Bathroom system

Abstract

A bathroom system according to an embodiment includes: a radio wave sensor which is installed in a bathroom formed by a plurality of panels and which detects a state change in the bathroom; and a state estimation means which estimates the state change in the bathroom on the basis of output data of the radio wave sensor. The state estimation means estimates the state change in a space in the bathroom while excluding a radio wave reflection region including a surface of the panel.

Description

Bathroom Systems

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a bathroom system.

[0002] In recent years, technologies have been provided for estimating the state of various objects by sensing, etc. For example, as a method for detecting the state of a user in a bathroom, a technology is known in which a radio wave radar is provided to estimate the user's posture, etc., and if an abnormality such as a fall occurs, an alert is issued by displaying, notifying, sounding, etc. (e.g., Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-158862

[0004] However, the above-described conventional technology has room for improvement. For example, when detecting a user's movements in a relatively small bathroom surrounded by walls, the above-described conventional technology may experience strong reflections from the walls, making it difficult to distinguish from a human body, making it difficult to suppress a decrease in estimation accuracy. As such, the above-described conventional technology has room for improvement in terms of suppressing a decrease in accuracy when estimating state changes in a bathroom. Therefore, it is desirable to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating state changes in a bathroom.

[0005] In view of the above, the challenge is to prevent a decline in the accuracy of estimating changes in the state of the bathroom.

[0006] The disclosed embodiment aims to provide a bathroom system that can suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in conditions within a bathroom.

[0007] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment is installed in a bathroom formed by a plurality of panels and comprises a radio wave sensor that detects state changes within the bathroom, and a state estimation means that estimates state changes within the bathroom based on output data from the radio wave sensor, wherein the state estimation means estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom by excluding radio wave reflection areas including the surfaces of the panels.

[0008] For example, radio waves are strongly reflected by panels (wall surfaces), making it difficult to detect signals from objects such as people inside. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system excludes the position of the panel from the detection area, making it possible to accurately estimate the position and movement of objects such as people inside the bathroom without being affected by the strong reflected radio wave signals, and to appropriately estimate changes in the state of the bathroom (also called "bathroom"). This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the state of the bathroom.

[0009] In a bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment, a metal plate that forms the radio wave reflection area is arranged on the back side of the multiple panels.

[0010] For example, in a bathroom (unit bath) where the bathtub, washing area, walls, ceiling, etc. are integrated, steel plates are used on the walls, which strongly reflect signals. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, since metal plate panels have particularly strong reflection of radio waves, excluding the position of the panels from the detection area makes it possible to accurately estimate the position and movement of objects such as people and appropriately estimate changes in the state of the bathroom. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the state of the bathroom. For example, in the case of a unit bath, the walls are made of metal steel plates, and therefore the reflection strength from the wall surface is particularly high, so they are excluded.

[0011] In one aspect of the embodiment, the state estimation means estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom by excluding areas where water droplets are attached on the surface of the panel as the radio wave reflection areas.

[0012] For example, depending on the material of the panel, reflection may not be very strong. However, if water adheres to the panel while the user is using the bathroom, the reflection of radio waves increases, making it difficult to detect people. Therefore, according to one aspect of the bathroom system, by excluding areas where water droplets are likely to adhere, the position and movement of objects such as people can be accurately estimated, and changes in the state of the bathroom can be appropriately estimated. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the state of the bathroom. For example, in bathroom systems using traditional construction methods, materials such as wood may not have a high reflection intensity, but water droplets that form during use increase the reflection intensity, so these materials are excluded.

[0013] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system is configured such that the state estimation means estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom, excluding the four corner areas of the bathroom.

[0014] For example, panels are joined at angles close to a right angle (90 degrees), and irradiating radio waves near these areas can result in mutual reflection between the panels, resulting in increased radio wave intensity. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can accurately estimate the position and movement of objects such as people and appropriately estimate changes in the bathroom status by excluding these four corner areas. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom status. For example, in the bathroom system, corners of the wall surfaces are excluded because they strongly reflect radio waves.

[0015] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system is configured such that the state estimation means estimates changes in the state of the bathroom based on data excluding received data obtained by reflection from the radio wave reflection area.

[0016] For example, when using a bathroom, water droplets adhere sparsely. The water droplets increase the reflection of radio waves, causing variations in the reflected radio waves and making it difficult to detect people. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can accurately estimate the position and movement of objects such as people by excluding signals from areas where water droplets are likely to adhere, thereby enabling appropriate estimation of changes in the state of the bathroom. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the state of the bathroom. For example, in a bathroom system, water droplets increase reflection intensity, but the intensity varies due to sparse water droplets, which can easily lead to noise reduction, so they are excluded.

[0017] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system includes a state estimation means for estimating state changes within the bathroom based on data excluding noise data based on vibration components input to the radio wave sensor.

[0018] For example, it is assumed that vibrations with a constant period are not from a person, but from a washing machine or other device that may be placed in a changing room. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, by excluding signals that vibrate with a constant period, the bathroom system can accurately estimate the position and movement of objects such as people and appropriately estimate changes in state within the bathroom. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in state within the bathroom. For example, in the bathroom system, vibrations from a washing machine in a changing room may cause a bathtub or other object to shake, which could be mistaken for a person. In this case, the vibrations are excluded because they are from a washing machine in a changing room.

[0019] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system is configured such that the state estimation means estimates state changes within the bathroom based on data that excludes noise data based on objects present within the bathroom.

[0020] For example, signals reflected from objects often lack a velocity component. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can accurately estimate the position and movement of objects such as people by excluding signals with small velocity components as noise, thereby enabling appropriate estimation of state changes within the bathroom. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating state changes within the bathroom. For example, in the bathroom system, a bath stool, washbasin, and other items placed in the bathroom increase their reflection intensity when wet, becoming noise sources. However, these items are characterized by not moving, i.e., lacking a velocity component, and can therefore be excluded.

[0021] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system includes a radio wave sensor installed at a position higher than the top end of a bathtub installed in the bathroom.

[0022] For example, because radio waves cannot penetrate water, placing a sensor lower than a bathtub, where water is likely to accumulate, may result in radio waves not spreading sufficiently throughout the bathroom. Therefore, according to one aspect of the bathroom system, by placing a sensor higher than the bathtub, it is possible to accurately estimate the positions and movements of objects, such as people, throughout the bathroom and appropriately estimate changes in the state of the bathroom. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the state of the bathroom. For example, in a bathroom system, the bathtub is often filled with water, and if the sensor were placed lower than the bathtub, the radio waves would be absorbed by the bathwater, making it impossible to grasp the entire bathroom. Therefore, the sensor is placed higher than the bathtub.

[0023] In one aspect of the embodiment, the detection range of the radio wave sensor includes a pillow portion provided in a bathtub installed in the bathroom.

[0024] For example, there is a high possibility that a person's head will be placed on the pillow portion of a bathtub. However, the bathtub water cannot be detected by radio waves. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can increase the likelihood of detecting body parts that are out of the bathtub water by including the pillow portion in the detection range, thereby enabling appropriate estimation of changes in the bathroom state. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimation of changes in the bathroom state. For example, in a bathroom system, in order to determine the status of a person in the bathtub, it is necessary to detect the head that is out of the water. Therefore, the radio wave sensor is positioned so that its detection range includes the pillow side (pillow portion) where the head is located.

[0025] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system includes a radio wave sensor provided on a panel of the plurality of panels forming the bathroom other than the panel on which the entrance to the bathroom is provided.

[0026] For example, a wall with an entrance may vibrate when the door is opened or closed, causing the sensor to shake and adversely affect detection. Therefore, according to one aspect of the bathroom system, by installing a sensor at a location other than the entrance, stable detection becomes possible, enabling the bathroom to appropriately estimate changes in state within the bathroom. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in state within the bathroom. For example, in a bathroom system, a sensor can be installed on the side of the bathroom near the bathtub, but the side with the entrance is excluded from the installation locations because the sensor would shake due to the vibrations caused by opening and closing the door.

[0027] In one aspect of the embodiment, the plane direction of the antenna surface of the radio wave sensor intersects with the surface of the panel on which the radio wave sensor is installed.

[0028] For example, radio waves are primarily emitted in the normal direction to the antenna surface. For example, radio waves spread evenly from the normal direction perpendicular to the antenna surface. Therefore, if the antenna is installed parallel to the wall, it may be difficult to observe the entire bathroom unless the sensor is placed in the center of the bathroom. Therefore, according to one aspect of the bathroom system, by installing the antenna surface at an angle rather than parallel to the panel surface (i.e., the surfaces intersect), the detection area can be tilted left and right, up and down, or both, from the normal direction of the panel surface. This allows the bathroom system to detect the entire bathroom without placing the sensor in the center of the bathroom, thereby reducing restrictions on sensor installation location. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom condition. For example, in a bathroom system, tilting the sensor's antenna surface relative to the wall eliminates the need to place the sensor in the center of the bathroom, increasing the flexibility of sensor placement.

[0029] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system has an antenna surface of the radio wave sensor arranged facing the center of the bathroom.

[0030] For example, radio waves are primarily emitted in the normal direction relative to the antenna's surface. Therefore, according to one aspect of the bathroom system, by positioning the antenna's surface facing the center of the bathroom, the entire bathroom can be used as a detection area without placing the sensor in the center of the bathroom, reducing restrictions on sensor placement. This allows the bathroom system to minimize a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom's condition.

[0031] In one aspect of the embodiment, the state estimation means executes a first mode for estimating the movement or position of a user within the bathroom, and a second mode for estimating the breathing of a user located in a bathtub installed within the bathroom.

[0032] For example, the amount of movement to be detected differs significantly between detecting a person's position and detecting a person's breathing. For example, breathing requires detecting even very small movements. For example, when collecting a person's vital signs (biological information), such as breathing status and heart rate, human movement can become noise, so it is necessary to distinguish between observing a person's position and observing breathing, etc. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, by switching modes, a bathroom system can accurately detect even slight movements and appropriately estimate changes in the bathroom status. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom status. For example, in a bathroom system, by switching modes and differentiating the signal processing content, subtle fluctuations in vital signs can be observed.

[0033] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a mode switching means for switching between the first mode and the second mode based on operation of an operating unit installed in the bathroom.

[0034] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can appropriately estimate changes in the bathroom state by switching modes based on the operation of an operating unit. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom state. For example, by allowing the bathroom system to switch modes at the user's discretion, it is expected that the bathroom system will be able to accurately detect changes in the bathroom state, such as when the user is not moving.

[0035] The bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a mode switching means for switching between the first mode and the second mode based on the user's position in the bathroom.

[0036] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can appropriately estimate changes in the bathroom condition by switching modes based on the user's location. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom condition. For example, the bathroom system switches modes based on the user's location, and when the user enters the bathtub, the system switches to vital sign measurement mode because there is no need to detect the user's position due to reduced movement.

[0037] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system has a detection range of the radio wave sensor that includes a first space including a bathtub installed in the bathroom and a second space that includes the water discharge area of ​​a shower device installed in the bathroom.

[0038] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can accurately estimate changes in the bathroom condition by setting both a first space including a bathtub and a second space including a water discharge area of ​​a shower device as its detection range. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom condition. For example, the bathroom system can switch based on the position of a person, separating an area for detecting breathing from an area for detecting position.

[0039] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system includes a first radio wave sensor having a detection range that includes a first space including a bathtub installed in the bathroom, and a second radio wave sensor that detects a second space that includes the water discharge area of ​​a shower device installed in the bathroom, and the output data includes first output data from the first radio wave sensor and second output data from the second radio wave sensor.

[0040] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system uses multiple radio wave sensors to appropriately estimate changes in the bathroom state. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom state. For example, the bathroom system switches between sensors that detect breathing and sensors that detect position based on the person's position.

[0041] The bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a determination means for determining whether or not an object other than the user is present within the detection range of the radio wave sensor based on output data from the radio wave sensor.

[0042] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can appropriately estimate changes in the state of the bathroom by determining the presence or absence of objects other than the user within the detection range of the radio wave sensor based on output data from the radio wave sensor. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the state of the bathroom. For example, in the bathroom system, since objects other than the user cause noise, the accuracy can be improved by excluding the signals from the bathroom system when making a determination.

[0043] In one aspect of the embodiment, the state estimation means estimates an abnormal state as a state change in the bathroom based on the determination result of the determination means.

[0044] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can appropriately estimate a state change in the bathroom by estimating an abnormal state in the bathroom based on the result of determining whether or not there is an object other than the user. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating a state change in the bathroom. For example, the bathroom system can take appropriate action if an abnormal state, such as a fall, occurs.

[0045] In one aspect of the embodiment, the state estimation means estimates body movement or movement posture from the water discharge area of ​​a shower device installed in the bathroom to a bathtub installed in the bathroom.

[0046] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can accurately estimate changes in the bathroom state by estimating the user's body movement or posture toward the bathtub from the water discharge area of ​​a shower device installed in the bathroom. This allows the bathroom system to prevent a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom state. For example, the bathroom system can identify movements toward the bathtub or under the shower and proactively operate the device, allowing for switching. Furthermore, for example, the bathroom system can also assess the user's physical decline (e.g., frailty) by determining whether the user's body is supported differently from usual when moving toward the bathtub.

[0047] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system is configured such that the state estimation means estimates the user's movements within a water discharge area of ​​a shower device installed in the bathroom.

[0048] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can accurately estimate changes in the state of the bathroom by estimating the user's movements within the water discharge area of ​​a shower device installed in the bathroom. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the state of the bathroom. For example, the bathroom system can quickly respond to whether the user is expressing their intention through gestures.

[0049] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system includes a state estimation means for estimating the respiratory state of a user positioned in a bathtub installed in the bathroom.

[0050] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can estimate the respiratory status of a user positioned in a bathtub installed in a bathroom, thereby enabling appropriate estimation of changes in the bathroom status. This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimation of changes in the bathroom status. For example, in the bathroom system, since the user is stationary (e.g., sitting) and not moving much in the bathtub, it is easy to detect slight movements such as breathing status and heart rate.

[0051] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment is characterized by comprising a detection means that is installed in a bathroom and detects changes in the state of the bathroom, a storage means that stores the behavioral history of users in the bathroom obtained based on the detection results of the detection means, and an evaluation means that evaluates the behavioral history of the users stored in the storage means based on predetermined behavioral rules regarding the use of the bathroom.

[0052] For example, conventional technology for detecting (detecting) the state of a bathroom, such as detecting the state of a user in a bathroom, has the potential to be effectively used for various purposes other than detecting abnormalities, and it is desirable to provide useful services for users other than anomaly notification based on the detected state of the bathroom. For example, it is desirable to be able to provide a service that evaluates the user's behavior regarding bathroom use.

[0053] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can evaluate a user's bathroom behavior by evaluating the user's behavior history in the bathroom. For example, the bathroom system can record a person's behavior over time and collect device-related information such as water discharge status to create and analyze a log of bathing behavior, determine whether the behavior conforms to set rules, and detect abnormalities. For example, when a child bathes, the bathroom system can determine whether the behavior conforms to predetermined rules and procedures, allowing for a relative comparison with an ideal bathing experience. Furthermore, for example, the bathroom system can display this information on a display device, allowing the user to reflect on the behavior and promote the child's growth. In this way, the bathroom system can evaluate the user's behavior regarding bathroom use.

[0054] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a rule setting means for receiving a user operation and setting the predetermined behavior rule.

[0055] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system allows the user to change the predetermined rules, which allows the user to gradually improve their bathing habits as the child grows. This allows the bathroom system to evaluate the user's behavior regarding bathroom use. For example, the bathroom system allows the user to customize the rules to suit the child's age, etc.

[0056] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system includes a detection unit that detects the user's position or movement within the bathroom, and a storage unit that stores the user's behavior history along with time.

[0057] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system collects time information to determine the time required for various actions, such as washing, and can appropriately evaluate whether the user is washing thoroughly. This allows the bathroom system to evaluate the user's behavior regarding bathroom use. For example, the bathroom system can evaluate the user's behavior from a new perspective by recording the time and actions.

[0058] In a bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the predetermined behavioral rules include a plurality of individual rules, and the evaluation means calculates an individual or overall bathing score for the user's behavioral history based on predetermined evaluation criteria set for each of the individual rules.

[0059] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can set multiple rules to evaluate various behaviors, such as washing hair, washing the body, and warming up in the bathtub, enabling a comprehensive evaluation. This allows the bathroom system to evaluate the user's behavior regarding bathroom use. For example, the bathroom system can provide a comprehensive evaluation based on whether each rule is met, making it easier to check daily progress.

[0060] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a notification means for notifying a predetermined destination of the evaluation results of the evaluation means, wherein the predetermined behavioral rules include a plurality of individual rules, the evaluation means evaluates the behavioral history of the user for each of the individual rules, and the notification means notifies the predetermined destination of the evaluation results for each of the individual rules.

[0061] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can appropriately notify the evaluation by notifying a predetermined destination of the evaluation results of the evaluation means. For example, the bathroom system can notify (send) the evaluation results to a medium (device) that can be viewed together with a parent, for example, to promote the child's development. This allows the bathroom system to evaluate the user's behavior regarding bathroom use. For example, in the bathroom system, after bathing, the evaluation results can be sent to a medium such as a parent's smartphone, allowing the parent to review the results together with the family, which can contribute to the child's development.

[0062] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a notification means for notifying a predetermined destination of the evaluation result of the evaluation means, wherein the predetermined behavioral rules include a plurality of individual rules, and when the evaluation means evaluates that a predetermined individual rule among the individual rules is not satisfied, the notification means notifies the predetermined destination of this fact without waiting for a predetermined notification timing.

[0063] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system can appropriately notify the user of the evaluation by notifying a predetermined destination of the evaluation result of the evaluation means. For example, when a user deviates from the rules, if the deviation includes dangerous elements, the bathroom system can immediately send the result without waiting for a comprehensive evaluation after the user leaves the bathroom, leading to a response such as rescue. This allows the bathroom system to evaluate the user's behavior regarding bathroom use.

[0064] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a notification means for notifying a specified destination of the evaluation result of the evaluation means, and a notification setting means for setting the timing at which the notification means notifies the specified destination based on the specified behavioral rules.

[0065] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system can appropriately notify the user of the evaluation by notifying a predetermined destination of the evaluation results of the evaluation means. For example, the bathroom system can determine the timing of notifying the evaluation results according to rules, allowing the notification to be made at a desired timing. This allows the bathroom system to evaluate the user's behavior regarding bathroom use. For example, the bathroom system can determine the timing of notifying the evaluation results according to rules, allowing the user to obtain information that they want to see in real time and data that they want to see after bathing separately.

[0066] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a state estimation means for estimating state changes within the bathroom based on output data from a radio wave sensor, the detection means being installed in the bathroom formed by a plurality of panels and having the radio wave sensor for detecting state changes within the bathroom, and the state estimation means estimating state changes in the space within the bathroom by excluding radio wave reflection areas including the surfaces of the panels.

[0067] For example, radio waves are strongly reflected by panels (wall surfaces), making it difficult to detect signals from objects such as people inside the bathroom. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, by excluding the position of the panel from the detection area, the bathroom system can accurately estimate the position and movement of objects such as people inside the bathroom without being affected by the strong reflected radio wave signals, thereby appropriately estimating changes in the bathroom's status. For example, the bathroom system can estimate bathroom behavior by collecting and accumulating the behavior history of people in the bathroom using a radio wave sensor (radio wave radar). This allows the bathroom system to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom's status. For example, in the bathroom system, by excluding areas with high reflection intensity using a radio wave sensor, the bathroom system can clearly capture people's movements, increasing the reliability of the behavior history. Therefore, the bathroom system can evaluate the user's behavior regarding bathroom use.

[0068] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment comprises a first detection means that is installed in a bathroom and detects changes in the state of the bathroom; a memory means that stores the behavioral history of a user in the bathroom obtained based on the detection results of the first detection means; an abnormality estimation means that estimates an abnormality in the bathroom based on the behavioral history of the user stored in the memory means; and a notification means that sends a bathroom usage notification including the user's behavioral history to a specified destination at a specified timing, wherein if the abnormality estimation means estimates an abnormality, the notification means sends a notification of an abnormality in the bathroom to the specified destination without waiting for the specified timing.

[0069] For example, conventional technology for detecting (sensing) the state of a bathroom may be used to notify various information, not just abnormalities, and in such cases, it becomes necessary to consider what information to notify and when, and it is desirable to notify at an appropriate time depending on the content of the notification. Thus, it is desirable to notify based on the detected state of a bathroom at an appropriate time depending on the content of the notification.

[0070] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system provides bathroom usage notifications, including a user's behavioral history in the bathroom, at predetermined times. If an abnormality in the bathroom is predicted, the bathroom system can provide a bathroom abnormality notification without waiting for the predetermined time. This allows for timely notification based on the notification content. For example, the bathroom system can detect the user's movements in the bathroom and record them along with the shower and other operating statuses to estimate the user's bathing status. By recording and transmitting (notifying) this information, the user can review their bathing behavior or allow others to monitor them. Furthermore, the bathroom system can predict an abnormality by comparing it with past records. In such cases, the bathroom system can provide an abnormality notification before the bathing behavior is completed, which can help avoid danger. This allows the bathroom system to provide notifications based on the detected status in the bathroom at appropriate times based on the notification content. For example, the bathroom system can collect information such as time, duration, task order, and equipment used, manage it as a behavioral history, and if an abnormality is detected and a danger is detected, the system can immediately notify the user and promptly provide rescue assistance.

[0071] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes an identification means for identifying users included in a user list pre-registered as users of the bathroom, and the notification means notifies a specified destination other than the user identified by the identification means of an abnormality in the bathroom based on the estimation result of the abnormality estimation means.

[0072] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can register bathroom users in advance and identify who is in the bathroom. If an abnormality is detected, the system can alert people other than the user, thereby encouraging rescue and other actions. This allows the bathroom system to issue notifications based on detected conditions in the bathroom at appropriate times depending on the content of the notification. For example, the bathroom system can register user groups and notify people who are not using the bathroom at the time of notification, thereby ensuring rescue.

[0073] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system includes a destination to which the notification means sends the abnormality notification, including a preset family member or external emergency contact.

[0074] According to one aspect of the embodiment, when an abnormality is detected in a bathroom system, predetermined family members, caregivers, or other individuals capable of responding to an emergency can be notified, thereby ensuring that rescue or other actions are taken. This allows the bathroom system to send notifications based on the detected condition in the bathroom to appropriate recipients depending on the content of the notification. For example, the bathroom system can set notification recipients to include hospital nurses, caregivers, or the like, ensuring reliable rescue.

[0075] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a bathroom system, if the identification means identifies a user who is not included in the user list, the notification means notifies a specified address that a suspicious person or an unidentifiable user has used the bathroom.

[0076] According to one aspect of the embodiment, if a bathroom system determines that a user is not a pre-registered person, it is possible that the user is a suspicious person from outside, and therefore a notification can be sent to address the situation. As a result, the bathroom system can issue a notification based on the detected status of the bathroom at an appropriate time depending on the content of the notification. For example, in the bathroom system, if the user is determined to be an outsider, the user can be determined to be a suspicious person.

[0077] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a second detection means for detecting changes in the state of a changing space attached to the bathroom, and the first detection means begins detecting changes in the state of the bathroom based on the detection results of the second detection means.

[0078] In a bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment, if the user's behavior detection is set to operate normally when a person enters the changing room, there is no need to keep the detection means running at maximum frequency all the time, which can reduce energy (power) consumption. For example, in a bathroom system, if abnormality detection is started when a person enters the bathroom from the changing room, the power consumption of the sensor can be reduced.

[0079] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system is configured such that the abnormality estimation means estimates that an abnormality has occurred in the bathroom when the first detection means detects at least one of the following: a user has fallen in the bathroom; the user is in a low posture and has not moved for a predetermined period of time; an abnormal sound in the bathroom; an abnormality in the user's breathing; and an abnormality in the user's heart rate.

[0080] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can reliably prompt rescue or other actions by determining that an abnormality has occurred when a person falls, maintains a low posture for a long time, or makes an abnormal sound. This allows the bathroom system to issue notifications based on detected conditions in the bathroom at appropriate times depending on the content of the notification. For example, the bathroom system can improve the reliability of abnormality determination by determining abnormalities based on characteristic movements, such as when a person maintains a low posture for a long time.

[0081] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a state estimation means for estimating state changes within a bathroom based on output data from a radio wave sensor, wherein the first detection means is installed in the bathroom formed by a plurality of panels and has the radio wave sensor for detecting state changes within the bathroom, and the state estimation means estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom by excluding radio wave reflection areas including the surfaces of the panels.

[0082] With the above-described configuration, the bathroom system can prevent a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom's condition. For example, by excluding areas with high reflection intensity using a radio wave sensor, the bathroom system can clearly capture people's movements, increasing the reliability of the behavioral history. Therefore, the bathroom system can issue notifications based on detected conditions in the bathroom at appropriate times depending on the content of the notification.

