A Japanese company has unveiled a device that will let the user know ahead of time when they will need to go to the toilet.

The device is called Dfree, and it was created by a company called Triple W. It basically attaches to the user's stomach and tracks all of their bowel movements.

Dfree is aimed primarily toward those who suffer from fecal incontinence, or a lack of bowel control, however, others who simply want to be able to time when they need to go to the bathroom could also make use of the device.

"This device predicts fecal excretion. The device goes on your stomach and uses ultrasonic waves to monitor your internal organs and sends the data to smartphones to be displayed," said Ryohei Ochiai of Triple W in an interview with VentureBeat.

The device isn't completely finished, however. The team is still looking for the best way to secure the Dfree to the lower stomach and whether or not to use something like tape. According to Ochiai, some are worried about skin chafing, so considering exactly how to secure the device is important.

One of the main reasons for the development of the device is the aging population in Japan. By 2060, two out of five people in Japan will be aged 65 or older. Japan has the fastest aging population in the world. Dfree will enable elderly people to not yet have to move to using diapers. While the primary use will be for elderly people, it can also be used on toddlers, with the team suggesting that it could help parents with things like toilet training.

Via: VentureBeat