Device and method for collecting biometric data of user, and computer program

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device and a method for collecting biometric data of a user on the basis of fecal gas and feces discharged into a toilet. The device comprises: a flow pipe provided in a toilet; a suction fan; a sensor module; an image sensor; and a controller, wherein the controller drives the suction fan so as to suction the fecal gas into the flow pipe, acquires gas data through the sensor module disposed inside the flow pipe, and acquires image data of the feces through the image sensor.

Description

Device, method, and computer program for collecting user's biometric data

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus, method, and computer program for collecting a user's biometric data based on fecal gas or feces discharged into a toilet.

[0002] In modern society, digestive system diseases are gradually increasing due to changes in dietary habits and rising stress. Monitoring bowel movements is crucial for preventing or diagnosing these diseases early, as stool serves as a key indicator reflecting health status as a byproduct of the digestive process. However, manually checking or recording bowel movements is cumbersome for individuals, and there are limitations in continuously collecting accurate data.

[0003] To address these issues, technologies are being developed to check a user's colon health status by comparing the stool discharged into the toilet during defecation with the Bristol Stool Chart, and to check a user's colon health status by utilizing the components of the stool gas discharged into the toilet during defecation.

[0004] One objective of the present disclosure is to provide a device for collecting a user's biometric data based on fecal gas or feces discharged into a toilet.

[0005] In addition, one objective of the present disclosure is to provide a device that simultaneously collects gas data corresponding to fecal gas and image data corresponding to feces.

[0006] However, the technical problems that this embodiment aims to solve are not limited to the technical problems described above, and other technical problems may exist.

[0007] A device for collecting user biometric data based on fecal gas or feces discharged into a toilet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a flow pipe installed in the toilet and extending from a suction port formed to face the interior of the toilet to a discharge port; a suction fan disposed inside the flow pipe and configured to suck the fecal gas from the suction port into the interior of the flow pipe when operated; a sensor module disposed inside the flow pipe and including at least one sensor; an image sensor installed in the toilet and disposed to acquire image data of the interior of the toilet; and a controller comprising at least one memory including at least one processor and computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code may be configured such that the controller, through the at least one processor, operates the suction fan to suck the fecal gas into the interior of the flow pipe, acquires gas data corresponding to the sucked fecal gas through the sensor module, and acquires image data of the feces discharged into the interior of the toilet through the image sensor.

[0008] A method for collecting biometric data of a user based on fecal gas or feces discharged into a toilet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: operating a suction fan disposed inside a flow pipe to suck the fecal gas into the flow pipe extending from a suction port formed to face the interior of the toilet to the interior of the toilet; acquiring gas data corresponding to the sucked fecal gas through a sensor module disposed inside the flow pipe and comprising at least one sensor; and acquiring image data of the feces discharged into the interior of the toilet through an image sensor installed in the toilet and disposed to acquire image data of the interior of the toilet.

[0009] A computer program stored on a non-transient computer-readable recording medium comprising a sequence of instructions for collecting user biometric data based on fecal gas or feces discharged into a toilet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include, when the computer program is executed by a computing device, a sequence of instructions for operating a suction fan disposed inside a fluid pipe to suck the fecal gas into the fluid pipe extending from a suction port formed to face the interior of the toilet to the interior of the toilet, acquiring gas data corresponding to the sucked fecal gas through a sensor module disposed inside the fluid pipe and comprising at least one sensor, and acquiring image data of the feces discharged into the interior of the toilet through an image sensor installed in the toilet and disposed to acquire image data of the interior of the toilet.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the components of the excrement gas discharged into the toilet are precisely measured, and accordingly, the user's health condition can be evaluated in real time and continuously monitored.

[0011] In addition, by using images of the stool along with stool gas, it has the effect of enabling a more accurate assessment of the user's health condition.

[0012] In addition, data processing and transmission efficiency is enhanced by transmitting the collected gas and image data to the server after performing data conversion and processing.

[0013] In addition, the results determined using this can be utilized as a health diagnostic tool, and the user's intestinal health status can be tracked and managed over the long term.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an analysis system comprising a device for collecting a user's biological data based on fecal gas or feces according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2a illustrates a flow pipe installed in a toilet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 2b is a concentration graph of an ETO sensor according to a flow tube according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 2c is a concentration graph of a formaldehyde (CH2O) sensor according to a flow tube according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 3a is a schematic diagram of an embodiment in which a gas sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is disposed on one surface.

[0019] FIG. 3b is a schematic diagram of an embodiment in which gas sensors according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are arranged on both sides.

[0020] FIG. 3c is a graph of gas measurements taken by a gas sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 4a illustrates a biometric data collection device installed in a toilet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 4b illustrates a flow pipe disposed between a toilet and a seat according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 4c is a graph of gas measurements from a fluid analysis simulation when a flow pipe according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is installed on the side and rear of a toilet, respectively.

[0024] FIG. 4d is the result of a fluid analysis simulation when a flow pipe according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is installed on the side of a toilet.

[0025] FIG. 4e is the result of a fluid analysis simulation when a flow pipe according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is installed on the rear of a toilet.

[0026] FIG. 5 is a graph of gas measurements from a fluid analysis simulation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, based on suction velocity, suction area, and length of the flow pipe.

