Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program

Abstract

The present technology relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program that make it possible to efficiently recall information of a sense of connection to a user. In the present technology, a mindfulness control section performs control so that a first stimulus is provided to an experiencer in a mindfulness and relaxation mode, which is an operation mode that causes the experiencer to enter a mindfulness and relaxation state. A connection recall control unit provides a second stimulus to the experiencer in a connection recall mode based on recall target information, which is information acquired from a recall target who is a target person of a sense of connection to be recalled, the connection recall mode being an operation mode for recalling the sense of connection to the experiencer. The provision of the first stimulus is initiated before the provision of the second stimulus. The present technology is applicable to, for example, a supply apparatus.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present technology relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program, and more particularly, to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program capable of effectively arousing a sense of connection in a user. BACKGROUND

[0002] In recent years, with the rise of nuclear families and the advent of the centenarian era, the likelihood that people can experience loneliness more frequently or for longer periods of time (especially after separation from a partner) increases. The feeling of loneliness and social isolation can increase the levels of stress hormones and inflammation, thereby increasing the risk of conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and suicide.

[0003] Social isolation refers to a state of having little contact or interaction with society. Loneliness is a subjective recognition of social isolation and occurs when an individual's desired level of connection and interaction with society is higher than the actual level.

[0004] For example, even a socially isolated person does not feel lonely if he / she likes his / her own situation, and even a socially isolated person feels lonely if he / she wishes to further connect or interact with society. Thus, it is difficult to determine the occurrence of loneliness from the outside, and the occurrence of loneliness depends more on the subjective recognition of the person himself / herself, i.e., the emotional state rather than the situation. Therefore, in order to eliminate loneliness, it is effective for a person to recognize or recall a sense of connection with a person or an object that a person needs (hereinafter referred to as a sense of connection).

[0005] On the other hand, we now live in an era of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA) (a time that is difficult to predict), and social networking services (SNS) have negative aspects, such as a mechanism that excessively stimulates the expectation of approval and a mechanism that causes dependency. As a result, the number of people who feel lonely or have difficulty living and the number of people who have no confidence in themselves increase, and as a result, the number of people who suffer from mental illness due to stress or trauma increases. For example, the proportion of people suffering from depression or depressive symptoms in Japan was 7.9% in 2013, but increased to 17.3% in 2020, almost doubling during that period.

[0006] However, it is difficult to immediately improve the surrounding situation and system and eliminate the factors of stress and trauma. Therefore, it is important to cultivate mindfulness that is not crushed by the current situation. Therefore, transforming the human mind itself and enhancing internal sustainability (like resilience) has gained new value and importance, and the importance of methods to achieve this is increasing.

[0007] Note that resilience is the non-cognitive ability to overcome adverse situations and grow based on those situations. For example, resilience enables a person to recover from shocks and adapt to adverse situations when faced with them, such as harsh environments, stressful situations, or traumatic experiences.

[0008] Self-compassion is effective in enhancing internal sustainability, and there is a profound relationship between resilience, connection, and self-compassion (see, for example, non-patent literature 1).

[0009] As mentioned above, fostering a sense of connection is important not only for eliminating loneliness but also for improving internal sustainability.

[0010] Meanwhile, there exist biological information sharing systems that detect biological information about an object and perform operations that express biological information in a predetermined manner (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0011] Reference List

[0012] Patent documents

[0013] Non-patent document 1: "Kohki Arimitsu, "DIAMOND Harvard Business Review Paper,Self-Composition: How to stay the best", published by DIAMOND, Inc., April 10, 2019"

[0014] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-15449 Summary of the Invention

[0015] The problem to be solved by the present invention

[0016] However, no method has yet been designed to effectively evoke a sense of connection in users.

[0017] This technology was developed in light of this situation, and its purpose is to effectively evoke a sense of connection in users.

[0018] Solution to the problem

[0019] An information processing apparatus or program according to one aspect of the present technology is an information processing apparatus comprising: a mindfulness control unit that performs control in a mindfulness mode to provide a first stimulus to a user, the mindfulness mode being an operating mode for inducing the user into a mindfulness state; and a connection arousal control unit that performs control in a connection arousal mode to provide a second stimulus to the user based on memory object information, the connection arousal mode being an operating mode for inducing the user to arouse a sense of connection, the memory object information being information obtained from a memory object that evokes the sense of connection, wherein the provision of the first stimulus is initiated before the provision of the second stimulus, or a program that enables a computer to be used as an information processing apparatus is started.

[0020] According to one aspect of the present technology, an information processing method is an information processing method executed by an information processing device, the information processing method comprising: a mindfulness control step, wherein control is performed in a mindfulness mode to provide a first stimulus to a user, the mindfulness mode being an operating mode for inducing the user to enter a mindfulness state; and a connection arousal control step, wherein control is performed in a connection arousal mode to provide a second stimulus to the user based on memory object information, the connection arousal mode being an operating mode for inducing the user to arouse a sense of connection, the memory object information being information obtained from a memory object that evokes a sense of connection, wherein the provision of the first stimulus is initiated before the provision of the second stimulus.

[0021] In this technology, control is executed in a mindfulness mode to provide the user with a first stimulus, which is an operational mode for inducing the user into a mindful state. Control is also executed in a connection-evoking mode to provide the user with a second stimulus based on memory object information, which is an operational mode for arousing a sense of connection in the user. This memory object information is obtained from a memory object that evokes a sense of connection. The provision of the first stimulus is initiated before the provision of the second stimulus. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration embodiment of an experience system that applies the present technology.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration embodiment of the acquisition device.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the configuration of the supply device.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a configuration embodiment of the memory object information table.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of information registered in a recall object table.

[0027] Figure 6This is a top view showing an external configuration embodiment of a portion of the supply device.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration embodiment of the control unit.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the sequence of operating modes.

[0030] Figure 9 It is a diagram showing the oxytocin-enhanced ring.

[0031] Figure 10 This is a table illustrating an example of physical stimulation in active mode.

[0032] Figure 11 This is a table illustrating an example of cognitive stimulation in active mode.

[0033] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of how stimulation is provided.

[0034] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the user information form.

[0035] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating an example of information registered in the participant form.

[0036] Figure 15 This is a table illustrating examples of changes in stimuli under mindfulness and relaxation modes based on the state estimation index.

[0037] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the transmission process.

[0038] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the control process.

[0039] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the registration process.

[0040] Figure 19 This is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a computer hardware configuration. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The modes of implementing this technology (hereinafter referred to as implementation methods) will be described below. Note that the descriptions will be given in the following order.

