Information provision system

Abstract

To provide appropriate recommendations regarding the user's health. [Solution] The storage means stores usage information relating to the biological or excretory functions of users of plumbing equipment. The information estimation means estimates the user's health information or service information to be provided to the user based on the usage information stored in the storage means. The output means outputs at least one of the usage information, the user's health information, and the service information as external output information to an external system used by the user. The acquisition means acquires the external analysis results obtained by analyzing the external output information using the analysis means of the external system from the external system. The user terminal has a display means that displays the external analysis results acquired by the acquisition means along with the user's health information or the service information estimated by the information estimation means, with attribute information of the external system added.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to an information providing system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, various systems have been provided that perform processing using information detected by sensors. For example, a system has been disclosed that determines the properties of excrement using image information obtained by imaging excrement such as human feces of a toilet user (simply referred to as a "user") by a sensor (imaging device) (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Further, for example, a system has been disclosed that identifies a person using biometric information detected about a person such as a user by a sensor provided in a toilet or the like (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the above-described conventional technologies, although information detected by a sensor about a person such as a user is used to determine the properties of excrement or identify a person, the information detected by the sensor about the user can potentially be effectively used not only for the above but also for various other purposes. For example, it is desired that information detected by a sensor about a user be effectively used for a service related to analyzing the health state of the user, and that a service related to analyzing the health state of the user be appropriately provided. Thus, it is desired to effectively utilize information related to the health of the user.

[0005] The purpose of the disclosure is to make effective use of information regarding the user's health. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information provision system according to one embodiment includes a storage means that stores usage information relating to the biological or excretory functions of a user of plumbing equipment. An information estimation means estimates the user's health information or service information to be provided to the user based on the usage information stored in the storage means. An output means outputs at least one of the usage information, the user's health information, and the service information as external output information to an external system used by the user. An acquisition means acquires the external analysis results obtained by analyzing the external output information using an analysis means of the external system from the external system. The system includes a user terminal and a display means that displays the external analysis results acquired by the acquisition means along with the user's health information or service information estimated by the information estimation means, with attribute information of the external system added.

[0007] According to an information provision system in one embodiment, it is possible to obtain information by using an external system when displaying estimated health status information based on the use of plumbing equipment and recommendation information for promoting health. For example, users can use services provided by external service providers selected based on their preferences, not limited to services provided by the information provision system. Therefore, the information provision system can provide users with various types of estimated health status information and recommendation information, making effective use of information related to the user's health.

[0008] In an information provision system according to one embodiment, the external system is configured to receive the external output information in the cloud on the external system side and output the external analysis results.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the information provision system, information is exchanged between clouds, allowing for information exchange in a stable environment. Therefore, the information provision system can effectively utilize information related to the user's health.

[0010] In an information provision system according to one embodiment, the output means is characterized in that, based on conditions relating to the provision of information to the external system, it provides a portion of the usage information stored in the storage means to the external system.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the information provision system, information can be appropriately provided in response to analysis by an external system. For example, a user can obtain recommendations and estimated health status information obtained from the analysis of an external system selected according to their preferences. Therefore, the information provision system can output appropriate recommendations regarding the user's health.

[0012] In an information provision system according to one embodiment, the information estimation means includes a first health status estimation means that estimates a first health status of the user based on the usage information stored in the storage means for a predetermined period of time, and a first recommendation information generation means that generates first recommendation information for promoting the user's health based on the first health status of the user estimated by the first health status estimation means, and the acquisition means acquires a second health status of the user and / or second recommendation information for promoting the user's health analyzed by the analysis means, the second recommendation information is generated for each of a plurality of health-related items, and the second recommendation information to be displayed on the user terminal can be selected from the recommendation information for each of the plurality of health-related items.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the information provision system, it is possible to provide estimated health status information and recommendation information tailored to the user's preferences for each of several health-related items. Therefore, the information provision system can output appropriate recommendations regarding the user's health.

[0014] In an information provision system according to one embodiment, the user terminal is characterized by comprising selection means for selecting information to display from the first health status and the second health status, or from the first recommendation information and the second recommendation information.

[0015] According to an information provision system in one embodiment, the information to be displayed is selected from multiple estimated health status information or multiple recommendation information. For example, estimated health status information and recommendation information for the same item are not displayed simultaneously, resulting in a user-friendly display.

[0016] In an information provision system according to one embodiment, the selection means is characterized in that, when the second health status is acquired, it displays the second health status preferentially over the first health status, and when the second recommendation information is acquired, it displays the second recommendation information preferentially over the first recommendation information.

[0017] According to an information provision system in one embodiment, estimated health status information and recommendation information from an external system are displayed preferentially. For example, estimated health status information and recommendation information for the same item are not displayed simultaneously, resulting in a user-friendly display.

[0018] In an information provision system according to one embodiment, the output means provides a portion of the usage information stored in the storage means to the external system based on conditions relating to the provision of information to the external system, and the selection means prioritizes displaying information from the external system selected by the user.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the information provision system, information selected by the user according to their preferences can be displayed preferentially. Therefore, the information provision system can output appropriate recommendations regarding the user's health.

[0020] An information provision system according to one embodiment is characterized in that the external system includes a selection means that allows the user to select from a plurality of external systems, and the selection means prioritizes displaying the second recommendation information selected by the user.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the information provision system, information selected by the user according to their preferences can be displayed preferentially. Therefore, the information provision system can output appropriate recommendations regarding the user's health.

[0022] An information provision system according to one embodiment further comprises connection means that enable communication between a plurality of plumbing fixtures via a predetermined network, wherein the storage means includes a first storage means for storing first usage data acquired from a first plumbing fixture included in the plurality of plumbing fixtures, and a second storage means for storing second usage data acquired from a second plumbing fixture included in the plurality of plumbing fixtures, and further comprises data supply means that supplies the provision data to each of a plurality of data processing units, each of which includes at least the information estimation means, which provides a service using provision data based on at least one of the usage data among the first and second usage data stored in the first or second storage means, based on conditions relating to the provision of data to each of the plurality of data processing units.

[0023] According to the information providing system according to one aspect of the embodiment, for each of the plurality of data processing units, by supplying the data for providing based on the conditions regarding the data supply of the data processing unit, it is possible to supply data to the data processing unit according to the service of the data processing unit. For example, according to the information providing, when performing operations such as daily operations or cooking operations for maintaining the hygiene of the user such as excretion, bathing, face washing, toothbrushing, etc., which are performed daily using water-related devices, the usage data acquired by the water-related device is supplied to the data processing unit based on the conditions regarding the data supply such as the predetermined processing conditions that the data processing unit has, whereby it is possible to supply data to the data processing unit according to the service of the data processing unit. Therefore, the information providing can enable appropriate data supply according to the service. For example, according to the information providing, since the data processing unit that has received the data supply can generate health-related data regarding the health state of the user, it is possible to appropriately provide a service to the user without taking special trouble.

[0024] In the information providing system according to one aspect of the embodiment, among the plurality of data processing units, the data processing unit generates health-related data regarding the health state of the user by using the data for providing based on at least one of the first usage data or the second usage data in a predetermined period, and among the plurality of data processing units, the second data processing unit provides recommendation data regarding nutrition, sleep, or exercise based on the health-related data generated by the first data processing unit.

[0025] According to the information providing system according to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to generate health-related data regarding the health condition of a user, provide recommendation data regarding nutrition, sleep, or exercise, and appropriately provide services. Further, according to the information provision, for each of a plurality of data processing units such as the first data processing unit and the second data processing unit, by supplying the data for provision based on the conditions regarding the data provision of the data processing unit, it is possible to supply data to the data processing unit according to the service of the data processing unit. Therefore, the information providing system can effectively utilize the information regarding the health of the user.

[0026] In the information providing system according to one aspect of the embodiment, at least one data processing unit of the plurality of data processing units provides recommendation data regarding nutrition, sleep, or exercise by using the data for provision based on at least one of the first usage data or the second usage data in a predetermined period.

[0027] According to the information providing system according to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to provide recommendation data regarding nutrition, sleep, or exercise based on user data and appropriately provide services. Further, according to the information provision, for each of a plurality of data processing units such as the first data processing unit and the second data processing unit, by supplying the data for provision based on the conditions regarding the data provision of the data processing unit, it is possible to supply data to the data processing unit according to the service of the data processing unit. Therefore, the information providing system can enable appropriate data supply according to the service.

[0028] The information providing system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes data collection means for collecting data for external output from the first storage means or the second storage means based on predetermined data collection conditions, and external output means for outputting the data for external output collected by the data collection means to a predetermined destination.

[0029] According to an information provision system in one embodiment, data for external output can be output to an appropriate destination. Furthermore, by providing information, data can be supplied to each of the multiple data processing units, such as the first data processing unit and the second data processing unit, based on the conditions for data provision of the data processing unit, thereby supplying data to the data processing unit according to the service of the data processing unit. Therefore, the information provision system can enable appropriate data supply according to the service.

[0030] An information provision system according to one embodiment is characterized in that the user terminal has an input unit that receives input information regarding the user's biological or excretory functions through the user's operation, and the user information stored in the storage means includes the input information received by the input unit.

[0031] According to an information provision system in one embodiment, even if plumbing equipment cannot collect information about the body or excretion, the user can supplement the usage information by inputting information about excretion or the body via the user terminal 300 when using the plumbing equipment. [Effects of the Invention]

[0032] According to one embodiment, it is possible to output appropriate recommendations regarding the user's health. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0033] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an overview of the processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the system configuration. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of a cloud server configuration. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of a user terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of information display on a user terminal. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps involved in a process performed by an information processing system. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a diagram showing an overview of the processing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the configuration of a user terminal according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure performed by the information processing system and user terminal according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of the first communication path. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows an example of a second communication path. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of a third communication path. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of a fourth communication path. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of a fifth communication path. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows an example of a sixth communication path. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows an example of a seventh communication path. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows an example of the eighth communication path. [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows an example of the ninth communication path. [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows an example of the tenth communication path. [Figure 20] Figure 20 shows an example of the 11th communication path. [Figure 21] Figure 21 shows an example of the 12th communication path. [Figure 22] Figure 22 shows an example of the 13th communication path. [Figure 23] Figure 23 shows an example of the 14th communication path. [Figure 24] Figure 24 shows an example of the 15th communication path. [Figure 25]Figure 25 shows an example of the 16th communication path. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a diagram showing an overview of the processing system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 27] Figure 27 shows an example of the 21st communication path. [Figure 28] Figure 28 shows an example of the 22nd communication path. [Figure 29] Figure 29 shows an example of the 23rd communication path. [Figure 30] Figure 30 shows an example of the 24th communication path. [Figure 31] Figure 31 shows an example of the 25th communication path. [Figure 32] Figure 32 shows an example of the 26th communication path. [Figure 33] Figure 33 shows an example of the 27th communication path. [Figure 34] Figure 34 shows an example of the 28th communication path. [Figure 35] Figure 35 shows an example of the 29th communication path. [Figure 36] Figure 36 shows an example of the 30th communication path. [Figure 37] Figure 37 shows an example of the 31st communication path. [Figure 38] Figure 38 shows an example of the 32nd communication path. [Figure 39] Figure 39 shows an example of the 33rd communication path. [Figure 40] Figure 40 shows an example of the 34th communication path. [Figure 41] Figure 41 shows an example of the 35th communication path. [Figure 42] Figure 42 shows an example of the 36th communication path. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] The embodiments of the information provision system disclosed herein will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. Each embodiment can be combined as appropriate within a non-consistent range.

[0035] <1. First Embodiment> <1-1. Structure> The system configuration and processing examples according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an overview of the processing system according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the system configuration. The information processing system 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 stores usage data (also called "usage information") acquired from plumbing equipment and supplies the provision data (also called "provision data") to a data processing unit that provides services using data based on the stored usage data, based on conditions for providing data to the data processing unit (also called "data provision conditions"). The provision data may be the usage data itself, or it may be data generated based on the usage data. Thus, the provision data is not limited to usage data acquired from plumbing equipment, such as so-called raw data, but may also be various types of data, such as data that has been processed from the usage data (processed data), or data generated based on the usage data.

[0036] First, before providing a detailed description of the embodiments, we will explain the definitions of terms used in this application. For example, the term "service" as used in this application is not limited to services provided by the Information Processing System 1, but also includes services provided by entities outside the Information Processing System 1 ("external service providers"). In other words, "service" includes services provided by external service providers using data (information) supplied by the Information Processing System 1.

[0037] Thus, regardless of the service provider, the services include a variety of services provided using data based on usage data (usage information) acquired from plumbing equipment. For example, the services include providing results of assessments of the user's health status, providing recommendations (including product introductions) based on the user's health status, providing monitoring services for the user's health and lifestyle, providing information to nearby stores to stock products that are beneficial to promoting the user's health, and developing new medicines based on the usage status of plumbing equipment.

[0038] Furthermore, the data provided may be any information as long as it is based on the usage data. For example, the data provided may be the usage data itself, or it may be data (information) generated based on the usage data. Thus, the data provided may be the usage data itself, or it may be data (information) generated based on the usage data.

[0039] Furthermore, the data processing unit may be located within the information processing system 1 or outside the information processing system 1 (also referred to as an "external system device"). For example, the data processing unit may be a function implemented by a device within the information processing system 1 (such as a cloud server 100) or a function implemented by a device outside the information processing system 1 (an external system device). For example, the data supplied by the information processing system 1 may be to various data processing units, such as the functional configuration of the cloud server 100 (e.g., a data processing unit) or an external system device outside the information processing system 1.

[0040] For example, the usage data (usage information) referred to in this application is not limited to the data (information) collected by plumbing equipment as exemplified below, but may include various types of data (information) collected by plumbing equipment. Furthermore, usage data is not limited to data collected by plumbing equipment, but may also include data entered by the user using the user terminal 300, etc., and the acquisition route is not relevant as long as the data (information) can be used to provide the service. Note that usage data may be read as usage information.

[0041] The term "water-related equipment" as used here refers to a concept that includes equipment related to water and the functions they possess (are installed). For example, water-related equipment includes various devices and functions installed in water-related spaces. For example, water-related equipment includes toilets, urinals, bathrooms, bathtubs, washbasins, and other equipment related to sanitary spaces, as well as various water-related devices such as kitchens. For example, water-related equipment includes toilet equipment, bathroom equipment, vanity equipment, kitchen equipment, etc.

[0042] Furthermore, plumbing fixtures may include functional devices that perform predetermined functions using sensors or the like that detect things related to the plumbing space. For example, plumbing fixtures may include functional devices that realize functions related to the plumbing space using sensors or the like. In the case of toilets, bathrooms, vanity units, kitchens, etc. that have multiple functions, each component (sensor, etc.) that realizes the multiple functions may be referred to as a "functional device," and the toilets, bathrooms, vanity units, kitchens, etc. may be referred to as "plumbing fixtures."

[0043] For example, if a toilet has multiple (two) functions, such as a function to detect the consistency of stool using a stool sensor (image sensor, etc.) (also called a "stool detection function") and a function to detect gas (odor) using a gas sensor, etc. (also called a "gas detection function"), the toilet may be referred to as a plumbing device in relation to the functional equipment that implements the stool detection function and the functional equipment that implements the gas detection function. Furthermore, the functional equipment that implements the stool detection function and the functional equipment that implements the gas detection function that the toilet has may also be referred to as plumbing devices if, for example, information is collected for each of those functional equipment. For example, if functional equipment is described as plumbing devices, a toilet with multiple such functional equipment may be referred to as a plumbing device. For example, if usage data is collected from only one of the following: another toilet, urinal, bathroom, bathtub, washbasin, kitchen, etc., then that one becomes a plumbing device, and each of the multiple functional equipment that that plumbing device has becomes a plumbing device.

[0044] In other words, if a toilet has multiple functional components, that toilet may be referred to as a plumbing fixture or plumbing device. Also, if a toilet has multiple functional components, each of those functional components may be referred to as a plumbing fixture or a functional component. In the following explanation, plumbing fixtures such as toilets, urinals, bathrooms, bathtubs, washbasins, kitchens, etc. may be read as plumbing devices, and plumbing fixtures that realize the multiple functions of a plumbing device may be read as functional components.

[0045] For example, usage data (usage information) includes data (information) acquired from plumbing equipment when users (also simply called "users") use plumbing equipment to perform daily activities such as excretion, bathing, washing their face, brushing their teeth, and cooking, in order to maintain the hygiene of the users of the plumbing equipment. For example, usage data includes data (information) detected by sensors regarding the actions (behaviors) of users who use plumbing equipment to maintain the hygiene of the users, such as excretion, bathing, washing their face, brushing their teeth, and cooking, in order to maintain the hygiene of the users.

[0046] For example, usage data includes measurement data taken by plumbing equipment. For example, usage data includes various types of data such as biometric data, excretion data, and log data (also simply called "log data") indicating the use of plumbing equipment. For example, usage data may be data to which at least one of the biometric data, excretion data, and log data is associated with account data corresponding to the user of that data (account identifier, user information, etc.), time data indicating the date and time the data was acquired (date and time information, etc.), and location data indicating the place where the data was acquired (plumbing space, location information, etc.).

[0047] For example, excretion data (also called "excretion information") includes various information (data) about what the user excretes (also called "excrement"). For example, excretion data includes various information (data) about what the user excretes, such as information (data) about the feces (also called "feces" or "defecation") the user excretes, information (data) about the user's excretory gases, etc. Here, excretory gases are not limited to flatulence (farts), which are gases released from the user themselves, but are a concept that includes gases released from objects (feces, urine, etc.) that the user excretes. In other words, excrement here includes various things that are produced in response to the user's excretion, such as defecation, urination, and excretory gases.

[0048] Furthermore, biometric data (also called "biometric information") includes various types of information (data) obtained from the user (biological body). Biometric data is not limited to the user's blood flow information (data) shown as an example below, but also includes various types of information (data) about the user's body, such as information (data) about heart rate (pulse), respiration, body temperature, brain waves, and muscles (electrical muscle activity).

[0049] For example, log data indicating the use of plumbing fixtures is data (information) indicating the use of plumbing fixtures, excluding biometric data and excretion data. For example, log data indicating the use of plumbing fixtures may include the number of times the plumbing fixtures are used, the frequency of use, and the duration of use. For example, if the plumbing fixtures are toilet-related fixtures, the log data may include the number of times the toilet is used, the frequency of toilet use, whether or not the toilet seat is occupied, the duration of sitting on the toilet seat, and the number of times the body is washed per toilet use. Note that the above is merely an example, and log data may include various other data (information) indicating the use of plumbing fixtures other than biometric data and excretion data. Log data may also be read as log information or history information.

[0050] Thus, usage data (usage information) includes various data (information) collected by plumbing equipment. For example, usage data includes excretion data such as stool consistency, stool volume, color, urine consistency, urine volume, color, and excretory gas characteristics. For example, usage data includes biological data such as blood flow data and body temperature data. Furthermore, as mentioned above, usage data may also include data that can be obtained from other acquisition channels, such as data entered by the user using the user terminal 300.

[0051] <1-1-1. Example Configuration> Based on the above-mentioned premise, an example of the configuration of the information processing system 1 will be described below, followed by an example of processing performed by the information processing system 1. Note that the processing described below with the information processing system 1 as the processing entity may be performed by any device capable of executing that processing, depending on the device configuration included in the information processing system 1.

[0052] (Cloud Server) As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the data supply system 2 includes at least the information processing system 1. This data supply system 2 is an example of an "information provision system." The data supply system 2 also includes the toilet 210, which is the source of data used by the information processing system 1 for processing, and the user terminal 300 used by users, but this will be discussed later. The information processing system 1 includes the cloud server 100.

[0053] Furthermore, Figure 1 shows an example of information (data) exchange (sending and receiving, etc.) in the data supply system 2 using arrow lines. For example, information (data) exchange (sending and receiving, etc.) in the cloud server 100 is shown with dashed arrow lines, and information sending and receiving between components (devices, etc.) of the data supply system 2, including the cloud server 100, is shown with solid arrow lines. Note that the arrow lines shown in Figure 1 are merely examples, and information exchange (sending and receiving, etc.) other than those shown in Figure 1 may occur in the data supply system 2. For example, the data supply means DS may send information to the storage means DBS and register the information in the storage means DBS. Also, the user terminal 300 may send and receive information not only with the data processing unit DP23, but also with data processing units DP21, DP22, etc.

