Thermoregulatory function evaluation device, air processing device, and thermoregulatory function evaluation method

Abstract

The evaluation method of thermoregulatory function is characterized by comprising: a process of acquiring an autonomic nerve index of a subject; a process of acquiring a sweating index of the subject; and an evaluation process of evaluating a thermoregulatory function of the subject using the autonomic nerve index of the subject and the sweating index of the subject. Preferably, the autonomic nerve index comprises at least one of a heartbeat variation index and a pulse variation index, and the sweating index comprises at least one of a skin conductance and a sweating amount.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a body temperature regulation function evaluation device, an air handling device, and a body temperature regulation function evaluation method. BACKGROUND

[0002] The risk determination device described in Patent Literature 1 includes a measurement section that measures a physiological index associated with peripheral blood flow of a subject, and an analysis section that acquires a size of fluctuation (fluctuation in blood flow) of the physiological index, and determines a risk of abnormality of body temperature regulation function based on the size of fluctuation.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-212306 SUMMARY

[0006] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] However, the risk determination device described in Patent Literature 1 determines that there is a risk of abnormality of body temperature regulation function when the fluctuation in blood flow reaches a certain value or less, but at this time, the body temperature regulation function is already in a state just before collapse, and there is a possibility that abnormality of body temperature regulation function has already occurred.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to output a working degree of body temperature regulation function of a target person.

[0009] SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEMS

[0010] A first aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a body temperature regulation function evaluation method. The body temperature regulation function evaluation method is characterized by including: a process of acquiring an autonomic nerve index of a target person; a process of acquiring a sweating index of the target person; and an evaluation process in which a body temperature regulation function of the target person is evaluated using the autonomic nerve index of the target person and the sweating index of the target person.

[0011] In the first aspect, it is possible to output a working degree of body temperature regulation function of a target person.

[0012] A second aspect of the present disclosure is characterized by including at least one of a heartbeat variation index and a pulse variation index in the autonomic nerve index, and at least one of a skin conductance and a sweating amount in the sweating index, based on the first aspect.

[0013] In the second aspect, it is possible to evaluate a body temperature regulation function of a target person using a heartbeat variation index, and a skin conductance or a sweating amount.

[0014] The third aspect of the present disclosure is such that, in the first aspect or the second aspect, the body temperature regulation function of the subject is evaluated using classification information Z in the evaluation process, the classification information Z being obtained by classifying the evaluation result of the body temperature regulation function into a plurality of patterns according to a threshold value set for each of the autonomic nervous indicator and the sweating indicator.

[0015] In the third aspect, the body temperature regulation function of the subject can be evaluated using the classification information.

[0016] The fourth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, in the third aspect, the plurality of patterns respectively correspond to a plurality of indicator groups, each of the plurality of indicator groups being composed of a combination of the autonomic nervous indicator and the sweating indicator having a range divided by the threshold value, and in the evaluation process, an indicator group having a range containing the autonomic nervous indicator of the subject and the sweating indicator of the subject is selected from the plurality of indicator groups, and a pattern of the plurality of patterns corresponding to the selected indicator group is evaluated as equivalent to the body temperature regulation function of the subject.

[0017] In the fourth aspect, the body temperature regulation function of the subject can be determined from the plurality of patterns.

[0018] The fifth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, in the third aspect or the fourth aspect, the threshold value set for the autonomic nervous indicator and / or the sweating indicator is set for each temperature different from each other.

[0019] In the fifth aspect, the threshold value of the autonomic nervous indicator and / or the sweating indicator can be set considering the physiological phenomenon that the state of the autonomic nervous and the amount of sweating are different if the temperature is different.

[0020] The sixth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, in the third aspect or the fourth aspect, the threshold value set for each of the autonomic nervous indicator and the sweating indicator is set according to an environmental indicator indicating an environment in which the subject is located immediately before the body temperature regulation function is evaluated.

[0021] In the sixth aspect, the threshold value of each of the autonomic nervous indicator and the sweating indicator can be set according to the environmental indicator.

[0022] The seventh aspect of the present disclosure is such that, in the third aspect or the fourth aspect, the threshold value set for each of the autonomic nervous indicator and the sweating indicator is set considering a characteristic of the subject with respect to air temperature.

[0023] In the seventh aspect, the threshold values of the autonomic nervous index and the sweating index can be set in consideration of the characteristics of the subject with respect to air temperature.

[0024] The eighth aspect of the present disclosure is based on any one of the third aspect to the seventh aspect, and is characterized in that the evaluation method of the body temperature regulation function further includes a process of notifying external prescribed information if the pattern of the subject evaluated in the evaluation process corresponds to a prescribed pattern among the plurality of patterns and the subject is in a state of the prescribed pattern for a prescribed period.

[0025] In the eighth aspect, it is possible to notify that the subject has been in a state corresponding to the prescribed pattern for a prescribed period.

[0026] The ninth aspect of the present disclosure is based on any one of the first aspect to the eighth aspect, and is characterized in that the evaluation method of the body temperature regulation function further includes a control process in which the air handling device 400 controls the temperature of an indoor space in which the subject is located in accordance with the evaluation result in the evaluation process.

[0027] In the ninth aspect, it is possible to control the operation of the air handling device in consideration of the evaluation result of the body temperature regulation function of the subject.

[0028] The tenth aspect of the present disclosure is based on the ninth aspect, and is characterized in that in the control process, in a case where the temperature regulation function of the subject is evaluated as a first pattern, the air handling device 400 operates in such a manner that the temperature of the indoor space reaches a prescribed first temperature, and in a case where the body temperature regulation function of the subject is evaluated as a second pattern different from the first pattern, the air handling device 400 operates in such a manner that the temperature of the indoor space decreases to a prescribed second temperature lower than the prescribed first temperature and then increases to the prescribed first temperature.

[0029] In the tenth aspect, it is possible to constitute the control content of the air handling device in accordance with the pattern of the evaluation result of the body temperature regulation function of the subject.

[0030] The eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is such that, on the basis of the ninth aspect, it is characterized in that, in the control process, in a case where the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as a first mode, the air handling device 400 operates in such a manner that the temperature in the room reaches a prescribed first temperature, and in a case where the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as a second mode different from the first mode and the temperature in the room is equal to or higher than a prescribed temperature, the air handling device 400 operates in such a manner that the temperature in the room is lowered to a prescribed second temperature lower than the prescribed first temperature and then rises to the prescribed first temperature.

[0031] In the eleventh aspect, the control content of the air handling device can be constituted in accordance with the mode of the evaluation result of the thermoregulatory function of the subject.

[0032] The twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, on the basis of any one of the first aspect to the eleventh aspect, it is characterized in that the evaluation method of the thermoregulatory function includes an acquisition process in which a fatigue index of a thermoregulatory function that indicates the degree of fatigue of the thermoregulatory function of the subject is acquired, and an evaluation process in which the athletic performance of the subject is evaluated using the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function of the subject.

[0033] In the twelfth aspect, the athletic performance of the subject can be evaluated using an index related to the thermoregulatory function of the subject.

[0034] The thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, on the basis of the twelfth aspect, it is characterized in that, in the evaluation process, an athletic performance index that indicates the athletic performance of the subject is output by evaluating the athletic performance of the subject.

[0035] In the thirteenth aspect, the athletic performance of the subject can be confirmed from the athletic performance index.

[0036] The fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, on the basis of the twelfth aspect or the thirteenth aspect, it is characterized in that the acquisition process includes a process of acquiring an autonomic nerve index of the subject and a process of acquiring a sweating index of the subject.

[0037] In the fourteenth aspect, the athletic performance of the subject can be evaluated using the autonomic nerve index and the sweating index of the subject.

[0038] The fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, on the basis of the fourteenth aspect, it is characterized in that the autonomic nerve index includes a heartbeat fluctuation index and the sweating index includes a skin conductance or a sweating amount.

[0039] In the fifteenth aspect, the subject's athletic performance can be evaluated using the subject's heart rate variation index and skin conductance or amount of sweat.

[0040] The sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, on the basis of any one of the twelfth to fifteenth aspects, it is characterized in that, in the evaluation process, the athletic performance of the subject is further evaluated using correspondence information Y obtained by correlating an athletic performance index indicating the athletic performance with a fatigue index of each of the thermoregulatory functions that are different from each other.

[0041] In the sixteenth aspect, the subject's athletic performance can be evaluated using the correspondence information Y.

[0042] The seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, on the basis of the sixteenth aspect, it is characterized in that the correspondence information Y1 includes a plurality of information Y1-1, Y1-2 set in accordance with the type of exercise.

[0043] In the seventeenth aspect, the subject's athletic performance can be effectively evaluated in connection with the exercise performed by the subject.

[0044] The eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, on the basis of the sixteenth aspect, it is characterized in that a plurality of the correspondence information Y2 is set in accordance with the risk at the time of exercise related to the thermoregulatory function.

[0045] In the eighteenth aspect, the subject's athletic performance can be effectively evaluated as the risk at the time of exercise related to the subject's thermoregulation.

[0046] The nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, on the basis of any one of the twelfth to eighteenth aspects, it is characterized in that the evaluation method of the thermoregulatory function further includes a process of notifying information related to the evaluation result of the subject's athletic performance.

[0047] In the nineteenth aspect, the subject can confirm his or her athletic performance.

[0048] The twentieth aspect of the present disclosure is such that, on the basis of any one of the twelfth to nineteenth aspects, it is characterized in that the evaluation method of the thermoregulatory function further includes at least one of a process of controlling the temperature, humidity, and / or air flow of a space in which the subject is located by the air handling device 400 in accordance with the evaluation result in the evaluation process and a process of controlling the temperature, humidity, and / or air flow of a daily utensil or clothing with which the subject comes into contact by the temperature handling device.

[0049] In the twentieth aspect, the operation of the air handling device can be controlled in consideration of the evaluation result of the subject's athletic performance.

[0050] The twenty-first aspect of this disclosure pertains to an evaluation device for thermoregulation function. The evaluation device for thermoregulation function is characterized by comprising: a first acquisition unit 310, which acquires autonomic nervous system indicators of a subject; a second acquisition unit 320, which acquires sweating indicators of the subject; and an evaluation unit 350, which evaluates the subject's thermoregulation function using the subject's autonomic nervous system indicators and sweating indicators.

