Toilet management system

Abstract

To appropriately manage a cleaning timing according to use purposes of a user.SOLUTION: A toilet managing system includes a toilet device having a bowl for receiving a user's excrement; a detection part for detecting information on the user's use purposes of the toilet device; a determination part for determining whether or not the user's use purposes include at least one of defecating and urinating on the basis of a result of the detection by the detection part; a calculation part for calculating a contamination level of the toilet device by using different weighting for defecating and urinating on the basis of the number of use times of defecating and the number of use times of urinating, and determining whether or not the calculated contamination level exceeds a first predetermined value; and a notification part for notifying a cleaning timing when the first predetermined value is exceeded.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a toilet management system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a system for detecting the cleaning timing of a toilet room in which a toilet device (toilet) is arranged in each toilet booth (private room) is known (for example, Patent Document 1). For example, in the system described in Patent Document 1, the usage frequency is determined from the entry information, door opening / closing information, and usage status of the drain lever, and the timing for cleaning the toilet room is determined.

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 technology. For example, in the system of the conventional technology described above, the usage purpose of the toilet device arranged in the toilet booth is not considered. Therefore, even if the usage purpose of the toilet device by the user is for defecation or urination, it is treated in the same way. As a result, the determined cleaning timing may not be appropriate as the timing for cleaning the toilet device. Therefore, it is desired to appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the usage purpose of the user.

[0005] In view of the above points, it is an issue to appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the usage purpose of the user.

[0006] An object of the disclosed embodiments is to provide a toilet management system that can appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the usage purpose of the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A toilet management system according to one embodiment of the system comprises: a toilet device having a bowl for receiving the user's excrement; a detection unit for detecting information regarding the user's use of the toilet device; a determination unit for determining whether the user's use includes at least one of heavy use or light use based on the detection result from the detection unit; a calculation unit for calculating the soiling level of the toilet device based on the number of times heavy use and light use are used, with different weightings for heavy use and light use, and determining whether the calculated soiling level exceeds a first predetermined value; and a notification unit for notifying that it is time to clean if the first predetermined value is exceeded.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the toilet management system, even if the toilet equipment (toilet bowl) used for defecation and urination differs in its intended use, it can, for example, guide the cleaning staff to the optimal cleaning timing according to the degree of soiling of the toilet bowl. Therefore, the toilet management system can prevent, for example, excessive cleaning visits to suppress soiling of the toilet bowl, or soiling of the toilet bowl by simply reducing the number of cleanings. Thus, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the timing of cleaning according to the user's intended use. For example, the degree of soiling on the inside of the toilet bowl changes depending on the actual usage of the toilet equipment (toilet bowl) installed in the toilet booth, such as whether it is used for defecation or urination. Therefore, even if the frequency of use of the toilet bowl is the same, the degree of soiling of the toilet bowl will differ, and there is a concern that the cleaning staff may be guided to clean at a time that is not suitable for the degree of soiling of the toilet bowl. In such cases, the number of cleanings will increase, and the burden on the cleaning staff will increase. On the other hand, according to one embodiment of the toilet management system, the degree of soiling (soiling level) of the toilet can be estimated with high accuracy by taking into account the intended use of the toilet, so that the timing of cleaning can be appropriately managed according to the user's intended use. Note that the toilet booth includes, for example, the toilet equipment that makes up the toilet booth.

[0009] A toilet management system according to one embodiment is characterized in that the weighting is such that the weight for heavy use is set to be greater than the weight for light use.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the toilet management system, by assigning greater weight to defecation use than urination use, it is possible to guide cleaning staff to the optimal cleaning timing, for example, by considering the degree of soiling of the toilet bowl, which is generally more prone to soiling from defecation use than from urination use.

[0011] In a toilet management system according to one embodiment, the detection unit is an imaging device that images the inside of the bowl, the determination unit determines the properties of the feces contained in the image captured by the imaging device, and the calculation unit changes the weighting according to the properties of the feces.

[0012] For example, even with the same stool, the degree of soiling on the toilet bowl differs between solid stool and loose stool. Therefore, according to one embodiment of the toilet management system, the timing of cleaning can be determined (calculated) with greater accuracy by changing the weighting based on the characteristics of multiple bowel movements. Thus, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the timing of cleaning according to the user's intended use.

[0013] In a toilet management system according to one embodiment, the detection unit is an imaging device that images the inside of the bowl, and the calculation unit is characterized in that, when it is determined that the usage of a single user is both light use and heavy use, it calculates the soiling level of the toilet device based on the assumption that the usage of a single user is both light use and heavy use.

[0014] When a single act of defecation involves both urination and defecation, rather than just urination or defecation, more soiling occurs than when only one type of use is performed. Therefore, according to a toilet management system in one embodiment, when a user uses the toilet for both urination and defecation, the timing of cleaning can be calculated more accurately by adding up the values ​​for both. Thus, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the timing of cleaning according to the user's usage.

[0015] In a toilet management system according to one embodiment, the determination unit is characterized in that if it cannot determine the user's intended use, it is set to "large use".

[0016] According to one embodiment of the toilet management system, if it is not possible to determine whether a user is using the toilet for a full or partial flush, the system counts it as a full flush, thereby preventing the toilet from becoming dirty before the cleaning time. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the user's usage.

[0017] In a toilet management system according to one embodiment, the first predetermined value is set to decrease over time after at least one toilet use.

[0018] Dirt that adheres to the toilet bowl hardens over time, making cleaning difficult. Therefore, according to one embodiment of the toilet management system, even if the toilet is not used for a certain period after a single use, the system takes into account the hardening of the dirt in the toilet bowl and allows for earlier cleaning, thereby notifying the cleaning staff of a more suitable time for cleaning. Thus, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the user's usage. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to one embodiment, the cleaning timing can be appropriately managed according to the user's intended use. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0020] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the target users of the toilet according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the cleaning timing determination process according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of a toilet management system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of a placement information storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps performed by the toilet management system. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of changing a predetermined value. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] The embodiments of the toilet management system disclosed herein will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0022] <1. Embodiments> <1-1. Example of toilet room layout> Before explaining the cleaning timing determination process performed in the toilet management system 1 (see Figure 3) according to this embodiment, an example of the toilet room configuration will be described using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the objects used by the toilet according to this embodiment. Figure 1 conceptually shows the physical arrangement of the objects used by the toilet.

[0023] Toilet room 2, shown in Figure 1, has toilet booths TB1 to TB3, which form individual toilet spaces, and a shared space CS1, which is a shared space other than the toilet booths. When describing the toilet booths in toilet room 2 without distinguishing between them, they may be referred to as "toilet booth TB," such as toilet booth TB1, toilet booth TB2, toilet booth TB3, etc.

