Gas collection equipment and gas detection system

Abstract

To provide an improved gas collection apparatus and an improved gas detection system.SOLUTION: The gas collection apparatus is installed in a bedpan equipped with a toilet seat and a toilet bowl. The gas collection apparatus comprises a flow path connected to a predetermined tank, and an introduction part for introducing a sample gas into the flow path. The introduction part is located between the toilet seat and the toilet bowl, or inside or above the toilet seat. The introduction part does not protrude more inward of the toilet bowl than an edge when the introduction part is located between the toilet seat and the edge of the toilet bowl, and the introduction part does not protrude more inward of the toilet bowl than the toilet seat when the introduction part is located inside or above the toilet seat.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to gas collection equipment and a gas detection system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a system for detecting odorous gases generated from feces discharged by a subject has been known (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the conventional system, there is room for improvement in equipment for collecting gas and the like.

[0005] In view of this point, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an improved gas collection device and gas detection system.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The gas collection device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a gas collection device installed in a toilet having a toilet seat and a toilet bowl, a flow path connected to a predetermined tank, and an introduction part for introducing sample gas into the flow path and located between the toilet seat and the toilet bowl or inside or above the toilet seat, wherein the introduction part when located between the toilet seat and the edge of the toilet bowl, does not protrude inside the toilet bowl more than the edge, and when located inside or above the toilet seat, does not protrude inside the toilet bowl more than the toilet seat.

[0007] A gas detection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a sensor unit that outputs a voltage according to the concentration of a specific gas, and a gas collection device that collects a sample gas supplied to the sensor unit. The gas collection device is installed in a toilet including a toilet seat and a toilet bowl, a flow path connected to a predetermined tank, and introduces the sample gas into the flow path and has an introduction part located between the toilet seat and the toilet bowl or inside or above the toilet seat. The introduction part when located between the toilet seat and the edge of the toilet bowl, does not protrude inside the toilet bowl more than the edge, when located inside or above the toilet seat, does not protrude inside the toilet bowl more than the toilet seat.

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an improved gas collection device and gas detection system can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Each figure is shown schematically.

[0011] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is an external view of the gas detection system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a partial top view of a part of the configuration shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a partial top view showing another example of the configuration shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the gas collection device 60 shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the gas detection system 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 shows a state in which a part of the housing 10 included in the gas detection system 1 is removed. FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of the gas detection system 1 shown in FIG. 1.

[0012] The gas detection system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is also referred to as a “gas detection device”. As shown in FIG. 1, the gas detection system 1 is installed in the toilet 2. The toilet 2 may be a flush toilet, although not limited thereto. The toilet 2 includes a toilet bowl 2A and a toilet seat 2B. The gas detection system 1 may be installed at any location of the toilet 2. As an example, the gas detection system 1 may be installed near the side portion of the toilet seat 2B of the toilet 2. A part of the gas detection system 1 may be embedded inside the toilet seat 2B. Feces of the subject can be discharged into the toilet bowl 2A of the toilet 2. The gas detection system 1 can acquire, as a sample gas, the gas generated from the feces discharged into the toilet bowl 2A. The gas detection system 1 can detect the type of gas, the concentration of the gas, etc. contained in the sample gas. The gas detection system 1 can transmit the detection result, etc. to the electronic device 3.

[0013] The toilet 2 can be installed in a toilet room of a house or a hospital. The toilet 2 can be used by the subject. As described above, the toilet 2 includes a toilet bowl 2A and a toilet seat 2B. Excrement of the subject can be discharged into the toilet bowl 2A.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 2, the toilet bowl 2A includes an edge portion 2A1. The edge portion 2A1 may be an oval ring shape in a top view. The toilet seat 2B may include a U-shaped portion in a top view. The toilet seat 2B may include, for example, four cushions 2B1 on a surface facing the edge portion 2A1. When the toilet seat 2B is placed on the toilet bowl 2A, a gap may be formed between the edge portion 2A1 of the toilet bowl 2A and the toilet seat 2B due to contact between the cushion 2B1 and the edge portion 2A1.

[0015] The electronic device 3 shown in FIG. 1 is, for example, a smartphone used by the subject. However, the electronic device 3 is not limited to a smartphone and may be any electronic device. When the electronic device 3 is brought into the toilet room by the subject, it may be present inside the toilet room as shown in FIG. 1. However, the electronic device 3 may be present outside the toilet room, for example, when the subject does not bring the electronic device 3 into the toilet room. The electronic device 3 can receive the detection result from the gas detection system 1 by wireless communication or wired communication. The electronic device 3 can display the received detection result on a display unit 3A. The display unit 3A may be configured to include a display capable of displaying characters and the like and a touch screen capable of detecting contact of a finger or the like of a user (subject). The display may be configured to include a display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL display (OELD), or an inorganic EL display (IELD). The detection method of the touch screen may be any method such as a capacitance method, a resistive film method, a surface acoustic wave method (or ultrasonic method), an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, or a load detection method.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 5, the gas detection system 1 includes a housing 10, a flow path 20, a flow path 21, a discharge path 22, a chamber 30, a first storage tank 40 (predetermined tank), a second storage tank 41, a first supply unit 50, a second supply unit 52, and a circuit board 80. The gas detection system 1 includes a sensor unit 31 in the chamber 30. As shown in FIG. 2, the gas detection system 1 includes a gas collection device 60 and a gas collection device 70. As shown in FIG. 6, the gas detection system 1 includes a storage unit 81, a communication unit 82, and a control unit 84 in the circuit board 80. The gas detection system 1 may include a sensor unit 83. Further, the gas detection system 1 may include a battery, a speaker, and the like.

