Toilet system

Abstract

To provide a toilet system which is highly convenient in daily life.SOLUTION: A toilet system includes a toilet device including a toilet seat on which a user is seated, a skin gas sensor provided in the toilet device and configured to detect skin gas emitted from skin of the user, a blood flow sensor provided in the toilet device and configured to detect a blood flow of the user, a controller configured to estimate a mental stress state of the user based on a detection result of the skin gas sensor and a detection result of the blood flow sensor, and a notifier configured to notify an estimation result of the controller.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Aspects of the present invention relate generally to toilet systems. [Background technology]

[0002] A device that detects biological gases and evaluates the degree of fatigue is known (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-78585 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The evaluation device described in Patent Document 1 cannot evaluate the degree of fatigue unless the indicator is worn, and therefore may lack convenience.

[0005] The aspects of the present invention have been made based on the recognition of such problems, and have an object to provide a toilet system that is highly convenient for everyday use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention is a toilet system comprising: a toilet device having a toilet seat on which a user sits; a skin gas sensor provided in the toilet device that detects skin gas emitted from the user's skin; a blood flow sensor provided in the toilet device that detects the user's blood flow; a control unit that estimates the user's mental stress state based on the detection results of the skin gas sensor and the blood flow sensor; and an alarm unit that notifies the control unit of the estimation result.

[0007] According to this toilet system, the mental stress state of the user can also be checked when the user uses the toilet device in daily life.

[0008] A second aspect of the present invention is a toilet system in which, in the first aspect, the mental stress state has chronic stress, acute stress, and total stress calculated from the chronic stress and the acute stress, and the control unit estimates the level of the chronic stress based on the detection results of the skin gas sensor, estimates the level of the acute stress based on the detection results of the blood flow sensor, and estimates the total stress based on the level of the chronic stress and the level of the acute stress.

[0009] This toilet system allows users to become aware of their own mental stress state in detail.

[0010] A third aspect of the present invention is the toilet system of the first aspect, wherein the skin gas sensor detects ammonia gas.

[0011] This toilet system can accurately estimate the mental stress state of the user based on the ammonia gas emitted from the user's skin.

[0012] A fourth aspect of the present invention is the toilet system of the third aspect, characterized in that the control unit calculates the amount of skin gas based on the detection result of the skin gas sensor.

[0013] According to this toilet system, the user's mental stress state can be estimated with high accuracy based on the amount of skin gas (ammonia gas) emitted from the user.

[0014] A fifth aspect of the present invention is the toilet system of the first aspect, characterized in that the control unit calculates heart rate variability based on the detection result of the blood flow sensor.

[0015] This toilet system makes it possible to accurately estimate the user's mental stress state based on the user's heart rate fluctuations.

[0016] A sixth aspect of the present invention is the toilet system of the first aspect, characterized in that the notification unit notifies a recommendation for the mental stress state.

[0017] This toilet system allows users to recognize how they can relieve mental stress.

[0018] A seventh aspect of the present invention is a toilet system in which, in the sixth aspect, the notification unit notifies the user of suggestions that will lead to alleviating the mental stress state when it is estimated that the mental stress state is high.

[0019] This toilet system allows users to recognize how they can relieve mental stress.

[0020] An eighth aspect of the present invention is a toilet system according to the first aspect, characterized in that the toilet seat has a seating portion on which the user sits, a bottom portion opposite the seating portion, and a recessed portion recessed from the seating portion toward the bottom portion, and the skin gas sensor is located below the upper surface of the seating portion and provided in the recessed portion.

[0021] According to this toilet system, the skin gas sensor can efficiently detect skin gases that fill the recess.

[0022] A ninth aspect of the present invention is a toilet system according to the first aspect, characterized in that the toilet seat has a seating portion on which the user sits, a bottom portion opposite the seating portion, and a recessed portion recessed from the seating portion toward the bottom portion, and the blood flow sensor is provided in the recessed portion.

[0023] According to this toilet system, the blood flow sensor can efficiently detect the blood flow in the user's thigh.

[0024] A tenth aspect of the present invention is a toilet system characterized in that, in the first aspect, the toilet device further comprises a seating sensor that detects the user sitting on the toilet seat, and the control unit estimates the mental stress state based on the detection results of the skin gas sensor and the detection results of the blood flow sensor detected while the user is sitting on the toilet seat.

[0025] This toilet system makes it possible to accurately estimate the mental stress state of a user sitting on the toilet seat. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] According to aspects of the present invention, a toilet system that is highly convenient for everyday use is provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet unit of a toilet system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a communication system of the toilet system. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a side view showing the positional relationship between a user seated on a toilet seat, a skin gas sensor, and a blood flow sensor. [Figure 4] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the toilet seat and the skin gas sensor in FIG. 1, as viewed from the direction of arrow AA. [Figure 5] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the toilet seat and the skin gas sensor in FIG. 1, as viewed from the direction of arrow BB. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a series of flows of actions of a user using a toilet unit and a control process for estimating the user's fatigue state. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a skin gas and blood flow control process executed by the control unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the detection result of the skin gas sensor displayed on the notification unit of the information terminal. [Figure 9]10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a detection result of a blood flow sensor displayed on a notification unit of an information terminal. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a total stress state displayed on a notification unit of an information terminal. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet unit of a toilet system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a communication system of the toilet system. FIG. 3 is a side view showing the positional relationship between a user seated on the toilet seat, the skin gas sensor, and the blood flow sensor. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the toilet seat and the skin gas sensor in FIG. 1 as viewed from the direction of arrow AA. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the toilet seat and the skin gas sensor in FIG. 1 as viewed from the direction of arrow BB.

