Toilet seat and toilet bowl

Abstract

To properly estimate the end of stool.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, a toilet seat device is a toilet seat device mounted on the top part of a toilet bowl with a bowl part for receiving excrement formed to detect information of falling stool, and includes a light-emitting part having a light-emitting element for emitting light, a light receiving part having a light receiving element for receiving light, and a control part for estimating the end of the stool on the basis of a position on which the intensity of the light received by the light receiving part falls, wherein a first central axis related to light reception of the light receiving element is not coincident with a second central axis related to light emission of the light-emitting element in an upper surface view of the toilet seat device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a toilet seat device and a toilet device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique for analyzing excrement such as feces (hereinafter also simply referred to as "excrement") discharged into a toilet has been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, there is room for improvement in the above-described conventional technology. For example, in the above-described conventional technology, an analysis of excrement using an image obtained by imaging the internal space of a toilet bowl during excretion is performed. However, depending on the position of the excrement, the color of the excrement, etc., it may be difficult to identify the boundary between the excrement and the background (for example, inside the toilet bowl) in the image. In such a case, it is difficult to appropriately identify the area occupied by the excrement in the image. Therefore, it is desired to estimate the end portion of the excrement in order to appropriately identify the area occupied by the excrement in the image.

[0005] An object of the disclosed embodiments is to provide a toilet seat device and a toilet device that can appropriately estimate the end portion of excrement.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A toilet seat device according to one embodiment is a toilet seat device that is placed on top of a toilet bowl having a bowl portion for receiving excrement and detects information about falling feces, and comprises a light-emitting unit having a light-emitting element that emits light, a light-receiving unit having a light-receiving element that receives light, and a control unit that estimates the end of the feces based on the position where the intensity of the light received by the light-receiving unit decreases, characterized in that, in a top view of the toilet seat device, the first central axis relating to the light-receiving element and the second central axis relating to the light-emitting element do not coincide.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the toilet seat device, in a top view of the toilet seat device, the first central axis relating to light reception of the light-receiving element and the second central axis relating to light emission of the light-emitting element do not coincide; that is, the first central axis and the second central axis are misaligned. As a result, the toilet seat device forms a shadow of feces where the amount of reflection decreases locally, that is, the intensity of the light received by the light-receiving part is low. Based on the rapid decrease in the amount of reflection in the reflected light, the position of the edge of the feces can be estimated, thereby appropriately extracting the edge of the feces from the feces data. Therefore, the toilet seat device can appropriately estimate the edge of the feces. For example, especially when the feces are whitish, the amount of light reflection does not change significantly from the background toilet bowl, making it difficult to extract (estimate) the edge of the feces from the data. However, the toilet seat device, by actively creating a shadow of feces with the above configuration, can appropriately estimate (detect) the edge of the feces.

[0008] In a top view of a toilet seat device according to one embodiment, the light-emitting element is positioned offset from the light-receiving element in the left-right direction.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the toilet seat device, in a top view of the toilet seat device, the light-emitting element is positioned offset from the light-receiving element in the left-right direction. As a result, for example, the position of the center of the light-emitting element and the center of the light-receiving element are offset in the direction along the light-receiving surface (front) of the light-receiving element (left-right direction). In this way, the light-emitting element is positioned offset from the light-receiving element in the toilet seat device. As a result, the toilet seat device forms a shadow of feces where the amount of reflection decreases locally, that is, the intensity of the light received by the light-receiving part is low. Based on the sharp decrease in the amount of reflection in the reflected light, the position of the edge of the feces can be estimated, thereby appropriately extracting the edge of the feces from the feces data. Therefore, the toilet seat device can appropriately estimate the edge of the feces.

[0010] In a toilet seat device according to one embodiment, the light-emitting part has a first light-emitting element and a second light-emitting element whose respective second central axes do not coincide when viewed from above, and when the first light-emitting element is emitting light, the second light-emitting element is not illuminated, and when the second light-emitting element is emitting light, the first light-emitting element is not illuminated.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the toilet seat device, in a top view of the toilet seat device, the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element are arranged so that their respective second central axes do not coincide. By arranging the two light-emitting elements in such a way that their respective second central axes do not coincide in a top view of the toilet seat device, the feces can be illuminated from multiple directions and from multiple angles. Furthermore, in the toilet seat device, by not illuminating the second light-emitting element when the first light-emitting element is emitting light, and not illuminating the first light-emitting element when the second light-emitting element is emitting light, it is possible to suppress the disappearance of shadows due to the light from the first and second light-emitting elements, that is, the difficulty in forming shadows. In this way, the toilet seat device can eliminate the difficulty in forming shadows by alternately illuminating the first and second light-emitting elements. Therefore, the toilet seat device can appropriately estimate the edge of the feces. Note that "not illuminating the light-emitting elements" includes illuminating the light-emitting elements at a low intensity. For example, "not illuminating the light-emitting elements" is a concept that also includes limiting the light emission intensity of the light-emitting elements to 1 / 10 or less.

[0012] In a toilet seat device according to one embodiment, the light-emitting element emits light in a diagonally downward direction.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the toilet seat device, the light-emitting element illuminates the area diagonally downward, making it easier to create a shadow below the stool, and allowing for accurate estimation of the lower edge of the stool. Therefore, the toilet seat device can accurately estimate the edge of the stool.

[0014] A toilet device according to one embodiment is a toilet device in which a toilet seat is placed on top of a toilet bowl formed in which a bowl portion for receiving excrement is formed, and which detects information of falling feces, and comprises a light-emitting unit having a light-emitting element that emits light, a light-receiving unit having a light-receiving element that receives light, and a control unit that estimates the end of the feces based on the position where the intensity of the light received by the light-receiving unit decreases, wherein in a top view of the toilet seat, the first central axis relating to the light-receiving element and the second central axis relating to the light-emitting element do not coincide.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the toilet device, in a top view of the toilet seat, the first central axis related to light reception of the light-receiving element and the second central axis related to light emission of the light-emitting element do not coincide; that is, the first central axis and the second central axis are misaligned. As a result, the toilet device forms a shadow of feces where the amount of reflection decreases locally, that is, the intensity of the light received by the light-receiving part is low. Based on the rapid decrease in the amount of reflection in the reflected light, the position of the edge of the feces can be estimated, thereby appropriately extracting the edge of the feces from the feces data. Therefore, the toilet device can appropriately estimate the edge of the feces. For example, especially when the feces are whitish, the amount of light reflection does not change significantly from the background toilet, making it difficult to extract (estimate) the edge of the feces from the data. However, the toilet device, by actively creating a shadow of feces with the above configuration, can appropriately estimate (detect) the edge of the feces. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the end of the stool can be appropriately estimated.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017] [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 showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet seat device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a toilet seat device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a sensor unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the operations of a user and a device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the flow of processing in measurement processing. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a time chart in measurement processing. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a data acquisition method. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a data analysis method. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement relationship between a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the light emission of a light-emitting element and the light reception of a light-receiving element. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a shadow. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between wavelength and reflectance. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the reflectance in stool and background. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the intensity of light and distance. [Figure 17]Figure 17 shows an example of the reflectivity of feces and the background. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] The embodiments of the toilet seat device and toilet bowl device disclosed in this application will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. However, this invention is not limited to the embodiments shown below. The following describes the processing related to the collection of information on feces by toilet room users and the configuration for performing such processing, but first, various configurations such as the information processing system that are prerequisites will be described.

[0019] <1. Configuration of the Information Processing System> The configuration of the information processing system according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet system according to the embodiment. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing system according to the embodiment.

[0020] First, using Figure 1, we will explain an example of the configuration within the toilet room R of the information processing system 1. Hereafter, the configuration within the toilet room R shown in Figures 1 and 2 may be collectively referred to as the toilet system TS. As shown in Figure 1, a Western-style toilet (hereinafter referred to as "toilet") 7 is installed on the floor surface F of the toilet room R. Hereafter, the direction from the floor surface F towards the space of the toilet room R will be referred to as "up". The toilet seat device 2 is installed above the toilet 7.

[0021] The toilet bowl 7 is made of, for example, ceramic. The toilet bowl 7 has a bowl portion 8. The bowl portion 8 is recessed downwards and is the part that receives the user's excrement (toilet bowl). The toilet bowl 7 is not limited to the floor-standing type as shown in the figure, but can be of any type as long as the toilet system TS can be applied, and may also be a wall-mounted type, etc. The toilet bowl 7 is provided with a rim portion 9 around the entire circumference of the end of the opening facing the bowl portion 8. In the toilet room R, for example, a flush water tank for storing flush water may be installed near the toilet bowl 7, or it may be a so-called tankless type without a flush water tank.

[0022] For example, when a flushing control unit (not shown) installed in the toilet room R is operated by the user, flushing water is supplied to the bowl portion 8 of the toilet bowl 7, thereby performing toilet flushing. The flushing control unit may be an operating lever or a touch operation on a toilet flushing object displayed on the operating device 10. Note that the flushing control unit is not limited to one that allows the user to perform toilet flushing manually, such as with an operating lever, but may also be one that performs toilet flushing by detecting the user's body with a sensor that detects the user, such as a seating sensor.

[0023] The toilet seat device 2 is mounted on top of the toilet bowl 7 and comprises 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 has a bowl portion 8 for receiving 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 portion 8 before spraying flushing water. The toilet seat device 2 may be detachably attached to the toilet bowl 7, or it may be attached to be integrated with the toilet bowl 7. That is, for example, the toilet seat device 2 and the toilet bowl 7 may be an integrated toilet device. In this case, the toilet system TS comprises a toilet device in which the toilet seat device 2 and the toilet bowl 7 are integrated. The above-described configuration of the toilet system TS is merely an example, and any configuration can be adopted as long as the desired processing is possible.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, the toilet seat 5 is formed in an annular shape with an opening 50 in the center and is positioned along the rim 9 to overlap with the opening of the toilet bowl 7. The user sits on the toilet seat 5. The toilet seat 5 functions as a seat that supports the buttocks of the seated user. Also, as shown in Figure 1, the toilet lid 4 and the toilet seat 5 are each pivotally supported at one end on the main body 3 and are attached so as to be rotatable (openable and closable) around the pivot point of the main body 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 the toilet lid 4.

