Toilet device, toilet device control method, and toilet device control program

Abstract

To provide a toilet device capable of more adequately transmitting biological information to a portable information terminal of a user through wireless communication, a control method for the toilet device, and a control program for the toilet device. A toilet device comprises: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biological information measurement part to measure biological information of a user; a wireless communication part for executing wireless communication with a portable information terminal of the user; and a control part to transmit the biological information to the portable information terminal. The portable information terminal has an activated state and a stop state. The control part transmits an activating signal to switch the portable information terminal to the activated state, controls switching between a transmission period to transmit the activating signal and a transmission stop period to stop the transmission of the activating signal, and provides the transmission stop period during a period from the time when the user starts using the toilet unit to the time when the biological information is transmitted so as to be in the transmission period when the biological information is transmitted.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a toilet device, a control method for the toilet device, and a control program for the toilet device. [Previous Technology]

[0002] There are toilet devices that measure biometric information such as the user's pulse or the state of excrement and transmit the measurement results to the user's portable information terminal via wireless communication (for example, Patent Document 1). In such toilet devices, in order to improve the convenience of the user, it is required that the measurement results be automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal without requiring special operation by the user.

[0003] For example, a technique was studied in which a start signal is sent from a toilet device to a portable information terminal, causing a pre-installed application software in the portable information terminal to start in the background, thereby enabling the measurement results to be automatically sent to the portable information terminal without the need for user operation.

[0004] However, in the above method, when the user manually terminates the background-launched application software by performing a so-called task kill, the portable information terminal may not respond to subsequent startup signals and may be unable to restart the application software.

[0005] In order to recover from a state of not responding to a start signal without operating the portable information terminal, the state of not receiving the start signal needs to be maintained for a specified period of time. Therefore, when the toilet device periodically sends a start signal, it is necessary to move out of the communication range of the toilet device (e.g., outside the restroom).

[0006] In addition, although it is also possible to consider having the user operate the portable information terminal to launch the application software and thus manually connect to the wireless communication with the toilet device, even so, it would still be time-consuming for the user.

[0007] As such, when the portable information terminal is in a state where it does not respond to the activation signal, the user needs to either move out of the communication range or manually connect to wireless communication, which is inconvenient for the user. In addition, if the user does not take the above actions, the transmission of measurement results will be postponed to the next use.

[0008] Since excretion occurs naturally in daily life (it is not something that users can intentionally do), the test results should be obtained automatically, not intentionally by the user. In addition, since excretion does not occur at a predetermined time or at a predetermined number of times throughout the day, the test results should not be received at a predetermined time, but rather as soon as possible during the sequence of excretion.

[0009] Therefore, in a toilet device that transmits biometric information to a user's portable information terminal via wireless communication, it is desirable to transmit biometric information to the user's portable information terminal more appropriately. [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0010] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-187089 [Summary of the Invention]

[0011] [The problem the invention aims to solve]

[0012] The present invention aims to provide a toilet device, a control method for the toilet device, and a control program for the toilet device that can more appropriately transmit biological information to a user's portable information terminal via wireless communication. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0013] The first invention is a toilet device comprising: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric measurement unit for measuring the biometric information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wireless communication with the user's portable information terminal; and a control unit for transmitting the biometric information to the user's portable information terminal; the portable information terminal having an active state for starting an application and a passive state for stopping the application, wherein in the active state, the biometric information can be received by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit; the control unit is used to control the portable information terminal... A start signal that switches the terminal from the aforementioned stopped state to the aforementioned start state is sent from the aforementioned wireless communication unit to the aforementioned portable information terminal, thereby switching the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stopped state to the aforementioned start state. In this way, the aforementioned biometric information can be automatically sent to the aforementioned portable information terminal. At the same time, the switching between the sending period of sending the aforementioned start signal and the sending stop period of stopping the sending of the aforementioned start signal is controlled. The aforementioned sending stop period is set from the time when the aforementioned user starts using the aforementioned toilet unit until the aforementioned biometric information is sent, and the aforementioned sending period is when the aforementioned biometric information is sent.

[0014] According to this toilet device, a transmission stop period is set from the time the user begins using the toilet unit until biometric information is transmitted. Therefore, even if the task is interrupted before biometric information is transmitted, the transmission stop period can eliminate the possibility that the portable information terminal is in a state of not responding to the start signal. Thus, when biometric information is transmitted, the portable information terminal can be prevented from being in a state of not responding to the start signal. Moreover, since the transmission period is in place when biometric information is transmitted, the portable information terminal can be more appropriately put into the start state when biometric information is transmitted, and biometric information can be more appropriately and automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal via wireless communication. As a result, the need for users to move out of the communication range or manually connect to wireless communication is suppressed, and usability can be further improved.

[0015] The second invention is a toilet device characterized in that, in the first invention, upon the completion of the acquisition of the aforementioned biological information by the aforementioned biological information measurement unit, the aforementioned control unit switches a predetermined time from the aforementioned transmission period to the aforementioned transmission stop period.

[0016] According to this toilet device, it is possible to more appropriately suppress task interruption before sending biometric information, and to prevent the portable information terminal from being in a state of not responding to the start signal when sending biometric information.

[0017] The third invention is a toilet device characterized in that, in the second invention, it further includes a proximity sensor that detects the approach of the aforementioned user to the aforementioned toilet unit and the departure of the aforementioned user from the aforementioned toilet unit; based on the approach of the aforementioned user detected by the aforementioned proximity sensor, the aforementioned control unit switches a predetermined time from the aforementioned transmission period to the aforementioned transmission stop period.

[0018] According to this toilet device, based on the proximity of the user detected by the proximity sensor, a predetermined time is switched from the sending period to the sending stop period, thereby enabling the portable information terminal to be put into the start state earlier. At the same time, even if the task is terminated during the detection of proximity and the end of the acquisition of biometric information, the predetermined time is switched from the sending period to the sending stop period corresponding to the end of the acquisition of biometric information. Thus, when biometric information is sent, the portable information terminal can be prevented from being in a state that does not respond to the start signal.

[0019] The fourth invention is a toilet device characterized in that, in the second invention, it further includes a seating sensor that detects the user's sitting on the toilet seat and the user's leaving the toilet seat; based on the user's sitting detected by the seating sensor, the control unit switches a predetermined time from the sending period to the sending stop period.

[0020] According to this toilet device, based on the user's sitting position detected by the seating sensor, a predetermined time is switched from the sending period to the sending stop period, thereby enabling the portable information terminal to be put into the start state earlier. At the same time, even if the task is terminated during the period when the user is sitting and the acquisition of biometric information is completed, the predetermined time is switched from the sending period to the sending stop period corresponding to the completion of the acquisition of biometric information. Thus, when biometric information is sent, the portable information terminal can be prevented from being in a state that does not respond to the start signal.

[0021] The fifth invention provides a control method for a toilet device, the toilet device comprising: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric measurement unit for measuring the biometric information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wireless communication with the user's portable information terminal; and a control unit for transmitting the biometric information to the user's portable information terminal; the portable information terminal having a startup state for starting application software and a shutdown state for stopping the application software, wherein in the startup state, the biometric information can be received by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit; and the control unit for causing the portable information terminal to exit the shutdown state. The activation signal, which switches the state to the aforementioned activation state, is sent from the aforementioned wireless communication unit to the aforementioned portable information terminal, switching the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned activation state. This allows the aforementioned biometric information to be automatically sent to the aforementioned portable information terminal. Simultaneously, the switching between the transmission period for sending the aforementioned activation signal and the transmission stop period for stopping the transmission of the aforementioned activation signal is controlled. The toilet control method is characterized by the following procedure: setting the aforementioned transmission stop period during the period from when the user begins using the aforementioned toilet unit until the aforementioned biometric information is sent, and being in the aforementioned transmission period when the aforementioned biometric information is being sent.

[0022] According to the control method of this toilet device, a transmission stop period is set from the time the user begins using the toilet unit until the biometric information is transmitted. Therefore, even if the task is interrupted before the biometric information is transmitted, the transmission stop period can eliminate the situation where the portable information terminal is not responding to the start signal. Moreover, since the transmission period is in effect when biometric information is transmitted, the portable information terminal is prevented from being in a state of not responding to the start signal when biometric information is transmitted. As a result, when biometric information is transmitted, the portable information terminal can be more appropriately put into the start state, and biometric information can be more appropriately and automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal via wireless communication. Thus, the need for users to move out of the communication range or manually connect to wireless communication is suppressed, and usability can be further improved.

[0023] The sixth invention is a control program for a toilet device, which is installed in the toilet device. The toilet device includes: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric measurement unit for measuring the biometric information of the user; a wireless communication unit for wireless communication with the user's portable information terminal; and a control unit for sending the biometric information to the user's portable information terminal. The portable information terminal has a startup state for starting application software and a shutdown state for stopping the application software. In the startup state, the biometric information can be received by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit. The control unit is used to control the portable information terminal to... The aforementioned start signal, which switches from the stop state to the start state, is sent from the aforementioned wireless communication unit to the aforementioned portable information terminal, switching the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned start state. This allows the aforementioned biometric information to be automatically sent to the aforementioned portable information terminal. Simultaneously, the switching between the transmission period for sending the aforementioned start signal and the transmission stop period for stopping the transmission of the aforementioned start signal is controlled. The toilet device's control program causes the toilet device to execute the following procedure: setting the aforementioned transmission stop period from the time the user begins using the toilet unit until the aforementioned biometric information is sent, and the procedure being performed during the aforementioned transmission period when the aforementioned biometric information is being sent.

