Awakefulness state control system, wearable device, and awakefulness state control method

Abstract

The wake state control system includes a sensor, a stimulation control unit, and a stimulator. The sensor acquires biological information of a user. A stimulation control unit determines one or more types of stimuli based on the biological information to control a wake-up state of the user. A stimulator applies the one or more types of stimulation determined by the stimulation control unit to the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an arousal state control system, a wearable device, and an arousal state control method. Background Art

[0002] The autonomic nervous system is a nervous system that regulates autonomic functions such as respiration, digestion, circulation, and maintenance of body temperature. The balance between the sympathetic nerve and the parasympathetic nerve maintains the autonomic nervous system. The sympathetic nerve becomes active during arousal, while the parasympathetic nerve becomes active during relaxation. Although a high level of arousal improves attention, an excessively high level of arousal reduces performance due to excessive stress. This relationship between arousal and performance is called the Yerkes-Dodson law.

[0003] A stress suppression system has been proposed that measures biological information of a user such as body temperature and heart rate, and guides a healing effect through image, music, tactile stimulation, etc. (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

[0004] Citation List

[0005] Patent Document

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2020-202971 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical Problem

[0008] According to the Yerkes-Dodson law, in a graph with the horizontal axis representing the arousal level and the vertical axis representing performance, the arousal level and performance have an inverted U-shaped correlation. This curve has a range of arousal levels suitable for maximizing performance, outside of which performance decreases. This inverted U-shaped correlation varies depending on the difficulty of the work or task being performed. For simple tasks, maintaining a certain level of tension increases productivity. For complex tasks, relaxing the tension may be more effective. The appropriate arousal level varies between individuals. To improve intellectual productivity, not only a healing effect is required, but also a technology for controlling the arousal state suitable for each user is desired.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide a technology for appropriately controlling the arousal state in devices such as wearable devices.

[0010] Solution to the Problem

[0011] A wakefulness state control system includes a sensor, a stimulation control unit, and a stimulator. The sensor acquires biometric information of a user. The stimulation control unit determines one or more types of stimulation based on the biometric information to control the wakefulness state of the user. The stimulator applies the one or more types of stimulation determined by the stimulation control unit to the user.

[0012] A wearable device includes a main body, a first stimulation unit, and a second stimulation unit. The first stimulation unit is provided on a first part of the main body and is configured to apply a first stimulation. The second stimulation unit is provided on a second part of the main body and is configured to apply a second stimulation different from the first stimulation. One or both of the first stimulation unit and the second stimulation unit are driven based on biometric information of a user wearing the main body.

[0013] A wakefulness state control method includes: acquiring biometric information of a user; analyzing the biometric information using an information processing device; the information processing device determining one or more types of stimulation based on the analyzed biometric information to control the wakefulness state of the user; and applying the determined one or more types of stimulation to the user.

[0014] Effects of the present invention

[0015] Can appropriately control the wakefulness state of a user. Description of the drawings

[0016] A more complete understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure and many of its attendant advantages and features can be readily obtained and understood from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0017] Figure 1

[0018] Figure 1 Is a schematic diagram of a wakefulness state control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 2

[0020] Figure 2 Is a schematic diagram showing a wearable device worn by a user according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 3A

[0022] Figure 3A Is a diagram of a wearable device according to a first example of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 3B

[0024] Figure 3B Is a diagram of a wearable device according to a second example of the present disclosure.​​​​​​​​

[0025] Figure 3C

[0026] Figure 3C is a diagram of a wearable device according to a third example of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 4

[0028] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 5

[0030] Figure 5 is a functional block diagram of a stimulation control unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 6A

[0032] Figure 6A is a flowchart of control executed by a stimulation control unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 6B

[0034] Figure 6B is Figure 6A a continuation of the flowchart of.

[0035] Figure 7

[0036] Figure 7 is a table showing the evaluation results of arousal state control.

[0037] Figure 8

[0038] Figure 8 is a diagram of a wearable device according to another example of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 9

[0040] Figure 9 is a diagram showing Figure 8 the structure of the skin contact surface side of the wearable device of.

[0041] Figure 10

[0042] Figure 10 is a diagram of a wearable device according to yet another example of the present disclosure.

[0043] ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The accompanying drawings are intended to depict embodiments of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting its scope. The drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. Also, the same or similar reference numerals represent the same or similar components in multiple views. Detailed Description

[0044] In describing the embodiments shown in the drawings, specific terms are adopted for the sake of clarity. However, the disclosure of this specification is not intended to be limited to the specific terms thus selected, and it should be understood that each specific element includes all technical equivalents having similar functions, operating in a similar manner, and achieving similar results.

[0045] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0046] For simplicity, the same reference numerals denote the same elements having the same functions, such as components and materials, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted unless otherwise required. The dimensions and relative positions of the components shown in the drawings may be exaggerated to facilitate understanding of the present invention. As used herein, the term "connect / couple" includes direct connection and connection in which one or more intermediate connection elements are present.

[0047] In an embodiment of the present invention, not only a relaxation effect but also appropriate tension is applied to the user based on biological information, thereby guiding the user to an appropriate awakening state. To this end, the biological information of the user is analyzed to generate and apply different types of stimuli. For example, a first stimulus for increasing tension or awakening is combined with a second stimulus for reducing tension or awakening. The awakening state of the user is appropriately controlled by simultaneously or separately applying different types of stimuli to improve intellectual productivity.

[0048] The structure of the awakening state control system and the wearable device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0049] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the awakening state control system 1 of this embodiment. The awakening state control system 1 includes a sensor 115, a stimulus control unit 210, and a stimulator 12. The sensor 115 acquires the biological information of the user. The stimulus control unit 210 determines one or more types of stimuli based on the biological information to control the awakening state of the user. The stimulator 12 applies the one or more types of stimuli determined by the stimulus control unit 210 to the user. The stimulator 12 is implemented in the form of a wearable device 10. When the user wears the wearable device 10 to perform an operation, the awakening of the user can be appropriately stimulated during the operation.

[0050] In addition, the wearable device 10, the sensor 115, and the information processing device 200 may also be separate devices. Alternatively, at least one of the sensor 115 and the stimulation control unit 210 may be assembled in the wearable device 10. The information processing device 200 may be connected to the sensor 115 and the wearable device 10 via a cable or wirelessly. As the information processing device 200, a microprocessor may also be built into the wearable device 10. Alternatively, the information processing device 200 may also be a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, etc. independent of the wearable device 10. The sensor 115 may be connected to the wearable device 10 or the information processing device 200 via wire or wirelessly.

[0051] Figure 2 Reference numeral 10 denotes a wearable device worn by a user according to the present embodiment. The wearable device 10 is worn on a body part of the user 5 where the user 5 can be effectively awakened. The wearable device 10 of the present embodiment is worn on the neck 51 of the user 5. In Figure 2 the example of, the wearable device 10 has a U-shaped configuration that surrounds a part of the periphery of the neck 51 of the user 5, but may also have a C-shaped configuration. Alternatively, the wearable device 10 may have an O-shaped configuration that surrounds the entire periphery of the neck 51 of the user 5.

