User Information Management System

Abstract

Properly manage the usage information obtained when using plumbing fixtures. [Solution] The user information management system according to the embodiment includes: a first acquisition means for acquiring user information when a user uses plumbing equipment installed in a water-related space including a kitchen, washroom, bathroom, or toilet; a second acquisition means for acquiring user information that can identify the user using the plumbing equipment; a storage means for storing the user information acquired by the second acquisition means and the user information acquired by the first acquisition means in association; a setting means for setting handling conditions related to the user information based on the user's request; and a receiving means for receiving a request to change the handling conditions based on the user's manual or automatic request, wherein the handling conditions set by the setting means are stored in the storage means together with the user information in association with the user information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a usage information management system.

Background Art

[0002] Various technologies exist for distributing sensing data between a provider side and a data user side. For example, a system that provides sensing data to a data user when it is determined that provision is possible by matching a data catalog describing attributes that a sensor can acquire with a data catalog that can be provided to the user (for example, Patent Document 1) is known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the above conventional technology has room for improvement. In the conventional technology, persons who can use the system are able to use the detected usage information, but usage information that contains sensitive personal information is desirably made available only to limited persons such as family members and doctors for health management purposes, and not available to persons other than designated persons. For this reason, it is desired to appropriately manage usage information obtained when using plumbing-related equipment.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A user information management system according to one embodiment of the system comprises: a first acquisition means for acquiring user information when a user uses plumbing equipment installed in a water-related space including a kitchen, washroom, bathroom, or toilet; a second acquisition means for acquiring user information that can identify the user using the plumbing equipment; a storage means for storing the user information acquired by the second acquisition means and the user information acquired by the first acquisition means in association; a setting means for setting handling conditions related to the user information based on the user's request; and a receiving means for receiving a request to change the handling conditions based on the user's manual or automatic request, wherein the handling conditions set by the setting means are stored in the storage means together with the user information in association with the user information.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the user information management system, the handling conditions for personal data obtained from plumbing equipment installed in a plumbing space are set and changed based on the user's request. This allows the user information management system to handle the user's personal data only with the persons authorized by the user, and to appropriately manage the user information obtained when using plumbing equipment.

[0007] In a user information management system according to one embodiment, the water facilities are provided in each of a plurality of facilities with different addresses, and the storage means stores user information, or the user information associated with the user information, and information relating to the location of the water facilities used by the user, or the water facilities used by the user.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the usage information management system, by linking and storing usage information obtained from water-related equipment installed in multiple facilities, it is possible to accumulate information such as where and which water-related equipment a user used. Furthermore, because the usage information management system can clearly identify the location and water-related equipment used by the user, it can provide a user-friendly system.

[0009] In a user information management system according to one embodiment, the user information includes the date and time of use of the plumbing equipment and the user's biometric information or excretion information acquired by a sensor provided in the plumbing space or the plumbing equipment, or the user's health information estimated based on the user's biometric information or excretion information, and is stored in the storage means together with the user information.

[0010] According to a user information management system in one embodiment, user information, including usage date and time, excretion information, biometric information, and health information, is stored together with user information, allowing for the accumulation of information on when, who, and in what state the user was. Furthermore, the user information management system allows for the unique identification of a user's health information associated with the user information based on the usage date and time information.

[0011] In a user information management system according to one embodiment, the water facilities space includes a first water facilities space provided at a facility at a first address and a second water facilities space provided at a facility at a second address different from the first address, the handling conditions include information regarding permission to use user information acquired in the first water facilities space, or information regarding permission to use user information acquired in the second water facilities space, and the receiving means is capable of receiving a request to change from first data user information including information regarding permission to use user information acquired in the first water facilities space to second data user information including information regarding permission to use user information acquired in the second water facilities space.

[0012] According to a user information management system in one embodiment, the viewing permissions of viewers can be changed based on the user's request. For example, if a user moves from Gym A to Gym B, the user information management system can be changed so that only trainers at Gym B can view the user's information.

[0013] In a user information management system according to one embodiment, the water facilities include a first water facilities provided at a facility at a first address and a second water facilities provided at a facility at a second address different from the first address, the handling conditions include information regarding permission to use user information acquired in the first water facilities, or information regarding permission to use user information acquired in the second water facilities, and the receiving means is capable of receiving a request to incorporate first data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use user information acquired in the first water facilities, into second data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use user information acquired in the second water facilities.

[0014] According to a user information management system in one embodiment, by incorporating handling conditions, the scope of users who can handle user information can be expanded to other buildings or organizations, even when the scope of users who can handle user information is controlled by a building or organization.

[0015] In a user information management system according to one embodiment, when the receiving means receives a request to change the first data user information to the second data user information, or a request for the second data user information to include permission information for use of the first data user information, the storage means stores the user information associated with the first data user information in association with the second data user information.

[0016] According to a user information management system in one embodiment, user information subject to the handling conditions before the change is stored in association with user information subject to the handling conditions after the change, making it possible to permanently store information such as user rights included in the handling conditions.

[0017] In a user information management system according to one embodiment, the handling conditions include the user information, the right to view the user information, or the conditions relating to the right to use the user information.

