Biometric information measuring system

Abstract

A biometric information measuring system according to an embodiment measures biometric information relating to a user of a toilet room on the basis of defecation gas discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in the toilet room, and comprises: a suction device which sucks gas within the bowl into which the defecation gas has been discharged by the user of the toilet room; a gas flow passage through which the sucked gas is caused to pass by the suction device; a gas detecting device which is provided with a gas sensor that reacts to a gas contained in the gas passing through the gas flow passage; a control device which controls the suction device and the gas detecting device; and a pressure loss generating unit which causes a pressure loss generated when the gas passes through the gas flow passage to be higher on the downstream side of the location in which the gas sensor is installed, with respect to the direction of travel of the gas passing through the gas flow passage.

Description

Biological information measurement system

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a biological information measurement system.

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a biological information measuring system that uses a gas sensor to detect fecal gas emitted when a toilet user defecates, and measures the user's intestinal condition, etc. (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0003] JP 2005-315836 A JP 2016-145806 A

[0004] However, there is room for improvement in the above-mentioned conventional technology. For example, when gas reaches a gas sensor with a concentration gradient, the concentration may suddenly increase or decrease, causing the resolution of the gas sensor to be unable to keep up. In such a situation, the measurement accuracy of the gas sensor decreases, making it difficult to properly measure the gas. Therefore, it is desirable to enable proper measurement of the gas. To address this issue, there is room for improvement in the arrangement of each component in the flow path that allows gas to flow in from the toilet bowl, be detected by the gas sensor, and then be discharged.

[0005] An object of the disclosed embodiments is to provide a biological information measurement system that can enable appropriate measurement of gases.

[0006] A biometric information measuring system according to one aspect of the embodiment is a biometric information measuring system that measures the biometric information of a user of a toilet room based on the defecation gas discharged into the bowl of a toilet bowl installed in the toilet room, and is characterized by comprising: a suction device that sucks in the gas in the bowl from which the defecation gas has been discharged by the user of the toilet room; a gas flow path through which the gas sucked in by the suction device passes; a gas detection device equipped with a gas sensor that reacts to the gas contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path; a control device that controls the suction device and the gas detection device; and a pressure loss generating unit that causes the pressure loss generated when the gas passes through the gas flow path to be higher downstream of the location of the gas sensor in the direction of travel of the gas passing through the gas flow path.

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measurement system generates a pressure loss downstream of the gas sensor by the action of the pressure loss generating unit, and while the gas is brought into contact with the sensor, the gas with a uniform concentration gradient can be brought into contact with the sensor by generating turbulence downstream based on the pressure loss. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can appropriately measure the gas.

[0008] Our research has revealed that the temporal variation in the ratio of odorless gases (composed of hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide) to foul-smelling gases (composed of hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan) contained in farts (defecation gas) during defecation indirectly captures temporal changes in the intestinal environment. It is known that the intestinal environment changes depending on the type of food eaten, the amount of exercise, and other factors. Therefore, to accurately estimate its condition, it is important to more accurately measure the components of defecation gas, and the inventors have evolved this through hardware innovation. The suction device described in Patent Document 2 prevents defecation gas from diffusing outside the bowl while supplying a larger amount of defecation gas to the gas sensor. However, it is known that defecation gas diffused within the bowl has a concentration gradient. When defecation gas is suctioned in this state, the resolution of the gas sensor cannot keep up with the concentration gradient, resulting in inaccurate peak readings (making it difficult to obtain an accurate sensor signal). Because the concentration gradient changes dramatically depending on the circumstances of defecation, for example, it is difficult to estimate or correct for it, and so it is considered desirable to have the gas contact the gas sensor in a homogenized state. For example, if a filter that generates a pressure loss is installed upstream of the gas sensor and the defecation gas is retained, homogenized defecation gas can reach the sensor. However, there are problems such as the amount of defecation gas suction being significantly reduced, contrary to the intention of the suction device, and the defecation gas components being adsorbed to the filter or flow path, changing the concentration, making it impossible to detect the amount of defecation gas more accurately.

[0009] Therefore, in a bioinformation measuring system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the pressure loss generating unit is arranged so that the pressure loss generated when the gas passes through is higher downstream of the location of the gas sensor in the direction of travel of the gas passing through the gas flow path, i.e., by arranging the pressure loss generating unit on the downstream side, the above problem can be solved and appropriate measurement of the gas can be made possible.

[0010] In one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measuring system is characterized in that the pressure loss is greatest at a location in the gas flow path where the pressure loss generating unit is disposed.

[0011] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measurement system increases the pressure loss downstream of the gas sensor relative to the pressure loss that occurs when the fecal gas passes through the gas sensor, thereby quickly supplying gas to the sensor and suppressing particle adhesion to the filter or flow path upstream of the sensor, while generating turbulence downstream based on the pressure loss, thereby making the concentration gradient more uniform. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can appropriately measure gas.

[0012] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the biological information measuring system, the pressure loss generating unit generates a pressure loss greater than that at a location where the gas sensor is disposed.

[0013] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measurement system increases the pressure loss downstream of the gas sensor relative to the pressure loss that occurs when the fecal gas passes through the gas sensor, thereby quickly supplying gas to the sensor and suppressing particle adhesion to the filter or flow path upstream of the sensor, while generating turbulence downstream based on the pressure loss, thereby making the concentration gradient more uniform. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can appropriately measure gas.

[0014] A biological information measuring system according to one aspect of the embodiment is characterized in that the gas flow path further includes a concentration gradient adjustment unit upstream of the location where the gas sensor is located, the concentration gradient adjustment unit generating a pressure loss smaller than that of the pressure loss generating unit.

[0015] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measurement system generates a smaller pressure loss than the pressure loss generating unit in the concentration gradient adjusting unit located upstream, and effectively recovers the air in the toilet bowl, allowing the gas to flow into the sensor without excessive retention at the inlet or excessive particle adhesion, while maintaining a uniform concentration gradient. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can properly measure gas.

[0016] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the biological information measuring system, the pressure loss generating portion has a surface area larger than that of the gas sensor.

[0017] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measurement system can generate a turbulent flow by increasing the surface area, thereby generating a pressure drop, thereby enabling appropriate measurement of the gas.

[0018] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the biological information measuring system, the pressure loss generating portion has a surface area larger than that of the concentration gradient adjusting portion.

[0019] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the pressure loss generating unit has a larger surface area than the concentration gradient adjusting unit, and thus generates a pressure loss to generate a turbulent flow. Therefore, the biological information measuring system can appropriately measure the gas.

[0020] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bioinformation measuring system is characterized in that the suction device is positioned upstream of the gas sensor and mixes the fecal gas with the mixed gas in the bowl and supplies it to the gas sensor.

[0021] According to the biological information measurement system of one aspect of the embodiment, the gas can be agitated and supplied to the sensor by the suction device, so that the concentration gradient can be made uniform before supplying the gas to the sensor. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can appropriately measure the gas.

[0022] In a biological information measuring system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the pressure loss generating unit has a deodorizing function and is disposed at the most downstream position of the gas flow path.

[0023] In a biological information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the pressure loss generating unit has both a deodorizing function and a function of generating pressure loss, and is disposed at the most downstream position of the gas flow path, so that the gas can be supplied to the sensor with a uniform concentration gradient while being appropriately deodorized and released to the outside. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can appropriately measure the gas.

[0024] A biological information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment is a biological information measurement system that measures biological information of a user of a toilet room based on defecation gas discharged into a bowl of a toilet bowl installed in the toilet room, and includes a suction device that sucks in gas in the bowl from which the defecation gas has been discharged by the user of the toilet room, a gas flow path through which the gas sucked in by the suction device passes, a gas detection device having a gas sensor that reacts to gas contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path, and a deodorizing device that is provided in the gas flow path and that deodorizes and removes odorous components from the defecation gas. The toilet comprises an odor component and a control device that controls the suction device and the gas detection device, and the gas flow path includes an inlet section that allows gas to flow into the gas flow path, and an outlet section that is located downstream of the inlet section and discharges the gas in the gas flow path out of the gas flow path, the gas sensor is positioned between the inlet section and the outlet section, the inlet section is positioned at a position where it can collect fecal gas in the bowl, and the outlet section is positioned so as to discharge the gas in the gas flow path out of the toilet from behind the seating position of the user of the toilet.

[0025] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the biometric information measurement system has a gas flow path exhaust section positioned so that gas in the gas flow path is exhausted outside the toilet bowl from behind the seating position of the toilet user. This prevents odorous components accumulated in a deodorizing member, such as a deodorizing filter, from circulating through the flow path and immediately exhausts them into the toilet space, stabilizing the measurement accuracy of the gas sensor. Therefore, the biometric information measurement system can suppress a decrease in gas measurement accuracy. This allows the biometric information measurement system to enable appropriate gas measurement. Furthermore, by exhausting gas behind the user (human body) seated on the toilet seat, the biometric information measurement system can prevent exhausted gas from returning into the bowl. Furthermore, because the biometric information measurement system exhausts gas behind the human body, the user is less likely to detect odors.

[0026] For example, the deodorizing filter described in Patent Document 1 adsorbs and removes odorous gases from the inhaled fecal gas (deodorizing treatment), and the deodorized fecal gas is then released back into the bowl. This prevents gases that react to the gas sensor from flowing into the bowl from the outside, and prevents the gas components in the bowl from changing due to factors other than the fecal gas excreted by the subject during the subject's defecation period. However, as the adsorption capacity of the deodorizing filter approaches saturation, the deodorizing filter itself begins to emit an odor, causing the odorous components to circulate within the flow path, resulting in a problem of reduced measurement accuracy.

[0027] Therefore, in one aspect of the embodiment of the biometric information measurement system, the exhaust section of the gas flow path is positioned so that the gas in the gas flow path is exhausted outside the toilet from behind the seating position of the toilet user, thereby preventing odorous components from circulating within the gas flow path, thereby solving the above problem and preventing a decrease in gas measurement accuracy.

[0028] In a biological information measuring system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the deodorizing member is provided at the exhaust portion of the gas flow path.

[0029] In a biological information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the deodorizing member is provided at the exhaust portion of the gas flow path, thereby reducing the amount of odor components accumulated in the deodorizing member that flow back into the gas flow path. This allows the biological information measurement system to reduce odor components remaining in the gas flow path, for example, thereby reducing measurement noise and improving the accuracy of measurements by sensor detection. Furthermore, in the biological information measurement system, there is no pressure loss downstream of the deodorizing member, so gas in the gas flow path can be quickly exhausted. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can suppress a decrease in gas measurement accuracy. This allows the biological information measurement system to enable appropriate gas measurement.

[0030] In one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measuring system is characterized in that the deodorizing member is provided so as to be detachable from outside the toilet bowl.

[0031] In a biological information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the deodorizing member is configured to be at the most downstream position in the flow path, accessible from the outside, and detachable. Therefore, if odorous components accumulate in the deodorizing member, the deodorizing member can be easily replaced from the outside. This makes it easy to replace the deodorizing member in the biological information measurement system, reducing the impact on the detection accuracy of the sensor. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can suppress a decrease in gas measurement accuracy. This allows the biological information measurement system to enable appropriate gas measurement.

