Toothbrush suitability determination device, toothbrush suitability determination method, and toothbrush suitability determination program

Abstract

To determine whether or not a toothbrush used for a certain period of time by a user is the toothbrush matching the user.SOLUTION: A toothbrush matching determination device comprises: an image acquisition unit which acquires at least one of a front surface image obtained by imaging a head portion of a toothbrush after use being the toothbrush used for a certain period of time by a user from the front surface direction, a side surface image obtained by imaging the head portion from the side surface direction and a back surface image obtained by imaging the head portion from the back surface direction; a score application unit which applies a score according to the state of the head portion for at least one of the acquired front surface image, the side surface image and the back surface image; a use state determination unit which determines the use state of the toothbrush on the basis of the applied score; and an advice transmission unit which transmits advice about the toothbrush after use to the user on the basis of the determined use state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a toothbrush suitability determination device, a toothbrush suitability determination method, and a toothbrush suitability determination program.

Background Art

[0002] In the above technical field, Patent Document 1 discloses forming a recommended toothbrushing plan based on brushing data and brush head data detected from a smart toothbrush equipped with various sensors (Claim 1, Paragraphs

[0021] to

[0052] , etc.). Further, Patent Document 2 discloses determining the replacement timing of a toothbrush based on an image of the toothbrush in the direction of the tuft implantation, i.e., the tuft implantation direction view image, and the recommended tuft deformation limit of the toothbrush, by determining whether or not the spread state of the tufts of the toothbrush exceeds the recommended tuft deformation limit (Paragraphs

[0102] to

[0150] , FIG. 17, etc.).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, only a toothbrushing plan using a recommended toothbrush is formed, and in the technique described in Patent Document 2, only the replacement timing of the toothbrush is determined. In neither technique could it be determined whether a recommended toothbrush or the like is a toothbrush suitable for the user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] To solve the above problems, a toothbrush suitability determination device according to the present invention is An image acquisition unit that acquires at least one of the head portion of the toothbrush after use, which is a toothbrush used by a user for a certain period of time, a front image taken from the front, a side image taken from the side, and a back image taken from the rear. A scoring unit that assigns a score to at least one of the acquired front image, side image, and rear image according to the state of the head portion, A usage status determination unit determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the assigned score, An advice transmission unit transmits advice to the user regarding the toothbrush after use, based on the determined usage status. It is equipped.

[0006] Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, the toothbrush suitability determination method according to the present invention is Image acquisition step: Obtain at least one of the head portion of the toothbrush after use by the user for a certain period of time, which is the toothbrush after use, a front image taken from the front, a side image taken from the side, and a back image taken from the rear. A scoring step in which a score is assigned to at least one of the acquired front image, side image, and rear image according to the state of the head portion, A usage status determination step that determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the assigned score, An advice transmission step, in which advice regarding the toothbrush after use is transmitted to the user based on the determined usage status, Includes.

[0007] Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, the toothbrush suitability determination program according to the present invention is Image acquisition step: Obtain at least one of the head portion of the toothbrush after use by the user for a certain period of time, which is the toothbrush after use, a front image taken from the front, a side image taken from the side, and a back image taken from the rear. A scoring step in which a score is assigned to at least one of the acquired front image, side image, and rear image according to the state of the head portion, A usage status determination step that determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the assigned score, An advice transmission step, in which advice regarding the toothbrush after use is transmitted to the user based on the determined usage status, Have the computer execute it. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to determine whether a toothbrush is suitable for a user after they have used it for a certain period of time. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating the general operation of a toothbrush fit determination device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a toothbrush fit determination device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] This figure illustrates the scoring method used by a toothbrush fit determination device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A] This figure shows an example of a front and side advice table included in a toothbrush fit determination device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3B] This figure shows an example of a rear advice table included in a toothbrush suitability determination device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a toothbrush fit determination device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing procedure of a toothbrush fit determination device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a toothbrush fit determination device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] This is a diagram for explaining edge detection by a toothbrush suitability determination device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing an example of an edge amount table included in a toothbrush suitability determination device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of a toothbrush suitability determination device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart for explaining the processing procedure of a toothbrush suitability determination device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of a toothbrush suitability determination device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing an example of a determination table included in a toothbrush suitability determination device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is a diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of a toothbrush suitability determination device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This is a flowchart for explaining the processing procedure of a toothbrush suitability determination device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be exemplarily described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the configurations, numerical values, processing flows, functional elements, etc. described in the following embodiments are merely examples, and modifications and changes thereof are possible freely, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to the following description.