[0018] According to the usage information management system pertaining to one aspect of the embodiment, when personal data obtained from plumbing equipment installed in a plumbing space is used by parties other than the user, it is possible to impose authority restrictions on how the personal data can be used, for example, restricting it to be viewable only. Effects of the Invention

[0019] According to one aspect of the embodiment, usage information obtained when using plumbing equipment can be appropriately managed. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of a usage information management system pertaining to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining information stored by the usage information management system pertaining to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an overview of processing of the usage information management system pertaining to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of a data management apparatus pertaining to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in a user information storage unit pertaining to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in a usage information storage unit pertaining to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in a handling condition storage unit pertaining to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of processing related to changing a handling condition performed by the usage information management system pertaining to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen that accepts a change to a handling condition. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen showing the result of a handling condition change. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating first to third modification processing examples. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of how the user information management system according to this embodiment changes the handling conditions. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of deleting or adding handling conditions by the user information management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of the inclusion of handling conditions by the user information management system according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] <1. Embodiments> Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0022] <1-1. Overview of processing by the user information management system> First, an example of the configuration of the user information management system 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the user information management system according to the embodiment.

[0023] The user information management system 1 comprises a sensor device 5 equipped with various sensors, a terminal device 10 used by users, and a data management device 100 that manages user information, user information, and handling conditions in association. Each component is connected via wired or wireless communication.

[0024] Usage information is information obtained through the user's use of plumbing equipment. For example, usage information includes sensor data obtained by sensor device 5 and information generated based on sensor data. User information is information about the user who uses the plumbing equipment. For example, user information includes information such as the user's account, the organization corresponding to the account, the name of the account holder, and the account status. Handling conditions are information regarding the handling conditions of usage information, and include information regarding permission to use usage information, such as the data user who uses the usage information, the data user's authority, and the scope of disclosure of the usage information.

[0025] Sensor device 5 is installed in water-related spaces such as toilets, bathrooms, kitchens, and washrooms, or in water-related equipment such as toilets, and is equipped with various sensors for acquiring sensor data. Water-related spaces are installed in multiple facilities with different addresses. Sensor device 5 acquires data on the user's excrement using a stool sensor.

[0026] Sensor data includes excretion data (data on the user's excrement), vital data (data on the user's biometrics), operation data of devices installed in the bathroom / kitchen area, usage history data of devices installed in the bathroom / kitchen area, and door opening / closing data for the bathroom / kitchen area.

[0027] Sensor device 5 is installed, for example, in a toilet and has various sensors such as a stool sensor, a blood flow sensor, and a door opening / closing sensor. For example, the stool sensor of sensor device 5 is a sensor that images stool using a line sensor, camera, etc. In this case, the stool sensor of sensor device 5 images the stool (sometimes simply referred to as "stool") excreted by the user and generates an image including the user's stool. Any sensor capable of detecting the target data item can be used in sensor device 5. For example, the stool sensor of sensor device 5 may be a two-dimensional image sensor capable of detecting at least one of the characteristics of stool, such as color, hardness, shape, and quantity.

[0028] Furthermore, the stool sensor can detect the user's urine. For example, the stool sensor may detect the color, amount, etc., of the user's urine. In this case, the sensor device 5 will detect urine data, and the sensor data may include urine data. Note that the analysis of the sensor data, such as the determination of stool characteristics, may be performed by the sensor device 5 or by the data management device 100.

[0029] The above is merely an example, and the sensor device 5 may have various other sensors. For example, the sensor device 5 installed in a toilet may have a sensor that detects sitting on the toilet seat (seat detection sensor). Also, for example, the sensor device 5 may have sensors that detect the user's vital data in the bathroom. For example, the sensor device 5 may have sensors that detect vital data such as the user's blood flow, heart rate (pulse), respiration, body temperature, brain waves, and muscle activity (electromyography). For example, when the sensor device 5 detects the user's blood flow in a toilet, it may have a blood flow sensor installed on the toilet seat or the like in the toilet.

[0030] The sensor device 5 may have a sensor that detects the use of the water-related space. For example, the sensor device 5 may have a human body detection sensor that detects whether or not a human body is present in the toilet. The sensor device 5 may also have a sensor that detects the operation of a device installed in the water-related space. For example, the sensor device 5 may have a sensor that detects the operation of a remote control, which is an operating unit for operating the toilet device.

[0031] Furthermore, the sensor device 5 may have an entry detection sensor for collecting information on users entering and leaving the bathroom space. For example, the sensor device 5 may have a door opening / closing sensor for detecting the opening and closing of the toilet door.

[0032] Furthermore, the sensor device 5 may have an identification sensor that identifies the user or user's account when using the water-related space or water-related equipment. For example, the sensor device 5 may have a biometric sensor that identifies the user through fingerprint authentication. The sensor device 5 may also communicate (pair) with the terminal device 10 used by the user via wireless communication and send and receive information to identify the user's account.

[0033] Furthermore, if multiple accounts are associated with the same terminal device 10, the pre-configured account may be identified depending on the location and time of day when the sensor device 5 and terminal device 10 are linked. The sensor device 5 has various sensors for collecting various data in the water-related space.

[0034] The sensor device 5 transmits the detected and analyzed data from its various sensors to the data management device 100. For example, the sensor device 5 transmits sensor data such as the color and consistency of stool detected by a stool sensor installed in the toilet to the data management device 100. The sensor device 5 also transmits a request to the data management device 100 to change the handling conditions when predetermined conditions are met. For example, if user information is acquired at a location different from the default location, the sensor device 5 transmits a request to the data management device 100 to change the handling conditions of the user information.

