TOILET DEVICE, CONTROL METHOD FOR TOILET DEVICE, AND CONTROL PROGRAM FOR TOILET DEVICE

Abstract

To provide a toilet device capable of more adequately transmitting biological information to a portable information terminal of a user through wireless communication, a control method for the toilet device, and a control program for the toilet device.SOLUTION: A toilet device comprises: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biological information measurement part to measure biological information of a user; a wireless communication part for executing wireless communication with a portable information terminal of the user; and a control part to transmit the biological information to the portable information terminal. The portable information terminal has an activated state and a stop state. The control part transmits an activating signal to switch the portable information terminal to the activated state, controls switching between a transmission period to transmit the activating signal and a transmission stop period to stop the transmission of the activating signal, and switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period during a period from the time when the user starts using the toilet unit to the time when the biological information is transmitted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a toilet device, a method for controlling a toilet device, and a program for controlling a toilet device. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a toilet device that measures biometric information such as the pulse of a user and the state of excrement, and transmits the measurement results to the user's mobile information terminal via wireless communication (for example, Patent Document 1). In order to increase user convenience, there is a demand for such toilet devices to be able to automatically transmit the measurement results to the mobile information terminal without the user having to perform any special operations.

[0003] For example, it is being considered to send a start-up signal from the toilet device to a mobile information terminal, which will start a specific application software pre-installed on the mobile information terminal in the background, thereby enabling measurement results to be automatically sent to the mobile information terminal without the need for user operation.

[0004] However, with the above method, when a user manually terminates application software that is running in the background (a so-called task kill), the mobile information terminal may no longer respond to subsequent startup signals, making it impossible to restart the application software.

[0005] In order to recover from a state where the mobile information terminal is not operating and does not respond to the activation signal, it is necessary to continue the state where the activation signal is not received for a predetermined period of time or more. Therefore, if the toilet device periodically transmits the activation signal, it is necessary to move once outside the communication range with the toilet device (for example, outside the toilet room).

[0006] It is also possible for the user to manually establish wireless communication with the toilet device by operating the mobile information terminal and launching application software, but this too would be time-consuming for the user.

[0007] In this way, when the mobile information terminal becomes unresponsive to the activation signal, the user must take some action, such as moving out of the communication range or manually reconnecting the wireless communication, which is troublesome for the user. Furthermore, if the user does not take such action, the transmission of the measurement results will be postponed to the next time the terminal is used.

[0008] Because excretion is something that occurs naturally in daily life (it is not something that the user can do intentionally), it is required that the measurement results be obtained automatically, rather than being obtained intentionally by the user. Also, because excretion does not occur at a fixed time and number of times per day, it is required that the measurement results be obtained at a timing that is as close as possible to the timing of excretion, rather than receiving them at a fixed time.

[0009] For this reason, in a toilet device that transmits biometric information to a user's portable information terminal via wireless communication, it is desirable to be able to transmit the biometric information appropriately to the user's portable information terminal. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0010] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-187089 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide a toilet device, a control method for a toilet device, and a control program for a toilet device that can more appropriately transmit biometric information to a user's mobile information terminal via wireless communication. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] A first invention is a toilet device comprising: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric information measuring unit that measures a user's biometric information; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's mobile information terminal; and a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the user's mobile information terminal, wherein the mobile information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and enables reception of the biometric information by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit in the activated state, and the control unit transmits a start-up signal from the wireless communication unit to the mobile information terminal for switching the mobile information terminal from the stopped state to the activated state, and switches the mobile information terminal from the stopped state to the activated state to enable automatic transmission of the biometric information to the mobile information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period in which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period in which transmission of the start-up signal is stopped, and switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period between when the user starts using the toilet unit and when the biometric information is transmitted.

[0013] According to this toilet device, by switching from a transmission stop period to a transmission period between when the user starts using the toilet unit and when the biometric information is transmitted, a task kill is performed before the biometric information is transmitted, and it is possible to prevent the mobile information terminal from becoming unresponsive to the activation signal when the biometric information is transmitted. Therefore, when the biometric information is transmitted, the mobile information terminal can be more appropriately activated, and the biometric information can be more appropriately automatically transmitted to the mobile information terminal via wireless communication. This prevents the user from having to take action such as moving out of communication range or manually connecting wireless communication, and further improves usability.

[0014] A second invention is a toilet device according to the first invention, characterized in that the control unit switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to completion of acquisition of the biometric information by the biometric information measuring unit.

[0015] According to this toilet device, the task is killed before the biological information is transmitted, and it is possible to more appropriately prevent the mobile information terminal from becoming unresponsive to the activation signal when the biological information is transmitted.

[0016] A third invention is a toilet device according to the second invention, further comprising a proximity sensor that detects the user's approach to and movement away from the toilet unit, and the control unit switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the detection of the user's approach by the proximity sensor.

[0017] According to this toilet device, by switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the detection of the approach of a user by the proximity sensor, the mobile information terminal can be switched to an activated state more quickly, and even if a task kill is performed between the detection of approach and the completion of acquisition of the biometric information, by switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the completion of acquisition of the biometric information, it is possible to prevent the mobile information terminal from becoming unresponsive to the activation signal when the biometric information is transmitted.

[0018] A fourth invention is a toilet device according to the second invention, further comprising a seat sensor that detects the user sitting on the toilet seat and the user leaving the toilet seat, and the control unit switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the seat sensor detecting the user sitting on the toilet seat.

[0019] According to this toilet device, by switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the detection of the user being seated by the seat sensor, the mobile information terminal can be activated more quickly, and even if a task kill is performed between the detection of the user being seated and the completion of the acquisition of the biometric information, by switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the completion of the acquisition of the biometric information, it is possible to prevent the mobile information terminal from becoming unresponsive to the activation signal when the biometric information is transmitted.

[0020] A fifth invention is the toilet device of the first invention, characterized in that the control unit switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period, continues the transmission period for a first hour, switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period, continues the transmission stop period for a second hour, and then switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period again.

[0021] According to this toilet device, even if a task kill is performed after the user starts using the toilet unit, by continuing the transmission stop period for a second hour and then switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period again, it is possible to more appropriately prevent the mobile information terminal from becoming unresponsive to the activation signal and becoming unable to transmit biometric information.

[0022] A sixth invention is a control method for a toilet device comprising: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric information measuring unit that measures a user's biometric information; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with a mobile information terminal of the user; and a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the mobile information terminal of the user, wherein the mobile information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and enables reception of the biometric information by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit in the activated state, and the control unit transmits a start-up signal from the wireless communication unit to the mobile information terminal for switching the mobile information terminal from the stopped state to the activated state, and switches the mobile information terminal from the stopped state to the activated state to enable automatic transmission of the biometric information to the mobile information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the start-up signal is stopped, characterized in that the control method for a toilet device comprises a step of switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period between when the user starts using the toilet unit and when the biometric information is transmitted.

[0023] According to this method for controlling the toilet device, by switching from a transmission stop period to a transmission period between when the user starts using the toilet unit and when the biometric information is transmitted, a task kill is performed before the transmission of the biometric information, and it is possible to prevent the mobile information terminal from becoming unresponsive to the activation signal when the biometric information is transmitted. Therefore, when the biometric information is transmitted, the mobile information terminal can be more appropriately activated, and the biometric information can be more appropriately automatically transmitted to the mobile information terminal via wireless communication. This prevents the user from having to take action such as moving out of communication range or manually connecting wireless communication, and further improves usability.

[0024] A seventh invention is a control program installed in a toilet device comprising: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric information measuring unit that measures a user's biometric information; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with a mobile information terminal of the user; and a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the mobile information terminal of the user, wherein the mobile information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and enables reception of the biometric information by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit in the activated state, and the control unit transmits a activation signal from the wireless communication unit to the mobile information terminal for switching the mobile information terminal from the stopped state to the activated state, and enables the biometric information to be automatically transmitted to the mobile information terminal by switching the mobile information terminal from the stopped state to the activated state, and controls switching between a transmission period in which the activation signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period in which transmission of the activation signal is stopped, characterized in that the control program for the toilet device causes the toilet device to execute a process of switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period between when the user starts using the toilet unit and when the biometric information is transmitted.

