Bowel movement recording system, bowel movement recording method, and bowel movement recording program

Abstract

To suppress the increased burden on users regarding the recording of bowel movements. [Solution] The defecation recording system according to the embodiment includes a toilet installed in a toilet room, a user identification device that identifies the user using the toilet, a detection device that detects feces discharged into the toilet, a determination device that determines the characteristics of the feces from the detection result by the detection device, a timing device that acquires time information indicating the date and time of detection by the detection device, a recording device that records the characteristics of the feces and the time information as personal data in association with the user identified by the user identification device, and a display device that displays information about the feces based on the personal data recorded in the recording device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a defecation recording system, a defecation recording method, and a defecation recording program.

Background Art

[0002] With the progress of the declining birthrate and aging population, an increase in elderly people with dementia is expected, and there is a concern that problems regarding the care of elderly people with dementia will become even more serious. In particular, care recipients (patients) in nursing facilities from the initial stage to the mid-stage of dementia may experience fecal incontinence outside of the toilet despite having a wide range of movement due to their independent daily lives, which has been a cause of increased care burden. For such care recipients, current nursing facilities predict the defecation timing of the care recipients based on the experience and intuition of the caregivers themselves, and encourage defecation by regularly guiding them to the toilet. However, according to the further increase in the care burden associated with the future increase in care recipients, it is assumed that the current measures will eventually become insufficient.

[0003] Under such circumstances, there is a need for a technology that can guide a person to the toilet more efficiently than before based on actual measured information rather than regularly guiding them to the toilet based on the experience and intuition of the caregiver themselves. Therefore, for example, a defecation prediction device that can predict defecation timing based on actual measured information such as the thickness of the rectum detected by an ultrasonic sensor is known. (See, for example, Patent Document 1)

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, the conventional defecation prediction devices described above require the attachment of an ultrasonic sensor to the abdomen of the person being monitored, such as a care recipient, in order to acquire actual measured information. Furthermore, each time the ultrasonic sensor is attached, such as when it is removed and then reattached, ultrasonic gel must be applied and it must be secured with tape. In addition, power supply such as a battery must be managed, so the device must be maintained on a daily basis. Thus, the conventional technology described above increases the burden on caregivers when introducing the device in order to predict the timing of defecation based on actual measured information. Therefore, it is desirable to suppress the increased burden on users regarding the recording of defecation.

[0006] The embodiments of the disclosure aim to provide a defecation recording system, a defecation recording method, and a defecation recording program that suppress the increased burden on users regarding defecation record-keeping. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A defecation recording system according to one embodiment is characterized by comprising: a toilet installed in a toilet room; a user identification device that identifies the user using the toilet; a detection device that detects feces discharged into the toilet; a determination device that determines the characteristics of the feces from the detection result by the detection device; a timing device that acquires time information indicating the date and time of detection by the detection device; a recording device that records the characteristics of the feces and the time information as personal data in association with the user identified by the user identification device; and a display device that displays information about the feces based on the personal data recorded in the recording device.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, the properties of the stool are determined based on the detection result of the stool discharged into the toilet bowl, making it possible to determine the properties of the stool without imposing a burden on the user, such as visual confirmation by the toilet user (also simply referred to as "user"). Furthermore, by using time information indicating the date and time of detection of the stool discharged into the toilet bowl, it becomes possible to manage the properties of the stool in association with the date and time of excretion (also referred to as "excretion date and time"), making it possible to understand the interval between the previous excretion and the current excretion. In addition, according to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, the information on the properties of the stool and the date and time of excretion collected as described above is recorded as personal data associated with the toilet user, making it possible to record the properties of the stool and the date and time of excretion of the user in association with that user without requiring any processing by the user for recording. Thus, according to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, it is possible to suppress an increase in the user's burden regarding defecation recording. Therefore, according to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, it is possible to record stool characteristics as a health indicator and physical condition indicator without burdening the user.

[0009] In a defecation recording system according to one embodiment, the determination device is capable of automatically determining the characteristics of the stool into at least three types of results corresponding to soft stool, normal stool, and hard stool, and the display device displays the personal data differently according to the determination result of the characteristics of the stool.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, it is possible to determine the actual characteristics of the stool expelled by the user into at least three types: soft stool (diarrhea), normal stool (regular stool), and hard stool (constipation). Furthermore, the display on the display device can be varied according to each determination result. This makes it possible to grasp at a glance what kind of stool characteristics (hardness) the user tends to expel, enabling more efficient guidance to the toilet.

[0011] In a defecation recording system according to one embodiment, the display device is capable of displaying the current time and displays information indicating the possibility that the identified user may defecate at the current time.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, it is possible to display information such as a numerical value (probability) indicating the likelihood that the user will defecate at the current time. This makes it possible to determine whether or not to guide the user to the toilet based on information predicted from actual measured information such as the characteristics of the stool determined in the past and the time it took to expel the stool of those characteristics, thereby enabling more efficient guidance to the toilet.

[0013] In a defecation recording system according to one embodiment, the display device displays information indicating the characteristics of the stool that can be excreted by the identified user.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, it is possible to display the characteristics of the stool that are most likely to be excreted by the user at the current time. This makes it possible to determine whether or not to guide the user to the toilet based on actual information such as the characteristics of the stool determined in the past and the time it took to excrete that stool, thereby enabling more efficient guidance to the toilet.

[0015] A defecation recording system according to one embodiment includes an input device capable of inputting fecal incontinence information relating to fecal incontinence by a user, and the recording device records the fecal incontinence information as personal data associated with the identified user.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, it is possible to record user input information regarding fecal incontinence in association with the identified user, along with other information. Therefore, personal data can be appropriately supplemented with input information regarding fecal incontinence, and it becomes possible to understand whether or not fecal incontinence occurred in the defecation cycle between the previous defecation and the current defecation. This makes it possible to compare cases in which stool was continuously expelled in the toilet without fecal incontinence with cases in which fecal incontinence occurred between the previous defecation and the current defecation, thereby enabling more efficient guidance to the toilet.

[0017] A defecation record system according to one embodiment includes an input device capable of inputting drug information regarding the use of laxatives or antidiarrheal medications by a user, and the recording device records the drug information as personal data in association with the identified user.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, input information regarding the user's use of laxatives or antidiarrheal medications can be recorded in association with the identified user along with other information. This makes it possible to determine whether or not medication was taken during the defecation cycle between the previous and current bowel movements. This allows for a determination of whether the time elapsed until the current bowel movement is appropriate for taking medication, by referring to cases where bowel movements were completed consecutively in the toilet without medication. This minimizes the use of medications that can burden the body. Furthermore, since the time taken from taking medication to bowel movement can be determined, it becomes possible to guide users to the toilet more efficiently.

[0019] In a defecation recording system according to one embodiment, the determination device determines the size of the stool from the detection result of the detection device, and the recording device records the size of the stool and the time information as personal data in association with the user identified by the user identification device.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, the size of the stool is determined based on the detection result of the stool discharged into the toilet bowl, making it possible to determine the size of the stool without imposing a burden on the user, such as visual confirmation. Furthermore, by using time information indicating the date and time of detection of the stool discharged into the toilet bowl, it becomes possible to manage the size of the stool in association with the date and time of its excretion. In addition, according to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, the information of the size of the stool and the date and time of its excretion collected as described above is recorded as personal data associated with the toilet user, so that the size of the stool excreted by the toilet user and the date and time of excretion are recorded in association with that user without requiring any processing by the user for recording. In this way, according to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, it is possible to suppress an increase in the user's burden regarding the recording of defecation.Therefore, according to one embodiment of the defecation recording system, it becomes possible to record the size of stool as a health indicator and physical condition indicator without burdening the user.

[0021] A method for recording defecation according to one embodiment includes: a user identification step for identifying a user who uses a toilet installed in a toilet room; a detection step for detecting feces discharged into the toilet; a determination step for determining the characteristics of the feces from the detection result of the detection step; a timing step for acquiring time information indicating the date and time of detection by the detection step; a recording step for recording the characteristics of the feces and the time information as personal data in association with the user identified by the user identification step; and a display step for displaying information about the feces based on the personal data recorded in the recording step.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the defecation recording method, the characteristics of the stool are determined based on the detection result of the stool discharged into the toilet bowl, making it possible to determine the characteristics of the stool without imposing a burden on the user, such as visual confirmation. Furthermore, by using time information indicating the date and time of detection of the stool discharged into the toilet bowl, it becomes possible to manage the characteristics of the stool in association with the date and time of its excretion, making it possible to understand the interval between the previous and current excretion. In addition, according to one embodiment of the defecation recording method, the information on the characteristics of the stool and the date and time of its excretion collected as described above is recorded as personal data associated with the toilet user, making it possible to record the characteristics of the stool and the date and time of excretion of the toilet user in association with that user without requiring any processing by the user for recording. Thus, according to one embodiment of the defecation recording method, it is possible to suppress an increase in the user's burden regarding defecation recording. Therefore, according to one embodiment of the defecation recording method, it becomes possible to record stool characteristics as a health indicator and physical condition indicator without burdening the user.