[0017] Hereinafter, the first supply unit 50 will be described as a component of the gas detection system 1. However, the first supply unit 50 may be a component of the gas collection device 60. In this case, the first supply unit 50 may be attached to the flow path 62 of the gas collection device 60 shown in FIG. 4. Similarly, the second supply unit 51 will be described as a component of the gas detection system 1. However, the second supply unit 51 may be a component of the gas collection device 70.

[0018] The gas detection system 1 shown in FIG. 2 includes one gas collection device 60. However, the number of gas collection devices 60 included in the gas detection system 1 is not limited to one. The gas detection system 1 may include two or more gas collection devices 60. For example, when the gas detection system 1 includes two or more gas collection devices 60, each gas collection device 60 may be located at a location described later with reference to FIG. 3.

[0019] Various components of the gas detection system 1 are housed in the housing 10 shown in FIG. 5. The housing 10 may be made of any material. For example, the housing 10 may be made of a material such as metal or resin.

[0020] The flow path 20 shown in FIG. 5 supplies the sample gas stored in the first storage tank 40 to the chamber 30 via the first supply unit 50. One end of the flow path 20 is connected to the first storage tank 40. The other end of the flow path 20 is connected to the chamber 30. The flow path 20 may be composed of a tubular member such as a resin tube or a metal or glass pipe.

[0021] The flow path 21 shown in FIG. 5 supplies the purge gas stored in the second storage tank 41 to the chamber 30 via the second supply unit 51. One end of the flow path 21 is connected to the second storage tank 41. The other end of the flow path 21 is connected to the chamber 30. The flow path 21 may be composed of a tubular member such as a resin tube or a metal or glass pipe.

[0022] The discharge path 22 shown in FIG. 5 discharges the exhaust gas from the chamber 30 to the outside. This exhaust gas may contain the sample gas and the purge gas after the detection process. The discharge path 22 may be composed of a tubular member such as a resin tube or a metal or glass pipe.

[0023] The chamber 30 shown in FIG. 5 has a sensor unit 31 inside. The chamber 30 may have a plurality of sensor units 31. The chamber 30 may be divided into a plurality of parts. Each sensor unit 31 may be arranged in each of the chambers 30 divided into a plurality of parts. The chambers 30 divided into a plurality of parts may be connected to each other. The flow path 20 is connected to the chamber 30. The sample gas is supplied to the chamber 30 from the flow path 20. Also, the flow path 21 is connected to the chamber 30. The purge gas is supplied to the chamber 30 from the flow path 21. Further, the discharge path 22 is connected to the chamber 30. The chamber 30 discharges the sample gas and the purge gas after the detection process from the discharge path 22. The chamber 30 may be composed of a material such as metal or resin.

[0024] The sensor unit 31 shown in FIG. 5 is disposed within the chamber 30. The sensor unit 31 outputs a voltage corresponding to the concentration of a specific gas to the control unit 84 shown in FIG. 6. The specific gas includes a specific gas to be detected and a specific gas not to be detected. When the sample gas is a gas generated from feces, examples of the specific gas to be detected include methane, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, methyl mercaptan, hydrogen sulfide, acetic acid, trimethylamine, and the like. Further, when the sample gas is a gas generated from feces, examples of the specific gas not to be detected include ammonia and water. Each of the plurality of sensor units 31 can output a voltage corresponding to the concentration of at least any one of these gases to the control unit 84 shown in FIG. 6. The sensor unit 31 may be a semiconductor sensor, a catalytic combustion sensor, a solid electrolyte sensor, or the like.

[0025] The first storage tank 40 shown in FIG. 5 is connected to the gas collection device 60. A valve may be located between the first storage tank 40 and the gas collection device 60. The valve may be constituted by a valve such as electromagnetic drive, piezo drive, or motor drive. Based on the control of the control unit 84 shown in FIG. 6, the valve may switch the connection state between the first storage tank 40 and the gas collection device 60 to a state in which the first storage tank 40 and the gas collection device 60 are connected, or a state in which the first storage tank 40 and the gas collection device 60 are not connected.

[0026] The sample gas is supplied from the gas collection device 60 to the first storage tank 40. The first storage tank 40 can store the sample gas. The sample gas stored in the first storage tank 40 is supplied to the chamber 30 via the flow path 20 and the first supply unit 50. The first storage tank 40 may be constituted by a rectangular parallelepiped shape, a cylindrical shape, a bag shape, or a tank or the like having a shape that fills the gaps between various components housed inside the housing 10. The first storage tank 40 may be provided with a heater for heating the sample gas.