[0032] In one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measuring system is characterized in that the suction device is disposed upstream of the deodorizing member.

[0033] In a biological information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the suction device diffuses gas in the flow path and directs it toward the deodorizing member, thereby suppressing, for example, a layered flow, effectively reducing the possibility that odorous components accumulated in the deodorizing member will flow back up the gas flow path and be detected by the sensor. Furthermore, the biological information measurement system allows fecal gas to come into contact with the deodorizing member in a diffused form, enabling more effective deodorization. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can suppress a decrease in gas measurement accuracy. This allows the biological information measurement system to enable appropriate gas measurement.

[0034] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the biological information measuring system, the gas sensor is disposed upstream of the deodorizing member and spaced apart from the deodorizing member.

[0035] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measurement system can prevent odor components accumulated in the deodorizing member from being directly supplied to the gas sensor. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can prevent a decrease in gas measurement accuracy. This allows the biological information measurement system to properly measure gas.

[0036] In one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measuring system is characterized in that the suction device, the gas sensor, and the deodorizing member are arranged in this order from the upstream side of the gas flow path.

[0037] In a biological information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment, since the suction device is located close to the inlet (entrance), gas can be quickly collected into the flow path and then supplied to a gas sensor and a deodorizing component such as a deodorizing catalyst after diffusion, thereby improving the accuracy of measurement by sensor detection. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can suppress a decrease in gas measurement accuracy. This allows the biological information measurement system to enable appropriate gas measurement. Furthermore, the biological information measurement system can improve the deodorizing effect.

[0038] In one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measuring system is characterized in that the gas sensor, the suction device, and the deodorizing member are arranged in this order from the upstream side of the gas flow path.

[0039] In a biological information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the suction device is provided downstream of the gas sensor, thereby preventing odorous components from adhering to the suction device when gas flows in from the inlet, improving the accuracy of the gas sensor, and then allowing the suction device to diffuse the fecal gas and bring it into contact with the deodorizing filter. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can improve the accuracy of measurement by the sensor. Therefore, the biological information measurement system can prevent a decrease in the accuracy of gas measurement. This allows the biological information measurement system to properly measure gas. Furthermore, the biological information measurement system can improve the deodorizing effect.

[0040] According to an aspect of the embodiment, proper measurement of gases can be enabled.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a toilet room according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of a measurement device according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an overall overview of a biological information measurement system according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between a user's behavior and the operation of the system. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a toilet seat device according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control device according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a gas sensor. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the influence of a concentration gradient on measurement. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a first configuration according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of turbulence generation in the first configuration. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of turbulence generation in the first configuration. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing another example of the first configuration according to an embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a second configuration according to an embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of turbulence generation in the second configuration. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of turbulence generation in the second configuration. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing another example of the second configuration according to an embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a third configuration according to an embodiment. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a fourth configuration according to an embodiment.

[0042] Hereinafter, embodiments of the biological information measurement system disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. In the present application, gases derived from intestinal fermentation and indicating a high level of health are referred to as healthy gases, and gases derived from intestinal putrefaction and indicating a low level of health are referred to as odorous gases.

[0043] For example, the health-related gas is a gas produced by fermentation by beneficial bacteria in the intestines. For example, the health-related gas may be a gas derived from intestinal fermentation and increased in amount as the health of the intestines improves. Specific examples of the health-related gas include hydrogen, carbon dioxide, acetic acid, methane, ethanol, and water.

[0044] Furthermore, for example, odorous gases are gases produced by fermentation by harmful bacteria in the intestines. For example, odorous gases may be fecal gases containing sulfur components. Examples of odorous gases include ammonia, trimethylamine, hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, indole, and skatole. Note that the term "fecal gas" as used herein refers to gases released from the intestines, and includes, for example, gases released simultaneously with defecation and gases not released simultaneously with defecation.

[0045] 1. Embodiment In the following, an overview of the toilet room R, which is a gas collection location, and the biological information measurement system 1 will be described, followed by a description of various processes executed by the biological information measurement system 1 and the configuration for performing those processes.

[0046] <1-1. Example of Toilet Room Configuration> First, the configuration of a biological information measurement system according to an embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a biological information measurement system according to an embodiment. Note that FIG. 1 illustrates a toilet seat 5 and a toilet lid 9 in a see-through manner in order to illustrate the configuration of the measurement device 4. The upward, downward, forward, backward, and side directions (left and right directions) indicated by arrows in FIG. 1 each indicate directions as seen from a user seated on the toilet seat 5 arranged along the top surface of the toilet bowl 7, i.e., from the seated position of the user of the toilet bowl 7. For example, the upward, downward, forward, backward, and side directions may each be directions centered on the opening of the toilet seat 5 on which the user of the toilet bowl 7 will sit.

[0047] 1 , a toilet 7 is installed on a floor surface F in a toilet room R. Note that hereinafter, the direction facing the interior of the space of the toilet room R from the floor surface F may be referred to as "up." In the toilet room R, components of a biological information measurement system 1, such as a suction device 10 and a measurement device 4 that performs gas detection including a gas detection device 20, are arranged.

[0048] The toilet bowl 7 is a toilet bowl, and is formed with a bowl portion 8. The bowl portion 8 is concave downwards and is the portion that receives the user's excrement. The toilet bowl 7 is not limited to being a floor-standing type as shown in the figure, and may be of any type, such as a wall-mounted type, as long as the biological information measurement system 1 is applicable. The toilet bowl 7 is provided with a rim portion around the entire edge of the opening that faces the bowl portion 8. In the toilet room R, for example, a flush water tank that stores flush water may be installed near the toilet bowl 7, or a so-called tankless type may be used in which no flush water tank is installed.

[0049] For example, when a user operates a flushing operation unit (not shown) provided in the toilet room R, toilet flushing is performed by supplying flush water to the bowl 8 of the toilet 7. The flushing operation unit may be an operation lever or a touch operation on a toilet flushing object displayed on the operation device 30. Note that the flushing operation unit is not limited to an operation lever or the like that causes toilet flushing to be performed manually by the user, but may also be one that causes toilet flushing to be performed by a human body detection sensor that detects the presence of a user, such as a seat sensor.

[0050] The toilet seat device 2 is attached to the top of a toilet bowl 7 and comprises a main body 3, a measuring device 4, a toilet seat 5, and a cleaning nozzle 6. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on top of the toilet bowl 7, which is formed with a bowl 8 that receives excrement. The toilet seat device 2 is placed on top of the toilet bowl 7 so that the cleaning nozzle 6 advances into the bowl 8 before spraying cleaning water. The toilet seat device 2 may be attached detachably to the toilet bowl 7, or may be attached so as to be integrated with the toilet bowl 7.

[0051] The toilet seat device 2, using components such as the measuring device 4, measures biological information of a user of the toilet room R based on the fecal gas discharged into the bowl 8 of the toilet 7 installed in the toilet room R. The measuring device 4 has a suction device 10 and a gas detection device 20. The measuring device 4 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 2.

[0052] As shown in Figure 1, the toilet seat 5 is formed in an annular shape and is arranged along the edge (rim) of the bowl portion 8 in a position overlapping the opening of the toilet bowl 7. A user sits on the toilet seat 5. The toilet seat 5 functions as a seating portion that supports the buttocks of the seated user. A toilet lid 9 is attached to the toilet seat device 2 as needed, but the toilet seat device 2 does not necessarily have to have a toilet lid 9.

[0053] The cleaning nozzle 6 is a nozzle for spraying water for cleaning. The cleaning nozzle 6 is configured to be movable forward and backward relative to the housing of the main body 3 by being driven by a drive source such as an electric motor (such as the nozzle motor 61 in FIG. 5 ). The cleaning nozzle 6 is also connected to a water source such as a water pipe (not shown). When the cleaning nozzle 6 is in an advanced position relative to the housing of the main body 3 (also referred to as the "advanced position") as shown in FIG. 1, it sprays water from the water source onto the user's body to cleanse the private parts.

[0054] 1 shows the cleaning nozzle 6 in the advanced position. The cleaning nozzle 6 may also be used to clean the inside of the toilet bowl 7 (bowl portion 8, etc.). The cleaning nozzle 6 may be used to be switchable between a private parts cleaning mode for cleaning the private parts of the user and a toilet bowl cleaning mode for spraying water inside the toilet bowl 7. For example, the cleaning nozzle 6 may be used to be switchable between the private parts cleaning mode and the toilet bowl cleaning mode according to the control by the toilet seat device 2.

[0055] The operating device 30 is provided in the toilet room R. The operating device 30 is provided in a position where it can be operated by a user. The operating device 30 is provided in a position where it can be operated by a user when seated on the toilet seat 5. In FIG. 1 , the operating device 30 is provided on a wall surface W on the left side as seen from a user seated on the toilet seat 5. Note that the operating device 30 may be provided in various ways, not just on a wall surface, as long as it is usable by a user seated on the toilet seat 5. For example, the operating device 30 may be provided integrally with the toilet seat apparatus 2.

[0056] The operating device 30 is connected to the toilet seat device 2 via a predetermined network so as to be able to communicate with the toilet seat device 2 via a wired or wireless connection. For example, the toilet seat device 2 and the operating device 30 may be connected in any manner as long as they are able to send and receive information, and may be connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0057] The operation device 30 accepts various operations from a user via a display surface (e.g., a display screen 31) using, for example, a touch panel function. The operation device 30 may also be provided with switches and buttons, and may accept various operations via the switches and buttons. The display screen 31 is a display screen of a tablet terminal or the like realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and is a display device for displaying various information. In other words, the operation device 30 accepts input from the user via the display screen 31 and also outputs information to the user. The display screen 31 is a display device that displays various information.

[0058] The operation device 30 accepts user operations to control various functions provided in the toilet room R. The operation device 30 accepts user operations to control the execution of local cleansing by the toilet seat device 2. For example, the operation device 30 may have switches, buttons, etc. that accept the above-mentioned user operations, and may execute various processes in response to the user touching the switches, buttons, etc. Note that the above is just an example, and the operation device 30 may also accept user operations to execute various processes.

[0059] The biological information measurement system 1 measures the biological information of a user of the toilet room R based on the fecal gas discharged into the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7 installed in the toilet room R, using various configurations and processes described below. The biological information measurement system 1 executes control to appropriately measure the fecal gas. The biological information measurement system 1 may provide information to a user terminal (corresponding to the display means 300 in FIG. 3 ) such as the user's smartphone based on the information collected by measurement, etc. Furthermore, the biological information measurement system 1 may provide information to an operation device 30 (or a display screen 31) of the toilet room R based on the information collected by measurement, etc.

[0060] <1-2. Configuration of Measuring Device> Next, the configuration of the measuring device 4 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of a measuring device according to an embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the measuring device 4 is disposed inside the main body 3. In FIG. 2, the housing (cover) of the main body 3 where the measuring device 4 is disposed is removed to illustrate the configuration of the measuring device 4. The upward, forward, backward, and lateral directions indicated by arrows in FIG. 2 are the same as the directions shown in FIG. 1.

