Control device, control method, and control system

Abstract

The present invention maintains an effect of alleviating bodily pain caused by projected light. A control device includes a control unit that controls the intensity of light and the wavelength of light received by an eye of a subject. In order to alleviate the pain felt by the subject, the control unit varies at least one of the intensity of the light and the wavelength of the light.

Description

Control device, control method, and control system

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device, a control method, a control system, and the like that relieve pain felt by a subject.

[0002] The eye contains ganglion cells that have light-receiving ability but are not directly related to visual function. For example, Non-Patent Document 1 reports that irradiation with light in a wavelength range corresponding to green light relieves acute and chronic pain.

[0003] Furthermore, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for determining a dosage in a system for treating a patient's pain using high-frequency nerve block based on a patient-specific database of previously delivered dosage parameters and corresponding pre- and post-delivery pain estimates from the patient.

[0004] Japan Special Table No. 2021-533931

[0005] Mohab M. Ibrahima et, al., “Long-lasting anticiceptive effects of green light in acute and chronic pain in rats”, Pain. Vol. 158, No. 2, p.347-360, 2017.

[0006] The control device according to aspect 1 of the present disclosure includes a control unit that controls the intensity of light received by a subject's eye and the wavelength of the light, and the control unit varies at least one of the intensity of the light and the wavelength of the light to alleviate pain felt by the subject.

[0007] A control method according to aspect 2 of the present disclosure varies at least one of the intensity of light and the wavelength of the light received by the subject's eye in order to alleviate pain felt by the subject.

[0008] A control system according to aspect 3 of the present disclosure includes a control unit that controls the intensity of light received by a subject's eye and the wavelength of the light, and the control unit varies at least one of the intensity of the light and the wavelength of the light to alleviate pain felt by the subject.

[0009] An information processing device according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure includes a first calculation unit that calculates a first effect value indicating an analgesic effect of the first irradiation based on first pain information regarding the pain of the subject obtained by a first irradiation in which irradiation light is applied to the subject for a first period of time; a second calculation unit that calculates a second effect value indicating an analgesic effect of the second irradiation based on second pain information regarding the pain of the subject obtained by a second irradiation in which the irradiation light is applied to the subject for a second period of time that is shorter than the first period of time after the first irradiation; and a setting unit that sets irradiation conditions for the irradiation light applied to the subject in a third irradiation after the second irradiation based on the first effect value and the second effect value.

[0010] A program according to aspect 5 of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer to function as the information processing device described in aspect 4 above, and is a program for causing a computer to function as the first calculation unit, the second calculation unit, and the setting unit.

[0011] A light irradiation system according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure includes the information processing device according to the fourth aspect and a light source that irradiates the target with the irradiation light.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a main part of a light irradiation system according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a light irradiation device provided in the light irradiation system. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of irradiation by the light irradiation system. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of irradiation by the light irradiation system. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a main part of a light irradiation system according to embodiment 2 of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a main part of a light irradiation system according to embodiment 4 of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an irradiation protocol according to embodiment 4. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of an information processing method by the light irradiation system according to embodiment 4. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of an information processing method by the light irradiation system according to embodiment 5. FIG. 10 is a graph showing an example of a transition of a second effect value in a second session. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an irradiation protocol according to embodiment 6. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of an information processing method according to embodiment 6.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a control device, a control method, and a control system are provided that prevent a subject from becoming bored with light irradiation. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce a subject's boredom with light irradiation.

[0014] [Embodiment 1] One embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail below. Unless otherwise specified in this disclosure, "A to B" representing a numerical range means "greater than or equal to A and less than or equal to B." In this disclosure, "light having a wavelength of A to B nm" means light having a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of A to B nm.

[0015] (Configuration of Light Irradiation System 100) First, the configuration of the light irradiation system (control system) 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the main parts of the light irradiation system 100 in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the light irradiation system 100 includes a light irradiation device (control device) 1 that irradiates the eyes of a user (subject) with irradiation light that has the effect of alleviating physical pain felt by the user. For example, the light irradiation device 1 may be a wearable device or a stationary device. When the light irradiation device 1 is a wearable device, for example, the light irradiation device 1 may be wearable on the head or eyes of the user. In this embodiment, the light irradiation device 1 will be described as a wearable device that can be worn on the head of the user, as shown in FIG. 2 described later.

[0016] In addition to the light irradiation device 1, the light irradiation system 100 may further include a display device 40 that displays images and various information acquired from the light irradiation device 1. The light irradiation system 100 including the display device 40 will be described below as an example.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary configuration of the light irradiation device 1. The light irradiation device 1 may have any shape (e.g., eyeglasses, goggles, headgear, etc.) that can be worn on the user's head. In this case, the light irradiation device 1 may include a mounting mechanism for mounting on the user's head. For example, the mounting mechanism for the eyeglass-type light irradiation device 1 may include nose pads and temples (the so-called "arms" that are hooked onto the ears). For example, the mounting mechanism for the goggle-type light irradiation device 1 as shown in FIG. 2 may include a head strap (fixing band), etc. As shown in FIG. 2, when the light irradiation device 1 is a wearable device, the display device 40 may be separate from the light irradiation device 1. For example, the display device 40 may be a display unit or a display of a computer (not shown) that can communicate with the light irradiation device 1.

[0018] (Configuration of Light Irradiation Device 1) As shown in Fig. 1 , the light irradiation device 1 includes an irradiation unit 10 and a control unit 20. The light irradiation device 1 may further include an imaging unit 2, although this is not essential. The light irradiation device 1 may also include a storage unit (not shown) that stores various computer programs read by the control unit 20 and data used in various processes executed by the control unit 20.

[0019] The irradiation unit 10 includes one or more light sources 11 for irradiating the user's eyes with irradiation light. The light irradiated by the irradiation unit 10 may be light that has an effect of alleviating physical pain felt by the user. For example, the irradiation light that has an effect of alleviating physical pain felt by the user may be light with a wavelength of 403 to 659 nm. For example, the irradiation light that has an effect of alleviating physical pain felt by the user may be green light. The light source 11 may be, for example, a light-emitting element such as a light-emitting diode (LED) or a semiconductor laser (LD).

[0020] The irradiation unit 10 may include two or more light sources 11 that emit light of different wavelengths. In this embodiment, the irradiation unit 10 includes a light source 11 that emits light with a wavelength of 403 nm (hereinafter also referred to as light source 11A), a light source 11 that emits light with a wavelength of 528 nm (hereinafter also referred to as light source 11B), and a light source 11 that emits light with a wavelength of 659 nm (hereinafter also referred to as light source 11C). For example, the irradiation unit 10 may include only two of the light source 11A, light source 11B, and light source 11C.

[0021] The control unit 20 controls the execution of processing of each function provided in the light irradiation device 1. In one example, the control unit 20 may be a CPU provided in the light irradiation device 1. The control unit 20 includes an irradiation control unit 21 and an output unit 22 that outputs an image captured by the imaging unit 2 (described later) to the display device 40.

[0022] The irradiation control unit 21 controls the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light emitted by the irradiation unit 10. "Irradiation intensity" is expressed by various indices related to the strength of the irradiation light, such as irradiance, radiant flux, and radiation intensity. In the following description, the irradiation light emitted by the irradiation unit 10 may be simply referred to as irradiation light. The irradiation control unit 21 controls so as to vary at least one of the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light. The irradiation control unit 21 may also control so as to vary both the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light. For example, the irradiation control unit 21 may control the irradiation time of the irradiation light emitted by the irradiation unit 10. For example, the irradiation control unit 21 may control so that the irradiation time of the irradiation light emitted by the irradiation unit 10 is any time between 15 minutes and 60 minutes.

[0023] When varying the irradiation intensity of the irradiation light, the irradiation control unit 21 may, for example, control the irradiation intensity by controlling the voltage value or current value applied to the light source 11. For example, the irradiation control unit 21 may control the irradiation intensity of the irradiation light to be 0.059 to 0.55 W / m ２ The irradiation intensity of the irradiation light may be controlled within the range of 0.059 to 0.55 W / m ２By doing so, it is possible to vary the irradiation intensity of the irradiated light while maintaining the effect of alleviating the physical pain felt by the user. For example, the irradiation control unit 21 may vary the wavelength of the irradiated light so that the irradiation intensity of the irradiated light is equal to or less than a predetermined value. For example, the irradiation control unit 21 may vary the wavelength of the irradiated light so that the irradiation intensity of the irradiated light is equal to or less than a predetermined value. ２ For example, the irradiation control unit 21 may change the wavelength of the irradiated light so that the irradiation intensity of the irradiated light is 0.18 W / m or less. ２ The wavelength of the irradiating light may be varied so that:

[0024] When varying the wavelength of the irradiated light, the irradiation control unit 21 may control the light source 11A, the light source 11B, and the light source 11C. For example, the irradiation control unit 21 may vary the wavelength of the irradiated light by switching the light source 11 that emits light. In this case, the wavelength of the light irradiated from the irradiating unit 10 changes discontinuously. Alternatively, when smoothly varying the wavelength, the irradiation control unit 21 may gradually change the intensity of the light emitted from each light source 11. As an example, a case will be described in which the wavelength of the irradiated light is smoothly varied from 528 nm (first wavelength) to 659 nm (second wavelength). In this case, the irradiation control unit 21 first controls only the light source 11B (first light source) to emit light so that light with a wavelength of 528 nm is irradiated. From this state, the irradiation control unit 21 gradually reduces the output of the light source 11B and gradually increases the output of the light source 11C (second light source). As a result, the wavelength of the irradiated light irradiated from the irradiating unit 10 gradually increases from 528 nm. When the output of light source 11B becomes 0, the wavelength of the light emitted from irradiation unit 10 becomes 659 nm.