[0027] FIG. 6a is a graph of gas measurements from a fluid analysis simulation according to the length of a flow pipe according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 6b is the result of a fluid analysis simulation in the case where the length of the flow pipe is short according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 6c is the result of a fluid analysis simulation when the length of the flow pipe is intermediate according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 6d is a fluid analysis simulation result for the case where the length of the flow pipe is long according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 7a is a graph of gas measurements from a fluid analysis simulation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 7b is the result of a fluid analysis simulation in the case where the rotational speed of the suction fan according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is relatively slow.

[0033] FIG. 7c is the result of a fluid analysis simulation in the case where the rotational speed of the suction fan according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is relatively fast.

[0034] FIG. 8a is the result of a fluid analysis simulation when a relatively narrow suction fan is applied to a flow pipe according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 8b is the result of a fluid analysis simulation when a relatively wide suction fan is applied to a flow pipe according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 9a illustrates a bio-data collection device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 9b is a side view along the x-axis direction of a bio-data collection device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 9c is a front view along the y-axis direction of a bio-data collection device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 9d is a top view along the z-axis direction of a bio-data collection device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a biometric data collection device installed in a toilet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 11a illustrates a state in which the cover of a biometric data collection device installed in a toilet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is removed.

[0042] FIG. 11b illustrates a state in which a cover of a biometric data collection device installed in a toilet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is positioned.

[0043] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method for collecting a user's biometric data based on fecal gas or feces discharged into a toilet according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and similar parts throughout the specification are denoted by similar reference numerals.

[0045] Throughout this specification, when a component is described as being located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where a component is in contact with another component, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0046] Throughout this specification, when a part is described as "comprising" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0047] Throughout this specification, terms of degree such as “about,” “substantially,” etc., are used to mean at or near the stated value when inherent manufacturing and material tolerances are presented in the stated meaning, and are used to prevent unscrupulous infringers from unfairly exploiting the disclosure in which precise or absolute values ​​are mentioned to aid in understanding this specification. Throughout this specification, terms of degree such as “step” or “step of” do not mean “step for”.

[0048] Throughout this specification, the term “combination(s) of these” included in the Markush-type expression means one or more mixtures or combinations selected from the group consisting of the components described in the Markush-type expression, and means including one or more selected from the group consisting of said components.

[0049] Throughout this specification, the description "A and / or B" means "A or B, or A and B".

[0050] Hereinafter, embodiments and examples of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, the present invention may not be limited to these embodiments and examples and drawings.

[0051] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an analysis system including a device (10) for collecting user's biological data based on fecal gas or feces according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 1, an analysis system according to one embodiment may include a biometric data collection device (10), a judgment server (20) and / or an analysis server (30).

[0053] A biometric data collection device (10) according to one embodiment may be connected to a judgment server (20) and / or an analysis server (30) to enable the transmission and reception of data. In one embodiment, the biometric data collection device (10) may transmit data to the judgment server (20) and / or the analysis server (30) via wired or wireless means through a communication unit (300) described later, or receive data from the judgment server (20) and / or the analysis server (30).

[0054] A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment may include a fluid pipe (100), an image sensor (200), a communication unit (300), a display unit (400), an LED (500), an input unit (600), and / or a controller (700). A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment may be installed in a toilet (T). Here, the toilet (T) may be in the shape of a bowl configured to allow a user to discharge feces or fecal gas into the interior.

[0055] A flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment may be installed in a toilet (T) and may have a shape extending from an intake port (110) to an outlet (120). A flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment may be bent to correspond to the shape of the toilet (T) while extending from the intake port (110) to the outlet (120), or the cross-sectional area or width may be partially changed.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the suction port (110) of the fluid pipe (100) may be positioned to face the interior of the toilet (T). According to one embodiment, the discharge port (120) of the fluid pipe (100) may be positioned in a direction spaced apart from the toilet (T), or may be positioned to face the interior of the toilet (T) so that fecal gas is recovered into the interior of the toilet (T).

[0057] The suction port (110) of the flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment is designed and installed to minimize the mixing of external air and directly suck in fecal gas, as described below, and may be designed with optimized length and cross-sectional area based on fluid analysis results.

[0058] A suction fan (140) according to one embodiment may be placed inside a flow pipe (100). In one embodiment, the suction fan (140) may be placed spaced apart from the suction port (110) and adjacent to the discharge port (120).

[0059] A suction fan (140) according to one embodiment can suck fecal gas into the interior of the flow pipe (100) from the suction port (110) when operating, and discharge fecal gas to the outside of the flow pipe (100) through the discharge port (120).

[0060] A sensor module (130) according to one embodiment is disposed inside a flow pipe (100) and can detect a specified gas or measure the concentration of a specified gas. The sensor module (130) according to one embodiment may include a first sensor capable of measuring hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas and / or a second sensor capable of measuring volatile organic compounds (VOC) gas.

[0061] A sensor module (130) according to one embodiment may further include, in addition to the first sensor and the second sensor, a gas sensor for measuring carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen (H2), ammonia (NH3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitric oxide (NO), ethylene oxide (ETO), ethene (C2H4) or formaldehyde (CH2O).

[0062] Fecal gas consists of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and because the amount of gas released from feces is finite, it is very sensitive to time, and the amount of gas can decrease rapidly over time after defecation.