[0061] Measurement device 4 has suction device 10 that sucks gas within bowl portion 8 of toilet bowl 7, gas detection device 20 that detects the components of the sucked gas, and pressure loss generating unit 50. Note that the first opening 12 (bowl portion 8) side of gas flow path 11 is defined as the upstream side, and the second opening 13 (outside main body portion 3) side of gas flow path 11 is defined as the downstream side.

[0062] The suction device 10 sucks gas in the bowl portion 8 from which defecation gas has been expelled by a user of the toilet room R. The suction device 10 sucks the gas in the bowl portion 8 into a gas flow path 11. The suction device 10 has a fan for sucking gas in the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7.

[0063] The suction device 10 is disposed in a gas flow path 11, which is a flow path that communicates with the inside of the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7 on the side of the first opening 12. The gas flow path 11 allows the gas sucked by the suction device 10 to pass through. The gas flow path 11 is formed in a tubular shape having a space inside in which components such as the suction device 10 are disposed. The gas flow path 11 is, for example, a duct.

[0064] As schematically shown by arrow IN in Figure 2, first opening 12 of gas flow path 11 functions as an inlet that allows gas in bowl portion 8 to flow into gas flow path 11. Suction device 10 drives a fan to suck gas from bowl portion 8 using gas flow path 11 as a flow path. For example, suction device 10 performs suction-related processing under the control of control device 100. Note that when suction device 10 is used in common with a deodorizing device or the like incorporated in toilet seat device 2, suction device 10 may be controlled by a control means (device) separate from control device 100.

[0065] Gas detection device 20 executes processing related to the detection of components of the gas aspirated by suction device 10. In FIG. 2 , gas detection device 20 is disposed downstream of suction device 10 as viewed from bowl portion 8. Note that FIG. 2 is merely an example, and gas detection device 20 may be disposed at any position as long as it is capable of introducing the gas aspirated by suction device 10. Gas detection device 20 is disposed within gas flow path 11, the second opening 13 of which is in communication with the outside of main body 3. Second opening 13 functions as an outlet for discharging gas within gas flow path 11 from gas flow path 11, as schematically shown by arrow OT in FIG. 2 . For example, gas within gas flow path 11 is released to the outside of gas flow path 11 in response to the operation of suction device 10.

[0066] For example, gas detection device 20 executes processing related to gas detection under the control of control device 100. Gas detection device 20 includes gas sensor 40 that reacts to gas contained in the gas passing through gas flow path 11. Gas sensor 40 detects a specific component of the gas.

[0067] For example, a semiconductor gas sensor is used as the gas sensor 40. The gas sensor 40 may be a hydrogen gas sensor capable of detecting hydrogen. The gas sensor 40 may be an odorous gas sensor capable of detecting odorous gas. The gas sensor 40 may be a methane gas sensor capable of detecting methane. For example, the gas detection device 20 has a plurality of gas sensors 40. The plurality of gas sensors 40 may include a gas sensor 40a that is a hydrogen gas sensor, a gas sensor 40b that is an odorous gas sensor, and a gas sensor 40c that is a methane gas sensor. When the gas sensors 40a to 40c are described without any particular distinction, they will be described as gas sensors 40.

[0068] The above is merely an example, and the gas sensor is not limited to the semiconductor gas sensor 40, and any type of sensor may be used. For example, the gas detection device 20 may be an infrared CO ２ The device may also have a gas sensor such as a carbon dioxide concentration measuring device.

[0069] The pressure loss generating unit 50 has a function of generating a pressure loss (also referred to as a "pressure loss generating function"). The pressure loss generating unit 50 is configured so that the pressure loss generated when the gas passes through the gas flow path 11 is higher downstream of the location where the gas sensor 40 is disposed with respect to the direction of travel of the gas. For example, the pressure loss generating unit 50 has a deodorizing function. The pressure loss generating unit 50 is formed of a deodorizing catalyst. For example, the pressure loss generating unit 50 may be a catalytic filter that adsorbs odorous gases and other unpleasant-smelling gases. The air from which odorous gases and other gases have been removed by the pressure loss generating unit 50 is discharged outside the main body 3 (to the rear side of the main body 3 in FIG. 2). Details of the arrangement of the pressure loss generating unit 50 will be described later.

[0070] <1-3. Example of Overall Overview of Biological Information Measurement System> Next, an example of an overall overview of the biological information measurement system 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an overall overview of the biological information measurement system according to an embodiment. The upward, downward, forward, backward, and lateral directions indicated by arrows in FIG. 3 are the same as the directions shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Note that explanations of points similar to those described in FIGS. 1 and 2 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0071] 3, the biological information measuring system 1 includes a suction device 10, a gas detection device 20, a control device 100, and an estimation means 200. While FIGS. 1 and 2 show the case where the toilet seat device 2 includes the suction device 10, the gas detection device 20, and the control device 100, this is not limiting. For example, the control device 100 may be provided separately from the suction device 10 and the gas detection device 20, and may control the suction device 10 and the gas detection device 20 by wirelessly or wired communication with the suction device 10 and the gas detection device 20. Furthermore, as described above, the suction device 10 may be controlled by a control means separate from the control device 100.

[0072] The estimation means 200 is a computer (information processing device) having a function of executing estimation processing based on information acquired by detection by the gas detection device 20. For example, the estimation means 200 may be a cloud server (server device) located outside the toilet room R. In this case, the estimation means 200 is communicably connected to a device (also referred to as an "in-toilet device") located inside the toilet room R, such as the toilet seat device 2 or the gas detection device 20, via a predetermined network such as the Internet, either wired or wirelessly.

[0073] Furthermore, the estimation means 200 is communicably connected to a device that displays information to a user, such as the display means 300, via a predetermined network such as the Internet, either wired or wirelessly. Note that the estimation means 200 may be connected to devices such as the toilet device and the display means 300 in any manner as long as it is possible to send and receive information, and may be communicatively connected via wired or wirelessly. Note that the estimation means 200 may be communicable with the control device 100.

[0074] The estimation means 200 performs an estimation process regarding the user's health condition using information received from the toilet device. The data acquired thus far may be stored by the estimation means 200 or may be stored in the display means 300. The estimation means 200 generates information for estimating the user's health condition (also referred to as "health estimation information") or related information based on the amounts of health-related gases and odorous gases in the user's defecation gas. The estimation means 200 calculates a score as the user's health estimation information based on the ratio between the amounts of health-related gases and odorous gases in the user's defecation gas. For example, the estimation means 200 may use any information, such as a ratio or a single odor. The above is merely an example, and the estimation means 200 may generate any information as the user's health estimation information. For example, the estimation means 200 may generate the following information as the user's health estimation information, or may generate health estimation information based on the following processing results:

[0075] For example, the estimation means 200 may estimate information regarding the state of the user's intestines from the measured values. For example, the estimation means 200 may estimate information regarding the state of bacteria. In this case, for example, the estimation means 200 may estimate the occupancy rate of a certain bacteria, the amount or ratio of good bacteria to bad bacteria, etc. Furthermore, for example, the estimation means 200 may estimate the state of metabolites. In this case, for example, the estimation means 200 may estimate the amount or ratio of useful substances and harmful substances, etc. For example, the estimation means 200 may estimate the state of intestinal pH. Furthermore, the estimation means 200 may generate information by scoring the above information or evaluating it as good or bad. For example, the estimation means 200 may generate the above information as estimated health information of the user.

[0076] Furthermore, for example, the estimation means 200 may generate information related to the user's health condition from the measurement values. In this case, for example, the estimation means 200 may generate information evaluating a score or the quality of the user's intestinal environment. For example, the estimation means 200 may generate information related to the user's intestinal environment. For example, the estimation means 200 may generate information related to the user's immunity. For example, the estimation means 200 may generate information related to the user's ease of weight loss. For example, the estimation means 200 may generate information related to a cholesterol index. For example, the estimation means 200 may generate information related to a metabolic score. For example, the estimation means 200 may generate the above-mentioned information as estimated health information for the user. Note that the above-mentioned examples are merely illustrative, and the estimation means 200 may generate various information related to the user's health condition, not limited to the above.

[0077] The estimation means 200 estimates, based on the calculated ratio, that the greater the amount of health-related gases relative to odorous gases in the user's defecation gas, the healthier the user.The estimation means 200 estimates, based on the calculated ratio, that the greater the amount of odorous gases relative to health-related gases in the user's defecation gas, the unhealthier the user.Note that the above is merely an example, and the estimation means 200 may make any estimation based on the calculated score.The estimation means 200 transmits information to be provided to the user to the display means 300.The estimation means 200 transmits the calculated score as the user's health estimation information to the display means 300 used by the user.

[0078] The estimation means 200 is not limited to a cloud server (server device), and may be any device. In other words, the device configuration and arrangement of the estimation means 200 may be any form as long as the desired processing can be realized. For example, the estimation means 200 may be a mobile terminal (device) such as a laptop computer that can be carried by an administrator of the biological information measurement system 1. The estimation means 200 may also be arranged in the toilet room R. For example, the estimation means 200 may be configured to be arranged in the toilet room R. For example, the function of the estimation means 200 may be provided by the toilet seat device 2. In this case, the control device 100 may have the function of the estimation means 200.

[0079] The display unit 300 is a display device (computer) that displays information to be provided to a user. For example, the display unit 300 may be a user terminal (mobile terminal) owned by the user. In this case, the display unit 300 is realized by, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a tablet terminal, or a notebook PC (Personal Computer). For example, the display unit 300 is connected to devices included in the biological information measurement system 1, such as the estimation unit 200, via a predetermined network so as to be able to communicate with each other via wired or wireless communication.

[0080] The display means 300 transmits and receives information to and from the estimation means 200. The display means 300 receives information to be provided to the user from the estimation means 200. The display means 300 receives a score calculated as estimated health information of the user from the estimation means 200. The display means 300 displays information including the score calculated as estimated health information of the user.

[0081] In Figure 3, the display means 300 displays the score calculated as the user's health estimation information as the user's intestinal environment score. For example, the display means 300 displays the user's intestinal environment score in chronological order by date and time of excretion. The display means 300 displays the target score value, information showing changes in the user's intestinal environment score over time, and text information showing the evaluation. For example, the display means 300 may request information from the estimation means 200 and display the information obtained from the estimation means 200.

[0082] Note that the above is merely an example, and the biological information measuring system 1 can employ any device configuration as long as it can realize the desired processing. In the biological information measuring system 1, the toilet seat device 2 may have a configuration other than the display means 300. For example, the toilet seat device 2 may have a measuring device 4, a control device 100, and an estimation means 200. Also, for example, the display means 300 does not have to be included in the biological information measuring system 1, or may be included in the biological information measuring system 1. For example, if the display means 300 is the operating device 30 of the toilet room R, the display means 300 may be included in the biological information measuring system 1. In this case, the operating device 30 has a function of displaying estimated health information of the user.

[0083] <1-4. User Behavior and System Operation> Next, an example of the relationship between the movement (behavior) of a user who uses the biological information measurement system 1 and the movement (operation) of the biological information measurement system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the user's behavior and the system operation.

[0084] First, with reference to Fig. 4, a description will be given of the flow of actions of a user who defecates using the toilet room R. The user of the toilet room R performs actions in stages 1 to 7 as shown in Fig. 4.

