Output control system and output control method

Abstract

To make an appropriate period in which a toilet training should be started be grasped.SOLUTION: An output control system includes: acquisition means for acquiring state information showing a state of a physical function of an infant and action information showing the infant's action; determination means for determining timing of starting a toilet training for prompting an excretion action in a toilet, on the basis of the state information and the action information; and output control means for making output information, information based on a determination result by the determination means, be output.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to an output control system and Output control method In the law and is related to it.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, technologies related to toilet training for training children to be able to use the toilet alone have been proposed. For example, technologies for assisting caregivers such as parents in children's toilet training have been proposed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the above prior art, it is not always possible to grasp the appropriate timing to start toilet training. For example, in the above prior art, a first absorbent article including an index related to one readiness goal related to the characteristics of a child's wetting method is used for a child who has no experience in toilet training, and information about a second absorbent article having a toilet training function that does not exist in the first absorbent article is provided to the caregiver. And in the above prior art, when the child reaches the readiness goal, the caregiver is advised to switch from the first absorbent article to the second absorbent article.

[0005] Thus, since the above prior art supports the caregiver in determining the timing of switching to the next stage of supplies for promoting toilet training, it is not always possible to grasp the appropriate timing to start toilet training.

[0006] The output control system described in this application was made in view of the above, and aims to help users determine the appropriate time to begin toilet training. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The output control system according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring state information indicating the state of physical functions of an infant and an infant and behavioral information indicating the behavior of the infant and an infant; a determination means for determining the timing to start toilet training to encourage toilet elimination based on the state information and the behavioral information; and an output control means for outputting output information which is information based on the determination result by the determination means. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one embodiment of the system, it is possible to determine the appropriate time to start toilet training. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an overview of the output control process according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of a determination process included in the output control process according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of output information displayed on the terminal device's display screen. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of an output control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of a terminal device according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the output control processing procedure according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of a hardware configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The following matters become clear from this specification and the accompanying drawings:

[0011] An output control system characterized by comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring state information indicating the physical function state of an infant and an infant and behavioral information indicating the behavior of the infant and an infant; a determination means for determining the timing to start toilet training to encourage toilet elimination based on the state information and the behavioral information; and an output control means for outputting output information which is information based on the determination result by the determination means.

[0012] This output control system acquires state information indicating the physical function of an infant and behavioral information indicating the infant's actions. Based on the state and behavioral information, it determines the timing to start toilet training to encourage toileting, and outputs information based on the determination result. This allows for an effective determination of the appropriate time to start toilet training.

[0013] Furthermore, the output control system acquires state information indicating the state of the infant's excretory function as state information.

[0014] According to this output control system, state information indicating the state of an infant's excretory function is acquired as state information, which can be used as an indicator to determine whether or not the excretory function is developing, thereby enabling accurate determination of the timing to start toilet training.

[0015] Furthermore, the output control system acquires status information indicating the state of the infant's excretory function, such as information regarding the amount of excrement produced by the infant, or information regarding the interval between excretions of the infant.

[0016] According to such an output control system, in order to obtain information regarding the amount of excrement of an infant or information regarding the excretion interval of the infant as state information indicating the state of the excretion function of the infant, the degree of development of the excretion function can be determined with high precision, and thereby the timing to start toilet training can be accurately determined.

[0017] In addition, the output control system obtains, as the state information, state information indicating a state detected by a detection device attached to an article worn by the infant or state information input by a caregiver of the infant.

[0018] According to such an output control system, in order to obtain state information indicating a state detected by a detection device attached to an article worn by the infant or state information input by a caregiver of the infant as state information, state information can be effectively collected from various aspects.

[0019] In addition, the output control system obtains, as the behavior information, behavior information indicating a behavior detected by a predetermined detection device installed around the infant or behavior information input by a caregiver of the infant.

[0020] According to such an output control system, in order to obtain behavior information indicating a behavior detected by a predetermined detection device installed around the infant or behavior information input by a caregiver of the infant as behavior information, behavior information can be effectively collected from various aspects.

[0021] In addition, when the output control system determines that a predetermined condition is satisfied based on the state information, it determines that the timing to start toilet training has arrived.

[0022] According to this output control system, if it is determined that predetermined conditions are met based on state information, it is determined that it is time to start toilet training. Therefore, if the child's physical functions have already developed to the point where they can control their own excretion, it is possible to determine that it is time to start toilet training, thereby supporting a smooth start to toilet training.

[0023] Furthermore, the output control system determines the timing to start toilet training based on whether the state indicated by the state information satisfies predetermined conditions.

[0024] According to this output control system, the timing for starting toilet training is determined based on whether the state information indicates that a predetermined condition is met. Therefore, if the child's physical functions have already developed to the point where they can control their own excretion, it can be determined that it is time to start toilet training, thereby supporting a smooth start to toilet training.

[0025] Furthermore, the output control system determines the timing to start toilet training as a future time when the state indicated by the state information is estimated to satisfy predetermined conditions.

[0026] According to this output control system, the timing for starting toilet training is determined by identifying a future period in which the state information indicates is estimated to meet predetermined conditions. This allows the system to determine (estimate) the timing for starting toilet training when the child's physical functions are expected to have developed to the point where they can control their own excretion, thereby supporting a smooth start to toilet training.

[0027] Furthermore, based on the behavioral information, the output control system determines that it is time to start toilet training if it determines that the infant meets predetermined conditions.

[0028] According to this output control system, based on behavioral information, if it is determined that an infant meets certain conditions, it is time to start toilet training. Therefore, if the child's mind has developed to the point where they understand the importance of using the toilet independently, it can be determined that it is time to start toilet training, thereby supporting a smooth start to toilet training.

[0029] Furthermore, the output control system determines the timing for initiating toilet training based on whether the infant meets the condition that they are capable of acting according to their perception.

[0030] According to this output control system, the timing for starting toilet training is determined based on whether or not the infant meets the conditions for being able to act according to their perception. This allows for a determination of whether or not the child's mind has developed to the point where they understand the importance of using the toilet independently, thereby enabling highly accurate determination of the timing for starting toilet training.

[0031] Furthermore, the output control system determines the timing for starting toilet training based on whether or not the infant meets the condition that they are capable of communicating with others.

[0032] According to this output control system, the timing for starting toilet training can be determined based on whether or not the infant meets the conditions for being able to communicate with others. This allows for a determination of whether the child's mind has developed to the point where they understand the importance of using the toilet independently, thereby enabling highly accurate determination of the timing for starting toilet training.

[0033] Furthermore, the output control system determines the timing for starting toilet training based on whether the infant meets the conditions that allow them to perform predetermined actions on their own.

[0034] According to this output control system, the timing for starting toilet training is determined based on whether or not the infant meets the conditions for being able to perform a predetermined action on their own. This allows for a determination of whether or not the child's mind has developed to the point where they understand the importance of using the toilet independently, thereby enabling highly accurate determination of the timing for starting toilet training.

[0035] Furthermore, the output control system determines the timing for starting toilet training based on whether or not the infant has a heightened sense of purpose regarding using the toilet for defecation.

[0036] According to this output control system, the timing for starting toilet training is determined based on whether or not the infant has a heightened sense of purpose regarding using the toilet. This allows for a determination of whether the child's mind has developed to the point where they understand the importance of using the toilet independently, thereby enabling highly accurate determination of the timing for starting toilet training.

[0037] Furthermore, the output control system determines, based on the behavioral information, the timing to start toilet training for a future period when it is estimated that the infant will meet certain conditions.

[0038] According to this output control system, based on behavioral information, the timing for starting toilet training is determined when the infant is estimated to meet certain conditions in the future. This allows the system to determine (estimate) the timing for starting toilet training when the child's mind is expected to have developed to the point where they understand the importance of using the toilet independently, thereby supporting a smooth start to toilet training.

[0039] Furthermore, the output control system determines that it is time to start toilet training if it determines that a predetermined relationship is satisfied between the state indicated by the state information and the action indicated by the action information.

[0040] According to this output control system, if it is determined that a predetermined relationship is met between the state indicated by the state information and the action indicated by the action information, it is determined that it is time to start toilet training. Therefore, it is possible to determine that it is time to start toilet training only when both the body and mind are sufficiently mature, thereby enabling a more accurate determination of when to start toilet training.

[0041] Furthermore, if the output control system determines, by the determination means, that it is time to start toilet training, it will output guidance information to announce the start of toilet training as output information.

[0042] With this output control system, if the determination means determines that it is time to start toilet training, it outputs guidance information informing the user that it is okay to start toilet training at that time.

[0043] Furthermore, if the output control system determines, by the determination means, that it is time to start toilet training, it will output recommendation information recommending the use of a predetermined application related to toilet training as output information.

[0044] With this output control system, when the determination means determines that it is time to start toilet training, it outputs recommendation information recommending the use of a predetermined application related to toilet training, thereby enabling effective use of the toilet training application.

[0045] Furthermore, if the determination means determines that it is not the right time to start toilet training, the output control system outputs reference information that can be used as a reference for the timing of starting toilet training, based on a future time when predetermined condition information is estimated to be met, based on either the state indicated by the status information or the state indicated by the behavior information.

[0046] According to this output control system, if the determination means determines that it is not the right time to start toilet training, it outputs reference information that will help determine the appropriate timing to start toilet training based on a future time when the infant is estimated to meet certain conditions. This can resolve the user's question, "If I shouldn't start toilet training now, when should I?"

[0047] Furthermore, if the output control system determines by the determination means that it is not time to start toilet training, it outputs strategy information indicating measures to ensure that the infant meets predetermined conditions.

