Information processing method, program, and terminal device

Abstract

This invention provides an information processing method, program, and terminal device that effectively utilize sanitary sheets to improve user convenience. [Solution] After the sanitary sheet 1 is attached to the shorts 2 and used, a reagent 3 is applied to the sanitary sheet 1, which changes color or emits light depending on the characteristics of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1. The terminal device 10 acquires the imaging results of the sanitary sheet 1 to which the reagent 3 has been applied, derives the characteristics of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 based on the acquired imaging results, and presents characteristic information M based on the derived characteristics to the user U.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing method, a program, and a terminal device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, for example, in body fluid absorption articles such as sanitary napkins and diapers, those made of paper or chemical fibers are known. In recent years, for the purpose of improving the texture, etc., a sanitary sheet in which a liner member is made of a knitted or woven fabric has also been developed (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the prior art, there was room for improvement from the viewpoint of effectively utilizing the sanitary sheet.

[0005] The present invention provides an information processing method, a program, and a terminal device that can effectively utilize a sanitary sheet and improve the convenience for users.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is an information processing method for presenting characteristic information regarding components attached to a sanitary sheet used by being attached to a body fluid absorption article or underwear to a user of the sanitary sheet, wherein a computer acquires an imaging result of the sanitary sheet coated with a reagent whose color changes or emits light according to the characteristic, derives the characteristic based on the acquired imaging result, The characteristic information based on the derived characteristics is presented to the user. It is an information processing method that performs processing.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention is, A program for presenting to the user of a sanitary sheet that has adhered to a bodily fluid absorbent article or underwear, characteristic information regarding the properties of the components attached to the sanitary sheet, On the computer, The imaging results of the sanitary sheet to which a reagent that changes color or emits light according to the aforementioned characteristics are applied are obtained. Based on the acquired imaging results, the characteristics are derived, The characteristic information based on the derived characteristics is presented to the user. It is a program that performs a process.

[0008] Another aspect of the present invention is, A terminal device that presents to the user of a sanitary sheet that has adhered to a bodily fluid absorbent article or a sanitary sheet attached to underwear, The terminal device comprises a processor, The aforementioned processor, The imaging results of the sanitary sheet to which a reagent that changes color or emits light according to the aforementioned characteristics are applied are obtained. Based on the acquired imaging results, the characteristics are derived, The characteristic information based on the derived characteristics is presented to the user. It is a terminal device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an information processing method, program, and terminal device that can improve user convenience by effectively utilizing sanitary sheets. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the information processing method of this embodiment. [Figure 2]It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the terminal device 10. [Figure 3] It is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed by the terminal device 10. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing an example of the shooting guide screen G displayed on the display 15 of the terminal device 10. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an example of the pH information T1 stored in the memory 12 of the terminal device 10. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an example of the pH transition information T2 and the ovulation period information M1 displayed on the display 15 of the terminal device 10. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an example of the pH transition information T2 and the next ovulation period information M2 displayed on the display 15 of the terminal device 10. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing another example of the processing executed by the terminal device 10. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an example of the menstrual period information M3 and the bleeding presence / absence transition information T3 displayed on the display 15 of the terminal device 10.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the information processing method, program, and terminal device of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The drawings are to be viewed in the direction of the reference numerals. Note that not all of the elements described in the following embodiments are essential to the present invention. Also, hereinafter, the same or similar elements may be given the same or similar reference numerals, and their description may be omitted or simplified.

[0012] <An Example of the Information Processing Method of the Present Embodiment> First, an overview of the information processing method according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the information processing method of the present embodiment.

[0013] In this embodiment, user U, who is a woman, lives wearing underwear (shorts 2 in the example shown in Figure 1) to which the sanitary sheet 1 is attached, as shown in Figure 1(a). The sanitary sheet 1 comprises a sheet-like liner member 1a and an adhesive member (not shown) (e.g., an adhesive seal) provided on the back surface of the liner member 1a. The sanitary sheet 1 is attached to the shorts 2 by adhering the adhesive member to the crotch portion 2a of the shorts 2. However, the sanitary sheet 1 can also be peeled off the shorts 2 after it has been attached.

[0014] By attaching the sanitary sheet 1 to the shorts 2, it is possible to prevent the crotch area 2a of the shorts 2 from becoming soiled by discharge, etc. Preferably, the liner member 1a of the sanitary sheet 1 is made of a woven or knitted fabric using natural materials such as cotton. In other words, the sanitary sheet 1 may be a so-called "cloth sanitary napkin". By making the liner member 1a of such a woven or knitted fabric, the sanitary sheet 1 can be made to be soft to the touch and highly breathable.