[0054] Although Figures 1 and 2 show only one cloud server 100 for illustrative purposes, there may be multiple cloud servers 100, each with distributed functionality, with different cloud servers 100 executing each function, and the multiple cloud servers 100 as a whole executing the desired functionality. Further details regarding the configuration of the cloud server 100 will be described later, but the functional overview shown in Figure 1 will be explained below. For example, the cloud server 100 includes a storage means DBS, a data supply means DS, and data processing units DP11, DP12, DP13, etc.

[0055] The DBS (Database Storage System) stores usage data acquired from plumbing fixtures. For example, the DBS can be implemented using semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or storage devices such as hard disks or optical discs.

[0056] The storage means DBS includes databases DB1, DB2, DB3, DB4, and DB5, etc. When explaining without distinguishing between databases DB1 to DB5, they will be referred to simply as database DB. The database DB shown in Figure 1 is merely an example, and the storage means DBS may include database DBs that store various types of data, not limited to databases DB1 to DB5. Furthermore, database DBs such as database DB1, database DB2, database DB3, database DB4, and database DB5 may be configured as individual storage means.

[0057] In Figure 1, database DB1 stores usage data related to the toilet 210. Database DB2 stores usage data related to the bathroom 220. Database DB3 stores usage data related to the washbasin 230. Database DB4 stores external data obtained from the external data provision device 240. Database DB5 stores various other data, such as usage data not mentioned above. For example, database DB5 stores usage data related to the kitchen. In this way, each database stores various data such as usage data obtained from each plumbing fixture, and external data. For example, the external data may be data obtained by a wearable device worn by the user.

[0058] Furthermore, the storage means DBS may include a database DB that stores various other types of information besides those mentioned above. For example, the storage means DBS may include a database DB6 (not shown) for account management used as an integrated infrastructure. For example, the account management database DB6 stores user identification information such as an account identifier (user ID, etc.) to identify each user's account, and is used to manage each user's account.

[0059] Thus, the DBS memory means functions as a memory means for storing usage information related to the biological or excretory functions of users of the water-related space. Furthermore, the DBS memory means functions as a memory means for recording data related to the use of water-related equipment, along with user information that identifies the user of the water-related equipment and data acquisition date and time information.

[0060] The data supply means DS functions as a data supply unit that supplies data to the data processing units DP11, DP12, and DP13. The data supply means DS supplies various data, such as usage data, stored in each database DB of the storage means DBS to the data processing units DP11, DP12, and DP13. The data supply means DS can also supply data generated by the data processing unit within the cloud server 100 to data processing units DP21, DP22, and DP23 outside the cloud server 100. For example, the data supply means DS can supply health status information generated by the data processing unit DP12 within the cloud server 100 to data processing units DP21, DP22, and DP23 outside the cloud server 100.

[0061] Furthermore, the data supply means DS receives data from external data processing units DP21, DP22, and DP23 to provide services from external service providers. The data supply stage DS then uses the received data to provide services to users and others, such as providing estimated health status information and recommendations, which are provided by external service providers.

[0062] The data processing units DP11, DP12, and DP13 are data processing units included in the information processing system 1. For example, the data processing units DP11, DP12, and DP13 are data processing units (also called "internal data processing units") that enable the information processing system 1 to provide services. For example, the internal data processing units are data processing units included in the information processing system 1.

[0063] The data processing unit DP11 provides a predetermined service (recommendation #1 in Figure 1). The data processing unit DP11 provides a service that makes recommendations to users using usage data obtained from plumbing equipment. For example, the data processing unit DP11 provides a service that makes recommendations to users using data obtained from the data processing unit DP12. It may also provide a service that makes recommendations to users using data obtained from the data processing unit DP13.

[0064] For example, the data processing unit DP11 provides a service that offers recommendations related to the user's health status. The data processing unit DP11 may also provide this service using a content engine (such as a health-related recommendation generation engine) of the administrator (such as a company) that manages the cloud server 100.

[0065] There may be multiple data processing units DP11. In this case, each of the multiple data processing units DP11 may provide a different recommendation service. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP11 may provide a recommendation service to users using at least partially different usage data. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP11 may have at least different data provision conditions and receive data for provision from the data supply means DS based on different data provision conditions.

[0066] The data processing unit DP12 provides a predetermined service (health status estimation #1 in Figure 1). The data processing unit DP12 provides a service that estimates the user's health status using usage data acquired from plumbing equipment. Alternatively, the data processing unit DP12 may estimate the user's health status using data acquired from data processing units DP11, DP13, etc.

[0067] For example, the data processing unit DP12 provides a service that provides information indicating the estimated health status of the user (health-related data, etc.). The data processing unit DP12 may also provide the service using a content engine (health status estimation engine, etc.) of the administrator (company, etc.) that manages the cloud server 100. For example, the data processing unit DP12 estimates the user's health status using conditions for estimating health status (also called "health status estimation conditions"). For example, the data processing unit DP12 estimates the user's health status using health status estimation conditions stored in the storage means DBS. For example, if the usage data obtained from plumbing equipment satisfies the health status estimation conditions, the data processing unit DP12 estimates that the user is in that health status.

[0068] The above is merely an example, and the data processing unit DP12 may use any information as appropriate to estimate the user's health status, provided that the desired estimation process is possible. Furthermore, health status refers to a person's state of health, and examples include, for example, bowel function, nocturia, overactive bladder, menstrual cycle, stress, and frailty. Bowel function also includes various things that can indicate a person's bowel condition, such as constipation, diarrhea, and intestinal environment. The above is merely an example, and health status is not limited to the above, but is not limited to anything related to a person's health. Based on predetermined processing conditions held by the data processing unit DP12, the data supply means DS supplies data to the data processing unit DP12, and the data processing unit DP12 generates health-related data concerning the user's health status. As a result, the information processing system 1 can obtain the user's health-related data without any special effort.

[0069] Furthermore, there may be multiple data processing units DP12. In this case, each of the multiple data processing units DP12 may provide a different health status estimation service. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP12 may provide a service that estimates the user's health status using at least partially different usage data. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP12 may have at least different data provision conditions and receive data for provision from the data supply means DS based on different data provision conditions.

[0070] The data processing unit DP13 provides a predetermined service (recommendation #2 in Figure 1). The data processing unit DP13 provides a service that makes recommendations related to products or services (collectively referred to as "products, etc.") using usage data obtained from plumbing equipment. For example, the data processing unit DP13 provides a service that makes recommendations for products, etc. to users using data obtained from the data processing unit DP12. The data processing unit DP13 may also provide a service that makes recommendations for products, etc. to users using data obtained from the data processing unit DP11.

[0071] For example, the data processing unit DP13 provides a service that recommends products and services to users. The data processing unit DP13 may also provide this service using a content engine (product recommendation generation engine, etc.) of the administrator (company, etc.) that manages the cloud server 100.

[0072] When describing internal data processing units used by the information processing system 1 to provide services, such as data processing units DP11, DP12, and DP13, they will be referred to simply as data processing unit DP1. Each data processing unit DP1 may acquire information from other data processing units DP1 and use the acquired data to provide services. For example, each data processing unit DP1 may transmit information about the services it provides to a user terminal 300 or the like.

[0073] The data processing unit DP1 functions as an information estimation means that estimates the user's health information or service information to be provided to the user based on usage information stored in the storage means. For example, the data processing unit DP12 functions as a first health status estimation means that estimates a first health status of the user based on data stored in the storage means DBS for a predetermined period. Furthermore, the data processing units DP11 and DP13 function as first recommendation information generation means that generate first recommendation information aimed at promoting the user's health based on the first health status of the user estimated by the first health status estimation means.

[0074] The data supply means DS operates as an acquisition means to acquire external analysis results from an external system, such as an external recipient device 400, which have analysis means such as a data processing unit DP2 that analyze external output information. Here, external output information refers to at least one piece of information, such as usage information (usage data), user health information such as estimated health status information estimated by the data processing unit DP12, and service information such as recommendations generated by the data processing unit DP11 or data processing unit DP13. The data supply means DS can also instruct the communication unit 101, which functions as an output means, to provide a portion of the usage information stored in the storage means to the external system based on conditions for providing information to the external system. Furthermore, the data supply means DS functions as an acquisition means to acquire a second health status and / or second recommendation information for promoting the user's health, which are analyzed based on the data output by the communication unit 101, which functions as an output means, and / or the first health status, from an external system such as an external recipient device 400.

[0075] The configuration of the information processing system 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is merely an example, and any device configuration can be adopted as long as the information processing system 1 can perform the desired processing. For example, although only one cloud server 100 is shown in the information processing system 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2, the information processing system 1 may have multiple cloud servers 100. In this case, each of the multiple cloud servers 100 included in the information processing system 1 sends and receives data (information) to and from other cloud servers 100 via a communication unit 110, etc., which will be described later.

[0076] For example, the information processing system 1 may have multiple cloud servers, such as a first cloud server that functions as a data supply unit and a second cloud server that functions as a data processing unit within the information processing system 1. For example, the information processing system 1 may have a first cloud server that functions as a data supply means DS in Figure 1. In this case, the first cloud server may have a storage means DBS in Figure 1. For example, the information processing system 1 may have a third cloud server that functions as a storage means such as the storage means DBS in Figure 1. In this case, the first cloud server sends and receives data (information) to and from the third cloud server. For example, the first cloud server receives information from the third cloud server and sends information to be stored in the third cloud server to the third cloud server.

[0077] For example, the information processing system 1 may have multiple second cloud servers or multiple first cloud servers. For example, the information processing system 1 may have multiple second cloud servers such as a second cloud server having the functions of the data processing unit DP11 in Figure 1, a second cloud server having the functions of the data processing unit DP12 in Figure 1, and a second cloud server having the functions of the data processing unit DP13 in Figure 1.

[0078] Furthermore, the data supply system 2 includes a toilet 210, a bathroom 220, a washbasin 230, an external data supply device 240, a user terminal 300, and data processing units DP21, DP22, DP23, etc. The data supply system 2 may also include multiple toilets 210, multiple bathrooms 220, multiple washbasins 230, multiple external data supply devices 240, and multiple user terminals 300. Thus, there may be multiple components included in the data supply system 2. For example, the data supply system 2 may include multiple toilets 210, such as a toilet 210 located on the first floor and a toilet 210 located on the second floor of a predetermined structure (such as a residence).

[0079] Furthermore, the data supply system 2 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is merely an example, and the data supply system 2 may include various components other than those shown in Figures 1 and 2. For example, the data supply system 2 may include a kitchen. For example, the data supply system 2 may include kitchen appliances and kitchen sensors. In addition, some or all of the toilet 210, bathroom 220, washbasin 230, external data supply device 240, and user terminal 300 may be included in the information processing system 1. For example, the user terminal 300 may be included in the information processing system 1.

[0080] (toilet) Toilet 210 is a water-related space used by toilet users for the purpose of excretion, and where usage data, including information related to excretion by the user (excretion data), biometric data, and log data, is collected. Toilet 210 is equipped with toilet devices 211, toilet sensors 212, etc. For example, toilet 210 transmits user usage data related to the toilet to the cloud server 100 from at least one of the devices such as toilet devices 211 and toilet sensors 212. Note that toilet 210 may have multiple toilet devices 211 and multiple toilet sensors 212.

[0081] Toilet 210 collects user usage data related to toilet 210 using devices such as toilet equipment 211 and toilet sensors 212. For example, toilet 210 collects various information such as log data including toilet log data, information on the user's daily use, the user's health status derived from the daily use information, sensing information, and advanced health status.

[0082] The toilet device 211 is a so-called toilet (toilet bowl), remote control device, etc., and is a device used by toilet users to perform the act of defecation. For example, if the toilet device 211 has a waste detection function, it may be equipped with a toilet sensor 212, which is a waste sensor used for the waste detection function. For example, if the toilet device 211 has a gas detection function, it may be equipped with a toilet sensor 212, which is a gas sensor used for the gas detection function.

[0083] The toilet device 211 can communicate with other devices such as the cloud server 100 via a communication unit implemented by a communication device, communication circuit, etc. The toilet device 211 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet by wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with other devices. The toilet device 211 may be connected to other devices in a communicative manner via a predetermined wireless communication function such as mobile communication or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Alternatively, the toilet device 211 may be connected to other devices in a communicative manner via Bluetooth (registered trademark) functions such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), for example, through communication via a gateway (GW).

[0084] The toilet device 211 is a plumbing device (water-related equipment) that is connected to the cloud server 100 via a predetermined network in a way that allows it to communicate with the cloud server 100. For example, the toilet device 211 sends and receives information to and from the cloud server 100 via the predetermined network. For example, the toilet device 211 sends usage data related to toilet use to the cloud server 100.

[0085] For example, the toilet device 211 transmits usage data such as excretion data, biometric data, and log data to the cloud server 100. The toilet device 211 may also transmit the usage data to the cloud server 100 along with the date and time information on when the usage data was acquired. The toilet device 211 may also transmit usage data corresponding to a request from the cloud server 100 to that cloud server 100 in response to a request from that server.

[0086] Furthermore, the toilet device 211 collects usage data for each user of the plumbing equipment who uses the toilet (toilet user). The toilet device 211 may also have a function to authenticate (identify) the user who uses the toilet 210. The toilet device 211 may use an account identifier (user ID, etc.) received from a remote control device or the like that accepts operations related to the toilet by the plumbing equipment user to identify which of the registered users the user is. For example, the toilet device 211 associates the collected usage data with the date and time the usage data was acquired and an account identifier that identifies the user corresponding to the usage data, and sends it to the cloud server 100. In this case, if the toilet device 211 receives a user designation from the cloud server 100, it may send the usage data corresponding to that user to the cloud server 100.

[0087] The toilet sensor 212 is a sensor device that detects the use of the toilet 210 by a user. For example, the toilet sensor 212 may be a sensor device mounted on the toilet device 211. For example, the toilet sensor 212 may be a stool sensor used for a stool detection function. For example, the toilet sensor 212 may be a gas sensor used for a gas detection function. For example, the toilet sensor 212 may be a radio wave sensor used for a function to detect the amount of stool or urine excreted by a user. For example, the toilet sensor 212 may be a sensor device that detects (receives) operations such as flushing of the toilet device 211.

[0088] For example, the toilet sensor 212 may be a sensor device such as a sensor that detects the use of the toilet equipment 211. For example, the toilet sensor 212 may be a sensor device such as a sensor that detects the entry and exit of a user into the toilet 210. For example, the toilet sensor 212 may be a sensor device such as a sensor that detects the duration of use of the toilet 210 by a user. For example, the toilet sensor 212 may be a sensor device such as a seating sensor that detects when someone sits on the toilet seat of the toilet equipment 211. Note that the above are merely examples, and the toilet sensor 212 may be a sensor device such as a sensor device provided separately from the toilet equipment 211. For example, the toilet sensor 212 may be a sensor device such as a pyroelectric sensor using infrared signals or a μ (microwave) sensor (such as a motion sensor).

[0089] The toilet sensor 212 can communicate with other devices such as the cloud server 100 via a communication unit implemented by a communication device, communication circuit, etc. The toilet sensor 212 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet by wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with other devices. The toilet sensor 212 may also be connected to other devices via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

[0090] The toilet sensor 212 is a functional device (water-related equipment) that is connected to the cloud server 100 via a predetermined network in a way that allows it to communicate with the cloud server 100. For example, the toilet sensor 212 sends and receives information to and from the cloud server 100 via the predetermined network. For example, the toilet sensor 212 sends usage data related to toilet use to the cloud server 100.

[0091] For example, the toilet sensor 212 transmits usage data such as excretion data, biometric data, and log data to the cloud server 100. The toilet sensor 212 may also transmit the usage data to the cloud server 100 along with the date and time information on when the usage data was acquired. The toilet sensor 212 may also transmit usage data corresponding to a request from the cloud server 100 to that cloud server 100 in response to a request from that server.

[0092] Furthermore, the toilet sensor 212 collects usage data for each user of the plumbing equipment. The toilet sensor 212 may have a storage means (storage device, etc.) for managing (registering) usage data for each user of the plumbing equipment. The toilet sensor 212 may have a function for authenticating (identifying) users who use the toilet 210. The toilet sensor 212 may use an account identifier (user ID, etc.) received from a remote control device, etc., that accepts operations related to the toilet by the toilet user (plumbing equipment user) to identify which of the registered users the user is. For example, the toilet sensor 212 associates the collected usage data with the date and time the usage data was acquired and an account identifier that identifies the user corresponding to the usage data, and transmits it to the cloud server 100. In this case, if the toilet sensor 212 receives a user designation from the cloud server 100, it may transmit the usage data corresponding to that user to the cloud server 100.

[0093] (bathroom) Bathroom 220 is a bathroom space used by users for bathing, and is a water-related space where usage data, including biometric data and log data such as bathing time and bathing temperature, is collected. Bathroom 220 is equipped with bathroom devices 221, bathroom sensors 222, etc. For example, bathroom 220 transmits user usage data related to the bathroom to the cloud server 100 from at least one of the devices such as bathroom devices 221 and bathroom sensors 222. Note that bathroom 220 may have multiple bathroom devices 221 and multiple bathroom sensors 222.

[0094] Bathroom 220 collects user data related to the bathroom 220 using devices such as bathroom equipment 221 and bathroom sensors 222. For example, bathroom 220 collects various information such as bathroom temperature and faucet water temperature.

[0095] Bathroom equipment 221 is a so-called bathtub, shower, etc., and is equipment used by the user of the bathroom to perform the act of bathing. For example, if bathroom equipment 221 has a bathroom temperature detection function, it may be equipped with a bathroom sensor 222, which is a temperature sensor used for the bathroom temperature detection function. For example, if bathroom equipment 221 has a faucet water temperature detection function, it may be equipped with a bathroom sensor 222, which is a temperature sensor used for the faucet water temperature detection function.

[0096] The bathroom device 221 can communicate with other devices such as the cloud server 100 via a communication unit implemented by a communication device, communication circuit, etc. The bathroom device 221 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet by wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with other devices. The bathroom device 221 may also be connected to other devices via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

[0097] The bathroom device 221 is a plumbing device (bathroom equipment) that is connected to the cloud server 100 via a predetermined network in a way that allows it to communicate with the cloud server 100. For example, the bathroom device 221 sends and receives information to and from the cloud server 100 via the predetermined network. For example, the bathroom device 221 sends usage data related to the use of the bathroom to the cloud server 100.

[0098] For example, the bathroom device 221 transmits usage data such as biometric data and log data to the cloud server 100. The bathroom device 221 may also transmit the usage data to the cloud server 100 along with the date and time information on when the usage data was acquired. The bathroom device 221 may also transmit usage data corresponding to a request from the cloud server 100 to the cloud server 100 in response to a request from the cloud server 100.

[0099] Furthermore, the bathroom device 221 collects usage data for each user of the plumbing equipment. The bathroom device 221 may also have a function to authenticate (identify) users who use the bathroom 220. The bathroom device 221 may use an account identifier (user ID, etc.) received from a remote control device or the like that accepts operations related to the bathroom by the bathroom user (user of plumbing equipment) to identify which of the registered users the user is. For example, the bathroom device 221 associates the collected usage data with the date and time the usage data was acquired and an account identifier that identifies the user corresponding to the usage data, and sends it to the cloud server 100. In this case, if the bathroom device 221 receives a user designation from the cloud server 100, it may send the usage data corresponding to that user to the cloud server 100.

[0100] The bathroom sensor 222 is a sensor device that detects the user's use of the bathroom 220. For example, the bathroom sensor 222 may be a sensor device mounted on the bathroom device 221. For example, the bathroom sensor 222 may be a temperature sensor used for a bathroom temperature detection function. For example, the bathroom sensor 222 may be a temperature sensor used for a faucet water temperature detection function.

[0101] For example, the bathroom sensor 222 may be a sensor device such as a sensor that detects the use of the bathroom equipment 221. For example, the bathroom sensor 222 may be a sensor device such as a sensor that detects when a user enters or leaves the bathroom 220. For example, the bathroom sensor 222 may be a sensor device such as a sensor that detects the time a user spends using the bathroom 220. For example, the bathroom sensor 222 may be a sensor device such as a motion sensor that detects when someone enters the bathroom equipment 221. Note that the above are merely examples, and the bathroom sensor 222 may be a sensor device such as a sensor device provided separately from the bathroom equipment 221. For example, the bathroom sensor 222 may be a sensor device such as a pyroelectric sensor using infrared signals or a μ (microwave) sensor (motion sensor, etc.).