[0024] A toilet booth TB is a space (individual room) separated by a partition. Each toilet booth TB is equipped with a toilet 10 and functions as a place for a person to defecate. Each toilet booth TB is also equipped with an openable and closable door (not shown in the illustration) for entering the toilet booth TB. Note that the doors of each toilet booth TB are the same as those provided in a typical toilet booth TB, so a detailed explanation is omitted. Furthermore, a toilet booth TB does not have to be a space completely separated by a partition; there may be parts above or below the partition that are not separated from adjacent toilet booths TB or the common space.

[0025] Furthermore, when describing shared spaces within toilet room 2 without distinguishing between them, such as the shared space CS1, they may be simply referred to as "shared space CS." The shared space CS is a shared area within toilet room 2 where multiple people can stay simultaneously. For example, the shared space CS includes an entrance to toilet room 2, washbasin facilities such as the vanity area 50, and pathways to each toilet booth TB. The shared space CS functions as a place for entering toilet room 2, washing hands, and moving to each toilet booth TB. If toilet room 2 functions as a men's toilet room 2, urinals may be placed in its shared space CS. In other words, the shared space CS may also function as a place where people perform excretory acts.

[0026] Next, referring to toilet room 2 shown in Figure 1, the arrangement of each device in toilet room 2 will be described. Toilet device 10 11 It is placed in toilet booth TB1. Also, toilet equipment 10 12 It is placed in toilet booth TB2. Also, toilet equipment 1013 It will be placed in toilet booth TB3. Furthermore, the toilet unit 10 11 , toilet device 10 12 , toilet device 10 13 When explaining without distinguishing between them, etc., it may be written as "toilet device 10".

[0027] Figure 1 shows an example where there are three toilet units 10, but any number of toilet units 10 can be used, and the number of toilet units 10 may be two or less, or four or more. Details of the functions of the toilet units 10 will be described later. Also, when describing a toilet unit 10 as the subject of information collection and judgment processing, the description may be read as the toilet booth TB in which the toilet unit 10 is located. Also, when describing a toilet booth TB as the subject of information collection and judgment processing, the description may be read as the toilet unit 10 located in that toilet booth TB. For example, toilet unit 10 11 This can be read as toilet booth TB1, and toilet booth TB1 is toilet equipment 10 11 It can also be interpreted as follows.

[0028] The vanity unit 50 is located in the shared space CS1. The vanity unit 50 is equipped with multiple washbasins. Figure 1 shows an example where the vanity unit 50 has three washbasins, but any number of washbasins can be used as long as the desired treatment can be performed.

[0029] Note that the toilet room 2 shown in Figure 1 is merely an example, and any configuration can be adopted for toilet room 2. For example, toilet room 2 can have any configuration as long as it has a toilet unit 10. For example, Figure 1 explains the case where toilet room 2 has three toilet units 10 as an example, but toilet room 2 could also be a toilet in a house (private home) with only one toilet unit 10.

[0030] <1-2. Toilet Space Layout> The arrangement of the toilet room 2 will be briefly described. The toilet room 2 may be provided at any location as long as there is a space where the toilet room 2 can be physically arranged. That is, any location can be adopted for the place where the toilet room 2 is provided. For example, the toilet room 2 may be provided in a commercial facility such as a department store. Also, the place where the toilet room 2 is provided is not limited to commercial facilities such as stores, and may be various facilities. For example, the place where the toilet room 2 is provided may be an amusement park, an arena, an office building, etc. For example, the place where the toilet room 2 is provided may be a toilet provided in a region such as a tourist destination. For example, the place where the toilet room 2 is provided may be a park, a parking lot, etc. That is, the toilet may be provided outdoors such as in a park or a parking lot. For example, the place where the toilet room 2 is provided may be a residential facility such as a private house. Thus, the place where the toilet room 2 is provided may be any place as long as there is a space where the toilet room 2 can be arranged.

[0031] <1-3. First Processing Example of Cleaning Timing Judgment> Hereinafter, referring to FIG. 2, an outline of the first processing example of cleaning timing judgment executed in the toilet management system 1 (see FIG. 3) will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the cleaning timing judgment process according to the embodiment.

[0032] Hereinafter, the processing example shown in FIG. 2 will be described. Specifically, in FIG. 2, for each of the toilet devices 10 such as the toilet device 10 11 , the toilet device 10 12 , and the toilet device 10 13 , the toilet management system 1 determines the cleaning timing of each toilet device 10 based on the dirt level of each toilet device 10. For example, the dirt level is a value (score) indicating the degree of dirt estimated for the toilet device 10. In FIG. 2, to show the case where the dirt level of one toilet device 10 11 exceeds the first predetermined value, the toilet device 10 11Only the line LN11, which indicates the level of contamination, is shown. The first predetermined value FV11 is a predetermined value used to determine the cleaning timing. Note that in Figure 2, the first predetermined value FV11 is shown as set to the value VL14, but any value can be set for the first predetermined value FV11.

[0033] In Figure 2, the information processing device 100 (see Figure 3) of the toilet management system 1 is connected to the toilet device 10. 11 , toilet device 10 12 , and toilet device 10 13 For each of the three toilet devices 10, information regarding the usage of the toilet device 10 by the detected user is obtained.

[0034] In Figure 2, graph GR11 shows the toilet device 10 on the vertical axis. 11 The graph shows the level of soiling, with the horizontal axis representing the passage of time. For example, the time at the origin of graph GR11 (start time t0) corresponds to the start time of the soiling level calculation. For example, the time at the origin of graph GR11 (start time t0) corresponds to the toilet device 10 11 When the cleaning is completed, the toilet unit 10 11 This corresponds to the point in time when the soiling level is reset. Thus, line LN11 in graph GR11 represents the toilet device 10 11 This indicates the level of soiling. For example, line LN11 represents the level of soiling of the toilet device 10 from the starting time t0. 11 This shows the change (transition) in the level of soiling over time.

[0035] Figure 2 shows the toilet device 10 11 The first use (1st time) occurs after the dirt level is reset at time t11, which is after the start time t0. Based on the detected information, the information processing device 100 determines the toilet device 10 at time t11. 11 For the first use of the toilet device 10, its purpose is determined. For example, the information processing device 100 determines the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 at time t11. 11 Toilet device 10 as it was being used 11 Using the image inside the bowl, the toilet device 10 11 For the first use of [the product], it is determined whether the intended use includes at least one of large-scale use and small-scale use.

