Cold and warm stimulation system

Abstract

A cold and heat stimulation system includes: a cold and heat stimulation device that provides a subject with a heat stimulus and a cold stimulus; a stimulus control section (S13) that controls the operation of the cold and heat stimulation device so that a heat stimulus period and a cold stimulus period are alternately repeated periodically, with the sum of the heat stimulus period and the cold stimulus period being one cycle; and a cold and heat ratio determination section (S12) that determines the ratio of the heat stimulus period to the cold stimulus period, i.e., the cold and heat ratio, in one cycle. The stimulus control section alternately repeats the operation of the cold and heat stimulation device with the heat stimulus period and the cold stimulus period being in the cold and heat ratio determined by the cold and heat ratio determination section. The cold and heat ratio determined by the cold and heat ratio determination section includes a first ratio and a second ratio that are different from each other. The cold and heat ratio determination section determines one cycle when the cold and heat ratio is the first ratio and one cycle when the cold and heat ratio is the second ratio to be substantially the same time.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0002] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-219114, filed on December 3, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a hot and cold stimulation system. Background Technology

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a hot and cold stimulation system that alternately provides heat and cold stimulation to the back side of a person sitting in a chair. Hereinafter, the alternating and repeated provision of heat and cold stimulation will also be referred to as providing hot and cold stimulation. By providing hot and cold stimulation to the back side of the person sitting in the chair, blood flow is promoted by utilizing the dilation and contraction of the person's blood vessels. This reduces fatigue in the person sitting in the chair.

[0005] In this hot and cold stimulation system, a period of hot stimulation and a period of cold stimulation are alternated periodically as one cycle. Patent Document 1 discloses adjusting the hot-cold ratio, which is the ratio of the hot stimulation period to the cold stimulation period. By adjusting the hot-cold ratio, the hot-cold sensation imparted to the person seated can be adjusted.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-193057

[0009] However, according to the inventors' research, in the supply of hot and cold stimulation, for a specific setting with a specific hot-cold ratio and a specific cycle, changing either the hot-cold ratio or the cycle significantly reduces the fatigue-reducing effect compared to the original setting. On the other hand, for the aforementioned specific setting, when the hot-cold ratio is changed while keeping the cycle time substantially the same, the fatigue-reducing effect does not decrease compared to the original setting; even if the fatigue-reducing effect decreases, the decrease is small, and a certain degree of fatigue-reducing effect can still be obtained. Summary of the Invention

[0010] However, while Patent Document 1 discloses the method of changing the hot-cold ratio, it does not disclose the method for setting the duration of one cycle. The object of this invention is to provide a hot-cold stimulation system that can both achieve a certain fatigue reduction effect and adjust the sensation of hot and cold.

[0011] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention,

[0012] The hot and cold stimulation system has the following features:

[0013] A thermal stimulation device that provides thermal and cold stimulation to a subject;

[0014] The stimulation control unit takes the total duration of heat stimulation and cold stimulation as one cycle, and controls the operation of the heat and cold stimulation device to periodically alternate between the heat stimulation and cold stimulation periods; and

[0015] The hot / cold ratio determining unit determines the hot / cold ratio, which is the ratio of a hot stimulation period to a cold stimulation period within a cycle.

[0016] The stimulation control unit activates the hot and cold stimulation device by alternating between hot and cold stimulation periods according to the hot and cold ratio determined by the hot and cold ratio determination unit.

[0017] The hot / cold ratio determination unit includes a first ratio and a second ratio that are different from each other.

[0018] The cold-heat ratio determination unit makes one cycle when the cold-heat ratio is determined to be the first ratio and one cycle when the cold-heat ratio is determined to be the second ratio to be substantially the same time.

[0019] Therefore, even with different ratios of hot and cold, because the duration of one cycle is set to be substantially the same, a certain degree of fatigue reduction can be achieved. Thus, it is possible to both reduce fatigue and adjust the perceived hot and cold sensations of the recipient.

[0020] In addition, the parenthesized reference symbols used to annotate each constituent element indicate an example of the correspondence between that constituent element and the specific constituent elements described in the embodiments described later. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the hot and cold stimulation system of the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a seat equipped with the hot and cold stimulation device of the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A 3D view of the seats.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a timing diagram showing the operation of the hot and cold stimulation device in the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 5 This diagram shows multiple setting buttons used to set the hot / cold ratio.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the ratio of hot to cold.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a graph showing other examples of the hot-cold ratio.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a graph showing other examples of the hot-cold ratio.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a graph showing other examples of the hot-cold ratio.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a graph showing other examples of the hot-cold ratio.

[0031] Figure 11 It means through Figure 5 The diagram shows an example of the hot / cold ratio set by the various setting buttons.

[0032] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of the processing performed by the control device in the first embodiment.

[0033] Figure 13 This is a timing diagram showing the actions of the hot and cold stimulation device when the third and fourth buttons are pressed.

[0034] Figure 14 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the hot and cold stimulation system in the second embodiment.

[0035] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of the processing performed by the control device in the second embodiment.

[0036] Figure 16 It means in Figure 15 A diagram illustrating an example of the hot-cold ratio determined in step S23.

[0037] Figure 17 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the hot and cold stimulation system in the third embodiment.

