Feces detection system and feces detection device

Abstract

To provide a feces detection system capable of effectively detecting defecation.SOLUTION: A feces detection system includes: an illumination part that applies light toward the buttocks of a user wearing a diaper; a light receiving part that receives reflected light of the light; a control part that determines the presence or absence of defecation from information on the color of the light received by the light receiving part; and a notification part that provides notification of the defecation when the presence of the defecation is determined by the control part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention relate to a feces detection system and a feces detection device. [Background technology]

[0002] If feces are defecated in the diaper, it is necessary to change the diaper promptly to prevent skin problems and bedsores. Patent Document 1 describes an excretion detection device that detects feces using a signal from a gas sensor. Patent Document 2 describes a defecation / urination determination device that detects feces and urination based on the moisture content of the excretion. Patent Document 3 describes a sensor that detects excretion using a color-changing indicator. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-245779 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-128478 [Patent Document 3] Special Publication No. 2019-512676 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The excretion detection device disclosed in Patent Document 1 may falsely detect due to odors from daily life or flatus, and there is also a risk that the odor of defecation may leak into the surrounding area. The defecation and urination determination device disclosed in Patent Document 2 may be difficult to distinguish because the state of defecation and urination changes depending on the user's physical condition, etc. The sensor disclosed in Patent Document 3 uses an indicator that changes color in response to feces or urine, so there is a risk that it will not be able to detect defecation or urination unless a dedicated diaper using this indicator is used.

[0005] An object of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a feces detection system and a feces detection device that can effectively detect feces. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The feces detection system according to the embodiment is characterized by comprising an illumination unit that emits light toward the buttocks of a user wearing a diaper, a light receiving unit that receives the reflected light of the light, a control unit that determines whether or not there has been a defecation based on the received light color information received by the light receiving unit, and an alarm unit that alerts the user to defecation when the control unit determines that there has been a defecation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the embodiments of the present invention, a feces detection system and a feces detection device that can effectively detect feces can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a diaper provided with a feces detection device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a feces detection system. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing defecation detection control by a control unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a feces detection system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing received light color detection control by a control unit of a color sensor. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing defecation detection control by a control unit of the terminal device. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a feces detection system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a front view showing defecation information displayed on a notification unit of the terminal device. [Figure 9] 10 is a flow chart for displaying the presence or absence of bowel movements and constipation. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a front view showing defecation time information for each floor displayed on the notification unit. [Figure 11] 10 is a flow chart for predicting bowel movements based on the number of bowel movements. [Figure 12] 10 is a flow chart for predicting defecation based on defecation time. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a feces detection system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 10 is a front view showing defecation information and the state of the user displayed on the notification unit of the terminal device. FIG. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart for determining the priority of diaper changes based on the condition of the user. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a user setting screen displayed on a notification unit of the terminal device. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a diaper provided with a feces detection device according to a first modified example of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a feces detection system. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a feces detection device according to a second modified example of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] A feces detection system and a feces detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 16. Figures 1 to 3 show a feces detection system and a feces detection device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a diaper provided with a feces detection device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a feces detection system. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing defecation detection control by the control unit.

[0010] The diaper 10 is for receiving excrement such as urine and feces from a user, and is, for example, a disposable paper diaper. The diaper 10 may also be a cloth diaper. As shown in Fig. 1, the diaper 10 has a main body portion 12 that is worn around the lower abdomen of the user, and a sheet portion 17 that is placed inside the main body portion 12 and receives excrement.

[0011] The main body 12 has a ventral portion 13 located on the ventral side of the user, a dorsal portion 14 located on the dorsal side of the user, and a crotch portion 15 that is recessed between the ventral portion 13 and the dorsal portion 14 and through which the user's crotch passes. The main body 12 has a laminated structure made of nonwoven fabric, resin film, absorbent sheet, etc.

[0012] A pair of hook-and-loop fasteners 14a are provided on the back portion 14. The user can put on the diaper 10 by adhering the hook-and-loop fasteners 14a to the abdominal portion 13. The sheet portion 17 is made of, for example, a white nonwoven fabric, and is positioned between the user's buttocks or private parts and the main portion 12 to receive the user's excrement.

[0013] The feces detection device 20 is provided in the diaper 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the feces detection device 20 is disposed between the main body portion 12 and the sheet portion 17. The feces detection device 20 is disposed, for example, closer to the back portion 14 than the crotch portion 15, and detects feces excreted by the user. The feces detection device 20 has, for example, a color sensor or an optical sensor (brightness sensor). The feces detection device 20 and the feces detection system 200 have an illumination unit 21, a light receiving unit 22, a memory unit 23, a control unit 24, and an alarm unit 25.

[0014] The illumination unit 21 emits light through the sheet unit 17 toward the buttocks of a user wearing the diaper 10. The illumination unit 21 is, for example, a white LED. The illumination unit 21 is connected to the control unit 24, and is controlled to be turned on and off by a command signal from the control unit 24. The illumination unit 21 emits light when power is supplied from the power source via the control unit 24, for example, when a power source (not shown) is turned on. The illumination unit 21 may emit light continuously, or may emit light intermittently, for example, every several tens of seconds to several minutes.

[0015] The light receiving unit 22 receives reflected light of the light emitted from the light illuminating unit 21. Specifically, the light receiving unit 22 receives light reflected from the sheet unit 17. When the user has not defecate, the light receiving unit 22 receives white light reflected from the sheet unit 17. On the other hand, when the user has defecate, the sheet unit 17 changes from white to the color of feces. As a result, when the user has defecate, the light receiving unit 22 receives feces-colored light reflected from the sheet unit 17. The light receiving unit 22 is connected to the control unit 24 and transmits received light color information to the control unit 24.

[0016] When an optical sensor is used in the feces detection device 20, the light receiving unit 22 may be provided with a color filter that transmits only color information specific to feces. In other words, the color filter does not transmit reflected light when the user has not defecate. When the user has defecate, the light receiving unit 22 receives color information specific to feces. The light that passes through the color filter and includes the feces color is converted into a change in brightness and input to the control unit 24. In other words, the feces detection device 20 detects the presence or absence of feces using a binary feces detection optical sensor.

[0017] The memory unit 23 stores in advance stool color information specific to stool. The stool color information is a color (spectrum) having a range of brown to black, which is the color of stool. The memory unit 23 also stores, for example, the results of defecation detection by the control unit 24 along with the time. The memory unit 23 stores a control program for defecation detection control shown in FIG. 3. The memory unit 23 may be provided in the control unit 24.

[0018] When the light receiving unit 22 using a color filter is used, the color of the stool is converted into brightness, so that a storage unit does not need to be provided.

[0019] The color information stored in the memory unit 23 may be changed according to the detection target, and may be, for example, a color having a range of yellow, which is the color of urine, or a color having a range of red, which is the color of blood. This allows the control unit 24 to distinguish urine, blood, etc. from feces and set them as detection targets.

