Washbasin vanity

Abstract

To provide a wash stand provided with biological information measurement means and capable of improving usability.SOLUTION: A wash stand comprises: biological information measurement means for measuring biological information of a user; a detection unit for detecting a predetermined behavior of the user; a display unit for displaying a measurement result of the biological information measured by the biological information measurement means; and a control unit which, when the detection unit detects the predetermined behavior, causes the biological information measurement means to measure the biological information of the user and causes the display unit to display the measurement result.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a washbasin dressing table.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, while people's interest in health has been increasing, it has been a cumbersome task to continue daily biological information measurement. In contrast, for example, a healthcare sanitary room that automatically records body weight, body temperature, etc. is known (Patent Document 1). In such biological information measurement means, there has been room for improvement in usability when the user measures biological information in daily life.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present invention has been made based on the recognition of such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a washbasin dressing table provided with biological information measurement means and capable of improving usability.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A first invention is a washbasin dressing table including biological information measurement means for measuring biological information of a user, a detection unit for detecting a predetermined action of the user, a display unit for displaying a measurement result of the biological information measured by the biological information measurement means, and a control unit for causing the biological information measurement means to measure the biological information of the user and causing the display unit to display the measurement result when the detection unit detects the predetermined action.

[0006] According to this washstand, since biometric information measurement is automatically started by a predetermined action of the user on the washstand, it is possible to habituate biometric information measurement in daily life. Since biometric information measurement and its result display are automatically performed, it is user-friendly.

[0007] A second invention is the washstand according to the first invention, wherein the biometric information is associated with personal data for identifying an individual and stored in a personal data storage means, the predetermined action is a personal authentication operation, the detection unit is a personal authentication means for detecting the personal authentication operation, and the control unit starts a personal mode in which, when the input data by the personal authentication operation matches the personal data stored in the personal data storage means, the measurement result is associated with the personal data and recorded in the personal data storage means, and when the input data does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means, the personal mode is not started.

[0008] According to this washstand, in order to improve the convenience of daily health management in a situation where a plurality of people, such as in a family with family members, use the washstand, by introducing personal authentication associated with personal data, it becomes easy to manage biometric information for each individual.

[0009] A third invention is the washstand according to the second invention, wherein the control unit starts a guest mode in which the measurement result is not recorded when the input data does not match the personal data.

[0010] According to this washstand, a user who has not registered personal data can also measure biometric information without recording the measurement result of the biometric information.

[0011] A fourth invention is the washstand according to the third invention, further comprising a receiving unit capable of receiving an external specific signal for identifying the user. In the guest mode, when the receiving unit receives the specific signal within a predetermined time after the control unit causes the display unit to display the measurement result, the washstand is characterized in that the measurement result is recorded in the personal data storage means in association with the personal data of the user specified by the specific signal.

[0012] According to this washstand, even if a user with pre-registered personal data fails in personal authentication due to a defect in the personal authentication means or the like, the measurement result can be recorded in association with the personal data after biometric information measurement.

[0013] A fifth invention is the washstand according to the third invention, wherein, in the guest mode, after measuring the biometric information, when the measurement result is similar to any of the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means, the control unit causes the display unit to display a proposal indicating the possibility that the user corresponds to the person specified by the personal data associated with the biometric information similar to the measurement result, and accepts a further personal authentication operation within a predetermined time from the display of the proposal.

[0014] According to this washstand, even if a user with pre-registered personal data fails in personal authentication due to a defect in the personal authentication means or the like, a further personal authentication can be performed. Thereby, the measurement result can be recorded in association with the personal data after biometric information measurement.

[0015] A sixth invention is the washstand according to the first invention, wherein the predetermined action is a water discharge operation for causing a discharge device configured to be able to discharge water into a washbowl to discharge water, or a water stop operation for stopping the discharge of water from the discharge device.

[0016] According to this washbasin dressing table, at the timing when the user is assumed to be washing hands or washing face, in other words, at the timing when the user leans forward more surely towards the washbowl and fixes the posture, it is possible to start measuring biological information such as blood pressure and body temperature. Thereby, highly accurate biological information measurement becomes possible.

[0017] The seventh invention is the washbasin dressing table according to the sixth invention, wherein the biological information measuring means has a measuring unit that measures the biological information in a non-contact manner, the measuring unit is provided below the wash mirror provided above the washbowl and also below the washbowl, and the detection direction of the measuring unit faces obliquely upward in the front direction.

[0018] According to this washbasin dressing table, a measuring unit for measuring biological information in a non-contact manner is arranged at a position facing the face of the user facing the lower washbowl when washing hands or the like, and the detection direction of the measuring unit is directed towards the face of the user. Thereby, even more accurate biological information measurement becomes possible.