[0036] In Figure 2, the information processing device 100 is the toilet device 10 11 The first use of the toilet device 10 is determined to be a major use. Therefore, the information processing device 100 determines that the first use of the toilet device 10 11 For the first use, the first partial score a1 is added to the soiling level of the toilet device 10. As a result, the information processing device 100 determines the soiling level of the toilet device 10 at time t11. 11 The level of contamination is increased from 0 to the value VL11. For example, the first part score a1 is the value obtained by multiplying the number of heavy usages "1" by the weight corresponding to heavy usage (also called the "heavy usage weight value").

[0037] The information processing device 100 is a toilet device 10 11 Based on the comparison of the level of soiling with the first predetermined value FV11, the toilet device 10 11 The cleaning timing of the toilet device 10 at time t11 is determined. The information processing device 100 determines the cleaning timing of the toilet device 10 11 Since the soiling level value VL11 does not exceed the first predetermined value FV11, the toilet device 10 at time t11 11 It is determined that it is not time for cleaning.

[0038] Furthermore, if the information processing device 100 determines that the user's use of the toilet device 10 includes light use, it may also add the second partial score a2 to the soiling level of the toilet device 10. In this case, the information processing device 100 adds both the first partial score a1 and the second partial score a2 to the soiling level of the toilet device 10. Furthermore, if the first partial score a1 is greater than the second partial score a2, any values ​​can be set for the first partial score a1 and the second partial score a2. For example, the first partial score a1 may be "2" and the second partial score a2 may be "1". For example, the second partial score a2 is the value obtained by multiplying the number of light uses "1" by the weight corresponding to light use (also called the "light use weight value"). The light use weight value is set to be smaller than the heavy use weight value. For example, the heavy use weight value may be "2" and the light use weight value may be "1".

[0039] Also, in Figure 2, the toilet device 10 11The toilet device 10 is used a second time at time t12, which is after time t11. Based on the detected information, the information processing device 100 determines the toilet device 10 at time t12. 11 The second use of the toilet device 10 is determined. 11 The second use of the toilet device 10 is determined to be a minor use. Therefore, the information processing device 100 determines that the second use is a minor use. 11 For the second use, the second part score a2 is added to the soiling level of the toilet device 10. As a result, the information processing device 100 determines the soiling level of the toilet device 10 at time t12. 11 Increase the dirt level from value VL11 to value VL12.

[0040] The information processing device 100 is a toilet device 10 11 Based on the comparison of the level of soiling with the first predetermined value FV11, the toilet device 10 11 The cleaning timing of the toilet device 10 at time t12 is determined. The information processing device 100 determines the cleaning timing of the toilet device 10 11 Since the soiling level value VL12 does not exceed the first predetermined value FV11, at time t12 the toilet device 10 11 It is determined that it is not time for cleaning.

[0041] Also, in Figure 2, the toilet device 10 11 The toilet device 10 is used for the third time at time t13, which is after time t12. Based on the detected information, the information processing device 100 determines the toilet device 10 at time t13. 11 For the third use of the toilet device 10, the purpose of use is determined. The information processing device 100 determines the purpose of use. 11 The third use of the toilet device 10 is determined to be a major use. Therefore, the information processing device 100 determines that the toilet device 10 11 For the third use, the first partial score a1 is added to the soiling level of the toilet device 10. As a result, the information processing device 100 determines the soiling level of the toilet device 10 at time t13. 11 Increase the dirt level from value VL12 to value VL13.

[0042] The information processing device 100 is a toilet device 10 11Based on the comparison of the level of soiling with the first predetermined value FV11, the toilet device 10 11 The cleaning timing of the toilet device 10 at time t13 is determined. The information processing device 100 determines the cleaning timing of the toilet device 10 11 Since the soiling level value VL13 does not exceed the first predetermined value FV11, at time t13 the toilet device 10 11 It is determined that it is not time for cleaning.

[0043] Also, in Figure 2, the toilet device 10 11 The fourth use occurs at time t14, which is after time t13. Based on the detected information, the information processing device 100 determines the toilet device 10 at time t14. 11 The information processing device 100 determines the purpose of use for the fourth use of the toilet device 10 11 The fourth use of the toilet device is determined to be a minor use. Therefore, the information processing device 100 determines that the toilet device 10 11 For the fourth use, the second part score a2 is added to the soiling level of the toilet device 10. As a result, the information processing device 100 determines the soiling level of the toilet device 10 at time t14. 11 Increase the dirt level from value VL13 to value VL15.

[0044] The information processing device 100 is a toilet device 10 11 Based on the comparison of the level of soiling with the first predetermined value FV11, the toilet device 10 11 The cleaning timing of the toilet device 10 at time t14 is determined. The information processing device 100 determines the cleaning timing of the toilet device 10 11 Because the soiling level value VL15 exceeded the first predetermined value FV11, the toilet device 10 was set to time t14. 11 The system determines that it's time for cleaning.

[0045] Then, if the information processing device 100 determines that it is time to clean, it notifies the administrator that it is time to clean. In Figure 2, the information processing device 100 notifies the administrator who manages the toilet room 2 that at time t14 the toilet equipment 10 11 The information processing device 100 notifies that it is time to clean the toilet. 11Information indicating the following is notified. For example, the information processing device 100 notifies the computer (PC, smartphone, etc.) used by the administrator who manages the toilet room 2 of the toilet device 10 11 The system sends information indicating that it is time for cleaning. The method of notification from the information processing device 100 to the computer may include sending an email or displaying a pop-up on the screen. The notification may be displayed as a one-time event or continuously.

[0046] Through the process described above, the toilet management system 1 calculates the soiling level by differentiating the increase in soiling level between full and partial use, and determines that cleaning is necessary when the soiling level of the toilet bowl 10 exceeds a first predetermined value FV11. This allows the toilet management system 1 to have cleaning staff (cleaners) perform cleaning at the appropriate time. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage cleaning timing according to the user's usage.

[0047] The above example is merely one illustration, and the toilet management system 1 may use various information, such as the characteristics of the stool, as appropriate to determine the timing for cleaning and to notify users when it is time to clean. This will be discussed later.

[0048] <1-4. Configuration of the toilet management system> Next, the configuration of the toilet management system 1 will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example configuration of the toilet management system according to the embodiment. Specifically, Figure 3 shows the configuration of the toilet management system 1.

[0049] The toilet management system 1 includes an information processing device 100 that collects information used for determining the cleaning timing and executes the cleaning timing determination process. The toilet management system 1 shown in Figure 3 includes an information processing device 100 and multiple toilet devices 10 11 , 10 12 , 10 13 , and multiple detection units 101 11 , 101 12 , 10113 Includes. Furthermore, detection unit 101 11 , detection unit 101 12 , detection unit 101 13 When explaining without distinguishing between them, etc., it may be written as "detection unit 101".

