Toilet seat device and toilet bowl device

Abstract

To determine adhesion of soil to a window part appropriately.SOLUTION: A toilet seat device is a toilet seat device placed on a toilet bowl where a bowl part for receiving excrement is formed, and includes: a toilet seat on which a user sits; a light emitting part having a light emitting element for radiating light; a light receiving part having a light receiving element for receiving light; a transparent window part provided in front of at least one of the light emitting element and the light receiving element; a control part for controlling electrification to the light emitting element and application of a voltage to the light receiving element; and a lid part provided in front of the window part, which is freely opened or closed, the opening and closing being controlled by the control part. The toilet seat device radiates light from the light emitting part in a state that the lid part is closed, and executes determination processing for determining presence or absence of adhesion of soil to the window part according to whether output of the light receiving part satisfies a condition for soil detection.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 16

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to toilet seat and bowl systems. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, techniques for analyzing excrement such as feces (hereinafter simply referred to as "feces") excreted in a toilet bowl are known. For example, a determination device for determining determination items related to excretion is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). For example, a determination device in the conventional technology includes an image information acquisition unit that acquires image information of a target image obtained by photographing the interior space of a toilet bowl during excretion, an estimation unit that makes an estimation regarding the determination items for the target image by inputting the image information into a trained model, and a determination unit that makes a determination regarding the determination items for the target image based on the estimation result by the estimation unit. Such a determination device detects feces excreted in the toilet bowl and makes a determination regarding the feces. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-187089 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, there is room for improvement in the above-mentioned conventional technology. For example, the above-mentioned conventional technology determines whether dirt caused by the imaging environment is captured in an image, but it is difficult to distinguish whether the dirt is attached to the toilet bowl or to a window provided on the sensor side. For example, if it could be determined that the dirt is attached to the window side, it would be possible to prevent erroneous identification due to dirt attached to the sensor side, or to notify the user when it is time to clean. Therefore, it is desirable to be able to appropriately determine whether dirt is attached to the window side.

[0005] The disclosed embodiments aim to provide a toilet seat apparatus and a toilet bowl apparatus that appropriately determine whether dirt has adhered to a window portion. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A toilet seat device according to one aspect of the embodiment is a toilet seat device that is placed on top of a toilet bowl that has a bowl portion for receiving excrement, and includes a toilet seat on which a user sits, a light-emitting unit having a light-emitting element that emits light, a light-receiving unit having a light-receiving element that receives light, a transparent window provided in front of at least one of the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element, a control unit that controls the flow of electricity to the light-emitting element and the application of voltage to the light-receiving element, and a lid provided in front of the window that can be opened and closed and whose opening and closing are controlled by the control unit.When the lid is closed, light is emitted from the light-emitting unit, and a determination process is performed to determine whether or not dirt has adhered to the window depending on whether the output of the light-receiving unit satisfies the conditions for dirt detection.

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a toilet seat device is provided in front of at least one of the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element. When a lid provided in front of a transparent window is closed, the light-emitting element emits light, and a determination process is performed to determine whether or not dirt is attached to the window depending on whether the output of the light-receiving element satisfies a dirt detection condition. The window includes a transparent plate portion that is a transparent window, a lens provided in the light-emitting element, and a lens provided in the light-receiving element. For example, the toilet seat device performs the determination process when the lid provided in front of the transparent plate portion that is a transparent window is closed. Also, for example, the toilet seat device performs the determination process when the lid provided in front of the lens corresponding to the light-emitting element is closed. Also, for example, the toilet seat device performs the determination process when the lid provided in front of the lens corresponding to the light-receiving element is closed. This allows the toilet seat device to appropriately determine whether dirt is attached to the window.

[0008] For example, dirt on the window can affect the identification of the shape and color of feces. For example, even when there is no measurement target, such as feces or urine, the output of the light-receiving unit varies significantly depending on whether or not there is dirt on the window or lens. Therefore, for example, the toilet seat device compares the change in the light-receiving unit's output with a reference value and, if there is a change greater than a certain level, determines that there is dirt on the window or lens. For example, the toilet seat device determines this based on the change in output when the opening / closing window is closed, which is the most stable state for the light-receiving unit's output. In this way, the toilet seat device can prevent misidentification by determining whether there is dirt on the window and also alert the user to encourage cleaning. Furthermore, when the lid is closed, the light emitted from the light-emitting unit is reflected only by the window or lid, minimizing the effect on the light reception, allowing the toilet seat device to accurately determine whether there is dirt on the window or lens.

[0009] In one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet seat device does not execute the determination process while the user is seated on the toilet seat.

[0010] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet seat device does not execute the determination process while the user is seated, and therefore does not execute the determination process at a time when the user's excretion may be detected, and instead prioritizes the process related to excretion detection. In this way, the toilet seat device does not execute the determination process while the user is using the toilet, and can concentrate on feces detection control. Therefore, the toilet seat device can appropriately determine whether dirt is attached to the window portion.

[0011] In one aspect of the embodiment, the reflectance of at least the surface of the lid facing the window is less than half.

[0012] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the toilet seat device is configured to minimize light reflection from the lid by setting the reflectance of the surface of the lid facing the window to less than half, i.e., less than 50%, making it easier to accurately determine reflections caused by stains on the window. This allows the toilet seat device to improve the accuracy of the determination process. Therefore, the toilet seat device can appropriately determine whether stains have adhered to the window.

[0013] A toilet device according to one aspect of the embodiment is a toilet device in which a toilet seat is placed on top of a toilet bowl formed with a bowl portion for receiving excrement, and comprises the toilet seat on which a user sits, a light-emitting unit having a light-emitting element that emits light, a light-receiving unit having a light-receiving element that receives light, a transparent window provided in front of at least one of the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element, a control unit that controls the flow of electricity to the light-emitting element and the application of voltage to the light-receiving element, and a lid provided in front of the window that can be opened and closed and whose opening and closing are controlled by the control unit.When the lid is closed, light is emitted from the light-emitting unit, and a determination process is performed to determine whether or not dirt has adhered to the window depending on whether the output of the light-receiving unit satisfies the conditions for dirt detection.

[0014] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a toilet device is provided in front of at least one of the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element, and a lid provided in front of the transparent window is closed. The light-emitting element emits light, and a determination process is performed to determine whether or not dirt is adhering to the window depending on whether the output of the light-receiving element satisfies a dirt detection condition. The window includes a transparent plate portion that is a transparent window, a lens provided in the light-emitting element, and a lens provided in the light-receiving element. For example, the toilet device performs the determination process with the lid provided in front of the transparent plate portion that is a transparent window closed. Also, for example, the toilet device performs the determination process with the lid provided in front of the lens corresponding to the light-emitting element closed. Also, for example, the toilet device performs the determination process with the lid provided in front of the lens corresponding to the light-receiving element closed. This allows the toilet device to appropriately determine whether dirt is adhering to the window. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to appropriately determine whether dirt is attached to a window portion. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the sensor unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the user and the operation of the device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the flow of the measurement process. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a time chart in the measurement process. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for acquiring data. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a data analysis method. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the main part of the toilet seat device. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view showing the main parts of the sensor unit. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the relationship between the lid and the sensor unit. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the relationship between the cover and the sensor unit. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the relationship between light emission and light reception. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of output depending on the presence or absence of dirt. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a detailed description will be given of embodiments of a toilet seat device and a toilet bowl device disclosed in the present application. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. Below, a description will be given of the process related to the collection of information on stool by toilet users and the configuration for carrying out this process. First, various configurations of the information processing system and other components that are the basis for this description will be described.

[0018] <1. Information processing system configuration> The configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet system according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment.

[0019] First, an example of the configuration inside a toilet room R of the information processing system 1 will be described using Fig. 1. Hereinafter, the configuration inside the toilet room R shown in Figs. 1 and 2 may be collectively referred to as a toilet system TS. As shown in Fig. 1, in the toilet room R, a Western-style toilet bowl (hereinafter referred to as "toilet bowl") 7 is installed on a floor surface F. In the following, the direction facing the interior of the toilet room R from the floor surface F will be described as "up." The toilet seat device 2 is provided above the toilet bowl 7.

[0020] The toilet bowl 7 is made of, for example, ceramic. The toilet bowl 7 has a bowl portion 8 formed therein. The bowl portion 8 has a downwardly concave shape and is the portion (toilet bowl) that receives the user's excrement. The toilet bowl 7 is not limited to a floor-standing type as shown in the figure, and may be of any type, such as a wall-mounted type, as long as the toilet system TS is applicable. The toilet bowl 7 has a rim portion 9 that runs around the entire edge of the opening facing the bowl portion 8. In the toilet room R, for example, a flush water tank that stores flush water may be installed near the toilet bowl 7, or a so-called tankless type may be used in which no flush water tank is installed.

[0021] For example, when a user operates a flushing operation unit (not shown) for flushing provided in the toilet room R, toilet flushing is performed by supplying flush water to the bowl 8 of the toilet 7. The flushing operation unit may be an operation lever or a touch operation on a toilet flushing object displayed on the operation device 10. Note that the flushing operation unit is not limited to an operation lever or the like that causes toilet flushing to be performed manually by the user, but may also be one that causes toilet flushing to be performed by a human body detection sensor that detects the user, such as a seat sensor.

[0022] The toilet seat device 2 is attached to the top of a toilet bowl 7 and includes a main body 3, a toilet lid 4, a toilet seat 5, and a flushing nozzle 6. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on top of the toilet bowl 7, which is formed with a bowl 8 that receives excrement. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on top of the toilet bowl 7 so that the flushing nozzle 6 advances into the bowl 8 before spraying flushing water. The toilet seat device 2 may be detachably attached to the toilet bowl 7, or may be attached so as to be integrated with the toilet bowl 7. That is, for example, the toilet seat device 2 and the toilet bowl 7 may be integrated into a toilet device. In this case, the toilet system TS includes a toilet device in which the toilet seat device 2 and the toilet bowl 7 are integrated. The configuration of the toilet system TS described above is merely an example, and any configuration can be adopted as long as the desired processing is possible.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1, the toilet seat 5 is formed in an annular shape with an opening 50 in the center, and is positioned along the rim portion 9 so as to overlap the opening of the toilet bowl 7. A user sits on the toilet seat 5. The toilet seat 5 functions as a seating portion that supports the buttocks of the seated user. Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 are each pivotally supported at one end by the main body portion 3, and are attached so as to be rotatable (openable and closable) around the pivotal portion of the main body portion 3. The toilet lid 4 is attached to the toilet seat device 2 as needed, and the toilet seat device 2 does not necessarily have to have a toilet lid 4.