[0030] The toilet system 300 estimates the fatigue state (health state) of a user U. The toilet system 300 includes a toilet unit 2, an information terminal 60, and a management device 70. As shown in FIG. 1, the toilet unit 2 includes a toilet device 10, a skin gas sensor 40, and a blood flow sensor 53. The toilet device 10 is installed in a toilet room. The toilet device 10 includes a toilet bowl 11, a casing 12, a toilet seat 20, and a toilet lid 30. The toilet bowl 11 is a so-called seated toilet. The toilet bowl 11 has a concave bowl portion 11a that is recessed downward. The toilet bowl 11 receives excrement such as urine and feces from the user U in the bowl portion 11a.

[0031] In this specification, the terms "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left side," and "right side" refer to directions as seen by a user U sitting on the toilet seat 20 with their back to the open toilet lid 30.

[0032] The casing 12 is installed on top of the toilet bowl 11. The casing 12 may be attached integrally to the toilet bowl 11, or may be detachably attached to the toilet bowl 11. The casing 12 houses a plurality of functional parts for operating the functions of the toilet unit 2. The functional parts include, for example, an opening / closing unit that controls the opening and closing of the toilet seat 20 and the toilet lid 30, a toilet seat heating unit that controls the temperature of the toilet seat 20, a private parts washing unit that cleans private parts of the human body, a deodorizing unit that reduces odorous components, and a communication unit that can communicate with a remote control, an information terminal 60, and the like. These functional parts are provided as needed. The casing 12 also houses a control unit 15 that controls these functional parts and a memory unit 17 that stores information about the functional parts.

[0033] The toilet seat 20 has an outer edge curved to match the external shape of the toilet bowl 11, and is pivotally supported relative to the casing 12. The toilet seat 20 has an opening 20a that penetrates into the bowl portion 11a. As shown in FIG. 1, this example shows a so-called O-shaped toilet seat 20 with the opening 20a formed in the center of the toilet seat 20. The toilet seat 20 is not limited to an O-shape and may be U-shaped or the like. A user U can defecate into the bowl portion 11a while sitting on the toilet seat 20. The toilet seat 20 has a seating portion 21 on which the user U sits, a bottom portion 22 facing the seating portion 21, and recesses 23 and 25 that recess from the seating portion 21 toward the bottom portion 22.

[0034] Seating section 21 forms the upper surface of toilet seat 20 when toilet seat 20 is placed on toilet bowl 11 in the closed state, and is the part on which user U sits. Bottom section 22 faces the top surface of toilet bowl 11 in the vertical direction when closed. A heater wire and insulating material are provided inside toilet seat 20 to keep seating section 21 warm. Also provided inside toilet seat 20 are a skin gas sensor 40 and a blood flow sensor 53, which will be described later.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 4, the recessed portion 23 is provided inside the toilet seat 20. The recessed portion 23 is provided in a portion of the toilet seat 20 that is located below the thigh U1 of a user U seated on the seating portion 21. As shown in FIG. 1, in this example, the recessed portion 23 is provided to the left of the center in the left-right direction of the toilet seat 20. In other words, the recessed portion 23 is located below the left thigh U1 of a user U seated on the toilet seat 20. Note that the recessed portion 23 may also be provided to the right of the center in the left-right direction of the toilet seat 20.

[0036] Recess 23 has sidewall 23a extending from seat 21 toward bottom 22, and undersurface 23b connecting the lower ends of sidewall 23a. The upper side of recess 23 is covered by seat 21. That is, recess 23 is located on the undersurface 21b side of seat 21, and forms space S that is surrounded above, below, in front, behind, left, and right sides. Skin gas sensor 40 is provided in this space S.

[0037] The seat 21 has a through-hole 24 that penetrates from the upper surface 21a to the lower surface 21b at a position corresponding to the recess 23. The through-hole 24 connects the space S to the outside of the toilet seat 20. The through-hole 24 serves as a gas flow path that guides skin gas G emitted from the thighs U1 of a user U seated on the seat 21 into the space S of the recess 23. Here, skin gas refers to gas containing volatile components that is emitted from the surface of a person's body. The emission pathways of skin gas can be classified into surface-reaction-derived pathways, in which components of sweat and sebum interact with resident bacteria and are emitted from the skin surface; skin gland-derived pathways, in which components in blood volatilize and are emitted directly from the skin; and blood-derived pathways, in which components in blood volatilize and are emitted directly from the skin. In this example, blood-derived skin gas is the target. The through-hole 24 may be provided with a filter (not shown) that allows gas to pass through but blocks liquid from passing through. This can prevent water and the like from entering the inside of the recessed portion 23.

[0038] The toilet lid 30 is pivotally supported on the casing 12. When closed, the toilet lid 30 covers the toilet seat 20. The toilet lid 30 is provided as needed and can be omitted.

[0039] Skin gas sensor 40 is provided in toilet device 10 and detects skin gas G emitted from the skin of user U. Skin gas sensor 40 detects skin gas G derived from the blood of user U. Skin gas sensor 40 can be, for example, a semiconductor gas sensor, an electrochemical sensor, a gas heat transfer sensor, a surface acoustic wave sensor, a catalytic combustion sensor, an optical sensor, a carbon nanotube sensor, a graphene sensor, an optical fiber sensor, a thin film sensor, a MEMS thermal conduction sensor, a micro thermoelectric sensor, an electromotive force change sensor, a gas chromatography measurement sensor, a VOC (volatile organic compound) sensor, or the like.