[0020] The control unit 24 compares the received light color information received by the light receiving unit 22 with the stool color information stored in the memory unit 23 to determine whether or not defecation has occurred. The control unit 24 is connected to the illumination unit 21, the light receiving unit 22, the memory unit 23, and the notification unit 25. The control unit 24 acquires (receives) the received light color information relating to the color of the light received by the light receiving unit 22. The control unit 24 executes the defecation detection control shown in FIG. 3.

[0021] When the light receiving unit 22 using a color filter is used, the control unit 24 determines whether or not defecation has occurred using a change in brightness of the light receiving unit 22 as a threshold value.

[0022] Since the light containing stool color information is converted into a voltage value by the light receiving unit 22, a circuit may be constructed using a comparator and an AND circuit to activate the alarm unit 25 only when a specific voltage value is combined, in which case the control unit 24 does not need to be provided.

[0023] The notification unit 25 notifies the user of defecation when the control unit 24 determines that defecation has occurred. The notification unit 25 is, for example, a sound generating device (speaker) or a vibration generating device (vibrator). The notification unit 25 generates sound or vibration in response to an instruction from the control unit 24.

[0024] For example, by using a vibration generator as the alarm unit 25, it is possible to notify only the user that a defecation has occurred, without people nearby noticing. The alarm unit 25 continues to provide an alarm until it is reset, for example, by a remote control (not shown) of the feces detection device 20. This allows the alarm unit 25 to continue providing an alarm until the user notices that a defecation has occurred. Note that the alarm unit 25 is not limited to providing a continuous alarm, and may provide an alarm intermittently, for example, every few tens of seconds.

[0025] Fig. 3 shows a flow diagram of the defecation detection control executed by the control unit 24. The defecation detection control shown in Fig. 3 is executed at a predetermined cycle after the power of the feces detection device 20 is turned on. In the flow diagram shown in Fig. 3, steps are indicated by "S".

[0026] First, in S1, the illumination unit 21 is turned on. That is, the control unit 24 supplies power to the illumination unit 21, causing the illumination unit 21 to emit white light, and the process proceeds to S2. In S2, color is acquired. That is, the control unit 24 acquires received light color information from the light receiving unit 22, which receives reflected light of the light emitted from the illumination unit 21. Next, in S3, color spectrum analysis is performed. That is, the control unit 24 analyzes the color spectrum of the received light color information received from the light receiving unit 22, and the process proceeds to S4.

[0027] In S4, it is determined whether the color spectrum is specific to stool. That is, the control unit 24 compares the color spectrum of the received light color information analyzed in S3 with the color spectrum of the stool color information stored in the memory unit 23. Then, if the result in S4 is "YES," that is, if the color spectrum of the received light color information is included in the color spectrum of the stool color information, the control unit 24 proceeds to S5. If the result in S4 is "YES," the color spectrum of the received light color information is brownish or blackish, which is a color specific to stool.

[0028] On the other hand, if the result of S4 is "NO," that is, if the color spectrum of the received light color information is not included in the color spectrum of the stool color information, the control unit 24 ends the process. If the result of S4 is "NO," for example, the color spectrum of the received light color information is a color other than brown or black, such as the color spectrum of the sheet part 17 (for example, white).

[0029] In S5, a defecation notification is executed. That is, the control unit 24 causes the notification unit 25 to generate sound or vibration, and then ends the process. This allows the user wearing the diaper 10 to know that defecation has occurred. The notification from the notification unit 25 may be reset using a remote control or the like as described above, or may be reset when the diaper 10 is changed and the received light color information no longer indicates stool color information.

[0030] Thus, the feces detection device 20 and feces detection system 200 according to the first embodiment store feces-specific color information in the memory unit 23 of the feces detection device 20, which is made up of a color sensor, and notify of defecation when the light-receiving unit 22 receives the feces color. This allows the feces detection device 20 to effectively detect defecation. Furthermore, the feces detection device 20 can be used with commercially available diapers 10 rather than dedicated diapers, improving usability. Furthermore, the feces detection device 20 can be reused with new diapers 10, even if the diapers 10 are disposable, thereby reducing costs.

[0031] 4 to 6 show a feces detection device 30 and a feces detection system 300 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The second embodiment is characterized in that the feces detection device 30 and the feces detection system 300 include a color sensor 31 and a terminal device 41. In the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a feces detection system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 4, the feces detection device 30 and the feces detection system 300 include a color sensor 31 and a terminal device 41.

[0033] The color sensor 31 is provided inside the diaper 10. The color sensor 31 has an illumination unit 21, a light receiving unit 22, a first storage unit 32, a first control unit 33, and a first communication unit 34. The color sensor 31 may also be provided with the notification unit 25 described in the first embodiment.

[0034] The first storage unit 32 stores, for example, the time when the color sensor 31 is powered on and information about the color of light received by the light receiving unit 22. The first storage unit 32 also stores a control program for detecting the color of light received, as shown in Fig. 5. The first storage unit 32 may be provided in the first control unit 33.

[0035] The first control unit 33 is connected to the illumination unit 21, the light receiving unit 22, the first storage unit 32, and the first communication unit 34. The first control unit 33 executes the received light color detection control shown in Fig. 5. The first control unit 33 causes the first communication unit 34 to transmit received light color information received by the light receiving unit 22 to the terminal device 41. If the color sensor 31 has an alarm unit 25, the first control unit 33 causes the alarm unit 25 to output sound or vibration when it receives a determination result from the terminal device 41 that defecation has occurred.

[0036] The first communication unit 34 transmits the received light color information received by the light receiving unit 22 to the terminal device 41. The first communication unit 34 is controlled by the first control unit 33. The first communication unit 34 may continuously transmit the received light color information, or may transmit the received light color information intermittently (for example, every tens of seconds to every few minutes). Note that if the color sensor 31 has a notification unit, the first communication unit 34 receives a defecation detection result (defecation signal) from the terminal device 41.

[0037] The terminal device 41 communicates with the color sensor 31. The terminal device 41 may be, for example, a management device (e.g., a mobile terminal) of a user who wears the diaper 10 equipped with the color sensor 31, or a management device (e.g., a mobile terminal or a desktop computer) of a caregiver who is caring for the user. The terminal device 41 is connected to the color sensor 31 wirelessly. Alternatively, the terminal device 41 may be connected to the color sensor 31 by a cable. The terminal device 41 has a second communication unit 42, a second storage unit 43, a second control unit 44, and an alarm unit 45.

[0038] The second communication unit 42 receives the received light color information transmitted from the first communication unit 34 of the color sensor 31. If the color sensor 31 has the notification unit 25, the second communication unit 42 transmits a defecation detection result (defecation signal) to the first communication unit 34.

[0039] The second memory unit 43 stores in advance stool color information specific to stool. The stool color information specific to stool is a color (spectrum) having a range of brown to black, which is the color of stool. The second memory unit 43 constitutes the memory unit of the present invention. For example, the second memory unit 43 stores received light color information received by the second communication unit 42 together with the time. The second memory unit 43 also stores the defecation detection result (defecation result) by the second control unit 44 together with the time. The second memory unit 43 stores a control program for defecation detection control shown in Figure 6. The second memory unit 43 may be provided in the second control unit 44.