[0025] When varying the wavelength of the irradiated light, the irradiation control unit 21 may, for example, control the wavelength of the irradiated light emitted by the irradiating unit 10 within a range of 403 to 659 nm. By setting the wavelength of the irradiated light to 403 to 659 nm, the wavelength of the irradiated light can be varied while maintaining the effect of alleviating physical pain felt by the user.

[0026] The imaging unit 2 is a camera for capturing an image of the user, and may be a digital camera or a digital video camera. The imaging unit 2 may capture an image of the user's face being irradiated with the irradiation light, or may capture an image of the user's eyes and their surroundings being irradiated with the irradiation light. The image data (still image data or moving image data) captured by the imaging unit 2 may be output from the light irradiation device 1 to the display device 40 by the output unit 22. The imaging unit 2 may estimate the illuminance of the irradiation light at the position of the user's eyes from the image data.

[0027] The display device 40 displays the image captured by the imaging unit 2. The display device 40 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display device or an organic EL display attached to a terminal operated by a medical professional. The display device 40 and the imaging unit 2 may be connected by wire or wirelessly. The image captured by the imaging unit 2 may be displayed on the display device 40 in real time. The display device 40 may display an image of the user captured by the imaging unit 2. Based on the image displayed on the display device 40, the medical professional can know the position where the irradiation light is being irradiated and the open / closed state of the user's eyelids. The display device 40 may estimate the illuminance of the irradiation light at the position of the user's eyes from the image of the user captured by the imaging unit 2.

[0028] Here, if the user is irradiated with irradiation light at a constant irradiation intensity and a constant wavelength, the user may become bored with the treatment over a long period of time, for example, averting their gaze or becoming drowsy. In such cases, the effect of the irradiation light on alleviating physical pain may be reduced. In contrast, in the light irradiation system 100 and light irradiation method of this embodiment, the light irradiation device 1 includes an irradiation control unit 21 that varies at least one of the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light emitted from the irradiation unit 10. According to the above configuration, the irradiation light can be irradiated onto the user's eyes while varying at least one of the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light. This allows the light perceived by the user during treatment to be changed, making it less likely that the user will tire of the light irradiation. As a result, the effect of the irradiation light on alleviating physical pain may be more easily maintained.

[0029] Next, a description will be given of examples of irradiation with irradiation light in the light irradiation system 100. Here, irradiation examples of the following patterns A to E will be described respectively.

[0030] (Pattern A) In the irradiation example of pattern A, the irradiation control unit 21 keeps constant the irradiation intensity of the irradiation light irradiated from the irradiation unit 10, and varies the wavelength of the irradiation light. In this case, the irradiation control unit 21 may, for example, switch between light source 11A, light source 11B, and light source 11C to emit light, and control the emitted light source 11 so that the irradiation intensity is constant.

[0031] Alternatively, the irradiation control unit 21 may control the irradiation intensity, which is the sum of the intensities of the light irradiated from light source 11A, light source 11B, and light source 11C, to be constant, and then change the output of light source 11A, light source 11B, and light source 11C.

[0032] In the irradiation example of pattern A, the irradiation intensity emitted from the irradiation unit 10 can be kept constant while the wavelength of the irradiated light can be varied. This reduces the possibility that the user will tire of the irradiation of the irradiated light, while making it easier to maintain the effect of alleviating physical pain caused by the irradiated light.

[0033] (Pattern B) In the irradiation example of pattern B, the irradiation control unit 21 controls the illuminance of the irradiation light irradiated from the irradiation unit 10 at the position of the user's eyes to be a constant value or to be equal to or less than a predetermined value. For example, the irradiation control unit 21 may vary at least one of the irradiation intensity of the irradiation light and the wavelength of the irradiation light irradiated from the irradiation unit 10 while controlling each light source to achieve an illuminance that maximizes the effect of alleviating physical pain caused by the irradiation light. This makes it possible to reduce the possibility that the user will tire of the irradiation of the irradiation light while maintaining a high effect of alleviating physical pain caused by the irradiation light.

[0034] Alternatively, the illumination control unit 21 may vary at least one of the illumination intensity of the illumination light and the wavelength of the illumination light emitted from the illumination unit 10 while controlling each light source so that the illumination intensity is equal to or less than the highest illumination intensity at which the user does not perceive the illumination light as dazzling. This prevents the user from perceiving the illumination light as dazzling and reduces the possibility that the user will tire of the illumination light. The highest illumination intensity at which the user does not perceive the illumination light as dazzling can be set for each user.

[0035] (Pattern C) In the irradiation example of Pattern C, a case will be described in which the intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light irradiated from the irradiation unit 10 are varied at a predetermined cycle. Here, the number of predetermined cycles per unit time is defined as frequency f (unit: Hz). In the irradiation example of Pattern C, the irradiation control unit 21 controls the irradiation intensity of the irradiation light so that the higher the frequency f, the lower the irradiation intensity of the irradiation light. More specifically, the irradiation control unit 21 controls the frequency f so that there is an inverse proportional relationship between the frequency f and the irradiation intensity (power spectrum) of the irradiation light. In other words, the irradiation control unit 21 varies the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light in a 1 / f fluctuation pattern. However, the irradiation control unit 21 is not limited to varying the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light in a 1 / f fluctuation pattern, and may vary either the irradiation intensity or the wavelength of the irradiation light in a 1 / f fluctuation pattern. By varying either the irradiation intensity or the wavelength of the irradiation light in a 1 / f fluctuation pattern, the user irradiated with the irradiation light can be relaxed.

[0036] (Pattern D) In ​​an example of irradiation using pattern D, the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light irradiated from the irradiation unit 10 are varied at a predetermined cycle. In this case, the irradiation time of the irradiation light for each wavelength may be controlled according to the number of predetermined cycles per unit time, i.e., the frequency f. As an example, a case in which the illuminance of the irradiation light at the position of the user's eye is constant and the frequency f and the irradiation intensity (power spectrum) of the irradiation light are inversely proportional to each other will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of irradiation using pattern D. Here, green light around 528 nm (e.g., 490 to 620 nm) has a lower irradiation intensity than light of other wavelengths when the illuminance is the same. Therefore, in the irradiation light irradiated from the irradiation unit 10, the longer the irradiation time of the green light per unit time, the lower the irradiation intensity per unit time. Therefore, when the illuminance of the irradiation light is constant, if the irradiation time of the green light is relatively longer than that of light of other wavelengths, the irradiation intensity of the irradiation light per unit time can be reduced. 3, the irradiation control unit 21 makes the irradiation time of the green light when the frequency f is high longer than the irradiation time of the green light when the frequency f is low. This makes it possible to keep the illuminance constant when the frequency f is high and when the frequency f is low, and to make the irradiation intensity when the frequency f is high lower than the irradiation intensity of the irradiated light when the frequency f is low.

[0037] (Pattern E) In an example of irradiation of Pattern E, the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light irradiated from the irradiation unit 10 are varied at a predetermined interval. In this case, the wavelength range of the irradiation light for each wavelength may be controlled according to the frequency f. As an example, a case in which the illuminance of the irradiation light is constant and the frequency f and the irradiation intensity (power spectrum) of the irradiation light have an inverse proportional relationship will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of irradiation of Pattern E. In this case, the irradiation control unit 21 narrows the wavelength range of the irradiation light when the frequency f is high to a range that includes a green light region (e.g., 490 to 620 nm) compared to the wavelength range of the irradiation light when the frequency f is low. As an example, as shown in FIG. 4, the irradiation control unit 21 gradually changes the wavelength range from a wide wavelength range (e.g., 403 to 659 nm) centered at 528 nm to a narrow wavelength range (e.g., 490 to 620 nm) centered at 528 nm as the frequency f increases. This allows the illuminance to be constant when the frequency f is high and when the frequency f is low, and the irradiation intensity when the frequency f is high can be made lower than the irradiation intensity of the irradiated light when the frequency f is low.

[0038] [Embodiment 2] Another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below. For convenience of explanation, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated. A light irradiation system (control system) 100A in this embodiment differs from the light irradiation system 100 in embodiment 1 in the method of controlling the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light irradiated from the irradiation unit.

