Measuring device

Abstract

To maintain high accuracy in urine measurement while improving convenience. [Solution] The measuring device comprises a sensor mounting section to which a sensor unit can be attached, which is portable and configured as a disposable item and is configured to output a signal regarding the components contained in the collected urine; a measuring section that measures the components contained in the urine based on the signal output by the sensor unit; and a housing section that supports or houses the sensor mounting section and the measuring section, wherein the housing section is configured to be installable in or brought into a toilet, and the measuring section is configured to start measuring at any time after the sensor unit has been attached to the sensor mounting section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a measuring device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, for the diagnosis and prevention of diseases of a subject, etc., detecting a specific component in a test liquid such as urine with a sensor and measuring its concentration value has been carried out. In particular, urine can be collected without hurting the body, so the burden on the subject is small, and it is convenient as a test liquid to be used for measurement.

[0003] In order to improve the convenience of this urine measurement, a technique has been proposed in which a sensor unit is configured to be able to hold urine and measure the held urine when attached to a measuring device (for example, Patent Document 1). In Patent Document 1, after collecting urine with the sensor unit, urine measurement can be performed by attaching the sensor unit to the measuring device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, it is desirable to complete urine measurement in the toilet from the hygienic aspect. However, in order to complete urine measurement in the toilet, it is necessary to carry the measuring device into the toilet together with the sensor unit. Moreover, the subject needs to collect urine with the sensor unit, attach the sensor unit to the measuring device, and then stay on the spot until the urine measurement is completed. Thus, carrying the measuring device and waiting for the result of urine measurement may trouble the subject or restrict time, so there is a risk of impairing the convenience of urine measurement.

[0006] This invention has been made in view of the above problems, and aims to provide a technology that maintains high accuracy in urine measurement while improving convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is, A sensor mounting section to which a sensor unit can be attached, which is portable and configured as a disposable item and is configured to output a signal regarding the components contained in the collected urine, A measuring unit that measures the components contained in the urine based on the signal output by the sensor unit, It comprises a housing portion that supports or houses the sensor mounting portion and the measuring portion, The aforementioned housing is configured to be installable in or portable within a toilet. The measuring unit is configured to start measuring at any time after the sensor unit has been attached to the sensor mounting unit. It is a measuring device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to maintain high accuracy in urine measurement while improving convenience. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a measurement system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a measuring device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the measuring device as seen from the side. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the case when a sensor unit is attached to the measuring device. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the measuring device with the sensor unit attached, viewed from the side. [Figure 6A]FIG. 6A is a schematic view showing an example of a sensor unit, and is a perspective view thereof. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a schematic view showing an example of a sensor unit, and is a top view thereof. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view for explaining a schematic configuration of the sensor unit. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a perspective view for explaining a schematic configuration of the sensor unit and is a partially assembled view. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a perspective view for explaining a schematic configuration of the sensor unit and is a partially assembled view. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic view schematically showing a configuration example of a health assistance system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an advice information providing process. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A is a schematic view showing a recommended action as an example of advice information for a user of the sensor unit. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a schematic view showing advertisement information as an example of advice information for a user of the sensor unit. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A is a schematic view showing a recommended action as an example of advice information for a service provider. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a schematic view showing advertisement information as an example of advice information for a service provider. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a modified example of the arrangement position of the color detection means. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a modified example of the storage unit. [Figure 15A] FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view for explaining a state in which a sensor unit is attached to a measuring device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view for explaining a state when measurement is performed on a measuring device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Embodiment for Carrying out the Invention

[0010] <One Embodiment of the Present Invention> Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0011] (1) Measurement System First, the configuration of the measurement system 1 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the measurement system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] The measurement system 1 is a system in which a subject can complete urine measurement inside the toilet 700, and includes a measurement device 2 installed on the wall surface 701 of the toilet 700 and a sensor unit 3 having portability and being disposable.

[0013] (Measurement Device) The measurement device 2 is configured to be installable or portable inside the toilet 700. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the measurement device 2 is configured to be installable on the wall surface 701 inside the toilet 700. The measurement device 2 is configured to be able to measure the components contained in urine when the sensor unit 3 containing urine is attached. Here, the specific configuration of the measurement device 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the measurement device 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic view when seen from the side of the measurement device 2. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a case where the sensor unit 3 is attached to the measurement device 2. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic view when the state where the sensor unit 3 is attached to the measurement device 2 is seen from the side.

[0014] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the measurement device 2 includes a housing portion 230, and inside the housing portion 230, a sensor mounting portion 210 on which the sensor unit 3 can be mounted and a measurement portion 220 for measuring the components contained in urine are accommodated.

[0015] The housing portion 230 is configured to house and support the sensor mounting portion 210 and the measuring portion 220. The housing portion 230 has a rear surface 231 that can be installed on the wall surface 701, and the measuring device 2 is mounted with the rear surface 231 of the housing portion 230 in contact with the wall surface 701. The housing portion 230 is formed from, for example, plastic and has a predetermined mechanical strength that can house and support each component. In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the housing portion 230 is composed of a first portion 230a, a second portion 230b, and a third portion 230c from the top in the vertical direction. The first portion 230a is provided with, for example, the sensor mounting portion 210 and the measuring portion 220. The second portion 230b is provided with, for example, a space (housing area) 272 for housing the sensor unit 3 mounted on the sensor mounting portion 210. The third portion 230c is provided with, for example, a recovery portion 240 for recovering the sensor unit 3.

[0016] The sensor mounting section 210 is configured to mount the sensor unit 3 and maintain that mounted state for at least the duration from the start to the end of urine measurement. The structure of the sensor mounting section 210 is not particularly limited as long as it can mount the sensor unit 3, but for example, when mounting a stick-shaped sensor unit 3, it is preferable that it is configured to have an insertion port for inserting one end of the sensor unit 3. Furthermore, if the sensor unit 3 is equipped with a sensor electrode 354 and urine measurement is performed by an electrochemical method, it is preferable that the sensor mounting section 210 be configured to be electrically connected to the sensor unit 3.

[0017] Preferably, the sensor mounting section 210 is configured to maintain the mounting state of the sensor unit 3 from the start to the end of urine measurement, and to release the mounting state and detach the sensor unit 3 after the urine measurement is completed. This allows the sensor unit 3 to be automatically detached after urine measurement, making it possible to attach another sensor unit 3 and perform a new urine measurement. From the viewpoint of attaching and detaching the sensor unit 3 at any time, it is preferable that the sensor mounting section 210 further includes an attachment / detachment mechanism 212 for attaching and detaching the sensor unit 3. The attachment / detachment mechanism 212 is not particularly limited as long as it can control the holding and release of the sensor unit 3, and a conventionally known structure can be adopted. For example, the attachment / detachment mechanism 212 may have a structure that clamps the sensor unit 3, and the clamping and release of the sensor unit 3 can be switched electrically or mechanically at any time to attach and detach the sensor unit 3. The time from the end of urine measurement to the detachment of the sensor unit 3 can be set as appropriate and is not particularly limited.

[0018] The measurement unit 220 measures the components contained in the urine based on the signal output by the sensor unit 3 attached to the sensor mounting unit 210. In this embodiment, the measurement unit 220 is configured to start measurement at any time after the sensor unit 3 has been attached to the sensor mounting unit 210.

[0019] The measurement unit 220 is configured to correspond to the measurement format of the sensor unit 3. As will be described later, the sensor unit 3 is configured with at least one of a sensor electrode 354 and a test sheet 355 as the sensor unit 353, and the measurement unit 220 is configured to measure the components contained in urine based on the signal output by the sensor unit 353. For example, if the sensor unit 3 is equipped with a sensor electrode 354 and outputs an electrical response as a signal regarding the components contained in the urine, the measurement unit 220 may be equipped with a measurement means for electrochemical measurement and configured to measure the components contained in the urine from the electrical response. For example, if the sensor unit 3 is equipped with a test sheet 355 and outputs a color change of the test sheet 355 as a signal regarding the components contained in the urine, the measurement unit 220 may be equipped with a color detection means for measuring by colorimetric method and configured to measure the components contained in the urine from the color change of the test sheet 355.

[0020] In this embodiment, one example described is a case in which the measurement unit 220 includes a measurement means for electrochemical measurement and a color detection means for measuring color changes by a colorimetric method.