[0102] The bathroom sensor 222 can communicate with other devices such as the cloud server 100 via a communication unit implemented by a communication device, communication circuit, etc. The bathroom sensor 222 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet by wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with other devices. The bathroom sensor 222 may also be connected to other devices via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

[0103] The bathroom sensor 222 is a functional device (water-related equipment) that is connected to the cloud server 100 via a predetermined network in a way that allows it to communicate with the cloud server 100. For example, the bathroom sensor 222 sends and receives information to and from the cloud server 100 via the predetermined network. For example, the bathroom sensor 222 sends usage data related to the use of the bathroom to the cloud server 100.

[0104] For example, the bathroom sensor 222 transmits usage data such as biometric data and log data to the cloud server 100. The bathroom sensor 222 may also transmit the usage data to the cloud server 100 along with the date and time information on when the usage data was acquired. The bathroom sensor 222 may also transmit usage data corresponding to a request from the cloud server 100 to that cloud server 100 in response to a request from that server.

[0105] Furthermore, the bathroom sensor 222 collects usage data for each user of plumbing fixtures. The bathroom sensor 222 may have a storage means (such as a memory device) for managing (registering) usage data for each user of plumbing fixtures. The bathroom sensor 222 may also have a function for authenticating (identifying) users who use the bathroom 220. The bathroom sensor 222 may use an account identifier (such as a user ID) received from a remote control device or the like that accepts operations related to the bathroom by the bathroom user (user of plumbing fixtures) to identify which of the registered users the user is. For example, the bathroom sensor 222 associates the collected usage data with the date and time the usage data was acquired and an account identifier that identifies the user corresponding to the usage data, and transmits it to the cloud server 100. In this case, if the bathroom sensor 222 receives a user designation from the cloud server 100, it may transmit the usage data corresponding to that user to the cloud server 100.

[0106] (Washbasin) The washbasin 230 is configured for use by washbasin users to perform washbasin-related activities, and is a water-related space where usage data, including biometric data and log data such as washbasin usage time, is collected. The washbasin 230 is equipped with a washbasin device 231, a washbasin sensor 232, etc. For example, the washbasin 230 transmits user usage data related to the washbasin to the cloud server 100 from at least one of the devices such as the washbasin device 231 and the washbasin sensor 232. The washbasin 230 may have multiple washbasin devices 231 and multiple washbasin sensors 232.

[0107] The washbasin 230 collects user data related to the washbasin 230 through devices such as the washbasin unit 231 and the washbasin sensor 232. For example, the washbasin 230 collects various information such as facial expressions and blood circulation in the face.

[0108] The washbasin device 231 is a so-called washbasin, smart mirror, etc., and is a device used by the user of the washbasin to perform the act of using the washbasin. For example, if the washbasin device 231 has a function to detect the user's facial expression, it may be equipped with a washbasin sensor 232, which is an image sensor used for the function to detect the user's facial expression. For example, if the washbasin device 231 has a function to detect the blood flow of the user's face, it may be equipped with a washbasin sensor 232, which is a blood flow sensor used for the function to detect the blood flow of the user's face.

[0109] The washbasin unit 231 can communicate with other devices such as the cloud server 100 via a communication unit implemented by a communication device, communication circuit, etc. The washbasin unit 231 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet by wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with other devices. The washbasin unit 231 may also be connected to other devices via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

[0110] The washbasin unit 231 is a plumbing fixture (water-related equipment) that is connected to the cloud server 100 via a predetermined network. For example, the washbasin unit 231 sends and receives information to and from the cloud server 100 via the predetermined network. For example, the washbasin unit 231 sends usage data related to the use of the washbasin to the cloud server 100.

[0111] For example, the washbasin device 231 transmits usage data such as biometric data and log data to the cloud server 100. The washbasin device 231 may transmit the usage data to the cloud server 100 along with the date and time information on when the usage data was acquired. The washbasin device 231 may also transmit usage data corresponding to a request from the cloud server 100 to that cloud server 100 in response to a request from that server.

[0112] Furthermore, the washbasin device 231 collects usage data for each user of the plumbing equipment. The washbasin device 231 may also have a function to authenticate (identify) the user using the washbasin 230. The washbasin device 231 may use an account identifier (user ID, etc.) received from a remote control device or the like that accepts operations related to the washbasin by the washbasin user (plumbing equipment user) to identify which of the registered users the user is. For example, the washbasin device 231 associates the collected usage data with the date and time the usage data was acquired and an account identifier that identifies the user corresponding to the usage data, and sends it to the cloud server 100. In this case, if the washbasin device 231 receives a user designation from the cloud server 100, it may send the usage data corresponding to that user to the cloud server 100.

[0113] The washbasin sensor 232 is a sensor device that detects the user's use of the washbasin 230. For example, the washbasin sensor 232 may be a sensor device mounted on the washbasin unit 231. For example, the washbasin sensor 232 may be an image sensor used for detecting the user's facial expressions. For example, the washbasin sensor 232 may be a blood flow sensor used for detecting the blood circulation in the user's face.

[0114] For example, the washbasin sensor 232 may be a sensor device such as a sensor that detects the use of the washbasin unit 231. For example, the washbasin sensor 232 may be a sensor device such as a sensor that detects when a user enters or leaves the washbasin 230. For example, the washbasin sensor 232 may be a sensor device such as a sensor that detects the usage time of the washbasin 230 by a user. For example, the washbasin sensor 232 may be a sensor device such as a motion sensor that detects the use of the washbasin unit 231. Note that the above are merely examples, and the washbasin sensor 232 may be a sensor device such as a sensor device provided separately from the washbasin unit 231. For example, the washbasin sensor 232 may be a sensor device such as a pyroelectric sensor using infrared signals or a μ (microwave) sensor (motion sensor, etc.).

[0115] The sink sensor 232 can communicate with other devices such as the cloud server 100 via a communication unit implemented by a communication device, communication circuit, etc. The sink sensor 232 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet by wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with other devices. The sink sensor 232 may also be connected to other devices via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

[0116] The sink sensor 232 is a functional device (bathroom equipment) that is connected to the cloud server 100 via a predetermined network in a way that allows it to communicate with the cloud server 100. For example, the sink sensor 232 sends and receives information to and from the cloud server 100 via the predetermined network. For example, the sink sensor 232 sends usage data related to the use of the sink to the cloud server 100.

[0117] For example, the sink sensor 232 transmits usage data such as biometric data and log data to the cloud server 100. The sink sensor 232 may also transmit the usage data to the cloud server 100 along with the date and time information on when the usage data was acquired. The sink sensor 232 may also transmit usage data corresponding to a request from the cloud server 100 to that cloud server 100 in response to a request from that server.

[0118] Furthermore, the washbasin sensor 232 collects usage data for each user of the plumbing equipment. The washbasin sensor 232 may have a storage means (storage device, etc.) for managing (registering) usage data for each user of the plumbing equipment. The washbasin sensor 232 may have a function for authenticating (identifying) users who use the washbasin 230. The washbasin sensor 232 may use an account identifier (user ID, etc.) received from a remote control device, etc., that receives operations related to the washbasin by the washbasin user (plumbing equipment user) to identify which of the registered users the user is. For example, the washbasin sensor 232 associates the collected usage data with the date and time the usage data was acquired and an account identifier that identifies the user corresponding to the usage data, and transmits it to the cloud server 100. In this case, if the washbasin sensor 232 receives a user designation from the cloud server 100, it may transmit the usage data corresponding to that user to the cloud server 100.

[0119] In the following, when describing water-related spaces such as toilets 210, bathrooms 220, and washbasins 230 without distinction, they may be referred to as water-related spaces 200. Similarly, when describing water-related equipment (water fixtures) such as toilets 211, bathrooms 221, and washbasins 231 without distinction, they may be referred to as water-related equipment 201. Furthermore, when describing functional equipment (water-related equipment) such as toilet sensors 212, bathroom sensors 222, and washbasin sensors 232 without distinction, they may be referred to as functional equipment 202.

[0120] As described above, each water-related space 200 has a water-related device 201 and functional equipment 202, and transmits usage data from the water-related device 201, functional equipment 202, etc. to the cloud server 100. In addition, each water-related space 200 may transmit information detected (acquired) by functional equipment 202 such as sensors (raw sensor data, etc.) as usage data to the cloud server 100, or it may process the information detected (acquired) by functional equipment 202 (raw sensor data, etc.) and transmit the processed data as usage data to the cloud server 100.

[0121] The external data provider 240 is an information processing device (computer), such as a server, that provides external data to the cloud server 100. For example, the external data provider 240 has information about the user's behavior, such as sleep, meals, and exercise, and transmits this information to the cloud server 100. In Figure 1, the external data provider 240 transmits information about the user's behavior, such as sleep information AC1 indicating the user's sleep, meal information AC2 indicating the user's meals, and exercise information AC3 indicating the user's exercise, as external data to the cloud server 100. Note that the external data is not limited to sleep, meals, and exercise, but may include various other types of data. For example, the external data may include various user-related data such as the user's weight, height, and body fat percentage.

[0122] The external data provider 240 can communicate with an external information processing device such as a cloud server 100 via a communication unit implemented by a communication device, communication circuit, etc. The external data provider 240 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet by wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with the external information processing device. The external data provider 240 may also be connected to the external information processing device via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Wi-Fi.

[0123] For example, the external data provider 240 sends and receives information with the cloud server 100, etc., via the internet. For example, the external data provider 240 sends external data to the cloud server 100 via the internet.

[0124] (User terminal) The user terminal 300 is a device (computer) used by the user. The user terminal 300 can be, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet device, or a notebook PC (Personal Computer). Figure 1 shows an example where the user terminal 300 used by user U is a smartphone.

[0125] The user terminal 300 displays various types of information. The user terminal 300 displays information received from other devices such as the cloud server 100 and the external provider device 400. For example, the user terminal 300 executes a process to display various health-related information, such as content related to the user's health status, using an application (also called a "health management app") for displaying various health-related information, such as content related to the user's health status.

[0126] The user terminal 300 can communicate with external information processing devices such as the cloud server 100 and the external service provider device 400 via a communication unit implemented by a communication device, communication circuit, etc. The user terminal 300 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet by wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with the external information processing device. The user terminal 300 may also be connected to the external information processing device via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Wi-Fi.

[0127] For example, the user terminal 300 sends and receives information between the cloud server 100 and the external service provider device 400 via the internet. For example, the user terminal 300 receives information from the cloud server 100 via the internet.

[0128] Furthermore, the user terminal 300 can acquire and store various data related to sleep, meals, exercise, etc., from the external data provision device 240 using a health management application (also called a "healthcare application"), and provide it to the cloud server 100 as data for provision. In this case, the user terminal 300 may also process the acquired data before providing it as data for provision. In addition, the user terminal 300 can acquire usage data from toilets 210, etc., and provide it to the cloud server 100.

[0129] (external provision destination device) Data processing units DP21, DP22, and DP23 are data processing units not included in Information Processing System 1. For example, data processing units DP21, DP22, and DP23 are data processing units (also called "external data processing units") used by service providers outside of Information Processing System 1 (also called "external service providers") to provide services. For example, external data processing units are data processing units that are not included in Information Processing System 1. When describing external data processing units such as data processing units DP21, DP22, and DP23 used by external service providers to provide services without distinction, they will be referred to as data processing unit DP2. Each data processing unit DP2 provides services using data supplied from Information Processing System 1. For example, data processing unit DP2 provides services using either or a combination thereof, the data to be provided, estimated information on the user's health status estimated by data processing unit DP1, and service information such as recommendations provided by data processing unit DP1. In addition, each data processing unit DP2 may acquire information from other data processing units DP2 and provide services using the acquired data.

[0130] For example, each of the data processing units DP2 is implemented by an external service provider device 400 as shown in Figure 2. The external service provider device 400 is an information processing device (computer), such as a server, used by an external service provider to provide services. For example, the external service provider device 400 manages information acquired from other devices. The external service provider device 400 is, for example, a server located on the cloud.

[0131] The external data provider device 400 can communicate with external information processing devices such as the cloud server 100, user terminal 300, and other external data provider devices 400 via a communication unit implemented by a communication device, communication circuit, etc. The external data provider device 400 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet by wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with the external information processing device. The external data provider device 400 may also be connected to an external information processing device via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Wi-Fi to enable communication.

[0132] For example, the external provider device 400 sends and receives information via the internet between the cloud server 100, the user terminal 300, and other external provider devices 400. For example, the external provider device 400 receives information from the cloud server 100 via the internet. The external provider device 400 may also send information to the user terminal 300 via the internet.

[0133] The data processing unit DP21 provides a predetermined service (health status estimation #2 in Figure 1) by an external service provider, such as a medical company. The data processing unit DP21 is a data processing unit located in an external service provider device 400 or the like used by the external service provider. The data processing unit DP21 works in conjunction with the information processing system 1 to provide predetermined services to other service providers, such as users. For example, the data processing unit DP21 uses provision data received from a device within the information processing system 1 (such as a cloud server 100) to provide a health status estimation service to other service providers, users, etc. In this embodiment, the data processing unit DP21 provides services to users, etc. via the cloud server 100. For example, the data processing unit DP21 may use provision data acquired from a device within the information processing system 1 to generate data for providing a health status estimation service to other service providers, users, etc., and provide the generated data to the cloud server 100.

[0134] Furthermore, there may be multiple data processing units DP21. In this case, each of the multiple data processing units DP21 may provide a service that estimates a different health status. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP21 may use at least partially different data to provide a service that estimates a health status to other service providers, users, etc. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP21 may have at least different data provision conditions and receive data for provision from the data supply means DS based on different data provision conditions.

[0135] The data processing unit DP22 provides a predetermined service (recommendation #3 in Figure 1). The data processing unit DP22 is a data processing unit in an external service provider device 400 used by an external service provider, such as a life insurance company. The data processing unit DP22 works in conjunction with the information processing system 1 to provide predetermined services to other service providers, such as users. For example, the data processing unit DP22 uses data such as provision data and estimated health status information obtained from the cloud server 100 (data supply means DS) to provide predetermined services related to a life insurance company to other service providers, users, etc. In this embodiment, the data processing unit DP22 provides services to users, etc. via the cloud server 100. For example, the data processing unit DP22 may generate data to provide predetermined services to other service providers, users, etc., and provide the generated data to the cloud server 100.

[0136] Furthermore, there may be multiple data processing units DP22. In this case, each of the multiple data processing units DP22 may provide a different service for promotional collaboration. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP22 may provide a service for promotional collaboration to other service providers, users, etc., using at least partially different data. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP22 may have at least different data provision conditions and receive data for provision from the data supply means DS based on different data provision conditions.

[0137] The data processing unit DP23 provides a predetermined service (recommendation #4 in Figure 1). The data processing unit DP23 is a data processing unit in an external service provider device 400 used by an external service provider such as a hospital or nursing care service provider. The data processing unit DP23 provides a predetermined service in cooperation with the information processing system 1. For example, the data processing unit DP23 uses the data to be provided, acquired from the cloud server 100 (data supply means DS), to provide services related to hospitals and nursing care services to other service providers, users, etc. In this embodiment, the data processing unit DP23 provides services to users, etc. via the cloud server 100. For example, the data processing unit DP23 may generate data to provide a predetermined service to other service providers, users, etc., and provide the generated data to the cloud server 100.

[0138] There may be multiple data processing units DP23. In this case, each of the multiple data processing units DP23 may provide a different service for service collaboration. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP23 may provide a service for service collaboration to other service providers, users, etc., using at least partially different data. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP23 may have at least different data provision conditions and receive data for provision from the data supply means DS based on different data provision conditions.

[0139] As described above, data processing units DP21, DP22, DP23, and other external data processing units DP2 may acquire information from storage means DBS, data processing unit DP1, other data processing units DP2, etc., and provide services using the acquired data. For example, each data processing unit DP2's external service provider device 400 transmits information about the services provided by that data processing unit DP2 to the cloud server 100, other external service provider devices 400, etc. When explaining without distinguishing between the internal data processing unit DP1 and the external data processing unit DP2, they will be referred to as data processing unit DP.

[0140] Here, the external system, such as the external data processing unit DP21, DP22, DP23, etc., and the external data processing unit 400, may be located in the cloud. That is, the external system, such as the external data processing unit 400, may be configured to receive external output information provided from the cloud server 100 in the cloud on the external system side, and to output external analysis results obtained by analyzing the received external output information.

[0141] Furthermore, data processing units DP21, DP22, and DP23 may each be data processing units DP2 provided by different external service providers. Users are not required to receive services from all three data processing units DP21, DP22, and DP23; they can receive services only from those they select. In other words, external systems such as the external service provider device 400 may be equipped with a selection means that allows users to select from multiple external systems. A service processing unit DP2 selected by the user via the selection means will provide the services it can offer in the manner described above. A service processing unit DP2 not selected by the user via the selection means will not provide services. Alternatively, depending on the user's selection, the user terminal 300 may restrict the provision of services from service processing units DP2 not selected by the user via the selection means.

[0142] <1-1-2. Processing Example> From here, we will describe an example of the processing performed by Information Processing System 1. Note that the processing shown below is merely one example of the processing performed by Information Processing System 1, and Information Processing System 1 may perform various other processes using the data used, etc., in addition to the processing shown below.

[0143] As described above, the data supply means DS supplies data to the data processing unit DP, which provides services using data based on usage data stored in the storage means DBS, based on the conditions for providing data to the data processing unit DP. The following explanation will take the case where the first plumbing fixture is a toilet 211 and the second plumbing fixture is a bathroom 221 as an example. In the example shown below, the first plumbing fixture and the second plumbing fixture are any two fixtures selected from a toilet, bathroom, washbasin, or kitchen.

[0144] In this case, the database DB1 of the storage means DBS functions as a first storage means that stores usage data (also called "first usage data") acquired from the first plumbing equipment, the toilet device 211. The database DB2 of the storage means DBS functions as a second storage means that stores usage data (also called "second usage data") acquired from the second plumbing equipment, the bathroom device 221.

[0145] The data supply means DS supplies provision data to each data processing unit DP that provides services using provision data based on at least one of the first and second usage data, based on the data provision conditions of that data processing unit DP. The data provision conditions may be pre-set conditions or modified conditions. The data provision conditions may be set by the entity providing services using each data processing unit DP (service provider, etc.) or by the entity receiving services from each data processing unit DP (user, etc.). The data supply means DS may generate data provision conditions for each data processing unit DP based on the service provision specifications of each data processing unit DP.

[0146] The following explanation will use the case where the first data processing unit is the internal data processing unit DP11, and the second data processing unit is the external data processing unit DP23, as an example.

[0147] As described above, the data processing unit DP11 is a data processing unit DP that provides recommendation #1. For example, the data processing unit DP11 can provide a service that provides health-related recommendations to users using provision data based on first usage data or second usage data. For example, the data processing unit DP11 can provide recommendation data regarding nutrition, sleep, or exercise using provision data for a predetermined period, such as the most recent week. In this way, the data processing unit DP11 provides a service related to the user's health status corresponding to the first provision data using the service provision data provided by the data processing unit DP11 (also called "first provision data").

[0148] In other words, among the multiple data processing units DP, the first data processing unit can generate health-related data concerning the user's health status using data for provision based on at least one of the first or second usage data during a predetermined period.

[0149] As described above, the data processing unit DP23 is a data processing unit DP that provides recommendation #4. For example, the data processing unit DP23 can work in conjunction with the information processing system 1 to provide recommendations related to the user's health. For example, the data processing unit DP23 can use health-related data generated by the first data processing unit, data processing unit DP11, to provide recommendation data regarding nutrition, sleep, or exercise. In this way, the data processing unit DP23 uses the second provision data to provide recommendations regarding the user's health status corresponding to the second provision data, via the cloud server 100. For example, the data processing unit DP23 sends data to the cloud server 100 for use in the service that provides recommendation #4 corresponding to the second provision data. Furthermore, the data processing unit DP11 and the data processing unit DP23 each provide different types of services, such as providing different recommendations #1 and recommendation #4.