[0040] The second control unit 44 compares the received light color information received by the second communication unit 42 with the stool color information stored in the second memory unit 43 to determine whether or not defecation has occurred. The second control unit 44 constitutes the control unit of the present invention, and is connected to the second communication unit 42, the second memory unit 43, and the notification unit 45. The second control unit 44 executes the defecation detection control shown in FIG. 6.

[0041] The notification unit 45 notifies the user of defecation when the second control unit 44 determines that defecation has occurred. The notification unit 45 is, for example, a display unit that displays images or text information, a sound generating device (speaker), a vibration generating device (vibrator), etc. The notification unit 45 generates an image display, sound, vibration, etc. in response to an instruction from the second control unit 44. The notification unit 45 notifies the user of defecation by at least one of the image display, sound, and vibration.

[0042] If the terminal device 41 is a mobile terminal of the user, the user can confirm that a defecation has occurred using the terminal device 41. By having the user's terminal device 41 notify the user of the defecation, it is possible to reduce discomfort, for example, caused by the sound or vibration generated by the color sensor 31 itself on the user's buttocks. On the other hand, if the terminal device 41 belongs to a caregiver (for example, a management terminal), the caregiver can confirm that the user has defecate using the terminal device 41. This allows the caregiver to recognize the user's defecation status from a location away from the user without having to directly check the user's defecation status. Furthermore, since the caregiver can quickly recognize that the user has defecate, the caregiver can change the diaper 10 promptly.

[0043] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the received light color detection control by the control unit of the color sensor. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing defecation detection control by the control unit of the terminal device. The control shown in Figures 5 and 6 is executed at a predetermined cycle. In the flow charts shown in Figures 5 and 6, steps are indicated by "S."

[0044] First, the received light color detection control executed by the first control unit 33 of the color sensor 31 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. In S11 and S12, the same controls as in S1 and S2 shown in Fig. 3 are executed. Then, in the next S13, a color information signal (received light color information) is transmitted. That is, the first control unit 33 causes the first communication unit 34 to transmit the received light color information received by the light receiving unit 22 to the second communication unit 42 of the terminal device 41, and the process ends. The first control unit 33 may cause the first communication unit 34 to transmit the received light color information continuously to the second communication unit 42, or may cause it to be transmitted intermittently (for example, every several tens of seconds to several minutes).

[0045] Next, the defecation detection control executed by the second control unit 44 of the terminal device 41 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. In S21, a color information signal (received light color information) is received. That is, the second control unit 44 stores the received light color information received by the second communication unit 42 in the second storage unit 43. In the following S22 and S23, the same controls as S3 and S4 shown in Fig. 3 are executed.

[0046] Then, in the next step S24, a defecation notification is executed. That is, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to notify the user that a defecation has occurred by displaying an image, sound, vibration, or the like, and then ends the process. The notification unit 45 notifies the user that a defecation has occurred by displaying text such as "Defecation has occurred" or an image such as a diaper mark. The notification unit 45 is not limited to displaying text or an image, and may also generate vibration or sound.

[0047] Thus, the feces detection device 30 and the feces detection system 300 according to the second embodiment notify the terminal device 41, which is located away from the color sensor 31 provided in the diaper 10, of the occurrence of defecation. As a result, if the terminal device 41 belongs to the user, for example, the user can confirm that defecation has occurred using the terminal device 41 without being noticed by people around them. By having the user's terminal device 41 notify the occurrence of defecation, it is possible to reduce discomfort, for example, around the user's buttocks, caused by the sound and vibration generated by the color sensor 31 itself.

[0048] On the other hand, if the terminal device 41 belongs to a caregiver, the caregiver can confirm that the user has had a bowel movement using the terminal device 41. This allows the caregiver to recognize the user's bowel movement status at a location away from the user without having to directly check the user's bowel movement status. Furthermore, since the caregiver can quickly recognize that the user has had a bowel movement, the caregiver can change the diaper 10 quickly after the user has had a bowel movement.

[0049] 7 to 12 show a feces detection system 400 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The feces detection system 400 according to the third embodiment is characterized in that it manages the defecation states of multiple users using a terminal device 41. In the third embodiment, the same components as those in the first and second embodiments described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a feces detection system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a front view showing defecation information displayed on the notification unit of the terminal device.

[0050] The bed 100 shown in FIG. 7 is used in facilities such as nursing homes and hospitals. A user (such as a care recipient or a hospitalized patient) wearing a diaper 10 sleeps on the bed 100. The color sensor 31 of the diaper 10 worn by each user is wirelessly connected to a terminal device 41. The color sensor 31 of each user transmits information about the color of light received inside the diaper 10 to the terminal device 41. The terminal device 41 is installed, for example, in a management room in the facility. The terminal device 41 may also be a mobile terminal carried by each caregiver.

[0051] FIG. 8 shows an example of defecation information displayed on the notification unit 45 of the terminal device 41. The notification unit 45 shown in FIG. 8 is a display unit of the terminal device 41. The terminal device 41 is configured to know which room a user wearing a diaper 10 is using among users in the facility. That is, the color sensor 31 is linked to each room (room number) in the facility. The color sensor 31 may be linked to each room by the terminal device 41, or by a dedicated device and the color sensor 31. The color sensor 31 may be linked to each user.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 8, color frames 51-53 and a diaper mark 55 are displayed on the room numbers of users wearing diapers 10. By checking the color frames 51-53 and the diaper mark 55, the caregiver can confirm which room the user wearing the diaper 10 is using. Note that Fig. 8 shows six users of diapers 10, but Fig. 7 shows three users and omits the other users for ease of explanation.

[0053] The notification unit 45 displays defecation information, for example, by changing color from a blue frame 51 (shown by a dashed line). When the second control unit 44 determines that no defecation has occurred, the blue frame 51 is displayed. On the other hand, when the second control unit 44 determines that a defecation has occurred, the blue frame 51 is changed to a red frame 52 (shown by a solid line). Furthermore, when the second control unit 44 determines that a constipated state has occurred, the blue frame 51 is changed to a yellow frame 53 (shown by a dotted line). Note that the defecation information is not limited to a color display, and may be a flashing or lit display, or may be displayed as text. Furthermore, when a defecation has occurred, the notification may be made by sound or vibration.

[0054] This allows the caregiver to obtain bowel movement information of multiple users through the terminal device 41 without having to directly check on the users in each room. Therefore, when a user has a bowel movement, the caregiver can quickly change the user's diaper.

[0055] 9 is a flow chart for displaying the presence or absence of defecation and constipation. The control program for defecation information control shown in FIG. The defecation information control shown in Fig. 9 is executed at a predetermined cycle. In the flow chart shown in Fig. 9, steps are indicated by "S".

[0056] In S31, it is determined whether or not a defecation has occurred. This determination of whether or not a defecation has occurred is performed based on the control processing in Figures 5 and 6. If the result in S31 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that a defecation has occurred, the process proceeds to S32. On the other hand, if the result in S31 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that a defecation has not occurred, the process proceeds to S33.

[0057] In S32, a notification is made that a defecation has occurred. That is, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to display a red frame 52 indicating that a defecation has occurred, and then ends the process. This allows the caregiver to check on the terminal device 41 which user has had a defecation.