[0021] From the viewpoint of performing electrochemical measurements, the measurement unit 220 should be configured to be electrically connected to the sensor unit 3 when the sensor unit 3 is mounted on the sensor mounting unit 210, and to be able to perform a predetermined voltage sweep operation. For this reason, the measurement unit 220 should include, for example, a voltage application unit, a current measurement unit, a potential difference measurement unit, and a potential adjustment unit. When the sensor unit 3 is mounted, such a measurement unit 220 can electrolyze specific components contained in urine by performing a predetermined voltage sweep scan on the sensor electrode 354 of the sensor unit 3, and measure the concentration of specific components from the magnitude of the reaction that occurs. Alternatively, for example, the measurement unit 220 can measure the concentration of specific components from the amount of voltage fluctuation (electromotive force) or current fluctuation caused by the electrochemical reaction on the surface of the sensor electrode 354.

[0022] Furthermore, the measuring unit 220 should be configured to detect the color of the inspection sheet 355, from the perspective of performing measurements by colorimetric method. For this reason, the measuring unit 220 should be equipped with a color detection means. For example, the color detection means may include an imaging unit 221 that images the working surface of the test sheet 355 and an illumination unit 222, as shown in Figures 4 and 5. In this case, after the urine is brought into contact with the test sheet 355, the working surface is photographed at any time to acquire an image, and the color of the test sheet 355 is detected based on the acquired image. For example, the color detection means may include a spectrophotometer or a color sensor. In this case, after the urine is brought into contact with the test sheet 355, light is shone on it at an arbitrary timing, and the color of the test sheet 355 is detected from the shone light. According to the color detection means, the components contained in the urine can be measured from the detected color, such as the color change and its degree, and the concentration of specific components can also be measured. In either method, when detecting color information, it is preferable to make the space (housing area) 272 housing the sensor unit 3 a darkroom and to illuminate the inspection sheet 355 with the illumination 222 before imaging.

[0023] Furthermore, it is preferable that the measurement unit 220 be configured to output the measurement results of the components contained in the urine to an external information terminal 500. In other words, it is preferable that the measurement unit 220 be equipped with a communication unit (not shown) that has a communication function with the external information terminal 500. The communication method can be wireless or wired, but wireless communication is preferable considering the flexibility of the installation of the measurement sensor.

[0024] The first section 230a may be provided with a display unit 260 that displays, for example, the status of the measuring device 2 or advice information described later. The display unit 260 allows the subject to obtain predetermined information at any time. In Figure 2, the display unit 260 is located in the first section 230a, but it is not particularly limited to any location that is easily accessible to the subject.

[0025] The second section 230b is provided with a space (storage area) 272 for accommodating the sensor unit 3 attached to the sensor mounting section 210. The storage area 272 is the area into which the sensor unit 3 is inserted and housed. In this embodiment, the storage area 272 is open horizontally, allowing the subject to attach the sensor unit 3 from the front of the measuring device 2. Preferably, the second section 230b is provided with an openable and closable door 270 that covers the attached sensor unit 3 and the storage area 272. The door 270 allows the storage area 272 of the second section 230b to be made a darkroom, improving the measurement accuracy when performing urine measurement by colorimetric method. It is preferable that the door 270 be provided with a handle 271 for opening and closing. In Figures 2 to 5, the door 270 is configured to slide vertically, but it is not particularly limited.

[0026] Preferably, the third part 230c is provided with a recovery section 240 for recovering the sensor unit 3. As described above, when the sensor mounting section 210 is configured to release and detach the sensor unit 3 at any time, providing the recovery section 240 on the lower side of the sensor unit 3 makes it possible to detach the sensor unit 3 after measurement and recover it as is. Therefore, the sensor unit 3 can be disposed of without human intervention, improving both hygiene and convenience.

[0027] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2 and 4, it is preferable that a storage section 250 for storing unused sensor units 3 is attached externally to the third section 230c. The storage section 250 allows unused sensor units 3 to be stored as stock, eliminating the need for the subject to bring the sensor units 3 in from outside the toilet 700. In other words, the convenience of urine measurement can be further improved. From the viewpoint of suppressing deterioration of the sensor units 3 due to temperature and humidity, it is preferable that the storage section 250 is configured such that the temperature and humidity are adjusted to a predetermined range and it is not affected by external factors. The storage section 250 may also be provided with a sensor for managing the number of sensor units 3.

[0028] Regarding the individual components of the measuring device 2, such as the sensor mounting section 210 and the measuring section 220, any specific configurations other than those described above may be based on publicly known technology, and their explanation will be omitted here.

[0029] (Sensor unit) Next, we will describe the sensor unit 3 that is attached to the measuring device 2 mentioned above.

[0030] The sensor unit 3 is portable and designed as a disposable item. Its portability allows subjects to carry it by hand, improving ease of handling. Furthermore, being a disposable item eliminates the need for cleaning, disinfection, or sterilization for reuse, which is effective in terms of hygiene and infection prevention. Moreover, being a disposable item eliminates concerns about the presence of residues such as contamination when reused, thus suppressing the decrease in inspection accuracy caused by residues.

[0031] The sensor unit 3 is attachable to the sensor mounting section 210 and is configured to output signals regarding components contained in the stored urine. Specifically, the sensor unit 3 comprises a structure for taking in and storing urine, and a sensor section 353 that outputs a signal upon contact with the stored urine. Here, the storage structure and sensor section 353 of the sensor unit 3 will be described in detail with reference to the figures. Figure 6A is a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of the sensor unit 3, and Figure 6B is a top view showing the schematic configuration of the sensor unit 3. Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the schematic configuration of the sensor unit. Figures 8A and 8B are perspective views illustrating the schematic configuration of the sensor unit and are partially assembled views.

[0032] As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the sensor unit 3 comprises a base material 310, a spacer member 320, a cover member 330, and a water absorption part 340, and as shown in Figure 7, these are stacked together. The stacked structure of the sensor unit 3 forms a first cell 351 for storing urine, a second cell 352 enclosing the sensor part 353, and a vent pipe 356 for releasing the atmosphere inside the second cell 352 to the outside. Each of these components will be described below.

[0033] The base material 310 has a first cell 351, a second cell 352, a sensor section 353, and a vent pipe 356 on one of its two main surfaces. The base material 310 is composed of a sheet-like or plate-like material and is formed in a longitudinal shape. The base material 310 has the physical (mechanical) strength to be used as a sensor unit 3, and is strong enough not to bend or break even if urine adheres to it. The base material 310 is made of an insulating material. As the insulating material, plastic, glass epoxy resin, ceramic, glass, etc. can be used. As the base material 310, for example, a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate can be used. The size of the base material 310 is not particularly limited, but its length can be, for example, 20 mm to 115 mm. Its width can be, for example, 6 mm to 30 mm.

[0034] A spacer member 320 is provided on the base material 310. As shown in Figure 7, a groove 321 is formed in the spacer member 320. As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, when the spacer member 320 is sandwiched between the base material 310 and the cover member 330, the groove 321 forms the storage section 322, the second cell 352, and the vent pipe 356. The spacer member 320 is preferably made of a water-resistant material, such as a resin material or ceramic, and is preferably made of a resin material such as polyethylene (PE) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The spacer member 320 may also be made of a hydrophilic material, in which case, from the viewpoint of suppressing the flow of urine into the vent pipe 356, it is preferable that the portion of the groove 321 corresponding to the vent pipe 356 is hydrophobic. The thickness of the spacer member 320 is not particularly limited, but for example, it may be about 0.1 to 0.6 mm.

[0035] A cover member 330 is provided on the spacer member 320. As shown in Figure 8B, the cover member 330 covers the spacer member 320 to form the second cell 352 and the vent pipe 356. As shown in Figure 7, the spacer member 320 has a through hole 331 that communicates with the storage portion 322 and penetrates in the thickness direction. Therefore, the cover member 330 covers the area of ​​the groove portion 321 of the spacer member 320 excluding the storage portion 322. The cover member 330 may be formed using the same material as the spacer member 320. The thickness of the cover member 330 is not particularly limited, but for example, it can be about 0.1 to 0.6 mm.

[0036] A water-absorbing section 340 is provided on the cover member 330 so as to cover the through hole 331. The water-absorbing section 340 is made of a water-absorbing material, and as the water-absorbing section 340, for example, a film or sheet made of a porous material such as paper, nonwoven fabric, or sponge can be used. The thickness and size of the water-absorbing section 340 are not particularly limited as long as an amount sufficient for urine measurement by the sensor section 353 is secured, and can be designed as appropriate. The porous film or porous sheet may be made by laminating polyethylene or polyester film. This allows for more reliable control of urine intake by suppressing the inflow into the second cell 352 etc. by the water pressure of the urine when it is poured over the surface.

[0037] The sensor unit 3 is constructed by laminating the aforementioned base material 310, spacer member 320, cover member 330, and water absorption part 340, and is equipped with a first cell 351, a second cell 352, and a vent pipe 356 on the base material 310.

