Health management system, toilet seat device, and toilet device

Abstract

The objective is to provide a health management system, toilet seat device, and toilet device that can improve the accuracy of health status estimation. [Solution] A health management system is provided, comprising: a personal identification unit that identifies the user; a usage information acquisition unit that acquires information on the user's use of the toilet; a storage unit that stores the user's usage information; an estimation unit that estimates the user's health status based on the amount of change between the data based on the usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit and the data based on the user's past toilet usage information stored in the storage unit; and a notification unit that provides notification based on the user's health status.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a health management system, a toilet seat device, and a toilet device.

Background Art

[0002] There is a system that estimates a user's health condition, such as the menstrual cycle of the user, based on log data of the user's use of the toilet. In such a system, it is desirable to improve the estimation accuracy of the health condition.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present invention has been made based on the recognition of such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a health management system, a toilet seat device, and a toilet device capable of improving the estimation accuracy of a health condition.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A first invention is a health management system comprising: a personal identification unit for identifying a user; a usage information acquisition unit for acquiring usage information of the toilet by the user; a storage unit for storing the usage information of the user; an estimation unit for estimating the health condition of the user based on a change amount between data based on the usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit and data based on past usage information of the toilet by the user stored in the storage unit; and a notification unit for performing notification based on the health condition of the user.

[0006] This health management system allows for the estimation of health status based on usage data accumulated for each individual, thereby improving the accuracy of the estimation.

[0007] The second invention is a health management system characterized in that, in the first invention, the estimation unit estimates the user's health status based on a plurality of change amounts.

[0008] According to this health management system, accuracy can be further improved by estimating health status based on multiple changes.

[0009] The third invention is a health management system characterized in that, in the first invention, the estimation unit estimates information related to the female menstrual cycle based on the amount of change.

[0010] This health management system can improve the accuracy of estimating information related to the female menstrual cycle by using usage data accumulated for each individual.

[0011] The fourth invention is a health management system in which, in the third invention, the estimation unit estimates the user's menstrual period based on the fact that the amount of change satisfies the determination condition multiple times in a row.

[0012] According to this health management system, the accuracy of estimations can be improved by estimating based on multiple determinations of the amount of change.

[0013] The fifth invention is a health management system in which, in the third invention, the estimation unit estimates the user's menstrual period based on the fact that the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the current toilet use satisfies the determination condition, and the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the toilet use one hour earlier also satisfies the determination condition.

[0014] According to this health management system, the accuracy of the estimation can be further improved by further determining the amount of change based on usage information from the first hour prior.

[0015] The sixth invention is a health management system in which, in the third invention, the estimation unit estimates the user's menstrual period based on the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the current toilet use, the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the previous toilet use on the previous day or last time, and the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the toilet use one hour ago.

[0016] According to this health management system, the accuracy of estimations can be further improved by determining the amount of change based on multiple usage data.

[0017] The seventh invention is a health management system in which, in the fifth or sixth invention, the estimation unit corrects the first time based on the estimated menstrual period of the user.

[0018] According to this health management system, the first time can be determined for each user based on the estimated menstrual cycle for each user, thereby improving the accuracy of the estimation.

[0019] The eighth invention is a health management system characterized in that, in any one of the third to sixth inventions, the estimation unit predicts information regarding the next women's menstrual cycle based on the estimation results.

[0020] This health management system can improve the accuracy of predictions because it can predict information about the next menstrual cycle based on usage data accumulated for each individual.

[0021] The ninth invention is a toilet seat device comprising a toilet seat, a usage information acquisition unit that acquires toilet usage information of a user identified by a personal identification unit, a storage unit that stores the usage information of the user, an estimation unit that estimates the health state of the user based on the amount of change between data based on the usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit and data based on the past toilet usage information of the user stored in the storage unit, and an output unit that performs an output based on the health state of the user.

[0022] According to this toilet seat device, the health state can be estimated based on the usage information accumulated for each individual, so the accuracy of the estimation can be improved.

[0023] The tenth invention is a toilet device comprising a toilet bowl, a toilet seat provided on the toilet bowl, a usage information acquisition unit that acquires toilet usage information of a user identified by a personal identification unit, a storage unit that stores the usage information of the user, an estimation unit that estimates the health state of the user based on the amount of change between data based on the usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit and data based on the past toilet usage information of the user stored in the storage unit, and an output unit that performs an output based on the health state of the user.

[0024] According to this toilet device, information regarding the next menstrual cycle can be predicted based on the usage information accumulated for each individual, so the accuracy of the prediction can be improved.

Effect of the Invention

[0025] According to an aspect of the present invention, a health management system, a toilet seat device, and a toilet device capable of improving the estimation accuracy of the health state are provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a health management system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a toilet device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating an estimation device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a table illustrating parameter values ​​based on toilet usage information. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating the estimation of menstrual period. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating the calculation of the menstrual cycle and the prediction of the next menstrual period. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a table illustrating parameter values ​​based on toilet usage information. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted as appropriate. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a health management system according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a toilet device according to an embodiment. The health management system 200 according to this embodiment includes a toilet device 10, an estimation device 100, and a notification unit 50. The health management system 200 is a system that estimates the user's health status using the estimation device 100 based on usage information of the user's toilet use.

[0028] The toilet device 10 is installed in a toilet room TR. A toilet room TR is, for example, a toilet room installed in a house. A toilet room TR may also be a space partitioned off as a private room (toilet booth) within a room.

[0029] As shown in Figure 2, the toilet device 10 includes a toilet bowl 11 and a toilet seat device 20. The toilet bowl 11 has a concave bowl portion 12 that is recessed downwards. The bowl portion 12 is a toilet bowl that receives the user's excrement, such as urine and feces.

[0030] The toilet seat device 20 is installed on top of the toilet bowl 11. The toilet seat device 20 may be installed integrally with the toilet bowl 11, or it may be detachably attached to the toilet bowl 11. The toilet seat device 20 has a toilet seat 24 on which the user sits. The toilet seat device 20 has a main body part including a functional part 22 provided in the casing 21.

[0031] The functional unit 22 has a cleaning function unit 23 (cleaning device) including a nozzle 23a. The nozzle 23a moves back and forth between a position where it is housed inside the casing 21 and a position where it protrudes forward from the casing 21 and enters the bowl unit 12. The cleaning function unit has a posterior cleansing function, a bidet cleansing function, and so on. The posterior cleansing function performs a posterior cleansing operation by discharging water from the nozzle 23a that has entered the bowl unit 12 toward the user's buttocks and other private parts. The bidet cleansing function performs a bidet cleansing operation by discharging water from the nozzle 23a that has entered the bowl unit 12 toward the user's female private parts.

[0032] The functional unit 22 may include a deodorizing unit (deodorizing device), a warm air blowing unit (blower), and a toilet seat heating unit (toilet seat heating device). The deodorizing unit has a deodorizing fan, and by operating the deodorizing fan, it sucks in the air inside the bowl 12 and reduces odor components such as fecal odor contained in the sucked-in air. The warm air blowing unit has a blower fan, and by operating the blower fan, it blows air towards a part of the human body to dry that part of the human body. The toilet seat heating unit has a heater, and by energizing the heater, it warms the seating surface of the toilet seat.

