detected by the second detection unit 22 from the measuring device 4. In this case, the control device 100 of the biological information measurement system 1 performs the estimation process using the information about the fecal gas received from the measuring device 4 that is not included in the biological information measurement system 1.

[0066] For example, if the biological information measurement system 1 does not have the first detection unit 21, the control device 100 of the biological information measurement system 1 is communicably connected to the first detection unit 21 by wire or wirelessly, and receives from the first detection unit 21 information related to the stool detected by the first detection unit 21. In this case, the control device 100 of the biological information measurement system 1 performs the estimation process using information related to the fecal gas received from the first detection unit 21 that is not included in the biological information measurement system 1.

[0067] In addition, if the biological information measuring system 1 does not have both the measuring device 4 and the first detection unit 21, the control device 100 of the biological information measuring system 1 performs estimation processing using information regarding fecal gas received from the measuring device 4 and information regarding stool received from the first detection unit 21.

[0068] Alternatively, the biological information measurement system 1 may only have a configuration for acquiring detected information and executing estimation processing using the acquired information. In this case, the biological information measurement system 1 may only have the control device 100, and the control device 100 may acquire (receive) desired information by communicating with another device, execute various information processing such as estimation processing using the acquired information, and transmit the desired information to the other device.

[0069] Furthermore, the display device 300 does not have to be included in the biological information measurement system 1, or may be included in the biological information measurement system 1. For example, when the display device 300 is an operation device 30 in the toilet room R, the display device 300 may be included in the biological information measurement system 1. In this case, the operation device 30 has a function of displaying information related to the health of the user.

[0070] The server device 400 in the biological information measurement system 1 may have any configuration and arrangement as long as it can communicate with devices such as the display device 300 and perform processing. For example, when the server device 400 is configured on the cloud as shown in FIG. 3, it may be configured by multiple computers (servers). For example, the server device 400 may be a portable terminal (device) such as a laptop computer that can be carried by an administrator of the biological information measurement system 1. The server device 400 may also be located in the toilet room R.

[0071] <1-4. Functional configuration of the toilet seat device> Next, the functional configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a toilet seat device according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 5, the toilet seat device 2 includes a human sensor 32, a seating sensor 33, an illuminance sensor 34, a control device 100, a nozzle motor 61, and a washing nozzle 6.

[0072] The configuration of the toilet seat device 2 shown in FIG. 5 is merely an example, and when each component is provided separately, the toilet seat device 2 may have only the toilet seat 5. As described above, the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 shown in FIG. 5 is merely an example, and the toilet seat device 2 may have any configuration. The human presence sensor 32, seating sensor 33, illuminance sensor 34, etc. may be disposed in any location as long as the desired sensing is possible. Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 only needs to be able to detect a user sitting on the toilet seat 5, and it is sufficient that it has at least one of the human presence sensor 32, seating sensor 33, and illuminance sensor 34. The toilet seat device 2 transmits and receives information to and receives information from information processing devices such as the display device 300 and the server device 400 via a predetermined network (such as the Internet) via a communication device (for example, the communication unit 110 of the control device 100 in FIG. 6) in a wired or wireless manner.

[0073] The human presence sensor 32 has a function of detecting a human body. For example, the human presence sensor 32 is used as a seating detection means that detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. For example, the human presence sensor 32 is realized by a pyroelectric sensor that uses an infrared signal. For example, the human presence sensor 32 may be realized by a μ (microwave) wave sensor. For example, the human presence sensor 32 is an infrared light emitting / receiving distance measuring sensor, and may detect a human body that is near the toilet seat 5 just before the person (user) sits on the toilet seat 5, or a user who has sat on the toilet seat 5.

[0074] The human presence sensor 32 also functions as a seat leaving detection sensor that detects when a user leaves the toilet seat 5. The human presence sensor 32 detects whether the user is seated on the toilet seat 5. The human presence sensor 32 outputs a detection signal to the control device 100. Note that the above is just one example, and the human presence sensor 32 may detect a human body by various means other than the above. For example, the human presence sensor 32 detects a person (such as a user) approaching the toilet seat 5.

[0075] The seating sensor 33 has a function of detecting a person sitting on the toilet seat device 2. For example, the seating sensor 33 is used as a seating detection means for detecting a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. For example, the seating sensor 33 is realized by a load sensor or the like. The seating sensor 33 detects that a user has sat on the toilet seat 5. The seating sensor 33 can detect that a user has sat on the toilet seat 5.

[0076] The seating sensor 33 also functions as a seating detection sensor that detects when a user leaves the toilet seat 5. The seating sensor 33 detects the user's seated state on the toilet seat 5. Note that the above is just an example, and the seating sensor 33 may detect whether a person is sitting on the toilet seat device 2 by various means other than the above. The seating sensor 33 outputs a seating detection signal to the control device 100.

[0077] The illuminance sensor 34 is a sensor that detects illuminance. For example, the illuminance sensor 34 is used as a seating detection means that detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. For example, the illuminance sensor 34 is disposed in a position facing the bowl portion 8 and detects the illuminance inside the bowl portion 8.

[0078] The illuminance sensor 34 also functions as a seat-leaving detection sensor that detects when a user leaves the toilet seat 5. The illuminance sensor 34 detects whether the user is seated on the toilet seat 5. Note that the above is just one example, and the illuminance sensor 34 may be placed in any position as long as it can detect whether a user is seated on the toilet seat 5 based on the illuminance.

[0079] The control device 100 controls various components and processes. The control device 100 is a computer (information processing device) that executes various information processes related to the detection (measurement) of feces and gas, etc. The control device 100 may be any device that has the components necessary for control, and may be, for example, a microcomputer.

[0080] The control device 100 controls various components for detecting (measuring) stool. The control device 100 controls the first detection unit 21. The control device 100 transmits control information to the first detection unit 21 for controlling the function of the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 50. Note that the shutter function of the light receiving unit 50 is not limited to an electronic shutter, and any method such as a mechanical shutter can be adopted as long as the desired detection is possible. Furthermore, if the first detection unit 21 has a light emitting unit such as a light emitting element, the control device 100 may transmit control information to the first detection unit 21 for controlling the turning on and off of the light emitting unit.

[0081] For example, the control device 100 causes the first detection unit 21 to emit light and receive light. The control device 100 controls the first detection unit 21 to cause the light-emitting unit to emit light and the light-receiving unit 50 to receive light. The control device 100 causes the first detection unit 21 to emit light and receive light during the period when the seating sensor 33 detects that a user is sitting on the toilet seat 5.

[0082] The control device 100 controls various components for detecting (measuring) gas. The control device 100 controls the second detection unit 22. The control device 100 transmits control information to the second detection unit 22 via a wired connection. The control device 100 may also transmit the control information to the second detection unit 22 wirelessly. For example, when the control device 100 is configured as a separate device from the toilet seat device 2, the control device 100 may transmit the control information of the second detection unit 22 to the toilet seat device 2 wirelessly. In this case, the control device of the toilet seat device 2 may control the second detection unit 22 based on the control information received.

[0083] For example, the control device 100 may control the second detection unit 22 so that the measurement value by the gas sensor 40 falls within a predetermined range when the user is not using the toilet 7, and may perform reference value control to control the measurement value used as a reference value (baseline) to a predetermined value. The control device 100 may perform reference value control to control the reference value to a predetermined value by changing the resistance value of the resistive element of the gas sensor 40.

[0084] The control device 100 may also control the suction device 10. For example, the control device 100 controls the start and stop of suction by the suction device 10. The control device 100 transmits control information to the suction device 10 via a wired connection. The control device 100 may also transmit the control information to the suction device 10 wirelessly. For example, when the control device 100 is configured as a separate device from the toilet seat device 2, the control device 100 may transmit the control information for the suction device 10 to the toilet seat device 2 wirelessly. In this case, the control device of the toilet seat device 2 may control the suction device 10 based on the control information received.

[0085] In addition to the above, the control device 100 may also control various other components of the biological information measurement system 1. The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61, etc. The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61, etc. based on a signal transmitted from the operation device 30.

[0086] The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61 based on a control instruction signal related to local cleaning transmitted from the operating device 30. The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61 to move the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward. Note that the control device 100 may control various mechanisms other than the nozzle motor 61. For example, the control device 100 controls the opening and closing of a solenoid valve that functions as a valve that electromagnetically controls the flow of fluid. For example, the control device 100 controls the solenoid valve to switch on and off the supply of tap water from a water supply pipe, for example.

[0087] The control device 100 transmits control information to the nozzle motor 61 etc. via a wired connection. The control device 100 may also transmit control information to the nozzle motor 61 etc. wirelessly. For example, if the control device 100 is configured as a separate device from the toilet seat device 2, it may transmit control information for the nozzle motor 61 etc. to the toilet seat device 2 wirelessly. In this case, the control device of the toilet seat device 2 may control the nozzle motor 61 etc. based on the received control information.

[0088] 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 3. The nozzle motor 61 controls the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retract in accordance with instructions from the control device 100.

[0089] The control device 100 may also control the toilet lid 9 and toilet seat 5 as shown in FIG. 1. In this case, the control device 100 controls the toilet lid 9 and toilet seat 5 based on signals transmitted from the operating device 30. The control device 100 controls the toilet lid 9 based on control instruction signals regarding the opening and closing of the toilet lid transmitted from the operating device 30. The control device 100 controls the toilet seat 5 based on control instruction signals regarding the opening and closing of the seat transmitted from the operating device 30. The control device 100 transmits control information to the toilet lid 9 and toilet seat 5 via a wired connection. Note that the control device 100 may also transmit control information to the toilet lid 9 and toilet seat 5 wirelessly.

[0090] The control device 100 determines whether or not a user is seated by seat detection means such as the human sensor 32, the seat sensor 33, and the illuminance sensor 34. For example, the control device 100 determines whether or not a user is seated by the detection by the seat sensor 33.

[0091] In the configuration shown in FIG. 5, the toilet seat device 2 includes the control device 100 and other components, but the control device 100, the human presence sensor 32, the seating sensor 33, the illuminance 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 and 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 presence sensor 32, the seating sensor 33, and the illuminance sensor 34, and receives various pieces of information 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. Note that the above is merely an example, and the biological information measurement system 1 can employ any device configuration as long as it is capable of performing the desired processing.