[0024] The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for discharging water for cleaning. The cleaning nozzle 6 is capable of spraying cleaning water. The cleaning nozzle 6 is capable of spraying cleaning water toward the user. The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for cleaning private parts. The cleaning nozzle 6 is configured to be able to advance and retreat relative to the main body cover 30, which is the housing of the main body 3, by driving a driving source such as an electric motor (such as the nozzle motor 61 in FIG. 4). The cleaning nozzle 6 is also connected to a water source such as a water pipe (not shown). When the cleaning nozzle 6 is in an advanced position relative to the main body cover 30, which is the housing of the main body 3 (hereinafter also referred to as the "advanced position"), as shown in FIG. 1, it sprays water from the water source onto the user's body to clean the private parts.

[0025] FIG. 1 shows the cleaning nozzle 6 in the advanced position. The cleaning nozzle 6 may also be used to clean the inside of the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8, etc.). The cleaning nozzle 6 may be used to be switchable between a private parts cleaning mode for cleaning the private parts of the user and a toilet bowl cleaning mode for spraying water inside the toilet bowl 7. For example, the cleaning nozzle 6 may be used to be switchable between the private parts cleaning mode and the toilet bowl cleaning mode according to the control by the control unit 34 of the toilet seat device 2 (see FIG. 4).

[0026] The operating device 10 is provided in the toilet room R. The operating device 10 is provided in a position where it can be operated by a user. The operating device 10 is provided in a position where it can be operated by a user when seated on the toilet seat 5. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the operating device 10 is provided on a wall surface W on the right side as seen from a user seated on the toilet seat 5. Note that the operating device 10 may be provided in various ways, not just on a wall surface, as long as it is usable by a user seated on the toilet seat 5. For example, the operating device 10 may be provided integrally with the toilet seat apparatus 2.

[0027] From here, the device configuration of the information processing system 1 and the function of each device will be described with reference to Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 2, the information processing system 1 has a toilet system TS including a toilet seat device 2 and an operating device 10, a user terminal 200, and a server device 400. The information processing system 1 may include multiple toilet systems TS, multiple user terminals 200, and server devices 400. In the information processing system 1, the toilet seat device 2 performs various processes such as analysis of stool properties, and the server device 400 stores information related to the analysis results by the toilet seat device 2.

[0028] The toilet seat device 2 is a device placed in a toilet room R. The toilet seat device 2 communicates with the operation device 10, the user terminal 200, etc. The toilet seat device 2 may be capable of communicating with a server device 400.

[0029] The toilet seat device 2 performs a process (personal identification) to acquire information for identifying a user who defecates using the toilet bowl 7 in the toilet room R. For example, the toilet seat device 2 acquires information for identifying a user who defecates using the toilet bowl 7 by communicating with a user terminal 200 owned by the user or by the user operating the operating device 10, and performs personal identification of the user. For example, the toilet seat device 2 communicates with the user terminal 200 owned by the user and receives a user ID (also simply referred to as "ID"), which is user identification information for identifying the user, from the user terminal 200. Note that the toilet seat device 2 may use any method to identify a user as long as it is possible to identify a user who defecates using the toilet bowl 7 in the toilet room R.

[0030] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 transmits excretion information relating to the detected excretion to the user terminal 200. For example, the toilet seat device 2 executes various processes such as analysis of the properties of stool, and transmits the excretion information based on the analysis results to the user terminal 200. The user terminal 200 transmits the excretion information and user identification information for identifying the user (user) using the user terminal 200 to the server device 400. The server device 400 stores the received information as history information. The server device 400 may register the received excretion information in a storage unit in association with the received user identification information.

[0031] The operation device 10 is a computer (remote control) that accepts operations by a user related to control of the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network so as to be able to communicate with it wired or wirelessly. For example, the operation device 10 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 so as to be able to communicate with it via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Note that the toilet seat device 2 and the operation device 10 may be connected in any manner as long as they are able to send and receive information, and may be connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other wired or wirelessly. For example, the operation device 10 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a network N so as to be able to communicate with each other wired or wirelessly.

[0032] The operation device 10 receives various operations from the user via a display surface (for example, a display screen 11) using, for example, a touch panel function. The operation device 10 may also include switches and buttons, and receive various operations via the switches, buttons, etc. The display screen 11 is a display screen of a tablet terminal or the like realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and is a display device for displaying various information. In other words, the operation device 10 receives input from the user via the display screen 11 and also outputs information to the user. The display screen 11 is a display device that displays various information. For example, the operation device 10 may function as a display terminal (display) that displays various information provided by the toilet seat device 2.

[0033] The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to stop a control being executed by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to start private parts washing by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts a user's instruction to the cleaning nozzle 6. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to cause the toilet seat device 2 to output a predetermined sound. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to perform a sterilization process to sterilize the cleaning nozzle 6 (see FIG. 1) of the toilet seat device 2 with disinfectant water. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to adjust the force of water spray during private parts washing by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to adjust the volume of the sound output by the toilet seat device 2. The operation device 10 accepts a user's operation to select a language when information regarding toilet usage is displayed on the operation device 10 or output as audio.

[0034] For example, the operation device 10 may display the above-described object that accepts the user's operation on the display screen 11, and execute various processes in response to the user's touch on the displayed object. For example, the operation device 10 may have a switch, button, etc. that accepts the above-described user's operation, and execute various processes in response to the user's touch on the switch, button, etc. Note that the above is just an example, and the operation device 10 may also accept a user's operation that executes various processes.

[0035] The user terminal 200 is a terminal device (computer) used by a user. The user terminal 200 is realized, for example, by a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet terminal, or a notebook PC (Personal Computer). For example, the user terminal 200 is communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 by a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The user terminal 200 may also be communicably connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a network N by wire or wirelessly.

[0036] The user terminal 200 transmits and receives information to and from the toilet seat device 2 and the server device 400. The user terminal 200 receives excretion information related to excretion from the toilet seat device 2. The user terminal 200 transmits the excretion information acquired from the toilet seat device 2 to the server device 400. For example, the user terminal 200 associates the excretion information acquired from the toilet seat device 2 with user identification information of the user using the user terminal 200 and transmits the information to the server device 400.

[0037] Furthermore, the user terminal 200 requests information from the server device 400 and displays the information obtained from the server device 400. The user terminal 200 receives information related to the user's excretion from the server device 400 and displays the received information. For example, the user terminal 200 receives content indicating the user's defecation data from the server device 400 and displays the received content.

[0038] The user terminal 200 has a display (display device) that displays various information (excretion information) related to the user's excretion, such as defecation data (excretion data). The user terminal 200 functions as a display terminal (display device) that displays various information provided from the toilet seat device 2. The user terminal 200 receives information indicating the defecation data from the toilet seat device 2 or the server device 400, and displays the received information indicating the defecation data. For example, the user terminal 200 displays the defecation data in chronological order by the date and time of excretion.

[0039] The server device 400 is a computer that functions as a cloud (server) that stores information. The server device 400 is connected to the user terminal 200 via a predetermined network (network N) such as the Internet so that they can communicate with each other via a wired or wireless connection. The server device 400 may be connected to the user terminal 200 in any manner as long as it is possible to send and receive information, and may be connected to the user terminal 200 so that they can communicate with each other via a wired connection or wireless connection. The server device 400 may also be able to communicate with the toilet seat device 2.

[0040] The server device 400 stores in the storage unit the information received from the user terminal 200. The server device 400 stores in the storage unit the excretion information and the user identification information acquired from the user terminal 200 in association with each other.

[0041] The server device 400 is not limited to a cloud (server) and may be any device. In other words, the device configuration and arrangement of the server device 400 may be any form as long as the desired processing can be realized. For example, the server device 400 may be a mobile terminal (device) such as a laptop computer that can be carried by an administrator of the information processing system 1. The server device 400 may also be located in the toilet room R. Note that the information processing system 1 does not necessarily have the server device 400. In this case, the information processing system 1 may not have the server device 400, and the toilet seat device 2 or the user terminal 200 may have the functions of the server device 400.

[0042] The above is merely an example, and any device configuration can be adopted for the information processing system 1 as long as it can realize the desired processing. For example, the operation device 10 may function as a display unit that displays defecation data. Furthermore, both the operation device 10 and the user terminal 200 may be included in the information processing system 1 as devices that function as display units.

[0043] The information processing system 1 detects various properties of the user's stool, such as the shape, size, quality, and color, using various configurations and processes described below. The information processing system 1 is a toilet system that can acquire stool information by detecting the user's defecation using an optical method, for example, optical means. Note that the configuration using optical means is just one example, and the information processing system 1 may acquire stool information using various means other than optical means as long as it is possible to acquire the desired information.

[0044] <2. Configuration of the toilet seat device> Next, the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet seat device according to an embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the toilet seat device 2 as seen from the front. Note that the toilet lid 4 and the lid portion 103 are not shown in Fig. 3.

[0045] 3 also shows the state in which the cleaning nozzle 6 (see FIG. 1) is in a position (also referred to as the "storage position") where it is stored within the main body cover 30. Note that in FIG. 3, the nozzle lid that conceals the cleaning nozzle 6 when it is stored within the main body cover 30 is not shown. As shown in FIG. 3, when the cleaning nozzle 6 is in the storage position, the nozzle lid 60 is closed, and the cleaning nozzle 6 is hidden behind the nozzle lid 60. When cleaning is performed using the cleaning nozzle 6, the nozzle lid 60 is opened and the cleaning nozzle 6 protrudes from the opening in the main body cover 30 (the opening covered by the nozzle lid 60 in the closed state in FIG. 3), and the cleaning nozzle 6 transitions to an advanced state.

[0046] The sensor head 110 (see FIG. 5), which has the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130, is optically exposed through the opening 31 in the main body cover 30. For example, the light-emitting unit 120 can emit light from the opening 31 toward the excrement in the toilet bowl 7, and the light-receiving unit 130 can receive light reflected from the excrement in the toilet bowl 7.

[0047] The opening 31 of the main body cover 30 is provided with a lid portion 103 (see FIG. 5) that can be opened and closed. When the sensor unit 100 emits or receives light, the lid portion 103 is in an open state (hereinafter also referred to as an "open state"), and the light emitter 120 and the light receiver 130 of the sensor unit 100 are optically exposed through the opening 31. When the sensor unit 100 does not emit or receive light, the lid portion 103 is in a closed state (hereinafter also referred to as a "closed state"), and the opening 31 is covered by the lid portion 103, and the lid portion 103 is located in front of the sensor head 110. The "closed state" here refers to a state in which the front side of the sensor head 110 is covered by the lid portion 103, and also includes a configuration in which parts of the sensor head 110 other than the front side are open.