[0085] First, the user performs the first stage of action, which is to enter the toilet room R. After entering the toilet room R, the user performs the second stage of action, which is to undress inside the toilet room R. After undressing, the user performs the third stage of action, which is to sit on the toilet seat 5 of the toilet room R. After sitting on the toilet seat 5, the user performs the fourth stage of action, which is to defecate into the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7.

[0086] After defecating, the user performs finishing actions such as using the toilet seat device 2's local cleanser or using toilet paper to clean the local area after defecation, as a fifth stage of action. After completing the post-defecation finishing action, the user performs the sixth stage of action, standing up and leaving the toilet seat 5. After leaving the toilet, the user performs the seventh stage of action, such as flushing the toilet bowl 7, leaving the toilet room R, and checking the results of the defecation gas analysis by the vital information measurement system 1.

[0087] Next, the flow of operations of the biometric information measurement system 1 in response to the above-described user behavior will be described. The biometric information measurement system 1 starts suctioning gas before the user who has entered the toilet room R starts to defecate. In FIG. 4 , the biometric information measurement system 1 starts suctioning gas between the first and third stages. This allows the biometric information measurement system 1 to complete measurement preparation before the user defecates. For example, the biometric information measurement system 1 suctions gas in the bowl portion 8 before the user defecates, thereby suctioning gas that serves as a reference (baseline) for comparison with gas after the user defecates. For example, the biometric information measurement system 1 calculates the increment (increase) from the baseline to estimate (calculate) the amount of components contained in defecation gas.

[0088] The biological information measurement system 1 measures the user's defecation gas from the time the user defecates until the time the user leaves the seat. In Fig. 4, the biological information measurement system 1 measures the user's defecation gas from before the fourth stage to the fifth stage. In this way, the biological information measurement system 1 aspirates the gas at any time while the user is seated and acquires data.

[0089] After the measurement of the defecation gas is completed, the biological information measurement system 1 performs an analysis of the defecation gas. In FIG. 4, the biological information measurement system 1 performs an analysis of the user's defecation gas between the sixth and seventh stages. As a result, after the user finishes defecation, the biological information measurement system 1 performs an analysis based on the defecation gas (result) information acquired about the user and calculates a score. The biological information measurement system 1 analyzes the user's defecation gas and provides the analysis results to the user. Note that the analysis and the provision of the results are not limited to the sixth and seventh stages, and may be performed at any timing as long as the information can be provided. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 may provide various information such as the analysis and results at any timing, such as during measurement or immediately after measurement is completed.

[0090] <1-5. Functional configuration of the toilet seat device> Next, the functional configuration of the toilet seat device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a toilet seat device according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 5, the toilet seat device 2 includes a human presence sensor 32, a seating sensor 33, an illuminance sensor 34, a control device 100, a nozzle motor 61, and a cleaning nozzle 6.

[0091] Note that the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 shown in FIG. 5 is merely an example, and when each component is provided separately, the toilet seat device 2 may include only the toilet seat 5. As described above, the configuration of the toilet seat device 2 shown in FIG. 5 is merely an example, and the toilet seat device 2 may have any configuration. The human presence sensor 32, seating sensor 33, illuminance sensor 34, etc. may be disposed in any location as long as the desired sensing is possible. Furthermore, the toilet seat device 2 only needs to be able to detect a user sitting on the toilet seat 5, and may include at least one of the human presence sensor 32, seating sensor 33, and illuminance sensor 34. The toilet seat device 2 transmits and receives information to and receives information from an information processing device such as the estimation means 200 via a predetermined network (such as the Internet) via a communication device (e.g., the communication unit 110 of the control device 100 in FIG. 6) in a wired or wireless manner.

[0092] The human presence sensor 32 has a function of detecting a human body. For example, the human presence sensor 32 is used as a seating detection means for detecting a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. For example, the human presence sensor 32 is realized by a pyroelectric sensor using an infrared signal. For example, the human presence sensor 32 may be realized by a μ (microwave) wave sensor. For example, the human presence sensor 32 is an infrared light emitting / receiving distance measuring sensor, and may detect a human body present near the toilet seat 5 just before the person (user) sits on the toilet seat 5, or a user who has sat on the toilet seat 5.

[0093] The human presence sensor 32 also functions as a seat-leaving detection sensor that detects when a user leaves the toilet seat 5. The human presence sensor 32 detects whether the user is seated on the toilet seat 5. The human presence sensor 32 outputs a detection signal to the control device 100. Note that the above is just one example, and the human presence sensor 32 may detect a human body by various means other than the above. For example, the human presence sensor 32 detects a person (such as a user) approaching the toilet seat 5.

[0094] The seating sensor 33 has a function of detecting a person sitting on the toilet seat device 2. For example, the seating sensor 33 is used as a seating detection means that detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. For example, the seating sensor 33 is realized by a load sensor or the like. The seating sensor 33 detects that a user is sitting on the toilet seat 5. The seating sensor 33 can detect that a user is sitting on the toilet seat 5.

[0095] The seating sensor 33 also functions as a seating detection sensor that detects when a user leaves the toilet seat 5. The seating sensor 33 detects the user's seated state on the toilet seat 5. Note that the above is just an example, and the seating sensor 33 may detect whether a person is sitting on the toilet seat device 2 by various means other than the above. The seating sensor 33 outputs a seating detection signal to the control device 100.

[0096] The illuminance sensor 34 is a sensor that detects illuminance. For example, the illuminance sensor 34 is used as a seating detection means that detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 5. For example, the illuminance sensor 34 is disposed in a position facing the bowl portion 8 and detects the illuminance inside the bowl portion 8.

[0097] The illuminance sensor 34 also functions as a seat-off detection sensor that detects when a user leaves the toilet seat 5. The illuminance sensor 34 detects whether the user is seated on the toilet seat 5. Note that the above is only an example, and the illuminance sensor 34 may be placed in any position as long as it can detect whether a user is seated on the toilet seat 5 based on the illuminance.

[0098] The control device 100 controls various components and processes. The control device 100 is a computer (information processing device) that executes various information processes related to gas measurement, etc. The control device 100 may be any device, such as a microcomputer, as long as it has the components necessary for control.

[0099] The control device 100 controls various components for measuring gas. The control device 100 controls the gas detection device 20. The control device 100 transmits control information to the gas detection device 20 via a wired connection. The control device 100 may also transmit the control information to the gas detection device 20 wirelessly. For example, when the control device 100 is configured as a separate device from the toilet seat device 2, the control device 100 may transmit the control information for the gas detection device 20 to the toilet seat device 2 wirelessly. In this case, the control device of the toilet seat device 2 may control the gas detection device 20 based on the control information received.

[0100] The control device 100 controls the suction device 10. For example, the control device 100 controls the start and stop of suction by the suction device 10. The control device 100 transmits control information to the suction device 10 via a wired connection. The control device 100 may also transmit control information to the suction device 10 wirelessly. For example, if the control device 100 is configured as a separate device from the toilet seat device 2, it may transmit control information for the suction device 10 to the toilet seat device 2 wirelessly. In this case, the control device of the toilet seat device 2 may control the suction device 10 based on the control information received.

[0101] In addition to the above, the control device 100 also controls various other components of the biological information measurement system 1. The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61, etc. The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61, etc. based on a signal transmitted from the operation device 30.

[0102] The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61 based on a control instruction signal related to local cleaning transmitted from the operating device 30. The control device 100 controls the nozzle motor 61 to advance and retract the cleaning nozzle 6. Note that the control device 100 may control various mechanisms other than the nozzle motor 61. For example, the control device 100 controls the opening and closing of a solenoid valve that functions as a valve that electromagnetically controls the flow of a fluid. For example, the control device 100 controls the solenoid valve to switch on and off the supply of tap water from a water supply pipe, for example.

[0103] The control device 100 transmits control information to the nozzle motor 61 etc. via a wired connection. The control device 100 may also transmit control information to the nozzle motor 61 etc. wirelessly. For example, if the control device 100 is configured as a separate device from the toilet seat device 2, it may transmit control information for the nozzle motor 61 etc. to the toilet seat device 2 wirelessly. In this case, the control device of the toilet seat device 2 may control the nozzle motor 61 etc. based on the control information received.

[0104] The control device 100 may also control the toilet lid 9 and toilet seat 5 as shown in FIG. 1 . In this case, the control device 100 controls the toilet lid 9 and toilet seat 5 based on signals transmitted from the operation device 30. The control device 100 controls the toilet lid 9 based on control instruction signals regarding the opening and closing of the toilet lid transmitted from the operation device 30. The control device 100 controls the toilet seat 5 based on control instruction signals regarding the opening and closing of the seat transmitted from the operation device 30. The control device 100 transmits control information to the toilet lid 9 and toilet seat 5 via a wired connection. Note that the control device 100 may also transmit control information to the toilet lid 9 and toilet seat 5 wirelessly.

[0105] The control device 100 determines whether a user is seated by seat detection means such as the human sensor 32, seat sensor 33, and illuminance sensor 34. The control device 100 determines whether a user is seated on the toilet seat 5 by defecation activity use prediction information based on detection by the seat detection means obtained from the seat detection means.

[0106] The nozzle motor 61 is a drive source (motor) that drives the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retract. The nozzle motor 61 controls the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retract relative to the main body 3. The nozzle motor 61 controls the cleaning nozzle 6 to advance and retract in accordance with instructions from the control device 100.

[0107] In the configuration shown in FIG. 5 , the toilet seat device 2 includes the control device 100 and other components. However, the control device 100, the human presence sensor 32, the seating sensor 33, and the illuminance sensor 34 may be configured as separate devices from the toilet seat device 2. For example, the control device 100 may be configured as a separate device from the toilet seat device 2. For example, the control device 100 may be a server device located at a distance from the toilet seat device 2. In this case, the control device 100 communicates with each device, such as the toilet seat device 2, the human presence sensor 32, the seating sensor 33, and the illuminance sensor 34, and receives various pieces of information from each device. In this case, the toilet seat device 2 may also have a configuration (such as a control circuit) for controlling various components of the toilet seat device 2, such as the nozzle motor 61. Note that the above is merely an example, and the biological information measurement system 1 can employ any device configuration as long as it is capable of performing the desired processing.

[0108] <1-6. Functional Configuration of the Control Device> The functional configuration of the control device will be described below with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the control device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. Note that the configuration of the control device 100 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 6, and other configurations may be used as long as the desired processing can be realized. For example, the control device 100 does not need to have the communication unit 110.

[0109] The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a communication circuit or the like. The communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined network by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined network by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from other devices such as the operation device 30. Note that the communication unit 110 may be configured as a device (communication device) separate from the control device 100, and may be included in the toilet seat device 2.

[0110] The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 120 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by various information processing programs and the like.

[0111] The storage unit 120 according to the embodiment stores various pieces of information necessary for processing. The storage unit 120 stores various pieces of information acquired from other devices such as various sensors. The storage unit 120 stores various pieces of information used in various types of information processing. For example, the storage unit 120 stores information related to reference value control such as target values.