[0035] Terminal device 10 is an information processing device used by the user. Terminal device 10 can be implemented as, for example, a smartphone, mobile phone, PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), tablet device, or notebook PC (Personal Computer). Terminal device 10 receives requests for changes to handling conditions through user operation. Terminal device 10 also transmits requests for changes to handling conditions to data management device 100.

[0036] The data management device 100 is an information processing device that manages usage information. For example, the data management device 100 manages usage information, user information, and handling conditions in association. The data management device 100 may also be a cloud server (server device).

[0037] Next, an overview of the processing by the user information management system 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the information stored by the user information management system according to the embodiment. Figure 2 schematically shows the relationship between various types of information stored by the user information management system 1. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the user information management system 1 stores user information, user information, and handling conditions in association. For example, the user information management system 1 stores each piece of user information obtained using an account, the information of each account included in the user information, and the handling conditions for each account, associating them with a common account as the key.

[0038] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the overview of processing by the user information management system according to the embodiment. Figure 3 schematically shows the flow of the user information management system 1 according to the embodiment from the time a request for a change in handling conditions is sent until the handling conditions are changed.

[0039] For example, first, the terminal device 10 or the sensor device 5 sends a request to the data management device 100 to change the handling conditions (step S11). For example, the terminal device 10 receives an operation from a user and sends a request to change the handling conditions. The sensor device 5 also sends a request to change the handling conditions when usage information is obtained using an account that has not been used before.

[0040] Next, the data management device 100 receives a request for a change in handling conditions transmitted from the sensor device 5 or the terminal device 10 (step S12). Subsequently, the data management device 100 sets the handling conditions in accordance with the received request for a change in handling conditions (S13).

[0041] For example, the data management device 100 changes first data user information indicating certain handling conditions to second data user information indicating other handling conditions. The data management device 100 also incorporates first data user information indicating certain handling conditions into second data user information indicating other handling conditions.

[0042] The first data user information refers to information related to usage information acquired in the first water-related space located at the first address, including the target account, the organization associated with the account, the data user indicating the person using the usage information, the data user's authority, and the scope of disclosure of the usage information. The second data user information refers to information related to usage information acquired in the second water-related space located at a facility at a second address different from the first address, including the target account, the organization associated with the account, the data user indicating the person using the usage information, the data user's authority, and the scope of disclosure of the usage information.

[0043] The user information management system 1 performs a series of processes as described in Figure 3, thereby setting and changing the handling conditions for personal data obtained from plumbing equipment installed in the bathroom space based on the user's request. This allows the user information management system 1 to handle the user's personal data only with the authorized personnel, and to appropriately manage the user information obtained when using plumbing equipment.

[0044] <1-2. Configuration of the Data Management Device> Next, the configuration of the data management device 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the data management device according to this embodiment.

[0045] The data management device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. The data management device 100 may also include an input unit (e.g., a keyboard or mouse) for receiving various operations from the administrator of the data management device 100, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display) for displaying various information.

[0046] The communication unit 110 is implemented, for example, by a communication circuit. The communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined network, such as the Internet, by wire or wireless connection, and transmits and receives information with an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 110 transmits and receives information with other devices having communication functions, such as the sensor device 5 and the terminal device 10, via a predetermined network, such as the Internet.

[0047] The storage unit 120 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and flash memory, or storage devices such as hard disks and optical discs, and functions as a storage means. As shown in Figure 4, the storage unit 120 has a user information storage unit 121, a usage information storage unit 122, and a handling condition storage unit 123. The individual parts of the storage unit 120 will be described below.

[0048] The user information storage unit 121 stores information about the user. This information includes items such as account, organization, name, and status. The user information may be pre-stored. Now, with reference to Figure 5, the information stored by the user information storage unit 121 will be explained. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the information stored by the user information storage unit according to this embodiment.

[0049] For example, as shown in Figure 5, the user information storage unit 121 stores information for items such as "account, organization, name, and status." "Account" refers to the user's account. In Figure 5, the account is shown as an email address, but any other identifying information that can be used to identify the account, such as an account name, is acceptable. "Organization" refers to the organization associated with the account. "Name" refers to the name of the account holder. "Status" refers to the status of the account, such as whether it is active or inactive.

[0050] For example, the user information storage unit 121 stores information such as, "The account 'taro.yamada@companyx.com' owned by Taro Yamada is associated with company X and is a valid account." In other words, the user information storage unit 121 stores information such as the organization, owner, and status for each account. Note that the same person may own multiple accounts.

[0051] The user information storage unit 122 stores user information. The information stored by the user information storage unit 122 will now be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 shows an example of the information stored by the user information storage unit according to this embodiment.

[0052] For example, as shown in Figure 6, the user information storage unit 122 stores information on items such as "account, date and time, organization, installation location, product information, excretion data, biometric data, and health information." "Account" indicates the account used to acquire the user information. "Date and time" indicates the date and time when the user information was acquired. "Organization" indicates the organization associated with the account. "Installation location" indicates the location where the plumbing equipment used to acquire the user information is installed. The installation location is, in other words, the plumbing space where the plumbing equipment is installed.