[0025] According to the control program of the toilet device, by switching from a transmission stop period to a transmission period between when the user starts using the toilet unit and when the biometric information is transmitted, a task kill is performed before the transmission of the biometric information, and it is possible to prevent the mobile information terminal from becoming unresponsive to the activation signal when the biometric information is transmitted. Therefore, when the biometric information is transmitted, the mobile information terminal can be more appropriately activated, and the biometric information can be more appropriately automatically transmitted to the mobile information terminal via wireless communication. This prevents the user from having to take action such as moving out of communication range or manually connecting wireless communication, and further improves usability. Effect of the Invention

[0026] According to aspects of the present invention, there are provided a toilet device, a control method for a toilet device, and a control program for a toilet device that can more appropriately transmit biological information to a user's mobile information terminal via wireless communication. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a toilet system including a toilet device according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a toilet system including a toilet device according to an embodiment; [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a front view illustrating a schematic diagram of a remote control for the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation in a registration mode of the toilet device and the mobile information terminal according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the toilet device and the mobile information terminal according to the embodiment in a use mode. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation when a toilet device and a mobile information terminal according to an embodiment are connected to each other. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation during user authentication of the toilet device and the mobile information terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation during user authentication of a remote control of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation in a use mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation in a usage mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation in a usage mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] 5 is a timing chart showing an example of an operation of transmitting an activation signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of transmitting an activation signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] 10 is a timing chart showing a modified example of the operation of transmitting an activation signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is a timing chart showing a modified example of the operation of transmitting an activation signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the operation of transmitting an activation signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the operation of transmitting an activation signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] 10 is a timing flowchart showing a modified example of the operation of transmitting an activation signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0029] (Toilet equipment) FIG. 1 is a perspective view that illustrates a toilet system including a toilet device according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram that illustrates a toilet system including the toilet device according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a front view that illustrates a schematic diagram of a remote control for the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a toilet system 500 according to an embodiment includes a toilet device 100 and a mobile information terminal 200.

[0030] The toilet device 100 includes a toilet unit 10, a biological information measuring unit 20, a control unit 30, a wireless communication unit 40, a storage unit 50, a human body detection sensor 60, and a remote control 70. The toilet device 100 is provided inside a toilet room TR. The toilet room TR may be a toilet room provided in a general household house, or a private room (so-called toilet booth) provided in a toilet in a public facility.

[0031] The toilet unit 10 includes a toilet bowl 11, a toilet seat 12, a toilet lid 13, and a casing 14. The toilet bowl 11 is a Western-style seated toilet bowl. The toilet bowl 11 includes a concave bowl portion 11a that is recessed downward. The bowl portion 11a receives waste, urine, and the like excreted by the user. Note that the toilet unit 10 does not necessarily have to include the toilet bowl 11. The toilet device 100 may be a toilet bowl-integrated toilet device that includes the toilet bowl 11, or it may be a sheet-type toilet device that is removably attached to the top of the toilet bowl.

[0032] The toilet seat 12 and the toilet lid 13 are each pivotally supported on a casing 14 so as to be openable and closable. FIG. 1 shows the toilet seat 12 closed and the toilet lid 13 open. The toilet lid 13 covers the top of the toilet seat 12 when closed. The toilet lid 13 is provided as necessary and can be omitted. It is sufficient that the toilet unit 10 has at least a casing 14 and the toilet seat 12 pivotally supported on the casing 14 so as to be openable and closable.

[0033] The casing 14 houses various functional units. Inside the casing 14, for example, there are housed an automatic opening and closing unit that automatically opens and closes the toilet seat 12 and the toilet lid 13, a private parts washing unit including a nozzle for washing the private parts of the user, a private parts drying unit for drying the private parts of the user, and a deodorizing unit for deodorizing. These various functional units are provided as necessary and can be omitted. Inside the casing 14, there are housed a control unit 30, a wireless communication unit 40, a memory unit 50, and the like.

[0034] The biological information measuring unit 20 measures the biological information of the user. The biological information includes, for example, information on the pulse of the user and the state of excrement. The biological information measuring unit 20 is electrically connected to the control unit 30. The biological information measuring unit 20 communicates with the control unit 30 regarding the measured biological information.

[0035] The biological information measuring unit 20 has a plurality of sensors, a first sensor 21 and a second sensor 22. The biological information measuring unit 20 measures a plurality of pieces of biological information of the user by the plurality of sensors 21, 22. The first sensor 21 is, for example, a pulsation sensor. More specifically, the first sensor 21 is, for example, a laser sensor. The first sensor 21 is provided, for example, on the toilet seat 12. The first sensor 21 measures the pulse of the user seated on the toilet seat 12, for example, by using hemoglobin infrared reflection.

[0036] The second sensor 22 is, for example, an image sensor. More specifically, the second sensor 22 is, for example, a line sensor in which a plurality of pixels are arranged in a line. The second sensor 22 may be, for example, an area sensor in which a plurality of pixels are arranged in a matrix. The second sensor 22 is, for example, provided inside the casing 14. The second sensor 22 determines the state of the excrement (shape, color, amount, etc.) using, for example, image data obtained by photographing the excrement, such as feces, excreted in the bowl portion 11a.

[0037] The measurement of biological information by the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 may include obtaining information by measurement and analyzing the information obtained by measurement. For example, the first sensor 21 obtains (estimates) information on vascular age, lower limb blood circulation, fitness level, basal metabolism, body water level, body clock, normal heart rate, etc. as biological information by analyzing information on the measured state of excrement. For example, the second sensor 22 obtains (estimates) information on the state of the intestinal environment as biological information by analyzing information on the measured state of excrement.

[0038] Furthermore, the analysis of the information measured by the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 may be performed by, for example, the control unit 30 or the mobile information terminal 200, without being limited to the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22. The analysis of the biological information may be performed by an external server (external device) by transmitting the biological information from the mobile information terminal 200 of the user to an external server (for example, a cloud server).

[0039] In this way, the biological information measured by the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 may be measurement information obtained by performing only the measurement, or may be analysis information obtained by analyzing the measurement information obtained by the measurement.

[0040] Furthermore, each of the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 may acquire a plurality of pieces of measurement information by measurement. Each of the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 may acquire a plurality of pieces of biological information by analysis. Each of the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 may acquire a plurality of pieces of biological information from one piece of measurement information by analysis, for example. In other words, one sensor provided in the biological information measuring unit 20 may measure a plurality of pieces of biological information.

[0041] The plurality of pieces of biological information measured by the plurality of sensors of the biological information measuring unit 20 are not limited to the above, and may be any information related to the health condition of the user and obtainable by the toilet device 100. In this example, the biological information measuring unit 20 has two sensors, a first sensor 21 and a second sensor 22. The number of sensors provided in the biological information measuring unit 20 is not limited to the above, and may be three or more. The number of sensors provided in the biological information measuring unit 20 may be appropriately set according to the biological information to be measured.

[0042] The control unit 30 is electrically connected to the biological information measuring unit 20, the wireless communication unit 40, the storage unit 50, and the human body detection sensor 60. The control unit 30 acquires the measurement result (biological information) of the biological information measuring unit 20 and the detection result of the human body detection sensor 60. The control unit 30 controls the biological information measuring unit 20, the wireless communication unit 40, and the storage unit 50. The control unit 30 controls, for example, the start and stop of the measurement of the biological information by the biological information measuring unit 20. The control unit 30 includes, for example, a main body control unit that comprehensively controls each unit of the toilet device 100, and a sensor control unit that is provided in the biological information measuring unit 20 and controls the operation of the biological information measuring unit 20. In other words, a part of the control unit 30 may be provided in the biological information measuring unit 20. The start and stop of the measurement of the biological information by the biological information measuring unit 20 is controlled, for example, by at least one of the main body control unit and the sensor control unit. The control unit 30 is, for example, a control circuit including an IC element. The control unit 30 is not limited to one IC element (processor), and may be configured by combining a plurality of IC elements.

[0043] The control unit 30 transmits the biometric information to the mobile information terminal 200 of the user via the wireless communication unit 40. The control unit 30 also stores the biometric information in the memory unit 50. The memory unit 50 may have a memory unit connected to the main body control unit and a memory unit connected to the sensor control unit. In other words, a part of the memory unit 50 may be provided in the biometric information measuring unit 20. The biometric information may be stored in the memory unit of the main body control unit or in the memory unit of the sensor control unit. The control unit 30 also erases the biometric information stored in the memory unit 50 from the memory unit 50. Storing and erasing the biometric information in the memory unit 50 will be described later.

[0044] The wireless communication unit 40 can connect the control unit 30 and the mobile information terminal 200 by wireless communication. The wireless communication unit 40 is electrically connected to the control unit 30. The wireless communication unit 40 is a communication module that enables communication according to the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard, such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy). The wireless communication unit 40 can connect, for example, the control unit 30 and the mobile information terminal 200 located inside the toilet room TR by wireless communication. The connection between the control unit 30 and the mobile information terminal 200 is disconnected, for example, when the mobile information terminal 200 is outside the toilet room TR. In addition, the connection between the control unit 30 and the mobile information terminal 200 is disconnected, for example, when a disconnection request signal is transmitted from the mobile information terminal 200. The connection between the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the mobile information terminal 200 will be described later.

[0045] The form of communication between the toilet device 100 and the mobile information terminal 200 is not limited to a form in which the toilet device 100 and the mobile information terminal 200 are directly connected by wireless communication, and may be, for example, a form in which an external server (e.g., a cloud server) is interposed between the toilet device 100 and the mobile information terminal 200. The wireless communication unit 40 may perform wireless communication with an external server. The toilet device 100 may, for example, transmit the acquired biometric information (analysis information) to an external server. At this time, the analysis of the biometric information may be performed by the server that receives the biometric information from the toilet device 100. The mobile information terminal 200 may receive its own biometric information (analysis information) from the server by performing wireless communication with the server. The timing at which the toilet device 100 performs wireless communication with the server may be, for example, when transmitting the biometric information (analysis information), when authenticating the user, or both. The timing at which the mobile information terminal 200 performs wireless communication with the server may be any timing. The device that is involved in the communication between the toilet device 100 and the mobile information terminal 200 is not limited to the server, and may include other devices. The form of communication between the toilet apparatus 100 and the mobile information terminal 200 may be via any external device.