[0039] Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of a main configuration of a light irradiation system 100A. As shown in Fig. 5, the light irradiation system 100A includes a light irradiation device (control device) 1A instead of the light irradiation device 1 in the embodiment.

[0040] The light irradiation device 1A includes an irradiation unit 10A and a control unit 20A instead of the irradiation unit 10 and the control unit 20 in the light irradiation device 1 of embodiment 1. The irradiation unit 10A includes a light source 13 and a filter 14. For example, the light source 13 is a light source that emits polychromatic light including a wide range of wavelengths. For example, the light source 13 is a light source that emits white light. The filter 14 is a filter that transmits a portion of the light emitted from the light source 13. The filter 14 may be an optical filter (for example, a bandpass filter) that transmits only light in a predetermined wavelength band.

[0041] The control unit 20A includes an irradiation control unit 21A instead of the irradiation control unit 21 in embodiment 1. The irradiation control unit 21A controls at least one of the irradiation intensity and the wavelength of the irradiation light irradiated from the irradiation unit 10A by controlling the filter 14, thereby varying at least one of the irradiation intensity and the wavelength of the irradiation light. As an example, when the irradiation unit 10A includes multiple filters 14 that each transmit light in a different wavelength band, the irradiation control unit 21A may control the light emitted from the light source 13 to transmit through the filter 14 that transmits light in a desired wavelength band.

[0042] The light irradiation system 100A having the above configuration can irradiate the user's eyes with irradiation light while varying at least one of the irradiation intensity and the wavelength of the irradiation light, thereby reducing the possibility that the user will tire of the irradiation with the irradiation light and making it easier to maintain the effect of alleviating physical pain caused by the irradiation light.

[0043] [Embodiment 3] Another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below. For ease of explanation, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated. The control system 100X in this embodiment differs from the light irradiation system 100 in embodiment 1 in the method of controlling the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light irradiated from the irradiation unit. Unlike the light irradiation device 1 in embodiment 1, the control system 100X does not have a mechanism for irradiating light. The control system 100X controls light irradiated from the outside toward a target.

[0044] The control system 100X includes a light reception control device 1B and a display device 40. The light reception control device 1B includes a light receiving unit 10B, a control unit 20B, and an imaging unit 2. The light receiving unit 10B includes a filter 14B. The filter 14B is a filter that transmits a portion of the light irradiated onto the target. The filter 14B may be an optical filter (e.g., a band-pass filter) that transmits only light in a predetermined wavelength band.

[0045] The control unit 20B includes a light-receiving control unit 21B and an output unit 22. The light-receiving control unit 21B varies at least one of the intensity and wavelength of light received by the target by controlling the filter 14B. As an example, when the light-receiving unit 10B includes multiple filters 14B that transmit light in different wavelength bands, the light-receiving control unit 21B may control the light irradiated onto the target to pass through the filter 14B that transmits light in a desired wavelength band.

[0046] The control system 100X having the above configuration can irradiate the user's eyes with light while varying at least one of the irradiation intensity and the wavelength of the light, thereby reducing the possibility that the user will tire of the light irradiation and making it easier to maintain the effect of alleviating physical pain caused by the light.

[0047] [Embodiment 4] Prolonged irradiation of any light that relieves physical pain, not limited to green light, can provide a sufficient analgesic effect, but it places a heavy burden on medical professionals or patients. Therefore, it is desirable to set irradiation conditions that take into consideration the reduction of the burden on medical professionals or patients. According to the configurations described in embodiments 4 to 6 of the present disclosure, it is possible to set irradiation conditions for irradiation light that take into consideration the reduction of the burden on medical professionals or patients.

[0048] (Configuration of Light Irradiation System 100B) First, the configuration of the light irradiation system 100B will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the main parts of the light irradiation system 100B according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the light irradiation system 100B includes a light source 61 and an information processing device 70. In this embodiment, the light irradiation device 60 is equipped with the light source 61. The light irradiation system 100B is used in a pain relief treatment device used in, for example, a hospital or a rehabilitation center. Examples of the pain relief treatment device include a physical therapy device or a physiotherapy device.

[0049] The light irradiation device 60 is a device that irradiates the eye of a subject with irradiation light. The subject is, for example, a patient receiving pain relief treatment. For example, the light irradiation device 60 may be a wearable device or a stationary device.

[0050] When the light irradiation device 60 is a wearable device, the light irradiation device 60 may have any shape (e.g., eyeglasses, goggles, headgear, etc.) that can be worn on the head of a subject (e.g., a user). In this case, the light irradiation device 60 may be provided with a wearing mechanism for wearing it on the head of the subject. For example, the wearing mechanism in the case of an eyeglasses-type light irradiation device 60 may be nose pads and temples (the so-called "arms" that are hooked onto the ears), etc. In the case of a goggles-type light irradiation device 60, the wearing mechanism may be a head strap (fixing band), etc.

[0051] When the light irradiation device 60 is a stationary device, for example, the light irradiation device 60 irradiates irradiation light onto a subject in a sitting or lying position. In this case, the light irradiation device 60 may include a support unit for supporting the subject in a sitting or lying position. The light irradiation device 60 may include a fixing unit for fixing the chin and forehead of the subject in a sitting position. The stationary light irradiation device 60 may include a light-shielding unit for reducing the illuminance of light in a wavelength band different from the irradiation light. Note that, without being limited to the above, the light irradiation device 60 may also irradiate irradiation light onto a subject in a standing position or in a moving position, for example.

[0052] The light source 61 is a light source for irradiating the subject's eye with irradiation light. For example, the irradiation light may be light having a wavelength of 403 to 659 nm. For example, the irradiation light may be green light. For example, the irradiation light may be light that has an effect of alleviating physical pain felt by the subject. For example, green light is known to have an effect of alleviating physical pain felt by the subject. The light source 61 may be a light-emitting element such as a light-emitting diode (LED), an organic electroluminescent device, or a semiconductor laser (LD). The light irradiation device 60 includes one or more light sources 61. The light irradiation device 60 may include a plurality of light sources 61 that irradiate light with different peak wavelengths as light that has a pain-relieving effect.

[0053] The information processing device 70 is a device that sets irradiation conditions for irradiating light by the light irradiation device 60. The information processing device 70 is connected to the light irradiation device 60 by wire or wirelessly. The information processing device 70 includes a control unit 71. The information processing device 70 may further include an input device 75 and a display device 76.

[0054] The control unit 71 controls each unit included in the information processing device 70. The control unit 71 is a computer including a processor that executes arithmetic processing, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and memories such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The control unit 71 executes various programs stored in the memory to perform various controls and calculations. The control unit 71 includes a calculation unit 73 and a setting unit 74. The control unit 71 may further include a communication unit 72.

[0055] The communication unit 72 transmits and receives information to and from the light irradiation device 60. The calculation unit 73 is a functional block that combines the functions of a first calculation unit and a second calculation unit. As the first calculation unit, the calculation unit 73 calculates a first effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the first irradiation based on first pain information obtained by the first irradiation by the light irradiation device 60. As the second calculation unit, the calculation unit 73 calculates a second effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the second irradiation based on second pain information obtained by the second irradiation after the first irradiation. The first pain information and the second pain information are input to the calculation unit 73 from the input device 75.

[0056] The setting unit 74 sets the irradiation conditions of the irradiation light to be irradiated onto the target by the light irradiation device 60. The irradiation conditions include the irradiation time of the irradiation light and the irradiation period (number of days) during which the irradiation light is irradiated for that irradiation time. The irradiation of the irradiation light during the irradiation period may be continuous or discontinuous. For example, the irradiation during the irradiation period may be performed every other day. The irradiation conditions may also include the irradiation intensity of the irradiation light.

[0057] The input device 75 receives pain information related to the subject's pain from the subject. The input device 75 is equipped with, for example, a pain scale for evaluating the degree of pain felt by the subject. Examples of pain scales equipped in the input device 75 include a VAS and an NRS. The information input using the pain scale of the input device 75 is quantified as a pain value of the pain felt by the subject. The subject does not have to operate the input device 75; for example, a doctor, a medical professional, or a family member may operate it on behalf of the subject. The input device 75 may be capable of receiving information related to the subject from the subject.

[0058] The display device 76 displays images and various information acquired from each unit included in the information processing device 70. For example, the display device 76 may display a pain scale included in the input device 75. For example, the display device 76 may display irradiation conditions set by the setting unit 74. The display device 76 may be a display included in the information processing device 70.

[0059] (Outline of Irradiation Protocol P1) The irradiation protocol P1 will be described with reference to Fig. 7 . Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the irradiation protocol P1 according to the fourth embodiment. The light irradiation system 100B irradiates irradiation light in accordance with the irradiation protocol P1. The irradiation protocol P1 is divided into a plurality of sessions. In the irradiation protocol P1, a first session 110, a second session 200, and a third session 300 are performed in this order.