[0048] According to this output control system, if the determination means determines that it is not the right time to start toilet training, it outputs information on strategies to help the infant meet predetermined conditions, thus helping to alleviate the user's concern of "not knowing what to do to smoothly start toilet training."

[0049] [Embodiment] Below, an example of an embodiment for implementing the output control system, output control method, terminal program, terminal device, and information processing method (hereinafter referred to as "embodiment") will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that this embodiment does not limit the output control system, output control method, terminal program, terminal device, and information processing method. Furthermore, the same parts will be denoted by the same reference numerals in the following embodiments, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0050] [1. Overview of output control processing according to the embodiment] First, we will explain the outline of the output control process according to the embodiment, based on the premise. For example, toilet training a child so that they can use the toilet independently is considered very important in child-rearing. However, many parents do not know when to start toilet training, and if they start at the generally known time, toilet training may not go well, leading to scolding the child, which can create a vicious cycle of parenting stress and scolding the child again. In addition, the child may develop a dislike for the toilet, making toilet training even more difficult.

[0051] One possible reason why toilet training fails is that the child's body and mind haven't fully matured to the point where they can act independently to a certain extent for a specific purpose. In other words, if you can identify the time when both the body and mind have matured, starting toilet training at this time will allow the child to smoothly understand the importance of using the toilet. As a result, the child will try to go to the toilet by themselves to relieve themselves, and the likelihood of toilet training progressing smoothly increases. On the other hand, in the hectic world of childcare, it is difficult for caregivers (for example, parents) to recognize how mature a child has become or to spot signs of that maturity.

[0052] Therefore, the output control system according to this embodiment is an idea to solve these problems, and aims to effectively determine the time when both the body and mind of a child have matured from the perspective of their physical and behavioral aspects, and to present the determined time to caregivers so that they can understand the appropriate time to start toilet training. Specifically, the output control system according to this embodiment acquires state information indicating the state of the physical functions of an infant and toddler, and behavioral information indicating the behavior of an infant and toddler, and determines the timing to start toilet training to encourage the act of elimination in the toilet based on the acquired state information and behavioral information. Then, it outputs output information, which is information based on the determination result, to a terminal device held by the caregiver, for example.

[0053] [2. Regarding the output control system according to the embodiment] Prior to describing the output control processing according to the embodiment, the output control system according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing the overall picture of the output control processing according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the output control system 1 according to the embodiment includes a terminal device 10 (the terminal device is also an example) and an output control device 100 (an example of an output control device). The terminal device 10 and the output control device 100 are connected to each other via a network N (illustrated) by wire or wireless communication. Note that the output control system 1 shown in Figure 1 may include multiple terminal devices 10 and multiple output control devices 100.

[0054] The output control system 1 according to this embodiment also includes various detection devices, such as detection devices attached to items worn by infants and predetermined detection devices installed around infants. Examples of these will be described later.

[0055] [3. Regarding the terminal program and terminal device according to the embodiment] The terminal program according to this embodiment is a terminal program that causes a terminal device 10 (for example, a terminal device 10 owned by a user who is a caregiver for an infant) to execute an input reception procedure that receives behavioral information indicating the actions of an infant from a user, and a reception procedure that receives output information from an output control device 100, which is information based on a determination result that is determined based on the state of the physical functions of the infant and the behavioral information, and which indicates the timing to start toilet training to encourage toileting. A caregiver is a user who is in a position to care for an infant, and in the following embodiment, the term caregiver includes concepts such as "guardian" or "parent".

[0056] Furthermore, the terminal program is implemented as a dedicated application (hereinafter referred to as "App AP") that performs the following processing: for example, it transmits information received as input from the user to the output control device 100, and receives and displays information from the output control device 100 regarding the timing to start toilet training, which has been determined by the output control processing of the output control device 100. Thus, when the App AP is installed, the terminal device 10 according to the embodiment deploys an input receiving unit that receives input of behavioral information indicating the actions of an infant, and a receiving unit that receives output information from the output control device 100, which is information based on the determination result determined by the output control device 100 based on the physical information indicating the state of the physical functions of the infant and the behavioral information, and which indicates the timing to start toilet training to encourage defecation in the toilet.

[0057] Furthermore, the terminal device 10 can be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet device, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), a desktop PC, a mobile phone, or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). In this embodiment, the terminal device 10 will be described as a smartphone.

[0058] [4. Regarding output control devices] The output control device 100 according to this embodiment primarily performs the following tasks within the output control processing of the output control system 1: determining the timing to start toilet training based on state information and behavioral information acquired from various detection devices and terminal devices 10, and outputting output information, which is information based on the determination result, to the terminal devices 10. The output control device 100 is implemented by a server device, a cloud system, or the like.

[0059] [5. An example of output control processing] From here, an example of the output control process according to the embodiment will be explained using Figure 1. The terminal device 10 shown in Figure 1 is assumed to be a terminal device used by user U1 and has the application AP installed. Also, Figure 1 shows a diaper DP1 as an example of an item worn by user U1's child CH1 (an example of an infant). Furthermore, user U1 is the caregiver (for example, a parent) of child CH1. In the following embodiment, the act of excretion will be described as "urination" and the excreted material as "urine".

[0060] Furthermore, although not shown in the diagram, diaper DP1 is equipped with an indicator that changes color in areas that come into contact with excrement (especially urine) (it changes color in response to a specific component in the urine). Alternatively, diaper DP1 may be equipped with a dedicated tester coated with a reagent that reacts to a specific component in the urine, instead of such an indicator.

[0061] In addition, in the example shown in Figure 1, a diaper sensor SN1 (an example of a detection device) is attached to the diaper DP1. The diaper sensor SN1 has a function to detect when excretion has occurred in the diaper D1, a function to acquire (calculate) various information about the detected excretion, and a transmission function to transmit the acquired information.

[0062] In this state, the diaper sensor SN1 determines whether or not urination has occurred in the diaper DP1 using its urination detection function (step S1).

[0063] Furthermore, the diaper sensor SN1, when it determines that urination has occurred by detecting urine through its urination detection function, acquires (calculates) various information related to the urine by detecting the state changes associated with the detected urine (step S2).

[0064] For example, the diaper sensor SN1 acquires information about urine volume (an example of information about the amount of excretion by an infant). For example, the diaper sensor SN1 calculates the amount of urine excreted in one urination based on the weight change of the diaper DP1 before and after urination, and acquires the calculated amount as information about urine volume. The diaper sensor SN1 also detects urine diffused onto an indicator. The diaper sensor SN1 may then calculate the amount of urine excreted in one urination based on the amount of urine diffused onto the indicator, and acquire the calculated amount as information about urine volume. Alternatively, the diaper sensor SN1 may calculate the amount of urine excreted in one urination based on the discoloration time (the time from the start of discoloration to the end of discoloration) of the indicator in response to urine, and acquire the calculated amount as information about urine volume.

[0065] Furthermore, for example, the diaper sensor SN1 acquires information regarding urination intervals (an example of information regarding the elimination intervals of infants). For example, the diaper sensor SN1 detects the date and time when urine is detected as the date and time of urination, and thereby acquires the detected date and time of urination as information regarding urination intervals.

[0066] Furthermore, the diaper sensor SN1 acquires information about urine components that indicate the state of excretory function (e.g., bladder, kidney function, etc.). For example, the diaper sensor SN1 detects the urine components of the excreted urine from the color change result of the indicator when it comes into contact with urine (the color change result of the indicator changing in response to specific components contained in the urine or the concentration of the urine, such as urine specific gravity). The diaper sensor SN1 also calculates the amount of urine components contained in the urine based on the detected urine components and the previously calculated urine volume, and acquires the calculated amount of urine components as information about the urine components.

[0067] Here, urine volume, urination interval, and urine component content are indicators of the state (level of ability, degree of growth) of excretory function (e.g., bladder, kidney function, etc.). For example, the larger the urine volume, or the longer the urination interval, the more developed the bladder's function of storing urine is. Also, if the urine component content (e.g., urine specific gravity, which is an indicator of kidney function such as renal failure) is the same as that of an adult, it indicates that kidney function is developing and the ability to control urination is improving.

[0068] Furthermore, the state of the bladder (an example of physical function) (level of capacity, degree of growth) serves as an indicator of whether the child can hold urine, and the state of kidney function (an example of physical function) (level of capacity, degree of growth) serves as an indicator of whether the child can control excretion. Therefore, these indicators can be used to gauge whether an infant's body has matured enough to begin toilet training. For these reasons, urine volume, urination interval, and urine component content can be said to be indicators of the state of an infant's physical function, and the data showing these can be considered state information indicating the state of an infant's physical function.

[0069] Next, the diaper sensor SN1 transmits the status information acquired in step S2 to the user U1's terminal device 10 (step S3). In other words, the terminal device 10 acquires status information from the diaper sensor SN1. For example, the diaper sensor SN1 may transmit the status information acquired in accordance with each instance of urination to the terminal device 10 each time it detects urine corresponding to a single instance of urination, or it may transmit status information for a predetermined number of urination instances to the terminal device 10 all at once. Alternatively, the diaper sensor SN1 may transmit status information for each urination instance performed within a predetermined period all at once to the terminal device 10.

[0070] Then, when the terminal device 10 acquires state information from the diaper sensor SN1, it stores the acquired state information as urination history (excretion history) in a predetermined storage unit (step S4).