[0025] The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for discharging cleaning water. The cleaning nozzle 6 is capable of spraying cleaning water. The cleaning nozzle 6 is capable of spraying cleaning water towards the user. The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for localized cleaning. The cleaning nozzle 6 is configured to move forward and backward relative to the main body cover 30, which is the housing of the main body 3, by being driven by a drive source such as an electric motor (nozzle motor 61 in Figure 4, etc.). 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 the extended position relative to the main body cover 30, which is the housing of the main body 3 (hereinafter also referred to as the "extended position"), as shown in Figure 1, it sprays water from the water source onto the user's body to clean the localized area.

[0026] Figure 1 shows the state in which the cleaning nozzle 6 is in the extended position. Note that the cleaning nozzle 6 may also be used for cleaning the inside of the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8, etc.). The cleaning nozzle 6 may be used in a way that allows switching between a localized cleaning mode for cleaning the user's private parts and a toilet bowl cleaning mode for spraying water inside the toilet bowl 7. For example, the cleaning nozzle 6 may be used in a way that allows switching between the localized cleaning mode and the toilet bowl cleaning mode in accordance with the control unit 34 (see Figure 4) of the toilet seat device 2.

[0027] The operating device 10 is installed in the toilet room R. The operating device 10 is installed in a position that can be operated by the user. The operating device 10 is installed in a position that can be operated when the user is seated on the toilet seat 5. In the example shown in Figure 1, the operating device 10 is installed on the wall W to the right of the user seated on the toilet seat 5. The operating device 10 may be installed in various ways other than on the wall, as long as it is accessible to the user seated on the toilet seat 5. For example, the operating device 10 may be installed integrally with the toilet seat device 2.

[0028] From here, the device configuration of the information processing system 1 and the functions of each device will be described with reference to Figure 2. As shown in Figure 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 system TSs, multiple user terminals 200, and multiple server devices 400. In the information processing system 1, the toilet seat device 2 performs various processes such as analysis of the properties of stool, and the server device 400 stores information related to the analysis results by the toilet seat device 2.

[0029] The toilet seat device 2 is located within the toilet room R. The toilet seat device 2 communicates with the operating device 10, the user terminal 200, etc. The toilet seat device 2 may also communicate with the server device 400.

[0030] The toilet seat device 2 performs a process (personal identification) to acquire information to identify the user who uses the toilet 7 in the toilet room R for defecation. For example, the toilet seat device 2 acquires information to identify the user who uses the toilet 7 for defecation and performs personal identification of the user by communicating with a user terminal 200 owned by the user or by the user's operation of the control device 10. For example, the toilet seat device 2 communicates with a user terminal 200 owned by the user and receives a user ID (also simply called "ID"), which is user identification information for identifying the user, from the user terminal 200. The toilet seat device 2 may identify the user by any method as long as it is possible to identify the user who uses the toilet 7 in the toilet room R for defecation.

[0031] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 transmits excretion information related to the detected excretion to the user terminal 200. For example, the toilet seat device 2 performs various processes such as analysis of the stool's properties and transmits excretion information based on the analysis results to the user terminal 200. The user terminal 200 transmits the excretion information and user identification information to identify 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 also associate the received excretion information with the received user identification information and register it in its storage unit.

[0032] The operating device 10 is a computer (remote control) that receives user commands related to the control of the toilet seat device 2. The operating device 10 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network, either by wire or wireless communication. For example, the operating device 10 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi®. The connection between the toilet seat device 2 and the operating device 10 can be any connection that enables the transmission and reception of information, and may be connected by wire or by wireless communication. For example, the operating device 10 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a network N, either by wire or wireless communication.

[0033] The operating device 10 accepts various operations from the user via a display surface (e.g., display screen 11) through, for example, a touch panel function. The operating device 10 may also be equipped with switches and buttons, and accept various operations via switches and buttons. The display screen 11 is a display screen of a tablet terminal, etc., 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 operating device 10 accepts user input via the display screen 11 and also outputs to the user. The display screen 11 is a display device for displaying various information. For example, the operating device 10 may function as a display terminal (display) that displays various information provided by the toilet seat device 2.

[0034] The control device 10 receives user input to stop the control being performed by the toilet seat device 2. The control device 10 receives user input to start the local washing function of the toilet seat device 2. The control device 10 receives user instructions for the washing nozzle 6. The control device 10 receives user input to cause the toilet seat device 2 to output a predetermined sound. The control device 10 receives user input to perform a sterilization process to disinfect the washing nozzle 6 (see Figure 1) of the toilet seat device 2 with disinfectant water. The control device 10 receives user input to adjust the water pressure during local washing by the toilet seat device 2. The control device 10 receives user input to adjust the volume of the sound output by the toilet seat device 2. The control device 10 receives user input to select the language for displaying or outputting audio information related to toilet use on the control device 10.

[0035] For example, the operating device 10 may display the object that accepts user input as described above on the display screen 11, and execute various processes in response to user contact with the displayed object. For example, the operating device 10 may have switches, buttons, etc. that accept user input as described above, and execute various processes in response to user contact with switches, buttons, etc. Note that the above is just an example, and the operating device 10 may accept user input to execute various processes.

[0036] The user terminal 200 is a terminal device (computer) used by the user. The user terminal 200 can be implemented as, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet device, or a notebook PC (Personal Computer). For example, the user terminal 200 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 in a communicative manner via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi®. Alternatively, the user terminal 200 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a network N, either wired or wirelessly.

[0037] The user terminal 200 sends and receives information with the toilet seat device 2 and the server device 400. The user terminal 200 receives excretion information from the toilet seat device 2. The user terminal 200 transmits the excretion information obtained from the toilet seat device 2 to the server device 400. For example, the user terminal 200 associates the excretion information obtained from the toilet seat device 2 with the user identification information of the user using the user terminal 200 and transmits it to the server device 400.

[0038] 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 showing the user's bowel movement data from the server device 400 and displays the received content.

[0039] The user terminal 200 has a display (display device) that shows various 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 shows various information provided by the toilet seat device 2. The user terminal 200 receives information indicating defecation data from the toilet seat device 2 or the server device 400 and displays the received information indicating defecation data. For example, the user terminal 200 displays the defecation data chronologically for each date and time of excretion.

[0040] The server device 400 is a computer that functions as a cloud (server) for storing information. The server device 400 is connected to the user terminal 200 via a predetermined network (network N), such as the Internet, via a wired or wireless connection. The server device 400 may be connected to the user terminal 200 in any way as long as it is capable of sending and receiving information; it may be connected via a wired connection or via a wireless connection. The server device 400 may also be able to communicate with the toilet seat device 2.

[0041] The server device 400 stores information received from the user terminal 200 in its storage unit. The server device 400 stores the excretion information obtained from the user terminal 200 in its storage unit in association with the user identification information.

[0042] The server device 400 is not limited to a cloud (server) but can be any device. In other words, the configuration and placement of the server device 400 can be any form as long as the desired processing can be achieved. For example, the server device 400 may be a portable terminal (device) such as a laptop computer that can be carried by the administrator of the information processing system 1. Alternatively, the server device 400 may be placed in the toilet room R. Note that the information processing system 1 does not have a server device 400. In this case, the information processing system 1 does not have a server device 400, and the toilet seat device 2 or the user terminal 200 may have the functions of the server device 400.

[0043] The above is merely an example, and the information processing system 1 can employ any device configuration as long as it can achieve the desired processing. For example, the operating device 10 may function as a display unit for displaying defecation data. Alternatively, both the operating device 10 and the user terminal 200 may be included in the information processing system 1 as devices that function as display units.

[0044] Information processing system 1 detects various properties of the user's stool, such as its shape, size, consistency, and color, through various configurations and processes described later. 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 information processing system 1 may acquire stool information by various means other than optical means, as long as the desired information can be obtained.

[0045] <2. Configuration of the toilet seat device> Next, the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. Specifically, Figure 3 is a perspective view of the toilet seat device 2 viewed from the front. Note that the toilet lid 4 and the lid portion 103 are not shown in Figure 3.

[0046] Furthermore, Figure 3 shows the state in which the cleaning nozzle 6 (see Figure 1) is stored inside the main body cover 30 (also referred to as the "storage position"). Note that in Figure 3, when the cleaning nozzle 6 is stored inside the main body cover 30, the nozzle cover that conceals the cleaning nozzle 6 is not shown. As shown in Figure 3, when the cleaning nozzle 6 is in the storage position, the nozzle cover 60 is closed, and the cleaning nozzle 6 is hidden behind the nozzle cover 60. When cleaning is performed by the cleaning nozzle 6, the nozzle cover 60 opens, and the cleaning nozzle 6 protrudes from the opening in the main body cover 30 (the opening that is covered by the nozzle cover 60 in the closed state in Figure 3), and the cleaning nozzle 6 moves into the extended state.

[0047] The sensor head 110 (see Figure 5), which has a light-emitting unit 120 and a light-receiving unit 130, is optically exposed through an opening 31 in the main body cover 30. For example, the light-emitting unit 120 can irradiate light from the opening 31 toward the excrement in the toilet bowl 7, and the light-receiving unit 130 can receive reflected light from the excrement in the toilet bowl 7.

[0048] The opening 31 of the main body cover 30 is provided with a retractable cover 103 (see Figure 5). When the sensor unit 100 emits light or receives light, the cover 103 is open (hereinafter also referred to as the "open state"), and the light-emitting part 120 and light-receiving part 130 of the sensor unit 100 are optically exposed through the opening 31. When the sensor unit 100 does not emit light or receive light, the cover 103 is closed (hereinafter also referred to as the "closed state"), and the opening 31 is covered by the cover 103, with the cover 103 positioned in front of the sensor head 110. The "closed state" as used here refers to the state in which the front side of the sensor head 110 is covered by the cover 103, and also includes configurations in which parts other than the front of the sensor head 110 are open.

[0049] For example, the lid 103 can be positioned in front of the sensor head 110, which has a light-emitting part 120 and a light-receiving part 130, and can function as a lid. The lid 103 can be positioned on the side (front) facing the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting part 120 of the sensor head 110. The lid 103 can be positioned on the side (front) facing the light-receiving surface of the light-receiving part 130 of the sensor head 110. For example, when the lid 103 is open, the lid 103 is not positioned in front of the sensor head 110. As a result, when the lid 103 is open, the sensor head 110 is exposed. When the lid 103 is open, the light-emitting part 120 of the sensor head 110 can irradiate light toward the excrement in the toilet bowl 7, and the light-receiving part 130 of the sensor head 110 can receive reflected light from the excrement in the toilet bowl 7. As described above, the lid 103 is positioned in front of the sensor head 110 when closed, thereby covering the front of the sensor head 110, and is not positioned in front of the sensor head 110 when open, thereby leaving the front of the sensor head 110 open.