[0046] The storage unit 50 can store information output from the control unit 30. The storage unit 50 is electrically connected to the control unit 30. The storage unit 50 stores, for example, biometric information. For example, when user authentication is performed, the storage unit 50 stores the biometric information in association with user information for identifying the user. User authentication will be described later.

[0047] The storage unit 50 stores the identification information for identifying the mobile information terminal 200 and the user information for identifying the user in association with each other. The information in which the identification information and the user information are associated with each other may be stored in, for example, a storage unit provided in the wireless communication unit 40. In other words, a part of the storage unit 50 may be provided in the wireless communication unit 40. The identification information is, for example, unique information given to the mobile information terminal 200, such as a MAC address. The identification information may be, for example, an ID number, a BD address (a BlueTooth address), pairing information (encryption information shared by the applications of the toilet device 100 and the mobile information terminal 200 at the time of pairing), or the like. The user information is, for example, unique information given to each user, such as a user number. The user information may be any information capable of identifying a plurality of users. The identification information may be any information capable of identifying the mobile information terminal 200 of each user. A registration mode in which the identification information and the user information are associated with each other and stored will be described later.

[0048] The human body detection sensor 60 detects the state of the user. The human body detection sensor 60 includes, for example, at least one of a seating sensor 61 and an approach sensor 62. The seating sensor 61 is provided, for example, on the toilet seat 12. The seating sensor 61 includes, for example, a capacitance sensor. The seating sensor 61 detects, for example, the user sitting on the toilet seat 12 and the user leaving the toilet seat 12. Note that the seating sensor 61 may be, for example, a mechanical switch provided on the casing 14. The seating sensor 61 may be any sensor that can appropriately detect the user sitting and leaving the seat.

[0049] The approach sensor 62 is provided, for example, inside the casing 14. The approach sensor 62 detects, for example, a user's approach to the toilet unit 10 and a user's departure from the toilet unit 10. The approach sensor 62 detects, for example, a user's entry into the toilet room TR and a user's exit from the toilet room TR. In other words, the approach sensor 62 is an entry detection sensor.

[0050] The approach sensor 62 has a non-detection state in which it does not detect a user, and a detection state in which it detects a user. In other words, the non-detection state is a state in which it detects the user's exit from the toilet room TR. In other words, the detection state is a state in which it detects the user's entry into the toilet room TR.

[0051] The approach sensor 62 includes, for example, at least one of a radio wave sensor and an infrared sensor. However, the approach sensor 62 is not limited to these and may be any sensor that can appropriately detect the approach of a user. The approach sensor 62 is not limited to the entry of a user into the toilet room TR, but may be a sensor that detects the approach of a user to the toilet unit 10, such as the toilet seat 12 or the casing 14. The approach sensor 62 may be provided outside the casing 14.

[0052] The remote control 70 is provided, for example, on a wall surface WL of the toilet room TR. The remote control 70 is an operation unit for remotely operating various functional units housed inside the casing 14. Note that the operation unit is not limited to the remote control 70 provided separately from the casing 14, and may be provided, for example, integrally with the casing 14.

[0053] The remote control 70 transmits signals to the control unit 30 for operating various functional units, for example, based on an operation input to the remote control 70 by a user. When the control unit 30 receives a signal from the remote control 70, it controls the various functional units based on the signal. The remote control 70 is connected to the control unit 30, for example, by wireless communication. The wireless communication unit connecting the remote control 70 and the control unit 30 is provided separately from the wireless communication unit 40, for example.

[0054] The remote control 70 (operation unit) has, for example, an authentication switch 71 for transmitting an authentication signal. When an operation input is made to the authentication switch 71, the remote control 70 transmits the authentication signal to the control unit 30. The control unit 30 can perform user authentication based on, for example, the authentication signal from the remote control 70. User authentication will be described later.

[0055] The mobile information terminal 200 is, for example, a smartphone or tablet terminal owned by the user. However, the mobile information terminal 200 is not limited to these and may be any terminal that the user can carry around.

[0056] A control program (application software) for connecting to the toilet device 100 and displaying information (eg, analysis information) transmitted from the toilet device 100 is pre-installed in the mobile information terminal 200.

[0057] The portable information terminal 200 has an active state in which application software is active, and an inactive state in which application software is inactive. In the active state, the portable information terminal 200 performs wireless communication with the wireless communication unit 40, thereby enabling reception of biological information.

[0058] FIG. 4 is a flow chart that illustrates an example of the operation of the toilet device and the mobile information terminal according to the embodiment in the registration mode. FIG. 5 is a flow chart that illustrates an example of the operation of the toilet device and the mobile information terminal according to the embodiment in the use mode. As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the toilet apparatus 100 (controller 30) has a registration mode and a use mode.

[0059] The registration mode is a mode in which user registration can be performed. User registration refers to storing in the storage unit 50 identification information for identifying the portable information terminal 200 and user information for identifying the user (e.g., a user number) in association with each other. User registration may also be storing in a storage unit (part of the storage unit 50 provided in the wireless communication unit 40) provided in the wireless communication unit 40. The registration mode is performed in a state in which the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 are connected via wireless communication.

[0060] The usage mode is a mode in which measurement of biological information, analysis of the biological information, and transmission of the analysis information can be performed. The control unit 30, for example, normally operates in the usage mode. For example, the control unit 30 executes the operation of the registration mode in response to receiving an instruction to execute the registration mode from the remote control 70 or the mobile information terminal 200 while operating in the usage mode. After executing the operation of the registration mode, the control unit 30 returns to the operation of the usage mode.

[0061] If user registration has already been performed, user authentication can be performed in the use mode. User authentication is an operation for identifying a user. In other words, user authentication is an operation for identifying user information (user number) of a user using the toilet apparatus 100 and identification information of the user's mobile information terminal 200. By performing user authentication, for example, biometric information can be linked to the user information (user number) and identification information of the user's mobile information terminal 200 and stored in the storage unit 50. In addition, by performing user authentication, for example, the toilet apparatus 100 and the mobile information terminal 200 identified by the user authentication can be selectively connected by wireless communication.

[0062] User authentication is performed, for example, by connecting the toilet device 100 (controller 30) and the mobile information terminal 200 via wireless communication. In this case, the mobile information terminal 200 connected to the toilet device 100 (controller 30) transmits an authentication signal including user information (user number) registered in the mobile information terminal 200 to the toilet device 100. When the toilet device 100 receives the authentication signal, it determines that the user of the user information (user number) included in the authentication signal is using the toilet device 100. This makes it possible to identify the user information (user number) of the user using the toilet device 100 and the identification information of the mobile information terminal 200 of that user. User authentication using the mobile information terminal 200 will be described later.

[0063] User authentication may be performed, for example, by an operational input to an authentication switch 71 of the remote control 70. In this case, when an operational input (e.g., selection of a user number) is made to the authentication switch 71, the remote control 70 transmits an authentication signal including user information (user number) to the toilet device 100. When the toilet device 100 receives the authentication signal, it determines that the user of the user information (user number) included in the authentication signal is using the toilet device 100. This makes it possible to identify the user information (user number) of the user using the toilet device 100 and the identification information of the mobile information terminal 200 of that user. User authentication using the remote control 70 will be described later.

[0064] In this way, the control unit 30 performs user authentication to identify the user based on the user information stored in the storage unit 50. The control unit 30 receives an authentication signal including user information from, for example, at least one of the mobile information terminal 200 and the remote control 70 (operation unit), and performs user authentication to identify the user based on the user information included in the received authentication signal and the user information stored in the storage unit 50. For example, when the same user information as the user information included in the received authentication signal is stored in the storage unit 50, the control unit 30 identifies the user represented by the user information as the current user.

[0065] After performing user authentication, the control unit 30 links the user information of the user identified by the user authentication with the biometric information, thereby enabling the biometric information to be transmitted to the mobile information terminal 200 of the identified user based on the identification information linked to the user information and stored in the storage unit 50. This makes it possible to prevent the biometric information from being transmitted to the mobile information terminal 200 of a different user.

[0066] The registration mode is described in more detail below. 4, in the registration mode, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether or not a user number selection signal has been received (step S101). The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats step S101 until the user number selection signal is received (step S101: No). The user number selection signal is a signal indicating the user number selected in the mobile information terminal 200.

[0067] When a user number selection signal is received (step S101: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) links the selected user number with the identification number of the mobile information terminal 200 that sent the user number selection signal, and stores (registers) them in the memory unit 50 (step S102).

[0068] When the user number and the identification number are associated and registered (step S102), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits a registration completion signal to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S103). The registration completion signal is a signal indicating that registration has been completed.

[0069] When a user number is selected on the mobile information terminal 200, the mobile information terminal 200 transmits a user number selection signal to the toilet apparatus 100 (step S201).