[0150] Thus, among the multiple data processing units DP, the second data processing unit can provide recommendation data regarding nutrition, sleep, or exercise based on the health-related data generated by the first data processing unit. Furthermore, at least one data processing unit of the multiple data processing units DP (for example, data processing unit DP23) can provide recommendation data regarding nutrition, sleep, or exercise using provision data based on at least one of the first or second usage data over a predetermined period.

[0151] The data supply means DS supplies first data to the data processing unit DP11, which is the first data processing unit, based on the data provision conditions (also referred to as "first data provision conditions") of the data processing unit DP11. The data supply means DS passes first data to the data processing unit DP11, which is the internal data processing unit, such as usage data of the type indicated by the first data provision conditions of the data processing unit DP11. For example, the data supply means DS supplies to the data processing unit DP11 data such as stool consistency, color, and quantity data included in the usage data acquired from the toilet device 211. As a result, the data processing unit DP11 acquires first data from the data supply means DS based on the first data provision conditions.

[0152] Furthermore, if the first data provision conditions include a supply timing condition, the data supply means DS will transfer the first data to the data processing unit DP11 at a timing that satisfies the supply timing condition of the first data provision conditions (for example, 12:00 every day).

[0153] For example, the data processing unit DP11 provides recommendation data (also called "recommendation information") regarding nutrition, sleep, or exercise using data for a predetermined period, such as the most recent week. In this case, the data supply means DS may supply the data processing unit DP11 with first data for provision based on the user's bowel movement data for a predetermined period, such as the most recent week.

[0154] Furthermore, specifying a predetermined period, such as the most recent week, may be included in the first data provision conditions. In this case, the data supply means DS supplies data based on usage data collected during the predetermined period, such as the most recent week, to the data processing unit DP11 as first data for provision, based on the first data provision conditions. For example, the data supply means DS retrieves usage data acquired within the predetermined timeframe, such as the most recent week, from the acquired usage data via the storage means DBS, and supplies data based on the acquired usage data to the data processing unit DP11 as first data for provision.

[0155] The data supply means DS may exclude defective data from the usage data stored in the storage means DBS based on predetermined criteria. For example, the data supply means DS may determine that usage data whose detection accuracy (reliability) by the sensor is below a predetermined standard is defective data and exclude the determined defective data from the data stored in the storage means DBS. For example, the data supply means DS may determine that data is defective if a value related to noise based on the signal-to-noise ratio of the data exceeds a standard value and exclude the determined defective data from the data stored in the storage means DBS. In addition, the data supply means DS may determine that usage data for which a predetermined period (e.g., 1 year, 5 years, etc.) has elapsed since the date and time of collection is defective data and exclude the determined defective data from the data stored in the storage means DBS.

[0156] In this case, the data supply means DS may supply data to each data processing unit DP using the data set after removing defective data. Thus, the data supply means DS may supply data to the data processing unit DP based on usage data from which defective data has been removed from the usage data stored in the storage means DBS based on predetermined criteria.

[0157] The data supply means DS supplies data to the data processing unit DP23, which is the second data processing unit, for use in the service (also called "second data provision data"), based on the data provision conditions (also called "second data provision conditions") of the data processing unit DP23, which is the second data processing unit. The data supply means DS transmits the second data provision data, such as usage data of the type indicated by the second data provision conditions of the data processing unit DP23, which is an external data processing unit, to the data processing unit DP23. For example, the data supply means DS supplies the data processing unit DP23 with data such as the number of times the user uses the bathroom 220 and the frequency of use, which are included in the usage data acquired from the bathroom device 221. As a result, the data processing unit DP23 acquires the second data provision data from the data supply means DS based on the second data provision conditions.

[0158] Thus, the data supply means DS functions as a data supply means that supplies provision data to each of a plurality of data processing units, each of which includes an information estimation means that provides services using provision data based on at least one of the first and second usage data stored in the first or second storage means, based on conditions relating to data provision to each of the plurality of data processing units.

[0159] Subsequently, the data supply means DS receives data to be used for the service related to the user's health status, corresponding to the second data to be provided, by instructing the communication device (communication unit 101, etc.). Then, the data supply means DS provides the user with the service related to the user's health status, corresponding to the second data to be provided, by instructing the communication device (communication unit 101, etc.).

[0160] Furthermore, if the second data provision conditions include a supply timing condition, the data supply means DS transmits the second data to the data processing unit DP23 at a timing that satisfies the supply timing condition of the second data provision conditions (for example, Monday at 12:00).

[0161] In the example described above, the first data processing unit is data processing unit DP11 and the second data processing unit is data processing unit DP23. However, the first and second data processing units may be data processing units DP that provide any service. In other words, the first and second data processing units are not limited to the above and may be any combination.

[0162] For example, the first data processing unit may be a data processing unit DP that generates health-related data concerning the user's health status using provision data based on at least one of the first or second usage data over a predetermined period. In this case, the first data processing unit may be a data processing unit DP12. For example, the second data processing unit may be a data processing unit DP that provides recommendation data concerning nutrition, sleep, or exercise based on the health-related data generated by the first data processing unit. In this case, the second data processing unit may be a data processing unit DP11, and the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data using the health-related data generated by the data processing unit DP12 and provide the generated recommendation data.

[0163] Furthermore, the above example described the case where the first plumbing fixture is a toilet 211 and the second plumbing fixture is a bathroom 221. In other words, the above example described the case where the first and second plumbing fixtures are plumbing fixtures 201 such as a toilet, bathroom, washbasin, and kitchen, but the first and second plumbing fixtures may be any plumbing fixtures. That is, the first and second plumbing fixtures are not limited to the above and may be any combination.

[0164] For example, the first plumbing fixture and the second plumbing fixture may be functional devices 202. In this case, the first plumbing fixture and the second plumbing fixture may be functional devices 202 of a single plumbing device 201. Hereinafter, we will explain as an example the case in which a toilet device 211, which is a single plumbing device 201, has a toilet sensor 212 ("feces sensor 212a") which is a feces sensor used for the excrement detection function, and a toilet sensor 212 ("gas sensor 212b") which is a gas sensor used for the gas detection function. In this way, a single plumbing device 201 may be equipped with multiple functional devices 202 that constitute plumbing fixtures.

[0165] In this case, the toilet unit 211, which is a single plumbing device 201, may have a stool sensor 212a as the first plumbing device (functional device 202) and a gas sensor 212b as the second plumbing device (functional device 202). The stool sensor 212a, which is the first plumbing device (functional device 202), acquires usage data related to stool from users of the toilet unit 211 and transmits it to the cloud server 100. The gas sensor 212b, which is the second plumbing device (functional device 202), acquires usage data related to gas from users of the toilet unit 211 and transmits it to the cloud server 100. In this case, the cloud server 100 may register each functional device 202, such as the stool sensor 212a and the gas sensor 212b, in the storage means DBS.

[0166] The above-described process is merely an example, and the processes executed by the information processing system 1 are not limited to those described above. The information processing system 1 may perform various processes using the information (data) it has acquired. Furthermore, each data processing unit DP may perform various processes according to the services it provides, but some examples are given below.

[0167] First, using the data processing unit DP11 as an example, we will describe an example of processing for a recommendation service. For example, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data for health improvement that includes at least one of the following: nutrition, sleep, and exercise, and transmits the generated recommendation data to the user terminal 300, etc. For example, if the data provided, such as user data obtained from the data supply means DS, satisfies the recommendation conditions (also called "recommendation conditions"), the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data for health improvement that includes at least one of the following: nutrition, sleep, and exercise.

[0168] For example, if the data processing unit DP11 finds that the data to be provided satisfies the recommendation conditions, it generates recommendation data using the recommendation generation information corresponding to the improvement type corresponding to the recommendation conditions from the recommendation generation information stored in the storage means DBS. In this case, the data processing unit DP11 extracts the recommendation generation information corresponding to the improvement type corresponding to the recommendation conditions from the recommendation generation information stored in the storage means DBS, and generates recommendation data using the extracted recommendation generation information.

[0169] The data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data to improve the user's health status, which is analyzed (estimated) based on blood flow derived from biometric data included in the provided data. The data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data for health improvement that includes at least one of the following: nutrition, sleep, and exercise, in order to improve the user's health status based on blood flow. For example, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data that recommends increasing sleep time to improve the user's health status. For example, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data that recommends continuing to perform a predetermined exercise to improve the user's health status.

[0170] For example, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data to improve the user's health indicators. The data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data for health improvement that includes at least one of the following: nutrition, sleep, and exercise, in order to improve the user's health indicators based on blood flow. For example, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data that recommends increasing sleep time to improve the user's health indicators. For example, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data that recommends continuing to perform a predetermined exercise to improve the user's health indicators.

[0171] The data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data to improve the user's health status, which is analyzed (estimated) based on the state of the excrement, which is included in the data provided. The data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data for health improvement, which includes at least one of the following: nutrition, sleep, and exercise, in order to improve the user's health status based on the state of the excrement. For example, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data that recommends the user consuming foods that improve the intestinal environment in order to improve the user's health status. For example, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data that recommends the user continuing to perform a predetermined exercise in order to improve the user's health status.

[0172] For example, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data to improve the user's excretion indicators. The data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data for health improvement that includes at least one of the following: nutrition, sleep, and exercise, in order to improve the user's excretion indicators based on the state of their excretions. For example, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data that recommends the user consuming foods that improve the intestinal environment in order to improve the user's excretion indicators. For example, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data that recommends the user continuing to perform a predetermined exercise in order to improve the user's excretion indicators.

[0173] The recommendation data described above is merely an example, and the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data using various types. Several examples are provided below.

[0174] For example, if the amount of stool a user has produced during a predetermined period (e.g., the last few weeks) is less than a predetermined amount, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data for the user to relieve constipation. In this case, for example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data indicating exercises that the user should do to relieve constipation. For example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data indicating nutrition (foods, etc.).

[0175] For example, if the data processing unit DP11 detects a tendency for the odor of gases related to a user's excretion to become stronger over a predetermined period (e.g., the last few weeks), it generates recommendation data to improve the user's intestinal environment. In this case, for example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data indicating exercise to improve the user's intestinal environment. For example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate a second type of recommendation data indicating nutrition (food, etc.).

[0176] For example, if the data processing unit DP11 detects that the user's blood circulation status, as indicated by the user's blood flow information over a predetermined period (e.g., the last few months), is showing a worsening trend, it generates recommendation data to improve the user's blood circulation. In this case, for example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data indicating exercises to improve the user's blood circulation. For example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate a second type of recommendation data indicating nutrition (foods, etc.).

[0177] For example, if the average pulse rate indicated by the user's pulse information over a predetermined period (e.g., the last few weeks) is above a predetermined number, the data processing unit DP11 generates recommendation data to improve the user's pulse. In this case, for example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data indicating exercise to improve the user's pulse. For example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate a second type of recommendation data indicating nutrition (food, etc.).

[0178] The above-described generation of recommendation data is merely one example, and the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data by combining various types of information. For example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data by combining biological data and excretion data.

[0179] For example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data based on multiple biological data and at least one excretion data. For example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data based on blood flow information, pulse rate information, and stool volume. For example, if the analysis results satisfy recommendation conditions related to blood flow, recommendation conditions related to pulse rate, and recommendation conditions related to stool volume, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data using recommendation generation information related to blood flow, recommendation generation information related to pulse rate, and recommendation generation information related to stool volume. In this case, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data by selecting different types of recommendation data from each recommendation generation information.

[0180] For example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data based on at least one biological data and multiple excretion data. For example, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data based on blood flow information, stool volume, and gas odor. For example, if the analysis results satisfy recommendation conditions related to blood flow, recommendation conditions related to pulse rate, and recommendation conditions related to stool volume, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data using recommendation generation information related to blood flow, recommendation generation information related to stool volume, and recommendation generation information related to gas odor. In this case, the data processing unit DP11 may generate recommendation data by selecting different types of recommendation data from each recommendation generation information.

[0181] Next, using the data processing unit DP12 as an example, we will describe an example of processing for a health status estimation service. For example, the data processing unit DP121 estimates the health status of users of plumbing equipment based on provision data such as usage data obtained from the data supply means DS. The data processing unit DP121 estimates the health status of users of plumbing equipment based on predetermined criteria that associate toilet usage status obtained from the provision data with predetermined health status patterns.

[0182] The data processing unit DP12 estimates the health status of users of plumbing equipment based on predetermined estimation conditions, such as health status estimation conditions that associate toilet usage status obtained from the provided data with predetermined health conditions. The data processing unit DP12 estimates the stress level of users of plumbing equipment as part of their health status.

[0183] The data processing unit DP12 estimates the health status of users of plumbing equipment based on the analysis results of the provided data. The data processing unit DP12 performs the estimation of the health status of users of plumbing equipment based on the provided data showing the usage status of toilets multiple times. For example, the provided data includes data showing the usage status of toilets multiple times. For example, the provided data includes provided data showing the start and end of use of the toilet device 211.

[0184] The data processing unit DP12 estimates the health status of the user of the plumbing equipment based on at least one piece of information from the number of urinations or defecations, date and time, quantity, and characteristics included in the data provided. The data processing unit DP12 estimates the intestinal condition, including constipation or diarrhea, as the health status of the user of the plumbing equipment based on the data on defecation (also called "defecation records") included in the data provided. In addition to the defecation records, the data processing unit DP12 estimates the intestinal condition based on the urination records included in the data provided. The data processing unit DP12 estimates constipation if the number of defecations within a predetermined period does not meet the predetermined number conditions, and the number of urinations within a predetermined period does meet the predetermined number conditions.

[0185] The data processing unit DP12 estimates constipation if the sitting time recorded in the data provided for the toilet unit 211 is longer than a predetermined sitting condition. The predetermined sitting condition is the average time that users of the plumbing equipment sat on the toilet unit 211 during a predetermined period.

[0186] The data processing unit DP12 estimates constipation if the number of times the flushing function of the toilet device 211 included in the provided data is used exceeds a predetermined flushing frequency condition. The predetermined flushing frequency condition includes the average number of times the flushing function was used by users of the plumbing equipment over a predetermined period. If the number of times the user is estimated to be constipated satisfies the predetermined condition, the data processing unit DP12 estimates the user of the plumbing equipment to be frail.

[0187] The data processing unit DP12 estimates nocturia as the health condition of the user of the plumbing equipment if toilet usage during a predetermined time period exceeds the health condition estimation conditions determined based on toilet usage during a predetermined time period within a predetermined period included in the data provided. The data processing unit DP12 refers to the number of times the toilet is used during time periods other than the predetermined time period included in the data provided, changes the health condition estimation conditions or judgment algorithm, and estimates nocturia. The data processing unit DP12 estimates the presence or absence of nocturia based on the defecation records and urination records included in the data provided.

[0188] The data processing unit DP12 estimates frailty based on the estimated number of nocturia episodes and the estimated number of constipation episodes. The data processing unit DP12 estimates frailty if the estimated number of nocturia episodes exceeds a predetermined number.

[0189] The data processing unit DP12 estimates the presence or absence of an overactive bladder as a health condition of the user of the plumbing equipment based on the number of urinations included in the data provided. The data processing unit DP12 also estimates the menstrual cycle as a health condition of the user of the plumbing equipment based on at least one toilet usage condition included in the data provided: bidet washing, washing time, sitting time, and time entering and leaving the toilet.

[0190] The data processing unit DP12 estimates the stress state as the health state of users of plumbing equipment based on toilet usage data obtained from the provided data, based on health status estimation conditions determined based on toilet usage data obtained from the provided data. The data processing unit DP12 estimates a stress state if a defecation record or urination record is found within the specified period that does not meet the health status estimation conditions. The data processing unit DP12 estimates whether there is a disruption in the daily rhythm if a change occurs in toilet usage data within a specified time period that does not meet the health status estimation conditions, and estimates a stress state if the disruption in the daily rhythm continues for a specified period or frequency.

[0191] The data processing unit DP12 estimates frailty based on the estimated number of stressful states. The data processing unit DP12 estimates the state of frailty as the health status of users of plumbing equipment based on at least one toilet usage condition included in the provided data: number of bowel movements, urination records, sitting time, and nocturia. Note that the above is merely an example, and each data processing unit DP may perform various processes depending on the service it provides.

[0192] <1-2. Cloud Server> From here, we will explain the details of Cloud Server 100. Cloud Server 100 is an information processing device (computer) that performs information processing such as data processing. Below, we will explain an example of each configuration of Cloud Server 100 with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the cloud server.

[0193] The cloud server 100 shown in Figure 3 includes a communication unit 101, a storage unit 102, and a control unit 103. The cloud server 100 may also have an input unit (e.g., a keyboard or mouse) for receiving various operations from the administrator of the cloud server 100, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display) for displaying various information.

[0194] The communication unit 101 is implemented, for example, by a communication device, a communication circuit, etc. The communication unit 101 is connected to any network such as the Internet by wired or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with an external information processing device. The communication unit 101 may also be connected to an external information processing device in a communicative manner by a predetermined wireless communication function such as Wi-Fi.

[0195] For example, the communication unit 101 transmits and receives information with other devices in the water-related space 200, such as the water-related equipment 201, functional equipment 202, user terminal 300, and external service provider equipment 400. For example, the communication unit 101 is connected to multiple water-related equipment such as the water-related equipment 201 and functional equipment 202 via the Internet to transmit and receive information. In this way, the communication unit 101 is a connection means that enables multiple water-related equipment to communicate via a predetermined network.

[0196] The communication unit 101 transmits the specified data to the corresponding destination (device), such as the user terminal 300 or the external provider device 400, in response to instructions from the supply unit 108 or the processing unit 109. For example, the communication unit 101 outputs data based on usage data (e.g., recommendation data) to the user terminal 300 owned by a user identified based on the user's identification information (user ID, etc.).

[0197] For example, the communication unit 101 can function as an output means that outputs at least one of the following information as external output information to an external system such as an external service provider device 400 used by the user: usage information (usage data), user health information such as estimated health status information estimated by the data processing unit DP12, and service information such as recommendations generated by the data processing unit DP11 or data processing unit DP13. In addition, the communication unit 101 can function as an output means that can output either or both of the following to the outside: provision data, which is data related to the use of plumbing equipment, or the user's first health status, which is estimated health status information provided from the cloud server 100.

[0198] The communication unit 101 outputs data based on usage data based on the personal authentication result, which is an authentication of whether or not the user's identification information is associated with the user's personal information. For example, if the communication unit 101 finds that the user's identification information stored in the storage unit 102 is associated with the user's personal information, it determines that the user's personal authentication has been successful and outputs data based on usage data (e.g., recommendation data). For example, if the supply unit 108 finds that the user's identification information stored in the storage unit 102 is associated with the user's personal information, it determines that the user's personal authentication has been successful and causes the communication unit 101 to output data based on usage data (e.g., recommendation data).

[0199] Furthermore, the communication unit 101 can receive service provision data from the external service provider device 400, which is the destination for the data transmission, as a response to the data transmission. The communication unit 101 then outputs the data received from the external service provider device 400 to the supply unit 108.

[0200] The storage unit 102 is implemented by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as RAM or flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or optical disc. For example, the storage unit 102 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by information processing programs. The storage unit 102 also stores usage data acquired from plumbing equipment in association with identification information (user ID, etc.) of the user using the plumbing equipment.

[0201] Furthermore, for example, the user identification information managed by the memory unit 102 is information associated with the user's personal information. The memory unit 102 stores various information used for various information processing, such as data processing. The memory unit 102 stores various information used for determination processing, such as data provision conditions.

[0202] The memory unit 102 stores user information for each user, such as user U. The user information includes various information about the user associated with an account identifier that identifies the corresponding user. For example, the user information includes information indicating the user terminal 300 used by that user. The user information may also include various personal information such as name and address. Furthermore, the user information may also include demographic information such as the user's age and gender, as well as psychographic information. The demographic information such as age and gender, as well as psychographic information, may be used for analysis or for providing (selecting, etc.) recommendation data.

[0203] Furthermore, the storage unit 102 stores data supply destination information relating to the recipients of information (data) from internal data processing units, external data processing units, etc. For example, the storage unit 102 stores information such as services provided by an internal data processing unit, such as a data processing unit DP1, as data supply destination information, associated with identification information (such as a data processing unit ID) that identifies the data processing unit DP1. If the internal data processing unit, such as a data processing unit DP1, is located in a device other than the cloud server 100, the storage unit 102 stores the data supply destination information associated with identification information (such as a device ID) that identifies the device having that internal data processing unit.