[0083] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment comprises a first detection means for detecting changes in the state within a changing space attached to a bathroom, a second detection means for detecting the position or movement of a user within the bathroom, and a control means for controlling a water discharge device installed in the bathroom based on the detection results of the second detection means.The control means has a prohibition mode in which operation of the water discharge device is prohibited, a water stop mode in which the prohibition mode is cancelled based on the result of the first detection means detecting a predetermined action of the user within the changing space, and a water discharge mode in which water is discharged from the water discharge device based on the user's movement when the user's position within the bathroom is within a predetermined area from the water discharge device and the user's movement satisfies predetermined conditions based on the detection results of the second detection means.The control means is characterized in that when the user's position within the bathroom moves outside the predetermined area while in the water discharge mode, it transitions from the water discharge mode to the prohibition mode or the water stop mode.

[0084] For example, conventionally, information only about the bathroom is used, making it difficult to take preparatory measures before the user enters the bathroom, and it is difficult to say that the water discharge control is highly convenient for bathroom users. As such, there is room for improvement in the above-mentioned conventional technology, and it is desirable to implement water discharge control that is user-friendly.

[0085] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can appropriately control the water discharge of a water discharge device, such as a shower device, by switching between a prohibition mode, a water stop mode, and a water discharge mode based on detection of changes in the state of a changing room attached to the bathroom and detection of a user in the bathroom. For example, the bathroom system can switch between the prohibition mode, the water stop mode, and the water discharge mode, and discharge water only when the user intends to use the bathroom and wants to discharge water, thereby preventing people in the bathroom from accidentally taking a shower. This allows the bathroom system to perform water discharge control that is user-friendly. For example, if shower discharge is controlled based on the user's behavior, the user may enter the bathroom to clean rather than bathe. In this case, water discharge from a shower located at a high position may wet clothes. Therefore, the bathroom system can reduce the possibility of unintentional water discharge by providing a mode that prohibits water discharge.

[0086] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the bathroom system, when the second detection means detects that the user is present in a predetermined position relative to the shower head installed in the bathroom, the control means transitions from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode.

[0087] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system detects the presence of a user in a predetermined location, such as an area within the reach of the shower water, and switches to a water discharge mode, thereby reducing the possibility of unintentional water discharge. This allows the bathroom system to execute control related to water discharge and stoppage that is user-friendly. For example, if the bathroom system determines that a person is in a predetermined area, such as under the shower, it switches to a mode in which water actually discharges (water discharge mode). This allows the bathroom system to determine that the person is under the shower in a mode other than the prohibited mode (water stop mode), and determine that it is okay to turn on the shower, thereby reducing the possibility of unintentional water discharge.

[0088] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the bathroom system, when the second detection means detects that the user is moving or positioned in a bathtub installed in the bathroom, the control means transitions from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode.

[0089] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system switches to a water stop mode and temporarily stops water discharge once a user moves to the bathtub, reducing the possibility of unintentional water discharge. This allows the bathroom system to execute water discharge and stop control that is user-friendly. For example, in a bathroom system, since it is expected that a user will not take a shower for a while after moving to the bathtub, the shower water discharge can be temporarily stopped (in the water stop mode) to reduce the possibility of unintentional water discharge due to noise, etc.

[0090] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the bathroom system, when the second detection means detects that the user has performed a gesture action that is pre-set as a predetermined action, the control means transitions from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode.

[0091] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can recognize a user's gesture indicating their intention to start water discharge, even when the user is not in an area such as a shower area (shower water discharge area). This allows water discharge to begin without the user being exposed to the water, reducing the possibility of the user being exposed to water (hot water) at an inappropriate temperature. This allows the bathroom system to control water discharge and stop in a way that is user-friendly. For example, even when the user is not in an area such as a shower water discharge area, if the user makes a specific gesture, such as raising their hand, water discharge can be started. This prevents the entire body from suddenly being exposed to the shower water, and allows the user to adjust to the water temperature before starting the shower, resulting in a shower that is gentle on the body.

[0092] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a state estimation means for estimating state changes within the bathroom based on output data from a radio wave sensor, wherein the second detection means is installed in the bathroom formed by a plurality of panels and has the radio wave sensor for detecting state changes within the bathroom, and the state estimation means estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom by excluding radio wave reflection areas including the surfaces of the panels.

[0093] With the above-described configuration, the bathroom system can prevent a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom's conditions. For example, by excluding areas with high reflection intensity using a radio wave sensor, the bathroom system can clearly capture people's movements, increasing the reliability of their behavioral history. Therefore, the bathroom system can perform water discharge and stop control in a way that is user-friendly.

[0094] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment is characterized by comprising a detection means that is installed in a bathroom and detects the breathing state of a bathroom user while bathing, and an estimation means that estimates the physical and mental state of the bathroom user based on the detection results of the detection means.

[0095] For example, conventional technology for detecting (detecting) the state of a bathroom, such as detecting the state of a user in a bathroom, has the potential to be effectively used for various purposes other than detecting abnormalities, and it is desirable to provide useful services for users other than anomaly notification based on the detected state of the bathroom. For example, it is desirable to be able to provide a service that estimates the physical and mental state of a user in the bathroom, such as whether the user is relaxed.

[0096] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system detects the breathing state of a bathroom user while bathing and estimates the bathroom user's mental and physical state. For example, the bathroom system measures the interval, speed, volume (depth), etc. of breathing and estimates the user's mental and physical state, such as the user's level of relaxation, thereby making the user aware of their mental and physical state and encouraging them to improve their lifestyle habits. This allows the bathroom system to appropriately estimate the bathroom user's mental and physical state. For example, the bathroom system estimates the user's mental and physical state, such as the user's level of relaxation, by taking into account the volume (depth), speed, and time it takes to settle the breathing, as well as the bathing time and water temperature, which can be useful for understanding the user's mental and physical state.

[0097] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a control means for controlling the operating state of the equipment constituting the bathroom based on the detection results of the detection means.

[0098] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system estimates the user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation, by observing the rhythm of breathing, etc., and can then change the brightness and color of the lighting, the amount and temperature of the circulating water in the bathtub, and the air volume and temperature of the indoor air conditioning to more appropriately change the user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation. For example, the bathroom system can encourage the user to relax by adjusting the lighting, the temperature of the bathtub water, the amount and temperature of the circulating water, the air volume and temperature of the air conditioning, etc. based on the estimation results.

[0099] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system controls the operating state of the equipment constituting the bathroom based on detection of the breathing rhythm of the bathroom user so as to guide the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm.

[0100] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system controls the operating states of bathroom devices to induce a breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm, thereby more appropriately changing the user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation. For example, by changing the operating states of the bathroom devices at a predetermined rhythm, the bathroom system can induce a breathing rhythm to a more relaxing breathing rhythm, thereby increasing the level of relaxation. For example, in the bathroom system, by periodically changing the setting values ​​of the bathroom devices, the breathing rhythm can be induced, thereby increasing the level of relaxation.

[0101] In a bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the operating status of the devices constituting the bathroom includes at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in the bathtub.

[0102] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can more appropriately change a user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation, by controlling the temperature, flow, and volume of hot water in the bathtub. For example, by changing the temperature of the water, the bathroom system can allow the user to feel the rhythm with their entire body, and can easily induce a breathing rhythm. For example, in a bathroom system, periodically changing the settings of devices related to the hot water in the bathtub can induce a breathing rhythm, and water temperature is effective because it can be felt with the entire body.

[0103] In one aspect of the embodiment, the operating state of the equipment constituting the bathroom includes the lighting state of a lighting device installed in the bathroom.

[0104] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can more appropriately change a user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation, by controlling the lighting conditions of lighting devices installed in the bathroom. For example, the bathroom system can provide visual stimulation to the user by changing the brightness of the lighting, thereby easily inducing a breathing rhythm. For example, the bathroom system can induce a breathing rhythm by periodically changing the settings of lighting-related devices, which is effective because lighting can also easily stimulate the user visually.

[0105] The bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a notification means for notifying the bathroom user of a predetermined recommendation based on the detection result of the detection means.

[0106] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can appropriately notify a user of information by providing a predetermined recommendation to the user based on the detection results. For example, the bathroom system can recommend exercises such as yoga that can be performed after a bath to improve the user's mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation, based on the user's estimated mental and physical state, such as the level of relaxation. For example, the bathroom system can recommend recommended post-bath exercises (such as yoga) to the user to maintain sustained relaxation.

[0107] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system includes a notification unit that notifies the user of the bathroom of the predetermined recommendation, including information about a predetermined breathing method based on the state of breathing performed by the user of the bathroom.

[0108] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can provide a notification encouraging a user to change their breathing state to an appropriate state by providing a predetermined recommendation notification including information about a predetermined breathing method. For example, the bathroom system can recommend a breathing method that can be practiced after bathing based on the user's mental and physical state, such as an estimated relaxation level, to bring the user's mental and physical state, such as the relaxation level, to a more appropriate state, thereby more appropriately changing the user's mental and physical state, such as the relaxation level. For example, the bathroom system can maintain sustained relaxation by recommending a breathing method to the user.

[0109] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a status detection means that is installed in the bathroom and detects the status of a user in the bathroom, and the detection means starts or stops detecting the user's breathing based on the detection result of the status detection means.

[0110] According to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system detects when a user assumes a resting position in a bathtub suitable for respiration detection, enabling stable estimation. Furthermore, the bathroom system can end respiration detection when the user stands up from the bathtub, thereby reducing loss of time by continuing detection when respiration is not possible. This allows the bathroom system to appropriately estimate the physical and mental state of the bathroom user. For example, the bathroom system can accurately measure respiration by observing the user's position in the bathtub and starting measurement when the user assumes a position suitable for respiration measurement.

[0111] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a state estimation means for estimating state changes within the bathroom based on output data from a radio wave sensor, the detection means being installed in the bathroom formed by a plurality of panels and having the radio wave sensor for detecting state changes within the bathroom, and the state estimation means estimating state changes in the space within the bathroom by excluding radio wave reflection areas including the surfaces of the panels.

[0112] With the above-described configuration, the bathroom system can suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom's condition. For example, in a bathroom system, by excluding areas with high reflection intensity using a radio wave sensor, it becomes possible to clearly capture small movements such as breathing, thereby increasing reliability. Also, for example, in a bathroom system, by excluding areas with high reflection intensity using a radio wave sensor, it becomes possible to clearly capture human movements, thereby increasing the reliability of behavioral history. Therefore, the bathroom system can appropriately estimate the physical and mental conditions of bathroom users.

[0113] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment is characterized by comprising a detection means that is installed in a bathroom and detects changes in the state of a user within the bathroom, a memory means that stores the user's behavioral history within the bathroom based on the detection results of the detection means, and an analysis means that analyzes the user's physical abilities based on the user's behavioral history within the bathroom stored in the memory means.

[0114] For example, conventional technology for detecting (detecting) the state of a bathroom, such as detecting the state of a user in a bathroom, has the potential to be effectively used for various purposes other than detecting abnormalities, and it is desirable to provide useful services for users other than anomaly notification based on the detected state of the bathroom. For example, it is desirable to be able to provide a service that analyzes the physical abilities of bathroom users, such as their balance ability.

[0115] For example, human behavior in the bathroom can include movements that cause instability, such as stepping over a bathtub or standing up from a chair. Even with normal movements, it is possible to detect changes, such as slower movements, over time. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system detects the user's body movements during such bathroom activities and uses the detected information to analyze the user's physical ability. This allows the bathroom system to analyze the user's physical ability based on the user's state in the bathroom. Furthermore, the bathroom system notifies the user of the analysis results as information about their physical ability, enabling not only the user but also, for example, children living far away, to predict the physical decline of their elderly parents at an early stage. For example, the bathroom system records the user's daily bathing behavior history and compares it with past data to acquire (collect) information indicating changes in physical ability, such as, for example, an increase in the time it takes to stand up and sit down or an increase in body sway when stepping over a bathtub. This allows the user to estimate (capture) lack of exercise, age-related decline, and other factors, and, for example, to appropriately estimate (capture) the user's frailty.

[0116] In one aspect of the embodiment, in a bathroom system, the detection means detects physical movement into a bathtub installed in the bathroom or physical movement when exiting the bathtub, and the analysis means analyzes the physical ability of the user based on the physical movement into a bathtub installed in the bathroom or physical movement when exiting the bathtub.

[0117] When stepping over the edge of a bathtub to enter or exit, the user stands on one leg, making the body unstable. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system detects the user's body movements during such bathroom activities and uses the information for analysis. This allows the bathroom system to analyze the user's physical abilities based on the user's state in the bathroom. For example, the bathroom system can use the above analysis to quickly identify muscle weakness that is difficult to detect through normal movements. For example, when stepping over the edge of a bathtub, standing on one leg is necessary, making the body unstable. Therefore, by using information about the user during such activities, the bathroom system can easily detect weakness in the user's legs and torso, making it possible to identify the user's physical weakness, and for example, to quickly identify the user's frailty.

[0118] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system is configured such that the analysis means analyzes the user's physical ability in terms of balance based on the detection results of the detection means.

[0119] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system can appropriately analyze the user's physical ability, such as balance ability, by using information about the user when they step over the edge of the bathtub to enter or when they stand on one leg to exit the bathtub. This allows the bathroom system to analyze the user's physical ability based on the detection of the user's state in the bathroom.

[0120] In one aspect of the embodiment, in the bathroom system, the detection means detects physical movements associated with sitting down or getting up from a bath chair installed in the bathroom, or physical movements when using a shower installed in the bathroom, and the analysis means analyzes the physical ability of the user based on the physical movements associated with sitting down or getting up from a bath chair installed in the bathroom, or physical movements when using a shower installed in the bathroom.

[0121] When sitting or standing up from a bathroom chair, significant weight shifts occur, making the body unstable. Furthermore, while showering, users attempt to maintain a stable posture to absorb the shower water, but muscle weakness makes it difficult to maintain a stable posture. Therefore, a bathroom system according to one embodiment detects the user's body movements during such bathroom activities and uses the information for analytical processing. This allows the bathroom system to analyze the user's physical abilities based on the user's state in the bathroom. For example, the bathroom system can use the above-described analysis to quickly identify muscle weakness that is difficult to detect through everyday movements. For example, standing up or sitting down from a bath chair involves significant weight shifts, making the body unstable. Therefore, by using information about the user during such activities, the bathroom system can easily detect weakening of the legs and trunk, enabling early detection of the user's physical weakening, such as a frail state. Furthermore, when taking a shower while standing, the user stands upright (standing still), and standing for a relatively long period of time puts strain on the legs and other parts of the body. Therefore, by using information from the user during such activities, the bathroom system can more easily detect weakening of the legs and trunk, making it possible to grasp the user's physical weakening, and for example, to identify the user's state of frailty at an early stage.

[0122] In one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system is configured such that the analysis means analyzes the user's physical ability in terms of balance based on the detection results of the detection means.

[0123] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system can appropriately analyze the user's balance ability as a physical ability by using information about the user when sitting down on a bathroom chair, standing up, while showering, etc. This allows the bathroom system to analyze the user's physical ability based on the detection of the user's state in the bathroom.

[0124] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes an identification means for identifying a user of the bathroom, the identification means identifying whether the user is included in a list of users pre-registered as users of the bathroom, and the storage means storing the behavioral history of the identified user over a predetermined period of time.

[0125] Data such as slight body movements can be recorded over a long period of time and compared to make it easier to understand changes. Therefore, according to one aspect of the embodiment, a bathroom system can accurately collect data by identifying the user. This allows the bathroom system to analyze the user's physical ability based on the user's state in the bathroom. For example, since data accumulation is essential for comparing past data and evaluating changes, the bathroom system can correctly manage collected data by identifying the user.

[0126] The bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a display means for displaying a time series of changes in the physical ability of the user over a predetermined period of time based on the analysis results of the analysis means.

[0127] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system can display long-term changes in an easy-to-understand manner by showing them as time-series data, etc. For example, since accumulated data is often more intuitively understandable when shown as a time series, such as a graph, rather than as a numerical value, the bathroom system can present analytical information in an intuitively easy-to-understand manner by displaying it in a time series.

[0128] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes an information receiving means for receiving the user's biometric information as external information, and the analysis means analyzes the user's physical abilities based on the user's behavioral history and the external information.

[0129] According to one aspect of the embodiment, the bathroom system can analyze the user's physical ability more appropriately by taking into account external information such as the user's biometric information, etc. This allows the bathroom system to analyze the user's physical ability based on the detection of the user's state in the bathroom.

[0130] A bathroom system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a state estimation means for estimating state changes within the bathroom based on output data from a radio wave sensor, the detection means being installed in the bathroom formed by a plurality of panels and having the radio wave sensor for detecting state changes within the bathroom, and the state estimation means estimating state changes in the space within the bathroom by excluding radio wave reflection areas including the surfaces of the panels.

[0131] With the above-described configuration, the bathroom system can suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the bathroom's condition. For example, by excluding areas with high reflection intensity using a radio wave sensor, the bathroom system can clearly capture a person's movements, increasing the reliability of the behavioral history. Therefore, the bathroom system can analyze the user's physical ability based on the detection of the user's condition in the bathroom.

[0132] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of estimating changes in the state of the bathroom.

[0133] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of a bathroom to which a bathroom system according to an embodiment is applied, and a changing room adjacent to the bathroom. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the interior of a bathroom to which a bathroom system according to an embodiment is applied. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration related to control of the bathroom system according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration related to state estimation according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure performed by the bathroom system. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a point cloud detected by a radio wave sensor of the bathroom system. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an intensity distribution of radio waves received by the radio wave sensor of the bathroom system. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a Doppler velocity distribution of radio waves received by the radio wave sensor of the bathroom system. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a point cloud detected by the radio wave sensor of the bathroom system. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an antenna arrangement of the radio wave sensor. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an antenna arrangement of the radio wave sensor. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of a bathroom system. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a rule. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of an evaluation. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control unit. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure performed by the bathroom system. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a notification during normal operation. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a notification in the event of an abnormality. FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control unit. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure executed by the bathroom system. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of control related to water discharge and stop. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of control related to water discharge and stop. FIG. 23 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control unit. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure executed by the bathroom system. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of detection of the breathing state of a user in the bathtub. FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of a recommendation notification. FIG. 27 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control unit. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure executed by the bathroom system. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of the behavior of a user in the bathroom. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of a display related to the user's physical ability. FIG. 31 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control unit.FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure executed by the bathroom system.

[0134] Hereinafter, embodiments of the bathroom system disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0135] <1. Embodiment> <1-1. Application Examples of Bathroom System> First, an overview of the information processing executed in a bathroom system 1 according to an embodiment (see FIG. 3) will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of a bathroom to which a bathroom system according to an embodiment is applied, and an example of a changing room adjacent to the bathroom. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the interior of a bathroom to which a bathroom system according to an embodiment is applied. Note that the arrangement of radio wave sensor 10a shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is just one example, and other arrangement examples will be described later.

[0136] In Figures 1 and 2, the bathroom system 1 is applied to a space (water-related space) including a bathroom 2 and a changing room 3, which is a space (adjacent room) adjacent to the bathroom 2, and estimates changes in the state of the space within the bathroom 2.

[0137] For example, bathroom 2 is a room composed of four side panels 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d, a floor panel 2e, and a ceiling panel 2f. Note that the side panels 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d, the floor panel 2e, and the ceiling panel 2f may be referred to simply as panels 2a to 2f. Hereinafter, the surface of panels 2a to 2f facing the space within bathroom 2 will be referred to as the "front surface," and the surface opposite the front surface, facing outside of bathroom 2, will be referred to as the "back surface." For example, a metal plate that forms a radio wave reflection area is disposed on the back surface of each of the multiple panels 2a to 2f.

[0138] Of the four side panels 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d, side panel 2d adjacent to the dressing room 3 is partially open, forming a doorway 21 for entering and exiting the bathroom 2 from the dressing room 3, and doorway 21 is provided with a door 22 that can be opened and closed. For example, a user of the bathroom 2 (also simply referred to as the "user") opens door 22, enters the bathroom 2 from the dressing room 3 through doorway 21, and closes door 22 to take a bath, shower, or other action in the bathroom 2. Inside the bathroom 2, a bathtub 4, bathroom counter 5, shower device 6, mirror 7, shower bar 8, and other facilities are arranged. Figure 1 shows a user U positioned in the bathroom 2.

[0139] The bathtub 4 is positioned along the side panel 2b of the bathroom 2, extending from one side panel 2a adjacent to the side panel 2b to the other side panel 2c, and is generally rectangular in top view. For example, the bathtub 4 has an end 41 on the side panel 2a side, an end 42 on the side panel 2b side, an end 43 on the side panel 2c side, and an end 44 on the side panel 2d side in top view. For example, when bathing, a user positions their body in the longitudinal direction, i.e., along the ends 42 and 44, as viewed from above. Thus, the user bathes by positioning their head on the end 43 of the bathtub 4, using the end 43 as a pillow, and their feet on the end 41 side. The end 43, which serves as a pillow, may be provided with a member (such as an air cushion) to stabilize the person's head.

[0140] The overhead shower 6a of the shower device 6 is a fixed shower head fixed to the ceiling panel 2f of the bathroom 2. The side panel 2a of the bathroom 2 may be provided with a radio wave sensor 10a that emits radio waves into the bathroom 2 and a control unit 100 (see FIG. 3) that controls the water discharge from the shower device 6 based on the signal detected by the radio wave sensor 10a. A fixed shower head refers to a shower head in which the shower head or the piping supporting the shower head is fixed to the ceiling panel or side panel, and includes not only shower heads with a fixed water discharge direction but also shower heads with a variable water discharge direction. The area in the bathroom 2 other than the area where the bathtub 4 is located, such as an area that includes at least the area where the overhead shower 6a discharges water, may also be referred to as the "washing area."

[0141] The bathroom counter 5 is a shelf attached to the side panel 2a below the shower bar 8 and mirror 7, and extends horizontally at a predetermined height. The mirror 7 is attached to the side panel 2a to the side of the shower bar 8, and is configured in a vertically long rectangle.

[0142] As described above, an overhead shower 6a is fixed to the ceiling panel 2f. A shower bar 8, a mirror 7, and a bathroom counter 5 are attached to one of the side panels 2a of the bathroom 2. The radio wave sensor 10a may be provided on the front side of the side panel 2a, i.e., the side facing the bathroom 2 (front surface), or on the back side of the side panel 2a, i.e., the side facing outside the bathroom 2 (rear surface).

[0143] 1 and 2, the radio wave sensor 10a is provided on panel 2a, other than panel 2d, which is provided with an entrance 21 to the bathroom 2, out of the multiple panels 2a to 2f that form the bathroom 2. In this way, the radio wave sensor 10a is provided on panels 2a to 2c, 2e, and 2f, other than panel 2d, which is provided with an entrance 21 to the bathroom 2, out of the multiple panels 2a to 2f that form the bathroom 2.

[0144] As shown in Figure 1, the radio wave sensor 10a is installed in bathroom 2, which is a bathroom formed by multiple panels 2a to 2f, and detects changes in the state of the bathroom 2. For example, the radio wave sensor 10a is a radio wave radar. The radio wave sensor 10a irradiates radio waves into the bathroom 2 and receives the reflected radio waves.

[0145] The detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a is set to a predetermined range for detecting changes in the state of the bathroom 2. For example, the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a includes a first space including the bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2 and a second space including the water discharge area of ​​the shower device 6 installed in the bathroom 2. In FIG. 1, the first space corresponds to the space including the space where the bathtub 4 is located (approximately half of the space on the left side). Also, in FIG. 1, the second space corresponds to the area including the area where water is discharged by the overhead shower 6a.

[0146] The detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a includes the end 43, which functions as the pillow section of the bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2. For example, the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a (e.g., the distance range over which radio waves can be received) may include the back surface of at least one of the panels 2a-2f that make up the bathroom 2. For example, the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a may extend beyond at least one of the panels 2a-2f that make up the bathroom 2. For example, the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a may include the four corners of the bathroom 2 when viewed from above. Note that the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a is not limited to the above and can be set to any range as long as the desired detection is possible. Also, in FIGS. 1 and 2, the radio wave sensor 10a is located higher than the top end of the bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2. Note that the above-described placement of the radio wave sensor 10a is merely an example, and the radio wave sensor 10a may be located lower than the top end of the bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2, for example, if the detection range includes a floor panel 2e or the like.

[0147] The shower device 6 is a shower device capable of shower water discharge and spout water discharge, and has an overhead shower 6a fixed to the ceiling panel 2f, a hand shower 6b held on the shower bar 8, and a spout 6c attached to the side panel 2a.

[0148] The overhead shower 6a is fixed to the ceiling panel 2f of the bathroom 2 and is configured to spray shower water from above toward the bather. In Figures 1 and 2, the overhead shower 6a is located closer to the side panels 2a and 2d than to the side panels 2b and 2c when viewed from above. In other words, of the four corners of the bathroom 2 when viewed from above, the overhead shower 6a is located closer to the corner where the side panel 2a, on which the mirror 7 and other components are mounted, intersects with the side panel 2d on the opposite side of the bathtub 4, and is configured to spray shower water from above the bather's head in front of the mirror 7.

[0149] The shower bar 8 is attached to the side panel 2a and includes a bar member 8a and a head holder 8b that holds the hand shower 6b. The bar member 8a is a vertically extending bar-shaped member fixed to the side panel 2a, extending parallel to the side panel 2a at a predetermined distance. The head holder 8b is attached to the bar member 8a so that it can slide vertically and be adjusted to any height above the bar member 8a. The head holder 8b is configured to hold the hand shower 6b, which can be removed from the head holder 8b for use. In other words, the hand shower 6b is not fixed to the side panel 2a. The hand shower 6b can be held by the user or held in the head holder 8b. A handrail can also be provided as a bar-shaped member attached to the side panel of the bathroom 2.