[0092] <1-5. 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. As shown in FIG. 6, the control device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. Note that the configuration of the control device 100 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 6, and may have other configurations as long as the desired processing can be realized. For example, the control device 100 does not need to have the communication unit 110.

[0093] The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a communication circuit or the like. The communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined network by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined network by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from other devices such as the operating device 30. Note that the communication unit 110 may be configured as a device (communication device) separate from the control device 100, and may be included in the toilet seat device 2.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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. The storage unit 120 stores various pieces of information used in various types of information processing. For example, the storage unit 120 stores information related to reference value control such as target values.

[0096] The memory unit 120 stores various information used in the estimation process related to stool, such as the properties of stool. For example, the memory unit 120 stores thresholds used in the estimation process related to stool. For example, the memory unit 120 stores various models (also called "estimation models") used in the estimation related to the properties of stool. For example, the memory unit 120 stores various estimation models used to estimate the shape, color, amount, etc. of stool. Note that the above is merely an example, and the memory unit 120 stores various information related to the detection of stool.

[0097] The memory unit 120 stores various information used in gas-related estimation processing, such as the amount or concentration of gas. For example, the memory unit 120 stores thresholds used in gas-related estimation processing. For example, the memory unit 120 stores various functions (also referred to as "gas estimation functions") used to estimate (calculate) the amount or concentration of gas. For example, the memory unit 120 stores various gas estimation functions used to estimate the amount or concentration of gas of a predetermined component. For example, the memory unit 120 stores a function (also referred to as "evaluation estimation function") that calculates (estimates) the evaluation of defecation gas from the amount or concentration of gas of a predetermined component. Note that the above is merely an example, and the memory unit 120 stores various information related to gas detection.

[0098] 6, the explanation will be continued. The control unit 130 is realized, for example, by an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a CPU (Central Processing Unit), or the like executing a program stored inside the control device 100 (for example, various information processing programs related to the present disclosure) using a RAM or the like as a working area. The control unit 130 may also be realized, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0099] 6, control unit 130 has an acquisition unit 131, a processing unit 132, and an output unit 133, and realizes or executes the functions and actions of information processing described below. Note that the internal configuration of control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 6, and other configurations may be used as long as they perform the information processing described below.

[0100] 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.

[0101] The acquisition unit 131 acquires information (detection information, etc.) detected by the seating detection means from the seating detection means. The acquisition unit 131 receives information (detection information, etc.) detected by at least one of the human sensor 32, the seating sensor 33, and the illuminance sensor 34 from that sensor.

[0102] The acquisition unit 131 acquires the detection result by the first detection unit 21 that detects stool. The acquisition unit 131 acquires the detection result by the first detection unit 21 that detects information related to intestinal peristaltic movement. The acquisition unit 131 acquires the detection result by the second detection unit 22 that detects defecation gas. The acquisition unit 131 acquires the detection result by the second detection unit 22 that detects information related to the intestinal environment.

[0103] The acquisition unit 131 receives, from the first detection unit 21, information based on the detection by the first detection unit 21. The acquisition unit 131 receives information indicating the detection result related to feces detected by the first detection unit 21. The acquisition unit 131 also receives, from the second detection unit 22, information based on the detection by the second detection unit 22. The acquisition unit 131 receives information indicating the detection result related to fecal gas detected by the second detection unit 22.

[0104] The processing unit 132 performs various types of processing. The processing unit 132 performs various types of processing using the information stored in the storage unit 120. The processing unit 132 performs estimation processing. The processing unit 132 performs estimation processing using the various types of information stored in the storage unit 120.

[0105] The processing unit 132 executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or the score related to the health of the user based on the detection result of the first detection unit 21 and the detection result of the second detection unit 22. The processing unit 132 executes control to output the result of the estimation process to the outside. The processing unit 132 executes control to output the result of the estimation process to the output unit 133 by instructing the output unit 133.

[0106] The processing unit 132 estimates first biological information based on the properties of the stool from the detection result of the first detection unit 21. The processing unit 132 estimates second biological information based on the amount or concentration of fecal gas from the detection result of the second detection unit 22. The processing unit 132 executes control to output the first biological information and the second biological information.

[0107] The processing unit 132 performs estimation processing using a larger number of samples of the detection results from the second detection unit 22 than the number of samples of the detection results from the first detection unit 21. The processing unit 132 estimates the first biological information using the detection results from the first detection unit 21, which are data obtained from a single toilet use. The processing unit 132 estimates the second biological information using the detection results from the second detection unit 22, which are data obtained from multiple toilet use.

[0108] The processing unit 132 estimates a higher score as the first evaluation corresponding to each classification of stool properties based on the detection result of the first detection unit 21 increases. The processing unit 132 estimates a higher score as the second evaluation based on the detection result of the second detection unit 22 increases.

[0109] The processing unit 132 performs an estimation process using the information detected by the first detection unit 21. The processing unit 132 performs an estimation process using the image captured by the first detection unit 21. The processing unit 132 estimates (determines) whether feces are included in the image captured by the first detection unit 21. The processing unit 132 estimates whether feces are included in the image using a technique related to image recognition.

[0110] For example, processing unit 132 receives an image as input and estimates whether or not feces are contained in the image using a model (feces estimation model) that outputs information (score) indicating whether or not feces are contained in the input image. In this case, processing unit 132 compares the score output by the feces estimation model to which the image is input with a threshold (first threshold), and if the score is equal to or greater than the first threshold, estimates that feces are contained in the image. Processing unit 132 also compares the score output by the feces estimation model to which the image is input with the first threshold, and if the score is less than the first threshold, estimates that feces are not contained in the image. Note that the above is merely an example, and processing unit 132 may estimate whether or not feces are contained in the image using various information as appropriate.

[0111] The processing unit 132 estimates (classifies) the property of the stool from the detection result by the first detection unit 21. The processing unit 132 estimates the classification of the property of the stool as first biological information. The processing unit 132 classifies the property of the stool corresponding to an image of stool (also referred to as a "stool image") captured by the first detection unit 21, based on the image. For example, the processing unit 132 uses the stool image to classify the shape (also simply referred to as "shape") of the stool corresponding to the stool image. For example, the processing unit 132 uses the stool image to classify the shape of the stool corresponding to the stool image into multiple types (7 levels) based on the Bristol scale. In this case, the processing unit 132 classifies the stool into categories based on the banana-shaped stool (normal stool), which is the middle row (i.e., the fourth level) of the 7 levels, corresponding to the best condition, and categories further away from that correspond to worse conditions.

[0112] The processing unit 132 uses a stool image to classify the shape of the stool corresponding to the stool image into one of a plurality of shape-based levels. For example, the processing unit 132 uses a stool image to classify the shape of the stool corresponding to the stool image into one of the following: round, hard, cracked, banana-shaped, soft (semi-paste-like), muddy, and watery. For example, the processing unit 132 may classify (determine) the shape of the stool based on various information (feature amounts) such as the length of the stool image in the falling direction and the number of stool pieces (lumps).

[0113] The processing unit 132 may classify the shape of stool using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. For example, the processing unit 132 may classify the shape of stool using a learning model (shape estimation model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the shape estimation model is trained in advance using training data indicating classification judgments. This training data includes multiple combinations of stool images and labels (correct answer information) indicating the shape of the clumps (stool) contained in the stool images (either round, hard, cracked, banana-shaped, soft, muddy, or watery). For example, the shape estimation model is a model that receives a stool image as input and outputs information indicating the shape of the clumps (stool) contained in the input stool image. For example, the shape estimation model is trained to output label (stool shape) information corresponding to the input stool image when a stool image is input. The shape estimation model is trained using various techniques related to so-called supervised learning, as appropriate.

[0114] In this case, the shape estimation model may be stored in the memory unit 120, and the processing unit 132 may classify the shape of the stool using the shape estimation model stored in the memory unit 120. The control device 100 may perform a learning process to generate various estimation models, or the control device 100 may acquire various estimation models from an external device such as the server device 400. The above is merely an example, and the processing unit 132 may classify the shape of the stool using various information as appropriate. The seven levels of round, hard, cracked, banana-shaped, soft, muddy, and watery are merely examples of shapes, and the processing unit 132 may classify shapes other than these, or may classify shapes into six or fewer levels. While an example of classifying stool shapes into one of multiple levels has been shown here, this is not limiting, and if multiple stool shapes are included in a single excretion act, multiple stool shapes may be classified.

[0115] Furthermore, the processing unit 132 may estimate various information other than the shape of the stool. For example, the processing unit 132 may estimate (classify) the amount of stool based on an image captured by the first detection unit 21. For example, the processing unit 132 may classify the amount of stool based on the proportion of stool in the image. For example, the processing unit 132 may classify the amount of stool using a score output by a stool estimation model. If the score output by the stool estimation model to which an image is input is equal to or greater than a first threshold and less than a second threshold, the processing unit 132 may classify the amount of stool as "very small." The second threshold is assumed to be a value greater than the first threshold. Furthermore, if the score output by the stool estimation model to which an image is input is equal to or greater than a second threshold and less than a third threshold, the processing unit 132 may classify the amount of stool as "small." The third threshold is assumed to be a value greater than the second threshold.

[0116] Furthermore, the processing unit 132 may classify the amount of stool as "medium" if the score output by the stool estimation model to which an image is input is equal to or greater than a third threshold and less than a fourth threshold. The fourth threshold is assumed to be a value greater than the third threshold. Furthermore, the processing unit 132 may classify the amount of stool as "large" if the score output by the stool estimation model to which an image is input is equal to or greater than a fourth threshold and less than a fifth threshold. The fifth threshold is assumed to be a value greater than the fourth threshold. Furthermore, the processing unit 132 may classify the amount of stool as "very large" if the score output by the stool estimation model to which an image is input is equal to or greater than a fifth threshold. Note that the above five-level classification is merely an example, and the processing unit 132 may classify the amount of stool using various information as appropriate. For example, the processing unit 132 may perform three-level classification using four thresholds.