[0048] For example, the lid portion 103 can be positioned in front of the sensor head 110 having the light-emitting portion 120 and the light-receiving portion 130, and functions as a lid. The lid portion 103 can be positioned on the side (front) where the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting portion 120 of the sensor head 110 faces. The lid portion 103 can be positioned on the side (front) where the light-receiving surface of the light-receiving portion 130 of the sensor head 110 faces. For example, when the lid portion 103 is in an open state, the lid portion 103 is not positioned in front of the sensor head 110. As a result, when the lid portion 103 is in an open state, the sensor head 110 is exposed. Then, when the lid portion 103 is in an open state, the light-emitting portion 120 of the sensor head 110 can irradiate light toward the excrement in the toilet bowl 7, and the light-receiving portion 130 of the sensor head 110 can receive light reflected from the excrement in the toilet bowl 7. As described above, the lid portion 103 is positioned in front of the sensor head 110 in the closed state, thereby covering the front of the sensor head 110, and is not positioned in front of the sensor head 110 in the open state, thereby leaving the front of the sensor head 110 open.

[0049] The lid 103 is provided in front of the sensor head 110 and can be opened and closed. The lid 103 can be transitioned between an open state and a closed state by a lid opening / closing mechanism 102. For example, the lid 103 is in a closed state except during measurement and is located in front of the sensor head 110. Furthermore, the lid 103 is in an open state during measurement and moves from in front of the sensor head 110 to another location. This prevents the lid 103 from being soiled, which could cause a decrease in the detection accuracy of the light receiving unit 130 of the sensor head 110. The lid 103 is preferably formed of an opaque material to reduce the possibility of the sensor unit 100 being visible and to ensure a configuration that takes user privacy into consideration. For example, the lid 103 may be colored to form an opaque state. The surface of the lid 103 may be coated with an opaque material (paint).

[0050] 3, the toilet seat device 2 has a configuration in which the sensor unit 100 is disposed in a position adjacent to the washing nozzle 6. The sensor unit 100 is not limited to being disposed in a position adjacent to the washing nozzle 6, and may be disposed in any position as long as the desired detection is possible. For example, the sensor unit 100 and the toilet seat device 2 may be separate entities.

[0051] <3. Functional configuration of the toilet seat device> Next, the functional configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 4, the toilet seat device 2 includes a human body detection sensor 32, a seating detection sensor 33, a control unit 34, a solenoid valve 71, a nozzle motor 61, a flushing nozzle 6, and a sensor unit 100. Note that Fig. 4 does not show some of the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 described in Fig. 1 (such as the main body 3, toilet seat 5, and toilet bowl 7).

[0052] For example, the human body detection sensor 32, the seating detection sensor 33, and the control unit 34 are provided in the main body 3 of the toilet seat device 2. Although not shown, the toilet seat device 2 has a communication unit that communicates with the user terminal 200 and the operation device 10. For example, the communication unit is realized by a communication circuit or the like. For example, the communication unit is connected to a predetermined network by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from information processing devices such as the user terminal 200 and the operation device 10. The communication unit may be provided in the sensor unit 100.

[0053] The human body detection sensor 32 has a function of detecting a human body. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 is realized by a pyroelectric sensor using an infrared signal. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 may be realized by a μ (microwave) wave sensor. Note that the above is just an example, and the human body detection sensor 32 may detect a human body by various means, not limited to the above. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 detects a person (such as a user) who enters the toilet room R (see FIG. 1). The human body detection sensor 32 outputs a detection signal to the control unit 34. Note that the toilet seat device 2 does not necessarily have to have the human body detection sensor 32.

[0054] The seating detection sensor 33 has a function of detecting a person sitting on the toilet seat device 2. The seating detection sensor 33 detects that a user is sitting on the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 can detect that a user is sitting on the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 also functions as a seat-leaving detection sensor that detects that a user has left the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 detects the seated state of the user on the toilet seat 5.

[0055] For example, the seating detection sensor 33 detects that a user has sat on the toilet seat 5 using a load sensor. The seating detection sensor 33 is, for example, a switch (hereinafter may be referred to as a "seat switch") that switches ON / OFF depending on the weight of a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. Furthermore, for example, the seating detection sensor 33 may be an infrared light emitting / receiving distance measuring sensor that detects a human body that is near the toilet seat 5 just before the person (user) sits on the toilet seat 5, or the user who has sat on the toilet seat 5. Note that the above is just one example, and the seating detection sensor 33 is not limited to the above, and may detect a person sitting on the toilet seat device 2 by various means. The seating detection sensor 33 outputs a seating detection signal to the control unit 34.

[0056] The control unit 34 may be, for example, a control device that controls various components and processes. The control unit 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71. The control unit 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71 based on a signal transmitted from the operation device 10. The control unit 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 based on a control instruction signal related to local cleaning transmitted from the operation device 10. The control unit 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 to advance and retract the cleaning nozzle 6. The control unit 34 controls the opening and closing of the solenoid valve 71.

[0057] The control unit 34 transmits control information to the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71 via a wired connection. The control unit 34 may also transmit control information to the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71 wirelessly. The control unit 34 may also control the sensor unit 100. The control unit 34 may transmit control information to the sensor unit 100 to control the sensor unit 100. In this case, the control unit 34 may be integrated with the controller 101.

[0058] The control unit 34 also controls the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 as shown in FIG. 1. The control unit 34 controls the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 based on signals transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 controls the toilet lid 4 based on control instruction signals regarding the opening and closing of the toilet lid transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 controls the toilet seat 5 based on control instruction signals regarding the opening and closing of the toilet seat 5 transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 transmits control information to the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 via a wired connection. The control unit 34 may also transmit control information to the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 wirelessly.

[0059] The control unit 34 determines whether the human body detection sensor 32 has detected the entry of a user into the toilet room R. The control unit 34 determines whether the seating detection sensor 33 has detected the user sitting. The control unit 34 determines whether the seating detection sensor 33 has detected the user sitting on the toilet seat 5. The control unit 34 communicates with the sensor unit 100, and transmits and receives information to and from the sensor unit 100. For example, the control unit 34 transmits to the sensor unit 100 determination results based on detection by various sensors such as the human body detection sensor 32 or the seating detection sensor 33. In this case, the controller 101 of the sensor unit 100 controls the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 and the sensor head 110 based on information acquired from the control unit 34.

[0060] The nozzle motor 61 is a drive source (motor) that drives the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retract. The nozzle motor 61 controls the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retract relative to the main body cover 30 of the main body 3. The nozzle motor 61 controls the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retract in accordance with instructions from the control unit 34.

[0061] The solenoid valve 71 functions as a valve that electromagnetically controls the flow of a fluid. The solenoid valve 71 switches the supply and stop of tap water from a water supply pipe, for example. The solenoid valve 71 controls opening and closing in response to instructions from the control unit 34.

[0062] The sensor unit 100 includes a controller 101, a lid opening / closing mechanism 102, and a sensor head 110. The sensor unit 100 functions as an excrement detection device (excrement measurement device). The sensor unit 100 functioning as an excrement detection device may be configured independently of the toilet seat device 2. The sensor unit 100 may also have a communication unit that communicates with the user terminal 200. For example, the communication unit of the sensor unit 100 is realized by a communication circuit or the like. For example, the communication unit of the sensor unit 100 is connected to a predetermined network via wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from the user terminal 200.

[0063] The controller 101 functions as a control unit that controls the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 and the sensor head 110. For example, the controller 101 is realized by various means such as a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an integrated circuit such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0064] The controller 101 may perform control for opening and closing the lid 103. The controller 101 transmits control information for opening and closing the lid 103 to a lid opening and closing mechanism 102 (such as an actuator) that opens and closes the lid 103. The controller 101 transmits control information for closing the lid 103 to the lid opening and closing mechanism 102. The controller 101 transmits control information for controlling the turning on and off of the light emitting unit 120 to the sensor head 110.

[0065] The controller 101 transmits control information to the sensor head 110 for controlling the function of the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130. The electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130 is different from a mechanical shutter such as a so-called lens shutter, and is a shutter type that electronically controls the light receiving element 132 (image pickup element) to read out the exposure. In other words, the electronic shutter of the light receiving unit 130 is a so-called electronic shutter or electronically controlled shutter. The controller 101 transmits the control information to the sensor head 110 via wire or wirelessly.

[0066] The controller 101 controls the emission of light by the light-emitting unit 120 and the reception of light by the light-receiving unit 130. For example, the controller 101 controls the measurement process during a period when the seating detection sensor 33 detects that a user is sitting on the toilet seat 5.

[0067] The controller 101 controls the emission of light by the light-emitting unit 120. The controller 101 controls the supply of electricity to the light-emitting element 121 and the application of voltage to the light-receiving element 132. The controller 101 sends a control instruction to the light-receiving element 132 to open the electronic shutter, and by supplying electricity to the light-emitting element 121, performs light-receiving control that enables reception of light reflected from the stool. After starting execution of one light-receiving control, the controller 101 controls the interval until the next light-receiving control is executed to any time (for example, 0.2 milliseconds or more) within the range in which the control process is possible. Note that the controller 101 controls the emission of light by the multiple light-emitting elements 121 in the measurement process, which will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0068] Furthermore, the controller 101 determines the properties of the stool based on the light reception results from the light receiving unit 130. The controller 101 determines the properties of the user's stool by appropriately using various technologies that detect the properties of stool using optical methods. Based on a stool image, the controller 101 determines the properties of the stool, such as the shape, amount, and color, corresponding to the stool image. For example, the controller 101 determines the properties of the stool through data analysis based on arithmetic processing using four arithmetic operations. For example, the controller 101 determines the properties of the stool through data analysis based on arithmetic processing using machine learning. For example, the controller 101 determines the properties of the stool through data analysis based on arithmetic processing using image processing such as AI (artificial intelligence).

[0069] For example, the controller 101 determines the properties of stool using a program for determining stool properties, etc. stored in the storage unit. For example, the storage unit is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data, etc. used by the program for determining stool properties, etc. The storage unit stores various information used in the determination process related to stool, such as the properties of stool. For example, the storage unit stores thresholds used in the determination process related to stool. For example, the storage unit stores various models (determination models) used in the determination related to stool. For example, the storage unit stores various determination models used to determine the shape, color, amount, etc. of stool. The controller 101 determines the properties of stool using the various information stored in the storage unit.

[0070] The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 is a drive source (motor) that opens or closes the lid 103. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 controls the lid 103 to be open or closed in response to instructions from the controller 101. For example, the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 closes the lid 103 at times when light reception by the light receiving unit 130 is not required, such as when no measurement is being performed.