[0027] Inside the first storage tank 40, an adsorbent may be arranged. The adsorbent may each contain any material according to the application. The adsorbent may contain, for example, at least any one of activated carbon, silica gel, zeolite, and molecular sieve. The adsorbent may be of multiple types or may contain a porous material. The adsorbent may adsorb gases other than the gas to be detected contained in the sample gas. Examples of adsorbents that adsorb gases other than the gas to be detected include silica gel and zeolite. Also, the sample gas may be concentrated in the first storage tank 40. In this case, the adsorbent may adsorb the gas to be detected contained in the sample gas. Examples of adsorbents that adsorb the gas to be detected include activated carbon and molecular sieve. However, these combinations may be appropriately changed depending on the polarity of the gas molecules to be adsorbed.

[0028] The second storage tank 41 shown in FIG. 5 is connected to the gas collection device 70. A valve may be located between the second storage tank 41 and the gas collection device 70. The valve may be constituted by a valve such as electromagnetic drive, piezo drive, or motor drive. Based on the control of the control unit 84 shown in FIG. 6, the valve may switch the connection state between the second storage tank 41 and the gas collection device 70 to a state where the second storage tank 41 and the gas collection device 70 are connected, or a state where the second storage tank 41 and the gas collection device 70 are not connected.

[0029] Purge gas is supplied to the second storage tank 41 from the gas collection device 70. The second storage tank 41 can store the purge gas. The purge gas stored in the second storage tank 41 is supplied to the chamber 30 via the flow path 21 and the second supply unit 51. The second storage tank 41 may be constituted by a rectangular parallelepiped shape, a cylindrical shape, a bag shape, or a tank such as a shape that fills the gaps between various components housed inside the housing 10. A heater for heating the purge gas may be provided in the second storage tank 41.

[0030] Inside the second storage tank 41, an adsorbent may be arranged. The adsorbent may each contain any material according to the application. The adsorbent may contain, for example, at least any one of activated carbon, silica gel, zeolite, and molecular sieve. The adsorbent may be of multiple types or may contain a porous material. The adsorbent may adsorb gases other than the gas to be detected that may be contained in the purge gas. Examples of the adsorbent that adsorbs gases other than the gas to be detected include silica gel and zeolite. Also, the adsorbent may adsorb the gas to be detected that may be contained in the purge gas. Examples of the adsorbent that adsorbs the gas to be detected include activated carbon and molecular sieve. However, these combinations may be appropriately changed according to the polarity of the gas molecules to be adsorbed.

[0031] The first supply unit 50 shown in FIG. 5 is attached to the flow path 20. The first supply unit 50 supplies the sample gas stored in the first storage tank 40 to the chamber 30 based on the control of the control unit 84. The arrow shown in the first supply unit 50 indicates the direction in which the first supply unit 50 sends the sample gas. The first supply unit 50 may be composed of a piezo pump, a motor pump, or the like.

[0032] The second supply unit 51 shown in FIG. 5 is attached to the flow path 21. The second supply unit 51 supplies the purge gas stored in the second storage tank 41 to the chamber 30 based on the control of the control unit 84. The arrow shown in the second supply unit 51 indicates the direction in which the second supply unit 51 sends the purge gas. The second supply unit 51 may be composed of a piezo pump, a motor pump, or the like.

[0033] The gas collection device 60 collects the gas generated from the feces discharged into the toilet bowl 2A as sample gas. For example, the gas collection device 60 collects the gas generated from the feces discharged into the toilet bowl 2A as sample gas by the control unit 84 described later causing a gas flow from the gas collection device 60 shown in FIG. 5 toward the first storage tank 40. The gas collection device 60 may be installed between the toilet seat 2B and the edge 2A1 of the toilet bowl 2A as shown in FIG. 2. For example, the gas collection device 60 may be disposed on the back surface of the toilet seat 2B. In this case, a part of the gas collection device 60 may be located in the gap formed between the edge 2A1 of the toilet bowl 2A and the toilet seat 2B when the edge 2A1 of the toilet bowl 2A abuts against the cushion 2B1 of the toilet seat 2B. Further, for example, when the gap between the edge 2A1 and the toilet seat 2B is small, a part of the gas collection device 60 may be embedded inside the toilet seat 2B.

[0034] The gas collection device 60 shown in FIG. 2 may be located at the gently arcuate portion on the right side in the top view of the oval ring-shaped edge 2A1 between the toilet seat 2B and the edge 2A1. However, the position of the gas collection device 60 between the toilet seat 2B and the edge 2A1 is not limited thereto. The gas collection device 60 may be located at any position of the oval ring-shaped edge 2A1 between the toilet seat 2B and the edge 2A1. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the gas collection device 60 may be located at the protruding portion of the oval ring-shaped edge 2A1. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the gas collection device 60 may be located at the gently arcuate portion on the left side in the top view of the oval ring-shaped edge 2A1. When the positions of the gas collection device 60 and the housing 10 are separated, the gas collection device 60 may be connected to the first storage tank 40 in the housing 10 via a tubular member such as a resin tube or a pipe made of metal or glass.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 4, the gas collection device 60 includes a housing 61, a flow path 62, and an introduction part 63. In the gas collection device 60, the side where the introduction part 63 is located is also referred to as the "front side".