[0050] The cover portion 103 is provided in front of the sensor head 110 and is openable and closable. The cover portion 103 can transition between an open state and a closed state by a cover opening / closing mechanism 102. For example, the cover portion 103 is in a closed state when not measuring and is located in front of the sensor head 110. Also, the cover portion 103 is opened when measuring and moves to another location from in front of the sensor head 110. This prevents the cover portion 103 from becoming dirty and reducing the detection accuracy of the light receiving portion 130 of the sensor head 110. The cover portion 103 is preferably made of a non-transparent material to reduce the possibility of the sensor unit 100 being visible and to ensure user privacy. For example, the cover portion 103 may be made non-transparent by coloring. The cover portion 103 may have a non-transparent material (paint) applied to its surface.

[0051] As shown in Figure 3, the toilet seat device 2 has a configuration in which the sensor unit 100 is positioned adjacent to the washing nozzle 6. However, the sensor unit 100 is not limited to being positioned adjacent to the washing nozzle 6; it may be positioned at any location that enables the desired detection, and for example, the sensor unit 100 and the toilet seat device 2 may be separate entities.

[0052] <3. Functional configuration of the toilet seat device> Next, the functional configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 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 washing nozzle 6, and a sensor unit 100. Note that in Figure 4, some of the components of the toilet seat device 2 described in Figure 1 (such as the main body 3, toilet seat 5, and toilet bowl 7) are not shown.

[0053] 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 in the figures, the toilet seat device 2 has a communication unit that communicates with the user terminal 200 and the operating device 10. For example, the communication unit is implemented by a communication circuit or the like. For example, the communication unit is connected to a predetermined network by wire or wireless and transmits and receives information with information processing devices such as the user terminal 200 and the operating device 10. The communication unit may also be included in the sensor unit 100.

[0054] The human body detection sensor 32 has the function of detecting a human body. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 may be implemented by a pyroelectric sensor using an infrared signal. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 may be implemented by a microwave 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 those described above. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 detects a person (user, etc.) who has entered the toilet room R (see Figure 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.

[0055] The seating detection sensor 33 has the function of detecting when a person sits on the toilet seat device 2. The seating detection sensor 33 detects when a user sits on the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 can detect when a user sits on the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 also functions as a seating departure detection sensor that detects when a user leaves the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 detects the state of the user sitting on the toilet seat 5.

[0056] For example, the seat detection sensor 33 detects when a user sits on the toilet seat 5 using a load sensor. The seat detection sensor 33 is, for example, a switch (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "seat switch") that switches ON / OFF depending on the load of a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. Alternatively, for example, the seat detection sensor 33 may be an infrared light-emitting and receiving distance measuring sensor that detects a person (user) present near the toilet seat 5 immediately before the person sits on the toilet seat 5, or the user who has sat on the toilet seat 5. Note that the above is just an example, and the seat 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 seat detection sensor 33 outputs a seat detection signal to the control unit 34.

[0057] The control unit 34 may be, for example, a control device that controls various configurations 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 signals transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 based on control instruction signals related to localized cleaning transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 to move the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward. The control unit 34 controls the opening and closing of the solenoid valve 71.

[0058] The control unit 34 transmits control information to the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71 via a wired connection. Alternatively, the control unit 34 may transmit control information to the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71 wirelessly. Furthermore, the control unit 34 may control the sensor unit 100. The control unit 34 may transmit control information to the sensor unit 100 and control the sensor unit 100. In this case, the control unit 34 may be integrated with the controller 101.

[0059] Furthermore, the control unit 34 controls the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 as shown in Figure 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 for opening and closing the toilet lid transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 controls the toilet seat 5 based on control instruction signals for opening and closing 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 wired connection. Alternatively, the control unit 34 may transmit control information to the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 wirelessly.

[0060] The control unit 34 determines whether or not the human body detection sensor 32 has detected a user entering the room. The control unit 34 determines whether or not the human body detection sensor 32 has detected a user entering the toilet room R. The control unit 34 determines whether or not the seating detection sensor 33 has detected a user sitting down. The control unit 34 determines whether or not the seating detection sensor 33 has detected a user sitting down on the toilet seat 5. The control unit 34 communicates with the sensor unit 100 and sends and receives information between them. For example, the control unit 34 transmits the determination results based on detections by various sensors such as the human body detection sensor 32 or the seating detection sensor 33 to the sensor unit 100. 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 the information obtained from the control unit 34.

[0061] The nozzle motor 61 is a drive source (motor) that drives the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward. The nozzle motor 61 performs control to move the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward relative to the main body cover 30 of the main body 3. The nozzle motor 61 performs control to move the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward in response to instructions from the control unit 34.

[0062] The solenoid valve 71 has the function of a valve that controls the flow of fluid by electromagnetic means. The solenoid valve 71 switches the supply and stop of tap water from the water supply pipe, for example. The solenoid valve 71 performs opening and closing control in response to instructions from the control unit 34.

[0063] The sensor unit 100 comprises a controller 101, a lid opening / closing mechanism 102, and a sensor head 110. The sensor unit 100 functions as a waste detection device (waste measurement device). The sensor unit 100, which functions as a waste 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 implemented by a communication circuit or the like. For example, the communication unit of the sensor unit 100 is connected to a predetermined network by wire or wireless and transmits and receives information with the user terminal 200.

[0064] 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 can be implemented by various means such as a processor like a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an integrated circuit like an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0065] The controller 101 may also perform control to open and close the lid 103. The controller 101 transmits control information to the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 (actuator, etc.) that opens and closes the lid 103 to an open state. The controller 101 transmits control information to the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 to close the lid 103 to a closed state. The controller 101 transmits control information to the sensor head 110 to control the lighting and extinguishing of the light-emitting unit 120.

[0066] The controller 101 transmits control information to the sensor head 110 to control the function of the electronic shutter of the light-receiving unit 130. The electronic shutter of the light-receiving unit 130 differs from a mechanical shutter such as a lens shutter; it uses an electronic control system to read out the exposure by electronically controlling the light-receiving element 132 (image sensor). 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 wired or wireless connection.

[0067] The controller 101 controls the illumination 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 the period when the seating detection sensor 33 detects that a user is seated on the toilet seat 5.

[0068] The controller 101 controls the irradiation of light by the light-emitting unit 120. The controller 101 controls the supply of power 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 supplies power to the light-emitting element 121, thereby performing light-receiving control to enable the reception of reflected light from the feces. The controller 101 controls the interval between the start of one light-receiving control and the execution of the next light-receiving control to any time (for example, 0.2 milliseconds or more) within the range in which control processing is possible. Note that the controller 101 controls the irradiation of light by multiple light-emitting elements 121 during the measurement process, which will be explained in Figures 7 and 8.

[0069] Furthermore, the controller 101 determines the characteristics of the stool from the light-receiving result by the light-receiving unit 130. The controller 101 determines the characteristics of the user's stool by appropriately using various technologies for detecting the characteristics of stool by optical methods. Based on the stool image, the controller 101 determines the characteristics of the stool, such as shape, quantity, and color, corresponding to the stool image. For example, the controller 101 determines the characteristics of the stool by data analysis based on arithmetic processing using basic arithmetic operations. For example, the controller 101 determines the characteristics of the stool by data analysis based on arithmetic processing using machine learning. For example, the controller 101 determines the characteristics of the stool by data analysis based on arithmetic processing using image processing such as AI (artificial intelligence).

[0070] For example, the controller 101 determines the properties of the stool using a stool properties determination program stored in the memory unit. For example, the memory unit is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by the stool properties determination program. The memory unit stores various information used for stool-related determination processing, such as stool properties. For example, the memory unit stores thresholds used for stool-related determination processing. For example, it stores various models (determination models) used for stool-related determination. For example, it stores various determination models used for determining the shape, color, and quantity of stool. The controller 101 determines the properties of the stool using the various information stored in the memory unit.

[0071] The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 is a drive source (motor) that opens or closes the lid 103. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 performs control to open or close the lid 103 in response to instructions from the controller 101. For example, the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 closes the lid 103 when light reception by the light receiving unit 130 is not required, such as when no measurement is being performed.

[0072] The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 positions the lid 103 in an open state at a position that does not intersect with the central axis of the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 120. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 positions the lid 103 outside the half-angle range of the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 120 in an open state. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 opens the lid 103 upward when it is placed on the toilet bowl 7. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 closes the lid 103 when the flushing nozzle 6 is in operation. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 closes the lid 103 when the flushing nozzle 6 installed on the toilet bowl 7 is in operation.

[0073] The sensor head 110 comprises a housing portion 111 (see Figure 5), which is a sensor case; a transparent window 112 (see Figure 5), which is a transparent window; a substrate 113 (see Figure 5), which is a sensor substrate; a light-emitting portion 120; and a light-receiving portion 130. The sensor head 110 functions as a detection unit (excrement detection unit) that detects information about excrement using the light-receiving portion 130. For example, the sensor head 110 is a detection unit that detects information about falling feces. The housing portion 111 is a case that houses the light-emitting portion 120 and the light-receiving portion 130 in an open front configuration. The transparent window 112 covers the front of the housing portion 111. The arrangement configuration of the sensor unit 100, including the details of the sensor head 110 configuration, will be explained in Figure 5.

[0074] The light-emitting unit 120 emits light. The light-emitting unit 120 has a plurality of light-emitting elements 121 that emit light in different wavelength bands and a lens 122 that acts as a light-emitting lens. The light-emitting unit 120 controls the way in which light is emitted by the plurality of light-emitting elements 121 using the lens 122.

[0075] The light-emitting unit 120 irradiates light into the bowl portion 8. The light-emitting unit 120 irradiates light onto objects such as excrement (feces) falling into 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 positioned to emit light downwards. In the example of Figure 4, the light-emitting unit 120 has at least three light-emitting elements 121. For example, the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in Figure 4 each emit light of a different wavelength. Each light-emitting element 121 emits light diagonally downwards.

[0076] For example, one of the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in Figure 4 (also referred to as the "first type light-emitting element 121") emits light with the shortest wavelength among the three light-emitting elements 121 (also referred to as the "first wavelength"). 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, but may also include light in the wavelength region around the first wavelength (also referred to as the "first wavelength region"). The first wavelength region may be the wavelength region (wavelength band) corresponding to yellow to orange.