[0052] In addition to such a shape worn on the neck 51, the shape and configuration of the wearable device 10 may be varied to be worn on the shoulder, waist, upper arm, lower arm, or any other appropriate part of the body of the user 5. The stimulator 12 applies one or more different types of stimulation to the user 5.

[0053] For example, stimulation that increases the arousal level or concentration, or stimulation that decreases the arousal level (stimulation that alleviates the arousal level) is applied to an appropriate part of the neck 51. Thermal stimulation and electrical stimulation may be applied simultaneously or alternately to adjust the arousal level. Three or more types of stimulation may be applied simultaneously or separately. In addition, instead of applying different types of stimulation separately, the same type of stimulation but with different intensities may be applied. The arousal level represents the degree of arousal or relaxation of the user (subject). In the following description, the arousal level is sometimes referred to as the arousal state, and sometimes the arousal level is referred to as the tension state or the nervous state. In the evaluation of the arousal level, a high arousal level indicates that the user's nerves are more tense compared to the reference arousal level, and a low arousal level indicates that the user is more relaxed compared to the reference arousal level. In the embodiments of the present invention, the so-called reference arousal level is, for example, the "target arousal level" described later.

[0054] When the sensor 115 is assembled into the wearable device 10, the sensor 115 may be disposed inside the wearable device 10, or may be worn at a position in contact with the carotid artery below the lower part of the ear 52 of the user 5, or may be worn on the earlobe or wrist of the user 5.

[0055] Figure 3A and 3B 3C represent different configurations of the wearable device 10. Specifically, Figure 3A represents the wearable device 10A according to the first example of the present disclosure. The wearable device 10A has a main body 110 and stimulators 12a, 12b, 12c provided on the main body 110. Hereinafter, the stimulators 12a, 12b, 12c may sometimes be simply referred to as the stimulator 12.

[0056] Figure 3A The shown wearable device 10A is independent of the sensor 115 and the information processing device 200 in the wake state control system 1 of Figure 1 . A communication device 117 is provided on the main body 110 of the wearable device 10A. The communication device 117 receives a control signal representing the analysis result of biological information from an external information processing device 200. According to the received control signal, a part or all of the stimulators 12a, 12b, 12c are driven. The information processing device 200 can be any device as long as it has the function of analyzing the biological information obtained from the sensor 115 and sending the analysis result to the wearable device 10. As described above, for example, a personal computer, a smart phone, or a tablet terminal can be used as the information processing device 200.

[0057] The stimulators 12a, 12b, 12c generate different stimuli respectively. As an example, the stimulator 12a has first electrodes 121, 122 disposed inside the bent portion 101 of the U-shaped main body 110. The first electrodes 121, 122 contact the rear side or the neck of the user 5's neck 51 when the wearable device 10A is worn on the user 5's neck 51. The stimulator 12a applies heat stimulation or low-frequency electrical stimulation to the neck of the user 5 via the first electrodes 121, 122. The number of the first electrodes is not limited to two. Three or more first electrodes can be provided along the inner surface of the bent portion 101 of the main body 110.

[0058] When the stimulator 12a generates heat, the heater provided inside the stimulator 12a is activated according to the control signal received by the communication device 117 to apply heat through the first electrodes 121 and 122. When the stimulator 12a applies low-frequency electrical stimulation, the oscillation circuit provided inside the stimulator 12a is turned on to apply low-frequency vibration through the first electrodes 121 and 122. The low-frequency vibration provides electrical muscle stimulation (EMS). The heat or low-frequency vibration applied to the neck is generally used as a relaxing stimulus, which relaxes the muscle tension. However, depending on individual differences or the stimulation intensity, the heat or low-frequency vibration can also be used as a wake-up stimulus.

[0059] The stimulator 12b is attached to the arm 130, and each arm extends on either side of the bent portion 101 of the main body 110. The stimulator 12b has second electrodes 123, 124 that project in the width (or height) direction of the main body 110 from the arm 130. When the wearable device 10A is worn on the neck 51 of the user 5, the second electrodes 123, 124 come into contact with the skin surface around the carotid artery on the lower side of the user 5's ear 52 or cheek. The stimulator 12b applies high-frequency electrical stimulation to the carotid artery of the user 5 via the second electrodes 123, 124. The oscillation circuit provided inside the stimulator 12b is turned on to apply high-frequency vibration through the second electrodes 123 and 124. High-frequency vibration is generally used as a relaxation stimulus to improve blood flow. However, depending on individual differences or the intensity of the stimulus, high-frequency vibration can also be used as an arousal stimulus.

[0060] The stimulator 12c is provided inside the arm 130, and each arm extends on both sides of the bent portion 101 of the main body 110. The stimulator 12c has third electrodes 125, 126 that face each other. When the wearable device 10A is worn on the neck 51 of the user 5, the third electrodes 125, 126 come into contact with the skin surface around the carotid artery along the neck of the user 5. The stimulator 12c applies a cold stimulus or a heat stimulus to the carotid artery of the user 5 via the third electrodes 125, 126. When the stimulator 12c applies a cold or heat stimulus, a cold or heat stimulus is generated by controlling the on / off of the drive voltage of the Peltier element provided inside the stimulator 12c and the positive / negative of the applied voltage. Proper cooling and warming of the carotid artery generally act in the direction of increasing the arousal level. However, when the blood vessels are overly dilated, the user may sometimes be relaxed due to the cold sensation stimulus.

[0061] Figure 3B is a schematic diagram of the wearable device 10B of the second example of the present invention. The wearable device 10B has, in addition to Figure 3A the structure of, a sensor 115 connected to the communication device 117. Figure 3B The wearable device 10B shown has a sensor 115, which is independent of the information processing device 200 in the arousal state control system 1 of Figure 1 . In Figure 3B the example, the sensor 115 is connected to the main body 110 via a cable 116 and electrically connected to the communication device 117. Alternatively, the sensor 115 can be wirelessly connected to the communication device 117. In the case where the sensor 115 can directly communicate with an external information processing device 200 without the communication device 117, the configuration is as Figure 3AAs shown. The sensor 115 is a biosensor such as a heart rate sensor, a pulse sensor, a temperature sensor, or a sweating sensor. When the sensor 115 is a heart rate sensor or a pulse sensor, the sensor 115 can be a type of sensor attachable to the earlobe or fingertip of the user 5, or can be another type of sensor attachable to the chest of the user 5.

[0062] The communication device 117 sends the biological information acquired by the sensor 115 to the external information processing device 200. The information processing device 200 analyzes the acquired biological information, determines the stimulus applied to the user 5, and sends the determined stimulus as a control signal to the wearable device 10B. The wearable device 10B drives a part or all of the stimulators 12a, 12b, 12c based on the control signal received by the communication device 117. The configurations and functions of the stimulators 12a, 12b, and 12c of the main body 110 refer to the above description of Figure 3A .