[0050] Furthermore, the toilet management system 1 may include a detection unit (shared equipment detection unit) that detects each shared piece of equipment, such as the washbasin unit 50. The toilet management system 1 may also include multiple information processing units 100, multiple washbasin units 50, etc. Additionally, the information processing unit that collects information used for determining the cleaning timing and the information processing unit that executes the cleaning timing determination process may be separate devices.

[0051] In Figure 1, the toilet unit 10 is the target of the toilet management system 1's cleaning timing determination. However, the target of cleaning is not limited to the toilet unit 10, but may also include the entire toilet room 2, urinals, hand dryers, mirrors, and shared facilities such as the washbasin 50.

[0052] Toilet room 2 is a space provided within a facility or other space, where users enter and exit when using the toilet. For example, toilet room 2 has toilet booths TB, a shared space CS, etc., and is a space where toilet-related structures are arranged. For example, toilet room 2 shown in Figure 1 has multiple toilet units 10 11 , 10 12 , 10 13 The toilet room 2 has toilet booths TB1 to TB3, each of which is located, and a shared space CS1 where a washbasin vanity 50 is located. Thus, the toilet room 2 has multiple toilet booths TB, each of which is equipped with a toilet 10.

[0053] The toilet unit 10 is the object of use for toilet use when a user excretes feces or urine. The toilet unit 10 has a bowl to receive the user's excrement. The toilet unit 10 is installed in a toilet booth TB located within the toilet room 2. For example, the toilet unit 10 has a toilet seat unit that includes a toilet seat on which the user sits, and an operating unit for operating a nozzle for dispensing water for flushing. In addition to the toilet seat unit, the toilet unit 10 has various components such as a toilet lid and a toilet bowl to realize the function of a toilet, but a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0054] The detection unit 101 of the toilet device 10 performs detections related to the toilet device 10. The detection unit 101 functions as a detection unit that detects information related to the intended use of the toilet device 10. The detection unit 101 detects information indicating the use of the toilet device 10. The detection unit 101 of the toilet device 10 performs detections related to the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is located.

[0055] The detection unit 101 is an imaging device that images the inside of the bowl of the toilet unit 10. For example, the detection unit 101 is positioned below the toilet seat of the toilet unit 10 and images the inside of the bowl. The detection unit 101 detects information (images) related to how the user uses the toilet unit 10. The detection unit 101 may be positioned in any location as long as it is in a position to image the inside of the bowl of the toilet unit 10 and capture the excrement of the user of the toilet unit 10.

[0056] For example, the detection unit 101 may be a line sensor (one-dimensional image sensor) that captures a one-dimensional image, or an area sensor (two-dimensional image sensor) that captures a two-dimensional image. For example, if it is a line sensor, the detection unit 101 is positioned to capture the area between the toilet seat and the water seal (the part where the water seal accumulates) of the toilet device 10. In this way, the detection unit 101 may be positioned to capture the stool as it falls from the time the user defecates until it hits the water seal (the part where the water seal accumulates) of the toilet device 10.

[0057] Furthermore, for example, if it is an area sensor, the detection unit 101 is positioned to photograph the water seal of the toilet bowl 10. In this way, the detection unit 101 may be positioned to photograph the water seal of the toilet bowl 10. Note that the detection unit 101 may be positioned in any manner as long as it is capable of detecting (imaging) feces. The detection unit 101 may also capture still images or moving images. In addition, if the inside of the toilet bowl becomes dark when the user sits on the toilet seat and it is not possible to photograph with sufficient brightness, a light source (light-emitting unit) may be provided.

[0058] The detection unit 101 of the toilet device 10 includes, for example, a communication unit (e.g., a communication circuit) having wireless communication capabilities, and is wirelessly connected to the information processing device 100. For example, the detection unit 101 transmits detection information, such as the captured image (video) and the date and time of capture, to the information processing device 100, along with identification information (such as an ID) that identifies the toilet device 10 or the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is located.

[0059] Furthermore, the detection unit 101 may have sensors that detect various information used to determine how the user is using the toilet device 10. For example, the detection unit 101 may have a sensor that detects large and small flush operations. For example, the detection unit 101 may have a sensor that detects the amount of rotation of the flush lever. For example, the detection unit 101 may have a sensor that detects the use of the flushing function to wash body parts of the user, such as the buttocks. For example, the detection unit 101 may have a sensor that detects the duration of seating. For example, the detection unit 101 may have a sensor that detects the amount of toilet paper used. For example, the detection unit 101 may have a sensor (gas sensor) that detects odors.

[0060] The detection unit 101 may have sensors that detect the entry and exit of people (users) into and out of the toilet booth TB where the toilet equipment 10 is located. For example, the detection unit 101 may have various sensors such as a human body detection sensor, an action detection sensor, and a seating detection sensor. The detection unit 101 may have a door sensor installed on the door of the toilet booth TB to detect the opening and closing of the door of the toilet booth TB. The detection unit 101 may have an image sensor that captures images of the area around the door of the toilet booth TB. The detection unit 101 may have a seating sensor that detects when a user sits on the toilet equipment 10.

[0061] The vanity unit 50 is a toilet-use unit that has a washbasin used by toilet users for washing their hands, washing their face, and looking in a mirror. The vanity unit 50 is located in the shared space CS provided within the toilet room 2. For example, each washbasin in the vanity unit 50 has a faucet with an automatic faucet function and a water receiving section to receive water from the faucet.

[0062] The information processing device 100 is an information processing device (computer) that performs a determination process to determine the cleaning timing. For example, the information processing device 100 may be a cloud server or the like. The information processing device 100 is connected to the detection unit 101 wirelessly or via a wired connection via a predetermined network N such as the Internet. The information processing device 100 may be connected to the detection unit 101 in any way as long as it is capable of sending and receiving information, and may be connected wirelessly or via a wired connection.

[0063] The information processing device 100 uses the collected information to perform a determination process to determine whether or not it is time to clean the toilet. The information processing device 100 uses the collected information, which is the information received from the detection unit 101, to perform a determination process to determine the cleaning timing. The information processing device 100 uses the collected information to determine the cleaning timing for the toilet bowl device 10.

[0064] The information processing device 100 collects various types of information. For example, the information processing device 100 may be a gateway device or the like. The information processing device 100 is a device that collects detection information, such as sensor data detected for each target of use. The information processing device 100 collects information from other devices. The information processing device 100 collects detection information, which is information detected about the toilet room 2, the toilet unit 10, and the washbasin vanity unit 50, etc. The information processing device 100 receives detection information from devices that detect information about the toilet room 2, the toilet unit 10, and the washbasin vanity unit 50, etc.