[0015] Next, as shown in Figure 1(b), user U peels the sanitary sheet 1 from the used shorts 2 and applies reagent 3 to the peeled sanitary sheet 1 (for example, by spray application). Reagent 3 is a chemical that changes color or emits light depending on the properties of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 when it reacts chemically with the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1. For example, reagent 3 can be a pH test solution that changes color depending on the hydrogen ion concentration (hereinafter also referred to as "pH"). As another example, reagent 3 may be a chemical that changes color or emits light when it reacts with blood. Examples of reagent 3 include food coloring, pH indicators, or blood detection reagents.

[0016] Here, the food coloring can be, for example, anthocyanin-based pigments derived from purple cabbage, purple sweet potato, red radish, etc. The pH indicator can be, for example, a compound whose color changes depending on the pH change, such as bromophenol blue, phenolphthalein, or methyl orange. The blood detection reagent can be, for example, a reagent that emits light or develops color by reducing hemoglobin, such as luminol, TMB (3,3',5,5'-Tetramethylbenzidine), or leucomalachite green, or a reagent that develops color or emits light using an antibody that recognizes hemoglobin.

[0017] When reagent 3 is applied to the sanitary sheet 1, the color of the area 1b on the sanitary sheet 1 where vaginal discharge or blood is present may change, as shown in (b) of Figure 1.

[0018] Then, as shown in Figure 1(c), user U photographs the sanitary sheet 1 coated with reagent 3 using the terminal device 10. The terminal device 10 is, for example, a computer equipped with a display and camera, such as a smartphone or tablet. This eliminates the need for user U to prepare a separate display or camera from the terminal device 10, allowing them to easily use the information processing method of this embodiment with just the terminal device 10.

[0019] The terminal device 10 then derives the characteristics of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 based on the imaging results obtained from the above-mentioned photography. For example, the terminal device 10 identifies the color of part 1b by image analysis of the image obtained from the above-mentioned photography, and derives the pH corresponding to the identified color as a characteristic of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1. As another example, the terminal device 10 may identify the color or presence or absence of luminescence of part 1b by image analysis of the image obtained from the above-mentioned photography, and derive the presence or absence of a blood reaction derived from the identification result as a characteristic of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1.

[0020] The terminal device 10 then presents user U with characteristic information M regarding the characteristics of the components attached to the hygiene sheet 1, based on the derived characteristics, as shown in (d) in Figure 1. The characteristic information M may include, for example, information indicating the pH of the components attached to the hygiene sheet 1, or information indicating that it is the ovulation period. The characteristic information M may also include, for example, information indicating whether or not the components attached to the hygiene sheet 1 contain blood, or information indicating that it is the menstrual period. Furthermore, the characteristic information M may include information regarding user U's health status (e.g., whether or not there are sexually transmitted infections, bacterial infections, or inflammatory diseases around the uterus), or information encouraging user U to seek medical attention.

[0021] In the example shown in Figure 1(d), the terminal device 10 presents the characteristic information M to the user U by displaying the message (i.e., text) "It is your ovulation period" as characteristic information M on the terminal device 10's display. When such characteristic information M is presented, the user U can check the characteristic information M to understand that they are in their ovulation period.

[0022] Thus, according to the information processing method of this embodiment, the sanitary sheet 1, which was conventionally discarded after use, can be effectively utilized as a sample for checking the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1, and characteristic information M based on the characteristics of those components can be presented to the user U, thereby improving the convenience of the user U.

[0023] For example, if characteristic information M containing information indicating that ovulation is occurring is presented to user U, user U can be notified that ovulation has occurred. In other words, by checking the presented characteristic information M, user U can easily understand that ovulation has occurred without having to perform a test using an ovulation test kit different from the hygiene sheet 1 that they normally use.

[0024] Furthermore, if characteristic information M, which includes information indicating that the user is menstruating, is presented to the user U, the user U can be notified that they are menstruating. In other words, by checking the presented characteristic information M, the user U can easily understand that they are menstruating without having to visually inspect the sanitary sheet 1 themselves to see if it contains blood.

[0025] An example of this embodiment will be described in more detail below.

[0026] <Terminal device configuration> Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the terminal device 10. As shown in Figure 2, the terminal device 10 comprises a processor 11, memory 12, a communication interface 13, an input device 14, a display 15, a speaker 16, and a camera 17. Each of these components of the terminal device 10 is connected by a bus 19.

[0027] The processor 11 is responsible for the overall control of the terminal device 10. The processor 11 can be implemented as, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MCU (Micro Controller Unit), or an MPU (Micro Processor Unit). The processor 11 may have multiple cores.

[0028] Memory 12 is a storage unit that includes, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and flash ROM. For example, flash ROM and ROM store various programs, and RAM is used as a work area for processor 11. Programs stored in memory 12 are loaded into processor 11, causing processor 11 to execute the coded processes. Programs stored in memory 12 may include a predetermined application program (hereinafter also simply referred to as "application program") which is an example of a program of the present invention. In addition, pH information T1, which will be described later, may be stored in memory 12.

[0029] Communication I / F13 is connected to a network (not shown) via a communication line, and through this network, it is connected to an external computer. Communication I / F13 then manages the interface between the network and the device's internal components, and controls the input and output of data from external devices.