[0023] A defecation recording program according to one embodiment causes a computer to execute the following steps: a determination procedure for determining the characteristics of feces from the detection result obtained when feces discharged into a toilet bowl installed in a toilet room are detected by a detection device; a timing procedure for obtaining time information indicating the date and time of detection by the detection device; and a recording procedure for recording the characteristics of the feces and the time information as personal data in association with the user identified by a user identification device that identifies the user using the toilet bowl.

[0024] According to the defecation recording program according to one aspect of the embodiment, by determining the properties of feces based on the detection result of the feces discharged into the toilet bowl, it is possible to determine the properties of feces without imposing a burden on the user such as visual confirmation by the user. Further, by using the time information indicating the date and time of detection of the feces discharged into the toilet bowl, it is possible to manage the properties of the feces in association with the excretion date and time of the feces, and it is possible to grasp the interval from the previous defecation to the current defecation. And according to the defecation recording program according to one aspect of the embodiment, by recording the information on the properties of the feces and the excretion date and time collected as described above as personal data in association with the user of the toilet bowl, it is possible to record the properties and excretion date and time of the feces excreted by the user of the toilet bowl in association with the user without requiring the user to perform processing for recording. Thus, according to the defecation recording program according to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to suppress an increase in the burden on the user regarding the recording of defecation. Therefore, according to the defecation recording program according to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to record the feces properties as a health index / physical condition index without imposing a burden on the user.

Effects of the Invention

[0025] <关于实施方式的一态様によれば、排便の記録に関する使用者の負荷の増大を抑制することができる。 According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to suppress an increase in the burden on the user regarding the recording of defecation.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of information processing according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of the toilet room according to the embodiment. <关于实施方式に係るトイレルームの外観構成の一例を示す模式斜視図である。 [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of the defecation recording system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is another conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of the defecation recording system according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the defecation recording system according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of a history information database according to the present invention. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a toilet seat device. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps performed by the bowel movement recording system. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of information processing in a bowel movement recording system. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of a results display screen in a bowel movement recording system. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows an example of an input screen in a bowel movement recording system. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of prediction variation in a bowel movement recording system. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure performed by the modified defecation record system. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of information processing in a modified defecation record system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] The embodiments of the defecation recording system disclosed herein will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0028] <1. Information processing of the bowel movement record system> First, the content of the information processing performed in the defecation record system according to the embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of information processing according to the embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 1, information processing by the defecation record system 1 is performed in a designated facility such as a nursing home, with user U1 as the subject. For example, user U1 is a person receiving care (patient) residing in the nursing home and receiving care from caregivers working at the nursing home. The toilet room R shown in Figure 1 is a space provided in the nursing home, in which a toilet seat device 2 is placed and an operating device 10 is placed on the wall W. In Figure 1, the recorded history information will be described as logs LG1-1 to LG1-3 according to the update (addition), but unless otherwise specified, it will simply be referred to as "log LG1". For example, log LG1 is stored in the history information DB 121 (see Figure 5) as user U1's personal data, associated with information that identifies user U1 (ID, etc.). Also, in the example in Figure 1, the communication terminal 20 is shown to be a tablet terminal used by caregivers, etc.

[0029] First, in the example shown in Figure 1, at time t1, user U1 sits on the toilet seat device 2 in the toilet room R and defecates. As a result, the defecation recording system 1 detects information regarding user U1's defecation at time t1 (step S1). The defecation recording system 1 detects information regarding user U1's defecation at time t1 via the toilet seat device 2.

[0030] The defecation recording system 1 then stores information regarding the detected user U1's defecation (step S2). The defecation recording system 1 stores the detected user U1's defecation information in association with information that identifies user U1. The defecation recording system 1 stores the detected user U1's defecation information in association with information that identifies user U1 in the storage unit 120 of the information processing device 100 (see Figure 5). In the example in Figure 1, the defecation recording system 1 stores information indicating that the stool characteristics at date and time t1 were "normal stool," as shown in log LG1-1. The defecation recording system 1 also stores information indicating that information regarding the defecation at date and time t1 was obtained through detection, as shown in log LG1-1.

[0031] In the example shown in Figure 1, at time t2, user U1 is unable to use the toilet room R properly and experiences fecal incontinence. Therefore, the caregiver assisting user U1 inputs information (input information) indicating that user U1 experienced fecal incontinence at time t2 into the communication terminal 20. For example, the caregiver assisting user U1 inputs the time t2 when user U1 experienced fecal incontinence and information describing the characteristics of the stool into the communication terminal 20. The communication terminal 20 then transmits the input information to the information processing device 100.

[0032] The defecation recording system 1 then stores the information about user U1's defecation that has been entered (step S4). The defecation recording system 1 stores the information about user U1's defecation (input information) entered into the communication terminal 20 in association with information that identifies user U1. In the example in Figure 1, the defecation recording system 1 stores information indicating that the stool consistency at date and time t2 was "loose stool," as shown in log LG1-2. The defecation recording system 1 also stores information indicating that the information about defecation at date and time t2 was obtained by input, as shown in log LG1-2. Note that if user U1 is not experiencing fecal incontinence, the defecation recording system 1 may use only the information about user U1 collected by detection, without using the input information.

[0033] Then, in the example shown in Figure 1, at time t3, user U1 sits on the toilet seat device 2 in toilet room R and defecates. As a result, the defecation recording system 1 detects information regarding user U1's defecation at time t3 (step S5). The defecation recording system 1 then detects information regarding user U1's defecation at time t5 via the toilet seat device 2.

[0034] The defecation recording system 1 then stores information about the detected user U1's defecation (step S6). In the example in Figure 1, the defecation recording system 1 stores information indicating that the stool consistency at date and time t3 was "loose stool," as shown in log LG1-3. The defecation recording system 1 also stores information indicating that information about the defecation at date and time t3 was obtained through detection, as shown in log LG1-3.

[0035] Then, the defecation recording system 1 predicts the defecation of user U1 at date and time t4 (step S7). For example, the defecation recording system 1 predicts the defecation of user U1 in response to a request from the caregiver who is caring for user U1. The caregiver who is caring for user U1 may request the information processing device 100 to predict the defecation of user U1 by operating the communication terminal 20. The defecation recording system 1, using the information processing device 100, predicts the defecation of user U1 at date and time t4.

[0036] In the example shown in Figure 1, the defecation record system 1 generates predictive information regarding the presence and characteristics of defecation for user U1 at time t4, as shown in the predictive information PD1. The defecation record system 1 predicts the probability at time t4 for each characteristic of defecation by user U1. For example, since there has been a record of loose stools for user U1, the defecation record system 1 predicts that there is a high probability that user U1 will have loose stools. The defecation record system 1 predicts that there is a 90% probability that user U1 will have loose stools, a 4% probability that it will have normal stools, a 2% probability that it will have hard stools, and a 2% probability that it will not have any stools.

[0037] Then, the defecation recording system 1 transmits the predicted information to a display device that displays the information (step S8). For example, the defecation recording system 1 transmits the information predicted by the information processing device 100 to the communication terminal 20, which is a display device that displays the information. The information processing device 100 transmits content CT1 to the communication terminal 20 indicating that there is a 90% chance that the user U1's stool will be soft, a 4% chance that it will be normal, a 2% chance that it will be hard, and a 2% chance that there will be no stool.

[0038] Then, the defecation record system 1 displays information on a display device (step S9). Specifically, the defecation record system 1 displays information on a (mobile) device such as the caregiver's smartphone. For example, it is preferable that the defecation record system 1 displays information on a display device outside the toilet space, such as the toilet room R. Note that the above is just an example, and the defecation record system 1 may display information on any display device. In the example in Figure 1, the defecation record system 1 displays information on a communication terminal 20, which is a display device that displays information. The communication terminal 20 displays content CT1 indicating that there is a 90% chance that the user U1's stool is soft, a 4% chance that it is normal, a 2% chance that it is hard, and a 2% chance that there is no stool.

[0039] As described above, the defecation recording system 1 collects information on user U1's defecation and predicts the probability of user U1 defecating at a given time. In this way, the defecation recording system 1 can improve the accuracy of predictions according to each user's defecation tendencies by making predictions about each user's defecation based on each user's defecation tendencies. Therefore, the defecation recording system 1 can appropriately predict each user's defecation according to their individual tendencies.

[0040] Furthermore, the defecation record system 1 displays the predicted probability of user U1 defecating on a communication terminal 20 used by caregivers or other persons caring for user U1. In this way, by displaying the history and predictions of defecation, the defecation record system 1 can visualize defecation, thereby reducing defecation failures such as not being able to defecate in an appropriate place, and providing an environment in which defecation can be performed appropriately.