[0053] "Product information" refers to the product information of the plumbing equipment used. Product information includes information such as the product type, model number, and identification number. Product information may be stored in association with the installation location. "Excretion data" refers to data related to the user's excrement. Excretion data includes items such as "color" (black, brown, dark brown, etc.) and "hardness" (hard, soft, watery, etc.). "Biometric data" refers to information generated by the user's biological activity, such as blood flow. "Health information" refers to the user's health information. Health information is estimated based on excretion data or biometric data.

[0054] For example, the user information storage unit 122 stores information such as, "Using the account 'taro.yamada@companyx.com', information such as 'the stool is brown and hard...' was detected by Washlet (registered trademark) A installed on the 1st floor of Xx Building on '2025 / 8 / 1 12:00:00'." In other words, the user information storage unit 122 stores details of the user information, as well as information such as the date and time, location, and the account used to acquire the user information.

[0055] Furthermore, the excretion data stored in the user information storage unit 122 may be data analyzed by the data management device 100 or the sensor device 5. For example, excretion data such as the shape of the stool, the color of the stool, the amount of stool, the color of the urine, the amount of urine, the flow rate of urine, and the components of urine may be generated based on images of the stool or urine. In addition, although not shown in the figures, the user information storage unit 122 stores various types of information detected or analyzed by the sensor device 5, such as the characteristics of the stool.

[0056] The handling conditions storage unit 123 stores handling conditions. Handling conditions include information such as account, organization, data user, authority, and disclosure scope. Handling conditions may be pre-stored. Now, with reference to Figure 7, the information stored by the handling conditions storage unit 123 will be described. Figure 7 shows an example of information stored by the handling conditions storage unit according to this embodiment.

[0057] For example, as shown in Figure 7(1), the handling condition storage unit 123 stores information on items such as "account, organization, data user, authority, and disclosure scope" as handling conditions. "Account" indicates the account used to acquire the usage information. "Organization" indicates the organization associated with the account. "Data user" indicates the user who uses the data acquired using the account. "Authority" indicates the authority of the data user. Types of authority include, for example, "viewing," which indicates that the usage information can be viewed, and "using," which indicates that the usage information can be downloaded or used for secondary purposes. "Disclosure scope" indicates the scope of disclosure of the usage information. The disclosure scope may be the items of the usage information to be disclosed, or it may be the recipient to whom the usage information is disclosed.

[0058] For example, the handling conditions storage unit 123 stores information such as, "Regarding the 'color, hardness' items in the data acquired using the account 'taro.yamada@companyx.com' associated with company X, Tanaka XX has the authority to 'view and use'." In other words, the handling conditions storage unit 123 stores details of the usage information, as well as information such as the date and time, location, and the account used to acquire the usage information.

[0059] Examples of other information stored by the handling condition storage unit 123 will be described below. The handling condition storage unit 123 stores information on inclusion relationships as handling conditions. As shown in Figure 7(2), the handling condition storage unit 123 stores information on items such as "first account, first organization, first range, second account, second organization, second range".

[0060] "First Account" refers to the account associated with the First Organization. "First Organization" refers to the organization encompassed by the Second Organization. "First Scope" refers to the range of usage information obtained using the First Account that can be handled by the Second Account. The First Scope may be, for example, the location where the usage information was obtained, or it may be the type or item of the usage information.

[0061] "Second account" refers to an account associated with a second organization. "Second organization" refers to the organization that encompasses the first organization. "Second scope" refers to the scope within the second organization that can handle usage information obtained using the first account.

[0062] For example, the handling conditions storage unit 123 stores information such as, "The xx branch of Hospital B, which is associated with the account 'taro.yamada@personal.com', can utilize the usage information acquired by the entire organization X, which is obtained using the account 'taro.yamada@companyx.com' associated with the organization X." In other words, the handling conditions storage unit 123 stores information such as the scope of usage information that the encompassed organization allows other organizations to handle, and the scope within the encompassing organization that can handle the usage information.

[0063] The memory unit 120 stores the handling conditions set by the setting means, associating them with the user information and usage information. The memory unit 120 also stores the user information, or usage information associated with the user information, associating it with the location of the water-related space used by the user, or information about the water-related equipment used by the user.

[0064] The memory unit 120 stores user information in association with usage information, which includes the date and time of use of the plumbing equipment, the user's biometric information or excretion information acquired by sensors installed in the plumbing space or plumbing equipment, or the user's health information estimated based on the user's biometric information or excretion information.

[0065] When the receiving means receives a request to change the first data user information to the second data user information, or a request for the second data user information to include permission information for the use of the first data user information, the storage unit 120 stores the user information associated with the first data user information in association with the second data user information. Here, permission information refers to information regarding permission to use the usage information, including the data user who will use the usage information, the data user's authority, and the scope of disclosure of the usage information.

[0066] The control unit 130 is implemented, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) executing a program (for example, a data management program) stored inside the data management device 100 using RAM or the like as a working area. Alternatively, the control unit 130 can be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0067] The control unit 130 includes an acquisition unit 131, a reception unit 132, and a setting unit 133, and realizes or executes the information processing functions and operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 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.

[0068] The acquisition unit 131 acquires usage information and user information. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires usage information when a user uses plumbing equipment. For example, when a user uses a toilet, the acquisition unit 131 acquires usage information including sensor data such as excretion data, biometric data, operation data, usage history data, and door opening / closing data obtained by the sensor device 5 of the toilet. The acquired usage information includes information about the account used for acquisition, which is identified by the sensor device 5.

