Biometric information measuring system

Abstract

A biometric information measuring system according to an embodiment comprises a suction device for sucking defecation gas discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in a 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 prescribed gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow passage, and a control device which controls the suction flow rate of the suction device, wherein, if the suction flow rate of the suction device is x (L / min), the relationship 10≤x≤200 is satisfied.

Description

Biological Information Measurement System

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

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a biometric information measurement system that uses a gas sensor to detect fecal gas emitted when a toilet user (hereinafter also referred to as "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, the above-mentioned conventional technology leaves room for improvement. For example, if the suction flow rate into the gas flow path where the gas sensor is located is high, the resolution of the gas sensor may not be able to keep up due to a sudden increase or decrease in concentration, increasing the possibility that accurate measurement may not be possible. Also, for example, if the suction flow rate into the gas flow path where the gas sensor is located is low, the time it takes for the gas sensor's detection value to return to the baseline may be delayed, affecting the measurement of the next user and increasing the possibility that accurate measurement may not be possible. In such cases, the accuracy of measurement by the gas sensor may decrease, making it difficult to properly measure the gas, so there is room for improvement. Therefore, it is desirable to control the suction flow rate of fecal gas discharged into the toilet bowl within an appropriate range.

[0005] An object of the disclosed embodiment is to provide a biological information measurement system that can control the suction flow rate of fecal gas discharged into a toilet bowl within an appropriate range.

[0006] A biometric information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment comprises a suction device that sucks in fecal gas discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in a 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 a specific gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path, and a control device that controls the suction flow rate of the suction device, wherein when the suction flow rate of the suction device is x (L / min), the relationship 10≦x≦200 is satisfied.

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the bioinformation measuring system controls the suction flow rate of the suction device (hereinafter also referred to as "flow rate") so that 10≦x≦200 is satisfied, where x is (L (liters) / min (minutes)). This makes it possible to control the suction flow rate of the fecal gas discharged into the toilet bowl within an appropriate range. For example, by controlling the suction flow rate of the suction device within the above-described range, the bioinformation measuring system can prevent an increase in the suction flow rate into the gas flow path in which the gas sensor is located, which can cause a sudden increase or decrease in concentration, making accurate measurement impossible, or a decrease in the suction flow rate into the gas flow path in which the gas sensor is located, which can affect the measurement of the next user and make accurate measurement impossible. In this way, the bioinformation measuring system can prevent an increase in the possibility of an inaccurate measurement.

[0008] For example, if the suction flow rate is greater than 200 L / min, the size of the suction device will increase and driving noise will become a problem. Furthermore, if the suction flow rate is less than 10 L / min, fecal gas will leak out of the bowl, making proper detection impossible. As described above, the bioinformation measurement system can suction fecal gas from the bowl without affecting measurement accuracy if the flow rate is 200 L / min or less. Furthermore, as described above, if the flow rate is 10 L / min or more, the bioinformation measurement system can control the time it takes for the sensor signal to return to the baseline after reaching its peak, without affecting the measurement of the next user.

[0009] 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 measure the components of defecation gas more accurately, and the inventors have evolved this through hardware innovation. The suction device described in Patent Document 2 enables the supply of more defecation gas to the gas sensor while preventing the gas from diffusing outside the bowl. However, considering the relationship between suction flow rate and measurement accuracy, as the suction flow rate increases, the gas sensor's resolution cannot keep up with the rapid concentration changes, making it difficult to accurately read peak values ​​(making it difficult to obtain an accurate sensor signal). Similarly, it has been recognized that as the suction flow rate decreases, the time it takes for the sensor signal to return to baseline after reaching its peak increases, affecting measurements for the next user.

[0010] Therefore, in a bioinformation measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the suction flow rate of the suction device is controlled to be within the above-mentioned range, thereby solving the above problem and suppressing an increase in the possibility of inaccurate measurement.

[0011] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the biological information measuring system, the control device controls the suction flow rate to be equal to or greater than 50 L / min and equal to or less than 170 L / min.

[0012] For example, if the flow rate is 170 L / min or less, fecal gas in the bowl can be aspirated without affecting measurement accuracy. Furthermore, if the flow rate is 50 L / min or more, the time it takes for the sensor signal to return to the baseline after reaching its peak can be controlled without affecting the measurement of the next user. Therefore, according to one aspect of the bioinformation measurement system, by controlling the suction flow rate to be between 50 L / min and 170 L / min, the suction flow rate of fecal gas discharged into the toilet bowl can be controlled within an appropriate range.

[0013] In one aspect of the embodiment, the control device in the bioinformation measuring system has a first control mode and a second control mode for controlling the suction flow rate, and is characterized in that the first control mode is executed when the user sits down and the second control mode is executed after the user leaves the seat.

[0014] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the bioinformation measurement system can appropriately control the suction flow rate by controlling the suction flow rate using multiple control modes. For example, the bioinformation measurement system can execute the second control mode after the user has completed defecation and switch the flow rate to maximum, thereby quickly discharging any remaining defecation gas in the flow path and controlling the time it takes for the sensor signal to return to the baseline after reaching its peak, without affecting the measurement of the next user. In this way, the bioinformation measurement system can reduce the possibility of inaccurate measurement.

[0015] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the biological information measuring system, the control device controls the sampling rate of the gas detection device to be 0.2 Hz or higher.

[0016] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the biological information measurement system can stabilize measurement by setting the sampling rate to 0.2 Hz or higher, thereby enabling the biological information measurement system to appropriately control the number of signal processing operations (sampling rate) when converting the electrical signal detected by the gas detection device into a digital signal.