[0011] [First Embodiment] A toothbrush suitability determination device as a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. The toothbrush suitability determination device 100 is a device for determining the suitability of a toothbrush based on feedback from a user.

[0012] In oral care, preventing diseases (cavities, periodontal disease) requires the removal of plaque, which is the cause of these diseases, and toothbrushes are tools for directly removing plaque. Toothbrushes with various features are developed and sold, making it difficult for consumers to choose the right toothbrush from the many types available in stores. To help alleviate this, toothbrush manufacturers' websites publish content that explains the features of toothbrushes that are suitable for each individual based on their brushing habits.

[0013] However, the content on these websites unilaterally recommends toothbrushes, and some users may find that the recommended toothbrushes don't suit their needs, or that the shape, bristle hardness, etc., are unsuitable, potentially worsening their oral health. Consumers who cannot find a suitable toothbrush on such websites may then be at a loss as to which toothbrush to choose next.

[0014] Therefore, as shown in Figure 1, in this embodiment, the user first uses the proposed toothbrush for a certain period, for example, 3 to 4 weeks, which is the standard replacement period for toothbrushes. Then, the user uses a mobile device such as a smartphone 110 to capture an image of the toothbrush head after use (toothbrush image) and transmits the captured image to the toothbrush suitability determination device 100. The user may also transmit the date on which they started using the proposed toothbrush or the toothbrush image to the toothbrush suitability determination device 100 when they start using the toothbrush or when they transmit the toothbrush image.

[0015] The toothbrush suitability determination device 100 determines the user's usage of the toothbrush based on the condition of the toothbrush bristles and other factors from the transmitted image of the toothbrush head. Based on the determined usage, the toothbrush suitability determination device 100 then sends advice 120 to the user, such as how to use the toothbrush properly or recommending other toothbrushes that are more suitable for the user.

[0016] In this way, the toothbrush suitability determination device 100 can receive feedback from the user (images of toothbrushes after use for a certain period of time) and suggest toothbrushes that are suitable for the user, or suggest toothbrush usage methods that are suitable for the user.

[0017] Next, the configuration of the toothbrush suitability determination device 100 will be described with reference to Figures 2A and 2B. The toothbrush suitability determination device 100 includes an image acquisition unit 201, an image division unit 202, a score assignment unit 203, a usage status determination unit 204, and an advice transmission unit 205.

[0018] The image acquisition unit 201 acquires at least one of the following images of the toothbrush head after the user has used the toothbrush proposed to the user for a certain period of time: a frontal image taken from the front, a side image taken from the side, and a rear image taken from the back. The frontal image is taken so that the tips of the bristles (brushing surface) planted on the toothbrush head are visible (see Figure 2B(a)). The side image is taken from the side of the toothbrush head so that the total length of the bristles (brush) can be seen (see Figure 2B(b)). Furthermore, the rear image is taken from the side of the toothbrush head where there are no bristles planted (see Figure 2B(c)). Here, "a certain period of use" refers to 3 to 4 weeks after the start of use, which is the typical time to replace a toothbrush, but it may be shorter or longer depending on the user's usage of the toothbrush. Furthermore, the toothbrush suitability determination device 100 may notify the user of the timing to send a toothbrush image by sending a push notification or the like to a mobile device such as a smartphone owned by the user.

[0019] After using the proposed toothbrush for a certain period, the user takes front, side, and rear images using a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, or an imaging device such as a camera. The user transmits the captured front, side, and rear images to the toothbrush suitability determination device 100 via wireless or wired communication. The user may also transmit at least one of the captured front, side, and rear images to the toothbrush suitability determination device 100. The image acquisition unit 201 then acquires the front, side, and rear images transmitted from the user's mobile device, etc.

[0020] Furthermore, instead of sending images of the toothbrush (front, side, and back views) after using the suggested toothbrush for a certain period, the user may send an image of the toothbrush they are currently using, preferably along with the usage period or start date. The image acquisition unit 201 may then acquire at least one of the front, side, and back views of the toothbrush the user is currently using. In addition, any currently known method may be used to select a toothbrush to suggest to the user, such as selecting a toothbrush based on the user's responses to questions about the frequency and duration of brushing, characteristics (such as brushing one tooth at a time), symptoms of oral discomfort, and care content.