[0038] Figure 18 This is a flowchart of the processing performed by the control device in the third embodiment.

[0039] Figure 19 It means in Figure 18 A diagram illustrating an example of the hot-cold ratio determined in step S33.

[0040] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view of a seat equipped with a hot and cold stimulation device according to other embodiments.

[0041] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view of a seat equipped with a hot and cold stimulation device according to other embodiments.

[0042] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view of a seat equipped with a hot and cold stimulation device according to other embodiments.

[0043] Figure 23 This is a cross-sectional view of a seat equipped with a hot and cold stimulation device according to other embodiments.

[0044] Figure 24 This is a cross-sectional view of a seat equipped with a hot and cold stimulation device according to other embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following descriptions of the various embodiments, the same or equivalent parts will be labeled with the same reference numerals.

[0046] (First Implementation)

[0047] Figure 1 The thermal stimulation system 10 of this embodiment shown is mounted on a vehicle. The thermal stimulation system 10 includes a thermal stimulation device 20, a control device 30, an operation switch 41, and a setting switch 42.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, a thermal stimulation device 20 is installed in the driver's seat 101 of the vehicle. The thermal stimulation device 20 provides thermal and cold stimulation to the back of the body of the person sitting in the seat 101. In this embodiment, the person sitting in the seat is the recipient of the thermal and cold stimulation provided by the thermal stimulation device 20. The thermal stimulation is generated by heat energy that is higher than the person's body temperature. The cold stimulation is generated by cold energy that is lower than the person's body temperature.

[0049] like Figure 2 , 3 As shown, the seat 101 has a seating portion 102 that supports the buttocks and thighs of the occupant and a backrest 103 that supports the back of the occupant. The side of the backrest 103 that contacts the occupant is the front side. The opposite side of the backrest 103 that contacts the occupant is the rear side. The backrest 103 has a seat cushion 104 made of elastic material and a cover material 105 covering the seat cushion 104.

[0050] The hot and cold stimulation device 20 includes a blower 21, an air passage 22 disposed on the seat cushion 104, multiple holes 23 disposed on the front side of the seat cushion 104, and a heater 24 disposed between the seat cushion 104 and the cover material 105. The blower 21 and the heater 24 are connected to the output side of the control device 30. In addition, the blower 21, air passage 22, and multiple holes 23 of the hot and cold stimulation device 20 constitute a seat ventilation system (hereinafter referred to as SVS).

[0051] The thermal stimulation device 20 is capable of providing cold stimulation to the seated person using an SVS (Supply-Ventilation System). Specifically, when the thermal stimulation device 20 provides cold stimulation to the seated person, the blower 21 operates. Thus, as... Figure 2 As indicated by arrow C1, air inside the vehicle is drawn into the air passage 22 through multiple openings 23 via the skin material 105. Generally, due to the operation of the air conditioning system or the temperature of the outside air, the temperature inside the vehicle while it is in motion is lower than the body temperature of the occupants. Therefore, the temperature of the front surface of the backrest 103 is maintained at a temperature lower than the body temperature of the occupants. When the occupants contact the front surface of the backrest 103, a cold stimulus is provided to the back of the occupants' bodies. Additionally, as... Figure 2 As indicated by arrow C2, air drawn into the air passage 22 from the multiple holes 23 passes through the air passage 22 and the blower 21, and is blown out from the rear side hole 25 located on the lower part of the rear side of the back 103.

[0052] Furthermore, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 can provide heat stimulation to the seated person using the heater 24. Specifically, when the hot and cold stimulation device 20 provides heat stimulation to the seated person, the heater 24 is activated. As a result, the heater 24 generates heat and transfers this heat to the seat cushion 104 and the surface material 105, thereby maintaining the temperature of the front surface of the backrest 103 at a higher temperature than the seated person's body temperature. The seated person contacts the front surface of the backrest 103, thereby providing heat stimulation to the back of the seated person's body.

[0053] The control device 30 controls the operation of the heating and cooling stimulation device 20. The control device 30 is located in the space inside an instrument panel (not shown). The control device 30 consists of a well-known microcomputer including a processor, memory, and peripheral circuitry. The memory is a non-transient physical storage medium. By executing the program stored in the memory through the processor, the control device 30 performs various calculations and processes. Thus, the control device 30 controls the operation of the blower 21 and the heater 24.

[0054] Specifically, such as Figure 4As shown, when the action switch 41 changes from off to on, the total of the thermal stimulation period t1 and the cold stimulation period t2 is taken as one cycle t3. The control device 30 controls the operation of the thermal stimulation device 20 so that the thermal stimulation period t1 and the cold stimulation period t2 alternate periodically. The thermal stimulation period t1 is the period during which the thermal stimulation device 20 provides thermal stimulation. The cold stimulation period is the period during which the thermal stimulation device 20 provides cold stimulation. During the thermal stimulation period t1, the heater 24 is turned on and the blower 21 is turned off. As a result, the temperature of the surface on the front side of the backrest 103 increases. During the cold stimulation period t2, the heater 24 is turned off and the blower 21 is turned on. As a result, the temperature of the surface on the front side of the backrest 103 decreases.

[0055] The actuation switch 41 is a switch that toggles the operation and shutdown of the hot and cold stimulation device 20 via operation by the user. The actuation switch 41 is connected to the input side of the control device 30. The actuation switch 41 is located on an instrument panel (not shown).