[0117] Furthermore, for example, the processing unit 132 may use a stool image to estimate (classify) the color of the stool corresponding to the stool image. The processing unit 132 uses the stool image to classify whether the color of the stool corresponding to the stool image is one of a plurality of color-based levels. For example, the processing unit 132 uses the stool image to classify whether the color of the stool corresponding to the stool image is one of yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, and dark dark brown.

[0118] The processing unit 132 classifies the color of the stool based on the detection result by the first detection unit 21. The processing unit 132 appropriately uses various techniques for classifying stool colors to classify the color of the stool as yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, or dark dark brown. For example, the processing unit 132 classifies (determines) the color of the stool based on various information (features) such as the brightness and lightness of a color image (RGB). For example, the processing unit 132 may classify the color of the stool using a learning model (color estimation model) generated by machine learning.

[0119] The processing unit 132 estimates an evaluation of peristaltic movement (also referred to as a "first evaluation") using the stool properties based on the detection by the first detection unit 21. Here, an example will be described in which the stool properties are classified into seven stages based on the Bristol scale.

[0120] The processing unit 132 estimates the first evaluation highest when the stool property is banana-shaped (normal stool), which is the middle stage (i.e., stage 4) of the seven-stage scale. Furthermore, the processing unit 132 estimates the first evaluation lower as the stool property moves away from the middle stage of the seven-stage scale. The processing unit 132 estimates the first evaluation low when the stool property is hard (hard stool), which is the lowest stage (i.e., stage 1) of the seven-stage scale. Furthermore, the processing unit 132 estimates the first evaluation low when the stool property is watery (watery stool), which is the highest stage (i.e., stage 7) of the seven-stage scale.

[0121] Note that the above is merely an example, and the processing unit 132 may estimate the first evaluation in any manner. For example, in the case of the Bristol scale described above, the center corresponds to the best condition and the extreme levels correspond to the worst, but depending on the classification mode, the lowest level (classification) may correspond to the worst condition, and the higher levels (classifications) may correspond to better conditions, with the highest level (classification) corresponding to the worst condition. In this case, the processing unit 132 may estimate the first evaluation to be the lowest when the stool property is in the lowest level (classification), and the first evaluation to be the highest when the stool property is in the highest level (classification). In this way, the processing unit 132 estimates the first evaluation in a manner corresponding to the classification mode of the stool property.

[0122] Furthermore, the processing unit 132 performs estimation processing using information detected by the second detection unit 22. The processing unit 132 performs estimation processing using information on the gas detected by the second detection unit 22. The processing unit 132 performs calculation processing. The processing unit 132 performs calculation processing using various types of information stored in the storage unit 120. The processing unit 132 performs calculation processing using various types of information acquired by the acquisition unit 131.

[0123] The processing unit 132 calculates various pieces of information related to the gas. The processing unit 132 calculates values ​​based on the measured values ​​measured by the second detection unit 22. The processing unit 132 calculates the resistance value of the sensor element based on the voltage value measured by the gas sensor 40. For example, the processing unit 132 calculates the resistance value of the sensor element from the measured voltage value using a function that indicates the relationship between the voltage value and the resistance value of the sensor element. The processing unit 132 calculates the resistance value of the sensor element using equation (1).

[0124] The processing unit 132 calculates the amount or concentration of gas based on the calculated resistance value of the sensor element. The processing unit 132 estimates (calculates) the amount or concentration of gas from the calculated resistance value using a function (gas estimation function) that indicates the relationship between the resistance value and the amount or concentration of gas. For example, the processing unit 132 may calculate the amount or concentration of gas associated with the intestinal environment from the amount of change from a baseline of the sensor data detected by the second detection unit 22 (e.g., a voltage value before measurement of fecal gas). In this case, the processing unit 132 may convert the amount or concentration of gas into a unique score (e.g., an intestinal environment score) and generate information indicating changes over time.

[0125] The processing unit 132 estimates an evaluation of the intestinal environment (also referred to as a "second evaluation") using the amount or concentration of gas based on detection by the second detection unit 22. For example, the processing unit 132 estimates the second evaluation based on the amount or concentration of defecation gas as second biological information. For example, the processing unit 132 estimates the second biological information using an evaluation estimation function that receives the amount or concentration of gas based on detection by the second detection unit 22 as input and outputs an evaluation of defecation gas (second evaluation).

[0126] When a gas (also referred to as a "health-related gas") whose amount or concentration indicates a high probability of a good intestinal environment is detectable, the processing unit 132 estimates the second evaluation using the amount or concentration of the health-related gas. For example, the processing unit 132 estimates a higher second evaluation as the amount or concentration of the health-related gas increases. The processing unit 132 estimates (calculates) the second evaluation using a gas estimation function that increases the value of the second evaluation as the amount or concentration of the health-related gas increases.

[0127] When the processing unit 132 can detect a gas (also called an "odor gas") whose amount or concentration indicates a high possibility of a poor intestinal environment, the processing unit 132 estimates the second evaluation using the amount or concentration of the odor gas. For example, the processing unit 132 estimates the second evaluation lower as the amount or concentration of the odor gas increases. The processing unit 132 estimates the second evaluation using a gas estimation function that decreases the value of the second evaluation as the amount or concentration of the odor gas increases.

[0128] Note that the above is merely an example, and the processing unit 132 may estimate the second rating in any manner. For example, the processing unit 132 may estimate the second rating based on the ratio between the amount or concentration of health-related gases and the amount or concentration of odorous gases in the user's defecation gas. Based on the calculated ratio, the processing unit 132 estimates the second rating higher the more health-related gases there are relative to odorous gases in the user's defecation gas. Based on the calculated ratio, the control device 100 estimates the second rating lower the more odorous gases there are relative to health-related gases in the user's defecation gas. Note that the above is merely an example, and the control device 100 may make any estimation based on the calculated score.

[0129] The processing unit 132 controls various detection components. For example, the processing unit 132 controls the first detection unit 21. Also, for example, the processing unit 132 controls the second detection unit 22. The processing unit 132 controls the second detection unit 22 so that the measurement value of the gas sensor 40 falls within a predetermined range when the user is not using the toilet 7, and performs reference value control to control the measurement value used as the reference value to a predetermined value. The processing unit 132 performs reference value control to control the reference value to a predetermined value by changing the resistance value of the resistive element of the gas sensor 40. The processing unit 132 performs reference value control every time fecal gas measurement is completed. The processing unit 132 performs reference value control by processing to feed back the measurement value of the gas sensor 40.

[0130] The output unit 133 executes output processing to output various types of information. The output unit 133 functions as a transmission unit that transmits various types of information. The output unit 133 executes output processing by transmitting information to an external information processing device. The output unit 133 transmits information to an external information processing device. For example, the output unit 133 transmits various types of information to the display device 300. For example, the output unit 133 transmits various types of information to an administrator device such as a personal computer or smartphone used by an administrator. The output unit 133 may also execute output processing by transmitting information to the operation device 30 (or the display screen 31).

[0131] The output unit 133 transmits information indicating the processing results by the processing unit 132. The output unit 133 transmits various types of information to the display device 300, which are used for display by the display device 300. The output unit 133 outputs the results of the estimation process to the outside. The output unit 133 transmits the results of the estimation process to the outside via the communication unit 110. The output unit 133 controls the display device 300 to output the results of the estimation process by transmitting the results of the estimation process to the display device 300. For example, the output unit 133 transmits the results of the estimation process to the display device 300, and causes the display device 300 to display the results of the estimation process.

[0132] <1-6. Processing example> From here, various processing examples will be described based on the configuration of the above-described biological information measurement system 1. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0133] <1-6-1. Processing Overview> First, an overall outline of the processing will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of processing executed by the biological information measuring system according to the embodiment.

[0134] Below, an example of the detection of stool by the first detection unit 21 and the detection of defecation gas by the second detection unit 22 will be described, followed by an outline of the estimation process based on that detection. Note that the detection of stool by the first detection unit 21 and the detection of defecation gas by the second detection unit 22 are merely examples, and any detection mode can be adopted for the detection by the first detection unit 21 and the second detection unit 22 as long as the desired information can be detected.

[0135] <1-6-1-1. Feces detection> First, an example of feces detection by the first detection unit 21 will be described. Below, specific operations of a method for acquiring feces images (data) by the first detection unit 21 will be described with reference to first detection processing MS1 in Fig. 7. The first detection processing MS1 in Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a method for acquiring data.

[0136] Each element shown in the first detection process MS1 in Fig. 7 will be described. Objects OB1 and OB2 schematically represent an image of falling feces (excrement) to be detected (measured). Specifically, object OB1, indicated by a solid line, schematically represents the position of the feces falling at a certain time point (first time point), and object OB2, indicated by a dotted line, schematically represents the position of the feces falling at a time point later than the first time point (second time point). That is, object OB1 and object OB2 in Fig. 7 represent one piece of feces falling at different times, and object OB2 corresponds to feces at a time later than object OB1. Hereinafter, when objects OB1 and OB2 are described without distinction, they will be referred to as object OB.

[0137] 7 illustrates a case where the first detection unit 21 has three light-emitting elements 51a, 51b, and 51c. For example, the light-emitting elements 51a, 51b, and 51c are light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that emit light of different wavelengths. Hereinafter, when the light-emitting elements 51a, 51b, and 51c are described without distinction, they will be referred to as light-emitting element 51.

[0138] 7 conceptually illustrates a process in which light from the light-emitting element 51 is irradiated onto the falling object OB, and a stool image (two-dimensional image) is acquired (generated) based on the light reception results by the light-receiving unit 50. The dotted line extending from the light-emitting element 51 to the object OB schematically illustrates the light being irradiated from the light-emitting element 51 to the object OB, and the dotted line extending from the object OB to the light-receiving unit 50 schematically illustrates the light reflected from the object OB and received by the light-receiving unit 50. That is, the first detection process MS1 in FIG. 7 illustrates a case in which data (one-dimensional image) of the bottom end of the object OB (the leading end in the falling direction) is detected in the detection of the object OB corresponding to object OB1, and a case in which data (one-dimensional image) of the top end of the object OB (the trailing end in the falling direction) is detected in the detection of the object OB corresponding to object OB2.

