Toilet seat and toilet bowl

Abstract

To provide a toilet seat device capable of appropriately calculating a falling speed of stool.SOLUTION: A toilet seat device according to an embodiment, that is placed on an upper part of a toilet bowl having a bowl part for receiving excrement, and detects information about fallen stool, that is falling stool, comprises: a light emitting element that emits light and a light receiving element that receives the light; detects two different points in a height direction by the light receiving element, calculates a falling speed of the fallen stool from the presence or absence of detection of the fallen stool at these two points; and estimates a length or an amount of the fallen stool based on the falling speed and a time during which the falling stool is detected.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique for determining the properties and volume of feces (hereinafter also referred to as "excrement") using an image of feces falling (hereinafter also simply referred to as "feces") has been known. For example, a technique for providing a detection unit that detects information on moving (falling) feces and grasping the length and amount of feces from the information obtained from the detection unit is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, feces fall at various speeds when they move (fall) downward along the direction of gravity while being connected to the body or when they fall away from the body (hereinafter collectively referred to as "fall"). That is, an image of the falling feces (hereinafter also referred to as a "feces image") includes the influence of the falling speed of the falling feces. Therefore, in the above-described conventional technology, it is difficult to appropriately determine the amount of feces due to the influence of the falling speed of the falling feces and the properties of the feces, and there is room for improvement in the determination accuracy of the amount of feces using the feces image. For example, a configuration in which the properties of feces are determined from a feces image, the falling speed of the feces is estimated from the determination result, and the length and amount of the feces are estimated can be considered. However, in this case, it is difficult to accurately estimate the length or amount of feces from the estimated value of the falling speed obtained from the determination result of the properties of the feces. Therefore, it is desired to appropriately calculate the falling speed of the feces.

[0005] The embodiments of the disclosure aim to provide a toilet seat device and a toilet bowl device that appropriately calculate the rate at which feces fall. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A toilet seat device according to one embodiment is a toilet seat device that is placed on top of a toilet bowl having a bowl portion for receiving excrement, and detects information about falling feces, which are dropping feces, and comprises a light-emitting element that emits light and a light-receiving element that receives light, and the light-receiving element detects two points that are different in the height direction, calculates the falling speed of the falling feces from whether or not the falling feces are detected at the two points, and estimates the length or amount of the falling feces based on the falling speed and the time the falling feces are detected.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the toilet seat device, a light-receiving element detects two points at different heights, and the falling velocity of the stool is calculated from the detection difference between the two points. This allows for the accurate calculation of the stool's falling velocity. Furthermore, the toilet seat device can use the calculated falling velocity to estimate the length or volume of the stool, thereby accurately estimating its length or volume. For example, the toilet seat device can accurately estimate the length or volume of the stool by measuring the distance the stool travels between the detection intervals of the two points and calculating the falling velocity. It should be noted that "falling stool" here is not limited to stool that separates from the body and falls, but also includes stool that remains attached to the body and moves downward along the direction of gravity. In other words, "falling" here includes various forms of downward movement along the direction of gravity due to the action of gravity. Therefore, "falling" may be replaced with "movement." For example, "falling velocity" may be replaced with "movement velocity."

[0008] In a toilet seat device according to one embodiment, two light-receiving elements are arranged in the height direction.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the toilet seat device, two light-receiving elements are arranged in the height direction, and the falling velocity of the stool can be appropriately calculated by calculating the falling velocity of the stool based on the detection of the two light-receiving elements.

[0010] In a toilet seat device according to one embodiment, the detection directions of the two light-receiving elements are oriented so as to be separated from each other.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the toilet seat device, the distance between the detection positions of the two light-receiving elements can be ensured, allowing for accurate detection of feces and more precise calculation of the fecal fall velocity. Therefore, the toilet seat device can appropriately calculate the fecal fall velocity.

[0012] In a toilet seat device according to one embodiment, the detection directions of the two light-receiving elements are each directed downward.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the toilet seat device, since the detection direction of the two light-receiving elements is oriented downward, even if multiple light-receiving elements are provided in the height direction, feces can be accurately detected. Therefore, the toilet seat device can appropriately calculate the falling speed of the feces.

[0014] In a toilet seat device according to one embodiment, a plurality of light-receiving elements are arranged in the width direction intersecting the height direction, and the two points are detected by a lens corresponding to each of the two points and the plurality of light-receiving elements.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the toilet seat device, the falling velocity of the stool can be appropriately calculated by calculating the falling velocity of the stool based on detection by a plurality of light-receiving elements arranged in the width direction intersecting the height direction and lenses corresponding to each of two points. For example, the toilet seat device can accurately estimate the length and amount of the stool by measuring the distance the stool travels during that time interval based on the time interval between detections of two points and calculating the falling velocity of the stool.

[0016] In the toilet seat device according to one aspect of the embodiment, the falling speed of the falling feces is calculated using a first falling speed calculated from the start of detection of the falling feces at one of the two points and the start of detection of the falling feces at the other of the two points.

[0017] According to the toilet seat device according to one aspect of the embodiment, by calculating the falling speed of the falling feces based on the start of detection of the falling feces at each of the two points, the falling speed of the feces can be appropriately calculated.

[0018] In the toilet seat device according to one aspect of the embodiment, the length or amount of the falling feces is estimated using a second falling speed calculated from the end of detection of the falling feces at one of the two points and the end of detection of the falling feces at the other of the two points, and the first falling speed.

[0019] According to the toilet seat device according to one aspect of the embodiment, by estimating the length or amount of the falling feces using the first falling speed of the falling feces calculated based on the start of detection of the falling feces at each of the two points and the second falling speed of the falling feces calculated based on the end of detection of the falling feces at each of the two points, the length or amount of the feces can be appropriately estimated. For example, since the toilet seat device can appropriately estimate the length or amount of the feces based on the more average speed of the falling feces, the length or amount of the feces can be estimated more accurately. <了

[0020] In the toilet seat device according to one aspect of the embodiment, the length or amount of the falling feces is estimated using a composite speed calculated from the first falling speed and the second falling speed.

[0021] According to the toilet seat device according to one aspect of the embodiment, by estimating the length or amount of the falling feces using the composite speed calculated from the first falling speed and the second falling speed, the length or amount of the feces can be appropriately estimated. For example, since the toilet seat device can appropriately estimate the length or amount of the feces based on the more average speed of the falling feces, the length or amount of the feces can be estimated more accurately.

[0022] A toilet device according to an aspect of the embodiment is a toilet device in which a toilet seat is placed on top of a toilet bowl formed with a bowl part for receiving excrement, and detects information on falling excrement, which is excrement falling down. The toilet device has a light-emitting element that irradiates light and a light-receiving element that receives light. The light-receiving element detects two points that are different in the height direction, and calculates the falling speed of the falling excrement from the presence or absence of detection of the falling excrement at the two points. Based on the falling speed and the time during which the falling excrement is detected, the length or amount of the falling excrement is estimated.

[0023] According to the toilet device according to an aspect of the embodiment, the light-receiving element detects two points that are different in the height direction, and calculates the falling speed of the falling excrement from the presence or absence of detection of the falling excrement at the two points. Thus, the falling speed of the falling excrement can be calculated based on the detection difference between the two points, so that the falling speed of the excrement can be appropriately calculated. Further, the toilet device can appropriately estimate the length or amount of the excrement by estimating the length or amount of the falling excrement using the falling speed calculated in this way. For example, the toilet device can accurately estimate the length and amount of the falling excrement by measuring the moving distance of the falling excrement during the interval between the detection times of the two points and calculating the falling speed of the falling excrement.

Advantages of the Invention

[0024] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the falling speed of the excrement can be appropriately calculated.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] [[ID=十七]] [[ID=十八]] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet system according to the embodiment. [[ID=二十]] [[ID=二十一]] [Figure 2] [[ID=二十二]]FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an information processing system according to the embodiment. [[ID=二十三]] [[ID=二十四]] [Figure 3] [[ID=二十五]]FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet seat device according to the embodiment. [[ID=二十六]] [[ID=二十七]] [Figure 4] [[ID=二十八]]FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a toilet seat device according to the embodiment. [[ID=二十九]] [[ID=三十]] [Figure 5] [[ID=三十一]]FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a sensor unit. [[ID=三十二]] [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the relationship between the user and the operation of the device. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the processing flow in the measurement process. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of a time chart in the measurement process. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of a data acquisition method. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of a data analysis method. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the detection of two different points in the height direction. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows a first configuration for performing two-point detection. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows a second configuration for performing two-point detection. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows a third configuration that performs two-point detection. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows a fourth configuration that performs two-point detection. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows a fifth configuration that performs two-point detection. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows an example of the relationship between the falling velocity of the stool and the time difference in passing through each height position. [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows an example of how the falling velocity of feces is derived. [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows an example of estimating the amount of stool. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] The embodiments of the toilet seat device and toilet bowl device disclosed in this application will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown below. Below, we will describe the processing related to the collection of information on feces by the user of the toilet room and the configuration for performing such processing, but first we will describe the various configurations such as the information processing system that are prerequisites.

[0027] <1. Configuration of the Information Processing System> The configuration of the information processing system according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet system according to the embodiment. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing system according to the embodiment.

[0028] First, using Figure 1, we will explain an example of the configuration within the toilet room R of the information processing system 1. Hereafter, the configuration within the toilet room R shown in Figures 1 and 2 may be collectively referred to as the toilet system TS. As shown in Figure 1, a Western-style toilet (hereinafter referred to as "toilet") 7 is installed on the floor surface F of the toilet room R. Hereafter, the direction from the floor surface F towards the space of the toilet room R will be referred to as "up". The toilet seat device 2 is installed above the toilet 7.

[0029] The toilet bowl 7 is made of, for example, ceramic. The toilet bowl 7 has a bowl portion 8. The bowl portion 8 is recessed downwards and is the part that receives the user's excrement (toilet bowl). The toilet bowl 7 is not limited to the floor-standing type as shown in the figure, but can be of any type as long as the toilet system TS can be applied, and may also be a wall-mounted type, etc. The toilet bowl 7 is provided with a rim portion 9 around the entire circumference of the end of the opening facing the bowl portion 8. In the toilet room R, for example, a flush water tank for storing flush water may be installed near the toilet bowl 7, or it may be a so-called tankless type without a flush water tank.

[0030] For example, when a flushing control unit (not shown) installed in the toilet room R is operated by the user, flushing water is supplied to the bowl portion 8 of the toilet bowl 7, thereby performing toilet flushing. The flushing control unit may be an operating lever or a touch operation on a toilet flushing object displayed on the operating device 10. Note that the flushing control unit is not limited to one that allows the user to perform toilet flushing manually, such as with an operating lever, but may also be one that performs toilet flushing by detecting the user's body with a sensor that detects the user, such as a seating sensor.

[0031] The toilet seat device 2 is mounted on top of the toilet bowl 7 and comprises a main body 3, a toilet lid 4, a toilet seat 5, and a flushing nozzle 6. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on top of the toilet bowl 7, which has a bowl portion 8 for receiving excrement. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on top of the toilet bowl 7 so that the flushing nozzle 6 advances into the bowl portion 8 before spraying flushing water. The toilet seat device 2 may be detachably attached to the toilet bowl 7, or it may be attached to be integrated with the toilet bowl 7. That is, for example, the toilet seat device 2 and the toilet bowl 7 may be an integrated toilet device. In this case, the toilet system TS comprises a toilet device in which the toilet seat device 2 and the toilet bowl 7 are integrated. The above-described configuration of the toilet system TS is merely an example, and any configuration can be adopted as long as the desired processing is possible.

[0032] As shown in Figure 1, the toilet seat 5 is formed in an annular shape with an opening 50 in the center and is positioned along the rim 9 to overlap with the opening of the toilet bowl 7. The user sits on the toilet seat 5. The toilet seat 5 functions as a seat that supports the buttocks of the seated user. Also, as shown in Figure 1, the toilet lid 4 and the toilet seat 5 are each pivotally supported at one end on the main body 3 and are attached so as to be rotatable (openable and closable) around the pivot point of the main body 3. The toilet lid 4 is attached to the toilet seat device 2 as needed, and the toilet seat device 2 does not necessarily have to have the toilet lid 4.