[0077] Furthermore, for example, of the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in Figure 4, one of the three light-emitting elements 121 other than the first type of light-emitting element 121 (also referred to as the "second type of light-emitting element 121") emits light with a wavelength longer than the first wavelength (also referred to as the "second wavelength"). For example, the second type of light-emitting element 121 emits light with a wavelength of 670 nm. Note that the light emitted by the second type of light-emitting element 121 is not limited to the second wavelength, but may also include light in the wavelength region around the second wavelength (also referred to as the "second wavelength region"). The second wavelength region may be the wavelength region (wavelength band) corresponding to red.

[0078] Furthermore, for example, of the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in Figure 4, one of the three elements other than the first and second type 121 (also referred to as the "third type 121") emits light with the longest wavelength among the three elements (also referred to as the "third wavelength"). For example, the third type 121 emits light with a wavelength of 870 nm. Note that the light emitted by the third type 121 is not limited to the third wavelength, but may also include light in the 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 (e.g., near-infrared).

[0079] The specific numerical values ​​for the first, second, and third wavelengths mentioned above are merely examples, and the wavelengths are not limited to these. Similarly, the specific numerical values ​​for the first, second, and third wavelength regions mentioned above are merely examples, and the wavelength regions are not limited to these. For example, the first, second, and third wavelengths can be any wavelength as long as the relationship described above is satisfied, where the first wavelength is the shortest and the third wavelength is the longest (i.e., first wavelength < second wavelength < third wavelength). Thus, among the first, second, and third wavelengths, if the first wavelength is the shortest and the third wavelength is the longest, then any wavelengths can be used for the first, second, and third wavelengths. When describing the first, second, and third type light-emitting elements 121 without making a particular distinction, they may be simply referred to as light-emitting elements 121.

[0080] In the example described above, the case where there is one of each type 1, type 2, and type 3 light-emitting element 121 was explained as an example, but each of the type 1, type 2, and type 3 light-emitting elements 121 may be provided in multiples. For example, the light-emitting unit 120 may have multiple type 1 light-emitting elements 121, multiple type 2 light-emitting elements 121, or multiple type 3 light-emitting elements 121. In other words, the light-emitting unit 120 may have any number (for example, three or more) of light-emitting elements 121, as long as it has at least one of each type 1, type 2, and type 3 light-emitting elements 121.

[0081] 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 reflected light from an object in response to light irradiated by the light-emitting unit 120. For example, the light-receiving unit 130 receives reflected light from falling excrement (feces), etc. Note that the light-receiving unit 130 receives reflected light from various objects, not just feces.

[0082] 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 line. Note that the light-receiving element 132 is not limited to a line sensor (one-dimensional image sensor), but various other sensors such as area sensors (two-dimensional image sensors) may be used.

[0083] 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 unit) that performs control-related calculations and a storage unit (e.g., memory, which will be described later). For example, the arithmetic processing unit can be implemented by various means such as a processor such as a CPU, MPU, or ASIC, or an integrated circuit such as an FPGA. In the following, an example will be described in which the controller 101 has an AD converter, an arithmetic processing unit, ROM (Read Only Memory), and memory.

[0084] The ADConverter is a so-called A / D converter (analog-to-digital conversion circuit) and has the function of converting analog signals into digital signals. The ADConverter may also be an analog-to-digital conversion circuit. For example, the ADConverter converts analog data received (detected) by the light receiving unit 130 into digital data. The ADConverter may convert analog data into digital data after deleting data within a predetermined range from the analog data. For example, the ADConverter may retain only the data corresponding to pixels in a preset range (for example, a predetermined range in the center) and delete the data corresponding to pixels in the remaining range. In the case where a dedicated sensor such as a line sensor with a set number of pixels etc. for excrement detection is used for the light receiving element 132, the ADConverter converts the entire analog data into digital data without deleting data within a predetermined range.

[0085] An arithmetic processing unit (ACU) is implemented by various means such as a CPU or microcontroller and performs various processes. For example, an ACU performs various processes using digital data converted by an ADConverter. An ACU also performs various processes using programs stored in ROM (for example, various programs related to detection processes such as object detection programs and excrement detection programs). For example, an ACU is implemented by executing programs stored in ROM using a temporary storage area within the ACU as a working area.

[0086] The arithmetic processing unit analyzes the data. The arithmetic processing unit analyzes the data temporarily stored in memory. The arithmetic processing unit transfers the data received by the light receiving unit 130 to memory, analyzes the data stored in memory, and deletes it.

[0087] ROM stores various programs related to detection processing, such as object detection programs and excrement detection programs.

[0088] Memory is an internal memory (storage device) that temporarily stores various types of data. Memory stores data received by the light receiving unit 130. Memory stores digital data converted by the ADConverter. For example, memory is SRAM (Static Random Access Memory). Note that memory is not limited to SRAM; other types of RAM (Random Access Memory) such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or ROM capable of high-speed processing such as PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory) may be used.

[0089] The memory stores data in accordance with the control of the processing unit. For example, memory may be a storage device with a storage capacity of 96 kilobytes or 512 kilobytes. 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).

[0090] <4. Example of Sensor Unit Configuration> From here, the various configurations of the sensor unit will be explained with reference to Figure 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 Figure 5, and any configuration that enables the desired detection may be adopted. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the sensor unit.

[0091] The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 and the sensor head 110 are positioned on the front side of the sensor unit 100. In the example shown in Figure 5, the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 and the sensor head 110 are positioned in front of the controller 101. The light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 are supported by the housing 111. The housing 111 is made of a non-transparent material. The housing 111 may be made of various materials as long as it can support the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130.

[0092] In the example shown in Figure 5, the housing 111 supports the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 such that the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 are optically exposed on one side of the housing 111 (hereinafter also referred to as the "front side"). For example, the housing 111 supports the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 such that the lens 122 of the light-emitting unit 120 and the lens 131 of the light-receiving unit 130 are optically exposed.

[0093] The housing 111 is a case that houses the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 in such a manner that the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 are exposed on the front side. The housing 111 houses the light-emitting unit 120 with its light-emitting surface facing the front side. The housing 111 houses the light-receiving unit 130 with its light-receiving surface facing the front side. The transparent window 112 is a transparent window provided on the front side of the housing 111.

[0094] Each light-emitting element 121 of the light-emitting unit 120 emits light towards 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 opposite to the front (rear) of the housing unit 111, and power is supplied to them.

[0095] In the example shown in Figure 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 Figure 5, the lens 122 is a cylindrical lens provided in front of the multiple light-emitting elements 121. Note that the lens 122 shown in Figure 5 is merely an example, and the lens 122 can be any optical material as long as it can achieve the desired light focusing.

[0096] In the following, unless otherwise specified, the light-emitting elements 121-1, 121-2, 121-3, 121-4, etc., will be referred to simply as "light-emitting element 121". For example, light-emitting element 121 is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). Note that light-emitting element 121 is not limited to LEDs; various other elements may be used. Note that the four light-emitting elements 121 are merely examples, and the number of light-emitting elements 121 is not limited to four, as long as the desired light can be emitted. In Figure 5, four light-emitting elements 121 are arranged on the substrate 113.

[0097] For example, light-emitting element 121-1 may be a first-type light-emitting element 121, light-emitting elements 121-2 and 121-3 may be second-type light-emitting elements 121, and light-emitting element 121-4 may be a third-type light-emitting element 121. Note that the above is merely an example, and any combination of numbers is acceptable as long as there is at least one of each type of light-emitting element 121 (first-type, second-type, and third-type).

[0098] The light-receiving unit 130 includes a lens 131 and a light-receiving element 132, which is a line sensor. When viewed from the front, the light-receiving element 132 is located behind (rear of) the lens 131. For example, the light-receiving element 132 may be placed on a substrate 113 that is common to the light-emitting element 121.

[0099] <5. Relationship between user and device operation> Here, an example of the relationship between the person using the toilet room R (user) and the operation of the equipment will be explained using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the user and the operation of the equipment. The lid 103 transitions between an open state and a closed state by the drive of the lid opening / closing mechanism 102. In Figure 6, the lids are described as 103-1 to 103-6 depending on the operation of the equipment, but unless otherwise specified, they will simply be referred to as "lid 103".

[0100] First, in Figure 6, when a user using the toilet room R sits on the toilet seat 5, the toilet seat device 2 detects that a person is seated. At this stage, the lid 103 is in the closed state, as shown in lid 103-1 in Figure 6.

[0101] Subsequently, if the user of toilet room R agrees to the recording after undergoing personal authentication, the toilet seat device 2 opens the lid 103 and begins waiting for fecal fall detection. At this stage, the lid 103 transitions to the open state as shown in lid 103-2 of Figure 6.

[0102] Subsequently, when a user of toilet room R defecates, the toilet seat device 2 detects the dropping of feces and begins measurement. The measurement continues for, for example, 10 seconds. During this stage, i.e., the measurement period, the lid 103 remains open as shown in lid 103-3 of Figure 6, and light is shone into the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8). After the measurement, the device resumes waiting for feces detection and dropping. At this stage, the shone of light into the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8) stops, and the lid 103 remains open as shown in lid 103-2 of Figure 6.

[0103] Furthermore, when a user of toilet room R starts washing their buttocks, the toilet seat device 2 closes the lid 103, puts the washing nozzle 6 into use, and starts washing with the washing nozzle 6. During this stage, that is, while the washing nozzle 6 is in use, the lid 103 is in a closed state as shown in lid 103-4 of Figure 6.

[0104] Furthermore, when the user of toilet room R finishes washing their buttocks, the toilet seat device 2 opens the lid 103 and begins waiting for fecal fall detection. At this stage, the lid 103 transitions to the open state as shown in lid 103-5 of Figure 6.

[0105] Furthermore, when a user of the toilet room R leaves the toilet seat 5, the toilet seat device 2 detects that the person has left the seat. The toilet seat device 2 then closes the lid 103 and ends the waiting period for fecal fall detection. At this stage, the lid 103 transitions to the closed state as shown in lid 103-6 of Figure 6. The toilet seat device 2 then begins data transfer and analysis. Note that the above processing flow is merely an example, and the relationship between the person (user) using the toilet room R and the operation of the equipment is not limited to the above. For example, in preparation for the case where the user of the toilet room R defecates several times (multiple times of defecation), the toilet seat device 2 is set to detect and measure fecal fall up to three times. For example, if three measurements are completed before the user of the toilet room R leaves the toilet seat 5, the lid 103 may be closed at that point, ending the waiting period for fecal fall detection, and data transfer and analysis may be performed.

