Detection System

Abstract

To provide a detection system capable of determining a user's physical condition without being conscious of it.SOLUTION: A detection system includes: a distribution channel 31 through which air from an indoor space can flow; a concentration unit 32 that is provided in the distribution channel 31 and collects components related to a user's physical condition using the indoor space which are contained in the air circulating through the distribution channel 31; and a detector 40 that is provided downstream of the concentration unit 32 in the distribution channel 31 and detects the components collected by the concentration unit 32.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology for a detection system for determining physical condition. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, techniques for determining physical condition have been publicly known, as described in Patent Document 1, for example.

[0003] The breath testing device described in Patent Document 1 includes an airway member having a flow path formed therein, a gas sensor for measuring the carbon dioxide concentration of the air flowing through the flow path, and a straw-shaped mouthpiece that is connected to the flow path. When using the breath testing device, a user holds the breath testing device in his / her hand and breathes into the mouthpiece. The breath testing device uses the gas sensor to measure the carbon dioxide concentration of the user's breath flowing through the flow path, thereby testing for changes in physical condition (whether or not the user has developed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

[0004] When performing a test using the breath test device described in Patent Document 1, the user must act consciously (hold the breath test device and breathe). For this reason, there has been a demand for a technology that allows the user to judge their physical condition more easily (without the user being aware of it). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-187365 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a detection system that is capable of determining the physical condition of a user without the user being aware of it. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention has been described above, and the means for solving this problem will now be described.

[0008] That is, in claim 1, the present invention comprises a circulation path through which air from an indoor space can flow, a collection unit provided in the circulation path and configured to collect components related to the physical condition of a user using the indoor space, the components being contained in the air flowing through the circulation path, and a detector provided downstream of the collection unit in the circulation path and configured to detect the components collected by the collection unit. The circulation path is branched off from a ventilation path through which air can flow from the indoor space to the outdoor space. It is something.

[0010] Claim 2 The ventilation system further includes at least one valve operable to switch the air flow state in the ventilation path and the distribution path, and further includes a control unit that controls the operation of the valves to switch the air flow state between a ventilation state in which the air in the indoor space is ventilated to the outdoor space through the ventilation path without passing through the distribution path, a collection state in which the collection unit collects the components, and a detection state in which the detector detects the components collected by the collection unit.

[0011] Claim 3 In the present invention, the valve includes a first valve provided at a branching portion between the circulation path and the ventilation path, and the control unit operates the first valve in the ventilation state so that all of the air circulating through the ventilation path circulates to the outdoor space without passing through the circulation path, and operates the first valve in the collection state so that at least a portion of the air circulating through the ventilation path circulates to the circulation path.

[0012] Claim 4 In the embodiment, the control unit operates the first valve in the detection state so that at least a portion of the air circulating through the ventilation path is circulated into the circulation path.

[0013] Claim5 In the present invention, the valve includes a second valve provided in the flow path between the collection section and the detector, and the control section operates the second valve in the collection state so that air flowing through the flow path does not flow to the detector.

[0014] Claim 6 In the embodiment, the control unit operates the second valve in the detection state so that air flowing through the flow path flows to the detector.

[0015] Claim 7 In the present invention, the circulation path branches at a portion where the second valve is provided, the detector is provided in one of the branched circulation paths, and the other branched circulation path is arranged to merge with the ventilation path, and the control unit operates the second valve in the capture state so that air circulating through the circulation path flows into the ventilation path via the other branched circulation path.

[0016] Claim 8 The detection device further includes a heating section capable of heating the collection section in the detection state.

[0017] Claim 9 In the above, the indoor space is a toilet space.

[0018] Claim 10 In the device, the collection unit collects odor components as components related to the physical condition, and the detector has a plurality of sensors that react to the odor components and detects the odor components based on the response patterns of the plurality of sensors. Effect of the Invention

[0019] The present invention has the following advantages.

[0020] In claim 1, the user can judge his / her physical condition without being aware of it. Also, air from the indoor space can be easily supplied to the collection section.

[0022] Claim 2 In the present invention, it is possible to switch between ventilation of the indoor space, collection of components by the collection unit, and detection of components by the detector at any desired timing.

[0023] Claim 3 In this case, the ventilation state and the collection state can be easily switched.

[0024] Claim 4 In this case, it is possible to easily supply air from the collection section to the detector.

[0025] Claim 5 In this case, the valve can be appropriately controlled.

[0026] Claim 6 In this case, the valve can be appropriately controlled.

[0027] Claim 7 In this case, ventilation of the indoor space can be efficiently performed.

[0028] Claim 8 In this case, the time required for the detector to detect the component can be shortened.

[0029] Claim 9 In this case, components related to physical condition can be efficiently collected.

[0030] Claim 10 In this case, various changes in physical condition can be detected. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a building to which a detection system according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Diagram 2](a) A diagram showing the configuration of the detection system, (b) A diagram showing the configuration of the concentration unit. [Diagram 3] (a) A diagram showing the detector sensor, (b) A diagram showing how the sensor reacts to odor components. [Figure 4] (a) A diagram showing the aeration process, (b) a diagram showing the concentration process, and (c) a diagram showing the detection process. [Diagram 5] 13A is a diagram showing a detection system according to another embodiment, and FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0032] In the following description, the up-down direction, the left-right direction, and the front-rear direction are defined according to the arrows shown in the drawings.