[0071] When the lid 103 is in an open state, the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 fixes the lid 103 in a position that does not intersect with the central axis of the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 120. When the lid 103 is in an open state, the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 fixes the lid 103 in a position that is outside the range of the half-value angle of the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 120. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 opens the lid 103 upward when placed on the toilet bowl 7. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 closes the lid 103 when the flushing nozzle 6 is operating. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 closes the lid 103 when the flushing nozzle 6 arranged on the toilet bowl 7 is operating.

[0072] The sensor head 110 includes a housing 111 (see FIG. 5) that is a sensor case, a transparent window 112 (see FIG. 5), a substrate 113 (see FIG. 5) that is a sensor substrate, a light emitting unit 120, and a light receiving unit 130. The sensor head 110 functions as a detection unit (excrement detection unit) that detects information about excrement using the light receiving unit 130. For example, the sensor head 110 is a detection unit that detects information about dropping feces. The housing 111 is a case that stores the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 in a manner that opens at the front. The transparent window 112 covers the front surface of the housing 111. The arrangement and configuration of the sensor unit 100, including the detailed configuration of the sensor head 110, will be described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0073] Light-emitting unit 120 emits light. Light-emitting unit 120 has a plurality of light-emitting elements 121 that emit light of different wavelength bands and a lens 122 as a light-emitting lens. Light-emitting unit 120 controls the manner in which light is emitted by the plurality of light-emitting elements 121 using lens 122.

[0074] The light-emitting unit 120 emits light toward the inside of the bowl portion 8. The light-emitting unit 120 emits light toward objects such as excrement (feces) falling inside the bowl portion 8. For example, the light-emitting unit 120 has a light-emitting element 121 that emits light. The light-emitting unit 120 has a light-emitting element 121 that is arranged to emit light downward. In the example of FIG. 4, the light-emitting unit 120 has at least three light-emitting elements 121. For example, the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in FIG. 4 each emit light of a different wavelength. Each light-emitting element 121 emits light diagonally downward.

[0075] For example, one of the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in FIG. 4 (also referred to as the "first type light-emitting element 121") emits light with the shortest wavelength (also referred to as the "first wavelength") among the three light-emitting elements 121. For example, the first type light-emitting element 121 emits light with a wavelength of 590 nm. Note that the light emitted by the first type light-emitting element 121 is not limited to the first wavelength only, and may include light in a wavelength region around the first wavelength (also referred to as the "first wavelength region"). The first wavelength region may be a wavelength region (wavelength band) corresponding to yellow to orange.

[0076] Furthermore, for example, of the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in FIG. 4, one light-emitting element 121 other than the first-type light-emitting element 121 (also referred to as the "second-type light-emitting element 121") emits light of a wavelength longer than the first wavelength (also referred to as the "second wavelength"). For example, the second-type light-emitting element 121 emits light of a wavelength of 670 nm. Note that the light emitted by the second-type light-emitting element 121 is not limited to the second wavelength only, and may include light in a wavelength region around the second wavelength (also referred to as the "second wavelength region"). The second wavelength region may be a wavelength region (wavelength band) corresponding to red.

[0077] Furthermore, for example, of the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in FIG. 4, one light-emitting element 121 other than the first-type light-emitting element 121 and the second-type light-emitting element 121 (also referred to as the "third-type light-emitting element 121") emits light with the longest wavelength (also referred to as the "third wavelength") among the three light-emitting elements 121. For example, the third-type light-emitting element 121 emits light with a wavelength of 870 nm. Note that the light emitted by the third-type light-emitting element 121 is not limited to only the third wavelength, and may include light in a wavelength region around the third wavelength (also referred to as the "third wavelength region"). The third wavelength region may be a wavelength region (wavelength band) corresponding to infrared light (for example, near-infrared light).

[0078] Note that the specific values ​​of the first wavelength, second wavelength, and third wavelength described above are merely examples, and the wavelengths are not limited thereto. Furthermore, the specific values ​​of the first wavelength region, second wavelength region, and third wavelength region described above are merely examples, and the wavelength regions are not limited thereto. For example, the first wavelength, second wavelength, and third wavelength can be any wavelength as long as they satisfy the relationship that the first wavelength is the shortest and the third wavelength is the longest (i.e., first wavelength < second wavelength < third wavelength). Thus, as long as the first wavelength is the shortest and the third wavelength is the longest among the first wavelength, second wavelength, and third wavelength, any wavelength can be used as the first wavelength, second wavelength, and third wavelength. When describing the first type light-emitting element 121, the second type light-emitting element 121, and the third type light-emitting element 121 without any particular distinction, they may be referred to as light-emitting element 121.

[0079] In the above example, the case where there is one each of the first-type light-emitting element 121, the second-type light-emitting element 121, and the third-type light-emitting element 121 has been described as an example, but a plurality of each of the first-type light-emitting element 121, the second-type light-emitting element 121, and the third-type light-emitting element 121 may be provided. For example, the light-emitting section 120 may have a plurality of first-type light-emitting elements 121, a plurality of second-type light-emitting elements 121, or a plurality of third-type light-emitting elements 121. In other words, the light-emitting section 120 may have any number of light-emitting elements 121 (for example, three or more) as long as it has at least one each of the first-type light-emitting element 121, the second-type light-emitting element 121, and the third-type light-emitting element 121.

[0080] The light receiving unit 130 receives light. The light receiving unit 130 has a lens 131 as a light receiving lens and a light receiving element 132 that receives light. For example, the light receiving unit 130 receives light that is reflected from an object in response to light emitted by the light emitting unit 120. For example, the light receiving unit 130 receives light that is reflected from excrement (feces) that is falling. Note that the light receiving unit 130 receives light that is reflected from various objects, not limited to feces.

[0081] For example, the light receiving element 132 is a line sensor. For example, the light receiving element 132 is a line sensor in which CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensors or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensors are arranged in a row. Note that the light receiving element 132 is not limited to a line sensor (one-dimensional image sensor), and various types of sensors such as an area sensor (two-dimensional image sensor) may also be used.

[0082] Here, an example of the configuration of the controller 101 will be described. For example, the controller 101 may have various components such as an arithmetic unit (e.g., an arithmetic processing device) that executes calculations related to control, a storage unit (e.g., a memory described later), etc. For example, the arithmetic processing device is realized by various means such as a processor such as a CPU, MPU, or ASIC, or an integrated circuit such as an FPGA. Below, an example will be described in which the controller 101 has an AD converter, an arithmetic processing device, a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a memory.

[0083] The AD Converter is a so-called A / D converter (analog-digital conversion circuit) and has an A / D conversion function that converts an analog signal into a digital signal. The AD Converter may be an analog-digital conversion circuit. For example, the AD Converter converts analog data received (detected) by the light receiving unit 130 into digital data. The AD Converter may convert analog data from which a predetermined range of data has been deleted into digital data. For example, the AD Converter may leave only data corresponding to pixels in a predetermined range (e.g., a predetermined central range) and delete data corresponding to pixels in the remaining range. Note that when a dedicated sensor such as a line sensor with a pixel count set for excrement detection is used as the light receiving element 132, the AD Converter converts all of the analog data into digital data without deleting data in the predetermined range.

[0084] The arithmetic processing device is realized by various means such as a CPU or a microcomputer, and executes various processes. For example, the arithmetic processing device executes various processes using digital data converted by an AD converter. The arithmetic processing device executes various processes using programs stored in a ROM (for example, various programs related to detection processes such as an object determination program or an excrement determination program). For example, the arithmetic processing device is realized by executing the programs stored in a ROM using a temporarily used storage area or the like within the arithmetic processing device as a working area.

[0085] The arithmetic processing unit analyzes the data. The arithmetic processing unit analyzes the data temporarily stored in the memory. The arithmetic processing unit transfers the data received by the light receiving unit 130 to the memory, and analyzes and deletes the data stored in the memory.

[0086] The ROM stores various programs related to the detection process, such as an object determination program and an excrement determination program.

[0087] The memory is an internal memory (storage device) that temporarily stores various data. The memory stores data received by the light receiving unit 130. The memory stores digital data converted by the AD converter. For example, the memory is an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory). Note that the memory is not limited to an SRAM, and other RAMs (Random Access Memories) such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and ROMs capable of high-speed processing, such as PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory), can also be used.

[0088] The memory stores data under the control of the arithmetic processing unit. For example, a storage device with a storage capacity of 96 kilobytes or 512 kilobytes is used as the memory. The data received by the light receiving unit 130 and temporarily stored in the memory includes raw data (analog data) detected by the light receiving unit 130 and data processed by A / D conversion (digital data).

[0089] <4. Example of sensor unit configuration> From here, various configurations of the sensor unit will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Note that the various configurations of the sensor unit 100, including the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130, are not limited to those shown in Fig. 5, and any configuration may be adopted as long as the desired detection is possible. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the sensor unit.

[0090] The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 and the sensor head 110 are disposed on the front side of the sensor unit 100. In the example of FIG. 5, the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 and the sensor head 110 are disposed in front of the controller 101. The light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 are supported by a housing 111. The housing 111 is formed of a non-transparent material. The housing 111 may be formed of various materials as long as it can support the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130.

[0091] 5, the housing 111 supports the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 so that the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 are optically exposed on one surface (hereinafter also referred to as the "front surface") of the housing 111. For example, the housing 111 supports the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 so that the lens 122 of the light emitting unit 120 and the lens 131 of the light receiving unit 130 are optically exposed.

[0092] The housing 111 is a case that stores the light emitting unit 120 and the light receiving unit 130 in a manner that exposes them on the front side. The housing 111 stores the light emitting unit 120 with the light emitting surface of the light emitting unit 120 facing the front side. The housing 111 stores the light receiving unit 130 with the light receiving surface of the light receiving unit 130 facing the front side. The transparent window 112 is a transparent window provided on the front side of the housing 111.

[0093] Each light-emitting element 121 of the light-emitting unit 120 emits light toward the front side of the housing unit 111, and the light-receiving unit 130 receives light from the front side of the housing unit 111. For example, the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 are connected to a power supply device (not shown) on the side (rear side) opposite to the front side of the housing unit 111, and power is supplied to them.

[0094] 5, the light-emitting unit 120 has four light-emitting elements 121-1, 121-2, 121-3, and 121-4 and a lens 122. In Fig. 5, the lens 122 is a cylindrical lens provided in front of the plurality of light-emitting elements 121. Note that the lens 122 shown in Fig. 5 is merely an example, and the lens 122 may be any optical member as long as it is capable of collecting light as desired.