[0041] As described above, the defecation record system 1 displays information indicating the possibility of defecation on the communication terminal 20, thereby enabling caregivers to appropriately recognize the possibility of defecation by user U1. For example, caregivers who recognize the possibility of defecation by user U1 can guide user U1 to the toilet according to that possibility. Furthermore, the defecation record system 1 automatically collects information regarding user U1's defecation when user U1 has a proper bowel movement in the toilet room R, thus eliminating the need for caregivers to manually input the information. Therefore, the defecation record system 1 can efficiently guide the person to the toilet and suppress the increase in the caregiving burden related to defecation.

[0042] The various information processing methods shown in Figure 1 are not limited to those described above, and may take on various forms. This point will be explained below.

[0043] <1-1. Displaying Information> The above example illustrates a case where information is displayed based on a request from the caregiver. However, the display of information is not limited to the form in which it is displayed based on a request from the caregiver; it may be displayed in various forms. The bowel movement record system 1 may display information at a predetermined time, regardless of a request from the caregiver. For example, the bowel movement record system 1 may display the information on the caregiver's device (communication terminal 20 or the caregiver's smartphone, etc.) at an appropriate current time based on the prediction of the bowel movement record system 1. For example, the bowel movement record system 1 may display the information on the caregiver's device at a predetermined time (e.g., 10:00 or 15:00). Note that the above is just an example, and the bowel movement record system 1 may display information at various times.

[0044] For example, the defecation record system 1 may notify an alert at a predetermined time. In this case, the defecation record system 1 may display an alert on the caregiver's terminal (communication terminal 20 or the caregiver's smartphone, etc.) stating, "It looks like defecation will occur soon." For example, the defecation record system 1 may periodically predict defecation (for example, at 10 or 30-minute intervals) and display an alert on the caregiver's terminal stating, "It looks like defecation will occur soon," when the prediction result meets predetermined conditions. In this case, the defecation record system 1 may display an alert on the caregiver's terminal stating, "It looks like defecation will occur soon," when the probability of "no defecation" in the defecation prediction results falls below a predetermined threshold (for example, 50%). Alternatively, the defecation record system 1 may display an alert on the caregiver's terminal stating, "It looks like defecation will occur soon," when the probability of defecation being predicted to occur exceeds a predetermined threshold (for example, 70%). Note that the above is just an example, and the defecation record system 1 may determine the timing of notifications using various conditions.

[0045] <1-2. Information to display> In the example shown in Figure 1, predicted information is displayed, but the defecation record system 1 may also display the personal data of the designated user. The defecation record system 1 may also display the personal data of the designated user on the communication terminal 20. If a caregiver or the like designates a user by operating the communication terminal 20, the defecation record system 1 may also display the personal data of the designated user on the communication terminal 20. For example, the defecation record system 1 may display the designated user's history information on the communication terminal 20. The defecation record system 1 may also display a list of the designated user's past defecation characteristics and dates on the communication terminal 20.

[0046] For example, a caregiver of a user may operate the communication terminal 20 to request the user's history information. The communication terminal 20 sends request information to the information processing device 100, which includes information identifying the user and information indicating that the user's history information is being requested. Upon receiving the request information, the information processing device 100 extracts the user's history information indicated by the request information from the history information DB 121. For example, the information processing device 100 extracts history information from the history information DB 121 showing the date, time, and characteristics of the specified user's past bowel movements. The information processing device 100 then sends the extracted user history information to the communication terminal 20. Upon receiving the user's history information, the communication terminal 20 displays the user's history information.

[0047] <1-3. Prediction> The defecation recording system 1 may use any information to make predictions about the user's defecation at the current time. For example, the defecation recording system 1 may make predictions based on criteria related to the characteristics of the excretion. The defecation recording system 1 may predict that the defecation interval will be longer if the stool is hard, based on the criterion that the harder the stool, the longer it takes to defecate. Alternatively, the defecation recording system 1 may predict that the defecation interval will be shorter if the stool is soft, based on the criterion that the softer the stool, the shorter the defecation time. The defecation recording system 1 may also predict that as time passes since the most recent defecation, the likelihood of soft stool decreases and the likelihood of hard stool increases. In this way, the defecation recording system 1 may make predictions based on the type of excretion (characteristics, etc.) and the time (interval) of defecation.

[0048] Furthermore, for example, the defecation record system 1 makes predictions based on the user's information. If the user's defecation interval (cycle) is every half day (12 hours), the defecation record system 1 may predict that the probability of defecation will gradually increase over the 12 hours since the most recent defecation, reaching 100% at the 12-hour mark. For example, if the user has a history of having loose stools several times followed by a return to normal stools, the defecation record system 1 may predict that for that user, the longer the loose stools continue, the lower the probability of loose stools will be, and the higher the probability of normal stools will be.

[0049] The defecation recording system 1 may use the user's past defecation history to predict the user's defecation at the current time. The defecation recording system 1 may also use the user's past defecation trends to predict the user's defecation at the current time. For example, the defecation recording system 1 may use the user's past defecation intervals and the characteristics of each defecation to predict the user's defecation at the current time. For example, if the user has had consecutive loose stools in their most recent (previous two) defecations, the defecation recording system 1 may predict that the user's current defecation is likely to be loose.

[0050] For example, if the defecation record system 1 has a history indicating that hard stools are excreted when the interval between the user's bowel movements is longer than a predetermined period (e.g., 3 days), it may predict that there is a high probability that the user's stool will be hard if the predetermined period has elapsed since the most recent bowel movement. For example, if the defecation record system 1 has a history indicating that normal stools are excreted when the user has a bowel movement at regular intervals, it may predict that there is a high probability that the user's stool will be hard if the prediction time is when the regular interval has elapsed since the most recent bowel movement.

[0051] Furthermore, the defecation recording system 1 may perform predictions using machine learning techniques. For example, the defecation recording system 1 may generate a model using the user's history information as training data and perform predictions using the generated model. For example, the defecation recording system 1 may generate a model using the characteristics of the user's past defecations and the interval (time difference) between that defecation and the previous defecation as training data. The defecation recording system 1 may generate a model that predicts the characteristics of defecation at the prediction time, taking the interval (time difference) between one defecation and the previous defecation, and the characteristics of past defecation as input. In this case, the defecation recording system 1 may input the interval (time difference) between the time at that time (prediction time) and the time of the latest defecation, and the characteristics of past defecation into the model, causing the model to output information that predicts the characteristics of defecation at the prediction time. The defecation recording system 1 may then use the information output by the model as prediction information, or it may perform predictions based on the information output by the model.

[0052] <2. Exterior design of the toilet room> Next, the external configuration of the toilet room according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of the toilet room according to the embodiment.

[0053] As shown in Figure 2, the defecation recording system 1 comprises a toilet seat device 2 and an operating device 10. As shown in Figure 2, a Western-style toilet (hereinafter referred to as "toilet") 7 is installed on the floor surface F of the toilet room R. In the following, the direction from the floor surface F towards the space of the toilet room R will be referred to as "up". The toilet seat device 2 is installed above the toilet 7.

[0054] The toilet bowl 7 is made of, for example, ceramic. The toilet bowl 7 has a bowl portion 8. The bowl portion 8 is recessed downwards and is the part that receives the user's excrement. The toilet bowl 7 is not limited to the floor-standing type as shown in the figure, but can be of any type as long as the defecation recording system 1 can be applied, and may also be a wall-mounted type, etc. The toilet bowl 7 is provided with a rim portion 9 around the entire circumference of the end of the opening facing the bowl portion 8. In the toilet room R, for example, a flushing water tank for storing flushing water may be installed near the toilet bowl 7, or it may be a so-called tankless type without a flushing water tank.

[0055] For example, when a flushing control unit (not shown) installed in the toilet room R is operated by the user, flushing water is supplied to the bowl portion 8 of the toilet bowl 7, thereby performing toilet flushing. The flushing control unit may be an operating lever or a touch operation on a toilet flushing object displayed on the operating device 10. Note that the flushing control unit is not limited to one that allows the user to perform toilet flushing manually, such as with an operating lever, but may also be one that performs toilet flushing by detecting the user's body with a sensor that detects the user, such as a seating sensor.

[0056] The toilet seat device 2 is attached to the top of the toilet bowl 7 and comprises a main body 3, a toilet lid 4, a seating area 5, and a nozzle 6. The toilet seat device 2 may be attached to the toilet bowl 7 in a detachable manner, or it may be attached to be integrated with the toilet bowl 7.