[0204] Furthermore, for example, the storage unit 102 stores information such as services provided by an external data processing unit, such as the data processing unit DP2, as data supply destination information for that external data processing unit, as associated with identification information (such as a data processing unit ID) that identifies the data processing unit DP2. The storage unit 102 also stores data supply destination information associated with identification information (such as an equipment unit ID) that identifies an external provider device 400 having an external data processing unit such as the data processing unit DP2.

[0205] Furthermore, for example, the storage unit 102 stores information indicating the data provision conditions for providing (supplying) data to an internal data processing unit such as the data processing unit DP1, as data supply destination information for that internal data processing unit, associated with identification information (such as a data processing unit ID) that identifies the data processing unit DP1. For example, the data provision conditions include various conditions related to providing data to the data processing unit DP1.

[0206] For example, the data provision conditions include information indicating the data used by the data processing unit DP1 for the service. For example, the data provision conditions include information indicating whether the data processing unit DP1 uses excretion data, and if so, which type of excretion data (stool consistency, stool volume, color, urine consistency, urine volume, color, excretory gas characteristics, etc.) will be used. Also, for example, the data provision conditions include information indicating whether the data processing unit DP1 uses biometric data, and if so, which type of biometric data (heart rate (pulse), respiration, body temperature, electroencephalogram, muscle, etc.) will be used. Also, for example, the data provision conditions include information indicating whether the data processing unit DP1 uses log data, and if so, which type of log data (number of uses, frequency of use, usage time, etc.) will be used.

[0207] Furthermore, for example, the storage unit 102 stores information indicating the data provision conditions for providing (supplying) data to an external data processing unit such as the data processing unit DP2, as data supply destination information for that external data processing unit, associated with identification information (such as a data processing unit ID) that identifies the data processing unit DP2. For example, the data provision conditions include various conditions related to providing data to the data processing unit DP2.

[0208] For example, the data provision conditions include information indicating the data used by the data processing unit DP2 for the service. For example, the data provision conditions include information indicating whether the data processing unit DP2 uses excretion data, and if so, which type of excretion data (stool consistency, stool volume, color, urine consistency, urine volume, color, excretory gas characteristics, etc.) is used. Also, for example, the data provision conditions include information indicating whether the data processing unit DP2 uses biometric data, and if so, which type of biometric data (heart rate (pulse), respiration, body temperature, electroencephalogram, muscle, etc.) is used. Also, for example, the data provision conditions include information indicating whether the data processing unit DP2 uses log data, and if so, which type of log data (number of uses, frequency of use, usage time, etc.) is used.

[0209] The memory unit 102 stores various information, such as user usage data. The memory unit 102 functions as a data storage means for storing usage data acquired from the water-related space 200. The memory unit 102 functions as a data storage means for storing usage data received from multiple water-related devices such as water-related devices 201 and functional devices 202. For example, the memory unit 102 functions as a first storage means for storing usage data acquired from a first water-related device such as a toilet device 211 as first usage data. For example, the memory unit 102 functions as a second storage means for storing usage data acquired from a second water-related device such as a bathroom device 221 as second usage data.

[0210] The storage unit 102 stores usage data such as biometric data and excretion data, associated with an account identifier (user ID, etc.) used to identify each user. For example, when a user uses plumbing equipment such as the plumbing device 201, the storage unit 102 stores the user's usage data in association with the account identifier identified by the user's own operation. The storage unit 102 also stores the usage data in association with the date and time information on which the usage data was acquired.

[0211] The memory unit 102 stores usage data related to the toilet 210. The memory unit 102 also stores usage data related to the bathroom 220. Furthermore, the memory unit 102 stores usage data related to the washbasin 230. The memory unit 102 also stores external data acquired from the external data provision device 240. Additionally, the memory unit 102 stores usage data related to the kitchen. In this way, the memory unit 102 stores usage data acquired from each plumbing fixture.

[0212] Furthermore, for example, the storage unit 102 may store account management data used as an integrated infrastructure. For instance, the storage unit 102 may store user identification information, such as an account identifier (user ID, etc.), to identify each user's account, and be used to manage each user's account.

[0213] Furthermore, the memory unit 102 may store various types of information depending on the purpose, not limited to those described above. For example, when the cloud server 100 provides services, the memory unit 102 may store content engines (programs, etc.) for realizing various functions such as a health-related recommendation generation engine, a health status estimation engine, and a product recommendation generation engine. In this case, the memory unit 102 may store programs for realizing various functions such as a health-related recommendation generation program, a health status estimation program, and a product recommendation generation program.

[0214] The control unit 103 may be, for example, an information processing device (control device) that controls various configurations and processes. The control unit 103 may have, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and may be implemented by executing a program (for example, the information processing program related to this disclosure) stored inside the control unit 103 using RAM or the like as a working area. The control unit 103 may also have, for example, an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0215] As shown in Figure 3, the control unit 103 includes an acquisition unit 107, a supply unit 108, and a processing unit 109, and realizes or executes the information processing functions and operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 103 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 3, and other configurations are also acceptable as long as they perform the information processing described later.

[0216] The acquisition unit 107 acquires information. The acquisition unit 107 receives various types of information from other devices via the communication unit 101, which is a connection means. The acquisition unit 107 acquires information from the plumbing equipment 201, functional equipment 202, user terminal 300, external service provider device 400, etc. in the plumbing space 200. For example, the acquisition unit 107 acquires usage data from the plumbing equipment 201, functional equipment 202, etc. in the plumbing space 200. Also, for example, the acquisition unit 107 acquires service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 from the external service provider device 400.

[0217] The acquisition unit 107 acquires various information from the storage unit 102. The acquisition unit 107 acquires user information from the storage unit 102. The acquisition unit 107 acquires data supply destination information from the storage unit 102. For example, the acquisition unit 107 acquires information indicating data supply conditions from the storage unit 102. The acquisition unit 107 acquires data such as usage data and external data from the storage unit 102. For example, the acquisition unit 107 acquires information (data) to be supplied to the data supply destination.

[0218] The supply unit 108 performs supply processing to supply information (data). The supply unit 108 performs processing of the data supply means DS. The supply unit 108 supplies data to the data processing unit DP, which provides services using the information (data). The supply unit 108 supplies data such as usage data and external data stored in the storage unit 102 to the data processing unit DP that uses that data.

[0219] The supply unit 108 supplies provision data to each of the data processing units DP that provide services using provision data based on at least one of the first and second usage data, based on the data provision conditions of the data processing unit DP. The supply unit 108 executes the processing of the data supply means DS as described in Figure 1.

[0220] The supply unit 108 supplies the first data to be used by the data processing unit DP11, which is the first data processing unit, to the data processing unit DP11, which is the first data processing unit, based on the first data provision conditions of the data processing unit DP11. The supply unit 108 passes the first data to the data processing unit DP11, which is the internal data processing unit, such as usage data of the type indicated by the first data provision conditions of the data processing unit DP11. For example, the supply unit 108 supplies the data processing unit DP11 with data such as stool consistency, color, and quantity data included in the usage data acquired from the toilet device 211.

[0221] Furthermore, if the first data provision conditions include a supply timing condition, the supply unit 108 will transfer the first data to the data processing unit DP11 at a timing that satisfies the supply timing condition of the first data provision conditions (for example, 12:00 every day). For example, the supply unit 108 may supply the first data to the data processing unit DP11 based on the user's bowel movement data for a predetermined period, such as the past week.

[0222] Furthermore, if the first data provision conditions include specifying a predetermined period such as the most recent week, the supply unit 108 supplies data based on usage data collected during the predetermined period such as the most recent week to the data processing unit DP11 as first data for provision, based on the first data provision conditions. For example, the supply unit 108 retrieves usage data acquired within the predetermined time frame such as the most recent week from the storage unit 102, and supplies data based on the acquired usage data to the data processing unit DP11 as first data for provision.

[0223] The supply unit 108 may exclude defective data from the usage data stored in the storage unit 102 based on predetermined criteria. For example, the supply unit 108 may determine that usage data with a sensor detection accuracy below a predetermined standard is defective data and exclude the determined defective data from the data stored in the storage unit 102. Alternatively, the supply unit 108 may determine that usage data for which a predetermined period (e.g., 1 year, 5 years, etc.) has elapsed since the date and time of collection is defective data and exclude the determined defective data from the data stored in the storage unit 102.

[0224] In this case, the supply unit 108 may supply data to each data processing unit DP using the data set after removing defective data. Thus, the supply unit 108 may supply data to the data processing unit DP based on usage data obtained by removing defective data from the usage data stored in the storage unit 102 based on predetermined criteria.

[0225] The supply unit 108 supplies the second data provision data to the data processing unit DP23, which is the second data processing unit, based on the second data provision conditions of the data processing unit DP23, which is the second data processing unit. The supply unit 108 transmits the second data provision data, such as usage data of the type indicated by the second data provision conditions of the data processing unit DP23, which is the external data processing unit, to the data processing unit DP23. For example, the supply unit 108 supplies the data processing unit DP23 with data such as the number of times the user uses the bathroom 220 and the frequency of use, which are included in the usage data acquired from the bathroom device 221.

[0226] Thus, the supply unit 108 functions as a data collection means that collects second data provision data, which is data for external output, from the storage unit 102 based on a second data provision condition, which is a predetermined data collection condition. The supply unit 108 also transmits the second data provision data, which is data for external output, to the external recipient device 400 corresponding to the data processing unit DP23 by instructing the communication unit 101, which functions as an external output means.

[0227] Furthermore, if the second data provision conditions include a supply timing condition, the supply unit 108 transmits the second data provision data to the data processing unit DP23 at a timing that satisfies the supply timing condition of the second data provision conditions (for example, Monday at 12:00).

[0228] The processing unit 109 performs various data processing operations. For example, the processing unit 109 performs data processing to provide services. The processing unit 109 performs data processing using data supplied from the supply unit 108. For example, the processing unit 109 provides services using data supplied from the supply unit 108.

[0229] For example, the processing unit 109 executes processing corresponding to each of the internal data processing units DP1. In this case, the processing unit 109 may have multiple sections depending on the services provided by each data processing unit DP1. The processing unit 109 may have a health-related recommendation generation service provision section that executes processing corresponding to data processing unit DP11. The processing unit 109 may also have a health status estimation service provision section that executes processing corresponding to data processing unit DP12. Furthermore, the processing unit 109 may have a product recommendation generation service provision section that executes processing corresponding to data processing unit DP13.

[0230] The processing unit 109 may use a health status estimation engine (health status estimation program) to perform health status estimation processing such as that of the data processing unit DP12.

[0231] For example, the processing unit 109 generates various information about the user's health status through analysis processing. The processing unit 109 generates analysis results regarding stool through analysis processing that analyzes the biological information (biometric data) detected by the biosensor 40. The processing unit 109 performs various analysis processes depending on the target measured by the biosensor 40. The processing unit 109 analyzes the excretion data stored in the storage unit 102. The processing unit 109 analyzes the stool characteristics pattern based on the excretion data.

[0232] The processing unit 109 functions as a data analysis means for analyzing usage data stored in the memory unit 102. For example, if the processing unit 109 uses biological data, such as blood flow data, it may perform a blood flow state determination process. The processing unit 109 performs a determination process related to blood flow using the blood flow data. The processing unit 109 performs a determination process related to blood flow using the blood flow data stored in the memory unit 102.

[0233] For example, the processing unit 109 determines the user's blood flow status based on the pulse rate, pulse rate variability, blood flow rate, etc., indicated by the blood flow data. The processing unit 109 uses various techniques for classifying blood flow status as appropriate to determine whether the user's blood flow is one of several blood flow types, such as poor circulation, normal, excessive circulation, or irregular. The processing unit 109 may also determine the user's blood flow status when the user is not seated in the toilet device 211.

[0234] The processing unit 109 may determine the blood flow state using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. For example, the processing unit 109 may determine the blood flow state using a learning model (blood flow state determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the blood flow state determination model is trained in advance using training data that indicates classification judgments. This training data includes multiple combinations of numerical values ​​shown by blood flow data and labels (correct information) that indicate the blood flow type (one of the following: poor circulation, normal, excessive circulation, or irregular) corresponding to the numerical values ​​shown by the blood flow data. For example, the blood flow state determination model is a model that takes numerical values ​​shown by blood flow data as input and outputs information indicating the blood flow type of the gas corresponding to the numerical values ​​shown by the input blood flow data.

[0235] For example, the blood flow state determination model is trained to output information about a label (blood flow state) corresponding to the numerical value of the input blood flow data when a numerical value of the blood flow data is input. The training of the blood flow state determination model is carried out using various supervised learning methods as appropriate. In this case, the blood flow state determination model is stored in the memory unit 102, and the processing unit 109 may use the blood flow state determination model stored in the memory unit 102 to determine the blood flow state. For example, the cloud server 100 may perform the training process and generate the blood flow state determination model.

[0236] The above is merely an example, and the processing unit 109 may use various information as appropriate to determine the blood flow state. Furthermore, the four blood flow types described above—poor circulation, normal circulation, excessive circulation, and irregular circulation—are merely examples of blood flow states, and the processing unit 109 may determine five or more blood flow types, or three or fewer blood flow types. In addition, the processing unit 109 may determine (classify) the blood flow state by various processes, not limited to those described above, as long as a desired classification of the blood flow state is possible. Moreover, in the example described above, blood flow data was explained as an example of biological data, but biological data is not limited to blood flow data; it may be various types of biological data, and the processing unit 109 may use various types of biological data to estimate the user's health state.

[0237] The processing unit 109 generates analysis results regarding stool through analysis processing of excretion data. The processing unit 109 performs various analysis processes depending on the information contained in the excretion data. For example, if the excretion data includes information about the user's stool, the processing unit 109 may perform a stool condition determination process. The processing unit 109 performs a stool determination process using the excretion data. The processing unit 109 performs a stool determination process using the information stored in the storage unit 102.

[0238] The processing unit 109 determines the amount of feces based on the image of the feces included in the excretion data (also called the "feces image"). For example, the processing unit 109 determines the amount of feces based on the area or proportion of the feces that occupies in the image. For example, the processing unit 109 may determine the amount of feces using the score output by the feces determination model. The processing unit 109 may determine the amount of feces as "small" if the score output by the feces determination model, to which the image has been input, is greater than or equal to the first threshold and less than the second threshold. The second threshold is set to a value greater than the first threshold. The processing unit 109 may also determine the amount of feces as "medium" if the score output by the feces determination model, to which the image has been input, is greater than or equal to the second threshold and less than the third threshold. The third threshold is set to a value greater than the second threshold. The processing unit 109 may also determine the amount of feces as "large" if the score output by the feces determination model, to which the image has been input, is greater than or equal to the third threshold and less than the fourth threshold. The fourth threshold is set to a value greater than the third threshold. Note that the above three-stage determination is merely an example, and the processing unit 109 may use various information as appropriate to determine the amount of feces.

[0239] The processing unit 109 determines the type of stool corresponding to a stool image based on the stool image included in the excretion data. The processing unit 109 uses the stool image to determine whether the type of stool corresponding to that image is one of several types based on shape (also simply called "form"). The processing unit 109 may classify the stool type into seven types based on the Bristol Stool Scale. For example, the processing unit 109 uses the stool image to determine whether the type of stool corresponding to that image is one of types 1 to 7 based on the Bristol Stool Scale. For example, type 1 is lumpy, type 2 is hard, type 3 is cracked (somewhat hard), type 4 is normal (banana-shaped), type 5 is somewhat soft, type 6 is muddy, and type 7 is liquid (watery). The processing unit 109 uses various techniques to detect the shape of the stool by optical methods as appropriate to determine the type (shape) of the user's stool.

[0240] The processing unit 109 may determine the type of stool using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. For example, the processing unit 109 may determine the type of stool using a learning model (type determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the type determination model is trained in advance using training data that indicates classification judgments. This training data includes multiple combinations of stool images and labels (correct information) indicating the type of mass (stool) contained in the stool image (one of types 1 to 7). For example, the type determination model is a model that takes a stool image as input and outputs information indicating the type of mass (stool) contained in the input stool image. For example, the type determination model is trained to output information of the label (type of stool) corresponding to the input stool image when a stool image is input. The type determination model is trained using various methods related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the type determination model is stored in the memory unit 102, and the processing unit 109 may determine the type of stool using the type determination model stored in the memory unit 102. Note that the above is just one example, and the processing unit 109 may determine the type of stool using various information as appropriate.

[0241] Furthermore, for example, the processing unit 109 uses the stool image to determine the color of the stool corresponding to that image. The processing unit 109 uses the stool image to determine whether the color of the stool corresponding to that image is one of several levels based on color. For example, the processing unit 109 uses the stool image to determine whether the color of the stool corresponding to that image is one of yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, or dark dark brown.

[0242] The processing unit 109 determines the color of the stool from the detection results of the stool image included in the excretion data. The processing unit 109 determines the color of the user's stool by appropriately using various techniques for detecting the color of stool using optical methods. The processing unit 109 determines whether the color of the stool is yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, or dark brown by appropriately using various techniques for classifying the color of stool. For example, the processing unit 109 determines (judges) the color of the stool based on various information (feature quantities) such as brightness and lightness of the color image (RGB).

[0243] The processing unit 109 may determine the color of the stool using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. For example, the processing unit 109 may determine the color of the stool using a learning model (color determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the color determination model is trained in advance using training data that indicates classification decisions. This training data includes multiple combinations of stool images and labels (correct information) that indicate the color of the lumps (stool) contained in the stool image (one of yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, and dark brown). For example, the color determination model takes a stool image as input and outputs information indicating the color of the lumps (stool) contained in the input stool image. For example, the color determination model is trained to output information of the label (color of the stool) corresponding to the input stool image when a stool image is input. The training of the color determination model is carried out using various methods related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the color determination model is stored in the memory unit 102, and the processing unit 109 may determine the color of the stool using the color determination model stored in the memory unit 102. For example, the cloud server 100 may perform a learning process and generate a color determination model, or it may use a color determination model provided by an external device. The above is merely an example, and the processing unit 109 may determine the color of the stool using various information as appropriate. Furthermore, the six levels of yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, and dark brown mentioned above are merely examples of colors, and the processing unit 109 may determine other colors, or even five levels or fewer.

[0244] As described above, the processing unit 109 determines the stool condition based on the excretion information. The processing unit 109 calculates information regarding the excretion index based on the usage data (sensor information). The processing unit 109 determines the excretion index based on the excretion information. The processing unit 109 calculates the excretion index based on the stool condition. The processing unit 109 calculates the excretion index, which is a numerical representation of the excretion information. The processing unit 109 calculates the excretion index based on a relative evaluation by comparing the properties of the stool excreted in a single bowel movement with a standard property value.

[0245] The processing unit 109 may perform analysis related to excretion, not limited to defecation, but also including various substances produced in response to the user's excretion, such as urination and excretory gases. For example, the processing unit 109 may perform analysis on urination. In this case, the processing unit 109 may analyze urination and generate information indicating the color, amount, etc. of the urine as analysis results. For example, the processing unit 109 may analyze excretory gases. In this case, the processing unit 109 may analyze excretory gases and generate information indicating the components, amount, etc. of the excretory gases as analysis results.

[0246] For example, if the excretion data includes gas information, the processing unit 109 may perform a gas state determination process. The processing unit 109 uses the gas information included in the excretion data to perform a determination process related to gas. The processing unit 109 uses the information stored in the storage unit 102 to perform a determination process related to gas.

[0247] The processing unit 109 performs a determination process using the gas information contained in the excretion data. The processing unit 109 determines the odor (gas state) at the time of excretion by the user. The processing unit 109 determines the gas state at the time of excretion by the user using the gas information contained in the excretion data. The processing unit 109 determines the gas state at the time of excretion from the gas information contained in the excretion data.

[0248] The processing unit 109 determines the user's gas state at the time of excretion based on information indicating the gas state, such as the presence or concentration of certain gas components included in the excretion data, or the ratio of the components of healthy gases to the concentrations of other components of healthy gases. The processing unit 109 appropriately uses various techniques related to gas state classification to determine whether the user's gas at the time of excretion is odorless, odorless, slightly odorous, odorous, or very odorous. The processing unit 109 may also determine the gas state at times other than when feces or urine are determined to be present, that is, when only gas is released from the body (in the case of flatulence).