[0056] The setting switch 42 is a switch that, through operation by the seated person, switches the hot-cold ratio, which is the ratio of the hot stimulation period t1 to the cold stimulation period t2 in one cycle t3. The setting switch 42 is connected to the input side of the control device 30. The setting switch 42 is located on an instrument panel (not shown).

[0057] like Figure 5 As shown, the setting switch 42 consists of multiple setting buttons. These buttons include a first button 43, a second button 44, a third button 45, a fourth button 46, and a fifth button 47. The hot / cold ratio and one cycle corresponding to each button 43-47 are pre-stored in the memory of the control device 30.

[0058] like Figure 6 As shown, the hot stimulation period t1 and the cold stimulation period t2 when the first button 43 is pressed are t11 and t21, respectively. The hot-cold ratio at this time is t11:t21 = 1:3. One cycle t3 at this time is 6 minutes and 30 seconds.

[0059] like Figure 7 As shown, when the second button 44 is pressed, the hot stimulation period t1 and the cold stimulation period t2 are t12 and t22, respectively. The hot-cold ratio at this time is t12:t22 = 1:2. One cycle t3 at this time is 6 minutes and 30 seconds.

[0060] like Figure 8 As shown, when the third button 45 is pressed, the hot stimulation period t1 and the cold stimulation period t2 are t13 and t23, respectively. At this time, the hot-cold ratio is t13:t23 = 1:1. One cycle t3 at this time is 6 minutes and 30 seconds.

[0061] like Figure 9 As shown, when the fourth button 46 is pressed, the hot stimulation period t1 and the cold stimulation period t2 are t14 and t24, respectively. At this time, the hot-cold ratio is t14:t24 = 2:1. One cycle t3 at this time is 6 minutes and 30 seconds.

[0062] like Figure 10 As shown, when the fifth button 47 is pressed, the hot stimulation period t1 and the cold stimulation period t2 are t15 and t25, respectively. At this time, the hot-cold ratio is t15:t25 = 3:1. One cycle t3 at this time is 6 minutes and 30 seconds.

[0063] In this manner, following the sequence of button 43, button 44, button 45, button 46, and button 47, the duration t1 increases during heat stimulation and the duration t2 decreases during cold stimulation. The duration t3 of one cycle is the same when each button 43-47 is pressed.

[0064] like Figure 11 As shown, a cycle is taken as the same time period, and the ratio of the heat stimulation period to the cold stimulation period is varied in size. Figure 11 The dashed lines in the diagram represent the same duration of a cycle. In this case, as with selecting the first button 43 and the second button 44, if the ratio of the cold stimulation period is large, the occupant will feel cold throughout the entire period of hot and cold stimulation. The greater the ratio of the cold stimulation period, the lower the temperature felt by the occupant during hot and cold stimulation.

[0065] On the other hand, as with selecting the fourth button 46 and the fifth button 47, if the ratio of the heat stimulation period is large, the occupant will feel warm throughout the entire period of hot and cold stimulation. The greater the ratio of the heat stimulation period, the higher the temperature felt by the occupant when subjected to hot and cold stimulation.

[0066] Therefore, information related to the hot / cold ratio is displayed on multiple setting buttons 43-47, indicating the temperature felt by the occupant when subjected to hot / cold stimulation. The first button 43 displays "Low," meaning the occupant feels a low temperature. The fifth button 47 displays "High," meaning the occupant feels a high temperature. The third button 45 displays "Medium," meaning the occupant feels a temperature between "Low" and "High." The second button 44 displays a "·," indicating the occupant feels a temperature between "Low" and "Medium." The fourth button 46 displays a "·," indicating the occupant feels a temperature between "Medium" and "High."

[0067] By pressing the first button 43, the second button 44, the third button 45, the fourth button 46, and the fifth button 47 in that order, the temperature felt by the seated person when subjected to hot or cold stimuli increases. By pressing one of the buttons 43 to 47, the seated person can change the temperature felt when subjected to hot or cold stimuli.

[0068] In this way, as information related to the hot-cold ratio, the temperature felt by the occupant when subjected to hot-cold stimulation is displayed on each of the buttons 43-47. Therefore, by selecting to press one of these buttons 43-47, the occupant indirectly inputs information related to the hot-cold ratio. Thus, the setting switch 42 of this embodiment functions as an input unit for indirectly inputting information related to the hot-cold ratio through the occupant's operation.

[0069] When one of the multiple buttons 43-47 is pressed, the control device 30 activates the hot and cold stimulation device 20 in a manner that alternates between hot and cold stimulation periods according to the hot / cold ratio corresponding to the pressed button. To achieve this, the control device 30 executes... Figure 12 The processing is shown. Additionally... Figure 12 The steps shown correspond to the functional units that implement various functions. This is also true in other flowcharts.

[0070] Figure 12 The process shown begins when the action switch 41 switches from off to on. Repeat. Figure 12 The process shown continues until the action switch 41 switches from on to off. Alternatively, it can be repeated. Figure 12 The process shown continues until a predetermined time has elapsed since the action switch 41 switched from off to on.

[0071] In step S11, the control device 30 reads the switching signal of the setting switch 42.