[0042] 1. Implementation Method (Experience System)

[0043] 2. Computer

[0044] <1. Implementation Method>

[0045] Figure 1This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration embodiment of an experience system that applies the present technology.

[0046] Figure 1 The experience system 10 includes an acquisition device 11, a supply device 12, and a smartphone 13. Based on information acquired by the acquisition device 11 about memory objects that evoke a sense of connection in the experiencer, the experience system 10 uses the supply device 12 to provide stimulation to the experiencer, who is the user of the supply device 12.

[0047] Specifically, the acquisition device 11 acquires information about the object of memory, which is time-series information about the object of memory. Embodiments of the object of memory information include biological information about the object of memory, such as time-series pulse waves, heartbeat, electroencephalogram, sweating, body temperature, odor, and skin potential; audio or text data about messages addressed to the experiencer input by the object of memory; motion images of the object of memory, etc.

[0048] The object of recall can be used alone or with the user to perform the input of information about the object of recall using the acquisition device 11. When the object of recall is used together with the user for input, the input serves as symbolic grounding, and the user can more readily perceive the stimulus provided by the supply device 12 as the object of recall. If the user has experience performing this input, the input can easily serve as symbolic grounding even when the object of recall is used alone, when the supply device 12 provides the stimulus. On the other hand, the supply device 12 can provide the user with new impressions by providing the user with stimuli without having experienced the input process.

[0049] Acquisition device 11 records information about the object of remembrance. Acquisition device 11 transmits the recorded information about the object of remembrance to supply device 12. Acquisition device 11 receives gratitude information transmitted from supply device 12, such as messages to the object of remembrance or gratitude points entered by the user. Acquisition device 11 displays the messages or gratitude points from the user to the object of remembrance based on the gratitude information.

[0050] Acquisition device 11 receives a participant information sheet in which recall object information transmitted from supply device 12 is associated with a state estimation index, which represents the degree of various states of the participant after stimulation is provided based on the recall object information. Acquisition device 11 displays the participant information sheet to the recall object as needed.

[0051] The supply device 12 (information processing device) includes a database, and accumulates the memory object information transmitted from the acquisition device 11 in the database. Note that the database may reside in the cloud, and the supply device 12 may retrieve the memory object information from the acquisition device 11 via the database.

[0052] The supply device 12 provides stimulation to the user in mindfulness and relaxation mode, connection arousal mode and self-compassion mode.

[0053] The Mindfulness and Relaxation Mode is a set of techniques used to guide participants into states of mindfulness and relaxation. The Connection Arousal Mode is a set of techniques used to evoke a sense of connection with the object of the participant's memory. The Self-Compassion Mode is a set of techniques used to promote the development of self-compassion in the participant. Self-compassion refers to compassion for oneself; it is a mental state or technique of assessing oneself in order to treat others kindly. With self-compassion, one can maintain a positive outlook even under stress.

[0054] In mindfulness and relaxation mode, the provision of stimulation begins before that in connection arousal mode. Similarly, the provision of stimulation in self-compassion mode precedes that in connection arousal mode.

[0055] When the operating mode is mindfulness and relaxation mode, the supply device 12 provides stimuli that activate the parasympathetic nervous system or induce mindfulness as a stimulus, which brings the user into a state of relaxation. In addition, the supply device 12 also provides stimuli to promote oxytocin secretion. Specifically, the supply device 12 provides guidance for a mindfulness state through voice guidance messages that are modulated or vibratory, provides relaxation effects through videos (moving images) of relaxation music, healing music, natural sounds, natural scenery, fire, etc., and promotes oxytocin secretion through scents such as lavender, massage, and comfortable temperatures.

[0056] Note that oxytocin is an endocrine hormone associated with trust, bondage, and emotion, and is considered an important hormone for promoting a sense of connection with the attached person.

[0057] The supply device 12 also provides stimuli that cultivate a sense of "here and now" as a means to induce a mindfulness state in the user. Specifically, the supply device 12 provides guided audio messages, vibrations, etc., focusing on breathing, such as meditation on breath control. The user can enter a meditative state by, for example, contemplating the guided audio messages or contemplating while simultaneously focusing on the vibrations. Note that the mindfulness and relaxation modes can be modes designed to induce a mindfulness state solely in the user.

[0058] When the operating mode is connection-evoked mode, the supply device 12 provides stimulation to the user based on the information of the recalled object, to evoke a sense of connection with the recalled object. Connection-evoked modes include a passive mode that provides stimulation regardless of the input from the user and an active mode that provides stimulation based on the input from the user.

[0059] In passive mode, the experiencer unilaterally enjoys the stimulation, but in active mode, the experiencer enjoys the stimulation by performing actions that express his / her feelings in order to return to the memory object. Actions that express the feeling of returning to the memory object include, for example, the action of gripping or touching back while thinking about the memory object, or the action of sending a message back to the memory object.

[0060] Stimuli in the connection arousal pattern include physical stimuli such as vibrations corresponding to the heartbeat of the recalled object and comfortable pressure (touch) on the skin (C-fibers) of the recreated tactile sensation, as well as cognitive stimuli such as messages from the recalled object to the experiencer. Oxytocin is secreted by both physical and cognitive stimuli.

[0061] For example, in Francis McGlone 1, Johan Wessberg 2, and Hakan Olausson, “Discriminative and fective touch: sensing and sense” Neuron, May 21, 2014, the secretion of oxytocin through physical stimulation (particularly skin (C-fiber) stimulation) is described.

[0062] For example, the effects of cognitive stimulation on the skin (C-fibers) are described in "Chantal Triscoli, Hakan Olausson, Uta Sailer, Hanna Ignell, Ilona Croy, 'CT-optimized skin stroking delivered by hand or robot is comparable' Front Behav Neurosci, 7:208, 2013" (→ top-down effect; identifying who is being contacted is important).

[0063] The effect of cognitive stimulation on skin (C-fiber) stimulation (→ priming effect) is also described in "Ellingsen, Dan-Mikael Wessberg, Johan Chelnokova, Olga Olausson, Hakan Laeng, Bruno Leknes, Siri, "In touch with your emotions: Oxytocin and touch change social impressions while others' facial expressions can alter touch." psychneuroendocrinology, 39, 11-20, 2014".

[0064] When the operating mode is self-compassion mode, the supply device 12 provides stimuli that promote the enhancement of the participant's self-compassion. Specifically, as described in Non-Patent Document 1, there are three elements that enhance the participant's self-compassion. The first element is mindfulness, the second element is gentleness towards oneself, and the third element is the recognition of ordinary humanity.