[0249] The processing unit 109 may determine the gas state using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. For example, the processing unit 109 may determine the gas state using a learning model (gas state determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the gas state determination model is trained in advance using training data that indicates classification judgments. This training data includes multiple combinations of gas values ​​contained in excretion data and labels (correct information) indicating the gas state corresponding to the gas values ​​contained in the excretion data (one of the following: no odor, not smelly, slightly smelly, smelly, and very smelly). For example, the gas state determination model is a model that takes gas values ​​contained in excretion data as input and outputs information indicating the gas state corresponding to the gas values ​​contained in the input excretion data.

[0250] For example, the gas state determination model is trained to output information on a label (gas state) corresponding to the numerical value of the gas contained in the input excretion data when the numerical value of the gas contained in the excretion data is input. The training of the gas state determination model is carried out using various methods related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the gas state determination model is stored in the memory unit 102, and the processing unit 109 may determine the gas state using the gas state determination model stored in the memory unit 102. For example, the cloud server 100 may perform the training process and generate the gas state determination model.

[0251] The above is merely an example, and the processing unit 109 may determine the gas state using various information as appropriate. Furthermore, the above five levels—odorless, not smelly, slightly smelly, smelly, and very smelly—are merely examples of gas states, and the processing unit 109 may determine the type of gas state (strongly smelling component), or classify it into four or fewer levels, or six or more levels. In addition, the processing unit 109 may determine (classify) the gas state by various processes, not limited to the above, as long as a desired classification of the gas state is possible.

[0252] The processing unit 109 may estimate urine flow rate or stool volume by analyzing information detected by the radio wave sensor. For example, the processing unit 109 may estimate urine flow rate or stool volume based on changes in the state of the water seal detected by the radio wave sensor. For example, the processing unit 109 estimates urine flow rate based on standing wave information output from the radio wave sensor. For example, the processing unit 109 estimates urine or stool information based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor.

[0253] Furthermore, the processing unit 109 may perform various information generation processes. The processing unit 109 may use a recommendation generation engine (recommendation generation program) to perform health-related recommendation provision processing, such as the data processing unit DP11. For example, the processing unit 109 may use a product recommendation generation engine (product recommendation generation program) to perform product recommendation provision processing, such as the data processing unit DP13.

[0254] For example, the processing unit 109 generates information based on the analysis results. The processing unit 109 generates information indicating health status such as excretion. The processing unit 109 generates information indicating the user's bowel movement status based on excretion information. The processing unit 109 generates textual information indicating the user's bowel movement status based on excretion information.

[0255] The processing unit 109 may generate recommendation information to improve the user's health condition based on the analysis results of the data analysis means. The processing unit 109 generates recommendation information based on the analysis results of the data analysis means based on the color, composition, shape, or quantity of excrement, including at least one of feces and urine. The processing unit 109 generates recommendation information regarding the improvement of the intestinal environment based on the analysis results of the data analysis means based on the composition of the gas excreted or the gas components caused by the excrement.

[0256] The processing unit 109 does not generate recommendation information if there is no usage data for a predetermined period in the data stored in the storage unit 102. The processing unit 109 generates recommendation information after the supply unit 108 adds usage data for a predetermined period to the storage unit 102. The processing unit 109 may also generate content that includes recommendation information.

[0257] The processing unit 109 generates content to be provided to external devices such as the user terminal 300 and the external provider device 400. The processing unit 109 generates content that shows recommendation information regarding the user's health status. The processing unit 109 generates content that shows the user's health status.

[0258] For example, the processing unit 109 generates content (image information) to be provided to external devices such as the user terminal 300 and the external provider device 400, using various technologies related to image generation and image processing as appropriate. For example, the processing unit 109 generates screens (image information) to be provided to external devices, using various technologies such as Java (registered trademark) as appropriate. For example, the processing unit 109 generates various types of content. The processing unit 109 may also generate content (image information) to be provided to external devices based on formats such as CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), JavaScript (registered trademark), and HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language). Furthermore, for example, the processing unit 109 may generate content in various formats such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), and PNG (Portable Network Graphics).

[0259] The processing unit 109 provides a service to provide information to external devices. The processing unit 109 transmits information. The processing unit 109 transmits information to an external information processing device via the communication unit 101. For example, the processing unit 109 transmits various types of information to the user terminal 300. For example, the processing unit 109 transmits recommendation information to the user terminal 300.

[0260] <1-3. User Terminal> Next, details of the user terminal 300 will be described. The user terminal 300 is an information processing device (computer) that performs various types of information processing. The user terminal 300 is wirelessly communicably connected to the cloud server 100. Note that the user terminal 300 may be connected to the cloud server 100 in any manner as long as information can be transmitted and received, and may be communicable wired or wirelessly via a predetermined network such as the Internet.

[0261] Next, details of each component of the user terminal 300 will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the user terminal according to the first embodiment. The user terminal 300 includes a communication unit 301, a control unit 302, a storage unit 303, an input unit 304, and a display unit 305.

[0262] [[ID=?]] The communication unit 301 is realized by, for example, a communication device, a communication circuit, or the like. The communication unit 301 is connected to an arbitrary network wired or wirelessly and transmits and receives information to and from an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 301 transmits and receives information to and from another information processing device such as the cloud server 100. [[ID=?]]

[0263] [[ID=?]] The storage unit 303 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 303 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data and the like used by an information processing program.

[0264] It seems there are some missing or incorrect line numbers in the original text for proper sequential reference in the translation. The "ID=9" and "ID=12" and "ID=13" seem to be not used in the original text in a way that would have a direct translation impact. Also, the "ID=?" in the translation is just to show where the original text seems to have some irregularities in the numbering for the translation to match the structure.The storage unit 303 stores various types of information used for displaying information. The storage unit 303 stores various types of information, such as service provision data provided by the cloud server 100. However, the storage unit 303 is not limited to the above and may store various types of information depending on the purpose. The storage unit 303 may store biological information and excretion information. The storage unit 303 may store biological information and excretion information in association with the date and time on which they were acquired. The storage unit 303 may store fecal images as excretion information. The storage unit 303 may store information about the feces corresponding to the fecal image in association with the fecal image. The storage unit 303 may store the determination results (type, color, amount, etc.) determined for the feces corresponding to the fecal image in association with the fecal image. The storage unit 303 may store information such as the properties of the feces corresponding to the fecal image and the amount of feces corresponding to the fecal image. In addition, the storage unit 303 may store the date and time on which the fecal image was acquired, information identifying the user who excreted the feces corresponding to the fecal image, etc., in association with the fecal image.

[0265] The input unit 304 receives various operations from the user. The input unit 304 accepts various operations from the user via a display surface (e.g., display unit 305) using a touch panel function. The input unit 304 accepts various operations from the user via a display (display surface, display screen) of a smartphone or the like using a touch panel function. In other words, the input unit 304 accepts various operations from the user via the display unit 305 of the user terminal 300.

[0266] For example, the input unit 304 receives various user operations via the display unit 305 of the user terminal 300. In other words, the input unit 304 functions as a reception unit that receives user operations through the touch panel function. While smartphones primarily use a capacitive touch method for detecting user operations by the input unit 304, any other detection method that can detect user operations and realize the functionality of a touch panel may be used, such as resistive touch, surface acoustic wave, infrared, or electromagnetic induction.

[0267] The display unit 305 is a display screen for a smartphone or the like, implemented by, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display, and is a display device for displaying various information. In other words, the user terminal 300 receives user input through the display screen of the display unit 305 and also outputs to the user. The display unit 305 displays various information. For example, the display unit 305 displays various information in accordance with the display control of the display control unit 322. The display unit 305 displays various information provided by the information processing system 1.

[0268] The display unit 305 displays, for example, recommendation information for improving health. For example, the display unit 305 displays topic information indicating the state or trend of the intestinal environment over a predetermined period based on the components of gas excreted or gas components resulting from excrement, or recommendation information for improving health.

[0269] In addition, the display unit 305 may display multiple pieces of excretion information, including the color, shape, and quantity of excrement included in the excretion data, in a single excretion graph along with date information. Furthermore, the display unit 305 may display a defecation calendar showing the date and time of defecation separately from the single excretion graph. The display unit 305 can also switch between displaying the single excretion graph and the defecation calendar based on predetermined user operations. The display unit 305 may also display information regarding the state of the intestinal environment based on the components of excreted gas or gas components caused by excrement, along with date information, as a graph. Furthermore, the display unit 305 may display information indicating the state or trend of blood flow over a predetermined period, based on biological data obtained by the biosensor 40 provided in the toilet device 211, along with date information, as a graph. The display unit 305 can display this information together with recommendation information.

[0270] The control unit 302 may be, for example, an information processing device (control device) that controls various configurations and processes. The control unit 302 may have, for example, a CPU or GPU, and may be implemented by executing a program stored inside the control unit 302 (for example, an information processing program according to this disclosure) using RAM or the like as a working area. The control unit 302 may also have, for example, an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0271] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 302 has an acquisition unit 321 and a display control unit 322, and realizes or executes the information processing functions and operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 302 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 4, and other configurations are also acceptable as long as they perform the information processing described later.

[0272] The acquisition unit 321 acquires information. The acquisition unit 321 acquires various types of information from the storage unit 303. The acquisition unit 321 acquires service provision data provided by the cloud server 100 and service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 from the cloud server 100. This service provision data may include provision data.

[0273] The display control unit 322 controls the display of various information. The display control unit 322 controls the display of the display unit 305. The display control unit 322 controls the display of the display unit 305 by issuing instructions to the display unit 305. The display control unit 322 controls the display unit 305 based on predetermined user operations.

[0274] For example, if the data processing units DP21, DP22, and DP23 each provide services from different external service providers, the display control unit 322 can display the systems providing each service on the display unit 305 in a selectable manner for the user. The user can operate the input unit 304 to select the system providing the service they wish to use from among the multiple systems providing various services displayed on the display unit 305. Upon receiving the selection from the user, the display control unit 322 notifies the data processing units DP21, DP22, and DP23 whether a selection has been made. The display control unit 322 may also notify the data processing units DP21, DP22, and DP23 of the selection status via the cloud server 100. The display control unit 322 can then prioritize providing services from the selected system over services from the unselected system. For example, the display control unit 322 can prioritize displaying recommendations from the selected system on the display unit 305 over recommendations from the unselected system. Furthermore, for example, the display control unit 322 can prioritize the display of estimated health status information from the selected system over the estimated health status information from the unselected system. In this case, for example, the display control unit 322 may be configured not to receive services from the selected system, or it may receive services from all systems and prioritize the display of services from the selected system. In this way, the display control unit 322 functions as a selection means for selecting information to display from the first health status and the second health status, or from the first recommendation information and the second recommendation information.

[0275] Furthermore, the display control unit 322 controls the display unit 305 and displays the information received from the cloud server 100 on the display unit 305 to provide services to the user. The display control unit 322 can control the display unit 305 so that the screen displayed the last time it was used is the screen displayed the next time it is used.

[0276] The display control unit 322 can display first information in a predetermined display area displayed by the display unit 305, and can also control the display unit 305 to display second information in a predetermined display area based on a predetermined user operation. The display control unit 322 can also control the display unit 305 to change the area displayed in the predetermined display area from the area of ​​the first information to the area of ​​the second information based on a screen scroll operation by the user. The predetermined display area may be the entire display (screen) of the display unit 305, or it may be a part of the display (screen) of the display unit 305. The display control unit 322 controls the display unit 305 which is the predetermined display area.

[0277] The display control unit 322 performs a process to display information regarding the defecation status as first information on the display unit 305. The display control unit 322 also performs a process to display recommendation information (suggestion information) as second information on the display unit 305.

[0278] Furthermore, the recommendations provided as a service from the external provider device 400 may be generated for each of several health-related items, and the recommendations displayed on the user terminal 300 may be selectable from the recommendation information for each of the multiple health-related items. In this case, the display control unit 322 displays the recommendations from the external provider device 400 for each health-related item on the display unit 305 so that the user can select them. The user can then operate the input unit 304 to select the health-related item they wish to use from the recommendations for each health-related item displayed on the display unit 305. When the display control unit 322 receives a recommendation provided as a service from the external provider device 400 in response to a selection by the user, it can prioritize the recommendation for the selected health-related item over the recommendations for other health-related items and display it on the display unit 305. Here, the display control unit 322 can also choose not to display the recommendations for other health-related items, or to place them in an inconspicuous location (for example, at the bottom of a scrollable screen). In this case, the display control unit 322 functions as a selection means that prioritizes displaying the second recommendation information selected by the user.

[0279] Furthermore, when the display control unit 322 receives estimated health status information or recommendations from the data processing units DP1 and DP2, it may select one of them to display on the display unit 305. In this case, the display control unit 322 may select either the estimated health status information or the recommendations, or it may select only one of them. In this case, the display control unit 322 functions as a selection means that selects information to display from the first health status and the second health status, and / or selects information to display from the first recommendation information and the second recommendation information.

[0280] In particular, when the display control unit 322 receives estimated health status information from the data processing unit DP12 and estimated health status information from the data processing unit DP21, it may prioritize displaying the estimated health status information from the data processing unit DP21, which is an external service provider device 400, on the display unit 305. Also, when the display control unit 322 receives recommendations from the data processing units DP11 and DP13 and recommendations from the data processing units DP22 and DP23, it may prioritize displaying the recommendations from the data processing units DP22 and DP23, which are external service provider devices 400, on the display unit 305. In this way, when an external service provider is selected by the user, information that is more suited to the user's needs can be provided. In this case, the display control unit 322 functions as a selection means for selecting information to display, such that if a second health status is obtained, the second health status is displayed preferentially over the first health status, and if a second recommendation information is obtained, the second recommendation information is displayed preferentially over the first recommendation information.

[0281] As described above, the user terminal 300 displays at least one of the first health status provided by the cloud server 100 and the second health status provided by the external provider device 400. In addition, the user terminal 300 displays at least one of the first recommendation information provided by the cloud server 100 and the second recommendation information provided by the external provider device 400.

[0282] <1-3-1. Examples of Information Processing (Display, etc.)> From here, we will explain examples of information processing such as various displays. Below, we will explain as an example the case in which information is displayed on a user terminal 300 such as a smartphone used by the user. In addition, below we will mainly explain the case in which information related to defecation is displayed, but the information to be displayed is not limited to information related to defecation, but may be various types of information such as information based on excretion data such as urination and gas, or information based on biometric data.

[0283] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of information display on a user terminal. For example, the user terminal 300 displays first information FC11 indicating the presence or absence of the user's bowel movement in a calendar format in the area RG11 of the display unit 305. Additionally, the user terminal 300 may display first information FC11 indicating information and the presence or absence of bowel movement in a graph format together with date information in the area RG11.

[0284] Furthermore, the user terminal 300 displays second information SC11, which is first recommendation information, and second information SC12, which is second recommendation information, in an area RG12 located below the area RG11 in the display unit 305. Here, the user terminal 300 may display, in the second information SC11 and 12, in addition to the recommendation information, the estimation results obtained by each service provider.

[0285] Also, the user terminal 300 can selectively display the health state estimation results and recommendation information estimated and generated by the cloud server 100 and the health state estimation results and recommendation information estimated and generated by the external provider device 400.

[0286] For example, when there are multiple pieces of recommendation information, the user terminal 300 can preferentially display the information provided by the external provider device 400. The information provided by the external provider device 400 is information selected according to the user's preference, and since the use of the external provider device 400 is often paid, it is preferable for the user terminal 300 to preferentially display the information provided by the external provider device 400.

[0287] Furthermore, the external provider device 400 may not be selected by the user, but may be selected by the cloud server 100 according to the health status estimated by the internal data processing units such as data processing units DP11, DP12, and DP13, and the recommendation information to be provided. For example, the user terminal 300 may acquire stool condition, excretion indicators, and recommendation information estimated from excretion information by the internal data processing unit, and use the estimation results from that excretion information to acquire recommendation information regarding poor health estimated by the external provider device 400. In that case, the user terminal 300 may display the recommendation information according to a predetermined priority order, or it may change the priority order and display it according to the user's selection.

[0288] Alternatively, the user terminal 300 may display all of the health status estimation results and recommendation information it holds in order. Furthermore, the user terminal 300 displays information about the source of the information for both the first recommendation information, second information SC11, and the second recommendation information, second information SC12. This allows the user to know where the provided information originates, thereby improving its reliability.

[0289] For example, the user terminal 300 can display recommendation information provided from the internal data processing unit as second information SC11, as shown in content CT11 in Figure 5, and recommendation information provided from the external provider device 400 as second information SC12. In this case, the user terminal 300 includes information about the company operating the cloud server 100 in second information SC11 and information about the company operating the external provider device 400 in second information SC12. Alternatively, the user terminal 300 can display recommendation information provided from the external provider device 400 as second information SC11, as shown in content CT12, and recommendation information provided from the internal data processing unit as second information SC12. In this case, the user terminal 300 includes information about the company operating the external provider device 400 in second information SC11 and information about the company operating the cloud server 100 in second information SC12. Furthermore, the user terminal 300 can display recommendation information provided by the external provider device 400 in either of the second information SC11 and SC12, as in content CT13. In this case, if the company providing the recommendation information is different for each recommendation, the user terminal 300 includes information about the service provider in both the second information SC11 and SC12.

[0290] Thus, the user terminal 300 operates as a display means that displays the user's health information or service information estimated by information estimation means such as the data processing unit DP1 and the data processing unit DP2, along with the external analysis results acquired by the data supply means DS, which is the acquisition means, with attribute information of an external system, such as information of the company providing the service, added by the external provider device 400.

[0291] <1-4. Processing Flow> From here, the processing flow of the embodiment will be explained using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for processing performed by the information processing system. In the following explanation, the information processing system 1 will be described as the processing entity, but the processing shown in Figure 6 may be performed by any device, such as the cloud server 100, depending on the device configuration included in the information processing system 1.

[0292] First, the information processing system 1 connects multiple plumbing fixtures to each other via a predetermined network so that they can communicate (step S101). For example, the cloud server 100 of the information processing system 1 is connected to the plumbing fixtures 201, functional equipment 202, etc. of the plumbing space 200 so that they can communicate.

[0293] Furthermore, the information processing system 1 stores first usage data obtained from the first plumbing fixture, which is included in the multiple plumbing fixtures (step S102). For example, the cloud server 100 of the information processing system 1 stores first usage data obtained from the first plumbing fixture.

[0294] Furthermore, the information processing system 1 stores second usage data acquired from the second plumbing fixture, which is included in the multiple plumbing fixtures (step S103). For example, the cloud server 100 of the information processing system 1 stores second usage data acquired from the second plumbing fixture.

[0295] Then, the information processing system 1 supplies data to each of the multiple data processing units based on the conditions for data provision to each of them (step S104). For example, the cloud server 100 of the information processing system 1 supplies data to each of the multiple data processing units DP based on the conditions for data provision to each of them.

[0296] The information processing system 1 receives service provision data from the external service provider device 400 from the external data processing unit (step S105).

[0297] Subsequently, the information processing system 1 provides the user with services provided by the cloud server 100 and services provided by the external service provider device 400 (step S106).

[0298] <2. Second Embodiment> <2-1. Structure> The system configuration and processing examples according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an overview of the processing system according to the second embodiment. An example of the system configuration of the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment is also shown in Figure 2. In the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment, data for provision is sent from the user terminal 300 to the external service provider device 400, and the service from the external service provider is directly provided from the external service provider device 400 to the user terminal 300. In the following description, the operation of each part, which is the same as in the first embodiment, may be omitted.

[0299] <2-1-1. Example Configuration> The following describes an example of the configuration of Information Processing System 1, followed by an example of processing performed by Information Processing System 1. Note that the processing described below with Information Processing System 1 as the processing entity may be performed by any device capable of executing that processing, depending on the device configuration included in Information Processing System 1.

[0300] (Cloud Server) The cloud server 100 includes, for example, a storage means DBS, a data supply means DS, and data processing units DP11, DP12, DP13. Although only one cloud server 100 is shown in Figure 7 for illustrative purposes, there may be multiple cloud servers 100, with each cloud server 100 having a distributed function, and each function being executed by a different cloud server 100, with the multiple cloud servers 100 as a whole executing the desired function.

[0301] The storage means DBS stores usage data acquired from plumbing fixtures. The storage means DBS also stores information about the user's behavior, such as sleep, meals, and exercise, supplied by the external data provision device 240. For example, the storage means DBS includes databases DB1 to DB5.