[0150] Based on the user's operation of each component of the shower apparatus 6, the shower apparatus 6 discharges water from the component corresponding to the user's operation in a manner appropriate to the user's operation. For example, when a user operates the overhead shower 6a, the shower apparatus 6 discharges water from the overhead shower 6a in a manner appropriate to the user's operation. For example, the bathroom system 1 may accept the user's operation of each component of the shower apparatus 6 through physical components such as switches and levers. The bathroom system 1 may also accept the user's gestures, hand signals, etc., through sensors or the like as the user's operation of each component of the shower apparatus 6.

[0151] Note that the configuration is merely an example, and the configuration of the bathroom 2, etc. is not limited to the above. For example, the bathroom 2 may be provided with an operation unit (e.g., an operation panel, etc.) that accepts user operations. For example, the operation unit, such as the operation panel, may include a display device that displays information and an operation device that accepts operations from any person, such as a user (also referred to as an "operator"). For example, the operation unit is used for mode switching operations, etc., as described below. Furthermore, the above-described manner of accepting user operations for each component of the shower device 6 is merely an example, and the bathroom system 1 may accept user operations for each component of the shower device 6 in various ways. For example, the bathroom system 1 may accept user operations for each component of the shower device 6 via an operation unit provided in the bathroom 2. Furthermore, the bathroom system 1 may accept operations for each component of the shower device 6 from a user outside the bathroom 2 (e.g., in the changing room 3).

[0152] <1-2. Example of the configuration of the bathroom system> Next, an example of the configuration of the bathroom system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration related to the control of the bathroom system according to the embodiment. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration related to the state estimation according to the embodiment.

[0153] Bathroom system 1 includes, as control-related components (bathroom control system), a shower device 6, a microphone 9, a sensor unit 10, a control unit 100, a data storage unit 101, an input unit 102, a notification unit 103, lighting 104, a water temperature control unit 105a, a water volume control unit 105b, a bathtub water temperature control unit 106, a shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107, an air conditioning unit 108, and a ventilation fan 109. Note that the control-related components shown in Figure 3 are merely an example, and the control-related components of bathroom system 1 are not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 3. For example, if bathroom system 1 does not have shoulder bath or waist bath functions, bathroom system 1 does not need to include shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107.

[0154] Shower device 6 has a water discharge / stop control unit 60a (labeled ON / OFF in FIG. 3) that switches water discharge from an overhead shower 6a (labeled OH in FIG. 3) on and off. For example, a flow path (water supply path) controlled by water discharge / stop control unit 60a is connected to overhead shower 6a, and water discharge from overhead shower 6a is switched on and off according to the control of water discharge / stop control unit 60a.

[0155] Shower device 6 also has a water discharge / stop control unit 60b (labeled "ON / OFF" in FIG. 3) that switches water discharge from hand shower 6b (labeled "HS" in FIG. 3) on and off. For example, a flow path (water supply path) controlled by water discharge / stop control unit 60b is connected to hand shower 6b, and water discharge from hand shower 6b is switched on and off according to the control of water discharge / stop control unit 60b.

[0156] The shower device 6 also has a water discharge / stop control unit 60c (represented as "ON / OFF" in FIG. 3) that switches between discharging and stopping water from the spout 6c (represented as "faucet" in FIG. 3). For example, a flow path (water supply path) controlled by the water discharge / stop control unit 60c is connected to the spout 6c, and water discharge from the spout 6c is switched between being stopped and being stopped according to the control of the water discharge / stop control unit 60c. The water discharge / stop control units 60a-60c may be solenoid valves or the like.

[0157] Microphone 9 is a sensor device (microphone) that detects sound. When bathroom system 1 performs personal identification using sound, microphone 9 detects the sound of the person to perform the personal identification. When bathroom system 1 performs abnormality inference using sound, microphone 9 detects the sound in bathroom 2 to perform the abnormality inference.

[0158] The microphone 9 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The microphone 9 transmits the acquired information to the control unit 100. The microphone 9 may perform detection in response to instructions from the control unit 100. For example, the microphone 9 is placed in a position where it can detect sound in a desired space, such as the bathroom 2 or the changing room 3. The microphone 9 may also be included in the sensor unit 10. Furthermore, when the bathroom system 1 accepts voice input, the microphone 9 may function as part of the input unit 102.

[0159] The sensor unit 10 has a sensor device that detects information used by the bathroom system 1 for control. For example, the sensor unit 10 functions as a detection means that detects changes in the state of the bathroom. The sensor unit 10 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The sensor unit 10 transmits the acquired information to the control unit 100. The sensor unit 10 may perform detection in response to instructions from the control unit 100. For example, the sensor unit 10 is installed in a bathroom formed by multiple panels and has a sensor device for detecting changes in the state of the bathroom. The sensor unit 10 has a radio wave sensor 10a.

[0160] 4, the radio wave sensor 10a is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to transmit and receive information to and from the control unit 100. The radio wave sensor 10a outputs data (output data) in response to receiving radio waves. The radio wave sensor 10a transmits the output data to the control unit 100 in response to receiving radio waves.

[0161] Here, we will briefly explain the processing performed by the radio wave sensor 10a. The radio wave sensor 10a emits radio waves into the bathroom 2 and receives the reflected radio waves. For example, the radio wave sensor 10a emits radio waves in all directions to scan the bathroom 2. The radio waves emitted from the radio wave sensor 10a are emitted in all directions to cover the entire detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a. The radio wave sensor 10a receives reflected waves of the emitted radio waves. In this way, the radio wave sensor 10a emits radio waves radially into the bathroom 2 and detects the reflected radio waves that return.

[0162] The radio wave sensor 10a also emits radio waves of a predetermined frequency into the bathroom 2 at predetermined time intervals and receives the reflected radio waves. For example, the radio wave sensor 10a emits millimeter waves in the 60 GHz band and receives the reflected waves. Note that the above is merely an example, and any frequency can be used for the radio waves emitted by the radio wave sensor 10a as long as the desired processing can be performed. For example, the radio waves emitted by the radio wave sensor 10a are preferably in the 24 GHz to 3 THz band, and more preferably in the 60 GHz to 79 GHz band.

[0163] The radio wave sensor 10a can detect the distance at which radio waves emitted in each direction have propagated before being reflected. This provides coordinate information for the points at which the radio waves are reflected, and objects (reflecting objects) that are located within the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a and that reflect the radio waves emitted by the radio wave sensor 10a are detected as a point cloud by the radio wave sensor 10a (see, for example, FIG. 6). Note that the detection performed by the radio wave sensor 10a is similar to that performed by conventional radio wave radar, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0164] Furthermore, the sensor unit 10 is not limited to the radio wave sensor 10a and may include any other sensor. For example, the sensor unit 10 may include a door sensor that detects whether the door 22 of the bathroom 2 is open or closed. For example, the sensor unit 10 may include multiple radio wave sensors 10a, including a radio wave sensor 10a for estimating the movement or position of a user in the bathroom 2 and a radio wave sensor 10a for estimating the breathing state of the user in the bathroom 2. In this way, the sensor unit 10 may include multiple radio wave sensors 10a, which will be described later.

[0165] The control unit 100 is an information processing device that performs various types of information processing in the bathroom system 1. The control unit 100 performs various types of information processing based on information detected by the sensor unit 10, microphone 9, etc. For example, the control unit 100 estimates state changes in the bathroom 2 based on signals detected by the radio wave sensor 10a. The control unit 100 receives output data from the radio wave sensor 10a, such as signals detected by the radio wave sensor 10a, and estimates state changes in the bathroom 2 based on the received output data from the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the control unit 100 estimates the user's movement or position based on the signals detected by the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the control unit 100 estimates the user's movement or position within the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0166] The control unit 100 is also a control device that controls the bathroom system 1. For example, the control unit 100 controls water discharge. The control unit 100 controls notifications by the notification unit 103. The control unit 100 performs various controls based on information detected by the sensor unit 10, microphone 9, etc. For example, the control unit 100 controls the water discharge mode by the shower device 6 based on information detected by the sensor unit 10. The control unit 100 controls the output of information by the notification unit 103 based on information detected by the sensor unit 10, microphone 9, etc. In this case, the control unit 100 controls the water discharge mode of at least one of the overhead shower 6a, hand shower 6b, and spout 6c based on output data from the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0167] For example, the control unit 100 has a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). For example, the control unit 100 performs various information processing such as state estimation by executing a program (e.g., a control program according to the present disclosure) stored in the control unit 100 or in a data storage unit 101, using a RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like as a working area. The control unit 100 may also have an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0168] As shown in Fig. 4, the control unit 100 has a state estimation unit 110 and a determination unit 111. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 100 is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 4, and may be any other configuration as long as it is capable of performing desired information processing.

[0169] The state estimation unit 110 functions as an estimation means that executes various estimation processes. For example, the state estimation unit 110 functions as a state estimation means that executes estimation processes related to various states. The state estimation unit 110 functions as a state estimation means that estimates state changes in the bathroom 2 based on output data from the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates state changes in the bathroom 2 based on signals detected by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0170] The state estimation unit 110 estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom 2 by excluding radio wave reflection areas including the surfaces of the panels 2a to 2f. The state estimation unit 110 estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom 2 by excluding areas with water droplets on the surfaces of the panels 2a to 2f as radio wave reflection areas. The state estimation unit 110 estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom 2 by excluding the four corner areas of the bathroom 2.

[0171] The state estimation unit 110 estimates state changes in the bathroom 2 based on data excluding received data obtained by reflection from the radio wave reflection area. The state estimation unit 110 estimates state changes in the bathroom 2 based on data excluding noise data based on vibration components input to the radio wave sensor 10a. The state estimation unit 110 estimates state changes in the bathroom 2 based on data excluding noise data based on objects present in the bathroom 2.

[0172] The state estimation unit 110 operates in a first mode to estimate the movement or position of a user in the bathroom 2, and in a second mode to estimate the breathing of a user positioned in a bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2. The state estimation unit 110 also functions as a mode switching means that switches between the first mode and the second mode based on the operation of an operation unit (e.g., an operation panel) installed in the bathroom 2. For example, the state estimation unit 110 switches between the first mode and the second mode in response to the user's operation of the operation unit installed in the bathroom 2.

[0173] The above is merely an example, and the state estimation unit 110 may perform switching in various ways. For example, the state estimation unit 110 may also function as a mode switching unit that switches between the first mode and the second mode based on the user's position in the bathroom 2. In this case, the state estimation unit 110 may set the mode to the second mode when the user is located inside the bathtub 4, and set the mode to the first mode when the user is located outside the bathtub 4.

[0174] For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates a state change in the bathroom 2 using point cloud information obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates a moving object in the bathroom 2 using the point cloud information obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the state estimation unit 110 identifies a moving object in the bathroom 2 using the point cloud information obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0175] For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates that the identified moving object in the bathroom 2 is a user. For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates the height of the identified user located in the bathroom 2 based on the vertical length of the point cloud corresponding to the user in the bathroom 2. For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's behavior in the bathroom 2 based on changes in the point cloud obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0176] For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's movement in the bathroom 2 (e.g., stepping over into the bathtub 4) based on changes in the shape of the point cloud obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a. For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's movement in the bathroom 2 based on changes in the position of the point cloud obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0177] The above-described process is merely an example, and the state estimation unit 110 may estimate a state change in the bathroom 2 using various information. For example, the state estimation unit 110 may estimate a state change in the bathroom 2 using point cloud information when a user is not located in the bathroom 2. For example, the state estimation unit 110 may estimate a state change in the bathroom 2 using point cloud information when a user is not located in the bathroom 2 and point cloud information when a user is located in the bathroom 2. For example, the state estimation unit 110 may estimate the position and movement of a user in the bathroom 2 based on the difference between the point cloud information when a user is not located in the bathroom 2 and the point cloud information when a user is located in the bathroom 2.

[0178] The state estimation unit 110 estimates an abnormal state as a state change in the bathroom 2 based on the determination result of the determination unit 111. When the determination unit 111 determines that there is an abnormality with respect to a user located in the bathroom 2, the state estimation unit 110 estimates that there is an abnormal state in the bathroom 2. For example, when the determination unit 111 determines that there is an abnormality in the state of a user located in the bathroom 2, the state estimation unit 110 estimates that there is an abnormal state in the bathroom 2. For example, when the determination unit 111 determines that there is an abnormality in the posture of a user located in the bathroom 2, the state estimation unit 110 estimates that there is an abnormal state in the bathroom 2.

[0179] The state estimation unit 110 estimates the body movement or moving posture from the water discharge area of ​​the shower device 6 installed in the bathroom 2 to the bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2. The state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's movements within the water discharge area of ​​the shower device 6 installed in the bathroom 2. The state estimation unit 110 estimates the breathing state of the user located in the bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2. Note that the above-described processing is merely an example, and the state estimation unit 110 may estimate various state changes in the bathroom 2 using various information.

[0180] The state estimation unit 110 may also have a function as information generation means that generates various types of information to be notified by the notification unit 103. In this case, the state estimation unit 110 generates various types of information using information acquired from other devices, information stored in the data storage unit 101, etc. The state estimation unit 110 generates information using information acquired from the sensor unit 10, etc. The state estimation unit 110 generates information using an estimation result.

[0181] The state estimation unit 110 generates various information such as a screen (image information) to be provided to an external information processing device by appropriately using various techniques. The state estimation unit 110 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to a display device, etc. For example, the state estimation unit 110 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to a display device, etc. based on information stored in the data storage unit 101.

[0182] The state estimation unit 110 may generate a screen (image information) or the like by any process as long as it is possible to generate a screen (image information) or the like to be provided to an external information processing device. For example, the state estimation unit 110 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to a display device or the like by appropriately using various technologies related to image generation, image processing, etc. For example, the state estimation unit 110 generates a screen (image information) to be provided to a display device or the like by appropriately using various technologies such as Java (registered trademark).

[0183] The determination unit 111 functions as a determination means for making various determinations. The determination unit 111 determines whether or not an object other than the user is present within the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a based on the output data of the radio wave sensor 10a. The determination unit 111 determines, based on the output data of the radio wave sensor 10a when the user is not in the bathroom 2, that an object other than the user is present within the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a in an area where the intensity is equal to or greater than the threshold when the user is not in the bathroom 2.

[0184] For example, the determination unit 111 may use point cloud information obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10 a to determine whether or not there is an object other than the user present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10 a. For example, the determination unit 111 may use point cloud information obtained when no user is present in the bathroom 2 to determine whether or not there is an object other than the user present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10 a.

[0185] For example, the determination unit 111 may determine the presence or absence of an object other than the user present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a by using point cloud information when no user is present in the bathroom 2 and point cloud information when a user is present in the bathroom 2. For example, the determination unit 111 may determine the presence or absence of an object other than the user present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a based on the difference between the point cloud information when no user is present in the bathroom 2 and the point cloud information when a user is present in the bathroom 2. Note that the above is merely an example, and the determination unit 111 may determine the presence or absence of an object other than the user present in the detection range of the radio wave sensor 10a by appropriately using various information.

[0186] Furthermore, the determination unit 111 may estimate (determine) an abnormality in the user located in the bathroom 2. For example, the determination unit 111 determines whether or not the state of the user located in the bathroom 2 is abnormal. For example, the determination unit 111 determines whether or not the state of the user located in the bathroom 2 estimated by the state estimation unit 110 is abnormal.

[0187] For example, if the position of the user located in the bathroom 2 remains stationary for a predetermined period of time, the determination unit 111 determines that the user's condition is abnormal. For example, the determination unit 111 determines whether the posture of the user located in the bathroom 2 is abnormal. For example, the determination unit 111 determines whether the posture of the user located in the bathroom 2 estimated by the state estimation unit 110 is abnormal. For example, the determination unit 111 determines that the user's condition is abnormal if the user is sleeping somewhere other than the bathtub 4 in the bathroom 2. Note that the above is merely an example, and the determination unit 111 may estimate (determine) that various states are abnormal.

[0188] The control unit 100 may include units that perform various processes other than those described above. For example, the control unit 100 may include an acquisition unit that acquires various information used in the processes. For example, the control unit 100 may include an alarm control unit that controls the alarm unit 103. In this case, the control unit 100 controls the output of information by the alarm unit 103, for example, using the alarm control unit.

[0189] The control unit 100 may also have a personal identification unit that performs processing for personal identification (personal authentication) of the user. The personal identification unit functions as an identification means that performs processing for personal identification of the user. The personal identification unit may perform personal identification of the user who uses the wet space such as the bathroom 2. For example, the personal identification unit may perform personal identification of the user using sensor information detected by the sensor unit 10. The personal identification unit performs personal identification (personal authentication) using information such as the physique, posture, and gait of the person in the bathroom 2 obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0190] For example, the personal identification unit may identify the user based on the point cloud information obtained by the detection of the radio wave sensor 10 a. For example, the personal identification unit may estimate that the user whose height is estimated based on the point cloud information obtained by the detection of the radio wave sensor 10 a is the user who used the bathroom space on the date and time the point cloud information was obtained.

[0191] The above is merely an example, and any process may be used to identify a user using a wet space such as the bathroom 2, as long as it is possible to identify the user. For example, the personal identification unit may identify the user based on the user's operation (such as pressing a switch) on an operating unit or the like installed in the bathroom 2. The personal identification unit may also identify the user through voice recognition using voice recognition technology. The personal identification unit may also identify the user using fingerprint information detected from a location touched by the user. In this case, the sensor unit 10 may have a fingerprint sensor on a location touched by a person (such as a doorknob), such as a door 22 installed in the wet space. For example, smooth personal identification (personal authentication) is possible by using a person's biometric information.

[0192] The data storage unit 101 is a storage means (storage device) that stores various types of information. The data storage unit 101 is realized, for example, by a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the data storage unit 101 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by a control program. The data storage unit 101 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100.

[0193] Data storage unit 101 transmits the stored information to control unit 100 in response to a request from control unit 100. Data storage unit 101 stores information received from control unit 100. Data storage unit 101 is also connected to sensor unit 10 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from sensor unit 10, and stores information (sensor information) acquired through detection by sensor unit 10. Data storage unit 101 stores various types of information used for control of bathroom system 1.

[0194] The data storage unit 101 stores various information related to the space (wet space) including the bathroom 2 and the changing room 3. The data storage unit 101 stores the user's behavior history including information related to the user's behavior and status in the wet space. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores usage log data obtained from an analysis of the history (log) related to the use of the wet space as the user's behavior history.

[0195] The data storage unit 101 stores information regarding the user's use of the bathroom 2. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores the number of times the bathroom 2 has been used and the date and time of use. The data storage unit 101 also stores information regarding the user's bathing in the bathtub 4. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores the number of times bathing has occurred and the date and time of bathing. The data storage unit 101 also stores information regarding the user's use of the shower device 6. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores the number of times the shower device 6 has been used and the date and time of use.

[0196] The data storage unit 101 stores information related to the cleaning of the wet space. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores information indicating the cleaning of the bathroom 2. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores the number of cleanings and the date and time of cleaning. For example, when multiple users are expected to use the space (wet space) including the bathroom 2 and the changing room 3, the data storage unit 101 stores information identifying the user (for example, a user ID) in association with the user's information.

[0197] The data storage unit 101 also stores information (also referred to as "user information") about users of the space (wet space) including the bathroom 2 and the changing room 3. For example, if multiple users of the wet space are expected, the data storage unit 101 stores user information including information for identifying each user (also referred to as "user identification information"). For example, the data storage unit 101 stores user information including user identification information indicating the physical characteristics of each user. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores user information including the height, weight, etc. of each user.

[0198] For example, the data storage unit 101 stores a list of users who have been pre-registered as users of the bathroom 2. The user list includes a list of users (e.g., multiple users such as a family) who have been pre-registered as users of the bathroom 2, as well as information used for personal identification (personal authentication) of each user included in the list. For example, the user list may include information indicating each user's physical characteristics, such as their height, which is used for personal identification. Furthermore, if personal identification is performed by voice, the user list may also include audio information indicating the characteristics of each user's voice (audio).

[0199] The data storage unit 101 is not limited to the above, and may store various types of information depending on the purpose. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores information indicating conditions (also referred to as "abnormality estimation conditions") for estimating that an abnormality has occurred in the bathroom 2. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores information indicating abnormality estimation conditions including at least one of the following: a user has fallen in the bathroom 2; the user has been in a low posture and has not moved for a predetermined period of time; an abnormal sound has been detected in the bathroom 2; an abnormality related to the user's breathing has been detected; and an abnormality related to the user's heart rate has been detected.

[0200] For example, the data storage unit 101 stores external data. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores external data (external information) collected by other services, etc. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores information about a user collected by a terminal device (wearable terminal, etc.) carried by the user as external information. The data storage unit 101 stores information about the user's behavior collected by the user's terminal device as external information.

[0201] Note that the above is merely an example, and the data storage unit 101 stores various types of information used in processing. The data storage unit 101 stores information used for control. The data storage unit 101 stores information used by the control unit 100 to control various components such as the shower device 6. The data storage unit 101 stores various types of information used in estimation processing. The data storage unit 101 stores information used to estimate changes in the state of the bathroom. For example, the data storage unit 101 may store various types of detection information such as first detection information, which will be described later. For example, the data storage unit 101 may store various types of point cloud information such as first point cloud information, which will be described later.

[0202] Various types of information are input to the input unit 102. For example, the input unit 102 functions as a reception unit that receives input of various types of information. The input unit 102 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to transmit and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The input unit 102 transmits the acquired information to the control unit 100. The input unit 102 may receive input in response to an instruction from the control unit 100.

[0203] The input unit 102 receives various operations from an operator, such as an administrator of the bathroom system 1 or a user of the space (wet space) including the bathroom 2 and the changing room 3. For example, the input unit 102 may be integrated with a display device for displaying information. In this case, the input unit 102 may accept various operations from the operator using buttons provided on the display device. Alternatively, the input unit 102 may accept various operations from the operator via a display surface (e.g., a liquid crystal display) of the display device using a touch panel function.

[0204] For example, the input unit 102 may have a display device that displays information and an operation device that accepts operations from an operator such as a user, and may function as an operation unit such as an operation panel. For example, the input unit 102 may be placed in any location, such as a water space or a living room of a residence in which the bathroom 2 is installed. In this case, the input unit 102 may also function as a remote control device that is placed in the residence in which the bathroom 2 is installed, displays information about the bathroom 2, and accepts operations related to the bathroom 2. For example, the remote control device may have the function of the input unit 102 and the function of the notification unit 103, and may perform processes such as accepting operations from the operator, displaying information, and outputting audio.

[0205] Furthermore, for example, the input unit 102 may be provided in a terminal device (such as a display device) owned by the operator. The terminal device is a device used by the operator. The terminal device may be realized, for example, by a smartphone, a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet terminal, or a notebook personal computer (PC). For example, the terminal device may be a smartphone used by a family member or the like residing in a house in which the bathroom 2 is installed. For example, the terminal device may function as an output device that outputs information notified (transmitted) from the notification unit 103.

[0206] The notification unit 103 functions as a notification means for notifying various types of information. The notification unit 103 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The notification unit 103 performs various types of notifications in response to instructions from the control unit 100. For example, the notification unit 103 notifies information to a predetermined target person. The notification unit 103 notifies information to a predetermined target person by displaying the information, communicating the information, outputting the information as sound, etc.

[0207] For example, the notification unit 103 has a configuration with a communication function such as a communication circuit or a communication device, and transmits information to be notified to a predetermined target person to a device (information processing device) corresponding to the predetermined target person. For example, the notification unit 103 is connected to a predetermined network such as the Internet via a wired or wireless connection, and transmits and receives information to and from an external information processing device. For example, the notification unit 103 transmits and receives information to and from other devices with communication functions, such as a remote control device or a terminal device, via a predetermined network such as the Internet.

[0208] The notification unit 103 transmits information to an external information processing device. For example, the notification unit 103 transmits various information to a remote control device, a terminal device, etc. The notification unit 103 notifies a predetermined target person by transmitting information estimated by the control unit 100 to the remote control device, the terminal device, etc. The notification unit 103 notifies a predetermined target person by transmitting information generated by the control unit 100 to the remote control device, the terminal device, etc.

[0209] Note that the above is merely an example, and the notification unit 103 may be in any form and may have any configuration as long as it is capable of providing the desired notification. For example, the notification unit 103 may have a display function when displaying information to a predetermined target person. In this case, the notification unit 103 may be a display device. The notification unit 103 may also be integrated with a display device having a function of displaying information, such as a remote control device or a terminal device. The notification unit 103 may also have an audio output function when outputting information as audio (audio output) to a predetermined target person. In this case, the notification unit 103 may be an audio output device. The notification unit 103 may also be integrated with a device having a function of outputting information as audio, such as a remote control device or a terminal device.

[0210] The lighting 104 has a lighting device that illuminates a predetermined space. The lighting 104 has a lighting device that illuminates the bathroom 2. The lighting 104 has a lighting device that illuminates the changing room 3. The lighting 104 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The lighting 104 may dim the lighting device in response to an instruction from the control unit 100. The lighting 104 may turn on the lighting device in response to an instruction from the control unit 100. The lighting 104 may turn off the lighting device in response to an instruction from the control unit 100.