[0065] Here, as the experiencer is in a mindful state in mindfulness and relaxation mode, the supply device 12 provides stimulation that promotes at least one of gentleness toward oneself and recognition of ordinary humanity in self-compassion mode.

[0066] Examples of stimuli that promote self-gentleness include guided audio messages for loving-kindness meditation, where gentleness toward the object of remembrance, cultivated through a sense of connection evoked in the experiencer within a connection-awakening mode, is sublimated into gentleness toward oneself. Examples of stimuli that promote the recognition of ordinary humanity include audio messages containing the content, “Humans are not perfect. Imperfection is a common human experience.”

[0067] The supply device 12 acquires participant information, including the level of autonomic nervous activity (including time-series heartbeats), the activity levels of the participant's sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, and biometric information (such as brainwaves, sound, images, text data, etc.). The supply device 12 receives a subjective index transmitted from the smartphone 13, which indicates the participant's state before and after the stimulus is provided by the participant. Based on the participant information after the stimulus is provided and the subjective index, the supply device 12 generates a state estimation index as feedback information representing changes in the participant caused by the stimulus.

[0068] For each participant, the supply device 12 stores a participant information table in a database. In this participant information table, the stimulus information provided to the participant in each operating mode, the memory object information ID used for the stimulus, and the participant's state estimation index after the stimulus is provided are associated with each other.

[0069] The supply device 12 determines the stimulation to be provided in each operating mode based on the participant information form, etc.

[0070] For example, the supply device 12 can enhance the memory of previously provided stimuli by selecting a stimulus as the current stimulus. The supply device 12 can also prevent the user from becoming bored by selecting a stimulus different from the previously provided one. Furthermore, the supply device 12 can perform artificial intelligence (AI) analysis on the user information sheet to select the optimal stimulus for the current stimulus based on user information prior to its provision.

[0071] The supply device 12 transmits status estimation index and instruction suggestion messages to the user via the smartphone 13.

[0072] The supply device 12 acquires the thank-you message entered by the participant and transmits it to the acquisition device 11. The participant can enter the thank-you message after the stimulus is provided, or when registering the memory object information into the database. The supply device 12 transmits the participant information form to the acquisition device 11.

[0073] Before and after providing stimulation, the smart phone 13 transmits subjective indices to the supply device 12 based on input from the user. Subjective indices include, for example, the UCLA Loneliness Scale, the Subjective Index of Connected Feelings, the Compassion Scale, and the Mindfulness-Attention Scale (MASS).

[0074] For example, the details of the UCLA Loneliness Scale are described in Yuzuri Masuda, Etsuko Tadaka, and Yuka Dai, “Reliability and Validity of the Japanese Version of the UCLA Loneliness Scale Version 3 among the Older Population,” published in the Journal of Japan Academy of Community Health Nursing in 2012.

[0075] For example, the details of the self-compassion level are described in "Construction and Validation of a Short form of the Japanese version of the Self-Compassion Scale" by Kohki Arimitsu, Yasuhiko Aoki, Miyuki Kokita, Ayano Tada, and Riko Togashi in the Komazawa Psychology Annual Report, Issue 18, published in 2016.

[0076] For example, the details of MASS are described in "Development and Validation of the Japanese Version of the Mindful Convention Awareness Scale Using Item Response Theory Analysis" in Volume 24, Issue 1 of the Japanese Journal of Personality, published in 2015.

[0077] The smartphone 13 displays status estimation indices and recommendations transmitted from the supply unit 12.

[0078] <Configuration Example of Acquisition Device>

[0079] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A block diagram of an embodiment of the configuration of the acquisition device 11.

[0080] Figure 2 The acquisition device 11 is configured to connect to the operation unit 31, communication unit 32, memory object information generation unit 33, determination unit 34, supply information generation unit 35, sensor unit 36, and supply unit 37 via an interface (IF) unit 38. A storage unit 39 and a clock unit 40 are connected to the memory object information generation unit 33, and the storage unit 39 is connected to the determination unit 34 and the supply information generation unit 35.

[0081] The operation unit 31 includes a touch panel 41, a keyboard 42, operation buttons 43, and a microphone 44. The touch panel 41, keyboard 42, and operation buttons 43 receive operations from the memory object and provide operation signals indicating the operation to the IF unit 38.

[0082] For example, the person recalling the event inputs predetermined characters by operating the touch panel 41, keyboard 42, or operation button 43, and the IF unit 38 generates text data based on the operation signal indicating the operation. The microphone 44 acquires the operation-related voice from the person recalling the event and provides the operation signal corresponding to the voice to the IF unit 38.

[0083] The communication unit 32 communicates with the supply device 12 via a network or the like. For example, the communication unit 32 transmits memory object information provided by the memory object information generation unit 33 to the supply device 12 via the IF unit 38. The communication unit 32 receives the thank-you message and the experiencer information form transmitted from the supply device 12 and provides the thank-you message and the experiencer information form to the IF unit 38.

[0084] The memory object information generation unit 33 generates memory object information based on the text data and voice provided by the operation unit 31 through the IF unit 38 and the sensor information provided by the sensor unit 36 ​​through the IF unit 38. At this time, the memory object information generation unit 33 adds the memory object ID, which serves as the ID of the memory object, and the memory object information ID, which serves as the ID of the memory object information, to the memory object information.

[0085] The memory object information generation unit 33 provides the memory object information, along with time information such as the current time provided from the clock unit 40, to the storage unit 39 and stores the memory object information. The memory object information generation unit 33 reads the memory object information stored in the storage unit 39 and provides the memory object information to the communication unit 32 via the IF unit 38.

[0086] The determining unit 34 selects data from the thank-you message, participant information form, etc., provided by the communication unit 32 via the IF unit 38 as the data to be provided to the recipient of the memory. The determining unit 34 provides the data to the storage unit 39 and stores it in the storage unit 39.

[0087] The supply information generation unit 35 reads the supply data stored in the storage unit 39 and generates supply information for controlling the supply unit 37 by providing the supply data to the memory object. The supply information generation unit 35 provides the supply information to the supply unit 37 via the IF unit 38.

[0088] The sensor unit 36 ​​includes a pulse wave sensor 50, an RGB camera 51, a microphone 52, a pressure sensor 53, a pressure distribution sensor 54, a heart rate sensor 55, an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor 56, a perspiration sensor 57, a temperature sensor 58, an odor sensor 59, and a skin potential sensor 60. At least a portion of the sensor unit 36 ​​is used as a measurement unit for measuring bio-information.