[0139] 7, the first detection unit 21 generates stool information (two-dimensional image) by arranging in time series data (one-dimensional images) acquired over time for each wavelength emitted by each of the light-emitting elements 51a, 51b, and 51c. Note that various processes are possible for generating color images using light-emitting elements of different wavelengths and a line sensor, and detailed explanations will be omitted here, but an example of the process will be briefly described.

[0140] The first detection unit 21 generates a two-dimensional image corresponding to the first light-emitting element (light-emitting element 51a) by arranging in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by causing the light-emitting element 51a, which is a first light-emitting element that emits light of a first wavelength, to emit light. For example, the first detection unit 21 generates stool information (first two-dimensional image) corresponding to the first wavelength by arranging in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by causing the light-emitting element 51a, which is a first light-emitting element that emits light of a first wavelength, such as 590 nm, to emit light.

[0141] Furthermore, the first detection unit 21 generates a two-dimensional image corresponding to the second light-emitting element (light-emitting element 51b) by arranging in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from the light-emitting element 51b, which is a second light-emitting element that emits light of the second wavelength. For example, the first detection unit 21 generates stool information (second two-dimensional image) corresponding to the second wavelength by arranging in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light of the second wavelength, such as 670 nm.

[0142] Furthermore, the first detection unit 21 generates a two-dimensional image corresponding to the third light-emitting element (light-emitting element 51c) by arranging in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from the light-emitting element 51c, which is a third light-emitting element that emits light of the third wavelength. For example, the first detection unit 21 generates stool information (third two-dimensional image) corresponding to the third wavelength by arranging in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light of the third wavelength, such as 870 nm.

[0143] In this way, the first detection unit 21 can obtain a color image by generating two-dimensional images for each of the three wavelengths corresponding to the first light-emitting element, the second light-emitting element, and the third light-emitting element. For example, the first detection unit 21 may generate a color image by combining the first two-dimensional image, the second two-dimensional image, and the third two-dimensional image described above. Furthermore, the light-receiving element of the light-receiving unit 50, such as a line sensor, may be a color light-receiving element, and light-emitting elements of multiple colors may simultaneously emit light, and the color of the reflected light may be detected by the light-receiving unit to generate a color image.

[0144] Furthermore, first detection unit 21 may be a camera that captures images and generates two-dimensional images. For example, first detection unit 21 may have, as light receiving unit 50, an area sensor (two-dimensional image sensor) in which CCD sensors or CMOS sensors are arranged in a planar (two-dimensional) shape.

[0145] <1-6-1-2. Detection of fecal gas> Next, an example of detection of fecal gas by the second detection unit 22 will be described. Specific operations of a method for acquiring gas information by the second detection unit 22 will be described below with reference to the second detection process MS2 in Fig. 7. The second detection process MS2 in Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a method for acquiring data. Explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted where appropriate.

[0146] First, an example of the gas sensor 40 in the biological information measurement system 1 will be described. The second detection unit 22 has a gas sensor 40 that detects gases indicative of the user's intestinal environment. For example, the gas sensor 40 may be a gas sensor (also referred to as an "odor gas sensor") that can detect gases (odor gases) resulting from intestinal putrefaction and indicating poor health. For example, odor gases are gases produced by putrefaction caused by harmful bacteria in the intestines. For example, odor gases may be fecal gases that contain sulfur components. Examples of odor gases include ammonia, trimethylamine, hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, indole, and skatole.

[0147] Furthermore, the second detection unit 22 may have a plurality of gas sensors 40 including a gas sensor (also referred to as a "health gas sensor") that can detect gases (health gases) derived from intestinal fermentation and indicating a high level of health, in addition to odorous gases. For example, health gases are gases produced by fermentation by beneficial bacteria in the intestines. For example, health gases may be gases derived from intestinal fermentation that increase in amount as the level of intestinal health increases. Examples of health gases include hydrogen, carbon dioxide, acetic acid, methane, ethanol, and water.

[0148] The second detection unit 22 may have a plurality of gas sensors 40. For example, the second detection unit 22 may be a hydrogen gas sensor, and may include a plurality of gas sensors 40 such as an odorous gas sensor and a methane gas sensor.

[0149] For example, the bioinformation measurement system may detect (estimate) the amount or concentration of an odorous gas by removing the influence of the amount or concentration of a gas (health-related gas) detected by the health-related gas possessed by the second detection unit 22 from the amount or concentration of the odorous gas possessed by the second detection unit 22.

[0150] Next, an example of the configuration of a gas sensor will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a gas sensor. Specifically, Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration CR of a semiconductor gas sensor 40.

[0151] The gas sensor 40 includes a sensor element and a resistance element for measurement. In Fig. 8, the gas sensor 40 has a circuit configuration CR in which a sensor element (corresponding to the sensor resistor RS in Fig. 8) and a resistance element for measurement (corresponding to the resistance element RL in Fig. 8) are connected in series.

[0152] In the semiconductor gas sensor 40, a value related to the amount of gas is calculated using the following formula (1): Formula (1) corresponds to the circuit configuration CR shown in FIG. 8 and is the same formula as the function FC1 in FIG.

[0153] RS =((Vc-Vout) / Vout)×RL… (1)

[0154] "RS" in formula (1) represents the resistance value of the sensor element. For example, "RS" in formula (1) represents the resistance value of the sensor resistor RS, which is an example of a value calculated based on measurements by the gas sensor 40. In this way, formula (1) is a formula for calculating the resistance value.

[0155] "RL" in equation (1) represents the resistance value of the resistive element RL. "Vc" in equation (1) represents the voltage value of the circuit voltage Vc. "Vout" in equation (1) represents the voltage value of the output voltage Vout of the resistive element. For example, "Vout" in equation (1) represents the voltage value of the resistive element RL, which is an example of a measurement value measured by the gas sensor 40.

[0156] The resistance value of the sensor resistor RS in formula (1) is an index related to the amount or concentration of fecal gas. The biological information measurement system 1 calculates an index (resistance value) related to the amount or concentration of fecal gas from the measured value (voltage value), and calculates the amount of gas from the calculated resistance value. Note that a detailed explanation of the principles of semiconductor gas sensors will be omitted, but for example, "RH" shown only in the circuit configuration CR in Figure 8 corresponds to a heater (resistance) for heating the sensor element, and "V H " corresponds to the heater voltage. The gas sensor in the present invention is not limited to a semiconductor sensor, and any sensor that satisfies the above formula (1) can be used instead.

[0157] The above is merely an example, and the second detection unit 22 may have any type of gas sensor, not limited to the above. For example, the second detection unit 22 may have a gas sensor such as an infrared CO sensor (carbon dioxide concentration measuring device). The second detection unit 22 may also have multiple types or multiple gas sensors of any type. For example, the second detection unit 22 may have an electrochemical gas sensor in addition to an infrared CO sensor.

[0158] <1-6-1-3. Estimation process> Hereinafter, an example of estimation processing based on the detection of feces by the first detection unit 21 and the detection of defecation gas by the second detection unit 22 will be described. The control device 100 executes the estimation processing as shown below. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0159] The control device 100 estimates the classification of the stool properties as first biological information based on the detection of the stool by the first detection unit 21. In Figure 7, as shown in the first biological information DT1 based on the stool detection information, the control device 100 estimates that the detected stool is banana-shaped, in the middle section of the seven stages corresponding to the Bristol scale. For example, the first biological information DT1 is information (first information) related to peristaltic movement.

[0160] Then, the control device 100 uses the estimated stool properties to estimate a first evaluation regarding peristaltic movement. An example of processing in this regard will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0161] The control device 100 estimates the amount or concentration of gas used to estimate the second evaluation based on the detection of defecation gas by the second detection unit 22. In Fig. 7, the control device 100 estimates the amount or concentration of gas X (e.g., an odorous gas) used to estimate the second evaluation from the calculated resistance value using a function (gas estimation function) that indicates the relationship between the resistance value and the amount or concentration of the gas X.

[0162] The control device 100 then estimates the second evaluation as second biological information using an evaluation estimation function that inputs the estimated amount or concentration of gas X and outputs a second evaluation. In FIG. 7, the control device 100 estimates, as the second evaluation, a value indicated by a black circle in the time-series data DT2 based on the fecal gas detection information (also referred to as the "intestinal environment score") based on the estimated amount or concentration of gas X. For example, the time-series data DT2 is time-series data from one month ago (1M ago) to the day of processing, and is information about the intestinal environment (second evaluation). The second evaluation may also be calculated from multiple intestinal environment scores, as will be described later.

[0163] The control device 100 estimates at least one of the provided information or score related to the user's health based on the first evaluation and the second evaluation. While FIG. 7 illustrates both bowel score information INF1 related to the bowel score or bowel rank, which are examples of scores related to the user's health, and recommendation information INF2, which are examples of provided information, the control device 100 may estimate either one of them. For example, in FIG. 8, since both the first evaluation and the second evaluation are good, the control device 100 estimates that the bowel score or bowel rank is high, as shown in bowel score information INF1. For the sake of explanation, FIG. 8 illustrates a case in which both a bowel score of "90 points" and a bowel rank rated "A" are estimated as scores, but the control device 100 may estimate only one of the 90 points or the A rating, depending on the score type. When the bowel score and the bowel rank are not distinguished, they are collectively referred to as the bowel score.

[0164] Furthermore, when the second evaluation of the first evaluation and the second evaluation is getting worse, the control device 100 estimates, as the information to be provided, information indicating a deterioration of the intestinal environment, as indicated in the recommendation information INF2. Furthermore, the control device 100 estimates, as the information to be provided, information indicating a recommended action to take to deal with the deterioration of the intestinal environment.

[0165] In this way, the biological information measurement system 1 can estimate the health condition of the user's intestines based on information on both peristalsis and the intestinal environment, thereby making it possible to appropriately estimate the health condition of the user. That is, the biological information measurement system 1 can estimate the health condition of the user's intestines based on information on both the movement of the intestines themselves and the balance of intestinal bacteria living in the intestines.

[0166] In the above example, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates the characteristics of the stool based on detection by the line sensor, and estimates the intestinal environment based on detection by the gas sensor. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 senses the shape, amount, color, and bowel gas (flatulence, etc.) of the stool to visualize the state of the intestines from peristalsis and the intestinal environment, and by understanding the state of the intestines, can inform the user of the state of the intestines, which is related to the state of physical and mental health. In this way, the biological information measurement system 1 can estimate and inform the user of daily intestinal conditions and changes from the stool and bowel gas, and can provide awareness of lifestyle behavior improvements.