[0211] For example, the lighting 104 receives control instruction information from the control unit 100 and controls the lighting device based on the received control instruction information. The lighting 104 performs dimming control of the lighting device based on the control instruction information. For example, the lighting 104 turns the lighting device on or off based on the control instruction information.

[0212] The hot water temperature control unit 105a functions as a hot water temperature control means that controls the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the shower device 6. The hot water temperature control unit 105a is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The hot water temperature control unit 105a controls the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the shower device 6 in accordance with instructions from the control unit 100. For example, the hot water temperature control unit 105a has a valve (temperature adjustment valve) for adjusting the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the shower device 6. For example, the flow path (water supply path) controlled by the hot water temperature control unit 105a is connected to the flow path (water supply path) controlled by the hot water volume control unit 105b.

[0213] The hot water quantity control unit 105b functions as a hot water quantity control means that controls the amount of hot water (cold water) supplied to the shower device 6. The hot water quantity control unit 105b is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The hot water quantity control unit 105b controls the amount of hot water in accordance with instructions from the control unit 100. For example, the hot water quantity control unit 105b has a valve (flow rate adjustment valve) for adjusting the flow rate of hot water (cold water) supplied to the shower device 6. For example, the flow path (water supply path) controlled by the hot water quantity control unit 105b is connected to the flow path (water supply path) controlled by the water discharge / stop control units 60a to 60c.

[0214] The bathtub water temperature control unit 106 functions as a water temperature control means for controlling the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the bathtub 4. The bathtub water temperature control unit 106 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The bathtub water temperature control unit 106 controls the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the bathtub 4 in accordance with instructions from the control unit 100. For example, the bathtub water temperature control unit 106 has a valve (temperature adjustment valve) for adjusting the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the bathtub 4.

[0215] The shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107 functions as a water temperature control means for controlling the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the shoulder bath outlet and the waist bath outlet provided in the bathtub 4. The shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107 controls the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to at least one of the shoulder bath outlet and the waist bath outlet in accordance with instructions from the control unit 100. For example, the shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107 has a valve (temperature adjustment valve) for adjusting the temperature of the hot water (water) supplied to the shoulder bath outlet and the waist bath outlet.

[0216] The air conditioning 108 includes an air conditioning device that adjusts the state of air in a specified space. The air conditioning 108 includes an air conditioning device that adjusts the state of air in the bathroom 2. The air conditioning 108 includes an air conditioning device that adjusts the state of air in the undressing room 3. For example, the air conditioning device has a function of adjusting at least one of temperature, humidity, and flow rate (airflow). The air conditioning 108 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The air conditioning 108 may control the operation of the air conditioning device in accordance with instructions from the control unit 100.

[0217] For example, the air conditioning unit 108 receives control instruction information from the control unit 100 and controls the air conditioning unit based on the received control instruction information. The air conditioning unit 108 controls the operation of the air conditioning unit based on the control instruction information. For example, the air conditioning unit 108 starts or stops the operation of the air conditioning unit based on the control instruction information. The air conditioning unit 108 may have various functions as long as they are capable of adjusting the air condition in a specified space. For example, the air conditioning unit 108 may have a function (drying function) for drying laundry in the bathroom 2, i.e., a so-called bathroom drying function.

[0218] The ventilation fan 109 has a ventilation device that ventilates a predetermined space. The ventilation fan 109 has a ventilation device that ventilates the bathroom 2. The ventilation fan 109 has a ventilation device that ventilates the undressing room 3. The ventilation fan 109 is connected to the control unit 100 so as to be able to send and receive signals (information) to and from the control unit 100. The ventilation fan 109 may control the operation of the ventilation device in response to instructions from the control unit 100.

[0219] For example, the ventilation fan 109 receives control instruction information from the control unit 100 and controls the ventilation device based on the received control instruction information. The ventilation fan 109 performs dimming control of the ventilation device based on the control instruction information. For example, the ventilation fan 109 drives or stops the ventilation device based on the control instruction information.

[0220] The above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 can employ any device configuration as long as it can achieve the desired processing. In bathroom system 1, air conditioning 108 may have all the functions of regulating the air condition in a specified space, including ventilation. In this case, air conditioning 108 and ventilation fan 109 may be integrated. For example, if air conditioning 108 has a ventilation function, bathroom system 1 does not need to have ventilation fan 109.

[0221] Furthermore, for example, bathroom system 1 may have various sensors for collecting information about the space (wet space) including bathroom 2 and changing room 3. For example, sensor unit 10 of bathroom system 1 may have a door sensor that detects the opening and closing of the door to changing room 3 as an entry detection sensor for collecting information about users entering and exiting changing room 3. For example, bathroom system 1 functions as a bathroom management system that provides services related to bathroom management with the above configuration. Also, for example, bathroom system 1 functions as a bathroom monitoring system that provides services related to bathroom monitoring with the above configuration.

[0222] <1-3. Processing Example Using a Radio Wave Sensor> An example of processing using a radio wave sensor will now be outlined. Radio wave sensor 10a, which is a radio wave radar as described above, emits radio waves into bathroom 2 and receives the reflected radio waves. In this way, radio wave sensor 10a receives the reflected radio waves, and bathroom system 1 can detect the coordinates of the point from which the radio waves are reflected, the intensity of the reflected radio waves, and the speed in the direction of travel of the radio waves at the point from which the radio waves are reflected (Doppler velocity). Therefore, bathroom system 1 can obtain, from the detection signal from radio wave sensor 10a, coordinate information of the point group from which the radio waves are reflected, information on the intensity of the reflected waves from each point, and information on the moving speed of each point.

[0223] For example, when a user is located (entered) in bathroom 2 (also referred to as the "user entry state"), radio waves reflected by an object (reflecting object) including the user are detected by radio wave sensor 10a, and point cloud information representing the object (reflecting object) including the user is detected.

[0224] 1 and 2, when user U is located in bathroom 2 (user entry state), radio wave sensor 10a detects radio waves reflected by objects such as the components related to panels 2a to 2f in addition to user U. As a result, when user U is located in bathroom 2, bathroom system 1 acquires point cloud information representing objects such as the components related to panels 2a to 2f in addition to user U.

[0225] On the other hand, for example, when a user is not present (entered) in bathroom 2 (also referred to as a "user-absent state"), radio waves reflected by objects (reflecting objects) that do not include the user are detected by radio wave sensor 10a, and point cloud information representing objects (reflecting objects) that do not include the user, i.e., objects other than the user, is detected. In this way, when a user is not present in bathroom 2 (user-absent state), point cloud information representing objects that are not necessary for estimating the user's position or movement is detected.

[0226] 1 and 2, when a user is not present in bathroom 2 (user absence state), radio wave sensor 10a detects radio waves reflected by objects other than the user, such as the components related to panels 2a to 2f. This allows bathroom system 1 to obtain point cloud information representing objects other than the user, such as the components related to panels 2a to 2f, when a user is not present in bathroom 2.

[0227] Here, radio waves reflected from the components related to the panels 2a to 2f of the bathroom 2 may affect the estimation of changes in the state of the space within the bathroom 2, such as the estimation of the location and movement of a user within the bathroom 2. The panels 2a to 2f of the bathroom 2 are made of panel-shaped materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), resin, or hard plastic. Furthermore, for example, metal plates may be provided on the back surfaces of the panels 2a to 2f. In this way, when metal plates are provided on the back surfaces of the panels 2a to 2f, the metal plates form radio wave reflection areas, increasing the strength of radio waves reflected from the components related to the panels 2a to 2f of the bathroom 2, which may affect the estimation of changes in the state of the space within the bathroom 2.

[0228] Furthermore, even if no metal plate is provided on the backside or the like of panels 2a-2f, water droplets may adhere to the surfaces of panels 2a-2f due to the user's use or cleaning of shower device 6. In such cases, the areas on the surfaces of panels 2a-2f where water droplets adhere (water droplet adhesion areas) constitute radio wave reflection areas, and the strength of radio waves reflected from the configuration of panels 2a-2f in bathroom 2 increases, which may affect the estimation of changes in the state of the space within bathroom 2.

[0229] In this way, when there are radio wave reflection areas where the strength of reflected radio waves can be strong, it may be difficult to properly estimate changes in the state of the space within bathroom 2. Therefore, bathroom system 1 excludes such radio wave reflection areas to estimate changes in the state of the space within bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 excludes wall surfaces such as panels 2a-2f from the detection range because the reflection strength is high on those surfaces. Note that "exclusion" is not limited to excluding these areas from the data when bathroom system 1 performs estimation processing, and may take any form as long as the desired processing can be performed, such as excluding them from the output data output by radio wave sensor 10a.

[0230] For example, bathroom system 1 acquires detection information (also referred to as "first detection information") due to reflection from objects (reflecting objects) other than the user, such as radio wave reflection areas, when a user is not present. For example, bathroom system 1 performs detection when a user is not present, and acquires point cloud information (also referred to as "first point cloud information") detected due to reflection from objects (reflecting objects) other than the user, such as radio wave reflection areas, as the first detection information.

[0231] Then, bathroom system 1 acquires detection information (also referred to as "second detection information") based on reflection from objects (reflecting objects) including the user when the user has entered the room. For example, bathroom system 1 performs detection when the user has entered the room and acquires point cloud information (also referred to as "second point cloud information") detected by reflection from objects (reflecting objects) including the user as the second detection information.

[0232] Then, bathroom system 1 uses the first detection information and the second detection information to generate detection information (also referred to as "third detection information") in which the influence of the radio wave reflection area has been removed. For example, bathroom system 1 generates point cloud information (also referred to as "third point cloud information") in which the influence of the radio wave reflection area has been removed from the second point cloud information based on a comparison between the second point cloud information (for example, point cloud information such as that shown in FIG. 6) and the first point cloud information, as the third detection information. For example, bathroom system 1 generates the third point cloud information by deriving the difference between the second point cloud information and the first point cloud information.

[0233] Then, bathroom system 1 uses the third detection information to estimate state changes in the space within bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 uses the third point cloud information to estimate state changes in the space within bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1 may further remove information that could be noise (such as dynamic noise) from the third detection information. For example, bathroom system 1 may generate detection information (also referred to as "fourth detection information") from which noise has been further removed from the third detection information. In this case, bathroom system 1 uses the fourth detection information to estimate state changes in the space within bathroom 2. Dynamic noise may include, for example, radio waves reflected from an object that is not stationary due to vibration or the like (such as a washing machine).

[0234] For example, bathroom system 1 may further use the third point cloud information to perform processing to remove dynamic noise, etc. As a result, bathroom system 1 generates point cloud information (also referred to as "fourth point cloud information") from which various influences (noise) other than the influence of the radio wave reflection area have been removed as fourth detection information. In this case, bathroom system 1 uses the fourth point cloud information (for example, point cloud information such as that shown in FIG. 9 ) to estimate state changes in the space within bathroom 2.

[0235] <1-4. Processing Example> Based on the above, an example of processing performed by bathroom system 1 will now be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of processing performed by the bathroom system. For example, FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a state estimation process performed by bathroom system 1 according to an embodiment. Note that while the bathroom system 1 will be described as the subject of processing, each process may be performed by any device, such as sensor unit 10 (radio wave sensor 10a, etc.), control unit 100, etc., depending on the device configuration included in bathroom system 1.

[0236] Bathroom system 1 emits radar and derives the distance to each reflection point, azimuth angle, elevation angle, radio wave intensity, and Doppler velocity from the received signal (step S101). For example, bathroom system 1 emits radar from radio wave sensor 10a, and control unit 100 derives the distance to each reflection point, azimuth angle, elevation angle, radio wave intensity, and Doppler velocity based on the received signal received by radio wave sensor 10a, thereby acquiring second detection information.

[0237] For example, bathroom system 1 derives the distance to each reflection point, azimuth angle, elevation angle, radio wave intensity, and Doppler velocity based on detection when a user enters the bathroom, and acquires point cloud information (second point cloud information) from objects (reflecting objects) including the user as second detection information. For example, bathroom system 1 acquires point cloud information (second point cloud information) including the user, as shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a point cloud detected by a radio wave sensor of the bathroom system. FIG. 6 shows an example of a point cloud (point cloud data) when a user is located in bathroom 2.

[0238] When there is no moving object, bathroom system 1 excludes wall surfaces and corners with high reflection intensity from the detection range (step S102). For example, bathroom system 1 excludes wall surfaces and corners with high reflection intensity from the detection range based on detection when no user is present in bathroom 2.

[0239] For example, bathroom system 1 acquires first detection information obtained by detection in a user-absent state, i.e., when a user is not present in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 acquires first point cloud information as the first detection information from data storage unit 101. For example, bathroom system 1 may perform detection in a user-absent state before the processing of step S101, derive the distance to each reflection point, azimuth angle, elevation angle, radio wave intensity, and Doppler velocity based on the detection in the user-absent state, and acquire point cloud information (first point cloud information) from objects (reflecting objects) that do not include a user.

[0240] For example, bathroom system 1 uses the second detection information and the first detection information to generate third detection information by removing the effects (noise) of reflections from walls and corners with high reflection intensity from the second detection information. For example, bathroom system 1 uses the second point cloud information and the first point cloud information to generate point cloud information (third point cloud information) by removing point clouds based on reflections from walls and corners with high reflection intensity from the second point cloud information. As a result, bathroom system 1 excludes radio wave reflection areas such as walls and corners with high reflection intensity from areas other than the user from its detection range.

[0241] Bathroom system 1 then executes steps S103 and S104. Note that steps S103 and S104 are step numbers used for convenience in explaining the process, and steps may be executed in any order. For example, step S104 may be executed before step S103.

[0242] Bathroom system 1 removes low-intensity noise from reflection points based on the radio wave intensity (step S103). For example, bathroom system 1 automatically adjusts a threshold value using a CFAR (Constant False Alarm Rate) detection process, and removes information from reflection points with an intensity below the threshold as noise.

[0243] Here, an overview of the processing in step S103 will be described with reference to FIG. 7 . FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the intensity distribution of radio waves received by the radio wave sensors in the bathroom system. FIG. 7 is a graph showing a schematic diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the intensity of radio waves reflected from each point, and the vertical axis represents the frequency (number of points) of points indicating that intensity. For example, if no metal plate is placed on the backside of panels 2a-2f or if there are no water droplet-adhered areas on the surfaces of panels 2a-2f, the intensity of the waves emitted from radio wave sensor 10a and reflected by panels 2a-2f will be low. In such cases, the third point cloud information may include the influence (noise) of reflections from panels 2a-2f.

[0244] Furthermore, because many of the radio waves emitted from radio wave sensor 10a are reflected by panels 2a-2f, the frequency (number of points) of such radio waves increases. As a result, the graph in FIG. 7 shows one peak in the region of low reflected wave intensity. Meanwhile, the reflected waves reflected by users entering bathroom 2 have relatively high intensity, so the graph in FIG. 7 shows another peak due to the reflected waves reflected by the users in the region of high reflected wave intensity. Furthermore, among the received reflected waves, radio waves below a predetermined intensity threshold (corresponding to the threshold in FIG. 7) are determined to be noise and are deleted from the data (point cloud information, etc.) used for processing. This allows bathroom system 1 to appropriately remove reflected waves with low intensity and noise that were not removed in step S102.

[0245] Furthermore, the predetermined intensity threshold (corresponding to the threshold in FIG. 7 ) for determining received radio waves as noise can be changed based on the detected reflected waves. In bathroom system 1, the predetermined intensity threshold is determined using the CFAR method. Generally, the lower the predetermined intensity threshold is set, the higher the detection probability of the target to be detected, but the higher the false alarm (detection) probability. On the other hand, setting the predetermined intensity threshold higher reduces the false alarm probability, but decreases the target detection probability. Thus, the target detection probability and false alarm probability change depending on the setting of the predetermined intensity threshold, resulting in a trade-off. The CFAR method is generally known as a method for setting a predetermined intensity threshold based on the intensity distribution of received reflected waves so that the false alarm probability remains constant.

[0246] Bathroom system 1 also removes static noise from the reflection points (step S104). For example, bathroom system 1 removes noise with a small Doppler velocity from the reflection points.

[0247] An overview of this processing will be explained using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the distribution of Doppler velocities of radio waves received by the radio wave sensors in the bathroom system. Figure 8 is a graph showing a schematic diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the Doppler velocity of each point that reflected the radio waves, and the vertical axis represents the frequency (number of points) of points indicating that velocity. Here, the Doppler velocity calculated from the waves irradiated from radio wave sensor 10a and reflected by stationary objects such as panels 2a-2f is nearly zero.

[0248] Furthermore, because many of the radio waves emitted from radio wave sensor 10a are reflected by panels 2a-2f, etc., the frequency (number of points) of such radio waves increases. As a result, the graph in FIG. 8 shows a single peak near the Doppler velocity of zero. Meanwhile, because a user who enters bathroom 2 moves, the reflected waves from the user are distributed from the area where the Doppler velocity is negative (moving toward radio wave sensor 10a) to the area where the Doppler velocity is positive (moving away from radio wave sensor 10a). Of the received reflected waves, radio waves whose absolute value of the Doppler velocity is below a predetermined velocity threshold (e.g., corresponding to the range between the dashed dotted lines in FIG. 8) are determined to be noise and are deleted from the data (point cloud information, etc.) used for processing.

[0249] Bathroom system 1 multiplies the information on the strength of the radio waves reflected from each point obtained in steps S103 and S104 with the information on the speed of each point to obtain point cloud information representing users in bathroom 2 (step S105). For example, bathroom system 1 generates point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) representing users from which various influences other than those in the radio wave reflection area have been removed by removing data determined to be noise based on the information on the strength of the radio waves reflected from each point and the information on the speed of each point.

[0250] This allows bathroom system 1 to detect users more accurately. Figure 9 shows an example of a point cloud of users detected in this way. Figure 9 shows an example of a point cloud detected by the radio wave sensor of the bathroom system.

[0251] Bathroom system 1 estimates the user's position from the noise-removed data (step S106). For example, as shown in FIG. 9 , bathroom system 1 estimates the user's position from point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) corresponding to the user, from which various influences other than those in the radio wave reflection area have been removed. For example, bathroom system 1 estimates the user's position based on the relationship between the space and coordinates of bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1 obtains information about the user's position within bathroom 2 by calculating the center of gravity of the point cloud that reflects the radio waves.

[0252] The processing flow shown in Figure 5 is merely an example, and the processing flow executed by bathroom system 1 is not limited to the processing flow shown in Figure 5, and any processing flow may be executed as long as the desired processing can be executed. For example, bathroom system 1 may not execute at least one of steps S103 and S104. For example, bathroom system 1 may not execute step S104.

[0253] Bathroom system 1 may also estimate various information using fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user. Bathroom system 1 may also estimate the user's height, posture, etc. based on the height of the highest point in the point cloud. Bathroom system 1 may also acquire information such as the user's height, posture, etc. based on the height of the highest point in the point cloud.

[0254] Bathroom system 1 may also estimate bodily movement or moving posture from the water discharge area of ​​shower device 6 provided in bathroom 2 to bathtub 4 provided in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate information related to the user's movement based on changes in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate at least one of the user's bodily movement or moving posture based on changes over time in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user.

[0255] For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's physical movement from the water discharge area of ​​shower device 6 to bathtub 4 based on a time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when the user is located in the water discharge area of ​​shower device 6 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when the user is located in bathtub 4. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's movement posture from the water discharge area of ​​shower device 6 to bathtub 4 based on a time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when the user is located in the water discharge area of ​​shower device 6 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when the user is located in bathtub 4. Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may use various information to estimate the user's physical movement or movement posture from the water discharge area of ​​shower device 6 installed in bathroom 2 to the bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2.

[0256] Bathroom system 1 may also estimate the user's movements within the water discharge area of ​​shower device 6 installed in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate information related to the user's movements based on changes in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's movements based on changes over time in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user.

[0257] For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's movements within the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6 based on a time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when the user is located within the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when the user is located within the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6. Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may use various information to estimate the user's movements within the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6 installed in bathroom 2. For example, if multiple radio wave sensors 10a are installed, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's movements within the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6 using information obtained by detection by radio wave sensors 10a located near the water-discharge area of ​​shower device 6.

[0258] Bathroom system 1 may also estimate the respiratory state of a user positioned in bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate information related to the user's breathing based on changes in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the user's respiratory state based on changes over time in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating the user.

[0259] For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate the respiratory state of a user in bathtub 4 based on a time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when the user is in bathtub 4 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when the user is in bathtub 4. Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may use various information to estimate the respiratory state of a user in bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2. For example, if multiple radio wave sensors 10a are provided, bathroom system 1 may estimate the respiratory state of a user in bathtub 4 installed in bathroom 2 using one of radio wave sensors 10a (for example, radio wave sensor 10a in FIG. 12 ) located near end 43 that functions as a pillow section. ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ The respiratory state of a user positioned in the bathtub 4 may be estimated using information obtained by detecting the following:

[0260] <1-5. Example of arrangement of radio wave sensor antenna> Here, an example of arrangement of the radio wave sensor antenna will be described. For example, the arrangements shown in Figs. 10 and 11 may be used. Figs. 10 and 11 are diagrams showing an example of arrangement of the radio wave sensor antenna. Specifically, Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the orientation of the radio wave sensor antenna when the bathroom is viewed from above. Also, Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the orientation of the radio wave sensor antenna when the bathroom is viewed from the side. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0261] 10 and 11 show a schematic configuration of the radio wave sensor 10a. Note that in order to explain the orientation of the antenna 12 of the radio wave sensor, only the housing 11 and the antenna 12 are shown in Fig. 10 and 11, but the radio wave sensor 10a also has various components other than the housing 11 and the antenna 12 for functioning as a radio wave radar.

[0262] 10 and 11 , the radio wave sensor 10a is disposed so that the antenna surface 121 of the antenna 12 disposed within the housing 11 intersects with the surface of the panel 2a on which the radio wave sensor 10a is installed. In this manner, the surface direction of the antenna surface 121 of the antenna 12 of the radio wave sensor 10a intersects with the surface of the panel on which the radio wave sensor 10a is installed. The radio wave sensor 10a is disposed so that the antenna surface 121 of the antenna 12 disposed within the housing 11 faces the center of the bathroom 2. In this manner, the antenna surface 121 of the antenna 12 of the radio wave sensor 10a is oriented to face the center of the bathroom 2.

[0263] Area AR11 shown in Figures 10 and 11 shows an example of the range in which radio wave sensor 10a receives reflected waves. Radio wave sensor 10a transmits radio waves at a predetermined angle and receives reflections from panels 2a to 2f of bathroom 2. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, depending on the placement position of radio wave sensor 10a, antenna surface 121 of antenna 12 can be positioned so that it faces the center of bathroom 2, eliminating the need to place radio wave sensor 10a in the center of bathroom 2 and improving the flexibility of placement of radio wave sensor 10a.

[0264] <1-6. Other Configuration Examples of Bathroom Systems> The configuration and processing described above are merely examples of the configuration and processing of a bathroom system, and bathroom systems may have various configurations and perform various processes. Some examples in this regard are described below.

[0265] 3, i.e., the arrangement of the sensor unit 10, is an example, and the bathroom system may arrange the sensor unit 10 at any location. The sensor unit 10 may include multiple radio wave sensors 10a.

[0266] For example, the sensor unit 10 may have multiple radio wave sensors 10a, including a first radio wave sensor 10a whose detection range is a first space including the bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2, and a second radio wave sensor 10a that detects a second space including the water discharge area of ​​the shower device 6 installed in the bathroom 2. In this case, the output data of the sensor unit 10 includes first output data from the first radio wave sensor 10a and second output data from the second radio wave sensor 10a.

[0267] The bathroom system may also have three or more radio wave sensors 10a. An example of this case will be described with reference to FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of a bathroom system. The bathroom system 1A in FIG. 12 has three or more radio wave sensors 10a. １ , radio wave sensor 10a ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ The radio wave sensor 10a １ , radio wave sensor 10a ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ In this manner, bathroom system 1A has three radio wave sensors 10a, each disposed at a different position.

[0268] Radio wave sensor 10a １ , radio wave sensor 10a ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ Each of the radio wave sensors 10a is installed at a position higher than the upper end of the bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2. １ is disposed at the same position as the radio wave sensor 10a in FIG. ２ The radio wave sensor 10a is disposed along the panel 2b near the end 43 that functions as the pillow portion of the bathtub 4. ２ is placed along the panel 2c near the end 43 that functions as the pillow portion of the bathtub 4. By placing the radio wave sensor 10a near the end 43 that functions as the pillow portion of the bathtub 4 in this way, it is possible to improve the accuracy of detecting the breathing of a user who is bathing in the bathtub 4.

[0269] <1-7. Other Processing Examples> Bathroom system 1 may execute various processes in addition to the processes described above. For example, bathroom system 1 may provide new value by providing various services using various information, such as information acquired through the processes described above. In this regard, the processes executed by bathroom system 1 will be described below. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above will be omitted as appropriate.

[0270] <1-7-1. First processing example> <1-7-1-1. Example of evaluation of bathroom use> For example, bathroom system 1 may evaluate bathroom use based on the behavior of the user in bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1 executes an evaluation process to evaluate the behavior of the user in bathroom 2 based on predetermined behavioral rules regarding the use of bathroom 2.

