Scientists have invented a “smart toilet” that tests users’ health

Modern technologies cover all areas of everyday life. The bathroom is no exception. An interesting and even useful invention in this area is a smart toilet. This innovative device can significantly facilitate and make hygiene procedures more effective. The plumbing market is constantly updated with new models of electronic toilets. To make the best choice, you should familiarize yourself with the operating principles of the products, their types, installation options and manufacturer ratings.

Design and principle of operation of a smart toilet

Externally, a smart toilet is practically no different from standard products. The differences are in the size and presence of electronic filling.

General equipment structure:

• ceramic or steel bowl;
• heated seat;
• cistern;
• main building;
• seat cover;
• Motion Sensor;
• stop valve;
• mesh filter;
• network cable;
• nozzle;
• bracket with control panel or stand for remote control.

The principle of operation of the device is to create a vacuum when draining water. Additional functions of the electronic toilet are computer control and the combination of many functions that would normally be performed by several separate devices.

What is a smart toilet

Intelligent plumbing, which was first developed by engineers from Japan, looks almost like an ordinary toilet, but is distinguished by very high quality workmanship, environmentally friendly materials and unusual functionality. Smart options make the new product comfortable and in demand. Here's how a smart toilet from Japan differs:

• Allows economical use of natural resources.
• Antibacterial materials are used for production.
• Availability of an electronic multifunctional control panel and its backup on the device itself. Some manufacturers have provided the installation of smartphone applications with which you can control the toilet via WiFi.

• Aesthetically attractive appearance of plumbing fixtures.

Many toilet models are equipped with a bidet for men and women. Intelligent plumbing has undeniable advantages for modern toilet equipment. With a smart toilet in your home, you can forget about uncomfortable hygiene procedures - the absence of an unpleasant odor and a large tank with a supply of water, the need to touch the toilet lid, and an uncomfortable position on the seat. The electronic toilet combines all the necessary options and a number of additional features.

Features and functions of plumbing fixtures

Main functions - automatic flush, heated seat and air freshener spray

A smart human toilet is a scientific development that combines mechanics and electronics. Products are available with a minimum, medium and extended set of functions.

A smart toilet may have the following list of options:

• Air purification, supply of air freshener to the room.
• Touch lighting, which is turned on by a motion sensor when a person enters the toilet.
• Drying. Carried out after flushing and completion of the water procedure.
• Automatic lid control. Opens when approaching the toilet, by sensor or remotely. Closing occurs in the same way.

• 
  Pulse water supply is carried out taking into account the gender of the user

  Pulse water supply when washing. The temperature is adjusted in advance, and the nozzle cleans itself after use. In this case, the position and pulsation are adjusted to the user’s gender.

• Providing a sound signal before the start and at the end of certain processes.
• Heated seats. There are several modes, among which everyone chooses what is comfortable for themselves.
• Automatic flushing. It is produced by a signal from a sensor that determines the degree of filling of the bowl.
• Cover microlift. Carries out slow and silent raising and lowering of the lid in automatic mode.

Modern Japanese smart toilets are distinguished by their convenience, compactness, innovative design, reliability and safety. At the same time, the use of products is accompanied by maintaining ideal cleanliness and sanitation.

Scientists have created a “smart” toilet that can diagnose diseases

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a smart toilet system that can monitor and accurately diagnose various diseases. The device is equipped with a set of various sensors, three cameras, a comprehensive medical analysis system, and even a user identification function, writes the journal Nature Biomedical Engineering.

Structurally, all this looks like a separate block that can be built into any standard toilet.

The main author of the development is Professor Sanjiv Gambhir, Head of the Department of Radiology at Stanford University School of Medicine. The idea of ​​a “smart” toilet first came to him 15 years ago, but then the proposal was not taken seriously.

“When I talked about my idea, although people were interested in the details, they laughed,” explains Professor Gambhir.

However, 15 years later, the scientist finally brought his idea to life.

Using existing instruments, the system can analyze urine and stool samples. The “smart” toilet is capable of detecting blood content in urine, analyzing the number of white blood cells, protein levels, glucose and many other biomarkers, as well as identifying the first signs of certain types of cancer (colorectal or urological), kidney failure and other diseases.

The smart toilet will automatically send the collected data to a secure cloud, to which only the attending physician will have access, and will report test results via a mobile application.

As for the user identification system, it was originally planned based on a person’s fingerprint on the drain button. But the developers of the smart toilet came to the conclusion that this approach will not work. The toilet may be equipped with an automatic flush system, and in different circumstances another person may do the flushing.