Effect of the Invention

[0019] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a washbasin dressing table provided with biological information measuring means, which can improve the usability.

Brief Explanation of the Drawings

[0020]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted as appropriate. (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a washstand according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the washstand 101 according to the embodiment includes a support base 16, a wash unit 10, a mirror 20 (wash mirror), a display unit 24, biological information measuring means 30, a detection unit 50, and a human body detection sensor 56. The washstand 101 is a washstand capable of measuring and displaying the biological information (such as body temperature) of the user. Specifically, the biological information of the user is measured by the biological information measuring means 30. Then, the measurement result of the biological information is displayed on the display unit 24.

[0022] Hereinafter, in this specification, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", and "left" refer to the upper, lower, right, and left, respectively, based on a person viewing the washstand in front of the washstand. Also, in this specification, the direction from the washstand toward the person in front of the washstand 101 is defined as the "front" direction, and the opposite direction is defined as the "rear" direction.

[0023] The wash unit 10 has a washbasin 12 and a discharge device 14 (faucet device). The washbasin 12 has a washbowl 23. The washbowl 23 is formed in a concave shape that is recessed downward. If necessary, a back guard extending upward from the rear end of the washbowl 23 may be provided. The shape of the washbasin 12 may be any shape having at least the washbowl 23.

[0024] The washbasin 12 is provided on the support base 16. The support base 16 supports the washbasin 12. The support base 16 has, for example, a drawer, a door, etc., and also functions as a cabinet capable of storing articles in the internal space. In other words, the support base 16 is a lower cabinet (floor cabinet). The support base 16 does not necessarily have to have a storage function. The support base 16 may have any configuration capable of supporting the washbasin 12. Also, the washbasin 12 may be directly attached to, for example, a wall surface in a washroom or the like. That is, the support base 16 is provided as necessary and can be omitted.

[0025] The discharge device 14 is provided on the washbasin 12. The discharge device 14 has a water discharge part 42 and an operation part 44. The water discharge part 42 of the discharge device 14 is configured to be able to discharge water into the washbowl 23. Specifically, the water discharge part 42 has a water discharge port and discharges water from the water discharge port into the washbowl 23. The operation part 44 switches the water discharge / stop of the water from the water discharge part 42 according to the operation of the user. That is, the user can perform a water discharge operation of operating the operation part 44 to discharge water from the water discharge part 42 and a water stop operation of operating the operation part 44 to stop the water discharge from the water discharge part 42.

[0026] The operation part 44 is, for example, a lever, a handle, a button, a switch, or the like. In the example shown in FIG. 1, a lever is used for the operation part 44. The water discharge operation and the water stop operation correspond to moving the lever or the handle, or pressing the button or the switch, etc. Also, the operation part 44 may be not only a contact type switch such as a mechanical push button but also a non-contact type sensor or the like. The sensor radiates light (radio waves) and detects a human body such as a user based on the reflected wave of the radiated light. Specifically, an infrared sensor (pyroelectric sensor), a radio wave sensor (microwave sensor), or the like can be used. In this case, bringing a hand close to the sensor corresponds to the water discharge operation, and moving the hand away from the sensor corresponds to the water stop operation. The operation part 44 may also be a sensor capable of detecting the user's gesture or a microphone capable of detecting sound. Not limited to the above, the operation part 44 may have any configuration capable of detecting a predetermined operation of the user.

[0027] In the example of FIG. 1, the water discharge part 42 and the operation part 44 are provided together in one place, but the water discharge part 42 and the operation part 44 may be provided separately from each other. The water discharge part 42 and the operation part 44 may be provided, for example, on the back guard of the washbasin 12 or on the rim surface around the washbowl 23. The water discharge part 42 may have any configuration capable of discharging water into the washbowl 23. The operation part 44 may have any configuration capable of at least switching the discharge and stop of water from the water discharge part 42. The operation part 44 may be configured, for example, to be able to change the flow rate of the water discharged from the water discharge part 42 and the temperature of the water discharged from the water discharge part 42.

[0028] The display part 24 is provided above the discharge device 14. The display part 24 emits light forward and displays information (for example, the measurement result of biological information) to the user standing in front of the washstand 101. For the display part 24, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, etc. can be used.

[0029] The washstand 101 further includes, for example, a support part 46 provided above the discharge device 14. The display part 24 is provided, for example, inside this support part 46. Also, the support part 46 may be a cabinet capable of storing articles inside.