[0038] The first cell 351 is configured to take in and store the urine that is poured over it. In this embodiment, the first cell 351 consists of a storage section 322 and a water absorption section 340. As shown in Figure 8A, the storage section 322 is open to the atmosphere by a ventilation passage 358 that extends from the end of the spacer member 320 (right side in the figure). Therefore, when urine is poured over the water absorption section 340 of the sensor unit 3, the urine is retained in the water absorption section 340 and flows into the storage section 322 through the through hole 331 and is stored there. From the viewpoint of facilitating the flow of urine, it is preferable that the part of the first cell 351 that comes into contact with the urine is hydrophilic. Since the first cell 351 is composed of a base material 310, a spacer member 320, and a cover member 330, it is preferable that these be made of hydrophilic materials. On the other hand, if each member is made of a hydrophobic material, it is preferable that the parts constituting the first cell 351 be treated to be hydrophilic.

[0039] The second cell 352 is a space created when the groove 321 of the spacer member 320 is sandwiched between the base material 310 and the cover member 330, and is configured to enclose the sensor unit 353 in this space. The second cell 352 is configured to communicate with the first cell, for example, via a flow path, so as to take in urine via the first cell 351. However, since the atmosphere inside the second cell 352 is airtight, the inflow of urine is suppressed. As will be described later, a vent pipe 356 is connected to the second cell 352. When the vent pipe 356 is opened, the internal space of the second cell 352 is opened to the atmosphere, and the urine retained or stored in the first cell 351 flows into the second cell 352. This allows the urine to come into contact with the sensor unit 353 in the second cell 352. From the viewpoint of facilitating the inflow of urine, it is preferable that the part of the second cell 352 that comes into contact with urine is hydrophilic. Since the second cell 352 is composed of a base material 310, a spacer member 320, and a cover member 330, it is preferable that these be made of hydrophilic materials. On the other hand, if each member is made of a hydrophobic material, it is preferable that the parts constituting the second cell 352 be treated to be hydrophilic.

[0040] As shown in Figures 6-8, two second cells 352 are provided for each storage unit 322. The number of second cells 352 is not limited to two; it may be one or three or more.

[0041] The vent pipe 356 is provided on the main surface of the base material 310 and connected to the second cell 352. The vent pipe 356 is for releasing the atmosphere inside the second cell 352 to the outside. The vent pipe 356 is opened by rupturing a part of it. In Figure 6A, a rupture point 357 is provided in a part of the vent pipe 356. The rupture of the vent pipe 356 may be performed manually at any time, for example, when attaching the sensor unit 3 to the sensor mounting part 210. Alternatively, the rupture of the vent pipe 356 may be performed by structural interference when the sensor unit 3 is attached to the sensor mounting part 210, or the rupture may be performed by providing a rupture means in the measuring device 2 and activating the rupture means electrically.

[0042] From the viewpoint of suppressing the inflow of urine and preventing leakage to the outside, it is preferable that at least a portion of the vent pipe 356 be hydrophobic. As described above, the vent pipe 356 is composed of a base material 310, a spacer member 320, and a cover member 330, so from the viewpoint of suppressing leakage, it is preferable that these members be formed from hydrophobic materials. On the other hand, if each member is formed from a hydrophilic material, it is preferable that at least a portion of the vent pipe 356 be hydrophobic.

[0043] The sensor unit 353 is positioned to be enclosed within the second cell 352. The sensor unit 353 is configured to output a signal regarding components contained in urine when it comes into contact with urine. From the viewpoint of making the sensor unit 3 disposable and having a simple configuration, it is preferable to use either a sensor electrode 354 that generates an electrochemical reaction upon contact with urine, or a test sheet 355 whose working surface changes color upon contact with urine, as the sensor unit 353. The sensor electrode 354 outputs an electrical response as a signal regarding urine. For example, it outputs the amount of change in current or voltage due to a chemical reaction (oxidation-reduction reaction) of a specific component contained in urine. The test sheet 355 outputs a color change as a signal regarding urine.

[0044] In this embodiment, two second cells 352 are provided, with a sensor electrode 354 contained within one and an inspection sheet 355 contained within the other.

[0045] As the sensor electrode 354, for example, a working electrode, a counter electrode, and a reference electrode can be used. The material of the working electrode can be appropriately selected according to the type of specific component to be measured. As the working electrode, for example, an electrode made of silver (Ag), Au, platinum (Pt), or Cu, a carbon electrode, or a conductive diamond electrode doped with boron (B) can be used. A functional film containing an enzyme or antibody that promotes an electrochemical reaction may be fixed to the surface of the working electrode. As the counter electrode, there is no particular limitation as long as it is a conductive electrode, and the same material as the working electrode can be used. As the reference electrode, for example, a silver / silver chloride (Ag / AgCl) electrode can be used. Note that the sensor electrode 354 is not limited to a three-electrode system, but may also be a two-electrode system, for example, comprising a working electrode and a counter electrode that also serves as a reference electrode.

[0046] Wiring (not shown) is connected to the sensor electrode 354. The wiring is positioned to connect to a terminal 359 located on the opposite side of the sensor unit 3 from the second cell 352. The sensor electrode 354 is electrically connected by attaching terminal 359 to a measuring instrument. The wiring can be formed using metals such as copper (Cu) or aluminum (Al). For example, the wiring can be formed using a subtractive method, in which unnecessary portions of a copper film pre-applied to a substrate 310 that are not covered by a resist are removed by etching to form the required conductor pattern. These conductor patterns formed using the subtractive method may also be plated with gold (Au) or silver (Ag), for example. Alternatively, the wiring can be formed by screen printing, in which case silver or carbon-based wiring can be formed.

[0047] The test sheet 355 is not particularly limited as long as it exhibits discoloration upon contact with a specific component; conventionally known sheets can be used.

[0048] Furthermore, when the measuring device 2 is shared by multiple subjects, each subject should read a pre-set identifier, obtain user information from the identifier, and then perform a urine measurement. This allows the user information to be linked with the urine measurement results. Publicly known identifiers can be used, such as ID cards, IC tags, QR codes (registered trademarks), fingerprints, iris scans, vein scans, facial scans, and voice scans. For example, a subject may read their ID card with the reader on the measuring device 2 and then perform a urine measurement. Alternatively, for example, an IC tag may be provided on the sensor unit 3, and a subject may pick up a specific sensor unit 3, read the IC tag, and then perform a urine measurement. The measuring unit 220 should be configured to link the measurement results with the subject based on the identifier of the subject collecting the urine sample.

[0049] (2) Health support system Next, the configuration of the health support system according to this embodiment will be described. The health support system comprises the measurement system 1 described above and is a system for supporting health maintenance from the urine of a subject. Specifically, the health support system acquires measurement results from the measurement device 2, prepares predetermined advice information that matches the measurement results, and provides it to the target audience, including at least one of the users of the sensor unit 3 and the providers of services using the sensor unit 3. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a health support system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Here, the users of sensor unit 3 refer to, for example, the subjects and their attending physicians. The providers of services using sensor unit 3 refer to, for example, doctors including the subjects' attending physicians, the administrators of the hospitals the subjects attend, the companies that provide sensor unit 3, and companies that provide health-related products or services.

[0051] As shown in Figure 9, the health support system is comprised of multiple measurement systems 1, an information processing device 400, and an information terminal 500. Each measurement device 2 of each measurement system 1 is configured to communicate with an information terminal 500 located on a communication line 404, such as a wide-area network.

[0052] (Information processing device) The information processing device 400 has the functionality of a computer and is configured to perform various information processing tasks through the execution of a pre-installed program (software), with the software and computer hardware resources working together. One example of the information processing performed by the information processing device 400 is the provision of advice information. This advice information includes, for example, information indicating recommended actions that the information recipient should take, and advertising information directed at the information recipient. Details of this will be described later with specific examples.

[0053] The information processing device 400 has at least the functions of an information extraction unit 401, an information provision unit 402, and an information database unit 403 in order to process the provision of advice information. The information extraction unit 401 has the function of extracting advice information from the information database unit 403 that is suitable for the measurement results from the measuring device 2. The information provision unit 402 has the function of providing the advice information extracted by the information extraction unit 401 to information terminals 500 on the communication line 404 other than the information processing device 400. The information database unit 403 has the function of pre-storing various advice information that is suitable for the measurement results expected to be obtained by the measuring device 2, while associating it with the said measurement results.

[0054] Of these functions, at least the functions of the information extraction unit 401 and the information provision unit 402 are realized by executing a predetermined program in the information processing device 400. In this case, such predetermined program corresponds to a specific example of the "information processing program" in this embodiment. Furthermore, a specific example of an "information processing program" may be provided by storing it on a recording medium readable by the information processing device 400 (e.g., a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, semiconductor memory, etc.), as long as it can be installed on the information processing device 400, or it may be provided from an external source via a network such as the Internet or a dedicated line.