[0033] The functional unit 22 includes a seating detection unit 25 and a human body detection unit 27. The seating detection unit 25 detects when a user sits on the toilet seat 24 and when they leave the toilet seat 24. The seating detection unit 25 detects when the user is seated on the toilet seat 24 or when they are away from the toilet seat 24. For example, a mechanical switch or an electrostatic sensor may be used for the seating detection unit 25.

[0034] The human body detection unit 27 detects a human body approaching the toilet device 10. In other words, the human body detection unit 27 detects a human body entering the toilet room TR. The human body detection unit 27 detects when a user enters the toilet room TR and when they leave the toilet room TR. The human body detection unit 27 detects when a user is inside the toilet room TR and when they are leaving the toilet room TR. For example, a pyroelectric sensor, a radio wave sensor, or an infrared sensor may be used for the human body detection unit 27.

[0035] The toilet seat device 20 has a waste detection unit 30 that detects the user's excrement. The waste detection unit 30 includes, for example, an image sensor. The image sensor acquires an image of the inside of the bowl 12. As a result, the waste detection unit 30 detects the user's excrement (feces) in the bowl 12. Alternatively, the waste detection unit 30 includes a line sensor. The line sensor acquires an image of falling objects falling into the bowl 12. As a result, the waste detection unit 30 detects the user's excrement (feces) falling into the bowl 12.

[0036] The toilet system 10 has a toilet bowl flushing unit (toilet bowl flushing device). The toilet bowl flushing unit supplies flushing water to the toilet bowl 11 to flush the toilet bowl 11. This causes waste to be discharged from the bowl portion 12. The toilet bowl flushing unit is installed, for example, in the water tank of the toilet bowl 11 or in the water supply pipe of the toilet bowl 11. The toilet bowl flushing unit can perform a full flush, which supplies a large amount of flushing water, and a small flush, which supplies less flushing water compared to the full flush.

[0037] The toilet device 10 has a control unit 29. The control unit 29 controls the operation of each part of the functional unit 22 (washing function unit 23, excrement detection unit 30, seat detection unit 25, human body detection unit 27, deodorizing unit, warm air blowing unit, toilet seat heating unit) and the toilet bowl washing unit. The control unit 29 receives the detection results of the seat detection unit 25 and the detection results of the human body detection unit 27. The control unit 29 may control the functions of the functional unit 22 based on these detection results. For example, based on the detection result of the seat detection unit 25, the control unit 29 performs posterior washing or bidet washing when a user is seated. The control unit 29 can use a control circuit including, for example, a microcontroller.

[0038] The remote control 28 (input device) has, for example, multiple switches and sensors, which are operating parts (input parts) and receive instructions from the user. The remote control 28 is connected to the functional unit 22 via wired or wireless connection so as to be able to communicate. The control unit 29 of the functional unit 22 receives instructions from the remote control 28 that have been input to the remote control 28 by the user. The control unit 29 controls the operation of the functional unit 22 according to the received instructions. In this way, the functional unit 22 performs each operation according to the user's instructions. Specifically, for example, the remote control 28 is provided with a posterior wash button for inputting instructions to perform a posterior wash, a bidet wash button for inputting instructions to perform a bidet wash, and a toilet flush button for inputting instructions to perform a toilet flush.

[0039] As shown in Figure 1, the health management system 200 has a usage information acquisition unit 40 that acquires information on the user's toilet usage. The usage information acquisition unit 40 is installed, for example, in the toilet room TR. Specifically, the functional unit 22 of the toilet seat device 20 can be used as at least a part of the usage information acquisition unit 40. The usage information acquisition unit 40 may also be a part of the toilet seat device 20 or the toilet device 10.

[0040] The usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit 40 is information indicating the user's use of the toilet. Usage status includes, for example, the manner and content of use, such as how the user used the toilet. The usage information is a log of the user's toilet use.

[0041] For example, usage information includes information about the actions taken by the user when using the toilet. Actions taken when using the toilet include, for example, entering the toilet room TR, leaving the toilet room TR, sitting on the toilet seat 24, getting up from the toilet seat 24, using the posterior wash, using the bidet wash, using the toilet bowl flush, urination, and defecation. Usage information may also include time information (start time and / or end time) for each action. Specifically, usage information may include at least one of the following: time of entry, time of exit, time of sitting, time of getting up, time of posterior wash execution, and time of bidet wash execution. Usage information is, for example, data showing the toilet usage status for each use by the user, and may include multiple pieces of information such as entry / exit times and sitting times. Usage information may also include information about the manner of operation of the toilet device 10, such as information about the washing mode used for posterior wash and bidet wash. For example, bidet wash has a normal washing mode and a wide-area washing mode (wide bidet) that sprays water over a wider area. Usage information may include details such as the set temperature and flow rate of the washing water.

[0042] In this example, the usage information acquisition unit 40 includes at least a portion of the functional unit 22 (washing function unit 23, seating detection unit 25, human body detection unit 27, excrement detection unit 30, toilet bowl washing unit, etc.).

[0043] The detection results from the human body detection unit 27 provide usage information such as whether the user entered the toilet room TR, exited the toilet room TR, the time of entry, and the time of exit. This allows us to obtain information on the number of times the user used the toilet and the duration of toilet use. One toilet use is defined as the period from when the user enters the toilet room until when they exit. For example, the number of toilet uses is the number of times the user entered or exited the toilet room. The toilet use duration is the time from the time of entry to the time of exit.

[0044] The operation of the cleaning function unit 23 provides usage information such as whether bidet cleaning was used, the time of use, and the cleaning mode used. This allows for obtaining information on the number of times bidet cleaning was used and the duration of bidet cleaning. The operation of the washing function unit 23 provides usage information such as whether the posterior wash function was used, the time of use, and the washing mode used. This allows for obtaining information on the number of times the posterior wash function was used and the duration of use.

[0045] The seating detection unit 25 provides usage information such as whether the user sat down, left the seat, the time of sitting down, and the time of leaving the seat. This allows for obtaining information about the seating time, that is, the time from the time of sitting down to the time of leaving the seat.

[0046] Based on the detection results from the human body detection unit 27 and the seating detection unit 25, information on dressing time and undressing time can be obtained. Undressing time is the time from the time of entering the room to the time of sitting down. Dressing time is the time from the time of leaving the seat to the time of leaving the room.

[0047] The detection results from the excrement detection unit 30 provide usage information, such as whether or not feces have been excreted. This allows for obtaining information on the number of times feces have been excreted.

[0048] The usage information acquisition unit 40 is not limited to the functional unit 22. At least a part of the usage information acquisition unit 40 may be provided separately from the toilet device 10. For example, the usage information acquisition unit 40 may include an entry / exit detection sensor, such as a door sensor provided for the door of the toilet room TR to detect the opening and closing of the door. The door sensor can obtain usage information such as the time of entry and the time of exit. Also, for example, the excrement detection unit 30 and the human body detection unit 27 may be provided as separate devices from the toilet device 10.

[0049] The usage information acquisition unit 40 may include devices such as sensors or switches installed in the toilet room TR. For example, the usage information acquisition unit 40 may include a remote control 28. Based on the user's input to the remote control 28, usage information regarding bidet washing and posterior washing is obtained. The user's toilet usage information may also include information indicating what the user did when operating the remote control 28. Toilet usage may include not only the use of the toilet device 10, but also the use of the toilet room TR and the use of equipment installed in the toilet room TR.