[0017] In one aspect of the embodiment, the control device controls the flow rate of the fecal gas passing through the gas sensor arranged in the gas flow path to be greater than or equal to 0.6 m / sec and less than or equal to 14 m / sec.

[0018] For example, if the flow rate is 14 m / sec or less, the fecal gas in the bowl can be aspirated without affecting measurement accuracy. Furthermore, if the flow rate is 0.6 m / sec or more, the time it takes for the sensor signal to return to the baseline after reaching a peak can be controlled without affecting the measurement of the next user. Therefore, according to one aspect of the bioinformation measurement system, by controlling the flow rate of the fecal gas passing through the gas sensor disposed in the gas flow path to be between 0.6 m / sec and 14 m / sec, the flow rate of the fecal gas discharged into the toilet bowl passing through the gas sensor can be controlled within an appropriate range.

[0019] A biological information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment comprises a suction device that sucks in fecal gas discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in a 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 a specific gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path, and a control device that controls the suction flow rate of the suction device, wherein the gas sensor is a semiconductor gas sensor that satisfies 10≦x≦200 when the suction flow rate of the suction device is x (L / min), and the gas sensor is a semiconductor gas sensor, and the control device controls the sampling rate of the gas detection device to be 1 Hz or higher.

[0020] According to one aspect of the embodiment, when the gas sensor is a semiconductor gas sensor, the suction flow rate of the suction device is controlled to satisfy 10≦x≦200, where x (L / min) and the sampling rate of the gas detection device is controlled to 1 Hz or higher, thereby controlling the suction flow rate of the fecal gas discharged into the toilet bowl within an appropriate range. For example, by controlling the suction flow rate of the suction device within the above-mentioned range, the bioinformation measurement system can prevent an increase in the suction flow rate into the gas flow path in which the gas sensor is located, which could result in a sudden increase or decrease in concentration, making accurate measurement impossible, or a decrease in the suction flow rate into the gas flow path in which the gas sensor is located, which could affect the measurement of the next user and make accurate measurement impossible. In this way, the bioinformation measurement system can prevent an increase in the possibility of an inaccurate measurement.

[0021] A biological information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment comprises a suction device that suctions fecal gas discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in a toilet room, a gas flow path through which the gas sucked by the suction device passes, a gas detection device having a gas sensor that reacts to a predetermined gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path, and a control device that controls the suction flow rate of the suction device, wherein the gas sensor is an infrared absorption gas sensor that satisfies 10≦x≦170 when the suction flow rate of the suction device is x (L / min), and the gas sensor is an infrared absorption gas sensor, and the control device controls the sampling rate of the gas detection device to be 0.5 Hz or higher.

[0022] According to one aspect of the embodiment, when the gas sensor is an infrared absorption gas sensor, the suction flow rate of the suction device is controlled to satisfy 10≦x≦170 (where x (L / min)) and the sampling rate of the gas detection device is controlled to 0.5 Hz or higher, thereby controlling the suction flow rate of the fecal gas discharged into the toilet bowl within an appropriate range. For example, by controlling the suction flow rate of the suction device within the above-mentioned range, the biological information measurement system can prevent an increase in the suction flow rate into the gas flow path in which the gas sensor is located, which can cause a sudden increase or decrease in concentration, making accurate measurement impossible, or a decrease in the suction flow rate into the gas flow path in which the gas sensor is located, which can affect the measurement of the next user and make accurate measurement impossible. In this way, the biological information measurement system can prevent an increase in the possibility of inaccurate measurement.

[0023] A biological information measurement system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a suction device that suctions fecal gas discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in a toilet room, a gas flow path through which the gas suctioned by the suction device passes, a gas detection device equipped with a gas sensor that reacts to a predetermined gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path, and a control device that controls the suction flow rate of the suction device, wherein the setting condition for driving the gas detection device is y, the suction flow rate of the suction device is x1 (L / min), and the number of signal processing times when converting an electrical signal detected by the gas detection device into a digital signal is x2 (Hz), and the variables α, β, and b in the following formula 1 are set to 0.025≦α≦0.045, −11≦β≦−7, and 1.5≦b≦3.0, respectively, and the relationship 0≦y≦500 is satisfied. [Formula 1] y = e(α*x1 + β*x2 + b)

[0024] In a biological information measuring system according to one aspect of the embodiment, if the suction flow rate (hereinafter also referred to as "flow rate") of the suction device is x1 (L (liters) / min (minutes)), the number of signal processing times (sampling rate) when converting an electrical signal detected by the gas detection device into a digital signal is x2 (Hz), and the variables α, β, and b in Equation 1 are 0.025≦α≦0.045, −11≦β≦−7, and 1.5≦b≦3.0, respectively, then by controlling the setting condition y for driving the gas detection device to satisfy 0≦y≦500, the suction flow rate of defecation gas discharged into the toilet bowl and the number of signal processing times (sampling rate) when converting an electrical signal detected by the gas detection device into a digital signal can be controlled within appropriate ranges. In this way, by controlling to satisfy the above-mentioned conditions, the biological information measuring system can control the flow rate of defecation gas and the number of processing times of the gas sensor within appropriate ranges so that the setting condition for driving the gas detection device satisfies the reference value.

[0025] For example, the number of signal processing times (sampling rate) when converting the electrical signal detected by the gas sensor into a digital signal also affects the accuracy of the measurement. Therefore, it is desirable to control both the suction flow rate of the fecal gas discharged into the toilet bowl and the number of gas sensor processing times within appropriate ranges. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the suction device described in Patent Document 2 makes it possible to supply a larger amount of fecal gas to the gas sensor while preventing the fecal gas from diffusing outside the bowl. However, considering the relationship between the suction flow rate and measurement accuracy, as the suction flow rate increases, the resolution of the gas sensor cannot keep up with the rapid concentration changes, making it difficult to accurately read peak values ​​(making it difficult to obtain an accurate sensor signal).