[0021] The image division unit 202 divides the front image and the side image into two regions: the front end and the rear end of the toothbrush head. For example, as shown in Figure 2B(a), the image division unit 202 divides the front image so that two rectangular regions are formed in the vertical direction of Figure 2B, approximately in the center of the toothbrush head shown in the front image. Similarly, as shown in Figure 2B(b), the image division unit 202 divides the side image so that two rectangular regions are formed in the vertical direction of Figure 2B, approximately in the center of the bristles of the toothbrush head shown in the side image.

[0022] The scoring unit 203 assigns a score to at least one of the acquired front, side, and rear images according to the condition of the head portion. For the front and side images, the scoring unit 203 assigns a score according to the degree of hair bundle spread.

[0023] First, let's explain the front view image, referring to Figure 2B(a). In the front view image, the degree of spread of the bristle bundles on the toothbrush head is evaluated (scored) on a three-point scale (spread 0 to 2). In the front view image, if each bristle bundle is clearly rounded, it is evaluated as spread 0 (little spread). If the boundaries of the bristle bundles are not rounded and the boundaries of adjacent bristle bundles are touching, it is evaluated as spread 1 (appropriate spread). And, if all the bristle bundles planted on the outer circumference of the head extend beyond the outline of the head and there are no boundaries between the bristle bundles, it is evaluated as spread 2 (too spread).

[0024] Next, we will explain the side view, referring to Figure 2B(b). In the side view, the degree of bristle spread on the toothbrush head is evaluated (scored) in three stages (spread 0 to 2), similar to the front view. In the side view, if the overall shape of the bristles is rectangular and all bristles are straight, it is evaluated as spread 0. If the overall shape of the bristles is rectangular but some bristles are angled, it is evaluated as spread 1. And if the overall shape of the bristles is trapezoidal and most bristles are angled, it is evaluated as spread 2. From the degree of bristle spread in the front view and side view, it is possible to determine the brushing pressure and special use when the user brushes their teeth.

[0025] Next, with reference to Figure 2B(c), we will explain how to assign scores to the rear view image. Unlike the front and side views, the rear view image is not divided, and a score is assigned based on the degree of scratches on the entire back surface of the toothbrush head.

[0026] In the rear view image, the degree of scratches on the back of the toothbrush head is evaluated (scored) in three stages (scratch level 0 to 2), similar to the front and side views. In other words, when a user is brushing their teeth with a toothbrush, for example, when brushing the lower teeth, the back of the toothbrush head rubs against the upper teeth. Similarly, when brushing the upper teeth, the back of the toothbrush head rubs against the lower teeth. Thus, when brushing with a toothbrush, scratches are made on the back of the toothbrush head due to rubbing against the upper and lower teeth. Therefore, the user's brushing habits can be determined from the degree of scratches, such as the amount and direction of scratches, in the rear view image, and the scoring unit 203 assigns a score based on the degree of scratches.

[0027] In the rear view image, if there are almost no scratches on the back or only one or two scratches, the scratch level is rated as 0 (not polished overall). If there are several clearly identifiable scratches (3 to 10), the scratch level is rated as 1 (insufficient brushing of back teeth). If there are many scratches across the entire back (more than 10), the scratch level is rated as 2 (polished overall). The degree of scratches on the back (the condition of the scratches) can be used to determine the user's brushing habits.

[0028] The scoring described above may be determined by visual inspection by a user comparing the image to a sample, or by a person who has received specific training. Furthermore, scores may be assigned by a scoring unit (scoring module) configured in an information processing device. Specifically, scores assigned by visual inspection may be used to create a scoring model by machine learning with AI (Artificial Intelligence), and scores may be assigned based on the created scoring model. Alternatively, scores may be assigned by image processing, such as by finding feature points in the image, without relying on machine learning.

[0029] Furthermore, the images used for scoring (toothbrush images) only need to be at least one of a frontal, side, and rear view. In other words, since users take images of the toothbrush head in various ways and are not always able to take a frontal view, the system is designed to allow evaluation even if the image taken by the user is not a frontal view. In addition, it is possible to record videos using mobile devices such as smartphones that users possess. For example, even if a user sends a video they have taken to the toothbrush suitability determination device 100, the system is designed to effectively utilize the video information and allow frames that capture parts other than the front to be used for evaluation.