[0050] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating an estimation device according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the estimation device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a processing unit 130, and a storage unit 120 (storage unit). For example, a computer device can be used for the estimation device 100. A server (e.g., a cloud server) may also be used for the estimation device 100. The estimation device 100 is connected to the toilet device 10, the remote control 28, and the notification unit 50 via the communication unit 110. The communication unit 110 is, for example, a communication module. Any method can be used for communication, such as wireless, wired, or a combination of wireless and wired.

[0051] The storage unit 120 includes a toilet data storage unit 121 and a user information storage unit 123. The user information storage unit 123 stores identification information (e.g., user ID) for identifying toilet users. The toilet data storage unit 121 stores past toilet usage information for each user identified by the identification information. Any storage device can be used for the storage unit 120, such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0052] The processing unit 130 can use an arithmetic unit such as a circuit including a CPU. The processing unit 130 has an acquisition unit 131, an estimation unit 132, a notification unit 133, and a personal identification unit 134. The acquisition unit 131 acquires identification information to identify the user using the toilet via the communication unit 110. In this example, as shown in Figure 1, when the user uses the toilet, the user inputs identification information (signal S1) to the remote control 28 to identify themselves. The acquisition unit 131 acquires the identification information from the remote control 28.

[0053] The personal identification unit 134 identifies the user using the toilet based on the identification information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. In other words, the personal identification unit 134 performs personal authentication to authenticate the user. For example, the personal identification unit 134 compares the identification information with the identification information stored in the user information storage unit 123 and identifies the identification information corresponding to the identification information. As a result, the personal identification unit 134 identifies the user who entered the identification information as the user indicated by the identification information corresponding to the identification information.

[0054] The specific information entered by the user is, for example, a user ID. This specific information is entered, for example, by a button on the remote control 28. Personal authentication may also be done by voice authentication. For example, a microphone may be provided, and the user's voice entered into the microphone may be used as the specific information. For example, the user may be identified based on the characteristics of their voice or the content of their speech. The specific information may also be entered into a device in the toilet room TR, such as the toilet device 10, or into an information terminal such as a smartphone or wearable device. The acquisition unit 131 may acquire the specific information from the device in the toilet room TR or from the information terminal. The method of personal authentication is not limited to the above, and any method that can identify the user may be used.

[0055] The acquisition unit 131 acquires the toilet usage information obtained by the user from the usage information acquisition unit 40. In this example, as shown in Figure 1, the estimation device 100 (acquisition unit 131) acquires usage information (signal S2) from the toilet device 10 (usage information acquisition unit 40). For example, when a user uses the toilet, the usage information is acquired each time the user uses the toilet.

[0056] The toilet data storage unit 121 of the storage unit 120 stores the user usage information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. For example, the processing unit 130 can determine that the acquired usage information is the information of the user identified by the personal identification unit 134 in the toilet use in which the usage information was acquired. The storage unit 120 stores the toilet usage information by the user in association with the identification information of the user identified by the personal identification unit 134. As a result, for example, each time a user uses the toilet, a log of toilet use is accumulated for each user.

[0057] In the memory unit 120, "storing usage information" may mean storing usage information acquired by the acquisition unit 131 (for example, sensor detection results), or it may mean storing parameters based on the acquired usage information. The parameters are indicators that represent the toilet usage status. Specifically, the parameters may be, for example, the number of times the toilet is used per day, the duration of each toilet use, the number of times the bidet is used per day, the number of times the bidet is used per toilet use (whether or not the bidet is used), the duration of the bidet use per toilet use, the sitting time per toilet use, the number of times the rear wash is used per day, the number of times the rear wash is used per toilet use (whether or not the rear wash is used), the duration of the rear wash per toilet use, the time spent getting dressed or undressed per toilet use, or the number of bowel movements per predetermined period (for example, one week). The parameters are not limited to these, and may be determined as appropriate so as to enable evaluation of toilet usage status, such as per day or per toilet use.

[0058] The estimation unit 132 estimates (determines) the user's health status based on the change in data based on the user's usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit 40 and data based on the user's past toilet usage information stored in the storage unit 120. That is, for example, the estimation unit 132 of the processing unit 130 estimates the user's health status based on the change in the value of a parameter based on the user's usage information acquired this time and the reference value of that parameter based on the user's usage information acquired in the past. More specifically, for example, if the parameter is toilet usage time, the estimation unit 132 estimates the user's current health status (when usage information was acquired in the most recent toilet use) based on the change in the toilet usage time based on the log acquired in the user's most recent toilet use and the reference value of the toilet usage time based on the log acquired in the user's toilet use prior to the most recent toilet use.

[0059] The amount of change is, for example, a value that indicates the magnitude of the change, and can be a difference or a ratio. In other words, the amount of change between a certain value and a reference value can be any value that can evaluate the change, such as the ratio of a certain value to the reference value, the difference between a certain value and the reference value, or the ratio of the difference to the reference value.

[0060] The health status estimated by the estimation unit 132 is, for example, information related to the female menstrual cycle. In this specification, the female menstrual cycle refers to the period including the menstrual phase, follicular phase, ovulation phase, and luteal phase. In other words, the female menstrual cycle is the period from the first day of one menstrual phase to the day before the first day of the next menstrual phase. For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates whether or not the user is in the menstrual phase. As a result, the estimation unit 132 may estimate the user's menstrual period and menstrual cycle. The menstrual period refers to the duration of the menstrual period (when the menstrual period starts and ends). The menstrual period includes, for example, information on the first and last days of the menstrual period. The menstrual cycle is the length of the female menstrual cycle (the number of days from the first day of one menstrual phase to the day before the first day of the next menstrual period). The estimation unit 132 may also estimate the follicular phase, ovulation phase, and luteal phase. For example, based on the estimated menstrual period or the estimated or entered menstrual cycle, the system may estimate whether the user is in the follicular phase, ovulation phase, or luteal phase, the follicular period (when the follicular phase begins and ends), the ovulation period (when the ovulation period begins and ends), the luteal period (when the luteal phase begins and ends), and the ovulation day.

[0061] The notification unit 133 (output unit) of the processing unit 130 outputs based on the health status estimated by the estimation unit 132. For example, the notification unit 133 outputs a signal S5 (see Figure 1) based on the estimation result S4 (see Figure 1) of the estimation unit 132 to the notification unit 50. Based on the output signal from the notification unit 133, the notification unit 50 notifies the user of information based on the estimation result of the estimation unit 132.

[0062] For example, the notification unit 50 is an information terminal such as a portable information terminal. The information terminal is any information terminal such as a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch or other wearable device, or a personal computer. The information terminal includes a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The notification unit 50 displays the estimation result of the estimation unit 132 on the display device. The notification unit 50 notifies the user of information regarding their menstrual cycle. In this way, the notification unit 50 provides notifications based on the health status estimated by the estimation unit 132.

[0063] For example, as shown in Figure 1, the user can input user information (signal S3), such as menstrual period and menstrual cycle, into the system from an information terminal (notification unit 50).

[0064] Note that in Figure 1, the user of the toilet in toilet room TR and the user holding the notification unit 50 are shown separately, but these users may be the same person.