[0071] Here, according to step S3, the terminal device 10 acquires state information indicating the state detected by a detection device attached to an item worn by an infant. However, the terminal device 10 may also accept state information input from the user. In the example in Figure 1, user U1 can visually recognize what color the indicator has changed to. Therefore, the terminal device 10 may accept input from user U1 of color information (an example of state information) indicating the color after the indicator has changed. The terminal device 10 may also accept input from user U1 of a captured image (an example of state information) of the indicator after it has changed color. Furthermore, the terminal device 10 can also include the state information received through such inputs in the urination history and store it in a predetermined storage unit.

[0072] Furthermore, when the terminal device 10 receives input of a captured image (an example of status information) showing the indicator after discoloration, it may detect urine components based on the discoloration result shown in the captured image, in accordance with the control of the application AP. The terminal device 10 may also calculate the amount of urine components contained in the urine based on the detected urine components and the urine volume calculated by the diaper sensor SN1. Thus, the application AP is an application that has the function of detecting changes in the color of the indicator by analyzing the captured image and identifying urine components based on the detected discoloration result.

[0073] In this situation, suppose user U1 wants to know when (when) to start toilet training for child CH1 and launches the application AP. Then, terminal device 10 sends a request for input screen distribution to output control device 100. This input screen is a screen for receiving behavioral information indicating the infant's behavior from the user. When output control device 100 receives the request for input screen distribution, it distributes the input screen corresponding to the distribution request to terminal device 10. Then, terminal device 10 displays the input screen received from output control device 100 on the display screen (output unit 13 in Figure 5).

[0074] Figure 1 shows input screen C1 as an example of such an input screen. Input screen C1 can be described as a screen for receiving behavioral information indicating the child CH1's actions from user U1. Input screen C1 shown in Figure 1 is given six questions. Specifically, input screen C1 shown in Figure 1 is given the following questions: "Can the child dress and undress themselves?" (Question Q1), "Can the child urinate when prompted?" (Question Q2), "Can the child express that they need to urinate?" (Question Q3), "Can the child converse with siblings (or friends)?" (Question Q4), "Can the child walk and open doors on their own?" (Question Q5), and "Is the child interested in the toilet (or potty)?" (Question Q6). For example, user U1 can answer each question with "yes" or "no".

[0075] The answers to these six questions provide information that helps determine whether the infant meets the necessary behavioral conditions for starting toilet training. These behavioral conditions also serve as an indicator of the infant's emotional maturity.

[0076] For example, the answers to questions Q2 and Q3 serve as criteria for determining whether an infant meets the "condition for being able to act in accordance with perception" (Condition 1). For instance, if user U1 inputs an answer indicating "yes" to either question Q2 or question Q3 via input screen C1, the output control device 100 determines that child CH1 meets the "condition for being able to act in accordance with perception."

[0077] Furthermore, for example, the answer information to questions Q3 and Q4 serves as a basis for determining whether the infant meets the "behavioral conditions that indicate the ability to communicate with others" (Condition 2). For example, if user U1 inputs an answer indicating "yes" to either question Q3 or question Q4 via input screen C1, the output control device 100 determines that the child CH1's behavior meets the "behavioral conditions that indicate the ability to communicate with others."

[0078] Furthermore, for example, the answer information to questions 1, 2, and 5 serves as criteria for determining whether the infant meets the "behavioral conditions that enable the infant to perform the prescribed actions independently" (condition 3). For example, if user U1 inputs an answer indicating "yes" to any of questions 1, 2, or 5 via the input screen C1, the output control device 100 determines that child CH1 meets the "behavioral conditions that enable the infant to perform the prescribed actions independently."

[0079] Furthermore, for example, the answer information to questions Q4 and Q6 serves as a basis for determining whether the infant meets the behavioral condition (condition 4) that indicates a heightened sense of purpose in using the toilet for defecation. For example, if user U1 inputs an answer indicating "yes" to either question Q4 or question Q6 via input screen C1, the output control device 100 determines that child CH1 meets the condition that indicates a heightened sense of purpose in using the toilet for defecation.

[0080] Furthermore, based on the above, the response information showing the answers to the questions given on input screen C1 can be considered, in essence, behavioral information indicating the behavior of infants and toddlers. For example, the response information showing the answer to question Q1 is based on whether or not child CH1 is able to "dress and undress themselves," and can therefore be considered behavioral information indicating child CH1's behavior. Similarly, the response information showing the answer to question Q2 is based on whether or not child CH1 is able to "use the toilet by themselves when prompted," and can therefore be considered behavioral information indicating child CH1's behavior.

[0081] Furthermore, the response information for question Q3 is based on whether or not child CH1 is able to "express the need to use the toilet," and therefore can be considered behavioral information indicating child CH1's actions. Similarly, the response information for question Q4 is based on whether or not child CH1 "shows signs of being concerned that their siblings (or friends) are potty-trained," and therefore can be considered behavioral information indicating child CH1's actions.

[0082] Furthermore, the response information for question Q5 is based on whether or not child CH1 is able to "walk and open the door on their own," and therefore can be considered behavioral information indicating child CH1's actions. Similarly, the response information for question Q6 is based on whether or not child CH1 "shows signs of being interested in the toilet (or potty)," and therefore can be considered behavioral information indicating child CH1's actions.

[0083] Returning to the explanation of Figure 1, the terminal device 10 receives input of behavioral information indicating the infant's behavior via the input screen (step S5). Specifically, the terminal device 10 receives input of behavioral information indicating the child CH1's behavior via the input screen C1. For example, the terminal device 10 receives input of response information indicating the answers to each question regarding the infant's behavior via the input screen C1, as an example of such behavioral information.

[0084] In addition to receiving behavioral information from the user by presenting an input screen, the terminal device 10 may also accept input of captured images of the infant. Since the captured images show the infant's behavior, they can be considered an example of behavioral information. For example, in the example in Figure 1, user U1 can input a captured image of child CH1 via the input screen C1. Furthermore, such captured images may be taken by a camera on the terminal device 10, or by another device other than the terminal device 10 (for example, a video camera).

[0085] Furthermore, the terminal device 10 may receive behavioral information indicating actions detected from the infant by a predetermined detection device. An example of a predetermined detection device is a smart speaker (or baby monitor) installed around the infant. For example, a smart speaker SMP with a camera function and a sound collection function is present around child CH1, and the smart speaker SMP detects the actions (movements and sounds) of child CH1 by taking pictures and collecting sounds.

[0086] In this case, the terminal device 10 accepts behavioral information input by dynamically acquiring behavioral information indicating the actions of child CH1 detected by the smart speaker SMP through communication with the smart speaker SMP. Alternatively, the terminal device 10 accepts behavioral information input by receiving behavioral information transmitted from the smart speaker SMP in response to the operation of user U1. Furthermore, the actions of infants can also be input from measurement information of sensors worn by infants (which may be bracelets, anklets, etc., that come into direct contact with the infant's skin, or attached to items worn by infants, such as clothing, underwear, or bags, or the sensor SN1 may be used as a substitute) (for example, the distance the infant is from a beacon installed in the toilet, the time spent in the toilet, changing clothes, etc.). In this case, the terminal device 10 accepts behavioral information input by receiving behavioral information transmitted from the sensor.

[0087] Next, the terminal device 10 transmits the state information it has accumulated so far, along with the behavior information received from the user U1 and various detection devices, to the output control device 100 (step S6). In other words, the output control device 100 acquires the state information and the behavior information from the terminal device 10. Note that, as shown in the example in Figure 1, the diaper sensor SN1 may transmit the state information directly to the output control device 100 instead of transmitting it to the terminal device 10. Similarly, the smart speaker SMP and sensors worn by infants may transmit the behavior information directly to the output control device 100 instead of transmitting it to the terminal device 10. For these reasons, as shown in Figure 1, the terminal device 10 does not necessarily need to transmit the input emotional information and the accumulated state information together in response to the input of behavior information; the behavior information and state information may be transmitted individually to the output control device 100 at any arbitrary timing.

[0088] Furthermore, the output control device 100 registers state information in the state information storage unit 121 and behavior information in the behavior information storage unit 122. For example, the output control device 100 associates the state information corresponding to the user (the state information of this user's child) with the identification information (user ID) that identifies the user to be processed (user U1 in the example of Figure 1), who is the user requesting to be informed of the timing to start toilet training, and registers this information in the state information storage unit 121. In addition, the output control device 100 associates the behavior information corresponding to the user (the behavior information of this user's child) with the identification information (user ID) that identifies the user to be processed (user U1 in the example of Figure 1), who is the user requesting to be informed of the timing to start toilet training, and registers this information in the behavior information storage unit 122.

[0089] Then, the output control device 100 calculates the average urine volume, average urination interval, and average component volume based on the state information acquired in step S6 (step S7). Specifically, based on the state information acquired in step S6, it calculates the current average urine volume, current average urination interval, and current average component volume of child CH1. The average urine volume calculated here can be considered information about urine volume and can therefore be interpreted as state information indicating the state of physical function (bladder). Similarly, the average urination interval can be considered information about urination interval and can therefore be interpreted as state information indicating the state of physical function (bladder). Furthermore, the average component volume can be considered information about urine components and can therefore be interpreted as state information indicating the state of physical function (bladder). The output control device 100 may estimate the urine volume, urination interval, and component volume from the current single urination by comparing it with the previous urination history, or it may calculate the average urine volume, average urination interval, and average component volume from multiple urinations within a predetermined period as described above.

[0090] Next, the output control device 100 determines the timing to start toilet training based on the state information and the behavior information (step S8). Specifically, the output control device 100 determines the timing to start toilet training based on the "current average urine volume of child CH1, current average urination interval of child CH1, current average component volume of child CH1" (state information), and the behavior information AC#CH1 of child CH1.