[0033] The configuration of a building 1 in which a detection system 20 according to this embodiment is provided will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0034] The building 1 is, for example, a house that people live in. The inside of the building 1 is divided into a living / dining room 2, a washroom 3, a bathroom 4, a toilet 5, etc. by partition walls or the like.

[0035] The living-dining room 2 is a room where people mainly stay. The living-dining room 2 is provided with an air intake vent 2a for introducing air from the outdoor space (the space outside the building 1). The washroom 3, bathroom 4, and toilet 5 are rooms that people use temporarily. The washroom 3, bathroom 4, and toilet 5 are provided with exhaust vents 3a, 4a, and 5a for discharging air from the internal space (indoor space). The toilet 5 is also provided with a human sensor 5b for detecting the presence of a user.

[0036] The building 1 configured as described above includes a ventilation system 10. The ventilation system 10 is for ventilating the building 1. The ventilation system 10 includes a ventilation path 11 and a ventilation fan 12.

[0037] The ventilation path 11 is a path through which air can flow from an indoor space to an outdoor space. The ventilation path 11 is provided to connect the exhaust ports 3a, 4a, 5a to the outdoor space. The ventilation path 11 is configured by appropriately connecting ducts. The ventilation path 11 includes a first path 11a that connects the exhaust ports 3a, 4a, 5a and a ventilation fan 12 described later, and a second path 11b that connects the ventilation fan 12 to the outdoor space. The ventilation fan 12 draws air from the indoor space through the exhaust ports 3a, 4a, 5a of the washroom 3, etc., via the first path 11a, and sends the air to the outdoor space via the second path 11b. Air from the living / dining room 2 flows into the washroom 3, etc., via a corridor, etc. In addition, outside air is introduced into the living / dining room 2 through the air intake port 2a. In this way, the ventilation fan 12 can ventilate the building 1. The ventilation fan 12 operates all day long to ventilate the building 1 24 hours a day.

[0038] Next, the configuration of the detection system 20 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0039] The detection system 20 is for judging the physical condition of a person using an indoor space (hereinafter referred to as a "user"). As described below, the detection system 20 detects odor components contained in the person's exhaled breath in the air of the indoor space and can judge the physical condition based on the odor components. The detection system 20 includes a concentration system 30, a detector 40, and a display 50.

[0040] The concentration system 30 is for collecting components related to the user's physical condition contained in the air from the indoor space. The components related to the physical condition are components that can determine the physical condition of the user. The components related to the physical condition include, for example, components whose characteristics change depending on the user's physical condition (for example, before and after the user falls ill). In the concentration system 30 of this embodiment, odor components contained in the breath of the user are collected as components related to the physical condition. The concentration system 30 collects and concentrates the odor components by continuously collecting the odor components in a collection process described later. The concentration system 30 is provided in the ventilation path 11 (first path 11a) and is disposed between the exhaust port 5a of the toilet 5 and the exhaust fan 12. In FIG. 2, the first path 11a connecting the exhaust port 5a and the exhaust fan 12 is depicted as a straight line extending in the left-right direction of the page. As shown in FIG. 2, the concentration system 30 includes a circulation path 31, a concentration unit 32, a heating unit 33, a first valve 34, a second valve 35, and a control unit 36.

[0041] The circulation path 31 is a path through which air from the indoor space can circulate. The circulation path 31 is configured by appropriately connecting ducts. The circulation path 31 is provided so as to branch off from a first path 11a of the ventilation path 11 that connects the exhaust port 5a of the toilet 5 and the ventilation fan 12. In this way, the circulation path 31 is connected to the toilet space S5 (the internal space of the toilet 5) via the ventilation path 11. In addition, a middle part of the circulation path 31 branches into two. Of the two branches, one path is provided so as to merge with the ventilation path 11 downstream of the branching part with the circulation path 31. In addition, the other path is connected to a detector 40 described later.

[0042] Hereinafter, the portion where the circulation path 31 branches off from the ventilation path 11 will be referred to as the "first branch portion P1." Additionally, the portion where the circulation path 31 branches off into two will be referred to as the "second branch portion P2." Additionally, of the two branches, the path that merges from the second branch portion P2 into the ventilation path 11 will be referred to as the "merging path 31a." Additionally, of the two branches, the path that connects the second branch portion P2 and the detector 40 will be referred to as the "connecting path 31b."

[0043] The concentration unit 32 is a part that collects odor components (components related to the user's physical condition). The concentration unit 32 is provided in the distribution path 31 and disposed between the first branch portion P1 and the second branch portion P2. The concentration unit 32 is configured to allow air to pass through. The concentration unit 32 is configured, for example, by filling a container with a carrier capable of adsorbing a predetermined component (silica gel capable of adsorbing odor components in this embodiment). The concentration unit 32 of this embodiment can collect (adsorb) and concentrate odor components when the temperature is relatively low (for example, room temperature). In addition, the odor components collected in the concentration unit 32 are separated from the concentration unit 32 when the concentration unit 32 is at a relatively high temperature (for example, about 60°C).