[0112] Returning to Fig. 6, the explanation will be continued. The control unit 130 is realized by, for example, an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) or a CPU (Central Processing Unit) executing a program stored inside the control device 100 (for example, various information processing programs related to the present disclosure) using a RAM or the like as a work area. The control unit 130 may also be realized by, for example, an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0113] 6, the control unit 130 has an acquisition unit 131, a processing unit 132, and an output unit 133, and realizes or executes the functions and actions of the information processing described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 6, and other configurations may be used as long as they perform the information processing described below.

[0114] The acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information. The acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 receives information from other devices. The acquisition unit 131 receives information (detection information, etc.) detected by various sensors from the various sensors.

[0115] The acquisition unit 131 acquires information (detection information, etc.) detected by the seating detection unit from the seating detection unit. The acquisition unit 131 receives information (detection information, etc.) detected by at least one of the human presence sensor 32, the seating sensor 33, and the illuminance sensor 34 from that sensor.

[0116] The acquisition unit 131 acquires defecation activity use prediction information based on detection by the seating detection means. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires defecation activity use prediction information indicating that the user is seated.

[0117] The processing unit 132 performs various processes using the information stored in the storage unit 120. The processing unit 132 controls the gas detection device 20.

[0118] The processing unit 132 performs a calculation process using various pieces of information stored in the storage unit 120. The processing unit 132 performs a calculation process using various pieces of information acquired by the acquisition unit 131.

[0119] The processing unit 132 calculates various pieces of information related to the gas. The processing unit 132 calculates values ​​based on the measurement values ​​measured by the gas detection device 20. The processing unit 132 calculates the resistance value of the sensor element based on the voltage value measured by the gas sensor 40. For example, the processing unit 132 calculates the resistance value of the sensor element from the measured voltage value using a function that indicates the relationship between the voltage value and the resistance value of the sensor element. The processing unit 132 calculates the resistance value of the sensor element using equation (1).

[0120] The processing unit 132 may calculate the gas concentration based on the calculated resistance value of the sensor element. In this case, the processing unit 132 calculates the gas concentration from the calculated resistance value using a function that indicates the relationship between the resistance value and the gas concentration.

[0121] The output unit 133 executes an output process to output various information. The output unit 133 functions as a transmission unit that transmits various information. The output unit 133 executes the output process by transmitting information to an external information processing device. The output unit 133 transmits information to the external information processing device. For example, the output unit 133 transmits various information to the estimation means 200. For example, the output unit 133 transmits various information to an administrator device such as a personal computer or smartphone used by an administrator of the estimation means 200. The output unit 133 may also execute the output process by transmitting information to the operation device 30 (or the display screen 31).

[0122] The output unit 133 transmits various types of information used by the estimation unit 200 in the estimation process to the estimation unit 200. The output unit 133 transmits information indicating the measurement values ​​measured by the gas detection device 20. The output unit 133 transmits information indicating the values ​​calculated by the processing unit 132.

[0123] <1-7. Gas Sensor> An example of the configuration of a gas sensor will now be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a gas sensor. Specifically, Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration CR of a semiconductor gas sensor 40.

[0124] The gas sensor 40 includes a sensor element and a resistance element for measurement. In Fig. 7, the gas sensor 40 has a circuit configuration CR in which the sensor element (corresponding to the sensor resistor RS in Fig. 7) and the resistance element for measurement (corresponding to the resistance element RL in Fig. 7) are connected in series.

[0125] In the semiconductor gas sensor 40, a value related to the amount of gas is calculated using the following formula (1): Formula (1) corresponds to the circuit configuration CR shown in FIG. 7 and is the same formula as the function FC1 in FIG.

[0126] RS = ((Vc-Vout) / Vout) x RL... (1)

[0127] "RS" in formula (1) represents the resistance value of the sensor element. For example, "RS" in formula (1) represents the resistance value of the sensor resistor RS, which is an example of a value calculated based on measurements by the gas sensor 40. In this way, formula (1) is a formula for calculating the resistance value.

[0128] "RL" in equation (1) represents the resistance value of the resistive element RL. "Vc" in equation (1) represents the voltage value of the circuit voltage Vc. "Vout" in equation (1) represents the voltage value of the output voltage Vout at the resistive element. For example, "Vout" in equation (1) represents the voltage value of the resistive element RL, which is an example of a measurement value measured by the gas sensor 40.

[0129] The resistance value of the sensor resistor RS in equation (1) is an index related to the amount of gas. The biological information measurement system 1 calculates an index (resistance value) related to the amount of gas from the measured value (voltage value), and calculates the amount of gas from the calculated resistance value. Note that a detailed explanation of the principles of the semiconductor gas sensor will be omitted, but for example, "RH" shown only in the circuit configuration CR in FIG. 7 corresponds to a heater (resistance) for heating the sensor element, and "V Ｈ " corresponds to the heater voltage. The gas sensor in the present invention is not limited to a semiconductor sensor, and any sensor that satisfies the above formula (1) can be used instead.

[0130] <1-8. Configuration Example> Next, a configuration example for enabling appropriate measurement of gas will be described, assuming the configuration of the above-described biological information measurement system 1. First, before describing specific configuration examples, the effect on measurement of the concentration gradient of defecation gas diffused within the bowl portion 8 will be described using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the effect of the concentration gradient on measurement.

[0131] Graph GR11 in Figure 8 shows an example of a measurement when a gas sensor detects fecal gas with a concentration gradient that has diffused within the bowl portion 8, with the vertical axis representing the detected value (e.g., the voltage value of the resistor element RL) and the horizontal axis representing time.

[0132] The actual measurement value LN11 shown by a solid line in graph GR11 indicates the value (actual measurement value) actually detected (measured) by the gas sensor of the defecation gas having a concentration gradient that has diffused within the bowl portion 8. Furthermore, the true measurement value LN12 shown by a dotted line in graph GR11 indicates the value (true measurement value) that should have been detected (measured) when the defecation gas having a concentration gradient that has diffused within the bowl portion 8 is detected (measured) by the gas sensor.

[0133] As shown by the actual measurement value LN11 and the true measurement value LN12 in graph GR11, the difference between the actual measurement value and the value that should be detected (measured) (the true measurement value) becomes large where the gas concentration gradient is steep. For example, in the example of Figure 8, the deviation between the actual measurement value and the true measurement value becomes large near the point where the detected value suddenly increases from a small value or where the detected value reaches its maximum value. When the difference between the actual measurement value and the true measurement value is large, it is difficult to perform appropriate measurement.

[0134] Therefore, the biological information measurement system 1 has at least one of a first configuration and a second configuration as shown below. Note that the first configuration and the second configuration may be combined in an appropriate manner if they are applicable in combination. In other words, the biological information measurement system 1 may have both the first configuration and the second configuration. Each of the first configuration and the second configuration will be described below.

[0135] <1-8-1. First Configuration> First, a first configuration example will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the first configuration according to the embodiment. Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement relationship of each component in the gas flow path 11. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0136] 9, the suction device 10, the gas detection device 20, and the pressure loss generating unit 50 are arranged in this order from the first opening 12 (upstream) side of the gas flow path 11. In the first configuration shown in FIG. 9, the suction device 10 is arranged upstream of the gas detection device 20.

[0137] Furthermore, the pressure loss generating unit 50 has a pressure loss generating function and is disposed at the most downstream position of the gas flow path 11. In the biological information measuring system 1 having the first configuration, the pressure loss is greatest at the position where the pressure loss generating unit 50 is disposed in the gas flow path 11. In the first configuration shown in Fig. 9, the pressure loss generating unit 50 is disposed at the very end (most downstream) of the second opening 13 (downstream) of the gas flow path 11. That is, the pressure loss generating unit 50 is disposed along the second opening 13, which is the most downstream outlet of the gas flow path 11.

[0138] For example, the pressure loss generating section 50 has a structure for generating pressure loss (also referred to as a "pressure loss generating structure"), which generates pressure loss and generates turbulence based on the pressure loss. In this case, the pressure loss generating section 50 functions as a turbulence generating section that generates turbulence. The pressure loss generating structure may be, for example, a mesh structure. Note that the mesh structure is merely an example, and the pressure loss generating structure is not limited to a mesh structure and may have any structure as long as it can generate the desired pressure loss.

[0139] An example of turbulent flow generation in the first configuration will now be described with reference to Figures 10 and 11. Figures 10 and 11 are diagrams showing an example of turbulent flow generation in the first configuration. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in Figure 9 and other figures will be omitted where appropriate.

[0140] First, the state before the concentration gradient is eliminated (initial state) will be described using Figure 10. For example, Figure 10 is a schematic diagram corresponding to the state before the concentration gradient is eliminated in the first configuration. Figure 10 shows a case where gas GS11, which is defecation gas with a concentration gradient, flows from the first opening 12 (upstream) side to the second opening 13 (downstream) side as shown in the gas traveling direction RD.

[0141] In Figure 10, the concentration gradient of gas GS11 is shown by the hatching applied to gas GS11. That is, in Figure 10, the shade of the hatching indicates the shade of concentration, for example, the darker the hatching, the higher the concentration. Note that gas GS11 in Figure 10 is a diagram for imagining a state in which defecation gas has a concentration gradient, and does not indicate that defecation gas is composed only of concentrations corresponding to the three hatchings as in Figure 10.

[0142] 10, the concentration gradient around the gas sensor 40 is indicated by hatching in the concentration state IG11. That is, like the concentration state IG11 and the gas GS11, the shade of the hatching indicates the shade of the concentration. Note that the concentration state IG11 in FIG. 10 is a diagram for imagining a state in which a gas concentration gradient occurs around the gas sensor 40, like the gas GS11, and does not indicate that the gas around the gas sensor 40 is composed only of the concentrations corresponding to the three hatched areas as in FIG.

[0143] 10 corresponds to a state in which the gas GS11 reaches the pressure loss generating portion 50 and turbulence occurs. That is, Fig. 10 corresponds to a state in which the gas GS11 reaches the pressure loss generating portion 50 and the turbulent flow EF11 generated by the pressure loss generating portion 50 has not yet reached the periphery of the gas sensor 40, and a gas concentration gradient occurs around the gas sensor 40, as indicated by the concentration state IG11. In this way, the turbulent flow EF11 generated by the pressure loss generating portion 50 propagates upstream over time.

[0144] Next, the state after the concentration gradient is eliminated will be described with reference to Fig. 11. For example, Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram corresponding to the state after the concentration gradient is eliminated in the first configuration. Note that the same points as those explained in Fig. 10 and the like will not be explained as appropriate.

[0145] 11 shows a case where gas GS12, which is defecation gas with a concentration gradient, flows from the first opening 12 (upstream) to the second opening 13 (downstream) as shown in the gas flow direction RD. Note that the hatching and other expressions for gas GS12 are the same as those for gas GS11 in FIG. 10, and therefore will not be described here.

[0146] Fig. 11 corresponds to a state (post-elapsed state) after a certain time has elapsed since the state shown in Fig. 10. For example, Fig. 11 corresponds to a state in which a certain time has elapsed since the gas GS11 reached the pressure loss generating portion 50, and a turbulent flow EF12 generated by the pressure loss generating portion 50 has reached the periphery of the gas sensor 40. In Fig. 11, as shown by the turbulent flow EF12, the homogenization of the concentration starts from the generation of a turbulent flow (such as the turbulent flow EF11 in Fig. 10) and spreads upstream, thereby homogenizing the concentration of the gas around the gas sensor 40.