[0030] The input device 14 has keys for inputting characters, numbers, and various instructions, and performs data input. The input device 14 may be a touch panel input pad or numeric keypad, or it may be a keyboard or mouse. The input device 14 may also include an audio input device such as a microphone that receives sound and converts it into an electrical signal.

[0031] The display 15 is a display device capable of displaying cursors, icons, toolboxes, documents, images, and the like. The display 15 can be implemented using, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (electroluminescence) display. The speaker 16 converts electrical signals into sound and outputs sound. The camera 17 is an imaging device that captures images (still images or videos) and outputs the image data.

[0032] In addition to the above-mentioned components, the terminal device 10 may further include other components such as a short-range wireless communication interface (I / F) that performs short-range wireless communication, such as Bluetooth®.

[0033] [First example of terminal device operation] Next, with reference to Figures 3 to 7, a first example of the operation of the terminal device 10 will be described. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the terminal device 10. In this example, the terminal device 10 (for example, the processor 11) executes the series of processes shown in Figure 3, for example, when the aforementioned application program is launched.

[0034] As shown in Figure 3, the terminal device 10 waits until the sanitary sheet 1 is photographed (loop of step S1:NO). For example, when the application program is started, the terminal device 10 starts the camera 17 and displays the shooting guide screen G, illustrated in Figure 4, on the display 15.

[0035] As shown in Figure 4, the shooting guide screen G displays, for example, a rectangular guide line GL to guide the shooting range of the subject, the sanitary sheet 1, a message GM prompting the user U to photograph the sanitary sheet 1 in alignment with the guide line GL, and a shutter button SB. The user U aligns the outline of the sanitary sheet 1 (in other words, the subject image) displayed on the shooting guide screen G via the camera 17 with the guide line GL, and then taps the shutter button SB to photograph the sanitary sheet 1 using the terminal device 10.

[0036] When the terminal device 10 determines that the sanitary sheet 1 has been photographed (Step S1: YES), it obtains the imaging result obtained from the photograph and the date the photograph was taken (Step S2). Then, based on the obtained imaging result, the terminal device 10 derives the pH of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 (Step S3).

[0037] The terminal device 10 may also cause user U to take pictures of the sanitary sheet 1 before reagent 3 is applied and after reagent 3 is applied. For example, the terminal device 10 may sequentially display on the display 15 a first shooting guide screen for taking a picture of the sanitary sheet 1 before reagent 3 is applied and a second shooting guide screen for taking a picture of the sanitary sheet 1 after reagent 3 is applied, thereby causing user U to take pictures of the sanitary sheet 1 before reagent 3 is applied and after reagent 3 is applied. The terminal device 10 may then compare the imaging results of the sanitary sheet 1 before reagent 3 is applied and the imaging results of the sanitary sheet 1 after reagent 3 is applied, and derive the characteristics (e.g., pH) of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1, taking into account changes in color tone, etc. In other words, the imaging results of the sanitary sheet 1 are thought to be affected by the performance of the camera 17 itself, the brightness around the sanitary sheet 1 at the time of imaging, and the color tone of the sanitary sheet 1 (e.g., cloth). The terminal device 10 can take these effects into account by comparing the imaging results of the sanitary sheet 1 before and after the application of reagent 3, and derive the characteristics of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1. Therefore, it becomes possible to derive the characteristics of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 more accurately.

[0038] Next, the terminal device 10 stores the pH information T1, as illustrated in Figure 5, in the memory 12 based on the processing result of step S3 (step S4). As shown in Figure 5, the pH information T1 is, for example, information that associates the pH derived by the processing in step S3 with the date of use of the hygiene sheet 1.

[0039] For example, in the terminal device 10, each time pH is derived by the process in step S3, new pH information T1 is stored in the memory 12 by the process in step S4. The "date of use" in the pH information T1 is, for example, by default the date of photography obtained by the process in step S2, but the user U may change (in other words modify) it to any date. In this way, even if the hygiene sheet 1 is photographed the day after it has been used, it is possible to set an appropriate date as the date of use of the hygiene sheet 1. Furthermore, although the terminal device 10 stores the pH information T1 in the memory 12 here, it is not limited to this. For example, the terminal device 10 may store the pH information T1 in the memory of an external computer (e.g., a server) via a network.

[0040] Next, the terminal device 10 refers to the pH information T1 stored in the memory 12 or the like, and displays the pH transition information T2, as illustrated in Figure 6, on the display 15 (step S5). Here, the pH transition information T2 is an example of the characteristic information M mentioned above, and is information that shows the pH transition for each day of use.