[0030] Here, for example, when assigning a score based on a combination of images such as [front image + side image + back image], [front image + side image], or [front image + back image], the score assigned based on the front image may be weighted. This is because more information can be obtained from the front image compared to the side and back images. Furthermore, the scoring unit 203 may also take into account, for example, the characteristics of the toothbrush being used by the user (hardness and density of the bristles, material, size of the head, etc.) when assigning a score.

[0031] The usage status determination unit 204 determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the assigned score. In the front and side images, the usage status of the toothbrush is determined from the degree of bristle spread on the head. Then, as shown in Table 1, the brushing pressure (<pressure>) and special use (<special>) are determined by summing the evaluations of the degree of spread at the front and rear ends of the head.

[0032] In other words, for example, consider the case where the opening angle at the front end is 0 in the front view image. If the opening angle at the rear end is 0 or 1, it is determined that the user's brushing pressure is weak and there is no special use. If the opening angle at the rear end is 2, it is determined that the brushing pressure is weak and the special use is toothbrush clogging (repeated cleaning by spreading the bristles to remove food debris etc. that is stuck at the base of the bristles).

[0033] Similarly, consider the case where the opening angle at the front end is 1 in the front view image. If the opening angle at the rear end is 0, the user's brushing pressure is weak, and the special use is determined to be due to a brushing technique adapted to the tooth alignment. If the opening angle at the rear end is 1, the user's brushing pressure is just right, and there is no special use. If the opening angle at the rear end is 2, the user's brushing pressure is strong, and the special use is determined to be toothbrush clogging.

[0034] Furthermore, similarly, consider the case where the opening angle at the front end is 2 in the front view image. If the opening angle at the rear end is 0 or 1, the user's brushing pressure is just right, and any special use is determined to be due to the alignment of the teeth. If the opening angle at the rear end is 2, the user's brushing pressure is strong, and there is no special use.

[0035] Furthermore, the same determination of the degree of opening as in the front image described above is performed for the side image. In other words, the determination method shown in Table 1 can be used in common for both the front and side images. Note that the degree of opening and the degree of scratching shown in Figures 2B(a) to (c) are set based on, for example, the condition of the bristles and the back of a new toothbrush, but the degree of opening may be set based on the shape of the bristle bundle, and the degree of scratching may be set based on the degree of light reflection, etc.

[0036] [Table 1]

[0037] The advice transmission unit 205 transmits advice (advice 120) to the user regarding the toothbrush after use, based on the determined usage status. The advice regarding the toothbrush after use transmitted by the advice transmission unit 205 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: how to use the toothbrush and a preferred toothbrush (suggestion). First, the advice transmitted by the advice transmission unit 205 for the determination results based on the front and side images (see Table 1) will be explained. If the brushing pressure is weak, the advice transmission unit 205 transmits advice such as, "Your brushing is weak and not thorough enough. Try brushing a little harder or using a toothbrush with a smaller head." If the brushing pressure is appropriate, the advice transmission unit 205 transmits advice such as, "You seem to be brushing with just the right amount of force. If there are any areas you want to focus on (such as molars or the gum line), try using a toothbrush that makes it easier to brush those areas." Furthermore, if the brushing pressure is too strong, the advice transmission unit 205 will send advice such as, "It seems you are brushing your teeth too hard. Try brushing a little more gently, or use a toothbrush that allows you to adjust the brushing pressure, such as one with a larger head or softer bristles."

[0038] Furthermore, if the special use of the toothbrush is due to crooked teeth, the advice transmission unit 205 sends the following advice to improve the difficulty of brushing teeth: "It seems you are trying to brush areas with crooked teeth in an ingenious way. There are toothbrushes that are better suited for removing dirt from hard-to-reach areas, so try using one if you have difficulty brushing." Also, if the special use of the toothbrush is due to clogged bristles, the advice transmission unit 205 sends the following advice: "Are you concerned about food particles getting stuck in your toothbrush? If so, try using a toothbrush with a lower bristle density."

[0039] Next, we will explain the advice that the advice transmission unit 205 sends in response to the judgment result based on the rear image. If the degree of damage is 0 (meaning the entire tooth has not been brushed), the advice transmission unit 205 sends advice such as, "You may only be brushing your front teeth or areas that are easy to brush," "Make sure to brush your back teeth and chewing surfaces thoroughly," and "We also recommend toothbrushes with thin heads or small heads that can easily reach your back teeth."