[0051] In the twenty-first aspect, it is able to output the degree of function of the subject's body temperature regulation.

[0052] The twenty-second aspect of this disclosure pertains to an air handling device. The air handling device is characterized by including an evaluation device 300 with a body temperature regulation function.

[0053] In the twenty-second aspect, the evaluation results of the thermoregulation function of the subject by the thermoregulation function evaluation device can be taken into account to control the operation of the air handling device. Attached Figure Description

[0054] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of an evaluation system for body temperature regulation function according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 2 The graph is shown in a coordinate system with the heart rate variability index on the vertical axis and time on the horizontal axis.

[0056] Figure 3 The graph is shown in a coordinate system with skin conductance as the vertical axis and time as the horizontal axis.

[0057] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing classification information;

[0058] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of an evaluation system for body temperature regulation function according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of an air handling unit;

[0060] Figure 7 This is a graph showing skin conductivity and room temperature during the first treatment;

[0061] Figure 8 This is a graph showing skin conductivity and room temperature during the second treatment;

[0062] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing how environmental indicators, the first threshold, and the second threshold are used to establish corresponding environmental information.

[0063] Figure 10 is a block diagram showing a structure of an evaluation system related to a motion performance according to a third embodiment of the present application;

[0064] Figure 11 is a graph showing a correlation model of a fatigue degree and a motion performance of a body temperature regulation function;

[0065] Figure 12 is a graph showing first correspondence information;

[0066] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing content of an evaluation unit;

[0067] Figure 14 is a graph showing second correspondence information;

[0068] Figure 15 is a block diagram showing a structure of an evaluation system related to a motion performance according to a fifth embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0069] Embodiments of the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the same or corresponding portions will be denoted by the same reference signs, and detailed description thereof and effects thereof will not be repeated.

[0070] First Embodiment

[0071] Reference Figure 1 An evaluation system 10 related to a body temperature regulation function according to a first embodiment of the present application will be described. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a structure of the evaluation system 10 related to the body temperature regulation function according to the first embodiment of the present application. Hereinafter, the evaluation system 10 related to the body temperature regulation function will be sometimes referred to as the evaluation system 10.

[0072] Overall Structure

[0073] As shown in Figure 1 , the evaluation system 10 includes a first sensor 100, a second sensor 200, and an evaluation device 300 of a body temperature regulation function. Hereinafter, the evaluation device 300 of the body temperature regulation function will be sometimes referred to as the evaluation device 300.

[0074] The first sensor 100 is worn on a subject and measures a physical quantity that indicates an activity state of a control system related to an autonomic nervous system of the subject. In the first embodiment, the first sensor 100 measures an example of the physical quantity, i.e., a heart rate of the subject. The first sensor 100 includes, for example, an electrocardiograph sensor.

[0075] The second sensor 200 is worn on the subject and measures a perspiration index of the subject. The perspiration index indicates a physical quantity that changes due to perspiration on the skin surface. The perspiration index includes skin potential activity (SPA), skin conductance change (SC), and the like, which are electro dermal activity (EDA), perspiration amount, and the like. In the first embodiment, the skin conductance (SC) is used as the perspiration index. In this case, the second sensor 200 includes a skin conductance measuring device that measures the skin conductance (SC) of the subject. Note that the perspiration amount can also be used as the perspiration index. In this case, the second sensor 200 can include a perspiration amount measuring device such as a perspirometer that measures the perspiration amount of the subject.

[0076] The evaluation device 300 includes a terminal such as a smartphone and a personal computer (PC), for example. The evaluation device 300 includes a first acquisition unit 310, a second acquisition unit 320, a notification unit 330, a storage unit 340, and an evaluation unit 350. The evaluation device 300 outputs information indicating the working degree of the body temperature regulation function of the subject by evaluating the body temperature regulation function of the subject. The body temperature regulation function indicates a function of maintaining the body temperature by appropriately performing heat dissipation (perspiration and the like), heat generation (shaking the body, and the like), and the like in response to heat stress. The heat stress indicates a load (for example, a cold or heat stimulus that hinders the maintenance of the body temperature) that the person receives from a hot environment. The working degree of the body temperature regulation function is defined by the frequency at which an action for body temperature regulation such as perspiration, shaking the body, and an action of dilating or constricting blood vessels is performed in response to an instruction related to the body temperature regulation function that is transmitted from the center to the end by the autonomic nerve.

[0077] The first acquisition unit 310 includes a device for communicating with the first sensor 100. The first acquisition unit 310 acquires information indicating the heartbeat interval measured by the first sensor 100. The first acquisition unit 310 is communicably connected to the first sensor 100 by wire or wirelessly. The first acquisition unit 310 includes, for example, at least one of a device (wireless LAN module and the like) for performing wireless communication (Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark) (Wireless Fidelity), Internet communication, and the like) and a device (communication port to which a communication cable is connected and the like) for performing wired communication.

[0078] The first acquisition section 310 further includes a processor. The processor of the first acquisition section 310 calculates an autonomic nerve index from the measurement result of the first sensor 100. The autonomic nerve index represents an index that captures an activity state of a control system related to the autonomic nervous system. In the first embodiment, the autonomic nerve index represents a heart rate variability index (LF / HF) that captures an activity state of a heartbeat. The processor of the first acquisition section 310 calculates the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) from the measurement result of the first sensor 100, i.e., the heart rate. The heart rate variability index (LF / HF) is, for example, able to be calculated from a heart rate interval by frequency analysis. That is, by performing frequency analysis (spectrum analysis) of the heart rate variability (variation in R-R interval) using a method such as a Fourier transform, a wavelet transform, or the like, it is possible to obtain a low-frequency component (LF) from 0.05 to 0.15 Hz that mainly reflects sympathetic nerve function (including a part of parasympathetic nerve function), a high-frequency component (HF) from 0.15 to 0.4 Hz that reflects parasympathetic nerve function, and a heart rate variability index, i.e., a ratio of the low-frequency component to the high-frequency component (LF / HF). In addition, it is also possible to calculate an acceleration pulse wave by performing second-order differentiation of the waveform of a pulse wave, to obtain a variation in a-a interval (pulse interval) corresponding to the variation in R-R interval of an electrocardiogram from the obtained waveform of the acceleration pulse wave, to perform frequency analysis of the time variation in the a-a interval, and to obtain a heart rate variability index (LF / HF) from the result of the frequency analysis.

[0079] Note that, in the first embodiment, the first acquisition section 310 performs the process of calculating the heart rate variability index (LF / HF), but the present application is not limited thereto. It is also possible to configure such that the first sensor 100 performs the process of calculating the heart rate variability index (LF / HF), and the first acquisition section 310 acquires the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) from the first sensor 100.

[0080] The second acquisition section 320 includes a device for communicating with the second sensor 200. The second acquisition section 320 acquires information representing the skin conductance (SC) measured by the second sensor 200. The second acquisition section 320 is communicably connected to the second sensor 200 by wire or wirelessly. The second sensor 200 includes, for example, at least one of a device for performing wireless communication and a device for performing wired communication.

[0081] The notification section 330 notifies prescribed information. The notification section 330 includes, for example, a speaker that emits a notification sound, a display that displays prescribed information, and / or a communication device that transmits prescribed information to an external terminal (smartphone or the like). The description of the prescribed information is described later.

[0082] The storage section 340 includes a main storage device (for example, a semiconductor memory) such as a flash memory, a read only memory (ROM), and a random access memory (RAM), and can further include an auxiliary storage device (for example, a hard disk drive, a solid state drive (SSD), a secure digital (SD) memory card, or a universal serial bus (USB) flash memory). The storage section 340 stores various computer programs executed by the processors of the evaluation section 350 and the first acquisition section 310.

[0083] The storage section 340 stores classification information Z. The classification information Z will be described later.

[0084] The evaluation section 350 includes a processor such as a CPU and an MPU. The evaluation section 350 controls each element of the evaluation device 300 by executing the computer programs stored in the storage section 340.

[0085] -Explanation of the results of the test-

[0086] The results of the test performed on the present inventors will be explained. Figure 2 Figure 3 The results of the test performed on the present inventors will be explained.

[0087] Figure 2 A curve G1 displayed in a coordinate system with a heart fluctuation index (LF / HF) as a vertical axis and time as a horizontal axis is shown. Generally, the greater the heart fluctuation index (LF / HF), the greater the heat stress.

[0088] Figure 3 A curve G2 displayed in a coordinate system with a skin conductance (SC) as a horizontal axis and time as a horizontal axis is shown. The curve G1 and the curve G2 each show the results of the present test. Generally, the greater the skin conductance (SC), the greater the amount of sweating.

[0089] In the present test, the subject moves alternately in two rooms in which the air temperature is set to a normal temperature (26°C) and a high temperature (36°C), and the heart fluctuation index (LF / HF) and the skin conductance (SC) of the subject are measured throughout the test period. Then, a curve G1 is created in which the implementation time of the test is correlated with the heart fluctuation index (LF / HF) of the subject (refer to Figure 2 ). In addition, a curve G2 is created in which the implementation time of the test is correlated with the skin conductance (SC) of the subject (refer to Figure 3 ).

[0090] As Figure 2 ​and Figure 3 As shown in the graph G1, in the present test, the period from time 0 to time tl, the period from time t2 to time t3, the period from time t4 to time t5, the period from time t6 to time t7, and the period after time t8 are normal temperature periods of 26°C. The period from time tl to time t2, the period from time t3 to time t4, the period from time t5 to time t6, and the period from time t7 to time t8 are high temperature periods of 36°C.

[0091] Referring to Figure 2 The graph G1 will be described.

[0092] As shown in the graph G1, in the normal temperature period, the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) of the subject has a tendency to be maintained or to decrease. In the high temperature period, the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) of the subject has a tendency to increase.

[0093] Referring to Figure 3 The graph G2 will be described.