[0089] Pulse wave sensor 50 measures the pulse wave of the object being recalled and acquires information representing the pulse wave as sensor information. RGB camera 51 captures an image of the object being recalled and acquires an RGB image of the object as sensor information. Microphone 52 acquires ambient sounds (such as messages to the user) from the object being recalled as sensor information.

[0090] Pressure sensor 53 measures the pressure applied when the object being recalled performs an action such as grasping, and acquires information indicating the pressure as sensor information. Pressure distribution sensor 54 measures the pressure distribution when the object being recalled performs an action such as grasping, and acquires information indicating the pressure distribution as sensor information. Heart rate sensor 55 measures the heart rate and heart rate [bpm] of the object being recalled, and acquires information indicating the heart rate and heart rate as sensor information.

[0091] Brainwave sensor 56 measures the brainwaves of the person recalling the memory and acquires information representing the brainwaves as sensor information. Perspiration sensor 57 measures the perspiration of the person recalling the memory and acquires information indicating perspiration as sensor information. Temperature sensor 58 measures the body temperature of the person recalling the memory and acquires information indicating the body temperature as sensor information. Odor sensor 59 measures the odor around the person recalling the memory and acquires information indicating the odor and information indicating the type of fragrance corresponding to the odor as sensor information.

[0092] Skin potential sensor 60 measures the skin potential, which represents the tension level of the object being recalled, and acquires the information representing the skin potential as sensor information. Sensor unit 36 ​​provides the acquired sensor information to object being recalled information generation unit 33 via IF unit 38.

[0093] The supply unit 37 includes a vibrator 61, headphones 62, in-ear headphones 63, scent cartridge 64, Peltier 65, speaker 66, amplifier 67, display 68, motor 69, and head-mounted display (HMD) 70.

[0094] Vibrator 61 provides vibration to the object of memory based on supply information provided from supply information generation unit 35 via IF unit 38. Headphones 62 and in-ear headphones 63 provide voice to the object of memory based on supply information. Scent cartridge 64 provides scent to the object of memory based on supply information. Peltier 65 provides temperature to the object of memory based on supply information. Peltier 65 can be made of a material different from Peltier, as long as the material can provide a thermal or cooling sensation.

[0095] Speaker 66 provides sound to the object of memory based on supply information. Amplifier 67 amplifies the sound supplied to the object of memory from headphones 62, in-ear headphones 63, or speaker 66 based on supply information. Display 68 provides still images, moving images, images representing messages or sensor information, etc., to the object of memory based on supply information. Motor 69 drives various mechanisms (not shown) based on supply information and provides various types of pressure (tactile) and humidity to the object of memory. Alternatively, another actuator may be provided instead of motor 69. HMD 70 provides images to the object of memory based on supply information.

[0096] Storage unit 39 stores memory object information provided by memory object information generation unit 33 and supply information provided by determination unit 34. Clock unit 40 keeps track of the current time and provides the time information to memory object information generation unit 33.

[0097] Alternatively, the acquisition device 11 can integrate microphone 44 and microphone 52. At least some of the microphone 44, microphone 52, headset 62, in-ear headphones 63, and speaker 66 can be integrated together. Display 68 and HMD 70 can be integrated together. It is not necessary to set up vibrator 61, scent box 64, Peltier 65, motor 69, HMD 70, etc.

[0098] <Configuration Example of Supply Device>

[0099] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 A block diagram of an embodiment of the configuration of the supply device 12.

[0100] exist Figure 3 In the supply device 12, the operation unit 121, communication unit 122, registration unit 123, control unit 124, calculation unit 125, generation unit 126, sensor unit 127, and supply unit 128 are connected via IF unit 129. Database 130 is also connected to registration unit 123, control unit 124, calculation unit 125, and generation unit 126. Clock unit 131 is also connected to calculation unit 125.

[0101] The operation unit 121 includes a touch panel 141, a keyboard 142, operation buttons 143, and a microphone 144. The difference between operation unit 121 and operation unit 31 is that the operation is performed by the user, not the object being recalled. Since the other configurations are similar to those of operation unit 31, their description is omitted.

[0102] For example, by operating the operation unit 121, the user inputs the user ID (as their ID) and the desired memory object ID, and the IF unit 129 generates the user ID and the memory object information ID based on the operation signal indicating the operation. The user inputs a thank-you message by operating the operation unit 121, and the IF unit 129 generates the thank-you message based on the operation signal indicating the operation.

[0103] Communication unit 122 communicates with acquisition device 11 via a network or the like. For example, communication unit 122 transmits a thank-you message provided from IF unit 129 to acquisition device 11. Communication unit 122 transmits the participant information form provided from calculation unit 125 to acquisition device 11 via IF unit 129. Communication unit 122 receives memory object information transmitted from acquisition device 11 and provides the memory object information to registration unit 123 via IF unit 129.

[0104] Communication unit 122 communicates with smartphone 13 via a network or the like. For example, communication unit 122 transmits state estimation index and suggestion information provided by computing unit 125 to smartphone 13 via IF unit 129. Communication unit 122 receives subjective indexes transmitted from smartphone 13 and provides subjective indexes to computing unit 125 via IF unit 129.

[0105] The registration unit 123 registers the memory object information provided by the communication unit 122 via the IF unit 129 into the memory object information table, which is a table of memory object information stored in the database 130.

[0106] Based on the recall object ID and participant ID provided from the IF unit 129, the control unit 124 reads the state estimation index, stimulus information, and the recall object information ID corresponding to the recall object ID and participant ID from the participant information table stored in the database 130. The control unit 124 determines the stimulus to be provided to the participant in each operating mode based on the state estimation index, stimulus information, and recall object information ID. The control unit 124 provides the database 130 with stimulus information indicating the stimulus determined in each operating mode, the recall object information ID used for the stimulus, and the participant ID.

[0107] The control unit 124 reads the memory object information corresponding to the memory object information ID from the memory object information table stored in the database 130 based on the memory object ID. The control unit 124 generates stimulation control information for controlling the supply unit 128, so that stimulation is provided in each operating mode based on the memory object information, and provides the stimulation control information to the supply unit 128 via the IF unit 129.

[0108] The control unit 124 modifies the stimulus in active mode based on the experiencer information provided from the generation unit 126. Specifically, the control unit 124 generates stimulus control information for controlling the supply unit 128 so that the stimulus is provided in active mode after the modification, and provides the stimulus control information to the supply unit 128 via the IF unit 129.

[0109] The calculation unit 125 acquires the subjective index provided by the communication unit 122 and the experiencer information provided by the generation unit 126 via the IF unit 129. The calculation unit 125 (generation unit) calculates the state estimation index based on the subjective index and the experiencer information.