[0024] According to the control program of this toilet device, a transmission stop period is set from the time the user begins using the toilet unit until biometric information is transmitted. Therefore, even if the task is interrupted before biometric information is transmitted, the transmission stop period can eliminate the situation where the portable information terminal is not responding to the start signal. Furthermore, since the transmission period occurs when biometric information is transmitted, the portable information terminal is prevented from being in a state of not responding to the start signal. Thus, when biometric information is transmitted, the portable information terminal can be more appropriately activated, and biometric information can be more appropriately and automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal via wireless communication. This reduces the need for users to move out of communication range or manually connect to wireless communication, further improving usability. [Effects of the Invention]

[0025] According to the present invention, a toilet device, a control method for the toilet device, and a control program for the toilet device are provided, which can transmit biological information to a user’s portable information terminal more appropriately via wireless communication.

Implementation Method

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the figures. Furthermore, the same symbols will be used to label the same constituent elements in each figure, and detailed descriptions will be omitted where appropriate.

[0028] (Toilet Device) Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a toilet system equipped with the toilet device according to the embodiment. Figure 2 is a block diagram schematically showing a toilet system equipped with the toilet device according to the embodiment. Figure 3 is a front view schematically showing a remote control of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the toilet system 500 according to the embodiment includes a toilet device 100 and a portable information terminal 200.

[0029] The toilet device 100 includes: a toilet unit 10, a biometric measurement unit 20, a control unit 30, a wireless communication unit 40, a memory unit 50, a human body detection sensor 60, and a remote control 70. The toilet device 100 is installed inside the restroom TR. Furthermore, the restroom TR can be a restroom installed in a typical family home, or a single stall (so-called toilet cubicle) installed in a public restroom facility.

[0030] The toilet unit 10 includes: a toilet bowl 11, a toilet seat 12, a toilet lid 13, and a casing 14. The toilet bowl 11 is a Western-style toilet. The toilet bowl 11 includes a concave basin 11a that is recessed downwards. The basin 11a receives waste or urine excreted by the user. Furthermore, the toilet unit 10 may not necessarily have a toilet bowl 11. The toilet device 100 may be a toilet-integrated device with a toilet bowl 11, or it may be a mat-type toilet device that can be detachably installed on the toilet bowl.

[0031] The toilet seat 12 and the toilet lid 13 are respectively supported by an openable and closable pivot on the housing 14. Figure 1 shows the state where the toilet seat 12 is closed and the toilet lid 13 is open. The toilet lid 13 covers the top of the toilet seat 12 when it is closed. The toilet lid 13 may be provided or omitted as needed. The toilet unit 10 may have at least a housing 14 and a toilet seat 12 supported by an openable and closable pivot on the housing 14.

[0032] Various functional units are housed within the casing 14. For example, the casing 14 houses: an automatic opening and closing unit for the toilet seat 12 or toilet lid 13; a spot cleaning unit including a nozzle for cleaning the user's area; a spot drying unit for drying the user's area; and a deodorizing unit, etc. These various functional units can be provided or omitted as needed. Additionally, the casing 14 houses a control unit 30, a wireless communication unit 40, a memory unit 50, etc.

[0033] The biometric information measurement unit 20 measures the user's biometric information. This biometric information includes, for example, information about the user's pulse or the state of their excrement. The biometric information measurement unit 20 is electrically connected to the control unit 30. The biometric information measurement unit 20 communicates with the control unit 30 regarding the measured biometric information.

[0034] The biometric measurement unit 20 has multiple sensors, including a first sensor 21 and a second sensor 22. The biometric measurement unit 20 measures multiple biometric information of the user through the multiple sensors 21 and 22. The first sensor 21 is, for example, a pulse sensor. More specifically, the first sensor 21 is, for example, a laser sensor. The first sensor 21 is, for example, installed on the toilet seat 12. The first sensor 21 measures the pulse of the user sitting on the toilet seat 12, for example, using hemoglobin infrared reflection.

[0035] The second sensor 22 is, for example, an image sensor. More specifically, the second sensor 22 is, for example, a line sensor in which multiple pixels are arranged in a linear configuration. The second sensor 22 may also be, for example, an area array sensor in which multiple pixels are arranged in a row and column configuration. The second sensor 22 is, for example, disposed inside the housing 14. The second sensor 22, for example, uses image data captured of excrement such as feces discharged into the basin 11a to determine the state (shape, color, amount, etc.) of the excrement.

[0036] Furthermore, the measurement of bio-information through the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 may also include the acquisition of measurement-based information and the analysis of the information acquired through the measurement. For example, the first sensor 21 analyzes information related to the measured pulse of the user, thereby acquiring (inferring) information related to vascular age, lower limb blood flow status, health level, basal metabolism, body water level, human biological clock, and normal heart rate as bio-information. For example, the second sensor 22 analyzes information related to the state of the measured excrement, thereby acquiring (inferring) information related to the state of the intestinal environment as bio-information.

[0037] Furthermore, the analysis of the information measured by the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 is not limited to the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22, but can also be performed in the control unit 30 or the portable information terminal 200, for example. For example, biometric information can be sent from the user's portable information terminal 200 to an external server (e.g., a cloud server), thereby allowing the biometric information to be analyzed on the external server (external machine).

[0038] In this way, the biological information measured by the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 can be either measurement information that is only measured, or analysis information obtained by analyzing the measurement information obtained through measurement.

[0039] Furthermore, the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 can each acquire multiple measurement information through measurement. The first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 can each acquire multiple biological information through analysis. For example, the first sensor 21 and the second sensor 22 can each acquire multiple biological information from a single measurement information through analysis. In other words, a single sensor installed in the biological information measurement unit 20 can measure multiple biological information.

[0040] Furthermore, the bio-information measured by the multiple sensors of the bio-information measurement unit 20 is not limited to the above-mentioned content, but can also be any information related to the user's health status that is available in the toilet device 100. In this example, the bio-information measurement unit 20 has two sensors, a first sensor 21 and a second sensor 22. The number of sensors provided in the bio-information measurement unit 20 is not limited to the above-mentioned content, but can also be three or more. The number of sensors provided in the bio-information measurement unit 20 can be appropriately set according to the bio-information to be measured.

[0041] The control unit 30 is electrically connected to the biometric information measurement unit 20, the wireless communication unit 40, the memory unit 50, and the human body detection sensor 60. The control unit 30 acquires the measurement results (biometric information) from the biometric information measurement unit 20 and the detection results from the human body detection sensor 60. The control unit 30 controls the biometric information measurement unit 20, the wireless communication unit 40, and the memory unit 50. For example, the control unit 30 controls the start and stop of the measurement of biometric information by the biometric information measurement unit 20. The control unit 30 includes, for example, a main body control unit for centralized control of various parts of the toilet device 100, and a sensor control unit provided in the biometric information measurement unit 20 for controlling the operation of the biometric information measurement unit 20. In other words, a part of the control unit 30 may also be provided in the biometric information measurement unit 20. For example, the start and stop of the measurement of biometric information by the biometric information measurement unit 20 may be controlled by at least one of the main body control unit and the sensor control unit. The control unit 30 is, for example, a control circuit that includes IC components. The control unit 30 is not limited to a single IC component (processor), but can be configured by combining multiple IC components.

[0042] The control unit 30 transmits biometric information to the user's portable information terminal 200 via the wireless communication unit 40. Additionally, the control unit 30 stores the biometric information in the memory unit 50. The memory unit 50 may also have a memory unit connected to the main control unit and a memory unit connected to the sensor control unit. In other words, a portion of the memory unit 50 may also be located in the biometric information measurement unit 20. The biometric information can be stored in both the memory unit of the main control unit and the memory unit of the sensor control unit. Furthermore, the control unit 30 deletes biometric information already stored in the memory unit 50. The storage and deletion of analysis information in the memory unit 50 will be described later.

[0043] The wireless communication unit 40 can connect to the control unit 30 and the portable information terminal 200 via wireless communication. The wireless communication unit 40 is electrically connected to the control unit 30. The wireless communication unit 40 is, for example, a communication module capable of communication using Bluetooth (registered trademark) standards such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy). The wireless communication unit 40 can connect to the control unit 30 and the portable information terminal 200 located inside the toilet TR via wireless communication. For example, when the portable information terminal 200 is located outside the toilet TR, the connection between the control unit 30 and the portable information terminal 200 is disconnected. Additionally, for example, when a disconnection request signal is sent from the portable information terminal 200, the connection between the control unit 30 and the portable information terminal 200 is disconnected. The connection between the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 will be described later.

[0044] Furthermore, the communication method between the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 is not limited to a direct wireless communication connection between the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200, but can also be achieved through an external server (e.g., a cloud server). The wireless communication unit 40 can also communicate wirelessly with an external server. The toilet device 100 can, for example, send acquired biometric information (analysis information) to an external server. At this time, the biometric information can be analyzed on the server that has received the biometric information from the toilet device 100. The portable information terminal 200 can also communicate wirelessly with the server, thereby receiving its own biometric information (analysis information) from the server. The timing of the wireless communication between the toilet device 100 and the server can be, for example, when sending biometric information (analysis information), when user authentication is performed, or both parties can communicate wirelessly. The timing of the wireless communication between the portable information terminal 200 and the server can be any timing. The machine that intervenes in the communication between the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 is not limited to a server, but may also include other machines. The communication between the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 may also be through any external machine.