[0070] When a user number selection signal is transmitted to the toilet device 100 (step S201), the mobile information terminal 200 judges whether or not a registration completion signal is received from the toilet device 100 (step S202). The mobile information terminal 200 repeats step S202 until a registration completion signal is received (step S202: No).

[0071] When the registration completion signal is received (step S202: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 stores (registers) the registered user number (step S203).

[0072] The usage modes are explained in more detail below. 5, in the use mode, the toilet device 100 (controller 30) determines whether the seating sensor 61 detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 12 (step S301). The toilet device 100 (controller 30) repeats step S301 until the seating sensor 61 detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 12 (step S301: No).

[0073] When the seating sensor 61 detects that the user is seated on the toilet seat 12 (step S301: Yes), the toilet apparatus 100 (controller 30) causes the sensors 21, 22 of the biological information measuring unit 20 to start measuring biological information (step S302).

[0074] When the measurement of the biological information is completed (step S303), each of the sensors 21 and 22 starts analyzing the biological information (step S304). Note that, if the sensor 21 or 22 detects that the user has left the toilet seat 12 before the measurement is completed, the sensor 21 or 22 may, for example, stop the measurement of the biological information midway and start analyzing the biological information.

[0075] When the analysis of the biological information is completed (step S305), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits the biological information (analysis information) obtained by the analysis to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S306). As described above, the transmission of the biological information is performed by the control unit 30 via the wireless communication unit 40. Note that the analysis of the biological information may be performed by the control unit 30 or the mobile information terminal 200, as described above. Steps S304 and S305 may be omitted.

[0076] The portable information terminal 200 displays, for example, progress information of the measurement of biological information (step S401). The display of the progress information will be described later.

[0077] The portable information terminal 200 determines whether or not the biometric information has been received (step S402). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S402 until the biometric information has been received (step S402: No).

[0078] When the biometric information is received (step S402: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 displays the biometric information (step S403). The mobile information terminal 200 may store the biometric information so that the biometric information can be displayed even after the connection between the toilet device 100 (controller 30) and the mobile information terminal 200 is cut off.

[0079] In step S301, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may determine whether the approach sensor 62 has detected the approach of the user to the toilet unit 10, or may determine whether the approach sensor 62 has detected the entry of the user into the toilet room TR. That is, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may start measuring the biological information as a trigger when the user sits on the toilet seat 12, when the user approaches the toilet unit 10, or when the user enters the toilet room TR. The trigger when the biological information measurement starts may be, for example, the completion of user authentication. Furthermore, the trigger when the biological information measurement starts may be, for example, a change in the state of the biological information measurement unit 20. More specifically, the change in the state of the biological information measurement unit 20 may be, for example, a change in the output of the line sensor (e.g., detection of a fallen object) or a change in the output of the laser sensor.

[0080] The connection between the toilet apparatus 100 and the mobile information terminal 200 will be described in more detail below. FIG. 6 is a flow chart that illustrates an example of an operation when the toilet device and the mobile information terminal according to the embodiment are connected to each other. As shown in FIG. 6, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits an activation signal to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S501). The activation signal is a signal for switching the mobile information terminal 200 from a stopped state to an activated state. More specifically, the activation signal is a signal for switching application software to an activated state in the background. In the activated state, the mobile information terminal 200 is in a state in which it can receive an advertising signal (wireless signal). In the stopped state, the mobile information terminal 200 cannot receive an advertising signal (wireless signal). In other words, the activated state is a state in which it can receive an advertising signal. In other words, the stopped state is a state in which it cannot receive an advertising signal.

[0081] When the activation signal is transmitted (step S501), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits an advertising signal to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S502). The advertising signal is a signal for causing the mobile information terminal 200 to start a connection with the toilet device 100 (control unit 30).

[0082] When the advertising signal is transmitted (step S502), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether or not a connection request signal is received (step S503). The connection request signal is a signal for causing the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) to start a connection with the mobile information terminal 200.

[0083] When the connection request signal is received (step S503: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) starts a connection with the mobile information terminal 200 (step S504). When the connection request signal is not received (step S503: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform step S504. In other words, when the connection request signal is not received (step S503: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not start a connection with the mobile information terminal 200.

[0084] The portable information terminal 200 judges whether or not a wake-up signal has been received (step S601). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S601 until a wake-up signal is received (step S601: No).

[0085] When the start-up signal is received (step S601: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 switches from a stopped state to an active state (step S602). The mobile information terminal 200 goes into a background active state in which application software is active in the background, for example. For example, when the start-up signal is received while the user is referring to the screen, the mobile information terminal 200 may activate the application software in the foreground.

[0086] When the mobile information terminal 200 is activated (step S602), the mobile information terminal 200 determines whether or not an advertising signal has been received (step S603). The mobile information terminal 200 repeats step S603 until an advertising signal is received (step S603: No).

[0087] When receiving the advertising signal (step S603: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 transmits a connection request signal to the toilet device 100 (controller 30) (step S604), and starts a connection with the toilet device 100 (controller 30) (step S605).

[0088] In this manner, the control unit 30 transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal 200 from a stopped state to an activated state from the wireless communication unit 40 to the portable information terminal 200, and switches the portable information terminal 200 from a stopped state to an activated state. As a result, the control unit 30 automatically starts a wireless communication connection with the portable information terminal 200 without the need for a user operation or the like. As a result, the control unit 30 is able to automatically transmit biometric information to the portable information terminal 200. In addition, by transmitting a start-up signal and automatically starting a wireless communication connection with the portable information terminal 200, it is possible to easily perform user authentication using the portable information terminal 200.

[0089] User authentication using the portable information terminal 200 will be described in further detail below. FIG. 7 is a flowchart that illustrates an example of the operation of the toilet device and the mobile information terminal according to the embodiment during user authentication. 7, when a connection with the mobile information terminal 200 is started (step S701), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether or not an authentication signal has been received (step S702). The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats step S702 until an authentication signal is received (step S702: No). The authentication signal is, for example, a signal including user information (user number).

[0090] When the authentication signal is received (step S702: Yes), the toilet device 100 (controller 30) identifies the user information and the identification information based on the authentication signal (step S703). More specifically, the toilet device 100 (controller 30) identifies the user information included in the authentication signal, and identifies the mobile information terminal 200 having the identification information linked to the user information included in the authentication signal.

[0091] When the user information and the identification information are specified (step S703), the toilet apparatus 100 (control unit 30) transmits an authentication completion signal to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S704). The authentication completion signal is a signal indicating that the user authentication has been completed.

[0092] When the authentication completion signal is transmitted (step S704), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) judges whether or not a disconnection request signal is received (step S705). The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeats step S705 until a disconnection request signal is received (step S705: No). The disconnection request signal is a signal for causing the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) to disconnect the connection with the mobile information terminal 200.

[0093] When the disconnection request signal is received (step S705: Yes), the toilet apparatus 100 (control unit 30) disconnects the connection with the mobile information terminal 200 (step S706).

[0094] When a connection with the toilet apparatus 100 (controller 30) is started (step S801), the mobile information terminal 200 transmits an authentication signal (step S802).

[0095] When the authentication signal is transmitted (step S802), the portable information terminal 200 judges whether or not an authentication completion signal is received (step S803). The portable information terminal 200 repeats step S803 until the authentication completion signal is received (step S803: No).

[0096] When the authentication completion signal is received (step S803: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 transmits a disconnection request signal (step S804), and disconnects the connection with the toilet apparatus 100 (control unit 30) (step S805).

[0097] In this way, after executing the registration mode (i.e., when the identification information and user information are linked and stored in the memory unit 50), when the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) receives an authentication signal in the usage mode, it can perform user authentication to identify the user information and identification information.

[0098] User authentication using the remote control 70 will be described in more detail below. FIG. 8 is a flow chart that illustrates an example of an operation during user authentication of the remote control of the toilet device according to the embodiment. 8, when an operation input is made to the authentication switch 71 (step S901), the remote control 70 selects user information (step S902). More specifically, when a first operation input is made, the remote control 70 selects, for example, user number 1.

[0099] When the user information is selected (step S902), the remote control 70 judges whether or not further operation input has been made to the authentication switch 71 (step S903). When further operation input has been made to the authentication switch 71 (step S903: Yes), the remote control 70 updates the user information (step S904). More specifically, when a second operation input has been made, the remote control 70 selects, for example, user number 2. When a third operation input has been made, the remote control 70 selects, for example, user number 3. When an Nth operation input has been made (N is a natural number), the remote control 70 selects, for example, user number N. In other words, when an operation input is made, the remote control 70 adds 1 to the numeric value of the user number, for example. When a further operation input is made when the numeric value of the user number has reached the upper limit, the remote control 70 selects, for example, user number 1.

[0100] When the user information is updated (step S904), the remote control 70 judges whether or not a predetermined time has passed since the first operation input (step S905). If the predetermined time has not passed since the first operation input (step S905: No), the remote control 70 returns to step S903.

[0101] If no further operation input is made (step S903: No), the remote control 70 skips step S904 and performs step S905. The remote control 70 repeats steps S903, S904, and S905 until a predetermined time has elapsed since the first operation input.