[0094] As shown in the graph G2, in the normal temperature period, the skin conductance (SC) of the subject has a tendency to decrease. In the high temperature period, the skin conductance (SC) of the subject has a tendency to increase.

[0095] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The relationship between the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) and the skin conductance (SC) will be described.

[0096] As Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, in the first high temperature period (time tl to time t2), the peak value pa of the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) is low, and the peak value qa of the skin conductance (SC) is high, as compared with the other high temperature periods. That is, it can be explained that even if the activity state of the sympathetic nerve that controls the sweating function is not excessive, there is still sufficient amount of sweat, and thus, it is in a state where the load applied to the body temperature regulation function is high, but there is still a margin to perform the body temperature regulation.

[0097] In the second high temperature period (time t3 to time t4), since the peak value pb of the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) is higher than the peak value pa of the first high temperature period (pb > pa), it is considered that the balance between the sympathetic nerve that controls the body temperature regulation function and the parasympathetic nerve that has an antagonistic effect thereon is broken. On the other hand, since the peak value qb of the skin conductance (SC) is equivalent to the peak value qa of the first high temperature period (qb ≈ qa), it is considered that the body temperature regulation function can be maintained. Thus, it can be explained that since the load applied to the body temperature regulation function continues, the margin becomes less, but it is still in a state where the body temperature regulation function can be maintained.

[0098] During the third high-temperature period (time t5 to time t6), as during the second high-temperature period, the peak value pc of the heart rate fluctuation index (LF / HF) is in a high state, but the peak value qc of the skin conductance (SC) is lower than the peak value qb during the second high-temperature period, and thus it is expected that, due to the destruction of the autonomic nervous balance and the exhaustion of the physiological mechanism of the sweat-related peripheral, sufficient sweating cannot be performed. This state can be interpreted as a state in which the body temperature regulation function is in an exhausted state compared to the second time.

[0099] During the fourth high-temperature period (time t7 to time t8), as during the second and third high-temperature periods, the peak value pd of the heart rate fluctuation index (LF / HF) is in a high state, but the peak value qd of the skin conductance (SC) is further lower than the peak value qc during the third high-temperature period, and thus the amount of sweat of the subject is further reduced, and thus it can be interpreted as a state in which the body temperature regulation function is further exhausted and the body temperature regulation becomes difficult.

[0100] In the above test, the subject alternately stayed in a hot environment (36°C) and a normal temperature environment (26°C) for 20 minutes, and thus a result in which the indices related to the body temperature regulation function gradually deteriorated.

[0101] According to the results of the above test, the present inventors have developed a method of evaluating the fatigue state of the body temperature regulation function (i.e., the state of the body temperature regulation function) that is a destruction of the autonomic nervous balance and a reduction of the sweat function of the peripheral due to long-term exposure to a hot heat load and repeated exposure to a hot heat load, in stages, based on the state of the heart rate fluctuation index (LF / HF) and the skin conductance that is a sweat index.

[0102] - Classification information -

[0103] Reference Figures 1-4 The classification information Z stored in the storage section 340 will be described. Figure 4 is a graph showing the classification information Z.

[0104] The classification information Z is information that classifies the evaluation result of the body temperature regulation function into a plurality of patterns based on the threshold values set for each of the autonomic nervous index and the sweat index. The plurality of patterns respectively correspond to a plurality of index groups. Each of the plurality of index groups is composed of a combination of the autonomic nervous index and the sweat index, in which the autonomic nervous index and the sweat index have ranges divided by the threshold values.

[0105] Hereinafter, the threshold value set for the autonomic nervous index will be described as a first threshold value, and the threshold value set for the sweat index will be described as a second threshold value.

[0106] In the first embodiment, the evaluation result of the body temperature regulation function is classified into a plurality of patterns using an example of the autonomic nervous index, i.e., the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF), and an example of the sweating index, i.e., the skin conductance (SC).

[0107] In the first embodiment, the evaluation result of the body temperature regulation function is classified into four patterns (A) to (D). The pattern (A) indicates that the load applied to the body temperature regulation is low, and the body temperature regulation function is in a normal state without fatigue. The pattern (B) indicates that the body temperature regulation function is in a state with low fatigue degree although the load applied to the body temperature regulation is high, and there is still some margin. The pattern (C) indicates that the body temperature regulation function is in a state with moderate fatigue degree, in which the load applied to the body temperature regulation is high, and the margin is small. The pattern (D) indicates that the body temperature regulation function is in a state with high fatigue degree, in which the load applied to the body temperature regulation is high, and it is difficult to maintain the body temperature. The evaluation result of the body temperature regulation function is deteriorated in the order of the pattern (A), the pattern (B), the pattern (C), and the pattern (D).

[0108] In the first embodiment, the first threshold value V is set with respect to the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) (see Figure 2 ). The second threshold value W is set with respect to the skin conductance (SC) (see Figure 3 ).

[0109] In the classification information Z shown in Figure 4 , "large" written in the column of the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) indicates that the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) acquired by the first acquisition unit 310 is equal to or greater than the first threshold value V. "Small" written in the column of the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) indicates that the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) acquired by the first acquisition unit 310 is smaller than the first threshold value V. "Large" written in the column of the skin conductance (SC) indicates that the skin conductance (SC) acquired by the second acquisition unit 320 is equal to or greater than the second threshold value W. "Small" written in the column of the skin conductance (SC) indicates that the skin conductance (SC) acquired by the second acquisition unit 320 is smaller than the second threshold value W.

[0110] In the first embodiment, the pattern (A) is constituted by a combination of the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) having a range smaller than the first threshold value V, and the skin conductance (SC) having a range smaller than the second threshold value W. As indicated by the pattern (A), in a case where the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) is smaller than the first threshold value V, and the skin conductance (SC) is smaller than the second threshold value W, the load applied to the body temperature regulation is low, and it is possible to evaluate that the body temperature regulation function is in a normal state without fatigue.

[0111] In the first embodiment, mode (B) consists of a combination of a heart rate variability index (LF / HF) having a range smaller than the first threshold V and a skin conductance (SC) having a range greater than or equal to the second threshold W. As shown in mode (B), when the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) is smaller than the first threshold V and the skin conductance (SC) is greater than the second threshold W, the autonomic nervous system functions normally, resulting in profuse sweating. Therefore, a state of low fatigue in thermoregulation function, where the thermoregulatory load is high but there is still room for improvement, can be evaluated.

[0112] In the first embodiment, mode (C) consists of a combination of a heart rate variability index (LF / HF) within a range above a first threshold V and a skin conductance (SC) within a range above a second threshold W. As shown in mode (C), when the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) is above the first threshold V and the skin conductance (SC) is above the second threshold W, the autonomic nervous system controlling thermoregulation is overactive, resulting in profuse sweating. Therefore, it is possible to evaluate that the fatigue level of thermoregulation function is moderate, indicating a high load and low capacity for thermoregulation.

[0113] In the first embodiment, mode (D) is composed of a combination of a heart rate variability index (LF / HF) having a range above a first threshold V and a skin conductance (SC) having a range below a second threshold W. As shown in mode (D), when the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) is above the first threshold V and the skin conductance (SC) is below the second threshold W, the autonomic nervous system controlling thermoregulation is overactive, but the sweating function in response is reduced. Therefore, a state of high thermoregulation fatigue, characterized by a high thermoregulation load and difficulty in maintaining body temperature, can be evaluated.

[0114] - An example of the processing content of Evaluation Department 350 -

[0115] Reference Figures 2-4 Here is an example of the processing content of the evaluation department 350.

[0116] like Figures 2-4 As shown, in the first embodiment, during the first period N1 near the end of the first high-temperature period (time t1 to time t2), the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) reaches its peak value pa, and the skin conductance (SC) reaches its peak value qa. During the first period N1, the heart rate variability index (LF / HF = pa) is less than the first threshold V, and the skin conductance (SC = qa) is greater than the second threshold W. In this case, the evaluation unit 350 (refer to...) Figure 1 The thermoregulation function of the subjects was evaluated as equivalent to model (B).

[0117] In the first embodiment, in a second period N2 near the end of the second high-temperature period (time t3 to time t4), the heart fluctuation index (LF / HF) reaches a peak value pb, and the skin conductance (SC) reaches a peak value qb. In the second period N2, the heart fluctuation index (LF / HF = pb) is above the first threshold value V, and the skin conductance (SC = qb) is above the second threshold value W. In this case, the evaluation section 350 (refer to Figure 1 ) evaluates that the thermoregulatory function of the subject corresponds to pattern (C).

[0118] In the first embodiment, in a third period N3 near the end of the third high-temperature period (time t5 to time t6), the heart fluctuation index (LF / HF) reaches a peak value pc, and the skin conductance (SC) reaches a peak value qc. In the third period N3, the heart fluctuation index (LF / HF = pc) is above the first threshold value V, and the skin conductance (SC = qc) is smaller than the second threshold value W. In this case, the evaluation section 350 (refer to Figure 1 ) evaluates that the thermoregulatory function of the subject corresponds to pattern (D).

[0119] In the first embodiment, in a fourth period N4 near the end of the fourth high-temperature period (time t7 to time t8), the heart fluctuation index (LF / HF) reaches a peak value pd, and the skin conductance (SC) reaches a peak value qd. In the fourth period N4, the heart fluctuation index (LF / HF = pd) is above the first threshold value V, and the skin conductance (SC = qd) is smaller than the second threshold value W. In this case, the evaluation section 350 (refer to Figure 1 ) evaluates that the thermoregulatory function of the subject corresponds to pattern (D).

[0120] Effects of the first embodiment

[0121] As described above with reference to Figures 1-4 , the evaluation section 350 evaluates the thermoregulatory function of the subject using the autonomic nerve index of the subject, i.e., the heart fluctuation index (LF / HF), and the sweating index of the subject, i.e., the skin conductance (SC). As a result, information indicating the working degree of the thermoregulatory function of the subject, as shown in (A) to (D) of Figure 4 , can be output as the evaluation result of the thermoregulatory function. In addition, the working degree of the thermoregulatory function of the subject can be confirmed, and thus an environment suitable for the subject can be provided. In addition, the working degree of the thermoregulatory function of the subject can be confirmed, and thus the temperature of the space or the like can be controlled to make the environment of the space in which the subject is located a comfortable environment for the subject before the thermoregulatory function of the subject is exhausted.