[0045] The memory unit 50 can store information that has been output from the control unit 30. The memory unit 50 is electrically connected to the control unit 30. The memory unit 50 stores, for example, biometric information. For example, when performing user authentication, the memory unit 50 associates the biometric information with the user information that identifies the user and stores it. User authentication will be described later.

[0046] Furthermore, the memory unit 50 associates the identification information of the portable information terminal 200 with the user information of the user. The information that associates the identification information with the user information may also be stored in the memory unit of the wireless communication unit 40. In other words, a portion of the memory unit 50 may also be stored in the wireless communication unit 40. The identification information may be, for example, inherent information assigned to the portable information terminal 200 such as a MAC address. The identification information may also be, for example, an ID number, a BD address (the address of Bluetooth), pairing information (encrypted information shared by the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 during pairing), etc. The user information may be, for example, inherent information assigned to each user such as a user ID. The user information may be any information that can identify multiple users. The identification information may be any information that can identify each user's portable information terminal 200. The registration mode for associating the identification information with the user information will be described later.

[0047] A human body detection sensor 60 detects the user's state. The human body detection sensor 60 includes, for example, at least one of a seating sensor 61 and a proximity sensor 62. The seating sensor 61 is, for example, disposed on the toilet seat 12. The seating sensor 61 includes, for example, a capacitive sensor. The seating sensor 61 detects, for example, the user sitting on the toilet seat 12 and the user leaving the toilet seat 12. Furthermore, the seating sensor 61 can also be, for example, a mechanical switch disposed on the housing 14. The seating sensor 61 can be any sensor capable of appropriately detecting the user's sitting and leaving the seat.

[0048] The proximity sensor 62 is disposed, for example, inside the housing 14. The proximity sensor 62 detects, for example, a user's approach to the toilet unit 10 and the user's departure from the toilet unit 10. The proximity sensor 62 detects, for example, a user's entry into the toilet TR and the user's exit from the toilet TR. In other words, the proximity sensor 62 is an entry detection sensor.

[0049] The proximity sensor 62 has a non-detection state where no user is detected and a detection state where a user is detected. In other words, the non-detection state is the state in which the user is detected leaving the restroom TR. In other words, the detection state is the state in which the user is detected entering the restroom TR.

[0050] The proximity sensor 62 includes, for example, at least one of an electromagnetic wave sensor and an infrared sensor. However, the proximity sensor 62 is not limited to these, but can be any sensor capable of appropriately detecting the approach of a user. The proximity sensor 62 can also be a sensor that detects the approach of a user to the toilet unit 10, such as the toilet seat 12 or the housing 14, and is not limited to detecting the user's entry into the toilet TR. The proximity sensor 62 can also be disposed on the exterior of the housing 14.

[0051] The remote control 70 is installed, for example, on the wall WL of the bathroom TR. The remote control 70 is an operating unit used to remotely operate various functional parts housed inside the housing 14. Furthermore, the operating unit is not limited to the remote control 70 installed separately from the housing 14, but may be installed integrally with the housing 14, for example.

[0052] The remote control 70, for example, sends signals to the control unit 30 to activate various functional units based on user input. When the control unit 30 receives signals from the remote control 70, it controls the various functional units accordingly. The remote control 70 is connected to the control unit 30, for example, via wireless communication. The wireless communication unit connecting the remote control 70 and the control unit 30 is, for example, separate from the wireless communication unit 40.

[0053] The remote controller 70 (operation unit) has, for example, an authentication switch 71 for sending authentication signals. If an operation input is made to the authentication switch 71, the remote controller 70 sends an authentication signal to the control unit 30. For example, based on the authentication signal from the remote controller 70, the control unit 30 can perform user authentication. User authentication will be described later.

[0054] The portable information terminal 200 is, for example, a smartphone or tablet owned by the user. However, the portable information terminal 200 is not limited to these, but can be any terminal that the user can carry.

[0055] The portable information terminal 200 is pre-installed with a control program (application software) for connecting to the toilet device 100 or for displaying information sent from the toilet device 100 (e.g., analysis information).

[0056] The portable information terminal 200 has a startup state with the application software running and a stop state with the application software stopped. In the startup state, the portable information terminal 200 wirelessly communicates with the wireless communication unit 40, thereby receiving biometric information.

[0057] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation in the registration mode of the toilet device and portable information terminal according to the embodiment. Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation in the usage mode of the toilet device and portable information terminal according to the embodiment. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) has a registration mode and a usage mode.

[0058] The registration mode is a mode in which user registration can be performed. User registration refers to associating the identification information of the portable information terminal 200 with the user information (e.g., user ID) of the user and storing it in the memory unit 50. User registration can also be to store the identification information and user information in the memory unit of the wireless communication unit 40 (a part of the memory unit 50 of the wireless communication unit 40). The registration mode is performed when the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 are wirelessly connected.

[0059] The usage mode is a mode in which biological information can be measured, biological information analyzed, and analysis information can be sent. For example, the control unit 30 usually operates in the usage mode. For example, in the usage mode, the control unit 30 performs the registration mode operation according to the instruction to perform the registration mode received from the remote controller 70 or the portable information terminal 200. After performing the registration mode operation, the control unit 30 returns to the usage mode operation.

[0060] When user registration has been completed, user authentication can be performed in usage mode. User authentication is the act of confirming the user. In other words, user authentication is the act of confirming the user information (user ID) of the user currently using the toilet device 100 and the identification information of the user's portable information terminal 200. By performing user authentication, for example, biometric information can be associated with the user information (user ID) or the identification information of the user's portable information terminal 200 and stored in the memory unit 50. In addition, by performing user authentication, for example, wireless communication can be selectively connected between the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 confirmed through user authentication.

[0061] For example, user authentication can be performed via a wireless communication connection between the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200. In this case, the portable information terminal 200, connected to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30), sends an authentication signal to the toilet device 100 containing user information (user ID) registered in the portable information terminal 200. If the toilet device 100 receives the authentication signal, it determines that the user whose user information (user ID) is included in the authentication signal is using the toilet device 100. Thus, it is possible to determine the user information (user ID) of the user currently using the toilet device 100 and the identification information of the user's portable information terminal 200. User authentication performed via the portable information terminal 200 will be described later.

[0062] For example, user authentication can also be performed by inputting an operation input to the authentication switch 71 of the remote control 70. In this case, if an operation input is made to the authentication switch 71 (e.g., selecting a user ID), the remote control 70 sends an authentication signal containing user information (user ID) to the toilet device 100. If the toilet device 100 receives the authentication signal, it determines that the user whose user information (user ID) is included in the authentication signal is using the toilet device 100. Thus, it is possible to determine the user information (user ID) of the user currently using the toilet device 100 and the identification information of the user's portable information terminal 200. User authentication using the remote control 70 will be described later.

[0063] In this way, based on the user information stored in the memory unit 50, the control unit 30 can perform user authentication to determine the user. The control unit 30 receives, for example, an authentication signal containing user information from at least one of the portable information terminal 200 and the remote control 70 (operation unit), and performs user authentication to determine the user based on the user information contained in the received authentication signal and the user information stored in the memory unit 50. For example, when user information identical to the user information contained in the received authentication signal is stored in the memory unit 50, the control unit 30 determines the user represented by that user information as the current user.

[0064] After performing user authentication, the control unit 30 associates the user information and biometric information of the user identified through user authentication. Based on the identification information stored in the memory unit 50 that is associated with the user information, it can send biometric information to the portable information terminal 200 of the identified user. This prevents the sending of biometric information to the portable information terminals 200 of different users.

[0065] The registration mode will be explained in further detail below. As shown in FIG4, in the registration mode, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether a user number selection signal has been received (step S101). Until the user number selection signal is received, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeatedly performs step S101 (step S101: "No"). The user number selection signal is a signal indicating the user number selected in the portable information terminal 200.

[0066] If a user number selection signal is received (step S101: "Yes"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) associates the selected user number with the identification number of the portable information terminal 200 that sent the user number selection signal and remembers (registers) it in the memory unit 50 (step S102).

[0067] If the user number is associated with the identification number during registration (step S102), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends a registration completion signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S103). The registration completion signal indicates that registration has ended.

[0068] If a user number is selected in the portable information terminal 200, the portable information terminal 200 sends a user number selection signal to the toilet device 100 (step S201).

[0069] If a user number selection signal is sent to the toilet device 100 (step S201), the portable information terminal 200 determines whether a registration end signal has been received from the toilet device 100 (step S202). Until a registration end signal is received, the portable information terminal 200 repeatedly performs step S202 (step S202: "No").

[0070] If a registration end signal is received (step S202: "Yes"), the portable information terminal 200 remembers (registers) the registered user number (step S203).

[0071] Hereinafter, the usage mode will be explained in further detail. As shown in FIG5, in the usage mode, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the seating sensor 61 has detected that the user has sat on the toilet seat 12 (step S301). Until the seating sensor 61 detects that the user has sat on the toilet seat 12, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeatedly performs step S301 (step S301: "No").