[0106] In the example shown in Figure 6, the lid 103 opens and closes relative to the main body cover 30, using one end adjacent to the upper end of the opening 31 of the main body cover 30 as its axis, and operates in the vertical direction. However, the configuration of the lid 103 is not limited to the example shown in Figure 6 and can be in various forms. For example, the lid 103 may 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 103 may be configured like a shutter (window shutter) made up of several elongated members connected together. Alternatively, for example, the lid 103 may open and close relative to the main body cover 30, using one end adjacent to the lateral end of the opening 31 of the main body cover 30 as its axis, and operates in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, for example, the lid 103 can be separated into multiple parts and is not limited to a single-opening configuration but may also be a double-opening configuration.

[0107] <6. Measurement Process> Next, the specific operation of the measurement process will be explained with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the flow of the measurement process. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a time chart for the measurement process. First, let's explain each element shown in Figure 7. Object OB1 schematically represents the fecal excrement to be detected (measured). The light receiving device PD is a light receiving unit 130 having a light receiving element 132, such as a line sensor.

[0108] Furthermore, light-emitting device LE1 is a first-type light-emitting element 121, light-emitting device LE2 is a second-type light-emitting element 121, and light-emitting device LE3 is a third-type light-emitting element 121. For example, light-emitting device LE1 emits light with a wavelength of 590 nm as the first wavelength light. Light-emitting device LE2 emits light with a wavelength of 670 nm as the second wavelength light. Light-emitting device LE3 emits light with a wavelength of 870 nm as the third wavelength light. Note that the wavelengths are merely examples, and any wavelength can be used as long as the relationship between the first, second, and third wavelengths is satisfied as described above. Also, in the following, when describing light-emitting devices LE1 to LE3 without making a particular distinction, they may be referred to as "light-emitting device LE".

[0109] Figure 7 conceptually illustrates the measurement process in which light from a light-emitting device LE is shone onto a falling object OB1, and the results of the 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 shows the irradiation of light 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 shows the reflected light from the object OB1 that the light-receiving device PD receives. In addition, the horizontal line overlapping the object OB1 schematically shows the range (one-dimensional) of the object OB1 detected by the corresponding light emission and reception.

[0110] The following describes the measurement process flow with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 conceptually illustrates the measurement process in which light from a light-emitting device LE is irradiated onto a falling object OB1, and the results of the light reception by a light-receiving device PD are collected.

[0111] First, steps S1 to S3 in Figure 7 show the light emission by the light-emitting device LE and the light reception by the light-receiving device PD during the measurement process. In step S1, the light-emitting device LE1 emits light of the first wavelength, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1. In the example in Figure 7, the light-emitting device LE1 emits light with a wavelength of 590 nm, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1.

[0112] Then, in step S2, the light-emitting device LE3 emits light of the third wavelength, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1. In the example in Figure 7, the light-emitting device LE3 emits light of a wavelength of 870 nm, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1.

[0113] Then, in step S3, the light-emitting device LE2 emits light of the second wavelength, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1. In the example in Figure 7, the light-emitting device LE2 emits light of a wavelength of 670 nm, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1. The toilet seat device 2 repeats steps S1 to S3 until a predetermined period of time (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed.

[0114] Here, the processing flow described above will be explained using the time chart in Figure 8. In Figure 8, the processing from time t11, which is 3.3 ms, to time t12 (hereinafter also referred to as "scan unit processing") is performed until a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed. The scan unit processing in Figure 8 corresponds to steps S1 to S3 in Figure 7. In this way, the toilet seat device 2 sequentially lights up the light-emitting device LE and sequentially acquires reflected luminance data for each light source wavelength.

[0115] Waveform LN11 in Figure 8 indicates the presence or absence of 590nm light emission. When wave LN11 is ON (i.e., rising), 590nm light emission occurs, and when it is OFF (i.e., falling), 590nm light emission does not occur. Waveform LN12 in Figure 8 indicates the presence or absence of 870nm light emission. When wave LN12 is ON, 870nm light emission occurs, and when it is OFF, 870nm light emission does not occur. Waveform LN13 in Figure 8 indicates the presence or absence of 670nm light emission. When wave LN13 is ON, 670nm light emission occurs, and when it is OFF, 670nm light emission does not occur.

[0116] Waveform LN14 in Figure 8 indicates whether or not exposure occurred. When waveform LN14 is rising, it indicates that exposure occurred, and when it is falling, it indicates that exposure did not occur. Waveform LN15 in Figure 8 indicates whether or not A / D conversion occurred. When waveform LN15 is rising, it indicates that A / D conversion occurred, and when it is falling, it indicates that A / D conversion did not occur.

[0117] The waveform LN16 in Figure 8 indicates whether data is being saved or not. When the waveform LN16 is rising, it indicates that the process of saving data to internal memory is being performed, and when it is falling, it indicates that the process of saving data to internal memory is not being performed.

[0118] As shown in Figure 8, the measurement process involves emission of light at 590 nm, 670 nm, and 870 nm. In the scan unit process, light is emitted once for each of the 590 nm, 670 nm, and 870 nm wavelengths. In other words, in the measurement process, the light emitters LE1, LE2, and LE3 emit light in sequence. Note that Figure 8 is merely an example, and the order of emission in the scan unit process is not limited to the case shown in Figure 8; any order is acceptable.

[0119] Furthermore, exposure is performed by the light-receiving device PD in response to light emission (irradiation of light by the light-emitting device LE). For example, the light-receiving device PD performs exposure by electronically controlling the light-receiving element 132 (image sensor) with an electronic shutter. Note that the above electronic shutter is merely one example, and the light-receiving device PD may perform exposure by any means as long as exposure at the desired interval is possible.

[0120] In the example shown in Figure 8, light emission and corresponding exposure occur in the order of 590 nm, 870 nm, and 670 nm. After exposure by the photodetector PD, the analog data detected by the photodetector PD is converted to digital data (A / D conversion). For example, in the toilet seat device 2, after exposure by the photodetector PD is completed, the ADConverter converts the analog data to digital data.

[0121] After the A / D conversion is complete, the toilet seat device 2 saves the data to its internal memory, which is, for example, the memory mentioned above. For example, after the conversion of analog data to digital data by the ADConverter is complete, the arithmetic processing unit of the controller 101 is controlled to start transferring data to the memory. As a result, the 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 processing for 10 seconds to collect data.

[0122] An example of scan unit processing is described below. In the example shown in Figure 8, the toilet seat device 2 first emits light at 590 nm and performs the corresponding exposure. Then, the toilet seat device 2 converts the analog data corresponding to the 590 nm light emission 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 saves the 590 nm digital data to its internal memory.

[0123] After processing at 590nm, the toilet seat device 2 performs 870nm emission and corresponding exposure. Then, the toilet seat device 2 converts the analog data corresponding to the 870nm emission detected by the photodetector PD into digital data (A / D conversion). After the A / D conversion is complete, the toilet seat device 2 saves the 870nm digital data to its internal memory.

[0124] After processing at 670nm, the toilet seat device 2 performs 670nm emission and corresponding exposure. Then, the toilet seat device 2 converts the analog data corresponding to the 670nm emission 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 saves the 670nm digital data to its internal memory. If 10 seconds have not elapsed, the toilet seat device 2 repeats the scan unit processing again.

[0125] As described above, in the measurement process, the toilet seat device 2 sequentially irradiates light of three wavelengths: 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. In other words, in the measurement process, the toilet seat device 2 sequentially emits light from 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), and acquires data.

[0126] The emission wavelengths in each of the above modes are merely examples, and any emission wavelength can be used; the toilet seat device 2 may emit various types of light.

[0127] <7. Method for acquiring data from the measurement process> Next, the specific operation of the data acquisition method for the measurement process will be explained with reference to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the data acquisition method. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in Figures 7 and 8 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0128] First, the object OB1 and the light receiving device PD are the same as in Figure 7, so their explanation will be omitted. The light-emitting device LE is the light-emitting element 121. In Figure 9, for the sake of simplicity, the case of one light-emitting device LE (emitting light at one wavelength) will be explained as an example. Thus, Figure 9 schematically illustrates the process of acquiring monochrome image data through the emission and reception of 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.

[0129] In the example in Figure 9, scene SN1 conceptually illustrates the process of illuminating a falling object OB1 with light from the light-emitting device LE at time t1, and the light-receiving device PD processing the light. The data acquired in scene SN1 (time t1) corresponds to the one-dimensional image PI1 of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) the one-dimensional image PI1 through the emission and reception of light in scene SN1 (time t1).

[0130] Furthermore, the data acquired at time t2 corresponds to the one-dimensional image PI2 within the two-dimensional image EI. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) the one-dimensional image PI2 due to light emission and reception at time t2. The data at time t2 is the data acquired immediately after the data at time t1. Therefore, the toilet seat device 2 generates the two-dimensional image EI by arranging the one-dimensional image PI2 in sequence with the one-dimensional image PI1.

[0131] Also, Scene SNi is time t i In this example, light from the light-emitting device LE is irradiated onto a falling object OB1, and the processing of the received light by the light-receiving device PD is conceptually shown. Scene SNi (time t) i The data acquired in ) corresponds to the one-dimensional image PIi of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, scene SNi (time t i The toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) a one-dimensional image PIi through light emission and light reception.

[0132] Also, scene SNj is time t j In this example, light from the light-emitting device LE is shone onto a falling object OB1, and the processing of the light received by the light-receiving device PD is conceptually shown. Scene SNj (time t j The data acquired in ) corresponds to the one-dimensional image PIj of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, scene SNj (time t j The toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) a one-dimensional image PIj through light emission and light reception.

[0133] The toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image (feces information) by arranging the one-dimensional images (received light data) in the order in which they were acquired. In Figure 9, the toilet seat device 2 generates the two-dimensional image EI by arranging the one-dimensional images PI1, PI2..., PIi..., PIj... in that order.

[0134] In the example described above, the case where light emission is at a single wavelength was explained as an example. However, when light emission is performed at multiple wavelengths, the toilet seat device 2 generates toilet information (two-dimensional image) by arranging the data (one-dimensional image) acquired over time for each emitted wavelength in a time series. This point will be explained using the case where each of the first type light-emitting element 121, the second type light-emitting element 121, and the third type light-emitting element 121 emits and receives light as an example.

[0135] In this case, the toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image corresponding to the first type light-emitting element 121 by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from the first type light-emitting element 121 in chronological order. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates toilet information (first two-dimensional image) corresponding to the first wavelength by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from a first wavelength such as 590 nm in chronological order.