[0040] Furthermore, if the degree of damage is 1 (meaning insufficient brushing of the back teeth), the advice sending unit 205 sends advice such as, "It seems you are brushing your teeth overall, but you may be focusing on brushing your front teeth," "Try to brush your back teeth and chewing surfaces more consciously," and "If it is difficult to brush your back teeth, we recommend using a toothbrush with a thin head or a toothbrush with a small head." In addition, if the degree of damage is 2 (meaning you are brushing your teeth overall), the advice sending unit 205 sends advice such as, "It seems you are brushing your back teeth and chewing surfaces thoroughly," and "Continue to brush thoroughly in this manner."

[0041] The advice transmitted by the advice transmission unit 205 includes both product-related advice and brushing technique advice. This is because even if a toothbrush is not suitable for a user, the user may still like it. In such cases, instead of forcing the user to use an alternative toothbrush, the system aims to improve oral health without burdening the user by maintaining the current situation while improving their brushing technique.

[0042] Figure 3A is a diagram illustrating an example of the front and side advice table 301 of the toothbrush suitability determination device 100. The front and side advice table 301 stores an advice example 312 in association with the determination result 311. The determination result 311 is the result determined based on the scores assigned to the front and side images by the scoring unit 203 described above. The advice example 312 is an example of advice sent to the user according to the determination result. The advice transmission unit 205 then, for example, refers to the front and side advice table 301 and sends advice regarding toothbrushes to the user.

[0043] Figure 3B is a diagram illustrating an example of a back-view advice table 302 in the toothbrush suitability determination device 100. The back-view advice table 302 stores an advice example 322 in association with the determination result 321. The determination result 321 is the result determined based on the score assigned to the back image by the scoring unit 203 described above. The advice example 322 is an example of advice sent to the user according to the determination result. The advice transmission unit 205 then, for example, refers to the back-view advice table 302 and sends advice regarding toothbrushes to the user.

[0044] Referring to Figure 4, the hardware configuration of the toothbrush fit determination device 100 will be described. The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 410 is a processor for arithmetic control and realizes the various functional configurations of the toothbrush fit determination device 100 shown in Figure 2 by executing programs. The CPU 410 may have multiple processors and may execute different programs, modules, tasks, threads, etc. in parallel. The ROM (Read Only Memory) 420 stores initial data, fixed data such as programs, and other programs. The network interface 430 communicates with other devices via the network. Note that the CPU 410 is not limited to one, and may have multiple CPUs, or may include a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) for image processing. Furthermore, it is desirable that the network interface 430 has a CPU independent of the CPU 410 and writes or reads transmitted and received data to or from the RAM (Random Access Memory) 440 area. It is also desirable to provide a DMAC (Direct Memory Access Controller) for transferring data between the RAM 440 and the storage 450 (not shown). Furthermore, the CPU 410 recognizes that data has been received or transferred to the RAM 440 and processes the data. The CPU 410 also prepares the processing results in the RAM 440 and leaves subsequent transmission or transfer to the network interface 430 or DMAC.

[0045] RAM440 is random access memory used by the CPU410 as a work area for temporary storage. RAM440 has a storage area reserved for storing the data necessary to realize this embodiment. Toothbrush image data441 is data relating to the front, side, and rear images of the toothbrush head. Divided image data442 is data relating to images obtained by dividing the front and side images into two regions: the front end and the rear end of the toothbrush head. Assigned score data443 is data relating to the scores assigned to the front, side, and rear images according to the degree of bristle spread and damage. Judgment result data444 is data relating to the usage status of the toothbrush determined based on the assigned score. Advice data445 is data relating to advice sent to the user based on the determined usage status.

[0046] The transmitted and received data 446 is data transmitted and received via the network interface 430. The RAM 440 also has an application execution area 447 for running various application modules.

[0047] The storage 450 stores the database, various parameters, and the following data or programs necessary for realizing this embodiment. The storage 450 stores the front side advice table 301 and the rear advice table 302. The front side advice table 301 is a table that manages the relationship between the judgment result 311 and the advice example 312, as shown in Figure 3A. The rear advice table 302 is a table that manages the relationship between the judgment result 321 and the advice example 322, as shown in Figure 3B.