[0091] Here, the determination process for determining the timing to start toilet training, which is performed in steps S7 to S8, and which is performed within the output control process according to the embodiment, will be explained using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the determination process included in the output control process according to the embodiment.

[0092] Before explaining an example of the judgment process, let's first describe each of the memory units in the output control device 100. Specifically, we will describe the state information memory unit 121, the action information memory unit 122, and the condition information memory unit 123. In the example in Figure 2, the state information memory unit 121 contains items such as "user ID," "history ID," "date and time," "urine volume," "urine interval," and "component volume."

[0093] The "User ID" is identification information that identifies the user being processed. The "History ID" is identification information that identifies a set of "Date and Time," "Urine Volume," "Urination Interval," and "Component Amount" corresponding to a single act of urination as the urination history for that single act of urination. The "Date and Time" indicates the date and time when each act of urination occurred.

[0094] "Urine volume" refers to the amount of urine expelled in a single act of urination. For example, in the example of the state information storage unit 121 shown in Figure 2, the urine volume "UO11" is associated with the history ID "LID11" and the date and time "DAY11". This example shows a case where the urine volume "UO11" is calculated as the amount of urine expelled in the act of urination on the date and time "DAY11".

[0095] The "urination interval" indicates the time between the previous act of urination and the next act of urination. For example, the "urination interval" is calculated based on the "date and time" shown in the previous urination history and the "date and time" shown in the current urination history. For example, in the example of the state information storage unit 121 shown in Figure 2, the urination interval "UIV11" is associated with the history ID "LID11" and the date and time "DAY11". Also, in the example of the state information storage unit 121 shown in Figure 2, an example is shown where urination occurred at the date and time "DAY12" preceding the date and time "DAY11". In this case, the time interval between the date and time "DAY11" and the date and time "DAY12" is calculated as the urination interval "UIV11".

[0096] "Component amount" refers to the amount of specific components contained in urine, such as urine components, and the concentration of urine, such as urine specific gravity. For example, in the example of the state information storage unit 121 shown in Figure 2, the component amount "CP11" is associated with the history ID "LID11" and the date and time "DAY11". This example shows that the urine excreted during urination on the date and time "DAY11" was calculated to contain urine component "CP11". In Figure 1, "component amount" was explained as being calculated by the diaper sensor SN1, but it may also be calculated by the output control device 100. For example, the output control device 100 can calculate the "component amount" based on change information obtained from the diaper sensor SN1, which shows how the indicator has changed due to urine (for example, the change in the color of the indicator containing a reagent or information on the diffusion of urine in the indicator).

[0097] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 2, the behavior information storage unit 122 has items such as "User ID" and "Behavior Information". "User ID" is identification information that identifies the user being processed. "Behavior Information" is behavior information that shows the behavior of the user's child (infant) with the user identified by the "User ID" as the caregiver. As explained in Figure 1, such "Behavior Information" includes not only the response information entered by the user via the input screen, but also captured images of the user's child's behavior, and behavior information (captured images and audio information) that shows behavior detected by detection devices (smart speakers, baby monitors, sensors SN1, etc.) installed around the child (or attached to the child). In the example of the behavior information storage unit 122 shown in Figure 2, an example is shown in which the output control device 100 conceptually acquires "AC#CH1" as behavior information of child CH1 corresponding to user U1.

[0098] Next, the condition information storage unit 123 will be described. The condition information storage unit 123 includes a state condition storage unit 123-1 that stores conditions for the state indicated by the state information as condition information. The condition information storage unit 123 also includes a behavior condition storage unit 123-2 that stores conditions that serve as indicators for assessing whether the mind of an infant is maturing (conditions that use behavior information indicating the infant's behavior as a basis for judgment) as condition information.

[0099] In the example of the state condition storage unit 123-1 shown in Figure 2, a threshold condition "CIF1" is associated with "average urine volume". Based on this association, the output control device 100 performs a determination process to determine the timing to start toilet training based on whether or not "average urine volume" exceeds the threshold condition "CIF1" (i.e., whether or not "average urine volume" satisfies the threshold condition "CIF1"). Also in the example of the state condition storage unit 123-1 shown in Figure 2, a threshold condition "CIF2" is associated with "average urination interval". Based on this association, the output control device 100 performs a determination process to determine the timing to start toilet training based on whether or not "average urination interval" exceeds the threshold condition "CIF2" (i.e., whether or not "average urination interval" satisfies the threshold condition "CIF2").

[0100] Furthermore, in the example of the state condition storage unit 123-1 shown in Figure 2, the threshold condition "CIF3" is associated with "average component amount". Based on this association, the output control device 100 performs a determination process to determine the timing to start toilet training based on whether or not "average component amount" exceeds the threshold condition "CIF3" (i.e., whether or not "average component amount" satisfies the threshold condition "CIF3"). Also, in the example of the state condition storage unit 123-1 shown in Figure 2, the threshold condition "SC1" is associated with "physical maturity". Based on this association, the output control device 100 performs a determination process to determine the timing to start toilet training based on whether or not "physical maturity" exceeds the threshold condition "SC1" (i.e., whether or not "physical maturity" satisfies the threshold condition "SC1").

[0101] Next, in the example of the behavioral condition memory unit 123-2 shown in Figure 2, the four "behavioral conditions" explained in Figure 1 and the threshold condition "SC2" for "mental maturity" are stored. Based on this, the output control device 100 determines whether the infant (or their behavior or state) meets the "condition that indicates they are capable of acting in response to perception" based on the behavioral information indicating the infant's behavior, and determines the timing to start toilet training according to the determination result. In addition, the output control device 100 determines whether the infant (or their behavior or state) meets the "condition that indicates they are capable of communicating with others" based on the behavioral information indicating the infant's behavior, and determines the timing to start toilet training according to the determination result.

[0102] Furthermore, the output control device 100 determines, based on behavioral information indicating the infant's behavior, whether the infant (or their behavior or state) meets the condition that "the infant is able to perform a predetermined action on their own," and then determines the timing to start toilet training according to the determination result. Additionally, the output control device 100 determines, based on behavioral information indicating the infant's behavior, whether the infant (or their behavior or state) meets the condition that "the infant has a heightened sense of purpose regarding defecating in the toilet," and then determines the timing to start toilet training according to the determination result.

[0103] Furthermore, the output control device 100 performs a determination process to determine the timing for starting toilet training based on whether the "level of emotional maturity" exceeds the threshold condition "SC2" (i.e., whether the "level of emotional maturity" satisfies the threshold condition "SC2").

[0104] Up to this point, we have used Figure 2 to explain the storage units of the output control device 100 and an overview of the determination process. Below, we will describe an example of the determination process for determining the timing to start toilet training. Specifically, we will continue using the example in Figure 1, using an example of state information and behavior information corresponding to the child CH1 of user U1.

[0105] First, the output control device 100 calculates the current "average urine volume" of child CH1 using the "urine volume" for a predetermined period from the "urine volume" stored as urination history associated with user ID "U1" in the state information storage unit 121. In the example in Figure 2, the output control device 100 calculates the average urine volume "NO1".

[0106] Furthermore, the output control device 100 calculates the current "average urination interval" of child CH1 using "urination intervals" for a predetermined period from the "urination intervals" stored as urination history associated with user ID "U1" in the state information storage unit 121. In the example in Figure 2, the output control device 100 calculates the average urination interval "NU1".

[0107] Furthermore, the output control device 100 calculates the current "average component amount" of child CH1 using the "component amount" for a predetermined period from the "component amount" stored as urination history associated with user ID "U1" in the state information storage unit 121. In the example in Figure 2, the output control device 100 calculates the average component amount "NP1".

[0108] Next, the output control device 100 refers to the state condition storage unit 123-1 and determines whether the average urine volume "NO1" exceeds the threshold condition "CIF1" (i.e., whether the average urine volume "NO1" satisfies the threshold condition "CIF1"). The output control device 100 also determines whether the average urination interval "NU1" exceeds the threshold condition "CIF2" (i.e., whether the average urination interval "NU1" satisfies the threshold condition "CIF2"). The output control device 100 also determines whether the average component volume "NP1" exceeds the threshold condition "CIF3" (i.e., whether the average component volume "NP1" satisfies the threshold condition "CIF3").

[0109] The output control device 100 then calculates (scores) the degree of physical maturity according to the judgment results of these three patterns of judgment processing using state information. For example, the output control device 100 calculates a higher value for physical maturity the more the states indicated by the state information satisfy the threshold conditions. The higher the degree of physical maturity, the more mature the infant's body is considered to be.

[0110] For example, the output control device 100 calculates a physical maturity score of "60" if all of threshold conditions "CIF1", "CIF2", and "CIF3" are met. Also, for example, the output control device 100 calculates a physical maturity score of "40" if any two of threshold conditions "CIF1", "CIF2", and "CIF3" are met. Also, for example, the output control device 100 calculates a physical maturity score of "20" if only one of threshold conditions "CIF1", "CIF2", and "CIF3" is met. Also, for example, the output control device 100 calculates a physical maturity score of "0" if all of threshold conditions "CIF1", "CIF2", and "CIF3" are not met. In the example in Figure 2, the output control device 100 conceptually calculates a physical maturity score of "SM1".