[0060] The first session 110 is a session in which the subject is irradiated with light under irradiation conditions that are believed to produce an analgesic effect in the subject. The first session 110 includes a first pain evaluation 101, a first irradiation 102, a first pain evaluation 103, and a first effect evaluation 104.

[0061] In the first session 110, first, a first pain assessment 101 is performed. In the first pain assessment 101, a pain value indicating the subjective degree of pain of the subject is input using the input device 75. The pain value input using the input device 75 in the first pain assessment 101 is an example of first pain information related to the subject's pain.

[0062] Furthermore, in the first pain assessment 101, the subject may input information about the subject, information about the pain, information about the conditions for implementing pain relief treatment, and the like, using the input device 75. Examples of information about the subject include the subject's age, occupation, and whether or not the subject visits a hospital. Examples of information about pain include the body part where the subject feels pain, the frequency of the pain felt by the subject, and the time period during which the pain is felt. Examples of information about the conditions for implementing pain relief treatment include the location where the pain relief treatment is to be performed and the time period during which the pain relief treatment is to be performed.

[0063] The first irradiation 102 is performed after the first pain evaluation 101 is performed. In the first irradiation 102, the light irradiation device 60 irradiates the target with irradiation light. The irradiation conditions of the first irradiation 102 are irradiation conditions that are expected to have an analgesic effect on the target. The irradiation conditions of the first irradiation 102 may be, for example, initially set irradiation conditions. The irradiation conditions of the first irradiation 102 may be set based on, for example, information about the target, information about pain relief, or information about the conditions for implementing pain relief treatment, which are input in the first pain evaluation 101. The irradiation conditions of the first irradiation 102 may be set by, for example, a doctor or a medical professional.

[0064] The irradiation time of the first irradiation 102 is a first hour. In this embodiment, the first time of the first irradiation 102 is, for example, 60 minutes. The irradiation period of the first irradiation 102 is the first irradiation period. In this embodiment, the first irradiation period is, for example, 7 days. That is, in the first irradiation 102 of this embodiment, irradiation with light is performed for 60 minutes per day for 7 days. The first time of the first irradiation 102 may be longer than 60 minutes or shorter than 60 minutes. The first time of the first irradiation 102 may be, for example, 45 minutes, 30 minutes, or 15 minutes. The first irradiation period of the first irradiation 102 may be longer than 7 days or shorter than 7 days. The first irradiation period of the first irradiation 102 may be, for example, 5 days or 3 days.

[0065] The first pain assessment 103 is performed after the first irradiation 102. In the first pain assessment 103, a pain value indicating the subjective degree of pain is input using the input device 75. The pain value input using the input device 75 in the first pain assessment 103 is an example of first pain information. In this embodiment, the subject inputs the first pain information using the input device 75 after seven days of irradiation with irradiation light are completed. In the first pain assessment 103, the subject may input the first pain information using the input device 75 for each irradiation with irradiation light in the first irradiation 102.

[0066] The first effect evaluation 104 is performed after the first pain evaluation 103. In the first effect evaluation 104, a first effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the first irradiation 102 is calculated. In this embodiment, the information processing device 70 calculates the first effect value by calculating the difference between the first pain information in the first pain evaluation 101 and the first pain information in the first pain evaluation 103. That is, in this embodiment, the information processing device 70 calculates the difference (first effect value) between the first pain information input on the first day of the first session 110 (the first pain information in the first pain evaluation 101) and the first pain information input on the seventh day of the first session 110 (the first pain information in the first pain evaluation 103). In the first effect evaluation 104, if the first pain information is input multiple times in the first pain evaluation 103, the first effect value may be calculated multiple times. Furthermore, the first effect value may be a representative value, such as an average or median, calculated based on multiple pieces of first pain information.

[0067] The second session 200 is performed after the first session 110. The second session 200 is a session in which irradiation light is irradiated for an irradiation time shorter than the irradiation time of the first irradiation 102. The second session 200 includes a second pain evaluation 201, a second irradiation 202, a second pain evaluation 203, and a second effect evaluation 204.

[0068] In the second session 200, first, a second pain assessment 201 is performed. In the second pain assessment 201, the subject assesses the pain he or she feels before the second irradiation 202 is performed. The subject inputs a pain value indicating the subjective degree of pain using the input device 75. The pain value input using the input device 75 in the second pain assessment 201 is an example of second pain information related to the subject's pain.

[0069] The second irradiation 202 is performed after the second pain evaluation 201. In the second irradiation 202, the target is irradiated with irradiation light by the light irradiation device 60. The irradiation conditions for the second irradiation 202 may be initially set irradiation conditions, or may be set based on information about the target, information about pain relief, information about the conditions for implementing pain relief treatment, etc., input in the first pain evaluation 101.

[0070] The irradiation time of the second irradiation 202 is a second hour. The second hour of the second irradiation 202 is shorter than the first hour of the first irradiation 102. In this embodiment, the second hour of the second irradiation 202 is, for example, 30 minutes. The irradiation period of the second irradiation 202 is the second irradiation period. In this embodiment, the second irradiation period is, for example, 7 days. That is, in the second irradiation 202 of this embodiment, irradiation of light for 30 minutes per day is performed for 7 days. The second irradiation period of the second irradiation 202 and the first irradiation period of the first irradiation 102 may be different periods. For example, if the first irradiation period is 7 days, the second irradiation period may be 5 days or 9 days.

[0071] The second pain assessment 203 is performed after the second irradiation 202 is performed. In the second pain assessment 203, a pain value indicating the subjective degree of pain is input using the input device 75. The pain value input using the input device 75 in the second pain assessment 203 is an example of second pain information. In this embodiment, the subject inputs the second pain information using the input device 75 after the seven days of irradiation with irradiation light are completed. In the second pain assessment 203, the subject may input the second pain information using the input device 75 for each irradiation with irradiation light in the second irradiation 202.

[0072] The second effect evaluation 204 is performed after the second pain evaluation 203. In the second effect evaluation 204, a second effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the second irradiation 202 is calculated. In this embodiment, the information processing device 70 calculates the second effect value by calculating the difference between the second pain information in the second pain evaluation 201 and the second pain information in the second pain evaluation 203. That is, in this embodiment, the information processing device 70 calculates the difference (second effect value) between the second pain information input on the first day of the second session 200 (the second pain information in the second pain evaluation 201) and the second pain information input on the seventh day of the second session 200 (the second pain information in the second pain evaluation 203). In the second effect evaluation 204, if the second pain information is input multiple times in the second pain evaluation 203, the second effect value may be calculated multiple times. Furthermore, the second effect value may be a representative value, such as an average or median, calculated based on multiple pieces of second pain information.

[0073] The third session 300 is performed after the second session 200. In the third session 300, irradiation light is irradiated under irradiation conditions set based on the analgesic effect in the first session 110 and the analgesic effect in the second session 200. The third session 300 includes a third pain evaluation 301, a third irradiation 302, a third pain evaluation 303, and a third effect evaluation 304. In the third session 300, the third pain evaluations 301, 303, or the third effect evaluation 304 may not be performed. For example, only the third irradiation 302 may be performed in the third session 300. For example, in the third session 300, only the third irradiation 302 and the third pain evaluation 303 may be performed.

[0074] In the third session 300, first, a third pain assessment 301 is performed. In the third pain assessment 301, a pain value indicating the subjective degree of pain of the subject is input using the input device 75. The pain value input using the input device 75 in the third pain assessment 301 is an example of third pain information related to the pain of the subject.

[0075] The third irradiation 302 is performed after the third pain evaluation 301. In the third irradiation 302, the light irradiation device 60 irradiates the target with irradiation light. The irradiation time of the third irradiation 302 is set based on the first effect value calculated by the first effect evaluation 104 and the second effect value calculated by the second effect evaluation 204. For example, the irradiation time of the third irradiation 302 may be determined based on whether the second effect value in the second effect evaluation 204 is below a first threshold. The first threshold is calculated based on the first effect value calculated in the first effect evaluation 104. The first threshold may be set appropriately depending on factors such as the type of pain scale provided in the input device 75. For example, the first threshold can be calculated using the following formula (1): First Threshold = 0.85 × First Effect Value (1) For example, if the second effect value in the second effect evaluation 204 is equal to or greater than the first threshold, the irradiation time of the third irradiation 302 is set to equal to or less than the second time. In this case, in this embodiment, the irradiation time of the third irradiation 302 is set to 30 minutes or less. Also, if the second effect value in the second effect evaluation 204 is below the first threshold, the irradiation time of the third irradiation 302 is set to the first hour. In this case, in this embodiment, the irradiation time of the third irradiation 302 is set to 60 minutes.