[0063] Figure 3C is a schematic diagram of the wearable device 10C according to the third example of the present invention. The wearable device 10C includes a microprocessor 120 in the main body 110 and a sensor 115 connected to the microprocessor 120. Figure 3C The wearable device 10C shown in Figure 1 has the sensor 115 and the information processing device 200 in the wakefulness state control system 1. Although the information processing device 200 is implemented by the microprocessor 120, the information processing device 200 can be implemented by a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). In Figure 3C , the sensor 115 is connected to the main body 110 through a cable 116 and connected to the microprocessor 120. Alternatively, the sensor 115 can be wirelessly connected to the microprocessor 120 having a built-in communication function.

[0064] The microprocessor 120 analyzes the biological information obtained from the sensor 115 and drives a part or all of the stimulators 12a, 12b, 12c of the main body 110. The structures and functions of the stimulators 12a, 12b, 12c are as Figure 3A described. In addition to Figure 3A , 3B and the configurations shown in 3C, the main body 110 can simply be provided with a microprocessor 120 having a wireless communication function. In this case, in Figure 1 's wakefulness state control system 1, the wearable device 10 and the information processing device 200 are integrated independently of the sensor 115. In addition, as long as it is a structure capable of controlling the user's wakefulness state through one or more stimuli generated based on the acquired biological information, the structures of the wakefulness state control system 1 and the wearable device 10 can be any structure.

[0065] Figure 4 Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment. The information processing apparatus 200 includes a processor 201, a main memory 202, an auxiliary memory 203, an input / output interface (I / F) 204, and a communication interface (I / F) 205, which are interconnected via a system bus 206.

[0066] The processor 201 is implemented by a central processing unit (CUP), executes control processing including various types of arithmetic processing, and realizes the functions of the stimulation control unit 210. In the control processing executed by the processor 201, acquisition of biological information, analysis of biological information, determination of stimulation, acquisition of a target arousal level set by the user, acquisition of a subjective evaluation input by the user, etc. are included.

[0067]

[0066] The determination of the stimulation includes, for example, determination of the stimulation type, stimulation combination, stimulation duration, and stimulation intensity, as well as correction or change of the determined stimulation type, determined stimulation combination, determined stimulation duration, and determined stimulation intensity. In addition, as described later, for example, the type of stimulation corresponding to the task, the duration of the stimulation, and the target arousal level can also be corrected based on the change in the difference between the target arousal level and the arousal level calculated from the biological information, and the subjective evaluation.

[0068] The main memory 202 includes a read-only memory (ROM) that stores programs for the operation of the processor 201 and a random access memory (RAM) that serves as a working area for the processor 201. The auxiliary memory 203 includes a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). In addition to storing various programs and parameter information for starting the programs, the auxiliary memory 203 also stores information and parameters for arousal state control.

[0069]

[0067] The input / output interface 204 connects input / output devices such as a display, a touch panel, a speaker, headphones, a microphone, and a keyboard to the information processing apparatus 200. The communication interface 205 enables communication between the information processing apparatus 200 and an external device via, for example, a public communication network, a local area network (LAN), or a short-range communication standard. Communication between the information processing apparatus 200 and the sensor 115 or the wearable device 10 can be performed according to a short-range wireless communication standard.

[0070] Hereinafter, the functional structure of the stimulation control unit 210 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0071] Figure 5It is a functional block diagram of the stimulation control unit 210 of this embodiment. The stimulation control unit 210 is implemented by the processor 201. The stimulation control unit 210 includes a biological information acquisition unit 211, a target level setting unit 212, a data analysis unit 213, a stimulation determination unit 214, and an evaluation acquisition unit 215.

[0072] The biological information acquisition unit 211 acquires the biological information of the user wearing the wearable device 10. As described above, the biological information can be directly obtained from the sensor 115 worn by the user. Alternatively, the biological information can be obtained from the wearable device 10.

[0073] The target level setting unit 212 acquires the setting of the target arousal state input by the user. The target arousal state represents the target arousal level or target tension when the user performs an operation. The target arousal state can be represented by a value such as a respiration rate, a sweating level, a heart rate, or a blink rate. In this sense, the target arousal state is referred to as the "target arousal level". In this embodiment, the parameter representing the arousal level is the ratio (LF / HF) of the low-frequency (LF) component to the high-frequency (HF) component included in the power spectrum of the heart rate variation obtained by analyzing the heart rate. In this case, the target arousal level is set to the target LF / HF value.

[0074] The LF component is a frequency band in the range of 0.004 Hz to 0.150 Hz in the power spectrum of the heart rate variation. The LF component is considered to be a component that reflects the activities of both the sympathetic nerve and the parasympathetic nerve. The HF component is a frequency band in the range of 0.150 Hz to 0.400 Hz in the power spectrum of the heart rate variation. The HF component is considered to be a component that reflects the activity of the parasympathetic nerve. The ratio of LF to HF (LF / HF) indicates which of the sympathetic nerve and the parasympathetic nerve is dominant and to what extent. When the user is awake or tense, the sympathetic nerve is dominant over the parasympathetic nerve. In other words, the LF / HF value is relatively large. When the user is relaxed, the parasympathetic nerve is dominant over the sympathetic nerve. In other words, the LF / HF value is relatively small.

[0075] The data analysis unit 213 determines the user's arousal level by analyzing biological information. Additionally, in the following description, the data analysis unit 213 is sometimes referred to as the arousal state acquisition unit. When using the ratio of LF to HF (LF / HF) as a parameter representing the arousal level, the data analysis unit 213 extracts the LF component and the HF component from the power spectrum of the acquired heart rate variation, and calculates the ratio of LF to HF (LF / HF). Further, the data analysis unit 213 refers to the target arousal level set by the user and determines the difference between the calculated LF / HF value and the target arousal level. When the difference between the current LF / HF value and the target arousal level exceeds the allowable range, the data analysis unit 213 detects that the user is overly relaxed or overly tense. The data analysis unit 213 monitors the change direction of the difference.

[0076] The stimulus determination unit 214 determines the stimulus to be applied to the user based on the result of the analysis performed by the data analysis unit 213. When the data analysis unit 213 determines that the user is overly relaxed, the stimulus determination unit 214 selects a stimulus that increases the arousal level according to the difference between the calculated LF / HF value and the target arousal level. On the other hand, when the data analysis unit 213 determines that the user is overly active, the stimulus determination unit 214 selects a stimulus that decreases the arousal level. Since the types of stimuli effective for increasing or decreasing the arousal level vary depending on the user, the tendency of the user can also be measured in advance, and the stimulus determination unit 214 determines the stimuli for the arousal level and relaxation degree effective for the user.