[0072] If the seating sensor 61 detects that the user has sat on the toilet seat 12 (step S301: "Yes"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) causes each sensor 21, 22 of the bio-information measurement unit 20 to start measuring bio-information (step S302).

[0073] If the measurement of biometric information is completed (step S303), each sensor 21, 22 begins to analyze the biometric information (step S304). Furthermore, if the user is detected leaving the toilet seat 12 before the measurement is completed, each sensor 21, 22, for example, ends the measurement of biometric information midway and begins to analyze the biometric information.

[0074] If the biometric information analysis is completed (step S305), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends the biometric information (analysis information) obtained through analysis to the portable information terminal 200 (step S306). As described above, the biometric information is transmitted by the control unit 30 via the wireless communication unit 40. Furthermore, as described above, the biometric information analysis can also be performed in the control unit 30 or the portable information terminal 200. Steps S304 and S305 can also be omitted.

[0075] The portable information terminal 200 displays, for example, the progress information of the measurement of biological information (step S401). The display of the progress information will be described later.

[0076] The portable information terminal 200 determines whether it has received bio-information (step S402). Until bio-information is received, the portable information terminal 200 repeatedly performs step S402 (step S402: "No").

[0077] If biometric information is received (step S402: "Yes"), the portable information terminal 200 displays the biometric information (step S403). To enable the portable information terminal 200 to display biometric information even after the connection between the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) and the portable information terminal 200 is severed, biometric information can also be stored.

[0078] Furthermore, in step S301, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) can determine whether the proximity sensor 62 has detected the user's approach to the toilet unit 10, and also whether the proximity sensor 62 has detected the user's entry into the toilet TR. In other words, the trigger for starting biometric measurement by the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) can be the user sitting on the toilet seat 12, the user approaching the toilet unit 10, or the user entering the toilet TR. Additionally, the trigger for starting biometric measurement can also be, for example, the end of user authentication. Moreover, the trigger for starting biometric measurement can also be, for example, a change in the state of the biometric measurement unit 20. More specifically, a change in the state of the biometric measurement unit 20 can be, for example, an output change of a line sensor (e.g., detection of a falling object) or an output change of a laser sensor.

[0079] Hereinafter, the connection between the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 will be described in further detail. FIG6 is a flowchart schematically illustrating an example of the operation when the toilet device and the portable information terminal according to the embodiment are connected. As shown in FIG6, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends a start signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S501). The start signal is a signal used to switch the portable information terminal 200 from a stopped state to a started state. More specifically, the start signal is a signal used to enable the application software to be started in the background. In the started state, the portable information terminal 200 is in a state where it can receive advertising signals (wireless signals). In the stopped state, the portable information terminal 200 cannot receive advertising signals (wireless signals). In other words, the started state is a state where advertising signals can be received. In other words, the stopped state is a state where advertising signals cannot be received.

[0080] If a start signal is sent (step S501), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends a promotional signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S502). The promotional signal is a signal used to cause the portable information terminal 200 to begin connecting with the toilet device 100 (control unit 30).

[0081] If a promotional signal is sent (step S502), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether a connection request signal has been received (step S503). The connection request signal is a signal used to cause the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) to begin connecting to the portable information terminal 200.

[0082] If a connection request signal is received (step S503: "Yes"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) begins to connect with the portable information terminal 200 (step S504). When no connection request signal is received (step S503: "No"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not proceed to step S504. That is, when no connection request signal is received (step S503: "No"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not begin to connect with the portable information terminal 200.

[0083] The portable information terminal 200 determines whether a start signal has been received (step S601). Until a start signal is received, the portable information terminal 200 repeatedly performs step S601 (step S601: "No").

[0084] If a startup signal is received (step S601: "Yes"), the portable information terminal 200 switches from the stopped state to the startup state (step S602). The portable information terminal 200 may be in a background startup state, for example, where the application software is started in the background. For example, when the user receives a startup signal while viewing a screen, the portable information terminal 200 may also start the application software in the foreground.

[0085] If it is in the startup state (step S602), the portable information terminal 200 determines whether it has received the advertising signal (step S603). Until the advertising signal is received, the portable information terminal 200 repeatedly performs step S603 (step S603: "No").

[0086] If a promotional signal is received (step S603: "Yes"), the portable information terminal 200 sends a connection request signal to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S604) and begins to connect with the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S605).

[0087] In this way, the control unit 30 sends a start signal from the wireless communication unit 40 to the portable information terminal 200, switching it from a stopped state to a started state. Therefore, the control unit 30 automatically initiates a wireless communication connection with the portable information terminal 200 without user intervention. This allows the control unit 30 to automatically send biometric information to the portable information terminal 200. Furthermore, by sending the start signal and automatically initiating a wireless communication connection with the portable information terminal 200, user authentication for using the portable information terminal 200 can be easily performed.

[0088] Hereinafter, user authentication using the portable information terminal 200 will be described in further detail. Figure 7 is a flowchart schematically illustrating an example of the operation of user authentication of the toilet device and portable information terminal according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, if a connection with the portable information terminal 200 is initiated (step S701), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether an authentication signal has been received (step S702). Until an authentication signal is received, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeatedly performs step S702 (step S702: "No"). The authentication signal is, for example, a signal containing user information (user ID).

[0089] If an authentication signal is received (step S702: "Yes"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines user information and identification information based on the authentication signal (step S703). More specifically, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines the user information contained in the authentication signal, and simultaneously determines the portable information terminal 200 having identification information associated with the user information contained in the authentication signal.

[0090] If the user information and identification information are confirmed (step S703), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends an authentication end signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S704). The authentication end signal is a signal indicating that user authentication has ended.

[0091] If an authentication end signal is sent (step S704), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether a disconnection request signal has been received (step S705). Until a disconnection request signal is received, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeatedly performs step S705 (step S705: "No"). The disconnection request signal is a signal used to cause the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) to disconnect from the portable information terminal 200.

[0092] If a disconnection request signal is received (step S705: "Yes"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) disconnects from the portable information terminal 200 (step S706).

[0093] If the connection with the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) is initiated (step S801), the portable information terminal 200 sends an authentication signal (step S802).

[0094] If an authentication signal is sent (step S802), the portable information terminal 200 determines whether an authentication end signal has been received (step S803). Until an authentication end signal is received, the portable information terminal 200 repeatedly performs step S803 (step S803: "No").

[0095] If an authentication end signal is received (step S803: "Yes"), the portable information terminal 200 sends a disconnection request signal (step S804) to disconnect the connection with the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S805).

[0096] In this way, after the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) is executed in the registration mode (that is, in the state where the identification information and user information are associated and stored in the memory unit 50), if it receives an authentication signal in the use mode, it can perform user authentication that confirms the user information and identification information.

[0097] Hereinafter, user authentication using the remote control 70 will be explained in further detail. Figure 8 is a flowchart schematically illustrating an example of the operation of the remote control for user authentication of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, if an operation input is made to the authentication switch 71 (step S901), the remote control 70 selects user information (step S902). More specifically, if the operation input is made for the first time, the remote control 70 selects, for example, user number 1.

[0098] If user information is selected (step S902), the remote control 70 determines whether further operation input has been made to the authentication switch 71 (step S903). If further operation input has been made to the authentication switch 71 (step S903: "Yes"), the remote control 70 updates the user information (step S904). More specifically, if a second operation input is made, the remote control 70 selects user number 2, for example. If a third operation input is made, the remote control 70 selects user number 3, for example. If an Nth operation input (N is a natural number) is made, the remote control 70 selects user number N, for example. In other words, if an operation input is made, the remote control 70 increments the value of the user number by 1, for example. When the value of the user number reaches its upper limit, if further operation input is made, the remote control 70 selects user number 1, for example.

[0099] If the user information is updated (step S904), the remote control 70 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the first operation input (step S905). If the predetermined time has not elapsed since the first operation input (step S905: "No"), the remote control 70 returns to step S903.

[0100] When no further operation input is made (step S903: "No"), the remote control 70 does not proceed to step S904, but proceeds to step S905. From the time the first operation input has elapsed for a predetermined period of time, the remote control 70 repeatedly performs steps S903, S904 and S905.

[0101] If a predetermined time has elapsed since the first operation input (step S905: "Yes"), the remote control 70 determines the user information contained in the authentication signal and sends the authentication signal to the control unit 30 (step S906). More specifically, the remote control 70 sends an authentication signal containing the last selected user number. Thus, user authentication can be performed through the remote control 70. At this time, user authentication can be performed even when the user is not carrying the portable information terminal 200, which can improve the convenience of the toilet device 100. Furthermore, the remote control 70 can also determine, for example, whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the last operation input, and send an authentication signal to the control unit 30 based on the predetermined time elapsed since the last operation input.

[0102] In this way, by setting up a remote control 70 for sending authentication signals, for example, compared to the case where the operation is performed on an operation unit located in a location other than the remote control 70 for sending authentication signals (e.g., toilet unit 10), the authentication signal (user authentication) can be sent in a form closer to normal use, which is very convenient to use.