[0167] Furthermore, in the above example, the biological information measurement system 1 can estimate the state and changes of the user's entire intestines based on the user's daily excretory behavior and provide the user with information based on the estimation results. For example, with regard to peristalsis, the biological information measurement system 1 can display information on the estimated stool properties (color, shape, amount). The biological information measurement system 1 displays first biological information indicating the stool properties on the user's display device 300. In FIG. 7, the biological information measurement system 1 displays first biological information DT1 on the user's display device 300. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 displays information indicating the estimated stool properties, such as the first biological information DT1, on the user's display device 300.

[0168] With regard to the intestinal environment, the biological information measurement system 1 can acquire the composition of fecal gas using a gas sensor and display changes over time. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 displays second biological information such as a second evaluation on the user's display device 300. In FIG. 7, the biological information measurement system 1 displays time-series data DT2 on the user's display device 300. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 displays information on an estimated intestinal environment score, as shown in the time-series data DT2, on the user's display device 300.

[0169] 7, the biological information measurement system 1 displays a score such as intestinal score information INF1 or provided information such as recommended information INF2 on the user's display device 300. This allows the biological information measurement system 1 to display a combination of peristalsis and the intestinal environment. In this way, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates and displays information about the user's health from information on both stool properties and defecation gas, thereby making it possible to appropriately estimate and display information about the user's health.

[0170] <1-6-2. Estimation example> The provided information or score related to the user's health shown in Figure 7 is merely an example, and the biological information measurement system 1 may estimate the provided information or score using various information as appropriate. In this regard, several examples will be described below. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in Figure 7 etc. will be omitted as appropriate.

[0171] <1-6-2-1. Evaluation and estimation example> First, an example of evaluation estimation by the biological information measurement system 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 may perform an estimation process by using a larger number of samples for estimating the second evaluation than for estimating the first evaluation. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 may use data obtained from multiple toilet visits to estimate the second evaluation. For example, the data used to estimate the first evaluation may be data obtained from a single toilet visit, and the data used to estimate the second evaluation may be data obtained from multiple toilet visits. For example, the number of toilet visits referred to here may be the number of visits to the toilet room R, where one visit is defined as the time from when the user enters the toilet room R until when the user leaves the room. In this case, if multiple pieces of information are obtained from one toilet visit, the average or representative value may be used as the information for that single toilet visit. For example, if the amount or concentration of gas is detected twice during one toilet visit, the biological information measurement system 1 may use the average of the two detected gas amounts or concentrations as the amount or concentration of gas for that single toilet visit. Any information can be used as the number of times the toilet is used, and it may be, for example, the number of times the user has had a bowel movement.

[0172] For example, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates the second evaluation based on multiple data, as shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the second evaluation based on multiple data. Points PT indicated by white circles in the time-series data DT21 in FIG. 9 indicate the intestinal environment score corresponding to each toilet use, and the calculated value CV indicated by black circles indicates the second evaluation calculated using information from multiple points PT. In FIG. 9, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates the calculated value CV, which is information calculated using multiple data such as a moving average, as the second evaluation, as shown in the time-series data DT21. The curve in the time-series data DT21 in FIG. 9 indicates the time-series change in the second evaluation calculated using multiple data such as a moving average.

[0173] In this way, the biological information measuring system 1 estimates the second evaluation regarding the intestinal environment based on a plurality of detection results, thereby making it possible to appropriately estimate the second evaluation regarding the intestinal environment.

[0174] Next, the estimation of the first evaluation will be described with reference to FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the estimation of the first evaluation according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates that the middle (median) level of the stool property is the best out of seven levels, and estimates the first evaluation so that the further away from the center the level is, the lower the level is. In this case, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates that the closer the estimation result based on the stool property is to the median, the better the first evaluation. The biological information measurement system 1 estimates (determines) that the middle level is the best stool property. For example, when the stool property is banana, which is the middle level out of seven levels, the control device 100 estimates the first evaluation to be the highest. For example, when the first evaluation is an evaluation of 0 to 100 points, the control device 100 may estimate the first evaluation to be 100 points when the stool property is banana. Furthermore, if the first evaluation is based on seven ranks (scales) from S to A to F, with S being the best evaluation and the evaluations getting worse from A to F, the control device 100 may estimate that the first evaluation is S if the stool properties are banana-like. As described above, the classification and evaluation based on the Bristol scale are merely an example, and any classification such as "hard," "ideal," or "soft" can be used, and any mode of resolution (number of classifications) and notation can be used. Furthermore, as described above, it is not limited to the case where the center corresponds to the best state and the extreme stages correspond to the worst state, and any correspondence may be used as long as a corresponding evaluation is associated with each classification, and the median does not necessarily have to correspond to the highest evaluation.

[0175] Next, the estimation of the second evaluation will be described with reference to FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the estimation of the second evaluation according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates the second evaluation higher the larger the value estimated based on the defecation gas, such as the intestinal environment score. In this case, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates that the larger the value indicated by the estimation result based on the defecation gas, the better the second evaluation. In this way, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates (determines) that the higher the score of the information based on the defecation gas (odor information), the better.

[0176] <1-6-2-2. Information output example> The biological information measurement system 1 outputs information according to the result of the estimation process. For example, if the information (evaluation, etc.) on the properties of the user's excrement (stool) is poor, the biological information measurement system 1 may provide the user with advice on stress and sleep. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 may generate information to be provided including content such as "Your peristalsis is getting worse. Please get enough sleep," and provide the generated information to the user.

[0177] Furthermore, if the odor information of the user's bowel movement gas is bad, the biological information measurement system 1 may provide the user with dietary advice. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 may generate information to be provided including content such as "Your intestinal environment is getting worse. Eat yogurt," and provide the generated information to the user.

[0178] For example, when the biological information measurement system 1 acquires information about a user, such as time-series data DT12 of stool properties and time-series data DT22 of intestinal environment score in FIG. 12, it generates information to be provided INF22 based on the time-series data DT12 and the time-series data DT22. Then, the biological information measurement system 1 displays the generated information to be provided INF22 on the display device 300 of the target user. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of estimation of information to be provided according to the embodiment. For example, the time-series data DT12 and the time-series data DT22 are time-series data from one month ago (1M ago) to the day of processing.

[0179] 12, as the intestinal environment score is decreasing as shown in the time-series data DT12 and the time-series data DT22, the biological information measurement system 1 generates provided information INF22 including content such as "Your intestinal environment is deteriorating. Take healthy actions," and provides the generated provided information INF22 to the user. In this way, the biological information measurement system 1 compares two pieces of information on changes over time, namely, information on changes over time in the properties of excrement such as shown in the time-series data DT12, and information on changes over time in odor such as shown in the time-series data DT22, and generates provided information that prioritizes advice related to the information on the more deteriorating tendency, and displays the generated provided information.

[0180] <1-6-2-3. Examples of provided information and score estimation> Next, an example of estimation of provided information or a score by the biological information measurement system 1 will be described with reference to Figs. 13 to 15. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of information used to estimate a score according to the embodiment. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of information used to estimate provided information according to the embodiment. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of information used to estimate provided information according to the embodiment.

[0181] The estimation table MT1 shown in Fig. 13 is a list of estimated values ​​of intestinal rank based on a combination of the classification shown in the "feces properties" item and the intestinal environment ranks A to D based on the intestinal environment score shown in the "odor" item. The "feces properties" item corresponds to an estimation based on the detection result (feces detection) by the first detection unit 21. The "odor" item corresponds to an estimation based on the detection result (defecation gas detection) by the second detection unit 22.

[0182] FIG. 13 shows a case where the intestinal rank is divided into seven ranks (stages) from S to A to F, with S being the best intestinal condition, A being the next best after S, and F being the worst intestinal condition. Note that the health score is not limited to the intestinal rank, and any information (for example, a numerical value (score) such as 0 to 100 points) can be used. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 may output the intestinal score by adding up information on the properties of stool (evaluation, etc.) and odor information.

[0183] In FIG. 13, the "smell" item includes four levels of intestinal environment rank, A to D. For example, the intestinal environment rank is a four-level evaluation in which A is the best and D is the worst. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 may estimate the four levels of intestinal environment rank by converting the estimated intestinal environment score. In this case, for example, the biological information measurement system 1 may estimate the intestinal environment rank as A when the intestinal environment score is 75 points or higher.

[0184] Furthermore, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates the intestinal environment rank as B if the intestinal environment score is between 50 and 75 points, as C if the intestinal environment score is between 25 and 50 points, and as D if the intestinal environment score is less than 25 points. Note that the intestinal environment rank shown in Figure 13 is only an example, and any information (e.g., intestinal environment score, second evaluation, etc.) can be used for the "smell" item.

[0185] In Figure 13, the item "fecal characteristics" includes four taxonomic groups: the first taxonomic group of "banana," the second taxonomic group of "cracked" and "soft," the third taxonomic group of "hard" and "mud," and the fourth taxonomic group of "hard" and "watery." Note that the taxonomic groups shown in Figure 13 are merely an example, and any combination of taxonomic groups can be used. Furthermore, any information (e.g., first evaluation, etc.) can be used for the item "fecal characteristics."

[0186] 13, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates the user's intestinal rank as a score using the user's intestinal environment rank, the classification of the stool property, and the estimation table MT1. For example, if the user's intestinal environment rank is A and the stool property is banana, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates the user's intestinal rank to be S based on the corresponding elements in the estimation table MT1.

[0187] The estimation table MT2 shown in Fig. 14 is a list of provided information based on combinations of two categories, good and bad, in the "feces properties" category and two categories, good and bad, in the "odor" category. Fig. 14 shows four pieces of provided information corresponding to the number of combinations of the two categories of "feces properties" and the two categories of "odor." Note that the provided information shown in Fig. 14 is merely an example, and each piece of provided information may include any content corresponding to the state of the stool properties or the state of the odor.

[0188] In Fig. 14, the "smell" category has two categories: "good" and "bad." Note that the "smell" categories shown in Fig. 14 are merely an example, and any combination of categories can be adopted.