[0302] The data supply means DS supplies various data, such as usage data, stored in each database DB of the storage means DBS to the data processing unit 1.

[0303] The data processing unit DP11 provides a predetermined service (Recommendation #1 in Figure 1). The data processing unit DP12 provides a predetermined service (Health status estimation #1 in Figure 1). The data processing unit DP13 provides a predetermined service (Recommendation #2 in Figure 1).

[0304] Note that the configuration of the information processing system 1 shown in Figure 7, etc., is merely an example; any device configuration can be adopted as long as the information processing system 1 can perform the desired processing.

[0305] (User terminal) The user terminal 300 obtains data for provision acquired from plumbing equipment from the storage means DBS of the cloud server 100. The user terminal 300 also obtains data for service provision, including estimated health status and recommendation information, from data processing units DP11, DP12, and DP13, etc.

[0306] The user terminal 300 then sorts the acquired data to be transmitted, determining which data to send to each of the data processing units DP2 included in the external service provider device 400. For example, the user terminal 300 determines the data to be transmitted based on the conditions related to the services provided by each data processing unit DP2. More specifically, the user terminal 300 analyzes the services performed by each data processing unit DP2, extracts the data used to provide each service for each data processing unit DP2, and uses this data as the data to be transmitted to each. Then, according to the results of the data transmission sorting, the user terminal 300 transmits the data to each of the data processing units DP2 that it has decided to provide. This allows information to be provided appropriately according to the analysis of external systems such as the external service provider device 400 used by the external service provider.

[0307] Subsequently, the user terminal 300 receives services from each of the data processing units DP2. Then, the user terminal 300 displays information received from other devices such as the cloud server 100 and the external service provider device 400.

[0308] (external provision destination device) Each data processing unit DP2 provides services using data supplied from the user terminal 300. Alternatively, each data processing unit DP2 may acquire information from other data processing units DP2 and use the acquired data to provide services.

[0309] For example, each of the data processing units DP2 is implemented by an external service provider device 400 as shown in Figure 2. The external service provider device 400 is an information processing device (computer), such as a server, used by an external service provider to provide services. For example, the external service provider device 400 manages information acquired from other devices. The external service provider device 400 is, for example, a server located on the cloud.

[0310] The data processing unit DP21 provides a predetermined service (health status estimation #2 in Figure 1) from an external service provider, such as a medical company. The data processing unit DP21 works in conjunction with the information processing system 1 to provide the predetermined service. Using the usage data received from the user terminal 300, the data processing unit DP21 provides a health status estimation service to other service providers, users, etc.

[0311] The data processing unit DP22 provides a predetermined service (recommendation #3 in Figure 1) from an external service provider, such as a life insurance company. The data processing unit DP22 provides the predetermined service in cooperation with the information processing system 1. Using the usage data received from the user terminal 300, the data processing unit DP22 provides a predetermined service related to the life insurance company to other service providers, such as users.

[0312] The data processing unit DP23 provides predetermined services (recommendation #4 in Figure 1) from external service providers, such as hospitals and nursing care services. The data processing unit DP23 works in conjunction with the information processing system 1 to provide predetermined services. For example, the data processing unit DP23 uses usage data received from the user terminal 300 to provide predetermined services related to medical and nursing care services to other service providers, users, etc.

[0313] There may be multiple data processing units DP23. In this case, each of the multiple data processing units DP23 may provide a different service for service collaboration. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP23 may provide a service for service collaboration to other service providers, users, etc., using at least partially different data. For example, each of the multiple data processing units DP23 may have at least different data provision conditions and receive data for provision from the data supply means DS based on different data provision conditions.

[0314] <2-2. User Terminals> Next, the user terminal 300 will be described in detail. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example configuration of a user terminal according to the second embodiment. The user terminal 300 includes a communication unit 301, a control unit 302, a storage unit 303, an input unit 304, and a display unit 305.

[0315] The memory unit 303 stores various information, such as data for service provision provided by the cloud server 100. However, the memory unit 303 may store various types of information depending on the purpose, not limited to the above.

[0316] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 302 includes an acquisition unit 321, a first AP execution unit 324, and a second AP execution unit 325, and realizes or executes the information processing functions and operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 302 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 8, and other configurations are also acceptable as long as they perform the information processing described later.

[0317] The acquisition unit 321 acquires information. The acquisition unit 321 acquires various types of information from the storage unit 303. The acquisition unit 321 also acquires estimated health status information estimated by the data processing unit DP1 and service provision data provided by the cloud server 100. This service provision data may include provision data. The acquisition unit 321 may also acquire provision data from the storage unit DBS of the cloud server 100.

[0318] The first AP execution unit 324 executes a first application associated with a service provided by the cloud server 100. For example, the first application is an application of a company that provides services through the cloud server 100. The first AP execution unit 324 includes the functions of the display control unit 322 illustrated in Figure 4. For example, the first AP execution unit 324 controls the display of the display unit 305 by giving instructions to the display unit 305.

[0319] Furthermore, the first AP execution unit 324 sorts the data to be transmitted, determining which data to send to each of the data processing units DP2 included in the external recipient device 400. The first AP execution unit 324 determines the data to be transmitted based, for example, on the conditions related to the services provided by each data processing unit DP2. More specifically, the first AP execution unit 324 analyzes the services provided by each data processing unit DP2, extracts the data used to provide each service for each data processing unit DP2, and uses this as the data to be transmitted for each. For example, the first AP execution unit 324 uses the minimum amount of data required to provide each service as the data to be transmitted. Then, according to the results of the data to be transmitted sorting, the first AP execution unit 324 outputs the data to be transmitted to each data processing unit DP2, along with information on the data processing unit DP2 to which the data to be transmitted will be sent, to the second AP execution unit 325.

[0320] Furthermore, the first AP execution unit 324 may sort the data to be transmitted based on the estimated health status information estimated by the data processing unit DP1 and the service provision data provided from the cloud server 100, and transmit the data to be transmitted to each of the data processing units DP2 that it has decided to provide.

[0321] Subsequently, the first AP execution unit 324 acquires service provision data from the external service provider device 400 from the second AP execution unit 325. Then, for example, the first AP execution unit 324 controls the display unit 305 to display the service provision data provided from the cloud server 100 and the service provision data provided from the external service provider device 400 using the first application, and provides the service to the user by displaying it on the display unit 305.

[0322] The first AP execution unit 324 performs information display similar to the information display shown in Figure 5. For example, the first AP execution unit 324 can display recommendation information provided from the internal data processing unit as second information SC11, as shown in content CT11 in Figure 5, and recommendation information provided from the external provider device 400 as second information SC12. In this case, the first AP execution unit 324 includes information of the company operating the cloud server 100 in second information SC11 and information of the company operating the external provider device 400 in second information SC12. Furthermore, the first AP execution unit 324 can display recommendation information provided from the external provider device 400 as second information SC11, as shown in content CT12, and recommendation information provided from the internal data processing unit as second information SC12. In this case, the first AP execution unit 324 includes information about the company operating the external service provider device 400 in the second information SC11, and information about the company operating the cloud server 100 in the second information SC12. The first AP execution unit 324 can also display recommendation information provided by the external service provider device 400 in either the second information SC11 or SC12, as in the content CT13. In this case, if the company providing the service differs for each piece of recommendation information, the first AP execution unit 324 includes information about the companies providing the service in both the second information SC11 and SC12.

[0323] Furthermore, the first AP execution unit 324 can control the display unit 305 based on predetermined user operations.

[0324] The second AP execution unit 325 executes a second application associated with the service provided by the external service provider device 400. For example, the second application is an application provided by the company that manages the external service provider device 400. The second application may also be present on the user terminal 300 for each data processing unit DP2.

[0325] The second AP execution unit 325 has an interface for communicating with the first AP execution unit 324. The second AP execution unit 325 receives information about the transmission data and destination determined by the data sorting process for the data to be provided from the first AP execution unit 324 via the interface. The second AP execution unit 325 can also acquire estimated health status information estimated by the data processing unit DP1 and transmission data determined by the data sorting process for the data to be provided from the cloud server 100. The second AP execution unit 325 then transmits each transmission data to the data processing unit DP2, which is the designated destination.

[0326] Subsequently, the second AP execution unit 325 receives service provision data from each of the data processing units DP2. Then, the second AP execution unit 325 outputs the received service provision data from each of the data processing units DP2 to the first AP execution unit 324.

[0327] <2-3. Processing Flow> From here, the processing flow of the embodiment will be explained using Figure 9. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for processing performed by the information processing system and user terminal according to the second embodiment.

[0328] Information processing system 1 connects multiple plumbing fixtures so that they can communicate via a predetermined network (step S201).

[0329] Next, the information processing system 1 stores usage data acquired from multiple plumbing fixtures (step S202).

[0330] Then, the information processing system 1 supplies data to be provided based on the conditions for providing data to each of the multiple internal data processing units (step S203).

[0331] The user terminal 300 obtains service provision data and provision data provided by the cloud server 100 (step S204).

[0332] Next, the user terminal 300 supplies data to be provided based on the conditions for providing data to each of the multiple external data processing units (step S205).

[0333] Next, the user terminal 300 obtains data from the external provider device 400 to be used in providing the services provided by the external provider device 400 (step S206).

[0334] Subsequently, the user terminal 300 displays screens for providing services from the cloud server 100 and services from the external service provider device 400, and provides services to the user (step S207).

[0335] <3. Communication Path> In each of the embodiments described above, we have explained the provision of services using communication between the cloud server 100 and the external service provider device 400, and the provision of services involving the transmission of data for provision to the external service provider device 400 via the user terminal 300. However, the information handled in the data supply system 2 includes data for provision (including usage data), estimated information on the user's estimated health status, and information on sleep, diet, exercise, etc. obtained from the external data provision device 240 (referred to here as "general health information"). Furthermore, this information does not have to travel through the same path. That is, as explained in each embodiment, when any of the data for provision, estimated health status information, or general health information is sent, the remaining information can be sent through a different path. Therefore, the following describes examples of various communication paths for each of the data for provision, estimated health status information, and general health information.

[0336] Figure 10 shows an example of the first communication path. Figure 11 shows an example of the second communication path. Figure 12 shows an example of the third communication path. Figure 13 shows an example of the fourth communication path. Figure 14 shows an example of the fifth communication path. Figure 15 shows an example of the sixth communication path. Figure 16 shows an example of the seventh communication path. Figure 17 shows an example of the eighth communication path. Figure 18 shows an example of the ninth communication path. Figure 19 shows an example of the tenth communication path. Figure 20 shows an example of the eleventh communication path. Figure 21 shows an example of the twelfth communication path. Figure 22 shows an example of the thirteenth communication path. Figure 23 shows an example of the fourteenth communication path. Figure 24 shows an example of the fifteenth communication path. Figure 25 shows an example of the sixteenth communication path.

[0337] In Figures 10-25, the arrows indicate the communication paths for user data and data provided. Here, the user terminal 300 has a healthcare application execution unit 326 that acquires general health information from an external data provision device 240. The external data provision device 240 is omitted in this description. While a toilet 210 and a bathroom 220 are used as examples, other plumbing fixtures may be included in the data supply system 2. Furthermore, the data supply system 2 may be equipped with only one of these plumbing fixtures. Hereafter, the toilet 210 and bathroom 220 will be collectively referred to as the toilet 210, etc.

[0338] Figures 10-18 show a configuration in which the cloud server 100 acquires data for provision via the user terminal 300.

[0339] The first communication path shown in Figure 10 will now be explained. Usage data is transmitted from the toilet 210, etc., to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (paths P11 and P12). Then, the data for provision based on the usage data is sent from the cloud server 100 to the external service provider device 400 (path P13) and used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 via the cloud server 100 (path P14) (path P15). The first AP execution unit 324 can use the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 to provide services to the user, such as estimated health status information and recommendation notifications.

[0340] The first communication path consists of a path for sending data to the external provider device 400 (referred to as the "transmission path") and a path for the user terminal 300 to receive service data provided by the external provider device 400 (referred to as the "reception path"), both of which are routed through a communication path connecting the cloud server 100 and the external provider device 400 (referred to as the "inter-cloud communication path").

[0341] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, via an inter-cloud communication path. General health information is also sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be sent directly from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0342] The second communication path shown in Figure 11 will now be explained. Usage data is transmitted from the toilet 210, etc., to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (paths P21 and P22). Then, the data for service provision based on the usage data is sent from the cloud server 100 to the external service provider device 400 (path P23) and used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent directly from the external service provider device 400 to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P24). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400.

[0343] In the second communication path, the transmission path uses the inter-cloud communication path, and the reception path uses a path that directly connects the first AP execution unit 324 and the external provider device 400 (referred to as the "direct communication path").

[0344] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, via an inter-cloud communication path. General health information is also sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be sent directly from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0345] The third communication path shown in Figure 12 will now be explained. Usage data is transmitted from the toilet 210, etc., to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (paths P31 and P32). Then, the service provision data based on the usage data is sent from the cloud server 100 to the external service provider device 400 (path P33), and used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent to the second AP execution unit 325 of the user terminal 300 (path P34). Then, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is passed from the second AP execution unit 325 to the first AP execution unit 324 (path P35). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400.

[0346] In the third communication path, the transmission path uses the inter-cloud communication path, and the reception path uses the data transfer path between the first AP execution unit 324 and the second AP execution unit 325 of the user terminal 300 (referred to as the "inter-AP communication path").

[0347] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, via an inter-cloud communication path. General health information is also sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be sent directly from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0348] The fourth communication path shown in Figure 13 will now be explained. Usage data is transmitted from the toilet 210, etc., to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (path P41). Then, the usage data is sent directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400 as service provision data without going through the cloud server 100 (path P42), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent directly from the external service provider device 400 to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P43). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400.

[0349] In the fourth communication path, direct communication paths are used for both the transmission and reception paths.

[0350] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, via an inter-cloud communication path. General health information is also sent, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be sent directly from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100. Furthermore, general health information may be sent from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then sent to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0351] The fifth communication path shown in Figure 14 will now be explained. Usage data is sent from the toilet 210, etc., to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (path P51). Then, the usage data is sent directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400 as service provision data without going through the cloud server 100 (path P52), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 via the cloud server 100 (paths P53 and P54). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400.

[0352] In the fifth communication path, the direct communication path is used for transmission, and the inter-cloud communication path is used for reception.

[0353] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, via an inter-cloud communication path. General health information is also sent, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be sent directly from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100. Furthermore, general health information may be sent from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then sent to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0354] The sixth communication path shown in Figure 15 will now be explained. Usage data is sent from the toilet 210, etc., to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (path P61). Then, the usage data is sent directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400 as service provision data without going through the cloud server 100 (path P62), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent to the second AP execution unit 325 of the user terminal 300 (path P63), and then passed from the second AP execution unit 325 to the first AP execution unit 324 (path P64). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400.

[0355] In the sixth communication path, the direct communication path is used for transmission, and the AP-to-AP communication path is used for reception.

[0356] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, via an inter-cloud communication path. General health information is also sent, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be sent directly from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100. Furthermore, general health information may be sent from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then sent to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0357] The seventh communication path shown in Figure 16 will now be explained. Usage data is sent from the toilet 210, etc., to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (path P71). Then, the usage data is passed from the first AP execution unit 324 to the second AP execution unit 325 (path P72). Next, the usage data is sent directly from the second AP execution unit 325 to the external service provider device 400 as service provision data (path P73), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided from the external service provider device 400 is sent to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 via the cloud server 100 (paths P74 and P75). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided from the external service provider device 400.

[0358] In the seventh communication path, the AP-to-AP communication path is used for transmission, and the cloud-to-cloud communication path is used for reception.

[0359] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, via the inter-cloud communication path. General health information is sent, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be sent directly from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0360] The eighth communication path shown in Figure 17 will now be explained. Usage data is sent from the toilet 210, etc., to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (path P81). Then, the usage data is passed from the first AP execution unit 324 to the second AP execution unit 325 (path P82). Next, the usage data is sent directly from the second AP execution unit 325 to the external service provider device 400 as service provision data (path P83), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. After that, the service provision data provided from the external service provider device 400 is sent directly to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P84). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided from the external service provider device 400.

[0361] In the eighth communication path, the AP-to-AP communication path is used for transmission, and the direct communication path is used for reception.

[0362] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, via the inter-cloud communication path. General health information is sent, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be sent directly from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0363] The ninth communication path shown in Figure 18 will now be explained. Usage data is sent from the toilet 210, etc., to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (path P91). Then, the usage data is passed from the first AP execution unit 324 to the second AP execution unit 325 (path P92). Next, the usage data is sent directly from the second AP execution unit 325 to the external service provider device 400 as service provision data (path P93), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. After that, the service provision data provided from the external service provider device 400 is sent directly to the second AP execution unit 325 of the user terminal 300 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P94), and is passed from the second AP execution unit 325 to the first AP execution unit 324 (path P95). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided from the external service provider device 400.

[0364] In the ninth communication path, the AP-to-AP communication path is used for both the transmission path and the reception path.

[0365] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, via the inter-cloud communication path. General health information is sent, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be sent directly from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0366] Figures 19-25 show a configuration in which the cloud server 100 directly acquires data for provision from toilets 210, etc.

[0367] The tenth communication path shown in Figure 19 will now be explained. Usage data is transmitted from the toilet 210, etc., to the cloud server 100 (path P101). Provision data based on the usage data is sent from the cloud server 100 to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (path P102). Then, the provision data is passed from the first AP execution unit 324 to the second AP execution unit 325 (path P103). Next, the provision data is sent directly from the second AP execution unit 325 to the external service provider device 400 (path P104) and used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. After that, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent directly to the second AP execution unit 325 of the user terminal 300 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P105), and then passed from the second AP execution unit 325 to the first AP execution unit 324 (path P106). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to users using service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400.

[0368] In the tenth communication path, the AP-to-AP communication path is used for both the transmission path and the reception path.

[0369] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent to the external service provider device 400, for example, via the inter-AP communication path. General health information is sent, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then to the external service provider device 400 via the inter-AP communication path. Alternatively, general health information may be passed from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the second AP execution unit 325, and then sent directly from the second AP execution unit 325 to the external service provider device 400. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0370] The 11th communication path shown in Figure 20 will now be explained. Usage data is transmitted from the toilet 210, etc., to the cloud server 100 (path P111). Service provision data based on the usage data is sent from the cloud server 100 to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (path P112). Then, the service provision data is sent directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P113), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided from the external service provider device 400 is sent directly to the second AP execution unit 325 of the user terminal 300 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P114), and is passed from the second AP execution unit 325 to the first AP execution unit 324 (path P115). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided from the external service provider device 400.

[0371] In the 11th communication path, the direct communication path is used for transmission, and the AP-to-AP communication path is used for reception.

[0372] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent, for example, to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300, and then directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400. General health information is also passed, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400. Alternatively, general health information may be passed from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the second AP execution unit 325, and then directly from the second AP execution unit 325 to the external service provider device 400. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0373] The twelfth communication path shown in Figure 21 will now be explained. Usage data is transmitted from the toilet 210, etc., to the cloud server 100 (path P121). Service provision data based on the usage data is sent from the cloud server 100 to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (path P122). Then, the service provision data is sent directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P123), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 via the cloud server 100 (paths P124 and P125). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400.

[0374] In the 12th communication path, the direct communication path is used for transmission, and the inter-cloud communication path is used for reception.

[0375] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent, for example, to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300, and then directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400. General health information is also passed, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400. Alternatively, general health information may be passed from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the second AP execution unit 325, and then directly from the second AP execution unit 325 to the external service provider device 400. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0376] The 13th communication path shown in Figure 22 will now be explained. Usage data is transmitted from the toilet 210, etc., to the cloud server 100 (path P131). Provision data based on the usage data is sent from the cloud server 100 to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 (path P132). Then, the provision data is sent directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P133), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent directly to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P134). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400.

[0377] In the 13th communication path, a direct communication path is used for both the transmission path and the reception path.

[0378] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent, for example, to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300, and then directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400. General health information is also passed, for example, from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then directly from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400. Alternatively, general health information may be passed from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the second AP execution unit 325, and then directly from the second AP execution unit 325 to the external service provider device 400. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0379] The 14th communication path shown in Figure 23 will now be explained. Usage data is sent from the toilet 210, etc., to the cloud server 100 (path P141). The data for service provision based on the usage data is sent from the cloud server 100 to the external service provider device 400 (path P142), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 via the cloud server 100 (paths P143 and P144). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400.