[0122] Second embodiment

[0123] Refer toFigure 5 An evaluation system 20 according to the second embodiment of the present application will be described. Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the evaluation system 20 according to the second embodiment of the present application.

[0124] Overall Configuration

[0125] As shown in Figure 5 , the evaluation system 20 includes a first sensor 100, a second sensor 200, and an air handling device 400.

[0126] The air handling device 400 is a device having a function of adjusting the temperature in a room. The air handling device 400 includes, for example, an air conditioner.

[0127] The air handling device 400 includes an indoor unit 410 and an outdoor unit 420.

[0128] The indoor unit 410 is disposed in a room. The indoor unit 410 includes a temperature sensor 411, a storage section 412, an evaluation device 300, and a control section 413. The temperature sensor 411 detects the temperature in the room. The storage section 412 includes a main storage device such as a flash memory, a ROM, and a RAM, and can further include an auxiliary storage device. The storage section 412 stores various computer programs executed by the control section 413. The control section 413 includes a processor such as a CPU and an MPU. In the second embodiment, the evaluation device 300 is an electronic component built in or externally attached to the housing of the indoor unit 410.

[0129] The control section 413 controls each element of the air handling device 400 by executing the computer programs stored in the storage section 412. The control section 413 performs air conditioning control to control the temperature in the room, for example, by controlling a fan provided in the indoor unit 410, a compressor provided in the outdoor unit 420, and the like. Note that the control section 413 of the air handling device 400 can also have the function of the evaluation section 350 (see Figure 1 ) of the evaluation device 300. In addition, the storage section 412 of the air handling device 400 can also have the function of the storage section 340 of the evaluation device 300.

[0130] Example of the Operation of the Air Handling Device 400

[0131] An example of the operation of the air handling device 400 will be described with reference to Figure 1 and Figures 5-8 . Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the air handling device 400.

[0132] In the second embodiment, Figure 6The processing shown is started in a state where the control section 413 of the air handling device 400 is performing air conditioning control. For example, the control section 413 of the air handling device 400 is performing PMV control. PMV is an index for quantitatively handling the thermal sensation felt by a person. PMV control is control that maintains PMV at a value at which most people feel comfortable.

[0133] In Figure 6 The processing shown is started in a state where the control section 413 of the air handling device 400 is performing air conditioning control. For example, the control section 413 of the air handling device 400 is performing PMV control. PMV is an index for quantitatively handling the thermal sensation felt by a person. PMV control is control that maintains PMV at a value at which most people feel comfortable. Figure 6 The processing shown is performed in a state where the subject is in the room.

[0134] As Figure 1 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 In step S10, the heart rate of the subject is measured by the first sensor 100. The first acquisition section 310 of the evaluation device 300 acquires the heart rate of the subject from the first sensor 100, and calculates the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) of the subject from the acquired heart rate of the subject. As a result, the first acquisition section 310 of the evaluation device 300 acquires the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) of the subject.

[0135] In step S20, the skin conductance (SC) of the subject is measured by the second sensor 200. The second acquisition section 320 of the evaluation device 300 acquires the skin conductance (SC) of the subject from the second sensor 200.

[0136] In step S10 and step S20, the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) and the skin conductance (SC) measured at substantially the same time are acquired. Note that the order of the processing shown in step S10 and the processing shown in step S20 is not particularly limited, and for example, the order of step S20 and step S10 can be followed, or they can be performed simultaneously.

[0137] In step S30, the evaluation section 350 of the evaluation device 300 evaluates the thermoregulatory function of the subject from the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) acquired in step S10, the skin conductance (SC) acquired in step S20, and the classification information Z (see Figure 4 ). In the second embodiment, the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as any one of the patterns (A) to (D).

[0138] In a case where the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as the pattern (A), the processing is transferred to step S40. In a case where the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as the pattern (B), the processing is also transferred to step S40. In a case where the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as the pattern (C) (the first pattern), the processing is transferred to step S50. In a case where the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as the pattern (D) (the second pattern), the processing is transferred to step S60.

[0139] In step S40, the control section 413 of the air handling unit 400 continues the current air conditioning control (from the air conditioning control performed at the start of the processing shown in FIG. 7). In the second embodiment, the control section 413 of the air handling unit 400 continues the air conditioning control that controls the temperature in the room at the start temperature (PMV is +1 or more). If the processing shown in step S40 ends, the processing ends. Figure 6

[0140] In step S50, the control section 413 of the air handling unit 400 performs first processing. The first processing indicates that the air conditioning control is performed in such a manner that the temperature in the room reaches a prescribed first temperature (comfortable temperature). The first temperature indicates, for example, the temperature in the room when the air conditioning control is performed in such a manner that the PMV is -0.5 or more and +0.5 or less. The first temperature is lower than the start temperature.

[0141] Figure 7 is a graph showing the skin conductance (SC) and the temperature in the room when the first processing is performed. As shown in Figure 7 , if the temperature in the room is reduced from the start temperature to the first temperature by performing the first processing, the amount of sweat of the subject decreases, and the skin conductance (SC) decreases. Also, if the subject stops sweating, the skin conductance (SC) converges to a certain value. By the state in which the skin conductance (SC) converges to a certain value continuing for a certain period, the thermoregulatory function of the subject can be improved, so that the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as the pattern (A) or the pattern (B). If the processing shown in step S50 ends, the processing ends.

[0142] As shown in Figure 1 , Figure 5 , and Figure 6 , in step S60, the control section 413 of the air handling unit 400 performs second processing. The second processing indicates that, after the state in which the temperature in the room reaches a prescribed second temperature (cold temperature) continues for a prescribed period, the air conditioning control is performed in such a manner that the temperature in the room reaches a prescribed first temperature (comfortable temperature). The second temperature indicates, for example, the temperature in the room when the air conditioning control is performed in such a manner that the PMV is -1 or less. The second temperature is lower than the first temperature.

[0143] Figure 8 ​is a graph showing the skin conductance (SC) when the second processing is performed. As shown in Figure 8 by the second processing, the temperature in the room is decreased from the start temperature to the second temperature and then increased to the first temperature in a prescribed period. By providing the subject with the environment of the second temperature (cold temperature), the subject's sweat amount can be decreased rapidly and then the subject can be provided with the environment of the first temperature (comfortable temperature). Thus, the state in which the skin conductance (SC) converges to a certain value (state in which the subject substantially does not sweat) can be continued for a certain period, and therefore the subject's thermoregulatory function can be improved so that the subject's thermoregulatory function is evaluated as pattern (A) or pattern (B). Note that the prescribed period (period in which the air conditioning control is performed so that the temperature in the room reaches the second temperature) represents, for example, a period until the skin conductance (SC) reaches a prescribed value or less, a period until the skin conductance (SC) converges to a certain value, or a period from when the skin conductance (SC) converges to a certain value until a prescribed time elapses. If the processing shown in step S60 ends, the processing ends.

[0144] If the subject's thermoregulatory function deteriorates to pattern (D), it is preferable to decrease the skin conductance (SC) as early as possible and rapidly improve the subject's thermoregulatory function. Therefore, in the second processing (step S60), the temperature in the room is made to be the second temperature (cold temperature) before the temperature in the room is made to be the first temperature (comfortable temperature), so that the subject's skin conductance (SC) is decreased as early as possible. As a result, the subject's thermoregulatory function can be rapidly improved.

[0145] Note that in the second processing, the same processing as the first processing (processing in which the temperature in the room is decreased from the start temperature to the first temperature) can be performed. Also, in the first processing (step S50), the same processing as the second processing (processing in which the temperature in the room is decreased from the start temperature to the second temperature and then increased to the first temperature) can be performed.

[0146] Effects of the Second Embodiment

[0147] As described above, the air processing device 400 includes the evaluation device 300. Thus, the operation of the air processing device 400 can be controlled in consideration of the evaluation result of the subject's thermoregulatory function by the evaluation device 300.

[0148] Other Embodiments

[0149] The first embodiment and the second embodiment have been described above, but it is understood that various changes (for example, (1) to (10) described below) can be made to the modes and specific conditions thereof without departing from the gist and scope of the claims. The above embodiments and modified examples can also be appropriately combined or replaced as long as the functions of the objects of the present disclosure are not affected.

[0150] (1) In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the heart rate variation index (LF / HF) that captures the activity state of the heart is used as the autonomic nerve index. However, the present application is not limited thereto. For example, a pulse variation index that captures the activity state of the pulse can also be used as the autonomic nerve index. In this case, the first sensor 100 includes a pulse wave sensor.

[0151] (2) The evaluation device 300 can also be configured such that the evaluation section 350 of the evaluation device 300 notifies the external device of predetermined information (information indicating a conclusion that can normally be derived from the result of the judgment) in the case where the evaluation is that the thermoregulatory function of the subject corresponds to the pattern (D) (predetermined pattern) and it is judged that the state in which the thermoregulatory function of the subject corresponds to the pattern (D) has continued for a predetermined period (with reference to Figure 1 ). In this case, the evaluation section 350 of the evaluation device 300 judges that the subject is suffering from heatstroke, for example, in the case where the state in which the thermoregulatory function of the subject corresponds to the pattern (D) has continued for a predetermined period. Furthermore, information indicating that the subject is suffering from heatstroke is notified by the notification section 330 as an example of the predetermined information. As a result, the evaluation device 300 can be used for heatstroke countermeasures.

[0152] (3) In the second embodiment, the evaluation result of the evaluation device 300 is used for air conditioning control. However, the present application is not limited thereto. For example, a drinking water recommendation can also be made using the evaluation result of the evaluation device 300.

[0153] (4) In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, each of the first threshold value for distinguishing the autonomic nerve index (heart rate variation index (LF / HF)) and the second threshold value for distinguishing the perspiration index (skin conductance (SC)) is set to a certain value (first threshold value V and second threshold value W) (with reference to Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). However, the present application is not limited thereto.