[0030] The mirror 20 is provided above the discharge device 14. Also, the mirror 20 is provided in front of the display part 24. For example, the mirror 20 is attached to the front surface of the support part 46, and the display part 24 is arranged on the rear side of the mirror 20. The mirror 20 is, for example, a magic mirror (or a half mirror). A part of the light incident on the mirror 20 is reflected by the mirror 20, and another part of the light incident on the mirror 20 passes through the mirror 20. That is, the mirror 20 transmits a part of the light emitted from the display part 24 forward. Also, at least a part of the light incident on the mirror 20 from the front to the rear is reflected forward.

[0031] In this way, the mirror 20 is arranged above the washbowl 23. And a display unit 24 is provided on the back surface of the mirror 20. The user can view the display content of the display unit 24 through the mirror 20. For example, to the user, it seems that the display content of the display unit 24 is displayed on the mirror 20. The user who uses the washstand 101 can check the display content of the display unit 24 while checking their own image reflected in the mirror 20. The reflectance and transmittance of the mirror 20 are not particularly limited and may be any value that can satisfy its function.

[0032] The mirror 20 is provided with lights 22a, 22b, 22c, and 22d. These lights are arranged, for example, so as to surround the four sides of the mirror 20. By adjusting the brightness of the lights 22a to 22d and the brightness of the display unit 24, it is possible to adjust the visibility of the display content of the display unit 24 and the visibility of the user's image reflected in the mirror.

[0033] The human body detection sensor 56 radiates radio waves forward and detects a human body such as a user based on the reflected wave of the radiated radio waves. The human body detection sensor 56 is, for example, a microwave sensor. The microwave sensor can detect, for example, the approach, departure, and moving speed of the object to be detected. The frequency of the microwave transmitted by the human body detection sensor 56 preferably falls within the GHz (gigahertz) band. In the example of FIG. 1, the human body detection sensor 56 is provided on the front surface of the support base 16. However, the position of the human body detection sensor 56 is not limited to this and may be any position where the user can be appropriately detected. The human body detection sensor 56 may be provided inside the washstand 101.

[0034] The biological information measuring means 30 measures the biological information of the user. The biological information is, for example, body temperature or facial color. The biological information may also be blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, body weight, etc. In this example, the biological information is body temperature. However, the biological information is not limited to the above and may be any information of the user's body.

[0035] The biological information measuring means 30 has a measuring unit 31 for measuring biological information. For example, the measuring unit 31 is a measuring device such as a sensor that measures biological information non - contact. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the measuring unit 31 is a radiation thermometer (thermometer). A radiation thermometer receives light (for example, infrared rays) radiated from an object with a light receiving element, and measures the temperature of the object from the intensity of the received light. However, the measuring unit 31 is not limited to this, and any device capable of measuring information on the user's body may be used. For example, the measuring unit 31 may be a sensor (such as a camera) capable of detecting light.

[0036] The detection unit 50 detects a predetermined action of the user. The predetermined action detected by the detection unit 50 serves as a trigger for starting the measurement of biological information. The predetermined action is, for example, an operation on the washstand 101, a personal authentication operation, etc. In the example of FIG. 1, the predetermined action is a personal authentication operation, and the personal authentication means 50a (fingerprint authentication device) is provided as the detection unit 50. The predetermined action may be, for example, an operation of the wash unit 10. The action detected by the detection unit 50 may be a contact operation in which the user directly touches the washstand 101, or a non - contact operation in which the user does not touch the washstand 101. Any sensor capable of detecting a predetermined action of the user can be used for the detection unit 50. The detection unit 50 can be located, for example, on the support base 16 or the wash unit 10 (such as the back guard of the washbasin 12 or the rim surface of the washbowl 23). However, the position of the detection unit 50 is not limited to the above, and any position capable of detecting a predetermined action of the user may be used.

[0037] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a washstand according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the washstand 101 further includes a control unit 33. The control unit 33 can communicate with the biological information measuring means 30 (measuring unit 31), the detection unit 50 (personal authentication means 50a), the human body detection sensor 56, the display unit 24, the ejection device 14 (see FIG. 1), and the illuminations 22a - 22d (see FIG. 1). The control unit 33 can control the operations of the biological information measuring means 30, the detection unit 50, the human body detection sensor 56, the display unit 24, the ejection device 14, and the illuminations 22a - 22d. The communication method with the control unit 33 may be wired or wireless.