[0063] In addition, since feces can be classified into seven types of Bristol stool scales based on their shape or degree of hardness, it is possible to analyze the time curve of the measured fecal samples to confirm that a unique gas reduction rate curve is formed for each Bristol type of feces.

[0064] A controller (700) according to one embodiment may include at least one processor and at least one memory containing computer program code. A controller (700) according to one embodiment may control the operation of a suction fan (140) and / or a sensor module (130). Additionally, a controller (700) according to one embodiment may control the operation of an image sensor (200), a communication unit (300), a display unit (400), an LED (500), and / or an input unit (600) described later.

[0065] A controller (700) according to one embodiment can extract meaningful information by processing gas data and / or image data in real time using a Raspberry Pi. In one embodiment, the controller (700) can quantify gas data (e.g., H2S and VOCs data) and convert it into a JSON file. In one embodiment, the controller (700) can analyze the Bristol type and stool color through image processing technology by converting image data into a JPG format and transmitting it to an analysis server (30) through a communication unit (300).

[0066] An image sensor (200) according to one embodiment may be installed in a toilet (T) and positioned to acquire image data inside the toilet (T). An image sensor (200) according to one embodiment may be positioned so that its shooting range (e.g., field of view, FOV: Field Of View) is directed toward the inside of the toilet (T) where feces discharged from the user are located.

[0067] An image sensor (200) according to one embodiment can capture feces and acquire image data capable of performing Bristol scale and color analysis. In one embodiment, the image sensor (200) can capture images at high speed using a rolling shutter or a global shutter method, with each pixel operating independently. By doing so, the precision of the intestinal environment assessment can be increased by analyzing the shape and color of the feces.

[0068] An image sensor (200) according to one embodiment is positioned at the rear of the toilet (T) to capture an image of feces. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the user's body from being photographed and to collect stable data.

[0069] An image sensor (200) according to one embodiment improves data accuracy through a multi-shot function and may include a body-prevention design to protect the user's privacy.

[0070] An image sensor (200) according to one embodiment may be configured to capture a plurality of fecal images, thereby improving the accuracy of the image data. In one embodiment, the image sensor (200) may capture fecal images three times (shooting times: immediately after detecting fecal, and after a certain period of time has elapsed, etc.).

[0071] A communication unit (300) according to one embodiment may be composed of a module capable of transmitting and receiving data to and from an external server or cloud via wired or wireless communication methods. A communication unit (300) according to one embodiment may support various wireless communication protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 4G LTE, and 5G networks, and may apply an encryption algorithm to enhance the stability and security of data transmission. A communication unit (300) according to one embodiment may include an Ethernet port or transmit data via a USB interface when a wired connection is required.

[0072] A communication unit (300) according to one embodiment may transmit gas data or image data to an analysis server (30) and / or a judgment server (20). A communication unit (300) according to one embodiment may transmit gas data and / or image data converted into JSON and JPG formats to an analysis server (30) and / or a judgment server (20).

[0073] A display unit (400) according to one embodiment is a screen that visually provides the status of the device and analysis results to the user, and may be an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OLED (500) (Organic Light Emitting Diode), or an E-INK display.

[0074] A display unit (400) according to one embodiment clearly displays text, graphs, images, etc. through a high-resolution screen, and may enable interaction with a user by adding a touchscreen function. A low-power consumption display technology may be applied to the display unit (400) according to one embodiment in consideration of energy efficiency.

[0075] An LED (500) according to one embodiment may be composed of a light-emitting diode to intuitively display the operating status of the device. An LED (500) according to one embodiment may be designed so that the user can easily understand the current status of the device through various colors, such as green (standby state), blue (measuring), and red (error occurred).

[0076] An LED (500) according to one embodiment may be placed in a position recognizable by a user or emit light in the direction in which the user's gaze is directed.

[0077] An input unit (600) according to one embodiment may be configured as an interface that allows a user to control a device or input data. An input unit (600) according to one embodiment may include a physical button such as a switch, a keypad, or a capacitive touch panel, and may be designed to enable non-contact input by adding a voice recognition function.

[0078] The input unit (600) according to one embodiment provides an intuitive and simple interface to enhance the user experience and can operate reliably in various environments through a waterproof and dustproof design.

[0079] An analysis server (30) according to one embodiment receives image data from a biometric data collection device (10) and can analyze the received image data. An analysis server (30) according to one embodiment can classify image data using artificial intelligence (AI) or a deep learning model, etc. An analysis server (30) according to one embodiment can classify according to the Bristol scale and / or analyze the color of feces by utilizing a database.

[0080] A determination server (20) according to one embodiment may be communicationally connected to an analysis server (30). A determination server (20) according to one embodiment may receive gas measurement data from a bio-data collection device (10) and receive the analysis results of image data from an analysis server (30). A determination server (20) according to one embodiment may determine the user's intestinal health status using artificial intelligence or a deep learning model, etc. A determination server (20) according to one embodiment may determine the user's intestinal health status by utilizing a database.

[0081] An analysis server (30) and / or a judgment server (20) according to one embodiment may be a computer system that provides a specific service to a client (user) through a network. An analysis server (30) and / or a judgment server (20) according to one embodiment may perform the role of storing and managing data, processing a client's request, and returning a response.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the analysis server (30) and / or the judgment server (20) may operate based on a request-response model. According to one embodiment, when a client (e.g., a biometric data collection device (10)) sends a request to the analysis server (30) and / or the judgment server (20), the analysis server (30) and / or the judgment server (20) may process the request and return the result to the client.