[0154] Alternatively, a first threshold can be set for each distinct temperature. Specifically, in this case, the temperature refers to the temperature of the space where the subject is located. For example, at a temperature of 36°C, the first threshold is set to 9 (=LF / HF), and at a temperature of 31°C, the first threshold is set to 8.5 (=LF / HF). This allows for the consideration of physiological phenomena such as different autonomic nervous system states depending on temperature, and the setting of a first threshold that matches the state of the autonomic nervous system for each temperature. As a result, the first threshold can be set with greater precision.

[0155] Reference Figure 1 An example of a device structure for setting a first threshold temperature at each temperature will be described. For example... Figure 1 As shown, in this case, the evaluation system 10 also includes a temperature sensor (not shown) for detecting temperature. First correspondence information is stored in the storage unit 340. The first correspondence information is, for example, a table or curve that establishes a correspondence between each temperature and a first threshold. If temperature information is obtained from the temperature sensor, the evaluation unit 350 selects a first threshold corresponding to the obtained temperature from the first correspondence information. The evaluation unit 350 uses the selected first threshold to classify information Z (see reference). Figure 4 The magnitude of the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) in the heart rate variability index is distinguished, and the classified information Z after the distinction is used to evaluate the thermoregulation function of the subject.

[0156] Alternatively, a second threshold can be set for each distinct temperature. Specifically, in this case, the temperature refers to the temperature of the space where the subject is located. For example, when the temperature is 36°C, the second threshold is set to 2 (= SC), and when the temperature is 31°C, the second threshold is set to 1.5 (= SC). This allows for the consideration of physiological phenomena such as varying perspiration rates with temperature, and the setting of a second threshold that matches the perspiration rate for each temperature. As a result, the second threshold can be set with greater precision.

[0157] Reference Figure 1 An example of a device structure for setting a second threshold at each temperature will be described. For example... Figure 1 As shown, in this case, the evaluation system 10 also includes a temperature sensor (not shown) for detecting temperature. Second correspondence information is stored in the storage unit 340. The second correspondence information is, for example, a table or curve that establishes a correspondence between each temperature and a second threshold. If temperature information is obtained from the temperature sensor, the evaluation unit 350 selects a second threshold corresponding to the obtained temperature from the second correspondence information. The evaluation unit 350 uses the selected second threshold to classify information Z (see reference). Figure 4 The magnitude of skin conductance (SC) in the α-cell was differentiated, and the resulting classification information was used to evaluate the thermoregulatory function of the subjects.

[0158] As described above, the first threshold value set for the autonomic nervous index and / or the second threshold value set for the sweating index are set for each temperature different from each other. As a result, the subject's thermoregulatory function can be evaluated with higher accuracy.

[0159] (5) The first threshold value and the second threshold value can also be set in accordance with an environmental index indicating the environment in which the subject is placed before the measurement using the first sensor 100 and the second sensor 200 (before the evaluation of the thermoregulatory function). The environmental index indicates an index that affects the sensation of cold and heat in humans, such as temperature, humidity, and / or wind speed.

[0160] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 9 , an example of a device structure for setting the first threshold value and the second threshold value in accordance with the environmental index will be described. Figure 9 is a graph showing the environmental correspondence information J in which the environmental index, the first threshold value, and the second threshold value are associated.

[0161] In the present embodiment, in the environmental correspondence information J, the first example of the environmental index, i.e., the temperature (the temperature of the environment in which the subject is placed before the evaluation of the thermoregulatory function), the first threshold value, and the second threshold value are associated.

[0162] In the present embodiment, in the environmental correspondence information J, the greater the first example of the environmental index, i.e., the temperature, the greater each of the first threshold value and the second threshold value.

[0163] As shown in Figure 1 , the evaluation system 10 further includes a detection unit (not shown) that detects the environmental index. In the present embodiment, the detection unit includes a temperature sensor. The environmental correspondence information J is stored in the storage unit 340. The detection unit, i.e., the temperature sensor, detects the temperature of the environment in which the subject is placed before the evaluation of the thermoregulatory function. If the detection result of the detection unit (the temperature of the environment in which the subject is placed before the evaluation of the thermoregulatory function) is obtained, the evaluation unit 350 selects the first threshold value and the second threshold value associated with the obtained temperature in the environmental correspondence information J. For example, in the case where the detection result of the detection unit is 34°C, "8.6" is selected as the heart rate variability index (LF / HF), and "1.6" is selected as the skin conductance (SC). The evaluation unit 350 performs the classification of the size of the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) in the classification information Z (refer to Figure 4 ) using the selected first threshold value, performs the classification of the size of the skin conductance (SC) in the classification information Z using the selected second threshold value, and evaluates the thermoregulatory function of the subject using the classified classification information Z. As a result, the thermoregulatory function of the subject can be evaluated with higher accuracy.

[0164] (6) The first threshold value and the second threshold value can be set also in consideration of the characteristics of the subject with respect to air temperature. Hereinafter, the step of setting the first threshold value and the second threshold value will be described.

[0165] In a case where the air temperature in the place where the subject is present is normal temperature and the subject is in a quiet state, the heart rate variability index (LF / HF) and the skin conductance (SC) of the subject are acquired. The heart rate variability index (LF / HF) and the skin conductance (SC) acquired in such a state (normal temperature and the subject is in a quiet state) reflect the characteristics of the subject with respect to air temperature. Then, the first threshold value and the second threshold value are set in accordance with the acquired heart rate variability index (LF / HF) and the skin conductance (SC). For example, a value of a times the acquired heart rate variability index (LF / HF) is set as the first threshold value, and a value of b times the acquired skin conductance (SC) is set as the second threshold value. a and b are each a positive real number. a and b are each a certain value, a is, for example, 1.2 (a = 1.2), and b is, for example, 3 (b = 3).

[0166] (7) The first threshold value and the second threshold value can be set also by inputting the desired first threshold value and the second threshold value from the subject or the like to the evaluation device 300. As shown in FIG. 7, in this case, the evaluation device 300 includes an input unit (touch panel, keyboard, mouse, or the like) (not shown) that accepts input of the first threshold value and the second threshold value. In this case, the evaluation device 300 can also be configured to be capable of re-setting by changing (adjusting) the already set first threshold value and the second threshold value from the input unit. Figure 1

[0167] (8) A modification of the second process (refer to step S60) shown in FIG. 6 will be described. In the second embodiment, in step S30, if the evaluation by the evaluation unit 350 (refer to FIG. 5) is that the thermoregulatory function of the subject corresponds to pattern (D), the second process is performed. However, the present application is not limited to this. Figure 6 Figure 1 In step S30, in a case where the evaluation by the evaluation unit 350 (refer to FIG. 5) is that the thermoregulatory function of the subject corresponds to pattern (D) (second pattern) and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 411 is equal to or higher than a prescribed uncomfortable temperature (for example, 30°C or higher), the control unit 413 of the air processing device 400 can also perform the second process. The prescribed uncomfortable temperature indicates a temperature at which the subject can feel uncomfortable. The prescribed uncomfortable temperature indicates a temperature higher than the first temperature (comfortable temperature).

[0168] In step S30, in a case where the evaluation by the evaluation unit 350 (refer to FIG. 5) is that the thermoregulatory function of the subject corresponds to pattern (D) (second pattern) and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 411 is equal to or higher than a prescribed uncomfortable temperature (for example, 30°C or higher), the control unit 413 of the air processing device 400 can also perform the second process. The prescribed uncomfortable temperature indicates a temperature at which the subject can feel uncomfortable. The prescribed uncomfortable temperature indicates a temperature higher than the first temperature (comfortable temperature). Figure 1

[0169] ​​​For example, in a case where the room temperature is normal (e.g., 26°C) and the subject is concentrating on work in a state where the subject does not feel a particular burden on the temperature of the room (a state where sweating is little), the autonomic nerve index (heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF)) can become large in a state where the sweating index (skin conductance (SC)) is small. In this case, if the body temperature regulation function of the subject is evaluated as pattern (D), and the air handling device 400 performs the second processing, the air of the second temperature (cold temperature) is delivered to the room in a state where the subject does not feel a particular burden on the temperature of the room (refer to Figure 8 ), and thus the subject can feel a burden on the cold air.

[0170] However, as described above, by being configured to perform the second processing not only in a case where the body temperature regulation function of the subject is evaluated as pattern (D) but also in a case where the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 411 is above the prescribed uncomfortable temperature, it is possible to avoid performing the second processing in a case where the room temperature is normal (less than the prescribed uncomfortable temperature) and the subject is concentrating on work (in a case where the autonomic nerve index is large but the subject does not feel a particular burden on the temperature of the room).

[0171] Note that, as described above, in a case where the body temperature regulation function of the subject is evaluated as pattern (D) by the evaluation section 350 (refer to Figure 1 ), and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 411 is lower than the prescribed uncomfortable temperature, for example, the processing shown in step S40 (processing of continuing the current control) is performed.

[0172] (9) In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, in the classification information Z shown in Figure 4 , the evaluation result of the body temperature regulation function is classified into four patterns (patterns (A) to (D)) by setting one first threshold value V (refer to Figure 2 ) and one second threshold value W (refer to Figure 3 ). However, the present application is not limited to this. The evaluation result of the body temperature regulation function can be classified into more than four patterns by setting a plurality of first threshold values and / or a plurality of second threshold values. For example, the heartbeat fluctuation index (LF / HF) can be divided into three ranges of large, medium, and small by setting two first threshold values, and the skin conductance (SC) can be divided into three ranges of large, medium, and small by setting two second threshold values. Thus, the evaluation result of the body temperature regulation function can be classified into nine patterns of 3 x 3.

[0173] (10) The evaluation device 300 can further include the structure of the evaluation device 300A (structure for evaluating the athletic performance of the subject) described later.

[0174] - Third Embodiment -

[0175] Reference Figure 10 An evaluation system 10A related to the performance of exercise according to a third embodiment of the present application will be described. Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the evaluation system 10A related to the performance of exercise according to the third embodiment of the present application. Hereinafter, the evaluation system 10A related to the performance of exercise will be sometimes referred to as the evaluation system 10A.