[0044] The heating unit 33 is for heating the concentration unit 32. The heating unit 33 is configured by, for example, a heater or the like disposed in the vicinity of the concentration unit 32.

[0045] The first valve 34 is for switching the air flow state in the ventilation path 11 and the flow path 31. The first valve 34 is provided at a first branched portion P1 of the flow path 31. The first valve 34 is configured to be able to open and close each of the ventilation path 11 and the flow path 31. The first valve 34 is configured to be able to switch between a first state in which the ventilation path 11 is opened and the flow path 31 is closed, and a second state in which the ventilation path 11 is closed and the flow path 31 is opened.

[0046] The second valve 35 is for switching the destination of the air that has passed through the concentration unit 32 (the flow state of the air in the flow path 31). The second valve 35 is provided in a second branch portion P2 (between the concentration unit 32 and the detector 40) of the flow path 31. The second valve 35 is configured to be able to open and close the merging path 31a and the connecting path 31b, respectively. The second valve 35 is configured to be able to switch between a third state in which the merging path 31a is opened and the connecting path 31b is closed, and a fourth state in which the merging path 31a is closed and the connecting path 31b is opened.

[0047] The control unit 36 ​​is for controlling the heating unit 33, the first valve 34, and the second valve 35. The control unit 36 ​​includes an arithmetic processing device such as a CPU, and a storage device such as a RAM or a ROM. The control unit 36 ​​stores various programs and the like for operating the detection system 20 in the storage device. The control unit 36 ​​is configured to be able to receive a signal from the human presence sensor 5b of the toilet 5. The control unit 36 ​​can grasp the presence of a user in the toilet 5 based on the signal from the human presence sensor 5b. The control unit 36 ​​is configured to be able to transmit signals to the heating unit 33, the first valve 34, the second valve 35, and the detector 40.

[0048] The control unit 36 ​​can switch between heating and stopping the heating of the concentration unit 32 by the heating unit 33 by sending a signal to the heating unit 33. The control unit 36 ​​can switch between the first state and the second state by sending a signal to the first valve 34. The control unit 36 ​​can switch between the third state and the fourth state by sending a signal to the second valve 35. The control unit 36 ​​can switch between starting and stopping the operation of the detector 40 (such as detection of odor components, which will be described later) by sending a signal to the detector 40.

[0049] The detector 40 is for detecting odor components (components related to the user's physical condition) collected by the concentration unit 32. The detector 40 is provided downstream of the concentration unit 32 in the distribution path 31. More specifically, the detector 40 is provided at the downstream end of the connection path 31b of the distribution path 31. As shown in FIG. 3(a), the detector 40 includes a plurality of sensors 41 that react to odor components. The plurality of sensors 41 are arranged at intervals from one another. The plurality of sensors 41 are configured to react differently depending on the odor components. For example, some of the plurality of sensors 41 react strongly to a particular odor component and glow strongly. In contrast, the other sensors 41 react weakly to the particular odor component (glow faintly) or do not react (do not glow).

[0050] When detecting odor components, the detector 40 configured as described above sucks air in the distribution path 31 with a pump (not shown) and blows it onto the sensor 41. As shown in FIG. 3(b), the sensor 41 reacts to the odor components contained in the blown air. For example, the sensor 41 may glow darkly (see the sensors 41 in the first row from the top in FIG. 3(b)) or glow lightly (see the sensors 41 in the second row from the top in FIG. 3(b)). The detector 40 can detect the odor components by acquiring the reaction pattern of the sensor 41 according to such odor components (information on the sensors 41 that react, the color intensity, etc.). The air blown onto the sensor 41 is discharged from the detector 40 to the outdoor space through a specified route.

[0051] The detector 40 is also configured to be able to determine the user's physical condition from the detection result of the odor components. Specifically, when the user becomes ill (when the physical condition changes), the odor components contained in the breath change. For example, when the liver function is reduced due to the illness, the liver is unable to completely break down harmful substances, and the odor components of the breath change (the breath has a peculiar smell). Therefore, the reaction pattern of the breath after the illness will show the change in the odor components caused by the illness. The detector 40 stores in advance the characteristics of the reaction pattern after such a change in physical condition occurs. For example, the detector 40 stores in advance the characteristics that when the user has a certain disease, some of the sensors 41 among the multiple sensors 41 will strongly emit a certain color.

[0052] The detector 40 judges whether the above-mentioned characteristics are present in the odor component detection results (results of the acquired reaction pattern). For example, it judges whether the intensity of a predetermined color exceeds a threshold value in some of the sensors 41. This allows the detector 40 to judge the user's physical condition (whether or not the user is feeling unwell) from the odor component detection results.

[0053] Furthermore, the detector 40 is configured to be able to identify a user who uses the toilet 5. For example, the detector 40 is configured to be able to identify a user by receiving a signal from an identification unit (not shown) that can identify a user by analyzing an image captured by a camera installed near the toilet 5.