[0069] To explain with a specific example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires information from the sensor device 5 such as, "Using the account "taro.yamada@companyx.com", information such as "the stool is brown and hard..." was detected by Washlet A installed on the 1st floor of Xx Building on "2025 / 8 / 1 12:00:00". The acquisition unit 131 stores the acquired usage information in the usage information storage unit 122.

[0070] As an alternative example, the acquisition unit 131 can analyze sensor data included in the usage information to estimate health information indicating the user's health level. Health information is represented, for example, by a score with an upper limit of 100, where a higher score indicates a healthier person. For example, the acquisition unit 131 can estimate the user's health information based on the user's excretion data or biometric data. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 131 can estimate the user's health information based on the user's excretion data or biometric data and the date and time of use of plumbing equipment. Known technologies can be employed to estimate health information. The acquisition unit 131 stores the usage information, including the estimated user health information, in the usage information storage unit 122.

[0071] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 acquires user information that can identify users who use the plumbing equipment. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires user account information used to acquire usage information. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires user account information identified by the sensor device 5 from the sensor device 5.

[0072] To explain with a specific example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires information such as the account "taro.yamada@companyx.com" from the sensor device 5. The acquisition unit 131 stores the acquired user information in the storage unit 120.

[0073] The reception unit 132 functions as a means of receiving requests for changes to the handling conditions. The handling conditions include information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in each water-related space. For example, the handling conditions include information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the first water-related space, or information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the second water-related space. Information regarding permission to use includes the target account, the organization associated with the account, the data user who will use the usage information, the data user's authority, and the scope of disclosure of the usage information.

[0074] For example, the reception unit 132 can receive a request to change from first data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use usage information acquired in the first water-related space, to second data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use usage information acquired in the second water-related space.

[0075] For example, the reception unit 132 accepts requests to change the first data user information to the second data user information for the target usage information. To explain with a specific example, the reception unit 132 accepts a request to "change the scope of disclosure (disclosure destination) of usage information obtained using the account "taro.yamada@personal.com" from "A Gym Chigasaki branch to Tsujido branch". In other words, in the above example, the reception unit 132 accepts requests to change the gym branch that can handle the user's usage information, such as when the user changes the gym branch they use.

[0076] Furthermore, the reception unit 132 accepts requests to "change the data user of the user information obtained using the account "taro.yamada@personal.com" from "Mr. Suzuki at Gym A to Mr. Takahashi." In other words, in the above example, the reception unit 132 accepts requests to change the employee who can handle the user's user information, such as when the user changes the gym location they use.

[0077] In the example above, the reception unit 132 was shown to accept requests to change the scope of disclosure and the items of data users, but other items such as authority and scope of disclosure (items) may also be accepted. Furthermore, the reception unit 132 can also accept requests to change multiple items.

[0078] Furthermore, the reception unit 132 can accept requests to include the first data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the first water-related space, into the second data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the second water-related space.

[0079] For example, the reception unit 132 accepts a request to include the first data user information into the second data user information for the target usage information. To explain with a specific example, the reception unit 132 accepts a request to allow the xx branch of Hospital B, which is associated with the second account, to handle the usage information obtained using the first account "taro.yamada@companyx.com" associated with Company X, with the same authority as Company X can handle it.

[0080] In other words, in the above example, the reception unit 132 receives requests that allow the hospital to handle the usage information obtained by the company, for example, by using the company's access and other rights. To put it another way, the reception unit 132 receives requests that allow the encompassing party to handle the usage information using the encompassed party's rights.

[0081] The requests for changes to handling conditions accepted by the reception unit 132 mentioned above include manual requests and automatic requests. A manual request is a request for a change to handling conditions that is made in response to a manual operation by the user, such as operating the terminal. An automatic request is a request for a change to handling conditions that is made automatically in accordance with predetermined conditions, such as when new user information is acquired in a location different from the default location set in the user information.

[0082] The reception unit 132 receives requests to change handling conditions based on manual or automatic requests from users. For example, the reception unit 132 receives requests to change the handling conditions of user information transmitted from the terminal device 10 by user operation. The reception unit 132 also receives requests to change the handling conditions of user information transmitted automatically from the sensor device 5 when user information is acquired at a location different from the default location, etc.

[0083] The setting unit 133 functions as a setting means for setting handling conditions. Based on the user's request, the setting unit 133 sets handling conditions related to usage information associated with user information. For example, in response to a request for a change in handling conditions received by the reception unit 132, the setting unit 133 changes the first data user information to the second data user information.

[0084] To explain with a specific example, in response to a request for a change in the handling conditions received, the setting unit 133 changes the information regarding the scope of disclosure (disclosure destination) of the usage information obtained using the account "taro.yamada@personal.com" stored in the handling conditions storage unit 123 from the Chigasaki branch of Gym A to the Tsujido branch.

[0085] Next, the processing of the setting unit 133 when a request for inclusion is received will be explained. In response to the request for change of handling conditions received by the reception unit 132, the setting unit 133 incorporates the first data user information into the second data user information.