[0038] The control unit 33 can use a processing device (computer) such as a microcomputer. In this example, one processing device functions as the control unit 33. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the control unit 33 may be distributed and arranged in a plurality of devices communicably connected by wire or wirelessly. In the example of FIG. 2, the control unit 33 is included in the biological information measuring means 30. The present invention is not limited thereto, and the control unit 33 may be provided separately from the biological information measuring means 30. The configuration of the control unit 33 is not limited to the above, and any configuration that can satisfy its function may be used.

[0039] When the detection unit 50 detects a predetermined action of the user, a detection signal indicating that the predetermined action has occurred is transmitted from the detection unit 50 to the control unit 33. When the control unit 33 receives the detection signal, it sends a command signal to the biological information measuring means 30 (measurement unit 31) to start measuring the biological information. The biological information measuring means 30 transmits the measurement result of the biological information to the control unit 33. When the control unit 33 receives the measurement result of the biological information, it transmits a command signal for displaying the measurement result of the biological information on the display unit 24. Thereby, the control unit 33 causes the display unit 24 to display the measurement result of the biological information.

[0040] As described above, according to the embodiment, since the biological information measurement is automatically started using a predetermined action of the user with respect to the washstand 101 as a trigger, the biological information measurement can be habitualized in daily life. Since the biological information measurement and the result display are automatically performed, it is easy to use.

[0041] In addition, since the measurement is automatically performed and the result is displayed on the mirror 20 (display unit 24), it is easy to check the result. The user can naturally check the measurement result in conjunction with looking at the mirror 20 without having to deliberately start another display or perform an operation to view the display content. In this way, the biometric information measurement and result display are automatically performed, and the user can naturally view the result display. Therefore, the series of operations from the start of measurement to the confirmation of the result is very simple, and it is easy to habitualize the grasping of biometric information.

[0042] As described above, in this example, the predetermined action detected by the detection unit 50 is an individual authentication operation. The detection unit 50 is an individual authentication means 50a that detects an individual authentication operation and detects input data by the individual authentication operation. Individual authentication is for the control unit 33 to identify or distinguish an individual. For example, individual data for identifying an individual such as a user is registered in advance. The individual authentication operation is an operation for the control unit 33 to identify or specify the user by inputting individual data. That is, when the user performs a predetermined action (individual authentication operation) on the individual authentication means 50a, it is identified which of the individuals registered with the user who performed the individual authentication operation. Specifically, individual authentication is fingerprint authentication, voice authentication (voiceprint authentication), or face authentication, etc.

[0043] For example, when using fingerprint authentication, the individual data is data indicating the characteristics of the user's fingerprint, and the individual authentication means 50a has a sensor capable of reading the characteristics of the fingerprint. In this case, the individual authentication operation is to cause the sensor to read the fingerprint by touching the sensor or the like. Thereby, the individual authentication means 50a detects the characteristics of the user's individual fingerprint as input data.

[0044] Also, for example, when using voice authentication, the individual data is data indicating the characteristics of the user's voiceprint, and the individual authentication means 50a has a microphone capable of detecting voice. In this case, the individual authentication operation is to speak toward the microphone. Thereby, the individual authentication means 50a detects the characteristics of the user's individual voice as input data.

[0045] Also, for example, when face authentication is used, the personal data is data indicating the characteristics of the user's face, and the personal authentication means 50a has a camera. In this case, the personal authentication operation is to face the camera within the imaging range of the camera. Thereby, the personal authentication means 50a detects the characteristics of the user's face image as input data. However, not limited to the above, any method capable of identifying an individual, such as iris authentication (iris recognition) or vein authentication, may be used for personal authentication.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 33 has a personal data storage means 35. The personal data storage means 35 stores the biometric information, which is the measurement result of the biometric information measuring means 30, in association with the personal data. Thereby, the biometric information for each user is stored. For example, it is possible to check the daily changes in biometric information for each user.

[0047] For the personal data storage means 35, for example, a storage device such as a hard disk or a flash memory can be used. Also, in the example of FIG. 2, the personal data storage means 35 is included in the control unit 33. However, the personal data storage means 35 may be provided separately from the control unit 33. The personal data storage means 35 may be any storage device that can satisfy its function without being limited to the above. For example, the personal data storage means 35 may be an external device (such as a cloud (server) via a network) that can communicate with the control unit 33.

[0048] In the example of FIG. 2, the personal data of a plurality of users is registered in advance. That is, the personal data indicating the first user is stored as "Registration 1", the personal data indicating the second user is stored as "Registration 2", and the personal data indicating the z-th user is stored as "Registration z". The measurement result of the biometric information is stored in association with any of the pre-registered personal data (personal mode 33a).

