Toilet management system

Abstract

In a restroom equipped with multiple toilet stalls, the timing of cleaning must be properly managed. [Solution] The toilet management system according to the embodiment comprises a toilet room having a plurality of toilet booths equipped with toilets, a detection unit for detecting the usage status of the toilets, a calculation unit for calculating the number of times the toilets have been used based on the detection results of the detection unit, a determination unit for determining the timing for cleaning the toilets based on the number of times the toilets have been used, and a notification unit for notifying that it is time to clean the toilets when the number of times two or more of the plurality of toilets provided in the toilet room have been used exceeds a first threshold.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a system for detecting the cleaning timing of a toilet room in which a toilet apparatus (toilet bowl) is arranged in each toilet booth (private stall) is known (for example, Patent Document 1). For example, in the system described in Patent Document 1, the timing for cleaning a plurality of toilet rooms is determined based on the usage status of the toilet apparatuses.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the above-described technology leaves room for improvement. For example, the above-described conventional system can propose the cleaning timing for each toilet room having a plurality of toilet booths based on the difference in usage frequency of each toilet room. On the other hand, for example, in one toilet room provided with a plurality of toilet booths, even at a timing when only the toilet apparatus in one toilet booth requires cleaning, a situation may arise in which a cleaning person heads to perform the cleaning. Therefore, in the above-described conventional system, a situation occurs in which the same toilet room is visited for cleaning many times in order to clean a plurality of toilet apparatuses, and cleaning is performed at a timing that is not an appropriate cleaning timing for the subject (administrator or the like) performing the cleaning. Accordingly, there is a demand for appropriately managing the cleaning timing in a toilet room provided with a plurality of toilet booths.

[0005] Considering the points mentioned above, managing the timing of cleaning appropriately in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet stalls becomes a challenge.

[0006] The disclosed embodiment aims to provide a toilet management system that can appropriately manage cleaning timing in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet stalls. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A toilet management system according to one embodiment is characterized by comprising: a toilet room having a plurality of toilet booths equipped with toilet devices; a detection unit for detecting the usage status of the toilet devices; a calculation unit for calculating the number of times the toilet devices have been used based on the detection results of the detection unit; a determination unit for determining the timing for cleaning the toilet devices based on the number of times the toilet devices have been used; and a notification unit for notifying that it is time to clean the toilets when the number of times two or more of the plurality of toilet devices provided in the toilet room have been used exceeds a first threshold.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the toilet management system, a cleaning staff member (cleaner) does not need to clean when only one toilet booth is suitable for cleaning, and can clean multiple toilets (toilets) in multiple toilet booths at the appropriate time in a single visit. Therefore, the workload of the cleaning staff member can be reduced. Accordingly, the toilet management system can appropriately manage cleaning timing in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet booths. Note that the toilet booths include, for example, the toilets that make up the toilet booths.

[0009] In a toilet management system according to one embodiment, the notification unit is characterized in that it notifies that it is time to clean when the number of times one of the plurality of toilet devices has been used exceeds a second threshold which is greater than the first threshold.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the toilet management system, even if it is not time for cleaning multiple toilet booths, cleaning can be performed if the toilet in one toilet booth is extremely dirty. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the timing of cleaning in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet booths.

[0011] In a toilet management system according to one embodiment, the notification unit is characterized in that, when the number of times the first toilet device is used exceeds the second threshold, if the remaining amount of toilet paper in the toilet stalls equipped with other toilet devices among the plurality of toilet devices is low, it also provides a notification prompting the cleaning of the toilet stalls equipped with other toilet devices.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the toilet management system, when a cleaning staff member visits a toilet room to clean one toilet stall, they can also perform other necessary cleaning tasks at the same time, thus enabling efficient cleaning. In this way, the toilet management system allows cleaning staff members to perform other necessary cleaning tasks without having to visit the toilet room solely for one toilet stall, thus improving efficiency. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage cleaning timing in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet stalls.

[0013] In a toilet management system according to one embodiment, the notification unit is characterized in that, when the number of times the first toilet device is used exceeds the second threshold, it also prompts the cleaning of the shared facilities in the toilet room if cleaning of the shared facilities is necessary.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the toilet management system, when a cleaning staff member visits a toilet room to clean one toilet stall, they can also perform other necessary cleaning tasks at the same time, thus enabling efficient cleaning. In this way, the toilet management system allows cleaning staff members to perform other necessary cleaning tasks without having to visit the toilet room solely for one toilet stall, thus improving efficiency. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage cleaning timing in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet stalls.

[0015] In a toilet management system according to one embodiment, the notification unit is characterized in that it provides a notification when the number of uses of one toilet device exceeds the second threshold, even if the congestion status of the multiple toilet devices is not below a certain value.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the toilet management system, even in crowded situations, it is possible to prevent discomfort to toilet users by eliminating extremely dirty toilets. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage cleaning timing in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet stalls.

[0017] In a toilet management system according to one embodiment, the notification unit is characterized in that it withholds notification when the first toilet device is in use, and issues the withheld notification when the first toilet device is no longer in use.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the toilet management system, even in crowded situations, it is possible to prevent discomfort to toilet users by eliminating extremely dirty toilets. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage cleaning timing in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet stalls.

[0019] In a toilet management system according to one embodiment, the notification unit is characterized in that, even if the number of uses of the two or more toilet devices exceeds the first threshold, if the congestion status of the multiple toilet devices is not below a certain value, it will withhold notification, and will issue the withheld notification when the congestion status of the multiple toilet devices falls below a certain value.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the toilet management system, situations where cleaning staff cannot clean a toilet room because it is crowded can be prevented. Furthermore, the toilet management system can shorten the period during which the toilet is dirty by notifying the user when the congestion has eased. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the timing of cleaning in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet stalls.

[0021] In a toilet management system according to one embodiment, the notification unit is characterized in that, even if the number of uses of the two or more toilet devices exceeds the first threshold, if the congestion level of the multiple toilet devices is not below a certain value, it notifies the user of the congestion level and that it is time to clean, and when the congestion level of the multiple toilet devices falls below a certain value, it notifies the user again that it is time to clean.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the toilet management system, situations where cleaning staff cannot clean a toilet room because it is crowded can be prevented. Furthermore, the toilet management system can notify users in advance that cleaning is needed if the toilet is crowded, and inform them when it is time to clean when the crowding has subsided, thereby shortening the period during which the toilet is dirty. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage cleaning timing in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet stalls. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] According to one embodiment, the timing of cleaning can be appropriately managed in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet stalls. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0024] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the target users of the toilet according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the cleaning timing determination process according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of a toilet management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of a placement information storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps performed by the toilet management system. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of the cleaning timing determination process. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps performed by the toilet management system. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of the cleaning timing determination process. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps performed by the toilet management system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] The embodiments of the toilet management 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.