[0077] For a user who can transfer from a tense state to a relaxed state by cooling the carotid artery of the user, when the user is overly tense, the stimulus determination unit 214 selects a cold stimulus. For a user who transfers to an awakened state by low-frequency electrical stimulation, when the user is overly relaxed, the stimulus determination unit 214 selects low-frequency electrical stimulation. On the other hand, for a user who transfers from a relaxed state to an awakened state by cooling the carotid artery of the user, when the user is overly relaxed, the stimulus determination unit 214 selects a cold stimulus. For a user who is relaxed due to low-frequency electrical stimulation, when the user is overly tense, the stimulus determination unit 214 selects low-frequency electrical stimulation.

[0078] As the first stimulus, a stimulus that is generally considered effective for arousal or relaxation can be selected by default. Or a stimulus can also be randomly selected from the stimulator 12 of the wearable device 10. The stimulus control unit 210 can appropriately correct or change the initially selected stimulus by repeatedly acquiring biological information during the user's operation and determining the arousal level based on the change of the biological information relative to the target arousal level, and guide the user's arousal level to the target arousal level. The correction or change of the stimulus will be described later.

[0079] The evaluation acquisition unit 215 acquires an evaluation of whether the wearable device 10 improves the performance of the user wearing the wearable device 10. The evaluation may be a subjective evaluation input by the user to the information processing device 200 after completing the work. Alternatively, the evaluation may be automatically determined by the data analysis unit 213 based on the degree of proximity to the target arousal level or the time to reach the target arousal level.

[0080] The stimulation control unit 210 determines different types of stimulation according to the biological information of the user and appropriately controls the arousal state of the user. The stimulation control unit 210 corrects or changes, for example, the type of stimulation, the time of stimulation, the intensity of stimulation, etc. according to the difference between the detected current arousal level and the target arousal level, so that the arousal level becomes an appropriate arousal level. By feeding back the evaluation result, the target arousal level can be re-evaluated for each user.

[0081] Hereinafter, the arousal state control process of this embodiment will be described.

[0082] Figure 6A It is a flowchart of the arousal state control executed by the stimulation control unit 210, i.e., the processor 201, of this embodiment. Figure 6B It is Figure 6A a continuation of the flowchart. Specifically, Figure 6B the process shown in Figure 6A continues from the node A shown in

[0083] In step S1, the stimulation control unit 210 starts acquiring biological information from the sensor 115. When the user wears the wearable device 10 and starts a predetermined application of the information processing device 200, the stimulation control unit 210 starts acquiring biological information. TRGT as the target arousal level. The job content and the target arousal level L TRGT are input by the user to the information processing device 200. The job type indicates the degree of intellectual work involving the user's thinking. The job type is typically represented by simple jobs, normal jobs, and complex jobs. In addition, the scheduled job time may be input together with the job type. The target arousal level L TRGT represents the arousal level required for the scheduled job.

[0084] In this embodiment, the target LF / HF value or the range of the target LF / HF value is input by the user as the target arousal level. When using the ratio of LF to HF (LF / HF), it is only necessary to set the target arousal level within the range of 1.5 or more and 5.0 or less according to the job content. In addition, to simplify the operation, the target arousal level L TRGTSet slightly higher so as not to cause drowsiness. Additionally, in the case of performing complex intellectual tasks, the target arousal level L TRGT can also be set slightly lower to avoid imposing excessive pressure on the user. The order of steps S2 and S3 can be reversed. Alternatively, the stimulation control unit 210 can perform the operations in steps S2 and S3 simultaneously.

[0085] In step S4, the stimulation control unit 210 acquires and analyzes biometric information. The stimulation control unit 210 analyzes the acquired biometric information (such as heart rate information) at a prescribed time interval, extracts the LF component and HF component included in the change of the heart rate information, and calculates the ratio of LF to HF (LF / HF). For example, the stimulation control unit 210 analyzes the heart rate for 5 minutes and calculates the LF / HF value. The processing is updated once per minute. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above manner. The data accumulation time and the update time interval can be set appropriately. For example, the time interval for data analysis and the calculated LF / HF values are as follows:

[0086] Time Interval LF / HF

[0087] 10:00 - 10:05 2.0

[0088] 10:01 - 10:06 1.4

[0089] 10:02 - 10:07 1.8

[0090] 10:03 - 10:08 1.2

[0091] Subsequently, the LF / HF value is calculated for each analysis interval, which is a 5 - minute time interval and shifts by one minute each time.

[0092] In step S5, the stimulation control unit 210 determines whether the calculated LF / HF value for each analysis interval is within a prescribed range (L TRGT ±ΔL) near the target arousal level L TRGT . When the calculated LF / HF value is within the range of L TRGT ±ΔL (in step S5, "yes"), the user reaches an appropriate arousal state corresponding to the type of task. In step S6, the stimulation control unit 210 determines whether the task is completed. If the task is not completed (step S6: no), the stimulation control unit 210 repeatedly acquires and analyzes the biometric information (step S4) and confirms the arousal state (step S5) until the task is completed (step S6: yes).

[0093] When the calculated LF / HF value is not within L TRGTWhen within the range of ±ΔL (No in step S5), the user's arousal state deviates from the target arousal level set according to the type of task. In step S7, when the calculated LF / HF value exceeds the allowable range and is small (L TRGT -ΔL > calculated value), the stimulation control unit 210 determines that the user is in an overly relaxed state for the current task. In this case, in step S8, the stimulation control unit 210 selects a stimulation that increases the arousal level, that is, an arousal stimulation. When the user is effective for arousal with low-frequency electrical stimulation, the stimulator 12a is driven to apply low-frequency electrical stimulation. The stimulation control unit 210 can determine the determination of the stimulation and the stimulation time.

[0094] In step S9, when the calculated LF / HF value exceeds the allowable range and is large (L TRGT +ΔL < calculated value), the stimulation control unit 210 determines that the user is in an overly tense (or stressed) state for the current task. In this case, in step S10, the stimulation control unit 210 selects a stimulation that decreases the arousal level, that is, a relaxation stimulation. When the user is relaxed by cold stimulation of the carotid artery, the stimulator 12c is driven to appropriately cool the user's nape. Or the stimulator 12a can also be driven to apply heat stimulation to the user's nape to warm the nape. The stimulators 12a and 12c can also be driven both. The stimulation control unit 210 can determine the relaxation stimulation, as well as the stimulation duration and stimulation intensity.

[0095] In step S11, the stimulation control unit 210 outputs a control signal for applying the stimulation determined in step S8 or S10 to the stimulator 12. Based on this control signal, the stimulator 12 generates and applies the stimulation.

[0096] In step S12, the stimulation controller 210 continues to acquire and analyze the biological information. In step S13, the stimulation control unit 210 determines whether the difference between the calculated LF / HF value and the target arousal level changes in the decreasing direction. When the difference between the calculated LF / HF value and the target arousal level decreases (Yes in step S13), an appropriate stimulation is selected. Therefore, the stimulation control unit 210 repeatedly performs the acquisition and analysis of biological information (step S4) and the confirmation of the arousal state (step S5) before the end of the task (step S6: Yes).