[0040] Skin gas sensor 40 is provided on toilet seat 20. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4 , skin gas sensor 40 is located below upper surface 21a of seating portion 21 and provided in recess 23. That is, skin gas sensor 40 is provided in recess 23 without contacting thigh U1 of user U. Skin gas G emitted from thigh U1 of user U flows into space S through through-hole 24. Skin gas sensor 40 detects skin gas G that has filled space S. The detection results of skin gas sensor 40 are transmitted to management device 70 via information terminal 60, which will be described later. Management device 70 estimates the fatigue state of user U based on the detection results of skin gas sensor 40.

[0041] The seating sensor 45 detects whether the user U sits on or leaves the toilet seat 20. The seating sensor 45 is a contact sensor such as a tactile switch, electrostatic sensor, or strain sensor provided on the toilet seat 20. The seating sensor 45 may also be a pyroelectric sensor or distance sensor (infrared sensor) provided on the casing 12. The detection result of the seating sensor 45 is transmitted to the management device 70 via the information terminal 60 described below. The seating sensor 45 is provided as needed.

[0042] Blood flow sensor 53 is provided on toilet seat 20, similar to skin gas sensor 40. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5 , blood flow sensor 53 is provided in recess 25, located below upper surface 21a of seating portion 21. Recess 25 is provided in a different position from recess 23, for example. Recess 25 has side wall 25a and lower surface 25b, similar to recess 23. Blood flow sensor 53 may be provided in recess 23 together with skin gas sensor 40.

[0043] The blood flow sensor 53 is provided on the underside 21b of the seating portion 21. The blood flow sensor 53 detects the blood flow of the user U while in contact with the thigh U1 of the user U seated on the toilet seat 20. The blood flow sensor 53 may also detect the blood flow of the user U without making contact with the user U. The blood flow sensor 53 is an optical sensor that detects the blood flow of the user U seated on the toilet seat 20, for example, using visible light or a laser. The blood flow sensor 53 irradiates light toward the thigh U1 of the user U, reflects it off the blood flow of the user U, and detects the reflected light.

[0044] The detection results of blood flow sensor 53 are transmitted to management device 70 via information terminal 60, which will be described later. Management device 70 estimates the fatigue state of user U based on the detection results of skin gas sensor 40 and blood flow sensor 53.

[0045] Control unit 15 is provided inside casing 12. Control unit 15 is connected to skin gas sensor 40, seating sensor 45, and blood flow sensor 53. Control unit 15 transmits the detection results of skin gas sensor 40, seating sensor 45, and blood flow sensor 53 to information terminal 60 via a communication unit (not shown). Control unit 15 also controls the operation of functional units provided inside casing 12. Note that the control of the functional units may be performed by a control unit separate from control unit 15.

[0046] Memory unit 17 stores information on skin gas sensor 40, seating sensor 45, blood flow sensor 53, and functional unit information. Skin gas sensor 40 information includes the detection results of skin gas sensor 40. Seat sensor 45 information includes the detection results of seating sensor 45. Blood flow sensor 53 information includes the detection results of blood flow sensor 53. Memory unit 17 also stores a program for controlling the operation of the functional units. Control unit 15 operates the functional units based on the program stored in memory unit 17.

[0047] The information terminal 60 is, for example, a smartphone or tablet terminal owned by the user U. However, the information terminal 60 is not limited to these and may be any terminal usable by the user U, such as a PC terminal. The information terminal 60 may be, for example, a remote control for operating the functional units of the toilet device 10. The information terminal 60 has a control unit 60a and a notification unit 60b.

[0048] The information terminal 60 is directly connected to the toilet device 10 via wireless communication. The information terminal 60 is capable of communicating with the toilet device 10 according to a Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy). The information terminal 60 is also connected to the management device 70 via a network (e.g., the Internet). The information terminal 60 transmits various pieces of information transmitted from the toilet device 10 to the management device 70. The information terminal 60 also transmits various pieces of information transmitted from the management device 70 to the toilet device 10.

[0049] A program (application software) for using the toilet system 300 is installed in the information terminal 60. The control unit 60a operates the toilet system 300 based on the program. The control unit 60a also causes the notification unit 60b to notify various pieces of information transmitted from the toilet device 10 and the management device 70. The notification unit 60b is, for example, a display screen that displays various pieces of information. The notification unit 60b may also be an audio output unit that notifies various pieces of information by voice. The notification unit 60b notifies the fatigue state estimation result estimated by the control unit 70a of the management device 70.

[0050] The management device 70 is installed at a location away from the toilet room. The management device 70 is, for example, a cloud server, and is connected to the information terminal 60 via a network. The management device 70 may be installed in a building in which the toilet room is installed. The management device 70 has a control unit 70a and a storage unit 70b.

[0051] The control unit 70a estimates the fatigue state of the user U based on the detection results of the skin gas sensor 40 and the detection results of the blood flow sensor 53. The memory unit 70b stores a program for skin gas and blood flow control processing for estimating the fatigue state of the user U.

[0052] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a series of flows of the behavior of a user who uses the toilet unit and the control process for estimating the fatigue state.