[0271] For example, bathroom system 1 may accept rule settings from a user in a manner as shown in Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a rule. Fig. 13 illustrates an example of a rule that applies to multiple users who share bathroom 2, such as an entire family living in a residence where bathroom 2 is provided (including user X, described later).

[0272] For example, Fig. 13 shows content CT11, which is an example of a rule setting screen for setting common rules for the entire family, i.e., multiple users, as family rules. The content CT11 includes information on multiple individual rules that can be set as rules. The multiple individual rules that can be set as rules include various individual rules as shown in the content CT11 of Fig. 13.

[0273] For example, the individual rules include rules regarding entry time, etc. The individual rules also include rules regarding use of the overhead shower 6 a (OH), such as rules regarding start time, end time, flow rate, temperature, etc. The individual rules also include rules regarding use of the hand shower 6 b (HS), such as rules regarding start time, end time, flow rate, temperature, etc.

[0274] The individual rules also include rules regarding the use of the spout 6c (faucet), such as rules regarding the start time of use, the end time of use, the flow rate, the temperature, etc. The individual rules also include rules regarding the use of the bathtub 4, such as rules regarding the start time of use, the end time of use, etc. The individual rules also include rules regarding the time of exit from the water-related space such as the bathroom 2.

[0275] The individual rules also include rules regarding the open / closed state of the door 22 of the bathtub 4. The individual rules also include rules regarding the user's posture in the bathtub 4, such as whether or not the user's head is sticking out. The individual rules also include rules regarding the user's posture in the washing area, such as whether or not the user is lying down. The individual rules also include rules regarding the turning on / off of the light 104. The individual rules also include rules regarding the operation of the ventilation fan 109.

[0276] Specifically, rules such as those shown in Fig. 13 can be set as individual rules. For example, an individual rule can be set that requires a door (e.g., door 22) to be closed (a condition to be met). Another individual rule can be set that requires a person to wash their body before entering a bathtub (e.g., bathtub 4). Another individual rule can be set that requires a person to wait 20 minutes or less between entering and leaving bathroom 2.

[0277] In addition, individual rules can be set to limit bath time to between three and ten minutes. Another individual rule can be set to limit bath time to one minute. Another individual rule can be set to limit bath time to shoulder height. Another individual rule can be set to limit bath time to rinsing with a shower (e.g., shower device 6) after bathing.

[0278] An individual rule can also be set to require that the bathtub cover be closed before leaving bathroom 2. Another individual rule can also be set to require that the body be dried in bathroom 2 before leaving bathroom 2. Another individual rule can also be set to require that the user get out of (leave) bathroom 2 by 8:00 PM. Another individual rule can also be set to require that the user not lie down in the washing area of ​​bathroom 2. Another individual rule can also be set to require that the total amount of water used when bathing be kept to 20 liters (L).

[0279] It is also possible to set an individual rule that requires bathing with the lights (e.g., light 104) on. It is also possible to set an individual rule that requires not setting the water temperature above 45°C. It is also possible to set an individual rule that requires turning off the shower when leaving the bathroom 2. It is also possible to set an individual rule that requires ventilating the bathroom 2 (e.g., starting the exhaust fan 109) after leaving the bathroom 2. It is also possible to set an individual rule that requires turning off the lights after leaving the bathroom 2.

[0280] The above-described rules are merely examples of individual rules, and individual rules may include various rules (conditions) as long as they relate to the evaluation of the user's behavior in bathroom 2. The numerical values ​​in each individual rule shown in Figure 13 are merely examples, and any desired numerical value can be set for individual rules that include numerical values.

[0281] In FIG. 13 , the remote control device displays content CT11 and accepts rule settings from a person who sets the rules (also referred to as a "setting person"). Note that the content CT11 may be displayed by any device, not limited to a remote control device. For example, the content CT11 may be displayed on a terminal device used by a predetermined person (setting person, etc.) such as a parent (father or mother) of a family. In this case, the predetermined person (setting person, etc.) who uses the terminal device may set rules using the terminal device that he or she uses. For example, the setting person who is the parent of user X sets rules using the terminal device that he or she uses.

[0282] For example, bathroom system 1 accepts the setting of which individual rule to use by the user switching ON / OFF a toggle switch provided for each individual rule. That is, the person setting the rules (the user setting the rules) can arbitrarily select which individual rule to use. Note that the rule settings shown in FIG. 13 are merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may set rules in various ways.

[0283] For example, bathroom system 1 may use predefined rules for each user. Furthermore, rules may be individually set for each user. For example, when rules are set for each user, content CT11 shown in FIG. 13 may include a user's designation.

[0284] For example, the control unit 100A may generate the content CT11. In this case, the control unit 100A transmits the generated content CT11 to a device (also referred to as a "setting reception device") used to set up a remote control device, a terminal device, etc. via the notification unit 130. Note that the content CT11 may be generated by any device other than the control unit 100A. For example, the content CT11 may be generated by the setting reception device. For example, an application related to rule setting may already be installed in the setting reception device. In this case, the setting reception device executes various processes related to the rule setting using the application related to rule setting.

[0285] Then, a setting acceptance device such as a remote control device or a terminal device displays the content CT11 and accepts rule settings made by the user. The setting acceptance device transmits information indicating the accepted rule settings (also referred to as "setting rule information") to the control unit 100A. Based on the received setting rule information, the control unit 100A registers (stores) the rules set for the user in the data storage unit 101 in association with information identifying the user (e.g., a user ID).

[0286] Furthermore, a setting reception device such as a remote control device or a terminal device accepts designation of a notification destination. For example, the setting reception device accepts designation of a notification destination for information related to evaluations based on set rules. For example, the setting reception device accepts designation of a notification destination for a parent of user X for an evaluation based on a rule set for user X. For example, the setting reception device accepts an email address of user X's parent as notification destination information indicating the notification destination for an evaluation based on a rule set for user X. A device such as a remote control device may be set as the notification destination.

[0287] The setting reception device receives notification destination settings from a user. The setting reception device transmits information indicating the received notification destination settings (also referred to as "set notification destination information") to control unit 100A. Based on the received set notification destination information, control unit 100A registers (stores) the notification destinations set for the user in data storage unit 101 in association with information identifying the user (e.g., a user ID).

[0288] Furthermore, a setting reception device such as a remote control device or a terminal device accepts a designation of the notification timing. For example, the setting reception device accepts a designation of the notification timing for information regarding evaluations based on the set rules. For example, the setting reception device accepts a designation of 9:00 p.m. as the notification timing for evaluations based on the rules set for user X. The notification timing can be set to any timing, such as after a predetermined time (30 minutes) has elapsed since the user left bathroom 2.

[0289] The setting reception device accepts the setting of the notification timing by the user. The setting reception device transmits information indicating the accepted setting of the notification timing (also referred to as "setting notification timing information") to the control unit 100A. Based on the received setting notification timing information, the control unit 100A registers (stores) the notification timing set for the user in the data storage unit 101 in association with information identifying the user (e.g., a user ID, etc.).

[0290] The individual rules may include an individual rule (also referred to as an "emergency individual rule") that is notified without waiting for the notification timing if the individual rule is not satisfied (not followed). The emergency individual rule may be set in advance, or bathroom system 1 may accept the setting of an emergency individual rule by the user. For example, the individual rule of not submerging in the bathtub for more than one minute may be an emergency individual rule. In this case, if control unit 100A evaluates (determines) that the individual rule of not submerging in the bathtub for more than one minute has not been satisfied (not followed), it controls to notify the specified notification destination at that time, regardless of the set notification timing.

[0291] In this case, control unit 100A instructs notification unit 103 to send information indicating that the user is not following the individual rule of not staying in the bathtub for more than one minute to a predetermined notification destination. Notification unit 103 then sends information indicating that the user is not following the individual rule of not staying in the bathtub for more than one minute to the predetermined notification destination. The notification destination for the emergency individual rule may be a notification destination (also referred to as an "emergency notification destination") that is different from the normal notification destination. In this case, bathroom system 1 may accept the setting of a notification destination for the emergency individual rule (emergency notification destination). Bathroom system 1 may then send a notification to the emergency notification destination without waiting for the notification timing if the emergency individual rule is not satisfied (not followed).

[0292] The control unit 100A executes an evaluation process for evaluating the behavior of each user in the bathroom 2 based on the rules for each user stored in the data storage unit 101. Then, based on the notification destination and notification timing for each user stored in the data storage unit 101, the control unit 100A notifies (transmits) the evaluation for each user to the specified notification destination at the timing indicated by the notification timing.

[0293] An example of evaluation will now be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of evaluation. Fig. 14 shows an example of evaluation in which the behavior of user X, a child in a family, in bathroom 2 is evaluated. Note that explanations of points similar to those explained in Fig. 13 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0294] Fig. 14 shows a case where, of the individual rules shown in Fig. 13, the 12 individual rules on the left side are set as rules to be followed by user X. That is, Fig. 14 shows a case where, of the individual rules shown in Fig. 13, the five individual rules on the right side are not set as rules to be followed by user X. Fig. 14 also shows an example where an evaluation of user X is notified to user X's parent (father or mother) at 9:00 p.m.

[0295] For example, the control unit 100A evaluates the behavior of user X in the bathroom 2 based on information about user X stored in the data storage unit 101. The control unit 100A evaluates the behavior of user X in the bathroom 2 using rules set for user X and user X's behavior history in the bathroom 2. The control unit 100A evaluates user X's behavior by comparing each of the individual rules set for user X with user X's behavior in the bathroom 2 indicated by user X's behavior history. Note that the user's behavior history, such as user X's behavior history, is not limited to information indicating the user's behavior, but may also include various information collected about the bathroom 2 during the period in which user X's behavior in the bathroom 2 is collected, such as information detected by the sensor unit 10 during that period.

[0296] For example, the control unit 100A evaluates (determines) whether the behavior of the user X in the bathroom 2 indicated by the behavior history of the user X satisfies (is in compliance with) each individual rule set for the user X. For example, the control unit 100A evaluates the behavior of the user X based on the individual rules set for the user X that the user X is in compliance with. For example, the control unit 100A evaluates the behavior of the user X based on the individual rules set for the user X that the user X is not in compliance with.

[0297] 14, the control unit 100A evaluates the behavior of user X based on the behavior of user X in the bathroom 2 on the day of the processing time (also referred to as "today"). For example, the control unit 100A evaluates the behavior of user X in the bathroom 2 today using the behavior history of user X acquired on the day of the processing time (today). For example, the control unit 100A calculates an evaluation value (e.g., a bathing score) of user X based on the proportion of individual rules set for user X that user X is following in his / her behavior in the bathroom 2 today.

[0298] For example, using the behavior history of user X acquired today, if the door 22 is closed while user X is in the bathroom 2, the control unit 100A evaluates (determines) that user X has complied with the individual rule of closing a door (e.g., door 22) in today's behavior in the bathroom 2. For example, using the behavior history of user X acquired today, if the time (period) from when user X entered the bathroom 2 to when user X left it is within 20 minutes, the control unit 100A evaluates (determines) that user X has complied with the individual rule of keeping the time from when user X entered the bathroom 2 to when user X left it within 20 minutes in today's behavior in the bathroom 2. The control unit 100A also evaluates (determines) whether or not other individual rules have been complied with, using the behavior history of user X acquired today.

[0299] 14, the control unit 100A evaluates (determines) that two individual rules, namely, the individual rule that bathing time should be between 3 and 10 minutes and the individual rule that rinsing with a shower after bathing, were not followed, but that the other 10 individual rules were followed. In this way, in FIG. 14, the control unit 100A evaluates (determines) that 10 of the 12 individual rules that user X was required to follow were followed.

[0300] Therefore, the control unit 100A calculates the evaluation value SC1 of user X for today based on the number of individual rules set as rules that user X should follow ("12") and the number of rules that were evaluated (determined) as having been followed ("10"). The control unit 100A calculates the evaluation value SC1 of user X for today as "83 (≒10 / 12×100)" points. For example, the evaluation value SC1 is a value (score) that indicates the evaluation of user X's bathing for today.

[0301] 14 shows a case where a terminal device DV, which is a smartphone, displays content CT21 including today's evaluation value SC1 of user X. For example, the terminal device DV used by a predetermined family member (notification target), such as a parent of user X, displays content CT21 including today's evaluation value SC1 of user X. Note that the display by the terminal device DV is merely an example, and any device with a display function, such as a remote control device, may display the content CT21.

[0302] The content CT21 shown in Fig. 14 includes information indicating the numerical value "83" which is user X's evaluation score SC1 for today, the 12 individual rules on the left side which user X must follow, and marks indicating whether each individual rule was followed. Fig. 14 shows a case where a first mark (a circle in Fig. 14) indicating that the individual rule was followed or a second mark (a check mark in Fig. 14) indicating that the individual rule was not followed is superimposed on a sentence (text information) indicating each individual rule. In other words, the control unit 100A notifies the user of the evaluation result for each individual rule.

[0303] 14 is merely an example, and a mark indicating whether or not each individual rule has been followed may be placed where the toggle switch is located, i.e., before the text (text information) indicating the individual rule. Furthermore, the content CT21 may include various information in addition to the information shown in FIG. 14. For example, if there is information indicating individual evaluations such as individual scores for each individual rule, the content CT21 may include information indicating the individual evaluations such as individual scores for each individual rule.

[0304] For example, the control unit 100A may generate content CT21 including today's evaluation value SC1 of the user X. In this case, the control unit 100A transmits the generated content CT21 to the terminal device DV via the notification unit 130. Then, the terminal device DV displays the content CT21. Note that the content CT21 may be generated by any device other than the control unit 100A. For example, the content CT21 may be generated by the terminal device DV. For example, an application related to the display of evaluations may already be installed in the terminal device DV. In this case, the terminal device DV executes various processes related to the display of evaluations using the application related to the display of evaluations.

[0305] 1-7-1-2. Example of Bathroom System Configuration The following describes the configuration of a bathroom system that performs the above-described processing. Note that explanations of points that are the same as those described with reference to Figures 3 and 4 will be omitted where appropriate.

[0306] The sensor unit 10 detects information that the bathroom system 1 uses to evaluate the behavior of the user in the bathroom 2. The sensor unit 10 detects information that the control unit 100A uses for the evaluation process. For example, the radio wave sensor 10a of the sensor unit 10 is installed in the bathroom 2 and detects changes in the state within the bathroom 2. For example, the radio wave sensor 10a detects the position or movement of the user within the bathroom 2.

[0307] The control unit 100A performs various processes similar to those of the control unit 100. The control unit 100A also performs evaluation processing. An example of the mechanical configuration of the control unit 100A will be described with reference to FIG. 15. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control unit. The control unit 100A shown in FIG. 15 includes an evaluation unit 112, a rule setting unit 113, and a notification setting unit 114 in addition to the configuration of the control unit 100 shown in FIG. 4.

[0308] 15, the control unit 100A includes a state estimation unit 110, a determination unit 111, an evaluation unit 112, a rule setting unit 113, and a notification setting unit 114. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 100A is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 15, and may be any other configuration as long as it performs desired information processing.

[0309] The state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100A performs various estimation processes in the same manner as the state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100. The determination unit 111 of the control unit 100A performs various determinations in the same manner as the determination unit 111 of the control unit 100. For example, the state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100A estimates the user's behavior in the bathroom 2 based on the output data of the radio wave sensor 10a. The state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's behavior in the bathroom 2, including the user's position, movement, etc.

[0310] The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) information indicating the estimated behavior of the user in the bathroom 2 as the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101. The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101 in association with information identifying the user (e.g., a user ID, etc.).

[0311] The evaluation unit 112 performs various evaluations. The evaluation unit 112 functions as an evaluation means for evaluating the behavioral history of the user stored in the data storage unit 101 based on predetermined behavioral rules regarding the use of the bathroom 2. The evaluation unit 112 evaluates the behavioral history of the user stored in the data storage unit 101 based on the predetermined behavioral rules including multiple individual rules.

[0312] The evaluation unit 112 calculates an individual or overall bathing score for the user's behavior history based on predetermined evaluation criteria (e.g., conditions to be satisfied (behavior content)) set for each individual rule. For example, the evaluation unit 112 calculates the overall bathing score for the user based on the proportion (also referred to as the "simple pass rate") of rules (also referred to as "achieved individual rules") that were satisfied (obeyed) by the user's behavior among the individual rules included in the predetermined behavior rules corresponding to the user. For example, the evaluation unit 112 may calculate the simple pass rate of the individual rules included in the predetermined behavior rules corresponding to the user as the overall bathing score for the user.

[0313] The evaluation unit 112 may also perform weighting to calculate the user's overall bathing score. In this case, the evaluation unit 112 may calculate the user's overall bathing score using weight information indicating the importance of each individual rule. For example, the evaluation unit 112 may calculate the user's overall bathing score based on the weight value of each individual rule achieved by the user. For example, the evaluation unit 112 may calculate the user's overall bathing score as the sum of the weight values ​​of each individual rule achieved by the user.

[0314] The evaluation unit 112 may also evaluate the user's behavioral history for each individual rule. In this case, the evaluation unit 112 calculates an individual bathing score for the user's behavioral history based on predetermined evaluation criteria set for each individual rule. For example, the evaluation unit 112 may calculate the user's individual bathing score using weight information indicating the importance of each individual rule. For example, the evaluation unit 112 may calculate the user's individual bathing score based on the weight value of each individual rule achieved by the user. For example, the evaluation unit 112 may use the weight value of the individual rule achieved by the user as the individual bathing score for the individual rule achieved by the user.

[0315] The rule setting unit 113 performs various settings related to rules. The rule setting unit 113 functions as a rule setting means that accepts user operations and sets predetermined behavior rules. For example, the rule setting unit 113 accepts user operations via a setting reception device and sets predetermined behavior rules based on the accepted user operations. For example, the rule setting unit 113 registers (stores) information related to the set rules in the data storage unit 101.

[0316] The notification setting unit 114 performs various settings related to notifications. The notification setting unit 114 functions as a notification setting means that performs various settings related to notifications, such as the timing (notification timing) at which the alarm unit 103 notifies a predetermined destination. The notification setting unit 114 sets various conditions related to notifications, such as the notification timing and notification destination. For example, the notification setting unit 114 accepts a user operation via a setting acceptance device, and sets the notification timing, notification destination, etc. based on the accepted user operation. For example, the notification setting unit 114 registers (stores) information related to the set notification, such as the notification destination and notification timing, in the data storage unit 101.

[0317] The control unit 100A is not limited to the above and may include units that perform various processes.

[0318] Data storage unit 101 stores information used by bathroom system 1 to evaluate the behavior of a user in bathroom 2. Data storage unit 101 stores the behavior history of the user in bathroom 2 acquired based on the detection results of radio wave sensor 10a. Data storage unit 101 stores the behavior history of the user together with the time. For example, data storage unit 101 stores information indicating the user's behavior as behavior history, associated with the time at which the information indicating the behavior was acquired.

[0319] The data storage unit 101 stores information about rules including a plurality of individual rules. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores weight information indicating a weighting (weight value) set for each individual rule. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores weight information indicating a weight value that is the importance of each individual rule. The data storage unit 101 stores rules set by the rule setting unit 113. The data storage unit 101 stores rules set by the rule setting unit 113 in response to input from a user.

[0320] For example, the data storage unit 101 stores rules set by the rule setting unit 113 in response to a person's (a setting person's) operation on a setting reception device such as a remote control device or a terminal device. The data storage unit 101 stores the rules set for each user by the rule setting unit 113 in association with information identifying each user (e.g., a user ID). For example, the data storage unit 101 stores predetermined behavior rules set for each user in association with information identifying each user.

[0321] The data storage unit 101 stores notification conditions including notification timing and the like set by the notification setting unit 114. The data storage unit 101 stores notification conditions including notification timing and the like set by the notification setting unit 114 in response to input from the user.

[0322] For example, the data storage unit 101 stores notification conditions including notification timing and the like set by the notification setting unit 114 in response to a person's (operator's) operation on a setting reception device such as a remote control device or a terminal device. The data storage unit 101 stores the notification conditions including notification timing and the like set for each notification content by the notification setting unit 114 in association with information identifying each user (e.g., a user ID, etc.). The data storage unit 101 stores, for each user, a notification destination to which notifications related to that user are to be sent in association with the information identifying each user. The data storage unit 101 stores, for each user, information identifying a terminal device to be the notification destination, an email address, etc., as notification destination information in association with the information identifying each user.

[0323] Notification unit 103 provides notification regarding the evaluation of the user's behavior in bathroom 2 by bathroom system 1. Notification unit 103 provides notification based on the evaluation of the user's behavior in bathroom 2 by bathroom system 1.

[0324] The notification unit 103 functions as a notification means for notifying a predetermined destination of the evaluation result of the evaluation unit 112. The notification unit 103 notifies a predetermined destination of the evaluation result for each individual rule. If the evaluation unit 112 evaluates that a predetermined individual rule among the individual rules is not satisfied, the notification unit 103 notifies the predetermined destination of that fact without waiting for a predetermined notification timing.

[0325] For example, the notification unit 103 notifies the evaluation result by transmitting information about the evaluation to a device that displays the evaluation (a terminal device, a remote control device, etc.) in accordance with control by the control unit 100A. For example, the notification unit 103 notifies the evaluation result by transmitting information about the evaluation to a notification destination in accordance with control by the control unit 100A.

[0326] <1-7-1-3. Example of Evaluation Process Flow> Based on the above, an example of the evaluation process executed by bathroom system 1 will now be described using Fig. 16. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the process executed by the bathroom system. Note that while the description will be made with bathroom system 1 as the processing subject, each process may be performed by any device, such as sensor unit 10 (radio wave sensor 10a, etc.), control unit 100, etc., depending on the device configuration included in bathroom system 1.

[0327] Bathroom system 1 detects a change in the state of the bathroom (step S201). For example, bathroom system 1 detects a change in the state of bathroom 2 using radio wave sensor 10a. Bathroom system 1 stores the behavior history of the user in the bathroom (step S202). For example, bathroom system 1 registers (stores) the behavior history of the user in bathroom 2 in data storage unit 101.

[0328] Bathroom system 1 evaluates the user's behavior history based on predetermined behavior rules regarding bathroom use (step S203). For example, evaluation unit 112 of control unit 100A evaluates the user's behavior history based on predetermined behavior rules regarding bathroom use.

[0329] Furthermore, the above-described process is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may perform the evaluation using various information. For example, bathroom system 1 may perform the evaluation using information other than the information detected by sensor unit 10. For example, if the information detected by sensor unit 10 is not sufficient to evaluate whether the individual rules set for the user are being followed, bathroom system 1 may perform the evaluation using information other than the information detected by sensor unit 10. In this case, for individual rules that cannot be evaluated using the information detected by sensor unit 10, bathroom system 1 may request a person who has a predetermined relationship with the user (e.g., the user's parent) to input whether the user was following the individual rule.

[0330] For example, bathroom system 1 may transmit information to a terminal device (such as terminal device DV) used by the user's parent requesting input of whether the user followed the individual rule, and may evaluate (determine) whether the user followed the individual rule based on the information input by the user's parent. Note that bathroom system 1 may also request the user to input whether or not the individual rule was followed for an individual rule that cannot be evaluated (determined) based on the information detected by sensor unit 10.

[0331] As described above, bathroom system 1 can evaluate the user's behavior in the bathroom by evaluating the user's behavior history based on predetermined behavioral rules regarding bathroom use. This allows bathroom system 1 to provide new value based on the state detection in the bathroom.

[0332] For example, it is thought that applying radio wave sensors to other services, rather than just using them to detect abnormal situations such as falls or drowning, could lead to the provision of even greater value. Bathroom system 1 measures and records the movements of people in the bathroom, and also captures device operation information to accumulate behavioral history in the bathroom. This makes it possible to provide new value based on the data acquired while monitoring people's movements with the radio wave sensor. Bathroom system 1 also provides a bathing score by determining whether rules set by the user in advance are met. Furthermore, bathroom system 1 also notifies an external party of any rule violations if necessary. This allows bathroom system 1 to provide new value based on the status detection within the bathroom.

[0333] For example, when millimeter-wave radar and other radio wave sensors are used in bathrooms, their primary purpose is to monitor people, such as detecting people who have fallen. However, bathroom system 1 adds value by detecting people's movements and the operating status of devices and evaluating bathing conditions. Furthermore, by continuously recording data, bathroom system 1 can provide information on a child's progress. Bathroom system 1 can also issue an alarm to people outside the bathroom if an emergency occurs.

[0334] <1-7-2. Second Processing Example> <1-7-2-1. Example of Notification at Timing According to Notification Content> For example, bathroom system 1 may issue a notification at a timing according to the notification content. For example, bathroom system 1 executes a notification process that issues a notification at a timing according to the urgency of the notification content. The following describes, as an example, a case where multiple users (family members) including user X, who is a child, and his / her parents (father, mother, etc.), are pre-registered users of bathroom 2.

[0335] In the following, an example will be described in which the predetermined destination is set to terminal device DV, which is a tablet terminal used by user X's parent. For example, an application related to displaying information notified from bathroom system 1 is installed on terminal device DV, and terminal device DV executes various processes related to displaying the information notified from bathroom system 1 using the application related to displaying the information. Note that the predetermined destination may be set to another device such as a remote control device, or may be set to the email address of a predetermined person (such as user X's parent).