[0110] For example, the calculation unit 125 calculates a state estimation index for arousal of connectivity based on the degree of synchronization between the heartbeat or electroencephalogram in the recall object information and the experiencer information used to provide the stimulus, or the degree of parasympathetic activity in the experiencer information. The calculation unit 125 registers the state estimation index, along with the time information provided from the clock unit 131, into the experiencer information table stored in the database 130.

[0111] The calculation unit 125 generates suggestion information based on the state estimation index. The calculation unit 125 provides the state estimation index and suggestion information to the communication unit 122 via the IF unit 129. The calculation unit 125 reads the experiencer information table from the database 130 and provides it to the communication unit 122 via the IF unit 129.

[0112] The generation unit 126 generates user information based on the sensor information provided by the sensor unit 127 via the IF unit 129, and provides it to the control unit 124, the calculation unit 125, and the database 130.

[0113] Sensor unit 127 includes a pulse wave sensor 150, an RGB camera 151, a microphone 152, a pressure sensor 153, a pressure distribution sensor 154, and a heart rate sensor 155. Sensor unit 127 also includes an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor 156, a perspiration sensor 157, a temperature sensor 158, an odor sensor 159, and a skin potential sensor 160.

[0114] The difference between sensor unit 127 and sensor unit 36 ​​is that the target for acquiring sensor information is not the object of memory but the experiencer, and the sensor information is provided to generation unit 126, and since other points are similar to those of sensor unit 36, their description is omitted.

[0115] The supply unit 128 includes a vibrator 161, earphones 162 and 163, a scent box 164, a Peltier 165, a speaker 166, an amplifier 167, a display 168, a motor 169, and an HMD 170.

[0116] The difference between supply unit 128 and supply unit 37 is that the object provided is not the object of memory but the experiencer, and the provision is based on stimulus control information provided from control unit 124. Since the other configurations are similar to those of supply unit 37, their description is omitted.

[0117] Database 130 stores a memory object information table and a participant information table. Database 130 registers memory object information provided by registration unit 123 into the memory object information table. Database 130 registers participant ID, memory object ID, and stimulus information provided by control unit 124 into the participant information table. Database 130 registers state estimation indicators and time information provided by calculation unit 125 into the participant information table. Database 130 registers participant information provided by generation unit 126 into the participant information table.

[0118] The clock unit 131 generates time information and provides the time information to the calculation unit 125.

[0119] Note that microphones 144 and 152 can be integrated together in supply device 12. At least some of microphones 144, 152, earphones 162 and 163, and speaker 166 can be integrated together. Display 168 and HMD 170 can be integrated together.

[0120] The following description will describe the case where sound is provided by headphones 162, but the same applies to the case where sound is provided by headphones 163 or speakers 166. The following description will describe the case where moving or still images are provided by display 168, but the same applies to the case where moving or still images are provided by HMD 170.

[0121] <Configuration Example of the Memory Object Information Table>

[0122] Figure 4 Is it showing stored Figure 3 A diagram illustrating an embodiment of the configuration of the memory object information table in database 130.

[0123] like Figure 4 As shown, the memory object information table is stored hierarchically in database 130. Specifically, database 130 stores the memory object catalog table above the memory object information table. The memory object catalog table is a table that registers personal information about each memory object, associated with the memory object ID. Personal information includes basic information such as name, registration time of personal information, gender, date of birth and nationality, SNS account, and the number of participants who have been set as memory objects.

[0124] Each memory object's memory object table is stored below that memory object's memory object catalog table. Figure 4 In this embodiment, the memory objects for which the input of memory object information has been performed are three memory objects A to C. In this case, the memory object table for memory objects A to C is stored below the memory object catalog table.

[0125] In the memory object table for memory object A, the memory object ID of memory object A and the experiencer ID of the experiencer who can use the memory object information are registered in association with the memory object information ID for each piece of memory object information about memory object A. The memory object information ID records (generates) the timestamp of the time information when the memory object information corresponding to the memory object information ID was generated, the recording time (acquisition time) of the memory object information, and the memory object information itself. For example, the recording time is calculated based on the time counted by clock unit 40 at the beginning and end of the generation of the memory object information.

[0126] The memory object tables for memory object B and memory object C are also configured to be similar to those for memory object A, except that memory object A is replaced by memory objects B and C respectively, and its description is omitted.

[0127] <Example of information registered in the recall object table>

[0128] Figure 5 The diagram is in Figure 4 A diagram illustrating an embodiment of the information registered in the memory object table of memory object A.

[0129] exist Figure 5 In this embodiment, heartbeat, voice, and text data are generated seven times as memory object information about memory object A. Therefore, Figure 5 The information table for the person being recalled includes seven entries. Figure 5 In one embodiment, for example, the memory object information IDs from “001” to “0007” are added to the seven memory object information entries in the order of their generation, and “001” to “0007” are each registered as the memory object information ID for each entry.

[0130] exist Figure 5 In one embodiment, the memory object ID of memory object A is "001", and "001" is registered as the memory object ID for each entry. Figure 5 In one embodiment, “001” and “002” are registered as participant IDs in the entry for memory object information ID “001”. In this case, the memory object information of memory object information ID “001” can be used to provide stimulation to participants with participant IDs “001” or “002”.

[0131] exist Figure 5 In one embodiment, the memory object information ID "001" is generated at 9:19:40 on March 17, 2023. Therefore, in the entry for memory object information ID "001", a timestamp (date (17; 03; 2023); time (9; 19; 40)) is registered as a timestamp.

[0132] exist Figure 5 In one embodiment, the recording time of the memory object information ID "001" is 20 seconds, and it is recorded in the entries of memory object information ID "001" and "0;00:20".

[0133] exist Figure 5 In the embodiment, the heartbeat in the memory object information of memory object information ID "001" is 80, the file name of the voice is "xxx.mp3", and the text data is "xxx". Therefore, in the entry of memory object information ID "001", 80 is registered as the heartbeat of the memory object information, "xxx.mp3" is registered as the voice, and "xxx" is registered as the text data.

[0134] Note that, although the description is omitted, the participant ID, timestamp, recording time, heartbeat, voice and text data are similarly registered in each entry of the memory object information ID “002” to “0007”.

[0135] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 Information marked with an asterisk (*) at the end is information that can be referenced from other tables. Specifically, the Memory Object ID in the Memory Object Cataloging Table and the Memory Object Information ID, Memory Object ID, and Experiencer ID in the Memory Object Information Table are information that can be referenced from other tables.