[0053] First, after entering the toilet, the user U performs personal authentication using the information terminal 60. The user U, for example, starts up application software on the information terminal 60, and performs personal authentication between the user U and the toilet device 10. Note that any method may be used to perform personal authentication of the user U who has entered the toilet, as long as it is possible to perform personal authentication of the user U.

[0054] Furthermore, the toilet system 300 obtains consent from the user U to skin gas detection and blood flow detection. For example, the toilet system 300 obtains consent from the user U to skin gas detection and blood flow detection by the user U operating the information terminal 60. Note that the toilet system 300 may obtain consent from the user U to skin gas detection and blood flow detection by any method. When consent from the user U is obtained, the toilet system 300 becomes available for use.

[0055] Thereafter, when user U sits on toilet seat 20, sensor detection is performed by skin gas sensor 40 and blood flow sensor 53. That is, skin gas sensor 40 detects skin gas G emitted from user U's skin (thigh U1). Blood flow sensor 53 detects user U's blood flow. Control unit 15 of toilet device 10 transmits the detection results of skin gas sensor 40 and blood flow sensor 53 to information terminal 60. In addition, information terminal 60 transmits the received detection results to management device 70 together with the user's unique identification information.

[0056] When user U leaves toilet seat 20, sensor detection by skin gas sensor 40 and blood flow sensor 53 ends. Control unit 15 of toilet device 10 transmits the end of detection by skin gas sensor 40 and blood flow sensor 53 to information terminal 60. Information terminal 60 also transmits the end of detection together with the user's unique identification information to management device 70. Note that control unit 15 of toilet device 10 may transmit the detection results while user U was sitting on toilet seat 20 to information terminal 60 together after user U leaves toilet seat 20.

[0057] Control unit 70a of management device 70 estimates the fatigue state of user U from the detection results of skin gas sensor 40 and blood flow sensor 53. A calibration curve showing the relationship between known gas amounts and the output value of skin gas sensor 40 is stored in memory unit 70b of management device 70. Control unit 70a calculates the difference between the output value of skin gas sensor 40 detected when user U is seated on toilet seat 20, for example, and the maximum output value of skin gas sensor 40 detected while user U is seated on toilet seat 20.

[0058] It should be noted that skin gas from the user U who previously used the toilet device 10 may remain in the recess 23. Therefore, the control unit 70a may determine that the fatigue state cannot be estimated if the output value of the skin gas sensor 40 detected when the user U sits on the toilet seat 20 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0059] The control unit 70a calculates the amount E of skin gas G (hereinafter referred to as gas amount E) by applying the calculated difference value to a calibration curve stored in the memory unit 70b. The gas amount E is, for example, a diffusion flux. The fatigue state of the user U may be estimated from the concentration of skin gas G.

[0060] Furthermore, the control unit 70a calculates the heart rate variability from the detection result of the blood flow sensor 53. The control unit 70a calculates the heart rate variability H of the user U, for example, by frequency analysis.

[0061] The control unit 70a estimates the fatigue state of the user U based on the calculated gas amount E and heart rate variability H. The control unit 70a transmits the calculated gas amount E, heart rate variability H, and the estimated fatigue state of the user U to the information terminal 60. The control unit 60a of the information terminal 60 causes the notification unit 60b to notify the received gas amount E, heart rate variability H, and estimated fatigue state. The user U can recognize his or her own fatigue state by checking the notification unit 60b. The control unit 70a also stores the estimated gas amount E, heart rate variability H, and fatigue state in the memory unit 70b.

[0062] Next, the skin gas and blood flow control process executed by the control unit 70a will be described with reference to Fig. 7. The control unit 70a estimates a mental stress state as the fatigue state of the user U. The mental stress state includes chronic stress, acute stress, and total stress calculated from the chronic stress and acute stress.

[0063] The control unit 70a can estimate chronic stress based on the amount of ammonia gas emitted from the skin of the user U. Ammonia is produced mainly in the intestines through the breakdown of proteins and is transported to the liver via the blood. Ammonia is metabolized into urea in the liver and excreted from the body. In this case, when a person feels mental fatigue and their autonomic nervous system becomes disturbed, liver function declines. This results in a slowdown in the urea metabolism of ammonia, and the ammonia concentration in the blood increases. Ammonia is highly volatile, so it evaporates from the blood and is emitted from the body surface.

[0064] The control unit 70a determines the acute stress state by calculating the heart rate, heart rate variability, cardiopulmonary function, body water percentage, metabolism, etc. from blood flow information such as the flow rate, flow velocity, red blood cell count, and oxygen saturation detected by the blood flow sensor 53. In this example, the control unit 70a estimates acute stress based on the heart rate variability of the user U. Heart rate variability decreases when a person feels mental fatigue or the like and their autonomic nervous system becomes disturbed.

[0065] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the skin gas and blood flow control process executed by the control unit. The control process shown in FIG. 7 is stored in advance in the storage unit 70b of the management device 70.

[0066] Here, the user U performs an initial setting before using the toilet system 300. This initial setting is to store the amount of ammonia gas emitted from the skin of the user U as an initial value in the memory unit 70b. Note that the initial setting is preferably performed when the user U is not feeling fatigue (stress).

[0067] After user U is personally authenticated using information terminal 60, he or she operates information terminal 60 to input initial settings and sits on toilet seat 20. Skin gas sensor 40 detects ammonia gas emitted from the skin (thigh U1) of user U seated on toilet seat 20. In this case, through-hole 24 of toilet seat 20 is blocked by user U's thigh U1 when he or she is seated. Therefore, gases other than skin gas G are prevented from entering depression 23 from the air. This allows skin gas sensor 40 to efficiently detect ammonia gas emitted from user U.