[0103] Furthermore, based on the number of times the authentication switch 71 has been operated before a predetermined time has elapsed, user information determined by the authentication signal is selected, and an authentication signal is sent when the predetermined time has elapsed. This allows the user information being authenticated to be switched by the number of times the authentication switch 71 is operated. Thus, false authentication can be suppressed.

[0104] Hereinafter, the progress confirmation of biometric information measurement will be explained in further detail. Figure 9 is a flowchart schematically illustrating an example of the operation in the usage mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 9, if biometric information measurement begins (step S1001), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends a measurement start signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S1002). The measurement start signal is a signal indicating that biometric information measurement has begun.

[0105] If a measurement start signal is sent (step S1002), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether a progress request signal has been received (step S1003). The progress request signal is a signal used to send progress information to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30). The progress information is information indicating the progress status of the measurement of biometric information. If a progress request signal is received (step S1003: "Yes"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends progress information (step S1004).

[0106] If progress information is sent (step S1004), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the measurement of biological information has been completed (step S1005). When no progress request signal is received (step S1003: "No"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not proceed to step S1004, but proceeds to step S1005.

[0107] When the measurement of biometric information has not ended (step S1005: "No"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) returns to step S1003. Until the measurement of biometric information ends, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeatedly performs steps S1003, S1004 and S1005.

[0108] If the measurement of biometric information is completed (step S1005: "Yes"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends a measurement completion signal to the portable information terminal 200 (step S1006). The measurement completion signal is a signal indicating that the measurement of biometric information has ended.

[0109] If the portable information terminal 200 receives a measurement start signal, it remains in a state where it can send a progress request signal until it receives a measurement end signal. For example, if an operation input for displaying progress information is made in the portable information terminal 200 while it is in a state where it can send a progress request signal, the portable information terminal 200 sends a progress request signal to the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) (step S1101).

[0110] If a progress request signal is sent (step S1101), the portable information terminal 200 determines whether progress information has been received (step S1102). Until progress information is received, the portable information terminal 200 repeatedly performs step S1102 (step S1102: "No").

[0111] If progress information is received (step S1102: "Yes"), the portable information terminal 200 displays the progress information (step S1103).

[0112] Until a measurement end signal is received, the portable information terminal 200 maintains a state where it can send progress request signals. If a measurement end signal is received, the portable information terminal 200 enters a state where it cannot send progress request signals.

[0113] Furthermore, in this example, if the portable information terminal 200 receives a measurement start signal, it remains in a state where it can send a progress request signal until it receives a measurement end signal. Therefore, progress information is only displayed on the portable information terminal 200 during the measurement period. However, it is also possible to have the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) send progress information only during the measurement period, thereby displaying progress information on the portable information terminal 200 only during the measurement period. In other words, even if the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) receives a progress request signal when no measurement is being performed, it may not send progress information. In this case, steps S1102 and S1006 can be omitted.

[0114] Hereinafter, the operation of the usage mode will be described in further detail. FIG10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation in the usage mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG10, in the operation of the usage mode, the control unit 30 determines whether user authentication has been performed (step S1201). As described above, the control unit 30 receives an authentication signal containing user information from at least one of the portable information terminal 200 and the remote controller 70 (operation unit), thereby performing user authentication. When the control unit 30 performs user authentication and determines the current user, for example, the user information of the determined user is temporarily stored in the memory unit 50 as authentication information. More specifically, the authentication information is temporarily stored, for example, in the memory unit connected to the main control unit.

[0115] When user authentication has been performed (step S1201: "Yes"), the control unit 30 then determines whether an authentication signal has been received (step S1202). For example, the control unit 30 determines whether an authentication signal has been received from the remote controller 70.

[0116] When the control unit 30 determines that an authentication signal has been received from the remote controller 70 (step S1202: "Yes"), the user identified through user authentication is changed according to the received authentication signal (step S1203).

[0117] For example, when user information identical to the user information contained in the authentication signal received from the remote controller 70 is stored in the memory unit 50, the control unit 30 changes the user represented by the user information in the received authentication signal. For example, the control unit 30 changes the user information of the authentication information temporarily stored in the memory unit 50 to the user information contained in the newly received authentication signal, thereby changing the user identified through user authentication.

[0118] When user authentication is not performed (step S1201: "No"), when no authentication signal is received (step S1202: "No"), and when a user is changed, the control unit 30 then determines whether the seating sensor 61 has detected the user leaving the toilet seat 12 (step S1204).

[0119] When no user is detected leaving the toilet seat 12, the control unit 30 returns to the processing in step S1201. Thus, during the specified period of user use of the toilet unit 10, the control unit 30 can perform user authentication at any time, and after performing user authentication, can change the user identified through user authentication at any time during the specified period.

[0120] The specified period is, for example, the period from the time when the user begins to use the toilet unit 10 to the time when the user leaves the toilet seat 12. As explained with respect to FIG5, during operation in the usage mode, the control unit 30 measures biometric information based on the detection of the user sitting on the toilet seat 12. In other words, at any time during the period from when the user begins to use the toilet unit 10 and obtains biometric information, the control unit 30 can perform user authentication and change the user after user authentication.

[0121] The timing of detecting when a user begins using the toilet unit 10 can be, for example, when the proximity sensor 62 detects the user's approach to the toilet unit 10 (entering the restroom TR). The timing of detecting when a user begins using the toilet unit 10 can also be, for example, when the seating sensor 61 detects the user sitting on the toilet seat 12. The timing of detecting when a user begins using the toilet unit 10 can also be, for example, when a signal (e.g., an authentication signal) is received from the remote control 70. The timing of detecting when a user begins using the toilet unit 10 can also be, for example, when a wireless communication connection with the portable information terminal 200 is established. The timing of detecting when a user begins using the toilet unit 10 is not limited to the above, but can be any timing at which the control unit 30 can appropriately detect the user beginning to use the toilet unit 10.

[0122] Furthermore, the end sequence of the specified period is not limited to the timing of the departure detection, but can also be, for example, the timing from when the seating sensor 61 detects that the user has left the toilet seat 12 and a specified time has elapsed. The end sequence of the specified period can also be, for example, the timing when the proximity sensor 62 detects that the user has left the toilet unit 10 (exited from the restroom TR). The end sequence of the specified period can also be, for example, the timing of cutting off the wireless communication connection with the portable information terminal 200 (the timing when the portable information terminal 200 leaves the communication range). The end sequence of the specified period can also be, for example, the timing of detecting the execution of toilet bowl 11 cleaning. For example, the execution of toilet bowl 11 cleaning can be detected based on the signal input from the remote control 70. For example, the execution of toilet bowl 11 cleaning can also be detected by detecting the flow of water in the toilet bowl 11 through sensors, etc. The end sequence of the specified period is not limited to the above, but can be any timing in which the control unit 30 can appropriately detect that the user has finished using the toilet unit 10.

[0123] Based on the user's departure from the toilet seat 12 detected by the seating sensor 61, the control unit 30 terminates user authentication and ends the processing of changes to the user identified through user authentication (step S1205). At this time, the termination of processing can be performed either immediately upon detection of departure or after a predetermined time has elapsed since the detection of departure. Thus, termination of processing based on detection of departure includes terminating processing in the instant departure is detected and terminating processing in the instant after a predetermined time has elapsed since the detection of departure.

[0124] After the user authentication process ends and the change of the user identified through user authentication is terminated, the control unit 30 determines whether user authentication is being performed (step S1206). In other words, the control unit 30 determines whether the identified user information is stored in the memory unit 50 as authentication information.

[0125] When user authentication is performed (step S1206: "Yes"), the control unit 30 determines the association between user information and biometric information (step S1207). For example, after the detection of leaving the seat, the control unit 30 ends user authentication and accepts the user change, and associates the biometric information obtained based on the detection of the user's sitting with the user information that is stored in the memory unit 50 as authentication information.

[0126] After determining the association between user information and biological information, the control unit 30 determines whether it is in a wireless communication connection with the portable information terminal 200 (step S1208).

[0127] When the wireless communication is connected to the portable information terminal 200 (step S1208: "Yes"), the control unit 30 sends bio-information to the portable information terminal 200 (step S1209).

[0128] When there is no wireless communication connection to the portable information terminal 200 (step S1208: "No"), the control unit 30 does not send biometric information to the portable information terminal 200, but stores the biometric information in the memory unit 50 (step S1210). At this time, the control unit 30 associates the biometric information with user information and stores it in the memory unit 50. In this way, after the specified period ends, the control unit 30 associates the biometric information with user information and stores it in the memory unit 50. The operation after the biometric information is stored will be described later.

[0129] When user authentication is not performed (step S1206: "No"), the control unit 30 deletes the biometric information (step S1211). Only when user authentication is performed does the control unit 30 send biometric information to the portable information terminal 200 or store the biometric information in the memory unit 50. Furthermore, for example, after determining the association between user information and biometric information, regardless of the connection status of the wireless communication connection with the portable information terminal 200, the control unit 30 can associate the biometric information (analysis information) with the user information and store it in the memory unit 50. At this time, when the wireless communication connection is established with the portable information terminal 200, the transmission of biometric information (analysis information) to the portable information terminal 200 is appropriately terminated, and the control unit 30 can also delete the biometric information (analysis information) already stored in the memory unit 50. For example, if a failure occurs when transmitting biometric information, the control unit 30 can continue to store the biometric information in the memory unit 50.