[0065] Figure 4 is a table illustrating parameter values ​​based on toilet usage information. Figure 4 shows examples of values ​​for three parameters for user A: toilet usage time (toilet usage time per toilet visit), bidet usage frequency (number of bidet flushes per toilet visit), and seating time (seated time per toilet visit). Figure 4 also shows examples of values ​​for three parameters for user B, who is different from user A: toilet usage time, bidet usage time (bidet flushing time per toilet visit), and dressing time (dressing time per toilet visit).

[0066] For user A, the average toilet usage time during normal times (outside of menstruation) is 60 seconds. In contrast, user A's toilet usage time during menstruation is 90 seconds. Toilet usage time may be longer during menstruation due to factors such as changing sanitary products. For user A, the average number of times she uses the bidet under normal circumstances is 0. In contrast, the number of times user A uses the bidet during menstruation is 1. User A uses the bidet daily during menstruation. During menstruation, the number and frequency of bidet use may increase in order to wash away menstrual blood. For user A, the average sitting time under normal circumstances is 40 seconds. In contrast, user A's sitting time increases to 60 seconds during menstruation. During menstruation, sitting time may be longer due to the need to wash away menstrual blood and change sanitary products.

[0067] On the other hand, for user B, the average toilet usage time under normal circumstances is 50 seconds. In contrast, user B's toilet usage time during menstruation is 80 seconds. For user B, the average bidet usage time under normal circumstances is 5 seconds. In contrast, user B's bidet usage time increases to 10 seconds during menstruation. During menstruation, bidet usage time may be longer to wash away menstrual blood. For user B, the average time spent getting dressed under normal circumstances is 10 seconds. In contrast, user B's time spent getting dressed during menstruation is 20 seconds. During menstruation, the time spent getting dressed (and / or undressing) may increase due to the need to change sanitary products.

[0068] Thus, during menstruation, the values ​​of parameters based on usage information change compared to normal times. For example, if the toilet usage time based on the usage information of user A obtained during this toilet use has changed significantly from the standard value of user A's toilet usage time, it can be determined that user A is in the menstrual period. In other words, it can be determined whether user A is in the menstrual period based on the amount of change in the value of the parameter based on the usage information of user A obtained this time, relative to the standard value of user A's parameter. Here, the standard value of the parameter used to determine user A's state is determined based on user A's past toilet usage information stored in the memory unit 120. For example, the standard value of user A's parameter is determined based on the usage information obtained during user A's normal period. For example, the average value of user A's parameters during normal times is used as the standard value. Specifically, for example, the standard value of toilet usage time used to determine user A's state is set to 60 seconds.

[0069] Similarly, it is possible to determine whether user B is menstruating based on the change in the value of user B's parameter relative to its baseline value, based on the usage information of user B acquired this time. Here, the baseline value of the parameter used to determine user B's state is determined based on user B's past toilet usage information stored in the memory unit 120. For example, the baseline value for toilet usage time used to determine user B's state is set to 50 seconds.

[0070] In this way, the estimation unit 132 estimates the user's health status based on the amount of change between the data based on the user's usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit 40 and the data based on past toilet usage information by the user that was acquired before the said usage information and stored in the storage unit 120.

[0071] Conventionally, systems have been proposed that estimate a user's health status, such as their menstrual cycle, based on log data of their toilet usage. However, toilet usage varies from user to user. In contrast, this embodiment stores toilet usage information for each individual. Since health status can be estimated based on the usage information stored for each individual, the accuracy of the estimation can be improved.

[0072] For example, in the example in Figure 4, the normal toilet usage time differs between user A and user B. Even with the same parameters, characteristics can differ depending on the user. Also, parameters that change significantly with changes in health status may differ from user to user. In contrast, in this embodiment, for example, by identifying individuals and monitoring their usage patterns, it is possible to capture characteristic parameters and criteria indicating daily usage patterns for each user. For example, by detecting changes in characteristic parameters for each user, the accuracy of health status estimation can be improved. For example, by detecting changes from baseline values ​​for each user, the accuracy of health status estimation can be improved.

[0073] For example, the parameters used to determine the amount of change may differ for each user. For example, in the example in Figure 4, user A does not normally use the bidet, but uses it only during menstruation. On the other hand, user B uses the bidet both normally and during menstruation. Therefore, for example, for user A, the menstrual period is estimated by determining the change in the number of bidet uses. On the other hand, for user B, the menstrual period is estimated by determining the change in bidet usage time rather than the number of uses. For example, the estimation unit 132 may select the parameters to be used for estimation for each user based on the user's past usage information. That is, the estimation unit 132 may select the parameters that change significantly between normal times and menstruation, and use the selected parameters to estimate menstruation.

[0074] The parameters used to determine the amount of change may include sitting time, dressing time, number of toilet uses, or the number of times (or whether) the bidet mode is used. Before menstruation, changes in hormone balance may alter urination patterns, potentially increasing or decreasing the number of toilet uses. During menstruation, the number of times the bidet mode is used may increase to wash away menstrual blood over a wider area. The parameters used to determine the amount of change are not limited to those listed above; any parameters that change depending on the user's health condition can be used.

[0075] Among health-related issues, women have a need to manage information related to their female cycle (e.g., menstrual cycle, past menstrual periods, and the timing of their next menstrual period). According to the implementation, the accuracy of estimating information related to the female cycle can be improved by basing it on usage data accumulated for each individual. In addition, for example, when personal authentication is performed when using a toilet, logs are automatically acquired and stored, thus reducing the effort required for management.

[0076] For example, the estimation unit 132 calculates a baseline value for a parameter based on user toilet usage information over a past period. For example, the estimation unit 132 calculates a baseline value based on usage information acquired during a past period excluding the estimated menstrual period. The above past period may be, for example, a predetermined period in the past, the most recent period, or a period from the present to a predetermined time ago. The past period may be, for example, a period of a predetermined length (such as several weeks or several months).

[0077] For example, in the initial stages of operating the health management system 200, the system may use the menstrual period entered by the user into the health management system 200. For example, the estimation unit 132 calculates a baseline value based on usage information acquired during the past period excluding the entered menstrual period. Alternatively, in the initial stages of operating the health management system, the system may calculate baseline values ​​such as the average value by including usage information acquired during the menstrual period.

[0078] The reference values ​​may be updated at appropriate intervals for each user. For example, the reference values ​​used to calculate the change in parameters based on usage information obtained from the current toilet use may be updated based on usage information obtained from the previous toilet use. Alternatively, the same reference values ​​may be used repeatedly. In addition to the above, the reference values ​​for parameters should be determined appropriately based on the user's past usage information in a way that allows for the detection of changes in their health status.

[0079] The usage information can be divided into two types: usage information for toilet use involving defecation, and usage information for toilet use without defecation (for example, toilet use for urination). The estimation unit 132 may estimate the health status based only on the usage information for toilet use involving defecation. The estimation unit 132 may also estimate the health status based only on the usage information for toilet use without defecation. The two types of usage information can be determined, for example, based on whether or not a posterior wash was performed, the detection result of the excrement detection unit 30, and the operation of the toilet flushing (full flush or partial flush).