[0086] To explain with a specific example, the setting unit 133, in response to a request for a change in handling conditions received, stores information such as "Branch xx of Hospital B, associated with the account "taro.yamada@personal.com", can handle usage information obtained using the account "taro.yamada@companyx.com", which is associated with Company X, and which is obtained by the entire Company X" in the handling conditions storage unit 123. As a result, Hospital B can handle usage information obtained using the account associated with Company X, including the authority of Company X.

[0087] <1-3. Example of processing by the user information management system> From here, based on the above-mentioned content, we will explain an example of processing performed by the user information management system 1. First, we will explain the sequence of processes related to changing handling conditions performed by the user information management system 1 with reference to Figure 8. After that, we will explain specific examples of the process of changing handling conditions, divided into the first to third change processing examples. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for processing related to changing handling conditions performed by the user information management system according to the embodiment.

[0088] First, the data management device 100 determines whether or not predetermined conditions are met (step S101). The predetermined conditions in step S101 are the conditions for initiating a series of processes related to the change in handling conditions. For example, predetermined conditions include "a request to change the handling conditions of the user's usage information has been sent from the terminal device 10" and "the user's usage information has been acquired at a location different from the default location."

[0089] Here, if the data management device 100 determines that the predetermined conditions are not met (step S101; No), it performs the process of step S101 again. On the other hand, if the data management device 100 determines that the predetermined conditions are met (step S101; Yes), it transmits the current handling conditions (step S102). For example, the data management device 100 transmits the handling conditions that are the subject of a request for change of handling conditions to the terminal device 10. The data management device 100 also transmits information on the handling conditions related to usage information acquired at a location different from the default location to the terminal device 10.

[0090] Next, the terminal device 10 accepts a change in the handling conditions (step S103). For example, the terminal device 10 accepts a change in the selected target item by the user's tap operation.

[0091] Here, with reference to Figure 9, an example of accepting a change in handling conditions will be explained. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for accepting a change in handling conditions. For example, in the example in Figure 9, terminal device 10 displays a screen that includes the target account "taro.yamada@personal.com", which is information obtained from data management device 100, and the current handling conditions "Organization: A Gym, Disclosure destination: Chigasaki store, *****". Then, terminal device 10 accepts the item to be changed, "Disclosure destination", and the change content, "Fujisawa store", through a tap operation by the user.

[0092] Returning to Figure 7, the terminal device 10 then transmits information about the change in handling conditions it received (step S104). For example, the terminal device 10 transmits information about the change in handling conditions it received to the data management device 100.

[0093] Next, the data management device 100 changes the handling conditions (step S105). For example, the data management device 100 changes the "Disclosure destination" item in the handling conditions for the target account "taro.yamada@personal.com" to "Fujisawa Store".

[0094] Next, the data management device 100 transmits the result of the change in handling conditions (step S106). For example, the data management device 100 transmits information on whether the change in handling conditions was successfully performed, and information on the changed handling conditions.

[0095] Then, terminal device 10 displays the change results transmitted from data management device 100 (step S107). Here, with reference to Figure 10, an example of the screen showing the change results of the handling conditions will be described. Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of the screen showing the change results of the handling conditions. For example, terminal device 10 displays a screen that includes a message such as "The change in handling conditions has been successfully completed" and the changed handling conditions "Target account: taro.yamada@personal.com, Organization: A Gym, Disclosure destination: Fujisawa store, *****".

[0096] Next, we will explain the first to third change processing examples. Figure 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating the first to third change processing examples. Figure 11 schematically shows the flow from when usage information obtained from a user's use of plumbing equipment is stored in association with various organizations such as companies, hospitals, and gyms, to when the usage information is provided to data users who use it. In Figure 11, the dotted line indicates that the usage information is no longer provided.

[0097] Figure 11(1) illustrates an example of changing the data user who can handle usage information from an instructor at Gym X to an instructor at Gym Y. For example, when a user uses a toilet device installed in a gym, usage information obtained is stored in association with the gym, and the usage information can be handled by an instructor at Gym X. In this situation, the usage information management system 1, upon receiving a request for a change in handling conditions, changes the data user from an instructor at Gym X to an instructor at Gym Y. In other words, Figure 11(1) illustrates an example of the usage information management system 1 changing the data user within the same organization.

[0098] Figure 11(2) shows an example of deleting or adding data users who can handle user information. For example, when user information obtained when a user uses a toilet device installed in a hospital is stored in association with the hospital, and the user information can be handled by a doctor at the hospital, the user information management system 1, upon receiving a request to change the handling conditions, deletes the hospital doctor's information from the data users. In other words, Figure 11(2) shows an example of the user information management system 1 deleting handling conditions that include data users.

[0099] Figure 11(3) illustrates an example of changing the data user who can handle usage information from a company nurse to a hospital doctor. For example, when usage information obtained when a user uses a toilet device installed at a company is stored in association with the company, and the company nurse can handle the usage information, the usage information management system 1, upon receiving a request to change the handling conditions, will enable a hospital doctor to handle the usage information in the same way that the company nurse can. In other words, Figure 11(3) illustrates an example in which the usage information management system 1 incorporates handling conditions so that data can be handled by data users from other organizations.

[0100] (Example of the first change process) The first change processing example describes an example of changing an item included in the handling conditions. As shown in Figure 11(1), the user information management system 1 can change the data user who can handle the user information from X store instructor to Y store instructor.