[0072] Next, in step S12, the control device 30 determines the hot / cold ratio based on the switch signal read in step S11. If the user presses one of the multiple buttons 43-47, the control device 30 reads the hot / cold ratio corresponding to the pressed button from the memory. This determines the current hot / cold ratio. Alternatively, if the user does not press any of the multiple buttons 43-47 after the action switch 41 has switched from off to on, the hot / cold ratio corresponding to the standard-set third button 45 is determined as the current hot / cold ratio. Furthermore, if the hot / cold ratio is stored before the action switch 41 was turned off during the previous operation, that ratio can also be used as the current hot / cold ratio.

[0073] Next, in step S13, the control device 30 outputs a control signal to cause the hot and cold stimulation device 20 to provide hot and cold stimulation at the hot and cold ratio determined in step S12. Thus, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 operates in a manner that alternates between the hot stimulation period t1 and the cold stimulation period t2 at the hot and cold ratio determined in step S12.

[0074] By repeated execution Figure 12 The process shown changes the hot / cold ratio whenever any one of the buttons 43-47 is pressed. For example, as... Figure 13 As shown, when the third button 45 is pressed, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 operates with the hot and cold ratio corresponding to the third button 45 and one cycle. The hot stimulation period t1 at this time is t13. The cold stimulation period t2 at this time is t23. Then, when the fourth button 46 is pressed, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 operates with the hot and cold ratio corresponding to the fourth button 46 and one cycle. The hot stimulation period t1 at this time is t14, which is longer than t13. The cold stimulation period t2 at this time is t24, which is shorter than t23. The cycle t3 of the hot and cold ratio corresponding to the fourth button 46 is the same time as the cycle t3 of the hot and cold ratio corresponding to the third button 45.

[0075] Thus, in step S12, the control device 30 determines the hot-cold ratio as follows: Figure 11 One of the different hot and cold ratios shown. In step S13, the control device 30 controls the operation of the hot and cold stimulation device 20 in a manner that alternates between the hot stimulation period and the cold stimulation period according to the hot and cold ratio determined in step S12. In this embodiment, step S12 corresponds to the hot and cold ratio determination unit that determines the hot and cold ratio. Step S13 corresponds to the stimulation control unit that controls the operation of the hot and cold stimulation device.

[0076] As described above, the hot / cold ratio determined in step S12 includes the hot / cold ratio corresponding to the third button 45 and the hot / cold ratio corresponding to the fourth button 46. The cycle t3 when the control device 30 determines the hot / cold ratio as corresponding to the third button 45 in step S12 is the same as the cycle t3 when determining the hot / cold ratio as corresponding to the fourth button 46. Furthermore, this is not limited to the third button 45 and the fourth button 46, but also applies to any two buttons among the plurality of buttons 43 to 47. The two hot / cold ratios corresponding to the plurality of buttons 43 to 47 respectively correspond to the first ratio and the second ratio.

[0077] According to the inventors' research, in the supply of hot and cold stimulation, for a specific setting with a specific hot-cold ratio and a specific cycle, changing either the hot-cold ratio or the cycle significantly reduces the fatigue-reducing effect compared to the original setting. On the other hand, for the aforementioned specific setting, when the hot-cold ratio is changed while keeping the cycle time substantially the same, the fatigue-reducing effect does not decrease compared to the original setting; even if the fatigue-reducing effect decreases, the decrease is small, and a certain level of fatigue-reducing effect can still be obtained.

[0078] Therefore, according to this embodiment, even with different hot and cold ratios, a certain degree of fatigue reduction can be achieved by setting the duration of one cycle to be the same. Thus, both a certain degree of fatigue reduction and the adjustment of the temperature sensation given to the seated person can be obtained.

[0079] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in step S12, the control device 30 determines the hot / cold ratio as follows: the cycle t3 for the hot / cold ratio corresponding to the third button 45 and the cycle t3 for the hot / cold ratio corresponding to the fourth button 46 are "the same time". However, it is sufficient as long as the time of each cycle t3 is substantially the same. This "substantially the same" means that the difference between each cycle t3 is within 5% of the average value of each cycle.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the hot and cold stimulation system 10 includes a setting switch 42, namely a plurality of setting buttons 43 to 47. In step S20, the control device 30 determines the hot and cold ratio based on the information input through the plurality of setting buttons 43 to 47. Thus, the hot and cold sensation imparted to the seated person can be adjusted to the seated person's preferred hot and cold sensation.

[0081] (Second Implementation)

[0082] like Figure 14 As shown, in the hot and cold stimulation system 10 of this embodiment, instead of the setting switch 42 of the first embodiment, a sensor type 48 for inferring the occupant's hot and cold sensation is connected to the input side of the control device 30. Furthermore, unlike the first embodiment, the control device 30 performs... Figure 15 The process is shown. The other structures of the hot and cold stimulation system 10 are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0083] Sensor type 48 detects physical quantities related to the occupant's temperature sensation. Temperature sensation refers to the feeling of heat, cold, etc. Sensor type 48 includes sensors that detect the surface temperature of the occupant, sensors that detect the surface temperature of the seat 101, sensors that detect the heat flow when the occupant absorbs or dissipates heat, sensors that detect the heat flow when the seat 101 absorbs or releases heat, and sensors that detect the air temperature inside the vehicle.