[0095] Hereinafter, the light emitting elements 121-1, 121-2, 121-3, 121-4, etc. will be referred to as "light emitting elements 121" unless a particular distinction is made between them in the description. For example, the light emitting elements 121 are LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). Note that the light emitting elements 121 are not limited to LEDs, and various elements may be used. Note that four light emitting elements 121 are merely an example, and the number of light emitting elements 121 is not limited to four as long as the desired light can be emitted. In FIG. 5, four light emitting elements 121 are arranged on the substrate 113.

[0096] For example, the light emitting element 121-1 may be a first type light emitting element 121, the light emitting elements 121-2 and 121-3 may be second type light emitting elements 121, and the light emitting element 121-4 may be a third type light emitting element 121. Note that the above is merely an example, and any number of combinations may be used as long as there is at least one of each of the first type light emitting element 121, the second type light emitting element 121, and the third type light emitting element 121.

[0097] The light receiving unit 130 has a lens 131 and a light receiving element 132 which is a line sensor. When viewed from the front side, the light receiving element 132 is located behind (behind) the lens 131. For example, the light receiving element 132 may be disposed on the same substrate 113 as the light emitting element 121.

[0098] <5. Relationship between user and device operation> An example of the relationship between a person (user) using the toilet room R and the operation of the equipment will now be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between a user and the operation of the equipment. The lid 103 transitions between an open state and a closed state by driving the lid opening / closing mechanism 102. Note that in Figure 6, the lids will be described as lids 103-1 to 103-6 depending on the operation of the equipment, but will simply be referred to as "lid 103" unless a particular distinction is made.

[0099] First, in Fig. 6, when a user using the toilet room R sits on the toilet seat 5, the toilet seat device 2 detects the person sitting on it. At this stage, the lid portion 103 is in a closed state as shown by the lid portion 103-1 in Fig. 6.

[0100] Thereafter, if the user of the toilet room R agrees to be photographed by performing personal authentication or the like, the toilet seat device 2 opens the lid part 103 and starts waiting for detection of a fallen stool. At this stage, the lid part 103 transitions to an open state as shown by the lid part 103-2 in FIG. 6.

[0101] Thereafter, when the user of the toilet room R defecates, the toilet seat device 2 detects the dropping of feces and starts measurement. The measurement continues for, for example, 10 seconds. At this stage, i.e., during the measurement period, the lid portion 103 remains open as shown by the lid portion 103-3 in FIG. 6, and light is irradiated into the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8). After the measurement, waiting for the detection and dropping of feces resumes. At this stage, the irradiation of light into the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8) stops, and the lid portion 103 remains open as shown by the lid portion 103-2 in FIG. 6.

[0102] Furthermore, when the user of the toilet room R starts to wash their rear end, the toilet seat device 2 closes the lid part 103, puts the washing nozzle 6 into use, and starts washing with the washing nozzle 6. At this stage, i.e., while the washing nozzle 6 is in use, the lid part 103 is in the closed state as shown by the lid part 103-4 in Figure 6.

[0103] Furthermore, when the user of the toilet room R finishes washing the rear end, the toilet seat device 2 opens the lid portion 103 and starts waiting for detection of dropping of feces. At this stage, the lid portion 103 transitions to the open state as shown by the lid portion 103-5 in FIG. 6.

[0104] Furthermore, when a user using the toilet room R leaves the toilet seat 5, the toilet seat device 2 detects that the person has left the seat. Then, the toilet seat device 2 closes the lid part 103 and ends the wait for detection of fallen feces. At this stage, the lid part 103 transitions to a closed state as shown by the lid part 103-6 in FIG. 6. Then, the toilet seat device 2 starts transferring and analyzing data. Note that the above-described processing flow is merely an example, and the relationship between the person (user) using the toilet room R and the operation of the device is not limited to the above. For example, in preparation for the case where a user of the toilet room R defecates several times (multiple defecations), the toilet seat device 2 is set to detect and measure fallen feces up to three times. For example, if three measurements are completed before the user using the toilet room R leaves the toilet seat 5, the lid part 103 may be closed at that point, the wait for detection of fallen feces may be ended, and data may be transferred and analyzed.

[0105] In the example of FIG. 6 , the lid portion 103 opens and closes relative to the main body cover 30 around one end thereof adjacent to the upper end of the opening 31 of the main body cover 30, thereby opening and closing in the vertical direction. However, the configuration of the lid portion 103 is not limited to the example of FIG. 6 and may be variously configured. For example, the lid portion 103 may be configured to be stored in a storage compartment provided on the upper end side of the opening 31 of the main body cover 30. For example, the lid portion 103 may be configured like a shutter (shutter) made up of several connected, elongated members. Furthermore, for example, the lid portion 103 may open and close relative to the main body cover 30 around one end thereof adjacent to the lateral end of the opening 31 of the main body cover 30, thereby opening and closing in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, for example, the lid portion 103 may be separable into multiple parts and may be configured not only as a single-wing door but also as a double-wing door.

[0106] <6. Measurement processing> Next, specific operations of the measurement process will be described with reference to Figs. 7 and 8. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the process flow in the measurement process. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a time chart in the measurement process. First, each element shown in Fig. 7 will be described. Object OB1 schematically shows fecal excretion to be detected (measured). Furthermore, the light receiving device PD is a light receiving unit 130 having a light receiving element 132 such as a line sensor.

[0107] Furthermore, the light emitting device LE1 is a first type light emitting element 121, the light emitting device LE2 is a second type light emitting element 121, and the light emitting device LE3 is a third type light emitting element 121. For example, the light emitting device LE1 emits light with a wavelength of 590 nm as the light of the first wavelength. The light emitting device LE2 emits light with a wavelength of 670 nm as the light of the second wavelength. The light emitting device LE3 emits light with a wavelength of 870 nm as the light of the third wavelength. Note that the wavelengths are merely examples, and any wavelength can be adopted as long as the relationship between the first wavelength, the second wavelength, and the third wavelength is satisfied as described above. Furthermore, hereinafter, when the light emitting devices LE1 to LE3 are described without any particular distinction, they may be referred to as "light emitting device LE."

[0108] 7 conceptually illustrates a measurement process in which a falling object OB1 is irradiated with light from a light-emitting device LE and the results of light reception by a light-receiving device PD are collected. The dotted line extending from the light-emitting device LE to the object OB1 schematically illustrates the light being irradiated from the light-emitting device LE to the object OB1, and the dotted line extending from the object OB1 to the light-receiving device PD schematically illustrates the light reflected from the object OB1 and received by the light-receiving device PD. Furthermore, the horizontal line overlapping the object OB1 schematically illustrates the range (one-dimensional) of the object OB1 detected by the corresponding light emission and light reception.

[0109] The flow of the measurement process will be described below with reference to Fig. 7. The example of Fig. 7 conceptually shows the measurement process in which light is irradiated from the light emitting device LE onto a falling object OB1 and the results of light reception by the light receiving device PD are collected.

[0110] First, steps S1 to S3 in Fig. 7 show light emission by the light emitting device LE and light reception by the light receiving device PD in the measurement process. In step S1, the light emitting device LE1 emits light of a first wavelength, and the light receiving device PD receives the light reflected from the object OB1. In the example of Fig. 7, the light emitting device LE1 emits light of a wavelength of 590 nm, and the light receiving device PD receives the light reflected from the object OB1.

[0111] In step S2, the light emitting device LE3 emits light of the third wavelength, and the light receiving device PD receives the light reflected from the object OB1. In the example of Fig. 7, the light emitting device LE3 emits light of a wavelength of 870 nm, and the light receiving device PD receives the light reflected from the object OB1.

[0112] Then, in step S3, the light emitting device LE2 emits light of the second wavelength, and the light receiving device PD receives the light reflected from the object OB1. In the example of Fig. 7, the light emitting device LE2 emits light of a wavelength of 670 nm, and the light receiving device PD receives the light reflected from the object OB1. The toilet seat device 2 repeats steps S1 to S3 until a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed.

[0113] The flow of the above-mentioned process will now be explained using the time chart in Fig. 8. In Fig. 8, the process from time t11 to time t12, which is 3.3 ms (hereinafter also referred to as "scan unit process"), is performed until a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed. The scan unit process in Fig. 8 corresponds to steps S1 to S3 in Fig. 7. In this way, the toilet seat device 2 sequentially lights up the light-emitting devices LE and acquires reflected luminance data for each light source wavelength in turn.

[0114] Waveform LN11 in Figure 8 indicates whether or not 590 nm light is being emitted. When waveform LN11 is ON (i.e., when it is rising), it indicates that 590 nm light is being emitted, and when it is OFF (i.e., when it is falling), it indicates that 590 nm light is not being emitted. Waveform LN12 in Figure 8 indicates whether or not 870 nm light is being emitted. When waveform LN12 is ON, it indicates that 870 nm light is being emitted, and when it is OFF, it indicates that 870 nm light is not being emitted. Waveform LN13 in Figure 8 indicates whether or not 670 nm light is being emitted. When waveform LN13 is ON, it indicates that 670 nm light is being emitted, and when it is OFF, it indicates that 670 nm light is not being emitted.

[0115] Waveform LN14 in Fig. 8 indicates whether exposure is occurring. When waveform LN14 is rising, it indicates that exposure is occurring, and when it is falling, it indicates that exposure is not occurring. Waveform LN15 in Fig. 8 indicates whether A / D conversion is occurring. When waveform LN15 is rising, it indicates that A / D conversion is occurring, and when it is falling, it indicates that A / D conversion is not occurring.

[0116] The waveform LN16 in Figure 8 indicates whether data is being saved. When the waveform LN16 is rising, it indicates that processing to save data to internal memory is being performed, and when it is falling, it indicates that processing to save data to internal memory is not being performed.

[0117] As shown in Figure 8, in the measurement process, light is emitted at 590 nm, 670 nm, and 870 nm. In the scan unit process, light is emitted once for each of 590 nm, 670 nm, and 870 nm. That is, in the measurement process, light emitting devices LE1, LE2, and LE3 each emit light in sequence. Note that Figure 8 is merely an example, and the order of light emission in the scan unit process is not limited to that shown in Figure 8 and may be any order.

[0118] Furthermore, exposure is performed by the light receiving device PD in response to light emission (light irradiation by the light emitting device LE). For example, the light receiving device PD performs exposure by electronically controlling the light receiving element 132 (image pickup element) using an electronic shutter. Note that the electronic shutter is merely an example, and the light receiving device PD may perform exposure by any means as long as exposure at desired intervals is possible.

[0119] In the example of Figure 8, light emission and corresponding exposure are performed in the order of 590 nm, 870 nm, and 670 nm. After exposure by the light receiving device PD, analog data detected by the light receiving device PD is converted to digital data (A / D conversion). For example, after exposure by the light receiving device PD is completed, the toilet seat device 2 converts the analog data to digital data using an AD converter.