[0055] (Information terminal) The information terminal 500 is a terminal device used by the subject. The information terminal 500 can be, for example, a smartphone, tablet, or laptop computer, all of which have computer functionality. In Figure 9, for example, the information terminal 500 used by the user (subject) of the sensor unit 3 includes a smartphone 500a and a computer device 500b located on the communication line 404. The computer device 500b includes, for example, devices used by the subject's attending physician, the administrator of the hospital the subject attends, or devices managed by companies providing health-related products.

[0056] (Example of processing operation) Next, we will explain the process of providing advice information in the health support system using Figure 10. Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the process of providing advice information.

[0057] (Measurement result acquisition process S11) In the health support system according to this embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the measurement results from the measuring device 2 are transmitted via the communication line 404 to the information processing device 400 and information terminal 500 on the communication line 404. As a result, the information processing device 400 can obtain the measurement results for urine from the measuring device 2.

[0058] (Quality level determination process S12) In the information processing device 400, upon acquiring measurement results from the measuring device 2, the information extraction unit 401 determines the quality level of the urine from which the measurement results were obtained based on the acquired measurement results. The quality level is an indicator of the quality of the components of the urine. For example, if the content of a specific component in the urine to be evaluated can be quantified, the quality level can be determined in multiple stages according to the content, such that a higher content indicates a lower quality level, and a lower content indicates a higher quality level. More specifically, the content of a specific component may be classified into five ranges, and the quality level may be classified in five stages from lowest to highest content as "0 (very good)," "1 (good)," "2 (average)," "3 (caution)," and "4 (bad or poor)." Note that the quality level is not necessarily limited to a specific form (for example, a five-stage classification) as long as it is classified based on an arbitrary threshold set in advance.

[0059] (Preparation process for advice information S13) After determining the quality level, the information processing device 400 extracts advice information that matches the measurement results from the measuring device 2. Specifically, after determining the quality level, the information extraction unit 401 accesses the information database unit 403 and reads out advice information that matches the determined quality level. At this time, the information database unit 403 is pre-stored with multiple pieces of advice information, each corresponding to a quality level, linked to each other, as advice information that matches the measurement results from the measuring device 2.

[0060] (Step S14: Output of advice information) Subsequently, the information processing device 400 uses an information provision unit 402 to provide the advice information extracted by the information extraction unit 401 to an information terminal 500 on the communication line 404. The information terminal 500 to which the advice information is provided is at least one of a smartphone 500a or a computer device 500b other than the information processing device 400.

[0061] Thus, the advice information will be provided to at least one of the information terminals 500 used by users of the sensor unit 3, or to the information terminals 500 used by providers of services using the sensor unit 3.

[0062] Furthermore, the information processing device 400 may output at least one of the following regarding the quality level: its current value, predicted value, change amount, and maximum value within a predetermined period. The current quality level can be used to understand the subject's current health status. A predicted quality level can be obtained, for example, by calculating the quality level after a predetermined period from a moving average of the quality level over that period. This predicted value allows for an understanding of the subject's future health status. By measuring the change in quality level, it is possible to understand changes in the subject's health status over time, such as recent deterioration or improvement in their health. By using the maximum value within a predetermined period of quality levels, it is possible to determine, for example, the value at which a user's health condition was at its worst based on their past urine measurement results.

[0063] Furthermore, in the information database unit 403, the advice information may be associated with the current or predicted value of the quality level. In addition, the information database may store and associate not only the relationship between the subject, quality level, and advice information, but also information on the measurement time and the measurement results at that time, for example, the measurement time and the quality level at that time. This allows, for example, to grasp changes in the quality level over time and to monitor the quality of the health status over time.

[0064] Here, we will explain the advice provided with specific examples. Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of advice information for users of a sensor unit, with Figure 11A showing recommended actions and Figure 11B showing advertising information. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of advice information for service providers, with Figure 12A showing recommended actions and Figure 12B showing advertising information.

[0065] For example, consider the case where advice information is provided to a subject who is a user of the sensor unit 3. In this case, the recipient of the advice information is the information terminal 500 used by the subject, for example, a smartphone 500a. The content of the advice information provided in this case may include information indicating recommended actions that the information recipient should take, or advertising information directed at the information recipient. Specifically, for example, as shown in Figure 11A, along with the result of determining the quality level, text information such as "Please consult your doctor immediately," which indicates recommended actions that the information recipient should take, is displayed on the display screen of the smartphone 500a as advice information that conforms to that quality level.

[0066] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11B, for example, along with the predicted quality level, advertising information tailored to that quality level is displayed on the smartphone 500a's screen as text information, such as suitable foods, exercise equipment, or hospitals for the recipient.

[0067] As described above, when the recipient of the information is a research subject, it is conceivable to provide at least one of the following as beneficial advice to the subject: information indicating recommended actions that the recipient should take, or advertising information directed at the recipient.

[0068] Furthermore, consider the case where advice information is provided to the subject's attending physician. In this case, the recipient of the information is the attending physician, who may be both a user of sensor unit 3 and a provider of services using sensor unit 3. The recipient of the advice information is a computer device 500b installed in the hospital where the attending physician is located.

[0069] In this case, the advice provided will include information indicating recommended actions that the recipient should take. Specifically, as shown in Figure 12A, along with the quality level determination result, text information such as "Please assess the history of changes and whether a medical examination is necessary," which indicates recommended actions that the recipient should take, will be displayed on the smartphone 500a's screen. Note that while this example shows information indicating recommended actions when the recipient is a service provider, this is merely one example; if the recipient is a service user, the information provided should be tailored accordingly.

[0070] As described above, when the recipient of the information is the attending physician, it is conceivable to provide information indicating recommended actions that the recipient should take, as this would be beneficial advice for the attending physician.

[0071] For example, consider a case where a provider of services using the sensor unit 3 provides advice information to a company that provides health-related products or services (hereinafter simply referred to as the "providing company"). In this case, the recipient of the information is the providing company, which is the provider of services using the sensor unit 3. The recipient of the advice information is the computer device 500b managed by the providing company.

[0072] In this case, the advice information provided includes various types of advertising information. Specifically, as shown in Figure 12B, along with the predicted quality level, advertising information about services and products that the service provider should advertise to service users is displayed on the display screen of the computer device 500b as advice information that matches that quality level.

[0073] As described above, when the recipient of the information is a providing company, it is conceivable to provide advertising information about services or products that should be promoted to service users as beneficial advice for that providing company.

[0074] (3) Health support methods Next, we will specifically explain methods to support health maintenance based on the results of urine measurements taken from the subjects.

[0075] First, the subject enters toilet 700. The subject then scans a card with an IC tag, for example, that is linked to them, over a reader (not shown) installed inside toilet 700. This allows the subject's user information to be linked to the test results.

[0076] Next, the subject picks up an unused sensor unit 3 stored in the storage compartment 250 of the measuring device 2. It is preferable that the storage compartment 250 is maintained at a predetermined temperature and humidity range so that deterioration of the sensor unit 3 due to the atmosphere and the resulting decrease in sensor sensitivity are suppressed.

[0077] Next, the subject grasps the end of the sensor unit 3 shown in Figure 6A opposite to the first cell 351 at the toilet bowl 702 and pours urine towards the first cell 351. This causes the urine to be absorbed by the absorbent part 340 that makes up the first cell 351, and the urine that has permeated the absorbent part 340 is stored in the storage part 322 that makes up the first cell 351. At this stage, the vent pipe 356 is not opened, and the inside of the second cell 352 is airtight. Therefore, the urine does not flow into the second cell 352, but remains in the absorbent part 340 and storage part 322 of the first cell 351. The subject continues to pour urine until a predetermined amount of urine is stored in the first cell 351.

[0078] Next, after collecting a predetermined amount of urine, the subject opens the door 270 of the measuring device 2 and attaches the urine-collecting sensor unit 3 to the sensor mounting section 210. Here, for example, the sensor unit 3 is attached by inserting the terminal 359 side of the sensor unit 3 into the insertion opening of the sensor mounting section 210. After attaching the sensor unit 3, the subject closes the door 270 of the measuring device 2 and exits the toilet 700.

[0079] Meanwhile, in the measuring device 2, the measuring unit 220 starts measuring at any time after the sensor unit 3 has been attached. Specifically, when the sensor unit 3 is attached to the measuring device 2, the vent pipe 356 of the sensor unit 3 opens due to structural interference with the measuring device 2. For example, a projection can be provided inside the insertion port of the sensor mounting section 210 so that when the sensor unit 3 is inserted, the rupture point 357 of the vent pipe 356 breaks. This opens the internal space of the second cell 352 to the atmosphere, and the urine retained in the water absorption section 340 and storage section 322 of the first cell 351 is taken into the second cell 352.