[0136] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image corresponding to the second type of light-emitting element 121 by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from the second type of light-emitting element 121 in chronological order. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates toilet information (a second two-dimensional image) corresponding to the second wavelength by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from a second wavelength such as 670 nm in chronological order.

[0137] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image corresponding to the third type light-emitting element 121 by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from the third type light-emitting element 121 in chronological order. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates toilet information (a third two-dimensional image) corresponding to the third wavelength by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light at a third wavelength such as 870 nm in chronological order.

[0138] In this way, the toilet seat device 2 can acquire a color image by generating three two-dimensional images for each wavelength corresponding to the first type light-emitting element 121, the second type light-emitting element 121, and the third type light-emitting element 121, respectively. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may generate a color image by combining the first two-dimensional image, the second two-dimensional image, and the third two-dimensional image described above.

[0139] <8. Data Analysis Methods> From here, we will explain an example of a data analysis method using Figure 10. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data analysis method. Figure 10 shows the case where multiple detection images (two-dimensional images) are acquired in a time series. Note that Figure 10 shows three detection images P11, P12, and P13, but the number of detection images may depend on the number of detections.

[0140] Detection image P11 shows the detection image acquired during the first detection. Specifically, detection image P11 includes two objects, object OB11 and object OB12, which correspond to the stool expelled during the user's first act of defecation.

[0141] Detection image P12 shows the detection image acquired during the second detection. Specifically, detection image P12 includes two objects: object OB21, which corresponds to the stool expelled during the user's second defecation, and object OB22, which corresponds to urine.

[0142] Detection image P13 shows the detection image acquired during the last (third) detection. Specifically, detection image P13 includes two objects: object OB31, which corresponds to the stool expelled during the user's last defecation, and object OB32, which corresponds to the toilet paper. If more than three detections are performed, four or more detections may be performed.

[0143] The toilet seat device 2 generates information about feces by analyzing detection images such as detection images P11, P12, and P13. For example, the toilet seat device 2 analyzes detection images such as detection images P11, P12, and P13 and obtains information about feces by detecting the outer periphery (edge, contour) of the feces. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 generates a feces region (feces image) by removing non-feces from the detection image. In Figure 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates feces images P21, P22, and P23 by removing non-feces from detection images P11, P12, and P13, respectively.

[0144] The toilet seat device 2 generates a stool image P21 by detecting the outer periphery of object OB11 and object OB12, which correspond to each of the two stools contained in the detection image P11. The toilet seat device 2 also generates a stool image P22 by detecting the outer periphery of object OB21, which corresponds to the stool, excluding object OB22, which is not stool, from the two objects OB21 and OB22 contained in the detection image P12. The toilet seat device 2 also generates a stool image P23 by detecting the outer periphery of object OB31, which corresponds to the stool, excluding object OB32, which is not stool, from the two objects OB31 and OB32 contained in the detection image P13.

[0145] The toilet seat device 2 generates various types of information by analyzing the feces images contained in the detection images P21, P22, P23, etc. For example, the toilet seat device 2 quantifies features using the feces images contained in the detection images P21, P22, P23, etc. In Figure 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates information (also called "feature information") that quantifies features FT such as length (height), thickness (width), number of feces, number of wrinkle pixels, and brightness of each color (wavelength) component. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates feature information including the length and width of each feces from 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 feces using the pixel information corresponding to each feceased object OB11, object OB12, object OB21, and object OB31. Furthermore, in Figure 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates feature information indicating that there are four pieces of feces, since objects OB11, OB12, OB21, and OB31 are feces.

[0146] The toilet seat device 2 generates data indicating the properties of stool through calculations (operations) using the generated feature information. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates information indicating the properties of stool, such as the shape of the stool, the amount of stool, the color of the stool, and whether or not blood is present (also called "stool property information"). In Figure 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates stool property information DT, which indicates, for example, the shape of the stool classified in 7 stages, the amount of stool classified in 3 stages, the color of the stool classified in 6 stages, and whether or not blood is present, indicating whether or not it appears red. For example, the shape of the stool may be classified into 7 types based on the Bristol Stool Scale. For example, the shape of the stool may be classified into 7 types (stages): hard, lumpy, cracked, banana-shaped, soft, muddy, and watery. For example, the amount of stool may be classified into 3 types (stages): small, medium, and large. For example, the color of the stool may be classified into 6 types (stages): yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, and dark brown.

[0147] The toilet seat device 2 determines the characteristics of the stool from the detection results by sensors. The toilet seat device 2 determines the characteristics of the user's stool by appropriately using various technologies for detecting the characteristics of stool using optical methods. The toilet seat device 2 determines the characteristics 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 characteristics of the stool, such as shape, quantity, 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 characteristics of the stool, such as shape, quantity, and color, corresponding to the stool image. For example, the toilet seat device 2 determines the characteristics of the stool by data analysis based on calculations using arithmetic operations. For example, the toilet seat device 2 classifies the shape, quantity, color, blood contamination, etc., corresponding to the stool image according to the comparison result between values ​​indicating various features extracted from the stool image and thresholds.

[0148] The toilet seat device 2 may determine the properties of stool by any processing method, as long as it can generate the information indicating the properties of stool as described above. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine the properties of stool using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine the properties of stool using a learning model (properties determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the properties 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 information) that indicate the properties (shape, quantity, color, etc.) of the lumps (stool) contained in the stool images. For example, the properties determination model is a model that takes a stool image as input and outputs information indicating the properties (shape, quantity, color, etc.) of the lumps (stool) contained in the input stool image. For example, the properties determination model is trained to output information of a label (properties of stool) corresponding to the input stool image when a stool image is input. The training of the properties determination model is carried out using various methods related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the properties determination model is stored in the memory unit, and the toilet seat device 2 may use the properties determination model stored in the memory unit to determine the properties of the stool. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may perform a learning process to generate a properties determination model. Note that the above is merely an example, and the toilet seat device 2 may use various information as appropriate to determine the properties of the stool.

[0149] <9. Estimation of the end of the stool> The following section will explain the estimation of the end of the stool, but before that, we will briefly explain the prerequisites and other details using Figures 14 to 17.

[0150] First, let's explain an example of the relationship between wavelength and reflectance using Figure 14. Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between wavelength and reflectance. The graph in Figure 14 shows the measurement results of reflectance measured using simulated feces. The graph in Figure 14 shows the relationship between wavelength and reflectance for six levels of color: yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, and dark brown. In the graph in Figure 14, the horizontal axis corresponds to wavelength and the vertical axis corresponds to reflectance. Thus, for colors such as yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, and dark brown, the reflectance tends to increase as the wavelength increases in the visible light region.

[0151] Next, we will explain the reflectance (ratio of reflected intensity to incident intensity) of feces and the background using Figure 15. Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of the reflectance of feces and the background. In Figure 15, the feces are brown and the background is white, which is the color of a typical toilet bowl. As shown in the graph in Figure 15, a typical toilet bowl is white, and the white background has high reflectance at all wavelengths. Also, as shown in the graph in Figure 15, the reflectance of feces tends to increase as the wavelength increases. Thus, feces tend to have high reflectance at higher wavelengths, while a white toilet bowl has high reflectance across the entire wavelength range.

[0152] Here, as shown in Figure 16, the intensity of light depends on the distance. Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between light intensity and distance. As shown in Figure 16, the intensity of light is proportional to the irradiation intensity and inversely proportional to the square of the distance. That is, the intensity of light increases with higher irradiation intensity and decreases with longer distance. Therefore, the reflection intensity will fluctuate depending on the distance between the stool and the sensor, and the distance between the background and the sensor (e.g., light-receiving element 132). For example, the position where the stool falls may vary depending on the user, and if the stool falls close to the sensor, the reflection intensity will be strong, and as shown in the graph in Figure 17, it may be detected with an intensity similar to that of the background (toilet bowl). Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of the reflection intensity of stool and background. As shown in the graph in Figure 17, it is possible that the reflection intensity of the stool and the background are the same, or that the reflection intensity of the stool is higher than that of the background. In such cases, it is difficult to identify the outer edge (edge) of the stool, that is, the boundary (boundary) between the stool and the background.

[0153] Therefore, the toilet seat device 2 utilizes the shadow of the object (feces) to identify the boundary between the background and the feces. From here, the configuration and processing for estimating the edge of the feces will be explained. Using Figures 11 and 12, the arrangement of the light-emitting element 121 and the light-receiving element 132, and the relationship between light emission and light reception will be explained. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between light emission from the light-emitting element and light reception from the light-receiving element. Note that explanations of points similar to those mentioned above will be omitted as appropriate. Hereafter, the central axis relating to the light-receiving element 132 will be referred to as the "first central axis," and the central axis relating to the light-emitting element 121 will be referred to as the "second central axis."

[0154] Here, the positional relationship shown in Figure 11 corresponds to the positional relationship when the toilet seat device 2 is installed, and the positions of the four light-emitting elements 121-1 to 121-4 are above the position of the light-receiving element 132. Also, the surface of the light-receiving element 132 in Figure 11 is the front surface (light-receiving surface) of the light-receiving element 132, and the surface of the light-emitting element 121 in Figure 11 is the front surface (light-emitting surface) of the light-emitting element 121. In other words, the vertical direction in Figure 11 corresponds to the vertical direction of the toilet seat device 2 when installed, and the horizontal direction in Figure 11 corresponds to the left-right direction of the toilet seat device 2 when installed.

[0155] As shown in Figure 11, the light-receiving element 132, which is a line sensor, and the four light-emitting elements 121-1 to 121-4 are arranged on the substrate 113. In the example in Figure 11, light-emitting element 121-1 is a first-type light-emitting element 121 that emits light with a wavelength of 590 nm. Light-emitting elements 121-2 and 121-3 are second-type light-emitting elements 121 that emit light with a wavelength of 670 nm. Light-emitting element 121-4 is a third-type light-emitting element 121 that emits light with a wavelength of 870 nm.

[0156] In the example shown in Figure 11, the light-emitting elements 121-1 to 121-4 are positioned above the light-receiving element 132 when the toilet seat device 2 is placed on the toilet bowl 7. This allows the toilet seat device 2 to efficiently illuminate the falling feces, and by positioning the light-emitting elements 121 above the light-receiving element 132, the light-emitting elements 121 can be positioned so that the light from them is directed downwards.

[0157] In the example shown in Figure 11, the four light-emitting elements 121-1 to 121-4 are positioned offset from the light-receiving element 132 in the left-right direction. The center line CA1 in Figure 11 indicates the left-right center of the light-receiving element 132. For example, the center line CA1 indicates the one-dimensional center of the light-receiving element 132, which is a line sensor.

