Bathroom vanity

Abstract

The objective is to provide a washbasin vanity equipped with a means for measuring biometric information, thereby improving usability. [Solution] A washbasin vanity is provided, comprising: a biometric information measuring means for measuring the user's biometric information; a detection unit for detecting a predetermined action of the user; a display unit for displaying the measurement results of the biometric information measured by the biometric information measuring means; and a control unit that, when the detection unit detects the predetermined action, causes the biometric information measuring means to measure the user's biometric information and displays the measurement results on the display unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , ,

[0005] , ,

[0001] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to washbasin vanities.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, while people's interest in health has been increasing, continuously measuring daily biological information is a cumbersome task. In contrast, for example, a healthcare sanitary room that automatically records weight, body temperature, etc. is known (Patent Document 1). In such biological information measurement means, there has been room for improvement in usability when the user measures biological information in daily life.

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 washbasin vanity provided with biological information measurement means and capable of improving usability.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A first invention is a washbasin vanity including biological information measurement means for measuring biological information of a user, a detection unit for detecting a predetermined action of the user, a display unit for displaying a measurement result of the biological information measured by the biological information measurement means, and a control unit for causing the biological information measurement means to measure the biological information of the user and causing the display unit to display the measurement result when the detection unit detects the predetermined action.

[0006] This vanity unit automatically starts measuring biometric information in response to a specific action performed by the user, making it possible to incorporate biometric information measurement into daily life. Because biometric information measurement and result display are performed automatically, it is very user-friendly.

[0007] The second invention is a washbasin vanity characterized in that, in the first invention, the biometric information is associated with personal data for identifying an individual and stored in a personal data storage means, the predetermined action is a personal authentication operation, the detection unit is a personal authentication means for detecting the personal authentication operation, and the control unit starts a personal mode in which it records the measurement result in association with the personal data and stores the personal data in the personal data storage means if the input data from the personal authentication operation matches, and does not start the personal mode if the input data does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means.

[0008] This bathroom vanity unit improves the convenience of daily health management in situations where multiple people use the vanity unit, such as in a family setting, by introducing personal authentication linked to personal data, making it easier to manage each individual's biometric information.

[0009] The third invention is a vanity unit in the second invention, characterized in that the control unit starts a guest mode in which it does not record the measurement result if the input data does not match the personal data.

[0010] According to this vanity unit, even users who have not registered their personal data can have their biometric information measured without recording the results.

[0011] The fourth invention further comprises a receiving unit capable of receiving a specific signal that identifies the user from an external source, in the third invention. The control unit is a washbasin vanity characterized in that, in guest mode, when the receiving unit receives the specific signal within a predetermined time after the measurement result is displayed on the display unit, it records the measurement result in the personal data storage means in association with the personal data of the user identified by the specific signal.

[0012] According to this vanity unit, even if a user whose personal data has been registered in advance fails to authenticate themselves due to a malfunction in the personal authentication method, the measurement results can be recorded in association with the personal data after the biometric information measurement is performed.

[0013] The fifth invention is a washbasin vanity in which, in the third invention, the control unit measures the biometric information in guest mode, and if the measurement result is similar to any of the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means, it displays a suggestion on the display unit indicating that the user may be a person identified by the personal data associated with the biometric information similar to the measurement result, and accepts further personal authentication operations within a predetermined time from the display of the suggestion.

[0014] This vanity unit allows for further personal authentication even if a user whose personal data has been pre-registered fails to authenticate themselves due to a malfunction in the personal authentication method. This enables the recording of biometric data in association with personal data after measurement.

[0015] The sixth invention is a washbasin vanity in which, in the first invention, the predetermined action is a water discharge operation that causes water to be discharged from a discharge device configured to discharge water into a washbasin, or a water shut-off operation that stops the discharge of water from the discharge device.

[0016] According to this washstand, at the timing when the user is assumed to be washing hands or face, in other words, at the timing when the user is more surely leaning forward toward the washbowl and fixing the posture, measurement of biological information such as blood pressure and body temperature can be started. Thereby, highly accurate measurement of biological information becomes possible.

[0017] The seventh invention is the washstand according to the sixth invention, wherein the biological information measuring means has a measuring unit that measures the biological information in a non-contact manner, the measuring unit is provided below a wash mirror provided above the washbowl and above the washbowl, and a detection direction of the measuring unit faces obliquely upward toward the front.