[0068] The control unit 15 of the toilet device 10 transmits the output value of the skin gas sensor 40 to the information terminal 60. The information terminal 60 transmits the received output value of the skin gas sensor 40 as initial setting information together with the user's unique identification information to the management device 70 via the Internet.

[0069] Control unit 70a of management device 70 stores gas amount E calculated from the output value (difference value) of skin gas sensor 40 transmitted from information terminal 60 in memory unit 70b as an initial value. Control unit 70a stores this initial value as threshold Ex in memory unit 70b. Note that threshold Ex may be calculated based on the initial value. The initial value and threshold Ex are stored in memory unit 70b in association with identification information unique to the user. The initial value may be the result of a single detection by skin gas sensor 40 detected at initial settings, or may be the average of multiple detection results by skin gas sensor 40 detected at initial settings. Threshold Ex may be a value previously stored in memory unit 70b.

[0070] The memory unit 70b also stores a heart rate variability threshold Hx in advance. The threshold Hx is an arbitrary value used to determine the level of acute stress. The threshold Ex may be calculated, for example, based on the average or median of the heart rate variability of the user U. The threshold Hx may also be calculated from the detection results of the blood flow sensor 53 detected at the initial setting, similar to the threshold Ex of the gas amount E.

[0071] When the initial settings are performed, control unit 70a estimates user U's fatigue state (mental stress state) based on S301 to S309 of Fig. 7. That is, skin gas sensor 40 detects ammonia gas while seating sensor 45 detects user U's seating on toilet seat 20. Blood flow sensor 53 detects user U's blood flow while seating sensor 45 detects user U's seating on toilet seat 20. Control unit 70a estimates user U's mental stress state based on the detected amount E of ammonia gas and heart rate variability H.

[0072] In S301, the amount E of ammonia gas is calculated. That is, control unit 70a calculates the amount E of gas from the output value of skin gas sensor 40 transmitted from information terminal 60. Control unit 70a also acquires threshold Ex of identification information that is the same as the user-specific identification information transmitted from information terminal 60. Control unit 70a also stores the calculated amount E of gas in memory unit 70b.

[0073] In the next S302, the heart rate fluctuation H is calculated. That is, the control unit 70a calculates the heart rate fluctuation H from the output value of the blood flow sensor 53 transmitted from the information terminal 60. Also, the control unit 70a acquires the threshold value Hx stored in the storage unit 70b. Further, the control unit 70a stores the calculated heart rate fluctuation H in the storage unit 70b.

[0074] In S303, it is determined whether the gas amount E is equal to or greater than the threshold value Ex (E≧Ex). The control unit 70a compares the currently calculated gas amount E with the threshold value Ex. And when it is determined as "YES" in S303, that is, when the gas amount E is determined to be equal to or greater than the threshold value Ex, the process proceeds to S304. On the other hand, when it is determined as "NO" in S303, that is, when the gas amount E is determined to be less than the threshold value Ex, the process proceeds to S307.

[0075] In S304, it is determined whether the heart rate fluctuation H is less than the threshold value Hx (H<Hx). That is, the control unit 70a compares the currently calculated heart rate fluctuation H with the threshold value Hx. And when it is determined as "YES" in S304, that is, when the heart rate fluctuation H is determined to be less than the threshold value Hx, the process proceeds to S305. On the other hand, when it is determined as "NO" in S304, that is, when the heart rate fluctuation H is determined to be equal to or greater than the threshold value Hx, the process proceeds to S306.

[0076] In S305, it is estimated that the overall stress is "high", the chronic stress is "high", and the acute stress is "high". That is, when the currently calculated gas amount E is equal to or greater than the threshold value Ex, the control unit 70a estimates that the chronic stress is "high". Also, when the currently calculated heart rate fluctuation H is less than the threshold value Hx, the control unit 70a estimates that the acute stress is "high". Then, the control unit 70a calculates the overall stress as "high" from the chronic stress "high" and the acute stress "high", and ends. Further, the control unit 70a transmits a first signal based on the overall stress "high", the chronic stress "high", and the acute stress "high" to the information terminal 60. The information terminal 60 gives a notification from the notification unit 60b based on the first signal. Also, the control unit 70a stores the estimation result in the storage unit 70b.

[0077] In S306, it is estimated that the overall stress is "medium", the chronic stress is "high", and the acute stress is "low". That is, when the gas amount E calculated this time is equal to or greater than the threshold value Ex, the control unit 70a estimates that the chronic stress is "high". Also, when the heartbeat fluctuation H calculated this time is equal to or greater than the threshold value Hx, the control unit 70a estimates that the acute stress is "low". Then, the control unit 70a calculates the overall stress "medium" from the chronic stress "high" and the acute stress "low", and ends. Also, the control unit 70a transmits a second signal based on the overall stress "medium", the chronic stress "high", and the acute stress "low" to the information terminal 60. The information terminal 60 performs notification from the notification unit 60b based on the second signal. Also, the control unit 70a stores the estimation result in the storage unit 70b.

[0078] In S307, it is determined whether the heartbeat fluctuation H is less than the threshold value Hx (H < Hx). The control process of S307 is the same as the control process of S304. When it is determined as "YES" in S307, that is, when it is determined that the heartbeat fluctuation H is less than the threshold value Hx, the process proceeds to S308. On the other hand, when it is determined as "NO" in S307, that is, when it is determined that the heartbeat fluctuation H is equal to or greater than the threshold value Hx, the process proceeds to S309.