[0176] Overall Configuration

[0177] As shown in Figure 10 , the evaluation system 10A includes a sensor 100A and an evaluation device 300A related to the performance of exercise. Hereinafter, the evaluation device 300A related to the performance of exercise will be sometimes referred to as the evaluation device 300A. The performance of exercise indicates the degree of ability to exert the performance of exercise.

[0178] The sensor 100A is worn on the subject, and acquires an index of the degree of fatigue of the thermoregulatory function, which indicates the degree of fatigue of the thermoregulatory function of the subject. The thermoregulatory function indicates a function of maintaining the body temperature by appropriately performing heat dissipation (sweating, etc.), heat generation (shaking the body, etc.), and the like against heat stress. The heat stress indicates a load (for example, a cold or heat stimulus that hinders the maintenance of the body temperature) that a person receives from a hot environment. The degree of fatigue of the thermoregulatory function is defined as the degree of reduction in the frequency of actions for thermoregulation such as actions of sweating, actions of shaking the body, and actions of dilating or constricting blood vessels, for the indication from the center to the end related to the thermoregulatory function through the autonomic nerve.

[0179] In the third embodiment, the index of the degree of fatigue of the thermoregulatory function, which indicates the degree of fatigue of the thermoregulatory function of the subject, is constituted by a heart rate variation index (LF / HF) and a skin conductance (SC).

[0180] The sensor 100A includes a first sensor 110A and a second sensor 120A.

[0181] The first sensor 110A has the same functions as the first sensor 100 (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0182] The second sensor 120A has the same functions as the second sensor 200 (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0183] The evaluation device 300A includes a terminal such as a smartphone and a personal computer (PC), for example. The evaluation device 300A evaluates the athletic performance of the subject by using the fatigue index of the body temperature regulation function of the subject, thereby outputting an athletic performance index indicating the athletic performance of the subject.

[0184] The evaluation device 300A includes an acquisition section 310A, an input section 320A, a notification section 330A, a storage section 340A, and an evaluation section 350A.

[0185] The acquisition section 310A includes a device for communicating with the sensor 100A. The acquisition section 310A is communicably connected to the sensor 100A by wire or wirelessly. The acquisition section 310A includes, for example, at least one of a device (wireless LAN module or the like) for performing wireless communication (Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark) (Wireless Fidelity), or the like) and a device (communication port to which a communication cable is connected or the like) for performing wired communication.

[0186] In the third embodiment, the acquisition section 310A includes a first acquisition section 311A and a second acquisition section 312A.

[0187] The first acquisition section 311A has the same functions as the first acquisition section 310 (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0188] The second acquisition section 312A has the same functions as the second acquisition section 320 (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0189] The input section 320A accepts an instruction to the evaluation device 300A from the outside. The input section 320A includes, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, or the like.

[0190] The notification section 330A notifies prescribed information. The notification section 330A includes, for example, a speaker that emits a notification sound, a display that displays prescribed information, and / or a communication device that transmits prescribed information to an external terminal (smartphone or the like). The description of the prescribed information is described later.

[0191] The storage section 340A can include a main storage device such as a flash memory, a ROM, and a RAM, and can further include an auxiliary storage device, an SD memory card, or a USB. The storage section 340A stores various computer programs executed by the processor of the evaluation section 350A and the acquisition section 310A.

[0192] The storage section 340A stores correspondence information Y. The description of the correspondence information Y is described later.

[0193] The evaluation unit 350A includes a processor such as a CPU and an MPU. The evaluation unit 350A controls each element of the evaluation device 300A by executing a computer program stored in the storage unit 340A.

[0194] As shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 , in the high-temperature periods shown in time t1 to time t2, time t3 to time t4, time t5 to time t6, and time t7 to time t8, the heart rate fluctuation index (LF / HF) becomes larger due to fatigue of the subject in the later high-temperature periods than in the earlier high-temperature periods, but the skin conductance (SC) decreases, and the subject is in a state in which thermoregulation is not performed well, and the degree of fatigue of the thermoregulatory function becomes larger.

[0195] Based on the results of the experiments shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the present inventors have developed a method of evaluating the fatigue state of the thermoregulatory function (i.e., the state of the thermoregulatory function) based on the heart rate fluctuation index (LF / HF) and the state of the skin conductance as a sweating index, which is a destruction of the autonomic nervous balance related to the thermoregulatory function and a decrease in the sweating function of the periphery caused by long-term exposure or repeated exposure to a hot thermal load.

[0196] In the third embodiment, the present inventors have made the following assumption: in the classification information Z (see Figure 4 ), it is possible to evaluate the athletic performance by the patterns (A) to (D) of the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function, which indicates the degree of fatigue of the thermoregulatory function. Hereinafter, a method of evaluating the athletic performance based on this assumption will be described.

[0197] Figure 11 is a graph showing a hypothetical model of the relationship between the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function and the athletic performance. It is expected that the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function becomes larger in the order of the patterns (A), (B), (C), and (D), and the height of the athletic performance becomes smaller in the order of the patterns (B), (A), (C), and (D).

[0198] As shown in Figure 4 and Figure 11 , in the case where the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function corresponds to the pattern (A), it is presumed that the subject is in a resting state at a neutral temperature, and the body temperature is lower than the temperature suitable for exercise, because the load applied to the thermoregulation is low, and the thermoregulatory function is in a non-fatigued state. In this case, although the subject is not fatigued, since the body temperature of the subject is not the temperature suitable for exercise, it is expected that the athletic performance is worse than the optimal athletic performance, but will be improved to some extent.

[0199] In the case where the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function corresponds to pattern (B), since it is in a state where the thermoregulatory function is low in fatigue despite a high load on thermoregulation, it is presumed that the subject's body temperature can be brought to a temperature suitable for exercise by light exercise such as warm-up. In this case, since there is still a margin and the subject's body temperature is a temperature suitable for exercise, it is expected to be the best exercise performance.

[0200] In the case where the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function corresponds to pattern (C), since it is in a state where the thermoregulatory function is moderately fatigued with a high load on thermoregulation and little margin, it is presumed that the body temperature rises to a temperature suitable for exercise by continuing exercise, and on the other hand, the load on the central nervous system that controls thermoregulation and the end function that acts on the actual heat dissipation phenomenon increases. In this case, although it is a temperature suitable for exercise, since there is no margin in the thermoregulatory function, it is expected to be lower exercise performance than in the case corresponding to pattern (A).

[0201] In the case where the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function corresponds to pattern (D), since it is in a state where the thermoregulatory function is highly fatigued with a high load on thermoregulation and difficulty in maintaining body temperature, it is presumed that the thermoregulatory function is exhausted and the amount of sweating decreases, and if exercise is continued, the rise in body temperature cannot be suppressed. In this case, since it is thought that the rise in body temperature will be suppressed by reducing exercise performance, it is expected to be lower exercise performance than in the case corresponding to pattern (C).

[0202] The present inventors modeled the relationship between the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function and exercise performance based on the above assumptions. Specifically, in the case where the degree of fatigue of the thermoregulatory function is moderate, such as in the case corresponding to pattern (B), it is presumed that the exercise performance is high.

[0203] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 12 The correspondence information Y will be described.

[0204] As Figure 4As shown, the degree of fatigue of the body temperature regulation function corresponds to the amount of sweating and the autonomic nervous balance, and the index of the degree of fatigue of the body temperature regulation function is lowest in pattern (A) and becomes higher in the order of (B), (C), and (D). Note that in any of patterns (A) to (D), the pattern can be divided into a plurality of lower items in the range of the pattern according to the amount of sweating and the size of the autonomic nervous balance, such as dividing pattern (A) into patterns (Al) and (A2), dividing pattern (B) into patterns (Bl) and (B2), dividing pattern (C) into patterns (Cl) and (C2), and dividing pattern (D) into patterns (Dl) and (D2) (see Figure 12 ). As shown in Figure 12 , the correspondence information Y is information in which the athletic performance index is associated with each of the indices of the degree of fatigue of the body temperature regulation function, which are different from each other. In the third embodiment, the correspondence information Y includes first correspondence information Yl. The first correspondence information Yl includes information corresponding to the first exercise type (first-type association information) Yl-1 and information corresponding to the second exercise type (second-type association information) Yl-2.

[0205] In the third embodiment, the athletic performance index is expressed by a value of 1 to 10. It is defined that the larger the value expressing the athletic performance index is, the higher the athletic performance is.

[0206] Figure 12 is a view showing the first correspondence information Yl.

[0207] As shown in Figure 4 , in the third embodiment, the index of the degree of fatigue of the body temperature regulation function is constituted by the heart rate variation index (LF / HF) and the skin conductance (SC).

[0208] Each of the information corresponding to the first exercise type Yl-1 and the information corresponding to the second exercise type Yl-2 is information in which the index of the degree of fatigue of the body temperature regulation function is associated with the athletic performance.

[0209] In the third embodiment, the value of the first threshold value V (see Figure 2 ) is set to 9. In Figure 4 , the heart rate variation index (LF / HF) is set to "small" in the range where the heart rate variation index (LF / HF) is less than 9, and the heart rate variation index (LF / HF) is set to "large" in the range where the heart rate variation index (LF / HF) is 9 or more.

[0210] In the third embodiment, the value of the second threshold value W (see Figure 3 ) is set to 2. In Figure 4In the range where the skin conductance (SC) is less than 2, the skin conductance (SC) is set to "small", and in the range where the skin conductance (SC) is 2 or more, the skin conductance (SC) is set to "large".

[0211] In each of the information Y1-1 corresponding to the first exercise type and the information Y1-2 corresponding to the second exercise type, the value described indicates the exercise performance index when the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function corresponds to the patterns (A), (B), (C), (D) (see Figure 12 ).

[0212] In the third embodiment, the first corresponding information Y1 includes a plurality of information Y1-1, Y1-2 set in accordance with the exercise type. The information Y1-1 corresponding to the first exercise type is targeted at a short-distance race and corresponds to the exercise performance of the short-distance race. The information Y1-1 corresponding to the first exercise type is used to output the exercise performance of the short-distance race. The information Y1-2 corresponding to the second exercise type is targeted at a long-distance race and corresponds to the long-distance race. The information Y1-2 corresponding to the second exercise type is used to output the exercise performance of the long-distance race.