[0083] An analysis server (30) and / or a judgment server (20) according to one embodiment may include a configuration such as a CPU, memory, storage, a network interface card, and / or a power supply.

[0084] FIG. 2a illustrates a flow pipe (100) installed in a toilet (T) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2b is a concentration graph of an ETO sensor according to the flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2c is a concentration graph of a formaldehyde (CH2O) sensor according to the flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] Conventionally, fecal gas was measured by placing a fecal sample on a stool sample collection sheet (900). However, since the amount of fecal gas is very small, there was a problem in that other environmental gases were detected together.

[0086] In order to determine whether the internal environment of the toilet (T) affects the measurement of fecal gas, a comparison was made between 'measuring fecal gas outside the toilet (T)' and 'measuring fecal gas by inserting the suction port (110) inside the toilet (T).'

[0087] When testing outside the toilet (T), the test was conducted by placing the feces under the suction port (110), considering that the fecal gas is a volatile gas. When testing inside the toilet (T), the test was conducted by extending the length of the flow pipe (100) and placing the suction port (110) under the seat (800) in a bidet shape.

[0088] As a result of the test, it was confirmed that when tested inside the toilet (T), the reaction to fecal gas was better because the measurement was taken in a closed environment with the cover (C) closed. However, while the reactivity is improved when tested inside the toilet (T) compared to when tested outside the toilet (T), the above connection method had the possibility of the suction port (110) coming into contact with feces and becoming contaminated. Referring to FIGS. 2a to 2c, in order to prevent this problem, according to one embodiment, the toilet (T) is covered with a cover (C), and a hole is made in the cover (C) and connected to the flow pipe (100) so that fecal gas can be sucked in and measured.

[0089] However, when a hole was made in the cover (C) and a silicone hose was connected in the vertical direction, the gas sensor hardly reacted to fecal gas. Taking this into consideration, a flow tube (100) was devised that satisfies a length / area ratio of 10 or less.

[0090] According to the gas measurements according to the two embodiments above, in the case of a flow tube (100) that satisfies a length / area ratio of 10 or less, it can be confirmed that the suction and measurement performance of fecal gas is improved even though the amount of feces used for measurement is relatively small.

[0091] However, when using a silicone hose with a length-to-area ratio of 10 or less, it was easy to measure fecal gas, but it was too long and did not bend well, so it took up a lot of space when measuring in the laboratory.

[0092] Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 2a, a 3D-manufactured tube with a diameter and a length-to-area ratio of 10 or less was manufactured and connected to a toilet (T) and a cover (C) for measurement, and this was compared with an example in which a silicone hose with a length-to-area ratio of 10 or less was connected. Specifically, FIG. 2b and FIG. 2c are the results of experiments conducted with sensors using a silicone hose (relatively long) and a 3D-manufactured tube (relatively short) with a length-to-area ratio of 10 or less.

[0093] Referring further to Figures 2b to 2c, it was confirmed that there was almost no difference in the measured values ​​when measured with the same feces. Since the feces tested were identical and were defecated about a day ago, the amount of gas measured was not large. Fecal gas is finite and the amount released varies over time; generally, a larger amount of gas is always measured in the test conducted first. However, in the case of the 3D fabricated tube, which was conducted later in the experimental sequence, there was almost no difference in the measured values ​​compared to the silicone hose conducted first. Therefore, it was confirmed that the 3D fabricated tube (length / area 3.18) had relatively superior performance in the absorption and measurement of fecal gas.

[0094] FIG. 3a is a schematic diagram of an embodiment in which a gas sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is disposed on one surface. FIG. 3b is a schematic diagram of an embodiment in which a gas sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is disposed on both surfaces. FIG. 3c is a graph of gas measurements taken by a gas sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 3a and 3b, when arranging a plurality of gas sensors (e.g., 11) included in a sensor module (130) inside a flow pipe (100), a case in which the gas movement path is lengthened by arranging the gas sensors in two rows on one side (Fig. 3a) and a case in which the gas movement path is shortened by arranging the gas sensors on both sides (Fig. 3b) were compared.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 3c, when comparing the signals measured by the gas sensors according to each embodiment with the same fecal sample, it was confirmed that when the travel path of the fecal gas becomes relatively long, the signal baseline of the signal output from the gas sensor fluctuates significantly, and an unstable signal is output compared to when the length becomes relatively short.

[0097] A sensor module (130) according to one embodiment can relatively reduce the movement path of fecal gas by arranging a plurality of gas sensors separately on both sides of the flow pipe (100).

[0098] FIG. 4a illustrates a bio-data collection device (10) installed in a toilet (T) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4b illustrates a flow pipe (100) disposed between a toilet (T) and a seat (800) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4c is a graph of gas measurements from a fluid analysis simulation when the flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is installed on the side and rear of the toilet (T), respectively. FIG. 4d is a fluid analysis simulation result when the flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is installed on the side of the toilet (T). FIG. 4e is a fluid analysis simulation result when the flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is installed on the rear of the toilet (T).