[0026] <1. Embodiments> <1-1. Example of toilet room layout> Before explaining the cleaning timing determination process performed in the toilet management system 1 (see Figure 3) according to this embodiment, an example of the toilet room configuration will be described using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the objects used by the toilet according to this embodiment. Figure 1 conceptually shows the physical arrangement of the objects used by the toilet.

[0027] Toilet room 2, shown in Figure 1, has toilet booths TB1 to TB3, which form individual toilet spaces, and a shared space CS1, which is a shared space other than the toilet booths. When describing the toilet booths in toilet room 2 without distinguishing between them, they may be referred to as "toilet booth TB," such as toilet booth TB1, toilet booth TB2, toilet booth TB3, etc.

[0028] A toilet booth TB is a space (individual room) separated by a partition. Each toilet booth TB is equipped with a toilet 10 and functions as a place for a person to defecate. Each toilet booth TB is also equipped with an openable and closable door (not shown in the illustration) for entering the toilet booth TB. Note that the doors of each toilet booth TB are the same as those provided in a typical toilet booth TB, so a detailed explanation is omitted. Furthermore, a toilet booth TB does not have to be a space completely separated by a partition; there may be parts above or below the partition that are not separated from adjacent toilet booths TB or the common space.

[0029] Furthermore, when describing shared spaces within toilet room 2 without distinguishing between them, such as the shared space CS1, they may be simply referred to as "shared space CS." The shared space CS is a shared area within toilet room 2 where multiple people can stay simultaneously. For example, the shared space CS includes an entrance to toilet room 2, washbasin facilities such as the vanity area 50, and pathways to each toilet booth TB. The shared space CS functions as a place for entering toilet room 2, washing hands, and moving to each toilet booth TB. If toilet room 2 functions as a men's toilet room 2, urinals may be placed in its shared space CS. In other words, the shared space CS may also function as a place where people perform excretory acts.

[0030] Next, referring to toilet room 2 shown in Figure 1, the arrangement of each device in toilet room 2 will be described. Toilet device 10 11 It is placed in toilet booth TB1. Also, toilet equipment 10 12 It is placed in toilet booth TB2. Also, toilet equipment 10 13 It will be placed in toilet booth TB3. Furthermore, the toilet unit 10 11 , toilet device 10 12 , toilet device 10 13 When explaining without distinguishing between them, etc., it may be written as "toilet device 10".

[0031] Figure 1 shows an example where there are three toilet units 10, but any number of toilet units 10 can be adopted as long as it is two or more, and the number of toilet units 10 may be two or less or four or more. Details of the functions of the toilet units 10 will be described later. Also, when describing a toilet unit 10 as the subject of information collection and judgment processing, the description may be read as the toilet booth TB in which the toilet unit 10 is located. Also, when describing a toilet booth TB as the subject of information collection and judgment processing, the description may be read as the toilet unit 10 located in that toilet booth TB. For example, toilet unit 10 11 This can be read as toilet booth TB1, and toilet booth TB1 is toilet equipment 10 11 It can also be interpreted as follows.

[0032] The vanity unit 50 is located in the shared space CS1. The vanity unit 50 is equipped with multiple washbasins. Figure 1 shows an example where the vanity unit 50 has three washbasins, but any number of washbasins can be used as long as the desired treatment can be performed.

[0033] Note that the toilet room 2 shown in Figure 1 is merely an example, and any configuration can be adopted for toilet room 2. For example, toilet room 2 can have any configuration as long as it has two or more toilet booths TB. For example, Figure 1 explains the case where toilet room 2 has three toilet booths TB as an example, but toilet room 2 may have two or four or more toilet booths TB.

[0034] <1-2. Toilet Space Layout> Let me briefly explain the placement of toilet room 2. Toilet room 2 can be installed in any location as long as there is space in which it can be physically placed. In other words, any location can be chosen for toilet room 2. For example, toilet room 2 may be installed in a commercial facility such as a department store. Furthermore, the location of toilet room 2 is not limited to commercial facilities such as shops, but can be any type of facility. For example, toilet room 2 may be installed in an amusement park, a stadium, or an office building. For example, toilet room 2 may be installed in a toilet located in a tourist area. For example, toilet room 2 may be installed in a park or parking lot. In other words, toilets may be installed outdoors in parks, parking lots, etc. Thus, toilet room 2 can be installed in any location as long as there is space in which it can be installed.

[0035] <1-3. First example of processing for determining cleaning timing> From here, an overview of the first example of the cleaning timing determination process performed in the toilet management system 1 (see Figure 3) will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the cleaning timing determination process according to the embodiment.

[0036] Hereinafter, a processing example shown in FIG. 2 will be described. Specifically, in FIG. 2, for the toilet apparatus 10 11 , the toilet apparatus 10 12 , and the toilet apparatus 10 13 , the toilet management system 1 performs cleaning timing determination for a toilet room 2 in which the three toilet apparatuses 10 are arranged. Note that FIG. 2 shows a case where the number of uses of two of the toilet apparatuses 10 exceeds a first threshold, so only a line LN11 indicating the number of uses of the toilet apparatus #1 and a line LN12 indicating the number of uses of the toilet apparatus #2 are shown. In the following description, the toilet apparatus #1 is the toilet apparatus 10 11 , and the toilet apparatus #2 is the toilet apparatus 10 12 This case will be described as an example.

[0037] In FIG. 2, the information processing apparatus 100 (see FIG. 3) of the toilet management system 1 acquires information indicating the number of uses of each of the three toilet apparatuses 10, namely the toilet apparatus 10 11 , the toilet apparatus 10 12 , and the toilet apparatus 10 13 . Note that in FIG. 2, the number of uses of the toilet apparatus 10 13 does not exceed the first threshold value TH1 by time point t11. The first threshold value TH1 is a predetermined value used for determining the cleaning timing, and any arbitrary value is set as the first threshold value TH1.

[0038] In the graph GR11 in FIG. 2, the vertical axis represents the number of uses of each toilet apparatus 10, and the horizontal axis represents the elapsed time. For example, the time at the origin of the graph GR11 (start time point t0) corresponds to the start time point of counting the number of uses.

[0039] A line LN11 of the graph GR11 indicates the number of uses of the toilet apparatus 10 11 . For example, the line LN11 indicates the cumulative number of uses of the toilet apparatus 10 11 from the start time point t0. In FIG. 2, the number of uses of the toilet apparatus 10 11 exceeds the first threshold value TH1 at a time point (time point t10) earlier than the time point t11. The information processing apparatus 100 detects that the toilet apparatus 10 11Although the first threshold TH1 was exceeded, since only one toilet device 10 exceeded the first threshold TH1, it is determined that cleaning is not possible at time t10.