[0158] Furthermore, in Figure 11, the center line CA2-1 indicates the left-right center of the light-emitting element 121-1, and the center line CA2-4 indicates the left-right center of the light-emitting element 121-4. As shown in Figure 11, the left-right center of the light-emitting element 121-1 is shifted to the right from the left-right center of the light-receiving element 132, and the left-right center of the light-emitting element 121-4 is shifted to the left from the left-right center of the light-receiving element 132. Thus, the light-emitting section 120 of the toilet seat device 2 has a first light-emitting element 121-1 which is positioned offset in one direction in the left-right direction relative to the light-receiving element 132, and a second light-emitting element 121-4 which is positioned offset in the opposite direction relative to the light-receiving element 132.

[0159] Here, using Figure 12, we will explain the relationship between the central axis of the light-receiving element 132 (also called the "first central axis") and the central axis of the light-emitting element 121 (also called the "second central axis") in a top view of the toilet seat device 2. Figure 12 is a schematic top view showing the relationship between the first central axis RA1, which is the first central axis of the light-receiving element 132, and the second central axis EA1, which is the second central axis of the light-emitting element 121-1. As shown in Figure 12, the light-emitting section 120 of the toilet seat device 2 has a first light-emitting element (for example, the light-emitting element 121-1 in Figure 11) and a second light-emitting element (for example, the light-emitting element 121-4 in Figure 11) whose respective second central axes do not coincide in a top view of the toilet seat device 2. Note that Figure 12 is a schematic diagram, and only the configuration necessary to explain the relationship between the light emission of the light-emitting element and the light reception of the light-receiving element is shown in Figure 12.

[0160] For example, the first central axis RA1 of the light-receiving element 132 may be a line that passes through the center of the light-receiving element 132 and is perpendicular to the light-receiving surface of the light-receiving element 132. Although it is shown as a straight line in Figure 11, the first central axis RA1 of the light-receiving element 132 may be bent by optical control by the lens 131. For example, two lines that are centered on the first central axis RA1 and extend away from each other indicate the detection range of the light-receiving element 132.

[0161] Furthermore, for example, the second central axis EA1 of the light-emitting element 121-1 is the optical axis (central axis) of the light-emitting element 121-1. Although shown as a straight line in Figure 11, the second central axis EA1 of the light-emitting element 121-1 may be bent by optical control by the lens 122. For example, two lines extending away from each other with the second central axis EA1 as the center indicate the half-power angle of light from the light-emitting element 121-1. For example, the half-power angle of light from the light-emitting element 121-1 may be set to be greater than or equal to the detection range of the light-receiving element 132. The half-power angle of light from the light-emitting element 121-1 may be, for example, 30° or more.

[0162] The virtual stool VF in Figure 12 schematically represents the stool that the user excretes (falls from the user), and the area DA1 surrounding the virtual stool VF indicates the virtual landing position of the stool. For example, it is assumed that the stool falling from the user will fall within the area DA1.

[0163] As shown in Figure 12, in a top view of the toilet seat device 2, the first central axis RA1 of the light-receiving element 132 and the second central axis EA1 of the light-emitting element 121-1 do not coincide. That is, in a top view of the toilet seat device 2, the light-emitting element 121-1 is positioned such that its second central axis EA1 is offset from the first central axis RA1 of the light-receiving element 132. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 can form a shadow on the light-receiving element 132 at a position offset to the left and right from directly behind the feces, as shown by the hatching on the back of the virtual feces VF in Figure 12, due to the light emitted by the light-emitting element 121-1. Note that in Figure 11, the configuration was such that the first central axis of the light-receiving element 132 and the second central axis of the light-emitting element 121-1 are offset in a top view of the toilet seat device 2 by physically offsetting the left-right center of the light-receiving element 132 and the left-right center of the light-emitting element 121-1, but the configuration is not limited to this. In other words, as shown in Figure 12, if the first central axis of the light-receiving element 132 and the second central axis of the light-emitting element 121 are misaligned in a top view of the toilet seat device 2, then, as shown in Figure 11, the left-right center of the light-receiving element 132 and the left-right center of the light-emitting element 121-1 do not need to be misaligned. For example, in a top view of the toilet seat device 2, the first central axis of the light-receiving element 132 and the second central axis of the light-emitting element 121 may be configured to be misaligned by optical control by lens 131 or lens 122. For example, the first central axis RA1 of the light-receiving element 132 and the second central axis EA1 of the light-emitting element 121-1 intersect within the bowl portion 8, and further intersect at the virtual landing position of the feces. As a result, the reflection intensity from the feces is high, and the shadow becomes relatively darker, making it easier for the toilet seat device 2 to search for the edge of the feces. However, if the sensor and the LED are in completely different positions, or if the distance between them is large, the shadow will be in a completely different position, and the desired effect cannot be obtained. On the other hand, in toilet seat device 2, the same sensor unit 100 contains both an LED (light-emitting element 121) and a sensor (light-receiving element 132). Therefore, by irradiating light from a slightly offset position within the same sensor unit 100, toilet seat device 2 can capture both feces and a shadow simultaneously within the detection area of ​​the light-receiving unit 130, and generate shadows narrower than the width of the feces to the left and right of the feces. As a result, in toilet seat device 2, the generated shadows function effectively in detecting feces.

[0164] The toilet seat device 2 does not illuminate the second light-emitting element 121-4 when the first light-emitting element 121-1 is emitting light, and does not illuminate the light-emitting element 121-1 when the light-emitting element 121-4 is emitting light. As described above, not illuminating the light-emitting element 121 does not only mean turning off the light-emitting element 121, but also means illuminating the light-emitting element 121 at a weak intensity, such as by reducing the light-emitting intensity to 1 / 10 or less.

[0165] In this way, the toilet seat device 2 does not light up the other light-emitting element 121 when one of the light-emitting elements 121 is lit, so as not to reduce the effect of shadows. In other words, the toilet seat device 2 lights up the light-emitting elements 121 alternately. This allows the toilet seat device 2 to suppress the reduction in shadow generation.

[0166] Note that in Figure 12, in addition to light-emitting elements 121-1 and 121-4, light-emitting elements 121-2 and 121-3 are also included. Therefore, when light-emitting element 121-1 is emitting light, the toilet seat device 2 will not illuminate light-emitting elements 121-2, 121-3, and 121-4. Also, when light-emitting elements 121-4 is emitting light, the toilet seat device 2 will not illuminate light-emitting elements 121-1, 121-2, and 121-3. Furthermore, when light-emitting elements 121-2 and 121-3 are lit simultaneously, light-emitting elements 121-1 and 121-4 will not illuminate when light-emitting elements 121-2 and 121-3 are emitting light.

[0167] Thus, in order to avoid reducing the effect of shadows, the toilet seat device 2 does not illuminate the remaining light-emitting elements 121 if one of the multiple light-emitting elements 121 is currently emitting light. In other words, the toilet seat device 2 illuminates the light-emitting elements 121 sequentially in an arbitrary order. This allows the toilet seat device 2 to suppress the reduction in shadow generation due to the influence of the light emitted by other light-emitting elements 121. The toilet seat device 2 illuminates the light-emitting elements 121 when a user sits down and performs the detection and other processing described above.

[0168] From here, an example of a shadow generated by the above-described configuration will be explained using Figure 13. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of data acquired by the toilet seat device 2. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of a shadow. For example, Figure 13 shows an example of a shadow generated by the light emission of the light-emitting element 121-1. In Figure 13, OA1 corresponds to the falling stool. Also, the background BA1 in Figure 13 corresponds to the inner surface of the bowl portion 8 of the toilet bowl 7 where the stool falls, and shows the background of the detected stool. The shadow SA1 in Figure 13 corresponds to the shadow generated on the bowl portion 8 of the toilet bowl 7 by the light emission of the light-emitting element 121-1.

[0169] In Figure 13, position PS1 indicates the position of one end of the shadow SA1 in the left-right direction (referred to as the "right end") at height position HT, which is the central point in the vertical direction. Note that the right end of shadow SA1 as referred to here is relative based on the positional relationship when Figure 13 is viewed from the front; if the surface shown in Figure 13 is the front, it will be the left end of shadow SA1.

[0170] Furthermore, position PS2 in Figure 13 indicates the position of one end of toilet OA1 in the left-right direction (referred to as the "right end") at height position HT. Note that the right end of toilet OA1 referred to here is relative based on the positional relationship when Figure 13 is viewed from the front; if the surface shown in Figure 13 is considered the front, it will be the left end of toilet OA1.

[0171] Furthermore, position PS3 in Figure 13 indicates the position of the other end (left end) of toilet OA1 in the left-right direction at height position HT. Note that the left end of toilet OA1 referred to here is relative based on the positional relationship when Figure 13 is viewed from the front, and when the surface shown in Figure 13 is considered the front, it becomes the right end of toilet OA1.

[0172] The toilet seat device 2 uses information as shown in Figure 13 to estimate the position of the edge of the stool in the data (image) received by the light receiving unit 130. The toilet seat device 2 estimates the edge of the stool OA1 based on the position where the intensity (reflection intensity) of the received light (reflected light) decreases. For example, the toilet seat device 2 identifies the shaded area between position PS1 and position PS2 and estimates that the edge of the stool is located around that area. For example, the toilet seat device 2 identifies position PS1 and position PS2 based on the change in light intensity and estimates that the edge of the stool is located around the area between position PS1 and position PS2.

[0173] The above-described process is merely an example, and the toilet seat device 2 may use various information as appropriate to estimate the position of the end of the stool OA1. For example, at height position HT, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the end of the stool OA1 based on position PS1 where the light intensity decreases. In Figure 13, when the toilet seat device 2 compares adjacent pixels from right to left, at height position HT, the light intensity decreases at position PS1, so at height position HT, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the end (right end) of the stool OA1 based on position PS1. For example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the end (right end) of the stool OA1 based on position PS1 where the difference in light intensity (decrease amount) with an adjacent pixel is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

[0174] For example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the edge of the stool OA1 based on the position where the light intensity increases after it decreases. For example, at height position HT, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the edge of the stool OA1 based on position PS2 where the light intensity increases after it decreases. In Figure 13, when the toilet seat device 2 compares adjacent pixels from right to left, at height position HT, the light intensity decreases at position PS1 and increases at position PS2, so at height position HT, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the edge (right edge) of the stool OA1 based on position PS2. For example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the edge (right edge) of the stool OA1 based on position PS2 where the difference (increase) in light intensity with adjacent pixels is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

[0175] For example, the toilet seat device 2 may estimate position PS2 to be the end (right end) of the toilet seat OA1 at height position HT. However, the above is merely an example, and the toilet seat device 2 may also estimate the position between position PS1 and position PS2 to be the end (right end) of the toilet seat OA1 at height position HT.