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 4a and 4b, a biometric data collection device (10) according to one embodiment may include a display unit (400) and / or an input unit (600) (e.g., a keyboard or keypad). Additionally, the biometric data collection device (10) may further include a thermometer / hygrometer (410).

[0100] In one embodiment, the input unit (600) may be configured to allow input of a unique number assigned to a user and temperature and humidity information when multiple users use the biometric data collection device (10).

[0101] A biometric data collection device (10) according to one embodiment may further include a seat (800) formed to allow a user to sit, which is positioned above the toilet (T) so as to be spaced apart from the toilet (T) in at least a portion of the area. In one embodiment, the seat (800) may be rotatably coupled to one side of the toilet (T) so as to be optionally positioned above the toilet (T) or removed. In one embodiment, the toilet (T) and the seat (800) may be spaced apart from each other in at least a portion of the area so that the suction port (110) of the fluid pipe (100) can be positioned.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the suction port (110) of the fluid pipe (100) may be positioned between the toilet (T) and the seat (800) on the side of the toilet (T). According to one embodiment, the suction port (110) of the fluid pipe (100) may be formed to be relatively low in height and elongated laterally so as to be positioned between the toilet (T) and the seat (800).

[0103] Referring to Figures 4c to 4e, since the amount of fecal gas is negligible, fluid analysis simulations were performed to find the appropriate direction and location for measuring fecal gas in the toilet (T).

[0104] According to the simulation results, fecal gas could be measured when the suction port (110) of the flow pipe (100) was placed at the rear and side of the toilet (T), respectively. However, it was confirmed that when the suction port (110) of the flow pipe (100) was placed at the side of the toilet (T) rather than at the rear, a larger amount of fecal gas was sucked in, and the gas sensor's measurement reached the stable range more quickly. This is because when the suction port (110) of the flow pipe (100) is placed at the side of the toilet (T), the fecal collection paper (900) acts as a guide for the movement path of the fecal gas, thereby facilitating the sucking and measurement of the fecal gas.

[0105] FIG. 5 is a graph of fluid analysis simulation gas measurements according to suction speed, suction area, and length of flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 5, hardware elements that affect the suction of fecal gas include 'suction velocity', 'suction area', and 'length of the flow pipe (100)'. Fluid analysis simulations were performed by combining these three elements differently.

[0107] Specifically, the 'suction speed' was set to relatively slow Slow and relatively fast Fast, respectively, the 'suction area' was set to relatively narrow Narrow and relatively wide Wide, and the 'length of the flow tube (100)' was set to relatively short Short and relatively long Long.

[0108] FIG. 5 is a mass percentage graph simulating fluid analysis when fecal gas is inhaled in hardware according to eight cases. According to FIG. 5, it was confirmed that the inhalation speed determines the amount of gas inhaled and the measurement value. This is because when inhaling at a high speed, not only fecal gas but also other environmental gases, including air, are inhaled together, resulting in a small amount of fecal gas concentration being measured. On the other hand, it was confirmed that the inhalation area and the length of the flow pipe (100) have little effect on the gas inhalation measurement value, but affect the time taken to reach the stable range of the measurement value. Therefore, it was confirmed that as the inhalation area becomes wider and the length of the flow pipe (100) becomes longer so that the distance from the feces becomes shorter, the measurement value reaches the stable range later.

[0109] Contrary to the expectation that the longer the length of the flow tube (100) and the shorter the distance to the feces, the shorter the time to reach the stable range of the gas measurement, it was confirmed that the stable range of the measurement is reached later.

[0110] FIG. 6a is a graph of gas measurements from a fluid analysis simulation according to the length of a flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6b is a fluid analysis simulation result when the length of the flow pipe (100) is short according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6c is a fluid analysis simulation result when the length of the flow pipe (100) is medium according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6d is a fluid analysis simulation result when the length of the flow pipe (100) is long according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 6a to 6d, the suction performance according to the length of the suction part was compared and analyzed again to understand the fluid flow inside the toilet (T). Similar to the simulation results in FIG. 5, it was confirmed that as the length of the flow pipe (100) increases, there is no change in the gas measurement value, but there is a difference in the time to reach the stable range of the measurement value. This is expected to affect the gas measurement as volatile fecal gas becomes trapped in the space between the user and the flow pipe (100) as the length of the flow pipe (100) increases.

[0112] In addition, the measurement reached a stable range faster than when the length of the flow pipe (100) was relatively long, confirming that the distance between the gas sensor and the feces also has some influence. That is, while the distance between the gas sensor and the feces affects the gas measurement, it was confirmed that the distribution and movement path of the gas inside the toilet (T) have a greater influence on the fecal gas measurement.

[0113] FIG. 7a is a graph of gas measurements from a fluid analysis simulation according to suction speed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7b is a fluid analysis simulation result when the rotational speed of the suction fan (140) is slow according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7c is a fluid analysis simulation result when the rotational speed of the suction fan (140) is fast according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 7a to 7c, the gas suction speed into the flow pipe (100) affects the gas measurement. Accordingly, the gas measurement and the gas distribution inside the toilet (T) were analyzed while operating the suction fan (140) placed inside the flow pipe (100) at different rotational speeds.