[0033] The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for discharging cleaning water. The cleaning nozzle 6 is capable of spraying cleaning water. The cleaning nozzle 6 is capable of spraying cleaning water towards the user. The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for localized cleaning. The cleaning nozzle 6 is configured to move forward and backward relative to the main body cover 30, which is the housing of the main body 3, by being driven by a drive source such as an electric motor (nozzle motor 61 in Figure 4, etc.). The cleaning nozzle 6 is also connected to a water source such as a water pipe (not shown). When the cleaning nozzle 6 is in the extended position relative to the main body cover 30, which is the housing of the main body 3 (hereinafter also referred to as the "extended position"), as shown in Figure 1, it sprays water from the water source onto the user's body to clean the localized area.

[0034] Figure 1 shows the state in which the cleaning nozzle 6 is in the extended position. Note that the cleaning nozzle 6 may also be used for cleaning the inside of the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8, etc.). The cleaning nozzle 6 may be used in a way that allows switching between a localized cleaning mode for cleaning the user's private parts and a toilet bowl cleaning mode for spraying water inside the toilet bowl 7. For example, the cleaning nozzle 6 may be used in a way that allows switching between the localized cleaning mode and the toilet bowl cleaning mode in accordance with the control unit 34 (see Figure 4) of the toilet seat device 2.

[0035] The operating device 10 is installed in the toilet room R. The operating device 10 is installed in a position that can be operated by the user. The operating device 10 is installed in a position that can be operated when the user is seated on the toilet seat 5. In the example shown in Figure 1, the operating device 10 is installed on the wall W to the right of the user seated on the toilet seat 5. The operating device 10 may be installed in various ways other than on the wall, as long as it is accessible to the user seated on the toilet seat 5. For example, the operating device 10 may be installed integrally with the toilet seat device 2.

[0036] From here, the device configuration of the information processing system 1 and the functions of each device will be described with reference to Figure 2. As shown in Figure 2, the information processing system 1 has a toilet system TS including a toilet seat device 2 and an operating device 10, a user terminal 200, and a server device 400. The information processing system 1 may include multiple toilet system TSs, multiple user terminals 200, and multiple server devices 400. In the information processing system 1, the toilet seat device 2 performs various processes such as analysis of the properties of stool, and the server device 400 stores information related to the analysis results by the toilet seat device 2.

[0037] The toilet seat device 2 is located within the toilet room R. The toilet seat device 2 communicates with the operating device 10, the user terminal 200, etc. The toilet seat device 2 may also communicate with the server device 400.

[0038] The toilet seat device 2 performs a process (personal identification) to acquire information to identify the user who uses the toilet 7 in the toilet room R for defecation. For example, the toilet seat device 2 acquires information to identify the user who uses the toilet 7 for defecation and performs personal identification of the user by communicating with a user terminal 200 owned by the user or by the user's operation of the control device 10. For example, the toilet seat device 2 communicates with a user terminal 200 owned by the user and receives a user ID (also simply called "ID"), which is user identification information for identifying the user, from the user terminal 200. The toilet seat device 2 may identify the user by any method as long as it is possible to identify the user who uses the toilet 7 in the toilet room R for defecation.

[0039] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 transmits excretion information related to the detected excretion to the user terminal 200. For example, the toilet seat device 2 performs various processes such as analysis of the stool's properties and transmits excretion information based on the analysis results to the user terminal 200. The user terminal 200 transmits the excretion information and user identification information to identify the user (user) using the user terminal 200 to the server device 400. The server device 400 stores the received information as history information. The server device 400 may also associate the received excretion information with the received user identification information and register it in its storage unit.

[0040] The operating device 10 is a computer (remote control) that receives user commands related to the control of the toilet seat device 2. The operating device 10 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network, either by wire or wireless communication. For example, the operating device 10 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi®. The connection between the toilet seat device 2 and the operating device 10 can be any connection that enables the transmission and reception of information, and may be connected by wire or by wireless communication. For example, the operating device 10 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a network N, either by wire or wireless communication.

[0041] The operating device 10 accepts various operations from the user via a display surface (e.g., display screen 11) through, for example, a touch panel function. The operating device 10 may also be equipped with switches and buttons, and accept various operations via switches and buttons. The display screen 11 is a display screen of a tablet terminal, etc., realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and is a display device for displaying various information. In other words, the operating device 10 accepts user input via the display screen 11 and also outputs to the user. The display screen 11 is a display device for displaying various information. For example, the operating device 10 may function as a display terminal (display) that displays various information provided by the toilet seat device 2.

[0042] The control device 10 receives user input to stop the control being performed by the toilet seat device 2. The control device 10 receives user input to start the local washing function of the toilet seat device 2. The control device 10 receives user instructions for the washing nozzle 6. The control device 10 receives user input to cause the toilet seat device 2 to output a predetermined sound. The control device 10 receives user input to perform a sterilization process to disinfect the washing nozzle 6 (see Figure 1) of the toilet seat device 2 with disinfectant water. The control device 10 receives user input to adjust the water pressure during local washing by the toilet seat device 2. The control device 10 receives user input to adjust the volume of the sound output by the toilet seat device 2. The control device 10 receives user input to select the language for displaying or outputting audio information related to toilet use on the control device 10.

[0043] For example, the operating device 10 may display the object that accepts user input as described above on the display screen 11, and execute various processes in response to user contact with the displayed object. For example, the operating device 10 may have switches, buttons, etc. that accept user input as described above, and execute various processes in response to user contact with switches, buttons, etc. Note that the above is just an example, and the operating device 10 may accept user input to execute various processes.

[0044] The user terminal 200 is a terminal device (computer) used by the user. The user terminal 200 can be implemented as, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet device, or a notebook PC (Personal Computer). For example, the user terminal 200 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 in a communicative manner via a predetermined wireless communication function such as Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi®. Alternatively, the user terminal 200 may be connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a network N, either wired or wirelessly.

[0045] The user terminal 200 sends and receives information with the toilet seat device 2 and the server device 400. The user terminal 200 receives excretion information from the toilet seat device 2. The user terminal 200 transmits the excretion information obtained from the toilet seat device 2 to the server device 400. For example, the user terminal 200 associates the excretion information obtained from the toilet seat device 2 with the user identification information of the user using the user terminal 200 and transmits it to the server device 400.

[0046] Furthermore, the user terminal 200 requests information from the server device 400 and displays the information obtained from the server device 400. The user terminal 200 receives information related to the user's excretion from the server device 400 and displays the received information. For example, the user terminal 200 receives content showing the user's bowel movement data from the server device 400 and displays the received content.

[0047] The user terminal 200 has a display (display device) that shows various information related to the user's excretion, such as defecation data (excretion data). The user terminal 200 functions as a display terminal (display device) that shows various information provided by the toilet seat device 2. The user terminal 200 receives information indicating defecation data from the toilet seat device 2 or the server device 400 and displays the received information indicating defecation data. For example, the user terminal 200 displays the defecation data chronologically for each date and time of excretion.

[0048] The server device 400 is a computer that functions as a cloud (server) for storing information. The server device 400 is connected to the user terminal 200 via a predetermined network (network N), such as the Internet, via a wired or wireless connection. The server device 400 may be connected to the user terminal 200 in any way as long as it is capable of sending and receiving information; it may be connected via a wired connection or via a wireless connection. The server device 400 may also be able to communicate with the toilet seat device 2.

[0049] The server device 400 stores information received from the user terminal 200 in its storage unit. The server device 400 stores the excretion information obtained from the user terminal 200 in its storage unit in association with the user identification information.

[0050] The server device 400 is not limited to a cloud (server) but can be any device. In other words, the configuration and placement of the server device 400 can be any form as long as the desired processing can be achieved. For example, the server device 400 may be a portable terminal (device) such as a laptop computer that can be carried by the administrator of the information processing system 1. Alternatively, the server device 400 may be placed in the toilet room R. Note that the information processing system 1 does not have a server device 400. In this case, the information processing system 1 does not have a server device 400, and the toilet seat device 2 or the user terminal 200 may have the functions of the server device 400.

[0051] The above is merely an example, and the information processing system 1 can employ any device configuration as long as it can achieve the desired processing. For example, the operating device 10 may function as a display unit for displaying defecation data. Alternatively, both the operating device 10 and the user terminal 200 may be included in the information processing system 1 as devices that function as display units.

[0052] Information processing system 1 detects various properties of the user's stool, such as its shape, size, consistency, and color, through various configurations and processes described later. Information processing system 1 is a toilet system that can acquire stool information by detecting the user's defecation using an optical method, for example, optical means. Note that the configuration using optical means is just one example, and information processing system 1 may acquire stool information by various means other than optical means, as long as the desired information can be obtained.

[0053] <2. Configuration of the toilet seat device> Next, the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. Specifically, Figure 3 is a perspective view of the toilet seat device 2 viewed from the front. Note that the toilet lid 4 and the lid portion 103 are not shown in Figure 3.

[0054] Furthermore, Figure 3 shows the state in which the cleaning nozzle 6 (see Figure 1) is stored inside the main body cover 30 (also referred to as the "storage position"). Note that in Figure 3, when the cleaning nozzle 6 is stored inside the main body cover 30, the nozzle cover that conceals the cleaning nozzle 6 is not shown. As shown in Figure 3, when the cleaning nozzle 6 is in the storage position, the nozzle cover 60 is closed, and the cleaning nozzle 6 is hidden behind the nozzle cover 60. When cleaning is performed by the cleaning nozzle 6, the nozzle cover 60 opens, and the cleaning nozzle 6 protrudes from the opening in the main body cover 30 (the opening that is covered by the nozzle cover 60 in the closed state in Figure 3), and the cleaning nozzle 6 moves into the extended state.

[0055] The sensor head 110 (see Figure 5), which has a light-emitting unit 120 and a light-receiving unit 130, is optically exposed through an opening 31 in the main body cover 30. For example, the light-emitting unit 120 can irradiate light from the opening 31 toward the excrement in the toilet bowl 7, and the light-receiving unit 130 can receive reflected light from the excrement in the toilet bowl 7.

[0056] The opening 31 of the main body cover 30 is provided with a retractable cover 103 (see Figure 5). When the sensor unit 100 emits light or receives light, the cover 103 is open (hereinafter also referred to as the "open state"), and the light-emitting part 120 and light-receiving part 130 of the sensor unit 100 are optically exposed through the opening 31. When the sensor unit 100 does not emit light or receive light, the cover 103 is closed (hereinafter also referred to as the "closed state"), and the opening 31 is covered by the cover 103, with the cover 103 positioned in front of the sensor head 110. The "closed state" as used here refers to the state in which the front side of the sensor head 110 is covered by the cover 103, and also includes configurations in which parts other than the front of the sensor head 110 are open.

[0057] For example, the lid 103 can be positioned in front of the sensor head 110, which has a light-emitting part 120 and a light-receiving part 130, and can function as a lid. The lid 103 can be positioned on the side (front) facing the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting part 120 of the sensor head 110. The lid 103 can be positioned on the side (front) facing the light-receiving surface of the light-receiving part 130 of the sensor head 110. For example, when the lid 103 is open, the lid 103 is not positioned in front of the sensor head 110. As a result, when the lid 103 is open, the sensor head 110 is exposed. When the lid 103 is open, the light-emitting part 120 of the sensor head 110 can irradiate light toward the excrement in the toilet bowl 7, and the light-receiving part 130 of the sensor head 110 can receive reflected light from the excrement in the toilet bowl 7. As described above, the lid 103 is positioned in front of the sensor head 110 when closed, thereby covering the front of the sensor head 110, and is not positioned in front of the sensor head 110 when open, thereby leaving the front of the sensor head 110 open.