[0018] According to this washstand, a measuring unit that measures biological information in a non-contact manner is arranged at a position facing the face of the user facing the lower washbowl when washing hands or the like, and the detection direction of the measuring unit is directed toward the face of the user. Thereby, even more accurate measurement of biological information becomes possible.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a washstand provided with biological information measuring means and capable of improving usability.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view showing a washstand according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing a washstand according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a schematic view showing a washstand according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a flowchart showing the operation of the washstand according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart showing the operation of the washstand according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a block diagram showing a washstand according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing the operation of the washstand according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIGS. 8(a) to 8(c) are schematic diagrams showing the operation of the washstand according to the second embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted as appropriate. (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a washstand according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the washstand 101 according to the embodiment includes a support base 16, a wash unit 10, a mirror 20 (wash mirror), a display unit 24, a biological information measuring means 30, a detection unit 50, and a human body detection sensor 56. The washstand 101 is a washstand capable of measuring and displaying the biological information (for example, body temperature, etc.) of a user. Specifically, the biological information of the user is measured by the biological information measuring means 30. Then, the measurement result of the biological information is displayed on the display unit 24.

[0022] Hereinafter, in this specification, the descriptions of "upper", "lower", "right", and "left" refer to the upper, lower, right, and left with reference to a person who is in front of the washstand and looking at the washstand. Also, in this specification, the direction from the washstand toward the person in front of the washstand 101 is defined as the "front" direction, and the opposite direction is defined as the "rear" direction.

[0023] The wash unit 10 has a washbasin 12 and a discharge device 14 (faucet device). The washbasin 12 has a washbowl 23. The washbowl 23 is formed in a concave shape that is recessed downward. If necessary, a back guard extending upward from the rear end of the washbowl 23 may be provided. The shape of the washbasin 12 may be any shape having at least the washbowl 23.

[0024] The washbasin 12 is placed on a support base 16. The support base 16 supports the washbasin 12. The support base 16 also functions as a cabinet, for example, having drawers or doors, and capable of storing items in its internal space. In other words, the support base 16 is a lower cabinet (floor cabinet). The support base 16 does not necessarily have a storage function. The support base 16 can have any configuration that is capable of supporting the washbasin 12. The washbasin 12 may also be directly attached to a wall, for example, in a bathroom. That is, the support base 16 can be provided as needed and can be omitted.

[0025] The dispensing device 14 is installed on top of the washbasin 12. The dispensing device 14 has a water discharge section 42 and an operating section 44. The water discharge section 42 of the dispensing device 14 is configured to discharge water into the washbasin 23. Specifically, the water discharge section 42 has a spout, and discharges water from the spout into the washbasin 23. The operating section 44 switches the water discharge from the water discharge section 42 to stop according to the user's operation. That is, the user can perform a water discharge operation to discharge water from the water discharge section 42 by operating the operating section 44, and a water stop operation to stop the water discharge from the water discharge section 42 by operating the operating section 44.

[0026] The operating unit 44 can be, for example, a lever, handle, button, or switch. In the example shown in Figure 1, a lever is used for the operating unit 44. Water dispensing and shut-off operations correspond to moving the lever or handle, or pressing a button or switch. The operating unit 44 may be a contact-type switch such as a mechanical push button, or a non-contact type sensor. The sensor emits light (radio waves) and detects a human body, such as a user, based on the reflected waves of the emitted light. Specifically, infrared sensors (pyroelectric sensors), radio wave sensors (microwave sensors), etc., can be used. In this case, bringing a hand close to the sensor corresponds to dispensing water, and moving a hand away from the sensor corresponds to shut-off. The operating unit 44 may also be a sensor capable of detecting the user's gestures or a microphone capable of detecting sound. Not limited to the above, the operating unit 44 may have any configuration capable of detecting a predetermined operation by the user.

[0027] In the example shown in Figure 1, the water outlet 42 and the control unit 44 are located together in one place, but the water outlet 42 and the control unit 44 may be located separately from each other. The water outlet 42 and the control unit 44 may be located, for example, on the back guard of the washbasin 12 or on the rim surface around the washbasin bowl 23. The water outlet 42 may have any configuration that allows water to be discharged into the washbasin bowl 23. The control unit 44 may have any configuration that allows switching the water flow rate and the temperature of the water discharged from the water outlet 42 to change. The control unit 44 may be configured to change, for example, the flow rate of the water discharged from the water outlet 42 and the temperature of the water discharged from the water outlet 42.

[0028] The display unit 24 is mounted on top of the dispensing device 14. The display unit 24 emits light forward to display information (for example, measurement results of biological information) to the user standing in front of the washbasin vanity 101. The display unit 24 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, or the like.