[0111] Furthermore, the output control device 100 refers to the behavioral condition storage unit 123-2 and determines, based on the behavioral information AC#CH1 indicating the child CH1's behavior, whether or not the child CH1 satisfies the "condition that the child is capable of acting in accordance with perception" (condition 1). Furthermore, the output control device 100 determines, based on the behavioral information AC#CH1 indicating the child CH1's behavior, whether or not the child CH1 satisfies the "condition that the child is capable of communicating with others" (condition 2). Furthermore, the output control device 100 determines, based on the behavioral information AC#CH1 indicating the child CH1's behavior, whether or not the child CH1 satisfies the "condition that the child is capable of performing predetermined actions on their own" (condition 3). Furthermore, the output control device 100 determines, based on the behavioral information AC#CH1 indicating the child CH1's behavior, whether or not the child CH1 satisfies the "condition that the child has a heightened sense of purpose in defecating in the toilet" (condition 4).

[0112] The output control device 100 then calculates (scores) the level of emotional maturity based on the judgment results from these four patterns of judgment processing using behavioral information. For example, the more conditions CH1 satisfies, the higher the value of emotional maturity calculated by the output control device 100. The higher the level of emotional maturity, the more mature the infant's mind is considered to be.

[0113] For example, the output control device 100 calculates a mental maturity score of "60" if all of conditions 1 to 4 are met. Also, for example, the output control device 100 calculates a mental maturity score of "45" if any three of conditions 1 to 4 are met. Also, for example, the output control device 100 calculates a mental maturity score of "30" if any two of conditions 1 to 4 are met. Also, for example, the output control device 100 calculates a mental maturity score of "15" if only one of conditions 1 to 4 is met. Also, for example, the output control device 100 calculates a mental maturity score of "0" if all of conditions 1 to 4 are not met. In the example in Figure 2, the output control device 100 conceptually calculates a mental maturity score of "SM2".

[0114] Next, the output control device 100 calculates an overall maturity score that comprehensively indicates the degree of maturity of both the body and mind by multiplying the physical maturity score "SM1" and the mental maturity score "SM2". Although not shown in Figure 2, a threshold condition is also given to this overall maturity score. Therefore, if the output control device 100 determines that the current overall maturity score exceeds the threshold condition, that is, that the overall maturity score satisfies the threshold condition, it determines that it is time for child CH1 to begin toilet training.

[0115] On the other hand, if the output control device 100 determines that the current overall maturity level does not exceed the threshold condition, that is, that the overall maturity level does not meet the threshold condition, it determines that it is not the right time to start toilet training for child CH1 at this moment. If the output control device 100 determines that it is not the right time to start toilet training at this moment, it then determines a future timing when toilet training should be started.

[0116] For example, the output control device 100 determines the timing to start toilet training at a future time when it is estimated that the state of child CH1 will meet a predetermined condition. This point can be explained assuming that the average urine volume of child CH1 does not meet the threshold condition "CIF1". For example, the output control device 100 refers to the state information storage unit 121 and generates a urine volume change curve that shows how the urine volume has changed (increased) over time, and estimates from this curve at what point in the future the urine volume will meet the threshold condition "CIF1". The output control device 100 then determines the future timing when it is estimated that the urine volume will meet the threshold condition "CIF1" as the timing to start toilet training.

[0117] Furthermore, although a detailed explanation will be omitted, the output control device 100 also generates a curve showing the change in urination interval over time. The output control device 100 can then determine the future timing for starting toilet training by estimating from this curve when the urination interval will satisfy the threshold condition "CIF2". The output control device 100 also generates a curve showing the change in component amount over time. The output control device 100 can then determine the future timing for starting toilet training by estimating from this curve when the component amount will satisfy the threshold condition "CIF2".

[0118] Furthermore, the output control device 100 may determine, based on the behavioral information of child CH1, that the timing to start toilet training is a future period when it is estimated that child CH1 will meet a predetermined condition. This point will be explained assuming that, based on the behavioral information, child CH1 is determined not to meet condition 3. For example, suppose there is a growth curve (statistical curve) plotting the percentage of infants who can dress and undress themselves at each age (e.g., 3 years 1 month, 3 years 2 months, etc.). Also, suppose that such a growth curve shows that 80% of infants can dress and undress themselves at 3 years 10 months. Here, for example, if child CH1 is 3 years 4 months old, the output control device 100 estimates that child CH1 will also be able to dress and undress themselves (i.e., will meet condition 3) four months later when child CH1 is 3 years 10 months old. The output control device 100 then determines that this four-month period later is the future timing when toilet training should be started.

[0119] Although we used condition 3 as an example, this method of determining the future timing for starting toilet training using a growth curve can be applied to all of conditions 1 through 4.

[0120] An example of the determination process performed by the output control device 100 was explained using Figure 2. Returning to Figure 1, once the output control device 100 determines the timing to start toilet training as explained in Figure 2, it outputs output information, which is information based on the determination result of the determination process (step S9). Specifically, the output control device 100 outputs output information based on the timing to start toilet training determined for child CH1. For example, the output control device 100 transmits the output information to the terminal device 10 so that the output information is displayed on the terminal device 10.

[0121] For example, if the output control device 100 determines that it is time for child CH1 to start toilet training, it outputs guidance information IF1-1 as output information, which guides the child to start toilet training. Also, if the output control device 100 determines that it is time for child CH1 to start toilet training, it outputs recommendation information IF1-2 as output information, which recommends the use of a predetermined application related to toilet training. For example, the output control device 100 generates result content C21 which displays guidance information IF1-1 and recommendation information IF1-2, and distributes the generated result content C21 to the terminal device 10 so that it is displayed.

[0122] On the other hand, if the output control device 100 determines that it is not yet time for child CH1 to start toilet training, it outputs a warning message IF2-1 indicating that it is not yet time to start toilet training.

[0123] Furthermore, if the output control device 100 determines that it is not yet time for child CH1 to begin toilet training, it outputs reference information IF2-21, which serves as a reference for the timing of when toilet training should begin, based on a future time when child CH1 is estimated to meet predetermined conditions. The future time referred to here is a future time when child CH1's state is estimated to meet predetermined conditions (threshold conditions), or a future time determined based on child CH1's behavioral information when child CH1 is estimated to meet predetermined conditions (behavioral conditions). The determination of such future time has already been explained in Figure 2, so the explanation is omitted here.

[0124] Furthermore, if the output control device 100 determines that it is not yet time for child CH1 to begin toilet training, it outputs strategy information IF2-22, which indicates strategies for bringing child CH1 to the desired state. The predetermined conditions referred to here are the "threshold conditions" or "behavioral conditions" explained in Figure 2.

[0125] Furthermore, for example, the output control device 100 generates result content C22 in which warning information IF2-1, reference information IF2-21, and countermeasure information IF2-22 are displayed, and distributes the generated result content C22 to the terminal device 10 so that it is displayed.

[0126] Here, using Figure 3, an example of the output information displayed on the display screen of the terminal device 10 is shown. Figure 3(a) shows the output information when the output control device 100 determines that it is time for child CH1 to start toilet training. On the other hand, Figure 3(b) shows the output information when the output control device 100 determines that it is not time for child CH1 to start toilet training.

[0127] As shown in Figure 3(a), the result content C21 displays guidance information IF1-1 in the form of a character CA speaking. Guidance information IF1-1 provides guidance that corresponds to the judgment result, such as, "It looks like your body and mind are growing! Let's start toilet training!!" By controlling the output of this guidance information, the output control device 100 can make the user aware that it is now OK to start toilet training.

[0128] Furthermore, the result content C21 displays recommendation information IF1-2. Recommendation information IF1-2 indicates that it is recommended to use a specific application ("Easy Toilet") for toilet training. Recommendation information IF1-2 also includes a link LN to the specific application. If the business operator corresponding to the output control device 100 according to this embodiment is business operator T, then the recommended application may be a toilet training application developed by business operator T. For example, even if a toilet training application exists, users may complain that they cannot effectively utilize it because they do not know when to start toilet training. Therefore, by controlling the output of such guidance information, the output control device 100 can enable the effective use of the toilet training application.

[0129] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3(b), the result content C22 displays warning information IF2-1 in the form of a character CA speaking. Warning information IF2-1 then displays a warning that corresponds to the judgment result, such as "It might be a little too early to start toilet training."

[0130] Furthermore, the result content C22 displays reference information IF2-21. Reference information IF2-21 provides advice indicating a future time (e.g., 4 months later) when it is estimated that child CH1's condition will meet a predetermined condition (threshold condition), or a future time (e.g., 4 months later) when it is estimated that child CH1 will meet a predetermined condition (behavioral condition), based on child CH1's behavioral information. Reference information IF2-21 also provides advice based on the condition (conditions 1 to 4) that child CH1 did not meet. For example, reference information IF2-21 advises on when to start toilet training from the perspective of the actions necessary to make the condition (conditions 1 to 4) that child CH1 did not meet fulfilled. By controlling the output of such reference information, the output control device 100 can resolve the user's question, "If I shouldn't start toilet training now, when should I?"

[0131] Furthermore, the policy information IF2-22 advises user U1 on what measures they should take to ensure that predetermined conditions ("threshold conditions" or "behavioral conditions") are met. By controlling the output of such policy information, the output control device 100 can help resolve the user's concern of "not knowing what to do to smoothly begin toilet training."

[0132] As explained using Figures 1 to 3, the output control system 1 according to this embodiment consists of a terminal device 10 and an output control device 100 (various detection devices such as a diaper sensor and a smart speaker may also be included). The output control system 1 acquires state information indicating the physical function state of the infant and behavior information indicating the infant's actions, and determines the timing to start toilet training to encourage toilet elimination based on the acquired state information and behavior information. For example, the output control system 1 determines, based on the state information and behavior information, whether or not it is the right time to start toilet training at the present moment when a request has been made to indicate the timing to start toilet training.