[0080] In the second cell 352 of the sensor unit 3, the sensor part 353 outputs a signal when it comes into contact with urine. In the sensor electrode 354, a chemical reaction occurs upon contact with urine, and this chemical reaction is output as an electrical signal. In addition, the working surface of the test sheet 355 changes color upon contact with urine, and this color change is output as a signal. The measurement unit 220 detects the signals from each sensor part 353 and measures the components contained in the urine based on these signals.

[0081] The electrochemical measurement at the sensor electrode 354 may be started simultaneously with the inflow of urine into the second cell 352, or it may be started after a predetermined time has elapsed. On the other hand, the colorimetric measurement at the test sheet 355 should be started after a predetermined time has elapsed since the inflow of urine into the second cell 352, because it takes time for the test sheet 355 to change color upon contact with urine.

[0082] After urine measurement, the measuring device 2 detaches the sensor unit 3 from the sensor mounting section 210. The detached sensor unit 3 falls by its own weight and is collected by the collection section 240. The measuring device 2 also transmits the measurement results to the information processing device 400 via wireless communication. As shown in the example of operation described above, the information processing device 400 provides advice information to the user of the sensor unit 3 or the provider of a service using the sensor unit 3 based on the measurement results.

[0083] In this way, subjects can collect urine and measure it inside toilet 700, and leave toilet 700 without waiting for the urine measurement results. The measurement results are transmitted, for example, to the subject's smartphone 500a, so subjects can obtain the measurement results regardless of location. In addition, service providers can obtain the subject's measurement results and take appropriate action in response to those results.

[0084] <Effects according to this embodiment> This embodiment provides one or more of the following effects.

[0085] (a) According to the measuring device 2 of this embodiment, the sensor mounting section 210 and the measuring section 220 are supported or housed in the housing section 230 and configured as an integral part, so that it can be easily installed on the wall surface 701 of the toilet 700. Furthermore, according to the measuring device 2, the sensor unit 3 that stores urine is attached to the sensor mounting section 210, and the measuring section 220 can detect and measure the signals of the components contained in the urine. Moreover, the measuring section 220 in the measuring device 2 is configured to start measurement at any timing after the sensor unit 3 has been attached. With such a measuring device 2, the components contained in the urine can be measured simply by attaching the sensor unit 3 that has stored the urine. Therefore, the subject can leave the toilet 700 after collecting urine with the sensor unit 3 and attaching the sensor unit 3. In other words, the subject does not need to remain in the toilet 700 until the urine measurement is complete. Also, since the urine can be collected by the sensor unit 3 and immediately put into the measuring device 2, the accuracy of the urine measurement can be maintained at a high level. Based on the above, the measuring device 2 of this embodiment allows urine measurement to be completed within the toilet 700, improving the convenience of urine measurement while maintaining high accuracy.

[0086] (b) Preferably, the measuring device 2 is provided with a collection unit 240 in the housing 230 for collecting the sensor unit 3 after measurement, and the sensor mounting unit 210 is configured to detach the sensor unit 3 after measurement, and the detached sensor unit 3 is collected by the collection unit 240. With such a configuration, the used sensor unit 3 can be automatically disposed of. As a result, urine measurement can be performed continuously with the measuring device 2 without human intervention.

[0087] (c) Preferably, the housing portion 230 is provided with a storage portion 250 for storing unused sensor units 3. This eliminates the need to carry the sensor unit 3 into the toilet 700, further improving the convenience of urine measurement for subjects.

[0088] (d) Preferably, the measurement unit 220 is configured to start electrochemical measurement when the sensor unit 3 is attached to the sensor mounting unit 210. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 3 is configured to open the vent pipe 356 when attached to the sensor mounting unit 210, allowing urine to flow from the first cell 351 to the second cell 352. Therefore, electrochemical measurement can be started simultaneously with the contact between the sensor electrode 354 and the urine. This suppresses a decrease in sensor sensitivity due to excessive contact between the sensor electrode 354 and the urine, and maintains high measurement accuracy.

[0089] (e) Preferably, the measurement unit 220 is configured to start measurement by colorimetric method after a predetermined time has elapsed since the sensor unit 3 was attached to the sensor mounting unit 210. For example, the measurement unit 220 may be configured to start measurement by colorimetric method in response to the closing of the door 270 of the measuring device 2. In this case, the timing of the inspection sheet 355 coming into contact with urine can be controlled by the closing of the door 270. Moreover, by closing the door 270, the space (housing area) 272 housing the sensor unit 3 can be made into a darkroom during measurement. This makes it possible to measure the color change of the inspection sheet 355 with greater accuracy by colorimetric method.

[0090] (f) Preferably, the sensor unit 3 includes a sensor electrode 354 and a test sheet 355 as the sensor section 353, and the measurement section 220 is configured to perform electrochemical measurement and colorimetric measurement. The sensor electrode 354 allows for urine measurement in a shorter time compared to the test sheet 355. On the other hand, the test sheet 355 makes it possible to measure components that are difficult to measure with the sensor electrode 354. In other words, it is possible to measure multiple components contained in urine simultaneously.

[0091] (g) In the measurement system 1 of this embodiment, the sensor unit 3 is configured as a disposable item. Therefore, cleaning, disinfection, sterilization, etc. for reuse can be omitted, and a decrease in inspection accuracy due to residue can be suppressed.

[0092] (h) Preferably, the measurement unit 220 is configured to output the measurement results to an information terminal 500 used by the subject, which includes at least one of the user of the sensor unit 3 and the provider of the service using the sensor unit 3. This allows the user of the sensor unit 3, for example, the subject, to obtain the measurement results from the information terminal 500 even if they leave the toilet 700 before the urine measurement is completed. On the other hand, the service provider can obtain the urine measurement results from an external source.

[0093] (i) Preferably, the measurement unit 220 is configured to output predetermined advice information that matches the measurement results to the information terminal 500. Therefore, the person who receives the advice information can easily and appropriately decide what action or response should be taken by understanding the content of the advice information. In other words, it provides great convenience for the subject and the service provider.

[0094] (j) The measurement unit 220 preferably includes a measurement means for performing electrochemical measurements, i.e., a sensor electrode 354. Electrochemical measurements allow for a reduction in measurement time while maintaining high measurement accuracy.

[0095] (k) The sensor unit 3 preferably comprises a first cell 351 for temporarily storing urine supplied from the outside, a second cell 352 containing the sensor unit 353, and a vent pipe 356 connected to the second cell 352 for releasing the atmosphere inside the second cell 352 to the outside, and is configured such that the inflow of urine from the first cell 351 into the second cell 352 begins when the vent pipe 356 is opened. With such a sensor unit 3, the inflow of urine into the second cell 352 can be adjusted by the timing of opening the vent pipe 356. In other words, the contact timing and contact time between the sensor unit 353 and the urine can be adjusted. This can further improve the measurement accuracy.

[0096] (l) Preferably, the vent pipe 356 of the sensor unit 3 is to break due to structural interference when the sensor unit 3 is attached to the sensor mounting section 210. With this configuration, urine can flow from the first cell 351 to the second cell 352 at the same time as the sensor unit 3 is attached. With such a sensor unit 3, excessive contact of the sensor section 353 with urine can be suppressed, and the sensor sensitivity can be maintained at a high level.

[0097] (m) In the sensor unit 3, it is preferable that a vent pipe 356 is connected to each of the multiple second cells 352, and that each of the multiple vent pipes 356 has an individual rupture point 357. If the rupture points of the multiple vent pipes are integrated into one, urine may flow in where the vent pipe between the rupture point and the second cell is short, while it may be difficult for urine to flow in where the vent pipe is long. In other words, the flow of urine into the second cell may vary depending on the length of the vent pipe. In this regard, by providing each of the multiple vent pipes 356 with an individual rupture point 357, it is possible to promote the flow of urine into each second cell 352.

[0098] (n) In the sensor unit 3, it is preferable that the vent tube 356 connected to the second cell 352 containing the test sheet 355 is shorter or has a larger cross-sectional area than the vent tube 356 connected to the second cell 352 containing the sensor electrode 354. This allows the test sheet 355 to come into contact with the urine more quickly. As a result, the time required to complete the electrochemical measurement and the colorimetric measurement can be shortened.

[0099] (o) In the sensor unit 3, it is preferable that the first cell 351 has a hollow shape and includes a storage section 322 capable of storing urine, and a water absorption section 340 provided to cover the storage section 322. With such a configuration, the amount of urine that can be stored can be increased compared to when only one of the components is used. In addition, when urine is poured over the sensor unit 3, it is easier to take in the urine and retain it. In other words, the handling of the sensor unit 3 can be improved.