[0036] The housing 61 shown in FIG. 4 may be cylindrical or prismatic. In the present embodiment, the housing 61 is assumed to be cylindrical. However, the housing 61 may have any shape. The central axis of the cylindrical housing 61 is described as the "central axis A". As described above, when the gas collection device 60 is disposed on the back surface of the toilet seat 2B shown in FIG. 2, the central axis A may be substantially parallel to the back surface of the toilet seat shown in FIG. 3. The housing 61 may be made of any material. For example, the housing 61 may be made of a material such as metal or resin.

[0037] The flow path 62 shown in FIG. 4 is connected to the first storage tank 40 shown in FIG. 5 as a predetermined tank. The flow path 62 is disposed inside the housing 61. The flow path 62 is connected to the introduction part 63. The flow path 62 introduces the sample gas flowing in from the first opening 63a of the introduction part 63 into the first storage tank 40 shown in FIG. 5. The flow path 62 may be configured by embedding a tube in the housing 61. The flow path 62 is arranged such that the central axis of the flow path 62 coincides with the central axis A of the housing 61. However, at least a part of the flow path 62 may be bent.

[0038] The introduction part 63 shown in FIG. 4 introduces the sample gas into the flow path 62. In the present embodiment, the introduction part 63 is located between the toilet seat 2B and the edge 2A1 of the toilet bowl 2A as shown in FIG. 2. The introduction part 63 faces the inside of the toilet bowl 2A. A part of the introduction part 63 may be embedded inside the toilet seat 2B. In the present embodiment, the introduction part 63 does not protrude inside the toilet bowl 2A as shown in FIG. 2. With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the adhesion of feces, urine, etc. to the introduction part 63. The introduction part 63 has a first opening 63a, a second opening 63b, and an introduction surface 63c as shown in FIG. 4.

[0039] The first opening 63a shown in FIG. 4 is connected to the flow path 62. The first opening 63a may be specified as a region surrounded by the opening end 63a1. The opening end 63a1 is the boundary between the flow path 62 and the introduction surface 63c. The opening end 63a1 may be circular. The center of the circular first opening 63a may be located on the central axis A.

[0040] The second opening 63b shown in FIG. 4 has a larger opening area than the first opening 63a. The second opening 63b may be specified as a region surrounded by the opening edge 63b1. The opening edge 63b1 is the boundary between the introduction surface 63c and the outer surface of the housing 61. The opening edge 63b1 may be circular. The diameter of the circular second opening 63b may be larger than the diameter of the circular first opening 63a. The center of the circular second opening 63b may be located on the central axis A.

[0041] The introduction surface 63c shown in FIG. 4 connects the opening edge 63a1 and the opening edge 63b1. That is, the introduction surface 63c connects the first opening 63a and the second opening 63b. The inner diameter of the introduction surface 63c may gradually decrease from the second opening 63b toward the first opening 63a. The introduction surface 63c may be inclined at an angle θ toward the front side with respect to a plane perpendicular to the central axis A. Here, the sample gas that has not been introduced into the flow path 62 flows along the introduction surface 63c in a direction away from the central axis A. Since the introduction surface 63c is inclined at an angle θ toward the front side, the sample gas flows in a direction away from the central axis A and in the direction of the front side. The sample gas flowing in this way can flow toward the gas collection device 60 when the gas collection device 60 sucks the gas again. With such a configuration, a circulation flow is generated. By generating a circulation flow, in the present embodiment, the gas generated from the feces can reach the gas collection device 60 faster than, for example, when reaching the gas collection device 60 by natural diffusion. Since the gas generated from the feces reaches the gas collection device 60 faster, the gas collection device 60 can efficiently collect the sample gas. In addition, the gas collection device 60B can collect the sample gas by using the circulation flow instead of using natural diffusion. With such a configuration, the probability of the concentration of the sample gas decreasing due to natural diffusion can be reduced.

[0042] The introduction surface 63c shown in FIG. 4 may have a rotationally symmetric shape with respect to the central axis A. In other words, the cross-sectional shape of the introduction surface 63c along the central axis A may be the same. With such a configuration, it may be easier to generate a more uniform circulation flow in all directions centered on the central axis A.

[0043] The gas collection device 70 shown in FIG. 5 collects the air in the toilet room outside the toilet bowl 2A shown in FIG. 1 as purge gas. The gas collection device 70 may be arranged outside the toilet seat 2B as shown in FIG. 2. The gas collection device 70 may have the same configuration as the gas collection device 60. In this case, the gas collection device 70 may include a housing, a flow path connected to the second storage tank 41, and an introduction part for introducing purge gas into the flow path.