[0058] In S33, it is determined whether the time elapsed since the previous defecation is within the elapsed time threshold. That is, the second control unit 44 calculates the time elapsed from the time of the previous defecation stored in the second storage unit 43 to the current time. The elapsed time threshold is stored in the second storage unit 43 and is set to several tens of hours (for example, 48 hours). The elapsed time threshold may be set individually for each user.

[0059] If S33 returns "YES," i.e., if it is determined that the time elapsed since the previous defecation to the present is within the elapsed time threshold, the process proceeds to S34. On the other hand, if S33 returns "NO," i.e., if it is determined that the time elapsed since the previous defecation to the present exceeds the elapsed time threshold, the process proceeds to S35.

[0060] In S34, the absence of defecation is notified. That is, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to display a blue frame 51 indicating the absence of defecation, and then ends the process. This allows the caregiver to check on the terminal device 41 whether the user has not defecate.

[0061] In S35, constipation is reported. That is, the second control unit 44 causes the reporting unit 45 to display a yellow frame 53 indicating constipation, and then ends the process. This allows the caregiver to check the constipated user on the terminal device 41. In this way, the second control unit 44 monitors whether the user has had a bowel movement and the user's constipation state. Therefore, care can be provided smoothly, and health management of the user can also be performed.

[0062] Next, FIG. 10 is a front view showing defecation time information for each floor displayed on the notification unit. 10, the notification unit 45 displays defecation time information for each floor. The defecation time information may display the defecation time of each user, or may display the total number of defecations within a predetermined time period (for example, within one hour) on each floor.

[0063] The second control unit 44 stores the defecation time of each user in the second memory unit 43. Then, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to display the defecation time of the user for each floor. The second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to display, for example, defecation distribution information for each floor. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, it is displayed that a user in a room on the first floor has a lot of defecation between 1:30 and 2:30. It is displayed that a user on the second floor has a lot of defecation between 3:30 and 4:30. It is also displayed that a user on the third floor has a lot of defecation between 5:30 and 6:30.

[0064] Each user's bowel movements generally occur periodically. For example, if a caregiver is assigned to each floor, if multiple users on the same floor defecate at the same time, there is a risk that the diaper changes of the subsequent users will be delayed. Therefore, by displaying the defecation distribution for each floor on the notification unit 45, it is possible to identify busy and slow diaper changing times on each floor. This makes it possible to distribute diaper changing times by, for example, switching users on the first floor with users on the second floor. This allows caregivers on each floor to change diapers promptly after a user defecates. Therefore, even if there are only a few caregivers on each floor, care can be provided with ample time.

[0065] Next, a case where a defecation prediction for each user is calculated from past defecation information will be described. The defecation prediction indicates the possibility that a defecation will occur in the near future.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 8, the defecation prediction is displayed, for example, in multiple modes of the diaper mark 55. In FIG. 8, the defecation prediction is shown in three levels: "high," "medium," and "low." A "high" defecation prediction is displayed, for example, as "high" within the diaper mark 55. A "medium" defecation prediction is displayed, for example, as "medium" within the diaper mark 55. A "low" defecation prediction is displayed, for example, as "low" within the diaper mark 55. Note that the display of the defecation prediction is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a color display, a lighting display, a flashing display, or the like. Furthermore, the defecation prediction display is not limited to three levels, but may be two levels, or four or more levels.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 8, the caregiver can recognize that the occupant of room 101 is unlikely to defecate because the defecation prediction is "low" and the room is framed in blue 51. The caregiver can recognize that the occupant of room 202 is likely to defecate because the defecation prediction is "medium" and the room is framed in blue 51. On the other hand, the caregiver can recognize that the occupant of room 301 is likely to defecate because the room is framed in red 52, although the defecation prediction is "medium." For example, if the occupant defecates when the defecation prediction is "low" or "medium," the caregiver can be concerned about the occupant's poor health.

[0068] The caregiver can recognize that the occupant of room 201 has already had a bowel movement because the display shows a "high" bowel movement prediction, but the display shows a red frame 52. On the other hand, the caregiver can recognize that the occupant of room 302 has not yet had a bowel movement because the display shows a "high" bowel movement prediction, but the display shows a blue frame 51. In such a case, the caregiver can encourage the occupant of room 302 to have a bowel movement in the toilet.

[0069] This reduces the chance of defecation in the diaper 10. Therefore, for example, if a user who normally defecates in the toilet wears the diaper 10 as a precaution, the user can defecate in the toilet before defecation in the diaper 10, thereby maintaining the user's mental state and enabling smooth care. Note that the user in Room 105 is displayed with a yellow frame 53 indicating a constipated state, and therefore no defecation prediction is displayed. However, this is not limited to this, and a user who is determined to be constipated may always have a defecation prediction of "high."

[0070] Next, the defecation prediction control performed by the second control unit 44 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 11 is a flow chart for predicting bowel movements based on the number of bowel movements. The defecation prediction control shown in Fig. 11 is executed at a predetermined cycle. The defecation prediction control shown in Fig. 11 is executed after defecation information over, for example, several days is stored (accumulated) in the second storage unit 43. In the flow chart shown in Fig. 11, steps are indicated by "S."

[0071] First, in S41, it is determined whether the current time is a predetermined time before the previous defecation time. This predetermined time is, for example, several tens of minutes (e.g., 20 to 30 minutes before) before the earliest defecation time among the previous defecation times stored in the second storage unit 43. The predetermined time may be different for each user. Then, if S41 returns "YES," that is, if it is determined that the current time is a predetermined time before the previous defecation time, the process proceeds to S42. On the other hand, if S41 returns "NO," that is, if it is determined that the current time is not a predetermined time before the previous defecation time, the process ends. Note that if S41 returns "NO," the process may proceed to S46.

[0072] In S42, it is determined whether the stored number of defecations is equal to or greater than a first frequency threshold. The number of defecations is calculated for a divided period (e.g., 20-30 minute intervals), such as between 8:00 and 8:30. For example, if defecation occurred at 8:05 six days ago and five days ago, at 8:25 four days ago and three days ago, and at 8:15 two days ago and one day ago, the number of defecations stored in the second memory unit 43 would be six between 8:00 and 8:30. The first frequency threshold is a threshold indicating a high possibility of defecation. The first frequency threshold is a value that takes into account the regular periodicity of daily defecations, and is set to, for example, five or more times.

[0073] If S42 returns "YES," i.e., if it is determined that the stored number of defecations is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the process proceeds to S43. On the other hand, if S42 returns "NO," i.e., if it is determined that the stored number of defecations is less than the first threshold value, the process proceeds to S44.

[0074] In S43, a "high" defecation prediction is notified. That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to display "high" within the diaper mark 55. By checking this "high" display, the caregiver can recognize that the time for the user to defecate is approaching. Therefore, the caregiver can urge the user to defecate in the toilet before defecation occurs in the diaper 10.