[0048] The storage 450 further stores an image acquisition module 451, an image splitting module 452, a scoring module 453, a usage status determination module 454, and an advice transmission module 455. The image acquisition module 451 is a module that acquires at least one of a front image, a side image, and a rear image of the toothbrush head. The image splitting module 452 is a module that splits the front image and the side image into two regions: the front end and the rear end of the toothbrush head. The scoring module 453 is a module that assigns a score to at least one of the front image, the side image, and the rear image according to the condition of the toothbrush. The usage status determination module 454 is a module that determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the assigned score. The advice transmission module 455 is a module that sends advice about the toothbrush to the user based on the determined usage status. These modules 451 to 455 are read by the CPU 410 into the application execution area 447 of the RAM 440 and executed. The control program 455 is a program for controlling the entire toothbrush fit determination device 100.

[0049] The input / output interface 460 interfaces with input / output devices for input / output data. The display unit 461 and the operation unit 462 are connected to the input / output interface 460. A storage medium 464 may also be connected to the input / output interface 460. Furthermore, a speaker 463, which is an audio output unit, and a microphone (not shown), which is an audio input unit, may also be connected. Note that the RAM 440 and storage 450 shown in Figure 4 do not contain programs or data related to the general-purpose functions of the toothbrush suitability determination device 100 or other feasible functions.

[0050] Next, the processing procedure of the toothbrush suitability determination device 100 will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in Figure 5. This flowchart is executed by the CPU 410 in Figure 4 using the RAM 440, and realizes the various functional configurations of the toothbrush suitability determination device 100 shown in Figure 2.

[0051] In step S501, the image acquisition unit 201 acquires at least one of the front, side, and rear images of the toothbrush head. In step S503, the image division unit 202 divides the front and side images into two regions: the front end and the rear end of the head. In step S505, the scoring unit 203 uses the front and side images to assign a score to each image according to the degree of bristle spread of the toothbrush. In step S507, the scoring unit 203 uses the rear image to assign a score according to the degree of damage. In step S509, the usage status determination unit 204 determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the assigned scores. In step S511, the advice transmission unit 205 transmits advice regarding the toothbrush to the user's terminal according to the determined usage status.

[0052] According to this embodiment, it is possible to determine whether the toothbrush the user has been using is suitable for them, and therefore effective advice can be given to the user.

[0053] [Second Embodiment] Next, a toothbrush fit determination device according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 6A to 9. Figure 6A is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the toothbrush fit determination device according to this embodiment. The toothbrush fit determination device according to this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it has an edge detection unit. The other configurations and operations are the same as in the first embodiment, so the same components and operations are denoted by the same reference numerals and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0054] The edge detection unit 601 performs image processing on the acquired front image to detect the edges of the bristles implanted on the toothbrush head. Edge detection is used to find the edges of objects within an image. Object edges can be detected from discontinuities in brightness. For example, by applying edge detection image processing to the front image shown in Figure 6B(a), a continuous curve indicating the boundary (edge) of the object (bristle bundle) is obtained, as shown in Figure 6B(b).

[0055] The scoring unit 203 then assigns a score to the front image based on the amount of edge detected. That is, the scoring unit 203 evaluates the degree of hair spread according to the amount of continuous curve obtained by edge detection and assigns a score. For example, in the case of a new hair bundle, the hairs contained in each bundle are densely packed, so an almost cylindrical edge image is obtained, and the amount of edge is small. Conversely, as the hair bundle spreads, each individual hair contained in the bundle is detected as an edge, and the amount of edge increases. Therefore, the scoring unit 203 assigns a score of 2 for a degree of spread if the amount of edge is large, and a score of 0 for a degree of spread if the amount of edge is small, depending on the amount of edge detected. Note that the edge detection image shown in Figure 6(b) may be presented to the user, and the score assigned may be presented to the user along with the edge detection image presented to the user.

[0056] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of an edge amount table 701 in the toothbrush suitability determination device 600. The edge amount table 701 stores the opening degree 712 in association with the edge amount 711. The edge amount 711 is the amount of edge obtained by performing edge detection on a front image. The opening degree 712 is a value that indicates the degree of bristle opening, which is predetermined according to the detected edge amount. The scoring unit 203 then refers to the edge amount table 701 and assigns a score to the front image.