[0044] The circuit board 80 shown in FIG. 6 mounts wirings through which electrical signals propagate, a storage unit 81, a communication unit 82, a control unit 84, and the like.

[0045] The storage unit 81 shown in FIG. 6 is composed of, for example, a semiconductor memory or a magnetic memory. The storage unit 81 stores various information and programs for operating the gas detection system 1. The storage unit 81 may function as a work memory.

[0046] The communication unit 82 shown in FIG. 6 can communicate with the electronic device 3 shown in FIG. 1. The communication unit 82 may be able to communicate with an external server. The communication method used in the communication between the communication unit 82, the electronic device 3, and the external server may be a short-range wireless communication standard or a wireless communication standard for connecting to a mobile phone network, or a wired communication standard. The short-range wireless communication standard may include, for example, WiFi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), infrared rays, and NFC (Near Field Communication). The wireless communication standard for connecting to a mobile phone network may include, for example, LTE (Long Term Evolution) or a mobile communication system of the fourth generation or higher. Also, the communication method used in the communication between the communication unit 82, the electronic device 3, and the external server may be a communication standard such as LPWA (Low Power Wide Area) or LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network).

[0047] The sensor unit 83 shown in FIG. 6 may be configured to include at least any one of an image camera, a personal identification switch, an infrared sensor, a pressure sensor, and the like. The sensor unit 83 outputs the detection result to the control unit 84. In addition, the sensor unit 83 may include any sensor for authenticating the subject. Examples of such sensors include a load sensor for detecting weight, a sensor for detecting seat height, a sensor for detecting pulse, a sensor for detecting blood flow, a sensor for detecting face, and a sensor for detecting voice.

[0048] For example, when the sensor unit 83 includes an infrared sensor, it can detect that the subject has entered the toilet room by detecting the reflected light of the infrared light irradiated by the infrared sensor from the object. The sensor unit 83 outputs a signal indicating that the subject has entered the toilet room to the control unit 84 as the detection result.

[0049] For example, when the sensor unit 83 includes a pressure sensor, it can detect that the subject has sat on the toilet seat 2B by detecting the pressure applied to the toilet seat 2B shown in FIG. 1. The sensor unit 83 outputs a signal indicating that the subject has sat on the toilet seat 2B to the control unit 84 as the detection result.

[0050] For example, when the sensor unit 83 includes a pressure sensor, it can detect that the subject has stood up from the toilet seat 2B by detecting a reduction in the pressure applied to the toilet seat 2B shown in FIG. 1. The sensor unit 83 outputs a signal indicating that the subject has stood up from the toilet seat 2B to the control unit 84 as the detection result.

[0051] For example, when the sensor unit 83 includes an image camera and a personal identification switch, etc., it collects data such as face images, seat height, and weight. The sensor unit 83 identifies and detects an individual from the collected data. The sensor unit 83 outputs a signal indicating the identified individual to the control unit 84 as the detection result.

[0052] For example, when the sensor unit 83 includes a personal identification switch or the like, it identifies (detects) an individual based on the operation of the personal identification switch. In this case, personal information may be registered (stored) in the storage unit 81 in advance. The sensor unit 83 outputs a signal indicating the identified individual to the control unit 84 as a detection result.

[0053] The control unit 84 shown in FIG. 6 includes one or more processors. The processor may include at least any one of a general-purpose processor that reads a specific program and executes a specific function, and a dedicated processor specialized for a specific process. The dedicated processor may include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The processor may include a programmable logic device (PLD). The PLD may include a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). The control unit 84 may include at least any one of a system-on-a-chip (SoC) in which one or more processors cooperate and a system in a package (SiP).

[0054] The control unit 84 causes the gas collection device 70 to suck the air in the toilet room outside the toilet bowl 2A shown in FIG. 1 as purge gas. For example, the control unit 84 controls the second supply unit 51 to discharge the gas remaining in the second storage tank 41 from the discharge path 22 through the chamber 30. The control unit 84 discharges the gas remaining in the second storage tank 41 from the discharge path 22 to generate a gas flow from the gas collection device 70 toward the second storage tank 41. The control unit 84 generates a gas flow from the gas collection device 70 toward the second storage tank 41 to cause the gas collection device 70 to suck purge gas.

[0055] The control unit 84 stores the purge gas in the second storage tank 41 by continuously causing the gas collection device 70 to suck the purge gas. The control unit 84 may cause the gas collection device 60 to suck the purge gas after a predetermined time has elapsed since detecting that the subject has risen from the toilet seat 2B based on the detection result of the sensor unit 83.

[0056] When the control unit 84 causes the gas collection device 70 to suck the purge gas, if the cleanliness of the purge gas is high, the purge gas may be stored in the second storage tank 41. In this case, the control unit 84 may supply the purge gas to the chamber 30 by continuously controlling the second supply unit 51. Further, the control unit 84 may determine whether the cleanliness of the purge gas is high based on the detection result of the sensor unit 31. Also, the gas detection system 1 may further include a dedicated sensor unit for detecting the cleanliness of the purge gas separately from the sensor unit 31. The dedicated sensor unit may be provided inside the gas collection device 70. The control unit 84 may determine whether the cleanliness of the purge gas is high based on the detection result of the dedicated sensor unit.