[0075] In S44, it is determined whether the stored number of defecations is equal to or greater than a second threshold. The second threshold is a smaller value than the first threshold, and is set to, for example, less than 5 times. The second threshold is set assuming defecations that occur at unusual times, such as after eating. In S44, the same determination process as in S42 is executed. Then, if S44 returns "YES," i.e., if it is determined that the stored number of defecations is equal to or greater than the second threshold, the process proceeds to S45. On the other hand, if S44 returns "NO," i.e., if it is determined that the stored number of defecations is less than the second threshold, the process proceeds to S46.

[0076] In S45, a defecation prediction of "medium" is notified. That is, as shown in Fig. 8, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to display "medium" within the diaper mark 55. By checking this "medium" display, the caregiver can recognize that the time period when the user rarely defecates is approaching.

[0077] In S46, a "low" bowel movement prediction is notified. That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to display "low" within the diaper mark 55. By checking this "low" display, the caregiver can recognize that although a time period in which the user previously had a bowel movement is approaching, the likelihood that the user will defecate is low. Note that if the result in S41 is "NO" and the process proceeds to S46, the "low" display allows the caregiver to recognize that the current time period is a time period in which the user previously had no bowel movements.

[0078] FIG. 12 is a flow chart for predicting defecation based on defecation time. The defecation prediction control shown in Fig. 12 is executed at a predetermined cycle. Moreover, the defecation prediction control shown in Fig. 12 is executed, for example, after defecation information (defecation has occurred) is stored (accumulated) in the second storage unit 43. In the flow chart shown in Fig. 12, steps are indicated by "S".

[0079] In S51, it is determined whether the time difference between the current time and the stored defecation time is equal to or less than a first time difference threshold. The first time difference threshold is set as a time when the time difference between the current time and the stored defecation time is small, and is set to several tens of minutes (for example, 20 to 30 minutes). In other words, the first time difference threshold is set as a time period close to the past defecation time. Furthermore, the stored defecation time may be only the defecation time stored on the previous day, or all defecation times stored in the past may be used.

[0080] If S51 returns "YES," i.e., if it is determined that the time difference between the current time and the stored defecation time is equal to or less than the first time difference threshold, the process proceeds to S52. On the other hand, if S51 returns "NO," i.e., if it is determined that the time difference between the current time and the stored defecation time is greater than the first time difference threshold, the process proceeds to S53.

[0081] In S52, a "high" defecation prediction is notified. That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to display "high" within the diaper mark 55. By checking this "high" display, the caregiver can recognize that the user's defecation time is approaching. For example, if the first time difference threshold is set to 20 minutes, the caregiver can recognize that the current time is within 20 minutes of the previous defecation time. Therefore, the caregiver can urge the user to defecate in the toilet before defecation in the diaper 10.

[0082] In S53, it is determined whether the time difference between the current time and the stored defecation time is equal to or less than a second time difference threshold. The second time difference threshold is set to a value greater than the first time difference threshold. The second time difference threshold is set to a time (e.g., 1 to 2 hours) such that the current time is slightly away from the stored defecation time.

[0083] If S53 returns "YES," i.e., if it is determined that the time difference between the current time and the stored defecation time is equal to or less than the second time difference threshold, the process proceeds to S54. On the other hand, if S53 returns "NO," i.e., if it is determined that the time difference between the current time and the stored defecation time is greater than the second time difference threshold, the process proceeds to S55.

[0084] In S54, a defecation prediction of "mid" is notified. That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to display "mid" within the diaper mark 55. By checking this "mid" display, the caregiver can recognize that it will soon be time for the user to defecate. For example, if the second time difference threshold is set to one hour, the caregiver can recognize that the current time is more than 20 minutes but within one hour of the previous defecation time.

[0085] In S55, a "low" defecation prediction is notified. That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to display "low" within the diaper mark 55. By checking this "low" display, the caregiver can recognize that the user's defecation time is far away. For example, if the second time difference threshold is set to one hour, the caregiver can recognize that the current time is more than one hour away from the previous defecation time. In this way, in the defecation prediction control shown in FIG. 12, the defecation prediction changes from "low" to "medium" to "high" as the previous defecation time approaches. Therefore, the caregiver can smoothly care for multiple users while checking the defecation prediction display.

[0086] 13 to 15 show a feces detection system 500 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The feces detection system 500 according to the fourth embodiment is characterized in that the notification mode of the feces information performed by the notification unit 45 is changed based on the state of the user on the bed 100. In the fourth embodiment, the same components as those in the first to third embodiments described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a feces detection system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a front view showing defecation information and the state of the user displayed on the notification unit of the terminal device.

[0087] As shown in Fig. 13, bed 100 is equipped with a state detection device 60 that detects the state of the user on bed 100. This state detection device 60 is placed under the mattress of bed 100. The state detection device 60 detects the user's body movements, such as turning over in bed, breathing, and heartbeat, to detect whether the user has gotten out of bed, sat up, woken up, or fallen asleep. The state detection device 60 is connected to terminal device 41 wirelessly or via a wire, and transmits the state of the user on bed 100 to terminal device 41.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 14, the notification unit 45 of the terminal device 41 has a status display unit 45a that displays the status of the user on the bed 100 and a priority display unit 45b that indicates the priority of diaper changing. The status display unit 45a displays each user's status of getting out of bed (e.g., room 202), standing up (e.g., room 201), awake (e.g., room 101), and asleep (e.g., room 102). The status display unit 45a may also display the user's status in text. The status display unit 45a also displays bowel movement information of users wearing the diaper 10 using a diaper mark 55, a blue frame 51, and a red frame 52. The status display unit 45a also displays information such as each user's heart rate and breathing.

[0089] When a user has had a bowel movement, the terminal device 41 changes the notification mode of the notification unit 45 depending on the state of the user on the bed 100. For example, when multiple users have had a bowel movement, the priority order display unit 45b displays which user's diaper change should be given priority.

[0090] For example, if a user with dementia defecates in the diaper 10, they may take off the diaper 10 or touch the defecation with their hands without waiting for a caregiver. On the other hand, a sleeping user is unlikely to take off the diaper 10 even if they defecate. Also, a sleeping user's diaper cannot be changed without being woken up. Therefore, in this example, it is possible to set the display so that a defecation notification (red frame 52) is not displayed even if a sleeping user defecates. Then, when the user wakes up, the second control unit 44 switches the frame from blue to red 52 and displays it on the priority display unit 45b.

[0091] The second control unit 44 of the terminal device 41 assigns priorities to diaper changing when the user wearing the diaper 10 is awake (not asleep). The highest priority is given to the out-of-bed state, followed by the sitting-up state, and finally to the awake state.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 14, when there are multiple users who have had a defecation, the priority display unit 45b displays the user who has left the bed (e.g., room 202) at the top. Then, the priority display unit 45b displays the user who has sat up (e.g., room 201) below that. The priority display unit 45b also displays the user who has woken up (e.g., room 101) at the bottom. When there are multiple users in the same state (e.g., 22 users have left the bed), the priority of the user who first reached that state is given a higher priority. The priority may be displayed using color, flashing, text display, or the like. That is, the notification unit 45 uses different notification modes to notify the user of defecation depending on the state of the user on the bed 100.

[0093] FIG. 15 is a flow chart for determining the priority of diaper changes based on the state of the user. The control program for priority display control shown in Fig. 15 is stored in the second storage unit 43 and executed at a predetermined cycle. In the flowchart shown in Fig. 15, steps are indicated by "S".