[0079] In S308, it is estimated that the overall stress is "medium", the chronic stress is "low", and the acute stress is "high". That is, when the gas amount E calculated this time is less than the threshold value Ex, the control unit 70a estimates that the chronic stress is "low". Also, when the heartbeat fluctuation H calculated this time is less than the threshold value Hx, the control unit 70a estimates that the acute stress is "high". Then, the control unit 70a calculates the overall stress "medium" from the chronic stress "low" and the acute stress "high", and ends. Also, the control unit 70a transmits a third signal based on the overall stress "medium", the chronic stress "low", and the acute stress "high" to the information terminal 60. The information terminal 60 performs notification from the notification unit 60b based on the third signal. Also, the control unit 70a stores the estimation result in the storage unit 70b.

[0080] In S309, the control unit 70a estimates the total stress as "low," the chronic stress as "low," and the acute stress as "low." That is, if the currently calculated gas amount E is less than the threshold value Ex, the control unit 70a estimates the chronic stress as "low." Furthermore, if the currently calculated heart rate variability H is equal to or greater than the threshold value Hx, the control unit 70a estimates the acute stress as "low." The control unit 70a then calculates the total stress as "low" from the chronic stress "low" and acute stress "low," and ends the process. Furthermore, the control unit 70a transmits a fourth signal based on the total stress "low," chronic stress "low," and acute stress "low" to the information terminal 60. The information terminal 60 issues a notification based on the fourth signal from the notification unit 60b. Furthermore, the control unit 70a stores the estimation result in the memory unit 70b.

[0081] Next, the content notified by the notifying unit 60b of the information terminal 60 will be described. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the detection result of the skin gas sensor displayed on the notification unit of the information terminal. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the detection result of the blood flow sensor displayed on the notification unit of the information terminal. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the state of total stress displayed on the notification unit of the information terminal. The examples shown in FIGS. 8 to 10 are cases where the total stress is estimated to be "medium," the chronic stress is estimated to be "low," and the acute stress is estimated to be "high" in S308 in FIG.

[0082] 8, the notification unit 60b of the information terminal 60 displays the chronic stress score estimated from, for example, the amount E of ammonia gas emitted from the user U. The notification unit 60b displays that the chronic stress score, calculated by converting the amount E of ammonia gas currently emitted from the user U into a score, is 50 points.

[0083] The chronic stress score is calculated, for example, based on a threshold value Ex. For example, the greater the gas amount E is relative to the threshold value Ex, the higher the chronic stress score, and the smaller the gas amount E is relative to the threshold value Ex, the lower the chronic stress score. For example, a chronic stress score of 0 to 50 points is "low" and a chronic stress score of 51 to 100 points is "high." The notification unit 60b may also display the amount and concentration of ammonia gas. The notification unit 60b may also display a comparison between the current gas amount E and the initial value of the gas amount for the user U.

[0084] Notification unit 60b of information terminal 60 may display only the current detection result of skin gas sensor 40, or may display the current detection result of skin gas sensor 40 as well as the previous detection results of skin gas sensor 40. Notification unit 60b of information terminal 60 may also display changes in the detection results of skin gas sensor 40 in the form of a diagram or graph. Examples of diagrams and graphs showing changes in the detection results of skin gas sensor 40 include scatter plots and bar graphs. Diagrams and graphs showing changes in the detection results of skin gas sensor 40 may also display moving averages or medians. In the example of FIG. 8, notification unit 60b of information terminal 60 displays a line indicating the initial value of user U along with a scatter plot showing changes in the detection results of skin gas sensor 40 over a one-week period.

[0085] Notification unit 60b of information terminal 60 can display the detection results of skin gas sensor 40 on a daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly basis, for example. Notification unit 60b may also display the past average chronic stress score. This allows user U to understand changes over time in the detection results of skin gas sensor 40.

[0086] 9, the notification unit 60b of the information terminal 60 displays, for example, an acute stress score estimated from the heart rate variability H of the user U. The notification unit 60b displays that the acute stress score, which is calculated by converting the currently detected heart rate variability H of the user U into a score, is 75 points.

[0087] The acute stress score is calculated, for example, based on a threshold value Hx. For example, the smaller the heart rate variability H is compared to the threshold value Hx, the higher the acute stress score, and the larger the heart rate variability H is compared to the threshold value Hx, the lower the acute stress score. For example, 0 to 50 points are considered "low" and 51 to 100 points are considered "high." The notification unit 60b may display the heart rate variability. The notification unit 60b may also display a comparison between the current heart rate variability H and the initial value of the heart rate variability.

[0088] The notification unit 60b of the information terminal 60 may display only the current detection result of the blood flow sensor 53, or may display the current detection result of the blood flow sensor 53 as well as the previous detection results of the blood flow sensor 53. The notification unit 60b of the information terminal 60 may also display changes in the detection results of the blood flow sensor 53 in the form of a diagram or graph. Examples of diagrams and graphs showing changes in the detection results of the blood flow sensor 53 include scatter plots and bar graphs. A moving average line or a median may be displayed in a diagram or graph showing changes in the detection results of the blood flow sensor 53. In the example of FIG. 9, the notification unit 60b of the information terminal 60 displays changes in the detection results of the blood flow sensor 53 over a one-week period in the form of a bar graph, and also displays a line indicating the initial value of user U.