[0076] The irradiation period of the third irradiation 302 may be the same as the first irradiation period of the first irradiation 102 and the second irradiation period of the second irradiation 202. In this embodiment, the irradiation period of the third irradiation 302 is, for example, seven days. The irradiation period of the third irradiation 302 may be a period set based on the first effect value calculated by the first effect evaluation 104 and the second effect value calculated by the second effect evaluation 204.

[0077] The third pain assessment 303 is performed after the third irradiation 302 has been performed. In the third pain assessment 303, the subject evaluates the pain he or she feels after the third irradiation 302 has been performed. The subject inputs a pain value indicating the subjective degree of pain using the input device 75. The pain value input using the input device 75 in the third pain assessment 303 is an example of third pain information. In this embodiment, the subject performs the third pain assessment 303 after the irradiation of the irradiation light on the seventh day has been completed.

[0078] The third effect evaluation 304 is performed after the third pain evaluation 303. In the third effect evaluation 304, a third effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the third irradiation 302 is calculated. In this embodiment, the information processing device 70 calculates the third effect value by calculating the difference between the third pain information in the third pain evaluation 301 and the third pain information in the third pain evaluation 303. That is, in this embodiment, the information processing device 70 calculates the third effect value by calculating the difference between the third pain information input on the first day of the third session 300 (the third pain evaluation in the third pain evaluation 301) and the third pain information input on the seventh day of the third session 300 (the third pain information in the third pain evaluation 303). In the third effect evaluation 304, if the third pain information is input multiple times in the third pain evaluation 303, the third effect value may be calculated multiple times. Furthermore, the third effect value may be a representative value, such as an average or median, calculated based on multiple pieces of second pain information.

[0079] (Information Processing Method M1) An overview of the information processing method M1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the information processing method M1 executed by the information processing device 70. The information processing method M1 is an information processing method corresponding to the above-described irradiation protocol P1.

[0080] In step S1, the communication unit 72 receives, from the input device 75, first pain information regarding the pain of the subject, which was input in the first pain evaluation 101 before the first irradiation 102. The communication unit 72 may receive information regarding the subject from the input device 75.

[0081] In step S2, the setting unit 74 sets the irradiation conditions for the first irradiation 102 and the second irradiation 202. In step S2, the setting unit 74 may set the irradiation conditions for the first irradiation 102 and the second irradiation 202 based on initial settings. In step S2, the setting unit 74 may set the irradiation conditions for the first irradiation 102 and the second irradiation 202 based on the first pain information received in step S1.

[0082] In step S2, the communication unit 72 transmits information about the irradiation conditions for the first irradiation 102 and the second irradiation 202 set by the setting unit 74 to the light irradiation device 60. The light irradiation device 60 performs the first irradiation 102 and the second irradiation 202 based on the received information about the irradiation conditions.

[0083] In step S3, the communication unit 72 receives, from the input device 75, the first pain information that was input in the first pain evaluation 103 after the first irradiation 102. In step S3, the communication unit 72 may receive, from the input device 75, the first pain information that was input multiple times.

[0084] In step S4, the calculation unit 73 calculates a first effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the first irradiation 102, based on the first pain information related to the pain of the subject obtained by the first irradiation 102. In the present embodiment, the calculation unit 73 calculates, as the first effect value, the difference between the first pain information received in step S1 and the first pain information received in step S3. In step S4, the calculation unit 73 may calculate the first effect value multiple times based on multiple pieces of first pain information.

[0085] In step S5 , the communication unit 72 receives, from the input device 75 , the second pain information input in the second pain evaluation 201 before the second irradiation 202 in the second session 200 .

[0086] In step S6, the communication unit 72 receives, from the input device 75, the second pain information that was input in the second pain evaluation 203 after the second irradiation 202. In step S6, the communication unit 72 may receive, from the input device 75, the second pain information that was input multiple times.

[0087] In step S7, the calculation unit 73 calculates a second effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the second irradiation 202, based on second pain information related to the pain of the subject obtained by the second irradiation 202. In the present embodiment, the calculation unit 73 calculates, as the second effect value, the difference between the second pain information received in step S5 and the second pain information received in step S6. In step S7, the calculation unit 73 may calculate the second effect value multiple times based on multiple pieces of second pain information.

[0088] In step S8, the setting unit 74 sets the irradiation conditions of the light to be irradiated onto the target in the third irradiation 302 of the third session 300 based on the first effect value calculated in step S4 and the second effect value calculated in step S7.

[0089] For example, in step S8, the setting unit 74 determines whether the second effect value is less than the first threshold. In step S8, if the second effect value is equal to or greater than the first threshold, the setting unit 74 sets the irradiation time of the irradiation light in the third irradiation 302 to a second time or less. If the second effect value is less than the first threshold, the setting unit 74 sets the irradiation time of the irradiation light in the third irradiation 302 to a first time.

[0090] Furthermore, in step S8, for example, when the second effect value is lower than the first threshold value, the setting unit 74 may set the irradiation time of the irradiation light in the third irradiation 302 to a time shorter than the first time in the first irradiation 102 and longer than the second time in the second irradiation 202. That is, the setting unit 74 may set the irradiation time in the third irradiation 302 to 45 minutes.

[0091] In step S8, the communication unit 72 transmits information about the irradiation conditions for the third irradiation 302 set by the setting unit 74 to the light irradiation device 60. The light irradiation device 60 performs the third irradiation 302 based on the received information about the irradiation conditions.

[0092] It is conceivable that among multiple subjects, there may be subjects who have a high sensitivity to the irradiation light and who experience an analgesic effect with an irradiation time shorter than the irradiation time that would normally achieve the analgesic effect. According to the light irradiation system 100B described above, by analyzing the analgesic effect of irradiation with light at different irradiation times, it is possible to set irradiation conditions suitable for the subject (patient), such as a short irradiation time. Therefore, it is possible to set irradiation conditions for the irradiation light that take into consideration the reduction of the burden on medical personnel or patients.

[0093] Furthermore, if the second effect value is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the irradiation time of the irradiation light in the third irradiation is set to equal to or less than the second time. As a result, if the desired effect is obtained with a short irradiation time of the irradiation light, the short irradiation time can be continued or the irradiation time can be further shortened.

[0094] Furthermore, when the second effect value is lower than the first threshold value, the setting unit 74 sets the irradiation time of the third irradiation to a time shorter than the first time and longer than the second time. With this configuration, when the desired effect cannot be obtained with a short irradiation time of light, the irradiation time can be slightly extended to increase the possibility of identifying a preferable irradiation time.

[0095] Furthermore, by having the calculation unit 73 calculate the first effect value based on a plurality of pieces of first pain information or calculate the second effect value based on a plurality of pieces of second pain information, the setting unit 74 can improve reliability when evaluating the analgesic effect of irradiation with irradiation light by performing the first irradiation 102 or the second irradiation 202 multiple times.

[0096] [Embodiment 5] Another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to Fig. 9. For convenience of explanation, components having the same functions as those described in embodiment 4 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of an information processing method M2 by a light irradiation system 100B according to embodiment 5.

[0097] Information processing method M2 according to this embodiment may be performed after information processing method M1 according to the above-described embodiment 4. Information processing method M2 is executed by the information processing device 70 when the irradiation time of irradiation light in the third irradiation 302 is set to a third time that is shorter than the second time in information processing method M1 according to embodiment 4. In the following description, a case where the irradiation time of irradiation light in the third irradiation 302 is set to 15 minutes will be described as an example.

[0098] In step S11 , the communication unit 72 receives, from the input device 75 , the third pain information input in the third pain evaluation 301 before the third irradiation 302 in the third session 300 .

[0099] The light irradiation device 60 performs the third irradiation 302 based on the irradiation conditions set in step S8 of the information processing method M1. In this embodiment, the irradiation time of the third irradiation 302 is 15 minutes.

[0100] In step S12 , the communication unit 72 receives, from the input device 75 , the third pain information input in the third pain evaluation 301 after the third irradiation 302 .

[0101] In step S13, the calculation unit 73 calculates a third effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the third irradiation 302, based on the third pain information related to the pain of the subject obtained by the third irradiation 302. In the present embodiment, the calculation unit 73 calculates, as the third effect value, the difference between the third pain information received in step S11 and the third pain information received in step S12.

[0102] In step S14, the setting unit 74 determines whether the third effect value calculated in step S13 is lower than the first threshold value.

[0103] In step S15, if the setting unit 74 determines that the third effect value is equal to or greater than the first threshold value (NO in S14), it sets the irradiation time of the fourth irradiation in the fourth session to equal to or less than the third hour. The fourth session is a session included in the irradiation protocol P1, and is performed following the third session 300. In this embodiment, the irradiation time of the irradiation light in the fourth irradiation in the fourth session is set to equal to or less than 15 minutes.

[0104] In step S16, if the setting unit 74 determines that the third effect value is lower than the first threshold value (YES in S14), it sets the irradiation time of the fourth irradiation of the fourth session to the second time or more. In step S16, the setting unit 74 may set the second time, which is the irradiation time of the irradiation light in the second irradiation 202, as the irradiation time of the fourth irradiation of the fourth session. That is, in step S16, the setting unit 74 may set the irradiation time of the fourth irradiation to 30 minutes.