[0054] The display device 50 shown in Fig. 2 is a device for presenting the judgment result of the physical condition. The display device 50 is configured by a smartphone or the like. The display device 50 is carried by a person who manages the detection system 20 (for example, the owner of the building 1, etc.). The display device 50 is configured to be able to communicate with the detector 40 via an internet line or the like.

[0055] The device for determining the physical condition from the result of the detection of odor components is not limited to the detector 40, but may be another device (for example, the display 50, etc.). The configuration for identifying the user is not particularly limited.

[0056] The toilet 5 of the building 1 to which the detection system 20 configured as described above is applied is used by users as appropriate. The detection system 20 collects odor components from the breath of the user when using the toilet 5 by the concentration unit 32, and can determine the physical condition of the user who has used the toilet 5 by the detector 40.

[0057] Hereinafter, the process of determining a physical condition by the detection system 20 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0058] The determination process is constantly performed by the control unit 36. In the determination process, the control unit 36 ​​controls the operation of the first valve 34 and the like in response to the presence of a user in the toilet 5. This allows the control unit 36 ​​to switch the air flow state and execute a plurality of processes with different air flow states. Specifically, the control unit 36 ​​can execute an aeration process, a concentration process, and a detection process.

[0059] The ventilation process is a process for ventilating the toilet space S5 using the ventilation system 10. The control unit 36 ​​executes the ventilation process when the concentration process and the detection process described below are not executed. As shown in Fig. 4(a), when the ventilation process is executed, the control unit 36 ​​stops the operation of the heating unit 33 and the detector 40. In addition, the control unit 36 ​​switches the first valve 34 to the first state to open the ventilation path 11 (first path 11a) and close the circulation path 31.

[0060] By operating in this state, the ventilation fan 12 (see FIG. 1) of the ventilation system 10 circulates the air from the toilet space S5 only through the ventilation path 11 and exhausts it to the outdoor space (ventilates without passing through the ventilation path 31). In this way, the control unit 36 ​​can ventilate the toilet space S5 through the ventilation process.

[0061] The concentration step is a step for the concentration unit 32 to capture and concentrate odor components. The control unit 36 ​​executes the concentration step when capturing odor components in the breath of the user. Specifically, the control unit 36 ​​executes the ventilation step, for example, when the human sensor 5b detects a user during the ventilation step. At this time, as shown in FIG. 4(b), the control unit 36 ​​stops the operation of the heating unit 33 and the detector 40 following the ventilation step. In addition, the control unit 36 ​​switches the first valve 34 to the second state to close the ventilation path 11 and open the circulation path 31. In addition, the control unit 36 ​​switches the second valve 35 to the third state to open the junction path 31a and close the connection path 31b.

[0062] As described above, the exhaust fan 12 (see FIG. 1) operates all day. In the concentration step, the operation of the exhaust fan 12 causes the air in the toilet space S5 to flow from the ventilation path 11 (first branch part P1) into the circulation path 31. At this time, the air in the toilet space S5 flows into the circulation path 31 without passing through the ventilation path 11. The air passes through the concentration unit 32. The concentration unit 32 is not heated by the heating unit 33 and is at a relatively low temperature, so that it is in a state in which it can capture odor components. Therefore, the concentration unit 32 captures (concentrates) odor components contained in the air from the toilet space S5 in the concentration step. The air that has passed through the concentration unit 32 is returned to the ventilation path 11 via the junction path 31a, sucked into the exhaust fan 12, and discharged to the outdoor space. In this way, the control unit 36 ​​captures odor components by the concentration unit 32 in the concentration step, and ventilates the toilet space S5. Furthermore, the control unit 36 ​​stops the supply of air to the detector 40 so that air does not flow through the detector 40 during the concentration step.

[0063] The detection process is a process for detecting odor components collected (concentrated) by the concentration unit 32. The control unit 36 ​​executes the detection process after collecting odor components in the breath of the user. Specifically, the control unit 36 ​​executes the detection process, for example, when the human sensor 5b transitions from a state in which the user is detected to a state in which the human sensor 5b does not detect the user. At this time, as shown in FIG. 4(c), the control unit 36 ​​operates the heating unit 33 to heat the concentration unit 32. The control unit 36 ​​also maintains the state (second state) of the first valve 34. The control unit 36 ​​also switches the second valve 35 to a fourth state to block the junction path 31a and open the connection path 31b. The control unit 36 ​​also operates the detector 40. The detector 40 receives a signal from the identification unit and identifies the user using the toilet 5. The detector 40 also sucks air in the distribution path 31 by operating the pump.

[0064] As a result, air from the toilet space S5 flows from the ventilation path 11 (first branch part P1) into the circulation path 31. The air passes through the concentration unit 32. Here, the concentration unit 32 is heated by the heating unit 33 to a relatively high temperature (for example, 60°C). Therefore, the odor components captured in the concentration unit 32 in the concentration process are separated from the concentration unit 32. Therefore, as the air passes through the concentration unit 32, the odor components flow downstream. The odor components flow through the connection path 31b and are sucked into the detector 40. The detector 40 detects the odor components by spraying the sucked odor components against the sensor 41 and acquiring a reaction pattern (see FIG. 3(b)). The detector 40 judges the physical condition of the identified user by judging whether or not the detection result of the odor components shows a characteristic of a reaction pattern after a change in physical condition occurs. Specifically, the detector 40 judges that the user is not in a bad physical condition when it is judged that the characteristic is not shown. On the other hand, when the detector 40 determines that the above-mentioned characteristics are present, it determines that the physical condition is poor.