[0026] Therefore, in a biometric information measurement system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the above-mentioned problems can be solved by controlling the system to satisfy the above-mentioned conditions, thereby suppressing an increase in the possibility that accurate measurements will not be possible.

[0027] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the biological information measuring system, the control device controls the suction flow rate to be equal to or greater than 50 L / min and equal to or less than 170 L / min.

[0028] For example, if the flow rate is 170 L / min or less, fecal gas in the toilet bowl can be aspirated without affecting measurement accuracy. It is also recognized that as the suction flow rate decreases, the time it takes for the sensor signal to return to the baseline after reaching its peak increases, affecting the measurement of the next user. Therefore, if the flow rate is 50 L / min or more, the time it takes for the sensor signal to return to the baseline after reaching its peak can be controlled within a range that does not affect the measurement of the next user. Therefore, according to one aspect of the bioinformation measurement system, by controlling the suction flow rate to be between 50 L / min and 170 L / min, the suction flow rate of fecal gas discharged into the toilet bowl can be controlled within an appropriate range. For example, by controlling the suction flow rate to satisfy the above-mentioned range, the bioinformation measurement system can prevent an increase in the suction flow rate into the gas flow path in which the gas sensor is located, which can cause a sudden increase or decrease in concentration, thereby preventing accurate measurement, or a decrease in the suction flow rate into the gas flow path in which the gas sensor is located, which can affect the measurement of the next user and prevent accurate measurement. In this way, the bioinformation measurement system can prevent an increase in the possibility of inaccurate measurement.

[0029] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the suction flow rate of the fecal gas discharged into the bowl of the toilet can be controlled within an appropriate range.

[0030] 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 measuring device according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an overall outline of a biological information measuring 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 when the suction flow rate is high. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example when the suction flow rate is low. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a control mode. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a sampling rate. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of flow rate calculation. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of measurement results. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of measurement results.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] <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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The toilet 7 is a so-called toilet bowl (Western-style toilet), and is formed with a bowl 8. The bowl 8 is concave downward and is the area that receives the user's excrement. The toilet 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 7 is provided with a rim around the entire edge of the opening that faces the bowl 8. For example, a flush water tank that stores flush water may be installed near the toilet 7 in the toilet room R, or a so-called tankless type may be used, in which no flush water tank is installed.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] <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.

[0050] The measuring device 4 has a suction device 10 that sucks gas from within the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7, a gas detection device 20 that detects the components of the sucked gas, and a deodorizing member 50. The inlet portion 12 (bowl portion 8) side of the gas flow path 11 is defined as the upstream side, and the outlet portion 13 (outside the main body portion 3) side of the gas flow path 11 is defined as the downstream side.

[0051] The suction device 10 sucks gas in the bowl portion 8 from which fecal 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. The suction device 10 is disposed upstream of the deodorizing member 50.

[0052] The suction device 10 is disposed in a gas flow path 11, which is a flow path that communicates with the bowl portion 8 of the toilet bowl 7 at an inlet portion 12 side. 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. The gas flow path 11 has an inlet portion 12 that allows gas to flow into the gas flow path 11, and an outlet portion 13 that is disposed downstream of the inlet portion 12 and that discharges the gas in the gas flow path 11 out of the gas flow path 11.

[0053] 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.

[0054] Furthermore, the inlet 12 of the gas flow path 11 has an opening at the other end (front end) of the gas flow path 11 (opposite the outlet 13), and functions as an inlet that allows gas in the bowl portion 8 to flow into the gas flow path 11, as schematically shown by the arrow IN in FIG. 2 . In this way, the inlet 12 is disposed in a position where it can collect fecal gas in the bowl portion 8. The suction device 10 drives the fan to suck gas in the bowl portion 8 using the gas flow path 11 as a flow path. For example, the suction device 10 performs suction-related processing under the control of the control device 100. Note that when the suction device 10 is used in common with a deodorizing device or the like incorporated in the toilet seat device 2, the suction device 10 may be controlled by a control means (device) separate from the control device 100.

[0055] Gas detection device 20 executes processing related to the detection of components of the gas sucked by suction device 10. Gas detection device 20 is disposed between inlet portion 12 and outlet portion 13. 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 a position where gas sucked by suction device 10 can be introduced. Gas detection device 20 is disposed in gas flow path 11, the outlet portion 13 of which is in communication with the outside of main body 3. For example, gas in gas flow path 11 is released to the outside of gas flow path 11 in response to the driving of suction device 10.

[0056] 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.

[0057] The gas sensor 40 is disposed between the inlet section 12 and the outlet section 13. For example, the gas sensor 40 is disposed upstream of the deodorizing member 50 and spaced apart from the deodorizing member 50. 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 gases. The gas sensor 40 may be a methane gas sensor capable of detecting methane. For example, the gas detection device 20 has multiple gas sensors 40. The multiple 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 not particularly distinguished from each other, they will be referred to as gas sensors 40.

[0058] 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 gas sensor may include an infrared absorption gas sensor such as a carbon dioxide concentration measuring instrument.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] <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.

[0063] 3, biological information measuring system 1 includes suction device 10, gas detection device 20, deodorizing member 50, control device 100, and estimation means 200. Note that in order to clearly show the arrangement of only deodorizing member 50, Fig. 3 shows a schematic diagram of a state in which deodorizing member 50 is arranged at the position of discharge portion 13 (the rearmost portion) of gas flow path 11, but suction device 10 and gas detection device 20 are also arranged in gas flow path 11.