[0080] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. When a user enters the toilet room TR to use the toilet, a signal for personal authentication is input. The personal identification unit 134 identifies the user based on the input signal for personal authentication (step S101).

[0081] For example, the user uses the toilet device 10 as needed and leaves the toilet room TR. In such a case of toilet use by the user, the usage information acquisition unit 40 acquires toilet usage information (toilet log) by the user (step S102).

[0082] The estimation unit 132 refers to the user's past toilet logs, i.e., the user's past usage information stored in the storage unit 120 (step S103). For example, the estimation unit 132 calculates a reference value for a parameter based on the user's past usage information stored in the storage unit 120.

[0083] The estimation unit 132 determines the amount of change in the toilet log (step S104). Specifically, the estimation unit 132 determines the amount of change between the value of the parameter based on the user's usage information obtained in step S102 and the reference value of the parameter based on the user's past usage information referenced in step S103.

[0084] The estimation unit 132 determines the health status based on whether the amount of change satisfies the criteria for determining the health status. For example, the estimation unit 132 determines that it is the menstrual period based on whether the amount of change satisfies the criteria for determining that it is the menstrual period. For example, the criteria are satisfied when the amount of change (e.g., the absolute value of the difference) is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. This predetermined value is not particularly limited and can be set appropriately so as to detect the change and estimate the health status. The predetermined value can be set for each user and for each parameter. As an example, when determining the amount of change in toilet usage time for user A as explained with respect to Figure 4, the criteria for determination is that the amount of change is 30 seconds or more.

[0085] The estimation unit 132 determines that it is the menstrual period based on whether the amount of change is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. In the example in Figure 5, the estimation unit 132 estimates that it is the menstrual period (step S105) if the amount of change is greater than or equal to a predetermined value (step S104: YES). The estimation unit 132 determines that it is not the menstrual period based on whether the amount of change is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. In the example in Figure 5, if the amount of change is not greater than or equal to a predetermined value (step S104: NO), the estimation unit 132 estimates that it is not the menstrual period (step S106).

[0086] Specifically, for example, the estimation unit 132 estimates that the user is in their menstrual period based on whether the toilet usage time (the current toilet usage) logged in step S102 is longer than a predetermined time from the standard time, and estimates that the user is not in their menstrual period based on whether the time is shorter than the predetermined time. Also, for example, the estimation unit 132 estimates that the user is in their menstrual period based on whether the number of toilet uses on the day logged in step S102 is more than a predetermined number from the standard number, and estimates that the user is not in their menstrual period based on whether the number of toilet uses is shorter than the predetermined number.

[0087] Subsequently, the notification unit 133 notifies the notification unit 50 of the information based on the estimation result. The notification unit 50 then notifies the user of the notified information.

[0088] For example, the health management system 200 repeatedly acquires toilet logs, estimates the user's health status, and stores the acquired toilet logs and estimation results each time the user uses the toilet (each time the user's personal authentication is performed).

[0089] As explained above, the estimation unit 132 estimates the user's health status based on the change in data based on usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit 40 during the user's current (most recent) toilet use and data based on usage information acquired during the user's past toilet use and stored in the storage unit 120. In other words, the estimation unit 132 estimates the user's health status based on the change in the value of a parameter based on the user's usage information acquired during the current toilet use and the reference value of that parameter based on the user's past usage information stored before the current toilet use.

[0090] For example, when the personal identification unit 134 identifies a user, the user uses the toilet, and the usage information acquisition unit 40 acquires the user's usage information. As a result, the user's usage information is accumulated. Based on the accumulated usage information, the amount of change in parameters can be calculated for each user. By observing the changes in the user's toilet usage on a daily basis, characteristic toilet usage patterns of an individual can be detected, and the individual's health status can be estimated based on the detected characteristics.

[0091] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. Similar to steps S101 and S102 described above, the personal identification unit 134 identifies the user (step S201), and the usage information acquisition unit 40 acquires usage information (toilet log) (step S202).

[0092] The estimation unit 132 refers to the user's past toilet logs, i.e., the user's past usage information stored in the memory unit 120 (step S203). For example, the estimation unit 132 calculates reference values ​​for several parameters based on the user's past usage information stored in the memory unit 120. For example, the estimation unit 132 calculates a reference value for the first parameter (first reference value) and a reference value for the second parameter (second reference value).

[0093] The estimation unit 132 determines the change in multiple toilet logs (step S204). For example, the estimation unit 132 determines the change in the value of the first parameter, based on the user usage information acquired in step S202, relative to the first reference value. The estimation unit 132 also determines the change in the value of the second parameter, based on the user usage information acquired in step S202, relative to the second reference value.

[0094] The estimation unit 132 estimates the health status based on whether the changes in multiple parameters satisfy the criteria for determining the health status. For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates that it is the menstrual period based on whether the changes in multiple parameters satisfy the criteria for determining that it is the menstrual period. The criteria for multiple changes to satisfy the criteria means, for example, whether each change satisfies the criteria defined for each change. That is, the estimation unit 132 estimates the health status based on whether, for example, the change in the first parameter satisfies the first criteria, and whether the change in the second parameter satisfies the second criteria. For example, the first criteria is that the change in the first parameter is greater than or equal to a first predetermined value, and the second criteria is that the change in the second parameter is greater than or equal to a second predetermined value.

[0095] For example, for the change amounts of multiple parameters to satisfy the determination conditions, each change amount must satisfy the determination conditions defined for each change amount. That is, the estimation unit 132 determines that it is menstruation based on the change amount of the first parameter satisfying the first determination condition and the change amount of the second parameter satisfying the second determination condition. In other words, in the example in Figure 6, if the change amount of the first parameter is greater than or equal to a first predetermined value and the change amount of the second parameter is greater than or equal to a second predetermined value (step S204: YES), it is estimated that it is menstruation (step S205). The estimation unit 132 determines that it is not menstruation based on the change amount of the first parameter not satisfying the first determination condition or the change amount of the second parameter not satisfying the second determination condition. In other words, in the example in Figure 6, if the change amount of the first parameter is not greater than or equal to a first predetermined value, or the change amount of the second parameter is not greater than or equal to a second predetermined value (step S204: NO), it is estimated that it is not menstruation (step S206).

[0096] Furthermore, the condition that the change amounts of multiple parameters satisfy the judgment criteria is not limited to the above; for example, it may also be the case that at least one of the multiple change amounts satisfies the judgment criteria defined for each change amount. Also, for example, the condition that the change amounts of multiple parameters satisfy the judgment criteria may be the case that the number of change amounts that satisfy the judgment criteria defined for each change amount is greater than or equal to a predetermined number. The judgment criteria for the multiple change amounts may be determined appropriately so as to detect the changes and estimate the health status. The estimation unit 132 may estimate the health status based on three or more change amounts.

[0097] In this way, the estimation unit 132 estimates the user's health status based on multiple change quantities. This allows for improved estimation accuracy.

[0098] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. Similar to steps S201, S202, and S203 described above, the personal identification unit 134 identifies the user (step S301), the usage information acquisition unit 40 acquires usage information (toilet log) (step S302), and the estimation unit 132 refers to past toilet logs (step S303).

[0099] The estimation unit 132, similar to step S204 described above, determines whether the amount of change in multiple parameters based on the usage information acquired in step S302 (i.e., usage information acquired in this toilet use) satisfies the determination conditions (step S304).