[0136] The type of memory object information registered in the memory object information table is preset by the owner of the experience system 10.

[0137] <External configuration example of a part of the supply device>

[0138] Figure 6 This is a top view showing an external configuration embodiment of a portion of the supply device 12.

[0139] like Figure 6 As shown, the mechanism driven by the motor 169 of the supply device 12 and providing various types of pressure to the user includes a glove-type pressure supply mechanism 201. The pressure supply mechanism 201 includes an upper mechanism 201a and a lower mechanism 201b covered by padding. The lower mechanism 201b is larger than the upper mechanism 201a, and the upper mechanism 201a and the lower mechanism 201b are partially combined.

[0140] The user inserts his / her hand between the upper mechanism 201a and the lower mechanism 201b. When driven by the engine 169, the upper mechanism 201a and the lower mechanism 201b pneumatically expand and contract, thereby applying pressure to the user's hand between the upper mechanism 201a and the lower mechanism 201b.

[0141] The display 168 is disposed on the upper surface of the upper mechanism 201a, and the odor box 164 is disposed on the upper surface of the lower mechanism 201b.

[0142] The pressure supply mechanism 201 can be integrated with the communication unit 122, registration unit 123, control unit 124, calculation unit 125, generation unit 126, IF unit 129, database 130, clock unit 131, etc. The pressure supply mechanism 201 can also be integrated with the vibrator 161, Peltier 165, speaker 166, amplifier 167, motor 169, etc. Furthermore, the pressure supply mechanism 201 can also be integrated with the sensor unit 127 other than the EEG sensor 156. In the following description, the pressure supply mechanism 201 is integrated with these components.

[0143] <Configuration Example of Control Unit>

[0144] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 3 A block diagram of a configuration embodiment of the control unit 124.

[0145] Figure 7 The control unit 124 includes a reading unit 230, a mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231, a connection arousal control unit 232, and a self-compassion control unit 233.

[0146] Based on the memory object ID and experiencer ID provided by the IF unit 129, the reading unit 230 reads the state estimation index, stimulus information, and memory object information ID corresponding to the memory object ID and experiencer ID from the experiencer information table stored in the database 130.

[0147] The reading unit 230 provides the reading state estimation index and stimulus information in mindfulness and relaxation modes to the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231. The reading unit 230 provides the reading state estimation index, stimulus information in connection arousal mode, and recall object information ID to the connection arousal control unit 232. The reading unit 230 provides the read state estimation index and stimulus information in self-compassion mode to the self-compassion control unit 233.

[0148] Based on the state estimation index provided by the reading unit 230 and the stimulus information in mindfulness and relaxation mode, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 determines the stimulus to be provided to the user in mindfulness and relaxation mode. The mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 provides the stimulus information indicating the stimulus and the user ID to the database 130. The mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 generates stimulus control information for controlling the supply unit 128 to provide the stimulus in a certain manner, and provides the stimulus control information to the supply unit 128 via the IF unit 129.

[0149] The connection arousal control unit 232 determines the stimulus to be provided to the experiencer in the connection arousal mode based on the state estimation index provided by the reading unit 230, the stimulus information in the connection arousal mode, the recall object information ID, and the experiencer information provided by the generation unit 126. The connection arousal control unit 232 provides the database 130 with stimulus information indicating the stimulus, the recall object information ID used for the stimulus, and the experiencer ID.

[0150] The connection activation control unit 232 reads the memory object information corresponding to the memory object information ID from the memory object information table stored in the database 130 based on the memory object ID. According to the memory object information, the connection activation control unit 232 generates stimulation control information for controlling the supply unit 128 to provide stimulation in the connection activation mode, and provides it to the supply unit 128 via the IF unit 129.

[0151] The self-compassion control unit 233 determines the stimulus to be provided to the user in the self-compassion mode based on the state estimation index provided by the reading unit 230 and the stimulus information in the self-compassion mode. The self-compassion control unit 233 provides the stimulus information representing the stimulus and the user ID to the database 130. The self-compassion control unit 233 generates stimulus control information to control the supply unit 128 to provide the stimulus to the user, and provides it to the supply unit 128 via the IF unit 129.

[0152] <Description of the order of operation modes>

[0153] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 A diagram showing the sequence of operating modes of the control unit 124.

[0154] like Figure 8 As shown, firstly, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 initiates control, causing the supply unit 128 to provide stimulation to the user in mindfulness and relaxation mode. Therefore, the user can relax their mind and body and relieve tension at the start of the experience. Furthermore, the user entering a mindfulness state creates a foundation for promoting a sense of connection; that is, the user is more likely to feel a sense of connection.

[0155] Specifically, mindfulness is a state of transition from a state where various emotions and thoughts are swirling or wandering in the mind to a state of non-judgmental awareness of the present moment ("this very moment"). Therefore, providing stimulation in mindfulness and relaxation modes acts as a grounding mechanism, focusing on evoking a sense of connection in connection-evoking modes. Thought drift is a phenomenon in which attention wanders from the task at hand and becomes trapped in a repetitive cycle of irrelevant thoughts.

[0156] After the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 initiates control, the connection arousal control unit 232 initiates control, causing the supply unit 128 to provide stimulation to the user in connection arousal mode. Therefore, the user can recall the feeling of connection with the recalled object.

[0157] Furthermore, the experiencer evokes a sense of connection with the object of their memory, thereby arousing tenderness (compassion) towards that object, and is more likely to direct that tenderness towards themselves. Physiologically, because the experiencer's oxytocin levels are enhanced by this connection, they are more likely to be gentle towards both the object of their memory and themselves. As mentioned above, the experiencer is more likely to feel tenderness towards themselves, which is an element of enhancing self-compassion. That is, the experiencer can create the foundation for fostering the growth of self-compassion.

[0158] After the connection arousal control unit 232 is activated, the self-compassion control unit 233 begins to control the supply unit 128 to provide stimulation to the user in a self-compassionate manner. As a result, the user is able to enhance their self-compassion.

[0159] Specifically, the participant is in a state of mindfulness, one of the three elements for enhancing self-compassion, as a result of stimulation in the mindfulness and relaxation modes. Furthermore, the participant is in a state where, due to stimulation in the connection arousal mode, tenderness towards the object of memory easily sublimates into tenderness towards oneself. Moreover, based on stimulation in the self-compassion mode, the participant sublimates tenderness towards the object of memory into their own tenderness, becoming a state in which they can feel tenderness towards themselves—another factor in the enhancement of self-compassion. Furthermore, through stimulation in the self-compassion mode, the participant becomes capable of recognizing common humanity as the final factor in enhancing self-compassion. Therefore, the participant is able to enhance self-compassion.