[0057] Referring to Figure 8, the hardware configuration of the toothbrush suitability determination device 600 will be described. RAM 840 is a random access memory used by the CPU 410 as a temporary storage work area. RAM 840 has a storage area reserved for storing the data necessary to realize this embodiment. Edge quantity data 841 is data related to the quantity of edges obtained by edge detection.

[0058] The storage 850 stores the database, various parameters, and the following data or programs necessary for realizing this embodiment. The storage 850 stores the edge amount table 701. The edge amount table 701 is a table that manages the relationship between the edge amount 711 and the opening degree 712, as shown in Figure 7.

[0059] The storage 850 further stores the edge detection module 851. The edge detection module 851 is a module that performs image processing on the front image to detect the edges of hair. This module 851 is read by the CPU 410 into the application execution area 447 of the RAM 840 and executed.

[0060] Next, the processing procedure of the toothbrush suitability determination device 600 will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in Figure 9. This flowchart is executed by the CPU 410 in Figure 8 using the RAM 840, and realizes the various functional configurations of the toothbrush suitability determination device 600 shown in Figure 6.

[0061] In step S901, the edge detection unit 601 performs image processing on the front image to detect the edges of the hair. In step S903, the scoring unit 203 derives the edge amount of the detected edges. In step S905, the scoring unit 203 assigns a score to the front image based on the derived edge amount, and assigns a score to the back image according to the degree of hair bundle spread.

[0062] According to this embodiment, since a score is assigned to the front image using image processing, a highly accurate score can be assigned, and the usage status can be determined with greater accuracy.

[0063] [Third Embodiment] Next, a toothbrush suitability determination device according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 14. Figure 10 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the toothbrush suitability determination device 1000 according to this embodiment. The toothbrush suitability determination device 1000 according to this embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that it has a moisture acquisition unit. The other configurations and operations are the same as in the first embodiment, so the same reference numerals are used for the same configurations and operations and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0064] The toothbrush suitability determination device 1000 has a feedback acquisition unit 1001. The feedback acquisition unit 1001 acquires the user's feedback on using the suggested toothbrush. The feedback acquisition unit 1001 may also acquire feedback on the toothbrush the user prefers to use. The feedback may include, for example, what the user felt when using the suggested toothbrush, or the current state of oral health symptoms (improvement, worsening), but is not limited to these.

[0065] The usage status determination unit 204 further determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the acquired feedback. For example, if the user's feedback is positive and the user's sensation or symptoms have not worsened, the usage status determination unit 204 determines that the toothbrush is suitable for the user. Conversely, if the user's feedback is negative or the user's sensation or symptoms have worsened, the usage status determination unit 204 determines that the toothbrush is unsuitable for the user.

[0066] The advice transmission unit 205 then sends advice to the user based on the usage status determined by the usage status determination unit 204. For example, if the user's feedback is negative, the advice transmission unit 205 may send a candidate toothbrush to replace the current toothbrush. In this case, the advice transmission unit 205 may set a list of candidate toothbrushes for each toothbrush.

[0067] Furthermore, if, for example, the user's feedback is positive but the tooth opening is too wide and the score is poor, the advice transmission unit 205 will advise the user to continue using the toothbrush in question, rather than suggesting a different toothbrush as an alternative. However, along with this advice, the advice transmission unit 205 will also transmit that switching to a different toothbrush may improve the user's oral health.

[0068] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a judgment table 1101 in the toothbrush suitability determination device 1000. The judgment table 1101 stores impressions / usage experience 1112 in association with the judgment result 1111. The judgment result 1111 is the result of the judgment based on the user's impressions. The impressions / usage experience 1112 is the user's impressions, usage experience, and the quality of symptoms when using the toothbrush. The usage status determination unit 204 then refers to the judgment table 1101 and determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the user's impressions.

[0069] Referring to Figure 12, the hardware configuration of the toothbrush suitability determination device 1000 will be described. RAM 1240 is a random access memory used by the CPU 410 as a temporary storage work area. RAM 1240 has a storage area reserved for storing the data necessary to realize this embodiment. Feedback data 1241 is data about the user's feedback on using the toothbrush, obtained from the user terminal.

[0070] The storage 1250 stores the database, various parameters, and the following data or programs necessary for realizing this embodiment. The storage 1250 stores the judgment table 1101. The judgment table 1101 is a table that manages the relationship between the judgment result 1111 and the impressions / usability 1112, as shown in Figure 11.