[0029] The vanity unit 101 further includes, for example, a support unit 46 provided on top of the dispensing device 14. The display unit 24 is provided, for example, inside this support unit 46. The support unit 46 may also be a cabinet capable of storing items inside.

[0030] The mirror 20 is mounted on the dispensing device 14. The mirror 20 is also positioned in front of the display unit 24. For example, the mirror 20 is attached to the front of the support unit 46, and the display unit 24 is positioned behind the mirror 20. The mirror 20 is, for example, a magic mirror (or half mirror). Some of the light incident on the mirror 20 is reflected by the mirror 20, and another portion of the light incident on the mirror 20 is transmitted through the mirror 20. In other words, the mirror 20 transmits some of the light emitted from the display unit 24 forward. Also, at least some of the light incident on the mirror 20 from front to back is reflected forward.

[0031] Thus, the mirror 20 is positioned above the washbasin 23. A display unit 24 is provided on the back of the mirror 20. The user can see the display contents of the display unit 24 through the mirror 20. For example, to the user, the display contents of the display unit 24 appear to be displayed on the mirror 20. A user using the vanity 101 can check their own reflection in the mirror 20 while checking the display contents of the display unit 24. The reflectivity and transmittance of the mirror 20 are not particularly limited and can be any values ​​that satisfy the function.

[0032] The mirror 20 is equipped with lights 22a, 22b, 22c, and 22d. These lights are arranged, for example, to surround all four sides of the mirror 20. By adjusting the brightness of the lights 22a to 22d and the brightness of the display unit 24, the visibility of the display content on the display unit 24 and the visibility of the user reflected in the mirror can be adjusted.

[0033] The human body detection sensor 56 emits radio waves forward and detects a human body, such as a user, based on the reflected waves of the emitted radio waves. The human body detection sensor 56 is, for example, a microwave sensor. A microwave sensor can detect, for example, the approach, receding, and movement speed of an object to be detected. The frequency of the microwaves transmitted by the human body detection sensor 56 is preferably in the GHz (gigahertz) band. In the example shown in Figure 1, the human body detection sensor 56 is installed on the front of the support base 16. However, the position of the human body detection sensor 56 is not limited to this, and can be any position that can appropriately detect a user. The human body detection sensor 56 may also be installed inside the washbasin vanity 101.

[0034] The biometric information measuring means 30 measures the user's biometric information. This biometric information may include, for example, body temperature or complexion. It may also include blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, or weight. In this example, the biometric information is body temperature. However, the biometric information is not limited to the above and may be any information about the user's body.

[0035] The bio-information measuring means 30 has a measuring unit 31 for measuring bio-information. For example, the measuring unit 31 is a measuring device such as a sensor that measures bio-information non-contact. In the example shown in Figure 1, the measuring unit 31 is a radiation thermometer (body thermometer). A radiation thermometer receives light (e.g., infrared rays) emitted from an object with a light-receiving element and measures the temperature of the object from the intensity of the received light. However, the measuring unit 31 is not limited to this and can be any device capable of measuring information about the user's body. For example, the measuring unit 31 can be a light-detecting sensor (such as a camera).

[0036] The detection unit 50 detects a predetermined action by the user. The predetermined action detected by the detection unit 50 triggers the start of biometric information measurement. The predetermined action may be, for example, operating the vanity 101 or performing a personal authentication operation. In the example in Figure 1, the predetermined action is a personal authentication operation, and the personal authentication means 50a (fingerprint authentication device) is provided as the detection unit 50. The predetermined action may also be, for example, an operation of the washbasin unit 10. The action detected by the detection unit 50 may be a contact operation in which the user directly touches the vanity 101, or a non-contact operation in which the user does not touch the vanity 101. Any sensor capable of detecting a predetermined action by the user can be used for the detection unit 50. The detection unit 50 can be located, for example, on the support base 16 or on the washbasin unit 10 (such as the back guard of the washbasin 12 or the rim surface of the washbasin bowl 23). However, the position of the detection unit 50 is not limited to the above, and may be any position capable of detecting a predetermined action by the user.

[0037] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing a vanity unit according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the vanity unit 101 is further equipped with a control unit 33. The control unit 33 can communicate with the biometric information measuring means 30 (measuring unit 31), the detection unit 50 (personal authentication means 50a), the human body detection sensor 56, the display unit 24, the dispensing device 14 (see Figure 1), and the lighting 22a-22d (see Figure 1). The control unit 33 can control the operation of the biometric information measuring means 30, the detection unit 50, the human body detection sensor 56, the display unit 24, the dispensing device 14, and the lighting 22a-22d. The communication method with the control unit 33 may be wired or wireless.