[0057] The control unit 84 causes the gas collection device 60 to suck the sample gas. For example, the control unit 84 controls the first supply unit 50 to discharge the gas remaining in the first storage tank 40 from the discharge path 22 through the chamber 30. By discharging the gas remaining in the first storage tank 40 from the discharge path 22, the control unit 84 generates a gas flow from the gas collection device 60 toward the first storage tank 40. By generating a gas flow from the gas collection device 60 toward the first storage tank 40, the control unit 84 causes the gas collection device 60 to suck the sample gas.

[0058] By causing the gas collection device 60 to suck the sample gas, the control unit 84 stores the sample gas in the first storage tank 40. The control unit 84 may cause the gas collection device 60 to suck the sample gas after a predetermined time has elapsed since detecting that the subject has sat on the toilet seat 2B based on the detection result of the sensor unit 83.

[0059] The control unit 84 controls the first supply unit 50 and the second supply unit 51 to alternately supply the sample gas stored in the first storage tank 40 and the purge gas stored in the second storage tank 41 to the chamber 30. The control unit 84 obtains a voltage waveform from the sensor unit 31 by alternately supplying the purge gas and the sample gas to the chamber 30. The control unit 84 detects the type and concentration of the gas contained in the sample gas based on the acquired voltage waveform. For example, the control unit 84 detects the type and concentration of the gas contained in the sample gas by machine learning on the voltage waveform. The control unit 84 may transmit the detected type and concentration of the gas to the electronic device 3 via the communication unit 82 as a detection result.

[0060] Thus, in the gas detection system 1 according to the first embodiment, the introduction part 63 of the gas collection device 60 is located between the toilet seat 2B and the edge part 2A1 of the toilet bowl 2A as shown in FIG. 2. Further, the introduction part 63 does not protrude inside the toilet bowl 2A. With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the adhesion of feces, urine, etc. to the introduction part 63. By reducing the adhesion of feces, urine, etc. to the introduction part 63, the sample gas can be smoothly collected from the introduction part 63 to the first storage tank 40 through the flow path 62. Also, by reducing the adhesion of feces, urine, etc. to the introduction part 63, the probability that the gas generated from other people's feces is mixed into the sample gas can be reduced. By reducing the probability that the gas generated from other people's feces is mixed into the sample gas, the gas detection system 1 can more accurately detect the type and concentration of the gas contained in the sample gas.

[0061] Therefore, according to the first embodiment, an improved gas collection device 60 can be provided.

[0062] (Second Embodiment) FIG. 7 is an external view of the gas detection system 1A according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. The configuration shown in FIG. 7 corresponds to the top view shown in FIG. 2. The gas detection system 1A includes one gas collection device 60A. However, the number of gas collection devices 60A included in the gas detection system 1A is not limited to one. The gas detection system 1A may include two or more gas collection devices 60A.

[0063] The gas collection device 60A is located above the toilet seat 2B. The gas collection device 60A may be located at the gently curved portion on the right side of the U-shaped portion of the toilet seat 2B in a top view above the toilet seat 2B. However, the position of the gas collection device 60A above the toilet seat 2B is not limited to this. FIG. 8 shows a partial top view showing another example of the configuration shown in FIG. 7. For example, the gas collection device 60A may be located at the protruding portion of the U-shaped portion of the toilet seat 2B in the top view shown in FIG. 8. For example, the gas collection device 60A may be located at the gently curved portion on the left side of the U-shaped portion of the toilet seat 2B in the top view shown in FIG. 8. A part of the gas collection device 60A may be embedded inside the toilet seat 2B. When the position of the gas collection device 60A is separated from the position of the housing 10, the gas collection device 60A may be connected to the first storage tank 40 in the housing 10 via a tubular member such as a resin tube or a pipe made of metal or glass.

[0064] The gas collection device 60A shown in FIG. 7 has a housing 61, a flow path 62, and an introduction portion 63, similar to the gas collection device 60 shown in FIG. 4. Further, the gas collection device 60A according to the second embodiment has a sheet member 64.

[0065] The introduction portion 63 of the gas collection device 60A is located above the toilet seat 2B. A part of the introduction portion 63 may be embedded inside the toilet seat 2B. The introduction portion 63 does not protrude inside the toilet bowl 2A more than the toilet seat 2B. With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the adhesion of feces, urine, etc. to the introduction portion 63.

[0066] The seat member 64 fills the height difference between the upper part of the gas collection device 60 and the upper part of the toilet seat 2B. The seat member 64 may be disposed at a portion of the upper part of the toilet seat 2B excluding the location where the gas collection device 60 is disposed. By filling the height difference between the upper part of the gas collection device 60 and the upper part of the toilet seat 2B by the seat member 64, the subject can sit on the toilet seat 2B without discomfort. The seat member 64 may be composed of a resin member having flexibility or the like.