[0097] On the other hand, when the difference between the calculated LF / HF value and the target arousal level does not decrease (step S13: No), the selected stimulus is inappropriate. Therefore, in step S14, the stimulus control unit 210 corrects or changes at least one of the stimulus type, stimulus duration, and stimulus intensity. This correction is reflected in the selection of the arousal stimulus in step S8 and the selection of the relaxation stimulus in step S10. Thus, the determination of the learning stimulus is made. Then, the stimulus control unit 210 repeats the acquisition and analysis of biological information (step S4) and the confirmation of the arousal state (step S5) until the operation ends (step S6: Yes).

[0098] When the operation ends (step S6: Yes), in step S15, the stimulus control unit 210 obtains an evaluation related to performance improvement. The evaluation can be a subjective evaluation of the user, indicating whether the user's operation efficiency or performance has been improved by applying the stimulus. In step S16, for example, the stimulus control unit 210 determines whether the subjective evaluation indicates an improvement in operation efficiency. When the subjective evaluation indicates an improvement in operation efficiency (step S16: Yes), it means that the stimulus for a specific type of operation is successful. In this case, the process ends while maintaining the set target arousal level, the selected stimulus type, and the stimulus duration.

[0099] On the other hand, when the operation efficiency does not improve despite the correction of the stimulus (No in step S16), the target arousal level set for a specific type of operation may be inappropriate. In step S17, the stimulus control unit 210 corrects the target arousal level L TRGT Thereby, the process ends. The correction of the target arousal level L TRGT is reflected in the setting of the target arousal level L in step S3 TRGT for learning.

[0100] In Figure 6A 、 Figure 6B In the arousal state control shown, the stimulus control unit 210 can also judge the arousal level at a prescribed time interval in step S5. For example, the stimulus control unit 210 can determine the user's arousal state at intervals of 10 minutes or 15 minutes. According to this arousal state control method, the stimulus control unit 210 can appropriately control the arousal state according to the operation performed by the user.

[0101] Hereinafter, the evaluation of the arousal state control of this embodiment will be described.

[0102] Figure 7 is a table showing the evaluation results of the arousal state control. User A and User B each install the wearable device 10. In Figure 7In the evaluation shown, both User A and User B are adult males. The wearable device 10 can be applied to any user regardless of the user's gender and age. Under the control of the information processing device 200, one or more stimuli are applied to User A and User B respectively. In all evaluations, heart rate data is obtained as biological information, and the LF / HF value is calculated as a parameter representing the arousal level. The LF / HF value is calculated by analyzing the heart rate data for 5 minutes and updated once per minute.

[0103] The evaluation items refer to the change rate of the arousal level and the time to reach the target arousal level. The change rate of the arousal level represents the change in the over-tension state on the positive side, i.e., when the LF / HF value is higher than the target arousal level, and the change in the over-relaxed state on the negative side, i.e., when the LF / HF value is lower than the target arousal level. The time to reach the target arousal level is also represented on the positive and negative sides as needed.

[0104] If the LF / HF value of 15 points before the facility applies the stimulus is "BFR" and the LF / HF value of 15 points starting from the maximum value of the LF / HF value during the application of the stimulus is "AFT", then the change rate R of the arousal level is obtained by the following formula CHN (%):

[0105] R CHN =100×(AFT - BFR) / BFR

[0106] Set the target change rate to 100 ± 10%, and set the time to reach the target arousal level to the time when the average value of the change rates of 3 points reaches the range of 100 ± 10%. If the target change rate is not reached during 30 minutes of continuous stimulation, or if the LF / HF value shows an upper deviation, the change rate R of the arousal level CHN is evaluated as 0 (%).

[0107] Next, Figure 7 Example 1 shown below will be described.

[0108] In Example 1, different types of stimuli (1) and (2) are applied to the carotid artery of User A and the back of the neck of User A respectively. Specifically, Stimulus (1) in Example 1 is a cold stimulus applied to the carotid artery, and Stimulus (2) in Example 1 is a heat stimulus applied to the back of the neck. The stimulators 12c and 12a of the wearable device 10 are alternately driven to alternately apply Stimulus (1) and Stimulus (2) for 30 minutes each. When Stimulus (1) and Stimulus (2) are alternately applied, the LF / HF value on the positive (+) side (i.e., in the over-pressure state) is 3.6, and the change rate R CHN is 140%, and the time to reach the target arousal level (i.e., the target LF / HF value) is 8 minutes. The LF / HF value on the negative (-) side (i.e., in the over-relaxed state) is 0.3, and the change rate R CHNIt is 80%. The time to reach the target arousal level is 12 minutes. Compared with a single stimulus, the user can be awakened more effectively by different types of stimuli. In this case, both control to increase the arousal level and control to decrease the arousal level can be performed. As a result, the target arousal level is reached within about 10 minutes.

[0109] Hereinafter, Figure 7 Reference Example 1a shown below will be described.

[0110] Reference Example 1a is the evaluation result when only stimulus (1) is applied to the carotid artery among the stimuli applied in Example 1. The LF / HF value on the positive (+) side (i.e., in the overpressure state) is 3.4, and the change rate R CHN is 120%. The LF / HF value on the negative (-) side (i.e., in the overrelaxed state) is 1.6, and the change rate R CHN is 7%. When stimulus (1) is applied alone for 30 minutes, it may be difficult to reach the target arousal level. In this example, although the cold stimulus to the carotid artery relaxed User A to some extent, the target arousal level was not reached. That is, as a stimulus for increasing the arousal level, the cold stimulus is not suitable for User A. Selecting another stimulus can increase the arousal level of User A.

[0111] Hereinafter, Figure 7 Reference Example 1b shown below will be described.

[0112] Reference Example 1b is the evaluation result when only stimulus (2) among the stimuli applied in Example 1 is applied to the nape of the neck alone. The LF / HF value on the positive (+) side (i.e., in the overpressure state) is 1.4, and the change rate R CHN is 0%. The LF / HF value on the negative (-) side (i.e., in the overrelaxed state) is 0.4, and the change rate R CHN is 73%. In the case of only stimulus (2), when stimulus (2) is continuously applied for 30 minutes, the arousal effect is higher than that in the case of applying stimulus (1). For User A, the arousal level increases to some extent by thermally stimulating the nape of the neck. That is, the thermal stimulus can act in the direction of relieving tension.

[0113] Hereinafter, Figure 7 Example 2 shown below will be described.

[0114] In Example 2, different types of stimuli (1) and (2) were applied to the carotid artery of User A and the back of the neck of User A, respectively. Specifically, Stimulus (1) in Example 2 was a warm stimulus applied to the carotid artery, while Stimulus (2) was (low-frequency) EMS applied to the back of the neck. The stimulators 12c and 12a of the wearable device 10 were driven simultaneously to apply Stimulus (1) and Stimulus (2) at the same time. When Stimulus (1) and Stimulus (2) were applied simultaneously, the LF / HF value on the negative (-) side (i.e., in the over-relaxed state) was 0.3, and the change rate R CHN was 80%, and the time to reach the target arousal level was 5 minutes. On the positive (+) side, the LF / HF value was as low as 1.5, and this value hardly fluctuated. By applying different stimuli simultaneously, the target arousal level was reached quickly.