[0120] After the A / D conversion is completed, the toilet seat device 2 stores the data in, for example, the internal memory described above. For example, after the AD Converter has completed converting analog data into digital data, the arithmetic processing unit of the controller 101 is controlled to start transferring data to the memory. As a result, digital data corresponding to the light emitted by the light-emitting device LE3 is stored in the memory. The toilet seat device 2 then repeats the scan unit process for 10 seconds to collect data.

[0121] An example of a scan unit process will be described. In the example of Fig. 8, the toilet seat device 2 first emits light at 590 nm and performs exposure corresponding to the light. Then, the toilet seat device 2 converts analog data corresponding to the light emitted at 590 nm detected by the light receiving device PD into digital data (A / D conversion). After the A / D conversion is completed, the toilet seat device 2 stores the 590 nm digital data in its internal memory.

[0122] After processing the 590 nm light, the toilet seat device 2 emits light at 870 nm and performs corresponding exposure. Then, the toilet seat device 2 converts the analog data corresponding to the 870 nm light detected by the light receiving device PD into digital data (A / D conversion). After the A / D conversion is complete, the toilet seat device 2 stores the 870 nm digital data in its internal memory.

[0123] After the 670 nm process, the toilet seat device 2 emits 670 nm light and performs corresponding exposure. Then, the toilet seat device 2 converts the analog data corresponding to the 670 nm light detected by the light receiving device PD into digital data (A / D conversion). After the A / D conversion is complete, the toilet seat device 2 stores the 670 nm digital data in its internal memory. If 10 seconds have not yet elapsed, the toilet seat device 2 repeats the scan unit process again.

[0124] As described above, in the measurement process, the toilet seat device 2 sequentially emits light of three wavelengths, namely, a first wavelength (e.g., 590 nm), a second wavelength (e.g., 670 nm), and a third wavelength (e.g., 870 nm), and acquires data. That is, in the measurement process, the toilet seat device 2 sequentially causes the first type light-emitting element 121 (light-emitting device LE1), the second type light-emitting element 121 (light-emitting device LE2), and the third type light-emitting element 121 (light-emitting device LE3) to emit light, and acquires data.

[0125] The emission wavelengths in the above modes are merely examples, and any emission wavelength can be adopted, and the toilet seat device 2 may emit various types of light.

[0126] <7. Measurement processing data acquisition method> Next, specific operations of the data acquisition method for the measurement process will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the data acquisition method. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in Figs. 7 and 8 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0127] First, the object OB1 and the light receiving device PD are the same as those in FIG. 7, and therefore description thereof will be omitted. The light emitting device LE is a light emitting element 121. For simplicity of description, FIG. 9 will explain the case where there is one light emitting device LE (emitting light of one wavelength) as an example. As such, FIG. 9 schematically illustrates, as an example, the process of acquiring monochrome image data by emitting and receiving light from one of the light emitting devices LE1 to LE3, i.e., the first type light emitting element 121, the second type light emitting element 121, and the third type light emitting element 121.

[0128] In the example of Fig. 9, scene SN1 conceptually illustrates the process of illuminating a falling object OB1 with light from a light-emitting device LE and receiving the light by a light-receiving device PD at time t1. The data acquired in scene SN1 (time t1) corresponds to a one-dimensional image PI1 among the two-dimensional images EI. That is, by emitting and receiving light in scene SN1 (time t1), the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) the one-dimensional image PI1.

[0129] Furthermore, the data acquired at time t2 corresponds to one-dimensional image PI2 of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) one-dimensional image PI2 by emitting and receiving light at time t2. The data at time t2 is data acquired following the data at time t1. Therefore, the toilet seat device 2 generates the two-dimensional image EI by arranging the one-dimensional image PI2 next to the one-dimensional image PI1.

[0130] Also, the scene SNi is i The process of irradiating a falling object OB1 with light from a light emitting device LE and receiving the light by a light receiving device PD is conceptually shown in FIG. i ) corresponds to a one-dimensional image PIi of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, the data acquired at the scene SNi (time t i ) and receives light, the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) a one-dimensional image PIi.

[0131] Also, the scene SNj is j In this figure, the light emitting device LE irradiates the falling object OB1 with light, and the light receiving device PD receives the light. j ) corresponds to a one-dimensional image PIj of a two-dimensional image EI. That is, the data acquired at the scene SNj (time t j ) and receives light, the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) a one-dimensional image PIj.

[0132] The toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image (stool information) by arranging the one-dimensional images (light reception data) in the order of time when they were acquired. In Fig. 9, the toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image EI by arranging the one-dimensional images PI1, PI2..., PIi..., PIj... in this order.

[0133] In the above example, the case where light is emitted at one wavelength has been described as an example, but when light is emitted at multiple wavelengths, the toilet seat device 2 generates stool information (two-dimensional image) by arranging in chronological order the data (one-dimensional images) acquired over time for each emitted wavelength. In this regard, the case where light is emitted and received by each of the first type light-emitting element 121, the second type light-emitting element 121, and the third type light-emitting element 121 will be described as an example.

[0134] In this case, the toilet seat device 2 arranges in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from the first type of light-emitting element 121, thereby generating a two-dimensional image corresponding to the first type of light-emitting element 121. For example, the toilet seat device 2 arranges in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light with a first wavelength, such as 590 nm, thereby generating stool information (first two-dimensional image) corresponding to the first wavelength.

[0135] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 arranges in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from the second type of light-emitting element 121, thereby generating a two-dimensional image corresponding to the second type of light-emitting element 121. For example, the toilet seat device 2 arranges in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light with a second wavelength such as 670 nm, thereby generating stool information (second two-dimensional image) corresponding to the second wavelength.

[0136] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 arranges in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional images) obtained by emitting light from the third type of light-emitting element 121, thereby generating a two-dimensional image corresponding to the third type of light-emitting element 121. For example, the toilet seat device 2 arranges in chronological order the light reception data (one-dimensional images) obtained by emitting light at a third wavelength, such as 870 nm, thereby generating stool information (third two-dimensional image) corresponding to the third wavelength.

[0137] In this way, the toilet seat device 2 can obtain a color image by generating two-dimensional images for each of the three wavelengths corresponding to the first type light-emitting element 121, the second type light-emitting element 121, and the third type light-emitting element 121. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may generate a color image by combining the above-mentioned first two-dimensional image, second two-dimensional image, and third two-dimensional image.

[0138] 8. Data Analysis Methods An example of a data analysis method will now be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a data analysis method. Fig. 10 shows a case where a plurality of detection images are acquired in time series. Although Fig. 10 shows three images, namely, detection images P11, P12, and P13, the number of detection images may correspond to the number of detections.

[0139] The detected image P11 shows the detected image acquired in the first (first) detection. Specifically, the detected image P11 includes two objects, object OB11 and object OB12, which correspond to feces excreted during the user's first defecation act.

[0140] The detected image P12 is a detected image acquired in the second detection. Specifically, the detected image P12 includes two objects: an object OB21 corresponding to feces excreted in the user's second defecation act, and an object OB22 corresponding to urine.

[0141] Detection image P13 shows the detection image acquired in the final (third) detection. Specifically, detection image P13 includes two objects: object OB31 corresponding to feces excreted in the user's last defecation act, and object OB32 corresponding to toilet paper. Note that if detection is performed more than three times, detection may be performed four or more times.

[0142] The toilet seat device 2 generates information about the feces by analyzing the detection images P11, P12, P13, etc. For example, the toilet seat device 2 analyzes the detection images P11, P12, P13, etc., and detects the outer periphery (edge, outline) of the feces to obtain information about the feces. In this way, the toilet seat device 2 generates a feces image in which all matters other than the feces have been removed from the detection images. In FIG. 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates feces images P21, P22, P23 in which all matters other than the feces have been removed from the detection images P11, P12, P13, respectively.

[0143] The toilet seat device 2 generates a stool image P21 by detecting the outer peripheries of objects OB11 and OB12 corresponding to the two stools included in the detection image P11. The toilet seat device 2 also generates a stool image P22 by detecting the outer periphery of object OB21 corresponding to stool, excluding object OB22 other than stool, among two objects OB21 and OB22 included in the detection image P12. The toilet seat device 2 also generates a stool image P23 by detecting the outer periphery of object OB31 corresponding to stool, excluding object OB32 other than stool, among two objects OB31 and OB32 included in the detection image P13.

[0144] The toilet seat device 2 generates various types of information by analyzing stool images such as stool images P21, P22, and P23. For example, the toilet seat device 2 digitizes features using images of stool contained in stool test images such as stool images P21, P22, and P23. In FIG. 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates information (also referred to as "feature information") that digitizes features FT such as length (height), thickness (width), number of stools, number of wrinkle pixels, and brightness of each color component. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates feature information including the length and width of each stool of object OB11, object OB12, object OB21, and object OB31. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates feature information including the length and width of each stool using information on pixels corresponding to object OB11, object OB12, and each stool. In addition, in FIG. 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates feature information indicating that the number of feces is four, since the object OB11, the object OB12, the object OB21, and the object OB31 are feces.

[0145] The toilet seat device 2 generates data indicating the characteristics of the stool by calculation (computation) using the generated characteristic information. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates information indicating stool characteristics such as stool shape, stool amount, stool color, and blood stains (also referred to as "stool characteristic information"). In FIG. 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates stool characteristic information DT indicating stool characteristics such as stool shape classified into seven levels, stool amount classified into three levels, stool color classified into six levels, and blood stains indicating whether the stool appears red. For example, the stool shape may be classified into seven types based on the Bristol scale. For example, the stool shape may be classified into seven types (levels): hard, hard, cracked, banana-shaped, soft, muddy, and watery. For example, the stool amount may be classified into three types (levels): small (small), medium, and large (large). For example, the stool color may be classified into six types (levels): yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, burnt brown, and dark brown.

[0146] The toilet seat device 2 determines the properties of the stool from the detection results of the sensor. The toilet seat device 2 determines the properties of the user's stool by appropriately using various technologies that detect the properties of stool using optical methods. The toilet seat device 2 determines the properties of the stool corresponding to the stool image based on the stool image. For example, the toilet seat device 2 uses the stool image to determine the properties of the stool, such as the shape, amount, and color, corresponding to the stool image. For example, the toilet seat device 2 uses various features extracted from the stool image to determine the properties of the stool, such as the shape, amount, and color, corresponding to the stool image. For example, the toilet seat device 2 determines the properties of the stool by data analysis based on arithmetic operations. For example, the toilet seat device 2 classifies the shape, amount, color, blood stains, etc., corresponding to the stool image according to the results of comparing values ​​indicating the various features extracted from the stool image with thresholds.