[0065] The information processing device 100 receives detection information from the detection unit 101 of the toilet unit 10. The information processing device 100 is wirelessly connected to the detection unit 101 of the toilet unit 10 for communication. The information processing device 100 may be connected in any way to devices that detect information such as the toilet room 2, the toilet unit 10, and the washbasin vanity unit 50, as long as it is capable of transmitting and receiving information, and may also be connected via wired communication.

[0066] The information processing device 100 may be located outside the toilet room 2 or inside the toilet room 2. For example, the information processing device 100 may be a server device located in a facility where the toilet room 2 is provided. The above is merely an example, and any configuration and placement of the information processing device 100 can be adopted as long as it can communicate with the detection unit 101 and collect information.

[0067] <1-5. Functional Configuration of Information Processing Devices> The functional configuration of the information processing device will be described below with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment.

[0068] As shown in Figure 4, the information processing device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. The information processing device 100 may also include an input unit (e.g., a keyboard or mouse) for receiving various operations from the administrator of the information processing device 100, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display) for displaying various information.

[0069] The communication unit 110 is implemented, for example, by a communication circuit. The communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined network N (see Figure 3) by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined network N (see Figure 3) by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with other devices such as the detection unit 101.

[0070] The storage unit 120 is implemented by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or optical disc. For example, the storage unit 120 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by a cleaning timing determination program such as a judgment process.

[0071] As shown in Figure 4, the storage unit 120 according to this embodiment includes a placement information storage unit 121 and a collection information storage unit 122. The storage unit 120 stores various information necessary for processing, not limited to the placement information storage unit 121 and the collection information storage unit 122. For example, the storage unit 120 stores various information used in the determination process (e.g., information related to thresholds). For example, the storage unit 120 stores a function for calculating thresholds used in the determination process and information about the calculated function. For example, the storage unit 120 stores a first predetermined value used as a threshold.

[0072] The layout information storage unit according to this embodiment stores various information regarding the layout of various objects to be detected by the toilet management system 1. For example, the layout information storage unit stores information regarding the layout of the toilet room 2, the toilet equipment 10, and the washbasin vanity unit 50. Figure 5 shows an example of the layout information storage unit according to this embodiment. The layout information storage unit shown in Figure 5 includes items such as "facility," "toilet space," "location," and "location element."

[0073] "Facility" refers to the location where a toilet space (toilet room) is located. Note that "Facility" is not limited to structures; various locations where a toilet space is located can be registered. "Toilet Space" refers to identification information used to identify each toilet space. In Figure 5, for illustrative purposes, codes such as "2" are shown for each toilet space, but "Toilet Space" stores information that allows for the identification of the toilet space (toilet room) (e.g., toilet space ID).

[0074] The "location" field indicates identification information for identifying each location. In Figure 5, for illustrative purposes, the "location" field is shown with codes such as "TB1," "TB2," "TB3," and "CS1" assigned to each component of toilet room 2. However, the "location" field stores information that allows for the identification of the location (e.g., location ID).

[0075] "Placement element" indicates identification information for identifying the object of use of the toilet placed in the corresponding placement location. For example, "Placement element" indicates identification information for identifying the object of use of the toilet, such as the toilet bowl 10 and the washbasin vanity 50, placed in the corresponding placement location. In Figure 5, for illustrative purposes, "10" is shown in "Placement element". 11 "10 12 "10 13 The symbols attached to each component, such as "50", are shown in the diagram, but any information may be registered in the "arrangement element" as long as it is possible to identify each target of use.

[0076] For example, the "placement element" stores information that can identify the toilet equipment to be placed in the corresponding location (e.g., toilet equipment ID), identification information to identify a urinal (e.g., urinal ID), or identification information to identify a washbasin (e.g., washbasin ID).

[0077] In the example in Figure 5, it is shown that toilet room 2, identified by "2", includes toilet booths TB1 (identified by "TB1"), TB2 (identified by "TB2"), and TB3 (identified by "TB3"). It is also shown that toilet room 2 includes a shared space CS1 (identified by "CS1").

[0078] The toilet booth TB1, which is identified by "TB1", has "10 11 Toilet device 10 identified by " 11 This indicates that it will be located. Also, the toilet booth TB2, which is the location identified by "TB2", will have "10 12 Toilet device 10 identified by " 12 This indicates that it will be located. Also, the toilet booth TB3, which is the location identified by "TB3", will have "10 13 Toilet device 10 identified by " 13 This indicates that it will be placed.

[0079] The placement information storage unit 121 is not limited to the above and may store various types of information depending on the purpose. For example, the placement information storage unit 121 may store information (e.g., sensor ID, etc.) that identifies the sensor (detection unit) that detects the sensor data (detection information) of each target being detected, in association with the target being detected by that sensor.

[0080] Information indicating the specific location of each toilet's user (e.g., latitude and longitude information) may be stored in association with each toilet's user. For example, information indicating the specific location of each toilet room 2 (e.g., latitude and longitude information) may be stored in association with each toilet room 2. For example, information indicating the specific location of each toilet bowl 10 (e.g., latitude and longitude information) may be stored in association with each toilet bowl 10. For example, the location information storage unit 121 may store information detected by the washbasin vanity unit 50 and information indicating the specific location of the washbasin vanity unit 50 (e.g., latitude and longitude information) in association with the washbasin vanity unit 50.

[0081] The collected information storage unit 122 stores detection information, such as sensor data, collected for each toilet user. The collected information storage unit 122 stores information received from the detection unit 101. The collected information storage unit 122 stores detection information detected by the detection unit 101. For example, the collected information storage unit 122 stores the usage history of each toilet user, associating it with information that identifies each toilet user.

[0082] For example, the collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet's user object was used, associating it with information that identifies each toilet's user object. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet bowl 10 was used, associating it with information that identifies each toilet bowl 10. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet booth TB in which each toilet bowl 10 is located was used, associating it with information that identifies each toilet booth TB. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each washbasin unit 50 was used, associating it with information that identifies the washbasin unit 50. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet room 2 was used, associating it with information that identifies each toilet room 2.

[0083] For example, the collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet was used, and the duration of use, in association with information that identifies each toilet. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet bowl 10 was used, and the duration of use, in association with information that identifies each toilet bowl 10. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet booth TB in which each toilet bowl 10 is located was used, and the duration of use, in association with information that identifies each toilet booth TB. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each washbasin vanity unit 50 was used, and the duration of use, in association with information that identifies the washbasin vanity unit 50. The collected information storage unit 122 stores the date and time each toilet room 2 was used, and the duration of use, in association with information that identifies each toilet room 2.

[0084] The above is merely one example; the collected information storage unit 122 stores various types of collected information.