[0102] When a predetermined time has passed since the first operation input (step S905: Yes), the remote control 70 confirms the user information to be included in the authentication signal and transmits the authentication signal to the control unit 30 (step S906). More specifically, the remote control 70 transmits an authentication signal including the last selected user number. This allows the remote control 70 to perform user authentication. In this case, even if the user does not carry the mobile information terminal 200, user authentication can be performed, improving the convenience of the toilet device 100. Note that the remote control 70 may, for example, determine whether or not a predetermined time has passed since the previous operation input, and transmit an authentication signal to the control unit 30 depending on the passage of the predetermined time since the previous operation input.

[0103] In this way, by providing a remote control 70 that transmits an authentication signal, the authentication signal can be transmitted (user authentication) in a manner closer to normal use than, for example, operating an operation unit provided in a location other than the remote control 70 (e.g., the toilet unit 10) to transmit the authentication signal, making it easier to use.

[0104] Furthermore, user information specified by an authentication signal is selected based on the number of times the authentication switch 71 is operated before a predetermined time has elapsed, and when the predetermined time has elapsed, an authentication signal is transmitted, thereby making it possible to switch the user information to be authenticated by the number of times one authentication switch 71 is operated, thereby making it possible to suppress erroneous authentication.

[0105] The progress check of the measurement of biological information will be described in more detail below. FIG. 9 is a flow chart that illustrates an example of the operation in the use mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. 9, when measurement of biological information starts (step S1001), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits a measurement start signal to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S1002). The measurement start signal is a signal indicating that measurement of biological information has started.

[0106] When the measurement start signal is transmitted (step S1002), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether or not a progress request signal is received (step S1003). The progress request signal is a signal for causing the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) to transmit progress information. The progress information is information indicating the progress of the measurement of biological information. When the progress request signal is received (step S1003: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits the progress information (step S1004).

[0107] When the progress information is transmitted (step S1004), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether or not the measurement of the biological information is completed (step S1005). If the progress request signal is not received (step S1003: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) performs step S1005 without performing step S1004.

[0108] If the measurement of the biological information is not complete (step S1005: No), the toilet device 100 (controller 30) returns to step S1003. The toilet device 100 (controller 30) repeats steps S1003, S1004, and S1005 until the measurement of the biological information is complete.

[0109] When the measurement of the biological information is completed (step S1005: Yes), the toilet apparatus 100 (control unit 30) transmits a measurement completion signal to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S1006). The measurement completion signal is a signal indicating that the measurement of the biological information is completed.

[0110] When the mobile information terminal 200 receives the measurement start signal, the mobile information terminal 200 is in a state in which it can transmit a progress request signal until it receives a measurement completion signal. For example, when an operation input for displaying progress information is performed on the mobile information terminal 200 in a state in which it can transmit a progress request signal, the mobile information terminal 200 transmits the progress request signal to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S1101).

[0111] When a progress request signal is transmitted (step S1101), the mobile information terminal 200 judges whether or not progress information has been received (step S1102). The mobile information terminal 200 repeats step S1102 until progress information is received (step S1102: No).

[0112] When the progress information is received (step S1102: Yes), the mobile information terminal 200 displays the progress information (step S1103).

[0113] The portable information terminal 200 maintains a state in which it can transmit a progress request signal until it receives a measurement completion signal. When the portable information terminal 200 receives the measurement completion signal, it enters a state in which it cannot transmit a progress request signal.

[0114] In this example, when the mobile information terminal 200 receives a measurement start signal, it is in a state in which it can transmit a progress request signal until it receives a measurement completion signal, so that the progress information is displayed on the mobile information terminal 200 only while the measurement is being performed. However, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may transmit the progress information only while the measurement is being performed, so that the progress information is displayed on the mobile information terminal 200 only while the measurement is being performed. In other words, even if the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) receives a progress request signal when measurement is not being performed, it is not necessary for it to transmit the progress information. In this case, steps S1102 and S1006 can be omitted.

[0115] The use mode operation is described in more detail below. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation in the usage mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. 10, the control unit 30 determines whether or not user authentication has been performed in the operation of the usage mode (step S1201). As described above, the control unit 30 performs user authentication by receiving an authentication signal including user information from at least one of the mobile information terminal 200 and the remote control 70 (operation unit). When the control unit 30 performs user authentication and identifies the current user, it temporarily stores the user information of the identified user in the storage unit 50 as authentication information, for example. More specifically, the authentication information is temporarily stored in a storage unit connected to the main body control unit, for example.

[0116] If the control unit 30 has performed the user authentication (step S1201: Yes), the control unit 30 subsequently determines whether or not an authentication signal has been received (step S1202). The control unit 30 determines whether or not an authentication signal has been received from the remote control 70, for example.

[0117] When it is determined that an authentication signal has been received from the remote control 70 (step S1202: Yes), the control unit 30 changes the user identified by the user authentication based on the received authentication signal (step S1203).

[0118] For example, when the same user information as that included in the authentication signal received from the remote control 70 is stored in the storage unit 50, the control unit 30 changes the user to that represented by the user information included in the received authentication signal. For example, the control unit 30 changes the user identified by user authentication by changing the user information of the authentication information temporarily stored in the storage unit 50 to the user information included in the newly received authentication signal.

[0119] If user authentication has not been performed (step S1201: No), if an authentication signal has not been received (step S1202: No), or if the user has been changed, the control unit 30 subsequently determines whether the seat sensor 61 has detected the user leaving the toilet seat 12 (step S1204).

[0120] Control unit 30 returns to the process of step S1201 if it has not detected the user leaving toilet seat 12. This allows control unit 30 to perform user authentication at any timing within a predetermined period during which the user is using toilet unit 10, and allows the user identified by user authentication to be changed at any timing within the predetermined period after user authentication has been performed.

[0121] The predetermined period is, for example, the period from when it is detected that the user has started using the toilet unit 10 to when it is detected that the user has left the toilet seat 12. As described with reference to Fig. 5, in operation in the usage mode, the control unit 30 measures the biometric information in response to detection of the user sitting on the toilet seat 12. In other words, the control unit 30 enables user authentication and changing of the user after user authentication at any timing during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit 10 to when the biometric information is acquired.

[0122] The timing at which the user's start of use of the toilet unit 10 is detected is, for example, the timing at which the approach sensor 62 detects the user's approach to the toilet unit 10 (entry into the toilet room TR). The timing at which the user's start of use of the toilet unit 10 is detected may be, for example, the timing at which the seat sensor 61 detects the user sitting on the toilet seat 12. The timing at which the user's start of use of the toilet unit 10 is detected may be, for example, the timing at which a signal (e.g., an authentication signal) is received from the remote control 70. The timing at which the user's start of use of the toilet unit 10 is detected may be, for example, the timing at which a wireless communication connection with the mobile information terminal 200 is established. The timing at which the user's start of use of the toilet unit 10 is detected is not limited to the above, and may be any timing at which the control unit 30 can appropriately detect the user's start of use of the toilet unit 10.

[0123] The timing of the end of the predetermined period is not limited to the timing of detection of leaving the seat, and may be, for example, the timing when a predetermined time has elapsed since the seat sensor 61 detects that the user has left the toilet seat 12. The timing of the end of the predetermined period may be, for example, the timing when the approach sensor 62 detects that the user has left the toilet unit 10 (left the toilet room TR). The timing of the end of the predetermined period may be, for example, the timing when the wireless communication connection with the mobile information terminal 200 is disconnected (the timing when the mobile information terminal 200 is farther away than the communication range). The timing of the end of the predetermined period may be, for example, the timing when the execution of flushing of the toilet bowl 11 is detected. The execution of flushing of the toilet bowl 11 can be detected, for example, in response to an input of a signal from the remote control 70. The execution of flushing of the toilet bowl 11 may be detected, for example, by detecting the flow of water in the toilet bowl 11 using a sensor or the like. The timing of the end of the predetermined period is not limited to the above, and may be any timing at which the control unit 30 can appropriately detect the end of the user's use of the toilet unit 10.

[0124] The control unit 30, in response to detection by the seat sensor 61 of the user leaving the toilet seat 12, ends the execution of user authentication and ends the acceptance of the change of the user identified by the user authentication (step S1205). At this time, the end of the acceptance may be performed immediately in response to detection of leaving the seat, or may be performed when a predetermined time has passed since detection of leaving the seat. In this way, ending the acceptance in response to detection of leaving the seat includes ending the acceptance at the timing when leaving the seat is detected, and ending the acceptance when a predetermined time has passed since detection of leaving the seat.

[0125] After completing the execution of the user authentication and the acceptance of the change of the user identified by the user authentication, the control unit 30 judges whether the user authentication has been performed or not (step S1206). In other words, the control unit 30 judges whether the confirmed user information is stored in the storage unit 50 as authentication information or not.

[0126] If user authentication has been performed (step S1206: Yes), the control unit 30 confirms the association between the user information and the biometric information (step S1207). For example, after detecting leaving the seat, the control unit 30 ends the user authentication and the acceptance of a change in the user, and associates the biometric information acquired in response to the detection of the user sitting down with the user information stored in the storage unit 50 as authentication information.

[0127] After confirming the association between the user information and the biometric information, the control unit 30 determines whether or not a wireless communication connection with the portable information terminal 200 is in progress (step S1208).