[0049] When the input data obtained by the personal authentication operation (personal data of the user obtained by the personal authentication operation) matches the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35, the control unit 33 starts the personal mode 33a. Here, "matching" means being presumed to indicate the same person due to corresponding features or the like. In the personal mode, the measurement result of the biological information is recorded in the personal data storage means in association with the matching personal data. On the other hand, when the input data obtained by the personal authentication operation does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35, the control unit 33 does not start the personal mode.

[0050] In this way, by introducing personal authentication associated with personal data, it becomes easier to manage the biological information of each individual. For example, in a situation where multiple people, such as in a family, use a washbasin vanity, the convenience of daily health management can be improved.

[0051] Also, the personal authentication operation serves as a trigger, and the biological information measurement is automatically started in conjunction with the detection of the personal authentication operation. That is, the predetermined action of the user detected by the detection unit 50 serves both as a trigger for starting the biological information measurement and as personal authentication. This eliminates the need for an input operation for the user to simply start the biological information measurement, resulting in high convenience.

[0052] When the input data obtained by the personal authentication operation does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35, the control unit 33 starts the guest mode 33b in which the measurement result of the biological information is not recorded. As a result, a user who has not registered personal data in advance can measure biological information without recording the measurement result of the biological information.

[0053] Also, as shown in FIG. 2, the washbasin vanity according to the embodiment may be provided with a re - authentication means 52 and a reception unit 54, which will be described later.

[0054] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the washbasin vanity according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the washstand 102 includes a receiving unit 54. For the rest, the same description as that of the washstand 101 can be applied to the washstand 102.

[0055] The receiving unit 54 can receive a signal (specific signal) for identifying a user from the outside. When the receiving unit 54 receives the specific signal, it transmits a signal corresponding to the specific signal to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 obtains information on the specific signal for identifying the user by receiving the signal from the receiving unit 54. In this way, the control unit 33 may identify who the user is based on the specific signal from the outside.

[0056] For example, within a predetermined time after the control unit 33 causes the display unit 24 to display the measurement result of the biological information in the guest mode, the receiving unit 54 receives the specific signal and transmits a signal corresponding to the specific signal to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 identifies which of the individuals with pre-registered personal data the user identified by the specific signal is based on the signal from the receiving unit 54. Then, the control unit 33 records the measurement result of the biological information in the personal data storage means 35 in association with the personal data of the user identified by the specific signal.

[0057] According to such a configuration, even when the guest mode is started due to a failure in the personal authentication means 50a or the like and the personal authentication fails, a user with pre-registered personal data can record the measurement result in association with the personal data after the biological information is measured.

[0058] For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the receiving unit 54 receives a specific signal transmitted by the user U1 from an external communication terminal T1 (such as a smartphone). The communication between the receiving unit 54 and the communication terminal T1 may be performed via a network using an external cloud C1 or the like as shown in FIG. 3, or the receiving unit 54 and the communication terminal T1 may communicate directly without going through the cloud C1 or the like. Also, the communication with the receiving unit 54 may be wireless or wired. For example, for the communication with the receiving unit 54, communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or NFC (Near Field Communication) may be used.

[0059] For the receiving unit 54, for example, a communication module or a communication interface is used. Also, the specific signal is not limited to a mobile terminal such as a smartphone and may be transmitted from any external device capable of transmitting a signal.

[0060] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the washstand according to the first embodiment. When there is no user around the washstand 101, the human body detection sensor 56 does not detect the user (step S101: NO). When the user approaches the washstand 101, the human body detection sensor 56 detects the user (step S101: YES) and transmits a detection signal indicating the presence of the user to the control unit 33.

[0061] When the control unit 33 receives the detection signal from the human body detection sensor 56, it executes preparation for biometric information measurement and personal authentication (step S102). The preparation is, for example, turning on the power of the measurement unit 31, the personal authentication means 50a, the display unit 24, and the like.

[0062] When the user performs a personal authentication operation, the personal authentication means 50a detects the personal authentication operation and transmits a signal indicating the input data by the personal authentication operation to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 performs personal authentication based on the signal from the personal authentication means 50a (step S103).

[0063] When the input data obtained through the personal authentication operation matches the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35 (step S103: YES), the control unit 33 starts the personal mode (step S104).

[0064] In the personal mode, the control unit 33 controls the biological information measuring means 30 (measurement unit 31) to measure biological information (step S105), and causes the display unit 24 to display the measurement result (step S106). Also, in the personal mode, the personal data storage means 35 stores the measurement result of the biological information in association with the personal data of the individual specified by the personal authentication (step S107).

[0065] When the input data obtained through the personal authentication operation does not match the personal data stored in the personal data storage means 35 (step S103: NO), the control unit 33 starts the guest mode (step S108).