[0084] like Figure 15 As shown, in step S21, the control device 30 reads the sensor signal input from the sensor class 48.

[0085] Next, in step S22, the control device 30 infers the seated person's temperature perception based on sensor signals. For example, the control device 30 determines whether the seated person's temperature perception at the current moment falls into the categories of "hot," "slightly hot," "neutral," "slightly cold," or "cold."

[0086] Next, in step S23, the control device 30 determines the hot-cold ratio based on the prediction result of step S22.

[0087] Specifically, such as Figure 16 As shown, the hot-cold ratio when the predicted result in step S22 is "hot" is determined to be the ratio with a larger ratio during the cold stimulation period. For example, the hot-cold ratio and one cycle at this time are the same as the hot-cold ratio and one cycle when the first button 43 in the first embodiment is pressed. As a result, the person sitting can feel cold.

[0088] Furthermore, the hot-cold ratio when the predicted result in step S22 is "slightly warm" is determined to be a ratio slightly larger than the ratio during the cold stimulation period. For example, the hot-cold ratio and one cycle at this time are the same as the hot-cold ratio and one cycle when the second button 44 in the first embodiment is used. As a result, the seated person can feel slightly cool.

[0089] Furthermore, the hot-cold ratio when the predicted result in step S22 is "neutral" is determined to be the ratio where the cold stimulation period and the hot stimulation period are of the same length. For example, the hot-cold ratio and one cycle at this time are the same as the hot-cold ratio and one cycle at the third button 45 in the first embodiment.

[0090] Furthermore, the hot-cold ratio when the predicted result in step S22 is "slightly cold" is determined to be a ratio slightly larger than the ratio during the heat stimulation period. For example, the hot-cold ratio at this time is the same as the hot-cold ratio when the fourth button 46 in the first embodiment is pressed. As a result, the person seated can feel slightly warmer.

[0091] Furthermore, the hot-cold ratio when the predicted result in step S22 is "cold" is determined to be the ratio that is larger during the heat stimulation period. For example, the hot-cold ratio at this time is the same as the hot-cold ratio when the fifth button 47 in the first embodiment is pressed. As a result, the person sitting here can feel warm.

[0092] Next, in step S24, the control device 30 outputs a control signal to cause the hot and cold stimulation device 20 to operate at the hot and cold ratio determined in step S23. Thus, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 operates in a manner that alternates between hot stimulation and cold stimulation periods at the hot and cold ratio determined in step S12.

[0093] As described above, in step S23, the heating device 30 determines the hot-cold ratio as follows: Figure 16 One of the different hot and cold ratios shown. In step S24, the control device 30 controls the operation of the hot and cold stimulation device 20 so that the hot stimulation period and the cold stimulation period alternately repeat at the hot and cold ratio determined in step S23. In this embodiment, step S23 corresponds to the hot and cold ratio determination unit that determines the hot and cold ratio. Step S24 corresponds to the stimulation control unit that controls the operation of the hot and cold stimulation device. In step S23, when the hot and cold ratio is determined to be various ratios, the control device 30 determines the hot and cold ratio in such a way that the time of one cycle is the same at any ratio. Therefore, in this embodiment, the same effect as in the first embodiment can also be obtained.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in step S22, the control device 30 estimates the occupant's sensation of heat or cold. Then, in step S23, the control device 30 determines the heat-cold ratio based on the estimation result of step S22. Thus, the sensation of heat or cold stimuli given to the occupant can be adjusted to a sensation of heat or cold preferred by the occupant. For example, when the occupant feels hot, the heat-cold ratio can be adjusted to a sensation of cold. When the occupant feels cold, the heat-cold ratio can be adjusted to a sensation of heat. In this embodiment, step S22 corresponds to the estimation unit provided by the heat-cold stimulation system.

[0095] In this embodiment, in step S22, the control device 30 infers the occupant's sensation of hot or cold. However, in step S22, the control device 30 can also infer the occupant's comfort level in terms of hot or cold. This comfort level combines the sensation of hot or cold with the comfort level of "comfortable" or "uncomfortable." In this case, the sensor class 48 detects physical quantities used to infer the comfort level.

[0096] (Third Implementation)

[0097] like Figure 17 As shown, in the cold and heat stimulation system 10 of this embodiment, instead of the setting switch 42 of the first embodiment, the air conditioning control device 49 and the sensor 50 for measuring the actual air temperature inside the vehicle are connected to the input side of the control device 30. Furthermore, unlike the first embodiment, the control device 30 performs... Figure 18 The process is shown. The other structures of the hot and cold stimulation system 10 are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0098] Air conditioning control device 49 controls an air conditioning unit (not shown). The air conditioning unit adjusts the air temperature in the passenger compartment. The air conditioning control device 49 receives the set temperature of the air conditioning unit from a temperature setting unit (not shown). The temperature setting unit is an input unit for receiving the set temperature of the air conditioning unit through the passenger's operation.

[0099] like Figure 18 As shown, in step S31, the control device 30 obtains the set temperature through communication with the air conditioning control device 49, and reads the sensor signal input from the sensor 50.

[0100] Next, in step S32, the control device 30 calculates the temperature difference between the set temperature and the actual measured temperature of the air inside the vehicle based on the set temperature and the sensor signal.