[0041] For example, as shown in Figure 6, the pH transition information T2 can be a line graph with the usage date on the horizontal axis and pH on the vertical axis. However, the pH transition information T2 is not limited to this; for example, it may be a bar graph with the usage date on the horizontal axis and pH on the vertical axis, or it may be a table showing the pH for each usage day. Alternatively, the pH transition information T2 may be information displayed in a calendar, showing the pH on the usage day in the date column corresponding to the usage day. Furthermore, as mentioned above, if the sanitary sheet 1 is photographed before reagent 3 is applied and the sanitary sheet 1 is photographed after reagent 3 is applied, the pH transition information T2 may include information showing the change in color tone of the sanitary sheet 1 before and after the application of reagent 3.

[0042] Next, the terminal device 10 determines whether the pH derived this time is within a predetermined normal range (step S6). Here, the normal range is set in advance by the manufacturer of the application program, etc. For example, if user U is suffering from a sexually transmitted infection, bacterial infection, or inflammatory disease around the uterus, the pH as a characteristic of the components attached to the hygiene sheet 1 may take a value that deviates from the normal range. On the other hand, if user U is healthy, the pH as a characteristic of the components attached to the hygiene sheet 1 may take a value within the normal range.

[0043] Therefore, if the terminal device 10 determines that the pH derived in this instance is not within the normal range (step S6: NO), it prompts user U to seek medical attention by displaying information recommending a visit to a medical institution on the display 15, such as a message saying, "There is a possibility of a sexually transmitted infection, bacterial infection, or inflammatory disease around the uterus, so please see a doctor" (step S7), and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 3.

[0044] On the other hand, if the terminal device 10 determines that the pH derived this time is within the normal range (step S6: YES), it determines whether the pH derived this time is below a predetermined threshold Th (step S8). During ovulation, the pH of the components adhering to the hygiene sheet 1 decreases compared to normal times (in other words, non-ovulatory times). Taking this trend into consideration, the threshold Th is set in advance by the application program manufacturer or the like. For example, considering that the pH of the vagina and vaginal discharge decreases to about 3.4 during ovulation, the threshold Th can be set to, for example, 3.5 (see, for example, Figures 6 and 7). This makes it possible to accurately determine whether or not it is ovulation time from the pH of the components adhering to the hygiene sheet 1.

[0045] Then, if it is determined that the pH derived in this step is below the threshold Th (Step S8: YES), the terminal device 10 displays the ovulation period information M1 illustrated in Figure 6 on the display 15 (Step S9), and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 3. Here, the ovulation period information M1 is an example of the characteristic information M mentioned above, and is information indicating that it is the ovulation period.

[0046] For example, as shown in Figure 6, the ovulation information M1 can be a message such as "It's ovulation time." However, the ovulation information M1 is not limited to this; for example, it could be a predetermined icon (for example, an icon resembling an egg).

[0047] On the other hand, if it is determined that the pH derived in this case is not below the threshold Th (step S8: NO), the terminal device 10 refers to the pH information T1 stored in memory 12 or the like to determine the next ovulation period for user U (i.e., future ovulation period) (step S10).

[0048] For example, in the process of step S10, the terminal device 10 refers to the pH information T1 and calculates the average number of days from the day when a pH with the same value as the currently derived pH was obtained in the past to the day when the next ovulation period occurred. Then, the terminal device 10 can derive the date obtained by adding this average number of days to the "usage day" corresponding to the currently derived pH as the next ovulation period. However, it is not limited to this, and the terminal device 10 may derive the next ovulation period using any method.

[0049] In this case, the terminal device 10, for example as shown in Figure 7, displays the next ovulation period information M2, which is information indicating the next ovulation period derived by the processing in step S8, on the display 15 in place of the aforementioned ovulation period information M1 (step S11), and ends the series of processes shown in Figure 3. As shown in Figure 7, the next ovulation period information M2 can be a message such as, for example, "The next ovulation day is likely to be around ● month ■ day."

[0050] As described above, the terminal device 10 of the first example can derive the pH (i.e., hydrogen ion concentration) of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 as a characteristic of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1, and present characteristic information M (for example, pH change information T2, ovulation period information M1, or next ovulation period information M2) based on the derived pH to the user U.

[0051] In other words, the pH of the components adhering to the hygiene sheet 1 correlates with the user U's ovulation period. Focusing on this trend, the terminal device 10 in the first example derives the pH of the components adhering to the hygiene sheet 1 as a characteristic and presents the user U with characteristic information M based on the derived pH. As a result, user U can determine whether or not they are ovulating, or whether or not ovulation is imminent, from the presented characteristic information M, without having to perform an ovulation test using a different ovulation test kit than the hygiene sheet 1 they normally use. Therefore, this improves convenience for user U who is interested in their own ovulation period.

[0052] Furthermore, according to the terminal device 10 of the first example, if the derived pH is below the threshold Th, characteristic information M including ovulation period information M1 indicating that it is the ovulation period can be presented to the user U. This makes it possible to effectively utilize the hygiene sheet 1 as a so-called "ovulation day prediction test kit," improving convenience for user U who are interested in their own ovulation period.