[0189] For example, if the second evaluation is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the biological information measurement system 1 classifies the odor as "good" as shown in FIG. 14, and if the second evaluation is less than the predetermined value, the biological information measurement system 1 classifies the odor as "bad" as shown in FIG. 14. Note that the classification process described above is merely an example, and the biological information measurement system 1 may use various information to classify the odor as either "good" or "bad" as shown in FIG. 14. For example, if the intestinal environment score is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the biological information measurement system 1 may classify the odor as "good" as shown in FIG. 14, and if the intestinal environment score is less than the predetermined value, the biological information measurement system 1 may classify the odor as "bad" as shown in FIG. 14.

[0190] In Figure 14, the item "fecal properties" has two categories: "good" and "bad." Note that the categories of "fecal properties" shown in Figure 14 are merely examples, and any combination of categories can be used.

[0191] For example, if the first evaluation is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the biological information measurement system 1 classifies the first evaluation as "good" as shown in FIG. 14, and if the first evaluation is less than the predetermined value, the biological information measurement system 1 classifies the stool property as "good" or "bad" as shown in FIG. 14 using various information. For example, if the stool property is "banana," the biological information measurement system 1 may classify the stool as "good" as shown in FIG. 14, and if the stool property is other than "banana," the biological information measurement system 1 may classify the stool as "bad" as shown in FIG. 14.

[0192] 14, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates the information to be provided for a user using the user's odor classification, stool property classification, and estimation table MT2. For example, if the "smell" item for a user is "bad" and the "stool property" item is "bad," the biological information measurement system 1 estimates, based on the corresponding elements in estimation table MT2, that the information to be provided for the user would be "Your intestinal health tends to be very bad. Why don't you start by reviewing your diet?"

[0193] The estimation table MT3 shown in Fig. 15 is a list of provided information based on combinations of the three categories shown in the "feces properties" section and the three categories shown in the "odor" section. Fig. 15 shows nine pieces of provided information corresponding to the number of combinations of the three categories of "feces properties" and the three categories of "odor." Note that the provided information shown in Fig. 15 is merely an example, and each piece of provided information may include any content corresponding to the state of the stool properties or the state of the odor.

[0194] In Figure 15, the "smell" category has three categories: "good," "average," and "bad." Note that the "smell" categories shown in Figure 15 are merely examples, and any combination of categories can be used.

[0195] For example, if the second evaluation is equal to or greater than the first threshold, the biological information measurement system 1 classifies the result as "good" as shown in FIG. 15; if the second evaluation is less than the first threshold and equal to or greater than the second threshold, the biological information measurement system 1 classifies the result as "average" as shown in FIG. 15; and if the second evaluation is less than the second threshold, the biological information measurement system 1 classifies the result as "bad" as shown in FIG. 15. Any value can be used as the first threshold, and any value smaller than the first threshold can be used as the second threshold. Note that the biological information measurement system 1 may use the intestinal environment score to classify the "odor" category into one of three categories: "good," "average," or "bad."

[0196] In Figure 15, the item "fecal characteristics" includes three taxonomic groups: the first taxonomic group of "muddy" and "watery," the second taxonomic group of "cracked," "banana," and "soft," and the third taxonomic group of "hard" and "hard." Note that the taxonomic groups shown in Figure 15 are merely examples, and any combination of taxonomic groups can be used.

[0197] 15, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates the information to be provided to a user using the user's odor classification, stool property classification, and estimation table MT3. For example, if the "odor" category for a user is "normal" and the "stool property" category is the third classification group of "hard" and "hard," the biological information measurement system 1 estimates, based on the corresponding elements in estimation table MT3, that information such as "Try exercising twice a week" is appropriate as information to be provided to the user.

[0198] <1-6-3. Information provision example> Based on the above-described processing, an example of information provided to a user by the biological information measurement system 1 will now be described. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 generates the various pieces of information shown below and displays the generated information on the display device 300 used by the corresponding user. For example, the display device 300 used by the user has installed thereon a health management application (also called an "intestinal activity app") for displaying information related to the user's health, and the intestinal activity app displays various pieces of information related to the user's health.

[0199] Note that, if the display device 300 is capable of displaying information related to the health of the user, the display device 300 may display information related to the health of the user using an application other than the intestinal activity app. In the following, an example will be described in which the user of the display device 300 that displays information is user U.

[0200] First, an example of information relating to the basic functions of an intestinal activity app that is provided by the biological information measurement system 1 and displayed by the display device 300 will be shown using Fig. 16. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of information that is provided by the biological information measurement system.

[0201] The content CT1 in Fig. 16 corresponds to, for example, the home screen of an intestinal health app displayed on the display device 300. The content CT1 includes a display area AR1 that displays various information. In Fig. 16, intestinal condition information IM1 including the intestinal rank at the time of display, a schematic diagram of a person, and an illustration of the intestines corresponding to the intestinal rank at the time of display is displayed in the display area AR1. Fig. 16 shows a case where the intestinal rank of user U at the time of display is A.

[0202] Content CT1 includes a button IC1 labeled "Recommended information for you." Content CT1 also includes a button IC2 labeled "What is intestinal rank?" Content CT1 includes a button IC3 labeled "Intestinal movement." Content CT1 includes a button IC4 labeled "Intestinal environment." Content CT1 includes a button IC5 labeled "Intestinal activity diary." Content CT1 includes a button IC6 labeled with information about user U's family. Examples of information displayed when buttons IC1 to IC6 are selected (specified) will be described later.

[0203] For example, when a button IC3 in content CT1 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays information such as content CT2 shown in Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of information provided by the biological information measurement system.

[0204] 17 corresponds to, for example, a screen relating to bowel movements displayed by the display device 300. The content CT2 includes feature information FT1 to FT3 indicating information relating to the stool of the user U at the time of display. Note that, although FIG. 17 shows a case where the feature information FT1 to FT3 are text information, the feature information FT1 to FT3 may be displayed in any manner, such as an icon, as long as it can indicate the corresponding information.

[0205] For example, characteristic information FT1 indicates the amount of stool of user U at the time of display, and in Figure 17 indicates that the amount of stool is large. For example, characteristic information FT2 indicates the color of user U's stool at the time of display, and in Figure 17 indicates that the color of the stool is brown. For example, characteristic information FT3 indicates the nature of user U's stool at the time of display, and in Figure 17 indicates that the nature of the stool is normal (banana, etc.). Figure 17 shows a case where the nature of the stool is displayed as one of three types: soft stool, normal stool, or hard stool, but the nature of the stool may also be displayed as the contents of the Bristol scale, such as banana or hard.

[0206] The content CT2 includes a button IC11 labeled "Calendar display." For example, when the button IC11 in the content CT2 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays a calendar related to the measurement results of intestinal movement (e.g., stool properties, etc.).

[0207] The content CT2 includes a button IC12 labeled "Today's Short Commentary: Peristaltic Movement Version." For example, when the button IC12 in the content CT2 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays today's short commentary on peristaltic movement.

[0208] The content CT2 includes a button IC13 labeled "Related Column." For example, when the button IC13 in the content CT2 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays a related column about intestinal movement (e.g., stool properties).

[0209] The content CT2 includes a button IC14 labeled "Score." For example, when the button IC14 in the content CT2 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays information about the score (e.g., first evaluation) related to bowel movement.

[0210] For example, when a button IC4 in content CT1 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays information such as content CT3 shown in Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of information provided by the biological information measurement system.

[0211] 18 corresponds to, for example, a screen relating to the intestinal environment displayed by the display device 300. The content CT3 includes time-series data showing the transition of the intestinal environment index indicating the intestinal environment of the user U up to the time of display, and information provided based on the transition. Note that in FIG. 18, the intestinal environment index may be any index such as an intestinal environment score or an intestinal environment rank.

[0212] The content CT3 includes a button IC21 labeled "Today's Commentary: Intestinal Environment Version." For example, when the button IC21 in the content CT3 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays today's commentary on the intestinal environment.

[0213] The content CT3 includes a button IC22 labeled "Related Column." For example, when the button IC22 in the content CT3 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays a related column about the intestinal environment.

[0214] The content CT3 includes a button IC23 labeled "Explanation of intestinal environment index." For example, when the button IC23 in the content CT3 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays an explanation of the intestinal environment index displayed in the content CT3.

[0215] Furthermore, the information displayed in the display area AR1 is not limited to the information shown in Fig. 16, and may be any information. In this regard, examples will be described using Fig. 19 and Fig. 20. Fig. 19 and Fig. 20 are diagrams showing examples of information according to the estimation results.

[0216] As shown in FIG. 19, the display device 300 may display in the display area AR1 provided information suggesting maintaining the current state, such as "You're in good condition!", and intestinal condition information IM2 including a schematic diagram of a person and an illustration of the intestines corresponding to the intestinal rank at the time of display. In this case, the display device 300 displays intestinal condition information IM2 instead of the intestinal condition information IM1 in the display area AR1 in the content CT1 shown in FIG. 16. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 20, the display device 300 may display in the display area AR1 provided information suggesting maintaining the current state, such as "You're getting better!", and intestinal condition information IM3 including an illustration of the intestines showing changes in the intestinal condition. In this case, the display device 300 displays intestinal condition information IM3 instead of the intestinal condition information IM1 in the display area AR1 in the content CT1 shown in FIG. 16.

[0217] In this way, the display device 300 displays any information in the display area AR1. For example, the display device 300 displays information indicating the overall condition of the intestines, such as a score or a ranking, a good or bad judgment, or changes from the past, in the display area AR1. In this way, the display device 300 may display a score or a ranking as an index representing the condition of the intestines. In addition to the above information, the display device 300 may also display a graph of the above-mentioned trend of change over time.

[0218] For example, when a button IC5 in content CT1 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays information such as content CT4 shown in Fig. 21. Fig. 21 is a diagram showing an example of information related to the user's intestinal health.

[0219] 21 corresponds to, for example, a screen relating to intestinal activity displayed by the display device 300. The content CT4 includes calendar information of an intestinal activity diary showing the intestinal activity of the user U up to the time of display.

[0220] The content CT4 includes a button IC31 labeled "Column related to intestinal health." For example, when the button IC31 in the content CT4 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays the column related to intestinal health.