[0160] As mentioned above, since stimulation in mindfulness and relaxation modes is provided before stimulation in connection arousal mode, a sense of connection can be effectively aroused in the experiencer compared to the case where stimulation in mindfulness and relaxation modes is not provided.

[0161] Furthermore, since stimulation in the connection arousal mode and stimulation in the mindfulness and relaxation mode are provided before stimulation in the self-compassion mode, self-compassion is enhanced compared to the case where stimulation in the self-compassion mode is provided only.

[0162] <Description of the oxytocin-enhancing ring>

[0163] Figure 9 The diagram shows an enhancement ring used to enhance the secretion of oxytocin by the participant, which is formed by stimulation provided through the supply device 12.

[0164] like Figure 9As shown, when stimulation in the connection arousal mode is provided by the supply device 12, the experiencer experiences a sense of connection. Therefore, oxytocin is physiologically secreted. Subsequently, if stimulation in the self-compassion mode is provided, the experiencer enhances self-compassion. This can lead to further secretion of oxytocin.

[0165] Here, as mentioned above, oxytocin promotes the arousal of a sense of connection. Therefore, the experiencer can form an oxytocin enhancement loop through continuous use of the experience system 10. That is, the experiencer's increased self-compassion promotes the arousal of a sense of connection upon the next use of the experience system 10, which further enhances self-compassion. Furthermore, this enhancement loop can even be formed from a single experience of connection. Oxytocin is secreted by physical stimulation (C-fibers of the skin) during experiences of connection, thereby improving the cognitive stimulation effect on the object of thought (a loved one, a trusted person, etc.). Furthermore, the arousal of the object of thought itself also promotes oxytocin secretion, which is also promoted through the synergistic effect of physical stimulation (top-down (cognitive stimulation) and bottom-up (physical stimulation)).

[0166] By evoking a sense of connection with the object of memory, the experience system 10 can foster attachment to the object in the user, thus promoting continuous use by the user.

[0167] On the other hand, when individuals undergo expert-guided psycho-clinical methods to enhance self-compassion, such as an 8-week carefully planned self-compassion program, time is sometimes limited. When individuals use cognitive behavioral therapy applications (such as mindfulness applications) to enhance self-compassion, they find it difficult to continue using the applications because attachment does not form. Therefore, it is difficult to achieve effects such as self-transformation—the medium- to long-term effects resulting from enhanced self-compassion—using psycho-clinical methods or cognitive behavioral therapy applications.

[0168] <Example of Physical Stimulation in Active Mode>

[0169] Figure 10 This is a table illustrating an example of physical stimulation in active mode.

[0170] exist Figure 10 The first row at the top of the table describes the items "Reproduction Elements," "Information on the Memory Object," "Physical Stimuli," "Interactive Experiences," "Means of Acquisition," and "Changes in Physical Stimuli." Each of the second to fifth rows from the top describes information corresponding to the respective item.

[0171] The information corresponding to the item "Reproduction Elements" refers to the elements that reproduce the recalled object by providing physical stimuli based on the recalled object information in active mode. The information corresponding to the item "Recalled Object Information" refers to the recalled object information used to provide physical stimuli, and the information corresponding to the item "Physical Stimulus" refers to physical stimuli. The information corresponding to the item "Interactive Experience" refers to the interaction that provides physical stimuli to the participant in active mode, and the item "Acquisition Means" refers to the means of acquiring sensor information corresponding to the interaction. The item "Changes in Physical Stimuli" refers to the changes in physical stimuli in the activity mode corresponding to the interaction.

[0172] Specifically, with Figure 10 The information corresponding to the items "Reproduction Element" and "Recall Object Information" in the second row at the top of the table is "Heartbeat" and "Heartbeat and Heart Rate Measured by Heartbeat Sensor," respectively. The information corresponding to the items "Physical Stimulus" and "Interaction with the Participant" is "Vibration generated by a vibrator, pressure generated by a pressure-providing mechanism," and "Grasping, covering, gazing, and increasing heartbeat intensity through pressure-providing mechanisms, etc." The information corresponding to the items "Means of Acquisition" and "Changes in Physical Stimulus" is "Pressure sensor, pressure distribution sensor, RGB camera, heartbeat sensor, etc." and "Setting the intensity corresponding to the interaction with the participant."

[0173] That is, in this case, in active mode, based on the heartbeat and heart rate measured by the heartbeat sensor 55 in the information of the object of memory, vibration generated by the vibrator 161 or pressure generated by the pressure providing mechanism 201 is provided as a physical stimulus to reproduce the heartbeat of the object of memory.

[0174] After providing physical stimulation, the connection arousal control unit 232 estimates the interaction of the experiencer based on experiencer information corresponding to sensor information from the pressure-sensitive sensor 153 and the pressure distribution sensor 154. Specifically, the connection arousal control unit 232 infers whether the experiencer is grasping the pressure-providing mechanism 201 with one hand or with both hands based on the experiencer information and then interacts with it.

[0175] The connection activation control unit 232 infers that the user is interacting with the pressure-providing mechanism 201 based on user information corresponding to sensor information from the RGB camera 151. Based on user information corresponding to sensor information from the heartbeat sensor 155, the connection activation control unit 232 estimates that the heartbeat intensity increases with the user's interaction.

[0176] When the connection arousal control unit 232 estimates that the interaction that brings the experiencer closer to the object of memory as described above has occurred, the intensity of the physical stimulus to be provided changes based on the intensity of the interaction.

[0177] and Figure 10 The information corresponding to the item "Reproduction Elements" in the third row from the top of the table is "Touch (covering, stroking, rubbing, grasping)". The information corresponding to the item "Recall Object Information" is "Pressure distribution due to covering or stroking, measured by a pressure-sensitive sensor, and pressure due to friction and grasping, measured by a pressure distribution sensor". The information corresponding to the item "Physical Stimulus" is "Pressure delivery mechanism". The information corresponding to the items "Experiencer Interaction" and "Means of Acquisition" is similar to that in the second row from the top. The information corresponding to the item "Changes in Physical Stimulus" is "In the case of reproducing covering or stroking: an intensity corresponding to the experiencer's interaction is set; in the case of reproducing friction or grasping: an intensity higher than or equal to a threshold is set".