[0057] As shown in Figure 2, the seat portion 5 is a so-called toilet seat, formed in an annular shape with an opening in the center, and positioned along the rim portion 9 to overlap with the opening of the toilet bowl 7. The seat portion 5 supports the buttocks of the seated user. Also as shown in Figure 2, the toilet lid 4 and the seat portion 5 are each pivotally supported at one end on the main body portion 3, and are attached so as to be rotatable (openable and closable) around the pivot portion of the main body portion 3. The toilet lid 4 is attached to the toilet seat device 2 as needed, and the toilet seat device 2 does not necessarily have to have a toilet lid 4.

[0058] The nozzle unit 6 is a nozzle for localized cleaning. The nozzle unit 6 is configured to move forward and backward relative to the housing of the main unit 3 by being driven by a drive source such as an electric motor (not shown). The nozzle unit 6 is also connected to a water source such as a water pipe (not shown). As shown in Figure 2, when the nozzle unit 6 is in the extended position relative to the housing of the main unit 3, it sprays water from the water source onto the user's body to clean the localized area.

[0059] The operating device 10 is installed in the toilet room R. The operating device 10 is installed in a position that can be operated by the user. The operating device 10 is installed in a position that can be operated when the user is seated on the seat 5. In the example shown in Figure 2, the operating device 10 is installed on the wall W to the right as viewed from the user seated on the seat 5. The operating device 10 may be installed in various ways other than on the wall, as long as it is usable by the user seated on the seat 5. For example, the operating device 10 may be installed integrally with the toilet seat device 2.

[0060] The operating device 10 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network (for example, network N in Figure 5) in a way that enables communication by wire or wireless. For example, the connection between the toilet seat device 2 and the operating device 10 can be any way that enables the transmission and reception of information, and may be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0061] The operating device 10 accepts various operations from the user via a display surface (e.g., a display screen 11) through, for example, a touch panel function. Alternatively, the operating device 10 may be equipped with switches and buttons, and accept various operations via these switches and buttons. The display screen 11 is a display screen of a tablet terminal, for example, implemented by a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and is a display device for displaying various information. In other words, the operating device 10 accepts user input via the display screen 11 and also outputs to the user. The display screen 11 displays various information.

[0062] The operating device 10 receives user input to stop the control being performed by the toilet seat device 2. The operating device 10 receives user input to start localized washing by the toilet seat device 2. The operating device 10 receives user instructions to the nozzle 6.

[0063] For example, the operating device 10 may display the object that accepts user input as described above on the display screen 11, and execute various processes in response to user contact with the displayed object. For example, the operating device 10 may have switches, buttons, etc. that accept user input as described above, and execute various processes in response to user contact with switches, buttons, etc. Note that the above is just an example, and the operating device 10 may accept user input to execute various processes.

[0064] Furthermore, the defecation record system 1 may identify the user through the user's operation of the operating device 10. The operating device 10 may also function as an authentication device to identify the user. For example, the operating device 10 identifies the user through personal authentication. The operating device 10 may also identify the user based on the user's biometric information. The operating device 10 may identify the user based on biometric information such as the user's fingerprints or vein patterns. In this case, the defecation record system 1 may include an operating device 10 that functions as a user identification device. Note that the toilet room R does not need to have an operating device 10 if it is equipped with the necessary components for the user to defecate (such as a toilet bowl 7 and a toilet seat device 2).

[0065] <3. Configuration of the bowel movement recording system> Here, the configuration of the defecation recording system will be explained using Figures 3 to 5. First, the configuration of the defecation recording system 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of the defecation recording system according to the embodiment.

[0066] As shown in Figure 3, the defecation recording system 1 includes a toilet, a detection device, a measuring device, a user identification device, a determination device, a timing device, a recording device, a display device, and an input device. Although Figure 3 shows a configuration in which the devices are separated according to the function of the defecation recording system 1, the defecation recording system 1 may be composed of devices that realize multiple functions, and details on this point will be described later.

[0067] The toilet bowl corresponds to toilet bowl 7 in Figure 2 and is used for the user's defecation. The detection device has the function of detecting feces discharged into the toilet bowl. The measuring device has the function of performing measurements related to the user. The user identification device has the function of identifying the user using the toilet bowl. The judgment device has the function of determining the characteristics of the feces from the detection results. The timing device has the function of acquiring time information indicating the date and time of feces detection. The recording device has the function of recording the characteristics and time information of the feces as personal data, associating it with the user identified by the user identification device.

[0068] The display device provides the functionality to display information about stool based on personal data recorded in the recording device. The input device provides the functionality to input information about fecal incontinence by the user. The input device provides the functionality to input information about medication taken by the user, such as laxatives or antidiarrheal drugs.

[0069] Furthermore, the input device implements a function to input meal information regarding whether the user has eaten and the time of the meal. In this case, the recording device records the meal information as personal data, associated with the identified user. In this way, the defecation recording system 1 can record measured information regarding whether the user has eaten and the time of the meal, along with other measured information, associated with the identified user. Therefore, it becomes possible to determine whether or not a meal was taken in between the defecation cycle from the previous defecation to the current defecation. This makes it possible to compare the defecation cycle in cases where a meal was taken in between and the defecation cycle in cases where a meal was taken in between and the defecation cycle in cases where a meal was not taken in between, thereby enabling more efficient guidance to the toilet.

[0070] Furthermore, the measuring device may also measure the user's weight. For example, the measuring device automatically measures the mass of feces expelled into the toilet bowl, or the amount of weight change of the user associated with expelling feces into the toilet bowl. In this case, the recording device records the estimated results from the measuring device as personal data, associated with the identified user. In this way, the defecation recording system 1 can record actual measured information regarding the mass of feces expelled into the toilet bowl by the user, or the amount of weight change of the user associated with expelling feces into the toilet bowl, along with other actual measured information, associated with the identified user. This makes it possible to determine whether the amount of feces expelled in the previous instance was large or small by referring to past cases similar to the defecation cycle required until the previous defecation. Then, by predicting the defecation cycle required until the next defecation based on the comparison results, it becomes possible to guide the user to the toilet more efficiently.

[0071] As described above, the defecation recording system 1 may be composed of devices that perform multiple functions. This point will be explained with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is another conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of the defecation recording system according to the embodiment.

[0072] In the defecation recording system 1 shown in Figure 4, the display device and input device are implemented by a single communication terminal 20. In this way, multiple functions may be implemented by a single device. Also, in the defecation recording system 1 shown in Figure 4, the toilet bowl, detection device, measurement device, and user identification device are placed in the toilet room R. In the defecation recording system 1 shown in Figure 4, the judgment device, timing device, and recording device are placed outside the toilet room R, and the communication terminal 20 may be carried by a caregiver or placed in a space where a caregiver is present (office, office, etc.).

[0073] <3-1. Example of a bowel movement recording system configuration> Next, an example of the configuration of the defecation recording system 1 will be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the defecation recording system according to the embodiment. Specifically, Figure 5 shows the configuration of the defecation recording system 1 and the functional configuration of the information processing device 100 included in the defecation recording system 1. The defecation recording system 1 includes a toilet seat device 2, an information processing device 100, and a communication terminal 20.

[0074] The toilet seat device 2, the information processing device 100, and the communication terminal 20 are connected via a predetermined network N, either by wire or wirelessly, enabling communication. The toilet seat device 2, the information processing device 100, and the communication terminal 20 may be connected in any way that allows for the transmission and reception of information, and may be connected by wire or wirelessly. The defecation recording system 1 may include multiple toilet seat devices 2, multiple information processing devices 100, and multiple communication terminals 20.

[0075] The toilet seat device 2 is placed in the toilet room R as shown in Figure 2. In the example in Figure 5, the toilet seat device 2 has functions in the defecation recording system 1 such as identifying the user, detecting information related to the user's defecation, and detecting information such as the user's weight. Thus, the toilet seat device 2 functions as a user identification device, detection device, and measuring device, and details of this will be described later. The toilet seat device 2 detects information related to the user's defecation and transmits it to the information processing device 100.

[0076] The information processing device 100 is an information processing device (computer) used for information processing in the defecation record system 1. The information processing device 100 is a device that implements functions for making judgments, timing, and recording related to defecation. The information processing device 100 functions as a judgment device, timing device, and recording device. The information processing device 100 is located outside the toilet room R. The information processing device 100 may be various server devices such as a cloud server. If the information processing device 100 has input and display functions, it may be integrated with the communication terminal 20. Thus, the information processing device 100 may function as a judgment device, timing device, recording device, input device, and display device.

[0077] The communication terminal 20 is an information processing device used by caregivers or other persons who provide care to the user (target person). The communication terminal 20 can be implemented as, for example, a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet device, PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), desktop PC (Personal Computer), or notebook PC. The communication terminal 20 may be carried by the caregiver or other person, or it may be placed in a designated location outside the toilet room R.