[0105] After steps S15 and S16, the light irradiation device 60 receives a control signal related to the irradiation conditions for the fourth irradiation in the fourth session from the communication unit 72, and performs the fourth irradiation on the target.

[0106] According to the information processing method M2, it is possible to identify the limit to which the irradiation time of the irradiation light can be reduced, and it is possible to reduce the irradiation time within a range in which the desired effect can be obtained.

[0107] [Embodiment 6] Another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to Figures 10 to 12. For convenience of explanation, components having the same functions as those described in embodiment 4 or 5 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated. Irradiation protocol P2 according to embodiment 6 differs from irradiation protocol P1 according to embodiment 4 in that it utilizes short-term analgesic effect period A.

[0108] It is considered that some of the subjects may experience a short-term analgesic effect (short-term analgesic effect). The short-term analgesic effect may be caused by, for example, a placebo effect or the continuation of the analgesic effect due to the first irradiation 102. It is considered that the analgesic effect of subjects who experience a short-term analgesic effect tends to decrease over time compared to subjects who have good sensitivity to the irradiation light.

[0109] Referring to Fig. 10 , the short-term analgesic effect period A during which a short-term analgesic effect is observed will be described. Fig. 10 is a graph showing an example of the transition of the second effect value in the second session 200A. In the graph of Fig. 10 , the vertical axis represents the second effect value, and the horizontal axis represents the number of days of irradiation (irradiation period). A higher second effect value shown in the graph of Fig. 10 indicates a higher analgesic effect, and a lower value indicates a lower analgesic effect.

[0110] As shown in the graph of FIG. 10 , in the second session 200A, the second effect value is calculated for each irradiation of the irradiation light in the second irradiation 202. The line shown in the graph of FIG. 10 represents the transition of the second effect value. The second effect value calculated on the seventh day is below the first threshold value T1, but the second effect values ​​calculated in the period from the first day to the fourth day are equal to or greater than the first threshold value. The period from the first day to the fourth day in FIG. 10 is the short-term analgesic effect period A. The short-term analgesic effect period A continues from the first session 110 and is a continuous period in which the second effect value is equal to or greater than the first threshold value. The short-term analgesic effect period A is a period shorter than the irradiation period in the second irradiation 202. The short-term analgesic effect period A is not limited to a period that continues for multiple days, but may be one day.

[0111] Next, an irradiation protocol P2 utilizing the short-term analgesic effect period A will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the irradiation protocol P2 according to embodiment 6. The irradiation protocol P2 includes a first session 110, a second session 200A, a third session 300A, and a fourth session 400.

[0112] In second session 200A, second pain evaluation 203A is performed for each irradiation of light in second irradiation 202. Furthermore, in second effect evaluation 204A of second session 200A, a second effect value is calculated for each irradiation of light in second irradiation 202 based on the second pain information of second pain evaluation 203A.

[0113] In the third session 300A, the irradiation time of the third irradiation 302A is set to the first time. That is, the irradiation conditions of the third irradiation 302A in this embodiment are the same as the irradiation conditions of the first irradiation 102.

[0114] The fourth session 400 includes a fourth pain assessment 401, a fourth irradiation 402, a fourth pain assessment 403, and a fourth effect assessment 404. The fourth pain assessments 401, 403, or the fourth effect assessment 404 may not be performed in the fourth session 400. For example, only the fourth irradiation 402 may be performed in the fourth session 400. For example, only the fourth irradiation 402 and the fourth pain assessment 403 may be performed in the fourth session 400.

[0115] In the fourth session 400, first, a fourth pain assessment 401 is performed. In the fourth pain assessment 401, the subject assesses the pain he or she feels before the fourth irradiation 402 is performed. The subject inputs a pain value indicating the subjective degree of pain using the input device 75. The pain value input using the input device 75 in the fourth pain assessment 401 is an example of fourth pain information related to the subject's pain.

[0116] The fourth irradiation 402 is performed after the fourth pain evaluation 401. In the fourth irradiation 402, the light irradiation device 60 irradiates the subject with irradiation light. The irradiation time of the fourth irradiation 402 is the second hour, and the irradiation period of the fourth irradiation 402 is the same period as the short-term analgesic effect period A. In the fourth irradiation 402 of this embodiment, irradiation with irradiation light is performed for 30 minutes per day for four days.

[0117] The fourth pain assessment 403 is performed after the fourth irradiation 402. In the fourth pain assessment 403, the subject inputs a pain value indicating the subjective degree of pain using the input device 75 after the fourth irradiation 402. The pain value input using the input device 75 in the fourth pain assessment 403 is an example of fourth pain information.

[0118] The fourth effect evaluation 404 is performed after the fourth pain evaluation 403. In the fourth effect evaluation 404, a fourth effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the fourth irradiation 402 is calculated. In this embodiment, the information processing device 70 calculates the fourth effect value by calculating the difference between the fourth pain information in the fourth pain evaluation 401 and the fourth pain information in the fourth pain evaluation 403.

[0119] In the irradiation protocol P2, the third session 300A is performed again after the fourth session 400. That is, in the irradiation protocol P2, the third session 300A and the fourth session 400 are repeatedly performed.

[0120] Next, an information processing method M3 executed by the information processing device 70 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the information processing method M3 according to embodiment 6. Steps S21 to S25 of the information processing method M3 correspond to steps S1 to S5 of the information processing method M1, respectively, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0121] In step S26, the communication unit 72 receives from the input device 75 the second pain information input in the second pain evaluation 201 after the second irradiation 202. In step S26, the communication unit 72 receives from the input device 75 the second pain information input for each irradiation of the irradiation light in the second irradiation 202. That is, the communication unit 72 receives the second pain information from the input device 75 seven times.

[0122] In step S27, the calculation unit 73 calculates, based on the second pain information received in step S26, a second effect value for each irradiation of irradiation light in the second irradiation 202. In the present embodiment, the calculation unit 73 calculates, as the second effect value, the difference between the second pain information received in step S25 and the second pain information received in step S26 for each irradiation of irradiation light in the second irradiation 202. That is, the calculation unit 73 calculates the second effect value seven times.

[0123] In step S28, the setting unit 74 determines whether the second effect value calculated on the first day of the second irradiation 202 is below the first threshold value.

[0124] In step S29, if the setting unit 74 determines that the second effect value on the first day is lower than the first threshold value (YES in S28), it sets the irradiation condition of the third irradiation 302 to the first hour irradiation.

[0125] In step S30, if the setting unit 74 determines that the second effect value on the first day is greater than or equal to the first threshold value (NO in S28), it determines whether the second effect value calculated on the seventh day of the second irradiation 202 is less than the first threshold value.

[0126] In step S31, if the setting unit 74 determines that the second effect value on the seventh day is lower than the first threshold value (YES in S30), it sets the irradiation conditions for the third irradiation 302 and the fourth irradiation 402.

[0127] In step S31, the setting unit 74 sets the irradiation time of the third irradiation 302 to the first time, and sets the irradiation period of the third irradiation 302 to the first irradiation period. That is, the irradiation conditions of the third irradiation 302 are made the same as the irradiation conditions of the first irradiation 102.

[0128] In step S31, the setting unit 74 sets the irradiation time of the fourth irradiation 402 to a second time. In step S31, the setting unit 74 sets a period during which, of the multiple second effect values ​​calculated in step S27, a second effect value equal to or greater than the first threshold value is continuously obtained as the irradiation period of the fourth irradiation 402. That is, in this embodiment, the irradiation period of the irradiation light in the fourth irradiation 402 is set to four days. In step S31, the setting unit 74 may set the third irradiation 302 and the fourth irradiation 402 to be alternately and repeatedly performed.

[0129] In step S32, if the setting unit 74 determines that the second effect value on the seventh day is equal to or greater than the first threshold value (NO in S30), it sets the irradiation time of the third irradiation 302 to the second time. After step S32, the information processing device 70 may execute the information processing method M3 again. That is, the information processing device 70 may set the irradiation conditions for the fourth session 400 based on the second effect value of the second session 200A and the third effect value of the third session 300A.

[0130] Even when light is irradiated for a shorter time than the time required for achieving an analgesic effect, a short-term analgesic effect may be obtained due to the placebo effect, etc. Since this short-term analgesic effect tends to decrease over time, a period during which a short-term analgesic effect can be achieved may be specified, and short-term irradiation may be performed within that period.

[0131] According to the information processing method M3, a period during which a second effect value that is equal to or greater than the first threshold value is continuously obtained among a plurality of second effect values ​​can be identified as a period during which a short-term analgesic effect can be obtained, and short-term irradiation can be performed within that period while obtaining the desired effect.