[0101] Next, in step S33, the control device 30 determines the hot-cold ratio based on the temperature difference calculated in step S32.

[0102] Specifically, such as Figure 19 As shown, the hot-cold ratio when the calculation result in step S32 is "high measured temperature and large difference" is determined to be the ratio with a larger ratio during the cold stimulation period. For example, the hot-cold ratio and one cycle at this time are the same as the hot-cold ratio and one cycle at the first button 43 in the first embodiment. As a result, the seated person can feel cold.

[0103] Furthermore, the hot-cold ratio when the calculation result in step S32 is "the measured temperature is high and the difference is slightly large" is determined to be a ratio that is slightly larger during the cold stimulation period. For example, the hot-cold ratio and one cycle at this time are the same as the hot-cold ratio and one cycle at the second button 44 in the first embodiment. As a result, the seated person can feel slightly cooler.

[0104] Furthermore, the cold-to-heat ratio when the calculation result in step S32 is "small difference" is determined to be the ratio where the cold stimulation period and the hot stimulation period are of the same length. For example, the cold-to-heat ratio and one cycle at this time are the same as the cold-to-heat ratio and one cycle at the third button 45 in the first embodiment.

[0105] Furthermore, the hot-cold ratio when the calculation result in step S32 is "the measured temperature is low and the difference is slightly large" is determined to be a ratio that is slightly larger during the heat stimulation period. For example, the hot-cold ratio at this time is the same as the hot-cold ratio when the fourth button 46 in the first embodiment is pressed. As a result, the person seated can feel slightly warmer.

[0106] Furthermore, the hot-cold ratio when the calculation result in step S32 is "the measured temperature is low and the difference is large" is determined to be the ratio with a larger value during the heat stimulation period. For example, the hot-cold ratio at this time is the same as the hot-cold ratio when the fifth button 47 in the first embodiment is pressed. As a result, the person sitting can feel warm.

[0107] Next, in step S34, the control device 30 outputs a control signal that causes the hot and cold stimulation device 20 to operate at the hot and cold ratio determined in step S33. Thus, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 operates to alternate between hot and cold stimulation periods at the hot and cold ratio determined in step S33.

[0108] As described above, in step S33, the control device 30 determines the hot-cold ratio as follows: Figure 19 One of the different hot and cold ratios shown. In step S34, the control device 30 controls the operation of the hot and cold stimulation device 20 in a manner that alternates between the hot stimulation period and the cold stimulation period according to the hot and cold ratio determined in step S33. In this embodiment, step S33 corresponds to the hot and cold ratio determination unit that determines the hot and cold ratio. Step S34 corresponds to the stimulation control unit that controls the operation of the hot and cold stimulation device. In step S33, when the hot and cold ratio is determined to be various ratios, the control device 30 determines the hot and cold ratio in such a manner that the time of one cycle is the same for any ratio. Therefore, in this embodiment, the same effect as in the first embodiment can also be obtained.

[0109] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in step S33, the control device 30 determines the heating / cooling ratio based on the temperature difference between the set temperature of the air conditioning unit and the measured temperature of the air inside the vehicle. This allows the temperature sensation provided to the occupant to be adjusted to a level preferred by the occupant. For example, when the measured temperature is higher than the set temperature, the heating / cooling ratio can be adjusted to a level that feels cold. When the measured temperature is lower than the set temperature, the heating / cooling ratio can be adjusted to a level that feels hot.

[0110] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control device 30 determines the hot-cold ratio based on the calculation results of the set temperature and the measured temperature. That is, the control device 30 determines the hot-cold ratio based on the set temperature and the measured temperature. However, it is also possible that the control device 30 does not calculate the temperature difference between the set temperature and the measured temperature, but determines the hot-cold ratio based on the set temperature and the measured temperature.

[0111] In this embodiment, the control device 30 obtains the set temperature from the air conditioning control device 49. However, if the control device 30 also functions as an air conditioning control device, the set temperature can also be obtained based on the setting signal from the temperature setting unit.

[0112] (Other implementation methods)

[0113] (1) In the first embodiment, the setting switch 42 is composed of a plurality of setting buttons 43 to 47 that display the hot and cold sensation of hot and cold stimulation. However, the setting switch 42 may also be composed of a setting button displaying a "+" indicating an increase in the hot and cold sensation of hot and cold stimulation and a setting button displaying a "-" indicating a decrease in the hot and cold sensation of hot and cold stimulation. In this case, by pressing the button displaying "+", the ratio during hot stimulation increases. By pressing the button displaying "-", the ratio during cold stimulation increases. In this way, by selecting to press one of these two setting buttons, the user indirectly inputs information related to the hot and cold ratio. Therefore, these two setting buttons also function as input units that indirectly input information related to the hot and cold ratio through the user's operation.

[0114] Alternatively, the setting switch 42 can also be composed of multiple setting buttons displaying multiple heating / cooling ratios. In this case, the user directly inputs information related to the heating / cooling ratio by pressing one of these setting buttons. Therefore, these setting buttons function as an input unit for directly inputting information related to the heating / cooling ratio through the user's operation.

[0115] (2) In the first embodiment, a setting switch 42 operated by the seated person's hand is used as the input unit for inputting information related to the hot / cold ratio. However, a microphone for inputting the seated person's voice can also be used as the input unit. That is, the information related to the hot / cold ratio can be input by the seated person's voice.