[0038] A processing unit (computer) such as a microcontroller can be used for the control unit 33. In this example, one processing unit functions as the control unit 33. However, the control unit 33 is not limited to this and may be distributed among multiple devices that are connected to each other via wired or wireless communication. In the example shown in Figure 2, the control unit 33 is included in the biological information measurement means 30. However, the control unit 33 is not limited to this and may be provided separately from the biological information measurement means 30. The configuration of the control unit 33 is not limited to the above and may be any configuration that satisfies its function.

[0039] When the detection unit 50 detects a predetermined action by the user, a detection signal indicating that the predetermined action has occurred is transmitted from the detection unit 50 to the control unit 33. Upon receiving this detection signal, the control unit 33 sends a command signal to the biological information measuring means 30 (measurement unit 31) to start measuring biological information. The biological information measuring means 30 transmits the measurement result of the biological information to the control unit 33. Upon receiving the measurement result of the biological information, the control unit 33 transmits a command signal to the display unit 24 to display the measurement result of the biological information. As a result, the control unit 33 displays the measurement result of the biological information on the display unit 24.

[0040] As described above, according to this embodiment, since biometric information measurement is automatically started in response to a predetermined action by the user on the washbasin vanity 101, biometric information measurement can be made a habit in daily life. Because biometric information measurement and result display are performed automatically, it is easy to use.

[0041] Furthermore, since measurements are performed automatically and the results are displayed on the mirror 20 (display unit 24), it is easy to check the results. Users can naturally check the measurement results by looking at the mirror 20 without having to activate a separate display or perform any action to view its contents. In this way, biological information measurement and result display are performed automatically, and users can naturally view the result display, making the entire process from starting the measurement to checking the results very simple and making it easy to make understanding biological information a habit.

[0042] As mentioned above, in this example, the predetermined action detected by the detection unit 50 is a personal authentication operation. The detection unit 50 is a personal authentication means 50a that detects a personal authentication operation and detects the input data resulting from the personal authentication operation. Personal authentication is the process by which the control unit 33 identifies or distinguishes an individual. For example, personal data that identifies an individual such as a user is registered in advance. A personal authentication operation is an operation in which the user is made to identify or distinguish the user by inputting personal data into the control unit 33. In other words, when a user performs a predetermined action (personal authentication operation) with respect to the personal authentication means 50a, it is identified which of the registered individuals the user who performed the personal authentication operation is. Specifically, personal authentication may be fingerprint authentication, voice authentication (voiceprint authentication), or facial authentication.

[0043] For example, when using fingerprint authentication, the personal data is data that shows the characteristics of the user's fingerprint, and the personal authentication means 50a has a sensor capable of reading the fingerprint characteristics. In this case, the personal authentication operation is to have the sensor read the fingerprint by touching it or by other means. As a result, the personal authentication means 50a detects the characteristics of the user's individual fingerprint as input data.

[0044] Furthermore, for example, when using voice authentication, the personal data is data that represents the characteristics of the user's voiceprint, and the personal authentication means 50a has a microphone capable of detecting voice. In this case, the personal authentication operation is to speak into the microphone. As a result, the personal authentication means 50a detects the characteristics of the user's individual voice as input data.

[0045] Furthermore, for example, when using facial recognition, the personal data is data that represents the features of the user's face, and the personal authentication means 50a has a camera. In this case, the personal authentication operation is to face the camera within the camera's imaging range. As a result, the personal authentication means 50a detects the features of the user's face image as input data. However, personal authentication is not limited to the above; any method capable of identifying an individual, such as pupil recognition (iris recognition) or vein recognition, may be used.

[0046] As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 33 has a personal data storage means 35. The personal data storage means 35 stores the biometric information, which is the measurement result of the biometric information measurement means 30, in association with personal data. This allows for the storage of biometric information for each user. For example, it is possible to check the daily changes in biometric information for each user.

[0047] The personal data storage means 35 can be, for example, a storage device such as a hard disk or flash memory. In the example shown in Figure 2, the personal data storage means 35 is included in the control unit 33. However, the personal data storage means 35 may be provided separately from the control unit 33. The personal data storage means 35 is not limited to the above and may be any storage device that can satisfy its function. For example, the personal data storage means 35 may be an external device that can communicate with the control unit 33 (for example, a cloud (server) via a network).

[0048] In the example shown in Figure 2, personal data for multiple users is pre-registered. Specifically, personal data representing the first user is stored as "Registered 1," personal data representing the second user as "Registered 2," and personal data representing the zth user as "Registered z." The measurement results of biometric information are stored in association with one of the pre-registered personal data (Personal Mode 33a).