[0085] Returning to Figure 4, let's continue the explanation. The control unit 130 is implemented, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) executing a program stored inside the information processing device 100 (for example, a cleaning timing determination program for the determination process related to this disclosure) using RAM or the like as a working area. The control unit 130 is also a controller and is implemented, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0086] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 130 includes an acquisition unit 131, a determination unit 132, a calculation unit 133, and a notification unit 134, and realizes or executes the information processing functions and operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 4, and other configurations are also acceptable as long as they perform the information processing described later.

[0087] The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information. The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 receives information from other devices. The acquisition unit 131 receives information (detection information, etc.) collected by the detection unit 101 from the detection unit 101. The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected regarding the toilet user from the detection unit 101. The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected by sensors, etc., corresponding to the toilet user from the detection unit 101.

[0088] The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected by the detection unit 101 regarding the toilet device 10 from the detection unit 101. The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected by the detection unit 101 regarding the toilet booth TB in which the toilet device 10 is located from the detection unit 101. The acquisition unit 131 receives detection information detected by the shared equipment detection unit regarding each shared facility such as the washbasin unit 50 from the shared equipment detection unit.

[0089] The acquisition unit 131 acquires information to be used for processing from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information to be used for judgment processing from the collected information storage unit 122. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information corresponding to the toilet device 10 to be judged from the collected information storage unit 122.

[0090] The determination unit 132 performs determination processing. The determination unit 132 functions as a first determination unit that performs determination processing for the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user. The determination unit 132 performs determination processing using various information stored in the storage unit 120. The determination unit 132 performs determination processing using various information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The determination unit 132 determines the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user based on the detection result of the detection unit 101.

[0091] The determination unit 132 determines, based on the detection result from the detection unit 101, whether the user's intended use includes at least one of large-scale use or small-scale use. If the determination unit 132 cannot determine the user's intended use, it determines it to be large-scale use.

[0092] The determination unit 132 determines whether the image captured by the detection unit 101 contains feces or urine. The determination unit 132 recognizes (identifies) objects contained in the image using various image recognition techniques. For example, the determination unit 132 analyzes the image captured by the detection unit 101 and determines whether or not the image contains feces. The determination unit 132 also analyzes the image captured by the detection unit 101 and determines whether or not the image contains urine.

[0093] The determination unit 132 determines, based on the detection result by the detection unit 101, whether the user's intended use includes at least one of defecation or urination. If the image captured by the detection unit 101 contains feces, the determination unit 132 determines that the user's intended use of the toilet device 10 corresponding to that image is defecation. If the image captured by the detection unit 101 contains urine, the determination unit 132 determines that the user's intended use of the toilet device 10 corresponding to that image is urination. If the image captured by the detection unit 101 contains both feces and urine, the determination unit 132 determines that the user's intended use of the toilet device 10 corresponding to that image is both defecation and urination. If the image captured by the detection unit 101 does not contain either feces or urine, and the user's intended use of the toilet device 10 corresponding to that image cannot be determined, the determination unit 132 determines that it is defecation.

[0094] The determination unit 132 may determine the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user using various information other than images. For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user according to the large and small flush operation. For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user according to the detection of the amount of rotation of the flush lever. For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user according to the detection of use for washing the user's body parts such as the buttocks. For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user according to the detection of the duration of sitting.

[0095] For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the purpose of use of the toilet device 10 by the user based on the amount of toilet paper used. If the amount of toilet paper used exceeds a predetermined value, the determination unit 132 may determine that the user is using the toilet device 10 extensively. If the amount of toilet paper used is less than or equal to a predetermined value, the determination unit 132 may determine that the user is using the toilet device 10 lightly.

[0096] For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the presence or absence of odor components and the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user. The determination unit 132 uses information detected by a gas sensor that detects odors to determine whether the intended use of the toilet device 10 is for full use, partial use, or both. The determination unit 132 may determine the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user based on the presence or absence of odor components detected by the gas sensor. The determination unit 132 may also determine the intended use of the toilet device 10 by the user based on the presence or concentration of specific components detected by the gas sensor as predetermined parameters of the odor.

[0097] The above is merely an example, and the determination unit 132 may use various information to determine how the user intends to use the toilet device 10. In other words, the determination unit 132 may use any information to determine how the user intends to use the toilet device 10, as long as it is possible to determine how the user intends to use it.

[0098] The determination unit 132 performs a determination process using the information detected by the detection unit 101. The determination unit 132 performs a determination process using the information stored in the storage unit 120. The determination unit 132 determines the characteristics of the feces contained in the image using the information detected by the detection unit 101. The determination unit 132 determines the characteristics of the feces contained in the image captured by the imaging device.

[0099] The determination unit 132 determines the type of stool corresponding to an image of stool (also called a "stool image") captured by the detection unit 101. The determination unit 132 uses the stool image to determine whether the type of stool corresponding to the image is one of several types based on shape (also simply called "form"). The determination unit 132 may classify the type of stool into seven types based on the Bristol Stool Scale. For example, the determination unit 132 uses the stool image to determine whether the type of stool corresponding to the image is one of types 1 to 7 based on the Bristol Stool Scale. For example, type 1 is lumpy, type 2 is hard, type 3 is cracked (somewhat hard), type 4 is normal (banana-shaped), type 5 is somewhat soft, type 6 is muddy, and type 7 is liquid (watery). The determination unit 132 uses various techniques to detect the shape of the stool by optical means as appropriate to determine the type (shape) of the user's stool.

[0100] The determination unit 132 may determine the type of stool using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the type of stool using a learning model (type determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the type 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) indicating the type of mass (stool) contained in the stool image (one of types 1 to 7). For example, the type determination model is a model that takes a stool image as input and outputs information indicating the type of mass (stool) contained in the input stool image. For example, the type determination model is trained to output information of a label (type of stool) corresponding to the input stool image when a stool image is input. The training of the type determination model is carried out using various methods related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the type determination model is stored in the memory unit 120, and the determination unit 132 may determine the type of stool using the type determination model stored in the memory unit 120. For example, the information processing device 100 may perform the training process and generate the type determination model. The above is merely an example, and the determination unit 132 may use various information as appropriate to determine the type of stool.

[0101] Furthermore, the determination unit 132 determines the amount of feces based on the image captured by the detection unit 101. For example, the determination unit 132 determines the amount of feces based on the area or proportion of feces in the image. For example, the determination unit 132 may determine the amount of feces using the score output by a feces volume determination model. The determination unit 132 may determine the amount of feces as "small" if the score output by the feces volume determination model, which has been input with an image, is greater than or equal to the first threshold and less than the second threshold. The second threshold is set to a value greater than the first threshold. Also, the determination unit 132 may determine the amount of feces as "medium" if the score output by the feces volume determination model, which has been input with an image, is greater than or equal to the second threshold and less than the third threshold. The third threshold is set to a value greater than the second threshold. Also, the determination unit 132 may determine the amount of feces as "large" if the score output by the feces volume determination model, which has been input with an image, is greater than or equal to the third threshold and less than the fourth threshold. The fourth threshold is set to a value greater than the third threshold. Note that the above three-stage determination is merely an example, and the determination unit 132 may use various information as appropriate to determine the amount of stool. Furthermore, the above is merely an example, and the determination unit 132 may determine various stool characteristics other than type and quantity, such as color.