[0094] In S61, it is determined whether or not a defecation has occurred. This determination of whether or not a defecation has occurred is performed based on the control processing in Figures 5 and 6. If the result in S61 is "YES", that is, if it is determined that a defecation has occurred, the process proceeds to S62. On the other hand, if the result in S61 is "NO", that is, if it is determined that a defecation has not occurred, the process ends.

[0095] In S62, it is determined whether the user has left the bed. That is, the second control unit 44 determines whether the user's state is getting out of the bed based on the state signal (biological signal) transmitted from the state detection device 60. The out-of-bed state can be determined, for example, when the state detection device 60 does not detect the user's body movement. Then, if S62 returns "YES," that is, if it is determined that the user has left the bed, the process proceeds to S63. On the other hand, if S62 returns "NO," that is, if it is determined that the user has not left the bed, the process proceeds to S64.

[0096] In S63, the first priority is given to the notification. That is, the second control unit 44 determines the first priority to be given to the case where a user who has had a bowel movement has left the bed, and stores this in the second storage unit 43. Then, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to notify this user as the first priority, and the process ends.

[0097] In S64, it is determined whether the user is sitting up. That is, the second control unit 44 determines whether the user is sitting up based on the status signal (biological signal) transmitted from the status detection device 60. The sitting up state can be determined, for example, when the status detection device 60 detects a biological signal of the user sitting up from a lying down state. Then, if S64 returns "YES," that is, if it is determined that the user is sitting up, the process proceeds to S65. On the other hand, if S64 returns "NO," that is, if it is determined that the user is not sitting up, the process proceeds to S66.

[0098] In S65, the second priority is given to the user. That is, the second control unit 44 determines that the second priority is given to the user who has defecation and is standing up. Then, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to notify the user as the second priority, and the process ends. Note that if the second storage unit 43 does not store a first priority user, the second control unit 44 moves the second priority user up to the first priority and causes the notification unit 45 to notify the user.

[0099] In S66, it is determined whether the user is awake. That is, the second control unit 44 determines whether the user is awake or not based on the state signal (biological signal) transmitted from the state detection device 60. The awake state can be detected, for example, by the state detection device 60 based on biological signals from breathing and heartbeat while the user is lying down, and the amount of activity of the user (presence, magnitude, duration, etc. of body movement). Then, if S66 returns "YES," that is, if it is determined that the user is awake, the process proceeds to S67. On the other hand, if S66 returns "NO," that is, if it is determined that the user is not awake, the process ends.

[0100] In S67, the user is notified as the third priority. That is, the second control unit 44 determines that a user who has had a bowel movement and is awake is the third priority. Then, the second control unit 44 causes the notification unit 45 to notify this user as the third priority, and the process ends. Note that if no first- or second-priority user is stored in the second storage unit 43, the second control unit 44 moves the third-priority user up to the first or second priority and causes the notification unit 45 to notify the user.

[0101] In this way, the notification unit 45 notifies the order of diaper changes by displaying a user who has had a bowel movement and is considered to be active (getting out of bed) as a first priority, a user who has had a bowel movement and is in bed 100 (getting up) as a second priority, and a user who has had a bowel movement and has just woken up from sleep (awakening) as a third priority. This allows the caregiver to check on the notification unit 45 of the terminal device 41 which user out of multiple users should have their diaper changed first. This allows the caregiver to change the user's diaper earlier and provide smooth care.

[0102] When the diaper change is completed, the caregiver performs a diaper change completion process (reset) on the terminal device 41. This makes it possible to delete the information indicating that the user has had a bowel movement displayed on the notification unit 45. The second control unit 44 may automatically delete the user displayed on the notification unit 45 by determining that the user has not had a bowel movement after the diaper change.

[0103] The priority order may be set based on the order of defecation time, not limited to the state of the user. For example, the second control unit 44 can cause the priority order display unit 45b of the notification unit 45 to notify the order of defecation from top to bottom. This allows the caregiver to easily confirm that diapers should be changed in order from top to bottom. Furthermore, since diapers are changed early after defecation, it is possible to prevent stool leakage and the user touching the stool, and to quickly alleviate the discomfort of the user. The display of the priority order display unit 45b may be switched between the most recent order, the most recent order, etc.

[0104] Furthermore, for example, the priority may be determined by combining the time of defecation and the state of the user. For example, if multiple users defecate in the same time period (for example, within a 30-minute period), the priority may be determined based on the state of the users. For example, the priority of each user who defecates in the same time period may be determined in the order of getting out of bed, standing up, waking up, and sleeping.

[0105] Furthermore, if the user's condition changes, the notification unit 45 may notify the user by, for example, flashing a display or sounding a sound. In this case, the initially set priority position may be maintained, or the priority may be updated by comparing with the conditions of other users.

[0106] FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a user setting screen displayed on the notification unit of the terminal device. Users who are admitted to hospitals or nursing homes are in different conditions, such as being bedridden or suffering from dementia, etc. Therefore, the caregiver may be able to set the notification and priority of bowel movement information for each user on the terminal device 41.

[0107] The caregiver may be able to set a priority level for defecation for each user on the terminal device 41. For example, a priority level (high, medium, low) can be set for each user. The caregiver may also be able to set on the terminal device 41 whether or not to notify each user of defecation during sleep. The caregiver may also be able to set whether or not to generate a sound in addition to displaying the defecation notification on the terminal device 41. In this case, for example, a sound may be generated only for users with a "high" priority level. This allows the caregiver to quickly check the defecation information for users who have been set to a "high" priority level.

[0108] Even when the terminal device 41 is managed by only one user, it may be possible to set whether or not to notify the defecation information as described above. For example, the caregiver may be able to arbitrarily set whether or not to only display defecation information when the user is asleep, and to display and generate a sound when the user defecates upon awakening or getting up.

[0109] In the second embodiment described above, an example has been given in which received light color information is received from the color sensor 31 and the second control unit 44 determines whether or not there has been a defecation. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first control unit 33 of the color sensor 31 may determine whether or not there has been a defecation, and the result of the defecation determination (a defecation signal) may be transmitted from the first communication unit 34 to the terminal device 41. Then, the terminal device 41 may cause the notification unit 45 to notify that there has been a defecation based on the defecation signal transmitted from the color sensor 31. This also applies to the third and fourth embodiments.

[0110] In the fourth embodiment described above, an example was given in which the state of the blue frame 51 was maintained even if the user had a bowel movement while the user was asleep. However, the present invention is not limited to this example, and for example, it may be possible to display that the user had a bowel movement even while the user was asleep. In such a case, the notification unit 45 may display the user who had a bowel movement while asleep at the bottom (fourth priority) of the priority display unit 45b.

[0111] In the fourth embodiment described above, an example was given in which the priority was determined based on the user's state (getting out of bed, getting up, awake, sleeping). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the notification conditions may reflect the circumstances (personal attributes) of multiple users. For example, when bowel movements are detected for a specific user, such as a user with skin problems, it is necessary to change the diaper quickly, so it is possible to set the priority so that the notification is sent first.