[0049] The control unit 33 starts personal mode 33a if the input data obtained from the personal authentication operation (the user's personal data obtained from the personal authentication operation) matches the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35. "Matching" means that the data is presumed to represent the same person based on corresponding features, etc. In personal mode, the measurement results of the biometric information are recorded in the personal data storage means in association with the matched personal data. On the other hand, the control unit 33 does not start personal mode if the input data obtained from the personal authentication operation does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35.

[0050] By introducing personal authentication linked to personal data in this way, the management of individual biometric information becomes easier. For example, in situations where multiple people, such as in a family, use a bathroom vanity, the convenience of daily health management can be improved.

[0051] Furthermore, the personal authentication operation acts as a trigger, and biometric information measurement is automatically started in conjunction with the detection of the personal authentication operation. In other words, the predetermined action of the user detected by the detection unit 50 serves two purposes: as a trigger for starting biometric information measurement and as personal authentication. This eliminates the need for the user to perform an input operation solely to start biometric information measurement, resulting in high convenience.

[0052] If the control unit 33 detects that the input data obtained through the personal authentication operation does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35, it starts guest mode 33b, in which the measurement results of biometric information are not recorded. This allows users who have not pre-registered their personal data to have their biometric information measured without the measurement results being recorded.

[0053] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the vanity unit according to this embodiment may be provided with a re-authentication means 52 and a receiving unit 54, which will be described later.

[0054] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing a washbasin vanity according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the vanity unit 102 is equipped with a receiving unit 54. Otherwise, the same description as for the vanity unit 101 can be applied to the vanity unit 102.

[0055] The receiving unit 54 is capable of receiving a signal from an external source that identifies the user (identification signal). When the receiving unit 54 receives an identification signal, it transmits a signal corresponding to that identification signal to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 obtains information about the identification signal that identifies the user by receiving the signal from the receiving unit 54. In this way, the control unit 33 may identify who the user is based on the identification signal from an external source.

[0056] For example, in guest mode, during a predetermined time after the control unit 33 displays the measurement results of biometric information on the display unit 24, the receiving unit 54 receives a specific signal and transmits a signal corresponding to that specific signal to the control unit 33. Based on the signal from the receiving unit 54, the control unit 33 identifies which of the individuals whose personal data has been pre-registered the user identified by the specific signal is. The control unit 33 then records the measurement results of biometric information in the personal data storage means 35, associating them with the personal data of the user identified by the specific signal.

[0057] With this configuration, even if personal authentication fails due to a malfunction of the personal authentication means 50a or the guest mode is started, a user whose personal data has been registered in advance can record the measurement results in association with the personal data after biometric information measurement.

[0058] For example, as shown in Figure 3, the receiving unit 54 receives a specific signal transmitted by the user U1 from an external communication terminal T1 (such as a smartphone). Communication between the receiving unit 54 and the communication terminal T1 may be conducted via a network using an external cloud C1, as shown in Figure 3, or the receiving unit 54 and the communication terminal T1 may communicate directly without going through the cloud C1, etc. Furthermore, communication with the receiving unit 54 may be wireless or wired. For example, communication standards such as Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi®, or NFC (Near Field Communication) may be used for communication with the receiving unit 54.

[0059] The receiving unit 54 may include, for example, a communication module or a communication interface. Furthermore, the specific signal is not limited to mobile devices such as smartphones; it may also be transmitted from any external device capable of transmitting signals.

[0060] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the vanity unit according to the first embodiment. If there is no user around the vanity 101, the human body detection sensor 56 does not detect a user (Step S101: NO). When a user approaches the vanity 101, the human body detection sensor 56 detects the user (Step S101: YES) and transmits a detection signal to the control unit 33 indicating the presence of a user.

[0061] When the control unit 33 receives a detection signal from the human body detection sensor 56, it performs preparation for biometric information measurement and personal authentication (step S102). Preparations include, for example, turning on the power to the measurement unit 31, the personal authentication means 50a, and the display unit 24.

[0062] When a user performs a personal authentication operation, the personal authentication means 50a detects the personal authentication operation and transmits a signal indicating the input data from the personal authentication operation to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 performs personal authentication based on the signal from the personal authentication means 50a (step S103).

[0063] If the input data obtained from the personal authentication operation matches the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35 (step S103: YES), the control unit 33 starts the personal mode (step S104).

[0064] In personal mode, the control unit 33 controls the biometric information measurement means 30 (measurement unit 31) to measure biometric information (step S105) and displays the measurement results on the display unit 24 (step S106). Also in personal mode, the personal data storage means 35 stores the biometric information measurement results in association with the personal data of the individual identified by personal authentication (step S107).