[0040] Line LN12 in graph GR11 represents the toilet device 10 12 This indicates the number of times the toilet device 10 has been used. For example, line LN12 indicates the number of times the toilet device 10 has been used since the start time t0. 12 This shows the cumulative number of uses of the toilet device 10. 12 The number of uses exceeds the first threshold TH1 at time t11. The information processing device 100 controls the toilet device 10 12 At time t11, when the first threshold TH1 is exceeded, two toilet units 10 have exceeded the first threshold TH1, so it is determined that it is time for cleaning. The information processing device 100 determines that it is time for cleaning at time t11. Note that the number of toilet units 10 that have exceeded the first threshold for the information processing device 100 to determine that it is time for cleaning can be set to any number as long as it is 2 or more.

[0041] Then, if the information processing device 100 determines that it is time for cleaning, it notifies that it is time for cleaning. In Figure 2, the information processing device 100 notifies the administrator who manages toilet room 2 that it is time for cleaning toilet room 2 at time t11. The information processing device 100 may also notify in a way that allows it to identify whether it is time for cleaning the toilet unit 10. In this case, the information processing device 100 will notify the toilet unit 10 11 and toilet device 10 12 The system notifies the user of information indicating two toilet devices 10. For example, the information processing device 100 sends information to a computer (PC, smartphone, etc.) used by the administrator managing toilet room 2, indicating that toilet room 2 is ready for cleaning. The method of notification from the information processing device 100 to the computer may include sending an email or displaying a pop-up on the screen. The notification may be displayed as a one-time event or continuously.

[0042] Through the process described above, the toilet management system 1 determines that cleaning is unnecessary when only one toilet unit 10 exceeds the first threshold TH1, and that cleaning is required when multiple toilet units 10 exceed the first threshold TH1. This allows cleaning staff (cleaners) to clean all toilets at once during a single visit. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage cleaning timing in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet stalls.

[0043] The above example is merely one illustration, and the toilet management system 1 may use various information as appropriate to determine the timing of cleaning and to notify users when it is time to clean. This will be discussed later in the second and third processing sections.

[0044] <1-4. Configuration of the toilet management system> Next, the configuration of the toilet management system 1 will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example configuration of the toilet management system according to the embodiment. Specifically, Figure 3 shows the configuration of the toilet management system 1.

[0045] The toilet management system 1 includes an information processing device 100 that collects information used for determining the cleaning timing and executes the cleaning timing determination process. The toilet management system 1 shown in Figure 3 includes an information processing device 100 and multiple toilet devices 10 11 , 10 12 , 10 13 , and multiple detection units 101 11 , 101 12 , 101 13 Includes. Furthermore, detection unit 101 11 , detection unit 101 12 , detection unit 101 13 When explaining without distinguishing between them, etc., it may be written as "detection unit 101".

[0046] Furthermore, the toilet management system 1 may include a detection unit (shared equipment detection unit) that detects each shared piece of equipment, such as the washbasin unit 50. The toilet management system 1 may also include multiple information processing units 100, multiple washbasin units 50, etc. Additionally, the information processing unit that collects information used for determining the cleaning timing and the information processing unit that executes the cleaning timing determination process may be separate devices.

[0047] In Figure 1, the toilet unit 10 is the target of the toilet management system 1's cleaning timing determination. However, the target of cleaning is not limited to the toilet unit 10, but may also include the entire toilet room 2, urinals, hand dryers, mirrors, and shared facilities such as the washbasin 50.

[0048] Toilet room 2 is a space provided within a facility or other space, where users enter and exit when using the toilet. For example, toilet room 2 has toilet booths TB, a shared space CS, etc., and is a space where toilet-related structures are arranged. For example, toilet room 2 shown in Figure 1 has multiple toilet units 10 11 , 10 12 , 10 13 The toilet room 2 has toilet booths TB1 to TB3, each of which is located, and a shared space CS1 where a washbasin vanity 50 is located. Thus, the toilet room 2 has multiple toilet booths TB, each of which is equipped with a toilet 10.

[0049] The toilet unit 10 is the object of use for toilet use, used by users to excrete feces or urine, etc. The toilet unit 10 is installed in a toilet booth TB located within the toilet room 2. For example, the toilet unit 10 has a toilet seat unit that includes a toilet seat on which the user sits, and an operating unit for operating a nozzle for dispensing water for flushing. In addition to the toilet seat unit, the toilet unit 10 has various components such as a toilet lid and a toilet bowl to realize the function of a toilet, but a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0050] The detection unit 101 of the toilet unit 10 performs detections related to the toilet unit 10. The detection unit 101 functions as a detection unit that detects the usage status of the toilet unit 10. The detection unit 101 detects information indicating the use of the toilet unit 10. The detection unit 101 of the toilet unit 10 performs detections related to the toilet booth TB in which the toilet unit 10 is located. The detection unit 101 functions as a detection unit that detects the entry and exit of a person (user) to and from the toilet booth TB in which the toilet unit 10 is located. The detection unit 101 may be implemented by various sensors; for example, the detection unit 101 may be various sensors such as a human body detection sensor, an action detection sensor, or a seating detection sensor. The detection unit 101 may be a door sensor installed on the door of the toilet booth TB that detects the opening and closing of the door of the toilet booth TB. The detection unit 101 may be an image sensor that captures images of the area around the door of the toilet booth TB. The detection unit 101 may be a seating sensor that detects when a user sits on the toilet unit 10. The detection unit 101 may be a sensor that detects whether or not the toilet is flushed or whether or not the toilet remote control is operated. The above is just an example, and the detection unit 101 may be implemented by any means as long as it can detect when a user enters or leaves the toilet device 10. The toilet device 10 and the detection unit 101 may be integrated. In this case, the toilet device 10 having the detection unit 101 may be included in the toilet management system 1. The placement of the detection unit 101 is not particularly limited as long as it can detect when the toilet device 10 is in use, and it may be installed on the ceiling, wall, floor, etc. of the toilet booth TB, or mounted on the toilet seat of the toilet device 10.

[0051] The detection unit 101 of the toilet device 10 includes, for example, a communication unit (e.g., a communication circuit) having a wireless communication function, and is wirelessly connected to the information processing device 100. For example, when the detection unit 101 detects a person entering or leaving a toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is installed, it transmits detection information, such as the date and time of the detection, to the information processing device 100 along with identification information (such as an ID) that identifies the toilet device 10 or the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is installed. For example, the detection unit 101 transmits detection information, such as the time (usage time) from when a person enters the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is installed until they leave, to the information processing device 100 along with identification information (such as an ID) that identifies the toilet device 10 or the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is installed.