[0065] The detector 40 transmits a signal indicating the result of the determination to the display 50. When the display 50 receives a result indicating poor physical condition, it displays the received result and notifies the manager of the physical condition of the user who used the toilet 5 (whether the user is suffering from an illness, etc.).

[0066] After judging the physical condition, the control unit 36 ​​executes the aeration step shown in Fig. 4(a). For example, the control unit 36 ​​executes the aeration step after transmitting the judgment result to the display 50. In this way, the control unit 36 ​​repeats the aeration step, the concentration step, and the detection step to continuously judge the physical condition.

[0067] The detection system 20 according to this embodiment can detect odor components of breath contained in the toilet space S5 (indoor space) to judge the user's physical condition. This allows the user's physical condition to be judged without the user being aware of it (without performing any action to judge the user's physical condition, for example, without blowing into the detector 40). In addition, the detection system 20 can detect users who are feeling unwell in the building 1, and provide an opportunity for the user to undergo a detailed examination at a medical institution or the like.

[0068] Here, if odor components are detected without the user being aware of it (unconsciously) as in this embodiment, there is a concern that the odor components may not be detected by the detector 40 (detection process) depending on the concentration of the odor components. In this regard, the detection system 20 concentrates the odor components of the breath contained in the toilet space S5 in the concentration process. This increases the concentration of the odor components drawn into the detector 40 in the detection process, making it possible to reliably detect the odor components.

[0069] Furthermore, if the characteristics of the odor component reaction patterns for multiple diseases are stored in advance, detector 40 can detect multiple diseases from the odor components. Furthermore, if the relationship (characteristics) between the reaction patterns and diseases is compiled into a database and the detector 40 is configured to be able to provide the latest information, it will be possible to quickly detect new diseases that occur in the future.

[0070] In addition, the detection system 20 uses the distribution path 31 branching off from the ventilation path 11, and can utilize the ventilation path 11 to supply air from the toilet space S5 to the concentration unit 32 and the detector 40. This makes it possible to easily supply air from the toilet space S5 to the concentration unit 32 and the detector 40 without providing an opening in the toilet 5 exclusively for the detection system 20.

[0071] Furthermore, the detection system 20 supplies air to the concentration unit 32 from the toilet space S5, which is relatively small in the building 1 and where it is expected that the door will be closed when the user uses the toilet. This makes it easier to introduce the user's breath into the concentration unit 32 compared to the case where air is supplied from a relatively large living room, etc. Therefore, the concentration unit 32 can capture odor components in a short time.

[0072] In the detection process, the concentration unit 32 is heated by the heating unit 33 (see FIG. 4(c)). In this way, by changing the state of the concentration unit 32 so that the odor components are easily separated from the concentration unit 32 in the detection process, the time required for the detector 40 to detect the odor components can be shortened.

[0073] As described above, the detection system 20 of this embodiment comprises a circulation path 31 through which air from an indoor space can flow, a concentration unit 32 (collection section) provided in the circulation path 31 for collecting components (odor components) related to the physical condition of a user using the indoor space that are contained in the air flowing through the circulation path 31, and a detector 40 provided downstream of the concentration unit 32 in the circulation path 31 for detecting the components collected by the concentration unit 32.

[0074] With this configuration, components related to physical condition can be detected from the air in an indoor space, allowing the user to determine their physical condition without being aware of it.

[0075] The circulation path 31 branches off from the ventilation path 11 through which air can circulate from the indoor space to the outdoor space.

[0076] With this configuration, air from the indoor space can be easily supplied to the concentration unit 32.

[0077] The detection system 20 further comprises at least one valve (first valve 34 and second valve 35) operable to switch the air flow state in the ventilation path 11 and the distribution path 31, and further comprises a control unit 36 ​​which controls the operation of the valves to switch the air flow state between a ventilation state (ventilation process shown in Figure 4(a)) in which the air in the indoor space is ventilated to the outdoor space via the ventilation path 11 without passing through the distribution path 31, a capture state (concentration process shown in Figure 4(b)) in which the concentration unit 32 captures the components, and a detection state (detection process shown in Figure 4(c)) in which the detector 40 detects the components captured by the concentration unit 32.

[0078] With this configuration, it is possible to switch between ventilation of the indoor space, collection of components by the concentration unit 32, and detection of components by the detector 40 at any desired timing.

[0079] The valve also includes a first valve 34 (first valve) provided at a branching portion (first branching portion P1) between the distribution path 31 and the ventilation path 11, and the control unit 36 ​​operates the first valve 34 in the ventilation state so that all of the air circulating through the ventilation path 11 flows to the outdoor space without passing through the distribution path 31, and operates the first valve 34 in the collection state so that at least a portion of the air circulating through the ventilation path 11 flows to the distribution path 31.