[0065] If the input data obtained through the personal authentication operation does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35 (step S103: NO), the control unit 33 starts guest mode (step S108).

[0066] In guest mode, the control unit 33 controls the biological information measurement means 30 (measurement unit 31) to measure biological information (step S109) and displays the measurement results on the display unit 24 (step S110). If the receiving unit 54 does not receive a specific signal to identify the user within a predetermined time from the start of displaying the measurement results (step S111: NO), guest mode continues and the measurement results are not stored (step S112).

[0067] Within a predetermined time from the start of displaying the measurement results, if the user transmits a specific signal from an external terminal such as a smartphone to the vanity unit and the receiving unit 54 receives the specific signal (step S111: YES), the control unit 33 starts executing the personal mode (step S113). In personal mode, the personal data storage means 35 stores the measurement results of the biometric information in association with the personal data of the individual identified by the specific signal (step S114).

[0068] The predetermined time in step S111 is set based on, for example, the time it takes for the user to go from in front of the vanity to retrieve an external terminal located in another room and return. This predetermined time is, for example, between 30 seconds and 2 minutes, and is approximately 1 minute.

[0069] Even if a user whose personal data has been registered in advance fails to authenticate themselves in step S103, step S111 allows for more reliable manual authentication to be performed later.

[0070] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the vanity unit according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 5, the vanity unit 101 is equipped with a re-authentication means 52 (see Figure 2). Steps S201 to S210 are the same as steps S101 to S110 described with respect to Figure 4.

[0071] In guest mode, the control unit 33 analyzes whether the measurement result of the biometric information measured in step S209 is similar to the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means 35 (step S211). If the measurement result of step S209 is similar to the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means 35 (step S212: YES), there is a possibility that the person identified by the personal data to which the similar biometric information is associated (a registered person) and the current user of the vanity 101 are the same person. Therefore, the control unit 33 controls the display unit 24 to display a suggestion (registered person suggestion) indicating that the user may be a registered person (step S213). For example, the display unit 24 displays "Are you Mr. / Ms. A?". "A" is a registered person whose personal data has been registered in advance and whose biometric information associated with that personal data has been recorded.

[0072] The control unit 33 accepts a re-authentication operation (further personal authentication operation) within a predetermined time period from the start of displaying the registered user's relevant proposal. In the re-authentication operation, the user performs a personal authentication operation with the re-authentication means 52 (step S214: YES). The re-authentication means 52 detects the re-authentication operation, detects the input data from the re-authentication operation, and transmits it to the control unit 33. In this example, the re-authentication means 52 is a switch, and the re-authentication operation is the operation of the switch.

[0073] If the control unit 33 confirms that the user is a specific registered person through the re-authentication operation, it starts executing the personal mode (step S215). In this personal mode, the personal data storage means 35 stores the measurement results of the biometric information in association with the personal data of the individual identified in the re-authentication operation (step S216).

[0074] On the other hand, if the measurement result in step S209 is not similar to the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means 35 (step S212: NO), or if the re-authentication operation is not performed or the user is not identified during the re-authentication operation (step S214: NO), the guest mode continues and the measurement result is not stored (step S217).

[0075] As explained above, in guest mode, the control unit 33 analyzes whether the measurement result of the biometric information is similar to any of the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means. If the measurement result is similar to any of the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means, the control unit 33 displays a suggestion (registered person matching suggestion) on the display unit 24 indicating that the user may be the individual (already registered person) associated with that similar biometric information. The control unit 33 then accepts further personal authentication operations within a predetermined time after the suggestion is displayed.

[0076] With this configuration, even if a user whose personal data has been registered in advance fails to authenticate themselves due to a malfunction of the personal authentication means 50a, further personal authentication can be performed to record the measurement results in association with the personal data after biometric information measurement.

[0077] As mentioned above, in this example, a switch is used as the re-authentication means 52. The switch can be any input means capable of receiving a signal, such as a mechanical button, a touch panel, or a non-contact sensor. The user can, for example, respond by inputting a signal to the switch in response to a registered user proposal, thereby indicating that they are already registered. This identifies the user as a specific registered user (one of the individuals whose personal data has been registered in advance). Thus, the re-authentication operation may include responding to a registered user proposal by operating a switch. This allows for the identification of the user. However, the re-authentication means 52 and the re-authentication operation are not limited to those described above. For example, any method capable of identifying an individual may be used for re-authentication, such as fingerprint authentication, voice authentication, facial authentication, pupil authentication, or vein authentication. In this case, the re-authentication means 52 may include, for example, a sensor, microphone, or camera, and the re-authentication operation is the act of causing the re-authentication means 52 to detect the user's characteristics (for example, fingerprints, voice, pupil, or vein characteristics). Re-authentication may use the same method as the personal authentication means 50a, or a different method. Alternatively, authentication may be performed again by the personal authentication means 50a as a re-authentication operation without providing the re-authentication means 52.