[0066] In the guest mode, the control unit 33 controls the biological information measuring means 30 (measurement unit 31) to measure biological information (step S109), and causes the display unit 24 to display the measurement result (step S110). If the receiving unit 54 does not receive a specific signal for identifying the user within a predetermined time from the start of the display of the measurement result (step S111: NO), the guest mode continues and the measurement result is not stored (step S112).

[0067] If the user transmits a specific signal from an external terminal such as a smartphone to the washstand and the receiving unit 54 receives the specific signal within a predetermined time from the start of the display of the measurement result (step S111: YES), the control unit 33 starts the execution of the personal mode (step S113). In the personal mode, the personal data storage means 35 stores the measurement result of the biological information in association with the personal data of the individual specified by the specific signal (step S114).

[0068] Note that the predetermined time in step S111 is set, for example, based on the time required for the user to go to and return from an external terminal placed in another room from in front of the washstand. This predetermined time is, for example, 30 seconds or more and 2 minutes or less, and is, for example, about 1 minute.

[0069] Even if the user who has pre-registered personal data fails in the personal authentication in step S103, the personal authentication can be more reliably performed manually later by step S111.

[0070] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the washstand according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the washstand 101 includes a re-authentication means 52 (see FIG. 2). Steps S201 to S210 are the same as steps S101 to S110 described with respect to FIG. 4.

[0071] In the guest mode, the control unit 33 analyzes whether the measurement result of the biometric information measured in step S209 is similar to the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means 35 (step S211). When the measurement result of step S209 is similar to the biometric information recorded in the personal data storage means 35 (step S212: YES), there is a possibility that the person specified by the personal data associated with the similar biometric information (registered person) and the current user of the washstand 101 are the same person. Therefore, the control unit 33 controls the display unit 24 to display a proposal (registered person corresponding proposal) indicating that the user may be a registered person (step S213). For example, the display unit 24 displays "Are you Mr. A?" etc. "A" is a registered person who has pre-registered personal data and in which biometric information associated with the personal data is recorded.

[0072] The control unit 33 accepts a re-authentication operation (further personal authentication operation) within a predetermined time from the start of display of the corresponding proposal for the registrant. In the re-authentication operation, the user performs a personal authentication operation on the re-authentication means 52 (step S214: YES). The re-authentication means 52 detects the re-authentication operation, detects the input data by the re-authentication operation, and transmits it to the control unit 33. In this example, the re-authentication means 52 is a switch, and the re-authentication operation is to operate the switch.

[0073] When the control unit 33 confirms that the user is a specific registered user by the re-authentication operation, it starts the execution of the personal mode (step S215). In this personal mode, the personal data storage means 35 stores the measurement result of the biological information in association with the personal data of the individual specified by the re-authentication operation (step S216).

[0074] On the other hand, when the measurement result in step S209 is not similar to the biological information recorded in the personal data storage means 35 (step S212: NO), or when the re-authentication operation is not performed or the user is not specified by the re-authentication operation (step S214: NO), the guest mode is continued and the measurement result is not stored (step S217).

[0075] As described above, the control unit 33 analyzes whether the measurement result of the biological information in the guest mode is similar to any of the biological information recorded in the personal data storage means. When the measurement result is similar to any of the biological information recorded in the personal data storage means, the control unit 33 causes the display unit 24 to display a proposal (corresponding registrant proposal) indicating the possibility that the user corresponds to the individual (registered user) associated with the similar biological information. Then, the control unit 33 accepts a further personal authentication operation within a predetermined time from the display of the proposal.

[0076] According to such a configuration, even if a user whose personal data has been registered in advance fails in personal authentication due to a malfunction of the personal authentication means 50a or the like, by performing further personal authentication, it is possible to record the measurement result in association with the personal data after biometric information measurement.

[0077] As described above, in this example, a switch is used for the reauthentication means 52. For the switch, any input means capable of inputting a signal can be used, such as a mechanical button, a touch panel, or a non-contact sensor. For example, the user can respond that he or she is a registered user by inputting a signal to the switch in response to the corresponding proposal for the registrant. Thereby, the user is identified as a specific registered user (any one of the individuals whose personal data has been registered in advance). Thus, the reauthentication operation may include responding to the corresponding proposal for the registrant by operating the switch. Thereby, the user can be identified. However, the reauthentication means 52 and the reauthentication operation are not limited to the above. For example, for reauthentication, any method capable of identifying an individual, such as fingerprint authentication, voice authentication, face authentication, iris authentication, or vein authentication, may be used. In this case, the reauthentication means 52 has, for example, a sensor, a microphone, or a camera, and the reauthentication operation is an act of causing the reauthentication means 52 to detect the characteristics of the user (such as characteristics of fingerprints, voice, iris, or vein). The reauthentication may use the same method as the personal authentication means 50a or a different method. Also, without providing the reauthentication means 52, authentication by the personal authentication means 50a may be performed again as the reauthentication operation.