[0100] If the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during this toilet use satisfy the determination condition (step S304: YES), the estimation unit 132 determines, similar to step S304, whether the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during the same user's previous toilet use satisfy the determination condition (step S305).

[0101] The estimation unit 132 estimates that the woman is in her menstrual period (step S306) if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during the previous toilet use satisfy the determination condition (step S305: YES).

[0102] The estimation unit 132 estimates that the woman is not in her menstrual period (step S307) if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information acquired during the current toilet use do not meet the determination conditions (step S304: NO). The estimation unit 132 also estimates that the woman is not in her menstrual period (step S307) if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information acquired during the previous toilet use do not meet the determination conditions (step S305: NO).

[0103] Thus, the estimation unit 132 estimates the user's menstrual period based on the fact that the change in the parameter satisfies the determination condition multiple times in a row. By estimating based on the determination of the change in the parameter multiple times, the accuracy of the estimation can be further improved. For example, since the menstrual period generally lasts for several days, the accuracy can be further improved by estimating that it is the menstrual period based on the fact that a large change in the parameter has occurred multiple times in a row.

[0104] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. Similar to steps S301, S302, S303, and S304 described above, the personal identification unit 134 identifies the user (step S401), the usage information acquisition unit 40 acquires usage information (toilet log) (step S402), and the estimation unit 132 refers to past toilet logs (step S403) and determines whether the amount of change in multiple parameters based on the usage information acquired in the current toilet use satisfies the determination conditions (step S404).

[0105] If the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during this toilet use satisfy the determination conditions (step S404: YES), the estimation unit 132 determines, similar to step S404, whether the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during the same user's toilet use the previous day satisfy the determination conditions (step S405).

[0106] The estimation unit 132 estimates that the woman is in her menstrual period (step S406) if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained from the previous day's toilet use satisfy the determination conditions (step S405: YES).

[0107] The estimation unit 132 estimates that the woman is not in her menstrual period (step S407) if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during the current toilet use do not satisfy the determination conditions (step S404: NO). The estimation unit 132 also estimates that the woman is not in her menstrual period (step S407) if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during the previous day's toilet use do not satisfy the determination conditions (step S405: NO).

[0108] In this way, the estimation unit 132 estimates the user's menstrual cycle based on the fact that there have been multiple consecutive days in which the change in the parameters satisfies the determination conditions. By estimating based on the determination of the change in parameters multiple times, the accuracy of the estimation can be further improved.

[0109] As explained above with respect to Figures 7 and 8, for example, the estimation unit 132 estimates that the user is menstruating at the time of acquisition of the first usage information, based on the fact that the first change amount based on the first usage information satisfies the determination condition, and the second change amount based on the second usage information satisfies the determination condition. Here, the first usage information is the toilet usage information by the user acquired by the usage information acquisition unit 40 during the user's first toilet use. The second usage information is the toilet usage information by the user acquired by the usage information acquisition unit 40 during the user's second toilet use. The second toilet use is the toilet use immediately before or on the day before the first toilet use (the current toilet use). In other words, the first toilet use is the toilet use following or on the day after the second toilet use. The first change amount is the change between the value of the parameter based on the first usage information and the reference value of the parameter based on past toilet usage information by the user acquired before the first usage information and stored in the storage unit 120. The second change is the difference between the value of the parameter based on the second usage information and the reference value of the parameter based on past toilet usage information by the user, which was acquired before the second usage information and stored in the memory unit 120.

[0110] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. Similar to steps S301, S302, S303, and S304 described above, the personal identification unit 134 identifies the user (step S501), the usage information acquisition unit 40 acquires usage information (toilet log) (step S502), and the estimation unit 132 refers to past toilet logs (step S503) and determines whether the amount of change in multiple parameters based on the usage information acquired in the current toilet use satisfies the determination conditions (step S504).

[0111] If the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during this toilet use satisfy the determination conditions (step S504: YES), the estimation unit 132 determines, similar to step S504, whether the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during the same user's toilet use one hour earlier satisfy the determination conditions (step S505).

[0112] The first hour corresponds, for example, to the user's menstrual cycle. The first hour is, for example, approximately 25 to 35 days. Toilet use one hour prior refers to toilet use on the day to which the time one hour prior from the present (when the usage information was obtained for this toilet use) belongs. Alternatively, toilet use one hour prior may also refer to toilet use immediately before or after the time one hour prior from the present.

[0113] The estimation unit 132 estimates that the woman is in her menstrual period (step S506) if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during toilet use one hour prior satisfy the determination conditions (step S505: YES).

[0114] The estimation unit 132 estimates that the woman is not in her menstrual period if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during the current toilet use do not meet the determination conditions (step S504: NO). The estimation unit 132 also estimates that the woman is not in her menstrual period if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during the toilet use one hour prior do not meet the determination conditions (step S505: NO).

[0115] Thus, the estimation unit 132 estimates the user's menstrual period based on whether the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the user's current toilet use satisfies the determination conditions, and whether the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the user's toilet use one hour prior satisfies the determination conditions. The accuracy of the estimation can be further improved by further determining the amount of change based on the usage information from one hour prior. For example, since menstruation occurs periodically, if the user was in their menstrual period one hour prior, corresponding to the length of the menstrual cycle, it is considered highly likely that the user is also in their menstrual period during the current toilet use. The menstrual period can be estimated with greater accuracy when the amount of change based on the usage information during the current toilet use is large, and the amount of change based on the usage information during the toilet use one hour prior is similarly large.

[0116] In other words, the estimation unit 132 estimates that the user was menstruating at the time the first usage information was acquired, based on the fact that the first change amount based on the first usage information satisfies the determination condition, and the third change amount based on the third usage information satisfies the determination condition. Here, the first usage information is the toilet usage information by the user acquired by the usage information acquisition unit 40 during the user's first toilet use. The third usage information is the toilet usage information by the user acquired by the usage information acquisition unit 40 during the user's third toilet use. The third toilet use is the toilet use one hour prior to the first toilet use (the current toilet use). The first change amount is the change between the value of the parameter based on the first usage information and the reference value of the parameter based on past toilet usage information by the user acquired before the first usage information and stored in the storage unit 120. The third change amount is the change between the value of the parameter based on the third usage information and the reference value of the parameter based on past toilet usage information by the user acquired before the third usage information and stored in the storage unit 120.

[0117] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the health management system according to the embodiment. Similar to steps S301, S302, S303, and S304 described above, the personal identification unit 134 identifies the user (step S601), the usage information acquisition unit 40 acquires usage information (toilet log) (step S602), and the estimation unit 132 refers to past toilet logs (step S603) and determines whether the amount of change in multiple parameters based on the usage information acquired in the current toilet use satisfies the determination conditions (step S604).

[0118] If the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during this toilet use satisfy the determination conditions (step S604: YES), the estimation unit 132 determines whether the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during the same user's previous or the day before toilet use satisfy the determination conditions (step S605).

[0119] The estimation unit 132 estimates that the woman is in her menstrual period (step S607) if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained from the previous or previous day's toilet use satisfy the determination conditions (step S605: YES).