[0133] If the output control system 1 determines that it is time to start toilet training, it displays output information (Figure 3(a)) corresponding to this determination on the terminal device 10. On the other hand, if the output control system 1 determines that it is not time to start toilet training, it determines (estimates) a future time when toilet training should be started and displays output information (Figure 3(b)) corresponding to this determination on the terminal device 10.

[0134] This output control system 1 allows users (caregivers) to effectively understand the appropriate time to begin toilet training. Furthermore, by effectively helping users understand the appropriate time to begin toilet training, the output control system 1 enables toilet training to proceed smoothly, thereby effectively reducing stress for users in childcare.

[0135] [6. Variations of Output Control Processing] The output control system 1 according to the above embodiment may be implemented in various other forms besides the embodiment described above. Therefore, other embodiments of the output control system 1 will be described below.

[0136] [6-1. Balancing state information and behavioral information] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the output control device 100 calculates physical maturity based on whether the state indicated by the state information satisfies a threshold condition, and calculates mental maturity based on whether the infant satisfies behavioral conditions from the perspective of behavioral information. Furthermore, an example was shown in which the output control device 100 determines whether it is time to start toilet training based on whether the overall maturity level of physical and mental maturity satisfies a threshold condition.

[0137] In this type of assessment process, even if the physical maturity level is extremely low, the mental maturity level may be very high. As a result, the overall maturity level may meet the threshold, leading to a judgment that it is time to start toilet training. This means that even though the body is not yet mature enough to begin toilet training, it is determined that it is time to start training, suggesting that toilet training would likely be unsuccessful if started.

[0138] Therefore, the output control device 100 according to the embodiment determines that it is time to start training only when there is a balance between the state indicated by the state information and the behavior indicated by the behavior information, more specifically, a balance between the body and mind. Specifically, the output control device 100 determines that it is time to start toilet training when it determines that a predetermined relationship is satisfied between the state indicated by the state information and the behavior indicated by the behavior information. More specifically, the output control device 100 determines that it is time to start toilet training when the physical state indicated by the state information satisfies a predetermined condition, and the infant's state based on the behavior information satisfies a predetermined condition, so that both the physical state indicated by the state information and the infant's state based on the behavior information are in a relationship that satisfies the given predetermined condition. This point will be explained using the example in Figure 2.

[0139] In the example of the state condition memory unit 123-1 shown in Figure 2, a threshold condition "SC1" is set for "physical maturity." Therefore, the output control device 100 determines whether or not the physical maturity SM1 exceeds the threshold condition SC1, and if it determines that it does not, it determines that it is not time to start toilet training at this point, regardless of how high the mental maturity SM2 is.

[0140] Furthermore, in the example of the behavioral condition memory unit 123-2 shown in Figure 2, a threshold condition "SC2" is set for "mental maturity." Therefore, the output control device 100 determines whether mental maturity SM2 exceeds the threshold condition SC2, and if it determines that it does not, it determines that it is not the right time to start toilet training at this point, regardless of how high the physical maturity SM1 is.

[0141] On the other hand, if the output control device 100 determines that the physical maturity level SM1 exceeds the threshold condition SC1 and that the mental maturity level SM2 exceeds the threshold condition SC2, it determines that a predetermined relationship is satisfied between the state indicated by the state information and the behavior indicated by the behavior information. Then, if the output control device 100 determines that a predetermined relationship is satisfied between the state indicated by the state information and the behavior indicated by the behavior information, it ultimately determines whether or not it is time to start toilet training using the overall maturity level obtained by multiplying the physical maturity level "SM1" and the mental maturity level "SM2", as explained in Figure 2.

[0142] Thus, the output control device 100 determines that it is time to start toilet training when it determines that a predetermined relationship is satisfied between the state indicated by the state information and the action indicated by the action information. As a result, the output control system 1 according to the embodiment can determine that it is time to start toilet training only when both the body and mind are sufficiently mature to begin toilet training, thus enabling more accurate determination of the timing to start toilet training.

[0143] [6-2. Output statistical information] For example, a user who determines that it is not yet time to start toilet training may worry that their child is taking a long time to be potty trained, while many other children can use the toilet independently. Therefore, if the output control device 100 determines that it is not yet time to start toilet training, it may display statistical information such as the diaper usage rate by age, along with a comment such as, "Many children of the same age are still using diapers." Alternatively, if the output control device 100 determines that it is not yet time to start toilet training, it may also display statistical information such as the percentage of children who have started toilet training by age, along with a comment such as, "Many children started toilet training later than your child."

[0144] [7. Output control device configuration] Next, the output control device 100 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example configuration of the output control device 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the output control device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0145] (Regarding Communications Unit 110) The communication unit 110 is implemented, for example, by a NIC (Network Interface Card). The communication unit 110 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless connection and performs information transmission and reception with, for example, a terminal device 10 or a detection device.

[0146] (Regarding memory unit 120) The memory 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. The memory unit 120 includes a state information storage unit 121, an action information storage unit 122, and a condition information storage unit 123.

[0147] (Regarding the control unit 130) The control unit 130 is implemented by a CPU or MPU, which executes various programs stored in the internal memory of the output control device 100 using RAM as the working area. Alternatively, the control unit 130 can be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0148] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 130 includes a distribution unit 131, an acquisition unit 132, a calculation unit 133, a determination unit 134, and an output control unit 135, 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 possible as long as they perform the information processing described later. Also, the connection relationships of the various processing units in the control unit 130 are not limited to the connection relationships shown in Figure 4, and other connection relationships are also possible.

[0149] (Regarding distribution section 131) The distribution unit 131 distributes various types of information. For example, when the distribution unit 131 receives a distribution request, it distributes the information corresponding to the received distribution request to the source of the distribution request. In the example shown in Figure 1, when the distribution unit 131 receives a distribution request for an input screen from the terminal device 10, it distributes the input screen corresponding to the received distribution request to the terminal device 10.

[0150] (Regarding acquisition section 132) The acquisition unit 132 acquires state information indicating the physical function state of an infant and toddler, and behavioral information indicating the infant's behavior. For example, the acquisition unit 132 acquires state information indicating the physical function state of each infant and toddler, and behavioral information indicating the infant's behavior, for each infant and toddler (for each user (caregiver) of that infant and toddler). Also, for example, the acquisition unit 132 acquires state information indicating the excretory function state of an infant and toddler. Also, for example, the acquisition unit 132 acquires information regarding the amount of excrement produced by the infant or information regarding the interval between excretions as state information indicating the excretory function state of an infant and toddler. The acquisition unit 132 may also acquire information regarding specific components contained in the excrement produced by an infant or toddler as state information indicating the excretory function state of an infant and toddler.

[0151] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 132 acquires status information, which is either status information indicating a state detected by a detection device attached to an item worn by the infant, or status information entered by the infant's caregiver. Also, for example, the acquisition unit 132 acquires behavior information, which is either behavior information indicating a behavior detected by a predetermined detection device installed around the infant, or behavior information entered by the infant's caregiver.

[0152] Furthermore, for example, the acquisition unit 132 may acquire status information via the user's terminal device 10, or it may acquire status information directly from a detection device attached to an item worn by the infant. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 132 may acquire behavioral information from the user's terminal device 10, or it may acquire behavioral information from a predetermined detection device installed around the infant.

[0153] (Regarding calculation unit 133) The calculation unit 133 performs various calculations based on the status information. For example, based on the status information for each excretory act acquired by the acquisition unit 132, the calculation unit 133 calculates for each excretory act the amount of excrement (urine volume), the interval between excretion (urination interval) at the time the excretory act was performed, and the amount of specific components (urine components) contained in the excrement (urine components) released during that act. In addition, for example, the calculation unit 133 calculates the average amount of excrement (average urine volume), the average interval between excretion (average urination interval), and the average content based on the excretion history (urination history associated with the user ID in the status information storage unit 121).

[0154] (Regarding the determination unit 134) The determination unit 134 determines the timing to start toilet training to encourage toilet elimination based on state information and behavioral information. For example, the determination unit 134 determines the timing to start toilet training to encourage toilet elimination based on state information calculated by the calculation unit 133 and behavioral information acquired by the acquisition unit 132.

[0155] For example, the determination unit 134 determines that it is time to start toilet training if it determines that predetermined conditions are met based on the state information. For example, the determination unit 134 determines the timing to start toilet training based on whether or not the state indicated by the state information meets predetermined conditions. Alternatively, for example, the determination unit 134 determines the timing to start toilet training to be a future time when it is estimated that the state indicated by the state information will meet predetermined conditions.

[0156] Furthermore, the determination unit 134 determines, based on behavioral information, that it is time to start toilet training if it determines that the infant meets predetermined conditions. For example, the determination unit 134 determines the timing to start toilet training based on whether the infant meets the condition that they are capable of acting in accordance with their perception. Alternatively, for example, the determination unit 134 determines the timing to start toilet training based on whether the infant meets the condition that they are capable of communicating with others.

[0157] Furthermore, for example, the determination unit 134 determines the timing for starting toilet training based on whether or not the infant meets the conditions that indicate they are capable of performing a predetermined action on their own. The predetermined action can be any action, but examples include actions such as "dressing and undressing oneself," "using the toilet by oneself," "walking by oneself," and "opening a door by oneself."

[0158] Furthermore, for example, the determination unit 134 determines the timing for starting toilet training based on whether or not the infant has a heightened sense of purpose regarding using the toilet for defecation.