[0053] Furthermore, according to the terminal device 10 of the first example, pH information T1, which associates the derived pH with the usage date of the hygiene sheet 1, is stored in memory 12. By referring to the pH information T1 stored in memory 12, characteristic information M, which includes pH transition information T2 showing the pH change for each usage day, can be presented to the user. As a result, the user U can roughly understand from the presented pH transition information T2 whether or not it is the ovulation period, whether or not the ovulation period is approaching, or when the next ovulation period is likely to be.

[0054] Furthermore, according to the first example terminal device 10, by referring to the pH information T1 stored in the memory 12, the next ovulation period for user U (i.e., future ovulation period) can be derived, and characteristic information M, including next ovulation period information M2 indicating the derived next ovulation period, can be presented to user U. This makes it possible for user U to easily understand when the next ovulation period will be from the presented next ovulation period information M2.

[0055] Furthermore, if the pH remains above or below the threshold Th for a predetermined period (e.g., one month) or longer, user U may be suffering from some kind of illness. In this respect, with the terminal device 10 of the first example, the characteristic information M (e.g., pH change information T2) presented allows user U to easily check their pH daily using only the terminal device 10 and understand their own health status, enabling them to seek medical attention promptly if necessary.

[0056] Furthermore, if the terminal device 10 determines, for example, that the pH has remained above or below a threshold Th for a predetermined period of time based on pH information T1 stored in memory 12 or the like, it may present a message to the user U as characteristic information M prompting them to seek medical attention. In this way, it becomes possible to encourage user U, who may be suffering from some kind of illness, to seek medical attention.

[0057] [Second example of terminal device operation] Next, a second example of the operation of the terminal device 10 will be described. The second example described below differs from the first example in that, instead of pH as described above, whether or not blood is present in the components attached to the hygiene sheet 1 is derived, and characteristic information M based on this derived result is presented to the user U. In the following, the same reference numerals are used for elements identical to those in the first example described above, and their explanations are omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0058] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the processing performed by the terminal device 10. In this example, the terminal device 10 (for example, the processor 11) executes the series of processes shown in Figure 8, for example, when the aforementioned application program is launched.

[0059] As shown in Figure 8, the terminal device 10 waits until the sanitary sheet 1 is photographed (loop of step S1: NO), and when it determines that the sanitary sheet 1 has been photographed (step S1: YES), it obtains the imaging result obtained from the photograph and the date the photograph was taken (step S2).

[0060] Next, the terminal device 10 derives whether or not blood is present in the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 based on the obtained imaging results (step S11). Then, the terminal device 10 stores information that associates the result of whether or not blood is present in the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 (for example, "blood present" or "no blood") with the date of use of the sanitary sheet 1, in memory 12 or the like, in place of the pH information T1 mentioned above (step S12).

[0061] Next, the terminal device 10 determines whether the derived result is "blood present" or not (step S13). If it determines that the derived result is "blood present" (step S13: YES), the terminal device 10 displays the menstrual period information M3, as illustrated in Figure 9, on the display 15 (step S14), and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 8. Here, the menstrual period information M3 is an example of the characteristic information M mentioned above, and is information indicating that it is the menstrual period.

[0062] For example, as shown in Figure 9, the menstrual period information M3 can be a message such as "It is your menstrual period." However, the menstrual period information M3 is not limited to this, and may also be a predetermined icon (for example, an icon resembling a red droplet). Also, as shown in Figure 9, the terminal device 10 may further display bleeding status trend information T3, which shows the presence or absence of blood for each day of use, on the display 15. The bleeding status trend information T3 is also an example of the characteristic information M mentioned above.

[0063] On the other hand, if the derived result is determined to be "no blood" (step S13: NO), the terminal device 10 terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 8. In this case as well, the terminal device 10 may display the bleeding status information T3 on the display 15.

[0064] As described above, the terminal device 10 of the second example can derive whether or not blood is present in the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 as a characteristic of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1, and based on the deriving result, characteristic information M (for example, menstrual period information M3 or bleeding presence / absence trend information T3) can be presented to the user U.

[0065] For example, if the amount of blood in the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 is small, user U would have to stare at the used sanitary sheet 1 to find it visually, which is cumbersome. In this respect, the terminal device 10 of the second example can derive whether or not blood is present as a characteristic of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1, and present characteristic information M based on that derive result to the user. This makes it possible for user U to know whether or not blood is present in the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 without having to stare at the used sanitary sheet 1. Therefore, it is possible to improve convenience for user U who is interested in their own menstrual cycle.

[0066] Furthermore, according to the terminal device 10 of the second example, if it is determined that blood is present in the components attached to the hygiene sheet 1, characteristic information M including menstrual period information M3 indicating that the user U is in the menstrual period can be presented to the user U. This allows the user U to be notified if blood is present in the components attached to the hygiene sheet 1, i.e., if the user U may have entered the menstrual period.

