Automated handling system for excretion

The new automated system for excretion was developed. The system consisted of a diaper cup and control unit. The diaper cup is composed of a resin-molded cup and exchangeable diaper made of cotton cloth. The diaper cup is connected to the control unit with a suction hose, a hose for heated air, a tube for warm water and an electric lead for the sensors. The control unit is composed of a suction motor unit for excreta, a tank of warm water for washing the area surrounding the excretory organs, a collection tank for the excreta, valves and a control board for the whole unit. A reflecting light sensor for detecting faeces and an impedance sensor for detecting moisture are set in the internal part of the diaper cup. The experiments were performed for seven elderly patients and results showed that the sensor successfully detected urination. We found that the system is effective and increases the quality of life of people requiring diapers.