[0058] The cover portion 103 is provided in front of the sensor head 110 and is openable and closable. The cover portion 103 can transition between an open state and a closed state by a cover opening / closing mechanism 102. For example, the cover portion 103 is in a closed state when not measuring and is located in front of the sensor head 110. Also, the cover portion 103 is opened when measuring and moves to another location from in front of the sensor head 110. This prevents the cover portion 103 from becoming dirty and reducing the detection accuracy of the light receiving portion 130 of the sensor head 110. The cover portion 103 is preferably made of a non-transparent material to reduce the possibility of the sensor unit 100 being visible and to ensure user privacy. For example, the cover portion 103 may be made non-transparent by coloring. The cover portion 103 may have a non-transparent material (paint) applied to its surface.

[0059] As shown in Figure 3, the toilet seat device 2 has a configuration in which the sensor unit 100 is positioned adjacent to the washing nozzle 6. However, the sensor unit 100 is not limited to being positioned adjacent to the washing nozzle 6; it may be positioned at any location that enables the desired detection, and for example, the sensor unit 100 and the toilet seat device 2 may be separate entities.

[0060] <3. Functional configuration of the toilet seat device> Next, the functional configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the toilet seat device according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the toilet seat device 2 includes a human body detection sensor 32, a seating detection sensor 33, a control unit 34, a solenoid valve 71, a nozzle motor 61, a washing nozzle 6, and a sensor unit 100. Note that in Figure 4, some of the components of the toilet seat device 2 described in Figure 1 (such as the main body 3, toilet seat 5, and toilet bowl 7) are not shown.

[0061] For example, the human body detection sensor 32, the seating detection sensor 33, and the control unit 34 are provided in the main body 3 of the toilet seat device 2. Although not shown in the figures, the toilet seat device 2 has a communication unit that communicates with the user terminal 200 and the operating device 10. For example, the communication unit is implemented by a communication circuit or the like. For example, the communication unit is connected to a predetermined network by wire or wireless and transmits and receives information with information processing devices such as the user terminal 200 and the operating device 10. The communication unit may also be included in the sensor unit 100.

[0062] The human body detection sensor 32 has the function of detecting a human body. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 may be implemented by a pyroelectric sensor using an infrared signal. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 may be implemented by a microwave sensor. Note that the above is just an example, and the human body detection sensor 32 may detect a human body by various means, not limited to those described above. For example, the human body detection sensor 32 detects a person (user, etc.) who has entered the toilet room R (see Figure 1). The human body detection sensor 32 outputs a detection signal to the control unit 34. Note that the toilet seat device 2 does not necessarily have to have the human body detection sensor 32.

[0063] The seating detection sensor 33 has the function of detecting when a person sits on the toilet seat device 2. The seating detection sensor 33 detects when a user sits on the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 can detect when a user sits on the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 also functions as a seating departure detection sensor that detects when a user leaves the toilet seat 5. The seating detection sensor 33 detects the state of the user sitting on the toilet seat 5.

[0064] For example, the seat detection sensor 33 detects when a user sits on the toilet seat 5 using a load sensor. The seat detection sensor 33 is, for example, a switch (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "seat switch") that switches ON / OFF depending on the load of a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. Alternatively, for example, the seat detection sensor 33 may be an infrared light-emitting and receiving distance measuring sensor that detects a person (user) present near the toilet seat 5 immediately before the person sits on the toilet seat 5, or the user who has sat on the toilet seat 5. Note that the above is just an example, and the seat detection sensor 33 is not limited to the above and may detect a person sitting on the toilet seat device 2 by various means. The seat detection sensor 33 outputs a seat detection signal to the control unit 34.

[0065] The control unit 34 may be, for example, a control device that controls various configurations and processes. The control unit 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71. The control unit 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71 based on signals transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 based on control instruction signals related to localized cleaning transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 controls the nozzle motor 61 to move the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward. The control unit 34 controls the opening and closing of the solenoid valve 71.

[0066] The control unit 34 transmits control information to the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71 via a wired connection. Alternatively, the control unit 34 may transmit control information to the nozzle motor 61 and the solenoid valve 71 wirelessly. Furthermore, the control unit 34 may control the sensor unit 100. The control unit 34 may transmit control information to the sensor unit 100 and control the sensor unit 100. In this case, the control unit 34 may be integrated with the controller 101.

[0067] Furthermore, the control unit 34 controls the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 as shown in Figure 1. The control unit 34 controls the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 based on signals transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 controls the toilet lid 4 based on control instruction signals for opening and closing the toilet lid transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 controls the toilet seat 5 based on control instruction signals for opening and closing the toilet seat 5 transmitted from the operating device 10. The control unit 34 transmits control information to the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 via wired connection. Alternatively, the control unit 34 may transmit control information to the toilet lid 4 and toilet seat 5 wirelessly.

[0068] The control unit 34 determines whether or not the human body detection sensor 32 has detected a user entering the room. The control unit 34 determines whether or not the human body detection sensor 32 has detected a user entering the toilet room R. The control unit 34 determines whether or not the seating detection sensor 33 has detected a user sitting down. The control unit 34 determines whether or not the seating detection sensor 33 has detected a user sitting down on the toilet seat 5. The control unit 34 communicates with the sensor unit 100 and sends and receives information between them. For example, the control unit 34 transmits the determination results based on detections by various sensors such as the human body detection sensor 32 or the seating detection sensor 33 to the sensor unit 100. In this case, the controller 101 of the sensor unit 100 controls the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 and the sensor head 110 based on the information obtained from the control unit 34.

[0069] The nozzle motor 61 is a drive source (motor) that drives the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward. The nozzle motor 61 performs control to move the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward relative to the main body cover 30 of the main body 3. The nozzle motor 61 performs control to move the cleaning nozzle 6 forward and backward in response to instructions from the control unit 34.

[0070] The solenoid valve 71 has the function of a valve that controls the flow of fluid by electromagnetic means. The solenoid valve 71 switches the supply and stop of tap water from the water supply pipe, for example. The solenoid valve 71 performs opening and closing control in response to instructions from the control unit 34.

[0071] The sensor unit 100 comprises a controller 101, a lid opening / closing mechanism 102, and a sensor head 110. The sensor unit 100 functions as a waste detection device (waste measurement device). The sensor unit 100, which functions as a waste detection device, may be configured independently of the toilet seat device 2. The sensor unit 100 may also have a communication unit that communicates with the user terminal 200. For example, the communication unit of the sensor unit 100 is implemented by a communication circuit or the like. For example, the communication unit of the sensor unit 100 is connected to a predetermined network by wire or wireless and transmits and receives information with the user terminal 200.

[0072] The controller 101 functions as a control unit that controls the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 and the sensor head 110. For example, the controller 101 can be implemented by various means such as a processor like a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an integrated circuit like an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0073] The controller 101 may also perform control to open and close the lid 103. The controller 101 transmits control information to the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 (actuator, etc.) that opens and closes the lid 103 to an open state. The controller 101 transmits control information to the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 to close the lid 103 to a closed state. The controller 101 transmits control information to the sensor head 110 to control the lighting and extinguishing of the light-emitting unit 120.

[0074] The controller 101 transmits control information to the sensor head 110 to control the function of the electronic shutter of the light-receiving unit 130. The electronic shutter of the light-receiving unit 130 differs from a mechanical shutter such as a lens shutter; it uses an electronic control system to read out the exposure by electronically controlling the light-receiving element 132 (image sensor). In other words, the electronic shutter of the light-receiving unit 130 is a so-called electronic shutter or electronically controlled shutter. The controller 101 transmits the control information to the sensor head 110 via wired or wireless connection.

[0075] The controller 101 controls the illumination of light by the light-emitting unit 120 and the reception of light by the light-receiving unit 130. For example, the controller 101 controls the measurement process during the period when the seating detection sensor 33 detects that a user is seated on the toilet seat 5.

[0076] The controller 101 controls the irradiation of light by the light-emitting unit 120. The controller 101 controls the supply of power to the light-emitting element 121 and the application of voltage to the light-receiving element 132. The controller 101 sends a control instruction to the light-receiving element 132 to open the electronic shutter and supplies power to the light-emitting element 121, thereby performing light-receiving control to enable the reception of reflected light from the feces. The controller 101 controls the interval between the start of one light-receiving control and the execution of the next light-receiving control to any time (for example, 0.2 milliseconds or more) within the range in which control processing is possible. Note that the controller 101 controls the irradiation of light by multiple light-emitting elements 121 during the measurement process, which will be explained in Figures 7 and 8.

[0077] Furthermore, the controller 101 determines the characteristics of the stool from the light-receiving result by the light-receiving unit 130. The controller 101 determines the characteristics of the user's stool by appropriately using various technologies for detecting the characteristics of stool by optical methods. Based on the stool image, the controller 101 determines the characteristics of the stool, such as shape, quantity, and color, corresponding to the stool image. For example, the controller 101 determines the characteristics of the stool by data analysis based on arithmetic processing using basic arithmetic operations. For example, the controller 101 determines the characteristics of the stool by data analysis based on arithmetic processing using machine learning. For example, the controller 101 determines the characteristics of the stool by data analysis based on arithmetic processing using image processing such as AI (artificial intelligence).

[0078] For example, the controller 101 determines the properties of the stool using a stool properties determination program stored in the memory unit. For example, the memory unit is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by the stool properties determination program. The memory unit stores various information used for stool-related determination processing, such as stool properties. For example, the memory unit stores thresholds used for stool-related determination processing. For example, it stores various models (determination models) used for stool-related determination. For example, it stores various determination models used for determining the shape, color, and quantity of stool. The controller 101 determines the properties of the stool using the various information stored in the memory unit.

[0079] The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 is a drive source (motor) that opens or closes the lid 103. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 performs control to open or close the lid 103 in response to instructions from the controller 101. For example, the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 closes the lid 103 when light reception by the light receiving unit 130 is not required, such as when no measurement is being performed.

[0080] The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 positions the lid 103 in an open state at a position that does not intersect with the central axis of the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 120. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 positions the lid 103 outside the half-angle range of the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 120 in an open state. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 opens the lid 103 upward when it is placed on the toilet bowl 7. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 closes the lid 103 when the flushing nozzle 6 is in operation. The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 closes the lid 103 when the flushing nozzle 6 installed on the toilet bowl 7 is in operation.

[0081] The sensor head 110 comprises a housing portion 111 (see Figure 5), which is a sensor case; a transparent window 112 (see Figure 5), which is a transparent window; a substrate 113 (see Figure 5), which is a sensor substrate; a light-emitting portion 120; and a light-receiving portion 130. The sensor head 110 functions as a detection unit (excrement detection unit) that detects information about excrement using the light-receiving portion 130. For example, the sensor head 110 is a detection unit that detects information about falling feces. The housing portion 111 is a case that houses the light-emitting portion 120 and the light-receiving portion 130 in an open front configuration. The transparent window 112 covers the front of the housing portion 111. The arrangement configuration of the sensor unit 100, including the details of the sensor head 110 configuration, will be explained in Figure 5.

[0082] The light-emitting unit 120 emits light. The light-emitting unit 120 has a plurality of light-emitting elements 121 that emit light in different wavelength bands and a lens 122 that acts as a light-emitting lens. The light-emitting unit 120 controls the way in which light is emitted by the plurality of light-emitting elements 121 using the lens 122.

[0083] The light-emitting unit 120 irradiates light into the bowl portion 8. The light-emitting unit 120 irradiates light onto objects such as excrement (feces) falling into the bowl portion 8. For example, the light-emitting unit 120 has a light-emitting element 121 that emits light. The light-emitting unit 120 has a light-emitting element 121 that is positioned to emit light downwards. In the example of Figure 4, the light-emitting unit 120 has at least three light-emitting elements 121. For example, the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in Figure 4 each emit light of a different wavelength. Each light-emitting element 121 emits light diagonally downwards.