[0064] 1 and 2 show the toilet seat device 2 having the suction device 10, the gas detection device 20, and the control device 100, but 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. As described above, the suction device 10 may be controlled by a control means other than the control device 100.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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:

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] <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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] <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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] <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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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).

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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).

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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).

[0115] 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.

[0116] <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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] RS = ((Vc-Vout) / Vout)×RL... (1)

[0120] "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.

[0121] "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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 1-8. Relationship between suction flow rate and measurement Now, gas measurement will be described based on the configuration of the above-described biological information measurement system 1. First, a brief description will be given of problems that arise when the suction flow rate is inappropriate.

[0124] <1-8-1. When the suction flow rate is high> First, a case where the suction flow rate is high (the suction flow velocity is fast) will be described using Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a case where the suction flow rate is high. Specifically, Fig. 8 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a problem that occurs when the suction flow rate is high.

[0125] Graph GR11 in Figure 8 shows an example of a measurement when the suction device 10 is controlled by the control device 100 so that the suction flow rate of the suction device 10 increases when suctioning fecal gas in the bowl portion 8, with the vertical axis representing the detected value (e.g., the voltage value of the resistance element RL) and the horizontal axis representing time.

[0126] 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 fecal gas sucked by suction device 10 from inside bowl portion 8 at a suction flow rate (e.g., a rate greater than 200 L / min) that is too high for the resolution of the gas sensor to keep up with. Furthermore, the true measurement value LN12 shown by a dotted line in graph GR11 indicates the value (true measurement value) that should be detected (measured) when fecal gas sucked by suction device 10 from inside bowl portion 8 is detected (measured) by the gas sensor.

[0127] As shown by the actual measurement value LN11 and the true measurement value LN12 in the graph GR11, when the suction flow rate of the suction device 10 is high, the difference between the actual measurement value and the value that should be detected (measured) (the true measurement value) becomes large. In this way, when the suction flow rate of the suction device 10 is so high that the resolution of the gas sensor cannot keep up, if the difference between the actual measurement value and the true measurement value is large, accurate measurement becomes impossible, and the possibility of inaccurate measurement increases.

[0128] <1-8-2. When the suction flow rate is low> Next, a case where the suction flow rate is low (slow suction flow velocity) will be described using Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a case where the suction flow rate is low. Specifically, Fig. 9 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a problem that occurs when the suction flow rate is low.

[0129] Graph GR21 in Figure 9 shows an example of a measurement when the suction device 10 is controlled by the control device 100 so that the suction flow rate of the suction device 10 is reduced when suctioning fecal gas in the bowl portion 8, with the vertical axis representing the detected value (e.g., the voltage value of the resistance element RL) and the horizontal axis representing time.

[0130] The actual measurement value LN21 shown by the solid line in graph GR21 indicates the value (actual measurement value) actually detected (measured) by the gas sensor of the fecal gas aspirated by the suction device 10 from inside the bowl portion 8 at a suction flow rate (e.g., less than 10 L / min) that takes time to return to the baseline and affects the measurement of the next user. Also, the baseline LN20 shown by the dotted line in graph GR21 indicates the detection value (baseline) of the gas sensor when fecal gas is not being detected.

[0131] As shown by the actual measurement value LN21 and baseline LN20 in graph GR21, when the suction flow rate of the suction device 10 is low, it takes time for the gas sensor to return to the baseline after measuring the defecation gas. In this way, when the suction flow rate of the suction device 10 is so low that it takes time for the gas sensor to return to the baseline after measuring the defecation gas, the gas sensor will not have returned to the baseline by the time measurement for the next user is started, which increases the possibility of affecting the measurement for the next user and making it impossible to perform an accurate measurement.

[0132] <1-9. Control Example> As described above, it is desirable for the biological information measuring system 1 to appropriately control the suction flow rate, etc., to prevent an increase in the possibility that an increase in the suction flow rate will cause a sudden increase or decrease in concentration, making accurate measurement impossible, or that a decrease in the suction flow rate into the gas flow path in which the gas sensor is located will affect the measurement of the next user and make accurate measurement impossible. Therefore, the biological information measuring system 1 controls the suction flow rate of the fecal gas discharged into the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7 within an appropriate range, as follows.

[0133] <1-9-1. First Control Example> First, a first control example will be described, which is an example of control for controlling the suction flow rate of defecation gas discharged into the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7 within an appropriate range.

[0134] In the first control example, the control device 100 of the biological information measuring system 1 controls the suction flow rate of the suction device 10 so that 10≦x≦200 is satisfied, where x (L / min) is the suction flow rate. For example, the control device 100 controls the suction flow rate during the suction operation of the suction device 10 so that it is 10 L / min or more and 200 L / min or less. For example, the control device 100 controls the suction device 10 to suck gas from within the bowl portion 8 of the toilet 7 into the gas flow path 11 at the desired suction flow rate.

[0135] The control device 100 may control the suction flow rate to be equal to or greater than 50 L / min and equal to or less than 170 L / min. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 may perform suction for measurement by utilizing the power deodorization function of the toilet seat device 2. For example, the biological information measurement system 1 may use, for measurement, gas suctioned during power deodorization corresponding to a second control mode described below.