[0116] (3) In the hot and cold stimulation device 20 of the first to third embodiments, the heater 24 is built into the backrest 103. However, the heater 24 may also be provided outside the backrest 103. In this case, the heater 24 can provide heat stimulation to the parts of the seated person that feel tired.

[0117] (4) In the thermal stimulation device 20 of the first embodiment, the blower 21 forms an airflow from the plurality of holes 23 toward the rear side holes 25 in the air passage 22. The thermal stimulation device 20 of the first embodiment is configured to provide thermal stimulation to the occupant by drawing in air from the vehicle interior.

[0118] However, as Figure 20 As indicated by arrow C3, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 can also be configured to provide cold stimulation by blowing air from inside the vehicle. Figure 20 In the illustrated hot and cold stimulation device 20, the blower 21 creates an airflow in the air passage 22 from the rear side opening 25 toward the plurality of openings 23. Thus, as... Figure 20 As indicated by arrow C4, air is drawn into the vehicle interior through the rear side opening 25. (As shown...) Figure 20As indicated by arrow C3, the drawn-in air is blown out from multiple orifices 23 after flowing through the air passage 22.

[0119] In addition, such as Figure 21 As indicated by arrow C5, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 can also be configured to provide cold stimulation by blowing out air cooled by the cooling device 51 (i.e., cold air). Figure 21 In the illustrated hot and cold stimulation device 20, air cooled by the cooling device 51 is supplied to the rear side opening 25. The blower 21 creates an airflow from the rear side opening 25 toward the plurality of openings 23 in the air passage 22. Thus, as... Figure 21 As indicated by arrow C6, cold air is drawn in from the rear side opening 25. (As shown in the image) Figure 21 As indicated by arrow C5, the drawn-in cold air is blown out from multiple holes 23 after flowing through the air passage 22.

[0120] Furthermore, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 of the first embodiment provides heat stimulation to the seated person using the heat generated by the heater 24. However, as Figure 22 As indicated by arrow B1, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 can also be configured to provide heat stimulation by blowing out air heated by the heating device 65 (i.e., hot air).

[0121] exist Figure 22 In the hot and cold stimulation device 20 shown, the blower 21, the air passage 22, the multiple holes 23, and the rear side hole 25 are respectively the first blower 21, the first air passage 22, the multiple first holes 23, and the first rear side hole 25. Figure 22 The shown hot and cold stimulation device 20 also includes a second blower 61, a second air passage 62 disposed on the seat cushion 104, a plurality of second holes 63 disposed on the front side portion of the seat cushion 104, and a second rear side hole 64 disposed on the lower rear side portion of the seat cushion 104. The second air passage 62 is an air passage independent of the first air passage 22. Figure 22 The hot and cold stimulation device 20 shown also includes a heating device 65 for heating air.

[0122] exist Figure 22 In the illustrated hot and cold stimulation device 20, as indicated by arrow B2, air heated by the heating device 65 is supplied to the second rear side opening 64. A second blower 61 creates an airflow from the second rear side opening 64 toward a plurality of second openings 63 in the second air passage 62. Thus, as indicated by arrow B1, hot air is blown out from the plurality of second openings 63.

[0123] Alternatively, it could be, such as Figure 23 As shown, the cold and heat stimulation device 20 is configured to provide cold stimulation by blowing air from the vehicle interior as indicated by arrow C3, and to provide heat stimulation by blowing hot air as indicated by arrow B1.

[0124] Alternatively, it could be, such as Figure 24 As shown, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 is configured to provide cold stimulation by blowing out cold air as indicated by arrow C5, and to provide heat stimulation by blowing out hot air as indicated by arrow B1.

[0125] In addition, when supplying the seated person with in-car air, cold air or hot air, if the air volume and speed can be obtained with sufficient intensity as cold and heat stimulation, the cold and heat stimulation device 20 can also be configured to supply such air volume and speed through a blower installed outside the seat.

[0126] (5) In the above embodiments, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 is provided on the backrest 103 of the seat 101. However, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 may also be provided on the seating portion 102 of the seat 101.

[0127] (6) In the above embodiments, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 is provided in the driver's seat 101. However, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 may also be provided in a seat other than the driver's seat.

[0128] (7) As the hot and cold stimulation device 20, a device with a structure different from the embodiments described above may also be used. For example, a device for circulating a heat medium to supply heat or cold energy to the seated person may also be used. Alternatively, a thermoelectric conversion element or heat exchanger for supplying heat or cold energy to the seated person may also be used.

[0129] (8) In addition, in the embodiments described above, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 is installed in the seat of a vehicle. However, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 may also be installed in the seat of a mobile body other than a vehicle. Furthermore, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 may also be installed in a location other than a seat. That is, the recipient of the hot and cold stimulation provided by the hot and cold stimulation device 20 may be someone other than the person sitting in the seat. Furthermore, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 may not be a device installed in a specific location, but rather a small, portable device. Additionally, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 may also be installed on the recipient. For example, the hot and cold stimulation device 20 may be installed on the recipient's shoulder, waist, or arm.