[0078] The communication terminal 20 functions as a display device that shows information in the defecation recording system 1. The communication terminal 20 also functions as an input device in the defecation recording system 1 for inputting information regarding undetected defecation, meals, medication, etc. The communication terminal 20 functions as an input device in the defecation recording system 1 for inputting information regarding undetected defecation, meals, medication, etc.

[0079] The configuration of the information processing device 100 will now be described. As shown in Figure 5, the information processing device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0080] The communication unit 110 is implemented, for example, by a communication circuit. The communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined communication network (network N), not shown, by wire or wireless connection, and transmits and receives information with an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 110 is connected to network N by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with the toilet seat device 2 and the communication terminal 20.

[0081] The storage unit 120 is implemented by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or optical disc. The storage unit 120 according to this embodiment has a history information DB 121, as shown in Figure 5. Note that the storage unit 120 is not limited to the history information DB 121 and may store various types of information. The storage unit 120 functions as a recording device that records information on the characteristics and time of stool as personal data associated with the user.

[0082] For example, the memory unit 120 may store information regarding the user's fecal incontinence (fecal incontinence information) and information regarding the user's use of laxatives or antidiarrheal medications (medication information). The memory unit 120 also stores information regarding whether the user has eaten and when they have eaten (meal information). The memory unit 120 records the fecal incontinence information, medication information, and meal information as personal data associated with the user.

[0083] The history information database according to this embodiment stores various types of history information about the user (subject). The history information database stores various types of history information related to the user, such as defecation history. Figure 6 shows an example of the history information database according to this embodiment. The history information database stores history information for each user as personal data. For example, the history information database stores the history of defecation for each user. The history information database shown in Figure 6 includes items such as "User ID," "Date and Time," "Characteristics," and "Acquisition Method."

[0084] "User ID" indicates identification information used to identify each user (target person). "Date and Time" indicates the date and time when the corresponding information was acquired. In the example in Figure 6, the information stored in "Date and Time" is illustrated with codes such as "t1," but "Date and Time" is assumed to store a specific date and time such as "August 22, 2019, 15:16:43."

[0085] "Properties" indicates the properties of the user's stool at the corresponding date and time. "Acquisition Method" indicates how the properties of the corresponding stool were acquired. "Acquisition Method" indicates how the properties of the corresponding stool were acquired, such as whether they were acquired by detection in toilet room R or by input.

[0086] For example, in the example in Figure 6, the subject identified by user ID "U1" (user U1) has had the characteristics of their bowel movements acquired at the dates and times "t1", "t2", and "t3".

[0087] The characteristics of user U1's stool at date and time "t1" indicate that it is normal. Furthermore, the information regarding the characteristics of user U1's stool at date and time "t1" indicates that it was obtained through detection. In other words, user U1's defecation history at date and time "t1" was obtained through detection in toilet room R.

[0088] Furthermore, the characteristics of user U1's stool at date and time "t2" indicate that it was soft stool. Additionally, the information regarding the characteristics of user U1's stool at date and time "t2" indicates that it was obtained through input. In other words, user U1's bowel movement history at date and time "t2" was obtained when user U1's caregiver inputted information about user U1's bowel movements using a communication terminal 20 or the like.

[0089] Furthermore, the history information database is not limited to the above and may store various types of information depending on the purpose. The history information database may store various types of information related to each user, associated with date and time. History information database 121 may store fecal incontinence information and medication information. In addition, the history information database may store information that identifies the caregiver providing care, associated with each user.

[0090] The control unit 130 is implemented by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit), etc., which executes programs stored in the memory unit 120 using RAM as the working area. For example, these various programs include programs for applications that perform various information processing such as display processing and judgment processing (e.g., toilet equipment operation applications). The control unit 130 is also implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0091] As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 130 includes an acquisition unit 131, a determination unit 132, a timing unit 133, a prediction unit 134, and a transmission unit 135, and realizes or executes the functions and operations of the determination process described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 5, and other configurations are also possible as long as they perform the determination process described later. Also, the connection relationships of the various processing units in the control unit 130 are not limited to the connection relationships shown in Figure 5, and other connection relationships are also possible.

[0092] The acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information. The acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information from external information processing devices. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information from the toilet seat device 2 and the communication terminal 20.

[0093] The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information from the toilet seat device 2. The acquisition unit 131 receives various information from the toilet seat device 2. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information detected by the toilet seat device 2. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information related to the user's defecation detected by the toilet seat device 2. The acquisition unit 131 acquires sensor information related to the user's defecation detected by the toilet seat device 2.

[0094] The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information from the communication terminal 20. The acquisition unit 131 receives various information from the communication terminal 20. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information entered into the communication terminal 20. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information about the user's bowel movements that the caregiver has entered into the communication terminal 20.

[0095] The determination unit 132 determines various information. The determination unit 132 determines various information using various information stored in the storage unit 120. The determination unit 132 determines various information using various information acquired by the acquisition unit 131.

[0096] The determination unit 132 functions as a determination device for determining the consistency of stool. The determination unit 132 determines the consistency of stool from the detection results by the toilet seat device 2. The determination unit 132 determines the consistency of the user's stool based on the information about the user's defecation detected by the toilet seat device 2. The determination unit 132 determines the consistency of the user's stool by appropriately using various techniques for detecting the consistency of stool by optical methods. The determination unit 132 automatically determines the consistency of the stool by dividing it into at least three types of results corresponding to soft stool, normal stool, and hard stool.

[0097] The determination unit 132 determines whether the user's stool is normal, soft, or hard. The determination unit 132 determines whether the user's stool is normal, soft, or hard based on sensor information regarding the user's bowel movements. The determination unit 132 uses various techniques related to the classification of stool characteristics as appropriate to determine whether the stool is normal, soft, or hard.

[0098] The determination unit 132 may determine classifications more detailed than the three categories of normal stool, soft stool, and hard stool. The determination unit 132 may determine four or more classifications of the user's stool. The determination unit 132 may determine that the user's stool falls into one of four or more classifications. The determination unit 132 may use information regarding the Bristol Stool Scale to make its determination. The determination unit 132 may classify the user's stool into seven types based on the Bristol Stool Scale. The determination unit 132 may determine that the user's stool falls into one of the seven classifications of the Bristol Stool Scale.

[0099] The determination unit 132 may determine the characteristics of the stool based on various information, not limited to the above. For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the characteristics of the user's stool based on the time it took the user to defecate (defecation time). In this case, the determination unit 132 may use the time from when the user sits down on the seating area 5 until when they leave as the defecation time to determine the characteristics of the user's stool. For example, if the defecation time is less than the first threshold, the determination unit 132 may determine that the characteristics of the user's stool are soft. Also, if the defecation time is greater than or equal to the first threshold and less than the second threshold (> first threshold), the determination unit 132 may determine that the characteristics of the user's stool are normal. Also, if the defecation time is greater than or equal to the second threshold, the determination unit 132 may determine that the characteristics of the user's stool are hard.

[0100] Thus, the determination unit 132 may determine the characteristics of the user's bowel movements using various types of information, not just information about the user's excrement. This allows the determination unit 132 to determine the characteristics of the user's bowel movements by using other information, even if information about the user's stool itself cannot be obtained.

[0101] The timing unit 133 measures various times. The timing unit 133 functions as a timing device that acquires time information indicating the date and time of fecal detection. The timing unit 133 measures the date and time when various information is acquired. The timing unit 133 measures the date and time when information related to defecation is acquired. The timing unit 133 measures the date and time when defecation occurs in the toilet room R.

[0102] The prediction unit 134 predicts various types of information. The prediction unit 134 predicts various types of information using the various types of information stored in the memory unit 120. The prediction unit 134 predicts various types of information using the various types of information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The prediction unit 134 predicts various types of information using the various types of information determined by the determination unit 132. The prediction unit 134 predicts information related to defecation at the date and time measured by the timing unit 133.

[0103] The prediction unit 134 makes predictions regarding the user's bowel movements. Based on the date and time (current time) measured by the timing unit 133 and the user's history stored in the history information DB 121, the prediction unit 134 predicts information regarding the user's bowel movements at the current time. The prediction unit 134 predicts the probability that the user will defecate at the current time. The prediction unit 134 predicts the characteristics of the stool that the user may excrete at the current time. The prediction unit 134 predicts the probability of excretion by the user at the current time for each characteristic of the stool.

[0104] The prediction unit 134 performs various generation tasks. Based on the predicted information, the prediction unit 134 generates information (content) indicating the prediction of excretion. For example, the prediction unit 134 generates information (content) to be displayed on the communication terminal 20. For example, the prediction unit 134 generates a screen (image information) to be displayed using various technologies such as Java (registered trademark) as appropriate. The prediction unit 134 may also generate the screen (image information) to be displayed based on the format of CSS, JavaScript (registered trademark), or HTML. Furthermore, for example, the prediction unit 134 may generate the screen (image information) in various formats such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), or PNG (Portable Network Graphics).