[0071] The storage 1250 further stores the feedback acquisition module 1251. The feedback acquisition module 1251 is a module that acquires user feedback on using the toothbrush suggested by the user. This module 1251 is read by the CPU 410 into the application execution area 447 of RAM 1240 and executed.

[0072] Next, the processing procedure of the toothbrush suitability determination device 1000 will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in Figure 13. This flowchart is executed by the CPU 410 in Figure 12 using the RAM 1240, and realizes the various functional configurations of the toothbrush suitability determination device 1000 shown in Figure 10.

[0073] In step S1301, the feedback acquisition unit 1001 acquires user feedback from the user using the suggested toothbrush via the user terminal. In step S1303, the usage status determination unit 204 further determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the acquired feedback.

[0074] According to this embodiment, the usage status of the toothbrush is determined by adding user feedback to the toothbrush image, enabling more accurate usage status determination and allowing for more effective advice to be given to the user.

[0075] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be modified as appropriate. Various modifications to the configuration and details of the present invention can be made that will be understood by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, any system or apparatus that combines the separate features included in each embodiment in any way is also included in the scope of the present invention.

[0076] Furthermore, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of multiple devices or to a single device. Moreover, the present invention is also applicable when an information processing program that realizes the functions of the embodiment is supplied to a system or device and executed by a built-in processor. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention includes programs installed on a computer to realize the functions of the present invention on a computer, the medium on which the program is stored, the WWW (World Wide Web) server that allows the program to be downloaded, and the processor that executes the program. In particular, at least a non-transitory computer-readable medium containing a program that causes a computer to execute the processing steps included in the above-described embodiment is included in the technical scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An image acquisition unit that acquires at least one of the head portion of a used toothbrush, which is a toothbrush used by a user for a certain period of time, a front image taken from the front, a side image taken from the side, and a back image taken from the rear. A scoring unit that assigns a score to at least one of the acquired front image, side image, and rear image according to the state of the head portion, A usage status determination unit determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the assigned score, An advice transmission unit transmits advice to the user regarding the toothbrush after use, based on the determined usage status. Equipped with, The unit further includes a feedback acquisition unit that obtains the user's feedback on using the toothbrush after use. The aforementioned usage state determination unit further includes a toothbrush suitability determination device that determines the usage state of the toothbrush after use based on the acquired feedback.

2. The image division unit further divides the front image and the side image into two regions, the front end and the rear end of the head portion. The toothbrush suitability determination device according to claim 1, wherein the scoring unit assigns a score to each of the front image and the side image, which are divided into two regions, according to the degree of bristle spread of the toothbrush after use.

3. The toothbrush suitability determination device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the scoring unit assigns a score to the rear image according to the degree of wear on the toothbrush after use.

4. The toothbrush suitability determination device according to claim 1, wherein the image acquisition unit acquires a front image taken from the front and a back image taken from the rear of the toothbrush head after use.

5. Image acquisition step: Obtaining at least one of the head portion of a toothbrush after a user has used the toothbrush for a certain period of time, a front image taken from the front, a side image taken from the side, and a back image taken from the rear. A scoring step in which a score is assigned to at least one of the acquired front image, side image, and rear image according to the state of the head portion, A usage status determination step that determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the assigned score, An advice transmission step, in which advice regarding the toothbrush after use is transmitted to the user based on the determined usage status, Includes, The process further includes a step of obtaining feedback from the user regarding their experience using the toothbrush after use, A toothbrush suitability determination method that further determines the condition of the toothbrush after use based on the feedback obtained in the usage condition determination step.

6. Image acquisition step: Obtaining at least one of the head portion of a toothbrush after a user has used the toothbrush for a certain period of time, a front image taken from the front, a side image taken from the side, and a back image taken from the rear. A scoring step in which a score is assigned to at least one of the acquired front image, side image, and rear image according to the state of the head portion, A usage status determination step that determines the usage status of the toothbrush based on the assigned score, An advice transmission step, in which advice regarding the toothbrush after use is transmitted to the user based on the determined usage status, Have the computer run it, The user then causes the computer to perform a feedback acquisition step to obtain feedback on the toothbrush after use. A toothbrush suitability determination program that, in the usage state determination step, further causes the computer to determine the usage state of the toothbrush after use based on the acquired feedback.

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