[0130] (9) The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be appropriately modified, including various variations and modifications within the same range. Furthermore, the embodiments described above are not unrelated to each other, and can be appropriately combined except in cases where they are clearly incompatible. Additionally, in the embodiments described above, the elements constituting the embodiments are not necessarily essential, except where they are explicitly stated to be necessary or where they are considered obviously necessary in principle. Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, when referring to the number, value, quantity, range, etc., of the constituent elements of the embodiments, the number is not limited to that specific number, except where it is explicitly stated to be necessary or where it is explicitly limited to a specific number in principle. Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, when referring to the material, shape, positional relationship, etc., of the constituent elements, the material, shape, positional relationship, etc., are not limited to that material, shape, positional relationship, etc., except where it is explicitly stated to be necessary or where it is explicitly limited to a specific material, shape, positional relationship in principle.

[0131] (10) The control device and method described in this invention can be implemented using a dedicated computer provided by comprising a processor and a memory, the processor being programmed to perform one or more functions embodied in a computer program. Alternatively, the control device and method described in this invention can also be implemented using a dedicated computer provided by comprising a processor composed of one or more dedicated hardware logic circuits. Alternatively, the control device and method described in this invention can also be implemented using one or more dedicated computers, which are configured by combining a processor and a memory programmed to perform one or more functions with a processor composed of one or more hardware logic circuits. Furthermore, the computer program can be stored as instructions to be executed by a computer on a computer-readable, non-transient tangible recording medium.

[0132] (Summarize)

[0133] According to a first perspective shown in part or all of the above embodiments, a hot and cold stimulation system includes: a hot and cold stimulation device that provides hot stimulation and cold stimulation to a subject; a stimulation control unit that controls the operation of the hot and cold stimulation device to periodically alternate the hot stimulation period and the cold stimulation period, taking the total of the hot stimulation period and the cold stimulation period as a cycle; and a hot and cold ratio determination unit that determines a hot and cold ratio, which is the ratio of the hot stimulation period to the cold stimulation period in one cycle. The stimulation control unit operates the hot and cold stimulation device by alternating the hot stimulation period and the cold stimulation period according to the hot and cold ratio determined by the hot and cold ratio determination unit. The hot and cold ratios determined by the hot and cold ratio determination unit include a first ratio and a second ratio that are different from each other. The cycle in which the hot and cold ratio determination unit determines the hot and cold ratio to be the first ratio and the cycle in which the hot and cold ratio is determined to be the second ratio are substantially the same time.

[0134] Furthermore, according to the second viewpoint, the hot and cold stimulation system includes an input unit that directly or indirectly inputs information related to the hot and cold ratio. The hot and cold ratio determination unit determines the hot and cold ratio based on the information input through the input unit. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the hot and cold sensation of the hot and cold stimulation applied to the subject to the subject's preferred hot and cold sensation.

[0135] Furthermore, according to the third viewpoint, the hot and cold stimulation system includes a prediction unit that predicts the subject's sensation of hot or cold, or their comfort level. A hot and cold ratio determination unit determines the hot and cold ratio based on the prediction result of the prediction unit. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the sensation of hot and cold stimulation applied to the subject to their preferred temperature.

[0136] Furthermore, according to the fourth point of view, the cooling-heat ratio is determined by the set temperature of the air conditioning unit that adjusts the air temperature of the space where the subject is located, and the actual air temperature of the space where the subject is located. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the sensation of hot or cold stimuli delivered to the subject to a sensation of hot or cold that the subject prefers.

Claims

1. A cold and heat stimulation system, characterized by, Possessing: a cold and heat stimulation device that provides a subject with a heat stimulus and a cold stimulus; a stimulation control section that controls the operation of the cold and heat stimulation device so that the heat stimulus period and the cold stimulus period are alternately repeated periodically, with the total of the heat stimulus period and the cold stimulus period in one cycle; a cold and heat ratio determination section that determines a cold and heat ratio, which is the ratio of the heat stimulus period to the cold stimulus period in one cycle; and an input section that directly or indirectly inputs information related to the cold and heat ratio so that the subject can change the temperature felt during the entire period of being subjected to a cold and heat stimulus, the stimulation control section operates the cold and heat stimulation device so that the heat stimulus period and the cold stimulus period are alternately repeated at the cold and heat ratio determined by the cold and heat ratio determination section, the cold and heat ratio determined by the cold and heat ratio determination section includes a first ratio and a second ratio that are different from each other, the cold and heat ratio determination section determines the one cycle when the cold and heat ratio is the first ratio and the one cycle when the cold and heat ratio is the second ratio to be substantially the same time, as the information related to the cold and heat ratio, the input section displays the temperature felt by the subject during the entire period of being subjected to a cold and heat stimulus, or displays a plurality of cold and heat ratios, the cold and heat ratio determination section determines the cold and heat ratio based on the information input by the input section.

2. The cold and heat stimulation system according to claim 1, characterized in that further possessing a speculation section that speculates a cold and heat sensation or a cold and heat comfort as a current thermal feeling of the subject, the cold and heat ratio determination section determines the cold and heat ratio further based on the speculation result of the speculation section.

3. The cold and heat stimulation system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the cold and heat ratio determination section determines the cold and heat ratio further based on a set temperature of an air conditioning device that adjusts the air temperature of a space where the subject is located and an actual air temperature of the space where the subject is located.

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