[0089] The notification unit 60b of the information terminal 60 can display the detection results of the blood flow sensor 53 on a daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly basis, for example. The notification unit 60b may also display the past average acute stress score. This allows the user U to understand changes over time in the detection results of the blood flow sensor 53.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 10, the notification unit 60b of the information terminal 60 displays a total stress score calculated from, for example, the chronic stress estimated from the gas amount E of the user U and the acute stress estimated from the heart rate variability H. The total stress score is, for example, the average value of the chronic stress score and the acute stress score. Note that the total stress score may be weighted toward either the chronic stress score or the acute stress score. For example, a total stress score ranging from 0 to 30 points is "low," 31 to 69 points is "medium," and 70 to 100 points is "high."

[0091] The notification unit 60b notifies the user of suggestions for dealing with the mental stress state. For example, if the overall stress score is "high" or "medium," the notification unit 60b determines that the user is under mental stress and notifies the user of suggestions for alleviating the mental stress state. As shown in FIG. 10, the notification unit 60b displays suggestions such as, "Have you been feeling tired lately? Why not refresh yourself by doing some stretching or listening to music to relieve acute stress?"

[0092] When the total stress is "high," the chronic stress is "high," and the acute stress is "high" (in the case of S305), the notification unit 60b displays, for example, "You seem to be somewhat stressed. Why not try listening to music to change your mood?", "Have you been feeling tired lately? Stretching is effective for refreshing your mind and body.", "Your stress score is high. Why not try changing your living environment?", "You seem tired. Why not try to maintain a regular lifestyle.", etc. Furthermore, when the total stress is "medium," the chronic stress is "high," and the acute stress is "low" (in the case of S306), the notification unit 60b displays, for example, "Your stress score is high. Why not try changing your living environment?", "You seem tired. Why not try to maintain a regular lifestyle.", etc.

[0093] Furthermore, when the total stress is "medium," the chronic stress is "low," and the acute stress is "high" (in the case of S308), the notification unit 60b displays, for example, "You seem to be somewhat stressed. Why not try listening to music to change your mood," or "Have you been feeling tired lately? Stretching is effective for refreshing your mind and body." Furthermore, when the total stress is "low," the chronic stress is "low," and the acute stress is "low" (in the case of S309), the notification unit 60b displays, for example, "You're doing well. Keep up the same lifestyle behavior," or "You're doing a good job of managing your stress. Keep it up."

[0094] Furthermore, the notification unit 60b may display a comparison of the total stress estimated in the past and the past total stress, or may display an average value. This allows the user U to understand the progress of their total stress state. The notification unit 60b may also display the total stress, chronic stress, and acute stress states together.

[0095] The effects of the toilet system 300 will be described below. The toilet system 300 estimates the mental stress state of the user based on the detection results of the skin gas sensor 40 provided in the toilet device 10 and the detection results of the blood flow sensor 53 provided in the toilet device 10. The notification unit 60b then notifies the user of the mental stress estimated by the control unit 70a. This allows the user U to check their mental stress state when using the toilet device 10 in their daily lives.

[0096] Control unit 70a estimates the level of chronic stress based on the detection results of skin gas sensor 40, estimates the level of acute stress based on the detection results of blood flow sensor 53, and estimates total stress from the levels of chronic stress and acute stress. This allows user U to recognize his or her own mental stress state in detail.

[0097] Skin gas sensor 40 detects ammonia gas. Controller 70a calculates the amount E of skin gas based on the detection result of skin gas sensor 40. The amount E of ammonia gas emitted from user U can be used to accurately estimate the chronic stress of user U.

[0098] The control unit 70a calculates the heart rate variability H based on the detection result of the blood flow sensor 53. The heart rate variability H of the user U allows the acute stress of the user U to be estimated with high accuracy.

[0099] The notification unit 60b notifies the user U of a recommendation for the mental stress state. Furthermore, when the notification unit 60b estimates that the mental stress state is high, the notification unit 60b notifies the user U of a recommendation that will lead to easing the mental stress state. This allows the user U to recognize how to relieve the mental stress.

[0100] Skin gas sensor 40 is provided in recess 23, located below upper surface 21a of seating portion 21. This allows skin gas sensor 40 to efficiently detect ammonia gas that fills space S within recess 23.

[0101] The blood flow sensor 53 is provided in the recess 25 of the toilet seat 20. This allows the blood flow sensor 53 to efficiently detect the blood flow in the thigh U1 of the user U.

[0102] The control unit 70a estimates the mental stress state of the user U based on the detection results of the skin gas sensor 40 and the detection results of the blood flow sensor 53 while the user U is seated on the toilet seat 20. This allows the toilet system 300 to accurately estimate the mental stress state of the user U seated on the toilet seat 20.

[0103] In the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the control unit 70a of the management device 70 estimates the health state (mental stress state) of the user U. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the health state of the user U may be estimated by the control unit 15 of the toilet device 10 or the control unit 60a of the information terminal 60, for example.

[0104] In the above-described embodiment, the management device 70 and the information terminal 60 are communicatively connected via a network. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the toilet device 10 and the management device 70 may be communicatively connected via a network. In other words, the detection results of the skin gas sensor 40 and the like may be transmitted to the management device 70 without going through the information terminal 60.