[0336] For example, bathroom system 1 issues a normal notification as shown in FIG. 17 at a predetermined timing. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a normal notification. For example, bathroom system 1 periodically issues a bathroom usage notification including the user's behavior history as a normal notification. For example, bathroom system 1 notifies (transmits) information indicating a bathroom 2 usage notification including user X's behavior history to user X's parent's terminal device DV at a predetermined time every day (e.g., 9 p.m.). Note that the timing of the normal notification is not limited to timing based on time, and may be timing based on the user's behavior, such as after bathing is completed.

[0337] In response to receiving information indicating a bathroom 2 usage notification including user X's behavior history, the terminal device DV displays the information indicating the bathroom 2 usage notification including user X's behavior history using an information display application. FIG. 17 illustrates a case in which the terminal device DV displays content CT111 including information indicating the bathroom 2 usage notification including user X's behavior history. For example, in response to a notification (receiving information) from the bathroom system 1, the terminal device DV displays content CT111 including information indicating the bathroom 2 usage notification including user X's behavior history. In this manner, the bathroom system 1 normally sends notifications to a predetermined destination at a predetermined timing (predetermined time). The content CT111 illustrated in FIG. 17 includes information such as the time user X entered the bathroom, the duration of bathing, and the duration of shower use. Note that FIG. 17 is merely an example, and the content CT111 may include various information related to user X's behavior, not limited to the above.

[0338] For example, the control unit 100B may generate content CT111 including information indicating a usage notification of the bathroom 2, including the behavior history of the user X. In this case, the control unit 100B transmits the generated content CT111 to the terminal device DV via the notification unit 130. The terminal device DV then displays the content CT111. Note that the content CT111 may be generated by any device other than the control unit 100B. For example, the content CT111 may be generated by the terminal device DV. In this case, the control unit 100B may transmit information indicating a usage notification of the bathroom 2, including the behavior history of the user X, to the terminal device DV, and the terminal device DV may generate and display the content CT111 using the information received from the control unit 100B.

[0339] On the other hand, bathroom system 1 issues a notification of an abnormality as shown in Fig. 18 without waiting for a predetermined timing. Fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a notification of an abnormality. For example, if an abnormality is estimated in bathroom 2, bathroom system 1 issues a notification at the time the abnormality is estimated in bathroom 2, without waiting for a predetermined timing. For example, if an abnormality is estimated in bathroom 2 while user X is using bathroom 2, bathroom system 1 notifies (transmits) information indicating the abnormality at that time to terminal device DV of user X's parent.

[0340] In response to receiving the information indicating the abnormality, the terminal device DV displays the information indicating the abnormality using an application related to displaying information. FIG. 18 illustrates a case in which the terminal device DV displays content CT121 including information indicating that an abnormality has been estimated in the bathroom 2 while the user X was using the bathroom. For example, in response to a notification (reception of information) from the bathroom system 1, the terminal device DV displays content CT121 including information indicating that an abnormality has been estimated in the bathroom 2 while the user X was using the bathroom. In this way, the bathroom system 1 notifies the user of an abnormality as soon as the abnormality is estimated, rather than waiting for a preset timing (predetermined time). The content CT121 illustrated in FIG. 18 includes information urging the user to check the status of the bathroom 2, such as "Please check!", and abnormality content information AB21 regarding the abnormality estimated in the bathroom 2.

[0341] 18, the abnormality content information AB21 is abstractly represented as "XXXXXXXXXXXX," but the abnormality content information AB21 may include text information indicating the abnormality content, image information such as an illustration indicating the abnormality content, etc. For example, if the estimated abnormality is that the user is in a low posture and is motionless for a predetermined period of time, the abnormality content information AB21 may include text information such as "The user's posture remains low," or image information such as an illustration of a person lying face down (falling down). Note that the above is merely an example, and the content CT121 may include various information regarding the behavior of user X, not limited to the above.

[0342] For example, control unit 100B may generate content CT121 including information indicating that an abnormality has been estimated in bathroom 2 while user X was using the bathroom. In this case, control unit 100B transmits the generated content CT121 to terminal device DV via notification unit 130. Then, terminal device DV displays content CT121. Note that content CT121 may be generated by any device other than control unit 100B. For example, content CT121 may be generated by terminal device DV. In this case, control unit 100B may transmit information indicating that an abnormality has been estimated in bathroom 2 while user X was using the bathroom to terminal device DV, and terminal device DV may generate and display content CT121 using the information received from control unit 100B.

[0343] While the above example shows a case in which the parent of user X, who is a child, is notified that an abnormality has been estimated in bathroom 2 while user X is using the bathroom, bathroom system 1 also provides a similar notification when an abnormality has been estimated in bathroom 2 while another user (such as user X's parent) is using the bathroom. For example, when an abnormality has been estimated in bathroom 2 while a user is using the bathroom, bathroom system 1 may notify other users or an external emergency contact that an abnormality has been estimated in bathroom 2 while the first user is using the bathroom. For example, when an abnormality has been estimated in bathroom 2 while user X's parent is using the bathroom, bathroom system 1 may notify, for example, another parent of user X or an external emergency contact that an abnormality has been estimated in bathroom 2 while the first user is using the bathroom.

[0344] For example, if there is only one user pre-registered as a user of bathroom 2, bathroom system 1 may notify a person who has a predetermined relationship with the user or an external emergency contact that an abnormality has been suspected in bathroom 2 while the user is using the bathroom 2. For example, if the user of bathroom 2 is, for example, a person living alone, bathroom system 1 may notify an external emergency contact, such as a relative such as a parent or child who lives separately from the user, or a service provider that provides a monitoring service, that an abnormality has been suspected in bathroom 2 while the user is using the bathroom 2.

[0345] 1-7-2-2. Example of Bathroom System Configuration The following describes the configuration of a bathroom system that performs the above-described processing. Note that explanations of points that are the same as those described with reference to Figures 3 and 4 will be omitted where appropriate.

[0346] Sensor unit 10 detects information that bathroom system 1 uses to estimate an abnormality in bathroom 2. Sensor unit 10 detects information that control unit 100B uses in the abnormality estimation process. For example, radio wave sensor 10a of sensor unit 10 is installed in bathroom 2 and functions as a first detection means that detects a change in the state of bathroom 2.

[0347] The sensor unit 10 also has a sensor (also referred to as a "changing space sensor") that functions as a second detection means for detecting changes in the state of the changing room 3, which is a changing space attached to the bathroom 2. The changing space sensor may be a radio wave sensor such as a radio wave radar similar to the radio wave sensor 10a. Note that the changing space sensor is not limited to a radio wave sensor and any sensor can be used. For example, the changing space sensor may be any sensor (such as an infrared sensor) that detects the presence of a person in the changing room 3, which is a changing space.

[0348] In this way, when the second detection means (changing space sensor) is used, the radio wave sensor 10a of the sensor unit 10 begins detecting changes in the state of the bathroom 2 based on the detection results of the changing space sensor. For example, the radio wave sensor 10a begins detection when the changing space sensor detects the presence of a person in the changing room 3. For example, when the changing space sensor detects the presence of a person in the changing room 3, the sensor unit 10 activates (drives) the radio wave sensor 10a, causing the radio wave sensor 10a to begin detection.

[0349] The control unit 100B performs various processes similar to those of the control unit 100. The control unit 100B also performs an abnormality estimation process. An example of the mechanical configuration of the control unit 100B will be described with reference to FIG. 19. FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control unit. The control unit 100B shown in FIG. 19 includes an abnormality estimation unit 112B and an individual identification unit 113B in addition to the configuration of the control unit 100 shown in FIG.

[0350] 19, the control unit 100B has a state estimation unit 110, a determination unit 111, an abnormality estimation unit 112B, and an individual identification unit 113B. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 100B is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 19, and may be any other configuration as long as it performs desired information processing.

[0351] The state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100B performs various estimation processes in the same manner as the state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100. The determination unit 111 of the control unit 100B performs various determinations in the same manner as the determination unit 111 of the control unit 100. For example, the state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100B estimates the user's behavior in the bathroom 2 based on the output data of the radio wave sensor 10a. The state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's behavior in the bathroom 2, including the user's position, movement, etc.

[0352] The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) information indicating the estimated behavior of the user in the bathroom 2 as the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101. The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101 in association with information identifying the user (e.g., a user ID, etc.).

[0353] The abnormality estimation unit 112B performs abnormality estimation. The abnormality estimation unit 112B may perform processing related to the abnormality estimation (determination) performed by the state estimation unit 110, the determination unit 111, etc. of the control unit 100.

[0354] The abnormality estimation unit 112B functions as an abnormality estimation means for estimating an abnormality in the bathroom 2 based on the user's behavior history stored in the data storage unit 101. The abnormality estimation unit 112B estimates that an abnormality has occurred in the bathroom 2 when the first detection means detects at least one of the following: the user has fallen in the bathroom 2, the user has been in a low posture and has not moved for a predetermined period of time, an abnormal sound in the bathroom 2, an abnormality related to the user's breathing, and an abnormality related to the user's heart rate.

[0355] For example, the abnormality estimation unit 112B estimates whether an abnormality occurred in the bathroom 2 when the user used the bathroom, based on information about the user stored in the data storage unit 101. The abnormality estimation unit 112B estimates whether an abnormality occurred in the bathroom 2 when the user used the bathroom, using the abnormality estimation conditions stored in the data storage unit 101 and the user's behavior history in the bathroom 2. The abnormality estimation unit 112B estimates whether an abnormality occurred in the bathroom 2 when the user used the bathroom, by comparing each of the abnormality estimation conditions stored in the data storage unit 101 with the user's behavior in the bathroom 2 indicated by the user's behavior history. Note that the user's behavior history is not limited to information indicating the user's behavior, and may also include various information collected about the bathroom 2 during the period in which the user's behavior in the bathroom 2 is collected, such as information detected by the sensor unit 10 during that period.

[0356] For example, if the abnormality estimation unit 112B estimates, using the user's behavior history in the bathroom 2, that the user has fallen in the bathroom 2, it estimates that an abnormality occurred in the bathroom 2 while the user was using it. For example, if the abnormality estimation unit 112B estimates, using the user's behavior history in the bathroom 2, that the user has a low posture and has not moved for a predetermined period of time, it estimates that an abnormality occurred in the bathroom 2 while the user was using it.

[0357] Note that the above is merely an example, and the abnormality estimation unit 112B may estimate an abnormality using various information. For example, if an abnormal sound (e.g., a sound with a predetermined abnormal volume) is detected in the bathroom 2 while the user is in the bathroom 2, the abnormality estimation unit 112B may estimate that an abnormality occurred in the bathroom 2 while the user was using the bathroom 2, using the user's behavior history in the bathroom 2. Furthermore, if an abnormality related to the user's breathing (e.g., breathing indicating hyperventilation, etc.) is detected, the abnormality estimation unit 112B may estimate that an abnormality occurred in the bathroom 2 while the user was using the bathroom 2. Furthermore, if an abnormality related to the user's heart rate (e.g., heart rate indicating arrhythmia, etc.) is detected, the abnormality estimation unit 112B may estimate that an abnormality occurred in the bathroom 2 while the user was using the bathroom 2.

[0358] Personal identification unit 113B functions as an identification means for identifying a person (individual). Personal identification unit 113B of control unit 100B performs the identification process in the same manner as the personal identification unit of control unit 100. For example, personal identification unit 113B identifies users included in a user list pre-registered as users of bathroom 2. Personal identification unit 113B performs personal identification using the user list stored in data storage unit 101.

[0359] The personal identification unit 113B performs personal identification of the person located in the bathroom 2. For example, the personal identification unit 113B performs personal identification of the person located in the bathroom 2 using sensor information detected by the sensor unit 10. The personal identification unit 113B performs personal identification using at least one of the physique, posture, and gait of the person located in the bathroom 2 obtained by detection by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0360] For example, if the user list includes a user whose height corresponds to the height of the person in bathroom 2 detected by radio wave sensor 10a, personal identification unit 113B will identify (estimate) that user as being in bathroom 2. In this case, if the user list includes a user whose height differs from the height of the person in bathroom 2 detected by radio wave sensor 10a by a predetermined range (for example, an error of 5 cm), personal identification unit 113B may identify (estimate) that user as being in bathroom 2.

[0361] Furthermore, if the user list does not include any users whose heights differ from those of the person in bathroom 2 detected by radio wave sensor 10a by a predetermined range (e.g., an error of 5 centimeters), the personal identification unit 113B may identify (presume) the person in bathroom 2 is someone other than the user. In this way, when the personal identification unit 113B identifies the person in bathroom 2 as someone other than the user (e.g., a suspicious person), it presumes, for example, that the person is a suspicious person or an unidentifiable user. In this case, the personal identification unit 113B determines that a person not included in the user list is in bathroom 2, and instructs the notification unit 103 to notify a predetermined destination that a suspicious person or an unidentifiable person (user) has used bathroom 2.

[0362] As with the personal identification unit of the control unit 100 described above, the personal identification unit 113B may use any process to identify the person in the bathroom 2 as long as it is capable of identifying the person using the wet space such as the bathroom 2. For example, the personal identification unit 113B may perform personal identification of the person in the bathroom 2 based on the voice or operation of the person in the bathroom 2.

[0363] Note that the control unit 100B may include units that perform various processes, not limited to those described above. For example, the control unit 100B may include a notification setting unit that performs various settings related to notifications. The notification setting unit may perform various settings related to notifications, such as the timing at which the alarm unit 103 issues a notification during normal times (normal notification timing). The notification setting unit sets various conditions related to notifications, such as the normal notification timing and the notification destination. For example, the notification setting unit accepts a user operation via a remote control device, a terminal device, etc., and sets the normal notification timing, the notification destination, etc. based on the accepted user operation. For example, the notification setting unit registers (stores) information related to the set notifications, such as the notification destination and normal notification timing, in the data storage unit 101.

[0364] The data storage unit 101 stores information used by the bathroom system 1 to notify information relating to the bathroom 2. The data storage unit 101 stores the behavioral history of the user in the bathroom 2, which is acquired based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 10a. The data storage unit 101 stores the behavioral history of the user together with the time. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores information indicating the user's behavior as behavioral history, in association with the time at which the information indicating the behavior was acquired.

[0365] The data storage unit 101 stores notification conditions including the normal notification timing etc. set by the notification setting unit. The data storage unit 101 stores notification conditions including the normal notification timing etc. set by the notification setting unit in response to input from the user.

[0366] For example, the data storage unit 101 stores notification conditions including normal notification timing and the like set by the notification setting unit in response to a person (operator)'s operation of a remote control device, a terminal device, etc. The data storage unit 101 stores the notification conditions including normal notification timing and the like set by the notification setting unit for each notification content in association with information identifying each user (e.g., a user ID, etc.). The data storage unit 101 stores, for each user, a notification destination to which notifications related to that user are to be sent in association with the information identifying each user. The data storage unit 101 stores, for each user, information identifying a terminal device to be notified, an email address, etc., as notification destination information in association with the information identifying each user.

[0367] Notification unit 103 issues a notification regarding an abnormality estimated by bathroom system 1 in bathroom 2. Notification unit 103 also issues a notification regarding the behavior of a user in bathroom 2 by bathroom system 1.

[0368] The notification unit 103 functions as a notification means for sending a notification of bathroom 2 usage, including the user's behavior history, to a predetermined destination at a predetermined timing (for example, a predetermined time, etc.). When the abnormality estimation unit 112B estimates an abnormality, the notification unit 103 sends a notification of the abnormality in bathroom 2 to the predetermined destination without waiting for the predetermined timing.

[0369] The notification unit 103 functions as a notification means that notifies a predetermined address other than the user identified by the personal identification unit of an abnormality in the bathroom 2 based on the estimation result of the abnormality estimation unit 112B. The notification unit 103 notifies a predetermined address for abnormality notification, including a preset family member or external emergency contact. The external emergency contact is not limited to a service provider that provides a monitoring service, but may be, for example, a nurse at a hospital or a caregiver at a care home, or may be a contact point corresponding to such a contact (e.g., an email address, a device, etc.). When the personal identification unit identifies a user not included in the user list, the notification unit 103 notifies a predetermined address that a suspicious person or an unidentifiable user has used the bathroom 2.

[0370] For example, the notification unit 103 notifies the abnormality by transmitting information about the abnormality to a device that displays information (a terminal device, a remote control device, etc.) in accordance with control by the control unit 100B. For example, the notification unit 103 notifies the abnormality by transmitting information about the abnormality to a notification destination in accordance with control by the control unit 100B.

[0371] <1-7-2-3. Example of Abnormality Inference Processing Flow> Based on the above, an example of the abnormality inference processing executed by bathroom system 1 will now be described with reference to Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure executed by the bathroom system. Note that while the processing will be described with bathroom system 1 as the processing subject, each process may be performed by any device, such as sensor unit 10 (radio wave sensor 10a, etc.), control unit 100, etc., depending on the device configuration included in bathroom system 1.

[0372] Bathroom system 1 detects a change in the state of the bathroom (step S1201). For example, bathroom system 1 detects a change in the state of bathroom 2 using radio wave sensor 10a. Bathroom system 1 stores the behavior history of the user in the bathroom (step S1202). For example, bathroom system 1 registers (stores) the behavior history of the user in bathroom 2 in data storage unit 101.

[0373] Bathroom system 1 estimates an abnormality in the bathroom based on the user's behavior history (step S1203). For example, abnormality estimation unit 112B of control unit 100B estimates an abnormality in bathroom 2 based on the user's behavior history.

[0374] When bathroom system 1 estimates an abnormality, it notifies a predetermined destination of the abnormality in the bathroom without waiting for a predetermined timing (step S1204). For example, when control unit 100B estimates an abnormality, notification unit 103 notifies a device indicated by the predetermined destination of the abnormality in bathroom 2 without waiting for a predetermined timing.

[0375] As described above, when bathroom system 1 estimates an abnormality in the bathroom, it notifies the predetermined destination of the abnormality in the bathroom without waiting for a predetermined timing, thereby enabling the notification to be sent at an appropriate timing depending on the content of the notification. This allows bathroom system 1 to provide new value based on the detection of the condition in the bathroom.

[0376] For example, in the event of an emergency such as a fall or drowning, a display in the bathroom may delay the response. Therefore, bathroom system 1 normally records people's movements using a radio wave sensor and notifies a predetermined destination if an abnormality occurs. For example, bathroom system 1 measures and records the movements of people in the bathroom, and also collects device operation information, accumulating a behavioral history in the bathroom. In addition, if a predetermined event occurs, a notification is sent to a predetermined destination. This allows bathroom system 1 to provide new value based on the status detection in the bathroom.

[0377] For example, when millimeter-wave radar is used in bathrooms, its primary purpose is to provide monitoring value, such as detecting people who have fallen. However, bathroom system 1 also provides added value by sending alarms to designated recipients. Furthermore, bathroom system 1 can also contact non-family members, such as nurses who can respond to emergencies, in addition to family members. This allows the bathroom system to provide new value based on the status of the bathroom by sending notifications to appropriate recipients depending on the content of the notification.

[0378] <1-7-3. Third processing example> <1-7-3-1. Example of control related to water discharge and stop> For example, bathroom system 1 may control the water discharge and stop of shower apparatus 6, which is a water discharge apparatus installed in bathroom 2, based on detection in bathroom 2 and in changing room 3, which is a changing space (dressing room area) attached to bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1 controls the water discharge and stop of at least one of overhead shower 6a, hand shower 6b, and spout 6c of shower apparatus 6, based on detection in bathroom 2 and in changing room 3, which is attached to bathroom 2.

[0379] For example, bathroom system 1 controls the water discharge and stopping of overhead shower 6a based on detections in changing room 3 and bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 controls the water discharge and stopping of hand shower 6b based on detections in changing room 3 and bathroom 2.

[0380] Bathroom system 1 has three modes based on detections in the dressing room 3 and the bathroom 2: a prohibition mode (also referred to as a "water discharge prohibition mode") that prohibits operation of the shower device 6; a water stop mode that cancels the prohibition mode; and a water discharge mode that discharges water from the shower device 6. Bathroom system 1 controls the water discharge and stop of the shower device 6 by switching between the three modes: prohibition mode, water stop mode, and water discharge mode. Bathroom system 1 may also display information about the mode. For example, bathroom system 1 may also display information indicating the mode on a display device (such as an operation panel) located in the bathroom 2 or the dressing room 3.

[0381] In this way, when controlling water discharge and stop based on the mode, bathroom system 1 controls shower device 6, which is a water discharge device installed in bathroom 2, based on the detection results of radio wave sensor 10a installed in bathroom 2. As described above, bathroom system 1 has a prohibition mode in which operation of shower device 6 is prohibited. Bathroom system 1 also has a water stop mode in which the prohibition mode is canceled based on the result of detection by the changing space sensor of a specified user behavior in changing room 3.

[0382] Bathroom system 1 has a water discharge mode in which, if the user's position in bathroom 2 is within a predetermined area from shower device 6 and the user's actions satisfy predetermined conditions based on the detection results of radio wave sensor 10a of sensor unit 10, water is discharged from shower device 6 based on the user's actions. For example, if the user's position in bathroom 2 moves out of the predetermined area while in water discharge mode, bathroom system 1 transitions from water discharge mode to prohibition mode or water stop mode.

[0383] Furthermore, for example, bathroom system 1 transitions from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode when radio wave sensor 10a of sensor unit 10 detects that a user is in a predetermined position (such as the shower area) relative to the shower head installed in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 transitions from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode when radio wave sensor 10a of sensor unit 10 detects that a user is moving or positioned in bathtub 4 (the bathtub area) installed in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 transitions from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode when radio wave sensor 10a of sensor unit 10 detects that the user has performed a gesture (such as raising their hand) that is preset as a predetermined action.

[0384] Next, we will explain an example of water discharge and stop control by bathroom system 1. For example, as shown in Figure 21 , bathroom system 1 controls water discharge and stop for overhead shower 6a based on detection in bathroom 2 and in changing room 3, which is a changing space attached to bathroom 2. Figure 21 is a diagram showing an example of water discharge and stop control.

[0385] In this case, bathroom system 1 has three modes: a prohibition mode (water discharge prohibition mode) that prohibits the operation of overhead shower 6a, a water stop mode that cancels the prohibition mode, and a water discharge mode that discharges water from overhead shower 6a. Bathroom system 1 switches between the three modes: prohibition mode, water stop mode, and water discharge mode, to control the water discharge and stop of overhead shower 6a.

[0386] In the example of Figure 21, bathroom system 1 determines that user U will take a bath and transitions from the water discharge prohibition mode to the water stop mode when user U enters the room. For example, if user U takes off his clothes in changing room 3, bathroom system 1 determines that user U will take at least one of the following actions in bathroom 2: soaking in bathtub 4 or showering under shower device 6, and transitions from the water discharge prohibition mode to the water stop mode. Note that the transition from the water discharge prohibition mode to the water stop mode described above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may transition from the water discharge prohibition mode to the water stop mode based on various information. For example, bathroom system 1 may transition from the water discharge prohibition mode to the water stop mode when user U remains in changing room 3 for a predetermined period of time (e.g., the average time it takes to undress) and door 22 is opened.

[0387] Furthermore, bathroom system 1 starts discharging water and transitions from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode when user U raises their hand, as shown in scene SN11 in Figure 21. For example, when user U enters bathroom 2 and raises their hand, bathroom system 1 transitions from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode to start discharging water from overhead shower 6a.

[0388] The transition from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode described above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may transition from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode based on various information. For example, when a user U located in a specific area of ​​bathroom 2 (also referred to as the "shower area") raises their hand, bathroom system 1 may transition from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode and begin discharging water from overhead shower 6a. For example, when a user U located in bathtub 4 of bathroom 2 raises their hand, bathroom system 1 may maintain the water stop mode.

[0389] 21 shows an example of a case where the user U raises their hand outside the under-shower area SA11, which includes a predetermined area below the overhead shower 6a, but mode switching may also be performed in a similar manner when the user U raises their hand inside the under-shower area SA11. The under-shower area SA11 can be set arbitrarily, and for example, the under-shower area SA11 may be an area that overlaps with the overhead shower 6a in a plan view of the bathroom 2.

[0390] Furthermore, the shower surrounding area can be set to any range. For example, the shower surrounding area may be any area other than the area where the bathtub 4 is located in the bathroom 2. For example, the shower surrounding area may be any range around the under-shower area SA11. For example, the shower surrounding area may be part of the washing area in the bathroom 2. Note that the above is merely an example, and the shower surrounding area can be set to any range as long as the desired process can be performed. For example, the shower surrounding area may or may not include the under-shower area SA11.

[0391] Furthermore, bathroom system 1 discharges water from overhead shower 6a in the water discharge mode, as shown in scene SN12 in Figure 21. As a result, bathroom system 1 discharges water from overhead shower 6a to user U located in under-shower area SA11.

[0392] 21, bathroom system 1 may transition from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode depending on the location of user U. For example, in the water discharge mode, if user U, who is located in under-shower area SA11, moves out of under-shower area SA11, bathroom system 1 may transition from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode and stop water discharge from overhead shower 6a.

[0393] In this way, bathroom system 1 may switch between the water discharge mode and the water stop mode depending on the location of user U. For example, bathroom system 1 may be in the water discharge mode and discharge water from overhead shower 6a when user U is in under-shower area SA11, and in the water stop mode and stop water discharge from overhead shower 6a when user U is outside under-shower area SA11.