[0052] The vanity unit 50 is a toilet-use unit that has a washbasin used by toilet users for washing their hands, washing their face, and looking in a mirror. The vanity unit 50 is located in the shared space CS provided within the toilet room 2. For example, each washbasin in the vanity unit 50 has a faucet with an automatic faucet function and a water receiving section to receive water from the faucet.

[0053] The information processing device 100 is an information processing device (computer) that performs a determination process to determine the cleaning timing. For example, the information processing device 100 may be a cloud server or the like. The information processing device 100 is connected to the detection unit 101 wirelessly or via a wired connection via a predetermined network N such as the Internet. The information processing device 100 may be connected to the detection unit 101 in any way as long as it is capable of sending and receiving information, and may be connected wirelessly or via a wired connection.

[0054] The information processing device 100 uses the collected information to perform a determination process to determine whether or not it is time to clean the toilet. The information processing device 100 uses the collected information, which is the information received from the detection unit 101, to perform a determination process to determine the cleaning timing. The information processing device 100 uses the collected information to determine the cleaning timing for the toilet bowl 10. The information processing device 100 uses the collected information to determine whether or not cleaning is required for shared facilities such as the washbasin vanity unit 50.

[0055] The information processing device 100 collects various types of information. For example, the information processing device 100 may be a gateway device or the like. The information processing device 100 is a device that collects detection information, such as sensor data detected for each target of use. The information processing device 100 collects information from other devices. The information processing device 100 collects detection information, which is information detected about the toilet room 2, the toilet unit 10, and the washbasin vanity unit 50, etc. The information processing device 100 receives detection information from devices that detect information about the toilet room 2, the toilet unit 10, and the washbasin vanity unit 50, etc.

[0056] The information processing device 100 receives detection information from the detection unit 101 of the toilet unit 10. The information processing device 100 is wirelessly connected to the detection unit 101 of the toilet unit 10 for communication. The information processing device 100 may be connected in any way to devices that detect information such as the toilet room 2, the toilet unit 10, and the washbasin vanity unit 50, as long as it is capable of transmitting and receiving information, and may also be connected via wired communication.

[0057] The information processing device 100 may be located outside the toilet room 2 or inside the toilet room 2. For example, the information processing device 100 may be a server device located in a facility where the toilet room 2 is provided. The above is merely an example, and any configuration and placement of the information processing device 100 can be adopted as long as it can communicate with the detection unit 101 and collect information.

[0058] <1-5. Functional Configuration of Information Processing Devices> The functional configuration of the information processing device will be described below with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment.

[0059] As shown in Figure 4, the information processing device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. The information processing device 100 may also include an input unit (e.g., a keyboard or mouse) for receiving various operations from the administrator of the information processing device 100, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display) for displaying various information.

[0060] The communication unit 110 is implemented, for example, by a communication circuit. The communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined network N (see Figure 3) by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined network N (see Figure 3) by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with other devices such as the detection unit 101.

[0061] The storage unit 120 is implemented by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or optical disc. For example, the storage unit 120 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by a cleaning timing determination program such as a judgment process.

[0062] As shown in Figure 4, the storage unit 120 according to this embodiment includes a placement information storage unit 121 and a collection information storage unit 122. The storage unit 120 stores various information necessary for processing, not limited to the placement information storage unit 121 and the collection information storage unit 122. For example, the storage unit 120 stores various information used in the determination process (e.g., information related to thresholds). For example, the storage unit 120 stores a function for calculating thresholds used in the determination process, and information about the calculated function. For example, the storage unit 120 stores a first threshold. The storage unit 120 also stores a second threshold.

[0063] The layout information storage unit according to this embodiment stores various information regarding the layout of various objects to be detected by the toilet management system 1. For example, the layout information storage unit stores information regarding the layout of the toilet room 2, the toilet equipment 10, and the washbasin vanity unit 50. Figure 5 shows an example of the layout information storage unit according to this embodiment. The layout information storage unit shown in Figure 5 includes items such as "facility," "toilet space," "location," and "location element."

[0064] "Facility" refers to the location where a toilet space (toilet room) is located. Note that "Facility" is not limited to structures; various locations where a toilet space is located can be registered. "Toilet Space" refers to identification information used to identify each toilet space. In Figure 5, for illustrative purposes, codes such as "2" are shown for each toilet space, but "Toilet Space" stores information that allows for the identification of the toilet space (toilet room) (e.g., toilet space ID).

[0065] The "location" field indicates identification information for identifying each location. In Figure 5, for illustrative purposes, the "location" field is shown with codes such as "TB1," "TB2," "TB3," and "CS1" assigned to each component of toilet room 2. However, the "location" field stores information that allows for the identification of the location (e.g., location ID).

[0066] "Placement element" indicates identification information for identifying the object of use of the toilet placed in the corresponding placement location. For example, "Placement element" indicates identification information for identifying the object of use of the toilet, such as the toilet bowl 10 and the washbasin vanity 50, placed in the corresponding placement location. In Figure 5, for illustrative purposes, "10" is shown in "Placement element". 11 "10 12 "10 13 The symbols attached to each component, such as "50", are shown in the diagram, but any information may be registered in the "arrangement element" as long as it is possible to identify each target of use.

[0067] For example, the "placement element" stores information that can identify the toilet equipment to be placed in the corresponding location (e.g., toilet equipment ID), identification information to identify a urinal (e.g., urinal ID), or identification information to identify a washbasin (e.g., washbasin ID).

[0068] In the example in Figure 5, it is shown that toilet room 2, identified by "2", includes toilet booths TB1 (identified by "TB1"), TB2 (identified by "TB2"), and TB3 (identified by "TB3"). It is also shown that toilet room 2 includes a shared space CS1 (identified by "CS1").

[0069] The toilet booth TB1, which is identified by "TB1", has "10 11 Toilet device 10 identified by " 11 This indicates that it will be located. Also, the toilet booth TB2, which is the location identified by "TB2", will have "10 12 Toilet device 10 identified by " 12 This indicates that it will be located. Also, the toilet booth TB3, which is the location identified by "TB3", will have "10 13 Toilet device 10 identified by " 13 This indicates that it will be placed.

[0070] The placement information storage unit 121 is not limited to the above and may store various types of information depending on the purpose. For example, the placement information storage unit 121 may store information (e.g., sensor ID, etc.) that identifies the sensor (detection unit) that detects the sensor data (detection information) of each target being detected, in association with the target being detected by that sensor.