[0105] In the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the health condition (mental stress state) is estimated based on the amount of skin gas and heart rate variability detected while seating on toilet seat 20 is detected by seat sensor 45. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, seat sensor 45 may not be provided. In this case, the health condition may be estimated based on the amount of skin gas and heart rate variability detected for a predetermined time period from when user U is personally authenticated (or until personal authentication is released), for example.

[0106] Embodiments may include the following features.

[0107] (Configuration 1) a toilet device having a toilet seat on which a user sits; a skin gas sensor provided in the toilet device and configured to detect skin gas emitted from the skin of the user; a blood flow sensor provided in the toilet device for detecting the blood flow of the user; a control unit that estimates the mental stress state of the user based on the detection results of the skin gas sensor and the detection results of the blood flow sensor; A toilet system comprising: an alarm unit that notifies the estimation result of the control unit. (Configuration 2) the mental stress state includes chronic stress, acute stress, and total stress calculated from the chronic stress and the acute stress, The control unit estimating the level of the chronic stress based on the detection result of the skin gas sensor; estimating the level of the acute stress based on the detection result of the blood flow sensor; The toilet system according to configuration 1, wherein the total stress is estimated based on the level of the chronic stress and the level of the acute stress. (Configuration 3) 3. The toilet system according to claim 1, wherein the skin gas sensor detects ammonia gas. (Configuration 4) 4. The toilet system according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the control unit calculates the amount of the skin gas based on the detection result of the skin gas sensor. (Configuration 5) 5. The toilet system according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the control unit calculates heart rate variability based on the detection result of the blood flow sensor. (Configuration 6) 6. The toilet system according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the notification unit notifies the user of a suggestion for dealing with the mental stress state. (Configuration 7) The toilet system according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the notification unit, when it is estimated that the mental stress state is high, notifies the user of a suggestion that will lead to easing the mental stress state. (Configuration 8) The toilet seat is a seating section on which the user sits; a bottom portion facing the seating portion; a recessed portion recessed from the seating portion toward the bottom portion; and 8. The toilet system according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the skin gas sensor is provided in the recessed portion, positioned below the upper surface of the seating portion. (Configuration 9) The toilet seat is a seating section on which the user sits; a bottom portion facing the seating portion; a recessed portion recessed from the seating portion toward the bottom portion; and The toilet system according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, wherein the blood flow sensor is provided in the recess. (Configuration 10) The toilet device further includes a seat sensor that detects whether the user is sitting on the toilet seat. The toilet system of any one of configurations 1 to 9, wherein the control unit estimates the mental stress state based on the detection results of the skin gas sensor and the detection results of the blood flow sensor detected while the user is seated on the toilet seat.

[0108] The above describes embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they incorporate the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, installation form, etc. of each element of a toilet system are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of the above-described embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they incorporate the features of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 2 Toilet Unit 10 Toilet equipment 11 Toilet 11a Bowl section 12 Casing 15 Control Unit 17 Memory section 20 toilet seats 20a opening 21 Seating area 21a Top surface 21b Bottom side 22 Bottom 23, 25 recessed part 23a, 25a side wall part 23b, 25b Bottom part 24 through holes 30 toilet lid 40 Skin gas sensor 45 Seat sensor 53 Blood flow sensor 60 Information terminal 60a Control section 60b Notification Department 70 Management device 70a Control section 70b Storage section 300 Toilet System G Skin gas S space U User U1 thigh

Claims

1. a toilet device having a toilet seat on which a user sits; a skin gas sensor provided in the toilet device and configured to detect skin gas emitted from the skin of the user; a blood flow sensor provided in the toilet device for detecting the blood flow of the user; a control unit that estimates the mental stress state of the user based on the detection results of the skin gas sensor and the detection results of the blood flow sensor; A toilet system comprising: an alarm unit that notifies the estimation result of the control unit.

2. the mental stress state includes chronic stress, acute stress, and total stress calculated from the chronic stress and the acute stress, The control unit estimating the level of the chronic stress based on the detection result of the skin gas sensor; estimating the level of the acute stress based on the detection result of the blood flow sensor; 2. The toilet system according to claim 1, wherein the total stress is estimated based on the level of the chronic stress and the level of the acute stress.

3. 2. The toilet system according to claim 1, wherein the skin gas sensor detects ammonia gas.

4. The toilet system according to claim 3 , wherein the control unit calculates the amount of the skin gas based on the detection result of the skin gas sensor.

5. The toilet system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit calculates heart rate variability based on the detection result of the blood flow sensor.

6. The toilet system according to claim 1 , wherein the notification unit notifies the user of a suggestion for the mental stress state.

7. The toilet system according to claim 6, wherein the notification unit notifies a user of a suggestion that will lead to alleviation of the mental stress state when the mental stress state is estimated to be high.

8. The toilet seat is a seating section on which the user sits; a bottom portion facing the seating portion; a recessed portion recessed from the seating portion toward the bottom portion; and 2. The toilet system according to claim 1, wherein the skin gas sensor is provided in the recessed portion, positioned below an upper surface of the seat.

9. The toilet seat is a seating section on which the user sits; a bottom portion facing the seating portion; a recessed portion recessed from the seating portion toward the bottom portion; and The toilet system according to claim 1 , wherein the blood flow sensor is provided in the recess.

10. The toilet device further includes a seat sensor that detects whether the user is sitting on the toilet seat. The toilet system described in claim 1, characterized in that the control unit estimates the mental stress state based on the detection results of the skin gas sensor and the detection results of the blood flow sensor detected while the user is sitting on the toilet seat.

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