As a result, a different method of user verification was chosen. The system scans the anus area and thus identifies the person. “We understand how strange this may sound, but this approach works because of the uniqueness of the fingerprint on the scanner,” says Professor Gambhir.

Scientists tested the effectiveness of the smart toilet on 21 volunteers. In addition, the researchers surveyed 300 people to find out how many would agree to use such a system in their home. 52% of respondents said they liked the idea.

The developers of the smart toilet note that their device allows for constant monitoring of health without frequent visits to the doctor. But for maximum effectiveness, patients must use this device regularly.

Currently, the creators of the smart toilet are improving the molecular assessment functions for stool samples. In addition, they plan to develop customized sensors for people with certain diseases.

Types of smart toilets according to the option of connecting to the sewer system

Floor-standing models have no weight restrictions

The installation of computerized toilets is practically no different from conventional ceramic analogues. The only difference is that smart products need to be supplied with electricity. Considering the specifics of the devices, it is allowed to use only a grounded outlet in order to completely eliminate the possibility of electric shock. The choice of model is determined by the type of water discharge from the bowl. Models with vertical and horizontal drainage are available for sale.

Based on connection options, smart plumbing is divided into the following categories:

• Floor-standing. The bowl is installed on a strong and level base, to which it is additionally secured with anchor bolts. Floor-standing models are characterized by stability, reliability and the absence of restrictions on the weight of the load they can accept. This allows engineers to set the maximum number of options. However, the buyer can choose a budget product that is compact and affordable.

• 
  Suspended models are mounted on a steel frame, which is attached to the floor and ceiling

  Hanging. To secure them, a steel frame (installation) is equipped, which is fixed to the floor and ceiling. Side drain. The sewer pipes and tank are hidden behind the trim, only the bowl is visible. Such models are more popular due to their convenience and presentability. The downside is the higher price, the complexity of installation and the need to have extra space for mounting the supporting frame.

Electric toilets go on sale with factory settings and activated functions. In most cases, the specified parameters suit consumers. They can be easily changed or disabled if desired.

Another nuance that needs to be taken into account during installation is the need to install a filtration and water softening system for the tank. Regular liquid for electronic equipment is not suitable, as it will quickly damage the heaters, tubes and washing attachment. In addition, it is recommended to use a voltage stabilizer to protect the control system from power surges.

Bidet function

I hope there is no need to explain what this function is?) The pressure and direction of the jet can be adjusted. A separate “Women’s Mode” is available, which is more gentle on pressure during menstruation. Also, for complete relaxation, a massage mode is available.

The water in the bidet is heated to a comfortable temperature, which can be adjusted.

There is a location sensor in the lid, which eliminates the possibility of false alarms (the water jet will not be activated if you are not sitting on the toilet).

Rules for choosing a smart toilet

The highest quality smart toilets are made in Japan

Before you buy a toilet with a remote control, you should evaluate your financial capabilities. In addition to the already considerable price of the product, the cost of its delivery, installation, sewerage re-equipment, electrical supply with grounding and installation of a filtration system will be added to the estimate.

If there are no problems with money, you need to evaluate the following criteria:

• Room size. It should be spacious enough so that people do not feel cramped or difficult when using the product. There must be free passage to the toilet, unobstructed opening and closing of doors.
• Bowl configuration. The anatomical features of the toilet affect the human musculoskeletal system and the ease of use of the product.
• Method of connecting water supply and sewerage. Possibility of making changes to existing communications. In some cases, redevelopment may be required, and this activity requires coordination with the management company.
• Type of toilet (wall-hung, floor-standing). In this case, it is necessary to take into account the load-bearing capacity of the floors - whether they can withstand the weight of the toilet, the installation and the heaviest person in the family.
• List of functions. It may not be necessary to purchase a product with a full range of options, some of which you will never need but add to the cost of the product. At the same time, the list of functions should include such health benefits as air freshening, drying and washing with hydromassage.
• Manufacturer. It’s better to overpay for a quality item that will serve well for years than to waste money and nerves on endless repairs. Today, plumbing fixtures from Japan are considered the standard of quality. In this country they invented the computer toilet and made great progress in this direction.

Don't forget about the aesthetic side of the issue. Plumbing fixtures should fit organically into the interior of the room so as not to disrupt its style. This applies to the size, shape, design and color of the product.

Is it worth buying a smart toilet? What can he do?