[0084] For example, one of the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in Figure 4 (also referred to as the "first type light-emitting element 121") emits light with the shortest wavelength among the three light-emitting elements 121 (also referred to as the "first wavelength"). For example, the first type light-emitting element 121 emits light with a wavelength of 590 nm. Note that the light emitted by the first type light-emitting element 121 is not limited to the first wavelength, but may also include light in the wavelength region around the first wavelength (also referred to as the "first wavelength region"). The first wavelength region may be the wavelength region (wavelength band) corresponding to yellow to orange.

[0085] Furthermore, for example, of the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in Figure 4, one of the three light-emitting elements 121 other than the first type of light-emitting element 121 (also referred to as the "second type of light-emitting element 121") emits light with a wavelength longer than the first wavelength (also referred to as the "second wavelength"). For example, the second type of light-emitting element 121 emits light with a wavelength of 670 nm. Note that the light emitted by the second type of light-emitting element 121 is not limited to the second wavelength, but may also include light in the wavelength region around the second wavelength (also referred to as the "second wavelength region"). The second wavelength region may be the wavelength region (wavelength band) corresponding to red.

[0086] Furthermore, for example, of the three light-emitting elements 121 shown in Figure 4, one of the three elements other than the first and second type 121 (also referred to as the "third type 121") emits light with the longest wavelength among the three elements (also referred to as the "third wavelength"). For example, the third type 121 emits light with a wavelength of 870 nm. Note that the light emitted by the third type 121 is not limited to the third wavelength, but may also include light in the wavelength region around the third wavelength (also referred to as the "third wavelength region"). The third wavelength region may be a wavelength region (wavelength band) corresponding to infrared (e.g., near-infrared).

[0087] The specific numerical values ​​for the first, second, and third wavelengths mentioned above are merely examples, and the wavelengths are not limited to these. Similarly, the specific numerical values ​​for the first, second, and third wavelength regions mentioned above are merely examples, and the wavelength regions are not limited to these. For example, the first, second, and third wavelengths can be any wavelength as long as the relationship described above is satisfied, where the first wavelength is the shortest and the third wavelength is the longest (i.e., first wavelength < second wavelength < third wavelength). Thus, among the first, second, and third wavelengths, if the first wavelength is the shortest and the third wavelength is the longest, then any wavelengths can be used for the first, second, and third wavelengths. When describing the first, second, and third type light-emitting elements 121 without making a particular distinction, they may be simply referred to as light-emitting elements 121.

[0088] In the example described above, the case where there is one of each type 1, type 2, and type 3 light-emitting element 121 was explained as an example, but each of the type 1, type 2, and type 3 light-emitting elements 121 may be provided in multiples. For example, the light-emitting unit 120 may have multiple type 1 light-emitting elements 121, multiple type 2 light-emitting elements 121, or multiple type 3 light-emitting elements 121. In other words, the light-emitting unit 120 may have any number (for example, three or more) of light-emitting elements 121, as long as it has at least one of each type 1, type 2, and type 3 light-emitting elements 121.

[0089] The light-receiving unit 130 receives light. The light-receiving unit 130 has a lens 131 as a light-receiving lens and a light-receiving element 132 that receives light. For example, the light-receiving unit 130 receives reflected light from an object in response to light irradiated by the light-emitting unit 120. For example, the light-receiving unit 130 receives reflected light from falling excrement (feces), etc. Note that the light-receiving unit 130 receives reflected light from various objects, not just feces.

[0090] For example, the light-receiving element 132 is a line sensor. For example, the light-receiving element 132 is a line sensor in which CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensors or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensors are arranged in a line. Note that the light-receiving element 132 is not limited to a line sensor (one-dimensional image sensor), but various other sensors such as area sensors (two-dimensional image sensors) may be used.

[0091] Here, an example of the configuration of the controller 101 will be described. For example, the controller 101 may have various components such as an arithmetic unit (e.g., an arithmetic processing unit) that performs control-related calculations and a storage unit (e.g., memory, which will be described later). For example, the arithmetic processing unit can be implemented by various means such as a processor such as a CPU, MPU, or ASIC, or an integrated circuit such as an FPGA. In the following, an example will be described in which the controller 101 has an AD converter, an arithmetic processing unit, ROM (Read Only Memory), and memory.

[0092] The ADConverter is a so-called A / D converter (analog-to-digital conversion circuit) and has the function of converting analog signals into digital signals. The ADConverter may also be an analog-to-digital conversion circuit. For example, the ADConverter converts analog data received (detected) by the light receiving unit 130 into digital data. The ADConverter may convert analog data into digital data after deleting data within a predetermined range from the analog data. For example, the ADConverter may retain only the data corresponding to pixels in a preset range (for example, a predetermined range in the center) and delete the data corresponding to pixels in the remaining range. In the case where a dedicated sensor such as a line sensor with a set number of pixels etc. for excrement detection is used for the light receiving element 132, the ADConverter converts the entire analog data into digital data without deleting data within a predetermined range.

[0093] An arithmetic processing unit (ACU) is implemented by various means such as a CPU or microcontroller and performs various processes. For example, an ACU performs various processes using digital data converted by an ADConverter. An ACU also performs various processes using programs stored in ROM (for example, various programs related to detection processes such as object detection programs and excrement detection programs). For example, an ACU is implemented by executing programs stored in ROM using a temporary storage area within the ACU as a working area.

[0094] The arithmetic processing unit analyzes the data. The arithmetic processing unit analyzes the data temporarily stored in memory. The arithmetic processing unit transfers the data received by the light receiving unit 130 to memory, analyzes the data stored in memory, and deletes it.

[0095] ROM stores various programs related to detection processing, such as object detection programs and excrement detection programs.

[0096] Memory is an internal memory (storage device) that temporarily stores various types of data. Memory stores data received by the light receiving unit 130. Memory stores digital data converted by the ADConverter. For example, memory is SRAM (Static Random Access Memory). Note that memory is not limited to SRAM; other types of RAM (Random Access Memory) such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or ROM capable of high-speed processing such as PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory) may be used.

[0097] The memory stores data in accordance with the control of the processing unit. For example, memory may be a storage device with a storage capacity of 96 kilobytes or 512 kilobytes. The data received by the light receiving unit 130 and temporarily stored in the memory includes raw data (analog data) detected by the light receiving unit 130 and data processed by A / D conversion (digital data).

[0098] <4. Example of Sensor Unit Configuration> From here, the various configurations of the sensor unit will be explained with reference to Figure 5. Note that the various configurations of the sensor unit 100, including the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130, are not limited to those shown in Figure 5, and any configuration that enables the desired detection may be adopted. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the sensor unit.

[0099] The lid opening / closing mechanism 102 and the sensor head 110 are positioned on the front side of the sensor unit 100. In the example shown in Figure 5, the lid opening / closing mechanism 102 and the sensor head 110 are positioned in front of the controller 101. The light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 are supported by the housing 111. The housing 111 is made of a non-transparent material. The housing 111 may be made of various materials as long as it can support the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130.

[0100] In the example shown in Figure 5, the housing 111 supports the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 such that the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 are optically exposed on one side of the housing 111 (hereinafter also referred to as the "front side"). For example, the housing 111 supports the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 such that the lens 122 of the light-emitting unit 120 and the lens 131 of the light-receiving unit 130 are optically exposed.

[0101] The housing 111 is a case that houses the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 in such a manner that the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 are exposed on the front side. The housing 111 houses the light-emitting unit 120 with its light-emitting surface facing the front side. The housing 111 houses the light-receiving unit 130 with its light-receiving surface facing the front side. The transparent window 112 is a transparent window provided on the front side of the housing 111.

[0102] Each light-emitting element 121 of the light-emitting unit 120 emits light towards the front side of the housing unit 111, and the light-receiving unit 130 receives light from the front side of the housing unit 111. For example, the light-emitting unit 120 and the light-receiving unit 130 are connected to a power supply device (not shown) on the side opposite to the front (rear) of the housing unit 111, and power is supplied to them.

[0103] In the example shown in Figure 5, the light-emitting unit 120 has four light-emitting elements 121-1, 121-2, 121-3, and 121-4 and a lens 122. In Figure 5, the lens 122 is a cylindrical lens provided in front of the multiple light-emitting elements 121. Note that the lens 122 shown in Figure 5 is merely an example, and the lens 122 can be any optical material as long as it can achieve the desired light focusing.

[0104] In the following, unless otherwise specified, the light-emitting elements 121-1, 121-2, 121-3, 121-4, etc., will be referred to simply as "light-emitting element 121". For example, light-emitting element 121 is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). Note that light-emitting element 121 is not limited to LEDs; various other elements may be used. Note that the four light-emitting elements 121 are merely examples, and the number of light-emitting elements 121 is not limited to four, as long as the desired light can be emitted. In Figure 5, four light-emitting elements 121 are arranged on the substrate 113.

[0105] For example, light-emitting element 121-1 may be a first-type light-emitting element 121, light-emitting elements 121-2 and 121-3 may be second-type light-emitting elements 121, and light-emitting element 121-4 may be a third-type light-emitting element 121. Note that the above is merely an example, and any combination of numbers is acceptable as long as there is at least one of each type of light-emitting element 121 (first-type, second-type, and third-type).

[0106] The light-receiving unit 130 includes a lens 131 and a light-receiving element 132, which is a line sensor. When viewed from the front, the light-receiving element 132 is located behind (rear of) the lens 131. For example, the light-receiving element 132 may be placed on a substrate 113 that is common to the light-emitting element 121.

[0107] <5. Relationship between user and device operation> Here, an example of the relationship between the person using the toilet room R (user) and the operation of the equipment will be explained using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the user and the operation of the equipment. The lid 103 transitions between an open state and a closed state by the drive of the lid opening / closing mechanism 102. In Figure 6, the lids are described as 103-1 to 103-6 depending on the operation of the equipment, but unless otherwise specified, they will simply be referred to as "lid 103".

[0108] First, in Figure 6, when a user using the toilet room R sits on the toilet seat 5, the toilet seat device 2 detects that a person is seated. At this stage, the lid 103 is in the closed state, as shown in lid 103-1 in Figure 6.

[0109] Subsequently, if the user of toilet room R agrees to the recording after undergoing personal authentication, the toilet seat device 2 opens the lid 103 and begins waiting for fecal fall detection. At this stage, the lid 103 transitions to the open state as shown in lid 103-2 of Figure 6.

[0110] Subsequently, when a user of toilet room R defecates, the toilet seat device 2 detects the dropping of feces and begins measurement. The measurement continues for, for example, 10 seconds. During this stage, i.e., the measurement period, the lid 103 remains open as shown in lid 103-3 of Figure 6, and light is shone into the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8). After the measurement, the device resumes waiting for feces detection and dropping. At this stage, the shone of light into the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8) stops, and the lid 103 remains open as shown in lid 103-2 of Figure 6.

[0111] Furthermore, when a user of toilet room R starts washing their buttocks, the toilet seat device 2 closes the lid 103, puts the washing nozzle 6 into use, and starts washing with the washing nozzle 6. During this stage, that is, while the washing nozzle 6 is in use, the lid 103 is in a closed state as shown in lid 103-4 of Figure 6.

[0112] Furthermore, when the user of toilet room R finishes washing their buttocks, the toilet seat device 2 opens the lid 103 and begins waiting for fecal fall detection. At this stage, the lid 103 transitions to the open state as shown in lid 103-5 of Figure 6.

[0113] Furthermore, when a user of the toilet room R leaves the toilet seat 5, the toilet seat device 2 detects that the person has left the seat. The toilet seat device 2 then closes the lid 103 and ends the waiting period for fecal fall detection. At this stage, the lid 103 transitions to the closed state as shown in lid 103-6 of Figure 6. The toilet seat device 2 then begins data transfer and analysis. Note that the above processing flow is merely an example, and the relationship between the person (user) using the toilet room R and the operation of the equipment is not limited to the above. For example, in preparation for the case where the user of the toilet room R defecates several times (multiple times of defecation), the toilet seat device 2 is set to detect and measure fecal fall up to three times. For example, if three measurements are completed before the user of the toilet room R leaves the toilet seat 5, the lid 103 may be closed at that point, ending the waiting period for fecal fall detection, and data transfer and analysis may be performed.