[0105] The transmitting unit 135 transmits various information. For example, the transmitting unit 135 transmits various information by controlling the communication unit 110. The transmitting unit 135 transmits various information to other devices via the communication unit 110. The transmitting unit 135 transmits various information to the toilet seat device 2 and the communication terminal 20. The transmitting unit 135 transmits various information stored in the storage unit 120 to other devices. The transmitting unit 135 transmits various information acquired by the acquisition unit 131 to other devices. The transmitting unit 135 transmits various information determined by the determination unit 132 to other devices. The transmitting unit 135 transmits various information predicted and generated by the prediction unit 134 to other devices. The transmitting unit 135 transmits various information generated by the prediction unit 134 to other devices.

[0106] The transmitting unit 135 transmits information about feces to the communication terminal 20. The transmitting unit 135 transmits information about the user's excretion prediction to the communication terminal 20. The transmitting unit 135 transmits content to the communication terminal 20. The transmitting unit 135 transmits content generated by the prediction unit 134 to the communication terminal 20.

[0107] Furthermore, if the various processes performed by the control unit 130 described above are carried out by a predetermined application, each part of the control unit 130 may be implemented by, for example, the predetermined application. For example, the various processes performed by the control unit 130 may be implemented by control information received from an external information processing device.

[0108] <4. Functional configuration of the toilet seat device> Next, the functional configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be explained with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the toilet seat device. As shown in Figure 7, the toilet seat device 2 comprises a main body 3, a toilet lid 4, a seating area 5, and a nozzle 6. Note that the explanation of the external configuration of the toilet seat device 2 described in Figure 2 will be omitted.

[0109] The main body 3 of the toilet seat device 2 includes a communication unit 31, a person detection unit 32, a stool detection unit 33, and a control unit 34.

[0110] The communication unit 31 is implemented, for example, by a communication circuit. The communication unit 31 is connected to a predetermined network N by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 31 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with the operating device 10, the communication terminal 20, and the information processing device 100. The communication unit 31 transmits the information detected by the person detection unit 32 and the feces detection unit 33 to the information processing device 100. The communication unit 31 transmits the information regarding the user's defecation detected by the feces detection unit 33 to the information processing device 100.

[0111] The human detection unit 32 performs various detections related to people. The human detection unit 32 performs various detections related to user identification. The human detection unit 32 functions as a user identification device. The human detection unit 32 may identify users using various sensors. For example, the human detection unit 32 may identify users based on communication with various communication devices carried by the user. The human detection unit 32 may identify users using user identification information obtained from communication devices through communication between the communication unit 31 and various communication devices carried by the user. The human detection unit 32 may identify users using user identification information (user ID, etc.) obtained from communication devices through communication between the communication unit 31 and various communication devices carried by the user. Note that the above are just examples, and users may be identified by any means as long as it is possible to identify the user.

[0112] The person detection unit 32 performs various detections related to the measurement of the user. The person detection unit 32 functions as a measuring device. The person detection unit 32 detects the amount of weight change before and after defecation. For example, the person detection unit 32 may use various sensors to detect the mass of the feces excreted by the user. For example, the person detection unit 32 may use a weight sensor installed in the toilet bowl 7 to detect the mass of the feces excreted by the user.

[0113] The human detection unit 32 may detect the user's biometric information using various sensors. For example, the human detection unit 32 may detect the user's weight using various sensors. The human detection unit 32 may also detect the user's weight using a weighing scale sensor (weight sensor) placed on the floor surface F of the toilet room R. Note that the functions as a user identification device and a measuring device may be provided outside the toilet seat device 2.

[0114] The human detection unit 32 has a function to detect a human body. The human detection unit 32 has a human body detection sensor. For example, the human detection unit 32 may be implemented by a pyroelectric sensor using an infrared signal. For example, the human detection unit 32 may be implemented by a pyroelectric sensor using a μ (microwave) wave. Note that the above is just an example, and the human detection unit 32 is not limited to the above and may detect a human body by various means. For example, the human detection unit 32 detects a person (user, etc.) who has entered the toilet room R (see Figure 2). The human detection unit 32 outputs a detection signal to the control unit 34.

[0115] The person detection unit 32 has the function of detecting when a person sits on the toilet seat device 2. For example, the person detection unit 32 has a seating detection sensor. The person detection unit 32 detects when a user sits on the seat 5. For example, the person detection unit 32 detects when a user sits on the seat 5 using a load sensor. For example, the person detection unit 32 may be an infrared light-emitting and receiving distance measuring sensor that detects a person (user) present near the seat 5 immediately before the person sits on the seat 5, or a user who has sat on the seat 5. Note that the above is just an example, and the person detection unit 32 may detect when a person sits on the toilet seat device 2 by various means other than those described above. The person detection unit 32 outputs a seating detection signal to the control unit 34.

[0116] The stool detection unit 33 performs various detections related to excretion. The stool detection unit 33 functions as a detection device. The stool detection unit 33 detects the stool being excreted into the toilet bowl 7. The stool detection unit 33 detects the stool being excreted into the toilet bowl 7. The stool detection unit 33 may use various sensors to detect information related to the user's defecation. The stool detection unit 33 may use various sensors to detect the stool excreted by the user. For example, the stool detection unit 33 may use a light-emitting sensor that irradiates light into the toilet bowl 7 and a light-receiving sensor that receives the reflected light from the light-emitting unit to detect the stool excreted by the user. For example, the stool detection unit 33 may have the light-emitting sensor irradiate light onto the stool in the toilet bowl 7, and the light-receiving sensor may detect the reflected light from the stool. The stool detection unit 33 appropriately uses various techniques for detecting the properties of stool by optical methods to detect information related to the stool being excreted into the toilet bowl 7. Furthermore, the stool detection unit 33 may have any configuration as long as it can detect information that allows for the determination of the characteristics of the stool.

[0117] The control unit 34 controls various configurations and processes. The control unit 34 controls communication by the communication unit 31. The control unit 34 controls detection by the human detection unit 32 and the feces detection unit 33.

[0118] The control unit 34 controls the toilet lid 4, the seat 5, and the nozzle 6. The control unit 34 controls the toilet lid 4, the seat 5, and the nozzle 6 based on signals transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 controls the nozzle 6 based on control instruction signals related to localized cleaning transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 may be implemented by various means, such as an integrated circuit like a CPU, MPU, ASIC, or FPGA.

[0119] <5. Processing flow of the bowel movement record system> From here, we will explain the processing flow of the defecation record system using Figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing steps performed by the defecation record system. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of information processing in the defecation record system.

[0120] First, an overview of the processing flow of the defecation recording system 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of how the defecation information detected by the defecation recording system 1 is displayed.

[0121] As shown in Figure 8, the defecation recording system 1 identifies the user who will be using the toilet 7 (step S101). The defecation recording system 1 identifies the user by detection by the person detection unit 32.

[0122] The defecation recording system 1 detects the feces expelled into the toilet bowl 7 (step S102). The defecation recording system 1 detects the feces expelled into the toilet bowl 7 using the feces detection unit 33.

[0123] The defecation recording system 1 determines the characteristics of the stool from the detection results by the detection device (step S103). The defecation recording system 1 determines the characteristics of the stool from the detection results by the stool detection unit 33 using the determination unit 132.

[0124] The defecation recording system 1 acquires time information indicating the date and time of fecal detection by the detection device (step S104). The defecation recording system 1 acquires the date and time detected by the fecal detection unit 33 from the timing unit 133 as time information.

[0125] The defecation recording system 1 records the characteristics and time information of the stool as personal data, associating it with the user identified by the user identification device (step S105). The defecation recording system 1 records the characteristics and time information of the stool as personal data in the storage unit 120 (history information DB 121), associating it with the user identified by the person detection unit 32.

[0126] The defecation recording system 1 displays information about stool based on personal data recorded in the recording device (step S106). The defecation recording system 1 displays information about stool based on personal data recorded in the storage unit 120 (history information DB 121) via the communication terminal 20.

[0127] Next, the details of the processing flow of the defecation record system 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of information processing performed by the defecation record system 1, including information input and detection.

[0128] As shown in Figure 9, system users using the defecation record system 1 input available information (step S201). For example, system users input information about fecal incontinence by the user (fecal incontinence information), information about the user taking laxatives or antidiarrheal medications (medication information), and information about whether the user ate and when they ate (meal information) into the communication terminal 20. In the defecation record system 1, caregivers of the user (subject) input fecal incontinence information, medication information, and meal information into the communication terminal 20.

[0129] Then, in the defecation record system 1, the input device acquires the information that can be input (step S202). The communication terminal 20, acting as an input device, acquires the information entered by the system user. The communication terminal 20 acquires fecal incontinence information, medication information, and diet information. The communication terminal 20 stores the fecal incontinence information, medication information, and diet information in the storage device. When the communication terminal 20 transmits the fecal incontinence information, medication information, and diet information to the information processing device 100, the information processing device 100 stores the input information in the storage unit 120 (storage device). Note that the processing in steps S201 to S202 is optional, or may be performed after steps S203 to S210.