[0080] With this configuration, the ventilation state and the collection state can be easily switched by controlling the first valve 34.

[0081] In addition, in the detection state, the control unit 36 ​​operates the first valve 34 so that at least a part of the air flowing through the ventilation path 11 flows into the flow path 31.

[0082] In this way, by circulating the air in the ventilation path 11 to the circulation path 31, it is possible to create a flow of air that flows from the ventilation path 11 to the circulation path 31 and then into the detector 40. This makes it easier to supply air from the concentration unit 32 to the detector 40.

[0083] The valves also include a second valve 35 (second valve) provided in the circulation path 31 between the concentration unit 32 and the detector 40, and the control unit 36 ​​operates the second valve 35 in the capture state so that air flowing through the circulation path 31 does not flow to the detector 40.

[0084] With this configuration, the supply of air to the detector 40 can be stopped during a collection state in which it is not necessary to detect components, and the valve can be appropriately controlled.

[0085] In addition, the control unit 36 ​​operates the second valve 35 in the detection state so that the air flowing through the flow path 31 flows to the detector 40.

[0086] With this configuration, the supply of air to the detector 40 is permitted in a detection state for detecting the components, and the valve can be appropriately controlled.

[0087] In addition, the circulation path 31 branches at the portion where the second valve 35 is provided, and the detector 40 is provided in one of the branched circulation paths 31 (connection path 31b), while the other branched circulation path 31 (junction path 31a) is arranged to merge with the ventilation path 11, and the control unit 36 ​​operates the second valve 35 so that in the collection state, the air circulating through the circulation path 31 flows to the ventilation path 11 via the other branched circulation path 31.

[0088] With this configuration, the air in which components have been collected by the concentration unit 32 can be returned to the ventilation path 11, allowing efficient ventilation of the indoor space. In addition, air from the toilet space S5 can be easily supplied to the concentration unit 32 by using the ventilation path 11 (exhaust fan 12) (without using a separate suction pump or the like).

[0089] Moreover, the detection system 20 further includes a heating unit 33 (heating section) capable of heating the concentration unit 32 in the detection state.

[0090] With this configuration, the time required for the detector 40 to detect the components can be shortened.

[0091] Moreover, the indoor space is the space of the toilet 5 (toilet space S5).

[0092] By configuring in this way, components related to physical condition can be efficiently collected.

[0093] In addition, the concentration unit 32 collects odor components as components related to the physical condition, and the detector 40 is equipped with a plurality of sensors 41 that react to the odor components and detects the odor components based on the reaction patterns of the plurality of sensors 41.

[0094] With this configuration, it is possible to detect various changes in physical condition according to odor components (reaction patterns).

[0095] The concentration unit 32 according to this embodiment is one embodiment of the collection section according to the present invention. Moreover, the first valve 34 according to this embodiment is one embodiment of the first valve according to the present invention. Moreover, the second valve 35 according to this embodiment is one embodiment of the second valve according to the present invention. Moreover, the heating unit 33 according to this embodiment is one embodiment of a heating section according to the present invention.

[0096] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above configuration, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention described in the claims.

[0097] For example, the detection system 20 is applied to a house, but the application of the detection system 20 is not particularly limited. The detection system 20 can be applied to, for example, accommodation facilities, commercial facilities, sports facilities, elderly care facilities, dormitories, etc. By applying the detection system 20 to accommodation facilities, commercial facilities, and sports facilities, it is possible to easily screen users who may be in poor health among users of the accommodation facilities, etc. This makes it possible to prevent users who may be infected with an infectious disease from staying in the accommodation facilities, etc. for a long time, and to stop the spread of the infectious disease at the border. In addition, by applying the detection system 20 to elderly care facilities and dormitories, it is possible to detect abnormalities in health conditions in group living at an early stage.

[0098] Although the detection system 20 supplies air from the toilet space S5 to the concentration unit 32, the source of the supply of air to the concentration unit 32 may be an indoor space other than the toilet space S5. The concentration unit 32 is preferably supplied from a relatively small indoor space or an indoor space that is expected to be used with the door closed (for example, a space such as the toilet 5 or a washroom). This makes it easier for the concentration unit 32 to collect the breath of the user.

[0099] In addition, in the concentration step, all of the air from the toilet space S5 is supplied to the concentration unit 32 (FIG. 4(b)), but this is not limited thereto, and at least a portion of the air from the indoor space may be supplied to the concentration unit 32. For example, the detection system 20 may be provided with a valve capable of adjusting the amount of air supplied to the distribution path 31 instead of the first valve 34, and a portion of the air from the toilet space S5 may be supplied to the concentration unit 32 in the concentration step.

[0100] In the concentration step, all of the air that has passed through the concentration unit 32 is returned to the ventilation path 11 (FIG. 4(b)), but this is not limited thereto, and at least a portion of the air that has passed through the concentration unit 32 may be returned to the ventilation path 11. For example, the detection system 20 may be provided with a valve capable of adjusting the amount of air returned to the ventilation path 11 instead of the second valve 35, and a portion of the air that has passed through the concentration unit 32 may be returned to the ventilation path 11. In the concentration step, it is sufficient that the odor components are captured by the concentration unit 32, and the air that has passed through the concentration unit 32 may be circulated through a path other than the ventilation path 11 (it does not have to be returned to the ventilation path 11).