[0136] For example, if the suction flow rate during power deodorization in the toilet seat device 2 is 170 L / min, the biological information measurement system 1 uses gas sucked in at a suction flow rate of 170 L / min during power deodorization for measurement. Furthermore, if the suction flow rate during power deodorization in the toilet seat device 2 is 160 L / min, the biological information measurement system 1 uses gas sucked in at a suction flow rate of 160 L / min during power deodorization for measurement. In this case, the control device 100 can perform suction at a flow rate appropriate for measurement while realizing the power deodorization function that is a function of the toilet seat device 2. In other words, the control device 100 can appropriately perform the deodorization and measurement functions through common suction.

[0137] The control device 100 may have a first control mode and a second control mode for controlling the suction flow rate, and may execute the first control mode when the user sits down and the second control mode after the user leaves the seat. In this case, when the control device 100 detects that the user has sat down on the toilet seat 5, it controls the suction device 10 to execute the first control mode and perform suction by the suction device 10. For example, the control device 100 starts executing the first control mode at the timing when it detects that the user has sat down on the toilet seat 5.

[0138] Furthermore, when the control device 100 detects that the user has left the toilet seat 5, it controls the suction device 10 to execute the second control mode and perform suction by the suction device 10. For example, the control device 100 starts executing the second control mode at the timing when it detects that the user has left the toilet seat 5. For example, the control device 100 executes the second control mode for a predetermined period (e.g., 60 seconds).

[0139] An example of the first control mode and the second control mode will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the control modes. Note that the description of the same points as those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0140] 10 , the control device 100 controls the suction device 10 to execute a first control mode in which the suction device 10 performs suction at a suction flow rate of 90 L / min when the user is seated on the toilet seat 5. The control device 100 also controls the suction device 10 to execute a second control mode in which the suction device 10 performs suction at a suction flow rate of 160 L / min when the user leaves the toilet seat 5.

[0141] 10 are merely examples, and the first and second control modes can be set to any desired suction flow rate, for example, in the range of 10 L / min to 200 L / min. For example, the second control mode can be used for power deodorization and can be set to any suction flow rate in the range of 150 L / min to 170 L / min. Furthermore, the control device 100 can control any mode, and the control device 100 can end execution of the first control mode before the user leaves the toilet seat 5, or can switch from the first control mode to the second control mode before the user leaves the toilet seat 5.

[0142] Furthermore, the control device 100 controls the sampling rate of the gas detection device 20, which is the number of times signal processing is performed when converting an electrical signal detected by the gas detection device 20 into a digital signal, to 0.2 Hz or higher. An example of the sampling rate will be described with reference to FIG. 11 . FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the sampling rate. Note that explanations of points similar to those described in FIG. 8 and the like will be omitted as appropriate.

[0143] The actual measurement value LN31 shown by the solid line and the true measurement value LN32 shown by the dotted line corresponding to (0.1 Hz) in Fig. 11 show the case where the sampling rate is controlled at 0.1 Hz. In the example of Fig. 11, when the sampling rate is controlled at 0.1 Hz, as shown by the actual measurement value LN31 and the true measurement value LN32, when the sampling rate is 0.1 Hz, the maximum value portion of the detection value is not included.

[0144] On the other hand, the actual measurement value LN41 shown by the solid line corresponding to (0.2 Hz) in FIG. 11 and the true measurement value LN42 shown by the dotted line represent the case where the sampling rate is controlled at 0.2 Hz. In the example of FIG. 11 , when the sampling rate is controlled at 0.2 Hz, as shown by the actual measurement value LN41 and the true measurement value LN42, the maximum portion of the detection value is also included when the sampling rate is 0.2 Hz. In this way, a sampling rate of 0.2 Hz (a higher sampling rate) can reduce the possibility of measurement errors more than a sampling rate of 0.1 Hz. Therefore, it is desirable for the control device 100 to control the sampling rate of the gas detection device 20 to 0.2 Hz or higher.

[0145] The control device 100 controls the flow velocity of the defecation gas passing through the gas sensor arranged in the gas flow path 11 to be 0.6 m / sec or more and 14 m / sec or less. This point will be explained using FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of calculation of the flow rate. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate. As shown in FIG. 12, the (average) flow velocity v [m / s] is calculated by multiplying the volumetric flow rate Qv [m ３ / s] to the cross-sectional area [m ２ ] is calculated by dividing by

[0146] For example, the (average) flow velocity v [m / s] is expressed as the volume flow rate Qv [m ３ / s] is calculated by dividing the cross-sectional area of ​​that location [m ２ For example, the flow rate when the gas passes through the gas sensor 40 disposed in the gas flow path 11 is calculated using the cross-sectional area of ​​the pipe of the gas flow path 11 at the location where the gas sensor 40 is disposed and the volumetric flow rate at that location. For example, in the biological information measurement system 1, the control device 100 controls the suction device 10 in accordance with the cross-sectional area of ​​the pipe of the gas flow path 11 at the location where the gas sensor 40 is disposed so that the volumetric flow rate at that location satisfies the above flow rate.

[0147] <1-9-2. Example of Measurement Results> Measurements performed based on the above-described control example and the measurement results (simulation results) based on those measurements will now be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of measurement results. For example, Fig. 13 shows measurement results for each combination of flow rate and gas sensor measurement performance in the first control example. In the measurements shown in Fig. 13, the flow rate when passing through the gas sensor and the sampling rate of the gas sensor were changed to measure the components of fecal gas, and a comprehensive evaluation was performed using the evaluation criteria for measurement accuracy, measurement time, and data processing time as shown in Fig. 13.

[0148] 13 shows the measurement results (evaluation) of the gas sensor measurement performance for each combination of flow rate (aspiration flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate), as well as the measurement results (evaluation) of the flow rate (aspiration flow rate) and the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline. For aspiration flow rates (L / min), the measurement results (evaluation) are shown for 10 patterns: less than 10, 10, 30, 50, 70, 90, 110, 170, 200, and more than 200. For sampling rates, the measurement results (evaluation) are shown for four patterns: 1 Hz, 0.5 Hz, 0.2 Hz, and 0.2 to 0.1 Hz.