[0130] Furthermore, a user of the defecation record system 1 enters the toilet and sits down (step S203). In the defecation record system 1, the user enters the toilet room R and sits down.

[0131] Then, in the defecation record system 1, the user identification device identifies the user through personal authentication (step S204). The person detection unit 32, which acts as the user identification device, identifies the user through personal authentication based on detection by sensors, communication with a communication device, etc.

[0132] Furthermore, system users utilizing the defecation record system 1 perform a defecation (step S205). In the defecation record system 1, users in toilet room R defecate into the toilet bowl 7 in toilet room R.

[0133] Then, in the defecation recording system 1, the detection device detects defecation (step S206). The stool detection unit 33, acting as a detection device, detects defecation based on detection by sensors, etc.

[0134] Then, in the defecation record system 1, the determination device determines the characteristics of the detection result and obtains the determination result (step S207). The determination unit 132, acting as a determination device, determines the characteristics of the detection result and obtains the determination result.

[0135] Then, in the defecation recording system 1, the timing device acquires the time of detection (step S208). The timing unit 133, acting as a timing device, acquires the time of detection.

[0136] Then, in the defecation recording system 1, the measuring device acquires the amount of weight change before and after defecation (step S209). The human detection unit 32, which acts as a measuring device, acquires the amount of weight change before and after defecation.

[0137] In the defecation record system 1, the recording device records the input information, judgment result, detection time, and measurement result in association with personal information (step S210). The storage unit 120, acting as a recording device, records the information input by the system user, the judgment result, the detection time, and the measurement result in association with personal information.

[0138] Process PS1, from steps S201 to S210 in Figure 9, corresponds to the phase of collecting information for displaying the information. In process PS1, information input and defecation detection may be performed multiple times. Also, the defecation detection process in steps S203 to S209 may be performed before the input process in steps S201 to S202. After process PS1, the information is displayed. Process PS2, from steps S211 to S212 in Figure 9, corresponds to the phase of displaying the information.

[0139] Then, in the defecation record system 1, the display device compares the recorded information and displays the characteristics of the stool excreted by the identified user along with the current time (step S211). The communication terminal 20, which acts as a display device, displays the information generated by comparing the information recorded by the information processing device 100.

[0140] Furthermore, system users utilizing the defecation record system 1 confirm the displayed results (step S212). In the defecation record system 1, the caregiver of the user (subject) confirms the displayed results shown on the communication terminal 20. Based on the displayed results, the caregiver of the user (subject) then performs actions related to defecation, such as guiding the user to the toilet room R.

[0141] <6. Displaying Information> Furthermore, the information may be displayed in various ways. This point will be explained using Figures 10 to 12. Figures 10 to 12 show examples of various information displays in the communication terminal 20.

[0142] <6-1.Result display> First, the display of results in the defecation record system 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of the results display screen in the defecation record system.

[0143] Figure 10 shows a case where the communication terminal 20 displays prediction results for person A. Specifically, the communication terminal 20 in Figure 10 displays the predicted probability of defecation for person A. In the example in Figure 10, the communication terminal 20 displays the probability of defecation for person A at the current time of "15:00". The communication terminal 20 displays the predicted probability of defecation for each stool characteristic, including no defecation.

[0144] In the example shown in Figure 10, the communication terminal 20 displays prediction results indicating that there is a 90% probability of "normal stool" characteristics, a 4% probability of "hard stool" characteristics, and a 2% probability of "loose stool" characteristics. The communication terminal 20 also displays prediction results indicating that there is a 2% probability of "×" characteristics, i.e., no bowel movement. Thus, in the example shown in Figure 10, the communication terminal 20 displays information predicting that there is a very high probability that person A will have a normal bowel movement at that time.

[0145] In this way, the defecation record system 1 displays information about the user's stool based on the user's personal data, making it possible for the user's caregivers and others to visually understand information about the user's stool.

[0146] <6-2. Input Screen> Next, the input screen of the defecation record system 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 11. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of the input screen of the defecation record system.

[0147] Figure 11 shows a case where the communication terminal 20 displays an input screen that accepts information about person A. Specifically, the communication terminal 20 in Figure 11 displays an input screen that accepts information about person A, such as fecal incontinence, medication, and diet. The communication terminal 20 obtains information about person A regarding fecal incontinence, medication, and diet through the input screen shown in Figure 11.

[0148] Caregivers of user A (who uses the communication terminal 20) enter information about A regarding fecal incontinence, medication, or meals, along with the date and time of occurrence, on the input screen, and complete the input by pressing the button labeled "Confirm Input Information." As a result, the communication terminal 20 obtains the input information, including the date and time of fecal incontinence, medication, or meals for A, and the details thereof. The defecation record system 1 then collects the fecal incontinence information, medication information, and meal information.

[0149] In this way, the defecation record system 1 can appropriately supplement (add to) information that is lacking from the detected information alone by collecting input information from the user's caregiver, etc., thereby improving prediction accuracy.

[0150] <6-3. Variation in Prediction Results> Next, the fluctuations in predictions and displays regarding defecation in the defecation recording system 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 12. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of fluctuations in predictions in the defecation recording system. In Figure 12, the communication terminals will be described as 20-1 and 20-2 depending on the screen displayed on the communication terminal 20, but unless otherwise specified, they will simply be referred to as "communication terminal 20". Also, in the example in Figure 12, as in the example shown in Figure 10, the case where the current time is 15:00 for person A will be shown as an example. Note that explanations will be omitted as appropriate for points that are the same as in Figure 10. For example, regarding the information displayed on the communication terminal 20, explanations will be omitted as appropriate for points that are the same as in the communication terminal 20 in Figure 1 and the communication terminal 20 in Figure 10.

[0151] As described above, when the user defecates (step S301), the defecation recording system 1 stores information about that defecation and makes predictions based on that information.

[0152] For example, if the bowel movement recording system 1 has a series of normal stool records, it predicts that there is a high probability that Mr. A (the user) will have a normal stool. In the example in Figure 12, if the bowel movement recording system 1 has a series of normal stool records, it predicts that there is a "90%" probability that the user will have a normal stool, as shown in the communication terminal 20-1. Furthermore, if the bowel movement recording system 1 has a series of normal stool records, it predicts that there is a "4%" probability that the user will have a hard stool and a "2%" probability that the user will have a soft stool. Then, in the example in Figure 12, if the bowel movement recording system 1 has a series of normal stool records, it displays information indicating that the predictions for each characteristic of Mr. A's (the user's) stool are "90%", "4%", "2%", and "2%", respectively.

[0153] On the other hand, if the defecation record system 1 has a continuous record of loose stools, it predicts that there is a high probability that Mr. A (the user) will have loose stools. In the example in Figure 12, if the defecation record system 1 has a continuous record of loose stools, it predicts that there is a "90%" probability that the user will have loose stools, as shown in the communication terminal 20-2. Furthermore, if the defecation record system 1 has a continuous record of loose stools, it predicts that there is a "4%" probability that the user will have normal stools and a "2%" probability that the user will have hard stools. Then, in the example in Figure 12, if the record of loose stools has a continuous record, the communication terminal 20-2 displays information indicating that it predicts that there is a "90%" probability of loose stools, a "4%" probability of normal stools, a "2%" probability of hard stools, and a "2%" probability of no stools for Mr. A (the user).

[0154] In this way, the defecation recording system 1 predicts the user's defecation based on the user's defecation history. As a result, the defecation recording system 1 can appropriately predict defecation according to the user, efficiently guide the person to the toilet, and suppress the increase in caregiving burden related to defecation.

[0155] <7. Variation> Furthermore, the information to be recorded regarding the user's bowel movements is not limited to the characteristics of the stool, but may include various other pieces of information related to the stool. This point will be explained below with some modifications. Note that explanations of points that are the same as those mentioned above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0156] <7-1. Recording Size> For example, the modified defecation recording system 1 may record the size of the stool excreted by the user. In this case, the defecation recording system 1 determines the size of the user's stool and uses the result of the determination to record the size of the user's stool.

[0157] When recording the size of a user's stool, the determination unit 132 of the modified information processing device 100 determines the size of the stool from the detection result of the stool excreted by the user. For example, the determination unit 132 determines the size of the stool from the detection result by the toilet seat device 2. The determination unit 132 determines which of several levels indicating size the stool excreted by the user belongs to. For example, the determination unit 132 determines whether the size of the user's stool is large, medium, or small from the detection result by the stool detection unit 33. The determination unit 132 automatically determines the size of the stool into three levels: large, medium, and small.