[0067] Furthermore, according to the second example terminal device 10, characteristic information M, including bleeding status trend information T3 showing the presence or absence of blood on each day of use, can be presented to the user U. This allows the user U to roughly understand when their previous menstrual period was and when their next menstrual period is likely to be, based on the presented bleeding status trend information T3. Therefore, it is possible to improve convenience for users U who are interested in their own menstrual cycle.

[0068] In the second example described here, the menstrual period information M3 is displayed when the current derivation result is "blood present," but this is not the only option. For example, the menstrual period information M3 could be displayed when the current derivation result is "blood present" AND the previous derivation result was "no blood." In this way, the menstrual period information M3 can be displayed only once for each menstrual period, at the start of that period.

[0069] Furthermore, for example, if the current derivation result is "no blood" and the previous derivation result was "blood present," characteristic information M including information indicating the end of the menstrual period may be presented to the user U. In this way, it is possible to inform the user U that the menstrual period has ended.

[0070] Furthermore, if bleeding continues for a predetermined period (e.g., one week) or longer, if there is no bleeding for a predetermined period (e.g., one month) or longer, or if bleeding starts and stops multiple times in a short period (i.e., there is a risk of abnormal bleeding), user U may be suffering from some kind of illness. In this respect, with the terminal device 10 of the second example, the presented characteristic information M (e.g., bleeding status trend information T3) allows user U to easily check the presence or absence of bleeding on a daily basis using only the terminal device 10 and understand their own health status, enabling them to seek medical attention promptly if necessary.

[0071] Furthermore, if the terminal device 10 determines, for example, that bleeding has continued for a predetermined period of time based on information stored in memory 12, it may present a message to the user U as characteristic information M prompting them to seek medical attention. Similarly, if the terminal device 10 determines that there has been no bleeding for a predetermined period of time, or that bleeding has started and stopped multiple times in a short period of time, it may present a message to the user U as characteristic information M prompting them to seek medical attention. In this way, it becomes possible to prompt user U, who may be suffering from some kind of illness, to seek medical attention.

[0072] Furthermore, the first and second examples described above may be combined. That is, the terminal device 10 may derive the pH of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 and whether or not blood is present in the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1 as characteristics of the components attached to the sanitary sheet 1, and present characteristic information M based on these to the user U.

[0073] Although various embodiments have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to these examples. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these will naturally also fall within the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0074] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the sanitary sheet 1 is attached to the shorts 2, but it is not limited to shorts 2 and may be attached to any type of underwear. Also, the sanitary sheet 1 may be attached to any bodily fluid absorbent item such as a sanitary napkin, diaper, or incontinence pad.

[0075] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, characteristic information M is presented to the user U by being displayed on the display 15. However, instead of this, or in addition to this, characteristic information M may be presented to the user U by outputting a predetermined sound (for example, "It's ovulation time") from the speaker 16.

[0076] Furthermore, the information processing method described in the above embodiment can be realized by executing a pre-prepared program on a computer. This program is, for example, stored in a computer-readable storage medium and executed by being read from the storage medium. Alternatively, this program may be provided in the form of a non-volatile (non-transient) storage medium such as flash memory, or it may be provided via a network such as the Internet. In the above embodiment, the computer executing this program is the terminal device 10 (for example, the processor 11 of the terminal device 10), but it is not limited to this. For example, the computer executing this program may be another computer (for example, a server) that can communicate with the terminal device 10 via a network or the like.

[0077] This specification contains at least the following information. Note that the components, etc., in parentheses indicate the corresponding components in the above embodiments, but are not limited thereto.

[0078] (1) An information processing method for presenting characteristic information (characteristic information M, ovulation period information M1, next ovulation period information M2, menstrual period information M3, pH change information T2) regarding the characteristics of components attached to a sanitary sheet (sanitary sheet 1) used attached to a bodily fluid absorbent article or underwear (shorts 2) to a user of the sanitary sheet (user U), The computer (terminal device 10) The imaging results of the sanitary sheet coated with a reagent (reagent 3) that changes color or emits light according to the aforementioned characteristics are obtained (step S2), Based on the acquired imaging results, the characteristics are derived (steps S3, S11), The characteristic information based on the derived characteristics is presented to the user (steps S7, S9, S14). A method of processing information.

[0079] According to (1), sanitary sheets, which were conventionally discarded after use, can be effectively utilized as samples to derive the properties of components attached to the sanitary sheets, and characteristic information regarding those properties can be presented to the user. This makes effective use of sanitary sheets while improving user convenience.

[0080] (2) The information processing method described in (1), The aforementioned reagent changes color depending on the hydrogen ion concentration. The aforementioned computer, As the aforementioned characteristic, the hydrogen ion concentration of the component is derived (step S3), The characteristic information based on the derived hydrogen ion concentration is presented to the user (steps S7, S9). A method of processing information.

[0081] The hydrogen ion concentration of the components adhering to the sanitary sheet correlates with the user's ovulation period. According to (2), the hydrogen ion concentration can be derived as a characteristic of the components adhering to the sanitary sheet, and characteristic information based on that hydrogen ion concentration can be presented to the user. This allows the user to understand whether or not they are ovulating, or whether or not ovulation is imminent, based on the presented characteristic information.