[0130] For example, after sending biometric information to the portable information terminal 200 or storing biometric information in the memory unit 50, the control unit 30 deletes the user information of the authentication information temporarily stored in the memory unit 50. In other words, after sending biometric information to the portable information terminal 200 or storing biometric information in the memory unit 50, the control unit 30 deactivates the authentication status of the user authentication that has ended.

[0131] Hereinafter, the operation after memorizing biometric information in the usage mode will be explained in further detail. FIG11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation in the usage mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG11, whenever it is connected to the portable information terminal 200 (step S1301: "Yes"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether there is memorized (that is, unsent) biometric information in the memory unit 50 (step S1302). Until it is connected to the portable information terminal 200, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) repeatedly performs step S1301 (step S1301: "No").

[0132] When there is stored biological information in the memory unit 50 (step S1302: "Yes"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the toilet device 100 is in use (step S1303).

[0133] For example, when the human body detection sensor 60 detects a user, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the toilet device 100 is in use. For example, when the seating sensor 61 detects that a user has sat on the toilet seat 12, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the toilet device 100 is in use. For example, when the proximity sensor 62 detects that a user is approaching the toilet unit 10, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the toilet device 100 is in use. For example, when the proximity sensor 62 detects that a user's toilet TR has entered, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the toilet device 100 is in use. For example, when the biometric information measurement unit 20 measures biometric information, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines that the toilet device 100 is in use.

[0134] When the toilet device 100 is not in use (step S1303: "No"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) determines whether the connected portable information terminal 200 is a user's portable information terminal 200 associated with the memorized biometric information (step S1304). As described above, biometric information is associated with user information and memorized (registered) with the identification information of the user's portable information terminal 200. Therefore, biometric information associated with user information is also indirectly associated with the identification information associated with user information. In other words, the memorized biometric information is also associated with the identification information of the portable information terminal 200 that becomes the object sending the biometric information. Here, it is determined whether the connected portable information terminal 200 is a portable information terminal 200 that becomes the object sending the memorized biometric information.

[0135] When the connected portable information terminal 200 is a user's portable information terminal 200 associated with the stored bio-information (step S1304: "Yes"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends the bio-information stored in the memory unit 50 to the portable information terminal 200 (step S1305).

[0136] If biometric information stored in memory 50 is sent to portable information terminal 200 (step S1305), toilet device 100 (control unit 30) deletes the stored biometric information from memory 50 (step S1306).

[0137] When there is no bio-information stored in the memory unit 50 (step S1302: "No"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform steps S1303, S1304, S1305, and S1306. When the toilet device 100 is in use (step S1303: "Yes"), the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not perform steps S1304, S1305, and S1306. When the connected portable information terminal 200 is not a user's portable information terminal 200 associated with the stored bio-information (step S1304: "No"), steps S1305 and S1306 are not performed.

[0138] As such, in this embodiment, when wirelessly connected to the portable information terminal 200, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends the biometric information to the portable information terminal 200 when the biometric information analysis is complete. Conversely, when not wirelessly connected to the portable information terminal 200, the control unit 30 does not send the biometric information to the portable information terminal 200 when the biometric information analysis is complete, but instead stores the biometric information in the memory unit 50. Furthermore, when the biometric information is already stored in the memory unit 50, the control unit 30 sends the stored biometric information to the portable information terminal 200 when connected to the portable information terminal 200.

[0139] When connected to the portable information terminal 200, biometric information is sent to the portable information terminal 200 when biometric information analysis is complete. When not connected to the portable information terminal 200, the portable information terminal 200 does not send biometric information when biometric information analysis is complete, but instead stores the biometric information in the memory unit 50. When biometric information is stored in the memory unit 50, the stored biometric information is sent to the portable information terminal 200 when connected to it. Thus, even if biometric information analysis is not complete until the connection between the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 is disconnected (e.g., until the user exits the toilet TR), biometric information is stored. The next time the toilet device 100 and the portable information terminal 200 are connected, the stored biometric information can be sent to the portable information terminal 200. This allows for more reliable transmission of biometric information to the user's portable information terminal 200, improving ease of use.

[0140] Furthermore, in this embodiment, for example, when user authentication is performed, and biometric information is stored in the memory unit 50, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) associates the biometric information with user information that identifies the user and stores it in the memory unit 50. Moreover, for example, when biometric information associated with user information is stored in the memory unit 50, and the device is connected to a portable information terminal 200 that has identification information not associated with user information, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not send the biometric information associated with user information to the portable information terminal 200 that has identification information not associated with user information. On the other hand, when the memory unit 50 already stores biometric information associated with user information, and the device is connected to a portable information terminal 200 that has identification information associated with user information, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends the biometric information associated with user information to the portable information terminal that has identification information associated with user information.

[0141] When the memory unit 50 has stored biometric information associated with the user's information, and the device is connected to a portable information terminal 200 that has identification information associated with the user's information, the biometric information associated with the user's information (that is, the information that has been stored) is sent to that portable information terminal 200. This prevents the biometric information from being sent to portable information terminals 200 other than the user's own, thus protecting privacy while ensuring that the biometric information is sent to the user's portable information terminal 200 more reliably. In addition, since the biometric information is only sent to the user's own portable information terminal 200, the number of communications can be reduced.

[0142] In another embodiment, for example, when the memory unit 50 has stored biometric information, and the wireless communication unit 40 is connected to the portable information terminal 200, if the toilet device 100 is in use, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) does not send biometric information to the portable information terminal 200. On the other hand, for example, when the memory unit 50 has stored biometric information, and the wireless communication unit 40 is connected to the portable information terminal 200, if the toilet device 100 is not in use, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) sends biometric information to the portable information terminal 200.

[0143] When the memory unit 50 has stored biometric information, and the wireless communication unit 40 is connected to the portable information terminal 200, if the toilet device 100 is in use, biometric information is not sent to the portable information terminal 200. Therefore, during the use of the toilet device 100, processing other than sending biometric information can be prioritized. For example, the analysis of the biometric information of the user currently using the toilet device 100 can be prioritized, improving ease of use. However, when the memory unit 50 has stored analysis information, and the wireless communication unit 40 is connected to the portable information terminal 200, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) can send analysis information to the portable information terminal 200 regardless of whether the toilet device 100 is in use or not.

[0144] For example, when the analysis information is already stored in the memory unit 50, the toilet device 100 (control unit 30) can also periodically send user information associated with the bio-information. At this time, when the portable information terminal 200 receives user information that is the same as the user information it possesses, it can also wirelessly connect to the toilet device 100 and receive analysis information from the toilet device 100.

[0145] Hereinafter, the operation of transmitting the start signal will be described in further detail. FIG12 is a timing flowchart showing an example of the operation of transmitting the start signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG12, the control unit 30 controls the switching between the transmission period of transmitting the start signal and the transmission stop period of stopping the transmission of the start signal. During the transmission period, the control unit 30 transmits the start signal periodically, for example, at a predetermined interval of several seconds. The control unit 30 typically sets the transmission period during operation in the use mode.

[0146] FIG13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of sending the start signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, during operation in the use mode, the control unit 30 determines whether the acquisition of biometric information by the biometric information measurement unit 20 has ended (step S1401). The control unit 30 repeatedly performs step S1401 until the acquisition of biometric information ends. The end of the acquisition of biometric information is either the end of the acquisition of measurement information (when no analysis is performed in the toilet device 100) or the end of the acquisition of analysis information. In other words, the end of the acquisition of biometric information is the end of the analysis of analysis information based on measurement information.

[0147] Upon completion of acquiring biometric information from the biometric information measurement unit 20, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period (step S1402, timing t11). That is, upon completion of acquiring biometric information, the control unit 30 stops transmitting the start signal. In this way, the control unit 30 sets the transmission stop period during the period from when the user begins using the toilet unit 10 until biometric information is transmitted.

[0148] Furthermore, the switching to the transmission stop period can be performed either immediately after the acquisition of biological information ends, or after a predetermined time has elapsed since the acquisition of biological information ended. In this way, the switching to the transmission stop period based on the acquisition of biological information includes switching in the order of the acquisition of biological information ending, and switching in the order of the acquisition of biological information elapsed after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0149] After switching to the transmission stop period, the control unit 30 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the switching to the transmission stop period began (step S1403). The predetermined time is, for example, 10 minutes or less. More preferably, it is 1 minute or less. The predetermined time is set to the time required to eliminate the state where the portable information terminal 200 is not responding to the start signal. If the predetermined time is greater than the time required to eliminate the state where the portable information terminal 200 is not responding to the start signal, it is preferable to set the predetermined time as short as possible.

[0150] Based on the determination that a predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period (step S1404, timing t12). In other words, based on the predetermined time elapsed since the transmission of the start signal stopped, the control unit 30 sends the start signal again. That is, based on the completion of the acquisition of biological information by the biological information measurement unit 20, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period for the predetermined time.

[0151] After switching to the transmission period, as described above, based on the detection of the user leaving the toilet seat 12, the control unit 30 sends biometric information to the user's portable information terminal 200 (step S1405). In this way, when sending biometric information, the control unit 30 is in the transmission period.