[0147] 11, the concentration gradient is shown as concentration state IG12, and the gas concentration around the gas sensor 40 is thereby made uniform. Note that the hatching and other expressions for concentration state IG12 are the same as those for concentration state IG11 in FIG. 10, and therefore will not be described here.

[0148] 11, the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration can measure gas without being affected by the gas concentration gradient by performing measurement in a state where the gas concentration gradient around the gas sensor 40 is eliminated. This allows the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration to perform appropriate gas measurement.

[0149] As described above, the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration is provided with a means for generating a pressure loss downstream of the gas sensor 40, thereby generating turbulence downstream and bringing gas with a uniform concentration gradient into contact with the gas sensor 40. In this way, the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration generates a pressure loss downstream of the gas sensor 40 using the pressure loss generating unit 50, bringing gas into contact with the gas sensor 40, while generating turbulence downstream and bringing gas with a uniform concentration gradient into contact with the gas sensor 40. This allows the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration to perform accurate measurement using the gas sensor 40 without being affected by the concentration gradient of defecation gas.

[0150] Furthermore, the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration has the following configuration to enable accurate measurement by the gas sensor 40.

[0151] For example, in a biological information measurement system 1 having a first configuration, as shown in Fig. 9, the suction device 10 is disposed upstream of the gas detection device 20 (gas sensor 40), and agitates the fecal gas and the mixed gas in the bowl portion 8 before supplying the gas to the gas sensor 40 of the gas detection device 20. As a result, in the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration, the mixed gas that has been agitated by the suction device 10 and has a reduced concentration gradient can be flowed downstream, enabling appropriate measurement of the gas. In this way, in the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration shown in Fig. 9, the gas can be agitated by the suction device 10 before being supplied to the gas sensor 40, and therefore the gas can be supplied to the gas sensor 40 with a uniform concentration gradient.

[0152] For example, in the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration, as shown in FIG. 9 , the pressure loss generating unit 50 has a larger surface area than the gas sensor 40. As a result, in the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration, the pressure loss generating unit 50 generates a larger pressure loss than the location where the gas sensor 40 is disposed. In this way, in the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration, the pressure loss generated by the pressure loss generating unit 50 can reduce the gas concentration gradient around the gas sensor 40, thereby enabling appropriate gas measurement. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 having the first configuration increases the pressure loss generated downstream compared to the pressure loss generated when fecal gas passes through the gas sensor 40, thereby quickly supplying gas to the gas sensor 40 while suppressing particle adhesion to the filter and flow path upstream of the sensor and generating turbulence downstream to more uniform the concentration gradient.

[0153] <1-8-1-1. Other Aspects of the First Configuration> The first configuration is not limited to the above, and any configuration can be adopted. An example of this point will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing another example aspect of the first configuration according to the embodiment.

[0154] 12 has a concentration gradient adjuster 60 that is arranged upstream of the gas sensor 40 in the gas flow path 11. The concentration gradient adjuster 60 generates a smaller pressure loss than the pressure loss generating unit 50. The concentration gradient adjuster 60 generates a turbulent flow by generating a pressure loss due to its surface area.

[0155] For example, the concentration gradient adjustment unit 60 is configured to have a smaller surface area than the pressure loss generating unit 50, thereby generating a smaller pressure loss than the pressure loss generating unit 50. In this case, the pressure loss generating unit 50 has a larger surface area than the concentration gradient adjustment unit 60.

[0156] For example, the concentration gradient adjusting unit 60 may be a filter without a deodorizing function, configured to allow odorous gases, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide to pass through while preventing the passage of foreign matter such as urine and cleaning agents. The concentration gradient adjusting unit 60 may be a member that mechanically captures foreign matter without using a chemical reaction, such as a fine net-like member. The concentration gradient adjusting unit 60 can prevent the gas sensor 40 from being contaminated by urinary stones and the like.

[0157] 12, the concentration gradient adjusting unit 60 generates a pressure loss that is smaller than that of the pressure loss generating unit 50, and the air in the toilet 7 (bowl portion 8) is collected reliably, and the gas flows in without excessive retention at the inlet of the gas flow path 11 and without excessive particle adhesion, and the concentration gradient is made uniform, allowing the gas to be supplied to the gas sensor 40. As a result, the biological information measuring system 1 having the first configuration shown in FIG. 12 can appropriately measure gas.

[0158] <1-8-2. Second Configuration> Next, a second configuration example will be described with reference to FIG. 13 . FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second configuration according to the embodiment. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement position of the gas sensor 40 in the gas flow path 11. As shown in FIG. 13 , in the second configuration, the gas sensor 40 is arranged in the gas flow path 11. For example, in the second configuration, the suction device 10, the pressure loss generating unit 50, etc. may not be arranged in the gas flow path 11, or the suction device 10, the pressure loss generating unit 50, etc. may not be arranged. For example, in the case of the second configuration, only components related to the gas detection device 20, such as the gas sensor 40, may be arranged in the gas flow path 11. Note that descriptions of points similar to those described above in the first configuration, etc. will be omitted as appropriate.

[0159] 13 shows the arrangement position of the gas sensor 40 in the gas flow path 11 when the gas flow path 11 is viewed from the side. That is, in FIG. 13, the upper side of the gas flow path 11 corresponds to the top side of the gas flow path 11, and the lower side of the gas flow path 11 corresponds to the bottom side of the gas flow path 11. In this way, in the biological information measurement system 1 having the second configuration shown in FIG. 13, the gas sensor 40 is arranged on the bottom side of the gas flow path 11. Note that when the gas sensor 40 is in the form of a sensor unit in which multiple gas sensors 40 are stacked, the sensor units are arranged on the bottom side of the gas flow path 11, and thereby multiple gas sensors 40 are arranged on the bottom side of the gas flow path 11.

[0160] 13, the gas sensor 40 has a sensor sensitive portion 41 that reacts to gas and a cover portion 42 that surrounds the sensor sensitive portion 41. The sensor sensitive portion 41 is a component that reacts to gas among the components of the gas sensor 40. For example, the sensor sensitive portion 41 is a component that corresponds to the circuit configuration CR shown in FIG. 7. The sensor sensitive portion 41 reacts to gas contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path 11.

[0161] The cover 42 has the sensor sensitive portion 41 disposed therein so as to surround the sensor sensitive portion 41, and has a connection port 43 through which air inside the cover 42 can circulate with the outside. The connection port 43 is a through-hole provided in the cover 42, and is provided to allow fluid such as gas to flow between the inside and outside of the cover 42. Note that FIG. 13 shows an example in which one connection port 43 is provided in the center, but the connection port 43 may be provided at any location on the cover 42, and the cover 42 may have multiple connection ports 43, as will be described later. Any component can be used for the cover 42. For example, the cover 42 may be a sensor cap. Note that the cover 42 is not limited to a sensor cap, and any component can be used as long as it surrounds the sensor sensitive portion 41 and has the connection port 43.

[0162] Here, in the second configuration, the cover part 42 forms a space (flow path) into the gas flow path 11 where the gas flowing in the gas flow path 11 flows in and flows out to the gas flow path 11. In this way, in the second configuration, two flow paths are formed in the gas flow path 11: a flow path corresponding to a space other than the space within the cover part 42 (referred to as a "main flow path FC1"), and a flow path corresponding to the space within the cover part 42 (also referred to as a "sub-flow path FC2").

[0163] 13 , the sub-channel FC2 corresponds to the space surrounded by the cover portion 42, and the main channel FC1 corresponds to the space in the gas channel 11 other than the space surrounded by the cover portion 42. Here, gas flows into the sub-channel FC2 from the main channel FC1 and accumulates therein. This causes the flow velocity of the gas in the sub-channel FC2 to be slower than the flow velocity of the gas flowing through the main channel FC1. Furthermore, gas flows out of the sub-channel FC2 into the main channel FC1 in response to the inflow of gas from the main channel FC1. Note that the flow velocity in the sub-channel FC2 may be locally faster than the flow velocity of the gas flowing through the main channel FC1, or the flow velocity (e.g., average flow velocity) of most of the gas in the sub-channel FC2 may be slower than the flow velocity (e.g., average flow velocity) of most of the gas flowing through the main channel FC1. That is, gas flows through at least a portion of the sub-channel FC2 at a slower flow velocity than the main channel FC1. For example, the sub-channel FC2 may be a channel whose average flow velocity is slower than that of the main channel FC1. The gas channel 11 includes a main channel FC1 and a sub-channel FC2 that is provided within the main channel FC1 and through which the gas flowing in from the main channel FC1 passes at a flow velocity slower than that of the main channel FC1. For example, the gas channel 11 includes the main channel FC1 and the sub-channel FC2 through which at least a portion of the gas flowing in from the main channel FC1 passes at a flow velocity slower than that of the main channel FC1. Furthermore, for example, the gas channel 11 includes the main channel FC1 and the sub-channel FC2 whose average flow velocity is slower than that of the main channel FC1.

[0164] 13 , the sensor sensitive portion 41 is disposed within the sub-channel FC2. The sub-channel FC2 is configured to allow gas to pass through and to surround the sensor sensitive portion 41, and gas flows into the sub-channel FC2 from the main channel FC1. In the second configuration, gas flows from the main channel FC1 into the sub-channel FC2, and then merges with the main channel FC1 from the sub-channel FC2. The sub-channel FC2 is disposed on the bottom side of the main channel FC1.

[0165] Next, an example of turbulent flow generation in the second configuration will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. Figures 14 and 15 are diagrams showing an example of turbulent flow generation in the second configuration. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in Figure 13 etc. will be omitted as appropriate.

[0166] First, the state before the concentration gradient is eliminated (initial state) will be described using Figure 14. For example, Figure 14 is a schematic diagram corresponding to the state before the concentration gradient is eliminated in the second configuration. Figure 14 shows a case where gas GS51, which is defecation gas with a concentration gradient, flows from the first opening 12 (upstream) side to the second opening 13 (downstream) side as shown in the gas traveling direction RD.

[0167] In Figure 14, the concentration gradient of gas GS51 is shown by the hatching applied to gas GS51. That is, in Figure 14, the shade of the hatching indicates the shade of concentration, for example, the darker the hatching, the higher the concentration. Note that gas GS51 in Figure 14 is a diagram for imagining a state in which defecation gas has a concentration gradient, and does not indicate that defecation gas is composed only of concentrations corresponding to the three hatchings as in Figure 14.

[0168] 14, the concentration gradient of the gas flowing through the main flow path FC1 is indicated by hatching in the concentration state IG511. That is, like the concentration state IG511 and the gas GS51, the shade of the hatching indicates the shade of the concentration. Note that the concentration state IG511 in FIG. 14 is a diagram for imagining a state in which a gas concentration gradient occurs in the gas flowing through the main flow path FC1, similar to the gas GS51, and does not indicate that the gas flowing through the main flow path FC1 is composed of only the concentrations corresponding to the three hatchings as in FIG. 14.