[0147] The toilet seat device 2 may determine the property of stool by any process as long as it can generate the information indicating the property of stool. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine the property of stool using technology related to AI (artificial intelligence). For example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine the property of stool using a learning model (property determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the property determination model is trained in advance using training data that indicates classification judgments. This training data includes multiple combinations of stool images and labels (correct answer information) that indicate the property (shape, amount, color, etc.) of the mass (stool) contained in the stool image. For example, the property determination model is a model that receives a stool image as input and outputs information that indicates the property (shape, amount, color, etc.) of the mass (stool) contained in the input stool image. For example, the property determination model is trained to output information on the label (property of stool) corresponding to the input stool image when a stool image is input. The property determination model is trained using various techniques related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the property determination model may be stored in the storage unit, and the toilet seat device 2 may determine the property of the stool using the property determination model stored in the storage unit. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may perform a learning process to generate the property determination model. Note that the above is just one example, and the toilet seat device 2 may determine the property of the stool by appropriately using various information.

[0148] <9. Dirt on the window> Various configurations and treatments for stains on window portions will be described below.

[0149] <9-1.Configuration overview> First, an example of an outline of the configuration related to stains on the window portion will be described using Figures 11 to 14. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the main parts of the toilet seat device. Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view showing the main parts of the sensor unit. Figure 13 is a diagram showing the relationship between the lid portion and the sensor unit. Figure 14 is a diagram showing the relationship between the lid portion and the sensor unit. Note that the configuration shown in Figures 11 to 14 is similar to the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 described above, so similar points will be given the same reference numerals and explanations will be omitted, and the following mainly describes points related to stains on the window portion.

[0150] 11 and 12, the toilet seat device 2 has a transparent window 112 as a transparent window portion, which is a transparent window provided in front of a sensor head 110 including a light emitting element 121 and a light receiving element 132. The toilet seat device 2 also has a controller 101, which is a control unit that controls the supply of electricity to the light emitting element 121 and the application of voltage to the light receiving element 132. The toilet seat device 2 also has an openable and closable lid portion 103 that is provided in front of the transparent window 112 and whose opening and closing is controlled by the controller 101. Note that the window portion is not limited to the transparent window 112 and may have other configurations such as a lens 122 and a lens 131, which will be described later.

[0151] <9-1-1. Configuration of the lid etc. and processing according to the condition of the lid> 13 and 14, the lid portion 103 and the main parts of the sensor unit 100 will be described. Fig. 13 shows the relationship between the lid portion 103, the sensor head 110, and the transparent window 112 when the lid portion 103 is closed (closed state). Fig. 14 shows the relationship between the lid portion 103, the sensor head 110, and the transparent window 112 when the lid portion 103 is open (open state).

[0152] The reflectance of at least surface 103a of lid portion 103, which is the surface facing the window, is configured to be less than half, i.e., less than 50%. As shown in Fig. 13, when lid portion 103 is in the closed state, the reflectance of surface 103a of lid portion 103, which is the surface facing transparent window 112, is configured to be less than half (50%). For example, by processing surface 103a of lid portion 103, the reflectance of surface 103a is configured to be less than half.

[0153] For example, the reflectance of surface 103a of lid portion 103 may be reduced to less than half by coloring surface 103a of lid portion 103 with a color that reduces the reflectance to less than half. For example, the reflectance of surface 103a of lid portion 103 may be reduced to less than half by painting surface 103a of lid portion 103 black.

[0154] Furthermore, for example, the reflectance of surface 103a may be configured to be less than half by placing a sheet member of a color that reduces the reflectance to less than half on surface 103a. For example, the reflectance of surface 103a may be configured to be less than half by attaching a sheet member of a color that reduces the reflectance to less than half to surface 103a. Note that the above is merely an example, and any configuration may be used as long as the reflectance of surface 103a of lid portion 103 is less than half. For example, the entire surface of lid portion 103 may be processed, or only a portion of the surface of lid portion 103 may be processed.

[0155] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 executes a determination process (also referred to as a "dirt determination process") to determine whether or not dirt is attached to the window portion when the lid portion 103 is closed (closed state), but does not execute the dirt determination process when the lid portion 103 is open (open state). That is, the toilet seat device 2 executes the dirt determination process when the lid portion 103 is in the closed state shown in Fig. 13, but does not execute the dirt determination process when the lid portion 103 is in the open state shown in Fig. 14.

[0156] It should be noted that the toilet seat device 2 does not have to execute the dirt determination process even when the lid part 103 is in a closed state (closed state). For example, the toilet seat device 2 does not have to execute the dirt determination process while the toilet seat device 2 is being used by a user, even when the lid part 103 is in a closed state (closed state). For example, the toilet seat device 2 does not have to execute the dirt determination process while the user is sitting on the toilet seat device 2, even when the lid part 103 is in a closed state (closed state).

[0157] <9-1-2. Sensor head configuration> The configuration of the sensor head 110 will now be described with reference to Figures 13 and 14. For example, the housing 111, which is the sensor case, and the transparent window 112, which is the window, are sealed with a sealing member (not shown). In this way, in the toilet seat device 2, the front side of the sensor head 110, i.e., the side of the sensor head 110 that faces the bowl portion 8, is sealed with a sealing member.

[0158] For example, splashing of cleaning water from the cleaning nozzle 6 when the lid part 103 is closed or urine may splash onto the transparent window 112, which is the window part, and may get into the housing part 111 through the gap between the transparent window 112 and the housing part 111, which may cause parts that cannot be cleaned to become dirty or the sensor to malfunction. Therefore, the toilet seat device 2 seals the housing part 111, which is the sensor case, and the transparent window 112, which is the window part, with a sealing member (not shown), thereby preventing parts that the user cannot clean from becoming dirty or the sensor from malfunctioning.

[0159] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 has a ventilation section through which air FC1 and FC2 pass, which is not sealed between the housing part 111, which is the sensor case, and the substrate 113. In this way, in the toilet seat device 2, the back side of the sensor head 110, i.e., the substrate 113 side, is not sealed, ensuring ventilation.

[0160] For example, condensation may occur on the outside of the window due to the sudden temperature change from the cold morning to the hot daytime. Also, because the light-emitting unit and light-receiving unit are housed in the same housing and the light-emitting unit is on for a long time, heat from the light-emitting unit may cause the inside of the sensor to expand and malfunction, or condensation may occur on the inside of the window in cold regions. As described above, the toilet seat device 2 seals the window and sensor case to prevent staining, but does not seal the board side. The toilet seat device 2 has a ventilation section through which air FC1 and FC2 pass, which prevents staining due to water and sensor malfunction while suppressing condensation due to temperature changes.

[0161] <9-2. Relationship between light emission and light reception> Next, the relationship between light emission and light reception will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the relationship between light emission and light reception. Fig. 15 is a side view of the light emitter 120 and the light receiver 130. Specifically, Fig. 15 is a conceptual diagram viewed from a direction (side direction) intersecting the thickness direction of the lens 131 of the light receiver 130. Note that similar components and processes to those described above are denoted by similar reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate.

[0162] As shown in Figure 15, light RD1 emitted from light-emitting unit 120 passes through transparent window 112 and is emitted into bowl portion 8 as light TL1. If there is stool VF in bowl portion 8, the light TL1 irradiated onto the stool VF is reflected by the stool VF, and the light TL1 irradiated onto bowl portion 8 is combined with the reflected light reflected by bowl portion 8 and detected as reflected light RL1 by light-receiving unit 130. If there is no stool VF in bowl portion 8, the light TL1 irradiated onto bowl portion 8 is reflected by bowl portion 8 and detected as reflected light RL2 by light-receiving unit 130.

[0163] Furthermore, if dirt is attached to the transparent window 112, part of the light RD1 that is irradiated onto the dirt on the transparent window 112 is reflected by the dirt on the transparent window 112 and detected as reflected light RL3 by the light receiving unit 130. Therefore, if dirt is attached to the transparent window 112, the light receiving unit 130 also receives the reflected light RL3 from the dirt on the transparent window 112, which may reduce the accuracy of detecting the stool VF.

[0164] In order to detect dirt on a window portion such as the transparent window 112 described above, it is desirable to determine whether or not dirt is attached to the window portion. However, when determining whether or not dirt is attached to the window portion when the lid portion 103 is open (open state), it is difficult for the toilet seat device 2 to properly determine whether or not dirt is attached to the window portion because it is affected by the reflected light RL2 from the bowl portion 8 and the reflected light RL1 from the feces VF.

[0165] Therefore, the toilet seat device 2 executes a dirt determination process to determine whether or not dirt has adhered to the window portion when the lid portion 103 is closed (closed state). That is, by executing the dirt determination process when the lid portion 103 is closed, the toilet seat device 2 detects, by the light receiving unit 130, light reflected from dirt on the transparent window 112 and light reflected from the surface 103a of the lid portion 103 that faces the transparent window 112. As described above, the surface 103a of the lid portion 103 is configured so that the reflectance is less than half, and therefore the toilet seat device 2 can appropriately determine whether or not dirt has adhered to the window portion by executing the dirt determination process to determine whether or not dirt has adhered to the window portion when the lid portion 103 is closed (closed state).

[0166] <9-3. Overview of contamination detection process> Next, an example of the output of the light receiving unit 130 depending on whether or not dirt is attached to the window portion will be described using Figure 16. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of the output depending on whether or not dirt is attached. The toilet seat device 2 emits light from the light emitting unit 120 when the lid portion is closed, and executes a dirt determination process to determine whether or not dirt is attached to the window portion such as the transparent window 112 depending on the output of the light receiving unit 130 as shown in Figure 16. Below, an example will be described in which the window portion is the transparent window 112.

[0167] The "Dirt" column in FIG. 16 shows the state when dirt is attached to the transparent window 112 and the output of the light receiving unit 130. The "No dirt" column in FIG. 16 shows the state when no dirt is attached to the transparent window 112 and the output of the light receiving unit 130. The "Dirt on window" row in FIG. 16 schematically shows dirt on the transparent window 112. The "Output of light receiving unit" row in FIG. 16 shows the output value of the light receiving unit 130 corresponding to each wavelength.

[0168] As shown in FIG. 16, the output value is higher when the transparent window 112 is dirty than when the transparent window 112 is not dirty. For example, the dirt that adheres to the transparent window 112 is often light-colored dirt such as limescale or urine. Furthermore, the output is often higher because the transparent window 112 receives reflected light from the transparent window 112, which is closer than feces or the toilet bowl 7 in the background. Furthermore, for example, if the entire surface of the transparent window 112 is dirty, the output will be uniformly high for all pixels, but if only part of the transparent window 112 is dirty, the output will be locally high for only the corresponding part of the pixels. Therefore, the toilet seat device 2 determines that the transparent window 112 is dirty when the output of the light-receiving unit 130 satisfies the dirt detection condition.