[0071] Information indicating the specific location of each toilet's user (e.g., latitude and longitude information) may be stored in association with each toilet's user. For example, information indicating the specific location of each toilet room 2 (e.g., latitude and longitude information) may be stored in association with each toilet room 2. For example, information indicating the specific location of each toilet bowl 10 (e.g., latitude and longitude information) may be stored in association with each toilet bowl 10. For example, the location information storage unit 121 may store information detected by the washbasin vanity unit 50 and information indicating the specific location of the washbasin vanity unit 50 (e.g., latitude and longitude information) in association with the washbasin vanity unit 50.

[0072] The collected information storage unit 122 stores detection information, such as sensor data, collected for each toilet user. The collected information storage unit 122 stores information received from the detection unit 101. The collected information storage unit 122 stores detection information detected by the detection unit 101. For example, the collected information storage unit 122 stores the usage history of each toilet user, associating it with information that identifies each toilet user.

[0073] For example, the collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet's user object was used, associating it with information that identifies each toilet's user object. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet bowl 10 was used, associating it with information that identifies each toilet bowl 10. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet booth TB in which each toilet bowl 10 is located was used, associating it with information that identifies each toilet booth TB. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each washbasin unit 50 was used, associating it with information that identifies the washbasin unit 50. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet room 2 was used, associating it with information that identifies each toilet room 2.

[0074] For example, the collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet was used, and the duration of use, in association with information that identifies each toilet. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet bowl 10 was used, and the duration of use, in association with information that identifies each toilet bowl 10. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet booth TB in which each toilet bowl 10 is located was used, and the duration of use, in association with information that identifies each toilet booth TB. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each washbasin vanity unit 50 was used, and the duration of use, in association with information that identifies the washbasin vanity unit 50. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet room 2 was used, and the duration of use, in association with information that identifies each toilet room 2.

[0075] The above is merely one example; the collected information storage unit 122 stores various types of collected information.

[0076] Returning to Figure 4, let's continue the explanation. The control unit 130 is implemented, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) executing a program stored inside the information processing device 100 (for example, a cleaning timing determination program for the determination process related to this disclosure) using RAM or the like as a working area. The control unit 130 is also a controller and is implemented, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0077] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 130 includes an acquisition unit 131, a calculation unit 132, a determination unit 133, and a notification unit 134, 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.

[0078] The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information. The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 receives information from other devices. The acquisition unit 131 receives information (detection information, etc.) collected by the detection unit 101 from the detection unit 101. The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected regarding the toilet user from the detection unit 101. The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected by sensors, etc., corresponding to the toilet user from the detection unit 101.

[0079] The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected by the detection unit 101 regarding the toilet device 10 from the detection unit 101. The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected by the detection unit 101 regarding the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is located from the detection unit 101. The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected by the shared equipment detection unit regarding each shared facility such as the washbasin unit 50 from the shared equipment detection unit.

[0080] The acquisition unit 131 acquires information to be used for processing from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information to be used for judgment processing from the collected information storage unit 122. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information corresponding to the toilet device 10 to be judged from the collected information storage unit 122.

[0081] The calculation unit 132 performs calculation processing. The calculation unit 132 performs calculation processing using various information stored in the storage unit 120. The calculation unit 132 performs calculation processing using various information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The calculation unit 132 calculates the number of times the toilet device 10 has been used based on the detection result of the detection unit 101.

[0082] The determination unit 133 performs a determination process. The determination unit 133 performs a determination process using various information stored in the storage unit 120. The determination unit 133 performs a determination process using various information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The determination unit 133 performs a determination process using various values ​​(information) calculated by the calculation unit 132.

[0083] The determination unit 133 performs a determination process using the threshold values ​​stored in the storage unit 120. The determination unit 133 performs a determination process using the first threshold value stored in the storage unit 120. The determination unit 133 performs a determination process using the second threshold value stored in the storage unit 120. The determination unit 133 performs a determination process using the information calculated by the calculation unit 132. The determination unit 133 determines whether or not it is time to clean a toilet bowl device 10.

[0084] The determination unit 133 determines the timing for cleaning the toilet unit 10 based on the number of times the toilet unit 10 has been used. The determination unit 133 determines that it is time to clean the toilet unit 10 if the number of uses of two or more of the multiple toilet units 10 installed in the toilet room 2 exceeds a first threshold.

[0085] The determination unit 133 determines that it is time to clean the toilets if the number of uses of one of the toilets 10 exceeds a second threshold, which is greater than the first threshold. The determination unit 133 determines whether the amount of toilet paper remaining in the toilet paper holder of the toilet booth TB in which the toilets 10 are installed has fallen below a predetermined amount. The determination unit 133 determines whether the amount of toilet paper remaining in the toilet paper holder of the toilet booth TB in which the toilets 10 are installed is low.

[0086] The determination unit 133 determines whether the shared facilities in toilet room 2 are dirty. The determination unit 133 determines whether cleaning of the shared facilities in toilet room 2 is necessary. The determination unit 133 determines whether the vanity unit 50 is dirty. The determination unit 133 determines whether cleaning of the vanity unit 50 is necessary.

[0087] The determination unit 133 determines the congestion status of the multiple toilet units 10. The determination unit 133 determines whether the congestion status of the multiple toilet units 10 is below a certain value. The determination unit 133 determines whether one of the toilet units 10 is in use. If one of the toilet units 10 is in use, the determination unit 133 determines to postpone the notification. When one of the toilet units 10 is no longer in use, the determination unit 133 determines to send the postponed notification.

[0088] The determination unit 133 determines that even if the number of uses of two or more toilet devices exceeds the first threshold, if the congestion level of the multiple toilet devices 10 is not below a certain value, it will postpone sending the notification. The determination unit 133 determines that it will send the postponed notification when the congestion level of the multiple toilet devices 10 falls below a certain value.

[0089] The notification unit 134 performs notification processing to notify various types of information. The notification unit 134 performs notification processing by transmitting information to an external information processing device.

[0090] The notification unit 134 issues a notification if the determination unit 133 determines that it is time to clean. The notification unit 134 also issues a notification that it is time to clean if the number of uses of two or more of the multiple toilet devices 10 installed in the toilet room 2 exceeds a first threshold.

[0091] The notification unit 134 notifies that it is time to clean if the number of uses of one of the multiple toilet devices 10 exceeds a second threshold, which is greater than the first threshold. If the number of uses of one toilet device 10 exceeds the second threshold, the notification unit 134 also notifies that the remaining amount of toilet paper in the toilet booth TB, which is equipped with one of the multiple toilet devices 10 other than the one toilet device 10, is low, prompting the cleaning of the toilet booth TB.