[0221] The content CT4 includes a button IC32 labeled "Everyone's Intestinal Health." For example, when the button IC32 in the content CT4 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays information about the intestinal health of users other than the user U, and an example of this will be described later.

[0222] The content CT4 includes a button IC33 labeled "Looking back on past intestinal health." For example, when the button IC33 in the content CT4 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays the history information of the user U's intestinal health, etc.

[0223] For example, when a button IC1 in content CT1 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays information such as content CT5 shown in Fig. 22. Fig. 22 is a diagram showing an example of recommended information for a user. Fig. 22 shows an example of a display when the intestinal condition of user U is poor (for example, intestinal rank D, etc.).

[0224] 22 corresponds to a screen relating to provided information such as recommended information displayed by the display device 300. The content CT5 includes provided information INF5 that includes suggestions for improving dietary habits, such as "Your condition has worsened compared to before" and "Your intestinal environment indicators tend to be worsening. Is your diet out of whack?"

[0225] The content CT5 includes a button IC41 labeled "Recommended Information." For example, when the button IC41 in the content CT5 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays various information such as the content CT6 shown in Fig. 23. Fig. 23 is a diagram showing an example of recommended information for the user.

[0226] 23 corresponds to a screen related to provided information such as recommended information displayed on the display device 300. The content CT6 includes provided information INF6 including suggestions on foods to be ingested, such as "It is said that the intestinal environment is affected by diet. Water-soluble dietary fiber is said to be good!" The content CT6 also includes information on related websites, videos, recommended products, etc. that may lead to improvements in diet.

[0227] For example, when a button IC32 in content CT4 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays information such as content CT7 shown in Fig. 24. Fig. 24 is a diagram showing an example of information about other users provided to a user.

[0228] 24 corresponds to, for example, a screen related to information about other users displayed by the display device 300. The content CT7 includes information about intestinal health of other users who have similar attributes, such as age, sex, physique, and lifestyle, to user U. In FIG. 24, the content CT7 includes information about intestinal health recorded in an intestinal health app by other users in their 30s who have similar attributes to user U, who is in his 30s, and information about intestinal health posted on a social networking service (SNS).

[0229] Note that other users similar to user U are not limited to users with similar attributes, but may also be users with similar evaluations such as intestinal scores. For example, if user U's intestinal score is B, other users similar to user U may also be users with a similar intestinal score. In this way, the display device 300 displays intestinal health methods of people with similar attributes or intestinal scores. For example, the bioinformation measurement system 1 may acquire records in intestinal health apps of other people or information on SNS that are linked to attributes or intestinal scores associated with information that identifies the user (such as an ID), and use this information as information regarding the intestinal health of other users similar to user U.

[0230] Content CT8 in Fig. 25 corresponds to a screen that appears when, for example, a specific date is selected from the calendar of the intestinal activity diary included in content CT4. Fig. 25 is a diagram showing an example of the display mode of information provided to the user. Content CT8 includes calendar information of the intestinal activity diary that shows the intestinal activity of user U up to the time of display, as well as an intestinal score and an icon corresponding to the selected date.

[0231] For example, the display device 300 may prompt the user U to manually input or select an icon for the user's bodily sensation information. In FIG. 25, the display device 300 may prompt the user U to select an overall rating of A to E based on the user's own bodily sensation (subjective). The display device 300 may also display subjective icons based on the user's own bodily sensation (subjective) and prompt the user U to select from these icons. The biological information measurement system 1 may then use the bodily sensation information acquired through the user's selection to reevaluate or correct the user U's score, or set a score value that the user U should aim for.

[0232] The display device 300 may also prompt the user U to manually input or select an icon for each of the multiple items. In FIG. 25, the display device 300 may display icons for each item, such as diet, lifestyle habits, and exercise, and prompt the user U to select from the icons. Additionally, the display device 300 may acquire information by linking with other applications on a smartphone or a smartwatch. This allows the biological information measurement system 1 to collect information on intestinal activity and information for determining whether to exclude outliers (such as outliers) in the measured values. The biological information measurement system 1 may then manage the information acquired through the user's selection by linking it to the estimated results as information indicating intestinal activity events or conditions. The biological information measurement system 1 may also perform outlier exclusion processing based on the information acquired from the user.

[0233] The display device 300 may also provide information according to changes in the user's intestinal condition. In Fig. 26, the display device 300 displays content CT9 including provided information according to changes in the user U's score (intestinal score), diet, and exercise, and a button IC91 that encourages the user to purchase a product corresponding to the provided information. Fig. 26 is a diagram showing an example of recommended information for the user.

[0234] 26, the biological information measurement system 1 estimates that the user U's score is good when he or she consumes XX yogurt, and therefore XX yogurt is suitable for the user U. Therefore, the biological information measurement system 1 generates content CT9 including provided information suggesting that XX yogurt is suitable for the user U and that the user U should consume it, and a button IC91 for purchasing XX yogurt, and displays the content CT9 on the display device 300.

[0235] When a button IC91 in content CT9 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays information such as an EC (electronic commerce) site selling XX yogurt. In this way, when the score starts to deteriorate, the display device 300 displays information suggesting products related to intestinal health tools that have been effective in the past.

[0236] When the button IC32 in the content CT4 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 may display information other than the content CT7 shown in Fig. 24. For example, when the button IC32 in the content CT4 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 may display information such as the content CT10 shown in Fig. 27. Fig. 27 is a diagram showing an example of information about other users provided to the user.

[0237] 27 corresponds to, for example, a screen related to information about other users displayed by the display device 300. The content CT10 includes information related to the intestinal activity of other users who are similar to the user U. In FIG. 27, the content CT10 includes information related to the intestinal activity records of other users in their 30s who have similar attributes to the user U who is in his 30s.

[0238] For example, the display device 300 outputs a group of information linked to attributes and intestinal scores associated with information (such as IDs) that identifies other users similar to user U. For example, the display device 300 displays content CT10 including intestinal activity records showing the intestinal activity content and duration of each of the other users, as well as information such as fluctuations in the intestinal scores during the intestinal activity period. In this way, the display device 300 allows the user to view information linked to the intestinal activity events and results of other users (people).

[0239] For example, when a button IC6 in content CT1 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays information such as content CT11 shown in Fig. 28. Fig. 28 is a diagram showing an example of information about users who have relationships with the user. Fig. 28 shows an example of a display in which the user U's family consists of four people: user U (me), spouse (father), and two children (child A and son B). For example, the biometric information measurement system 1 manages, for each user, information (ID, etc.) that identifies users who have relationships with that user by linking it to information (ID, etc.) that identifies that user, thereby making it possible to identify users who have relationships with each user.

[0240] The content CT11 in FIG. 28 corresponds to, for example, a screen displaying a list of users who have a relationship with the user, displayed by the display device 300. The content CT11 includes four ranks for each of the user U's family members up to the time of display. The content CT11 includes a button IC101 in which the rank of spouse (father) is B and is labeled "→See more." The content CT11 also includes a button IC102 in which the rank of user U (me) is A and is labeled "→See more." The content CT11 also includes a button IC103 in which the rank of child (child A) is B and is labeled "→See more." The content CT11 also includes a button IC104 in which the rank of child (son B) is C and is labeled "→See more."

[0241] When a "View details" button corresponding to a user is selected, the display device 300 transitions the display to display information showing the results for that individual user. For example, when the button IC101 is selected, the display device 300 displays information showing the individual estimation results for the spouse (father). For example, the display device 300 switches the information displayed in the display area AR1 from information about the user U (me) to information about the spouse (father).

[0242] In this way, the biological information measurement system 1 can display the results of other people through ID linkage. The biological information measurement system 1 transmits data to a third party when predetermined conditions, such as ID linkage, are met. In the above example, family members are described as users who have a relationship with the user, but users who have a relationship with the user are not limited to family members; they may also be users who belong to a common institution, such as a hospital or gym, or people who provide health management support to the user, such as doctors or gym trainers.

[0243] For example, when a button IC2 in content CT1 displayed on the display device 300 is selected, the display device 300 displays information such as content CT12 shown in Fig. 29. Fig. 29 is a diagram showing an example of rank information related to a user.

[0244] The content CT12 in FIG. 29 corresponds to, for example, a screen related to intestinal health displayed by the display device 300. The content CT12 includes rank information based on the intestinal rank of user U at the time of display. In FIG. 29, the content CT12 includes information regarding the distribution of intestinal ranks among a group of users in their 30s who have attributes similar to user U. In this case, the biological information measurement system 1 extracts information about users in their 30s from the user information it manages, generates information indicating the distribution of intestinal ranks among the group of users in their 30s based on the extracted information, and generates content CT12 by adding information indicating the rank to which user U belongs to the generated distribution information. In FIG. 29, the display device 300 displays content CT12 indicating that user U's intestinal rank is C, which is average for a group of users in their 30s. This allows the display device 300 to enable the user to compare evaluations such as ranks with other users (people) who are similar (in attributes, etc.). In addition, CT12 may be a rank evaluation regarding a score related to bowel movement (for example, a first evaluation) or a rank evaluation regarding an intestinal environment index.

[0245] Furthermore, the biological information measuring system 1 may notify the user at a predetermined timing. The biological information measuring system 1 may display any information in a display area AR11 of the display device 300 shown in Fig. 30. Fig. 30 is a diagram showing an example of information notification to the user.

[0246] For example, if the score of the user (the user himself / herself) using the display device 300 starts to get worse, the display device 300 displays the content CT13 containing information such as "Caution! Your bowel rank is dropping!" in the display area AR11. For example, if the bowel rank of the user U starts to get worse, the display device 300 of the user U displays the content CT13 in the display area AR11. In this way, the display device 300 calls the user's attention when their own score starts to get worse.

[0247] Furthermore, when the score of another person (another user) who has a relationship with the user (the user himself) using the display device 300 starts to deteriorate, the display device 300 displays content CT14 in the display area AR11, including information such as "Caution! Boy B's intestinal rank is dropping! Let's check it out." For example, when the intestinal rank of Boy B, a child of user U, starts to deteriorate, the display device 300 of user U displays content CT14 in the display area AR11. In this way, the display device 300 calls attention when the score of another person who has a relationship with the user starts to deteriorate.