[0102] The calculation unit 133 performs calculation processing. The calculation unit 133 performs calculation processing using various information stored in the storage unit 120. The calculation unit 133 performs calculation processing using various information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The calculation unit 133 calculates the level of soiling of the toilet bowl 10 based on the usage of the toilet bowl 10 determined by the determination unit 132.

[0103] The calculation unit 133 performs a determination process. The calculation unit 133 functions as a second determination unit that performs a determination process to determine whether or not the soiling level exceeds a first predetermined value. The calculation unit 133 performs a determination process using various information stored in the storage unit 120. The calculation unit 133 performs a determination process using various information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. The calculation unit 133 performs a determination process using various information determined by the determination unit 132.

[0104] The calculation unit 133 performs a determination process using the threshold value stored in the storage unit 120. The calculation unit 133 performs a determination process using the first predetermined value stored in the storage unit 120. The calculation unit 133 performs a determination process using the calculated information. The calculation unit 133 determines whether or not it is time to clean a toilet bowl device 10.

[0105] The calculation unit 133 calculates the level of soiling of the toilet bowl 10 based on the number of times it is used for heavy use and the number of times it is used for light use, using a weighting system where heavy use has a greater weight than light use. The calculation unit 133 determines whether the calculated level of soiling exceeds a first predetermined value. If the calculation unit 133 determines that a single user used the toilet for both light and heavy use, it calculates the level of soiling of the toilet bowl 10 as if the single user used the toilet for both light and heavy use.

[0106] The calculation unit 133 changes the weighting (large utilization weight value) according to the characteristics of the stool. The calculation unit 133 increases the large utilization weight value the closer the stool type is to soft stool. The calculation unit 133 may also increase the value of the first part score a1 the closer the stool type is to soft stool. The calculation unit 133 increases the large utilization weight value the larger the amount of stool. The calculation unit 133 may also increase the value of the first part score a1 the larger the amount of stool.

[0107] Furthermore, the calculation unit 133 may change the weighting according to the amount of toilet paper used. The calculation unit 133 may determine that the toilet bowl 10 is dirtier the more toilet paper is used. For example, the calculation unit 133 may determine that the user is in poor health the more toilet paper is used, and may increase the increase in the dirt level due to that user's use. The calculation unit 133 may increase the weighting of the increase in the dirt level due to that user's use the more toilet paper is used. The calculation unit 133 may also increase the partial score corresponding to that user's use and add it to the dirt level the more toilet paper is used.

[0108] The notification unit 134 performs notification processing to notify various types of information. The notification unit 134 performs notification processing by transmitting information to an external information processing device.

[0109] The notification unit 134 issues a notification if the calculation unit 133 determines that it is time to clean. The notification unit 134 issues a notification that it is time to clean if the first predetermined value is exceeded. The notification unit 134 issues a notification that it is time to clean one toilet unit 10 if the first predetermined value for that toilet unit 10 is exceeded. The notification unit 134 withholds notification if one toilet unit 10 is in use, and issues the withheld notification when one toilet unit 10 is no longer in use.

[0110] The notification unit 134 transmits information regarding the determination result by the calculation unit 133 to the administrator device used by the administrator who manages the toilet management system 1. If the determination by the calculation unit 133 indicates a cleaning timing, the notification unit 134 transmits information regarding the toilet device 10 that has been determined to be at cleaning timing.

[0111] If the calculation unit 133 determines that it is time to clean, the notification unit 134 transmits information to the administrator device that identifies the toilet unit 10 that has been determined to be time to clean. If the calculation unit 133 determines that it is time to clean, the notification unit 134 transmits information to the administrator device that indicates the location where the toilet unit 10 that has been determined to be time to clean is located. The notification unit 134 may also transmit information to the detection unit 101. For example, the notification unit 134 transmits information to the detection unit 101 requesting information that the detection unit 101 has collected.

[0112] <1-6. Processing Flow> From here, we will explain the processing flow of the cleaning timing determination process using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps of the process performed by the toilet management system. Specifically, Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps of the first process of cleaning timing determination.

[0113] The toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet (step S101). For example, the toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet 10 using the detection unit 101. If the toilet management system 1 does not detect the use of the toilet (step S101: No), it terminates the process.

[0114] When the toilet management system 1 detects the use of the toilet (step S101: Yes), it determines whether it is for a large or small bowel movement (step S102). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 uses the image captured by the detection unit 101 to determine how the user is using the toilet 10.

[0115] The toilet management system 1 adds a1 (step S104) if the user's use of the toilet device 10 includes heavy use (step S103: Yes). For example, if the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that the user's use of the toilet device 10 includes heavy use, it adds the first partial score a1 to the soiling level of the toilet device 10. The information processing device 100 may also add the second partial score a2 to the soiling level of the toilet device 10 if it determines that the user's use of the toilet device 10 also includes light use. In this case, the information processing device 100 adds both the first partial score a1 and the second partial score a2 to the soiling level of the toilet device 10.

[0116] The toilet management system 1 adds a2 (step S105) if the user's use of the toilet device 10 does not include heavy use and only light use. For example, if the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that the user's use of the toilet device 10 is only light use, it also adds the second part score a2 to the soiling level of the toilet device 10.

[0117] The toilet management system 1 determines whether the level of soiling exceeds a first predetermined value (step S106). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines whether the level of soiling of the toilet device 10 exceeds a first predetermined value.

[0118] The toilet management system 1 terminates processing if the soiling level does not exceed a first predetermined value (step S106: No). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that it is not time to clean if the soiling level of the toilet unit 10 does not exceed a first predetermined value.

[0119] The toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean the toilet when the level of soiling exceeds a first predetermined value (step S106: Yes) (step S107). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 determines that it is time to clean the toilet when the level of soiling of the toilet 10 exceeds a first predetermined value.

[0120] The toilet management system 1 notifies the user of the cleaning timing (step S108). For example, the information processing device 100 of the toilet management system 1 notifies the user that it is time to clean the toilet unit 10 when the soiling level exceeds a first predetermined value.