[0152] Furthermore, when the bio-information measurement unit 20 has multiple sensors and the time (time required for measurement and analysis) until the acquisition of bio-information from the multiple sensors is different, the control unit 30 can switch a predetermined time from the transmission period to the transmission stop period for each acquisition of bio-information from each sensor, and transmit bio-information for each acquisition of bio-information. Alternatively, when the acquisition of each piece of bio-information is completed separately, the control unit 30 can also switch a predetermined time from the transmission period to the transmission stop period, thereby transmitting each piece of bio-information to the portable information terminal 200 in a concentrated manner.

[0153] As explained above, in the toilet device 100 according to this embodiment, the control unit 30 sets a transmission stop period from the time the user begins using the toilet unit 10 until the biometric information is transmitted. Therefore, even if the task is interrupted before the biometric information is transmitted, the transmission stop period can eliminate the situation where the portable information terminal 200 is not responding to the start signal. Thus, when transmitting biometric information, the portable information terminal 200 is prevented from being in a state of not responding to the start signal. Furthermore, since the transmission period occurs when transmitting biometric information, the portable information terminal 200 can be more appropriately activated, and biometric information can be more appropriately and automatically transmitted to the portable information terminal 200 via wireless communication. This reduces the need for users to move outside the communication range or manually connect to wireless communication, further improving usability.

[0154] In the toilet device 100 according to this embodiment, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period for a predetermined time after the acquisition of biometric information by the biometric information measurement unit 20 ends. As a result, it is possible to more appropriately suppress task interruption before the transmission of biometric information, and to prevent the portable information terminal 200 from being in a state of not responding to the start signal when the biometric information is being transmitted.

[0155] Furthermore, the timing of switching from the transmission period to the transmission stop period is not limited to the timing of the end of the acquisition of biological information, but can be any timing related to the user starting to use the toilet unit 10. The timing of the user starting to use the toilet unit 10 can be, for example, the timing when the proximity sensor 62 detects the user's approach to the toilet unit 10 (entering the toilet TR), the timing when the seating sensor 61 detects the user sitting on the toilet seat 12, the timing when receiving a signal (e.g., an authentication signal) from the remote control 70, or the timing when establishing a wireless communication connection with the portable information terminal 200.

[0156] Figure 14 is a timing flowchart showing a modified example of the transmission operation of the start signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. When the biometric information measurement unit 20 has multiple sensors, the time until the acquisition of biometric information from the multiple sensors ends may vary. In such a case, if a predetermined time is switched from the transmission period to the transmission stop period for each acquisition of biometric information from each sensor, when the switch is made to the transmission stop period based on the acquisition of biometric information from one sensor, the acquisition of biometric information from other sensors may also end during the transmission stop period.

[0157] In such a case, as shown in FIG14, when the acquisition of bio-information from other sensors ends during the transmission stop period, the control unit 30 starts timing from the time sequence of the end of acquisition of bio-information from other sensors for a predetermined time.

[0158] In the example shown in FIG14, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission period to the transmission stop period (timing t21) based on the completion of the acquisition of biological information detected by the first sensor 21. During the transmission stop period, the control unit 30 starts timing for a predetermined time based on the completion of the acquisition of biological information detected by the second sensor 22 (timing t22). The control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period (timing t23) based on the predetermined time elapsed since the completion of the acquisition of biological information by the second sensor 22.

[0159] In this way, when the acquisition of biometric information from other sensors ends during the transmission stop period, the control unit 30 starts timing for a predetermined time from the time when the acquisition of biometric information from other sensors ended. This allows, for example, a more appropriate elimination of the portable information terminal 200 being in a state of not responding to the start signal. Furthermore, when the acquisition of biometric information from other sensors ends during the transmission stop period, the control unit 30 can also switch from the transmission stop period to the transmission period based on the predetermined time elapsed since the acquisition of biometric information from the previous sensor ended.

[0160] FIG15 is a timing flowchart showing a modified example of the operation of sending the start signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. FIG16 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the operation of sending the start signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG15 and FIG16, in this example, the control unit 30 determines whether the proximity sensor 62 has detected the user's approach to the toilet unit 10 (entering the toilet TR) (step S1501).

[0161] Based on the proximity sensor 62's detection of the user's approach to the toilet unit 10, the control unit 30 switches from the sending period to the sending stop period (step S1502, timing t31). That is, based on the proximity sensor 62's detection of the user's approach to the toilet unit 10, the control unit 30 stops sending the start signal. Furthermore, the switch to the sending stop period can be performed immediately based on proximity detection, or it can be performed after a predetermined time has elapsed since the proximity detection.

[0162] After switching to the transmission stop period, the control unit 30 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the timing of the switch to the transmission stop period was initiated (step S1503).

[0163] Based on the determination that the predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 30 switches from the sending stop period to the sending period (step S1504, timing t32). That is, in this example, based on the proximity sensor 62 detecting the user's approach to the toilet unit 10, the control unit 30 switches the predetermined time from the sending period to the sending stop period.

[0164] Hereinafter, the explanation of Figures 12 and 13 will be the same. After the acquisition of biological information by the biological information measurement unit 20 ends, the control unit 30 switches the predetermined time from the transmission period to the transmission stop period (steps S1505 to S1508, timing t33, t34).

[0165] In this example, based on the proximity of the user detected by the proximity sensor 62, a predetermined time is switched from the transmission period to the transmission stop period, thereby enabling the portable information terminal 200 to be put into the startup state earlier. For example, when the portable information terminal 200 is switched to the startup state to perform user authentication, the transmission stop period can eliminate the state in which the portable information terminal 200 does not respond to the startup signal, and the wireless communication connection can be started more appropriately and automatically. In addition, even if the task is terminated during the detection of proximity and the end of the acquisition of biometric information, a predetermined time is switched from the transmission period to the transmission stop period corresponding to the end of the acquisition of biometric information, thereby preventing the portable information terminal 200 from being in a state in which it does not respond to the startup signal when transmitting biometric information.

[0166] FIG17 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the operation of sending the start signal of the toilet device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG17, in this example, the control unit 30 determines whether the seating sensor 61 has detected that the user has sat on the toilet seat 12 (step S1601).

[0167] Based on the user's seating detected by the seating sensor 61, the control unit 30 switches from the sending period to the sending stop period (step S1602). That is, based on the user's seating on the toilet seat 12 detected by the seating sensor 61, the control unit 30 stops sending the start signal. Furthermore, the switch to the sending stop period can be performed immediately in response to the seating detection, or it can be performed after a predetermined time has elapsed since the seating detection.

[0168] After switching to the transmission stop period, the control unit 30 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the timing of the switch to the transmission stop period was initiated (step S1603).

[0169] Based on the determination that the predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 30 switches from the transmission stop period to the transmission period (step S1604). That is, in this example, based on the user's seating detected by the seating sensor 61, the control unit 30 switches the predetermined time from the transmission period to the transmission stop period.

[0170] Hereinafter, the explanation of Figures 12 and 13 will be the same. After the acquisition of biological information by the biological information measurement unit 20 ends, the control unit 30 switches the predetermined time from the transmission period to the transmission stop period (steps S1605 to S1608).

[0171] In this example, based on the user's seating detected by the seating sensor 61, a predetermined time is switched from the transmission period to the transmission stop period, thereby enabling the portable information terminal 200 to be put into the startup state earlier. For example, when the portable information terminal 200 is switched to the startup state to perform user authentication, the transmission stop period can eliminate the state where the portable information terminal 200 is not responding to the startup signal, and wireless communication connection can be started more appropriately and automatically. In addition, even if a task is aborted during the detection of the approach and the end of the acquisition of biometric information, a predetermined time is switched from the transmission period to the transmission stop period corresponding to the end of the acquisition of biometric information, thereby preventing the portable information terminal 200 from being in a state of not responding to the startup signal when transmitting biometric information.

[0172] (Control Method for Toilet Device) In addition, a control method for the toilet device 100 is provided in this embodiment. As shown in Figures 4 to 17, the control method for the toilet device 100 according to this embodiment sets a transmission stop period from the time the user begins using the toilet unit 10 until the transmission of biometric information, and has a process for being in the transmission period when biometric information is being transmitted. Therefore, biometric information can be transmitted more appropriately to the user's portable information terminal 200 via wireless communication.

[0173] (Control Program for Toilet Device) In addition, in this embodiment, a control program installed in the toilet device 100 is provided. As shown in Figures 4 to 17, the control program for the toilet device 100 according to this embodiment sets a transmission stop period from the time the user begins using the toilet unit 10 until biometric information is transmitted, and causes the toilet device 100 to execute a program used during the transmission period when biometric information is transmitted. Therefore, biometric information can be transmitted more appropriately to the user's portable information terminal 200 via wireless communication. The control program is, for example, stored in the memory unit 50. The control unit 30 reads the control program stored in the memory unit 50 and processes it sequentially, thereby executing the aforementioned program. The control program may also be stored, for example, in the internal memory of the control unit 30.

[0174] (Recording Media) In addition, in this embodiment, a recording media is provided that records the control program of the aforementioned toilet device. The recording media can be read by at least a computer. The recording media can be used exclusively for reading, and can also be used for both reading and writing.