[0248] Furthermore, the biological information measurement system 1 may notify the user according to the user's usage status. This point will be explained using Fig. 31 and Fig. 32. Fig. 31 and Fig. 32 are diagrams showing examples of information notification according to the user's usage status. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 may send a push notification based on the user's login history to the intestinal health app. Furthermore, the biological information measurement system 1 may evaluate the user's level of interest in intestinal health based on the number of times the user logs in to the intestinal health app and the frequency of inputting intestinal health information.

[0249] For example, if a user is actively engaged in intestinal health activities, the biological information measurement system 1 may evaluate the user as having a high level of interest in intestinal health and notify the user of information praising the user for their active activities. In FIG. 31, if a user logs in to an intestinal health app for 10 consecutive days, the biological information measurement system 1 notifies the user of information such as content CT15. For example, if user U logs in to the intestinal health app for 10 consecutive days, the display device 300 of user U displays content CT15. For example, when user U logs in to the intestinal health app on the 10th day, the display device 300 displays content CT15 superimposed on content CT1 (pop-up display).

[0250] For example, if a user has not logged in to the intestinal health app for a period of time (for example, no login for one week), the biological information measurement system 1 may evaluate the user's level of interest in intestinal health as low and notify the user of information encouraging active activity. If the biological information measurement system 1 evaluates the user's level of interest in intestinal health as low, it displays information encouraging the user to be active in the display area AR12 of the display device 300 shown in FIG.

[0251] For example, when a user using the display device 300 has not logged in to the intestinal activity app for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 7 days), the display device 300 displays content CT16 in the display area AR12, including information such as "You haven't logged in for xx days. Why not restart your intestinal activity?" For example, when the period of time when the user U has not logged in to the intestinal activity app continues for xx days, the display device 300 of the user U displays content CT16 in the display area AR12. In this way, the biological information measurement system 1 may provide notifications according to the user's level of interest in intestinal activity in order to maintain the user's motivation.

[0252] As described above, the biological information measurement system 1 can provide various types of information to inform the user of desired information. For example, if the user's intestinal condition is poor, the biological information measurement system 1 can encourage the user to improve the condition. The biological information measurement system 1 can satisfy the user's desire to know when their health condition is deteriorating, and can motivate the user to reconsider their lifestyle by notifying them when their score is decreasing.

[0253] Furthermore, if the condition of the intestines is good, the biological information measurement system 1 can encourage the user to maintain that condition. The biological information measurement system 1 can fulfill the user's desire to manage their health by linking it to their lifestyle habits, and can give the user a sense of security by informing them that their score is good. Furthermore, the biological information measurement system 1 can fulfill the desires of users who want to use it to help manage the health of their family members and patients, for example, to know the condition of their family members' stomachs and plan their meal plans.

[0254] Furthermore, if the bioinformation measurement system 1 shows a tendency toward improvement in the condition of the intestines, it can encourage the user to further improve the condition. The bioinformation measurement system 1 can satisfy the user's desire to find an intestinal activity that suits their body, or to use the information as an indicator of the effectiveness of intestinal activity, and can recognize the effects of foods such as yogurt that the user has started to eat and encourage the continued intake of those foods. Furthermore, the bioinformation measurement system 1 can serve as a tool to maintain motivation for intestinal activity, motivating the user to work hard to achieve their goals.

[0255] Furthermore, the biological information measurement system 1 may output an alert when the score is lower than a predetermined value by comparing it with past data. The biological information measurement system 1 may also notify the completion of measurement when the first biological information, the second biological information, the provided information, or the score are all collected. The biological information measurement system 1 may also prioritize and output information with poor results from the first biological information and the second biological information, along with the reasons for the results. The biological information measurement system 1 may also update the recommendation information or the score for each excretory act. The biological information measurement system 1 detects the properties of the stool using an image sensor and detects fecal gas using a gas sensor.

[0256] In addition, the bioinformation measurement system 1 may detect, in addition to the characteristics of the stool, the user's subjective information such as the amount, color, density, and degree of relief after defecation as information regarding intestinal peristalsis, and may detect, in addition to defecation gas, the user's subjective information regarding the color and odor of the stool as information regarding the intestinal environment.

[0257] The biological information measurement system 1 generates various types of content as described above and provides the generated content to a user. For example, the control device 100 of the biological information measurement system 1 generates various types of information such as contents CT1 to CT16. Then, the control device 100 transmits the generated various types of information such as contents CT1 to CT16 to the user's display device 300. The display device 300 receives the various types of information such as contents CT1 to CT16 and displays the received various types of information such as contents CT1 to CT16.

[0258] In this case, for example, the processing unit 132 of the control device 100 functions as a generating unit that performs a process of generating various types of information. The processing unit 132 generates various types of information, such as content, to be displayed on the display device 300. The processing unit 132 generates screens (content) shown in FIGS. 16 to 32. For example, the processing unit 132 generates content (image information) to be provided to the display device 300 by appropriately using various technologies related to image generation and image processing. For example, the processing unit 132 generates screens (image information) to be provided to the display device 300 by appropriately using various technologies such as Java (registered trademark). Note that the processing unit 132 may generate content (image information) to be provided to the display device 300 based on the format of CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), JavaScript (registered trademark), or HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language). Furthermore, for example, the processing unit 132 may generate content in various formats, such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), or PNG (Portable Network Graphics).

[0259] The above-described embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradiction in the processing content.

[0260] 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.

[0261] The above-described embodiments and modifications may have the following configurations, but are not limited to these. (1) A biological information measurement system that measures biological information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, a first detection unit that detects feces; a second detection unit that detects fecal gas; a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or a score related to the health of the user based on the detection result of the first detection unit and the detection result of the second detection unit, and executes control to output the result of the estimation process to an external device; A biological information measuring system comprising: (2) The control unit estimating first biological information based on the properties of the stool from the detection result of the first detection unit; second biological information based on the amount or concentration of the defecation gas from the detection result of the second detection unit; Execute control to output the first biological information and the second biological information. The biological information measuring system according to (1) above. (3) The control unit The estimation process is performed using a larger number of samples of the detection results of the second detection unit than the number of samples of the detection results of the first detection unit. The biological information measuring system according to (1) or (2) above. (4) The biometric information measurement system described in (3) is characterized in that the estimation process uses the detection result of the first detection unit obtained from one toilet use and multiple detection results of the second detection unit obtained from multiple toilet use. (5) The control unit the higher the first evaluation corresponding to each classification of the stool properties based on the detection result of the first detection unit, the higher the score is estimated to be; The estimation process is performed to estimate the score higher as the second evaluation based on the detection result of the second detection unit is higher. The biological information measuring system according to any one of (1) to (4) above, (6) A biological information measurement system that measures biological information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, a first detection unit that detects information regarding intestinal peristalsis; a second detection unit that detects information about the intestinal environment; a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or a score related to the health of the user based on the detection result of the first detection unit and the detection result of the second detection unit, and executes control to output the result of the estimation process to an external device; A biological information measuring system comprising: (7) A biological information measurement system that measures biological information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or score related to the health of the user based on the detection result by the first detection unit that detects stool and the detection result by the second detection unit that detects defecation gas, and controls to output the result of the estimation process to an external device; A biological information measuring system comprising: (8) A biological information measurement system that measures biological information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or score related to the health of the user based on a detection result by a first detection unit that detects information related to intestinal peristalsis and a detection result by a second detection unit that detects information related to the intestinal environment, and controls to output the result of the estimation process to an external device; A biological information measuring system comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0262] 1. Biometric information measurement system 2 Toilet seat device 3 Main body 4. Measuring equipment 5 toilet seats 6 Cleaning nozzle 7 Toilet 8 Bowl 9 Toilet lid 10 Suction device 21 First detection unit (imaging device) 22 Second detection unit (gas detection device) 40 Gas Sensor 50 Light receiving part 100 control device 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 130 Control Unit 131 Acquisition Department 132 Processing section 133 Output section R Toilet Room

Claims

1. A biological information measurement system that measures biological information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, a first detection unit that detects feces; a second detection unit that detects fecal gas; a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or a score related to the health of the user based on the detection result of the first detection unit and the detection result of the second detection unit, and executes control to output the result of the estimation process to an external device; A biological information measuring system comprising:

2. The control unit estimating first biological information based on the properties of the stool from the detection result of the first detection unit; second biological information based on the amount or concentration of the defecation gas from the detection result of the second detection unit; Execute control to output the first biological information and the second biological information.

2. The biological information measuring system according to claim 1.

3. The control unit The estimation process is performed using a larger number of samples of the detection results of the second detection unit than the number of samples of the detection results of the first detection unit.

2. The biological information measuring system according to claim 1.

4. In the estimation process, the detection result of the first detection unit obtained in one toilet use and the detection results of the second detection unit obtained in multiple toilet use are used.

4. The biological information measuring system according to claim 3.

5. The control unit the higher the first evaluation corresponding to each classification of the stool properties based on the detection result of the first detection unit, the higher the score is estimated to be; The estimation process is performed to estimate the score higher as the second evaluation based on the detection result of the second detection unit is higher.

5. The biological information measuring system according to claim 1, wherein the biological information measuring system comprises: a first electrode;

6. A biological information measurement system that measures biological information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, a first detection unit that detects information regarding intestinal peristalsis; a second detection unit that detects information about the intestinal environment; a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or a score related to the health of the user based on the detection result of the first detection unit and the detection result of the second detection unit, and executes control to output the result of the estimation process to an external device; A biological information measuring system comprising:

7. A biological information measurement system that measures biological information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or score related to the health of the user based on the detection result by the first detection unit that detects stool and the detection result by the second detection unit that detects defecation gas, and controls to output the result of the estimation process to an external device; A biological information measuring system comprising:

8. A biological information measurement system that measures biological information of a user of a toilet room based on information about excrement discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, a control unit that executes an estimation process to estimate at least one of the provided information or score related to the health of the user based on a detection result by a first detection unit that detects information related to intestinal peristalsis and a detection result by a second detection unit that detects information related to the intestinal environment, and controls to output the result of the estimation process to an external device; A biological information measuring system comprising:

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