[0128] If wireless communication is established with the portable information terminal 200 (step S1208: Yes), the control unit 30 transmits the biological information to the portable information terminal 200 (step S1209).

[0129] If there is no wireless communication connection with the mobile information terminal 200 (step S1208: No), the control unit 30 stores the biometric information in the storage unit 50 without transmitting the biometric information to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S1210). At this time, the control unit 30 associates the biometric information with the user information and stores them in the storage unit 50. In this way, after the end of the predetermined period, the control unit 30 associates the biometric information with the user information and stores them in the storage unit 50. The operation after the biometric information is stored will be described later.

[0130] If user authentication has not been performed (step S1206: No), the control unit 30 erases the biometric information (step S1211). Only when user authentication has been performed, the control unit 30 transmits the biometric information to the mobile information terminal 200 or stores (saves) the biometric information in the storage unit 50. Note that, for example, after the control unit 30 has confirmed the association between the user information and the biometric information, the control unit 30 may associate the biometric information (analysis information) with the user information and store them in the storage unit 50 regardless of the connection status of the wireless communication connection with the mobile information terminal 200. At this time, when the control unit 30 is wirelessly connected with the mobile information terminal 200, the control unit 30 may erase the biometric information (analysis information) stored in the storage unit 50 in response to the appropriate completion of the transmission of the biometric information (analysis information) to the mobile information terminal 200. For example, when a malfunction occurs during the transmission of the biometric information, the control unit 30 may continue to store the biometric information in the storage unit 50.

[0131] For example, after transmitting the biometric information to the portable information terminal 200 or storing the biometric information in the storage unit 50, the control unit 30 erases the user information of the authentication information temporarily stored in the storage unit 50. In other words, after transmitting the biometric information to the portable information terminal 200 or storing the biometric information in the storage unit 50, the control unit 30 cancels the authentication state of the user authentication for which storage has been completed.

[0132] The operation of the usage mode after the biometric information is stored will be described in more detail below. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation in the usage mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. 11, each time the toilet device 100 (controller 30) is connected to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S1301: Yes), the toilet device 100 (controller 30) determines whether there is any biometric information stored in the storage unit 50 (i.e., untransmitted) (step S1302). The toilet device 100 (controller 30) repeats step S1301 until the toilet device 100 is connected to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S1301: No).

[0133] If there is biological information stored in the storage unit 50 (step S1302: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the toilet device 100 is in use or not (step S1303).

[0134] The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the toilet device 100 is in use, for example, when the human body detection sensor 60 detects a user. The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the toilet device 100 is in use, for example, when the seating sensor 61 detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 12. The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the toilet device 100 is in use, for example, when the approach sensor 62 detects a user approaching the toilet unit 10. The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the toilet device 100 is in use, for example, when the approach sensor 62 detects a user entering the toilet room TR. The toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the toilet device 100 is in use, for example, when the biological information measurement unit 20 measures biological information.

[0135] If the toilet device 100 is not in use (step S1303: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) judges whether the connected mobile information terminal 200 is the mobile information terminal 200 of the user associated with the stored biometric information (step S1304). As described above, the biometric information is stored in association with the user information, and the user information is stored (registered) in association with the identification information of the mobile information terminal 200 owned by the user. Therefore, the biometric information stored in association with the user information is also indirectly linked to the identification information stored (registered) in association with this user information. In other words, the stored biometric information is stored in association with the identification information of the mobile information terminal 200 to which the biometric information is to be transmitted. Here, it is judged whether the connected mobile information terminal 200 is the mobile information terminal 200 to which the stored biometric information is to be transmitted.

[0136] If the connected mobile information terminal 200 is the mobile information terminal 200 of the user associated with the stored biometric information (step S1304: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits the biometric information stored in the memory unit 50 to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S1305).

[0137] When the biological information stored in the storage unit 50 is transmitted to the mobile information terminal 200 (step S1305), the toilet apparatus 100 (control unit 30) erases the stored biological information from the storage unit 50 (step S1306).

[0138] If there is no biometric information stored in the storage unit 50 (step S1302: No), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform steps S1303, S1304, S1305, and S1306. If the toilet device 100 is in use (step S1303: Yes), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform steps S1304, S1305, and S1306. If the connected mobile information terminal 200 is not the mobile information terminal 200 of the user associated with the stored biometric information (step S1304: No), steps S1305 and S1306 are not performed.

[0139] Thus, in the embodiment, the toilet device 100 (controller 30) transmits the biometric information to the mobile information terminal 200 when the analysis of the biometric information is completed in a state where the toilet device 100 is connected to the mobile information terminal 200 via wireless communication. Furthermore, when the analysis of the biometric information is completed in a state where the control unit 30 is not connected to the mobile information terminal 200 via wireless communication, the control unit 30 stores the biometric information in the storage unit 50 without transmitting the biometric information to the mobile information terminal 200. Furthermore, when the control unit 30 is connected to the mobile information terminal 200 in a state where the biometric information is stored in the storage unit 50, the control unit 30 transmits the stored biometric information to the mobile information terminal 200.

[0140] When the analysis of the biometric information is completed while connected to the portable information terminal 200, the biometric information is transmitted to the portable information terminal 200, when the analysis of the biometric information is completed while not connected to the portable information terminal 200, the biometric information is stored in the storage unit 50 without being transmitted to the portable information terminal 200, and when the analysis of the biometric information is completed while not connected to the portable information terminal 200, the stored biometric information is transmitted to the portable information terminal 200 when the analysis of the biometric information is not completed before the connection between the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 is disconnected (for example, before the user leaves the toilet room TR), so that the biometric information can be stored and the stored biometric information can be transmitted to the portable information terminal 200 the next time the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 are connected. This makes it possible to more reliably transmit the biometric information to the user's portable information terminal 200, improving usability.

[0141] In the embodiment, when the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) stores biometric information in the storage unit 50 after user authentication has been performed, the biometric information and user information for identifying the user are associated with each other and stored in the storage unit 50. When the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) is connected to a mobile information terminal 200 having identification information not associated with the user information in a state in which the biometric information associated with the user information is stored in the storage unit 50, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not transmit the biometric information associated with the user information to the mobile information terminal 200 having identification information not associated with the user information. On the other hand, when the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) is connected to a mobile information terminal 200 having identification information associated with the user information in a state in which the biometric information associated with the user information is stored in the storage unit 50, the toilet device 100 transmits the biometric information associated with the user information to the mobile information terminal having identification information associated with the user information.

[0142] When the biometric information linked to the user information is stored in the storage unit 50 and the storage unit 50 is connected to a mobile information terminal 200 having identification information linked to the user information, the biometric information linked to the user information (i.e., stored) is transmitted to the mobile information terminal 200, thereby preventing the biometric information from being transmitted to any device other than the user's mobile information terminal 200, and the biometric information can be transmitted more reliably to the user's mobile information terminal 200 while respecting privacy. In addition, since the biometric information is transmitted only to the user's mobile information terminal 200, the number of communications can be reduced.

[0143] Furthermore, in the embodiment, for example, when the wireless communication unit 40 is connected to the mobile information terminal 200 in a state where the biometric information is stored in the memory unit 50, if the toilet device 100 is in use, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not transmit the biometric information to the mobile information terminal 200. On the other hand, when the wireless communication unit 40 is connected to the mobile information terminal 200 in a state where the biometric information is stored in the memory unit 50, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) transmits the biometric information to the mobile information terminal 200 if the toilet device 100 is not in use.

[0144] When the wireless communication unit 40 is connected to the mobile information terminal 200 with the biometric information stored in the storage unit 50, if the toilet device 100 is in use, the biometric information is not transmitted to the mobile information terminal 200, so that while the toilet device 100 is in use, processing other than transmitting the biometric information can be prioritized. This allows, for example, prioritizing analysis of the biometric information of the user who is using the toilet device 100 at that time, improving usability. However, when the wireless communication unit 40 is connected to the mobile information terminal 200 with the analysis information stored in the storage unit 50, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may transmit the analysis information to the mobile information terminal 200 regardless of whether the toilet device 100 is in use or not.

[0145] For example, when the analysis information is stored in the storage unit 50, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) may periodically transmit the user information linked to the biometric information. In this case, when the mobile information terminal 200 receives user information that is the same as the user information that the mobile information terminal 200 holds, the mobile information terminal 200 may wirelessly connect to the toilet device 100 and receive the analysis information from the toilet device 100.

[0146] The operation of transmitting the activation signal will be described in more detail below. FIG. 12 is a timing chart showing an example of an operation of transmitting an activation signal in the toilet device according to the embodiment. 12, the control unit 30 controls switching between a transmission period in which the activation signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period in which transmission of the activation signal is stopped. During the transmission period, the control unit 30 periodically transmits the activation signal at a predetermined interval, for example, every few seconds. During operation in the usage mode, the control unit 30 normally sets the transmission stop period.