[0159] Furthermore, for example, the determination unit 134 determines, based on behavioral information, the timing to start toilet training is when it is estimated that the infant will meet certain conditions in the future.

[0160] Furthermore, the determination unit 134 determines that it is time to start toilet training if it determines that a predetermined relationship is met between the state indicated by the state information and the behavior indicated by the behavior information. For example, as explained using Figure 2, the determination unit 134 determines that it is time to start toilet training if the predetermined relationship is met between the state indicated by the state information and the behavior indicated by the behavior information, and the overall maturity level calculated from the physical maturity level and the mental maturity level is at a predetermined value.

[0161] (Regarding the output control unit 135) The output control unit 135 outputs output information, which is information based on the determination result by the determination unit 134. For example, if the determination unit 134 determines that it is time to start toilet training, the output control unit 135 outputs guidance information to guide the start of toilet training as output information. For example, if the determination unit 134 determines that it is time to start toilet training at this moment, the output control unit 135 outputs guidance information to guide the start of toilet training as output information.

[0162] Furthermore, if the determination unit 134 determines that it is time to start toilet training, the output control unit 135 will output recommendation information recommending the use of a predetermined application related to toilet training. For example, if the determination unit 134 determines that it is time to start toilet training at this moment, the output control unit 135 will output recommendation information recommending the use of a predetermined application related to toilet training.

[0163] Furthermore, if the determination unit 134 determines that it is not time to start toilet training, the output control unit 135 outputs reference information that serves as a guide for when toilet training should be started, based on a future time when the infant is estimated to meet predetermined conditions. Also, for example, if the determination unit 134 determines that it is not time to start toilet training, the output control unit 135 outputs strategy information that indicates measures to be taken to ensure the infant meets predetermined conditions.

[0164] For example, the output control unit 135 generates result content C21 in the manner shown in Figure 3(a) based on the determination result by the determination unit 134, and displays the result content C21 by distributing the generated result content C21 to the terminal device 10. Also, for example, the output control unit 135 generates result content C22 in the manner shown in Figure 3(b) based on the determination result by the determination unit 134, and displays the result content C22 by distributing the generated result content C22 to the terminal device 10.

[0165] [8. Configuration of terminal equipment] Next, the terminal device 10 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the terminal device 10 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the terminal device 10 has a communication unit 11, an input unit 12, an output unit 13, and a control unit 14.

[0166] (Regarding Communications Section 11) The communication unit 11 is implemented, for example, by a NIC. The communication unit 11 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with, for example, the output control device 100 or the detection device.

[0167] (Regarding the input section 12 and output section 13) The input unit 12 is an input device that accepts various operations from the user. For example, the input unit 12 can be implemented by a keyboard, mouse, or operation keys. The output unit 13 is a display device for displaying various information. For example, the output unit 13 can be implemented by a liquid crystal display or the like. If a touch panel is adopted for the terminal device 10, the input unit 12 and the output unit 13 are integrated. The output unit 13 also corresponds to, for example, the display screen of the terminal device 10.

[0168] (Regarding the control unit 14) The control unit 14 is implemented by a CPU or MPU, which executes various programs (for example, terminal programs corresponding to application APs) stored in the internal memory of the terminal device 10 using RAM as a working area. Alternatively, the control unit 14 may be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0169] As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 14 includes an input receiving unit 14a, an acquisition unit 14b, a transmission unit 14c, a receiving unit 14d, and a display control unit 14e, and realizes or executes the information processing functions and operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 14 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 5, and other configurations are also possible as long as they perform the information processing described later. Also, the connection relationships of the various processing units in the control unit 14 are not limited to the connection relationships shown in Figure 5, and other connection relationships are also possible.

[0170] The input receiving unit 14a receives input of behavioral information indicating the actions of infants and toddlers. For example, the input receiving unit 14a receives input of behavioral information from the user via the input screen C1 shown in Figure 1. For example, the input receiving unit 14a receives input of behavioral information in the form of answers to questions via the input screen C1 shown in Figure 1. The input receiving unit 14a may also receive input of captured images or audio information indicating the actions of infants and toddlers. The input receiving unit 14a may also receive input of behavioral information indicating actions detected by a predetermined detection device installed around the infant or toddler.

[0171] (Regarding acquisition unit 14b) The acquisition unit 14b acquires state information indicating the state of the infant's physical functions and behavioral information indicating the infant's behavior. For example, the acquisition unit 14b acquires state information indicating the state of the infant's physical functions and behavioral information indicating the infant's behavior for each infant (for each user (caregiver) of the infant). Also, for example, the acquisition unit 14b acquires state information indicating the state of the infant's excretory function. Also, for example, the acquisition unit 14b acquires information regarding the amount of excrement produced by the infant or information regarding the interval between excretions as state information indicating the state of the infant's excretory function. The acquisition unit 14b may also acquire information regarding specific components contained in the excrement produced by the infant as state information indicating the state of the infant's excretory function.

[0172] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 14b acquires status information, which is either status information indicating a state detected by a detection device attached to an item worn by an infant or infant, or status information entered by the infant or infant's caregiver. Also, for example, the acquisition unit 14b acquires behavioral information, which is either behavioral information indicating a behavior detected by a predetermined detection device installed around the infant or infant, or behavioral information entered by the infant or infant's caregiver.

[0173] (Regarding the transmitter unit 14c) The transmitting unit 14c transmits the status information and action information acquired by the acquiring unit 14b to the output control device 100. The transmitting unit 14c can also transmit a request for the distribution of an input screen to the output control device 100 in response to user operations.

[0174] (Regarding the receiving unit 14d) The receiving unit 14d receives output information from the output control device 100, which is information based on a determination result determined based on state information and behavior information, indicating the timing to start toilet training to encourage toileting. The receiving unit 14d can also receive other information (for example, input screens) distributed from the output control device 100.

[0175] (Regarding the display control unit 14e) The display control unit 14e controls the output unit 13 to output (display) various information to the output unit 13. For example, the display control unit 14e causes the output unit 13 to display the output information received by the receiving unit 14d.

[0176] [9. Processing Procedure] Next, the procedure for the output control processing according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a flowchart of the output control processing procedure according to the embodiment.

[0177] First, the acquisition unit 132 determines whether it is time to perform a determination process to determine when to start toilet training (step S101). For example, the acquisition unit 132 determines whether it is time to perform the determination process based on whether it was able to obtain information indicating a request for determination processing from the user's terminal device 10. For example, the acquisition unit 132 determines whether it is time to perform the determination process based on whether it was able to obtain state information and behavior information from the terminal device 10. If the acquisition unit 132 periodically obtains state information directly from a detection device attached to an item worn by an infant (e.g., a diaper), it may determine whether it is time to perform the determination process based on whether it was able to obtain behavior information from the terminal device 10.

[0178] If the acquisition unit 132 determines that it is not time to perform the determination process (step S101; No), it waits until it determines that it is time to perform the determination process. On the other hand, if the acquisition unit 132 determines that it is time to perform the determination process (step S101; Yes), the calculation unit 133 performs a calculation process using the state information acquired by the acquisition unit 132 and stored in the state information storage unit 121 (step S102). For example, the calculation unit 133 calculates the average value of the state information based on the state information acquired by the acquisition unit 132. For example, the calculation unit 133 calculates the average urine volume, average urination interval, and average component volume. Note that the calculation unit 133 does not necessarily have to calculate the average value; for example, it may calculate the median urine volume, median urination interval, and median component volume.

[0179] Furthermore, the determination process may use urination history corresponding to a specific date and time from the urination history. For example, the acquisition unit 132 may acquire the urine volume, urination interval, and component amount shown in the most recent urination history from the state information storage unit 121 so that they can be used in the determination process, and output them to the determination unit 134 for use in the determination process. In this case, the calculation process by the calculation unit 133 becomes unnecessary.

[0180] Next, the determination unit 134 performs a determination process to determine the timing to start toilet training based on state information (for example, the average value of state information) and behavior information (step S103). For example, the determination unit 134 determines the timing to start toilet training based on whether the state indicated by the state information satisfies a predetermined condition (a threshold condition stored in the state condition storage unit 123-1). Alternatively, for example, the determination unit 134 determines the timing to start toilet training based on the determination result of determining whether the infant (or their behavior or state) satisfies a predetermined condition (a behavior condition stored in the behavior condition storage unit 123-2) based on the behavior information.

[0181] For example, the determination unit 134 determines whether it is time to start toilet training at the present moment (the moment the request for determination processing is received from the user) when it is determined that a determination process should be performed (step S104).

[0182] Then, if the determination unit 134 determines that it is time to start toilet training (step S104; Yes), the output control unit 135 causes the terminal device 10 to output output information based on the determination result that it is time to start toilet training (S201). For example, the output control unit 135 generates result content that displays guidance information to guide the start of toilet training or recommendation information recommending the use of a predetermined application related to toilet training, and transmits this to the terminal device 10.

[0183] On the other hand, if the determination unit 134 determines that it is not yet time to start toilet training (step S104; No), it estimates a future time when toilet training should be started and determines that the estimated time is the right time to start toilet training (step S301).

[0184] In such cases, the output control unit 135 causes the terminal device 10 to output output information based on the determination result that it is not yet time to start toilet training (S301). For example, the output control unit 135 causes the terminal device 10 to output reference information that serves as a reference for the timing when toilet training should be started, based on the future time estimated in step S301. Also, for example, the output control unit 135 causes the terminal device 10 to output strategy information that shows measures to ensure that the infant meets predetermined conditions. For example, the output control unit 135 generates result content that displays the reference information and strategy information and transmits it to the terminal device 10.