[0115] Hereinafter, Reference Example 2a shown Figure 7 will be described.

[0116] Reference Example 2a is the evaluation result when only Stimulus (1) is applied to the carotid artery among the stimuli applied in Example 2. The LF / HF value on the negative (-) side (i.e., in the over-relaxed state) is 0.4, and the change rate R CHN is 73%, and the time to reach the target arousal level is 12 minutes. The LF / HF value on the positive (+) side is as low as 1.5, and this value hardly fluctuates. By including Reference Example 2a in the specific examples of the embodiments of the present invention, by applying only the warm stimulus of Stimulus (1) to the carotid artery, the arousal level can be controlled to the target arousal level. However, compared with Example 2 in which the EMS of Stimulus (2) is applied in combination with Stimulus (1), it takes more time to reach the target arousal level.

[0117] Hereinafter, Reference Example 2b shown Figure 7 will be described.

[0118] Reference Example 2b is the evaluation result when only Stimulus (2) among the stimuli applied in Example 2 is applied to the back of the neck alone. The LF / HF value on the negative (-) side (i.e., in the over-relaxed state) is 0.6, and the change rate R CHN is 60%. In addition, even when only Stimulus (2) is applied, the arousal level can be increased to a certain extent, but the target arousal level cannot be reached by continuously applying Stimulus (2) for 30 minutes. The LF / HF value on the positive (+) side is as low as 1.5, and this value hardly fluctuates.

[0119] Hereinafter, Example 3 shown Figure 7 will be described.

[0120] In Example 3, different types of stimuli (1) and (2) were applied to the carotid artery and the nape of the neck of User B, respectively. Specifically, Stimulus (1) in Example 3 was a cold stimulus applied to the carotid artery, while Stimulus (2) was (low-frequency) EMS applied to the nape of the neck. The stimulators 12c and 12a of the wearable device 10 were driven simultaneously to apply Stimulus (1) and Stimulus (2) at the same time. When Stimulus (1) and Stimulus (2) were applied simultaneously, the LF / HF value on the positive (+) side (i.e., in the overpressure state) was 3.6, and the change rate R CHN was 140%. The LF / HF value on the negative (-) side (i.e., in the over-relaxed state) was 1.4, and the change rate R CHN was 7%. The time to reach the target arousal level was 9 minutes. The LF / HF value fluctuated slightly on the negative (-) side. Therefore, mainly Stimulus (1) acted on stress alleviation, while Stimulus (2) finely adjusted the arousal level in the direction of slightly increasing the arousal level. By applying different stimuli, control in the direction of reducing the arousal level and control in the direction of increasing the arousal level could be performed. As a result, it was easy to reach the target arousal level.

[0121] Hereinafter, Reference Example 3a shown below will be described. Figure 7 shown below will be described.

[0122] Reference Example 3a is the evaluation result when only the cold stimulus of Stimulus (1) was applied to the carotid artery among the stimuli applied in Example 3. The LF / HF value on the positive (+) side (i.e., in the overpressure state) was 4.7, and the change rate R CHN was 213%. The LF / HF value on the negative (-) side (i.e., in the over-relaxed state) was 1.4, and the change rate R CHN was 0%. For User B, the intensity of Stimulus (1) was too strong, and the LF / HF value showed an upward deviation, resulting in an evaluation failure. In this case, as in Example 3, by combining with Stimulus (2) in the direction of increasing the arousal level, the arousal level could be controlled to the desired arousal level.

[0123] Hereinafter, Reference Example 3b shown below will be described. Figure 7 shown below will be described.

[0124] Reference Example 3b is the evaluation result when only Stimulus (2) among the stimuli applied in Example 3 was applied to the nape of the neck alone. The LF / HF value on the negative (-) side (i.e., in the over-relaxed state) was 0.6, and the change rate R CHN was 60%. The target arousal level was not reached even after continuously applying only Stimulus (2) for 30 minutes. The LF / HF value on the positive (+) side was as low as 1.5, and this value hardly fluctuated. For this user, by combining multiple stimuli, the target arousal level could be achieved more effectively compared to the case of only stimulating the nape of the neck with EMS.

[0125] Figure 7 The results shown indicate that, depending on the user, the same stimulus can be a relaxation stimulus or an arousal stimulus. Additionally, the user's tendency can be obtained in advance, and the various stimuli that the wearable device 10 can apply can be classified as relaxation stimuli or arousal stimuli, and the classified various stimuli can be recorded in the built-in memory of the information processing device 200 or the microprocessor 120. In cases where a higher relaxation effect or an appropriate arousal effect can be obtained by combining two or more different types of stimuli, the combination of different types of stimuli can also be recorded in the built-in memory of the information processing device 200 or the microprocessor 120. For example, in the case of applying a warm stimulus to the carotid artery only once, or applying a low-frequency electrical stimulus to the nape of the neck only, in cases where the relaxation effect or arousal effect is too large, by applying a warm stimulus to the carotid artery and a low-frequency electrical stimulus to the nape of the neck, the arousal state can be finely adjusted to the desired arousal state.

[0126] In the case of implementing the arousal state control method of the embodiments of the present invention through a computer program, an arousal state control program is installed in the information processing device 200. The arousal state control program causes the processor 201 to execute:

[0127] (a) A step of obtaining the biological information of the user;

[0128] (b) A step of analyzing the obtained biological information, determining one or more stimuli, and controlling the arousal state of the user;

[0129] (c) A step of notifying the determined one or more stimuli to the stimulator.

[0130] As described above, the arousal state control has been described based on the specific embodiments or examples of the present disclosure, but various changes can be made within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention. In the case where the sensor 115, the communication device 117, and the microprocessor 120 are built into the wearable device 10, the sensor 115, the communication device 117, and the microprocessor 120 may not be connected or configured to the bending portion 101 of the main body 110, but may be connected or configured to an appropriate position on the arm 130. The biological information obtained by the sensor 115 is not limited to heart rate data. Other biological data (e.g., respiratory rate, sweating state, or blink rate) can be detected to determine whether the user is tense or relaxed. In addition to or instead of thermal and electrical stimuli, aromatic stimuli, light stimuli, or combinations of these stimuli can be applied. Figure 2 The wearable device 10 shown worn around the neck does not interfere with the user's work and is effective in controlling the arousal state, but the wearable device of the present invention is not limited to the wearable device worn around the neck. Additionally, as long as it can measure biological information such as pulse, body temperature, and sweating state and can apply stimuli, it can also be installed on any part of the body other than the neck, such as the wrist, earlobe, fingertip, forearm, thigh, shoulder, or back.