[0380] In the 14th communication path, the inter-cloud communication path is used for both the transmission path and the reception path.

[0381] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent directly from the cloud server 100 to the external service provider device 400, for example. General health information is passed from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then sent from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be passed from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the second AP execution unit 325, and then sent directly from the second AP execution unit 325 to the external service provider device 400. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0382] The 15th communication path shown in Figure 24 will now be explained. Usage data is sent from the toilet 210, etc., to the cloud server 100 (path P151). The data for service provision based on the usage data is sent from the cloud server 100 to the external service provider device 400 (path P152), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent directly to the second AP execution unit 325 of the user terminal 300 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P153), and is passed from the second AP execution unit 325 to the first AP execution unit 324 (path P154). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400.

[0383] In the 15th communication path, the transmission path uses the inter-cloud communication path, and the reception path uses the inter-AP communication path.

[0384] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent directly from the cloud server 100 to the external service provider device 400, for example. General health information is passed from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then sent from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be passed from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the second AP execution unit 325, and then sent directly from the second AP execution unit 325 to the external service provider device 400. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0385] The 16th communication path shown in Figure 25 will now be explained. Usage data is sent from the toilet 210, etc., to the cloud server 100 (path P161). The data for service provision based on the usage data is sent from the cloud server 100 to the external service provider device 400 (path P162), and is used for data processing for service provision by the data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400. Subsequently, the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400 is sent directly to the first AP execution unit 324 of the user terminal 300 without going through the cloud server 100 (path P163). The first AP execution unit 324 can provide services to the user using the service provision data provided by the external service provider device 400.

[0386] In the 16th communication path, the transmission path uses the inter-cloud communication path, and the reception path uses the direct communication path.

[0387] In this case, the estimated health status information, calculated using the data to be provided by the data processing unit DP1 of the cloud server 100, is sent directly from the cloud server 100 to the external service provider device 400, for example. General health information is passed from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the first AP execution unit 324, and then sent from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external service provider device 400 via the cloud server 100. Alternatively, general health information may be passed from the healthcare application execution unit 326 to the second AP execution unit 325, and then sent directly from the second AP execution unit 325 to the external service provider device 400. The data processing unit DP2 of the external service provider device 400 can perform processing for service provision using the estimated health status information and general health information along with the data to be provided.

[0388] <4. Third Embodiment> <4-1. Structure> The system configuration and processing examples according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 26. Figure 26 is a diagram showing an overview of the processing system according to the third embodiment. An example of the system configuration of the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment is also shown in Figure 2.

[0389] There are plumbing fixtures that do not have a function to provide usage data, such as a toilet 210 that does not have a toilet sensor 212, and to transmit that usage data to the cloud server 100. In the case of such plumbing fixtures, it is difficult for the cloud server 100 to automatically acquire usage data. Therefore, in the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment, usage data is sent from the user terminal 300 to the cloud server 100, and the cloud server 100 processes the data using the usage data received from the user terminal 300. In the following description, the operation of each part that is the same as in the first or second embodiment may be omitted.

[0390] <4-1-1. Example Configuration> The following describes an example of the configuration of Information Processing System 1, followed by an example of processing performed by Information Processing System 1. Note that the processing described below with Information Processing System 1 as the processing entity may be performed by any device capable of executing that processing, depending on the device configuration included in Information Processing System 1.

[0391] (Cloud Server) The cloud server 100 includes, for example, a storage means DBS, a data supply means DS, and data processing units DP11, DP12, DP13. Although only one cloud server 100 is shown in Figure 26 for illustrative purposes, there may be multiple cloud servers 100, with each cloud server 100 having a distributed function, and each function being executed by a different cloud server 100, with the multiple cloud servers 100 as a whole executing the desired function.

[0392] The storage means DBS stores usage data acquired from plumbing fixtures. The storage means DBS also stores usage data acquired from the user terminal 300. Furthermore, the storage means DBS stores information about the user's behavior, such as sleep, meals, and exercise, supplied from the external data provision device 240. For example, the storage means DBS has databases DB1 to DB5 and DB8. Databases DB1 to DB3 store usage data related to plumbing fixtures that have the function of providing usage data, such as toilets 210, bathrooms 220, and washbasins 230. Database DB4 stores external data acquired from the external data provision device 240. Database DB5 stores various other data, such as usage data not mentioned above. For example, database DB5 stores usage data related to the kitchen. Database DB8 stores usage data related to plumbing fixtures that do not have the function of providing usage data.

[0393] The data supply means DS supplies various data, such as usage data, stored in each database DB of the storage means DBS to the data processing units DP11 to DP13. Each of the data processing units DP11 to DP13 provides a predetermined service.

[0394] Note that the configuration of the information processing system 1 shown in Figure 26, etc., is merely an example, and any device configuration can be adopted as long as the information processing system 1 can perform the desired processing.

[0395] (User terminal) The user terminal 300 receives usage data such as biometric data and excretion data through operations on an input unit (not shown) performed by a user of a plumbing fixture that does not have a function to provide usage data. The user terminal 300 then transmits the usage data of the plumbing fixture, which does not have a function to provide usage data, to the cloud server 100.

[0396] Furthermore, the user terminal 300 obtains data for provision acquired from plumbing equipment from the storage means DBS of the cloud server 100. The user terminal 300 also obtains data for providing each service, including estimated health status results and recommendation information, from the data processing units DP11, DP12, and DP13, etc. The user terminal 300 then sorts the acquired data for provision and sends the data to be provided to each of the data processing units DP2 according to the sorting results. Subsequently, the user terminal 300 receives the services from each of the data processing units DP2. Finally, the user terminal 300 displays information received from other devices such as the cloud server 100 and the external service provider device 400.

[0397] <4-2. Communication Paths> Next, we will describe examples of various communication paths for the data to be provided, estimated health status information, and general health information in the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0398] Figure 27 shows an example of the 21st communication path. Figure 28 shows an example of the 22nd communication path. Figure 29 shows an example of the 23rd communication path. Figure 30 shows an example of the 24th communication path. Figure 31 shows an example of the 25th communication path. Figure 32 shows an example of the 26th communication path. Figure 33 shows an example of the 27th communication path. Figure 34 shows an example of the 28th communication path. Figure 35 shows an example of the 29th communication path. Figure 36 shows an example of the 30th communication path. Figure 37 shows an example of the 31st communication path. Figure 38 shows an example of the 32nd communication path. Figure 39 shows an example of the 33rd communication path. Figure 40 shows an example of the 34th communication path. Figure 41 shows an example of the 35th communication path. Figure 42 shows an example of the 36th communication path.

[0399] In Figures 27-42, the arrows indicate the communication paths for user data and data provided. Here, the user terminal 300 has a healthcare application execution unit 326 that acquires general health information from an external data provision device 240. The external data provision device 240 is omitted in this description. While a toilet 210 and a bathroom 220 are used as examples, other plumbing fixtures may be included in the data supply system 2. Furthermore, the data supply system 2 may be equipped with only one of these plumbing fixtures. Hereafter, the toilet 210 and bathroom 220 will be collectively referred to as the toilet 210, etc.

[0400] Figures 27-35 show a configuration in which the cloud server 100 acquires data for provision via the user terminal 300. Figures 27-35 correspond to Figures 10-18.

[0401] The 21st communication path shown in Figure 27 will now be explained. The usage data is input by the user using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 and transmitted to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 (paths P16 and P12). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P11 to P15 in the first communication path shown in Figure 10.

[0402] The 22nd communication path shown in Figure 28 will now be explained. The usage data is input by the user using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 and transmitted to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 (paths P25 and P22). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P21 to P24 in the second communication path shown in Figure 11.

[0403] The 23rd communication path shown in Figure 29 will now be explained. The usage data is input by the user using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 and transmitted to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 (paths P36 and P32). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P31 to P35 in the third communication path shown in Figure 12.

[0404] The 24th communication path shown in Figure 30 will now be explained. The user inputs the usage data to the first AP execution unit 324 using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 (path P44). Next, the usage data is sent as provision data from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 10 (path P42). The communication paths for the other provision data are the same as paths P41 to P43 in the fourth communication path shown in Figure 13.

[0405] The 25th communication path shown in Figure 31 will now be explained. The user inputs the usage data to the first AP execution unit 324 using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 (path P55). Next, the usage data is sent as provision data from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 10 (path P52). The communication paths for the other provision data are the same as paths P51 to P54 in the 5th communication path shown in Figure 14.

[0406] The 26th communication path shown in Figure 32 will now be explained. The user inputs the usage data to the first AP execution unit 324 using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 (path P65). Next, the usage data is transmitted as provision data from the first AP execution unit 324 to the external provider device 400 without going through the cloud server 10 (path P62). The communication paths for the other provision data are the same as paths P61 to P64 in the 6th communication path shown in Figure 15.

[0407] The 27th communication path shown in Figure 33 will now be explained. The user inputs the usage data to the first AP execution unit 324 using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 (path P76). The usage data is then passed from the first AP execution unit 324 to the second AP execution unit 325 (path P72). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P71 to P75 in the 7th communication path shown in Figure 16.

[0408] The 28th communication path shown in Figure 34 will now be explained. The user inputs the usage data to the first AP execution unit 324 using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 (path P85). The usage data is then passed from the first AP execution unit 324 to the second AP execution unit 325 (path P82). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P81 to P84 in the 8th communication path shown in Figure 17.

[0409] The 29th communication path shown in Figure 35 will now be explained. The user inputs the usage data to the first AP execution unit 324 using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 (path P96). The usage data is then passed from the first AP execution unit 324 to the second AP execution unit 325 (path P92). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P91 to P95 in the 9th communication path shown in Figure 18.

[0410] Figures 36-42 show a configuration in which the cloud server 100 directly acquires data for provision from toilets 210, etc. Figures 36-42 correspond to Figures 19-25.

[0411] The 30th communication path shown in Figure 36 will now be explained. The usage data is input by the user using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 and transmitted to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 (paths P107 and P108). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P101 to P106 in the 10th communication path shown in Figure 19.

[0412] The 31st communication path shown in Figure 37 will now be explained. The usage data is input by the user using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 and transmitted to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 (paths P116 and P117). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P111 to P115 in the 11th communication path shown in Figure 20.

[0413] The 32nd communication path shown in Figure 38 will now be explained. The usage data is input by the user using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 and transmitted to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 (paths P126 and P127). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P121 to P125 in the 12th communication path shown in Figure 21.

[0414] The 33rd communication path shown in Figure 39 will now be explained. The usage data is input by the user using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 and transmitted to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 (paths P136 and P137). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P131 to P134 in the 13th communication path shown in Figure 22.

[0415] The 34th communication path shown in Figure 40 will now be explained. The usage data is input by the user using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 and transmitted to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 (paths P145 and P146). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P141 to P144 in the 14th communication path shown in Figure 23.

[0416] The 35th communication path shown in Figure 41 will now be explained. The usage data is input by the user using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 and transmitted to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 (paths P155 and P156). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P151 to P154 in the 15th communication path shown in Figure 24.

[0417] The 36th communication path shown in Figure 42 will now be explained. The usage data is input by the user using the input unit 304 of the user terminal 300 and transmitted to the cloud server 100 via the first AP execution unit 324 (paths P164 and P165). The communication paths for other data provided are the same as paths P161 to P164 in the 16th communication path shown in Figure 25.

[0418] Even if the plumbing equipment cannot collect information about living organisms or excretion, the information processing system 1 supplements the user information by allowing the user to input information about excretion or living organisms via the user terminal 300 when using the plumbing equipment.

[0419] Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not inconsistent.

[0420] The various types of information, such as usage data, in each of the embodiments and modifications described above may be manually entered by the user. For example, if information regarding stool is to be manually entered by the user, the user may visually or olfactorily confirm the excrement, such as feces, after defecating, and then enter the information regarding stool by operating the user terminal 300 or the like.

[0421] Further effects and modifications can be readily derived by those skilled in the art. Therefore, broader aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments expressed and described above. Accordingly, various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the overall concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims and equivalents.

[0422] The embodiments and modifications described above may also have the following configurations, but are not limited to them.

[0423] (1) A storage means for storing usage information related to the biological or excretory functions of users of plumbing equipment, Information estimation means for estimating the user's health information or service information to be provided to the user based on the usage information stored in the storage means, Output means for outputting at least one of the user information, the user's health information, and the service information as external output information to an external system used by the user, An acquisition means for acquiring external analysis results obtained from the external system by analyzing the external output information using the analysis means of the external system, A user terminal having a display means that displays the external analysis results acquired by the acquisition means, along with the user's health information or service information estimated by the information estimation means, with attribute information of the external system added; An information provision system characterized by having the following features. (2) The information provision system according to (1), characterized in that the external system is configured to receive the external output information in the cloud on the external system side and output the external analysis results. (3) The information provision system according to (1) or (2), characterized in that the output means provides a portion of the usage information stored in the storage means to the external system based on conditions relating to the provision of information to the external system. (4) The information provision system according to any one of (1) to (3), characterized in that it includes a selection means that allows the user to select from a plurality of external systems. (5) The information estimation means includes a first health status estimation means that estimates a first health status of the user based on the usage information stored in the storage means for a predetermined period of time, and a first recommendation information generation means that generates first recommendation information for promoting the user's health based on the first health status of the user estimated by the first health status estimation means. The acquisition means acquires a second health status of the user and / or second recommendation information for promoting the user's health, which has been analyzed by the analysis means. The second recommendation information is generated for each of the multiple health-related items, and the user can select the second recommendation information to display on the user terminal from the recommendation information for each of the multiple health-related items. An information provision system according to any one of (1) to (4), characterized by the above. (6) The information provision system according to (5), characterized in that the user terminal is provided with selection means for selecting information to display from the first health status and the second health status, or from the first recommendation information and the second recommendation information. (7) The information provision system according to (6), characterized in that the selection means selects information to be displayed such that, when the second health status is obtained, the second health status is displayed preferentially over the first health status, and when the second recommendation information is obtained, the second recommendation information is displayed preferentially over the first recommendation information. (8) The output means provides a portion of the usage information stored in the storage means to the external system based on conditions relating to the provision of information to the external system. The aforementioned selection means prioritizes displaying information from an external system selected by the user. The information provision system described in (7), characterized by the features of the information provision system described in (7). (9) The external system includes a selection means that allows the user to select from a plurality of external systems. The selection means prioritizes displaying the second recommendation information selected by the user. The information provision system according to (7) or (8), characterized by the above. (10) The system further includes connection means that enable multiple plumbing fixtures to communicate via a predetermined network. The storage means includes a first storage means for storing first usage data obtained from a first plumbing device included in the plurality of plumbing devices, and a second storage means for storing second usage data obtained from a second plumbing device included in the plurality of plumbing devices. A data supply means that supplies the provision data to each of the plurality of data processing units, which include the information estimation means that provides a service using provision data based on at least one of the first usage data and the second usage data stored in the first storage means or the second storage means, based on conditions relating to the provision of data to each of the plurality of data processing units, An information provision system according to any one of (1) to (9), characterized by comprising the following: (11) Of the plurality of data processing units, the first data processing unit generates health-related data concerning the user's health status using data for provision based on at least one of the first or second usage data during a predetermined period. Of the aforementioned plurality of data processing units, the second data processing unit provides recommendation data regarding nutrition, sleep, or exercise based on the health-related data generated by the first data processing unit. The information provision system according to (10), characterized in that (12) The information provision system according to (10) or (11), characterized in that at least one of the plurality of data processing units provides recommendation data relating to nutrition, sleep, or exercise using provision data based on at least one of the first usage data or the second usage data during a predetermined period. (13) A data collection means that collects data for external output from the first storage means or the second storage means based on predetermined data collection conditions, An external output means that outputs the data for external output collected by the data collection means to a predetermined destination, An information provision system according to any one of (10) to (12), characterized by comprising the above. (14) The user terminal has an input unit that receives input information regarding the user's biological or excretory functions through the user's operation. The information provision system according to any one of (1) to (13), characterized in that the usage information stored in the storage means includes input information received by the input unit. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0424] 1. Information Processing System 2. Data Supply System 100 Cloud Servers 101,301 Communications Department 102,303 Storage section 103,302 Control Unit 107,321 Acquisition Department 108 Supply section 109 Processing Unit 210 Toilets 220 Bathroom 230 Washbasin 240 External data provision device 300 user terminals 304 Input section 322 Display Control Unit 324 1st AP Execution Unit 325 2nd AP Execution Department 400 External destination device

Claims

1. A storage means for storing usage information related to the biological or excretory functions of users of plumbing equipment, Information estimation means for estimating the user's health information or service information to be provided to the user based on the usage information stored in the storage means, Output means for outputting at least one of the user information, the user's health information, and the service information as external output information to an external system used by the user, An acquisition means for acquiring external analysis results obtained from the external system by analyzing the external output information using the analysis means of the external system, A user terminal having a display means that displays the external analysis results acquired by the acquisition means, along with the user's health information or service information estimated by the information estimation means, with attribute information of the external system added; An information provision system characterized by having the following features.

2. The information provision system according to claim 1, characterized in that the external system is configured to receive the external output information in the cloud on the external system side and output the external analysis results.

3. The information provision system according to claim 1, characterized in that the output means provides a portion of the usage information stored in the storage means to the external system based on conditions relating to the provision of information to the external system.

4. The information provision system according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes a selection means that allows the user to select from a plurality of external systems.

5. The information estimation means includes a first health status estimation means that estimates a first health status of the user based on the usage information stored in the storage means for a predetermined period of time, and a first recommendation information generation means that generates first recommendation information for promoting the user's health based on the first health status of the user estimated by the first health status estimation means. The acquisition means acquires a second health status of the user and / or second recommendation information for promoting the user's health, which has been analyzed by the analysis means. The second recommendation information is generated for each of the multiple health-related items, and the user can select the second recommendation information to display on the user terminal from the recommendation information for each of the multiple health-related items. The information provision system according to feature 1.

6. The information provision system according to claim 5, characterized in that the user terminal is provided with selection means for selecting information to display from the first health status and the second health status, or from the first recommendation information and the second recommendation information.

7. The information provision system according to claim 6, characterized in that the selection means selects information to be displayed such that, when the second health status is obtained, the second health status is displayed preferentially over the first health status, and when the second recommendation information is obtained, the second recommendation information is displayed preferentially over the first recommendation information.

8. The output means provides a portion of the usage information stored in the storage means to the external system based on conditions relating to the provision of information to the external system. The aforementioned selection means prioritizes displaying information from an external system selected by the user. The information provision system according to feature 7.

9. The external system includes a selection means that allows the user to select from a plurality of external systems. The selection means prioritizes displaying the second recommendation information selected by the user. The information provision system according to feature 7.

10. The system further includes connection means that enable multiple plumbing fixtures to communicate via a predetermined network. The storage means includes a first storage means for storing first usage data obtained from a first plumbing device included in the plurality of plumbing devices, and a second storage means for storing second usage data obtained from a second plumbing device included in the plurality of plumbing devices. A data supply means that supplies the provision data to each of the plurality of data processing units, which include the information estimation means that provides a service using provision data based on at least one of the first usage data and the second usage data stored in the first storage means or the second storage means, based on conditions relating to the provision of data to each of the plurality of data processing units, The information provision system according to claim 1, characterized by comprising the following:

11. Of the plurality of data processing units, the first data processing unit generates health-related data concerning the user's health status using data for provision based on at least one of the first or second usage data during a predetermined period. Of the aforementioned plurality of data processing units, the second data processing unit provides recommendation data regarding nutrition, sleep, or exercise based on the health-related data generated by the first data processing unit. The information provision system according to claim 10.

12. The information provision system according to claim 10, characterized in that at least one of the plurality of data processing units provides recommendation data relating to nutrition, sleep, or exercise using provision data based on at least one of the first usage data or the second usage data during a predetermined period.

13. A data collection means that collects data for external output from the first storage means or the second storage means based on predetermined data collection conditions, An external output means that outputs the data for external output collected by the data collection means to a predetermined destination, The information provision system according to claim 10, characterized by comprising the above.

14. The user terminal has an input unit that receives input information regarding the user's biological or excretory functions through the user's operation. The information provision system according to claim 1, characterized in that the usage information stored in the storage means includes input information received by the input unit.

Images