[0101] Here, with reference to Figure 12, an example of changing the handling conditions will be explained. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of changing the handling conditions by the user information management system according to the embodiment. Figure 12(1) shows an example of changing the items of the disclosure scope included in the handling conditions. Figure 12(2) shows an example of changing the items of the data user included in the handling conditions.

[0102] For example, as shown in Figure 12(1), when the setting unit 133 of the data management device 100 receives a request from the reception unit 132 to "change the scope of disclosure (disclosure destination) of the usage information acquired using the account "taro.yamada@personal.com" from the Chigasaki branch of Gym A to the Fujisawa branch," it changes the scope of disclosure (disclosure destination) of the usage information acquired using the account "taro.yamada@personal.com" stored in the handling condition storage unit 123 from the Chigasaki branch of Gym A to the Fujisawa branch.

[0103] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12(2), when the setting unit 133 of the data management device 100 receives a request from the reception unit 132 to "change the data user of the user information acquired using the account "taro.yamada@personal.com" from Mr. Suzuki of Gym A to Mr. Takahashi", it changes the data user of the user information acquired using the account "taro.yamada@personal.com" stored in the handling condition storage unit 123 from Mr. Suzuki to Mr. Takahashi.

[0104] In other words, the user information management system 1, upon receiving a request to change the handling conditions, changes the data user within the gym who can handle the user information acquired using the "taro.yamada@personal.com" account. Although the above examples show requests to change the handling conditions for one item at a time, it is possible to change multiple items in the handling conditions. For example, the changes to the handling conditions shown in Figures 12(1) and 12(2) may be made simultaneously.

[0105] The user information management system 1, by changing the handling conditions shown in Figures 12(1) and (2), allows users to, at their discretion, change who can handle their user information to other gym locations or other instructors if they are dissatisfied with the gym location or instructor they are using.

[0106] (Example of a second change process) The second example of modification processing describes an example of deleting or adding handling conditions. As shown in Figure 11(2), the user information management system 1 can delete the information of a doctor who is set as a data user who can handle user information.

[0107] Here, with reference to Figure 13, an example of a change involving the deletion or addition of handling conditions will be described. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the deletion or addition of handling conditions by the user information management system according to the embodiment. Figure 13(1) shows an example of deleting handling conditions. Figure 13(2) shows an example of adding handling conditions. In each table in Figure 13, the deleted handling conditions are shown as blank columns. This differs from handling conditions with "Disclosure scope: Do not disclose" set in that the information is deleted from the handling condition storage unit 123.

[0108] For example, as shown in Figure 13(1), when the setting unit 133 of the data management device 100 receives a request from the reception unit 132 to delete the handling conditions related to the account "taro.yamada@personal.com" associated with Hospital B, it deletes the handling conditions related to the account "taro.yamada@personal.com" associated with Hospital B, which are stored in the handling conditions storage unit 123.

[0109] In other words, the user information management system 1, upon receiving a request for a change in handling conditions, modifies the handling conditions so that user information obtained using the account "taro.yamada@personal.com" is not handled by Hospital B.

[0110] Furthermore, since the items deleted by the settings unit 133 are only the handling conditions, usage information obtained using accounts subject to the deleted handling conditions will not be deleted.

[0111] The user information management system 1, by deleting the handling conditions shown in Figure 13(1), allows, for example, if a user is dissatisfied with the doctor in charge at the hospital they are using, to exclude that doctor from the list of people who can handle the user's user information, at the user's request.

[0112] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13(2), when the setting unit 133 of the data management device 100 receives a request from the reception unit 132 to add handling conditions for the account "taro.yamada@companyx.com" associated with company X, it adds the handling conditions for the account "taro.yamada@companyx.com" associated with company X to the handling conditions storage unit 123.

[0113] In other words, the user information management system 1, upon receiving a request for a change in handling conditions, modifies the handling conditions so that the user information obtained using the account "taro.yamada@companyx.com" can be handled by company X.

[0114] As a result, even if a user leaves company X and the terms of use are deleted, making it impossible for company X to view the user's information, if the user returns to company X, the user information management system 1 will add the same terms of use that were previously deleted, allowing company X to access the user information obtained using the user's account again.

[0115] (Example of a third change process) The third example of a change process describes an example that includes handling conditions. As shown in Figure 11(3), the user information management system 1 can change the data users who can handle the user information to data users from other organizations.

[0116] Here, an example of the inclusion of handling conditions will be explained with reference to Figure 14. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of the inclusion of handling conditions by the user information management system according to the embodiment. Figure 14 shows an example of the inclusion of handling conditions.

[0117] For example, as shown in Figure 14, when the setting unit 133 of the data management device 100 receives a request from the reception unit 132 stating, "Enable the xx branch of Hospital B, which is associated with the second account, to handle the usage information acquired using the first account 'taro.yamada@companyx.com' associated with Company X, with the same authority as Company X," the setting unit 133 stores in the handling condition storage unit 123 the information that "the xx branch of Hospital B, associated with the account 'taro.yamada@personal.com', can handle the usage information acquired by the entire company of Company X, among the usage information acquired using the account 'taro.yamada@companyx.com' associated with Company X."

[0118] In other words, the user information management system 1, by incorporating the handling conditions shown in Figure 14, allows hospitals to utilize the access rights held by the company when a user wishes to provide user information not only to the company but also to hospitals in other organizations, thereby enabling hospitals to handle the user's user information.