[0100] <Variation> Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited in any way to the embodiments described above, and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0101] In the above-described embodiment, the case was explained in which the sensor unit 3 is attached to cause contact between the sensor part 353 and urine, and the measurement of the signal is started at the same time, but the present invention is not limited to this. The measurement of the signal may start immediately after contact between the sensor part 353 and urine, or it may start after a predetermined time has elapsed. For example, the measurement unit 220 may be configured to start measurement in response to the closing operation of the door 270 of the measuring device 2.

[0102] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the case in which urine is taken into the second cell 352 occurs when the vent pipe 356 ruptures due to structural interference when the sensor unit 3 is attached to the sensor mounting section 210 was explained, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the rupture of the vent pipe 356 is not limited to structural interference when attaching to the sensor mounting section 210, but may also be performed by external operations such as manual labor or jigs. In this case, it is preferable to rupture the vent pipe 356 in advance before attaching the sensor unit 3 to the sensor mounting section 210. Alternatively, for example, the vent pipe 356 of the sensor unit 3 may be ruptured by providing a rupture means in the sensor mounting section 210 and operating the rupture means mechanically or electrically at any timing. Alternatively, for example, the rupture means may be provided in the sensor mounting section 210, and after attaching the sensor unit 3 to the sensor mounting section 210, the rupture means may be operated mechanically or electrically in response to the closing operation of the door 270.

[0103] Furthermore, the vent pipe 356 may be connected to a depressurizing member whose internal space is depressurized, and the connection portion may be configured to break. In this case, even if the volume of the second cell 352 is large, the inflow of urine from the first cell 351 to the second cell 352 can be made more reliable. By appropriately changing the volume of the depressurizing member, the amount of urine flowing into the second cell 352 can be adjusted, and contact between the sensor unit 353 and the urine in the second cell 352 can be made more reliable. The urine inflow rate can be appropriately adjusted by changing the diameter of the vent pipe 356.

[0104] When urine measurement is performed using the colorimetric method, it may take some time for the color change of the test sheet 355 to be completed. In this respect, with the measurement system 1, the subject can attach the sensor unit 3 to the measurement device 2 and leave the toilet 700 immediately, thus maintaining a high level of convenience even with the colorimetric method.

[0105] From the viewpoint of the measuring unit 220 measuring the discoloration of the inspection sheet 355 by colorimetric method, it is preferable that the sensor mounting unit 210 be covered by the door 270. This makes the housing area 272 that houses the sensor unit 3 a darkroom, allowing for more accurate measurement of the discoloration of the inspection sheet 355 by colorimetric method.

[0106] Furthermore, while Figures 6 to 8 show the sensor electrode 354 and the test sheet 355 enclosed in separate second cells 352, the present invention is not limited to this. The sensor electrode 354 and the test sheet 355 may be enclosed in a single second cell 352 and arranged side by side. Also, the number of second cells 352 that enclose the first cell 351 for urine storage and the sensor unit 353 is not particularly limited. For example, multiple second cells 352 may be provided for one first cell 351.

[0107] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment described a case in which the sensor unit 3 includes both a sensor electrode 354 and a test sheet 355 as the sensor section 353, the present invention is not limited to this. The sensor unit 3 only needs to include at least one of the sensor electrode 354 and the test sheet 355 as the sensor section 353. Depending on the target component among the components contained in urine, the sensor electrode 354 and the test sheet 355 may be appropriately selected.

[0108] Furthermore, if the sensor unit 3 is equipped with an inspection sheet 355, it may also be equipped with a color sample. A color sample is a standard color set for a specific concentration of the measured component. By using the color sample in conjunction with the inspection sheet 355 for color detection, the color change of the inspection sheet 355 can be grasped with greater accuracy by referring to the color sample.

[0109] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, a case was explained in which the first cell 351 of the sensor unit 3 is configured to retain urine in the water absorption section 340 and to store the urine that has permeated the water absorption section 340 in the storage section 322, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The first cell 351 may also be configured to include at least one of the water absorption section 340 and the storage section 322. For example, if the first cell is composed of a water absorption section, the first and second cells should be connected such that when the second cell is open to the atmosphere, the urine retained in the water absorption section flows into the second cell. For example, the sensor unit may include a first cell which is a water absorption section capable of absorbing and retaining the flowing urine, a second cell which contains a sensor section, a flow path connecting the first and second cells, and a vent pipe connected to the second cell. Furthermore, if the first cell is composed of a storage section, the storage section may be configured as a hollow container capable of taking in and storing the overflowing urine. For example, the sensor unit may include a first cell having an intake port for taking in the overflowing urine and configured as a hollow container capable of storing the urine, a second cell containing a sensor section, a flow path connecting the first cell and the second cell, and a vent pipe connected to the second cell. In either case, the vent pipe in the sensor unit is opened, allowing urine to flow from the first cell to the second cell via the flow path. The flow path supplies urine to the second cell by drawing up the urine stored in the first cell, for example, through capillary action.

[0110] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment described a case in which both the first cell 351 and the second cell 352 are provided on one main surface of the base material 310, the present invention is not limited thereto. The first cell 351 may be provided on one main surface of the base material 310 and the second cell 352 on the other main surface, or both cells may be provided on both main surfaces, respectively.

[0111] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the case in which the imaging unit 221 and illumination 222 are mounted on the housing unit 230 side as color detection means was explained, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the case of Figure 5, when the door 270 is open, the imaging unit 221 can always take images facing outwards, which may infringe on the user's privacy. In this respect, from the viewpoint of protecting the user's privacy, it is preferable to arrange the color detection means on the inside of the door 270, as shown in Figure 13. In this case, since the color detection means is directed towards the housing unit 230 side, it is possible to prevent the user from being imaged. Moreover, when the door 270 is closed, the color detection means faces the sensor unit 3, so that the inspection sheet 355 of the sensor unit 3 can be imaged.

[0112] Furthermore, the measuring device 2 may further include an audio output unit (not shown) that outputs voice guidance to the user of the sensor unit (e.g., the subject) to explain how to use it. Preferably, the audio output unit is configured to output voice guidance in response to user operation input or detection of user behavior. For example, the audio output unit outputs voice guidance before the user collects urine. User operation input refers to input such as switch operation, button press, or touch operation by the user. Detection of user behavior refers to detection of user actions such as entering the toilet 700, approaching the measuring device 2, opening and closing the door 270, or taking out the sensor unit 3 from the storage unit 250. Behavior detection can be performed by various sensors. With the audio output unit, the user can understand how to operate the measuring device 2 before starting the measurement, improving the convenience of operation. The audio output unit may be provided inside the housing 230 or separately from the measuring device 2.

[0113] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described a case where the storage unit 250 is attached to the outside of the housing unit 230, it may also be provided inside the housing unit 230. In this case, the storage unit 250 should be configured to automatically supply the sensor units 3 to be stored. Specifically, as shown in Figure 14, the storage unit 250 is provided inside the housing unit 230. The storage unit 250 is equipped with a replenishment port (not shown) for replenishing the sensor units 3 and a removal port 251 for removing the sensor units 3, and can store multiple sensor units 3 inside. The removal port 251 may be provided at the bottom of the storage unit 250, and the replenishment port may be provided, for example, at the top or side of the storage unit 250. In the storage unit 250, each time a sensor unit 3 is removed from the removal port 251, the sensor units 3 inside the storage unit 250 move due to their own weight, so that a sensor unit 3 is always positioned at the removal port 251. With such a storage unit 250, the sensor units 3 can be automatically dispensed, which improves user convenience.

[0114] <Other Embodiments> In the above-described embodiment, the case in which the measuring device 2 is installed on the wall surface 701 was explained. However, the measuring device 2 may be configured to be brought into the toilet 700 and to be placed flat on a horizontal surface such as a table. The difference in the flat-placement configuration from the above-described embodiment will be specifically explained using Figures 15A and 15B. Figure 15A is a cross-sectional view illustrating the state in which the sensor unit is attached to the measuring device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the state when measurement is performed using the measuring device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] As shown in Figures 15A and 15B, the housing 230 is composed of a first part 230a and a second part 230b, and is equipped with a bottom surface 232 that can be placed on a horizontal surface 703, so that the measuring device 2 can be brought into, for example, a toilet 700 and placed on its horizontal surface 703. The horizontal surface 703 refers to, for example, a floor or a table surface. The second part 230b is provided with a housing area 272 for housing the sensor unit 3, and the housing area 272 is open in the vertical direction. The subject can insert the sensor unit 3 into the housing area 272 from above the measuring device 2 and attach it to the sensor mounting part 210. With such a measuring device 2, urine components can be measured by bringing it into the toilet 700 from outside and placing it on a horizontal surface.