[0147] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of transmitting an activation signal in the toilet device according to the embodiment. 12 and 13, in the operation of the use mode, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the acquisition of the biological information by the biological information measurement unit 20 is completed (step S1401). The control unit 30 repeats step S1401 until the acquisition of the biological information is completed. The completion of the acquisition of the biological information means the completion of the acquisition of the measurement information (when the analysis is not performed by the toilet device 100) or the completion of the acquisition of the analysis information. The completion of the acquisition of the biological information means, in other words, the completion of the analysis of the analysis information based on the measurement information.

[0148] The control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period in response to completion of acquisition of the biological information by the biological information measurement unit 20 (step S1402, timing t11). That is, the control unit 30 starts transmitting a start-up signal in response to completion of acquisition of the biological information. In this way, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit 10 to when the biological information is transmitted.

[0149] The switching to the transmission period may be performed immediately upon completion of the acquisition of the biometric information, or may be performed upon the passage of a predetermined time from the completion of the acquisition of the biometric information. In this way, switching to the transmission period upon the completion of the acquisition of the biometric information includes switching at the timing when the acquisition of the biometric information is completed, and switching at the timing when a predetermined time has passed from the completion of the acquisition of the biometric information.

[0150] After switching to the transmission period, the control unit 30 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed from the timing of switching to the transmission period (step S1403). The predetermined time is, for example, about 2 minutes (1 minute or more and 4 minutes or less).

[0151] The control unit 30 switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period in response to determining that the predetermined time has elapsed (step S1404, timing t12). In other words, the control unit 30 stops the transmission of the activation signal in response to the elapse of a predetermined time from the start of transmission of the activation signal. That is, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the completion of acquisition of the biological information by the biological information measurement unit 20.

[0152] In addition, when the biological information measuring unit 20 has a plurality of sensors and the time (time required for measurement and analysis) until the acquisition of the biological information of the plurality of sensors is completed is different, the control unit 30 may switch from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time each time the acquisition of the biological information of each sensor is completed, and transmit the biological information each time the acquisition of each biological information is completed. Alternatively, the control unit 30 may transmit each biological information collectively to the mobile information terminal 200 by switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time when the acquisition of each biological information is completed.

[0153] As described above, in the toilet device 100 according to the present embodiment, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period between the start of use of the toilet unit 10 by the user and the transmission of the biological information. This makes it possible to prevent the mobile information terminal 200 from becoming unresponsive to the activation signal when the biological information is transmitted, due to a task kill being performed before the transmission of the biological information. Therefore, the mobile information terminal 200 can be more appropriately activated when the biological information is transmitted, and the biological information can be more appropriately automatically transmitted to the mobile information terminal 200 via wireless communication. This prevents the user from having to take action, such as moving out of communication range or manually connecting wireless communication, and improves usability.

[0154] In the toilet device 100 according to this embodiment, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to completion of acquisition of the biological information by the biological information measurement unit 20. This makes it possible to more appropriately prevent the mobile information terminal 200 from becoming unresponsive to the activation signal when the biological information is transmitted, due to a task kill being performed before the biological information is transmitted.

[0155] The timing of switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period is not limited to the timing when acquisition of biometric information is completed, but may be any timing related to the start of the user's use of toilet unit 10. The timing of the start of the user's use of toilet unit 10 may be, for example, the timing when approach sensor 62 detects the user's approach to toilet unit 10 (entry into the toilet room TR), the timing when seat sensor 61 detects the user sitting on toilet seat 12, the timing when a signal (e.g., an authentication signal) is received from remote control 70, or the timing when a wireless communication connection with mobile information terminal 200 is established.

[0156] FIG. 14 is a timing chart showing a modified example of the operation of transmitting the activation signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. When the biological information measuring unit 20 has multiple sensors, the time required for the multiple sensors to complete acquisition of the biological information may change. In such a case, if the transmission stop period is switched to the transmission period for a predetermined time each time the acquisition of the biological information of each sensor is completed, when the transmission period is switched to in response to the completion of acquisition of the biological information of one sensor, acquisition of the biological information of another sensor may be completed during the transmission period.

[0157] In such a case, as shown in FIG. 14, when acquisition of biometric information from another sensor is completed during the transmission period, the control unit 30 starts counting a predetermined time from the timing at which acquisition of biometric information from another sensor is completed.

[0158] In the example shown in FIG. 14, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period upon completion of acquisition of the biometric information by the first sensor 21 (timing t21), starts timing a predetermined time upon detecting that acquisition of the biometric information by the second sensor 22 has been completed during the transmission period (timing t22), and switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period upon the elapse of a predetermined time from completion of acquisition of the biometric information by the second sensor 22 (timing t23).

[0159] In this way, when the acquisition of the biometric information of another sensor is completed during the transmission period, the control unit 30 starts measuring the predetermined time from the timing when the acquisition of the biometric information of the other sensor is completed. This allows, for example, the mobile information terminal 200 to appropriately receive the activation signal. Note that, when the acquisition of the biometric information of another sensor is completed during the transmission period, the control unit 30 may switch from the transmission period to the transmission stop period according to the passage of a predetermined time from the completion of the acquisition of the biometric information of the previous sensor.

[0160] FIG. 15 is a timing chart showing a modified example of the operation of transmitting the activation signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the operation of transmitting an activation signal in the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, in this example, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the approach sensor 62 has detected the approach of a user to the toilet unit 10 (entry into the toilet room TR) (step S1501).

[0161] The control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period in response to detection by the approach sensor 62 of the user's approach to the toilet unit 10 (step S1502, timing t31). That is, the control unit 30 starts transmitting a startup signal in response to detection by the approach sensor 62 of the user's approach to the toilet unit 10. Note that the switch to the transmission period may be performed immediately in response to the detection of the approach, or may be performed when a predetermined time has passed since the detection of the approach.

[0162] After switching to the transmission period, the control unit 30 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed from the timing of switching to the transmission period (step S1503).

[0163] In response to determining that the predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period (step S1504, timing t32). That is, in this example, in response to detection by the approach sensor 62 of the user approaching the toilet unit 10, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time.

[0164] 12 and 13, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to completion of acquisition of the biological information by the biological information measurement unit 20 (steps S1505 to S1508, timings t33 and t34).

[0165] In this example, by switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the detection of the approach of the user by the approach sensor 62, the portable information terminal 200 can be put into an activated state earlier. For example, the portable information terminal 200 can be switched into an activated state to perform user authentication and automatically start a wireless communication connection. Even if a task kill is performed between the detection of the approach and the completion of the acquisition of the biometric information, by switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the completion of the acquisition of the biometric information, it is possible to prevent the portable information terminal 200 from becoming unresponsive to an activation signal at the time of transmitting the biometric information.

[0166] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the operation of transmitting an activation signal in the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 17, in this example, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the seating sensor 61 detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 12 (step S1601).

[0167] The control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period in response to the seating sensor 61 detecting that the user is seated (step S1602). That is, the control unit 30 starts transmitting the activation signal in response to the seating sensor 61 detecting that the user is seated on the toilet seat 12. Note that the switch to the transmission period may be performed immediately in response to the seating detection, or may be performed when a predetermined time has passed since the seating detection.

[0168] After switching to the transmission period, the control unit 30 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed from the timing of switching to the transmission period (step S1603).

[0169] In response to determining that the predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period (step S1604). That is, in this example, in response to detection by the seat sensor 61 of the user being seated, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time.

[0170] 12 and 13, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission suspension period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to completion of acquisition of the biological information by the biological information measurement unit 20 (steps S1605 to S1608).

[0171] In this example, by switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the detection of the user's sitting by the seat sensor 61, the portable information terminal 200 can be put into an activated state earlier. For example, the portable information terminal 200 can be switched into an activated state to perform user authentication and automatically start a wireless communication connection. Even if a task kill is performed between the detection of sitting and the completion of the acquisition of the biometric information, by switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the completion of the acquisition of the biometric information, it is possible to prevent the portable information terminal 200 from becoming unresponsive to an activation signal at the time of transmitting the biometric information.

[0172] FIG. 18 is a timing flowchart showing a modified example of the operation of transmitting an activation signal in the toilet device according to the embodiment. 18, in this example, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period in response to the completion of acquisition of the biological information by the biological information measurement unit 20, and causes the transmission period to continue for a first time (timing t41 to t42). The first time is, for example, about 2 minutes (1 minute or more and 4 minutes or less).

[0173] After continuing the transmission period for a first time, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission period to a transmission stop period (timing t42).

[0174] After switching from the transmission period to the transmission stop period, the control unit 30 continues the transmission stop period for a second time (timing t42 to t43). The second time is, for example, about 10 minutes (1 minute or more and 15 minutes or less). The second time is set to, for example, a time required for the mobile information terminal 200 to resolve a state in which it does not respond to a wake-up signal.

[0175] The control unit 30 continues the transmission stop period for a second time, and then switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period again (timing t43). The control unit 30 continues the transmission period for, for example, a third time, and then switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period (timing t44). The third time is, for example, about 2 minutes (1 minute or more and 4 minutes or less). The third time may be the same as the first time, or may be different.

[0176] Thus, in this example, control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period, continues the transmission period for a first hour, switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period, continues the transmission stop period for a second hour, and then switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period again. As a result, in this example, even if a task kill is performed after the user starts using toilet unit 10, by continuing the transmission stop period for the second hour and then switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period again, it is possible to more appropriately prevent mobile information terminal 200 from becoming unresponsive to the activation signal and becoming unable to transmit biological information.