[0169] For example, the condition for detecting dirt may be that the output value of the light receiving unit 130 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. In this case, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112 when the output value of the light receiving unit 130 is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold. Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is not attached to the transparent window 112 when the output value of the light receiving unit 130 is less than the predetermined threshold. Note that the threshold can be any value (e.g., 0.5, 1.5, etc.) depending on the type of information used.

[0170] For example, when there is a wavelength in a predetermined wavelength range that has an output value equal to or greater than a threshold, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112. In Fig. 16, for example, when there is a wavelength in a wavelength range of 500 to 1000 nm that has an output value equal to or greater than a threshold, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112.

[0171] Furthermore, for example, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112 when the sum of the output values ​​of wavelengths in a predetermined wavelength range is equal to or greater than a threshold. In Fig. 16, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112 when the sum of the output values ​​of wavelengths in a wavelength range of 500 to 1000 nm is equal to or greater than a threshold. Furthermore, for example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112 when the average of the sum of the output values ​​of wavelengths in a predetermined wavelength range is equal to or greater than a threshold.

[0172] For example, the output value of the light receiving unit 130 when no dirt is attached may be used. In this case, the toilet seat device 2 determines whether or not dirt is attached to a window portion such as the transparent window 112 based on a comparison result between the output value of the light receiving unit 130 when no dirt is attached (also referred to as a "reference output value") and the output value of the light receiving unit 130 during the dirt determination process (also referred to as a "determination output value"). For example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine whether or not dirt is attached to a window portion such as the transparent window 112 based on the difference between the reference output value and the determination output value. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine whether or not dirt is attached to a window portion such as the transparent window 112 based on the ratio of the determination output value to the reference output value.

[0173] For example, if there is a wavelength in a predetermined wavelength range where the value (difference) obtained by subtracting the reference output value from the determination output value is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112. In Fig. 16, for example, if there is a wavelength in a wavelength range of 500 to 1000 nm where the value (difference) obtained by subtracting the reference output value from the determination output value is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112.

[0174] Furthermore, for example, when the difference between the sum of the reference output values ​​of wavelengths in a predetermined wavelength range (also referred to as the "reference sum") and the sum of the output values ​​of wavelengths in the predetermined wavelength range at the time of determination (also referred to as the "determination sum") is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112. In Fig. 16, for example, when the difference between the reference sum of wavelengths in the wavelength range of 500 to 1000 nm and the sum of wavelengths in the wavelength range of 500 to 1000 nm at the time of determination is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112.

[0175] For example, if there is a wavelength in a predetermined wavelength range where the ratio of the output value at the time of determination to the reference output value is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112. In Fig. 16, for example, if there is a wavelength in a wavelength range of 500 to 1000 nm where the ratio of the output value at the time of determination to the reference output value is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112.

[0176] Furthermore, for example, when there is a wavelength where the ratio of the sum of wavelengths in a predetermined wavelength range at the time of determination to the reference sum of wavelengths in the predetermined wavelength range is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112. In Fig. 16, for example, when there is a wavelength where the ratio of the sum of wavelengths in a wavelength range of 500 to 1000 nm at the time of determination to the reference sum of wavelengths in the wavelength range of 500 to 1000 nm is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112.

[0177] Furthermore, for example, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112 when there is a wavelength at which the variation (e.g., standard deviation or variance) of the summed value at determination between pixels of wavelengths in a predetermined wavelength range is equal to or greater than a threshold. In FIG. 16, the toilet seat device 2 determines that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112 when the variation of the summed value at determination between pixels of wavelengths in a wavelength range of 500 to 1000 nm is equal to or greater than a threshold. Furthermore, for example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine that dirt is attached to the transparent window 112 when the standard deviation of the summed value at determination between pixels of wavelengths in a predetermined wavelength range is equal to or greater than a threshold. Furthermore, for example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine whether or not dirt is attached to the transparent window 112 based on the variation of the summed value at determination between wavelengths at the same pixel.

[0178] The above-mentioned determination is merely an example, and the toilet seat device 2 may be provided with a dirt level determination means that can determine the degree of dirt, in addition to "dirty" or "not dirty." For example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine the level of dirt in three stages: slightly dirty, dirty, and very dirty. In this way, the toilet seat device 2 may determine the level of dirt. The toilet seat device 2 may also determine the presence or absence of dirt for each pixel and determine the location of dirt on the window portion.

[0179] The above-described determination of whether or not dirt is attached is merely an example, and the toilet seat device 2 may determine whether or not dirt is attached by appropriately using various information.

[0180] <9-4. Other examples of windows> In the above example, the transparent window 112 is described as an example of the window portion, but the window portion is not limited to the transparent window 112. That is, the window portion is not limited to the transparent window 112 and may be various components of the toilet seat apparatus 2. For example, it may be any component of the toilet seat apparatus 2 that can be a target for determining whether or not dirt is attached. For example, the window portion may be the lens 122 as a light-emitting lens or the lens 131 as a light-receiving lens shown in FIG. 12. In this case, the toilet seat apparatus 2 does not have the transparent window 112, and the toilet seat apparatus 2 determines whether or not dirt is attached to the lens 122 or the lens 131. Note that both the lens 122 and the lens 131 may be window portions, or only one of the lens 122 and the lens 131 may be window portions. Furthermore, the transparent window 112 is not limited to a window with a transmittance of 100%, and may be a translucent window with a transmittance of, for example, 80%.

[0181] For example, when the lens 122 is a window, the toilet seat device 2 has the lens 122 provided in front of the light-emitting element 121 as a transparent window. In this case, the toilet seat device 2 emits light from the light-emitting element 120 with the lid 103 closed, and executes a determination process to determine whether or not dirt is attached to the lens 122 provided in front of the light-emitting element 121 depending on whether or not the output of the light-receiving element 130 satisfies the dirt detection condition. Note that the determination process is the same as when the transparent window 112 is the window, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0182] Furthermore, for example, when the lens 131 is a window, the toilet seat device 2 has the lens 131 provided in front of the light receiving element 132 as a transparent window. In this case, the toilet seat device 2 emits light from the light emitting unit 120 while the lid 103 is closed, and executes a determination process to determine whether or not dirt is attached to the lens 131 provided in front of the light receiving element 132 depending on whether or not the output of the light receiving unit 130 satisfies the dirt detection condition. Note that the determination process is the same as when the transparent window 112 is the window, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0183] Furthermore, for example, when both the lens 122 and the lens 131 are windows, the toilet seat device 2 has the lens 122 provided in front of the light-emitting element 121 and the lens 131 provided in front of the light-receiving element 132 as transparent windows. In this case, the toilet seat device 2 emits light from the light-emitting element 120 with the lid 103 closed, and executes a determination process to determine whether or not dirt is attached to the lens 122 provided in front of the light-emitting element 121 and the lens 131 provided in front of the light-receiving element 132 depending on whether or not the output of the light-receiving element 130 satisfies the dirt detection condition. In this case, the toilet seat device 2 emits light from the light-emitting element 120 with the lid 103 closed, and when the output of the light-receiving element 130 satisfies the dirt detection condition, determines that dirt is attached to at least one of the lens 122 and the lens 131. Note that the determination process is the same as when the transparent window 112 is a window, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0184] For example, when the toilet seat device 2 determines that the window is "soiled," the information processing system 1 may display a message urging the user to clean. For example, when the toilet seat device 2 determines that the window is "soiled," the user terminal 200 or the operation device 10, which is a display device, may display information urging the user to clean. Furthermore, when the toilet seat device 2 has an automatic cleaning function that automatically removes stains from the window using water or air, the toilet seat device 2 may activate the automatic cleaning function when it determines that the window is "soiled." Alternatively, when the toilet seat device 2 determines that the window is "soiled," the information processing system 1 may display a message urging the user to clean on the user terminal 200 together with the analysis result of the stool properties. For example, the information processing system 1 may display information such as "This is the result when the window was slightly soiled" on the user terminal 200. Alternatively, the toilet seat device 2 of the information processing system 1 may lower the reliability of the analysis result and store it in a server (such as the server device 400). For example, the toilet seat device 2 of the information processing system 1 analyzes the stool properties taking into account the degree of soiling. For example, the toilet seat device 2 of the information processing system 1 corrects the analysis result using the degree of soiling.

[0185] The above-described embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradiction in the processing content.

[0186] Further advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0187] R Toilet Room 1. Information Processing Systems 2 Toilet seat device 3 Main body 30 Main unit cover 31 Aperture 32 Human body detection sensor 33 Seating detection sensor 34 Control unit (control device) 4 Toilet lid 5 toilet seats 6 Cleaning nozzle 60 Nozzle Cover 7 Western-style toilet (toilet) 71 Solenoid valve 8 Bowl 9 Rim 10 Operating device 11 Display screen 100 sensor units 101 Controller (control unit) 102 Lid opening / closing mechanism 103 Lid 110 Sensor head (detection part) 120 Light-emitting part 121 Light-emitting element 122 Lens 130 Light receiving part 131 Lens 132 Light receiving element (line sensor) 200 User terminals (displays) 400 Server equipment (cloud)

Claims

1. A toilet seat device that is placed on top of a toilet bowl formed with a bowl portion for receiving excrement, A toilet seat on which a user sits; a light-emitting unit having a light-emitting element that emits light; a light receiving unit having a light receiving element that receives light; a transparent window provided in front of each of the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element; a control unit that controls the application of a voltage to the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element; a cover portion provided in front of the window portion and whose opening and closing is controlled by the control portion; and With the cover closed, light is emitted from the light-emitting unit, and a determination process is executed to determine whether or not dirt is attached to the window depending on whether or not the output of the light-receiving unit satisfies a condition for dirt detection. A toilet seat device characterized by:

2. The determination process is not executed while the user is seated on the toilet seat.

2. The toilet seat device according to claim 1.

3. The reflectance of at least the surface of the lid facing the window is less than half.

3. The toilet seat device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A toilet device in which a toilet seat is placed on top of a toilet bowl formed with a bowl portion for receiving excrement, The toilet seat on which a user sits; a light-emitting unit having a light-emitting element that emits light; a light receiving unit having a light receiving element that receives light; a transparent window provided in front of each of the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element; a control unit that controls the application of a voltage to the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element; a cover portion provided in front of the window portion and whose opening and closing is controlled by the control portion; and With the cover closed, light is emitted from the light-emitting unit, and a determination process is executed to determine whether or not dirt is attached to the window depending on whether or not the output of the light-receiving unit satisfies a condition for dirt detection. A toilet device characterized by:

Images