[0131] Next, a wearable device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0132] Figure 8 It is a diagram of a wearable device 1000 according to another example of the present disclosure. Figure 9 It represents Figure 8 a diagram of the structure of the wearable device 1000 on the side in contact with the skin. The side of the wearable device 1000 in contact with the skin contacts the user's skin. The wearable device 1000 can be worn on the wrist. The wearable device 1000 has a main body 1001 and a mounting portion 1002. As Figure 9 shown, the main body 1001 includes an operation unit 1003, a stimulator 1004, and a sensor 1005. The stimulator 1004 is positioned to contact, for example, the inner side of the wrist. The sensor 1005 is provided at a position where biological information can be easily obtained, for example, on the inner side of the wrist, or at a position where the sensor 1005 can contact an artery. The operation unit 1003 can be provided on one side of the main body 1001. For example, the operation unit 1003 allows the user to turn on or off the power and adjust the stimulation intensity. A communication device 117 (refer to Figure 3A , Figure 3B ) or a microprocessor 120 (refer to Figure 3C ) is built into the main body 1001, and transmits the acquired biological information to a remote processor or analyzes it within the wearable device 1000. Although Figure 9 shows a single stimulator 1004, the number of stimulators is not limited to one. For example, another stimulator can be provided on the same surface of the main body 1001 where the stimulator 1004 is provided to apply various types of stimuli, such as thermal and electrical stimuli.

[0133] Figure 10 It is a diagram of a wearable device 2000 according to yet another example of the present disclosure. The wearable device 2000 can be worn on the ear. The wearable device 2000 includes a main body 2001, a mounting unit 2002, a stimulator 2003, and a sensor 2004. The main body 2001 includes a communication device 117 or a microprocessor 120.

[0134] The wearable device 2000 may include a speaker as the stimulator 2003. The speaker can apply a sound stimulus to the user. The mounting unit 2002 has an earlobe contact surface, and the mounting unit 2002 contacts the earlobe through this earlobe contact surface. For example, when the stimulator 2003 applies a thermal stimulus, the stimulator 2003 is preferably located on the earlobe contact surface of the mounting unit 2002 to easily contact the ear. Similarly, the sensor 2004 is also preferably disposed at a position on the mounting unit 2002 where the ear (earlobe) can be easily contacted.

[0135] The wearable devices 1000 and 2000 can apply different types of stimuli or different intensities of the same type of stimuli to the part of the user in contact with the corresponding wearable device based on the user's biological information.

[0136] The following describes several aspects of the present disclosure:

[0137] According to a first aspect, an awakening state control system includes a sensor, a stimulation control unit, and a stimulator. The sensor acquires the user's biological information. The stimulation control unit determines one or more types of stimuli based on the biological information to control the user's awakening state. The stimulator applies the one or more types of stimuli determined by the stimulation control unit to the user.

[0138] According to a second aspect, in the awakening state control system described in the first aspect, the stimulation control unit includes an awakening state acquisition unit that analyzes the biological information to acquire the user's awakening state. The stimulation control unit selects a stimulus that increases the user's awakening state when the user's awakening state is lower than the target awakening state, and selects a stimulus that decreases the user's awakening state when the user's awakening state is higher than the target awakening state.

[0139] According to a third aspect, in the awakening state control system described in the first or second aspect, the stimulation control unit determines a first stimulus that increases the user's awakening state and a second stimulus that decreases the user's awakening state based on the biological information. The stimulator is configured to apply the first stimulus and the second stimulus simultaneously or alternately.

[0140] According to a fourth aspect, in the awakening state control system described in any one of the first to third aspects, the stimulation control unit obtains a setting of the target awakening state according to the user's job category, and determines the one or more types of stimuli based on the change in the biological information related to the setting of the target awakening state.

[0141] According to a fifth aspect, in the awakening state control system described in any one of the first to third aspects, the stimulation control unit obtains a setting of the target awakening state according to the user's job category, and corrects at least one of the stimulus category, stimulus duration, and stimulus intensity of at least one of the one or more types of stimuli based on the change in the biological information related to the setting of the target awakening state.

[0142] According to a sixth aspect, in the arousal state control system according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the stimulation control unit determines two or more types of thermal stimulation or electrical stimulation based on the biological information. The stimulator simultaneously or alternately applies the two or more types of thermal stimulation or electrical stimulation.

[0143] According to a seventh aspect, in the arousal state control system according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, the stimulator applies one or more types of stimulation to the neck of the user.

[0144] According to an eighth aspect, a wearable device includes a main body, a first stimulation unit, and a second stimulation unit. The first stimulation unit is provided on a first part of the main body and is configured to apply a first stimulation. The second stimulation unit is provided on a second part of the main body and is configured to apply a second stimulation different from the first stimulation. One or both of the first stimulation unit and the second stimulation unit are driven based on the biological information of a user wearing the main body.

[0145] According to a ninth aspect, in the wearable device according to the eighth aspect, a sensor and a communication device are further included. The sensor acquires biological information. The communication device sends the biological information to an information processing device and receives a control signal for driving one or both of the first stimulation unit and the second stimulation unit from the information processing device.

[0146] According to a tenth aspect, in the wearable device according to the eighth aspect, a processor is further included, which acquires biological information from the sensor and analyzes the biological information. Based on the analysis result of the biological information, one or both of the first stimulation unit and the second stimulation unit are driven.

[0147] According to an eleventh aspect, in the wearable device according to the eighth aspect, a processor for analyzing the biological information and a biosensor communicatively connected to the processor are further included. The processor analyzes the biological information based on the output of the biosensor. Based on the analysis result of the biological information, one or both of the first stimulation unit and the second stimulation unit are driven.

[0148] According to a twelfth aspect, an arousal state control method includes: acquiring biological information of a user; analyzing the biological information by using an information processing device; the information processing device determining one or more types of stimulation based on the analyzed biological information to control the arousal state of the user; and applying the determined one or more types of stimulation to the user.

[0149] According to a thirteenth aspect, in the wakefulness state control method described in the twelfth aspect, the analysis includes analyzing the biological information with the information processing device to obtain the wakefulness state of the user. The determination includes: when the wakefulness state is lower than the target wakefulness state, the information processing device selects a stimulus that increases the wakefulness state; when the wakefulness state is higher than the target wakefulness state, the information processing device selects a stimulus that decreases the wakefulness state.

[0150] According to a fourteenth aspect, in the wakefulness state control method described in the twelfth aspect, the application includes: applying, with a stimulator, to the user, simultaneously or alternately, a first stimulus that increases the wakefulness state of the user and a second stimulus that decreases the wakefulness state of the user, as one or more types of stimuli determined.

[0151] The above embodiments are illustrative and do not limit the present invention. Therefore, many additional modifications and variations are possible according to the above teachings. For example, within the scope of the present invention, elements and / or features of different illustrative embodiments can be combined with and / or substituted for each other. Any of the above operations can be performed in various other ways, for example, in an order different from the above order.