[0067] When the housing 61 of the gas collection device 60A has rigidity, the seat member 64 may cover the upper surface of the gas collection device 60A. In this case, the seat member 64 may be composed of a material having flexibility.

[0068] Other structures and effects of the gas collection device 60A according to the second embodiment are the same as the configuration and effects of the gas collection device 60 according to the first embodiment.

[0069] (Third Embodiment) FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of a gas collection device 60B according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] The gas collection device 60B may be employed in the gas detection system 1 shown in FIG. 1, or may be employed in the gas detection system 1A shown in FIG. 7. The gas collection device 60B includes a housing 61, a flow path 62, an introduction part 63, and a blower 65.

[0071] The blower 65 faces the introduction part 63. That is, the blower 65 is disposed on the front side of the housing 61. The blower 65 can blow sample gas to the introduction part 63. The distance from the housing 61 to the blower 65 may be adjusted as appropriate.

[0072] The blower 65 may be configured to include a fan and a mechanism for driving the fan. The fan may be a multi-blade fan. The mechanism for driving the fan may include a motor for rotating the fan, a casing for protecting the fan, and a rotating shaft that serves as the center of rotation of the fan. The blower 65 can rotate the fan by driving the motor based on the control of the control unit 84 shown in FIG. 6 above. When the fan of the blower 65 rotates about the rotating shaft, the sample gas on the front side can be blown toward the housing 61. The blower 65 can blow air having a blowing area equivalent to its outer shape.

[0073] When the blower 65 blows the sample gas on the front side toward the housing 61, the sample gas can be drawn in the vicinity of the first opening 63a of the introduction part 63. Among the sample gas drawn in the vicinity of the first opening 63a, the sample gas that has not flowed into the flow path 62 can be blown onto the introduction surface 63c by the blower 65. When the sample gas is blown onto the introduction surface 63c by the blower 65, the above-described circulation flow can be more easily generated. Since the circulation flow is more easily generated, the gas generated from the stool can be quickly drawn toward the gas collection device 60B. Since the gas generated from the stool is quickly drawn toward the gas collection device 60B, the probability of its concentration decreasing can be reduced. By reducing the probability of the concentration of the gas generated from the stool decreasing, the gas collection device 60B can collect a high-concentration sample gas.

[0074] The blower 65 may be arranged such that the rotation axis of the fan of the blower 65 coincides with the center of the first opening 63a. That is, the blower 65 may be arranged such that the center of the blowing area coincides with the center of the first opening 63a. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the blower 65 is arranged such that the rotation axis of the fan of the blower 65 coincides with the central axis A. With such a configuration, the sample gas blown by the blower 65 can be easily introduced from the first opening 63a of the introduction part 63 into the flow path 62.

[0075] The blower 65 may be larger than the first opening 63a. That is, the air supply region may be larger than the first opening 63a. In other words, when viewed from the front side of the housing 61, the area occupied by the blower 65 may be larger than the area occupied by the first opening 63a. By making the blower 65 larger than the first opening 63a, among the gases flowing into the gas collection device 60B by the circulation flow, the high-concentration sample gas in the central portion can be efficiently attracted to the first opening 63a. With such a configuration, the gas collection device 60B can collect a high-concentration sample gas.

[0076] The blower 65 may also be smaller than the second opening 63b. In other words, when viewed from the front side of the housing 61, the area occupied by the blower 65 may be smaller than the area occupied by the second opening 63b.

[0077] The other structures and effects of the gas collection device 60B according to the third embodiment are the same as the configurations and effects of the gas collection device 60 according to the first embodiment.

[0078] Although the embodiments according to the present disclosure have been described based on the drawings and examples, it should be noted that those skilled in the art can easily make various modifications or corrections based on the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be noted that these modifications or corrections are included in the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the functions and the like included in each component and the like can be rearranged so as not to be logically contradictory, and a plurality of components and the like can be combined into one or divided.

[0079] For example, in the above-described embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 9, the central axis of the flow path 62 has been described as coinciding with the central axis A. However, the central axis of the flow path 62 does not have to coincide with the central axis A. Also, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 9, the center of the first opening 63a has been described as being located on the central axis A. However, the center of the first opening 63a does not have to be located on the central axis A. Further, as shown in FIG. 9, the rotation axis of the fan of the blower 65 has been described as coinciding with the center of the first opening 63a. However, the rotation axis of the fan of the blower 65 does not have to coincide with the center of the first opening 63a.

[0080] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the central axis A shown in FIGS. 4 and 9 was described as being substantially parallel to the back surface of the toilet seat 2B shown in FIG. 2. However, the central axis A does not have to be substantially parallel to the back surface of the toilet seat 2B shown in FIG. 2. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the central axis A may be inclined in the direction in which the stool 90 is assumed to be located in the toilet bowl 2A. The stool 90 may be located at the bottom of the toilet bowl 2A.