[0149] For example, in the measurement results shown in Fig. 13, the sampling rate of 1 Hz corresponds to the measurement results when a semiconductor gas sensor is used, and the sampling rate of 0.5 Hz corresponds to the measurement results when an infrared absorption gas sensor / infrared semiconductor gas sensor is used. Also, in the measurement results shown in Fig. 13, the sampling rates of 0.2 Hz and 0.2 to 0.1 Hz correspond to simulation results (predicted values) based on the measurement results when a semiconductor gas sensor with a sampling rate of 1 Hz is used.

[0150] In the measurement results (evaluation) of the gas sensor measurement performance shown in Figure 13, the symbol "o" indicates that the measurement error (measurement error) for the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is less than 10%. In other words, the symbol "o" indicates that the measurement accuracy, measurement time, and data processing time for fecal gas measurement are all within a sufficient range. For example, the symbol "o" indicates that the gas sensor measurement performance for the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is evaluated as good. Note that the measurement error (measurement error) indicates the error relative to the measurement result (measurement result) when measurement is performed at a predetermined high sampling rate. For example, the measurement error (measurement error) indicates the error relative to the measurement result when measurement is performed at a sampling rate of 5 Hz (0.2 seconds).

[0151] In addition, in the measurement results (evaluation) of the gas sensor measurement performance shown in Figure 13, the symbol "△" indicates that the measurement error (measurement error) in the measurement for the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is 10% or more and 50% or less. In other words, the symbol "△" indicates that the measurement accuracy in the fecal gas measurement is within the acceptable range, and that both the measurement time and the data processing time are within a sufficient range. For example, the symbol "△" indicates that the evaluation of the gas sensor measurement performance for the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is acceptable (acceptable range).

[0152] In addition, in the measurement results (evaluation) of the gas sensor measurement performance shown in Figure 13, the symbol "x" indicates that the measurement error (measurement error) in the measurement for the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is greater than 50%. In other words, the symbol "x" indicates that the measurement accuracy in the fecal gas measurement is insufficient. For example, the symbol "x" indicates that the evaluation of the gas sensor measurement performance for the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is unacceptable (NG).

[0153] In addition, in the measurement results (evaluation) of the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline shown in FIG. 13 , the symbol "o" indicates that the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline at the flow rate (aspiration flow rate) corresponding to that square is less than 120 seconds. That is, the symbol "o" indicates that the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline is less than the average value of the actually measured time from when the user sits down to when hand washing is completed. For example, the symbol "o" indicates that the evaluation of the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline at the flow rate (aspiration flow rate) corresponding to that square is good. Note that the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline depends on the aspiration flow rate, regardless of the gas sensor (type, sampling rate, etc.). That is, the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline varies depending on the aspiration flow rate; for example, the smaller the aspiration flow rate, the longer it becomes.

[0154] 13, the symbol "△" indicates that the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline at the flow rate (aspiration flow rate) corresponding to that square is between 120 seconds and 240 seconds. That is, the symbol "△" indicates that the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline is within the expected time range from when the previous user sat down until when the next user sat down. For example, the symbol "△" indicates that the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline at the flow rate (aspiration flow rate) corresponding to that square is acceptable (within the acceptable range).

[0155] 13, the symbol "x" indicates that the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline at the flow rate (aspiration flow rate) corresponding to that square is longer than 240 seconds. That is, the symbol "x" indicates that the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline is a time at which the previous user's bowel movements affect the accuracy of the measurement by the next user. For example, the symbol "x" indicates that the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline at the flow rate (aspiration flow rate) corresponding to that square is unsuccessful (NG).

[0156] According to the measurement results shown in FIG. 13, the lower limit of the flow rate (suction flow rate) is preferably within a range where the evaluation of the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from the peak to the baseline is not marked with an "x" (fail), i.e., the suction flow rate (L / min) is preferably 10 or greater.

[0157] Furthermore, with regard to the upper limit of the flow rate (suction flow rate), it is desirable that the evaluation of the gas sensor measurement performance is not marked with the symbol "x" (unacceptable) for either the sampling rate "1 Hz" or the sampling rate "0.5 Hz", i.e., that the suction flow rate (L / min) is 200 or less.

[0158] Furthermore, according to the measurement results shown in FIG. 13, it is more desirable that the lower limit of the flow rate (suction flow rate) be in a range where the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from its peak to the baseline is evaluated as "good," i.e., the suction flow rate (L / min) is 50 or more.

[0159] Furthermore, the upper limit of the flow rate (suction flow rate) is preferably within a range in which the power deodorizing function of the toilet seat device 2 can be utilized, that is, the suction flow rate (L / min) is preferably 170 or less.

[0160] 13, when the gas sensor 40 is a semiconductor gas sensor and the sampling rate is 1 Hz or higher, it is desirable that the evaluation of the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from the peak to the baseline is not in a range marked "x" (fail) and the evaluation of the gas sensor measurement performance is in a range marked "o" (good), i.e., the suction flow rate (L / min) is 10 or more and 200 or less. Note that the upper limit of the flow rate (suction flow rate) in the semiconductor gas sensor may be 170 or less, which is the range in which the power deodorizing function of the toilet seat device 2 can be used.