[0115] As shown in Fig. 7a, as gas is inhaled at a faster speed, other environmental gases, including air, are also inhaled, and the measurement of the target gas decreases, but the time to reach the stable range of the measurement is shortened. This is expected to be because if the inhalation speed is too slow, the time to reach the stable range of the measurement is delayed because the rate at which fecal gas volatilizes is relatively faster than the rate at which gas is inhaled from the flow pipe (100).

[0116] Here, since the difference in suction speed between the slow and fast rotation speeds of the suction fan (140) is minimal, there was no significant difference in the mass percentage of gas measured at each suction speed. However, when the rotation speed of the suction fan (140) was relatively slow, a slightly larger amount of gas was measured, but the measurement reached the stable range later.

[0117] In a bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment, the suction fan (140) can be controlled at a high speed, and accordingly, the stable range of the measurement can be reached quickly.

[0118] FIG. 8a is the result of a fluid analysis simulation when a relatively narrow suction fan (140) is applied to a flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8b is the result of a fluid analysis simulation when a relatively wide suction fan (140) is applied to a flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0119] Referring to FIGS. 8a and 8b, a flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment may be designed to be placed between a commonly used toilet (T) and a seat (800). In one embodiment, the height and width of the suction port (110) of the flow pipe (100) may be set to correspond to the distance between the toilet (T) and the seat (800). Since the cross-sectional area of ​​the gas suction path affects the time to reach the stable region of the measurement rather than the gas measurement, the suction port (110) of the flow pipe (100) may be made thinner in height to correspond to the toilet (T) and the seat (800).

[0120] According to the fluid analysis simulation results, compared to the case where a relatively narrow suction fan (140) is applied, when a relatively wide suction fan (140) is used, it was confirmed that gas circulation inside the flow pipe (100) is smooth, and the gas movement speed and particle distribution are more uniform.

[0121] In one embodiment, the flow pipe (100) may have a cross-sectional area or width at the location where the suction fan (140) is placed that is smaller than the cross-sectional area or width of the suction port (110).

[0122] FIG. 9a illustrates a bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9b is a side view along the x-axis direction of the bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9c is a front view along the y-axis direction of the bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9d is a top view along the z-axis direction of the bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a bio-data collection device (10) installed in a toilet (T) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11a illustrates a state in which the cover (C) of the bio-data collection device (10) installed in a toilet (T) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is removed. FIG. 11b illustrates a state in which the cover (C) of the bio-data collection device (10) installed in a toilet (T) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is positioned.

[0123] Referring to FIGS. 9a to 9d, a biometric data collection device (10) according to one embodiment is installed on the left or right side of a toilet (T) and may be configured to include a fluid pipe (100), an image sensor (200), a display unit (400), an LED (500), an input unit (600), a support (210), a stand (17), and / or a housing (15).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the housing (15) of the bio-data collection device (10) extends in the front-rear direction of the toilet (T), and as it extends from the front to the rear, a fluid pipe (100), a stand (17), and a support (210) may be connected to each other. In one embodiment, a communication unit (300) and / or a controller (700) may be placed inside the housing (15).

[0125] A flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment is coupled to a housing (15) at the front of a toilet (T) and can accommodate a sensor module (130) and a suction fan (140) inside. A flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment may have a shape that extends upward from a housing (15) positioned at the side of a toilet (T) and is bent inward at the top of a toilet (T). A flow pipe (100) according to one embodiment may be positioned so that a suction port (110) faces inward toward the toilet (T).

[0126] A stand (17) according to one embodiment may be placed in the central area of ​​the housing (15) according to the front-rear direction of the toilet (T). A stand (17) according to one embodiment may have a shape that extends upward from the housing (15) placed on the side of the toilet (T), is bent inward at the top of the toilet (T), and is then bent downward. A stand (17) according to one embodiment may be fixedly hooked and coupled to the toilet (T). A stand (17) according to one embodiment may be formed with a thickness less than the distance between the toilet (T) and the seat (800), extend between the toilet (T) and the seat (800), and be fixedly coupled to the toilet (T).

[0127] A support member (210) according to one embodiment is coupled to a housing (15) at the rear of a toilet (T) and can be coupled to an image sensor (200) to support the image sensor (200). A support member (210) according to one embodiment may have a shape that extends upward from a housing (15) positioned at the side of a toilet (T) and is then bent inward at the top of a toilet (T). An image sensor (200) may be coupled to the extended end of a support member (210) according to one embodiment.

[0128] In one embodiment, an LED (500) and an input unit (600) may be disposed on the outer side of the mounting bracket (17) in the housing (15). In one embodiment, a display unit (400) may be disposed on the rear side of the support (210) in the housing (15).

[0129] Referring further to FIG. 10, an image sensor (200) according to one embodiment may be attached to a support (210) in a state of being inclined at an angle. A support (210) according to one embodiment extends inwardly from a housing (15) positioned on the side of the toilet (T), and the inner end may extend in a direction that intersects the direction of gravity from above the toilet (T).

[0130] An image sensor (200) according to one embodiment may be coupled in a state where it is tilted obliquely in the direction of gravity. An image sensor (200) according to one embodiment may be coupled in a state where the shooting range (FOA) is tilted downward so that it cannot photograph the user's body and can only photograph feces expelled from the user.