[0081] For example, in the above-described embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the gas detection system 1 was described as being one device. However, the gas detection system of the present disclosure is not limited to one device and may include a plurality of independent devices. The gas detection system of the present disclosure may have a configuration as shown in FIG. 11, for example.

[0082] The gas detection system 1B shown in FIG. 11 includes a gas detection device 4 and a server device 5. The gas detection device 4 and the server device 5 can communicate with each other via a network 6. A part of the network 6 may be wired or wireless. The configuration of the gas detection device 4 is the same as the configuration of the gas detection system 1 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. The server device 5 includes a storage unit 5A, a communication unit 5B, and a control unit 5C. The control unit 5C can execute the processing of the control unit 84 shown in FIG. 6 described above. For example, the control unit 5C can acquire the voltage waveform output by the sensor unit 31 shown in FIG. 5 via the communication unit 5B and the network 6. Further, the control unit 5C can detect the type and concentration of the gas contained in the sample gas based on the voltage waveform.

[0083] In the present disclosure, descriptions such as "first" and "second" are identifiers for distinguishing the configurations. The configurations distinguished by the descriptions such as "first" and "second" in the present disclosure can have their numbers in the configuration exchanged. For example, the first supply unit can exchange the identifiers "first" and "second" with the second supply unit. The exchange of the identifiers is performed simultaneously. The configurations are still distinguishable after the exchange of the identifiers. The identifiers may be deleted. The configurations with the identifiers deleted are distinguished by reference signs. Based only on the descriptions of the identifiers such as "first" and "second" in the present disclosure, the order of the configurations should not be interpreted or used as the basis for the existence of an identifier with a smaller number.

Explanation of Reference Signs

[0084] 1, 1A, 1B Gas Detection System 2 Toilet 2A Toilet Bowl 2A1 Edge 2B Toilet Seat 2B1 Cushion 3 Display Device 3A Display Unit 4 Gas Detection Device 5 Server Device 5A Storage Unit 5B Communication Unit 5C Control Unit 6 Network 10 Housing 20, 21 Flow Path 22 Discharge Path 30 Chamber 31 Sensor Unit 40 First Storage Tank (Predetermined Tank) 41 Second Storage Tank 50 First Supply Unit 51 Second Supply Unit 60, 60A, 60B Gas Collection Equipment 61 Housing 62 Flow Path 63 Introduction Unit 63a First Opening 63b Second Opening 63c Introduction Surface 63a1, 63b1 Opening Edge 64 Sheet member 65 Blower 70 Gas collection device 80 Circuit board 81 Memory section 82 Communication section 83 Sensor section 84 Control section 90 Convenience

Claims

1. A gas collection device installed in a toilet having a toilet seat and a toilet bowl, comprising: a flow path connected to a predetermined tank; an introduction part capable of introducing sample gas into the flow path and located inside the toilet seat; and having, the tip of the introduction part does not protrude inside the toilet bowl; the tip of the introduction part is separated farther outside than the inner edge of the toilet seat; the introduction part is open in the inner direction of the toilet seat; A gas collection device, wherein a valve capable of switching the connection state between the predetermined tank and the gas collection device is located between the predetermined tank and the gas collection device.

2. In the gas collection device according to Claim 1, the introduction part, a first opening connected to the flow path; a second opening having a larger opening area than the first opening; and an introduction surface connecting the first opening and the second opening. A gas collection device having.

3. In the gas collection device according to Claim 2, the introduction surface gradually decreases in inner diameter from the second opening toward the first opening. A gas collection device.

4. In the gas collection device according to Claim 2 or 3, the tip of the introduction part is the second opening. A gas collection device.

5. In the gas collection device according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, the tip of the introduction part is separated farther outside than the inner edge of the edge part of the toilet bowl. A gas collection device.

6. In the gas collection device according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, the central axis of the flow path is inclined with respect to the back surface of the toilet seat. A gas collection device.

7. In the gas collection device according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, the central axis of the flow path is inclined with respect to the back surface of the toilet seat so as to be directed toward the bottom of the toilet bowl. A gas collection device.

8. In the gas collection device according to any one of Claims 1 to 7, further comprising a housing in which the flow path is located inside. A gas collection device.

9. In the gas collection device according to Claim 8, a part of the housing forms the introduction part. A gas collection device.

10. A gas collection device, a sensor part that outputs a voltage according to the concentration of a specific gas, and comprising, the gas collection device collects sample gas supplied to the sensor part, the gas collection device, a gas collection device installed in a toilet having a toilet seat and a toilet bowl, comprising: a flow path connected to a predetermined tank; an introduction part capable of introducing sample gas into the flow path and located inside the toilet seat; and having, The tip of the introduction part does not protrude inside the toilet bowl. The tip of the introduction part is separated further outside than the inner edge of the toilet seat. The introduction part is a gas detection system that opens in the inner direction of the toilet seat.

11. In the gas collection system according to Claim 10, A gas collection system further comprising a control unit that controls the gas collection device and the sensor unit.

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