[0213] The plurality of corresponding information is set by measuring in advance the relationship between the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function and the exercise performance, the work performance. In the plurality of corresponding information (the information Y1-1 corresponding to the first exercise type and the information Y1-2 corresponding to the second exercise type), the magnitude of the exercise performance index corresponding to the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function is set in conjunction with the exercise type targeted. For example, since the short-distance race requires more explosive power than the long-distance race, it is necessary to have the muscle temperature in a higher state to increase the muscle contraction force. Thus, the exercise performance index of the information Y1-1 corresponding to the first exercise type and the information Y1-2 corresponding to the second exercise type is set in such a manner that the fatigue degree of the thermoregulatory function when the exercise performance index reaches the peak value 10 is greater in the case of the short-distance race than in the case of the long-distance race. In the third embodiment, in the case of the short-distance race, as indicated by the information Y1-1 corresponding to the first exercise type, the exercise performance index is set to the peak value 10 when the fatigue degree of the thermoregulatory function is the pattern (B2), and in the case of the long-distance race, as indicated by the information Y1-2 corresponding to the second exercise type, the exercise performance index is set to the peak value 10 when the fatigue degree of the thermoregulatory function is the pattern (B1).

[0214] Example of the processing content of the evaluation section 350A

[0215] With reference to Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 , an example of the processing content of the evaluation section 350A will be described. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing content of the evaluation section 350A.

[0216] As Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 indicated, in step S110, information indicating the type of the exercise performed by the subject is input from the input section 320A.

[0217] In step S120, the evaluation section 350A selects information corresponding to the exercise input from the input section 320A from among a plurality of information (information Y1-1 and information Y1-2). For example, if information indicating a short-distance race is input from the input section 320A in step S110, the evaluation section 350A selects the second corresponding information Y1-1 corresponding to the short-distance race in step S120.

[0218] In step S130, the processor of the acquisition section 310A determines the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function of the subject using the various information acquired by the first acquisition section 311A and the second acquisition section 312A. As a result, the acquisition section 310A acquires the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function of the subject. In the third embodiment, any one of the modes (A1) to (D2) (refer to Figure 12 ) is used as the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function of the subject.

[0219] In step S140, the evaluation section 350A evaluates the exercise performance of the subject using the information selected in step S120 and the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function of the subject acquired in step S130 (derived from the heart rate fluctuation index (LF / HF) and the skin conductance (SC)).

[0220] For example, in the case where the information selected in step S120 is information Y1-2 and the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function of the subject acquired in step S130 is mode (B2), in the information Y1-2, 9 corresponding to mode (B2) is determined as the exercise performance index of the subject, and thus the exercise performance of the subject is evaluated.

[0221] In step S150, the evaluation section 350A outputs information indicating that the exercise performance index of the subject determined in step S140 is 9 through the notification section 330A. As a result, the subject can confirm the exercise performance index of himself or herself.

[0222] If the process shown in step S150 ends, the process ends.

[0223] Effects of the Third Embodiment

[0224] As described above with reference to Figures 2-4 , Figures 10-13 , the present application can be used to evaluate the exercise performance of a subject.As explained above, the evaluation section 350A can use the heart rate variation index (LF / HF) and the skin conductance (SC) that constitute the index related to the thermoregulatory function of the subject to evaluate the exercise performance of the subject.

[0225] In addition, the plurality of corresponding information Y1 is set in accordance with the type of exercise. Thereby, the exercise performance of the subject can be effectively evaluated in connection with the exercise performed by the subject.

[0226] Fourth Embodiment

[0227] Reference Figure 10 , Figure 4 and Figure 14 The fourth embodiment of the present application will be explained with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. Figure 14 FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a second example of the corresponding information Y, i.e., second corresponding information Y2.

[0228] As shown in Figure 10 and Figure 14 , in the fourth embodiment, the corresponding information Y stored in the storage section 340A is constituted by the second corresponding information Y2.

[0229] The second corresponding information Y2 is information that corresponds the exercise performance index to the fatigue index of each thermoregulatory function. In the second corresponding information Y2, A to D are used to indicate the degree of fatigue of the thermoregulatory function.

[0230] A first example of the step of determining the fatigue index (A) to (D) of the thermoregulatory function of the second corresponding information Y2 will be explained. Note that one example of the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function, i.e., the near-accident risk index, is indicated by a numerical value of 1 to 10, and the higher the value, the higher the risk of a near-accident during physical labor.

[0231] In the first example, the sensor 100A is constituted by a temperature sensor. From the skin temperature of the distal end and the deep body temperature of the subject acquired by the acquisition section 310A from the temperature sensor, the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function is determined by the processor provided to the acquisition section 310A. As a result, the fatigue index of the thermoregulatory function is acquired by the acquisition section 310A.

[0232] In this case, for example, in a case where the skin temperature of the periphery is lower than 34°C and the deep body temperature is lower than 37.5°C, the fatigue degree index of the body temperature regulation function corresponds to pattern (A), and the risk index of the near-miss accident at the time of physical work is determined to be 4. In a case where the skin temperature of the periphery is 34°C or higher and lower than 35°C and the deep body temperature is lower than 37.5°C, the fatigue degree index of the body temperature regulation function corresponds to pattern (B), and the risk index of the near-miss accident at the time of physical work is determined to be 2. In a case where the skin temperature of the periphery is 35°C or higher and the deep body temperature is lower than 37.5°C, the fatigue degree index of the body temperature regulation function corresponds to pattern (C), and the risk index of the near-miss accident at the time of physical work is determined to be 6. In a case where the skin temperature of the periphery is 35°C or higher and the deep body temperature is 37.5°C or higher, the fatigue degree index of the body temperature regulation function corresponds to pattern (D), and the risk index of the near-miss accident at the time of physical work is determined to be 10.

[0233] A second example of determining the order of the fatigue degree index (A) to (D) of the second corresponding information Y2 will be described.

[0234] In the second example, the sensor 100A is constituted by a temperature sensor and a timer. The temperature sensor detects the air temperature (environmental temperature) of the environment in which the subject is located immediately before the motion performance of the subject is evaluated by the evaluation section 350A. The timer measures the time (residence time) during which the subject is in the environment. The acquisition section 310A acquires information indicating the environmental temperature detected by the temperature sensor and information indicating the residence time measured by the timer. Then, the fatigue degree index of the body temperature regulation function is determined by the processor provided to the acquisition section 310A in accordance with the environmental temperature and the residence time.

[0235] In this case, for example, in a case where the environmental temperature is a prescribed comfortable temperature (a temperature at which a person generally feels comfortable), it is determined that the fatigue degree index of the body temperature regulation function becomes smaller (for example, any one of (A) to (C)). In addition, in a case where the environmental temperature is a temperature deviating from the prescribed comfortable temperature (a temperature at which a person generally feels too cold or too hot), it is determined that the longer the residence time, the greater the fatigue degree index of the body temperature regulation function.

[0236] In a case where the corresponding information Y is constituted by the second corresponding information Y2, the evaluation section 350A outputs, as the evaluation result of the risk of the near-miss accident at the time of physical work of the subject, the risk of the near-miss accident at the time of physical work corresponding to the fatigue degree index of the body temperature regulation function in the second corresponding information Y2.

[0237] Note that, in the fourth embodiment, unlike the third embodiment, a plurality of first corresponding information Y1 is not set in accordance with the type of exercise, but one second corresponding information Y2 not limited to the type of exercise is constituted. In this case, in a case where the fatigue degree index of the body temperature regulation function is determined to be (A) to (D) in accordance with the environmental temperature and the residence time, the risk index of the near-miss accident at the time of physical work is determined to be 4 to 10 in accordance with the order of (A) to (D). Figure 13In the flowchart shown, the process of evaluating the movement performance of the evaluation target person does not require the process shown in step S110 and the process shown in step S120. As a result, the process of evaluating the movement performance of the evaluation target person can be performed quickly. However, the present application is not limited to this. In the fourth embodiment, a plurality of second corresponding information Y2 can be set according to the type of movement. For example, second corresponding information Y2 for light physical labor in a factory and second corresponding information Y2 for road construction outdoors can be set.

[0238] In addition, in the third embodiment, the first corresponding information Yl is constituted of two types of information Yl-1 for short-distance running and information Yl-2 for long-distance running, but can be constituted of one type that does not limit the type of movement or labor, like the second corresponding information Y2 of the fourth embodiment.

[0239] Effects of the fourth embodiment

[0240] As described above with reference to Figure 10 , Figure 4 and Figure 15 , the evaluation unit 350A can evaluate the risk of an accident in progress of physical labor of the evaluation target person using the index related to the body temperature regulation function of the evaluation target person, that is, the degree of fatigue.

[0241] Fifth embodiment

[0242] With reference to Figure 15 , the evaluation system 20A according to the fifth embodiment of the present application will be described. Figure 15 is a block diagram showing the structure of the evaluation system 20A according to the fifth embodiment of the present application.

[0243] Overall structure

[0244] As shown in Figure 5 , the evaluation system 20A includes the sensor 100A and the air handling device 400A.

[0245] The air handling device 400A differs from the air handling device 400 (see Figure 10 ) of the second embodiment in that it includes the evaluation device 300A, and is otherwise the same as the air handling device 400 of the second embodiment.

[0246] In the fifth embodiment, the evaluation device 300A is an electronic component built in or attached to the housing of the indoor unit 410. However, the present application is not limited to this. The evaluation device 300A can be built in a wristwatch-type device including the first sensor and the second sensor, and output the evaluation result to a communication unit built in the indoor unit, so that the control unit acquires the evaluation result.

[0247] Example of the operation of the air handling device 400A

[0248] Referring to Figure 15 and Figure 10 An example of the operation of the air processing device 400A will be described.