[0114] In the example shown in Figure 6, the lid 103 opens and closes relative to the main body cover 30, using one end adjacent to the upper end of the opening 31 of the main body cover 30 as its axis, and operates in the vertical direction. However, the configuration of the lid 103 is not limited to the example shown in Figure 6 and can be in various forms. For example, the lid 103 may be stored in a storage compartment provided on the upper end side of the opening 31 of the main body cover 30. For example, the lid 103 may be configured like a shutter (window shutter) made up of several elongated members connected together. Alternatively, for example, the lid 103 may open and close relative to the main body cover 30, using one end adjacent to the lateral end of the opening 31 of the main body cover 30 as its axis, and operates in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, for example, the lid 103 can be separated into multiple parts and is not limited to a single-opening configuration but may also be a double-opening configuration.

[0115] <6. Measurement Process> Next, the specific operation of the measurement process will be explained with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the flow of the measurement process. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a time chart for the measurement process. First, let's explain each element shown in Figure 7. Object OB1 schematically represents the fecal excrement to be detected (measured). The light receiving device PD is a light receiving unit 130 having a light receiving element 132, such as a line sensor.

[0116] Furthermore, light-emitting device LE1 is a first-type light-emitting element 121, light-emitting device LE2 is a second-type light-emitting element 121, and light-emitting device LE3 is a third-type light-emitting element 121. For example, light-emitting device LE1 emits light with a wavelength of 590 nm as the first wavelength light. Light-emitting device LE2 emits light with a wavelength of 670 nm as the second wavelength light. Light-emitting device LE3 emits light with a wavelength of 870 nm as the third wavelength light. Note that the wavelengths are merely examples, and any wavelength can be used as long as the relationship between the first, second, and third wavelengths is satisfied as described above. Also, in the following, when describing light-emitting devices LE1 to LE3 without making a particular distinction, they may be referred to as "light-emitting device LE".

[0117] Figure 7 conceptually illustrates the measurement process in which light from a light-emitting device LE is shone onto a falling object OB1, and the results of the light reception by a light-receiving device PD are collected. The dotted line extending from the light-emitting device LE to the object OB1 schematically shows the irradiation of light from the light-emitting device LE to the object OB1, and the dotted line extending from the object OB1 to the light-receiving device PD schematically shows the reflected light from the object OB1 that the light-receiving device PD receives. In addition, the horizontal line overlapping the object OB1 schematically shows the range (one-dimensional) of the object OB1 detected by the corresponding light emission and reception.

[0118] The measurement process flow will be explained below with reference to Figure 7. In the example in Figure 7, the measurement process is conceptually shown in which light from the light-emitting device LE is irradiated onto a falling object OB1, and the results of the light reception by the light-receiving device PD are collected.

[0119] First, steps S1 to S3 in Figure 7 show the light emission by the light-emitting device LE and the light reception by the light-receiving device PD during the measurement process. In step S1, the light-emitting device LE1 emits light of the first wavelength, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1. In the example in Figure 7, the light-emitting device LE1 emits light with a wavelength of 590 nm, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1.

[0120] Then, in step S2, the light-emitting device LE3 emits light of the third wavelength, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1. In the example in Figure 7, the light-emitting device LE3 emits light of a wavelength of 870 nm, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1.

[0121] Then, in step S3, the light-emitting device LE2 emits light of the second wavelength, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1. In the example in Figure 7, the light-emitting device LE2 emits light of a wavelength of 670 nm, and the light-receiving device PD receives the reflected light from the object OB1. The toilet seat device 2 repeats steps S1 to S3 until a predetermined period of time (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed.

[0122] Here, the processing flow described above will be explained using the time chart in Figure 8. In Figure 8, the processing from time t11, which is 3.3 milliseconds, to time t12 (hereinafter also referred to as "scan unit processing") is performed until a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed. The scan unit processing in Figure 8 corresponds to steps S1 to S3 in Figure 7. In this way, the toilet seat device 2 sequentially lights up the light-emitting device LE and sequentially acquires reflected luminance data for each light source wavelength.

[0123] Waveform LN11 in Figure 8 indicates the presence or absence of 590nm light emission. When wave LN11 is ON (i.e., rising), 590nm light emission occurs, and when it is OFF (i.e., falling), 590nm light emission does not occur. Waveform LN12 in Figure 8 indicates the presence or absence of 870nm light emission. When wave LN12 is ON, 870nm light emission occurs, and when it is OFF, 870nm light emission does not occur. Waveform LN13 in Figure 8 indicates the presence or absence of 670nm light emission. When wave LN13 is ON, 670nm light emission occurs, and when it is OFF, 670nm light emission does not occur.

[0124] Waveform LN14 in Figure 8 indicates whether or not exposure occurred. When waveform LN14 is rising, it indicates that exposure occurred, and when it is falling, it indicates that exposure did not occur. Waveform LN15 in Figure 8 indicates whether or not A / D conversion occurred. When waveform LN15 is rising, it indicates that A / D conversion occurred, and when it is falling, it indicates that A / D conversion did not occur.

[0125] The waveform LN16 in Figure 8 indicates whether data is being saved or not. When the waveform LN16 is rising, it indicates that the process of saving data to internal memory is being performed, and when it is falling, it indicates that the process of saving data to internal memory is not being performed.

[0126] As shown in Figure 8, the measurement process involves emission of light at 590 nm, 670 nm, and 870 nm. In the scan unit process, light is emitted once for each of the 590 nm, 670 nm, and 870 nm wavelengths. In other words, in the measurement process, the light emitters LE1, LE2, and LE3 emit light in sequence. Note that Figure 8 is merely an example, and the order of emission in the scan unit process is not limited to the case shown in Figure 8; any order is acceptable.

[0127] Furthermore, exposure is performed by the light-receiving device PD in response to light emission (irradiation of light by the light-emitting device LE). For example, the light-receiving device PD performs exposure by electronically controlling the light-receiving element 132 (image sensor) with an electronic shutter. Note that the above electronic shutter is merely one example, and the light-receiving device PD may perform exposure by any means as long as exposure at the desired interval is possible.

[0128] In the example shown in Figure 8, light emission and corresponding exposure occur in the order of 590 nm, 870 nm, and 670 nm. After exposure by the photodetector PD, the analog data detected by the photodetector PD is converted to digital data (A / D conversion). For example, in the toilet seat device 2, after exposure by the photodetector PD is completed, the ADConverter converts the analog data to digital data.

[0129] After the A / D conversion is complete, the toilet seat device 2 saves the data to its internal memory, which is, for example, the memory mentioned above. For example, after the conversion of analog data to digital data by the ADConverter is complete, the arithmetic processing unit of the controller 101 is controlled to start transferring data to the memory. As a result, the digital data corresponding to the light emitted by the light-emitting device LE3 is stored in the memory. The toilet seat device 2 then repeats the scan unit processing for 10 seconds to collect data.

[0130] An example of scan unit processing is described below. In the example shown in Figure 8, the toilet seat device 2 first emits light at 590 nm and performs the corresponding exposure. Then, the toilet seat device 2 converts the analog data corresponding to the 590 nm light emission detected by the light receiving device PD into digital data (A / D conversion). After the A / D conversion is complete, the toilet seat device 2 saves the 590 nm digital data to its internal memory.

[0131] After processing at 590nm, the toilet seat device 2 performs 870nm emission and corresponding exposure. Then, the toilet seat device 2 converts the analog data corresponding to the 870nm emission detected by the photodetector PD into digital data (A / D conversion). After the A / D conversion is complete, the toilet seat device 2 saves the 870nm digital data to its internal memory.

[0132] After processing at 670nm, the toilet seat device 2 performs 670nm emission and corresponding exposure. Then, the toilet seat device 2 converts the analog data corresponding to the 670nm emission detected by the light receiving device PD into digital data (A / D conversion). After the A / D conversion is complete, the toilet seat device 2 saves the 670nm digital data to its internal memory. If 10 seconds have not elapsed, the toilet seat device 2 repeats the scan unit processing again.

[0133] As described above, in the measurement process, the toilet seat device 2 sequentially irradiates light of three wavelengths: a first wavelength (e.g., 590 nm), a second wavelength (e.g., 670 nm), and a third wavelength (e.g., 870 nm), and acquires data. In other words, in the measurement process, the toilet seat device 2 sequentially emits light from the first type light-emitting element 121 (light-emitting device LE1), the second type light-emitting element 121 (light-emitting device LE2), and the third type light-emitting element 121 (light-emitting device LE3), and acquires data.

[0134] The emission wavelengths in each of the above modes are merely examples, and any emission wavelength can be used; the toilet seat device 2 may emit various types of light.

[0135] <7. Method for acquiring data from the measurement process> Next, the specific operation of the data acquisition method for the measurement process will be explained with reference to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the data acquisition method. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in Figures 7 and 8 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0136] First, the object OB1 and the light receiving device PD are the same as in Figure 7, so their explanation will be omitted. The light-emitting device LE is the light-emitting element 121. In Figure 9, for the sake of simplicity, the case of one light-emitting device LE (emitting light at one wavelength) will be explained as an example. Thus, Figure 9 schematically illustrates the process of acquiring monochrome image data through the emission and reception of light from one of the light-emitting devices LE1 to LE3, i.e., the first type light-emitting element 121, the second type light-emitting element 121, and the third type light-emitting element 121.

[0137] In the example in Figure 9, scene SN1 conceptually illustrates the process of illuminating a falling object OB1 with light from the light-emitting device LE at time t1, and the light-receiving device PD processing the light. The data acquired in scene SN1 (time t1) corresponds to the one-dimensional image PI1 of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) the one-dimensional image PI1 through the emission and reception of light in scene SN1 (time t1).

[0138] Furthermore, the data acquired at time t2 corresponds to the one-dimensional image PI2 within the two-dimensional image EI. That is, the toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) the one-dimensional image PI2 due to light emission and reception at time t2. The data at time t2 is the data acquired immediately after the data at time t1. Therefore, the toilet seat device 2 generates the two-dimensional image EI by arranging the one-dimensional image PI2 in sequence with the one-dimensional image PI1.

[0139] Also, Scene SNi is time t i In this example, light from the light-emitting device LE is irradiated onto a falling object OB1, and the processing of the received light by the light-receiving device PD is conceptually shown. Scene SNi (time t) i The data acquired in ) corresponds to the one-dimensional image PIi of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, scene SNi (time t i The toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) a one-dimensional image PIi through light emission and light reception.

[0140] Also, scene SNj is time t j In this example, light from the light-emitting device LE is shone onto a falling object OB1, and the processing of the light received by the light-receiving device PD is conceptually shown. Scene SNj (time t j The data acquired in ) corresponds to the one-dimensional image PIj of the two-dimensional image EI. That is, scene SNj (time t j The toilet seat device 2 acquires (detects) a one-dimensional image PIj through light emission and light reception.

[0141] The toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image (feces information) by arranging the one-dimensional images (received light data) in the order in which they were acquired. In Figure 9, the toilet seat device 2 generates the two-dimensional image EI by arranging the one-dimensional images PI1, PI2..., PIi..., PIj... in that order.

[0142] In the example described above, the case where light emission is at a single wavelength was explained as an example. However, when light emission is performed at multiple wavelengths, the toilet seat device 2 generates toilet information (two-dimensional image) by arranging the data (one-dimensional image) acquired over time for each emitted wavelength in a time series. This point will be explained using the case where each of the first type light-emitting element 121, the second type light-emitting element 121, and the third type light-emitting element 121 emits and receives light as an example.

[0143] In this case, the toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image corresponding to the first type light-emitting element 121 by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from the first type light-emitting element 121 in chronological order. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates toilet information (first two-dimensional image) corresponding to the first wavelength by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from a first wavelength such as 590 nm in chronological order.