[0078] Also, for example, in the analysis in step S211, the control unit 33 compares the measurement result of the biological information with at least one or more pieces of past data (that is, the biological information recorded in the personal data storage means 35). For example, the measurement result in step S209 is compared with one or more pieces of past data of each individual, and the past data closest to the measurement result is determined to be similar to the measurement result. Also, for example, the measurement result in step S209 is compared with one or more pieces of past data of each individual, and the past data whose deviation from the measurement result is within a predetermined value is determined to be similar to the measurement result. Also, in the analysis in step S211, the time when the past data was acquired may be further considered. For example, it is conceivable that individuals tend to regularly measure biological information in the morning or at night. Therefore, the similarity may be analyzed in consideration of the measurement time and measurement time interval of each individual. For example, the registrant corresponding to the past data measured within one week is regarded as a candidate for the current user.

[0079] (Second Embodiment) FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a washstand according to the second embodiment. Also in the washstand 201, a biological information measuring means 30 (measuring unit 31), a control unit 33, a human body detection sensor 56, a mirror 20, a display unit 24, and a discharge device 14 are provided. Also, a washbasin 12 (such as a washbowl 23) (not shown) is provided. The washstand 201 may be appropriately provided with a support base 16, a support portion 46, and the like.

[0080] In the second embodiment, the predetermined action of the user detected by the detection unit 50 is a water discharge operation or a water stop operation at the operation unit 44. In the example of FIG. 6, the detection unit 50 is provided at the operation unit 44 of the discharge device 14. As the detection unit 50, for example, a sensor capable of detecting the operation of the operation unit 44, such as a switch having a mechanical contact, an electrostatic or optical switch, can be used. The detection unit 50 is not limited to the above, and may have any configuration capable of detecting a water discharge operation or a water stop operation. As long as the detection unit 50 can detect a water discharge operation or a water stop operation, it may be provided integrally with the operation unit 44 or may be provided separately from the operation unit 44.

[0081] When the detection unit 50 detects a water discharge operation or a water stop operation by the user, a detection signal indicating that there has been a water discharge operation or a water stop operation is transmitted from the detection unit 50 to the control unit 33. When receiving the detection signal, the control unit 33 sends a command signal to the biological information measuring means 30 (measurement unit 31) to start the measurement of biological information. The biological information measuring means 30 transmits the measurement result of the biological information to the control unit 33. When receiving the measurement result of the biological information, the control unit 33 transmits a command signal for causing the display unit 24 to display the measurement result of the biological information.

[0082] In this way, also in the second embodiment, since the measurement of biological information is automatically started triggered by a predetermined action of the user on the washstand 201, the measurement of biological information can be made a habit in daily life. Since the measurement of biological information and the display of its result are automatically performed, it is user-friendly. Further, since the measurement is automatically performed and the result is displayed on the mirror 20 (display unit 24), the confirmation of the result is also easy.

[0083] Further, the detection unit 50 detects a water discharge operation or a water stop operation. Thereby, at the timing when the user is assumed to be performing hand washing, face washing, etc., in other words, at the timing when the user is more surely leaning forward toward the washbowl and fixing the posture, the measurement of biological information such as blood pressure and body temperature can be started. Thereby, highly accurate measurement of biological information becomes possible.

[0084] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the washstand according to the second embodiment. FIGS. 8(a) to 8(c) are schematic diagrams showing the operation of the washstand according to the second embodiment. In the examples of FIGS. 7 and 8(a) to 8(c), the detection unit 50 detects a water discharge operation. Further, the body temperature is measured as the biological information.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 7, when there is no user around the washbasin 201, the human body detection sensor 56 does not detect the user (step S301: NO). When the user approaches the washbasin 201, the human body detection sensor 56 detects the user (step S301: YES) and transmits a detection signal indicating the presence of the user to the control unit 33.

[0086] When the control unit 33 receives the detection signal from the human body detection sensor 56, it executes the preparation for measuring biological information (step S302, FIG. 8(a)).

[0087] When the user does not operate the operation unit 44 of the ejection device 14 (step S303: NO), the biological information measurement means is in a standby state. When the user performs a water ejection operation on the operation unit 44 (step S303: YES), the detection unit 50 detects the water ejection operation and transmits a signal indicating that the water ejection operation has occurred to the control unit 33. Based on the signal from the detection unit 50, the control unit 33 causes the biological information measurement means 30 (measurement unit 31) to start measuring biological information (step S304, FIG. 8(b)).