[0131] A biometric data collection device (10) according to one embodiment may further include a stool collection sheet (900) installed inside a toilet (T) and formed to support feces discharged from a user. According to one embodiment, both ends of the stool collection sheet (900) may be connected to the sides of the toilet (T).

[0132] When feces fall into the water inside the toilet (T), gas measurement is possible to some extent, but only a significantly small amount of fecal gas is inhaled and measured. Therefore, a stool sample paper (900) can be used to increase the amount of fecal gas inhaled and measured.

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 11a and 11b, a bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment may be installed on the left or right side of a toilet (T). A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment may be manufactured in two symmetrical models. In each case, a flow pipe (100), a stand (17), and a support (210) may be arranged in order from front to back on the toilet (T).

[0134] A cover (C) according to one embodiment may be rotatably coupled to a toilet (T). A cover (C) according to one embodiment may be placed on the upper part of a biometric data collection device (10) or removed from the upper part of a biometric data collection device (10).

[0135] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method for collecting user biometric data based on fecal gas or feces discharged into a toilet (T) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 12, a biometric data collection device (10) (e.g., controller (700)) according to one embodiment can acquire user information input from a user in operation 1210. The biometric data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can receive user information (e.g., ID, unique number, etc.) through an input unit (600).

[0137] A biometric data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can transmit user information received in operation 1220 to a judgment server (20) through a communication unit (300). In one embodiment, the biometric data collection device (10) can transmit user information to the judgment server (20) together with image data or gas data acquired later, or transmit it to the judgment server (20) individually.

[0138] A determination server (20) according to one embodiment may identify a user based on receiving user information and transmit a URL or link for a health-related survey to the communication terminal of the identified user. A determination server (20) according to one embodiment may obtain health-related survey data from the user on a webpage corresponding to the URL or link.

[0139] A biometric data collection device (10) according to one embodiment may operate a suction fan (140) in operation 1230. In one embodiment, the biometric data collection device (10) may start operating the suction fan (140) when user information is received through an input unit (600). In another embodiment, the suction fan (140) may be operated when a user's seating is detected or periodically.

[0140] A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment may operate a suction fan (140) disposed inside a flow pipe (100) to suck fecal gas into the interior of the flow pipe (100) which extends from a suction port (110) formed to face the interior of the toilet (T) and installed in the toilet (T) to an outlet (120). A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment may control the suction fan (140) to operate at a preset rotational speed.

[0141] A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can detect fecal gas through a sensor module (130) in operation 1240. A sensor module (130) according to one embodiment can detect fecal gas by operating in real time or periodically. For example, the sensor module (130) can detect fecal gas by determining whether a preset concentration of gas is detected above a preset threshold.

[0142] A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can continuously detect fecal gas when fecal gas is not detected (operation 1240-No).

[0143] A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can acquire image data of feces discharged into the interior of the toilet (T) through an image sensor (200) installed in the toilet (T) and arranged to acquire image data of the interior of the toilet (T) when fecal gas is detected (operation 1240-yes) in operation 1250.

[0144] An image sensor (200) according to one embodiment can take multiple fecal images to improve data accuracy. For example, the time of shooting may be immediately after detecting feces and after a certain period of time has elapsed. Additionally, the image sensor (200) can take a picture of the state before detecting feces (an empty stool sample paper (900)).

[0145] A biometric data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can transmit acquired image data to an analysis server (30) through a communication unit (300) in operation 1260. A biometric data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can transmit a plurality (e.g., 4) of image files generated from an image sensor (200) to an analysis server (30) in the form of JPG files.

[0146] An analysis server (30) according to one embodiment can analyze the received image data for Bristol type and stool color through image processing technology. An analysis server (30) according to one embodiment can transmit the analysis results of the Bristol type and stool color to a biometric data collection device (10) or a judgment server (20).

[0147] A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can acquire gas data in operation 1270. A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can acquire gas data related to a preset gas concentration through a sensor module (130) while operating a suction fan (140) for a preset time (e.g., 3 minutes) when fecal gas is detected.

[0148] A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can acquire gas data corresponding to inhaled fecal gas through a sensor module (130) disposed inside a flow tube (100) and including a first sensor capable of measuring hydrogen sulfide gas and a second sensor capable of measuring volatile organic compound (VOC) gas.

[0149] A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can transmit acquired gas data to a judgment server (20) through a communication unit (300) in operation 1280. A bio-data collection device (10) according to one embodiment can extract meaningful data from raw data (ppm) measured by a first sensor and a second sensor, respectively, convert it into a JSON file, and transmit it to a judgment server (20).

[0150] A judgment server (20) according to one embodiment may receive health-related survey data from a user's terminal. A judgment server (20) according to one embodiment may generate a health checkup result based on image data or an analysis result of an image, gas data, and survey data. A judgment server (20) according to one embodiment may generate a health checkup result using artificial intelligence or a deep learning model, etc.

[0151] A judgment server (20) according to one embodiment may transmit a URL or link for displaying health examination results to a user's communication terminal. In one embodiment, the user may check the health examination results through the URL or link received at the communication terminal.

[0152] The biometric data collection method in the biometric data collection device (10) described above may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing a computer program stored on a computer-readable recording medium executed by a computer or instructions executable by a computer. Additionally, the biometric data collection method in the biometric data collection device (10) described above may also be implemented in the form of a computer program stored on a computer-readable recording medium executed by a computer.