[0116] Furthermore, by positioning the imaging unit 221 and illumination 222 as color detection means inside the door 270, the aforementioned privacy protection is ensured, and contamination of the color detection means by urine is prevented. If the color detection means were positioned on the housing 230 side, when the sensor unit 3 is mounted on the sensor mounting unit 210, the color detection means would be positioned below the sensor unit 3. In this case, urine dripping from the sensor unit 3 could contaminate the color detection means. By positioning the color detection means inside the door 270, contamination by urine is prevented, and high measurement accuracy can be maintained. As a result, contamination of the color detection means by urine splashing or dripping during mounting is suppressed, and the imaging conditions of the inspection sheet 355 can be stably maintained.

[0117] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 15A and 15B, it is preferable that the sensor mounting portion 210 be equipped with an angle adjustment mechanism (not shown) for adjusting the tilt angle of the mounted sensor unit 3. The angle adjustment mechanism is configured to allow the opposite end of the mounted sensor unit 3 to rotate using the end on the sensor mounting portion 210 side as a pivot point. The angle adjustment mechanism allows the tilt angle of the sensor unit 3 held by the sensor mounting portion 210 to be adjusted, thereby changing the holding posture.

[0118] Here, we will specifically explain how to change the holding posture of the sensor unit 3. As shown in Figure 15A, when the sensor unit 3 is attached, its holding posture is such that the tip is positioned above the pivot point of the sensor unit 3, allowing the user to easily insert it. However, if measurements are taken in this state, the imaging distance between the color detection means and the sensor unit 3 may be too short, making it difficult to maintain high measurement accuracy. Therefore, when taking measurements, it is preferable to change the holding posture of the sensor unit 3 from the attached posture so that the imaging distance is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. The rotation angle of the sensor unit 3 should be adjusted as appropriate according to the imaging distance. From the viewpoint of ensuring the reproducibility of measurement accuracy by keeping the imaging distance and imaging angle constant during color detection, it is preferable to rotate the sensor unit 3 so that the tip of the sensor unit 3 contacts the bottom surface of the housing 230. Furthermore, the flexibility of the sensor unit 3 allows the inspection sheet 355 to be stably positioned in front of the color detection means.

[0119] The angle adjustment mechanism may be configured such that, for example, the sensor unit 3 rotates when the user manually pushes down the tip of the sensor unit 3. Alternatively, for example, the sensor unit 3 may be configured to rotate in conjunction with the closing operation of the door 270. In this case, the angle adjustment mechanism may be configured with a cam mechanism that is linked to the closing operation of the door 270.

[0120] Furthermore, the angle adjustment mechanism can also be applied to the measuring device 2, which is configured to be installed on the wall surface 701 as shown in Figure 13.

[0121] Furthermore, while the above-described embodiment described a case where a sensor unit 3 equipped with a color sample is used for measurement by colorimetric method, the present invention is not limited to this. The color sample only needs to be detectable at the same time as the color detection of the sensor unit 3, and may be placed in the housing area 272 of the housing 230. In this case, since the color sample is detected together with the inspection sheet 355, it is preferable to place the color sample near the sensor unit 3. In the case of Figure 15A, since the color detection means is located on the door 270 side, it is preferable to place the color sample at the bottom of the housing area 272 and around the sensor unit 3. However, in this case, urine may splash onto the color sample when the sensor unit 3 is installed, soiling the color sample and potentially reducing the accuracy of color detection. Therefore, it is preferable that the color sample be kept hidden so that urine does not adhere to it when the sensor unit 3 is installed. On the other hand, it is preferable that the color sample be exposed so that it can be detected by the color detection means during measurement. Here, "non-exposed state" refers to a state in which the color sample is not optically recognized within the detection range of the color detection means, for example, when the color sample is located outside the detection field of view, or when it is within the detection field of view but is obscured by other components and cannot be optically seen. "Exposed state" refers to a state in which the color sample is within the detection field of view and is color-detected simultaneously with the inspection sheet 355.

[0122] Here, we will explain in detail how to switch between the unexposed and exposed states. The non-exposed state can be achieved, for example, by retracting the color sample into the housing 230 and storing it so that it does not face the outside. Specifically, the housing 230 may be provided with a storage section for storing and retracting the color sample, and a moving section, such as a guide rail, for moving the color sample between the storage area 272 and the storage section. In this case, when the sensor unit 3 is installed, the color sample is retracted into the storage section and is not exposed to the outside. Then, the color sample is pulled out from the storage section by the moving section and is positioned in the storage area 272 during measurement. As a result, the color sample is placed within the detection field of the color detection means and is exposed. Switching between non-exposed and exposed states can be done by manually operating the moving section, or by operating the moving section in conjunction with the closing of the door 270 to move the color sample from the storage section to the storage area 272.

[0123] Another switching method involves, for example, covering the color sample with a covering material during installation to achieve a non-exposed state, and then moving the covering material to expose the color sample during measurement. The covering material can be moved manually or in conjunction with the closing operation of the door 270.

[0124] <Preferred aspects of this disclosure> Preferred embodiments of this disclosure are described below.

[0125] (Note 1) A sensor mounting section to which a sensor unit can be attached, which is portable and configured as a disposable item and is configured to output a signal regarding the components contained in the collected urine, A measuring unit that measures the components contained in the urine based on the signal output by the sensor unit, It comprises a housing portion that supports or houses the sensor mounting portion and the measuring portion, The aforementioned housing is installed inside the toilet. The measuring unit is configured to start measuring at any time after the sensor unit has been attached to the sensor mounting unit. Measuring device.

[0126] (Note 2) The housing portion includes a recovery section for recovering the sensor unit after measurement. The sensor mounting section is configured to detach the sensor unit after measurement, and the retrieval section is configured to retrieve the sensor unit that has been detached after measurement. The measuring device described in Appendix 1.

[0127] (Note 3) The housing portion includes a storage compartment for storing unused sensor units. The measuring device described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2.

[0128] (Note 4) The storage compartment is maintained so that the temperature and humidity are within a predetermined range. The measuring device described in Appendix 3.

[0129] (Note 5) The measuring unit is configured to start measurement by attaching the sensor unit to the sensor mounting unit. The measuring device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 4.

[0130] (Note 6) The housing portion includes an openable and closable door that covers the sensor unit mounted on the sensor mounting portion. The measuring unit is configured to start measuring when the door is closed. The measuring device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 4.

[0131] (Note 7) The measurement unit is configured to output the measurement results to an information terminal used by the target person, which includes at least one of the user of the sensor unit and the provider of a service using the sensor unit. The measuring device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 6.

[0132] (Note 8) The measurement unit is configured to output predetermined advice information that matches the measurement results to the information terminal. The measuring device described in Appendix 7.

[0133] (Note 9) The measurement unit comprises at least one of the following: a measurement means for performing electrochemical measurements and a color detection means for performing measurements by a colorimetric method. The measuring device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 8.

[0134] (Note 10) The measurement unit is configured to link the measurement result with the subject based on the subject's identifier for urine collection. The measuring device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 9.

[0135] (Note 11) The housing portion comprises a rear surface that can be installed on a wall surface and a housing area for housing the sensor unit mounted on the sensor mounting portion, and is configured such that the housing area is open horizontally when mounted on the wall surface. The measuring device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 10.

[0136] (Note 12) The housing portion comprises a bottom surface that can be installed on a horizontal surface and a housing area for housing the sensor unit mounted on the sensor mounting portion, and is configured such that the housing area is open in the vertical direction when mounted on the horizontal surface. The measuring device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 10.

[0137] (Note 13) The measurement unit is equipped with a color detection means for performing measurements by the colorimetric method. The color detection means is positioned inside the door and is configured to measure the sensor unit in the housing area when the door is closed. The measuring device described in Appendix 6.

[0138] (Note 14) The housing portion is equipped with a color sample that serves as a reference for color detection, and the color sample is set to a non-exposed state when the sensor unit is installed, and is switched from the non-exposed state to an exposed state during measurement, and is configured to be detected together with the sensor unit in the exposed state. The measuring device described in Appendix 13.

[0139] (Note 15) The housing portion is equipped with a storage compartment for storing the color sample, and is configured such that when the color sample is mounted, it is moved to the storage compartment to keep it hidden, and when measurement is performed, the color sample is pulled out of the storage compartment to expose it. The measuring device described in Appendix 14.

[0140] (Note 16) The sensor unit further comprises an audio output unit configured to output audio guidance to the user of the sensor unit in response to the user's operation input or the detection of the user's actions. The measuring device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 15.