[0132] [Embodiment 7] While prolonged exposure to light that alleviates physical pain, not limited to green light, can provide a sufficient analgesic effect, it places a heavy burden on medical professionals or patients. Therefore, it is desirable to set light exposure conditions that take into consideration reducing the burden on medical professionals or patients. According to the configuration described in this embodiment, it is possible to set light exposure conditions that take into consideration reducing the burden on medical professionals or patients.

[0133] Other embodiments of the present disclosure will be described. For ease of explanation, components having the same functions as components described in any of the above embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated. The optical treatment system 100Y according to the seventh embodiment differs from the optical treatment system 100B according to the fourth to sixth embodiments in the method of controlling the irradiation intensity and wavelength of the irradiation light irradiated from the irradiation unit. Unlike the optical treatment system 100B according to the fourth to sixth embodiments, the optical treatment system 100Y does not have a mechanism for controlling the irradiation light. The optical treatment system 100Y controls the conditions under which the target receives light irradiated from a light source (in this embodiment, the light source 61 of the light irradiation device 60) toward the target. The optical treatment system 100Y includes a light irradiation device 60 and a light reception control device 1C.

[0134] The light reception control device 1C further includes an input device 75 and a display device 76 in addition to the light receiving section 10B, the control section 20C, and the imaging section 2.

[0135] The control unit 20C includes a light receiving control unit 21C and an output unit 22.

[0136] The light reception control unit 21C includes a calculation unit 73Y and a setting unit 74Y.

[0137] The calculation unit 73Y is a functional block that combines the functions of a first calculation unit and a second calculation unit. As the first calculation unit, the calculation unit 73Y calculates a first effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the first treatment based on first pain information about the subject's pain obtained by a first treatment in which the subject is exposed to light for a first period of time. As the second calculation unit, the calculation unit 73Y calculates a second effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the second treatment based on second pain information about the subject's pain obtained by a second treatment in which the subject is exposed to light for a second period of time that is shorter than the first period of time after the first treatment. The first pain information and the second pain information are input to the calculation unit 73Y from the input device 75.

[0138] The setting unit 74Y sets conditions for receiving light on the target in the third treatment after the second treatment based on the first effect value and the second effect value. The conditions for receiving light include a time for receiving light and a period (number of days) for receiving light at the time for receiving light. During the light receiving period, light may be received continuously or discontinuously. For example, light may be received every other day during the light receiving period. The conditions for receiving light may also include the intensity of light received.

[0139] The light reception control device 1C controls the conditions under which the target receives light, instead of the irradiation time of the irradiated light, so that the first treatment, the second treatment, and the third treatment have the same effects as the first irradiation, the second irradiation, and the third irradiation, respectively.

[0140] The invention according to the present disclosure has been described above based on the drawings and examples. However, the invention according to the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. In other words, the invention according to the present disclosure can be variously changed, modified, or modified within the scope of the present disclosure, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the invention according to the present disclosure. For example, the functions contained in each component, etc. can be rearranged so as not to cause logical contradictions, and multiple components, etc. can be combined into one or divided. In other words, it should be noted that those skilled in the art can easily make various modifications or alterations based on the present disclosure. It should also be noted that these modifications, alterations, or alterations are included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0141] The intensity control in the irradiation system of the present disclosure can also be applied to controlling the intensity of intervention on a person in content used during VR (Virtual Reality) treatment, and controlling the intensity of stimulation energy used in electrical stimulation therapy, magnetic stimulation therapy, electromagnetic wave therapy, photobiomodulation therapy, etc.

[0142] The control of treatment conditions in the information processing device of the present disclosure can also be applied to, for example, controlling the conditions for intervention on a person in content used during VR (Virtual Reality) treatment, and controlling the conditions for stimulation used in electrical stimulation therapy, magnetic stimulation therapy, electromagnetic wave therapy, photobiomodulation therapy, etc.

[0143] [Example of implementation by software] The functions of the light irradiation device 1, 1A and the information processing device 70 (hereinafter referred to as "device") can be realized by a program for causing a computer to function as the device, and a program for causing a computer to function as each control block of the device (particularly each part included in the control unit 20, 71).

[0144] In this case, the device includes a computer having at least one control device (e.g., a processor) and at least one storage device (e.g., a memory) as hardware for executing the program. The functions described in each of the above embodiments are realized by executing the program using the control device and storage device.

[0145] The program may be non-transitory and may be recorded on one or more computer-readable recording media. The recording media may or may not be included in the device. In the latter case, the program may be supplied to the device via any wired or wireless transmission medium.

[0146] In addition, some or all of the functions of each of the control blocks can be realized by logic circuits. For example, integrated circuits in which logic circuits that function as each of the control blocks are formed are also included in the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the functions of each of the control blocks can also be realized by, for example, a quantum computer.

[0147] [Summary] The control device according to aspect 1 of the present disclosure includes a control unit that controls the intensity of light received by a subject's eye and the wavelength of the light, and the control unit varies at least one of the intensity of the light and the wavelength of the light to alleviate pain felt by the subject.

[0148] The control device according to aspect 2 of the present disclosure may be configured in the above-described aspect 1, further including an irradiation unit that irradiates the light onto the eye of the subject.

[0149] A control device according to aspect 3 of the present disclosure may be configured in the above-mentioned aspect 1 or 2 such that the light is light that has the effect of alleviating physical pain felt by the subject.

[0150] A control device according to aspect 4 of the present disclosure may be configured in any one of aspects 1 to 3 above, wherein the control unit keeps the intensity of the light constant while varying the wavelength of the light.

[0151] A control device according to aspect 5 of the present disclosure may be configured such that, in any of aspects 1 to 3 above, the control unit varies the wavelength of the light so that the intensity of the light is below a predetermined value.

[0152] The control device according to aspect 6 of the present disclosure may be configured such that, in any of aspects 1 to 5 above, the control unit controls the illuminance of the light at the target eye to be a constant value or to be below a predetermined value.

[0153] A control device according to aspect 7 of the present disclosure may be configured such that, in aspect 6 above, the control unit varies the intensity and wavelength of the light at a predetermined period, and controls the irradiation time of the light of each wavelength according to the number of the predetermined periods per unit time.

[0154] A control device according to aspect 8 of the present disclosure may be configured in the above-described aspect 6 such that the control unit varies the intensity and wavelength of the light at a predetermined period, and controls the range of the wavelength of the light according to the number of the predetermined periods per unit time.

[0155] A control device according to aspect 9 of the present disclosure may be configured in any one of aspects 2 to 8 above, wherein the irradiation unit has a light source, and the control unit controls the intensity of the light by controlling the voltage value or current value applied to the light source.

[0156] A control device according to aspect 10 of the present disclosure may be configured such that, in any of aspects 2 to 9 above, the irradiation unit has a first light source that irradiates light of a first wavelength and a second light source that irradiates light of a second wavelength, and the control unit controls the wavelength of the light by controlling the first light source and the second light source.

[0157] A control device according to aspect 11 of the present disclosure may be configured such that, in any of aspects 2 to 10 above, the irradiation unit has a light source and a filter that transmits a portion of the light emitted from the light source, and the control unit controls at least one of the intensity and wavelength of the light by controlling the filter.

[0158] A control device according to aspect 12 of the present disclosure may be configured such that, in any of aspects 1 to 11 above, the control unit varies at least one of the intensity of the light and the wavelength of the light in a 1 / f fluctuation pattern.

[0159] A control device according to aspect 13 of the present disclosure may be configured in any one of aspects 1 to 12 above, wherein the control unit controls the wavelength of the light within a range of 403 to 659 nm.

[0160] A control device according to Aspect 14 of the present disclosure is a control device in any one of Aspects 1 to 13, wherein the control unit controls the intensity of the light to 0.059 to 0.55 W / m ２ The control may be performed within the range of

[0161] A control method according to aspect 15 of the present disclosure varies at least one of the intensity of light and the wavelength of light received by a subject's eye in order to alleviate pain felt by the subject.

[0162] A control system according to aspect 16 of the present disclosure includes a control unit that controls the intensity and wavelength of light received by a subject's eye, and the control unit varies at least one of the intensity and wavelength of light to alleviate pain felt by the subject.

[0163] A control device according to aspect 17 of the present disclosure, in the above-described aspect 1, includes a first calculation unit that calculates a first effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the first treatment based on first pain information regarding the pain of the subject obtained by a first treatment in which the subject is made to receive light for a first period of time; a second calculation unit that calculates a second effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the second treatment based on second pain information regarding the pain of the subject obtained by a second treatment in which the subject is made to receive light for a second period of time shorter than the first period of time after the first treatment; and a setting unit that sets conditions for causing the subject to receive light in a third treatment after the second treatment based on the first effect value and the second effect value.

[0164] In the control device according to aspect 18 of the present disclosure, in aspect 17 above, the setting unit may set the time for receiving the light in the third treatment to be equal to or less than the second time when the second effect value is equal to or greater than a first threshold value calculated based on the first effect value.