[0082] (3) The information processing method described in (2), The aforementioned computer, If the derived hydrogen ion concentration is below a threshold, the characteristic information including information indicating that it is the ovulation period (ovulation period information M1) is presented to the user (step S7). A method of processing information.

[0083] During ovulation, the hydrogen ion concentration of the components adhering to the sanitary sheet tends to decrease compared to normal times (in other words, non-ovulatory times). According to (3), by taking this tendency into consideration, the sanitary sheet can be effectively used as a so-called "ovulation prediction test kit," improving convenience for users who are interested in their own ovulation period.

[0084] (4) The information processing method described in (2), The aforementioned computer, The derived hydrogen ion concentration and the date of use of the sanitary sheet are associated with information (pH information T1) which is stored in the memory unit (memory 12). Referencing the information stored in the memory unit, the characteristic information, including information showing the change in the hydrogen ion concentration for each day of use (pH change information T2), is presented to the user (step S5). A method of processing information.

[0085] According to (4), characteristic information including information showing the change in the hydrogen ion concentration for each day of use of the hygiene sheet can be presented to the user. This allows the user to understand from the presented characteristic information whether or not they are ovulating, whether or not ovulation is imminent, and when the next ovulation period will be.

[0086] (5) The information processing method described in (2), The aforementioned computer, If the derived hydrogen ion concentration is not within a predetermined normal range, the characteristic information, including information encouraging the user to seek medical attention, is presented to the user. A method of processing information.

[0087] If a user has a sexually transmitted infection, bacterial infection, or inflammatory disease of the uterus, the hydrogen ion concentration, as a characteristic of the components attached to the hygiene sheet, may deviate from a predetermined normal range. According to (5), in such cases, the user can be encouraged to seek medical attention by being presented with characteristic information that includes information encouraging them to visit a medical institution.

[0088] (6) The information processing method described in (2), The aforementioned computer, The derived hydrogen ion concentration and the date of use of the sanitary sheet are associated with information (pH information T1) which is stored in the memory unit (memory 12). By referring to the information stored in the memory unit, the future ovulation period is determined (step S8). The characteristic information, including the derived information indicating the future ovulation period (next ovulation period information M2), is presented to the user (step S9). A method of processing information.

[0089] According to (6), characteristic information including information indicating future ovulation periods (for example, the user's next ovulation period) can be presented to the user. This allows the user to understand when their next ovulation period will be based on the presented characteristic information.

[0090] (7) The information processing method described in (1), The aforementioned reagent changes color or emits light in response to blood. The aforementioned computer, As a characteristic, we derive whether or not the component contains blood (step S11), Based on the result of determining whether or not blood is present, the characteristic information is presented to the user (step S14). A method of processing information.

[0091] If the amount of blood present in the components attached to the sanitary sheet is small, it is cumbersome for the user to try to find it visually, as they would have to stare at the sanitary sheet after use. According to (7), it is possible to derive whether or not blood is present in the components attached to the sanitary sheet as a characteristic, and then present characteristic information to the user based on that derivement result. This makes it possible for the user to determine whether or not blood is present in the components attached to the sanitary sheet without having to stare at the sanitary sheet after use.

[0092] (8) The information processing method described in (7), The aforementioned computer, If it is determined that the blood is present, the characteristic information including information indicating that it is menstrual (menstrual period information M3) is presented to the user (step S14). A method of processing information.

[0093] If blood is found in the components attached to the sanitary sheet, it is possible that the user has entered their menstrual period. According to (8), if blood is found in the components attached to the sanitary sheet, characteristic information including information indicating that the user is in their menstrual period can be presented to the user, thereby improving convenience for users who are interested in their own menstrual cycle.

[0094] (9) A program for presenting characteristic information (characteristic information M, ovulation period information M1, next ovulation period information M2, menstrual period information M3, pH change information T2) regarding the characteristics of components attached to a sanitary sheet (sanitary sheet 1) used attached to a bodily fluid absorbent article or underwear (shorts 2) to the user of the sanitary sheet (user U), On the computer (terminal device 10), The imaging results of the sanitary sheet coated with a reagent (reagent 3) that changes color or emits light according to the aforementioned characteristics are obtained (step S2), Based on the acquired imaging results, the characteristics are derived (steps S3, S11), The characteristic information based on the derived characteristics is presented to the user (steps S7, S9, S14). A program that performs a process.

[0095] According to (9), sanitary sheets, which were conventionally discarded after use, can be effectively utilized as samples to derive the properties of components attached to the sanitary sheets, and characteristic information regarding those properties can be presented to the user. This makes effective use of sanitary sheets while improving user convenience.