[0121] <1-7. Examples of dynamic predetermined values> The above example is merely one illustration, and the toilet management system 1 may use various information as appropriate to determine the cleaning timing and to notify users when it is time to clean. For example, the toilet management system 1 may dynamically change the first predetermined value, which is the threshold used to determine the cleaning timing, according to the passage of time. This point will be explained using Figure 7. Figure 7 shows an example of changing the predetermined value.

[0122] The following describes an example of the process shown in Figure 7. Specifically, in Figure 7, the toilet device 10 11 The toilet management system 1 determines the cleaning timing for the toilet. Specifically, line LN21 shown in Figure 7 represents the toilet unit 10 11 This shows the level of contamination. Note that explanations similar to those in Figure 2 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0123] In Figure 7, graph GR21 shows the toilet device 10 on the vertical axis. 11shows the level of dirt, and the horizontal axis shows the passage of time. For example, the time at the origin of graph GR21 (starting point t0) corresponds to the starting point of calculating the dirt level. For example, the time at the origin of graph GR21 (starting point t0) corresponds to the time when cleaning is completed and also corresponds to the time when the dirt level is reset.

[0124] In FIG. 7, the first predetermined value FV21 has an initial value set to value VL21. Also, in FIG. 7, the toilet device 10 11 is used for the first time at time t20 after the starting point t0. The toilet management system 1 gradually decreases the value of the first predetermined value FV21 according to the passage of time from time t20. Thus, the first predetermined value FV21 is set to decrease with the passage of time after at least one use of the toilet device 10.

[0125] In FIG. 7, at time t21 when the value of the first predetermined value FV21 has become value VL22 which is lower than value VL21, the dirt level of the toilet device 10 11 exceeds the first predetermined value FV21. Therefore, the information processing device 100 determines that the cleaning timing of the toilet device 10 11 is at time t21 when the dirt level of the toilet device 10 11 exceeds the first predetermined value FV21. The information processing device 100 determines that the toilet device 10 11 reaches the cleaning timing at time t21.

[0126] Then, when the information processing device 100 determines that it has reached the cleaning timing, it notifies that it is the cleaning timing. In FIG. 7, the information processing device 100 notifies the administrator who manages the toilet room 2 that the toilet device 10 11 has reached the cleaning timing at time t21.

[0127] Through the process described above, the toilet management system 1 can consider the possibility of toilet bowl sticking to the toilet bowl 10 even if there is no toilet use for a certain period after a single toilet use, and can inform the cleaning staff of a more suitable time for cleaning by accelerating the cleaning timing. Therefore, the toilet management system can appropriately manage the cleaning timing according to the user's usage.

[0128] In the embodiments described above, the weighting is set so that defecation is given more weight than urination. However, in places where urination often occurs while standing in front of the toilet, for example, it is possible to set the weighting so that urination is given more weight than defecation. In this case, the weight value for defecation is set to be smaller than the weight value for urination. For example, the weight value for defecation may be "1" and the weight value for urination may be "2". The toilet management system 1 may use the weight value for urination and the weight value for defecation, which is set to be smaller than the weight value for urination, to perform the above-mentioned processes such as determining the cleaning timing and sending notifications.

[0129] Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not inconsistent.

[0130] 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.

[0131] The embodiments and modifications described above may also have the following configurations, but are not limited to them. (1) A toilet device having a bowl for receiving the user's excrement, A detection unit that detects information regarding the user's intended use of the toilet device, A determination unit determines, based on the detection results from the detection unit, whether the user's intended use includes at least one of large-scale use or small-scale use. A calculation unit calculates the level of soiling of the toilet bowl device based on the number of times it is used for heavy use and the number of times it is used for light use, using different weightings for heavy use and light use, and determines whether the calculated level of soiling exceeds a first predetermined value. A notification unit that notifies that it is time to clean when the above-mentioned first predetermined value is exceeded, A toilet management system characterized by having the following features. (2) The aforementioned weighting is based on assigning a greater weight to the high-utilization option than to the low-utilization option. The toilet management system according to (1), characterized in that (3) The detection unit is An imaging device for imaging the inside of the bowl, The determination unit, The characteristics of the feces contained in the image captured by the aforementioned imaging device are determined, The calculation unit described above, The weighting is changed according to the characteristics of the stool. The toilet management system according to (1) or (2), characterized in that it is the toilet management system according to (1) or (2). (4) The detection unit is An imaging device for imaging the inside of the bowl, The calculation unit described above, If it is determined that a single user's usage is both light and heavy, the soiling level of the toilet is calculated assuming that the single user's usage is both light and heavy. A toilet management system according to any one of (1) to (3), characterized by the above. (5) The determination unit, If the user's intended use cannot be determined, the above-mentioned general use will apply. A toilet management system according to any one of (1) to (4), characterized by the above. (6) The aforementioned first predetermined value is set to decrease over time, starting from at least one toilet use. A toilet management system according to any one of (1) to (5), characterized by the above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0132] 1. Toilet Management System 2. Toilet room (toilet space) 10 Toilet equipment 50 Bathroom vanity area 100 Information Processing Devices 101 Detection unit (detection unit) 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Location information storage unit 122 Information Collection and Storage Unit 130 Control Unit 131 Acquisition Department 132 Judgment section 133 Calculation Section 134 Notification Department CS shared space TB toilet booth

Claims

1. A toilet device having a bowl for receiving the user's excrement, A detection unit that detects information regarding the user's intended use of the toilet device, A determination unit determines, based on the detection results from the detection unit, whether the user's intended use includes at least one of large-scale use or small-scale use. A calculation unit calculates the level of soiling of the toilet bowl device based on the number of times it is used for heavy use and the number of times it is used for light use, using different weightings for heavy use and light use, and determines whether the calculated level of soiling exceeds a first predetermined value. A notification unit that notifies that it is time to clean when the above-mentioned first predetermined value is exceeded, A toilet management system characterized by having the following features.

2. The aforementioned weighting is based on assigning a greater weight to the high-utilization option than to the low-utilization option. The toilet management system according to feature 1.

3. The detection unit is An imaging device for imaging the inside of the bowl, The determination unit, The characteristics of the feces contained in the image captured by the aforementioned imaging device are determined, The calculation unit described above, The weighting is changed according to the characteristics of the stool. The toilet management system according to claim 2.

4. The detection unit is An imaging device for imaging the inside of the bowl, The calculation unit described above, If it is determined that a single user's usage is both light and heavy, the soiling level of the toilet is calculated assuming that the single user's usage is both light and heavy. The toilet management system according to claim 2.

5. The determination unit, If the user's intended use cannot be determined, the above-mentioned general use will apply. The toilet management system according to claim 2.

6. The aforementioned first predetermined value is set to decrease over time, starting from at least one toilet use. A toilet management system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

Images