[0165] In the control device according to aspect 19 of the present disclosure, in aspect 18 above, when the light reception time in the third treatment is set to a third time shorter than the second time, if a third effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the third treatment falls below the first threshold, the setting unit may set the second time as the time for the next light reception of the target.

[0166] In the control device according to aspect 20 of the present disclosure, in aspect 18 above, the setting unit may be configured to set the light reception time in the third treatment to a time shorter than the first time and longer than the second time when the second effect value falls below the first threshold value.

[0167] In the control device according to aspect 21 of the present disclosure, in any of aspects 18 to 20 above, the second calculation unit may calculate the second effect value multiple times based on the multiple pieces of second pain information obtained by performing the second treatment multiple times, and the setting unit may set the light exposure condition as a period during which, among the multiple second effect values, a second effect value that is equal to or greater than the first threshold value is continuously obtained in the fourth treatment in which the subject is caused to receive light for the second period of time.

[0168] In the control device according to aspect 22 of the present disclosure, in any of aspects 17 to 20 above, the first calculation unit may be configured to calculate the first effect value based on the first pain information obtained by performing the first treatment multiple times, or the second calculation unit may be configured to calculate the second effect value based on the second pain information obtained by performing the second treatment multiple times.

[0169] In the control device according to aspect 23 of the present disclosure, in any of aspects 17 to 22 above, the light may be light that has the effect of alleviating physical pain.

[0170] In a control device according to aspect 24 of the present disclosure, in aspect 23 above, the light may have a wavelength of 403 to 659 nm.

[0171] A program according to aspect 25 of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer to function as the control device in any of aspects 17 to 24 above, and causes the computer to function as the first calculation unit, the second calculation unit, and the setting unit.

[0172] An optical treatment system according to aspect 26 of the present disclosure is any of aspects 17 to 24 above, and includes the control device and a light source that irradiates the light onto the subject.

[0173] The optical treatment system according to aspect 27 of the present disclosure may, in the above-mentioned aspect 26, include an input device that receives the first pain information and the second pain information from the subject and transmits them to the control device.

[0174] An information processing device according to aspect 28 of the present disclosure includes a first calculation unit that calculates a first effect value indicating an analgesic effect of the first irradiation based on first pain information regarding the pain of the subject obtained by a first irradiation in which irradiation light is irradiated onto the subject for a first period of time; a second calculation unit that calculates a second effect value indicating an analgesic effect of the second irradiation based on second pain information regarding the pain of the subject obtained by a second irradiation in which the irradiation light is irradiated onto the subject for a second period of time that is shorter than the first period of time after the first irradiation; and a setting unit that sets irradiation conditions for the irradiation light on the subject in a third irradiation after the second irradiation based on the first effect value and the second effect value.

[0175] In an information processing device according to aspect 29 of the present disclosure, in aspect 28 above, the setting unit may set the irradiation time of the irradiation light in the third irradiation to the second time or less when the second effect value is equal to or greater than a first threshold value calculated based on the first effect value.

[0176] In the information processing device according to aspect 30 of the present disclosure, in aspect 29 above, when the irradiation time for the third irradiation is set to a third time shorter than the second time, if a third effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the third irradiation falls below the first threshold, the setting unit may set the second time as the irradiation time for the irradiation light to the target next time.

[0177] In an information processing device according to aspect 31 of the present disclosure, in aspect 29 above, the setting unit may be configured to set the irradiation time for the third irradiation to a time shorter than the first time and longer than the second time when the second effect value falls below the first threshold value.

[0178] In an information processing device according to aspect 32 of the present disclosure, in any of aspects 29 to 31 above, the second calculation unit may calculate the second effect value multiple times based on multiple pieces of second pain information obtained by performing the second irradiation multiple times, and the setting unit may set the irradiation conditions as an irradiation period for a fourth irradiation in which irradiation light is irradiated to the target for the second time, based on a period during which, among the multiple second effect values, a second effect value that is equal to or greater than the first threshold value is continuously obtained.

[0179] In an information processing device according to aspect 33 of the present disclosure, in any of aspects 28 to 31 above, the first calculation unit may be configured to calculate the first effect value based on the first pain information obtained by performing the first irradiation multiple times, or the second calculation unit may be configured to calculate the second effect value based on the second pain information obtained by performing the second irradiation multiple times.

[0180] In an information processing device according to aspect 34 of the present disclosure, in any of aspects 28 to 33 above, the irradiated light may be light that has the effect of alleviating physical pain.

[0181] In an information processing device according to aspect 35 of the present disclosure, in aspect 34 above, the irradiated light may be light having a wavelength of 403 to 659 nm.

[0182] A program according to aspect 36 of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer to function as the information processing device in any of aspects 28 to 35 above, and causes the computer to function as the first calculation unit, the second calculation unit, and the setting unit.

[0183] A light irradiation system according to aspect 37 of the present disclosure is the information processing device of any of aspects 28 to 35 above, and includes a light source that irradiates the irradiation light onto the target.

[0184] The light irradiation system according to aspect 38 of the present disclosure may, in the above-mentioned aspect 37, include an input device that receives the first pain information and the second pain information from the subject and transmits them to the information processing device.

[0185] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1, 1A Light irradiation device (control device) 1B, 1C Light reception control device (control device) 10, 10A Irradiation unit 11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 13 Light source 14, 14B Filter 21, 21A Irradiation control unit (control unit) 21B Light reception control unit (control unit) 73Y Calculation unit (first calculation unit, second calculation unit) 74Y Setting unit 100, 100A, 100X Light irradiation system (control system)

Claims

1. A control device comprising a control unit that controls the intensity of light received by a subject's eye and the wavelength of the light, wherein the control unit varies at least one of the intensity of the light and the wavelength of the light to alleviate pain felt by the subject.

2. The control device according to claim 1, further comprising an illumination unit that illuminates the light onto the subject's eye.

3. A control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light is light that has the effect of alleviating physical pain felt by the subject.

4. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit keeps the intensity of the light constant and varies the wavelength of the light.

5. A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit varies the wavelength of the light so that the intensity of the light is equal to or less than a predetermined value.

6. A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control unit controls the illuminance of the light at the subject's eye to be a constant value or to be equal to or less than a predetermined value.

7. The control device according to claim 6, wherein the control unit varies the intensity and wavelength of the light at a predetermined cycle, and controls the irradiation time of the light of each wavelength according to the number of the predetermined cycles per unit time.

8. The control device according to claim 6, wherein the control unit varies the intensity and wavelength of the light at predetermined cycles, and controls the range of the wavelength of the light according to the number of predetermined cycles per unit time.

9. A control device according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the irradiation unit has a light source, and the control unit controls the intensity of the light by controlling the voltage value or current value applied to the light source.

10. A control device according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the irradiation unit has a first light source that irradiates light of a first wavelength and a second light source that irradiates light of a second wavelength, and the control unit controls the wavelength of the light by controlling the first light source and the second light source.

11. A control device according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the irradiation unit has a light source and a filter that transmits a portion of the light emitted from the light source, and the control unit controls at least one of the intensity of the light and the wavelength of the light by controlling the filter.

12. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the control unit fluctuates at least one of the intensity of the light and the wavelength of the light in a 1 / f fluctuation pattern.

13. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the control unit controls the wavelength of the light within a range of 403 to 659 nm.

14. The control unit controls the light intensity to 0.059 to 0.55 W / m ２ The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the control device controls the temperature within a range of 15. A method of controlling at least one of the intensity and wavelength of light received by an eye of a subject to alleviate pain felt by the subject.

16. A control system comprising a control unit that controls the intensity of light received by a subject's eye and the wavelength of the light, wherein the control unit varies at least one of the intensity of the light and the wavelength of the light to alleviate pain felt by the subject.

17. A control device as described in claim 1, comprising: a first calculation unit that calculates a first effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the first treatment based on first pain information regarding the pain of the subject obtained by a first treatment in which the subject is made to receive light for a first period of time; a second calculation unit that calculates a second effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the second treatment based on second pain information regarding the pain of the subject obtained by a second treatment in which the subject is made to receive light for a second period of time shorter than the first period of time after the first treatment; and a setting unit that sets conditions for causing the subject to receive light in a third treatment after the second treatment based on the first effect value and the second effect value.

18. The control device described in claim 17, wherein the setting unit sets the time for receiving the light in the third treatment to less than the second time when the second effect value is greater than or equal to a first threshold calculated based on the first effect value.

19. A control device as described in claim 18, wherein when the light reception time in the third treatment is set to a third time shorter than the second time and a third effect value indicating the analgesic effect of the third treatment falls below the first threshold, the setting unit sets the second time as the time for the subject to next receive the light.

20. The control device described in claim 18, wherein the setting unit sets the light exposure time in the third treatment to a time shorter than the first time and longer than the second time when the second effect value falls below the first threshold value.

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