[0169] Figure 14 corresponds to a state in which gas GS51 flowing through main flow path FC1 begins to flow into sub-flow path FC2. That is, Figure 14 corresponds to a state in which gas GS51 begins to flow into sub-flow path FC2, and turbulence EF51 begins to occur in sub-flow path FC2, and as shown in concentration state IG512, gas containing gas is not sufficiently distributed within sub-flow path FC2. As time passes from the state in Figure 14, gas flows (invades) into sub-flow path FC2, and stagnation occurs within sub-flow path FC2.

[0170] Next, the state before the elimination of the concentration gradient will be described with reference to Fig. 15. For example, Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram corresponding to the state after the elimination of the concentration gradient in the second configuration. Note that the same points as those described in Fig. 14 and the like will not be described as appropriate.

[0171] 15 shows a case where gas GS52, which is defecation gas with a concentration gradient, flows from the first opening 12 (upstream) to the second opening 13 (downstream) as shown in the gas flow direction RD. Note that the hatching and other expressions for gas GS52 are the same as those for gas GS51 in FIG. 14, and therefore will not be described here.

[0172] Figure 15 corresponds to a state (post-lapse state) after time has elapsed since the state shown in Figure 14. In Figure 15, as shown in concentration state IG521, a state in which the gas concentration gradient is maintained in the gas flowing through main flow path FC1. On the other hand, Figure 15 corresponds to a state in which time has passed since gases such as gas GS52 began to flow into sub-flow path FC2, and the gas containing the gas has sufficiently spread throughout sub-flow path FC2. In Figure 15, the flow velocity in sub-flow path FC2 is slowed down, thereby making the concentration uniform.

[0173] As a result, the concentration of the gas around the sub-channel FC2 is made uniform, as shown by the concentration gradient in concentration state IG522 in Fig. 15. Note that the hatching and other expressions for concentration states IG521 and IG522 are similar to those for concentration state IG511 in Fig. 14, and therefore will not be described here.

[0174] 15, the biological information measurement system 1 having the second configuration can perform gas measurement without being affected by the gas concentration gradient by performing measurement in a state where the gas concentration gradient in the sub-channel FC2 is eliminated, thereby enabling the biological information measurement system 1 having the second configuration to perform appropriate gas measurement.

[0175] As described above, the bioinformation measuring system 1 having the second configuration separates the sensor sensitive portion 41 with the cover portion 42 that constitutes the sub-flow path FC2, and by temporarily retaining the defecation gas around the sensor sensitive portion 41, the concentration gradient is made uniform, enabling accurate measurement by the gas sensor 40.In addition, since most of the flow rate passes through the main flow path FC1, the gas in the bowl portion 8 can be recovered in the gas flow path 11.

[0176] In the biological information measurement system 1 having the second configuration, the sensor sensitive portion 41 including the sensor element and the like is isolated, allowing the sensor sensitive portion 41 to be isolated and exposed to gas, thereby allowing exposure to gas with a uniform concentration gradient. Furthermore, the biological information measurement system 1 having the second configuration is configured so that gas in the sub-channel FC2 is exchanged with gas in the main channel FC1, allowing gas to flow continuously and enabling accurate measurement. Furthermore, in the biological information measurement system 1 having the second configuration, the sub-channel FC2 is located on the bottom side of the gas channel 11, making it easy for particle-containing gas to flow downward due to the influence of gravity. Therefore, gas can be sent even to the sub-channel FC2 that does not have a fan, for example.

[0177] Furthermore, the biological information measurement system 1 having the second configuration may have the following configuration in order to enable accurate measurement by the gas sensor 40.

[0178] For example, in biological information measurement system 1 having the second configuration, main flow path FC1 is provided with suction device 10 that sucks gas from within bowl portion 8, and sub-flow path FC2 does not necessarily have to be provided with suction device 10. As a result, in biological information measurement system 1 having the second configuration, main flow path FC1 quickly collects gas from within bowl portion 8 and causes it to accumulate in sub-flow path FC2, allowing gas with a uniform concentration gradient to be applied to sensor sensitive portion 41 of gas sensor 40.

[0179] <1-8-2-1. Other Aspects of the Second Configuration> The second configuration is not limited to the above, and any configuration can be adopted. An example of this point will be described with reference to Fig. 16. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing another example aspect of the second configuration according to the embodiment.

[0180] The biological information measurement system 1 having the second configuration shown in Fig. 16 has multiple connection ports 43, including connection ports 43a and 43b, through which internal air can be circulated with the outside. The number of connection ports 43 is not limited to two, and may be three or more. That is, in the biological information measurement system 1 having the second configuration shown in Fig. 16, the sub-channel FC2 has at least two connection ports 43 that communicate with the main channel FC1.

[0181] The total cross-sectional area of ​​the connection ports 43 may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the main flow path FC1. For example, in Fig. 16, the total area of ​​the connection ports 43a and 43b is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the internal space of the gas flow path 11 (the cross-section intersecting the left-right direction in Fig. 16). In this way, the area of ​​the portion where the sub-flow path FC2 and the main flow path FC1 communicate with each other through the connection port 43 is smaller than the cross-sectional area intersecting the gas flow direction in the main flow path FC1.

[0182] 16, by changing the number of connection ports 43 provided in the sub-flow path FC2, the amount of accumulated gas can be controlled to a constant amount without being affected by the sensitivity of the gas sensor 40 or the amount of gas suction. Furthermore, the biological information measuring system 1 having the second configuration shown in FIG. 16 can control the cycle of adsorption and desorption of fecal gas to the sensor sensitive part 41, thereby facilitating quick cleaning of the gas sensor 40.

[0183] <1-9. Other Configuration Examples> The biological information measurement system is not limited to the configuration described above, and may have various other configurations. This will be described below. Note that the same description as above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0184] In other configuration examples, such as a third configuration and a fourth configuration described below, the measuring device 4 includes a suction device 10, a gas detection device 20, and a pressure loss generating unit 50 (hereinafter referred to as the "deodorizing member 50") that is a deodorizing member. The upstream side is a first opening 12 (hereinafter referred to as the "inlet portion 12") (bowl portion 8) that is an inlet portion of the gas flow path 11, and the downstream side is a first opening 13 (hereinafter referred to as the "inlet portion 13") (outside the main body portion 3) that is an outlet portion of the gas flow path 11. The suction device 10 is disposed upstream of the deodorizing member 50. The gas flow path 11 includes the inlet portion 12 that allows gas to flow into the gas flow path 11, and the outlet portion 13 that is located downstream of the inlet portion 12 and that exhausts the gas in the gas flow path 11 to the outside of the gas flow path 11.

[0185] The exhaust section 13 of the gas flow path 11 has an opening on one end (rear end) side of the gas flow path 11, and functions as an exhaust port that allows gas in the gas flow path 11 to flow out (exhaust) from the gas flow path 11, as schematically shown by arrow OT in Fig. 2 . As shown in Fig. 2 , the exhaust section 13 is positioned so as to exhaust gas in the gas flow path 11 to the outside of the toilet from a position behind the seating position of a user of the toilet. Note that the toilet here is not limited to only the toilet bowl 7, but may also include components necessary to enable excretion by a user and to process that excretion. For example, the toilet may include the toilet bowl 7 and the toilet seat 5. Alternatively, for example, the toilet may include the toilet bowl 7, the toilet seat 5, and the main body 3.

[0186] In addition, inlet portion 12 of gas flow path 11 has an opening on the other end (front end) side (opposite to outlet portion 13) of gas flow path 11, and functions as an inlet that allows gas within bowl portion 8 to flow into gas flow path 11, as schematically shown by arrow IN in Figure 2. In this way, inlet portion 12 is disposed in a position where it can collect defecation gas within bowl portion 8. Gas detection device 20 is disposed between inlet portion 12 and outlet portion 13.

[0187] The gas sensor 40 is disposed between the inlet portion 12 and the outlet portion 13. For example, the gas sensor 40 is disposed upstream of the deodorizing member 50 and spaced apart from the deodorizing member 50.

[0188] The deodorizing member 50 is provided in the gas flow path 11 and has the function of deodorizing and removing odorous components from fecal gas. For example, the deodorizing member 50 is a catalytic filter (deodorizing filter) that adsorbs odorous gases such as foul-smelling gases. The deodorizing member 50 is provided in the discharge section 13 of the gas flow path 11. For example, the deodorizing member 50 is attached to a mechanism for attaching the deodorizing member 50 that is provided in the discharge section 13 of the gas flow path 11, thereby being positioned in the discharge section 13, i.e., at the very end of the gas flow path 11.

[0189] The deodorizing member 50 is also provided so as to be detachable from outside the toilet bowl. As shown in Figure 2, the deodorizing member 50 is exposed on the rear side of the main body 3, and a person can access (touch) the deodorizing member 50 from the rear side of the main body 3. Therefore, for example, when it is time to replace the deodorizing member 50, a person can access the deodorizing member 50 from the rear side of the main body 3, remove the old deodorizing member 50 that is currently in use, and attach a new deodorizing member 50 to the exhaust portion 13 of the gas flow path 11.

[0190] In this way, by disposing the deodorizing member 50, the air from which odorous gases and other gases have been removed by the deodorizing member 50 is discharged outside the main body 3 included in the toilet (to the rear of the main body 3 in FIG. 2). Details of the disposition of the deodorizing member 50 will be described later. The deodorizing member 50 may also have a function of generating pressure loss (also referred to as a "pressure loss generating function"). In this case, for example, the deodorizing member 50 may function so that the pressure loss generated when gas passes through is higher downstream of the location where the gas sensor 40 is disposed relative to the direction of travel of the gas passing through the gas flow path 11.

[0191] In other configuration examples, such as a third configuration and a fourth configuration described below, the biological information measuring system 1 includes a suction device 10, a gas detection device 20, a deodorizing member 50, a control device 100, and an estimation means 200. Note that in Fig. 3, in order to clearly show the arrangement of only the deodorizing member 50, a schematic diagram of a state in which the deodorizing member 50 is arranged at the position of the discharge portion 13 (the rearmost portion) of the gas flow path 11 is shown, but the suction device 10 and the gas detection device 20 are also arranged in the gas flow path 11.

[0192] From here, we will explain other configuration examples, such as a third configuration and a fourth configuration, for suppressing a decrease in gas measurement accuracy, based on the configuration of the above-mentioned biological information measurement system 1. Note that the configurations shown below are merely examples, and the biological information measurement system 1 can adopt any configuration as long as the exhaust unit 13 is positioned so that gas in the gas flow path 11 is exhausted outside the toilet from behind the seating position of the toilet user.

[0193] <1-9-1. Third Configuration> First, a third configuration example will be described with reference to Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the third configuration according to the embodiment. Fig. 17 is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement relationship of each component in the gas flow path 11. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0194] 17 , in the third configuration example, suction device 10, gas detection device 20, and deodorizing member 50 are arranged in this order from the upstream side of gas flow path 11. In this way, in the third configuration example, gas detection device 20 is arranged upstream of deodorizing member 50 and spaced apart from deodorizing member 50. FIG. 17 shows a case where gas flows from inlet portion 12 (upstream) to outlet portion 13 (downstream) within gas flow path 11, as indicated by gas traveling direction RD.