[0092] The notification unit 134 issues a notification prompting the cleaning of the shared facilities in toilet room 2 if the number of uses of one toilet unit 10 exceeds the second threshold and cleaning of the shared facilities is necessary. The notification unit 134 also issues a notification if the number of uses of one toilet unit 10 exceeds the second threshold, even if the congestion level of multiple toilet units 10 is not below a certain value.

[0093] The notification unit 134 holds off on sending a notification if one toilet unit 10 is in use, and sends the held notification when the toilet unit 10 is no longer in use. The notification unit 134 also holds off on sending a notification if the number of uses of two or more toilet units exceeds the first threshold, but the congestion level of the multiple toilet units 10 is not below a certain value, and sends the held notification when the congestion level of the multiple toilet units 10 falls below a certain value. The notification unit 134 may also send a prior notification without holding off on sending a notification. For example, if the number of uses of two or more toilet units 10 exceeds the first threshold, but the congestion level of the multiple toilet units 10 is not below a certain value, the notification unit 134 may notify the toilet unit 134 of the congestion level and that it is time to clean, and then notify the toilet unit 134 again that it is time to clean when the congestion level of the multiple toilet units 10 falls below a certain value.

[0094] The notification unit 134 transmits information regarding the determination result by the determination unit 133 to the administrator device used by the administrator who manages the toilet management system 1. If the determination by the determination unit 133 indicates a cleaning time, the notification unit 134 transmits information regarding the toilet device 10 that has been determined to be at a cleaning time.

[0095] If the determination unit 133 determines that it is time to clean, the notification unit 134 transmits information to the administrator device that identifies the toilet unit 10 that has been determined to be time to clean. If the determination unit 133 determines that it is time to clean, the notification unit 134 transmits information to the administrator device that indicates the location where the toilet unit 10 that has been determined to be time to clean is located. The notification unit 134 may also transmit information to the detection unit 101. For example, the notification unit 134 transmits information to the detection unit 101 requesting information that the detection unit 101 has collected.

[0096] <1-6. Processing Flow> From here, we will explain the processing flow of the cleaning timing determination process using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps of the process performed by the toilet management system. Specifically, Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps of the first process of cleaning timing determination.

[0097] The toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet (step S101). For example, the toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet 10 using the detection unit 101. If the toilet management system 1 does not detect the use of the toilet (step S101: No), it terminates the process.

[0098] If the toilet management system 1 detects the use of a toilet (step S101: Yes), it updates the number of times the detected toilet has been used (step S102). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 updates the number of times the toilet has been used stored in the storage unit 120.

[0099] The toilet management system 1 determines whether there are two or more toilet units whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold (step S103). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines whether there are two or more toilet units 10 whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold.

[0100] The toilet management system 1 terminates processing if there are not two or more toilet units whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold (step S103: No). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that it is not time for cleaning if the number of toilet units 10 whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold is less than two.

[0101] The toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean if there are two or more toilets whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold (step S103: Yes) (step S104). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean if there are two or more toilets whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold.

[0102] The toilet management system 1 notifies the user of the cleaning timing (step S105). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 notifies the user of the cleaning timing.

[0103] <1-7. Second example of processing for determining cleaning timing> The above example is merely one illustration, and the toilet management system 1 may use various information as appropriate to determine the cleaning timing and to notify users when it is time to clean. For example, the toilet management system 1 may use a second threshold in addition to the first threshold for processing. An example of this is described below as the second process.

[0104] <1-7-1. Overview of the second processing step> First, we will explain the outline of the second process, referring to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the cleaning timing determination process. Specifically, Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the second process for determining the cleaning timing.

[0105] The following describes an example of the process shown in Figure 7. Specifically, in Figure 7, the toilet device 10 11 , toilet device 10 12 , and toilet device 10 13 The toilet management system 1 determines the cleaning timing for the toilet room 2 where the three toilet units 10 are located. In Figure 7, since the number of uses of two toilet units 10 exceeds the first threshold, only lines LN21 indicating the number of uses of toilet unit #1 and line LN22 indicating the number of uses of toilet unit #2 are shown. In the following, toilet unit #1 is the toilet unit 10 11 Toilet unit #2 corresponds to toilet unit 10 12 Let's explain the case corresponding to this as an example. Note that explanations of points similar to those in Figure 2 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0106] Figure 7 shows the toilet device 10 13 The number of uses shall not exceed the first threshold TH1 by time t21. The second threshold TH2 is a predetermined value used to determine the cleaning timing, and can be any value as long as it is greater than the first threshold TH1. Any value can be set for the second threshold TH2.

[0107] In Figure 7, graph GR21 shows the number of uses for each toilet device 10 on the vertical axis and the passage of time on the horizontal axis. For example, the time at the origin of graph GR21 (start time t0) corresponds to the start time of the usage count.

[0108] Line LN21 in graph GR21 represents the toilet device 10 11 This indicates the number of times the toilet device 10 has been used. For example, line LN21 indicates the number of times the toilet device 10 has been used since the start time t0. 11 This shows the cumulative number of uses of the toilet device 10. Figure 7 shows the cumulative number of uses of the toilet device 10. 11 The number of uses exceeds the first threshold TH1 at a time before time t21 (time t20). The information processing device 100 controls the toilet device 10 11 Although the first threshold TH1 was exceeded, since only one toilet device 10 exceeded the first threshold TH1, it is determined that cleaning is not possible at time t20.

[0109] Line LN22 in graph GR21 represents the toilet device 10 12 This indicates the number of times the toilet device 10 has been used. For example, line LN22 indicates the number of times the toilet device 10 has been used since the start time t0. 12 This shows the cumulative number of uses of the toilet device 10. Figure 7 shows the cumulative number of uses of the toilet device 10. 12 The number of uses does not exceed the first threshold TH1 even at time point t21.

[0110] On the other hand, in Figure 7, as shown by line LN21 of graph GR21, the toilet device 10 11 The number of uses exceeds the second threshold TH2 at time t21. The information processing device 100 controls the toilet device 10 12 At time t21, when the second threshold TH2 is exceeded, even if only one toilet unit 10 has exceeded the second threshold TH2, it is determined that it is time for cleaning. The information processing device 100 determines that it is time for cleaning at time t21.

[0111] Then, if the information processing device 100 determines that it is time for cleaning, it notifies that it is time for cleaning. In Figure 7, the information processing device 100 notifies the administrator who manages toilet room 2 that it is time for cleaning toilet room 2 at time t21. For example, the information processing device 100 notifies the toilet equipment 10 11 This will notify you that the area is heavily soiled and requires immediate cleaning.

[0112] Through the process described above, the toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean if one toilet unit 10 exceeds the second threshold TH2, even if the multiple toilet units 10 do not exceed the first threshold TH1. This allows the toilet management system 1 to determine that it is time to clean if one toilet unit 10 is extremely dirty. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage cleaning timing in a toilet room equipped with multiple toilet stalls.