[0101] In addition, in the detection step, all of the air that has passed through the concentration unit 32 is supplied to the detector 40 ( FIG. 4(c) ), but this is not limited thereto, and at least a portion of the air that has passed through the concentration unit 32 may be supplied to the detector 40. For example, the detection system 20 may be provided with a valve capable of adjusting the amount of air supplied to the connection path 31b instead of the second valve 35, and a portion of the air that has passed through the concentration unit 32 in the detection step may be supplied to the concentration unit 32.

[0102] Further, the detector 40 judges the physical condition from the odor components (reaction pattern) acquired in one detection process, but the method of judging the physical condition from the odor components is not particularly limited. The detector 40 may judge the physical condition from the odor components acquired in multiple detection processes, for example. In this case, the detector 40 can judge the physical condition to be poor if the odor components acquired in the latest detection process are significantly different from the odor components acquired in previous detection processes.

[0103] Further, although the detector 40 transmits the result of the judgment of the physical condition to the display 50, the destination of the judgment result is not particularly limited. The detector 40 may transmit the result of the judgment to, for example, a predetermined cloud server. With such a configuration, multiple related parties (those who wish to know the result of the judgment of the physical condition, for example, the owner of the building 1 or family members who spend a long time in the building 1, etc.) can confirm the result of the judgment of the user's physical condition.

[0104] In addition, the detector 40 is disposed at a distance downstream in the air flow direction from the concentration unit 32, but it is not necessarily required to be disposed at a distance as long as it is disposed downstream of the concentration unit 32. The detector 40 may be disposed adjacent to the concentration unit 32, for example.

[0105] Moreover, the detector 40 may return the sucked air to the ventilation path 11. With this configuration, in the detection process, the air from the toilet 5 can be passed through the detector 40 from the circulation path 31 and returned to the ventilation path 11. This allows the ventilation system 10 to be used to efficiently supply air to the detector 40.

[0106] Furthermore, although the heating unit 33 is configured by a heater, its configuration is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of heating the concentrating unit 32. For example, the heating unit 33 may heat the concentrating unit 32 by microwaves. Furthermore, the heating unit 33 may heat the concentrating unit 32 stepwise (raise the temperature in a gradational manner) in the detection step as necessary (for example, depending on the target component (component to be detected in the detection step)). This allows the target component to be efficiently separated from the concentrating unit 32.

[0107] In addition, the concentration unit 32 is configured by filling a carrier in a case, but the configuration of the concentration unit 32 is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of capturing odor components. In addition, the concentration unit 32 captures or separates odor components by temperature change, but the odor components may be captured and separated by a concentration unit having other characteristics. In addition, the concentration unit 32 only needs to capture components that can be used to determine the body condition, and does not necessarily need to capture odor components.

[0108] Moreover, the detection system 20 does not necessarily have to use the ventilation system 10. For example, the detection system 20 may use an air conditioning system. In this case, the detection system 20 may be provided, for example, in a pipe (air conditioning path) that connects an air conditioning facility to an indoor space of the building 1. Furthermore, the detection system 20 may use a system that circulates air indoors (within one room). FIG. 5 shows a detection system 120 (another embodiment of the detection system 20) that uses a sterilization system 110 that circulates air indoors.

[0109] The sterilization system 110 sterilizes viruses and the like contained in the air in an indoor space. The sterilization system 110 is installed in the living / dining room 2. The sterilization system 110 includes an acrylic plate 111, piping 112, a case 113, a fan 114, and an irradiation unit 115.

[0110] Two acrylic plates 111 are arranged upright on the desk A1 to prevent droplets from the user from spreading. The two acrylic plates 111 are arranged to face each other with a predetermined gap between them. The piping 112 is provided to connect the gap between the two acrylic plates 111 and the case 113. The case 113 is formed in a hollow, approximately box-like shape. The case 113 is arranged under the desk A1. Openings 113a and 113b are formed on the top and side surfaces of the case 113. The case 113 is provided with a piping 113c that connects the openings 113a and 113b. A filter 113d capable of collecting droplets is provided in the piping 113c. The fan 114 is provided on the side of the case 113. The irradiation unit 115 is connected to the fan 114, and air is introduced from the fan 114. The irradiation unit 115 can irradiate the introduced air with deep ultraviolet light.

[0111] Sterilization system 110 introduces air from the indoor space into pipe 112 through a gap between two acrylic plates 111 by operating fan 114. Sterilization system 110 passes the air through filter 113d in case 113 to collect droplets, and also introduces the air from fan 114 to irradiation unit 115 to sterilize viruses and the like contained in the air with deep ultraviolet light.

[0112] When the above-described sterilization system 110 is used, the flow path 31 of the detection system 120 is provided so as to branch off from the pipe 113c of the case 113. The flow path 31 is provided with a concentration unit 32, a first valve 34, and the like.