[0096] (10) A terminal device (terminal device 10) that presents characteristic information (characteristic information M, ovulation period information M1, next ovulation period information M2, menstrual period information M3, pH change information T2) regarding the characteristics of components attached to a sanitary sheet (sanitary sheet 1) used attached to a bodily fluid absorbent article or underwear (shorts 2) to the user (user U) of the sanitary sheet, The terminal device includes a processor (processor 11), The aforementioned processor, The imaging results of the sanitary sheet coated with a reagent (reagent 3) that changes color or emits light according to the aforementioned characteristics are obtained. Based on the acquired imaging results, the characteristics are derived, The characteristic information based on the derived characteristics is presented to the user. Terminal device.

[0097] According to (10), sanitary sheets that were previously discarded after use can be effectively utilized as samples to derive the properties of components attached to the sanitary sheets, and characteristic information regarding those properties can be presented to the user. This makes effective use of sanitary sheets while improving user convenience.

[0098] (11) The terminal device described in (10), The terminal device further comprises a camera (camera 17) and a display (display 15). The aforementioned processor, The imaging results of the sanitary sheet captured by the aforementioned camera are acquired, The characteristic information is presented to the user by displaying an image and / or message based on the characteristic information on the display. Terminal device.

[0099] According to (11), a single terminal device can be used to make effective use of sanitary sheets while improving user convenience. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0100] 1. Sanitary sheet 2. Shorts (underwear) 3 Reagents 10 Terminal devices (computers) 11 processors 12. Memory (storage unit) 17 Cameras 15 displays M characteristic information M1 ovulation period information (characteristic information) M2 Next Ovulation Period Information (Characteristic Information) M3 Menstrual Period Information (Characteristic Information) U User

Claims

1. An information processing method for presenting to the user of a sanitary sheet that has adhered to a bodily fluid absorbent article or a sanitary sheet attached to underwear, Computers The imaging results of the sanitary sheet to which a reagent that changes color or emits light according to the aforementioned characteristics are applied are obtained. Based on the acquired imaging results, the characteristics are derived, The characteristic information based on the derived characteristics is presented to the user. A method of processing information.

2. The information processing method according to claim 1, The aforementioned reagent changes color depending on the hydrogen ion concentration. The aforementioned computer, As the aforementioned characteristics, the hydrogen ion concentration of the aforementioned component is derived, The characteristic information based on the derived hydrogen ion concentration is presented to the user. A method of processing information.

3. The information processing method according to claim 2, The aforementioned computer, If the derived hydrogen ion concentration is below a threshold, the characteristic information, including information indicating that it is the ovulation period, is presented to the user. A method of processing information.

4. The information processing method according to claim 2, The aforementioned computer, The derived hydrogen ion concentration and the date the sanitary sheet was used are associated with this information and stored in the memory unit. The system refers to the information stored in the memory unit and presents the user with characteristic information including information showing the change in the hydrogen ion concentration for each day of use. A method of processing information.

5. The information processing method according to claim 2, The aforementioned computer, If the derived hydrogen ion concentration is not within a predetermined normal range, the characteristic information, including information encouraging the user to seek medical attention, is presented to the user. A method of processing information.

6. The information processing method according to claim 2, The aforementioned computer, The derived hydrogen ion concentration and the date the sanitary sheet was used are associated with this information and stored in the memory unit. By referring to the information stored in the memory unit, the future ovulation period is determined. The characteristic information, including the derived information indicating the future ovulation period, is presented to the user. A method of processing information.

7. The information processing method according to claim 1, The aforementioned reagent changes color or emits light in response to blood. The aforementioned computer, As a characteristic, we derive whether or not the component contains blood. Based on the result of determining whether or not blood is present, the characteristic information is presented to the user. A method of processing information.

8. The information processing method according to claim 7, The aforementioned computer, If the presence of blood is determined, the characteristic information including information indicating that the person is in the menstrual period is presented to the user. A method of processing information.

9. A program for presenting to the user of a sanitary sheet that has adhered to a bodily fluid absorbent article or underwear, the user of the sanitary sheet, On the computer, The imaging results of the sanitary sheet to which a reagent that changes color or emits light according to the aforementioned characteristics are applied are obtained. Based on the acquired imaging results, the characteristics are derived, The characteristic information based on the derived characteristics is presented to the user. A program that performs a process.

10. A terminal device that presents to the user of a sanitary sheet that has adhered to a bodily fluid absorbent article or a sanitary sheet attached to underwear, The terminal device comprises a processor, The aforementioned processor, The imaging results of the sanitary sheet to which a reagent that changes color or emits light according to the aforementioned characteristics are applied are obtained. Based on the acquired imaging results, the characteristics are derived, The characteristic information based on the derived characteristics is presented to the user. Terminal device.

11. A terminal device according to claim 10, The terminal device further comprises a camera and a display. The aforementioned processor, The imaging results of the sanitary sheet captured by the aforementioned camera are acquired, The characteristic information is presented to the user by displaying an image and / or message based on the characteristic information on the display. Terminal device.

Images