[0161] Furthermore, according to the measurement results shown in FIG. 13, when the gas sensor 40 is an infrared absorption gas sensor and the sampling rate is 0.5 Hz or higher, it is desirable that the evaluation of the time it takes for the gas sensor signal to return from the peak to the baseline is within a range other than the symbol "x" (not acceptable), and that the power deodorizing function of the toilet seat device 2 is within a range in which it is possible to use the suction flow rate (L / min) of 10 or more and 170 or less.

[0162] <1-9-3. Second Control Example> The biological information measurement system 1 may perform control based on various conditions, not limited to the first control example described above. For example, in addition to the suction flow rate, the number of signal processing times (sampling rate) when converting the electrical signal detected by the gas sensor into a digital signal also affects the accuracy of measurement. For this reason, it is desirable to control the suction flow rate of fecal gas discharged into the toilet bowl and the number of processing times by the gas sensor within an appropriate range.

[0163] In such a case, the biological information measuring system 1 may perform control using predetermined setting conditions related to both the suction flow rate and the number of processing times (sampling rate, etc.) of the gas sensor. Below, a second control example, which is an example of control based on predetermined setting conditions, will be described. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted where appropriate. For example, explanations of points similar to those in the first control example will be omitted where appropriate.

[0164] In the second control example, the control device 100 of the biological information measurement system 1 performs control so as to satisfy 0 ≦ y ≦ 500 when the setting conditions (gas sensor setting conditions) for driving the gas detection device 20 are y, the suction flow rate of the suction device 10 is x1 (L / min), and the number of signal processing times (sampling rate) when converting the electrical signal detected by the gas detection device 20 into a digital signal is x2 (Hz), and when the variables α, β, and b in the following equation (2) are 0.025 ≦ α ≦ 0.045, -11 ≦ β ≦ -7, and 1.5 ≦ b ≦ 3.0.

[0165] y = e(α*x1+β*x2+b)… (2)

[0166] For example, when each of the variables α, β, and b is set to a value within the above-mentioned range, the control device 100 controls the suction flow rate of the suction device 10 and the sampling rate of the gas detection device 20 so that the value of y calculated by the above equation (2) is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 500.

[0167] <1-9-4. Example of Measurement Results> Measurements performed based on the above-described control example and the measurement results (simulation results) based on those measurements will now be described with reference to FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of measurement results. For example, FIG. 14 is a diagram showing gas sensor setting conditions for each combination of flow rate and gas sensor measurement performance in the second control example. In the measurements shown in FIG. 14, simulations of gas sensor setting conditions were performed by changing the flow rate passing through the gas sensor and the sampling rate of the gas sensor, and a comprehensive evaluation was performed by defining evaluation criteria for measurement accuracy, measurement time, and data processing time as shown in FIG. 14. Note that explanations of points similar to those described in FIG. 13 will be omitted where appropriate.

[0168] 14 shows the measurement results (evaluation) when the variable α in the above formula (2) is set to 0.043, the variable β is set to −8, and the variable b is set to 2.6. Note that the flow rate (aspiration flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) shown in FIG. 14 are the same as those in FIG. 13, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0169] In the measurement results (evaluation) of the gas sensor measurement performance shown in Figure 14, the symbol "o" indicates that the value of the gas sensor setting condition "y" for the measurement using the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is less than 100. In other words, the symbol "o" indicates that the measurement accuracy, measurement time, and data processing time for fecal gas measurement are all within a sufficient range. For example, the symbol "o" indicates that the evaluation based on the gas sensor setting condition "y" for the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is good.

[0170] In the measurement results (evaluation) of the gas sensor measurement performance shown in Figure 14, the symbol "△" indicates that the value of the gas sensor setting condition "y" for the measurement using the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is greater than or equal to 100 and less than or equal to 500. In other words, the symbol "△" indicates that the measurement accuracy for fecal gas measurement is within the acceptable range, and that both the measurement time and data processing time are within sufficient ranges. For example, the symbol "△" indicates that the evaluation based on the gas sensor setting condition "y" for the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is acceptable (within the acceptable range).

[0171] In the measurement results (evaluation) of the gas sensor measurement performance shown in Figure 14, the symbol "x" indicates that the value of the gas sensor setting condition "y" for the measurement using the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is greater than 500. In other words, the symbol "x" indicates that the measurement accuracy is insufficient in the fecal gas measurement. For example, the symbol "x" indicates that the evaluation based on the gas sensor setting condition "y" for the combination of the flow rate (suction flow rate) and measurement interval (sampling rate) corresponding to that square is unacceptable (NG).

[0172] 14 , when the variable α is 0.043, the variable β is −8, and the variable b is 2.6, it is desirable that the evaluation based on the gas sensor setting condition “y” be in a range that is not marked “×” (failure) for both the sampling rate of “1 Hz” and the sampling rate of “0.5 Hz,” i.e., that the suction flow rate (L / min) be 200 or less. In this way, when the variable α is set to 0.025≦α≦0.045 (including 0.043), the variable β is set to −11≦β≦−7 (including −8), and the variable b is set to 1.5≦b≦3.0 (including 2.6), it is desirable that the evaluation based on the gas sensor setting condition “y” be in a range that is not marked “×” (failure) for both the sampling rate of “1 Hz” and the sampling rate of “0.5 Hz,” i.e., that the suction flow rate (L / min) be 200 or less.

[0173] The above-described embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradiction in the processing content.

[0174] 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.