[0175] The embodiment may also include the following configuration. (Configuration 1) A toilet device comprising: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric measurement unit for measuring the biometric information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; and a control unit for transmitting the biometric information to the user's portable information terminal; the portable information terminal having a startup state for starting application software and a shutdown state for stopping the application software, wherein in the startup state, the biometric information can be received by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit; The aforementioned control unit sends a start signal from the aforementioned wireless communication unit to the aforementioned portable information terminal to switch the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned start state, thereby switching the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned start state. In this way, the aforementioned biometric information can be automatically sent to the aforementioned portable information terminal. At the same time, the control unit controls the switching between the sending period of sending the aforementioned start signal and the sending stop period of stopping the sending of the aforementioned start signal. The aforementioned sending stop period is set from the time when the aforementioned user starts using the aforementioned toilet unit until the aforementioned biometric information is sent, and the aforementioned sending period is when the aforementioned biometric information is sent.

[0176] (Configuration 2) The toilet device as configured in configuration 1, wherein, upon the completion of the acquisition of the aforementioned biological information by the aforementioned biological information measurement unit, the aforementioned control unit switches a predetermined time from the aforementioned transmission period to the aforementioned transmission stop period.

[0177] (Configuration 3) The toilet device of Configuration 2 further includes a proximity sensor that detects the approach of the user to the toilet unit and the departure of the user from the toilet unit; based on the approach of the user detected by the proximity sensor, the control unit switches a predetermined time from the transmission period to the transmission stop period.

[0178] (Configuration 4) The toilet device of Configuration 2 further includes a seating sensor that detects when the user sits on the toilet seat and when the user leaves the toilet seat; based on the user's seating detected by the seating sensor, the control unit switches a predetermined time from the sending period to the sending stop period.

[0179] (Composition 5) A method for controlling a toilet device, the toilet device comprising: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric measurement unit for measuring the biometric information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; and a control unit for transmitting the biometric information to the user's portable information terminal; the portable information terminal having a startup state for starting application software and a shutdown state for stopping the application software, wherein in the startup state, the biometric information can be received by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit; The aforementioned control unit sends a start signal from the aforementioned wireless communication unit to the aforementioned portable information terminal to switch the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned start state, thereby switching the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned start state. This allows the aforementioned biometric information to be automatically sent to the aforementioned portable information terminal. Simultaneously, it controls the switching between the transmission period for sending the aforementioned start signal and the transmission stop period for stopping the transmission of the aforementioned start signal. The control method for the toilet device is characterized by the following procedure: setting the aforementioned transmission stop period from the time the user begins using the aforementioned toilet unit until the aforementioned biometric information is sent, and ensuring that the transmission period is in effect when the aforementioned biometric information is being sent.

[0180] (Composition 6) A control program for a toilet device is installed on the toilet device, which includes: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric measurement unit for measuring the biometric information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wireless communication with the user's portable information terminal; and a control unit for sending the biometric information to the user's portable information terminal; the portable information terminal has a startup state for starting application software and a stop state for stopping the application software, and in the startup state, it can receive the biometric information by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit. The aforementioned control unit sends a start signal from the aforementioned wireless communication unit to the aforementioned portable information terminal to switch the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned start state, thereby switching the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned start state. In this way, the aforementioned biometric information can be automatically sent to the aforementioned portable information terminal. At the same time, the control unit controls the switching between the sending period of sending the aforementioned start signal and the sending stop period of stopping the sending of the aforementioned start signal. The feature is that the control program of the toilet device causes the aforementioned toilet device to execute the following procedure: setting the aforementioned sending stop period from the time when the aforementioned user starts using the aforementioned toilet unit until the aforementioned biometric information is sent, and the procedure is in the aforementioned sending period when the aforementioned biometric information is sent.

[0181] As described above, according to the embodiments, a toilet device, a control method for the toilet device, and a control program for the toilet device can be provided that can more appropriately transmit biological information to a user's portable information terminal 200 via wireless communication.

[0182] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. For the foregoing embodiments, any product that possesses the features of the present invention and is appropriately modified by those skilled in the art is also included within the scope of the present invention. For example, the shape, size, material, configuration, and installation method of each element of a toilet device are not limited to the illustrated contents, but can be appropriately modified. Furthermore, as long as it is technically feasible, the elements of the foregoing embodiments can be combined, and any product resulting from such combinations of elements that contains the features of the present invention is also included within the scope of the present invention. [Simplified Explanation of the Diagram]

[0026] [Figure 1] is a perspective view schematically showing a toilet system equipped with the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] is a block diagram schematically showing a toilet system equipped with the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] is a front view schematically showing the remote control of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] is a flowchart schematically showing an example of the operation in the registration mode of the toilet device and portable information terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] is a flowchart schematically showing an example of the operation in the usage mode of the toilet device and portable information terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] is a flowchart schematically showing an example of the operation when the toilet device and portable information terminal according to the embodiment are connected. [Figure 7] is a flowchart schematically showing an example of the operation during user authentication of the toilet device and portable information terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] is a flowchart schematically showing an example of the operation during user authentication of the remote control of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] is a flowchart schematically showing an example of the operation in the usage mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation in a usage mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation in a usage mode of the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] is a timing flowchart illustrating an example of the transmission of a start signal by the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] is a flowchart illustrating an example of the transmission of a start signal by the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] is a timing flowchart illustrating a modified example of the transmission of a start signal by the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] is a timing flowchart illustrating a modified example of the transmission of a start signal by the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] is a flowchart illustrating a modified example of the transmission of a start signal by the toilet device according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] is a flowchart illustrating a modified example of the transmission of a start signal by the toilet device according to the embodiment.

Claims

1. A toilet device comprising: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric measurement unit for measuring the biometric information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with the user's portable information terminal; and a control unit for transmitting the biometric information to the user's portable information terminal; wherein the portable information terminal has an active state for starting an application and a passive state for stopping the application, and in the active state, the biometric information can be received by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit. The aforementioned control unit sends a start signal from the aforementioned wireless communication unit to the aforementioned portable information terminal to switch the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned start state, thereby switching the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned start state. In this way, the aforementioned biometric information can be automatically sent to the aforementioned portable information terminal. At the same time, the control unit controls the switching between the sending period of sending the aforementioned start signal and the sending stop period of stopping the sending of the aforementioned start signal. The aforementioned sending stop period is set from the time when the aforementioned user starts using the aforementioned toilet unit until the aforementioned biometric information is sent, and the aforementioned sending period is when the aforementioned biometric information is sent.

2. The toilet facility as described in request item 1, wherein, Upon completion of the acquisition of the aforementioned biological information by the aforementioned biological information measurement unit, the aforementioned control unit switches the specified time from the aforementioned transmission period to the aforementioned transmission stop period.

3. The toilet facility as described in claim 2, wherein, It also has a proximity sensor, which detects the user's approach to the toilet unit and the user's departure from the toilet unit; Based on the proximity of the user detected by the aforementioned proximity sensor, the aforementioned control unit switches the specified time from the aforementioned transmission period to the aforementioned transmission stop period.

4. The toilet facility as described in claim 2, wherein, It also includes a seating sensor, which detects when the user sits on the toilet seat and when the user leaves the toilet seat; based on the seating sensor's detection of the user's seating, the control unit switches a predetermined time from the transmission period to the transmission stop period.

5. A control method for a toilet device, the toilet device comprising: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric measurement unit for measuring the biometric information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wireless communication with the user's portable information terminal; and a control unit for transmitting the biometric information to the user's portable information terminal; the portable information terminal having an active state for starting an application and a passive state for stopping the application, wherein in the active state, the biometric information is received by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit; the control unit transmits an active signal from the wireless communication unit to the portable information terminal to switch the portable information terminal from the passive state to the active state, thereby switching the portable information terminal from the passive state to the active state, thereby automatically transmitting the biometric information to the portable information terminal, and simultaneously controlling the switching between the transmission period of the active signal and the stop period of the active signal transmission; characterized in that the control method for the toilet device has the following procedure: The procedure sets the aforementioned transmission stop period from the time the aforementioned user begins using the aforementioned toilet unit until the aforementioned biometric information is transmitted, and the procedure is in the aforementioned transmission period when the aforementioned biometric information is transmitted.

6. A control program for a toilet device, which is installed in the toilet device, the toilet device comprising: a toilet unit having a toilet seat; a biometric measurement unit for measuring the biometric information of a user; a wireless communication unit for wireless communication with the user's portable information terminal; and a control unit for transmitting the biometric information to the user's portable information terminal; the portable information terminal having a startup state for starting application software and a shutdown state for stopping the application software, wherein in the startup state, the biometric information can be received by wirelessly communicating with the wireless communication unit; The aforementioned control unit sends a start signal from the aforementioned wireless communication unit to the aforementioned portable information terminal to switch the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned start state, thereby switching the aforementioned portable information terminal from the aforementioned stop state to the aforementioned start state. In this way, the aforementioned biometric information can be automatically sent to the aforementioned portable information terminal. At the same time, the control unit controls the switching between the sending period of sending the aforementioned start signal and the sending stop period of stopping the sending of the aforementioned start signal. The feature is that the control program of the toilet device causes the aforementioned toilet device to execute the following procedure: setting the aforementioned sending stop period from the time when the aforementioned user starts using the aforementioned toilet unit until the aforementioned biometric information is sent, and the procedure is in the aforementioned sending period when the aforementioned biometric information is sent.

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