[0120] If the change in multiple parameters based on usage information obtained from the previous or previous day's toilet use does not satisfy the determination condition (step S605: NO), the estimation unit 132 determines whether the change in multiple parameters based on usage information obtained from the same user's toilet use one hour earlier satisfies the determination condition (step S606).

[0121] The estimation unit 132 estimates that the woman is in her menstrual period (step S607) if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during toilet use one hour prior satisfy the determination conditions (step S606: YES).

[0122] The estimation unit 132 estimates that the woman is not in her menstrual period (step S608) if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during this toilet use do not satisfy the determination conditions (step S604: NO). The estimation unit 132 estimates that the woman is not in her menstrual period (step S608) if the changes in multiple parameters based on the usage information obtained during toilet use one hour prior do not satisfy the determination conditions (step S606: NO).

[0123] Thus, the estimation unit 132 estimates the user's menstrual cycle based on the change in data based on usage information acquired during the user's current toilet use, the change in data based on usage information acquired during the user's previous or previous toilet use, and the change in data based on usage information acquired during the user's toilet use one hour prior. By determining the change in data based on multiple pieces of usage information, the accuracy of the estimation can be further improved.

[0124] In other words, the estimation unit 132 estimates the user's menstrual period based on a first change based on first usage information, a second change based on second usage information, and a third change based on third usage information. As already mentioned, for example, the first usage information is information obtained during the current toilet use, the second usage information is information obtained during the previous toilet use, and the third usage information is information obtained during the toilet use one hour ago. For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates the user's menstrual period based on the fact that the first change satisfies the determination condition, and at least one of the second and third change amounts satisfies the determination condition. The estimation unit 132 may also estimate the user's menstrual period based on the fact that the first change amount satisfies the determination condition, the second change amount satisfies the determination condition, and the third change amount satisfies the determination condition.

[0125] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating the estimation of menstrual period. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating the calculation of the menstrual cycle and the prediction of the next menstrual period. When the estimation unit 132 obtains information on a user's toilet usage, it estimates whether the day on which the usage information was obtained falls within the user's menstrual period. In Figure 11, each square represents one day. Shaded days are estimated to be days within the menstrual period. Unshaded days are estimated to be days outside the menstrual period (non-menstrual days).

[0126] The estimation unit 132 estimates the last day of the menstrual period to be the day most recently estimated to be the menstrual period if there are a predetermined number of consecutive non-menstrual days (3 days in this example). The estimation unit 132 estimates the first day (the oldest day) within a predetermined number of days prior to the estimated last day of the menstrual period (for example, about 2 weeks) that was estimated to be the menstrual period to be the first day of that menstrual period. The estimation unit 132 estimates the period from the day estimated to be the first day to the first day estimated to be the last day thereafter as one menstrual period.

[0127] As shown in Figure 12, the estimation unit 132 estimates the menstrual cycle based on the length of time from the estimated first day of menstruation to the estimated first day of the next menstrual cycle. For example, the estimation unit 132 calculates the user's menstrual cycle based on the user's past menstrual cycles. The menstrual cycle is calculated, for example, as an average value. For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates the menstrual cycle based on the user's most recent menstrual periods. In this way, the estimation unit 132 can estimate the user's menstrual cycle based on the user's toilet usage information. That is, the estimation unit 132 can estimate the menstrual cycle for each user.

[0128] The notification unit 133 notifies the notification unit 50 of the calculation result (menstrual cycle) from the estimation unit 132. The notification unit 50 then notifies the user of the notified calculation result (menstrual cycle).

[0129] In this way, by calculating the user's menstrual cycle based on multiple past menstrual periods, the accuracy of calculating (estimating) the user's menstrual cycle can be improved.

[0130] The first time period mentioned above in relation to Figure 9 or Figure 10 corresponds, for example, to the menstrual cycle. In the initial stages of operating the health management system 200, the menstrual cycle (or a predetermined time such as a typical menstrual cycle) entered by the user into the health management system 200 may be used as the first time period. Subsequently, the menstrual cycle may be estimated based on the accumulated user data, and the first time period may be set to the estimated menstrual cycle.

[0131] In this way, the estimation unit 132 corrects (updates) the first time based on the estimated menstrual period of the user. Since the first time can be determined for each user based on the estimated menstrual period of each user, the accuracy of the estimation can be further improved.

[0132] As shown in Figure 12, the estimation unit 132 may predict information about the next (future) female cycle based on the estimated menstrual period of the user. For example, the estimation unit 132 predicts when the next menstrual period will be based on the estimated last menstrual period and the estimated or entered menstrual cycle. For example, the estimation unit 132 predicts at least one of the next menstrual period, luteal phase, follicular phase, ovulation phase, and ovulation day. Since information about the next female cycle can be predicted based on usage information accumulated for each individual, the accuracy of the prediction can be improved.

[0133] The notification unit 133 notifies the notification unit 50 of the prediction result from the estimation unit 132. The notification unit 50 then notifies the user of the notified prediction result.

[0134] In this way, by predicting when the user's next menstrual period will occur based on the user's menstrual cycle, the accuracy of the prediction (estimation) of when the user's next menstrual period will occur can be improved.

[0135] As already mentioned, the estimation unit 132 estimates (and predicts) information regarding the female menstrual cycle as a health condition. However, the health condition estimated (and predicted) by the estimation unit 132 is not limited to information regarding the female menstrual cycle; for example, it may also include information regarding constipation tendencies, nocturia, stress, or overactive bladder.

[0136] Figure 13 is a table illustrating parameter values ​​based on toilet usage information. Figure 13 shows examples of values ​​for three parameters for user A and user B, respectively: sitting time, number of times the bidet was used (number of times the bidet was used in one toilet use), and number of times bowel movements occurred (number of times a person defecated per week).

[0137] For example, for users A and B, when they are prone to constipation, their sitting time is longer than usual (when they are not prone to constipation). The estimation unit 132 estimates the user's tendency towards constipation at the time the usage information was obtained, based on the change in sitting time during toilet use from a standard time (normal sitting time). That is, the estimation unit 132 estimates that the user is prone to constipation if the change in sitting time is longer than a predetermined time, and estimates that the user is not prone to constipation if the change is not longer than a predetermined time.

[0138] For example, in the case of user A, when constipated, the frequency of bowel movements decreases compared to normal times. The estimation unit 132 estimates the user's tendency towards constipation at the time the toilet usage information was obtained, based on the change in the number of bowel movements in the week immediately preceding the toilet use from the baseline number (normal bowel movement frequency). In other words, the estimation unit 132 estimates that the user is prone to constipation if the change in the number of bowel movements is less than or equal to a predetermined number, and estimates that the user is not prone to constipation if the change is not less than or equal to a predetermined number.

[0139] Thus, the estimation unit 132 may estimate whether the user is prone to constipation. In addition, the estimation unit 132 may estimate the user's nocturia based on the change in the number of nighttime urinations. The estimation unit 132 may estimate the user's overactive bladder based on the change in the number of daytime urinations. The estimation unit 132 may estimate the user's stress level based on the change in the number of bowel movements or urinations. For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates that stress is high if the number of bowel movements in the past week has increased or decreased by 3 or more times compared to the standard number. For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates that stress is high if the number of urinations in the past week has increased or decreased by 3 or more times compared to the standard number. For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates that stress is high if the number of morning bowel movements in the past week has decreased by 2 or more times compared to the standard number. For example, the estimation unit 132 estimates that stress levels are high if the time of defecation deviates from the reference time by a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 1 hour).