The toilet is an element of the bathroom that is present in every home. But a smart toilet is still a rarity for our country. While in Japan, the birthplace of such toilets, almost all apartments and even public places are equipped with smart toilets. In this article we will look at the functions of smart toilets, price categories, as well as the feasibility of purchasing them. What can a smart toilet do?

Heated seat

- a nice part of any smart toilet. There is a legend that this function was introduced after one man had a heart attack while sitting on a cold toilet seat. Whether this is true or not is impossible to say for sure.

Tornado flush
- Cyclon technology from Dyson. The essence of this flush is quite simple - water is poured into the toilet in a spiral, and then it is forcefully drawn into the drain hole. Thus, flushing requires very little time and water consumption.

The lifting lid
will allow the visitor to avoid contact with the toilet, thereby providing maximum hygiene. The toilet, using a sensor, detects that a person has entered the restroom and automatically lifts the lid. After you leave the room, he will close this lid.

The bidet function
is another factor for maximum hygiene. The washing is turned on after pressing the button, you can choose one of several modes presented. Modes are available for men, women and children. You can purchase a model with a hydromassage function. When washing, the fitting moves back and forth, thereby providing a maximum washing area. The water temperature can be changed at your discretion.

Drying
is an element that will help you do without paper at all. This mode is also activated by pressing a button on the control panel. The temperature can be adjusted.

Musical accompaniment
will help those who, before starting the process, wash off the water so that no sounds are heard. A smart toilet will turn on the sound of water or birdsong when you press a button. The volume of sounds is adjusted using special buttons.

In addition to all of the above, the smart toilet, sensing that someone has sat on it, turns on the deodorization system and extracts unpleasant odors.

Thus, when using a smart toilet, practically nothing is required from a person. Maintenance of such a toilet is also not required; it will do everything itself. The good news is that there is no drain tank, this saves space. The toilet takes water directly from the pipes. The control panel with which such a toilet is necessarily equipped can be mounted either near the seat or on the wall.

The only thing that is not at all pleasing is the cost of such equipment. Average price range from 70 to 220 thousand rubles

. Of course, there are toilets in a higher price segment, but you won’t find a quality product cheaper.

In Japan, they also sell toilets that can weigh a person, measure blood pressure, and much more. However, such models are not presented in Russia. They are simply not in demand at all.

Alternative option

for a smart toilet is
an electronic bidet lid.
The price range for such a product is from
15,000 rubles to 150,000 rubles
. These covers are suitable for various toilet models. At the same time, expensive options have a washing function with various modes and a moving nozzle, a drying function, temperature adjustment, air purification, and seat heating. And cheaper models will delight us with various washing function modes and heated seats.

In conclusion, I would like to say that a smart toilet is certainly a convenient, functional and hygienic thing. If you can allocate enough money for a new toilet, then it’s worth purchasing it. If the price of the toilet does not suit you, then you can consider the option of a smart lid. After all, this device also has the necessary functionality.

Installation Features

It is recommended to entrust installation to professionals

The design of the plumbing fixtures is thought out in terms of functionality and installation. To connect to European connectors, imported products are equipped with appropriate units and connectors. The buyer does not need to waste time and money searching for adapters of the right type.

Installation is carried out in the following sequence:

1. Studying the instructions. This event should not be neglected, as the document will help you understand the installation methodology and procedure. Theoretical preparation will help you do everything right the first time.
2. Marking. For floor-standing models, the installation locations and holes for drilling are marked. For hanging products, marks are made to place the installation.
3. Bowl fastening. It is screwed to the frame or floor using the included hardware.
4. Connection of the toilet with the sewer. As a rule, a tee and silicone corrugation are used for this.
5. Water supply. The best solution is polypropylene or copper pipes with fittings. Flexible hoses can be used as a temporary option.
6. Connecting equipment to electricity. Setting up the control panel. This is no more difficult than setting parameters on a personal computer or electronic smart watch. If the instructions are in a foreign language, they can be translated using an online translator.

After making the settings, it is recommended to check the product in all operating modes.

Popular manufacturers of smart toilets

In order not to make a mistake when choosing a smart toilet, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the list of the most popular manufacturers:

• Toto, Japan;
• Panasonic, Japan;
• Vitra, Türkiye;
• Orans, Germany;
• Villeroy&Boch, Germany;
• SensPa, South Korea.

Almost all products have the same set of functions and are comfortable, reliable and easy to use. A guarantee of purchasing high-quality plumbing fixtures is to contact a certified sales center.