[0177] In this example, the control unit 30 switches to the transmission period twice. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the control unit 30 may switch to the transmission period three or more times. In other words, the control unit 30 may, for example, periodically switch between the transmission stop period and the transmission period. For example, a first hour transmission period and a second hour transmission stop period may be alternately implemented.

[0178] Also, in this example, switching to the transmission period is performed twice after the completion of acquisition of the biological information by the biological information measurement unit 20. Without being limited to this, for example, switching to the transmission period may be performed twice in response to detection of the approach or sitting of a user. The operation of switching to the transmission period twice can be executed in response to switching to the transmission period based on any timing after the user starts using the toilet unit 10.

[0179] (Method of controlling a toilet device) Moreover, the embodiment provides a method for controlling the toilet apparatus 100. As shown in Fig. 4 to Fig. 18, the method for controlling the toilet apparatus 100 according to the embodiment includes a step of switching from a transmission stop period to a transmission period during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit 10 to when the biological information is transmitted. This allows the biological information to be transmitted more appropriately to the mobile information terminal 200 of the user via wireless communication.

[0180] (Toilet device control program) Furthermore, in the embodiment, a control program installed in the toilet apparatus 100 is provided. As shown in Figs. 4 to 18, the control program of the toilet apparatus 100 according to the embodiment causes the toilet apparatus 100 to execute a process of switching from a transmission stop period to a transmission period during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit 10 to when the biometric information is transmitted. This allows the biometric information to be transmitted more appropriately to the user's mobile information terminal 200 via wireless communication. The control program is stored in, for example, the storage unit 50. The control unit 30 executes the above-mentioned process by reading out the control program stored in the storage unit 50 and performing sequential processing. The control program may be stored in, for example, an internal memory of the control unit 30.

[0181] (Recording medium) In addition, in an embodiment, a recording medium is provided on which the control program for the toilet device is recorded. The recording medium is at least computer readable. The recording medium may be read-only or may be both readable and writable.

[0182] The embodiment may include the following features. (Configuration 1) a toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; The control unit transmits a start-up signal from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, thereby switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, thereby enabling the biometric information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period in which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period in which transmission of the start-up signal is stopped, and switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period between when the user starts using the toilet unit and when the biometric information is transmitted.

[0183] (Configuration 2) 2. The toilet device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined period of time in response to completion of acquisition of the biological information by the biological information measurement unit.

[0184] (Configuration 3) a proximity sensor for detecting the approach of the user to the toilet unit and the movement of the user away from the toilet unit; 3. The toilet device according to configuration 2, wherein the control unit switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to detection of the approach of the user by the approach sensor.

[0185] (Configuration 4) A seating sensor is further provided for detecting the user sitting on the toilet seat and the user leaving the toilet seat, 3. The toilet device according to configuration 2, wherein the control unit switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to detection of the user being seated by the seat sensor.

[0186] (Configuration 5) The toilet device according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the control unit switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period, continues the transmission period for a first hour, switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period, continues the transmission stop period for a second hour, and then switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period again.

[0187] (Configuration 6) a toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; a control unit that transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal, and switches the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, thereby enabling the biological information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the start-up signal is stopped, A method for controlling a toilet apparatus, comprising the step of switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit to when the biometric information is transmitted.

[0188] (Configuration 7) a toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; the control unit transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal, and switches the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, thereby enabling the biometric information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the start-up signal is stopped, the control unit being installed in the toilet device; A control program for a toilet device, comprising: a step of switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit to when the biometric information is transmitted;

[0189] As described above, according to the embodiments, a toilet device, a control method for a toilet device, and a control program for a toilet device are provided that are capable of more appropriately transmitting biological information to a user's mobile information terminal 200 via wireless communication.

[0190] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Any design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, installation form, etc. of each element of the toilet device are not limited to those exemplified, and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of each of the above-described embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0191] 10: toilet unit, 11: toilet bowl, 11a: bowl section, 12: toilet seat, 13: toilet lid, 14: casing, 20: biological information measuring section, 21, 22: sensor, 30: control section, 40: wireless communication section, 50: memory section, 60: human body detection sensor, 61: seating sensor, 62: approach sensor, 70: remote control, 71: authentication switch, 100: toilet device, 200: mobile information terminal, 500: toilet system, TD: table data, TR: toilet room, WL: wall surface

Claims

1. a toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; a proximity sensor that detects the approach of the user to the toilet unit and the movement of the user away from the toilet unit; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; the control unit transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal, and by switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, enables the biometric information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the startup signal is stopped, and switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit to when the biometric information is transmitted; The control unit switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to detection of the approach of the user by the proximity sensor, and switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to completion of acquisition of the biometric information by the biometric information measuring unit.

2. A toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; a seating sensor that detects the user sitting on the toilet seat and the user leaving the toilet seat; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; the control unit transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal, and by switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, enables the biometric information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the startup signal is stopped, and switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit to when the biometric information is transmitted; The control unit switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the seat sensor detecting that the user is seated, and switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined time in response to the biometric information measuring unit completing acquisition of the biometric information.

3. A toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; the control unit transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal, and by switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, enables the biometric information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the startup signal is stopped, and switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit to when the biometric information is transmitted; the control unit switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period, continues the transmission period for a first hour, switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period, continues the transmission stop period for a second hour, and then switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period again.

4. a toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; a proximity sensor that detects the approach of the user to the toilet unit and the movement of the user away from the toilet unit; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; a control unit that transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal, and switches the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, thereby enabling the biological information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the start-up signal is stopped, a step of switching from the transmission suspension period to the transmission period during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit to when the biometric information is transmitted; a control unit for controlling a toilet device, the control unit being operable to detect the approach of the user by the proximity sensor and to switch from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined period of time when the proximity sensor detects the approach of the user, and to switch from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined period of time when the biometric information measuring unit completes acquisition of the biometric information.

5. a toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; a seating sensor that detects the user sitting on the toilet seat and the user leaving the toilet seat; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; a control unit that transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal, and switches the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, thereby enabling the biological information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the start-up signal is stopped, a step of switching from the transmission suspension period to the transmission period during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit to when the biometric information is transmitted; a control unit for controlling a toilet device, the control unit being operable to detect whether the user is seated by the seat sensor, and to switch from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined period of time when the seat sensor detects whether the user is seated by the seat sensor, and to switch from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined period of time when the biometric information measuring unit completes acquisition of the biometric information.

6. a toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; a control unit that transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal, and switches the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, thereby enabling the biological information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the start-up signal is stopped, a step of switching from the transmission suspension period to the transmission period during the period from when the user starts using the toilet unit to when the biometric information is transmitted; a control method for a toilet device, the control method comprising: switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period, continuing the transmission period for a first hour, switching from the transmission period to the transmission stop period, continuing the transmission stop period for a second hour, and then switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period again.

7. a toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; a proximity sensor that detects the approach of the user to the toilet unit and the movement of the user away from the toilet unit; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; the control unit transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal, and switches the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, thereby enabling the biometric information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the start-up signal is stopped, the control unit being installed in the toilet device; A control program for a toilet device, characterized in that the toilet device is caused to execute a process of switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period between when the user starts using the toilet unit and when the biometric information is transmitted, the process including switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined period of time in response to detection of the approach of the user by the proximity sensor, and switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined period of time in response to completion of acquisition of the biometric information by the biometric information measuring unit.

8. a toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; a seating sensor that detects the user sitting on the toilet seat and the user leaving the toilet seat; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; the control unit transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal, and switches the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, thereby enabling the biometric information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the start-up signal is stopped, the control unit being installed in the toilet device; A control program for a toilet device, characterized in that the toilet device is caused to execute a process of switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period between when the user starts using the toilet unit and when the biometric information is transmitted, the process including switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined period of time in response to the detection of the user being seated by the seat sensor, and switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period for a predetermined period of time in response to completion of acquisition of the biometric information by the biometric information measuring unit.

9. a toilet unit having a toilet seat; A biological information measuring unit that measures biological information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; a control unit that transmits the biometric information to the portable information terminal of the user; Equipped with the portable information terminal has an activated state in which application software is activated and a stopped state in which the application software is stopped, and is capable of receiving the biological information by performing wireless communication with the wireless communication unit in the activated state; the control unit transmits a start-up signal for switching the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal, and switches the portable information terminal from the stopped state to the started state, thereby enabling the biometric information to be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal, and controls switching between a transmission period during which the start-up signal is transmitted and a transmission stop period during which transmission of the start-up signal is stopped, the control unit being installed in the toilet device; A control program for a toilet device, characterized in that the toilet device is caused to execute a process of switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period between when the user starts using the toilet unit and when the biometric information is transmitted, the process including switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period, continuing the transmission period for a first hour, switching from the transmission period to the transmission stop period, continuing the transmission stop period for a second hour, and then switching from the transmission stop period to the transmission period again.

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