[0140] In this embodiment, the components such as the functional blocks shown in Figure 3 are conceptual in function and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown. For example, some or all of the components of the health management system 200 may be aggregated in the estimation device 100 and the toilet device 10 as appropriate, or each component may be distributed to multiple devices that are connected to each other via a network for communication. Each component of the embodiment may be distributed or integrated as appropriate, functionally or physically.

[0141] For example, at least a part of the estimation device 100 may be a device provided separately from the toilet device 10 outside the toilet room TR, or it may be provided in the toilet device 10 or the toilet seat device 20. That is, the toilet device 10 or the toilet seat device 20 may have an estimation unit 132, a notification unit 133, a personal identification unit 134, and a storage unit 120, etc. The processing unit 130 and the storage unit 120 may be provided separately. For example, the processing unit 130 may be provided in the toilet device 10 and the storage unit 120 may be provided in a cloud server.

[0142] Personal authentication may be performed in the toilet device 10 or the usage information acquisition unit 40. That is, at least a part of the personal identification unit 134 or the storage unit 120 may be provided in the toilet device 10 or the usage information acquisition unit 40 separately from the estimation device 100. For example, the toilet device 10 or the usage information acquisition unit 40 may acquire usage information by a user after it has identified that user. The toilet device 10 or the usage information acquisition unit 40 may transmit the usage information by the user, along with the user identification information (e.g., user ID), to the estimation device 100.

[0143] The embodiment may include the following configurations. (Composition 1) The personal identification section identifies the user, A usage information acquisition unit that acquires information on toilet usage by the aforementioned user, A storage unit for storing the user's usage information, An estimation unit estimates the user's health status based on the amount of change between the data based on the usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit and the data based on past toilet usage information by the user stored in the storage unit, A notification unit that provides notification based on the user's health condition, A health management system characterized by having the following features. (Configuration 2) The health management system according to configuration 1, characterized in that the estimation unit estimates the user's health status based on a plurality of change amounts. (Composition 3) The health management system according to configuration 1, characterized in that the estimation unit estimates information regarding the female menstrual cycle based on the amount of change. (Composition 4) The health management system according to configuration 3, characterized in that the estimation unit estimates the user's menstrual period based on the fact that the amount of change satisfies the determination condition multiple times in a row. (Composition 5) The health management system according to configuration 3, characterized in that the estimation unit estimates the user's menstrual period based on the fact that the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the current toilet use satisfies the determination condition, and the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the toilet use one hour earlier also satisfies the determination condition. (Composition 6) The health management system according to configuration 3, characterized in that the estimation unit estimates the user's menstrual period based on the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the current toilet use, the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the previous toilet use on the day before or the previous time, and the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the toilet use one hour earlier. (Composition 7) The health management system according to configuration 5 or 6, characterized in that the estimation unit corrects the first time based on the estimated menstrual period of the user. (Composition 8) The health management system according to any one of configurations 3 to 7, characterized in that the estimation unit predicts information regarding the next women's menstrual cycle based on the estimation results. (Composition 9) Toilet seat and A usage information acquisition unit acquires toilet usage information by users identified by the personal identification unit, A storage unit for storing the user's usage information, An estimation unit estimates the user's health status based on the change in the data based on the usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit compared with the data based on the user's past toilet usage information stored in the storage unit. An output unit that outputs based on the user's health status, A toilet seat device characterized by having the following features. (Composition 10) Toilet bowl and A toilet seat provided on top of the aforementioned toilet bowl, A usage information acquisition unit acquires toilet usage information by users identified by the personal identification unit, A storage unit for storing the user's usage information, An estimation unit estimates the user's health status based on the change in the data based on the usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit compared with the data based on the user's past toilet usage information stored in the storage unit. An output unit that outputs based on the user's health status, A toilet device characterized by being equipped with the following features.

[0144] Embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Modifications made by those skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention, as long as they retain the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, arrangement, and installation configuration of each element are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of each of the embodiments described above can be combined to the extent technically possible, and these combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention insofar as they include the features of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0145] 10: Toilet device, 11: Toilet bowl, 12: Bowl section, 20: Toilet seat device, 21: Casing, 22: Functional section, 23: Washing function section, 23a: Nozzle, 24: Toilet seat, 25: Seating detection section, 27: Human body detection section, 28: Remote control, 29: Control section, 30: Excrement detection section, 40: Usage information acquisition section, 50: Notification section, 100: Estimation device, 110: Communication section, 120: Memory section, 121: Toilet data storage section, 123: User information storage section, 130: Processing section, 131: Acquisition section, 132: Estimation section, 133: Notification section, 134: Personal identification section, 200: Health management system, S1~S3, S5: Signal, S4: Estimation result, S101~S106, S201~S206, S301~S307, S401~S407, S501~S507, S601~S608: Steps, TR: Toilet room

Claims

1. The personal identification section identifies the user, A usage information acquisition unit that acquires information on toilet usage by the aforementioned user, A storage unit that stores the user's usage information, An estimation unit estimates the user's health status based on the amount of change between the data based on the usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit and the data based on past toilet usage information by the user stored in the storage unit, A notification unit that provides notification based on the user's health condition, A health management system characterized by having the following features.

2. The health management system according to claim 1, characterized in that the estimation unit estimates the user's health status based on a plurality of the aforementioned change amounts.

3. The health management system according to claim 1, characterized in that the estimation unit estimates information regarding the female menstrual cycle based on the amount of change.

4. The health management system according to claim 3, characterized in that the estimation unit estimates the user's menstrual period based on the fact that the amount of change satisfies the determination condition multiple times in a row.

5. The health management system according to claim 3, characterized in that the estimation unit estimates the user's menstrual period based on the fact that the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the current toilet use satisfies the determination condition, and the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the toilet use one hour earlier satisfies the determination condition.

6. The health management system according to claim 3, characterized in that the estimation unit estimates the user's menstrual period based on the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the current toilet use, the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the previous toilet use on the day before or the previous time, and the amount of change in the data based on the usage information acquired during the toilet use one hour earlier.

7. The health management system according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the estimation unit corrects the first time based on the estimated menstrual period of the user.

8. The health management system according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the estimation unit predicts information regarding the next women's menstrual cycle based on the estimation results.

9. Toilet seat and A usage information acquisition unit acquires toilet usage information by users identified by the personal identification unit, A storage unit that stores the user's usage information, An estimation unit estimates the user's health status based on the amount of change between the data based on the usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit and the data based on the user's past toilet usage information stored in the storage unit, An output unit that outputs based on the user's health status, A toilet seat device characterized by having the following features.

10. Toilet bowl and A toilet seat provided on top of the aforementioned toilet bowl, A usage information acquisition unit acquires toilet usage information by users identified by the personal identification unit, A storage unit that stores the user's usage information, An estimation unit estimates the user's health status based on the amount of change between the data based on the usage information acquired by the usage information acquisition unit and the data based on the user's past toilet usage information stored in the storage unit, An output unit that outputs based on the user's health status, A toilet device characterized by being equipped with the following features.

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