[0144] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image corresponding to the second type of light-emitting element 121 by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from the second type of light-emitting element 121 in chronological order. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates toilet information (a second two-dimensional image) corresponding to the second wavelength by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from a second wavelength such as 670 nm in chronological order.

[0145] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 generates a two-dimensional image corresponding to the third type light-emitting element 121 by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light from the third type light-emitting element 121 in chronological order. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates toilet information (a third two-dimensional image) corresponding to the third wavelength by arranging the received light data (one-dimensional image) obtained by emitting light at a third wavelength such as 870 nm in chronological order.

[0146] In this way, the toilet seat device 2 can acquire a color image by generating three two-dimensional images for each wavelength corresponding to the first type light-emitting element 121, the second type light-emitting element 121, and the third type light-emitting element 121, respectively. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may generate a color image by combining the first two-dimensional image, the second two-dimensional image, and the third two-dimensional image described above.

[0147] <8. Data Analysis Methods> From here, we will explain an example of a data analysis method using Figure 10. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data analysis method. Figure 10 shows a case where multiple detection images are acquired in a time series. Note that Figure 10 shows three detection images P11, P12, and P13, but the number of detection images may depend on the number of detections.

[0148] Detection image P11 shows the detection image acquired during the first detection. Specifically, detection image P11 includes two objects, object OB11 and object OB12, which correspond to the stool expelled during the user's first act of defecation.

[0149] Detection image P12 shows the detection image acquired during the second detection. Specifically, detection image P12 includes two objects: object OB21, which corresponds to the stool expelled during the user's second defecation, and object OB22, which corresponds to urine.

[0150] Detection image P13 shows the detection image acquired during the last (third) detection. Specifically, detection image P13 includes two objects: object OB31, which corresponds to the stool expelled during the user's last defecation, and object OB32, which corresponds to the toilet paper. If more than three detections are performed, four or more detections may be performed.

[0151] The toilet seat device 2 generates information about feces by analyzing detection images such as detection images P11, P12, and P13. For example, the toilet seat device 2 analyzes detection images such as P11, P12, and P13 and obtains information about feces by detecting the outer periphery (edges, contours) of the feces. As a result, the toilet seat device 2 generates feces images by removing everything except the feces from the detection images. In Figure 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates feces images P21, P22, and P23 by removing everything except the feces from detection images P11, P12, and P13, respectively.

[0152] The toilet seat device 2 generates a stool image P21 by detecting the outer periphery of object OB11 and object OB12, which correspond to each of the two stools contained in the detection image P11. The toilet seat device 2 also generates a stool image P22 by detecting the outer periphery of object OB21, which corresponds to the stool, excluding object OB22, which is not stool, from the two objects OB21 and OB22 contained in the detection image P12. The toilet seat device 2 also generates a stool image P23 by detecting the outer periphery of object OB31, which corresponds to the stool, excluding object OB32, which is not stool, from the two objects OB31 and OB32 contained in the detection image P13.

[0153] The toilet seat device 2 generates various types of information by analyzing stool images such as stool images P21, P22, and P23. For example, the toilet seat device 2 quantifies features using the stool images contained in stool images such as stool images P21, P22, and P23. In Figure 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates information (also called "feature information") that quantifies features FT such as length (height), thickness (width), number of stools, number of wrinkle pixels, and brightness of each color component. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates feature information including the length and width of each stool from objects OB11, OB12, OB21, and OB31. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates feature information including the length and width of each stool using the pixel information corresponding to objects OB11, OB12, and each stool. Furthermore, in Figure 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates feature information indicating that there are four pieces of feces, since objects OB11, OB12, OB21, and OB31 are feces.

[0154] The toilet seat device 2 generates data indicating the properties of stool through calculations (operations) using the generated feature information. For example, the toilet seat device 2 generates information indicating the properties of stool, such as the shape of the stool, the amount of stool, the color of the stool, and whether or not blood is present (also called "stool property information"). In Figure 10, the toilet seat device 2 generates stool property information DT, which indicates, for example, the shape of the stool classified in 7 stages, the amount of stool classified in 3 stages, the color of the stool classified in 6 stages, and whether or not blood is present, indicating whether or not it appears red. For example, the shape of the stool may be classified into 7 types based on the Bristol Stool Scale. For example, the shape of the stool may be classified into 7 types (stages): hard, lumpy, cracked, banana-shaped, soft, muddy, and watery. For example, the amount of stool may be classified into 3 types (stages): small, medium, and large. For example, the color of the stool may be classified into 6 types (stages): yellow, light ochre, ochre, brown, dark brown, and dark brown.

[0155] The toilet seat device 2 determines the characteristics of the stool from the detection results by sensors. The toilet seat device 2 determines the characteristics of the user's stool by appropriately using various technologies for detecting the characteristics of stool using optical methods. The toilet seat device 2 determines the characteristics of the stool corresponding to the stool image based on the stool image. For example, the toilet seat device 2 uses the stool image to determine the characteristics of the stool, such as shape, quantity, and color, corresponding to the stool image. For example, the toilet seat device 2 uses various features extracted from the stool image to determine the characteristics of the stool, such as shape, quantity, and color, corresponding to the stool image. For example, the toilet seat device 2 determines the characteristics of the stool by data analysis based on calculations using arithmetic operations. For example, the toilet seat device 2 classifies the shape, quantity, color, blood contamination, etc., corresponding to the stool image according to the comparison result between values ​​indicating various features extracted from the stool image and thresholds.

[0156] The toilet seat device 2 may determine the properties of stool by any processing method, as long as it can generate the information indicating the properties of stool as described above. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine the properties of stool using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may determine the properties of stool using a learning model (properties determination model) generated by machine learning. In this case, the properties determination model is trained in advance using training data that indicates classification judgments. This training data includes multiple combinations of stool images and labels (correct information) that indicate the properties (shape, quantity, color, etc.) of the lumps (stool) contained in the stool images. For example, the properties determination model is a model that takes a stool image as input and outputs information indicating the properties (shape, quantity, color, etc.) of the lumps (stool) contained in the input stool image. For example, the properties determination model is trained to output information of a label (properties of stool) corresponding to the input stool image when a stool image is input. The training of the properties determination model is carried out using various methods related to so-called supervised learning as appropriate. In this case, the properties determination model is stored in the memory unit, and the toilet seat device 2 may use the properties determination model stored in the memory unit to determine the properties of the stool. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may perform a learning process to generate a properties determination model. Note that the above is merely an example, and the toilet seat device 2 may use various information as appropriate to determine the properties of the stool.

[0157] <9. Processing based on point detection> The following describes the processing based on the detection of two different points in the height direction and the configuration for realizing this processing. Points similar to those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted; this section mainly describes points related to two-point detection.

[0158] <9-1. Overview of 2-point detection> First, we will explain an example of a configuration overview for two-point detection using Figure 11. Figure 11 is a conceptual diagram showing the detection of two points that are different in the height direction.

[0159] A light-receiving element consists of one or more light-receiving pixels, which are the unit units for photoelectric conversion, arranged in a grid. Examples include area sensors with multiple light-receiving pixels arranged in two dimensions, line sensors with multiple pixels arranged in a straight line, and photodiodes composed of a single light-receiving pixel. The size of the light-receiving pixel is generally 1 to 5 μm for area sensors and 5 to 20 μm for line sensors. The detection range of a light-receiving element (light-receiving pixel) is determined by the size of the light-receiving pixel and the characteristics (magnification) of the lens. For example, the light-receiving unit (light-receiving element and lens) is set up so that the range of light received by one light-receiving pixel (the range of one pixel in the image) corresponds to a 1 mm x 1 mm area of ​​feces in the virtual fall position (the area where feces fall within the bowl). In other words, one light-receiving pixel is set to receive reflected light from a 1 mm x 1 mm area of ​​feces. For example, if the lateral (left-right) range of the virtual fall location relative to the light-receiving area is 100 mm, arranging 100 light-receiving pixels horizontally will allow for the reception of reflected light from the entire lateral range of the virtual fall location. No matter where the feces fall within the virtual fall location, the reflected light will be received without any omission. The range in which a light-receiving pixel receives reflected light does not have to be the same length in the vertical (height) and horizontal (left-right) directions, such as 1 mm x 1 mm; either the vertical or horizontal direction may be longer.

[0160] As shown in Figure 11, the toilet seat device 2 is configured to detect two different points in the height direction of the feces falling into the bowl 8. Specifically, the sensor head 110 of the toilet seat device 2 has a light-receiving unit positioned to detect two different points in the height direction between a first height position FP of the falling feces VF in Figure 11 and a second height position SP located below the first height position FP. The falling feces VF in Figure 11 schematically represents feces falling to a virtual falling position. The distance DE between the first height position FP and the second height position SP is set so that sufficient measurement of the falling feces is possible. Here, the speed of the falling feces varies, and in the case of fast feces, it can be as fast as about 1 m / s. Therefore, the distance DE is set so that sufficient measurement of feces at any speed is possible. For example, the distance DE is set to 10 mm. Note that 10 mm is just an example, and the distance DE may be set to a value greater than 10 mm or a value less than 10 mm as long as sufficient measurement of the falling feces is possible. The distance DE between the first height position FP and the second height position SP at the virtual drop location is determined by the arrangement of the photodetectors and the characteristics of the lenses.

[0161] Furthermore, the virtual drop position can be set to any position (range). For example, the virtual drop position may be any position within the range of the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5 in a plan view of the toilet seat 5. As shown below, the virtual drop position may also be the center of the range of the opening 50. For example, the virtual drop position may be a position shifted backward from the center of the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5. For example, the virtual drop position may be a position a few millimeters or a few centimeters behind the center of the opening 50 of the toilet seat 5. Note that the virtual drop position described above is merely an example, and any information is acceptable as long as the distance between two points can be calculated.

[0162] The toilet seat device 2 detects falling stool at two different points in the height direction at predetermined time intervals using a light-receiving element 132, and calculates the falling velocity of the stool based on whether or not stool is detected between the two points. Then, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the length or amount of the falling stool based on the falling velocity and the time the stool is detected. For example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the length of the falling stool by multiplying the falling velocity by the time the stool is detected. Then, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the amount of the falling stool based on the estimated length of the stool and the width of the stool estimated from the stool image. The toilet seat device 2 estimates the amount of the falling stool by multiplying the length and width of the stool. The length or amount to be estimated may be a numerical value such as 100 mm (length), 100 g (weight), 100 mL (volume), or it may be an estimation in multiple stages such as short, medium, long, small, medium, large. For example, the calculation of the falling velocity of the dropping stool and the estimation of the length or amount of the dropping stool may be performed by the controller 101 or control unit 34 of the toilet seat device 2.

[0163] The toilet seat device 2 calculates the falling velocity of the stool from the start of detection of the falling stool at the first height position FP and the start of detection of the falling stool at the point of the second height position SP. For example, the toilet seat device 2 calculates the falling velocity of the stool from the time difference between the first time point, which is when detection of the falling stool at the first height position FP begins, and the second time point, which is when detection of the falling stool at the point of the second height position SP begins.

[0164] A method for detecting the falling speed of feces will be explained using Figure 13. In the second configuration shown in Figure 13, the light-receiving unit 130 of the toilet seat device 2 has two light-receiving elements 132, a first light-receiving element 132-1 and a second light-receiving element 132-2, and two lenses 131, a first light-receiving lens 131-1 and a second light-receiving lens 131-2. That is, the second configuration shows an example in which the first lens 131-1 is provided for the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second lens 131-2 is provided for the second light-receiving element 132-2. In the following, unless otherwise specifically distinguished, the first lens 131-1 and the second lens 131-2 will be referred to as "lens 131". The first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second light-receiving element 132-2 are line sensors in which light-receiving pixels are arranged in a straight line.