[0176] Furthermore, for example, the toilet seat device 2 may estimate that the position to the left of position PS2 is the end (right end) of the toilet seat OA1 at height position HT. In this case, if the length between position PS1 and position PS2 is length LN1, the position between position PS2 and the position obtained by moving to the left of position PS2 up to length LN1 (let's call this position PS21) may be estimated as the end (right end) of the toilet seat OA1 at height position HT. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may estimate that the position between position PS1 and position PS21 is the end (right end) of the toilet seat OA1 at height position HT.

[0177] In Figure 13, the estimation of the edge at the height position HT in the center of the height direction is shown as an example. However, the toilet seat device 2 also estimates the edges at each position in the height direction other than the height position HT, but since the process is the same as described above, a detailed explanation is omitted. For example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the edges at each position in the height direction and superimposes the estimated edge values ​​to form the outer circumference (contour) of the stool. The height position HT may be one pixel (one row), or multiple pixels (multiple rows), for example, three pixels (three rows), may be viewed together. In addition, in the example described above, the central axis RA of the light-receiving element 132 and the central axis EA1 of the light-emitting element 121-1 are offset in the left-right direction to generate a shadow in the width direction (left-right direction) of the stool and estimate the edge (contour) in the width direction. However, the toilet seat device 2 may also estimate the edge (contour) of the stool in the height direction (up-down direction) by offsetting the central axis RA of the light-receiving element 132 and the central axis EA1 of the light-emitting element 121-1 in the height direction (up-down direction). By a similar process, the toilet seat device 2 may have its diagonal edges (contours) estimated.

[0178] Furthermore, although not shown in Figure 12, the light-emitting element 121-4 is positioned such that, in a top view of the toilet seat device 2, its second central axis (referred to as "second central axis EA4") does not coincide with the first central axis RA1 of the light-receiving element 132. For example, the second central axis EA4 of the light-emitting element 121-4 may be positioned symmetrically to the second central axis EA1 of the light-emitting element 121-1 with respect to the first central axis RA1 of the light-receiving element 132. Thus, in a top view of the toilet seat device 2, the first central axis RA1 of the light-receiving element 132 and the second central axis EA4 of the light-emitting element 121-4 do not coincide. Also, the second central axis EA1 of the light-emitting element 121-1 and the second central axis EA4 of the light-emitting element 121-4 do not coincide.

[0179] In other words, in a top view of the toilet seat device 2, the light-emitting element 121-4 is positioned such that its second central axis EA4 is offset from the first central axis RA1 of the light-receiving element 132. Furthermore, the light-emitting element 121-4 is positioned such that its second central axis EA4 is also offset from the second central axis EA1 of the light-emitting element 121-1. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 can form a shadow at a different location from the shadow cast by the light-emitting element 121-4 (e.g., shadow SA1). For example, the toilet seat device 2 can form a shadow that is symmetrical to the shadow SA1 shown in Figure 13, with respect to a central axis passing through the center of the toilet OA1 in the left-right direction, using the light-emitting element 121-4. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 can estimate the end of the toilet on the opposite side (left side in the front view of Figure 13) from the end estimated by the shadow SA1 shown in Figure 13 (right side in the front view of Figure 13). As described above, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the end (contour) of the toilet using the shadow.

[0180] In the example shown in Figure 11, the left-right center of the light-emitting element 121-2, indicated by the center line CA2-2, and the left-right center of the light-emitting element 121-3, indicated by the center line CA2-3, are offset from the light-receiving element 132 in the left-right direction. Therefore, the toilet seat device 2 does not emit light from the light-emitting elements 121-2 and 121-3 simultaneously, but emits light at a staggered timing. This allows the detection corresponding to the emission of light-emitting elements 121-2 and 121-3 to generate a shadow at a different position from that of the light-emitting elements 121-1 and 121-4.

[0181] The estimation of the stool's edge (contour) described above is merely one example, and the toilet seat device 2 may estimate the stool's edge (contour) by various means. As described above, the light-receiving element 132 and the light-emitting element 121-4 that emits infrared light (invisible light) are positioned with their centers offset. Also, the light-emitting element 121-1 that emits visible light and the light-emitting element 121-4 that emits infrared light are positioned with their centers offset. For example, when the light-emitting element 121-4 is lit, the light-emitting element 121-1 located on the opposite side is not lit. The toilet seat device 2 does not light up the light-emitting element 121-4 when the light-emitting element 121-1 is emitting light, and does not light up the light-emitting element 121-1 when the light-emitting element 121-4 is emitting light. In this way, the toilet seat device 2 acquires reflected light data from both visible and invisible light. The toilet seat device 2 estimates the position of the stool (the contour position of the stool) in the data (image). For example, the toilet seat device 2 finds the position of the minimum value of the infrared light reflection intensity at a predetermined height in the data (image) and defines it as the left edge of the stool. The toilet seat device 2 also finds the position of the minimum value of the reflection intensity to the right of the left edge in the visible light data and defines it as the right edge of the stool. The toilet seat device 2 then superimposes the edges found at each height position to estimate the outer perimeter (contour) of the stool. Alternatively, the toilet seat device 2 might define a reference point as the vicinity of the stool where the difference between the infrared light data and the visible light data is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. In the infrared light data, it might define the minimum value of the reflection intensity to the left of the reference point as the left edge of the stool, and in the visible light data, it might define the minimum value of the reflection intensity to the right of the reference point as the right edge of the stool. In a specific example of processing, the toilet seat device 2 finds the minimum value of the visible light data and uses it as the starting point for searching for the edges of the stool. Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 searches the infrared light data to the left (opposite side from visible light) from the starting point (minimum value), finds a local minimum, and sets it as the left-side reference point, as it is near where a shadow exists. The toilet seat device 2 determines the left-side contour position (end) to be a location several pixels or more to the right of the reference point where the difference between visible light and invisible light is greater than or equal to a certain value. The toilet seat device 2 then searches to the right of the reference point and sets the right-side contour position to a location where the reflection intensity is constant relative to the minimum value (for example, 1.5 times the minimum value).

[0182] Furthermore, the light-receiving unit 130 may be designed taking into account the MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) value. For example, the elements of the light-receiving unit 130 may be arranged considering the MTF value of the lens 131 corresponding to the light-receiving element 132. For example, the peak of the MTF value of the lens 131 in the light-receiving unit 130 may be set so that it is located within the range in which feces are expected to fall, i.e., between 85 and 165 mm from the lens 131.

[0183] Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not contradictory. In the example described above, a configuration in which light of three wavelengths is irradiated by four light-emitting elements 121-1 to 121-4 was explained as an example, but for example, the toilet seat device 2 may have any light-emitting elements 121 as long as it can generate a shadow. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may have only one or two light-emitting elements 121 and generate a shadow. It may also be a configuration in which light of four or more wavelengths is irradiated, or a configuration in which multiple different wavelengths of light are lit simultaneously.

[0184] For example, the toilet seat device 2 may have only one light-emitting element 121 to highlight only the part that is particularly desired. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may have only one light-emitting element 121 and generate a shadow on at least one side. In this case, for example, the toilet seat device 2 may have only one light-emitting element 121-1 and generate a shadow on one side by light from the light-emitting element 121-1.

[0185] Furthermore, for example, the toilet seat device 2 may have two light-emitting elements 121, generating shadows on both the left and right sides. In this case, for example, the toilet seat device 2 may have only two light-emitting elements 121-1 and 121-4, generating shadows on both the left and right sides with light from light-emitting elements 121-1 and 121-4. Also, as long as shadows can be generated, the light emitted by the light-emitting elements 121 may be of any wavelength. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may have only two light-emitting elements 121-1 and 121-4 that emit light of the same wavelength, generating shadows on both the left and right sides with light from light-emitting elements 121-1 and 121-4.

[0186] Further effects and modifications can be readily derived by those skilled in the art. Therefore, broader aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments expressed and described above. Accordingly, various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the overall concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

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

Claims

1. A toilet seat device that is placed on top of a toilet bowl, which has a bowl section for receiving excrement, and detects information about the falling feces, 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 control unit that estimates the end of the stool based on the position where the intensity of the light received by the light receiving unit decreases, It has, In a toilet seat device in which, in a top view, the first central axis relating to light reception of the light-receiving element and the second central axis relating to light emission of the light-emitting element do not coincide, The light-emitting element is positioned offset from the light-receiving element in the left-right direction, The light-emitting part has a first light-emitting element and a second light-emitting element whose respective second central axes do not coincide when viewed from above the toilet seat device. The control unit obtains the light reception results from the first light-emitting element and the light reception results from the second light-emitting element by controlling the second light-emitting element not to illuminate when the first light-emitting element is emitting light, and not to illuminate the first light-emitting element when the second light-emitting element is emitting light. The control unit performs individual estimation control, which estimates one end of the stool in the width direction using the light reception result from the first light-emitting element, and estimates the other end of the stool in the width direction using the light reception result from the second light-emitting element. A toilet seat device characterized by the following features.

2. The light-emitting element is Shine light diagonally downwards. The toilet seat device according to feature 1.

3. A toilet device in which a toilet seat is placed on top of a toilet bowl formed to receive excrement, and which detects information about falling feces, 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 control unit that estimates the end of the stool based on the position where the intensity of the light received by the light receiving unit decreases, It has, In a toilet device in which, in a top view of the toilet seat, the first central axis relating to light reception of the light-receiving element and the second central axis relating to light emission of the light-emitting element do not coincide, The light-emitting element is positioned offset from the light-receiving element in the left-right direction, The light-emitting part has a first light-emitting element and a second light-emitting element whose respective second central axes do not coincide when viewed from above the toilet device. The control unit obtains the light reception results from the first light-emitting element and the light reception results from the second light-emitting element by controlling the second light-emitting element not to illuminate when the first light-emitting element is emitting light, and not to illuminate the first light-emitting element when the second light-emitting element is emitting light. The control unit performs individual estimation control, which estimates one end of the stool in the width direction using the light reception result from the first light-emitting element, and estimates the other end of the stool in the width direction using the light reception result from the second light-emitting element. A toilet device characterized by the following features.

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