[0249] As Figure 15 and Figure 10 indicated, the control section 413 of the air processing device 400A acquires the motion performance index of the subject output from the evaluation device 300A. Also, in a case where the motion performance index of the subject acquired from the evaluation device 300A is less than a prescribed target value, the control section 413 of the air processing device 400A performs processing of changing the set temperature of the air processing device 400A until the motion performance index acquired from the evaluation device 300A reaches a prescribed target value or more. Note that the air processing device 400A can also be configured to perform processing of changing the set temperature, set humidity, and / or air flow of the air processing device 400A until the motion performance index acquired from the evaluation device 300A reaches a prescribed target value or more. Thereby, the temperature, humidity, and / or air flow of the space in which the subject is located is controlled. Also, it can be configured so that the temperature, humidity, and / or air flow of the daily utensil or clothing that the subject touches is controlled by a temperature processing device. The temperature processing device includes, for example, a fan or the like provided to an air-conditioning garment.

[0250] Effects of the fifth embodiment

[0251] As described above with reference to Figure 15 and Figure 13 , the air processing device 400A includes the evaluation device 300A. Thereby, the operation of the air processing device 400A can be controlled in consideration of the evaluation result of the motion performance of the subject by the evaluation device 300A.

[0252] Other embodiments

[0253] The third to fifth embodiments have been described above, but it is understood that various changes (for example, (11) to (12) described below) can be made to the configurations and specific conditions thereof without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. The above embodiments and modified examples can also be appropriately combined or replaced as long as the function of the object of the present disclosure is not affected.

[0254] (11) In the third to fifth embodiments, the heart rate variation index (LF / HF) that captures the activity state of the heart rate is used as the autonomic nerve index. However, the present application is not limited thereto. For example, a pulse variation index that captures the activity state of the pulse can also be used as the autonomic nerve index. In this case, the first sensor 110A includes a pulse wave sensor.

[0255] (12) In​ In the step S150, the notification unit 330A can also notify information related to the motion performance index of the subject if the motion performance index of the subject is output. As a result, the subject can confirm his or her motion performance.

[0256] Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the notification unit 330A will be described.

[0257] The evaluation unit 350A continuously outputs the motion performance index of the subject by continuously acquiring the fatigue index of the body temperature regulation function of the subject by the acquisition unit 310A. In this state, if the motion performance index of the subject reaches a predetermined value or more, the notification unit 330A notifies predetermined information related to the motion of the subject. The predetermined value indicates, for example, a motion performance index (for example, 9 or more) that is a certain degree of large motion performance index that can effectively perform motion. The predetermined information is, for example, information indicating that the motion performance index of the subject reaches the predetermined value or more, and thus indicating that the subject has performed sufficient warm-up and it is time to stop the warm-up. As a result, by confirming the predetermined information notified by the notification unit 330A, the subject can recognize the time to stop the warm-up. In addition, the subject can perform motion in a state in which the motion performance of the subject is improved by recognizing the time to stop the warm-up. Furthermore, in a case where the degree of fatigue of the body temperature regulation function is detected to be deteriorated and the motion performance is decreased, by suggesting rest and water replenishment, motion in a state in which the performance is decreased can be prevented. In addition, the labor efficiency of the worker can be improved by applying the present disclosure to the labor efficiency of physical labor such as road construction, not limited to the motion performance in the competition.

[0258] - Industrial applicability -

[0259] As described above, the present disclosure is useful for an evaluation device of a body temperature regulation function, an air processing device, and an evaluation method of a body temperature regulation function.

[0260] - Symbol explanation -

[0261] 10 Evaluation system of body temperature regulation function

[0262] 300 Evaluation device of body temperature regulation function

[0263] 310 First acquisition unit

[0264] 320 Second acquisition unit

[0265] 330 Notification unit

[0266] 340 Storage unit

[0267] 350 Evaluation unit

[0268] 400 Air processing device

[0269] Z classification information

Claims

1. A method for evaluating thermoregulatory function, characterized by: comprising: a process in which a computer acquires an autonomic nerve index of a subject; a process in which the computer acquires a sweating index of the subject; and an evaluation process in which the computer evaluates a thermoregulatory function of the subject using the autonomic nerve index of the subject and the sweating index of the subject, the computer evaluates a thermoregulatory function of the subject in correspondence with an evaluation result of a thermoregulatory function of each index group divided by a threshold value set for each of the autonomic nerve index and the sweating index, for an index group of the acquired autonomic nerve index and sweating index of the subject, the autonomic nerve index includes a heartbeat fluctuation index or a pulse fluctuation index, the sweating index includes a skin conductance or a sweating amount.

2. The thermoregulatory function evaluation method according to claim 1, wherein: in the evaluation process, a classification information (Z) obtained by classifying the evaluation result of the thermoregulatory function into a plurality of patterns according to the threshold value set for each of the autonomic nerve index and the sweating index is further used to evaluate the thermoregulatory function of the subject.

3. The thermoregulatory function evaluation method according to claim 2, wherein: the plurality of patterns respectively correspond to a plurality of index groups, each of the plurality of index groups is composed of a combination of the autonomic nerve index and the sweating index having a range divided by the threshold value, in the evaluation process, an index group having a range including the autonomic nerve index of the subject and the sweating index of the subject is selected from the plurality of index groups, and a pattern of the plurality of patterns corresponding to the selected index group is evaluated as corresponding to the thermoregulatory function of the subject.

4. The thermoregulatory function evaluation method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: the threshold value set for the autonomic nerve index and / or the sweating index is set for each temperature different from each other.

5. The thermoregulatory function evaluation method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: the threshold value set for each of the autonomic nerve index and the sweating index is set according to an environmental index indicating an environment in which the subject is located immediately before the thermoregulatory function is evaluated.

6. The thermoregulatory function evaluation method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: the threshold value set for each of the autonomic nerve index and the sweating index is set in consideration of a characteristic of the subject with respect to air temperature.

7. The method for evaluating the thermoregulatory function according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by: further comprising: a process of externally notifying prescribed information if the pattern of the subject evaluated in the evaluation process corresponds to a prescribed pattern of the plurality of patterns and a state in which the pattern of the subject corresponds to the prescribed pattern continues for a prescribed period.

8. The method for evaluating the thermoregulatory function according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by: further comprising: controlling, in a control step, a temperature of an indoor space in which the subject is present, based on the evaluation result in the evaluation step.

9. The evaluation method of thermoregulatory function according to claim 8, wherein: in the control step, the air handling device (400) is operated so that the temperature of the indoor space reaches a prescribed first temperature, in a case where the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as a first pattern, in the control step, the air handling device (400) is operated so that the temperature of the indoor space reaches a prescribed first temperature, in a case where the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as a first pattern, in the control step, the air handling device (400) is operated so that the temperature of the indoor space reaches a prescribed first temperature, in a case where the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as a first pattern, 10. The evaluation method of thermoregulatory function according to claim 8, wherein: in the control step, the air handling device (400) is operated so that the temperature of the indoor space reaches a prescribed first temperature, in a case where the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as a first pattern, in the control step, the air handling device (400) is operated so that the temperature of the indoor space reaches a prescribed first temperature, in a case where the thermoregulatory function of the subject is evaluated as a first pattern, comprising: an acquisition step in which the computer acquires a fatigue index of thermoregulatory function, the fatigue index of thermoregulatory function indicating a degree of fatigue of a thermoregulatory function of a subject; and 11. The method for evaluating the thermoregulatory function according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: an evaluation step in which the computer evaluates athletic performance of the subject using the fatigue index of thermoregulatory function of the subject.

12. The evaluation method of thermoregulatory function according to claim 11, wherein: in the evaluation step of evaluating the athletic performance, an athletic performance index indicating the athletic performance of the subject is output by evaluating the athletic performance of the subject.

13. The evaluation method of thermoregulatory function according to claim 11, wherein: the acquisition step comprises: a step of acquiring an autonomic nerve index of the subject; and a step of acquiring a sweating index of the subject.

14. The evaluation method of thermoregulatory function according to claim 13, wherein: the autonomic nerve index comprises a heart rate variability index, the sweating index comprises a skin conductance or a sweating amount.

15. The evaluation method of thermoregulatory function according to claim 11, wherein: in the evaluation step of evaluating the athletic performance, the athletic performance of the subject is further evaluated using correspondence information (Y) obtained by establishing correspondence between an athletic performance index indicating the athletic performance and each of the fatigue indices of thermoregulatory function which are different from each other. ​ ​ ​ 16. The method for evaluating thermoregulatory function according to claim 15, characterized in that: the correspondence information (Y1) includes a plurality of information (Y1-1, Y1-2) set in accordance with the type of exercise.

17. The method for evaluating thermoregulatory function according to claim 15, characterized in that: a plurality of the correspondence information (Y2) is set in accordance with the risk at the time of exercise related to thermoregulatory function.

18. The method for evaluating the thermoregulatory function according to claim 11, characterized by: further comprising: a process of notifying information related to the evaluation result of the exercise performance of the subject.

19. The method for evaluating the thermoregulatory function according to claim 11, characterized by: further comprising at least one of: a process of controlling the temperature, humidity, and / or air flow of a space in which the subject is located by an air processing device (400) in accordance with the evaluation result in the evaluation process of evaluating the exercise performance; and a process of controlling the temperature, humidity, and / or air flow of a daily utensil or clothing that the subject contacts by a temperature processing device.

20. An apparatus for evaluating a thermoregulatory function, characterized by comprising: including: a first acquisition unit (310) that acquires an autonomic nerve index of a subject; a second acquisition unit (320) that acquires a sweating index of the subject; and an evaluation unit (350) that evaluates the thermoregulatory function of the subject using the autonomic nerve index of the subject and the sweating index of the subject, the evaluation unit (350) evaluates the thermoregulatory function of the subject in correspondence with the evaluation result of the thermoregulatory function of each index group divided by a threshold value set for each of the autonomic nerve index and the sweating index, for an index group of the acquired autonomic nerve index and sweating index of the subject, the autonomic nerve index includes a heartbeat variation index or a pulse variation index, the sweating index includes a skin conductance or a sweating amount.

21. An air processing device characterized by: the air processing device includes the evaluation device (300) for thermoregulatory function according to claim 20.

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