[0088] The biological information measurement means 30 performs measurement until the measurement of biological information is completed (step S305: NO). When the measurement is completed (step S305: YES), the biological information measurement means 30 transmits the measurement result to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 causes the display unit 24 to display the measurement result (step S306, FIG. 8(c)).

[0089] In this example, the measurement unit 31 of the biological information measurement means 30 is a radiation thermometer that measures biological information in a non-contact manner. The measurement unit 31 has, for example, a light receiving element. As shown in FIGS. 8(a) to 8(c), the measurement unit 31 (light receiving element) is located above the washbowl 23 and below the mirror 20 provided above the washbowl 23. Also, as shown in FIG. 8(b), the detection direction of the measurement unit 31 is obliquely upward toward the front. That is, the measurement unit 31 is arranged in a direction that is likely to receive light (e.g., infrared rays) radiated from an object in front of and above the measurement unit 31. With such a configuration, a measurement unit that measures biological information in a non-contact manner is arranged at a position facing the face of the user who is facing the lower washbowl when washing hands or the like, and the detection direction of the measurement unit is directed toward the face of the user. Thereby, it becomes possible to measure biological information with higher accuracy. The measurement unit 31 may be provided, for example, on the back guard of the washbasin 12 or on the surface facing the user standing in front of the wash dressing table 201.

[0090] Also, in the examples of FIGS. 8(a) to 8(c), the water discharge unit 42 and the operation unit 44 are arranged side by side with the measurement unit 31 in the left-right direction. The water discharge unit 42 and the operation unit 44 are also located above the washbowl 23 and below the mirror 20. Thereby, when the user performs a water discharge operation, a water stop operation, hand washing, or face washing, etc., the face of the user faces downward. That is, the face of the user is likely to face the direction of the measurement unit 31 and is likely to face the detection direction of the measurement unit 31. Thereby, for example, it is easy to measure the light from the face (such as the forehead) of the user, so that the measurement accuracy can be improved.

[0091] Note that also in the wash dressing table 101 according to the first embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, the measurement unit 31 and the detection unit 50 may be arranged below the mirror 20. Also, the measurement unit 31 and the detection unit 50 may be arranged side by side left and right. The measurement unit 31 and the detection unit 50 may be arranged adjacent to each other beside. Thereby, when the detection unit 50 detects a predetermined action of the user, the face of the user is likely to face the direction of the measurement unit 31. Therefore, when the measurement of biological information is automatically started continuously from a predetermined action of the user, the face of the user is likely to face the detection direction of the measurement unit 31.

[0092] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Regarding the aforementioned embodiments, those obtained by appropriately making design changes by those skilled in the art are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they have the features of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, material, arrangement, installation form, etc. of each element included in the washbasin cabinet are not limited to those illustrated and can be changed as appropriate. In addition, each element included in each of the aforementioned embodiments can be combined as much as technically possible, and those obtained by combining these are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0093] 10 Wash unit, 12 Washbasin, 14 Discharge device, 16 Support base, 20 Mirror, 22a to 22d Lighting, 23 Washbowl, 24 Display unit, 30 Biometric information measurement means, 31 Measurement unit, 33 Control unit, 35 Personal data storage means, 42 Water discharge part, 44 Operation part, 46 Support part, 50 Detection part, 50a Personal authentication means, 52 Re - authentication means, 54 Receiving part, 56 Human body detection sensor, 101, 102, 201 Washbasin cabinet, C1 Cloud, S101 to S114, S201 to S217, S301 to S306 Steps, T1 Communication terminal, U1 User

Claims

1. biological information measuring means for measuring the biological information of a user; a detection unit for detecting a predetermined action of the user; a display unit for displaying the measurement result of the biological information measured by the biological information measuring means; a control unit that causes the biological information measuring means to measure the biological information of the user and causes the display unit to display the measurement result when the detection unit detects the predetermined action; comprising The predetermined action is a water discharging operation for discharging water to a discharging device configured to be able to discharge water into a washbowl, or a water stopping operation for stopping the discharge of water from the discharging device. The washbasin is characterized by this.

2. The biological information measuring means has a measuring unit that measures the biological information in a non-contact manner, The measuring unit is provided below a wash mirror provided above the washbowl and below the wash mirror provided above the washbowl, The washbasin according to claim 1, wherein the detection direction of the measurement unit is obliquely upward toward the front.

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