[0119] Further effects and modifications can be readily derived by those skilled in the art. Therefore, broader aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments expressed and described above. Accordingly, various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the overall concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0120] The embodiments and modifications described above may also have the following configurations, but are not limited to them. (1) A first acquisition means for acquiring usage information when a user uses plumbing fixtures installed in a water-related space including a kitchen, washroom, bathroom, or toilet, A second acquisition means for acquiring user information that can identify the user of the aforementioned plumbing equipment, A storage means that stores user information acquired by the second acquisition means and usage information acquired by the first acquisition means in association with each other, A setting means for setting handling conditions related to the user information associated with the user information, based on the user's request, A receiving means for receiving requests for changes to the handling conditions based on the user's manual or automated request, Equipped with, The handling conditions set by the setting means are stored in the storage means together with the user information and associated with the usage information. A user information management system characterized by the following features. (2) The aforementioned water facilities are provided in each of the multiple facilities with different addresses. The storage means stores the user information, or the usage information associated with the user information, and the location of the water-related space used by the user, or information regarding the water-related equipment used by the user, in association with each other. The user information management system described in (1), characterized in that it is a user information management system. (3) The aforementioned usage information is The storage means includes the date and time of use of the plumbing equipment and the user's biometric information or excretion information obtained by sensors installed in the plumbing space or the plumbing equipment, or the user's health information estimated based on the user's biometric information or excretion information, and is stored together with the user information. A user information management system according to (1) or (2), characterized in that it is a user information management system. (4) The aforementioned plumbing space is This includes a first water-related space provided in a facility at the first address and a second water-related space provided in a facility at a second address different from the first address. The aforementioned handling conditions are: This includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the first water-related space, or information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the second water-related space, The aforementioned receiving means is It is possible to accept a request to change from first data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the first water-related space, to second data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the second water-related space. A user information management system characterized by any one of (1) to (3). (5) The aforementioned plumbing space is This includes a first water-related space provided in a facility at the first address and a second water-related space provided in a facility at a second address different from the first address. The aforementioned handling conditions are: This includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the first water-related space, or information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the second water-related space, The aforementioned receiving means is It is possible to accept a request to include the first data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the first water-related space, into the second data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the second water-related space. A user information management system characterized by any one of (1) to (4). (6) The aforementioned storage means is When the receiving means receives a request to change the first data user information to the second data user information, or a request that the second data user information includes permission information for use of the first data user information, the user information associated with the first data user information is stored in association with the second data user information. The user information management system according to (4) or (5), characterized in that it is a user information management system. (7) The aforementioned terms of use include the user information, the right to view the user information, or the terms of use relating to the right to use the user information. A user information management system according to any one of (1) to (6), characterized by the above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0121] 1. User Information Management System 5. Sensor device 10 Terminal devices 100 Data Management Devices 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 User information storage unit 122 Usage information storage unit 123 Handling Conditions Storage Unit 130 Control Unit 131 Acquisition Department 132 Reception Department 133 Settings Section

Claims

1. A first acquisition means for acquiring usage information when a user uses water-related equipment installed in a water-related space including a kitchen, washroom, bathroom, or toilet, A second acquisition means for acquiring user information that can identify the user of the aforementioned plumbing equipment, A storage means that stores user information acquired by the second acquisition means and user information acquired by the first acquisition means in association with each other, A setting means for setting handling conditions related to the user information associated with the user information, based on the user's request, A receiving means for receiving requests for changes to the handling conditions based on the user's manual or automated request, Equipped with, The handling conditions set by the setting means are stored in the storage means together with the user information and associated with the usage information. A user information management system characterized by the following features.

2. The aforementioned water facilities are provided in each of the multiple facilities with different addresses. The storage means stores the user information, or the usage information associated with the user information, and the location of the water-related space used by the user, or information regarding the water-related equipment used by the user, in association with each other. The user information management system according to feature 1.

3. The aforementioned usage information is The storage means includes the date and time of use of the plumbing equipment and the user's biometric information or excretion information obtained by sensors installed in the plumbing space or the plumbing equipment, or the user's health information estimated based on the user's biometric information or excretion information, and is stored together with the user information. The user information management system according to feature 1.

4. The aforementioned plumbing space is This includes a first water-related space provided in a facility at the first address and a second water-related space provided in a facility at a second address different from the first address. The aforementioned handling conditions are: This includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the first water-related space, or information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the second water-related space, The aforementioned receiving means is It is possible to accept a request to change from first data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the first water-related space, to second data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the second water-related space. The user information management system according to feature 1.

5. The aforementioned plumbing space is This includes a first water-related space provided in a facility at the first address and a second water-related space provided in a facility at a second address different from the first address. The aforementioned handling conditions are: This includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the first water-related space, or information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the second water-related space, The aforementioned receiving means is It is possible to accept a request to include the first data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the first water-related space, into the second data user information, which includes information regarding permission to use the usage information acquired in the second water-related space. The user information management system according to feature 1.

6. The aforementioned storage means is When the receiving means receives a request to change the first data user information to the second data user information, or a request that the second data user information includes permission information for use of the first data user information, the user information associated with the first data user information is stored in association with the second data user information. The user information management system according to claim 4 or 5.

7. The aforementioned terms of use include the user information, the right to view the user information, or the terms of use relating to the right to use the user information. The user information management system according to feature 1.

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