[0112] 17 and 18 show a feces detection device 70 and a feces detection system 600 according to a first modified example of the present invention. The feces detection device 70 and the feces detection system 600 according to the first modified example are characterized in that a detection unit 72 having an illumination unit 21 and a light receiving unit 22 is connected to a main body unit 76 having a control unit 24 via a cable 74. In the first modified example, the same components as those in the above-described embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a diaper provided with a feces detection device according to a first modified example of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a feces detection system.

[0113] The feces detection device 70 includes a detection unit 72 having an illumination unit 21 and a light receiving unit 22, a cable 74 extending from the detection unit 72, and a main body 76 connected to the cable 74 and having a control unit 24. In addition to the control unit 24, the main body 76 also has a memory unit 23 and an alarm unit 25.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 17 , the detection unit 72 and the cable 74 are disposed inside the diaper 10 while inserted into the bag-shaped sheet portion 80. The bag-shaped sheet portion 80 is used in place of the sheet portion 17. The bag-shaped sheet portion 80 is a waterproof bag with an opening 80a on one side in the longitudinal direction. The detection unit 72 and the cable 74 are inserted into the bag-shaped sheet portion 80 through the opening 80a and disposed in this state inside the diaper 10. The bag-shaped sheet portion 80 is formed to a length such that the opening 80a is located outside the diaper 10 when disposed inside the diaper 10. The bag-shaped sheet portion 80 is formed, for example, by a waterproof transparent film with a nonwoven fabric adhered to the outer peripheral surface thereof.

[0115] The detection unit 72 detects the color of feces adhering to the bag-shaped sheet portion 80 and transmits a detection signal (received light color information) to the control unit 24 of the main body portion 76 via the cable 74. The detection unit 72 and cable 74 are protected from contamination by excrement by the waterproof bag-shaped sheet portion 80. This allows the feces detection device 70 to be easily reused by simply replacing the diaper 10 and the bag-shaped sheet portion 80.

[0116] When the detection unit 72 is disposed inside the diaper 10, the main body 76 is located outside the diaper 10. In other words, the length of the cable 74 is set so that when the detection unit 72 is disposed inside the diaper 10, the main body 76 is located outside the diaper 10. The main body 76 is attached to the diaper 10 by, for example, a hook-and-loop fastener or a clip (neither of which are shown).

[0117] The control unit 24 determines whether or not defecation has occurred based on the received light color information. The control unit 24 determines whether or not defecation has occurred by detecting, for example, changes in the intensity or brightness of the color of the received light. If the control unit 24 determines that defecation has occurred, it activates the alarm unit 25. The alarm unit 25 notifies the user that defecation has occurred by sound, vibration, and lamp.

[0118] Next, the orientation of the detector 72 will be described.

[0119] The orientation of the detection unit 72 within the diaper 10 may be arbitrary as long as it can detect feces. For example, the light-emitting unit 21 and the light-receiving unit 22 of the detection unit 72 may face the buttocks. Alternatively, for example, the light-emitting unit 21 and the light-receiving unit 22 of the detection unit 72 may face along the buttocks. In such a case, urine penetrates the absorbent material of the diaper 10, but feces that do not fully penetrate the absorbent material deposit. The detection unit 72 can obtain information on the received light color of feces by detecting this deposit. For example, the light-emitting unit 21 and the light-receiving unit 22 of the detection unit 72 may face away from the buttocks. In such a case, the detection unit 72 can detect feces that have soaked into the area below the light-emitting unit 21 and the light-receiving unit 22 due to the absorbent material.

[0120] According to the feces detection device 70 of the first modification, the main body 76 is disposed outside the diaper 10, so that the detection unit 72 and the cable 74 disposed inside the diaper 10 can be made as small as possible. This reduces the sense of incongruity and discomfort felt by the user of the diaper 10.

[0121] Next, Fig. 19 shows a feces detection device 90 according to a second modified example of the present invention. The feces detection device 90 according to the second modified example is characterized in that an optical waveguide member is connected to a main body 95. In the second modified example, an optical fiber is used as an example of the optical waveguide member. In the second modified example, the same components as those in the above-described embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing a feces detection device according to a second modified example of the present invention.

[0122] 19, the feces detection device 90 includes a first optical fiber 92 (first optical waveguide member) having a light illuminating portion 92a, a second optical fiber 93 (second optical waveguide member) having a light receiving portion 93a, and a main body 95 connected to the first optical fiber 92 and the second optical fiber 93 and having a control portion 24. The light illuminating portion 92a is provided on the tip side of the first optical fiber 92. The light receiving portion 93a is provided on the tip side of the second optical fiber 93.

[0123] The feces detection device 90 has, for example, two first optical fibers 92 and one second optical fiber 93. In this example, the second optical fiber 93 is sandwiched between the two first optical fibers 92. It is sufficient to have at least one each of the first optical fiber 92 and the second optical fiber 93. The first optical fiber 92 and the second optical fiber 93 are each formed in a cylindrical shape with an outer diameter of, for example, about 1.5 mm. The first optical fiber 92 and the second optical fiber 93 are not limited to being cylindrical, and may also be formed in a rectangular tubular shape.

[0124] The tip side of the first optical fiber 92 is a portion located inside the diaper 10 and serves as an illuminating portion 92a that irradiates light. On the other hand, the tip side of the second optical fiber 93 is a portion located inside the diaper 10 and serves as a light receiving portion 93a that receives reflected light of the light irradiated from the first optical fiber 92. Connectors 94 to be connected to a main body portion 95 are provided on the base end sides of the first optical fiber 92 and the second optical fiber 93.

[0125] In addition to the control unit 24, the main body unit 95 has a memory unit 23, a notification unit 25, a light source 96, and a sensor unit 97. The main body unit 95 also has a connection unit 95a to which the connector 94 is connected. The light source 96 is formed of, for example, an LED, and is controlled by the control unit 24. The light source 96 emits light toward the first optical fiber 92. The light from the light source 96 propagates through the first optical fiber 92 and is emitted from the illumination unit 92a.

[0126] The light receiving section 93a of the second optical fiber 93 receives reflected light of the light irradiated from the light illuminating section 92a of the first optical fiber 92. The sensor section 97 receives the reflected light that has propagated through the second optical fiber 93 from the light receiving section 93a. The sensor section 97 transmits a signal of the received reflected light (received light color information) to the control section 24. The control section 24 determines whether or not defecation has occurred based on the received received light color information.

[0127] According to the feces detection device 90 of the second modified example, the first and second optical fibers 92, 93 are detachable from the main body 95. This allows the feces detection device 90 to reduce costs because only the first and second optical fibers 92, 93 can be replaced.

[0128] In the above-described embodiment and modified examples, the light receiving units 22, 93a have been described as detecting feces via the sheet unit 17 or the bag-shaped sheet unit 80. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the light receiving units 22, 93a may not have the sheet unit 17 or the bag-shaped sheet unit 80. In other words, the light receiving units 22, 93a may detect feces that have adhered to them.