[0185] [10. Variations] The information processing described in the above embodiment may be carried out in various other forms besides those described above. Therefore, other embodiments will be described below.

[0186] [10-1. Operation by the application] The terminal device 10 may perform the following processes in accordance with the control of the application AP. For example, the terminal device 10 accepts input of a captured image (an example of status information) of the diaper DP1, including the indicator. For example, when the camera is activated by the user (caregiver), the terminal device 10 can assist in capturing the diaper DP1, including the indicator, by displaying a shooting screen with an image for reading alignment superimposed on it.

[0187] When the terminal device 10 receives an input image, it detects a change in color (color reaction) caused by excrement (urine) in the indicator containing the reagent by performing image analysis on the received image.

[0188] The terminal device 10 then detects urine components from the detected discoloration results (discoloration of the indicator in response to specific components in the urine or the concentration of the urine, such as urine specific gravity) and area, and calculates the "component amount," which is the amount of urine components contained in the urine, based on the detected urine components and the urine volume calculated by the diaper sensor SN1. In addition, the terminal device 10 can also calculate the "urination interval" by obtaining the "date and time" when urination was detected from the diaper DP1. In this case, the terminal device 10 can obtain a urination history consisting of, for example, "date and time," "urine volume," "urination interval," and "component amount" without communicating with the output control device 100.

[0189] Furthermore, since the urination history is calculated and stored on the terminal device 10 in this way, communication with the output control device 100 becomes unnecessary. For example, users can record their urination history on their own terminal device 10, and can also quickly view their urination history even in unstable communication environments.

[0190] In the above example, the terminal device 10 obtained information indicating the calculated urine volume by calculating the urine volume using the diaper sensor SN1. However, the terminal device 10 may also estimate the urine volume based on the calculated area by performing image analysis on the received captured image to calculate the area of ​​the part where the color has changed due to a color reaction. In such a case, the terminal device 10 can obtain a urination history consisting of "date and time," "urine volume," "urination interval," and "component amount" using only its own functions, in accordance with the control of the application AP, thus eliminating the need to obtain various information from the sensor SN1. Therefore, in such a case, the diaper DP1 does not necessarily need to have the diaper sensor SN1.

[0191] [10-2. Terminal Device Configuration] Furthermore, the terminal device 10 may have some or all of the functions described as being possessed by the control unit 130 of the output control device 100. With this configuration, a user with the terminal device 10 can check the determination result of whether or not it is time to start toilet training without waiting for communication between the output control device 100 and the terminal device 10.

[0192] [10-3. Regarding the determination of the start date] Furthermore, the timing for starting toilet training may be determined by combining information obtained through absorbent materials (for example, state information indicating the physical function of the infant, such as urine volume, urination interval, and component amount) with information about the infant that the user inputs into the terminal device 10 (behavioral information, physical information, information about excretion, etc.). In this way, by combining information obtained from products that infants use on a daily basis with information input by the infant's caregiver, it becomes possible to determine the timing for starting toilet training with greater accuracy than when using only one of the pieces of information.

[0193] [10-4. About the detection device] Furthermore, the detection device, the diaper sensor SN1, may be placed on the diaper DP1 so as to be in direct contact with the infant's skin, or it may be placed on the diaper DP1 so as not to be in direct contact with the infant's skin. In the latter case, for example, the diaper sensor SN1 may be placed on the infant's clothing, on the outer casing of the diaper DP1, or embedded inside the diaper DP1, so as to be placed so that a medium such as cloth or nonwoven fabric exists between the infant's skin and the diaper sensor SN1. When placed on the diaper DP1 in this way so as not to be in direct contact with the infant's skin, it becomes possible to acquire state information without touching the infant's skin, thus minimizing the impact on the infant's skin, which is more prone to rashes and other skin irritations than adults, while still acquiring information about the infant.

[0194] [11. Other] Of the processes described above as being performed automatically, all or part of them may be performed manually. Furthermore, all or part of the processes described as being performed manually may be performed automatically using known methods. In addition, the processing procedures, specific names, and various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings may be changed at will unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each drawing is not limited to the information illustrated.

[0195] Furthermore, each component of the illustrated device is a functional concept and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific forms of distribution and integration of each device are not limited to those shown. Moreover, each component may be configured by functionally or physically distributing and integrating all or part of it in any unit, depending on various loads and usage conditions. In addition, the processes described above may be combined and executed as appropriate, within a non-contradictory range.

[0196] [12. Hardware Configuration] Furthermore, the output control device 100 and terminal device 10 according to the above-described embodiment are implemented by a computer 1000 having a configuration such as that shown in Figure 7. The output control device 100 will be described below as an example. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration. The computer 1000 is connected to the output device 1010 and the input device 1020, and the arithmetic unit 1030, cache 1040, memory 1050, output IF (Interface) 1060, input IF 1070, and network IF 1080 are connected by a bus 1090.

[0197] The arithmetic unit 1030 operates based on programs stored in the cache 1040 and memory 1050, as well as programs read from the input device 1020, and executes various processes. The cache 1040 is a cache that temporarily stores data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations, such as RAM. The memory 1050 is a storage device in which data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations and various databases are registered, and is implemented as ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), flash memory, etc.

[0198] The output IF1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to output devices 1010 that output various types of information, such as monitors and printers. This interface may be implemented using connectors of standards such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), or HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface). On the other hand, the input IF1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as mice, keyboards, and scanners. This interface may be implemented using USB, for example.

[0199] For example, the input device 1020 may be implemented by a device that reads information from optical recording media such as CDs (Compact Discs), DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs), PDs (Phase Change Rewritable Disks), magneto-optical recording media such as MOs (Magneto-Optical disks), tape media, magnetic recording media, or semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the input device 1020 may be implemented by an external storage medium such as a USB memory stick.

[0200] The network IF1080 has the function of receiving data from other devices via network N and sending it to the arithmetic unit 1030, and also transmitting data generated by the arithmetic unit 1030 to other devices via network N.

[0201] Here, the arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output IF 1060 and the input IF 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or memory 1050 onto the cache 1040 and executes the loaded program. For example, if computer 1000 functions as the output control device 100, the arithmetic unit 1030 of computer 1000 will realize the functions of the control unit 40 by executing the program loaded onto the cache 1040. [Explanation of symbols]

[0202] 1. Output control system 10 Terminal devices 12 Input section 13 Output section 14a Input reception section 14b Acquisition part 14c Transmitter 14d Receiver 14e Display Control Unit 100 Output control device 120 Storage section 121 State Information Storage Unit 122 Behavior information storage unit 123 Condition information storage unit 130 Control Unit 131 Distribution Department 132 Acquisition Department 133 Calculation Section 134 Judgment section 135 Output Control Unit

Claims

1. An acquisition means for acquiring first indicator information that serves as an indicator of the developmental status of the excretory function of an infant, and second indicator information that serves as an indicator of the mental maturity status of the infant, A determination means for determining the timing to start toilet training to encourage toileting based on the first indicator information and the second indicator information, Output control means for outputting output information which is information based on the determination result by the determination means. It has, When the output control means determines that it is time to start toilet training, it outputs guidance information to announce the start of toilet training as output information. If it is determined that it is not the right time to start toilet training, The determination means estimates a future time when the temporal change of the first indicator information satisfies a predetermined condition, or a future time when the temporal change of the second indicator information satisfies a predetermined condition, and determines the estimated future time as the timing to start toilet training. The output control means outputs reference information, based on the future timeframe, which serves as a reference for when toilet training should begin. An output control system characterized by the following:

2. The acquisition means acquires, as the first indicator information, information regarding the amount of excrement produced by the infant, the composition of the excrement produced by the infant, or the interval between the infant's excretions. The output control system according to claim 1, characterized in that it is as described above.

3. The acquisition means acquires, as the first indicator information, first indicator information detected by a detection device attached to an item worn by the infant, or first indicator information entered by the infant's caregiver. The output control system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it is as follows:

4. The acquisition means acquires, as the second indicator information, second indicator information dynamically determined based on behaviors that indicate actions detected by a predetermined detection device installed around the infant, or second indicator information determined by the infant's caregiver based on the infant's behavior. The output control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. When the determination means determines that it is time to start toilet training, the output control means outputs recommendation information recommending the use of a predetermined application related to toilet training. The output control system according to claim 1, characterized in that it is as described above.

6. If the determination means determines that it is not time to start toilet training, the output control means outputs strategy information indicating measures to help the infant meet predetermined conditions. The output control system according to claim 1, characterized in that it is as described above.

7. An output control system is implemented in an output control method, An acquisition process for acquiring first indicator information that serves as an indicator of the developmental status of the excretory function of an infant, and second indicator information that serves as an indicator of the mental maturity status of the infant, A determination step, based on the first indicator information and the second indicator information, determines the timing to start toilet training to encourage the act of defecating in the toilet, An output control step that outputs output information which is information based on the determination result of the aforementioned determination step. Includes, If the output control process determines that it is time to start toilet training, it will output guidance information to announce the start of toilet training as output information. If it is determined that it is not the right time to start toilet training, The determination step estimates a future time when the temporal change of the first indicator information satisfies a predetermined condition, or a future time when the temporal change of the second indicator information satisfies a predetermined condition, and determines the estimated future time as the timing to start toilet training. The output control process outputs reference information, based on the future timeframe, which serves as a reference for the timing of when toilet training should begin. An output control method characterized by the following:

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