[0195] As described above, in the biological information measurement system 1 having the third configuration, the exhaust section of the gas flow path is positioned so as to exhaust the gas in the gas flow path 11 outside the toilet bowl from behind the seating position of the toilet user, thereby preventing odorous components accumulated in the deodorizing member 50 from circulating through the flow path and immediately exhausting them into the toilet space, thereby stabilizing the measurement accuracy of the gas sensor 40 of the gas detection device 20. Therefore, the biological information measurement system 1 having the third configuration can suppress a decrease in the gas measurement accuracy.

[0196] Furthermore, in the bioinformation measuring system 1 having the third configuration, since the suction device 10 is close to the entrance (inlet section 12) of the gas flow path 11, the gas can be quickly collected into the gas flow path 11 and supplied to the gas sensor 40 and deodorizing member 50 of the gas detection device 20 after diffusion, thereby improving the accuracy of measurement by detection by the gas sensor 40 of the gas detection device 20.

[0197] <1-9-2. Fourth Configuration> Note that the gas detection device 20 including the gas sensor 40 may be disposed at any position upstream of the deodorizing member 50 and spaced apart from the deodorizing member 50. An example of a fourth configuration, which is an example of this point, will be described with reference to FIG. 18. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the fourth configuration according to the embodiment. Note that the description of the same points as those described above in the third configuration and the like will be omitted as appropriate.

[0198] 18 , in the fourth configuration example, gas detection device 20, suction device 10, and deodorizing member 50 are arranged in this order from the upstream side of gas flow path 11. In this way, in the fourth configuration example, gas detection device 20 is arranged upstream of deodorizing member 50 and suction device 10 and spaced apart from deodorizing member 50. FIG. 18 shows a case where gas flows within gas flow path 11 from inlet portion 12 (upstream) to outlet portion 13 (downstream), as indicated by gas traveling direction RD.

[0199] As described above, in the biological information measurement system 1 having the fourth configuration, the exhaust section of the gas flow path is positioned so as to exhaust the gas in the gas flow path 11 outside the toilet bowl from behind the seating position of the toilet user, thereby preventing odorous components accumulated in the deodorizing member 50 from circulating through the flow path and immediately exhausting them into the toilet space, thereby stabilizing the measurement accuracy of the gas sensor 40 of the gas detection device 20. Therefore, the biological information measurement system having the fourth configuration can suppress a decrease in the gas measurement accuracy.

[0200] Furthermore, in the biological information measuring system 1 having the fourth configuration, the suction device 10 is provided downstream of the gas sensor 40 of the gas detection device 20, which prevents odorous components that have flowed in from the inlet 12 of the gas flow path 11 from adhering to the suction device 10, improving the accuracy of the gas sensor 40 of the gas detection device 20, and subsequently allows the suction device 10 to diffuse the defecation gas and bring it into contact with the deodorizing member 50. Therefore, the biological information measuring system 1 having the fourth configuration can improve the accuracy of measurement by detection by the gas sensor 40 of the gas detection device 20.

[0201] <1-9-3. Other Aspects> The biological information measurement system 1 is not limited to the above and may have any other configuration. An example of this will be described below.

[0202] For example, in the biological information measuring system 1, a member for adjusting the concentration gradient (also referred to as a "concentration gradient adjusting member") may be disposed in the gas flow path 11 upstream of the location where the gas sensor 40 is disposed. The concentration gradient adjusting member may generate a pressure loss due to its surface area to generate a turbulent flow, and may generate a smaller pressure loss than the deodorizing member 50.

[0203] For example, the concentration gradient adjusting member may be configured to have a smaller surface area than the deodorizing member 50, thereby generating a smaller pressure loss than the deodorizing member 50. For example, the concentration gradient adjusting member may be a filter without a deodorizing function, configured to allow odorous gases, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide to pass through while preventing the passage of foreign matter such as urine and cleaning agents. The concentration gradient adjusting member may be a member that mechanically captures foreign matter without using a chemical reaction, such as a fine net-like member. The concentration gradient adjusting member can prevent the gas sensor 40 from being contaminated by urinary stones and the like.

[0204] For example, in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, the gas (air) after deodorization is returned to the bowl. Therefore, as the effectiveness of deodorizing components such as deodorizing filters decreases, odorous components may circulate within the gas flow path. In such cases, it is difficult to prevent a decrease in gas measurement accuracy, and there is room for improvement in how the gas after deodorization is handled. Therefore, by having the above-mentioned configuration, the biological information measurement system can prevent a decrease in gas measurement accuracy.

[0205] The above-described embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradiction in the processing content.

[0206] Further advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0207] The above-described embodiments and modified examples may be configured as follows, but are not limited to the following: (1) A biological information measurement system for measuring biological information of a user of a toilet room based on defecation gas discharged into a bowl of a toilet bowl installed in the toilet room, the biological information measurement system comprising: a suction device that sucks in gas in the bowl from which the defecation gas is discharged by the user of the toilet room; a gas flow path through which the gas sucked in by the suction device passes; a gas detection device including a gas sensor that reacts to gas contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path; a control device that controls the suction device and the gas detection device; and a pressure loss generating unit that increases the pressure loss generated when the gas passes downstream of the gas sensor in the direction of travel of the gas passing through the gas flow path. (2) The biological information measurement system described in (1), wherein the pressure loss is greatest at the location of the pressure loss generating unit in the gas flow path. (3) The biological information measurement system described in (1) or (2), wherein the pressure loss generating unit generates a larger pressure loss than at the location of the gas sensor. (4) The biological information measuring system according to any one of (1) to (3), further comprising: a concentration gradient adjusting unit that generates a smaller pressure loss than the pressure loss generating unit, located upstream of the gas sensor in the gas flow path. (5) The biological information measuring system according to any one of (1) to (4), characterized in that the pressure loss generating unit has a larger surface area than the gas sensor. (6) The biological information measuring system according to (4), characterized in that the pressure loss generating unit has a larger surface area than the concentration gradient adjusting unit. (7) The biological information measuring system according to any one of (1) to (6), characterized in that the suction device is located upstream of the gas sensor and agitates the defecation gas and the mixed gas in the bowl and supplies them to the gas sensor. (8) The biological information measuring system according to any one of (1) to (7), characterized in that the pressure loss generating unit has a deodorizing function and is located at the most downstream of the gas flow path.(9) A biological information measuring system as described in any one of (1) to (8), characterized in that it includes a deodorizing member provided in the gas flow path that deodorizes and removes odorous components from the defecation gas, wherein the gas flow path includes an inlet portion that allows gas to flow into the gas flow path and an outlet portion that is provided downstream of the inlet portion and discharges the gas in the gas flow path to the outside of the gas flow path, wherein the gas sensor is located between the inlet portion and the outlet portion, wherein the inlet portion is located at a position where it can collect defecation gas in the bowl, and wherein the outlet portion is located so as to discharge the gas in the gas flow path to the outside of the toilet bowl from a position behind a seating position of a user of the toilet bowl. (10) A biological information measuring system as described in (9), characterized in that the deodorizing member is provided in the outlet portion of the gas flow path. (11) A biological information measuring system as described in (10), characterized in that the deodorizing member is provided in a manner that it can be attached and detached from the outside of the toilet bowl. (12) The biological information measuring system according to any one of (9) to (11), characterized in that the suction device is disposed upstream of the deodorizing member. (13) The biological information measuring system according to any one of (9) to (12), characterized in that the gas sensor is disposed upstream of the deodorizing member and spaced apart from the deodorizing member. (14) The biological information measuring system according to any one of (9) to (13), characterized in that the suction device, the gas sensor, and the deodorizing member are disposed in this order from the upstream side of the gas flow path. (15) The biological information measuring system according to any one of (9) to (14), characterized in that the gas sensor, the suction device, and the deodorizing member are disposed in this order from the upstream side of the gas flow path.

[0208] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Biometric information measurement system 2 Toilet seat device 3 Main body 4 Measurement device 5 Toilet seat 6 Cleaning nozzle 7 Toilet bowl 8 Bowl 9 Toilet lid 10 Suction device 11 Gas flow path 12 First opening (inlet) 13 Second opening (outlet) 20 Gas detection device 40 Gas sensor 50 Pressure loss generating unit 100 Control device 110 Communication unit 120 Memory unit 130 Control unit 131 Acquisition unit 132 Processing unit 133 Output unit 200 Estimation means R Toilet room

Claims

1. A vital information measuring system for measuring the vital information of a user of a toilet room based on defecation gas discharged into the bowl of a toilet bowl installed in the toilet room, comprising: a suction device for sucking in gas within the bowl from which the defecation gas is discharged by the user of the toilet room; a gas flow path through which the gas sucked in by the suction device passes; a gas detection device having a gas sensor that reacts to gas contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path; a control device for controlling the suction device and the gas detection device; and a pressure loss generating unit that makes the pressure loss generated when the gas passes through the gas flow path higher downstream of the position of the gas sensor in the direction of travel of the gas passing through the gas flow path.

2. The biological information measuring system according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure loss is greatest at a location in the gas flow path where the pressure loss generating portion is disposed.

3. The biological information measuring system according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure loss generating section generates a pressure loss greater than that at the location where the gas sensor is disposed.

4. The biological information measuring system as described in claim 1, further comprising a concentration gradient adjustment section that generates a pressure loss smaller than that of the pressure loss generating section, upstream of the location of the gas sensor in the gas flow path.

5. The biological information measuring system according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure loss generating portion has a surface area larger than that of the gas sensor.

6. The biological information measuring system according to claim 4, characterized in that the pressure loss generating section has a larger surface area than the concentration gradient adjusting section.

7. The vital sign measuring system according to claim 1, characterized in that the suction device is positioned upstream of the gas sensor, and mixes the defecation gas with the mixed gas in the bowl and supplies it to the gas sensor.

8. A vital sign measuring system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the pressure loss generating section has a deodorizing function and is arranged at the most downstream position of the gas flow path.

9. A deodorizing member provided in the gas flow path for deodorizing and removing odorous components of the defecation gas, wherein the gas flow path includes an inlet section for allowing gas to flow into the gas flow path, and an outlet section provided downstream of the inlet section for discharging gas in the gas flow path to the outside of the gas flow path, wherein the gas sensor is disposed between the inlet section and the outlet section, wherein the inlet section is disposed at a position capable of collecting defecation gas in the bowl, and wherein the outlet section is disposed so as to discharge gas in the gas flow path to the outside of the toilet from a position rearward of a seating position of a user of the toilet.

10. The vital sign measuring system according to claim 9, characterized in that the deodorizing member is provided at the exhaust portion of the gas flow path.

11. The vital signs measuring system according to claim 10, characterized in that the deodorizing member is detachably attached from outside the toilet bowl.

12. The vital sign measuring system according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the suction device is disposed upstream of the deodorizing member.

13. The biological information measuring system according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the gas sensor is disposed upstream of the deodorizing member and spaced apart from the deodorizing member.

14. The vital sign measuring system according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the suction device, the gas sensor and the deodorizing member are arranged in this order from the upstream side of the gas flow path.

15. The biological information measuring system according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the gas sensor, the suction device, and the deodorizing member are arranged in this order from the upstream side of the gas flow path.

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