[0141] (Note 17) The storage unit is provided with a replenishment opening for replenishing the sensor unit and an outlet for removing the sensor unit, and is configured such that each time the sensor unit is removed from the outlet, the sensor unit stored in the storage unit moves to the outlet and is positioned in the outlet. The measuring device described in Appendix 3.

[0142] (Note 18) The sensor mounting section 210 includes an angle adjustment mechanism that rotates the tip of the mounted sensor unit to adjust the holding angle of the sensor unit. A measuring device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 17.

[0143] (Note 19) A system for measuring components contained in urine, A sensor unit that is portable and configured as a disposable item, and is configured to output a signal regarding the components contained in the collected urine, The measuring device comprises a sensor mounting section on which the sensor unit can be attached, a measuring section that measures components contained in the urine based on the signal output by the sensor unit, and a housing section that supports or houses the sensor mounting section and the measuring section. The measuring device is installed inside the toilet and is configured to start measuring at any time after the sensor unit has been attached to the sensor mounting section. Measurement system.

[0144] (Note 20) A sensor unit that is portable and configured as a disposable item, and is configured to output a signal regarding the components contained in the collected urine, A measuring device to which the aforementioned sensor unit can be attached, and configured to measure the components contained in the urine when the aforementioned sensor unit is attached, The system includes an information processing device that acquires measurement results from the measuring device, prepares predetermined advice information that conforms to the measurement results, and provides it to a target audience, including at least one of the users of the sensor unit and the providers of services using the sensor unit. The measuring device is installed inside the toilet and is configured to start measuring at any time after the sensor unit has been attached to the sensor mounting section. Health support system.

[0145] (Note 21) The measuring device is, A sensor mounting section on which the aforementioned sensor unit can be attached, A measuring unit that measures the components contained in the urine based on the signal output by the sensor unit, The system comprises a housing portion that supports or houses the sensor mounting portion and the measuring portion. Appendix 20: Health support system.

[0146] (Note 22) The aforementioned information processing device is An information extraction unit that extracts advice information that is suitable for the measurement results from the measuring device, The system comprises an information providing unit that provides the advice information extracted by the information extraction unit to an information terminal other than the information processing device, The health support system described in Appendix 20 or Appendix 21.

[0147] (Note 23) A sensor unit for storing urine and measuring the stored urine, A first cell that stores urine supplied from an external source, A second cell, which is in communication with the first cell and contains a sensor unit that outputs a signal regarding the components contained in the urine, The system comprises a vent pipe connected to the second cell for releasing the atmosphere inside the second cell to the outside, The first cell is configured to include at least one of a water-absorbing section capable of retaining the urine and a storage section capable of storing the urine. The second cell is configured such that when the vent pipe is opened, urine flows in from the first cell. Sensor unit.

[0148] (Note 24) The first cell is equipped with the water-absorbing portion so as to cover the storage portion, and is configured to retain the urine in the water-absorbing portion when the urine is poured over it, and to store the urine that has permeated the water-absorbing portion in the storage portion. Sensor unit as described in Appendix 23.

[0149] (Note 25) It is constructed by laminating a base material, a spacer member, and a cover member. The spacer member is provided with grooves for forming the storage section, the second cell, and the vent pipe. The cover member is provided with a through hole that communicates with the storage section. The water-absorbing portion is provided so as to cover the through-hole. Sensor unit as noted in Appendix 24.

[0150] (Note 26) Each of the aforementioned storage units comprises two or more of the aforementioned second cells. One of the sensor units listed in Appendix 23-25.

[0151] (Note 27) Each of the two or more of the second cells is connected to the vent pipe and configured to be opened individually. Sensor unit as described in Appendix 26.

[0152] (Note 28) The sensor unit comprises a sensor electrode and at least one of a test sheet configured such that its working surface changes color upon contact with the urine. Of the two or more second cells, at least one contains the sensor electrode, and the other contains the inspection sheet. The sensor unit specified in Appendix 26 or Appendix 27.

[0153] (Note 29) The vent tube connected to the second cell containing the inspection sheet is shorter or has a larger cross-sectional area than the vent tube connected to the second cell containing the sensor electrode. The sensor unit as described in Appendix 28. [Explanation of symbols]

[0154] 1...Measurement system, 2...Measurement device, 3...Sensor unit, 210...Sensor mounting section, 211...Insertion port, 212...Attachment / detachment mechanism, 220...Measurement section, 221...Imaging section, 222...Illumination, 230...Housing section, 230a...First section, 230b...Second section, 230c...Third section, 231...Back, 232...Bottom, 240...Collection section, 250...Storage section, 260...Display section, 270...Door, 271...Handle, 272...Space (storage area), 310...Base material, 320...Spacer member, 321...Groove section, 322...Storage section, 330...C Bar member, 331...Through hole, 340...Water absorption part, 351...First cell, 352...Second cell, 353...Sensor part, 354...Sensor electrode, 355...Inspection sheet, 356...Vent pipe, 357...Break point, 358...Ventilation passage, 359...Terminal, 400...Information processing device, 401...Information extraction part, 402...Information provision part, 403...Information database part, 404...Communication line, 500...Information terminal, 500a...Smartphone, 500b...Computer device, 700...Toilet, 701...Wall surface, 702...Toilet bowl, 703...Horizontal surface

Claims

1. A sensor mounting section to which a sensor unit can be attached, which is portable and configured as a disposable item and is configured to output a signal regarding the components contained in the collected urine, A measuring unit that measures the components contained in the urine based on the signal output by the sensor unit, It comprises a housing portion that supports or houses the sensor mounting portion and the measuring portion, The aforementioned housing is configured to be installable in or portable within a toilet. The measuring unit is configured to start measuring at any time after the sensor unit has been attached to the sensor mounting unit. Measuring device.

2. The housing portion includes a recovery section for recovering the sensor unit after measurement. The sensor mounting section is configured to detach the sensor unit after measurement, and the retrieval section is configured to retrieve the sensor unit that has been detached after measurement. The measuring device according to claim 1.

3. The housing portion includes a storage compartment for storing unused sensor units. The measuring device according to claim 1.

4. The storage compartment is maintained so that the temperature and humidity are within a predetermined range. The measuring device according to claim 3.

5. The measuring unit is configured to start measurement by attaching the sensor unit to the sensor mounting unit. The measuring device according to claim 1.

6. The housing portion comprises a housing area for housing the sensor unit mounted on the sensor mounting portion, and an openable and closable door that covers the housing area. The measuring unit is configured to start measuring when the door is closed. The measuring device according to claim 1.

7. The measurement unit is configured to output the measurement results to an information terminal used by the target person, which includes at least one of the user of the sensor unit and the provider of a service using the sensor unit. The measuring device according to claim 1.

8. The measurement unit is configured to output predetermined advice information that matches the measurement results to the information terminal. The measuring device according to claim 7.

9. The measurement unit comprises at least one of the following: a measurement means for performing electrochemical measurements and a color detection means for performing measurements by a colorimetric method. The measuring device according to claim 1.

10. The measurement unit is configured to link the measurement result with the subject based on the subject's identifier for urine collection. The measuring device according to claim 7.

11. The housing portion comprises a rear surface that can be installed on a wall surface and a housing area for housing the sensor unit mounted on the sensor mounting portion, and is configured such that the housing area is open horizontally when mounted on the wall surface. The measuring device according to claim 1.

12. The housing portion comprises a bottom surface that can be installed on a horizontal surface and a housing area for housing the sensor unit mounted on the sensor mounting portion, and is configured such that the housing area is open in the vertical direction when mounted on the horizontal surface. The measuring device according to claim 1.

13. The measurement unit is equipped with a color detection means for performing measurements by the colorimetric method. The color detection means is positioned inside the door and is configured to measure the sensor unit in the housing area when the door is closed. The measuring device according to claim 6.

14. The housing portion is equipped with a color sample that serves as a reference for color detection, and the color sample is set to a non-exposed state when the sensor unit is installed, and is switched from the non-exposed state to an exposed state during measurement, and is configured to be detected together with the sensor unit in the exposed state. The measuring device according to claim 13.

15. The housing portion is equipped with a storage compartment for storing the color sample, and is configured such that when the color sample is mounted, it is moved to the storage compartment to keep it hidden, and when measurement is performed, the color sample is pulled out of the storage compartment to expose it. The measuring device according to claim 14.

16. The sensor unit further comprises an audio output unit configured to output audio guidance to the user of the sensor unit in response to the user's operation input or the detection of the user's actions. The measuring device according to claim 1.

17. The storage unit is provided with a replenishment opening for replenishing the sensor unit and an outlet for removing the sensor unit, and is configured such that each time the sensor unit is removed from the outlet, the sensor unit stored in the storage unit moves to the outlet and is positioned in the outlet. The measuring device according to claim 3.

Images