[0152] The present disclosure can be implemented in any convenient form, such as using dedicated hardware or a combination of dedicated hardware and software. The present disclosure can be implemented as computer software applied by one or more networked processing devices. The processing facility can be any suitably programmed device, such as a general-purpose computer, a personal digital assistant, a mobile phone (e.g., a WAP or 3G compatible phone), etc. Since the present disclosure can be applied as software, each aspect of the present disclosure includes computer software executable on a programmable device. The computer software can be provided to the programmable device using any conventional carrier medium (carrier method). The carrier medium can accommodate transient carrier methods, such as electrical, optical, microwave, acoustic, or radio frequency signals carrying computer code. An example of such a transient method is a TCP / IP signal carrying computer code over an IP network (such as the Internet). The carrier medium can also include a storage medium for storing processor-readable code, such as a floppy disk, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, a tape device, or a solid-state storage device.

[0153] The functions of the components disclosed herein can be implemented using circuitry or a processing circuit that includes a general - purpose processor, a special - purpose processor, an integrated circuit, an application - specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field - programmable gate array (FPGA), conventional circuitry, and / or combinations thereof, configured or programmed to perform the disclosed functions. Processors are considered processing circuits or circuitry because they include transistors and other circuits therein. In the present disclosure, a circuit, unit, or device is hardware that performs or is programmed to perform the functions. The hardware can be any hardware disclosed herein or otherwise known, programmed or configured to perform the functions. When the hardware is a processor, it can be considered a type of circuit, and a circuit, device, or unit is a combination of hardware and software, where the software is used to configure the hardware and / or the processor.

[0154] This patent application claims priority based on and claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022 - 192273, filed with the Japan Patent Office on November 30, 2022, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2023 - 173627, filed with the Japan Patent Office on October 5, 2023, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0155] List of Reference Numerals

[0156] 1 Wake - up state control system

[0157] 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 1000, 2000 Wearable device

[0158] 12, 12a, 12b, 12c, 1004, 2003 Stimulator (stimulation unit)

[0159] 101 Bending part

[0160] 110, 1001, 2001 Main body

[0161] 115, 1005, 2004 Sensor

[0162] 116 Cable

[0163] 117 Communication device

[0164] 120 Microprocessor

[0165] 121, 122 First electrode

[0166] 123, 124 Second electrode

[0167] 125, 126 Third electrode

[0168] 130 Arm

[0169] 200 Information processing device

[0170] 201 Processor

[0171] 202 Main Memory

[0172] 203 Auxiliary Memory

[0173] 204 Input / Output Interface

[0174] 205 Communication Interface

[0175] 210 Stimulation Control Unit

[0176] 211 Biological Information Acquisition Unit

[0177] 212 Target Level Setting Unit

[0178] 213 Data Analysis Unit

[0179] 214 Stimulation Determination Unit

[0180] 215 Evaluation Acquisition Unit

[0181] 1002, 2002 Installation Unit

[0182] 1003 Operation Unit

Claims

1. An awakening state control system, comprising: A sensor configured to acquire biological information of a user; A stimulation control unit configured to determine one or more types of stimulation based on the biological information to control the awakening state of the user; and A stimulator configured to apply the one or more types of stimulation determined by the stimulation control unit to the user.

2. The awakening state control system according to claim 1, Among them, The stimulation control unit includes an awakening state acquisition unit configured to analyze the biological information to acquire the awakening state of the user, and wherein the stimulation control unit is configured to: Select a stimulation that increases the awakening state of the user when the awakening state of the user is lower than a target awakening state, and Select a stimulation that decreases the awakening state of the user when the awakening state of the user is higher than the target awakening state.

3. The awakening state control system according to claim 1 or 2, Among them, The stimulation control unit is configured to determine a first stimulation that increases the awakening state of the user and a second stimulation that decreases the awakening state of the user based on the biological information, and wherein the stimulator is configured to apply the first stimulation and the second stimulation simultaneously or alternately as the one or more types of stimulation.

4. The awakening state control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Among them, The stimulation control unit is configured to: Obtain a setting of a target awakening state according to the job category of the user, and Determine the one or more types of stimulation based on changes in the biological information related to the setting of the target awakening state.

5. The awakening state control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Among them, The stimulation control unit is configured to: Obtain a setting of a target awakening state according to the job category of the user, and Correct at least one of the stimulation category, stimulation duration, and stimulation intensity of at least one of the one or more types of stimulation based on changes in the biological information related to the setting of the target awakening state.

6. The awakening state control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, Among them, The stimulation control unit is configured to determine two or more types of thermal stimulation or electrical stimulation based on the biological information, and wherein the stimulator is configured to apply the two or more types of thermal stimulation or electrical stimulation simultaneously or alternately as the one or more types of stimulation.

7. The awakening state control system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, Among them, The stimulator is configured to apply one or more types of stimulation to the neck of the user.

8. A wearable device, comprising: A main body; A first stimulation unit at a first part of the main body for applying a first stimulation; and A second stimulation unit at a second part of the main body for applying a second stimulation different from the first stimulation, Driving one or both of the first stimulation unit and the second stimulation unit based on the biological information of a user wearing the main body.

9. The wearable device according to claim 8, further comprising: A sensor configured to acquire biological information; and A communication device configured to: Send the biological information to an information processing device; and Receive, from the information processing device, a control signal for driving one or both of the first stimulation unit and the second stimulation unit.

10. The wearable device according to claim 8, further comprising a processor configured to: Acquire biological information from the sensor and analyze the biological information; and Based on the analysis result of the biological information, drive one or both of the first stimulation unit and the second stimulation unit.

11. The wearable device according to claim 8, further comprising: A processor configured to analyze the biological information; and A biosensor communicatively connected to the processor, Among them, The processor is configured to: Analyze the biological information based on the output of the biosensor; and Based on the analysis result of the biological information, drive one or both of the first stimulation unit and the second stimulation unit.

12. A method for controlling a wakefulness state, comprising: Acquire biological information of a user; Analyze the biological information using an information processing device; The information processing device determines one or more types of stimuli based on the analyzed biological information to control the wakefulness state of the user; and Apply the determined one or more types of stimuli to the user.

13. The method for controlling a wakefulness state according to claim 12, Among them, The analysis includes analyzing the biological information with the information processing device to obtain the wakefulness state of the user, and Wherein, the determination includes: When the wakefulness state is lower than the target wakefulness state, the information processing device selects a stimulus that increases the wakefulness state, When the wakefulness state is higher than the target wakefulness state, the information processing device selects a stimulus that decreases the wakefulness state.

14. The method for controlling a wakefulness state according to claim 12, Among them, The application includes: using a stimulator to simultaneously or alternately apply to the user a first stimulus that increases the wakefulness state of the user and a second stimulus that decreases the wakefulness state of the user as the determined one or more types of stimuli.

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