[0165] As shown in Figure 13, in the second configuration of the toilet seat device 2, the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second light-receiving element 132-2 are positioned at different heights. Also, in the second configuration of the toilet seat device 2, the first lens 131-1 and the second lens 131-2 are positioned at different heights. The first lens 131-1 is positioned at a location corresponding to the first light-receiving element 132-1, and the second lens 131-2 is positioned at a location corresponding to the second light-receiving element 132-2. Specifically, the first lens 131-1 is positioned above the second lens 131-2. The first light-receiving element 132-1 and the first lens 131-1, positioned above, detect feces passing through the first height position FP. The second light-receiving element 132-2 and the second lens 131-2, positioned below, detect feces passing through the second height position SP. Feces move (fall) from top to bottom. In other words, the feces pass through the first height position FP, and then through the second height position SP. The first light-receiving element 132-1, which detects the first height position FP, begins to detect the feces first, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the second light-receiving element 132-2, which detects the second height position SP, begins to detect the feces. At the same time, the second light-receiving element 132-2, which detects the second height position SP, detects the part of the feces that has been excreted first (the lower part of the feces), while the first light-receiving element 132-1, which detects the first height position FP, detects the part of the feces that has been excreted afterwards (the upper part of the feces).

[0166] Here, we will use Figure 17 to explain the relationship between the dropping velocity of feces and the time difference in passing through each height position. Figure 17 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the dropping velocity of feces and the time difference in passing through each height position. Specifically, Figure 17 shows the dropping velocity of feces (horizontal axis) and the time difference (vertical axis) between the first time point, when the dropping feces are detected at the first height position FP, and the second time point, when the dropping feces are detected at the second height position SP. Figure 17 shows the case where the distance DE between the first height position FP and the second height position SP at the virtual dropping position is 10 mm. For example, in toilet device 2, the distance DE is set to 10 mm. For example, if the feces pass through the second height position SP 100 milliseconds after passing through the first height position FP, then from Figure 17 we can see that the dropping velocity of the feces is 0.1 m / second. In other words, the falling velocity of the feces is calculated from the distance DE between the first height position FP and the second height position SP at the virtual falling location, and the time difference in which the feces pass between the two points FP and SP. The faster the feces fall, the shorter the time difference in which the feces pass between the two points. The longer the distance DE, the longer the time difference in which the feces pass between the two points. In other words, the longer the distance DE, the faster the movement speed can be measured. It also becomes possible to calculate the movement speed in detail.

[0167] Next, we will explain how to calculate the time difference in which feces pass through the first height position FP and the second height position SP from the data detected by the photodetectors at the first height position FP and the second height position SP. For example, the control units of photodetectors 132-1 and 132-2 are set to detect feces at 5-millisecond intervals. Here, we will explain an example of deriving the feces falling velocity using Figure 18. Figure 18 is a diagram showing an example of deriving the feces falling velocity. Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of the data (image) (left) when photodetector 132-1 detects feces at the first height position FP and the data (right) when photodetector 132-2 detects feces at the second height position SP at the same time. Specifically, Figure 18 shows image IM1, which is the data when photodetector 132-1 detects feces at the first height position FP, and image IM2, which is the data when photodetector 132-2 detects feces at the second height position SP at the same time. For example, at time t=1 (the first pixel in the height direction of the image), the light-receiving element 132-1 detects feces, but the light-receiving element 132-2 does not. The light-receiving element 132-2 does not detect feces until time t=20, and at time t=21 (the 21st pixel in the height direction of the image), it detects data similar to the feces data (data of the tip of the feces) detected by the light-receiving element 132-1 at t=1. In other words, the time difference between when the feces pass the first height position FP and when they pass the second height position SP is 20 pixels in the height direction of the image. Since the light-receiving elements 132-1 and 132-2 detect feces at 5-millisecond intervals, it can be seen that 20 pixels in the height direction corresponds to 100 milliseconds. In other words, by multiplying the difference in height direction of the data (feces image) acquired at two points by the time interval (sampling period) at which the data is acquired, the time difference in passing between the two points can be found. If the time difference between passing two points is known, the falling velocity of the feces can be calculated. Note that the above method for calculating the falling velocity of the feces is just one example, and the toilet seat device 2 may calculate the falling velocity of the feces by any method as long as it is possible to calculate the falling velocity of the feces.

[0168] The toilet seat device 2 then estimates the length or amount of the falling stool using the calculated falling velocity of the falling stool. For example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the amount of stool based on information obtained from the stool image. For example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the amount of stool based on the pixels in the width direction and the vertical direction of the stool image, and the falling velocity of the stool. For example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the length of the falling stool based on the falling velocity of the falling stool and the length of the stool in the stool image. The toilet seat device 2 may also estimate the length of the falling stool based on the number of pixels in the vertical (height) direction of the stool image. For example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the size (length) in the falling direction corresponding to one pixel of the stool image based on the time interval (sampling period) for acquiring the stool image and the falling velocity of the stool. For example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the amount of stool based on the estimated length in the falling direction and the size (width) of the stool in the horizontal direction. For example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the length of the stool based on the falling velocity of the stool and the number of pixels in the vertical direction of the stool image. For example, the width of the stool in the lateral (left-right) direction is pre-associated with the number of pixels in the lateral direction of the stool image, and the width of the stool is estimated based on this association. Then, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the amount of stool based on the estimated length and width of the stool.

[0169] The method for estimating the amount of feces will be explained using Figure 19. Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of feces volume estimation. Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of data (feces image) acquired by the light-receiving element 131-1 of feces that have passed through the first height position FP. Specifically, Figure 19 shows image IM11, which is data acquired by the light-receiving element 131-1 of feces that have passed through the first height position FP. In Figure 19, the feces are captured in an average of 200 pixels in the vertical (height) direction and an average of 20 pixels in the horizontal (left-right) direction. For example, the toilet seat device 2 sets the light-receiving unit so that the detection range of one pixel in image IM11 corresponds to 1 mm × 1 mm of feces at the virtual fall position, and sets the control unit to acquire data at 5 millisecond intervals. For example, if the fall speed of the feces is estimated to be 0.1 m / sec from the time difference between detecting feces at the first height position FP and the second height position SP, then one pixel in the vertical direction can be calculated from the sampling period and fall speed to correspond to 0.5 mm of feces at the virtual fall position. Based on the settings of the light-receiving unit, one horizontal pixel corresponds to 1 mm of feces. Therefore, the length of the feces can be estimated to be 100 mm and the width (diameter) 20 mm. The area viewed from the sensor direction is 2000 mm². 2 (=100mm × 20mm), volume is 10000π mm² 3 It can be estimated to be (=100mm × 20mm^2π / 4). The weight of the stool can also be estimated by multiplying it by the specific gravity of the stool. The specific gravity of the stool can be constant (for example, 1), or it can be set in advance for each shape and estimated from the image, or derived using the shape of the stool entered by the user. The same estimation can be made using the data from the light-receiving element 131-2 for stool that has passed through the second height position SP. The same estimation can also be made using data acquired at a third height position other than the first height position FP and the second height position SP.

[0170] Furthermore, for example, the toilet seat device 2 estimates the amount of falling stool based on the falling velocity of the stool and the width of the stool in the stool image. The toilet seat device 2 may also estimate the width of the falling stool based on the number of pixels in the horizontal direction in the stool image, and then estimate the amount of falling stool using the estimated width and falling velocity. Alternatively, the toilet seat device 2 may estimate the amount of falling stool based on the estimated length of the stool.

[0171] For example, the toilet seat device 2 may estimate the amount of stool to fall based on the estimated length of the stool. The toilet seat device 2 may estimate the amount of stool to fall based on the length of the stool using a function that shows the relationship between the length of the stool and the amount of stool. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may estimate the amount of stool to fall based on the length of the stool using a function that takes the length of the stool as input and outputs the amount of stool.

[0172] For example, the toilet seat device 2 may estimate the amount of stool using a first parameter indicating the length in the direction of stool fall (length direction) and a second parameter indicating the width in the lateral direction (width direction). For example, for the second parameter indicating the width of the stool, the toilet seat device 2 may use the average value over the length direction. The toilet seat device 2 may then estimate the amount of stool (area as seen from the sensor direction (projected area) or volume) using the average value of the width over the length direction of the stool as the second parameter. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may divide the direction of stool fall (length direction) into predetermined intervals (e.g., 10 pixels), calculate the average value of the width of the stool at the predetermined interval, multiply the length of the predetermined interval by the average value (area at each predetermined interval), and estimate the amount (projected area or volume) by summing these values.

[0173] The above-mentioned estimation of the length or volume of falling stool is merely one example, and the toilet seat device 2 may estimate the length or volume of falling stool by any method as long as it is possible to estimate the length or volume of falling stool. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may estimate the volume of falling stool based on the falling velocity of the stool by using a function that takes the falling velocity of the stool as input and outputs the volume of stool. Alternatively, for example, the toilet seat device 2 may count the number of pixels in the region containing the stool in the stool image and estimate the volume of stool based on the counted number of pixels.

[0174] Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 calculates the falling velocity of the stool using information about the end of detection of the falling stool. For example, the toilet seat device 2 calculates the first falling velocity of the stool from the time difference between the start of detection of the falling stool at the first height position FP and the start of detection of the falling stool at the point of the second height position SP. The toilet seat device 2 also calculates the second falling velocity of the stool from the time difference between the end of detection of the falling stool at the first height position FP and the end of detection of the falling stool at the point of the second height position SP.

[0175] The toilet seat device 2 then calculates a combined velocity from the first falling velocity and the second falling velocity. For example, the toilet seat device 2 calculates the average of the first falling velocity and the second falling velocity as the combined velocity. The toilet seat device 2 then uses the calculated combined velocity as the falling velocity of the stool to estimate the length or amount of the stool. In addition to information on the start and end of detection of the stool, the falling velocity of the stool may also be calculated using information on characteristic patterns in the stool (e.g., surface wrinkles or undigested material). For example, if the falling velocity is detected at a total of three points: the start and end of detection of the stool and one characteristic pattern point in the stool, the detection velocity at each point and the positions of the three points in the stool may be made into a function and the total velocity may be calculated. The combined velocity may also be calculated using three or more points.

[0176] <9-2.2 Example Configuration for 2-Point Detection> From here, using Figures 12 to 16, we will describe examples of configurations for detecting two different points in the height direction. Specifically, using Figures 12 to 16, we will describe examples of configurations for the light-receiving unit 130 of the toilet seat device 2 that perform two different points in the height direction, from the first configuration to the fifth configuration.

[0177] <9-2-1. First Structure> First, we will explain the first configuration, which is an example of a configuration for two-point detection, using Figure 12. Figure 12 is a diagram showing the first configuration of the light receiving unit 130 that performs two-point detection. Note that explanations will be omitted as appropriate, such as by using the same reference numerals for points that are the same as those described above.

[0178] In the first configuration shown in Figure 12, the light-receiving section 130 of the toilet seat device 2 has two light-receiving elements 132, a first light-receiving element 132-1 and a second light-receiving element 132-2, which are line sensors, and one lens 131. That is, the first configuration shows an example in which one lens 131 is provided for the two light-receiving elements 132, the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second light-receiving element 132-2. In the following, unless otherwise specifically distinguished, the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second light-receiving element 132-2 will be referred to as "light-receiving element 132".

[0179] The first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second light-receiving element 132-2 are each positioned at a specific location on the substrate 113. As shown in Figure 12, in the first configuration of the toilet seat device 2, the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second light-receiving element 132-2 are positioned at different heights. Specifically, the first light-receiving element 132-1 is positioned lower than the second light-receiving element 132-2. The first configuration of the toilet seat device 2 detects a first height position FP using the second light-receiving element 132-1 and the lens 131, and detects a second height position SP using the first light-receiving element 132-2 and the lens 131. In this way, the first configuration of the toilet seat device 2 detects two points in the height direction, the first height position FP and the second height position SP, using two light-receiving elements 132, the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second light-receiving element 132-2, and one lens 131. In Figure 12, the light-receiving elements 132-1 and 132-2 are shown separated, but they may be placed next to each other. In other words, an area sensor with two or more lines in the vertical direction may be used.