[0113] Furthermore, if the toilet management system 1 determines that one toilet unit 10 has exceeded the second threshold TH2 and it is time for cleaning, it may also issue notifications regarding other items in use. For example, if the number of uses of toilet unit 10 exceeds the second threshold TH2, the toilet management system 1 may issue a notification prompting cleaning of the toilet booth TB if the remaining amount of toilet paper in the toilet booth TB containing other toilet units 10 is low. If the number of uses of toilet unit 10 exceeds the second threshold TH2, the toilet management system 1 may also issue a notification prompting cleaning of the shared facilities (such as the washbasin area 50) in the toilet room 2 if cleaning of those facilities is necessary.

[0114] <1-7-2. Second Processing Flow> From here, we will explain the processing flow of the second process for determining the cleaning timing using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure performed by the toilet management system. Specifically, Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for the second process for determining the cleaning timing.

[0115] The toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet (step S201). For example, the toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet 10 using the detection unit 101. If the toilet management system 1 does not detect the use of the toilet (step S201: No), it terminates the process.

[0116] If the toilet management system 1 detects the use of a toilet (step S201: Yes), it updates the number of times the detected toilet has been used (step S202). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 updates the number of times the toilet 10 has been used, which is stored in the storage unit 120.

[0117] The toilet management system 1 determines whether there are two or more toilet units whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold (step S203). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines whether there are two or more toilet units 10 whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold.

[0118] The toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean if there are two or more toilets whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold (step S203: Yes) (step S204). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean if there are two or more toilets whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold.

[0119] The toilet management system 1 notifies the user of the cleaning timing (step S205). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 notifies the user of the cleaning timing.

[0120] If the toilet management system 1 finds that there are no more than two toilets whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold (step S203: No), it determines whether there are any toilets whose usage count has exceeded the second threshold (step S206). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines whether there are any toilets whose usage count has exceeded the second threshold. If the toilet management system 1 finds that there are no toilets whose usage count has exceeded the second threshold (step S206: No), it terminates the process.

[0121] The toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean a toilet if there is a toilet whose usage count exceeds the second threshold (step S206: Yes) (step S204). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean a toilet if there is a toilet 10 whose usage count exceeds the second threshold. The toilet management system 1 then notifies that it is time to clean (step S205).

[0122] <1-8. Third example of processing for determining cleaning timing> The toilet management system 1 may use information on the level of congestion to determine the timing of cleaning and to notify users when it is time to clean. An example of this is described below as the third process.

[0123] <1-8-1. Overview of the third processing step> First, we will explain the outline of the third process, referring to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the cleaning timing determination process. Specifically, Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the third process for determining the cleaning timing.

[0124] The following describes an example of the process shown in Figure 9. Specifically, in Figure 9, the toilet device 10 11 , toilet device 10 12 , and toilet device 10 13 The toilet management system 1 determines the cleaning timing for the toilet room 2 where the three toilet devices 10 are located. Note that explanations of points similar to those in Figure 9 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0125] In Figure 9, toilet device #1 is toilet device 10 11 Toilet unit #2 corresponds to toilet unit 10 12 To accommodate this, toilet unit #3 is compatible with toilet unit 10 13 Let's explain this as an example of how it works.

[0126] In Figure 9, graph GR31 shows time on the horizontal axis and the toilet device 10 corresponding to that time on the vertical axis. 11 This indicates whether or not it is used. For example, in graph GR31, if the vertical axis is 1, the toilet device 10 11If the vertical axis is 0, the toilet device 10 11 This indicates that it is unused.

[0127] In Figure 9, graph GR32 shows time on the horizontal axis and the toilet device 10 corresponding to that time on the vertical axis. 12 This indicates whether or not it is used. For example, in graph GR32, if the vertical axis is 1, the toilet device 10 12 If the vertical axis is 0, the toilet device 10 12 This indicates that it is unused.

[0128] In Figure 9, graph GR33 shows time on the horizontal axis and the toilet device 10 corresponding to that time on the vertical axis. 13 This indicates whether or not it is used. For example, in graph GR33, if the vertical axis is 1, the toilet device 10 13 If the vertical axis is 0, the toilet device 10 13 This indicates that it is unused.

[0129] In Figure 9, graph GR34 shows time on the horizontal axis and the degree of congestion of the toilet unit 10 in toilet room 2 corresponding to that time on the vertical axis. For example, graph GR34 shows the average usage time per unit time. For example, the congestion level at time t31 shown in graph GR34 corresponds to the average usage time of the toilet unit 10 during period TM1. For example, the congestion level at time t32 shown in graph GR34 corresponds to the average usage time of the toilet unit 10 during period TM2.

[0130] In Figure 9, it is assumed that the level of congestion at time t31 is below a predetermined value. In this case, the information processing device 100 determines that it is time to clean if there are two toilet devices 10 that have exceeded the first threshold TH1 at time t31. The information processing device 100 determines that it is time to clean at time t31.

[0131] Then, if the information processing device 100 determines that it is time for cleaning, it notifies the user that it is time for cleaning.

[0132] In Figure 9, the congestion level at time t32 exceeds a predetermined value. In this case, the information processing device 100 determines that it is not cleaning time even if there are two toilet units 10 that have exceeded the first threshold TH1 at time t32. The information processing device 100 determines that it is not cleaning time at time t32. In this case, the information processing device 100 does not notify that it is cleaning time. The information processing device 100 determines that it is cleaning time if the congestion level falls below the predetermined value after time t32.

[0133] Through the process described above, the toilet management system 1 determines that it is not time to clean if the congestion level exceeds a predetermined value even when multiple toilet units 10 exceed the first threshold TH1. This prevents situations where cleaning staff cannot clean toilet rooms 2 when toilet booths TB are mixed in. Furthermore, the toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean if the congestion level, which was above a predetermined value, falls below a predetermined value when multiple toilet units 10 exceed the first threshold TH1. This allows the toilet management system 1 to shorten the period during which the toilet units 10 are dirty by notifying the user when the congestion level has eased. Therefore, the toilet management system 1 can appropriately manage cleaning timing in toilet rooms equipped with multiple toilet booths.

[0134] <1-8-2. Third Processing Flow> From here, we will explain the processing flow of the third process for determining the cleaning timing using Figure 10. Figure 10 is a flowchart of an example of the procedure performed by the toilet management system. Specifically, Figure 10 is a flowchart of an example of the procedure for the third process for determining the cleaning timing.

[0135] The toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet (step S301). For example, the toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet 10 using the detection unit 101. If the toilet management system 1 does not detect the use of the toilet (step S301: No), it terminates the process.