[0394] The above-described mode switching between the water stop mode and the water discharge mode is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may switch between the water stop mode and the water discharge mode based on various information. For example, bathroom system 1 may switch from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode when user U moves to bathtub 4 in the water discharge mode. Also, for example, bathroom system 1 may switch from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode when a certain time (e.g., 3 minutes) has elapsed since switching to the water discharge mode.

[0395] Bathroom system 1 may also switch between the water stop mode and the water discharge mode in response to the wave of a user U's hand. As shown in scenes SN14 and SN15 in Figure 21, bathroom system 1 may transition from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode when user U waves their hand while showering in the water discharge mode. Bathroom system 1 may also transition from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode when a user (e.g., user U in scene SN15 in Figure 21) waves their hand while in the water stop mode.

[0396] Furthermore, bathroom system 1 transitions to water discharge prohibition mode when user U leaves the room. For example, bathroom system 1 transitions to water discharge prohibition mode when user U leaves bathroom 2. Note that the transition to water discharge prohibition mode described above is merely one example, and bathroom system 1 may transition to water discharge prohibition mode based on various information. For example, bathroom system 1 may transition to water discharge prohibition mode when user U is not located in bathroom 2 or dressing room 3, i.e., when user U leaves the wet area.

[0397] It should be noted that bathroom system 1 is not limited to controlling the discharge and stopping of water according to the mode for overhead shower 6a, but may also control the discharge and stopping of water for hand shower 6b, for example. An example of this case will be described using FIG. 22. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of control related to the discharge and stopping of water. For example, as shown in FIG. 22, bathroom system 1 controls the discharge and stopping of water for hand shower 6b based on detection in bathroom 2 and in dressing room 3, which is a changing space attached to bathroom 2. Note that explanations of points similar to those described above in FIG. 21 etc. will be omitted as appropriate.

[0398] When controlling the water discharge and stopping according to the mode for the hand shower 6b, bathroom system 1 has three modes: a prohibition mode (water discharge prohibition mode) in which the operation of hand shower 6b is prohibited, a water stop mode in which the prohibition mode is canceled, and a water discharge mode in which water is discharged from hand shower 6b. Bathroom system 1 controls the water discharge and stopping of hand shower 6b by switching between the three modes: prohibition mode, water stop mode, and water discharge mode.

[0399] In the example of Fig. 22, bathroom system 1 determines that user U is taking a bath, and when user U enters the bathroom, the bathroom system switches from the water discharge prohibition mode to the water stop mode. This is the same as the content described in Fig. 21, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0400] 22, when the user U presses the hand shower switch, the bathroom system 1 starts discharging water and transitions from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode. For example, when the user U presses the operation button that causes the hand shower 6b on the operation panel to discharge water, the bathroom system 1 starts discharging water and transitions from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode.

[0401] The transition from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode described above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may transition from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode based on various information. For example, bathroom system 1 may transition from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode in response to a gesture by user U to start discharging water from hand shower 6b. For example, when user U enters bathroom 2 and raises his or her hand, bathroom system 1 may transition from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode in order to start discharging water from hand shower 6b.

[0402] Furthermore, in the water discharge mode, bathroom system 1 discharges water from hand shower 6b, as shown in scene SN22 in Fig. 22. After performing the operation to switch from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode, user U approaches hand shower 6b and positions himself / herself in under-shower area SA11, where he / she is showered with water discharged from hand shower 6b. For simplicity's sake, Fig. 22 illustrates an example in which the same areas as Fig. 21 are used as under-shower area SA11 and shower peripheral area, but an under-shower area and shower peripheral area for hand shower 6b may be set separately from overhead shower 6a.

[0403] 22, bathroom system 1 may transition from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode depending on the position of user U. For example, in the water discharge mode, if user U, who is located in under-shower area SA11, moves out of under-shower area SA11, bathroom system 1 may transition from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode and stop water discharge from hand shower 6b.

[0404] In this way, bathroom system 1 may switch between the water discharge mode and the water stop mode depending on the location of user U. For example, bathroom system 1 may be in the water discharge mode and discharge water from hand shower 6b when user U is in under-shower area SA11, and in the water stop mode and stop water discharge from hand shower 6b when user U is outside under-shower area SA11.

[0405] The above-described mode switching between the water stop mode and the water discharge mode is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may switch between the water stop mode and the water discharge mode based on various information. For example, bathroom system 1 may switch from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode when user U moves to bathtub 4 in the water discharge mode. Also, for example, bathroom system 1 may switch from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode when a certain time (e.g., 5 minutes) has elapsed since switching to the water discharge mode.

[0406] Bathroom system 1 may also switch between the water stop mode and the water discharge mode in response to the user U's hand-waving. As shown in scenes SN24 and SN25 in Figure 22, bathroom system 1 may transition from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode when the user U waves their hand while showering in the water discharge mode. Bathroom system 1 may also transition from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode when the user (e.g., user U in scene SN25 in Figure 22) waves their hand while in the water stop mode.

[0407] Furthermore, bathroom system 1 transitions to the water discharge prohibition mode when user U leaves the room. For example, bathroom system 1 transitions to the water discharge prohibition mode when user U leaves bathroom 2. Note that the transition to the water discharge prohibition mode described above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may transition to the water discharge prohibition mode based on various information.

[0408] 1-7-3-2. Example of Bathroom System Configuration The following describes the configuration of a bathroom system that performs the above-described processing. Note that explanations of points that are the same as those described with reference to Figures 3 and 4 will be omitted where appropriate.

[0409] The sensor unit 10 has a sensor (also referred to as a "changing space sensor") that functions as a first detection means for detecting changes in the state of the changing room 3, which is a changing space attached to the bathroom 2. In this way, the changing space sensor functions as a first detection means for detecting changes in the state of the changing room 3, which is attached to the bathroom 2. The changing space sensor may be a radio wave sensor such as a radio wave radar similar to the radio wave sensor 10a. Note that the changing space sensor is not limited to a radio wave sensor and any sensor can be used. For example, the changing space sensor may be any sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor) that detects the presence of a person in the changing room 3, which is a changing space.

[0410] Sensor unit 10 also detects information that bathroom system 1 uses to control the stopping and spouting of shower unit 6, which is an example of a water spouting device installed in bathroom 2. Sensor unit 10 detects information that control unit 100C uses to control the stopping and spouting of shower unit 6. For example, radio wave sensor 10a of sensor unit 10 functions as a second detection means that detects the position or movement of a user in bathroom 2.

[0411] The radio wave sensor 10a of the sensor unit 10 may start detecting changes in the state of the bathroom 2 based on the detection result of the first detection means (the changing space sensor). For example, the radio wave sensor 10a may start detection when the changing space sensor detects the presence of a person in the changing room 3. For example, when the changing space sensor detects the presence of a person in the changing room 3, the sensor unit 10 may activate (drive) the radio wave sensor 10a to start detection by the radio wave sensor 10a.

[0412] The control unit 100C performs various processes in the same manner as the control unit 100. The control unit 100C also controls the stopping and discharging of water according to the mode. An example of the mechanical configuration of the control unit 100C will be described with reference to FIG. 23. FIG. 23 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control unit. The control unit 100C shown in FIG. 23 has a mode control unit 112C in addition to the configuration of the control unit 100 shown in FIG. 4.

[0413] 23, the control unit 100C includes a state estimation unit 110, a determination unit 111, and a mode control unit 112C. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 100C is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 23, and may be any other configuration as long as it performs desired information processing.

[0414] The state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100C performs various estimation processes in the same manner as the state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100. The determination unit 111 of the control unit 100C performs various determinations in the same manner as the determination unit 111 of the control unit 100. For example, the state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100C estimates the user's behavior in the bathroom 2 based on the output data of the radio wave sensor 10a. The state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's behavior in the bathroom 2, including the user's position, movement, etc.

[0415] The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) information indicating the estimated behavior of the user in the bathroom 2 as the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101. The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101 in association with information identifying the user (e.g., a user ID, etc.).

[0416] Furthermore, the state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100C detects state changes within the changing room 3 based on the output data of the changing space sensors. For example, the state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's behavior, including the user's position and movement, within the changing room 3 based on the output data of the changing space sensors.

[0417] The state estimation unit 110 associates information indicating the estimated state change in the changing room 3 with time and registers (stores) it in the data storage unit 101. The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) information indicating the estimated behavior of the user in the changing room 3 as the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101. The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101 in association with information identifying the user (e.g., a user ID, etc.).

[0418] The mode control unit 112C performs control according to the mode. The mode control unit 112C switches the mode related to the control of the shower unit 6, which is a water discharge device installed in the bathroom 2, based on the detection result of the first detection means, which is a sensor for the undressing space. The mode control unit 112C switches the mode related to the control of the shower unit 6, which is a water discharge device installed in the bathroom 2, based on the detection result of the second detection means, which is the radio wave sensor 10a of the sensor unit 10. For example, the mode control unit 112C determines whether to switch modes using information such as mode switching conditions stored in the data storage unit 101. The mode control unit 112C switches modes depending on the determination result using information such as mode switching conditions stored in the data storage unit 101.

[0419] Mode control unit 112C functions as a control unit that controls shower unit 6, which is a water discharge device installed in bathroom 2, based on the detection result of second detection unit, which is radio wave sensor 10a of sensor unit 10. Mode control unit 112C has a prohibition mode in which operation of shower unit 6 is prohibited.

[0420] The mode control unit 112C has a water stop mode in which the prohibition mode is cancelled based on the result of the undressing space sensor detecting a predetermined action of the user in the undressing room 3. The mode control unit 112C has a water discharge mode in which water is discharged from the shower unit 6 based on the action of the user when the user's position in the bathroom 2 is within a predetermined range from the shower unit 6 and the user's action satisfies a predetermined condition based on the detection result of the radio wave sensor 10a of the sensor unit 10.

[0421] The mode control unit 112C transitions from the water discharge mode to the prohibition mode or the water stop mode when the user's position in the bathroom 2 moves out of a predetermined area while in the water discharge mode. The mode control unit 112C transitions from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode when the radio wave sensor 10a of the sensor unit 10 detects that a user is in a predetermined position relative to the shower head installed in the bathroom 2.

[0422] The mode control unit 112C transitions from the water discharge mode to the water stop mode when the radio wave sensor 10a of the sensor unit 10 detects that a user has moved into or positioned in the bathtub 4 installed in the bathroom 2. The mode control unit 112C transitions from the water stop mode to the water discharge mode when the radio wave sensor 10a of the sensor unit 10 detects that the user has performed a gesture action that is preset as a predetermined action.

[0423] The control unit 100C is not limited to the above and may have units that perform various processes.

[0424] The data storage unit 101 stores information used by the bathroom system 1 to control the water discharge and stop of the shower device 6. The data storage unit 101 stores the behavioral history of users in the bathroom 2 acquired based on the detection results of the radio wave sensor 10a. The data storage unit 101 also stores the behavioral history of users in the changing room 3 acquired based on the detection results of the changing space sensor. The data storage unit 101 stores the behavioral history of users together with time. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores information indicating the user's behavior as behavioral history, correlating it with the time at which the information indicating that behavior was acquired.

[0425] The data storage unit 101 stores various information related to the mode switching performed by the mode control unit 112C and the control of water discharge and stop according to the mode. The data storage unit 101 stores information related to the mode, including the mode set by the mode control unit 112C. For example, the data storage unit 101 stores information (such as mode switching conditions) used by the mode control unit 112C to determine whether or not to switch modes.

[0426] 1-7-3-3. Example of processing flow for water discharge / stop control Based on the above, an example of the water discharge / stop control processing executed by bathroom system 1 will now be described using FIG. 24. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure executed by the bathroom system. Below, mode control of water discharge / stop for overhead shower 6a will be described as an example. Note that while bathroom system 1 will be described as the processing subject, each process may be performed by any device, such as sensor unit 10 (radio wave sensor 10a, etc.), control unit 100, etc., depending on the device configuration included in bathroom system 1.

[0427] Bathroom system 1 estimates the person's position from the noise-removed data (step S2201). For example, state estimation unit 110 of control unit 100C estimates the person's position based on detection by a changing space sensor and radio wave sensor 10a installed in bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1 sets the mode to the water discharge prohibition mode (prohibition mode) to prohibit water discharge from the shower (step S2202). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C sets the mode to the water discharge prohibition mode to prohibit water discharge from overhead shower 6a.

[0428] Bathroom system 1 determines whether the user will take a bath in the changing room (step S2203). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the user will take a bath using information indicating a state change in changing room 3 obtained by detection by the changing space sensor.

[0429] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user will not take a bath (step S2203: No), it maintains the water discharge prohibition mode when the user enters bathroom 2 (step S2204). For example, if mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines that the user will not take a bath, it maintains the water discharge prohibition mode for overhead shower 6a even when the user enters bathroom 2. In this case, bathroom system 1 may allow only hand shower 6b to be operated, assuming, for example, that the user will clean bathroom 2. Note that if the user is already in bathroom 2 at the time of determination in step S2203, processing in step S2203 may be performed based on the previous determination. In this case, for example, if the user is already in bathroom 2 and the previous determination determined that the user will take a bath, bathroom system 1 determines Yes in step S2203 and performs processing from step S2205 onwards. However, if the user is already in bathroom 2 and the previous determination determined that the user will not take a bath, it determines No in step S2203 and performs processing in step S2204.

[0430] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user will take a bath (step S2203: Yes), it determines whether the water temperature is appropriate (step S2205). For example, if mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines that the water temperature of the water discharged from overhead shower 6a is appropriate, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C may determine that the water temperature of the water discharged from overhead shower 6a is appropriate if it is within a range from a lower limit (e.g., a predetermined temperature such as 35°C) to an upper limit (e.g., a predetermined temperature such as 42°C) of the appropriate temperature.

[0431] For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the temperature of the water discharged from overhead shower 6a is appropriate based on the water temperature detected by a temperature sensor or the like provided near the water outlet of overhead shower 6a. Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may determine whether the water temperature is appropriate in any manner. For example, bathroom system 1 may determine whether the temperature of the water discharged from overhead shower 6a is appropriate based on the water temperature detected by a temperature sensor or the like provided at any location, such as water temperature control unit 105a, water discharge / stop control unit 60a, or the like.

[0432] If bathroom system 1 determines that the water temperature is not appropriate (step S2205: No), it executes waste water discharge (step S2206) and returns to step S2205 to repeat the process. For example, if mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines that the water temperature of the water discharged from overhead shower 6a is not appropriate, it controls water discharge / stop control unit 60a to have overhead shower 6a continue to discharge water until the water discharged from overhead shower 6a reaches an appropriate temperature. For example, if mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines that the water temperature of the water discharged from overhead shower 6a is not appropriate, it may control water discharge / stop control unit 60a to have overhead shower 6a discharge a predetermined amount of water.

[0433] If bathroom system 1 determines that the water temperature is appropriate (step S2205: Yes), it switches the mode to the water stop mode and temporarily stops the shower water discharge (step S2207). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C switches the mode to the water stop mode and controls overhead shower 6a not to discharge water until the mode is switched to the water discharge mode.

[0434] Bathroom system 1 determines whether the user has waved their hands over the shower head (step S2208). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the user has raised their hands. For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the user has raised their hands using information indicating a change in the state of bathroom 2 obtained by detection by radio wave sensor 10a installed in bathroom 2.

[0435] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is not holding their hands over the shower (step S2208: No), the process returns to step S2207 and repeats the process. For example, if the user is not raising their hands, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C returns to step S2207, maintains the water stop mode, and executes the process from step S2208 onward.

[0436] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user has placed their hands over the shower head (step S2208: Yes), it switches the mode to the water discharge mode and starts shower water discharge (step S2209). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C switches the mode to the water discharge mode and controls overhead shower 6a to discharge water.

[0437] Bathroom system 1 determines whether the user is in the shower area (step S2210). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the user is located in under-shower area SA11, which is an example of a shower area. For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the user is in the shower area using information indicating a change in state within bathroom 2 obtained by detection by radio wave sensor 10a installed in bathroom 2.

[0438] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is not in the shower area (step S2210: No), it determines whether the user is in the shower-around area (step S2211). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the user is located in the area around under-shower area SA11 (shower-around area), which is an example of the shower-around area. For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the user is in the shower-around area using information indicating a change in state within bathroom 2 obtained by detection by radio wave sensor 10a installed in bathroom 2.

[0439] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is in the shower area (step S2211: Yes), it determines whether the user has raised their hand in the shower (step S2212). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the user in the shower area has raised their hand.

[0440] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is not holding their hands over the shower (step S2212: No), it returns to step S2209 and repeats the process. For example, if a user located in the shower area has not raised their hands, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C returns to step S2209, maintains the water discharge mode, and executes the process from step S2210 onwards.

[0441] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user has raised their hands in the shower (step S2212: Yes), it returns to step S2207 and repeats the process. For example, if a user in the shower area has raised their hands, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C returns to step S2207, switches the mode to the stop-water mode, and executes the processes from step S2208 onward.

[0442] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is not in the shower area (step S2211: No), it presumes that the user is in the bathtub or the changing room (step S2213) and returns to the water discharge prohibition mode of step S2202. For example, if mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines that the user is not in the shower area, it presumes that the user is in bathtub 4 or the changing room 3, returns to step S2202, switches the mode to the water discharge prohibition mode, and executes the processing from step S2203 onward.

[0443] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is in the shower area (step S2210: Yes), it switches the mode to the water discharge mode and starts shower water discharge (step S2214). For example, if the mode was not the water discharge mode before the processing of step S2214, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C switches the mode to the water discharge mode and controls overhead shower 6a to discharge water. For example, if the mode was already the water discharge mode before the processing of step S2214, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C maintains the water discharge mode and continues discharging water from overhead shower 6a.

[0444] Bathroom system 1 then determines whether the user has placed their hands over the shower head (step S2215). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the user has raised their hands.

[0445] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user has raised their hands in the shower (step S2215: Yes), the process returns to step S2207 and repeats the process. For example, if the user has raised their hands, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C returns to step S2207, switches the mode to the stop-water mode, and executes the process from step S2208 onward.

[0446] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is not holding their hands over the shower (step S2215: No), it determines whether the user is in the shower area (step S2216). For example, mode control unit 112C of controller 100C determines whether the user is in under-shower area SA11, which is an example of a shower area.

[0447] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is in the shower area (step S2216: Yes), it returns to step S2214 and repeats the process. For example, if the user is in the shower area, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C returns to step S2214, maintains the water discharge mode, and executes the processes from step S2215 onward.

[0448] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is not in the shower area (step S2216: No), it determines whether the user is in the shower-around area (step S2217). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the user is located in the area around under-shower area SA11 (shower-around area), which is an example of a shower-around area. If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is not in the shower-around area (step S2217: No), it executes the processing from step S2222 onward.

[0449] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is in the shower area (step S2217: Yes), it switches the mode to the water discharge mode and starts shower water discharge (step S2218). For example, if the mode was not the water discharge mode before the processing of step S2218, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C switches the mode to the water discharge mode and controls overhead shower 6a to discharge water. For example, if the mode was already the water discharge mode before the processing of step S2218, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C maintains the water discharge mode and continues discharging water from overhead shower 6a.

[0450] Bathroom system 1 then determines whether the user has raised their hands over the shower (step S2219). For example, mode control unit 112C of controller 100C determines whether a user located in the shower vicinity area has raised their hands.

[0451] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user has held their hands over the shower (step S2219: Yes), it returns to step S2214 and repeats the process. For example, if the user has held their hands over the shower, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C returns to step S2214, maintains the water discharge mode, and executes the processes from step S2215 onward.

[0452] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is not holding their hands over the shower (step S2219: No), it determines whether the user is in the shower-around area (step S2220). For example, mode control unit 112C of controller 100C determines whether the user is in the area around under-shower area SA11 (shower-around area), which is an example of the shower-around area.

[0453] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is in the shower area (step S2220: Yes), it returns to step S2218 and repeats the process. For example, if the user is in the shower area, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C returns to step S2218, maintains the water discharge mode, and executes the processes from step S2219 onward.

[0454] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is not in the shower-around area (step S2220: No), it determines whether the user is in the shower area (step S2221). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C determines whether the user is located in under-shower area SA11, which is an example of a shower area.

[0455] If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is in the shower area (step S2221: Yes), it returns to step S2214 and repeats the process. For example, if the user is in the shower area, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C returns to step S2214, maintains the water discharge mode, and executes the processes from step S2215 onward. If bathroom system 1 determines that the user is not in the shower area (step S2221: No), it executes the processes from step S2222 onward.

[0456] 24, if step S2217 or step S2221 returns No, bathroom system 1 assumes that the user is in the bathtub or changing room (step S2222) and switches the mode to the water discharge prohibition mode (prohibition mode) to prohibit water discharge from the shower (step S2223). For example, mode control unit 112C of control unit 100C switches the mode to the water discharge prohibition mode to prohibit water discharge from overhead shower 6a. Bathroom system 1 may then return to step S2201 to repeat the process, or may end the process.

[0457] As described above, bathroom system 1 can control the water discharge and stopping of shower device 6, which is a water discharge device installed in bathroom 2, based on detections in bathroom 2 and dressing room 3, which is a changing space attached to bathroom 2, thereby enabling user-friendly water discharge and stopping control. This allows bathroom system 1 to provide new value based on status detection within the bathroom.

[0458] For example, introducing an imaging device into a bathroom space is thought to pose a high level of psychological resistance, even if the image resolution is reduced. Therefore, in order to respect privacy, bathroom system 1 uses radio wave sensors 10a such as radio wave radar to detect people's movement patterns and use them as triggers to operate the equipment, enabling user-friendly control of water discharge and stopping.

[0459] In addition, for example, there is a possibility that a person may enter the bathroom for purposes other than bathing, and may be unexpectedly exposed to shower water. Therefore, bathroom system 1 enables user-friendly control of water discharge by entering a water discharge preparation mode when a person performs a predetermined action, and then controlling water discharge so that water discharge begins when the person moves into a designated area.

[0460] For example, when water discharge is initiated by a user's gesture or movement, bathroom system 1 switches from water discharge prohibited mode to water discharge permitted mode only when it detects a specific action to prevent water discharge at an unintended timing, and then detects entry into the water discharge area and starts discharging water. Bathroom system 1 also switches to water discharge prohibited mode when the user moves into the bathtub area or leaves the bathroom. This allows bathroom system 1 to provide new value based on the status detection within the bathroom.

[0461] <1-7-4. Fourth Processing Example> <1-7-4-1. Example of Estimating a User's Mental and Physical State> For example, bathroom system 1 may execute a process (also referred to as a "mental and physical state estimation process") to estimate a user's mental and physical state based on the breathing state of the user in bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1 may estimate a user's mental and physical state based on the breathing state of the user while immersed in bathtub 4 of bathroom 2. In the following, the radio wave sensor 10a shown in FIG. 12 １ , radio wave sensor 10a ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ A case where the mental and physical state of a user is estimated will be described using as an example a configuration of bathroom system 1A in which three radio wave sensors 10a are provided in bathroom 2.

[0462] In this case, for example, among the three radio wave sensors 10a, the radio wave sensor 10a located near the upper body of the user taking a bath ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ The two radio wave sensors 10a function as a detection means (also called "breath detection means") that mainly detects the breathing state of the user of the bathroom 2 while bathing. １ The radio wave sensor 10a functions as a state detection means that mainly detects the state of the user in the bathroom 2. １ The radio wave sensor 10a may also function as a detector (breathing detector) for detecting the breathing state of a user of the bathroom 2 while bathing. ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ may also function as a state detection means for detecting the state of the user in the bathroom 2.

[0463] Hereinafter, the radio wave sensor 10a２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ The sensor that mainly detects the breathing state of the user of the bathroom 2 while bathing, such as the above, will be referred to as a "breath detection sensor", and the radio wave sensor 10a １ A sensor that primarily detects the state of the user in bathroom 2, such as the above, may be referred to as a "state detection sensor." Note that any configuration can be employed as long as it is capable of detecting the state of breathing, and is not limited to the configuration of bathroom system 1A shown in FIG. 12.

[0464] For example, the bathroom system 1 includes a status detection sensor (e.g., a radio wave sensor 10a) that detects the status of a user in the bathroom 2. １ and a breathing detection sensor (e.g., a radio wave sensor 10a) that detects the breathing state of a user of the bathroom 2 while bathing. ２ and the radio wave sensor 10a ３ In this way, bathroom system 1 may have two sensors: one state detection sensor for estimating the movement or position of a user of bathroom 2, and one respiration detection sensor for estimating the respiratory state of the user of bathroom 2. Bathroom system 1 may also have four or more radio wave sensors 10a.

[0465] The above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1 may include any sensor capable of detecting the state of breathing. For example, bathroom system 1 may employ any configuration as long as it is capable of estimating the movement or position of a user of bathroom 2 and estimating the state of breathing of the user in bathroom 2. Furthermore, the breathing detection sensor is not limited to radio wave sensor 10a, and any sensor may be used as long as it is capable of detecting the state of breathing of a user of bathroom 2 while bathing. Furthermore, the breathing detection sensor may be positioned at any location, not limited to the location shown in FIG. 12, as long as it is capable of detecting the state of breathing of a user of bathroom 2 while bathing. For example, the breathing detection sensor may be positioned in the pillow portion (end 43, etc.) of bathtub 4.