[0180] <9-2-2. Second Structure> Next, we will explain a second configuration, which is an example of a configuration that performs two-point detection, using Figure 13. Figure 13 is a diagram showing the second configuration that performs two-point detection. Note that explanations will be omitted as appropriate, such as by using the same reference numerals as described above.

[0181] In the second configuration shown in Figure 13, the light-receiving section 130 of the toilet seat device 2 has two light-receiving elements 132, a first light-receiving element 132-1 and a second light-receiving element 132-2, and two lenses 131, a first light-receiving lens 131-1 and a second light-receiving lens 131-2. That is, the second configuration shows an example in which the first lens 131-1 is provided for the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second lens 131-2 is provided for the second light-receiving element 132-2. In the following, unless otherwise specifically distinguished, the first lens 131-1 and the second lens 131-2 will be referred to as "lens 131".

[0182] As shown in Figure 13, in the second configuration of the toilet seat device 2, the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second light-receiving element 132-2 are positioned at different heights. Also, in the second configuration of the toilet seat device 2, the first lens 131-1 and the second lens 131-2 are positioned at different heights. The first lens 131-1 is positioned at a location corresponding to the first light-receiving element 132-1, and the second lens 131-2 is positioned at a location corresponding to the second light-receiving element 132-2. Specifically, the first lens 131-1 is positioned higher than the second lens 131-2. The second configuration of the toilet seat device 2 detects a first height position FP using the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the first lens 131-1, and detects a second height position SP using the second light-receiving element 132-2 and the second lens 131-2. Thus, the toilet seat device 2 of the second configuration detects two different points in the height direction, a first height position FP and a second height position SP, using two light-receiving elements 132, a first light-receiving element 132-1 and a second light-receiving element 132-2, and two lenses 131, a first lens 131-1 and a second lens 131-2.

[0183] <9-2-3. Third Structure> Next, a third configuration, which is an example of a configuration for two-point detection, will be explained using Figure 14. Figure 14 is a diagram showing the third configuration for two-point detection. Note that explanations will be omitted as appropriate, such as by using the same reference numerals for points that are the same as those described above. For example, the components (device configuration) in the third configuration shown in Figure 14 are the same as those in the second configuration shown in Figure 13, so the explanation of this point will be omitted.

[0184] As shown in Figure 14, in the third configuration of the toilet seat device 2, the detection directions of the two light-receiving elements 132, the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second light-receiving element 132-2, are both directed downwards. The dotted line in Figure 14 extending from the first light-receiving element 132-1 to the first height position FP indicates the first detection direction, which is the detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1. As shown in Figure 14, the first detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1 is directed downwards.

[0185] Furthermore, the dotted line extending from the second light-receiving element 132-2 to the second height position SP in Figure 14 indicates the second detection direction, which is the detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2. As shown in Figure 14, the second detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2 is directed downwards.

[0186] <9-2-4. Fourth Structure> Next, a third configuration, which is an example of a configuration for two-point detection, will be explained using Figure 15. Figure 15 is a diagram showing a fourth configuration for two-point detection. Note that explanations will be omitted as appropriate, such as by using the same reference numerals for points that are the same as those described above. For example, the components (device configuration) in the third configuration shown in Figure 14 are the same as those in the second configuration shown in Figure 13, so the explanation of this point will be omitted.

[0187] As shown in Figure 15, in the fourth configuration of the toilet seat device 2, the detection directions of the two light-receiving elements 132, the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second light-receiving element 132-2, are oriented so as to be separated from each other. In Figure 15, the dotted line extending from the first light-receiving element 132-1 to the first height position FP indicates the first detection direction, which is the detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1. Also, in Figure 15, the dotted line extending from the second light-receiving element 132-2 to the second height position SP indicates the second detection direction, which is the detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2.

[0188] As shown in Figure 15, the first detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2 are oriented to be away from each other. In other words, the first detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2 extend in a direction that increases the distance between them as they move away from the light-receiving element 132.

[0189] In Figure 15, an example is shown where the first detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2 are both facing downwards. However, the first detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2 do not have to be facing downwards. In other words, as long as the first detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2 are oriented so as to be far apart from each other, they can be oriented in any direction. The first detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1 and the second detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2 may be set by the characteristics of the lens, or the light-receiving elements themselves (the substrate on which the light-receiving elements are arranged) may be tilted.

[0190] For example, the first detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1 may be directed upward, and the second detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2 may be directed horizontally. Alternatively, for example, the first detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1 may be directed horizontally, and the second detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2 may be directed downward. For example, the first detection direction of the first light-receiving element 132-1 may be directed upward, and the second detection direction of the second light-receiving element 132-2 may be directed downward. Note that, as shown in Figures 12 to 15, when two or more light-receiving elements are provided, two or more of the same light-receiving elements may be provided, or different light-receiving elements may be provided. For example, the light-receiving element that detects stool at the first height position FP may be an area sensor, and the light-receiving element that detects stool at the second height position SP may be a line sensor. Furthermore, the light-receiving element that receives the light reflected from the feces after being emitted by the light-emitting unit may either detect FP or SP, while the other may be a radiation thermometer (receiving infrared light due to thermal radiation). Also, the sampling periods of the two light-receiving elements may be different, as long as the timing of data acquisition is synchronized. For example, one of the FP or SP may acquire data at close intervals to precisely acquire image information, while the other may acquire data at intervals wide enough to detect velocity.

[0191] <9-2-5. The Fifth Structure> Next, a fifth configuration, which is an example of a configuration that performs two-point detection, will be explained using Figure 16. Figure 16 is a diagram showing the fifth configuration that performs two-point detection. Note that explanations will be omitted as appropriate, such as by using the same reference numerals for points that are the same as those described above. Also, up to the examples described above, the configuration with the reference numeral "132" has been referred to as a light-receiving element, but from here on, it will be referred to as a line sensor due to the characteristics of the pixel arrangement.

[0192] The fifth configuration of the toilet seat device 2 arranges multiple light-receiving elements in a direction intersecting the height direction (also called the "width direction"), and detects two points, the first height position FP and the second height position SP, using lenses corresponding to each of the first height position FP and the second height position SP, and the multiple light-receiving elements. In the fifth configuration, each of the light-receiving elements in the line sensor, which was described as the light-receiving element 132 above, is referred to as a light-receiving element, so below it will be referred to as the line sensor 132, and each of the multiple light-receiving elements that make up the line sensor 132 will be referred to as a light-receiving element.

[0193] In the fifth configuration, the line sensor 132 is arranged on the substrate 113 in the width direction, which intersects the height direction and runs along the front surface of the substrate 113. As a result, in the fifth configuration, the multiple light-receiving elements included in the line sensor 132 are arranged along the width direction that intersects the height direction.

[0194] Thus, in the fifth configuration shown in Figure 16, the light-receiving unit 130 of the toilet seat device 2 has a line sensor 132 containing multiple light-receiving elements and two lenses 131, a first lens 131-1 and a second lens 131-2. In the toilet seat device 2 of the fifth configuration, the first lens 131-1 and the second lens 131-2 are arranged at different positions in the width direction. The first lens 131-1 is positioned at a location corresponding to one of the multiple light-receiving elements in the line sensor 132, from the center of the line sensor 132 in the width direction (also called "one of the light-receiving elements"). If the side facing the falling stool VF from the line sensor 132 is considered the front, one of the light-receiving elements corresponds to the light-receiving element to the left (right on the paper) of the center of the line sensor 132 in the width direction. Furthermore, the second lens 131-2 is positioned among the multiple light-receiving elements in the line sensor 132, corresponding to the light-receiving element on the other side of the center in the width direction of the line sensor 132 (also referred to as the "other light-receiving element"). If the side of the line sensor 132 facing the falling flight VF is considered the front, the other light-receiving element corresponds to the light-receiving element on the right side (left side on the paper) of the center in the width direction of the line sensor 132.

[0195] In the fifth configuration shown in Figure 16, the first lens 131-1 and the second lens 131-2 are arranged side by side in the width direction, and when viewed from the line sensor 132, the first lens 131-1 is positioned to the left (right on the paper) of the second lens 131-2. The toilet seat device 2 in the fifth configuration detects the first height position FP using one of the light-receiving elements included in the line sensor 132 and the first lens 131-1, and detects the second height position SP using one of the light-receiving elements included in the line sensor 132 and the second lens 131-2. In this way, the toilet seat device 2 in the fifth configuration detects two different points in the height direction, the first height position FP and the second height position SP, using multiple light-receiving elements included in the line sensor 132 and the two lenses 131, the first lens 131-1 and the second lens 131-2. In Figure 16, the line sensor 132, which includes multiple light-receiving elements, is shown as a single unit. However, line sensors corresponding to lenses 131-1 and 131-2 (for example, multiple line sensors such as line sensor 132-1 and line sensor 132-2) may be provided separately. In other words, multiple line sensors may be provided horizontally (left-right direction).

[0196] Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not inconsistent.

[0197] Further effects and modifications can be readily derived by those skilled in the art. Therefore, broader aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments expressed and described above. Accordingly, various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the overall concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0198] R Toilet Room 1. Information Processing System 2 Toilet seat device 3. Main body 30 Main unit cover 31 Aperture 32 Human body detection sensors 33. Seating detection sensor 34 Control Unit (Control Device) 4 Toilet lid 5 Toilet Seat 6. Cleaning nozzle 60 Nozzle Lids 7. Western-style toilet (toilet bowl) 71 Solenoid valve 8 Bowl section 9 Rim section 10 Operating device 11 Display screen 100 Sensor Units 101 Controller (Control Unit) 102 Lid opening / closing mechanism 103 Lid 110 Sensor head (detection unit) 120 Light-emitting part 121 Light-emitting element 122 lenses 130 Light receiving part 131 Lens 132 Light-receiving element (line sensor) 200 User terminals (displays) 400 Server Devices (Cloud)

Claims

1. A toilet seat device that is placed on top of a toilet bowl, which has a bowl section for receiving excrement, and detects information about falling feces, A light-emitting element that emits light, A light-receiving element including a first light-receiving element and a second light-receiving element arranged in the height direction, It has, The light-receiving element detects two points at different heights, and the falling velocity of the falling stool is calculated based on whether or not the falling stool is detected at these two points. A first falling velocity is calculated from the start of detection of the falling stool by the first light-receiving element and the start of detection of the falling stool by the second light-receiving element, and a second falling velocity is calculated from the end of detection of the falling stool by the first light-receiving element and the end of detection of the falling stool by the second light-receiving element. The length or amount of the falling stool is estimated based on the combined velocity calculated from the first falling velocity and the second falling velocity, and the time during which the falling stool is detected. A toilet seat device characterized by the following features.

2. The detection directions of the first light-receiving element and the second light-receiving element are oriented so as to be separated from each other. The toilet seat device according to feature 1.

3. The detection direction of the first light-receiving element and the second light-receiving element is each directed downward. The toilet seat device according to feature 2.

4. The first and second light-receiving elements are arranged in the width direction intersecting the height direction, and the two points are detected by the lens corresponding to each of the two points, the first light-receiving element, and the second light-receiving element. The toilet seat device according to feature 1.

5. A toilet device in which a toilet seat is placed on top of a toilet bowl formed to receive excrement, and which detects information about falling feces, A light-emitting element that emits light, A light-receiving element including a first light-receiving element and a second light-receiving element arranged in the height direction, It has, The light-receiving element detects two points at different heights, and the falling velocity of the falling stool is calculated based on whether or not the falling stool is detected at these two points. A first falling velocity is calculated from the start of detection of the falling stool by the first light-receiving element and the start of detection of the falling stool by the second light-receiving element, and a second falling velocity is calculated from the end of detection of the falling stool by the first light-receiving element and the end of detection of the falling stool by the second light-receiving element. The length or amount of the falling stool is estimated based on the combined velocity calculated from the first falling velocity and the second falling velocity, and the time during which the falling stool is detected. A toilet device characterized by the following features.

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