[0078] Furthermore, for example, in the analysis in step S211, the control unit 33 compares the measurement result of the biological information with at least one or more past data (i.e., biological information recorded in the personal data storage means 35). For example, the measurement result in step S209 is compared with one or more past data for each individual, and the past data that is closest to the measurement result is determined to be similar to the measurement result. Also, for example, the measurement result in step S209 is compared with one or more past data for each individual, and the past data whose deviation from the measurement result is within a predetermined value is determined to be similar to the measurement result. Furthermore, in the analysis in step S211, the time when past data was acquired may also be taken into consideration. For example, individuals may tend to measure their biometric information regularly in the morning or evening. Therefore, the similarity may be analyzed by considering each individual's measurement time and measurement interval. For example, registered users whose past data was measured within the last week may be considered candidates for current users.

[0079] (Second embodiment) Figure 6 is a block diagram showing a washbasin vanity according to the second embodiment. The vanity unit 201 is also equipped with a biometric information measuring means 30 (measuring unit 31), a control unit 33, a human body detection sensor 56, a mirror 20, a display unit 24, and a dispensing device 14. A washbasin 12 (washbowl 23, etc.) is also provided, although it is not shown in the figure. The vanity unit 201 may also be equipped with a support base 16, a support part 46, etc., as appropriate.

[0080] In the second embodiment, the predetermined user action detected by the detection unit 50 is a water discharge or water shut-off operation on the operation unit 44. In the example shown in Figure 6, the detection unit 50 is provided on the operation unit 44 of the discharge device 14. The detection unit 50 can be a sensor capable of detecting the operation of the operation unit 44, such as a switch with mechanical contacts, an electrostatic or optical switch. The detection unit 50 is not limited to the above and may have any configuration capable of detecting a water discharge or water shut-off operation. The detection unit 50 may be provided integrally with the operation unit 44 or separately from the operation unit 44, as long as it is capable of detecting a water discharge or water shut-off operation.

[0081] When the detection unit 50 detects a water discharge or shut-off operation by the user, a detection signal indicating that a water discharge or shut-off operation has occurred is transmitted from the detection unit 50 to the control unit 33. Upon receiving this detection signal, the control unit 33 sends a command signal to the biological information measuring means 30 (measurement unit 31) to start measuring biological information. The biological information measuring means 30 transmits the measurement result of the biological information to the control unit 33. Upon receiving the measurement result of the biological information, the control unit 33 transmits a command signal to the display unit 24 to display the measurement result of the biological information.

[0082] In this way, in the second embodiment as well, since the measurement of biological information is automatically started in response to a predetermined action by the user toward the vanity unit 201, it is possible to make the measurement of biological information a habit in daily life. Because the measurement of biological information and the display of the results are performed automatically, it is easy to use. In addition, since the measurement is performed automatically and the results are displayed on the mirror 20 (display unit 24), it is easy to check the results.

[0083] Furthermore, the detection unit 50 detects water discharge or water shut-off operations. This allows the measurement of biometric information, such as blood pressure and body temperature, to begin at the time when the user is presumably washing their hands or face, in other words, when the user is more reliably leaning towards the washbasin and maintaining a fixed posture. This enables highly accurate measurement of biometric information.

[0084] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the vanity unit according to the second embodiment. Figures 8(a) to 8(c) are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the vanity unit according to the second embodiment. In the examples shown in Figures 7 and 8(a) to 8(c), the detection unit 50 detects the water discharge operation. Body temperature is also measured as biological information.

[0085] As shown in Figure 7, if there is no user around the vanity 201, the human body detection sensor 56 does not detect a user (Step S301: NO). When a user approaches the vanity 201, the human body detection sensor 56 detects the user (Step S301: YES) and transmits a detection signal to the control unit 33 indicating the presence of a user.

[0086] When the control unit 33 receives a detection signal from the human body detection sensor 56, it performs preparation for measuring biological information (step S302, Figure 8(a)).

[0087] If the user does not operate the operating unit 44 of the dispensing device 14 (step S303: NO), the biological information measuring means remains in standby mode. When the user performs a water discharge operation on the operating unit 44 (step S303: YES), the detection unit 50 detects the water discharge operation and transmits a signal to the control unit 33 indicating that a water discharge operation has occurred. Based on the signal from the detection unit 50, the control unit 33 instructs the biological information measuring means 30 (measurement unit 31) to start measuring biological information (step S304, Figure 8(b)).