[0466] Furthermore, for example, if it is possible to estimate the movement or position of a user in the bathroom 2 and the breathing state of the user in the bathroom 2 with one radio wave sensor 10a, the bathroom system 1 can estimate the movement or position of a user in the bathroom 2 and the breathing state of the user in the bathroom 2 with one radio wave sensor 10a (for example, the radio wave sensor 10a１ In this case, one radio wave sensor 10a functions as a breathing detection means for detecting the breathing state of a user of the bathroom 2 while bathing, and as a state detection means for detecting the state of the user in the bathroom 2.

[0467] An example of the mental and physical state estimation process will be described below. For example, a user immersed in bathtub 4 of bathroom 2 of bathroom system 1A (taking a bath) positions their head on end 43, which functions as a pillow section of bathtub 4, and their feet on end 41, as shown in Fig. 25. Fig. 25 is a diagram showing an example of detection of the breathing state of a user in the bathtub. Fig. 25 shows a state in which user U is bathing in bathtub 4 of bathroom 2, with the lower part of their chest positioned in the hot water in bathtub 4 and their chest and head positioned outside the hot water.

[0468] In FIG. 25, the bathroom system 1A includes a radio wave sensor 10a ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ The breathing detection sensor detects the breathing state of the user U while bathing in the bathtub 4. For example, the radio wave sensor 10a ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ The radio wave sensor 10a detects the movement of the body part of the user U who is bathing in the bathtub 4 that is outside the hot water in the bathtub 4 as the state of breathing. ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ etc. detects the chest movement of the user U while bathing in the bathtub 4 as the state of breathing.

[0469] Bathroom system 1A estimates information related to the breathing of user U based on the movement of the user U's chest while bathing in bathtub 4, which is detected by a breathing detection sensor. For example, bathroom system 1A estimates information related to breathing, such as the depth and rate of breathing of user U, based on the movement of the user U's chest while bathing in bathtub 4. Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1A may estimate information related to breathing, such as the time it takes for user U's breathing to stabilize, in addition to the depth and rate of breathing of user U.

[0470] For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the depth of breathing of user U based on changes in the position of the chest of user U while bathing in bathtub 4. For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the breathing rate of user U based on information (time information) such as the interval of changes in the position of the chest of user U while bathing in bathtub 4. For example, bathroom system 1A includes radio wave sensor 10a ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ Information about respiration is estimated using point cloud information obtained by detection by a respiration detection sensor such as the above.

[0471] For example, bathroom system 1A estimates information related to the breathing of user U based on changes in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating user U. For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the depth of breathing based on changes over time in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating user U. For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the rate of breathing based on the time interval between changes in fourth detection information, such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) indicating user U.

[0472] For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the depth of breathing of user U while bathing based on a time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when user U is located in bathtub 4 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when user U is located in bathtub 4. For example, bathroom system 1A estimates the breathing rate of user U while bathing based on a time series change from the fourth point cloud information at a first time when user U is located in bathtub 4 to the fourth point cloud information at a second time when user U is located in bathtub 4. Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1A may estimate information related to the breathing of user U while bathing using various information.

[0473] Bathroom system 1A then uses information about user U's breathing while bathing to estimate the user U's mental and physical state while bathing. For example, bathroom system 1A uses information about user U's breathing while bathing to estimate the user U's degree of relaxation (also referred to as "relaxation level") as the user U's mental and physical state while bathing. Note that the user's degree of relaxation (relaxation level) is merely one example of the user's mental and physical state, and bathroom system 1A may estimate various information about the user's mental and physical state, such as the user's degree of alertness (alertness level), in addition to the user's relaxation level.

[0474] If the estimated breathing depth of the user U while bathing satisfies a condition related to the breathing depth (also referred to as a "depth condition"), the bathroom system 1A estimates that the user U has a high level of relaxation. For example, if the breathing depth of the user U while bathing is equal to or greater than a predetermined depth threshold, the bathroom system 1A estimates that the user U has a high level of relaxation.

[0475] If the estimated breathing rate of the user U while bathing satisfies a breathing rate condition (also referred to as a "rate condition"), the bathroom system 1A estimates that the user U has a high level of relaxation. For example, if the breathing rate of the user U while bathing is less than a predetermined rate threshold, the bathroom system 1A estimates that the user U has a high level of relaxation.

[0476] For example, bathroom system 1A may estimate that user U's level of relaxation is the highest if the depth of user U's breathing while bathing satisfies a depth condition and the rate of user U's breathing while bathing satisfies a rate condition. For example, bathroom system 1A may estimate that user U's level of relaxation is one of four levels, from level 0 to level 3.

[0477] For example, if the user U's breathing while bathing satisfies only the depth condition, the bathroom system 1A may estimate that the user U's relaxation level is level 1. Alternatively, if the user U's breathing while bathing satisfies only the speed condition, the bathroom system 1A may estimate that the user U's relaxation level is level 2. Alternatively, if the user U's breathing while bathing satisfies both the depth condition and the speed condition, the bathroom system 1A may estimate that the user U's relaxation level is level 3. Alternatively, if the user U's breathing while bathing does not satisfy both the depth condition and the speed condition, the bathroom system 1A may estimate that the user U's relaxation level is level 0.

[0478] Note that the above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1A may use various information to estimate the relaxation level of user U. For example, bathroom system 1A may estimate the relaxation level of user U using a predetermined function (also referred to as a "relaxation level estimation function") for estimating (calculating) the relaxation level.

[0479] In this case, bathroom system 1A may use information about user U's breathing while bathing and a relaxation level estimation function to estimate the relaxation level of user U. For example, bathroom system 1A may estimate user U's relaxation level using a relaxation level estimation function that uses breathing depth, breathing rate, the time required for breathing to stabilize, etc. as inputs (independent variables) and the relaxation level as an output (dependent variable).

[0480] Bathroom system 1A may also estimate the relaxation level of user U by taking into account information such as bathing time and water temperature. For example, bathroom system 1A may estimate the relaxation level of user U using a relaxation level estimation function that takes as inputs (independent variables) information related to breathing as well as bathing time, the temperature of the water in bathtub 4, the temperature of the water discharged from shower device 6, and the like.

[0481] Furthermore, bathroom system 1A controls the operating states of the devices constituting bathroom 2 (also referred to as "bathroom-related devices") according to the breathing state of user U while bathing. For example, bathroom system 1A controls the operating states of the bathroom-related devices based on the breathing rhythm of user U while bathing so as to guide the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm. For example, bathroom system 1A controls the operating states of the bathroom-related devices based on the breathing rate of user U while bathing so as to guide the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm.

[0482] For example, bathroom system 1A uses information related to the control of bathroom-related devices (also referred to as "device control information") stored in data storage unit 101 to control the operating states of bathroom-related devices so as to guide user U's breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm. For example, bathroom system 1A controls the lighting state of lighting device 104 by referencing device control information that associates an ideal value for breathing rate with information indicating lighting states (driving states of lighting devices) for guiding the user's breathing rate to the ideal value. For example, bathroom system 1A controls the lighting state of lighting device 104 by referencing device control information that indicates changes in the output of lighting device 104, such as the interval at which a predetermined on-state and off-state are repeated, in order to guide user U's breathing rate to the ideal value.

[0483] This allows bathroom system 1A to guide the breathing rhythm, such as the breathing rate, of user U to a desired rhythm. Note that the bathroom-related device whose operating state is controlled by bathroom system 1A is not limited to the lighting device of light 104, but may be any device such as bathtub water temperature control unit 106.

[0484] For example, when controlling the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106, bathroom system 1A controls the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106 by referencing device control information that associates an ideal value for breathing rate with information indicating the temperature, water flow, water volume, etc. of the hot water in bathtub 4 for guiding the user's breathing rate to that ideal value (the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106). For example, bathroom system 1A controls the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106 by referencing device control information that indicates the operating conditions of bathtub water temperature control unit 106, such as the set temperature and set water volume, in order to guide user U's breathing rate to the ideal value.

[0485] Bathroom system 1A also sends a predetermined recommendation notification to the user of bathroom 2. For example, bathroom system 1A sends a predetermined recommendation notification including information about a predetermined breathing method based on the breathing state of the user of bathroom 2. Below, using FIG. 26 , we will explain an example where terminal device DV, which is a tablet terminal used by user U, is set as the recommendation notification destination. FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of a recommendation notification.

[0486] For example, an application related to the display of information notified from the bathroom system 1A is already installed on the terminal device DV, and the terminal device DV executes various processes related to the display of information notified from the bathroom system 1A using the application related to the display of information.

[0487] For example, bathroom system 1A notifies user U of a recommendation by displaying recommendation information such as that shown in Fig. 26 on terminal device DV. For example, bathroom system 1A notifies (transmits) recommendation information, including information about a predetermined breathing method, to terminal device DV based on the breathing state of user U in bathroom 2. Note that the timing of the recommendation notification may be set to, for example, a predetermined time (e.g., 9 p.m.), or may be based on the user's actions, such as after bathing, rather than on a time-based basis.

[0488] The terminal device DV displays the information about the recommendation including the information about the predetermined breathing method using an application related to displaying information in response to receiving the information about the recommendation including the information about the predetermined breathing method based on the breathing state of the user U in the bathroom 2. Figure 26 shows a case where the terminal device DV displays content CT311 including the information about the predetermined breathing method based on the breathing state of the user U in the bathroom 2.

[0489] For example, in response to a notification (reception of information) from the bathroom system 1A, the terminal device DV displays content CT311 including recommendation information RC11 regarding a specific breathing method recommended for the breathing state of the user U in the bathroom 2. Note that, although the recommendation information RC11 is abstractly represented as "XXXXXXXXXXXX" in FIG. 26 , the recommendation information RC11 may also include text information indicating the breathing method recommended for the user U, image information such as an illustration indicating the breathing method recommended for the user U, video information indicating the breathing method recommended for the user U, etc. Note that the above is merely an example, and the content CT311 may also include various information recommended (suggested) to the user U based on the breathing state of the user U in the bathroom 2.

[0490] For example, the control unit 100D may generate content CT311 including information about a predetermined breathing method based on the breathing state of the user U in the bathroom 2. In this case, the control unit 100D transmits the generated content CT311 to the terminal device DV via the notification unit 130. The terminal device DV then displays the content CT311. Note that the content CT311 may be generated by any device other than the control unit 100D. For example, the content CT311 may be generated by the terminal device DV. In this case, the control unit 100D may transmit information indicating a usage notification of the bathroom 2 including the user U's behavior history to the terminal device DV, and the terminal device DV may generate and display the content CT311 using the information received from the control unit 100D.

[0491] The recommendation notification described above is merely an example, and bathroom system 1A may provide recommendation notifications in various ways. For example, if a display device is provided in bathroom 2, recommendation notifications may be provided to a bathing user by displaying information about the recommendations on the display device provided in bathroom 2. In this case, terminal device DV shown in FIG. 26 may be a display device provided in bathroom 2, and terminal device DV may display information about the recommendations while the user is in bathroom 2.

[0492] 1-7-4-2. Example of Bathroom System Configuration The following describes the configuration of a bathroom system that performs the above-described processing. Note that explanations of points that are the same as those described in Figures 3, 4, 12, etc. will be omitted where appropriate.

[0493] Sensor unit 10 detects information that bathroom system 1 (bathroom system 1A, etc.) uses to estimate the physical and mental state of a user of bathroom 2. Sensor unit 10 detects information that control unit 100D uses in the physical and mental state estimation process. Radio wave sensor 10a of sensor unit 10 １ The status detection sensors such as those are installed in the bathroom 2 and function as status detection means for detecting the status of the user in the bathroom 2.

[0494] For example, the radio wave sensor 10a of the sensor unit 10 ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ The breathing detection sensor such as the above is installed in the bathroom 2 and functions as a detection means (breath detection means) for detecting the breathing state of the user of the bathroom 2 while bathing. For example, the radio wave sensor 10a of the sensor unit 10 ２ , radio wave sensor 10a ３ The respiratory detection sensor, such as １ The detection of the user's breathing is started or stopped based on the detection results of the state detection sensors such as the above.

[0495] For example, the breath detection sensor starts detecting the user's breath when the state detection sensor detects that the user is located in the bathtub 4. For example, when the state detection sensor detects that the user is located in the bathtub 4, the sensor unit 10 activates (drives) the breath detection sensor, and starts detecting the user's breath with the breath detection sensor.

[0496] For example, the breath detection sensor terminates and stops detecting the user's breath when the state detection sensor detects that the user positioned in the bathtub 4 has moved out of the bathtub 4. For example, when the state detection sensor detects that the user positioned in the bathtub 4 has moved out of the bathtub 4, the sensor unit 10 stops driving the breath detection sensor and terminates detection of the user's breath by the breath detection sensor.

[0497] For example, the breathing detection sensor stops detecting the user's breathing when the status detection sensor detects that the user is outside the bathtub 4. For example, when the status detection sensor detects that the user is outside the bathtub 4, the sensor unit 10 stops driving the breathing detection sensor and stops detecting the user's breathing with the breathing detection sensor. Note that the above is merely an example, and the sensor unit 10 may start or stop detecting the user's breathing with the breathing detection sensor at any timing.

[0498] The control unit 100D performs various processes similar to those of the control unit 100. The control unit 100D also performs mental and physical state estimation processing. An example of the mechanical configuration of the control unit 100D will be described with reference to FIG. 27. FIG. 27 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control unit. The control unit 100D shown in FIG. 27 includes a mental and physical state estimation unit 112D and an equipment control unit 113D in addition to the configuration of the control unit 100 shown in FIG. 4.

[0499] 27, the control unit 100D includes a state estimation unit 110, a determination unit 111, a physical and mental state estimation unit 112D, and a device control unit 113D. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 100D is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 27, and may be any other configuration as long as it performs desired information processing.

[0500] The state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100D performs various estimation processes in the same manner as the state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100. The determination unit 111 of the control unit 100D performs various determinations in the same manner as the determination unit 111 of the control unit 100. For example, the state estimation unit 110 of the control unit 100D performs various determinations in the same manner as the determination unit 111 of the control unit 100. １ The state estimation unit 110 estimates the user's behavior in the bathroom 2, including the user's position, movement, etc., based on output data from the state detection sensors such as the above.

[0501] The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) information indicating the estimated behavior of the user in the bathroom 2 as the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101. The state estimation unit 110 registers (stores) the behavior history of the user in the data storage unit 101 in association with information identifying the user (e.g., a user ID, etc.).

[0502] The mental and physical state estimation unit 112D estimates the mental and physical state of the user. The mental and physical state estimation unit 112D estimates the mental and physical state of the user based on the state changes in the bathroom 2 estimated by the state estimation unit 110. The mental and physical state estimation unit 112D estimates the mental and physical state of the user based on the determination result by the determination unit 111. Note that the mental and physical state estimation unit 112D may perform processing related to the estimation (determination) of the user's state performed by the state estimation unit 110, the determination unit 111, etc. For example, the mental and physical state estimation unit 112D may be integrated with the state estimation unit 110.

[0503] The mental and physical state estimator 112D functions as an estimation means for estimating the mental and physical state of the user of the bathroom 2 based on the detection results of the breathing detection sensor. The mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates information about the user's breathing based on the chest movement of the user while bathing in the bathtub 4 detected by the breathing detection sensor. For example, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates information about the user's breathing, such as the depth and rate of the user's breathing and the time it took for the user's breathing to become regular, based on the chest movement of the user while bathing in the bathtub 4.

[0504] For example, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates information related to breathing based on the movement of parts of the body that are outside the hot water in the bathtub 4. For example, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates information related to breathing based on changes in the position of the user's chest while bathing in the bathtub 4. For example, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates information related to breathing using point cloud information obtained by detection by a breathing detection sensor.

[0505] For example, the mental and physical state estimator 112D may estimate information related to the user's breathing based on changes in fourth detection information such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) representing the user. For example, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates the depth of breathing based on changes over time in the fourth detection information such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) representing the user. For example, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates the breathing rate based on the time interval between changes in the fourth detection information such as point cloud information (fourth point cloud information) representing the user.

[0506] Furthermore, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates the mental and physical state of the user while bathing using information about the user's breathing while bathing. For example, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates the user's level of relaxation using information about the user's breathing while bathing. If the user's breathing while bathing satisfies a depth condition, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates the user's level of relaxation to be high. If the user's breathing while bathing satisfies a speed condition, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates the user's level of relaxation to be high.

[0507] For example, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates that the user's level of relaxation is the highest when the depth of the user's breathing while bathing satisfies a depth condition and the rate of the user's breathing while bathing satisfies a rate condition. For example, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates which of a plurality of levels the user is at. For example, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates which of a plurality of levels the user is at using level estimation information (level information) stored in the data storage unit 101.

[0508] For example, if the user's breathing while bathing satisfies only the speed condition, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates that the user's relaxation level is level 1. Also, for example, if the user's breathing while bathing satisfies only the depth condition, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates that the user's relaxation level is level 2. Also, for example, if the user's breathing while bathing satisfies both the depth condition and the speed condition, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates that the user's relaxation level is level 3. Also, for example, if the user's breathing while bathing does not satisfy both the depth condition and the speed condition, the mental and physical state estimator 112D estimates that the user's relaxation level is level 0.

[0509] Furthermore, the mental and physical state estimating unit 112D may estimate the user's relaxation level using a relaxation level estimating function. For example, the mental and physical state estimating unit 112D estimates the user's relaxation level using the relaxation level estimating function stored in the data storage unit 101 and information about the user's breathing while taking a bath.

[0510] The device control unit 113D functions as a control means that controls the operating state of the devices (bathroom-related devices) that make up the bathroom 2 based on the detection results of the breathing detection sensor. For example, the devices (bathroom-related devices) that make up the bathroom 2 include at least one of the shower device 6, microphone 9, sensor unit 10, alarm unit 103, lighting 104, water temperature control unit 105a, water volume control unit 105b, bathtub water temperature control unit 106, shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107, air conditioning 108, and ventilation fan 109. For example, the device control unit 113D controls the operating state of the bathroom-related devices that may affect the physical and mental state of the user.

[0511] The device control unit 113D controls the operating states of the devices (bathroom-related devices) that make up the bathroom 2 according to the breathing state of the bathing user. The device control unit 113D controls the operating states of the bathroom-related devices based on the detection of the breathing rhythm of the bathing user so as to guide the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm. For example, the device control unit 113D controls the operating states of the bathroom-related devices based on the breathing rhythm of the bathing user so as to guide the breathing rhythm to a predetermined rhythm.

[0512] Device control unit 113D controls the operating states of bathroom-related devices to change the user's breathing state from a first rhythm, which is the current breathing rhythm of the bathroom 2 user, to a second rhythm, which is the desired rhythm to be induced. For example, device control unit 113D controls the operating states of bathroom-related devices to induce the user's breathing to a predetermined rhythm based on the user's breathing rate while bathing. Device control unit 113D controls the operating states of bathroom-related devices to change the user's breathing state from the first rate, which is the current breathing rate of the bathroom 2 user, to the second rate, which is the desired breathing rate to be induced.

[0513] For example, the operating status of the bathroom-related devices includes at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in the bathtub 4. The device control unit 113D controls the operating status of the bathroom-related devices including at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in the bathtub 4. For example, the device control unit 113D controls at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in the bathtub 4 by controlling the bathtub water temperature control unit 106. For example, the device control unit 113D may control at least one of the temperature, water flow, and water volume of the hot water in the bathtub 4 by controlling the shoulder bath / waist bath control unit 107.

[0514] For example, the operating states of the bathroom-related devices include the lighting states of lighting devices installed in bathroom 2. Device control unit 113D controls the operating states of the bathroom-related devices, including the lighting states of lighting devices installed in bathroom 2. For example, device control unit 113D may control the lighting states of lighting devices installed in bathroom 2 by controlling lighting 104 installed in bathroom 2.

[0515] The device control unit 113D controls the operating state of the bathroom-related devices using the device control information stored in the data storage unit 101. For example, the device control unit 113D controls the lighting state of the lighting device by referencing device control information that associates an ideal value for breathing rate with information indicating the operating state of the lighting device of the lighting 104 for guiding the user's breathing rate to the ideal value. For example, the device control unit 113D controls the lighting state of the lighting device of the lighting 104 by referencing device control information that indicates changes in the output of the lighting device for guiding the user's breathing rate to the ideal value.

[0516] For example, device control unit 113D references device control information that associates an ideal value for breathing rate with information indicating the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106 for guiding the user's breathing rate to that ideal value, and controls the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106. For example, device control unit 113D references device control information that indicates the operating conditions of bathtub water temperature control unit 106 for guiding the user's breathing rate to the ideal value, and controls the operating state of bathtub water temperature control unit 106.

[0517] The control unit 100D may include various processing units other than those described above. For example, the control unit 100D may include a notification setting unit that performs various settings related to notifications. The notification setting unit may perform various settings related to notifications, such as the timing at which the notification unit 103 notifies the user of information related to recommendations (recommendation notification timing). For example, if the notification setting unit is to notify the user of information related to recommendations at a time other than while the user is bathing (e.g., after the user leaves the bathroom 2), the notification setting unit sets various conditions related to notifications, such as the recommendation notification timing and notification destination. For example, the notification setting unit accepts user operations via a remote control device, a terminal device, etc., and sets the recommendation notification timing, notification destination, etc. based on the accepted user operations. For example, the notification setting unit registers (stores) information related to notifications, such as the notification destination and recommendation notification timing, in the data storage unit 101. ...

Claims

1. A bathroom system comprising: a radio wave sensor that is installed in a bathroom formed by a plurality of panels and detects changes in the state of the bathroom; and a state estimation means that estimates changes in the state of the bathroom based on the output data of the radio wave sensor, wherein the state estimation means estimates changes in the state of the space within the bathroom by excluding radio wave reflection areas including the surfaces of the panels.

2. The bathroom system described in claim 1, characterized in that a metal plate that forms the radio wave reflection area is arranged on the back side of the multiple panels.

3. The bathroom system described in claim 1, characterized in that the state estimation means estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom by excluding areas with water droplets on the surface of the panel as the radio wave reflection area.

4. The bathroom system according to claim 1, characterized in that the state estimation means estimates state changes in the space within the bathroom, excluding the four corner areas of the bathroom.

5. The bathroom system described in claim 1, characterized in that the state estimation means estimates state changes within the bathroom based on data excluding received data obtained by reflection from the radio wave reflection area.

6. The bathroom system described in claim 1, characterized in that the state estimation means estimates state changes within the bathroom based on data excluding noise data based on vibration components input to the radio wave sensor.

7. The bathroom system described in claim 1, characterized in that the state estimation means estimates state changes within the bathroom based on data that excludes noise data based on objects present within the bathroom.

8. The bathroom system according to claim 1, characterized in that the radio wave sensor is installed at a position higher than the top end of the bathtub installed in the bathroom.

9. The bathroom system according to claim 1, characterized in that the detection range of the radio wave sensor includes a pillow section provided in a bathtub installed in the bathroom.

10. The bathroom system described in claim 1, characterized in that the radio wave sensor is installed on a panel among the plurality of panels forming the bathroom other than the panel on which the entrance to the bathroom is located.

11. The bathroom system described in claim 1, characterized in that the plane direction of the antenna surface of the radio wave sensor intersects with the surface of the panel on which the radio wave sensor is installed.

12. The bathroom system according to claim 1, characterized in that the antenna surface of the radio wave sensor is positioned facing the center of the bathroom.

13. The bathroom system described in claim 1, characterized in that the state estimation means executes a first mode for estimating the movement or position of a user within the bathroom, and a second mode for estimating the breathing of a user located in a bathtub installed within the bathroom.

14. The bathroom system described in claim 13, characterized in that it has a mode switching means that switches between the first mode and the second mode based on the operation of an operating unit installed in the bathroom.

15. The bathroom system according to claim 13, further comprising a mode switching means for switching between the first mode and the second mode based on the user's position in the bathroom.

16. The bathroom system described in claim 1, characterized in that the detection range of the radio wave sensor includes a first space including a bathtub installed in the bathroom and a second space including a water discharge area of ​​a shower device installed in the bathroom.

17. The bathroom system described in claim 1, characterized in that the radio wave sensor has a first radio wave sensor whose detection range is a first space including a bathtub installed in the bathroom, and a second radio wave sensor that detects a second space including the water discharge area of ​​a shower device installed in the bathroom, and the output data includes first output data from the first radio wave sensor and second output data from the second radio wave sensor.

18. The bathroom system described in claim 1, further comprising a determination means for determining whether or not an object other than the user is present within the detection range of the radio wave sensor based on the output data of the radio wave sensor.

19. The bathroom system described in claim 18, characterized in that the state estimation means estimates an abnormal state as a state change in the bathroom based on the judgment result of the judgment means.

20. The bathroom system described in claim 1, characterized in that the state estimation means estimates body movement or movement posture from the water discharge area of ​​a shower device installed in the bathroom to a bathtub installed in the bathroom.

21. The bathroom system according to claim 1, characterized in that the state estimation means estimates the user's movements within the water discharge area of ​​a shower device installed in the bathroom.

22. The bathroom system according to claim 1, characterized in that the state estimation means estimates the respiratory state of a user positioned in a bathtub installed in the bathroom.

Images