[0129] Furthermore, the main body 76 of the feces detection device 70 according to the first modified example may have the first communication unit 34 as shown in the second embodiment. That is, the color sensor 31 may have the illumination unit 21 and the light receiving unit 22 separate from the first control unit 33, the first storage unit 32, and the first communication unit 34. This also applies to the second modified example.

[0130] As the feces detection system and feces detection device based on the above-described embodiment, for example, the following aspects are conceivable.

[0131] According to the first aspect, the feces detection system includes an illumination unit that emits light toward the buttocks of a user wearing a diaper, a light receiving unit that receives reflected light of the light, a control unit that determines whether or not defecation has occurred based on the received light color information received by the light receiving unit, and an alarm unit that alerts the user to defecation when the control unit determines that defecation has occurred.

[0132] According to the second aspect, in the first aspect, a memory unit is further provided in which stool color information specific to stool is pre-stored, and the control unit compares the received light color information with the stool color information stored in the memory unit to determine whether or not defecation has occurred.

[0133] According to the third aspect, the second aspect is provided with a color sensor provided within the diaper and a terminal device that communicates with the color sensor, wherein the color sensor has the illumination unit, the light receiving unit, the memory unit, the control unit, and a first communication unit that transmits the determination result by the control unit, and the terminal device has a second communication unit that receives the determination result transmitted from the first communication unit, and the alarm unit.

[0134] According to a fourth aspect, in the second aspect, the diaper is provided with a color sensor provided within the diaper and a terminal device that communicates with the color sensor, wherein the color sensor has the illumination unit, the light receiving unit, and a first communication unit that transmits received light color information received by the light receiving unit, and the terminal device has a second communication unit that receives the received light color information transmitted from the first communication unit, the memory unit, the control unit, and the alarm unit.

[0135] According to the fifth aspect, in the third or fourth aspect, the memory unit stores the number of bowel movements within a specified divided time period, and the control unit causes the notification unit to notify a bowel movement prediction when the number of bowel movements is equal to or greater than a frequency threshold.

[0136] According to the sixth aspect, in the third or fourth aspect, the memory unit stores the defecation time, and the control unit causes the notification unit to notify the defecation prediction when the time difference between the current time and the defecation time is less than or equal to the time difference threshold.

[0137] According to the seventh aspect, in any one of the third to sixth aspects, the device further includes a state detection device that detects the state of the user wearing the diaper in bed, and the state detection device transmits the state of the user in bed to the terminal device, and when the user has defecation, the terminal device changes the notification mode of the notification unit depending on the state of the user in bed.

[0138] According to the eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the terminal device manages the defecation status and status on the bed of multiple users, the status detection device detects the users' out-of-bed status, sitting-up status, and awake status, and the terminal device causes the notification unit to notify the notification status of a user who has defecate and is out of bed in a manner that prioritizes the notification status of other users.

[0139] According to the ninth aspect, the feces detection device includes an illumination unit that emits light, a light receiving unit that receives reflected light of the light, a control unit that determines whether or not defecation has occurred based on the received light color information received by the light receiving unit, and an alarm unit that alerts the user to defecation when the control unit determines that defecation has occurred.

[0140] According to the 10th aspect, in the 9th aspect, the device is provided with a detection unit having the illumination unit and the light receiving unit, a cable extending from the detection unit, and a main body unit connected to the cable and having the control unit.

[0141] According to the eleventh aspect, in the ninth aspect, a first optical waveguide member having the illumination portion, a second optical waveguide member having the light receiving portion, and a main body portion connected to the first optical waveguide member and the second optical waveguide member and having the control portion.

[0142] The above-described embodiments are examples of realizing the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. For example, the present invention also includes embodiments in which some components are added, deleted, or modified in the above-described embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0143] 10. Diapers 12 Main body 13 Ventral part 14 Dorsal part 14a Hook and loop fastener 15 Crotch 17 Seat section 20 Feces detection device (color sensor) 21 Illumination unit 22 Light receiving part 23 Memory section 24 Control Unit 25. Information Department 30. Stool detection device 31 Color Sensor 32 1st memory section 33 First Control Section 34 First Communications Department 41 Terminal equipment 42 Second Communications Department 43 2nd memory section 44 Second Control Section 45 Information Department 45a Status display section 45b Priority display area 51 Blue Frame 52 Red Frame 53 Yellow Frame 55 Diaper mark 60 Status detection device 70 Stool detection device 72 Detection unit 74 Cable 76 Main body 80 Bag-shaped sheet part 80a opening Flight 90 detection device 92 First optical fiber (optical waveguide member) 92a Lighting section 93 Second optical fiber (optical waveguide member) 93a Light receiving part 94 Connector 95 Main body 95a Connection 96 Light source 97 Sensor section 100 beds 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 Flight Detection System

Claims

1. an illumination unit that irradiates light toward the buttocks of a user wearing a diaper; a light receiving unit that receives reflected light of the light; a control unit that determines whether or not defecation has occurred based on the light color information received by the light receiving unit; a notification unit that notifies the user of defecation when the control unit determines that the user has defecation; Equipped with A feces detection system further comprising a waterproof bag-shaped sheet portion capable of covering at least a detection portion including the light-illuminating portion and the light-receiving portion.

2. Further provided is a storage unit in which stool color information specific to stool is stored in advance, The control unit compares the received light color information with the stool color information stored in the storage unit to determine whether or not defecation has occurred; 2. The feces detection system according to claim 1, wherein the bag-shaped sheet portion is formed by adhering a nonwoven fabric to the outer peripheral surface of a waterproof transparent film.

3. The stool detection system described in Claim 2, characterized in that the control unit automatically deletes the user displayed on the notification unit by determining that there has been no defecation by changing a diaper.

4. a color sensor provided in the diaper; a terminal device that communicates with the color sensor, the color sensor includes the illuminating unit, the light receiving unit, the storage unit, the control unit, and a first communication unit that transmits a determination result by the control unit; The feces detection system according to claim 2, wherein the terminal device has a second communication unit that receives the determination result transmitted from the first communication unit, and the notification unit.

5. a color sensor provided in the diaper; a terminal device that communicates with the color sensor, the color sensor includes the illuminating unit, the light receiving unit, and a first communication unit that transmits received light color information of the light received by the light receiving unit; The feces detection system described in claim 2, characterized in that the terminal device has a second communication unit that receives the light-receiving color information transmitted from the first communication unit, the memory unit, the control unit, and the notification unit.

6. The diaper bed further includes a state detection device for detecting the state of a user wearing the diaper on a bed. the state detection device transmits the state of the user in bed to the terminal device; The feces detection system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the terminal device changes the notification mode of the notification unit depending on the user's state in bed when the user has defecation.

7. the terminal device manages the bowel movement states and the states on the beds of a plurality of users; the state detection device detects a state of getting out of bed, a state of standing up, and a state of awakening of the user; The feces detection system described in claim 6, characterized in that the terminal device notifies the notification unit in a manner that gives priority to the notification mode of a user who has defecate and is out of bed over the notification modes of other users.

8. The feces detection system acquires information about the user's sleep, The feces detection system according to claim 1 , wherein the notification unit displays a list of the statuses of a plurality of users, and the statuses of the users include information about the users' bowel movements and information about their sleep.

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