[0175] 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 comprising: a suction device that suctions fecal gas discharged into a bowl of a toilet installed in a toilet room; a gas flow path through which the gas sucked by the suction device passes; a gas detection device having a gas sensor that reacts to a predetermined gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path; and a control device that controls a suction flow rate of the suction device, wherein, when the suction flow rate of the suction device is x (L / min), 10≦x≦200 is satisfied. (2) The biological information measurement system described in (1), wherein the control device controls the suction flow rate to be equal to or greater than 50 L / min and equal to or less than 170 L / min. (3) The biological information measurement system described in (1) or (2), wherein the control device has a first control mode and a second control mode for controlling the suction flow rate, and the first control mode is executed when the user is seated and the second control mode is executed after the user leaves the seat. (4) The biological information measuring system according to any one of (1) to (3), characterized in that the control device controls the sampling rate of the gas detection device to 0.2 Hz or more. (5) The biological information measuring system according to any one of (1) to (4), characterized in that the control device controls the flow velocity of the defecation gas passing through the gas sensor arranged in the gas flow path to 0.6 m / sec or more and 14 m / sec or less. (6) A biological information measurement system comprising: a suction device that sucks in fecal gas discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in a toilet room; a gas flow path through which the gas sucked by the suction device passes; a gas detection device having a gas sensor that reacts to a predetermined gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path; and a control device that controls the suction flow rate of the suction device, wherein when the suction flow rate of the suction device is x (L / min), the relationship 10≦x≦200 is satisfied; the gas sensor is a semiconductor gas sensor; and the control device controls the sampling rate of the gas detection device to 1 Hz or more.(7) A biological information measurement system comprising: a suction device that sucks in fecal gas discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in a toilet room; a gas flow path through which the gas sucked by the suction device passes; a gas detection device having a gas sensor that reacts to a predetermined gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path; and a control device that controls the suction flow rate of the suction device, wherein when the suction flow rate of the suction device is x (L / min), the relationship 10≦x≦170 is satisfied; the gas sensor is an infrared absorption gas sensor; and the control device controls the sampling rate of the gas detection device to 0.5 Hz or more.

[0176] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments and modified examples may have the following configurations, but are not limited to these: (1A) A biological information measuring system comprising: a suction device that suctions defecation gas discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in a toilet room; a gas flow path through which the gas sucked by the suction device passes; a gas detection device having a gas sensor that reacts to a predetermined gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path; and a control device that controls the suction flow rate of the suction device, wherein a setting condition for driving the gas detection device is y, the suction flow rate of the suction device is x1 (L / min), and the number of signal processing times when converting an electrical signal detected by the gas detection device into a digital signal is x2 (Hz), and in the following mathematical formula 1, when variables α, β, and b are 0.025≦α≦0.045, -11≦β≦-7, and 1.5≦b≦3.0, the following relationship is satisfied: 0≦y≦500 [Formula 1] y = e(α*x1+β*x2+b) (2A) The biological information measurement system described in (1A), characterized in that the control device controls the suction flow rate to be equal to or greater than 50 L / min and equal to or less than 170 L / min. (3A) The biological information measurement system described in (1A) or (2A), characterized in that the control device has a first control mode and a second control mode for controlling the suction flow rate, and executes the first control mode when the user is seated and the second control mode after the user leaves the seat. (4A) The biological information measurement system described in any one of (1A) to (3A), characterized in that the control device controls the sampling rate of the gas detection device to be equal to or greater than 0.2 Hz. (5A) The biological information measurement system described in any one of (1A) to (4A), characterized in that the control device controls the flow velocity of defecation gas passing through the gas sensor arranged in the gas flow path to be equal to or greater than 0.6 m / sec and equal to or less than 14 m / sec.

[0177] 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 Inlet (inlet) 13 Exhaust (exhaust) 20 Gas detection device 40 Gas sensor 50 Deodorizing member 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 suction device that sucks defecation gas discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in a toilet room, a gas flow path through which the gas sucked by the suction device passes, a gas detection device including a gas sensor that reacts to a predetermined gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path, and a control device that controls the suction flow rate of the suction device, wherein when the suction flow rate of the suction device is x (L / min), 10 ≤ x ≤ 200 is satisfied. A biological information measurement system characterized by this.

2. The biological information measurement system according to claim 1, wherein the control device controls the suction flow rate to be 50 L / min or more and 170 L / min or less.

3. The biological information measurement system according to claim 1, wherein the control device has a first control mode and a second control mode for controlling the suction flow rate, the first control mode is executed when seated, and the second control mode is executed after leaving the seat.

4. The biological information measurement system according to claim 1, wherein the control device controls the sampling rate of the gas detection device to be 0.2 Hz or more.

5. The biological information measurement system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control device controls the flow velocity when the defecation gas passes through the gas sensor disposed in the gas flow path to be 0.6 m / sec or more and 14 m / sec or less.

6. A suction device that sucks defecation gas discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in a toilet room, a gas flow path through which the gas sucked by the suction device passes, a gas detection device including a gas sensor that reacts to a predetermined gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path, and a control device that controls the suction flow rate of the suction device, wherein when the suction flow rate of the suction device is x (L / min), 10 ≤ x ≤ 200 is satisfied, the gas sensor is a semiconductor gas sensor, and the control device controls the sampling rate of the gas detection device to be 1 Hz or more. A biological information measurement system characterized by this.

7. A suction device that sucks defecation gas discharged into the bowl of a toilet installed in a toilet room, a gas flow path through which the gas sucked by the suction device passes, a gas detection device including a gas sensor that reacts to a predetermined gas component contained in the gas passing through the gas flow path, and a control device that controls the suction flow rate of the suction device. When the suction flow rate of the suction device is x (L / min), it satisfies 10 ≤ x ≤ 170. The gas sensor is an infrared absorption type gas sensor, and the control device controls the sampling rate of the gas detection device at 0.5 Hz or more. A biological information measurement system characterized by this.

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