[0136] If the toilet management system 1 detects the use of a toilet (step S301: Yes), it updates the number of times the detected toilet has been used (step S302). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 updates the number of times the toilet has been used stored in the storage unit 120.

[0137] The toilet management system 1 determines whether there are two or more toilet units whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold (step S303). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines whether there are two or more toilet units 10 whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold.

[0138] The toilet management system 1 terminates processing if there are not two or more toilet units whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold (step S303: No). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that it is not time for cleaning if the number of toilet units 10 whose usage count has exceeded the first threshold is less than two.

[0139] The toilet management system 1 determines whether the level of congestion is below a predetermined value (step S304) if there are two or more toilet units whose usage count exceeds the first threshold (step S303: Yes). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines whether the level of congestion of the toilet booths TB (toilet units 10) in toilet room 2 is below a predetermined value if there are two or more toilet units 10 whose usage count exceeds the first threshold.

[0140] The toilet management system 1 terminates processing if the level of congestion is not below a predetermined value (step S304: No). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that it is not time to clean if the level of congestion of the toilet booth TB (toilet equipment 10) in toilet room 2 exceeds a predetermined value.

[0141] The toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean if the level of congestion is below a predetermined value (step S304: Yes) (step S305). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean if the level of congestion of the toilet booth TB (toilet equipment 10) in toilet room 2 is below a predetermined value.

[0142] The toilet management system 1 notifies the user of the cleaning timing (step S306). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 notifies the user of the cleaning timing.

[0143] Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not inconsistent.

[0144] 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.

[0145] The embodiments and modifications described above may also have the following configurations, but are not limited to them. (1) A toilet room having multiple toilet stalls equipped with toilet fixtures, A detection unit for detecting the usage status of the toilet device, A calculation unit calculates the number of times the toilet device has been used based on the detection result of the detection unit, A determination unit that determines the timing for cleaning the toilet based on the number of times the toilet has been used, A notification unit that notifies that it is time to clean when the number of uses of two or more toilets among the multiple toilets installed in the aforementioned toilet room exceeds a first threshold, A toilet management system characterized by having the following features. (2) The aforementioned notification unit, If the number of uses of one of the aforementioned toilet devices exceeds a second threshold which is greater than the first threshold, the system will notify that it is time to clean the toilet. The toilet management system according to (1), characterized in that (3) The aforementioned notification unit, If the number of uses of the first toilet unit exceeds the second threshold, and if the remaining amount of toilet paper in the toilet stalls of the toilets other than the first toilet unit among the multiple toilet units is low, a notification will be issued prompting the toilet stalls to be cleaned. The toilet management system according to (2), characterized in that (4) The aforementioned notification unit, If the number of uses of the first toilet device exceeds the second threshold, and cleaning of the shared facilities in the toilet room is necessary, a notice will be issued prompting the cleaning of the shared facilities. The toilet management system according to (2) or (3), characterized in that (5) The aforementioned notification unit, If the number of uses of the first toilet device exceeds the second threshold, a notification will be issued even if the congestion level of the multiple toilet devices is not below a certain value. A toilet management system according to any one of (2) to (4), characterized by the above. (6) The aforementioned notification unit, If the aforementioned toilet device is in use, the notification will be withheld, and the withheld notification will be sent when the aforementioned toilet device is no longer in use. The toilet management system according to (5), characterized in that (7) The aforementioned notification unit, Even if the number of uses of the two or more toilets exceeds the first threshold, if the congestion level of the multiple toilets does not fall below a certain value, the notification will be withheld, and the withheld notification will be issued when the congestion level of the multiple toilets falls below a certain value. A toilet management system according to any one of (1) to (6), characterized by the above. (8) The aforementioned notification unit, Even if the number of uses of the two or more toilets exceeds the first threshold, if the congestion level of the multiple toilets is not below a certain value, the system will notify the user of the congestion level and that it is time to clean. When the congestion level of the multiple toilets falls below a certain value, the system will again notify the user that it is time to clean. The toilet management system according to (1), characterized in that [Explanation of symbols]

[0146] 1. Toilet Management System 2. Toilet room (toilet space) 10 Toilet equipment 50 Bathroom vanity area 100 Information Processing Devices 101 Detection unit (detection unit) 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Location information storage unit 122 Information Collection and Storage Unit 130 Control Unit 131 Acquisition Department 132 Calculation Section 133 Judgment section 134 Notification Department CS shared space TB toilet booth

Claims

1. A toilet room having multiple toilet stalls equipped with toilet fixtures, A detection unit for detecting the usage status of the toilet device, A calculation unit calculates the number of times the toilet device has been used based on the detection result of the detection unit, A determination unit that determines the timing for cleaning the toilet based on the number of times the toilet has been used, A notification unit that notifies that it is time to clean when the number of uses of two or more toilets among the multiple toilets installed in the aforementioned toilet room exceeds a first threshold, A toilet management system characterized by having the following features.

2. The aforementioned notification unit, If the number of uses of one of the aforementioned toilet devices exceeds a second threshold which is greater than the first threshold, the system will notify that it is time to clean the toilet. The toilet management system according to feature 1.

3. The aforementioned notification unit, If the number of uses of the first toilet unit exceeds the second threshold, and if the remaining amount of toilet paper in the toilet stalls of the other toilet units (other than the first toilet unit) is low, a notification will be issued prompting the cleaning of those other toilet units. The toilet management system according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned notification unit, If the number of uses of the first toilet device exceeds the second threshold, and cleaning of the shared facilities in the toilet room is necessary, a notification will be issued prompting the cleaning of the shared facilities. The toilet management system according to claim 2.

5. The aforementioned notification unit, If the number of uses of the first toilet device exceeds the second threshold, a notification will be issued even if the congestion level of the multiple toilet devices is not below a certain value. The toilet management system according to claim 2.

6. The aforementioned notification unit, If the aforementioned toilet device is in use, the notification will be withheld, and the withheld notification will be sent when the aforementioned toilet device is no longer in use. The toilet management system according to claim 5, characterized by the features described above.

7. The aforementioned notification unit, Even if the number of uses of the two or more toilets exceeds the first threshold, if the congestion level of the multiple toilets does not fall below a certain value, the notification will be withheld, and the withheld notification will be issued when the congestion level of the multiple toilets falls below a certain value. A toilet management system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The aforementioned notification unit, Even if the number of uses of the two or more toilets exceeds the first threshold, if the congestion level of the multiple toilets is not below a certain value, the system will notify the user of the congestion level and that it is time to clean. When the congestion level of the multiple toilets falls below a certain value, the system will again notify the user that it is time to clean. The toilet management system according to feature 1.

Images