[0158] The determination unit 132 determines the size of the user's stool by appropriately using various technologies for detecting the size of the stool using optical methods, including image sensors (cameras), etc. Based on sensor information regarding the user's defecation, the determination unit 132 determines whether the user's stool is large, medium, or small. The determination unit 132 determines whether it is large, medium, or small by appropriately using various technologies for classifying stool size. Having determined the size of the stool, the determination unit 132 associates the properties, size, and time information of the stool with the user and registers it in the storage unit 120 as the user's personal data.

[0159] The three sizes mentioned above—large, medium, and small—are merely examples. The size of stool is not limited to these three stages; the judgment unit 132 may determine even finer classifications than these three stages. The judgment unit 132 may determine four or more classifications for the size of the user's stool. For example, the judgment unit 132 may determine various classifications, such as five classifications from level 1 to 5, starting from the smallest.

[0160] The defecation recording system 1 may determine the size of the stool by various methods, not limited to those described above. For example, the defecation recording system 1 may automatically determine the size of the stool using a determination means (hereinafter referred to as the "determination model") that employs AI (artificial intelligence) or the like, which is located on the cloud, based on the detection results obtained by optical methods. In this case, the determination model is trained in advance using training data that indicates classification judgments. This training data includes multiple combinations of stool detection results and labels (correct information) that indicate the size of the stool. For example, the determination model takes the stool detection result as input and outputs information indicating the size of the stool detected as input. For example, the determination model is trained to output information indicating the size of the label corresponding to the input detection result when the stool detection result is input. The training of the determination model is carried out using various methods related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate.

[0161] The determination unit 132 may also be a determination means that uses AI (artificial intelligence) or the like. For example, the determination unit 132 determines the size of the stool using the determination model described above. In this case, the determination model is stored in the memory unit 120, and the determination unit 132 may determine the size of the stool using the determination model stored in the memory unit 120. For example, the information processing device 100 may perform a learning process and generate a determination model.

[0162] <7-2. Processing Flow of the Stool Record System> From here, the processing flow of the defecation record system will be explained using Figures 13 and 14. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure performed by the defecation record system according to the modified example. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of information processing in the defecation record system according to the modified example.

[0163] First, an overview of the processing flow of the defecation record system 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 13. The processing from steps S101 to S103 in Figure 13 is the same as steps S101 to S103 in Figure 8, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0164] The defecation recording system 1 determines the size of the stool from the detection result by the detection device (step S304). The defecation recording system 1 determines the size of the stool from the detection result by the stool detection unit 33 using the determination unit 132. For example, the determination unit 132 of the information processing device 100 determines whether the size of the stool is large, medium, or small from the detection result by the stool detection unit 33.

[0165] The defecation recording system 1 acquires time information indicating the date and time of fecal detection by the detection device (step S305). The defecation recording system 1 acquires the date and time detected by the fecal detection unit 33 from the timing unit 133 as time information.

[0166] The defecation recording system 1 records information on the characteristics, size, and time of stool as personal data, associating it with the user identified by the user identification device (step S306). The defecation recording system 1 records information on the characteristics, size, and time of stool as personal data in the storage unit 120 (history information DB 121), associating it with the user identified by the person detection unit 32.

[0167] The defecation recording system 1 displays information about stool based on personal data recorded in the recording device (step S307). The defecation recording system 1 displays information about stool based on personal data recorded in the storage unit 120 (history information DB 121) via the communication terminal 20.

[0168] Next, the details of the processing flow of the defecation record system 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 14. The processing from steps S201 to S209 in Figure 14 is the same as steps S201 to S209 in Figure 9, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0169] In the defecation recording system 1, the determination device determines the size of the detected result and obtains the determination result (step S410). The determination unit 132, which acts as the determination device, determines the size of the detected result and obtains the determination result. Note that the processing in step S410 may be performed before steps S208 and S209.

[0170] In the defecation recording system 1, the recording device records the input information, judgment result, detection time, and measurement result in association with personal information (step S411). The storage unit 120, acting as a recording device, records the information input by the system user, the judgment result of the characteristics and size of the stool, the detection time, and the measurement result in association with personal information. Note that the processing related to the detection of defecation in steps S203 to S209 and S410 may be performed before the processing related to input in steps S201 to S202.

[0171] Then, in the defecation record system 1, the display device compares the recorded information and displays the characteristics and size of the stool excreted by the identified user, along with the current time (step S412). The communication terminal 20, acting as a display device, displays the information generated by comparing the information recorded by the information processing device 100.

[0172] Furthermore, users of the defecation record system 1 check the displayed results (step S413). For example, in the defecation record system 1, the user of the toilet that has defecated checks the displayed results shown on the communication terminal 20. The user then manages their own health status based on the displayed results.

[0173] Furthermore, the defecation recording system 1 may also record other information related to stool. For example, the defecation recording system 1 may store the color of the user's stool. In this case, the information processing device 100 determines which of several color categories the user's stool falls into, similar to the size of the stool, and records it in association with the user. For example, the information processing device 100 may determine the color of the user's stool by appropriately using various technologies for detecting the color of stool, including optical methods such as image sensors (cameras). The information processing device 100 may also determine which of several color categories the user's stool falls into using a color determination model generated by the same method as the stool size determination model. In addition, the above example shows the case where the person receiving care is the user (of the toilet), but the user is not limited to the person receiving care. For example, the user may be a system user who manages their own health by recording their stool. In other words, the user may be any subject who keeps records of their defecation.

[0174] Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not inconsistent.

[0175] Further effects and modifications can be readily derived by those skilled in the art. Therefore, broader aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments expressed and described above. Accordingly, various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the overall concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0176] R Toilet Room 1. Bowel movement recording system 2 Toilet seat device 3. Main body 31 Communications Department 32. Person detection unit (measuring device, user identification device) 33. Fecal detection unit (detection device) 34 Control Unit 4 Toilet lid 5. Seating area 6. Nozzle section 7. Western-style toilet (toilet bowl) 8 Bowl section 9 Rim section 100 Information Processing Devices 110 Communications Department 120 Storage unit (storage device) 121 History Information Database 130 Control Unit 131 Acquisition Department 132 Judgment unit (judgment device) 133 Timekeeping section (timekeeping device) 134 Prediction Section 135 Transmitter 20. Communication terminals (display devices, input devices)

Claims

1. The toilet bowl installed in the toilet room, A user identification device that identifies the user who uses the aforementioned toilet, A detection device for detecting feces discharged into the toilet bowl, A determination device that determines the characteristics of feces based on the detection results from the aforementioned detection device, A timing device that acquires time information indicating the date and time of detection by the aforementioned detection device, A recording device that records the characteristics of the stool and the time information as personal data in association with the user identified by the user identification device, A display device that displays information about feces based on the personal data recorded in the recording device, A bowel movement recording system having the following features.

2. The determination device is The characteristics of the stool can be automatically determined and divided into at least three types of results corresponding to soft stool, normal stool, and hard stool. The aforementioned display device is The display of the personal data will differ depending on the result of the determination of the characteristics of the stool. The defecation recording system according to feature 1.

3. The aforementioned display device is It is possible to display the current time, and to display information indicating the possibility that the identified user may perform defecation at the current time. A defecation recording system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the features described above.

4. The aforementioned display device is Displaying information indicating the characteristics of the stool that may be excreted by the identified user. The defecation recording system according to feature 3.

5. It is equipped with an input device that allows the user to input information about fecal incontinence, The recording device is The aforementioned fecal incontinence information is recorded as personal data in association with the identified user. A defecation recording system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. It is equipped with an input device that allows the user to input drug information regarding the use of laxatives or antidiarrheal medications. The recording device is The drug information is recorded as personal data in association with the identified user. A defecation recording system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The determination device is The size of the stool is determined from the detection results by the aforementioned detection device. The recording device is The size of the stool and the time information are recorded as personal data in association with the user identified by the user identification device. A bowel movement recording system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A user identification process to identify the user who will use the toilet installed in the toilet room, A detection step for detecting feces discharged into the toilet bowl, A determination step is performed to determine the characteristics of the stool based on the detection results from the above detection step, A timing step that acquires time information indicating the date and time of detection by the aforementioned detection step, A recording step in which the characteristics of the stool and the time information are recorded as personal data in association with the user identified by the user identification step, A display step that displays information relating to the stool based on the personal data recorded in the recording step, A method for recording bowel movements, including the recording of bowel movements.

9. A determination procedure for determining the characteristics of feces based on the detection results obtained when feces discharged into a toilet bowl installed in a toilet room are detected by a detection device, A timing procedure for acquiring time information indicating the date and time of detection by the aforementioned detection device, A recording procedure for recording the characteristics of the stool and the time information as personal data in association with the user identified by a user identification device that identifies the user of the toilet, A program that records bowel movements and causes a computer to execute it.

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