[0153] A computer-readable recording medium may be any available medium accessible by a computer and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, and both removable and inremovable media. Additionally, a computer-readable recording medium may include a computer storage medium. A computer storage medium includes both volatile and non-volatile, removable and inremovable media implemented by any method or technique for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data.

[0154] The functions realized by the components described herein may be implemented in a general-purpose processor, a specific-purpose processor, an integrated circuit, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a circuit, and / or a combination thereof, which are programmed to realize the described functions. A processor may include transistors or other circuits and is considered to be a circuit or a processing circuit. A processor may be a programmed processor that executes a program stored in memory.

[0155] In this specification, circuits, parts, units, and means are hardware programmed to perform or execute the described functions. Such hardware may be any hardware disclosed in this specification or any hardware known to be programmed or execute the described functions.

[0156] If the hardware is a processor considered to be a circuit type, the circuit, the part, means, or unit is a combination of the hardware and the software used to constitute the hardware and / or processor.

[0157] The foregoing description of the present disclosure is for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will understand that other specific forms can be easily modified without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. For example, each component described as a single unit may be implemented in a distributed manner, and components described as distributed may likewise be implemented in a combined form.

[0158] The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims set forth below rather than by the detailed description above, and all modifications or variations derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and equivalent concepts thereof should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A device for collecting a user's biometric data based on fecal gas or feces discharged into a toilet, A flow pipe installed in the above toilet and extending from a suction port formed to face the interior of the above toilet to a discharge port; A suction fan disposed inside the above-mentioned flow tube and configured to suck the fecal gas from the suction port into the interior of the above-mentioned flow tube when operating; A sensor module disposed inside the above-mentioned fluid pipe and comprising at least one sensor; An image sensor installed in the above toilet and positioned to acquire image data of the interior of the above toilet; and A controller comprising at least one processor and at least one memory containing computer program code, and The above at least one memory and the above computer program code are controlled by the controller through the above at least one processor: The suction fan is operated to suck the fecal gas into the interior of the above flow pipe, and Through the sensor module above, gas data corresponding to the inhaled fecal gas is obtained, and The above image sensor is configured to acquire image data of the feces discharged into the interior of the toilet. device.

2. In Paragraph 1, The sensor module comprises a first sensor capable of measuring hydrogen sulfide gas and a second sensor capable of measuring volatile organic compounds (VOC) gas. device.

3. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a communication unit configured to transmit or receive a signal to or from an external device, and The above at least one memory and the above computer program code are controlled by the controller through the above at least one processor: It is configured to obtain user information from the above user through the input unit, and The above communication unit is configured to transmit the acquired user information and the acquired gas data to a judgment server. device.

4. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a communication unit configured to transmit or receive a signal to or from an external device, and The above at least one memory and the above computer program code are controlled by the controller through the above at least one processor: The above acquired image data is configured to be transmitted to an analysis server, device.

5. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a seat positioned on the upper part of the toilet so as to be spaced apart from the toilet in at least some area, and formed to allow the user to sit on it. The suction port of the above fluid pipe is positioned between the toilet and the seat at the side of the toilet, device.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above flow pipe is such that the cross-sectional area or width at the location where the suction fan is placed is reduced compared to the cross-sectional area or width of the suction port. device.

7. In Paragraph 1, The toilet further comprises a stool collection sheet installed inside the toilet and formed to support feces discharged from the user. device.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above at least one memory and the above computer program code are controlled by the controller through the above at least one processor: Through the sensor module above, the fecal gas is detected, and Based on whether the above fecal gas is detected, the gas data is set to be acquired. device.

9. A method for collecting a user's biometric data based on fecal gas or feces discharged into a toilet, A step of operating a suction fan disposed inside a fluid pipe to suck the fecal gas into the interior of a fluid pipe extending from a suction port formed to face the interior of the toilet and installed in the toilet; A step of acquiring gas data corresponding to the inhaled fecal gas through a sensor module disposed inside the above-mentioned flow tube and comprising at least one sensor; and The method includes the step of acquiring image data of the feces discharged into the interior of the toilet through an image sensor installed in the toilet and positioned to acquire image data of the interior of the toilet. method.

10. In Paragraph 9, A step of transmitting the above-mentioned acquired gas data to the judgment server; and The method further includes the step of transmitting the acquired image data to an analysis server. method.

11. In Paragraph 9, A step of detecting the fecal gas through the sensor module; and Acquiring the gas data based on whether the above fecal gas is detected, method.

12. In Paragraph 9, A step of obtaining user information from the above user; and The method further includes the step of transmitting the acquired user information to the judgment server. method.

13. A computer program stored on a non-transient computer-readable recording medium comprising a sequence of instructions for collecting a user's biometric data based on fecal gas or feces discharged from a toilet, When the above computer program is executed by a computing device, A suction fan positioned inside a fluid pipe is operated to suck the fecal gas into the interior of a fluid pipe extending from a suction port formed to face the interior of the toilet and installed in the toilet, and Gas data corresponding to the inhaled fecal gas is obtained through a sensor module disposed inside the above-mentioned flow tube and comprising at least one sensor, and A sequence of instructions comprising acquiring image data of the feces discharged into the interior of the toilet through an image sensor installed in the toilet and positioned to acquire image data of the interior of the toilet, program.

Images