[0088] The biological information measurement means 30 performs measurements until the measurement of biological information is complete (Step S305: NO). Once the measurement is complete (Step S305: YES), the biological information measurement means 30 transmits the measurement results to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 displays the measurement results on the display unit 24 (Step S306, Figure 8(c)).

[0089] In this example, the measurement unit 31 of the bio-information measurement means 30 is a radiation thermometer that measures bio-information non-contact. The measurement unit 31 has, for example, a light-receiving element. As shown in Figures 8(a) to 8(c), the measurement unit 31 (light-receiving element) is located above the washbasin 23 and below the mirror 20 which is located above the washbasin 23. Also, as shown in Figure 8(b), the detection direction of the measurement unit 31 is directed diagonally upward toward the front. That is, the measurement unit 31 is positioned to easily receive light (for example, infrared rays) emitted from an object in front of and above the measurement unit 31. With this configuration, the measurement unit that measures bio-information non-contact is positioned opposite the user's face, which is facing the washbasin below when washing hands, and the detection direction of the measurement unit is directed toward the user's face. This makes it possible to measure bio-information with even greater accuracy. The measuring unit 31 may be provided, for example, on the back guard of the washbasin 12 or on the surface facing the user standing in front of the vanity 201.

[0090] Furthermore, in the examples shown in Figures 8(a) to 8(c), the water outlet 42 and the control unit 44 are aligned with the measuring unit 31 in the left-right direction. The water outlet 42 and the control unit 44 are also located above the washbasin 23 and below the mirror 20. As a result, when the user operates the water outlet, stops the water, washes their hands, or washes their face, their face is turned downwards. In other words, the user's face is more likely to face the measuring unit 31 and more likely to be in opposition to the detection direction of the measuring unit 31. This makes it easier to measure light from, for example, the user's face (forehead, etc.), thereby improving the accuracy of the measurement.

[0091] In addition, in the vanity unit 101 according to the first embodiment, the measuring unit 31 and the detection unit 50 may be arranged below the mirror 20, for example, as shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, the measuring unit 31 and the detection unit 50 may be arranged side by side. The measuring unit 31 and the detection unit 50 may also be placed adjacent to each other. This makes it easier for the user's face to face the measuring unit 31 when the detection unit 50 detects a predetermined action by the user. Therefore, when the measurement of biometric information is automatically started continuously from a predetermined action by the user, the user's face is more likely to face the detection direction of the measuring unit 31.

[0092] 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, dimensions, materials, arrangement, and installation configuration of each element of the vanity unit 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]

[0093] 10 Washbasin unit, 12 Washbasin, 14 Dispensing device, 16 Support base, 20 Mirror, 22a~22d Lighting, 23 Washbasin bowl, 24 Display unit, 30 Biometric information measurement means, 31 Measurement unit, 33 Control unit, 35 Personal data storage means, 42 Water discharge unit, 44 Operation unit, 46 Support unit, 50 Detection unit, 50a Personal authentication means, 52 Re-authentication means, 54 Receiving unit, 56 Human body detection sensor, 101, 102, 201 Vanity unit, C1 Cloud, S101~S114, S201~S217, S301~S306 Step, T1 Communication terminal, U1 User

Claims

1. A biometric information measuring means for measuring the user's biometric information, A detection unit that detects a predetermined action by the user, A display unit that displays the measurement results of the biological information measured by the biological information measuring means, When the detection unit detects the predetermined action, the control unit causes the biometric information measuring means to measure the user's biometric information and displays the measurement result on the display unit. Equipped with, The aforementioned biological information measurement means has a measurement unit that measures the biological information in a non-contact manner, The measuring unit is located above the washbasin. The vanity unit is characterized in that the detection direction of the measuring unit is oriented diagonally upward toward the front.

2. The vanity unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the measuring section is provided below the lower end of the vanity mirror provided above the washbasin.

3. The vanity unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the measuring unit is located behind the human body detection sensor that detects approach to the washbasin.

4. The device has a water discharge section that discharges water into the washbasin, A shelf is provided above the water outlet. The vanity unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, in a top view, the measuring section is provided below the shelf.

5. The discharge device has a water discharge section that discharges water into the washbasin, and an operating section that switches the water discharge from the water discharge section to stop, The washbasin vanity according to claim 2, characterized in that the measuring unit is arranged in parallel with the operating unit in the left-right direction.

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