[0113] 5 controls the first valve 34 and the like to appropriately circulate the air introduced into the pipe 113c of the case 113. Specifically, when collecting odor components with the concentration unit 32, the air sucked into the pipe 113c is made to flow from the pipe 113c into the distribution path 31, passes through the concentration unit 32, and is returned to the pipe 113c. When determining physical condition with the detector 40, the air sucked into the pipe 113c is made to flow from the pipe 113c into the distribution path 31, passes through the concentration unit 32, and is supplied to the detector 40.

[0114] 5 can be installed in an indoor space, and therefore can be easily installed in an existing building 1. Furthermore, by installing the detection system 120 in a place visited by unspecified users (for example, the front desk of an accommodation facility) and determining the physical condition of the users, it is possible to encourage users who may be infected with an infectious disease to visit a medical institution and prevent the spread of the infectious disease.

[0115] The sterilization system 110 shown in FIG. 5 is an example of a system for circulating air indoors, and various modifications are possible. For example, the sterilization system 110 may include a plate material made of a material other than acrylic, instead of the acrylic plate 111. The positional relationship between the fan 114, the case 113, and the irradiation unit 115 is not particularly limited, and for example, the fan 114 may be disposed downstream of the case 113 and the irradiation unit 115. The irradiation unit 115 may irradiate ultraviolet light with a general UV-C wavelength if it is capable of sterilizing viruses and the like contained in the air (if it has a sterilizing effect). The sterilization system 110 may include a filter for collecting viruses and the like, instead of the irradiation unit 115.

[0116] The detection system 20 does not necessarily need to utilize another system (such as the ventilation system 10) and may be provided independently of the other system. In this case, the detection system 20 can, for example, provide a concentration unit 32 in a path directly communicating with the indoor space, and detect odor components captured by the concentration unit 32 with a detector 40.

[0117] In addition, the control unit 36 ​​switches between the ventilation process, the concentration process, and the detection process in response to the presence of a user (detection result of the human sensor 5b), but how to switch between each process is not particularly limited and can be appropriately changed depending on the purpose of the indoor space. For example, the control unit 36 ​​may switch between various processes in response to the presence of a user as in this embodiment when detecting odor components from a place where it is expected that a user will mainly use alone, such as a private toilet. In addition, the control unit 36 ​​may switch between each process depending on time, such as a public toilet when detecting odor components from a place where multiple users can use at the same time. In this case, for example, the control unit 36 ​​may switch to the next process when a predetermined time has elapsed since starting each process. For example, the control unit 36 ​​may switch to the concentration process when a predetermined time has elapsed since starting the ventilation process. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 20 Detection System 31 Distribution Channels 32 Concentration unit (collection section) 40 Detector S5 Toilet space (indoor space)

Claims

1. A circulation path through which air from an indoor space can circulate; A collection unit provided in the air flow path and configured to collect components related to the physical condition of a user using the indoor space, the components being contained in the air flowing through the air flow path; a detector provided downstream of the collection unit in the flow path and detecting the components collected by the collection unit; Equipped with The distribution channel is A ventilation path through which air can flow from the indoor space to the outdoor space is branched off. Detection system.

2. Further comprising at least one valve operable to switch the air flow state in the ventilation path and the air flow path; By controlling the operation of the valve, a ventilation state in which the air in the indoor space is ventilated to the outdoor space by the ventilation path without passing through the circulation path; a collection state in which the collection portion collects the component; a detection state in which the detector detects the component collected by the collection unit; and Further, a control unit that switches the air flow state is provided. The detection system of claim 1 .

3. The valve includes: a first valve provided at a branching portion between the flow path and the ventilation path; The control unit is In the ventilation state, the first valve is operated so that all of the air circulating through the ventilation path is circulated to the outdoor space without passing through the circulation path; In the collection state, the first valve is operated so that at least a portion of the air flowing through the ventilation path is flowed into the flow path. The detection system of claim 2 .

4. The control unit: In the detection state, the first valve is operated so that at least a portion of the air flowing through the ventilation path is flowed to the flow path. The detection system of claim 3 .

5. The valve includes: a second valve provided in the flow path between the collection unit and the detector; The control unit is operating the second valve so that air flowing through the flow path does not flow to the detector in the collection state; A detection system according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

6. The control unit: operating the second valve so that air flowing through the flow path flows to the detector in the detection state; The detection system of claim 5 .

7. The circulation path is branched at a portion where the second valve is provided, and the detector is provided in one of the branched circulation paths, and the other branched circulation path is arranged to merge with the ventilation path, The control unit is the second valve is operated so that, in the collection state, the air flowing through the flow path flows into the ventilation path via the other of the branched flow paths; A detection system according to claim 5 or claim 6.

8. The sensor further includes a heating unit capable of heating the collection unit in the detection state. A detection system according to any one of claims 2 to 7.

9. The indoor space is The toilet space, A detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The collection section is Collecting odor components as components related to the physical condition; The detector comprises: a plurality of sensors that react to the odor components are provided, and the odor components are detected based on the reaction patterns of the plurality of sensors; A detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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