[0178] In other words, in this case, in active mode, the pressure of the pressure providing mechanism 201 is provided as a physical stimulus reproducing the covering or stroking of the memory object, based on the pressure measured in the memory object information by the pressure-sensitive sensor 53. Alternatively, the pressure of the pressure providing mechanism 201 is provided as a physical stimulus reproducing the rubbing or grasping of the memory object, based on the pressure distribution measured in the memory object information by the pressure distribution sensor 54.

[0179] After providing the physical stimulus, similar to providing a physical stimulus reproducing a heartbeat, the connection arousal control unit 232 estimates the occurrence of an interaction that brings the experiencer closer psychologically to the object of memory. If it is estimated that an interaction bringing the experiencer closer psychologically to the object of memory has already occurred after providing a physical stimulus reproducing a covering or touching, the connection arousal control unit 232 executes control to provide the physical stimulus with an intensity corresponding to the intensity of the interaction. If it is estimated that an interaction bringing the experiencer closer psychologically to the object of memory has already occurred after providing a physical stimulus reproducing friction or grasping, the connection arousal control unit 232 executes control to provide the physical stimulus when the intensity of the interaction is higher than or equal to a threshold.

[0180] and Figure 10 The information corresponding to the item "Reproduced Elements" in the fourth row from the top of the table is "Touch Elements (Texture, Temperature (Body Temperature), and Skin Sensation)". The information corresponding to the item "Recall Object Information" is "Body Temperature Measured by a Temperature Sensor, Perspiration Measured by a Perspiration Sensor". The information corresponding to the item "Physical Stimulus" is "Peltier Temperature, Humidifier Humidity". The information corresponding to the items "Experiencer Interaction" and "Means of Acquisition" is similar to the first row from the top. The information corresponding to the item "Changes in Physical Stimulus" is "Providing temperature and humidity based on the experiencer's interaction".

[0181] That is, in this case, physical stimulation of tactile elements that reproduce the texture, temperature, and skin feel of the object being recalled is provided in active mode. Specifically, the temperature is provided by Peltier based on the temperature measured in the object information by temperature sensor 58, and the humidity is provided by a humidifier (not shown) based on sweat measured by sweat sensor 57. The humidifier is driven by motor 169.

[0182] After providing the physical stimulus, similar to providing a physical stimulus that reproduces a heartbeat, the connection arousal control unit 232 estimates the occurrence of an interaction that brings the experiencer closer psychologically to the object of memory. If the interaction is estimated to have occurred, the connection arousal control unit 232 controls the provision of temperature and humidity corresponding to the interaction as physical stimuli. For example, if the interaction is estimated to have occurred, the connection arousal control unit 232 controls the provision of temperature and humidity to increase.

[0183] Note that if the connection awakening control unit 232 has estimated the occurrence of an interaction that would cause the experiencer to be psychologically further away from the object of memory based on the experiencer information and has estimated that the interaction has already occurred, the connection awakening control unit 232 may perform control by reducing the temperature and humidity to be provided.

[0184] Corresponding to Figure 10 The information for the item "Reproduction Elements" in the fifth row at the top of the table is "Odor (Fragrance, Pheromone)". The corresponding information for the item "Recall Object Information" is "Information such as the type of fragrance determined by the odor sensor, and the odor information measured by the odor sensor". The information for the item "Physical Stimulus" is "Odor Box Odor". The information for the items "Experiencer Interaction" and "Means of Acquisition" is similar to the second row from the top. The information for the item "Variation of Physical Stimulus" is "Providing an intensity corresponding to the experiencer's interaction, provided when the intensity is higher than or equal to a threshold, or providing different odors when the intensity is higher than or equal to a threshold".

[0185] In other words, in this case, in active mode, the odor of odor box 64 is provided as a physical stimulus, which reproduces the odor or pheromone of the object of memory based on information about the type of fragrance determined by odor sensor 59 in the information about the object of memory or the measured odor.

[0186] After providing the physical stimulus, similar to providing a physical stimulus that reproduces a heartbeat, the connection arousal control unit 232 estimates the occurrence of an interaction that brings the experiencer closer psychologically to the object of memory. If the interaction is estimated to have occurred, the connection arousal control unit 232 controls the provision of an odor with an intensity corresponding to the intensity of the interaction. Alternatively, if the intensity of the interaction is greater than or equal to a threshold, the connection arousal control unit 232 controls the provision of an odor, or controls the provision of an odor different from the previous odor.

[0187] <Examples of Cognitive Stimulation in Active Mode>

[0188] Figure 11 This is a table illustrating an example of cognitive stimulation in active mode.

[0189] exist Figure 11 The first row at the top of the table describes the items "Reproduction Elements," "Recall Object Information," "Cognitive Stimuli," "Interactive Experiences," "Means of Acquisition," and "Changes in Cognitive Stimuli." Each of the second and third rows from the top describes information corresponding to the respective item.

[0190] The information corresponding to the item "Reproduced Elements" is the element that reproduces the recalled object by providing cognitive stimulation based on the recalled object information in active mode. The information corresponding to the item "Recalled Object Information" is the recalled object information used to provide cognitive stimulation, and the information corresponding to the item "Cognitive Stimulus" is the cognitive stimulus itself. The information corresponding to the item "Interactive Experience" is the interaction that provides cognitive stimulation to the participant in active mode, and the item "Acquisition Means" is the means of acquiring sensor information corresponding to the interaction. The item "Changes in Cognitive Stimulus" refers to the changes in cognitive stimulation in the activity mode corresponding to the interaction.

[0191] Specifically, with Figure 11 The information corresponding to the item "Reproduction Element" in the second row at the top of the table is "Message (Voice, Text)". The information corresponding to "Information about the Memory Object" is "Voice acquired by a microphone, text data entered using a touch panel or keyboard". The information corresponding to the items "Cognitive Stimulus" and "Interaction with the Experiencer" are "Spatial sound and voice through headphones, through displayed images" and "Changes in biological information generated by the brain to produce a message spoken to the memory object, etc." The information corresponding to the items "Means of Acquisition" and "Changes in Cognitive Stimulus" are "Microphone, heart rate sensor, EEG sensor, perspiration sensor, etc." and "Providing new messages through the voice of the memory object or TTS-based voice, providing images of new messages."

[0192] That is, in this case, in active mode, based on voice input in the memory object information using microphone 52, spatial sound or voice through headphones 162 is provided as cognitive stimulation for reproducing the voice message of the memory object. Alternatively, based on text data input using touch panel 41 or keyboard 42 in the memory object information, an image on display 168 is provided as cognitive stimulation for reproducing the text message of the memory object.

[0193] After providing cognitive stimulation, the connection arousal control unit 232 estimates, based on experiencer information corresponding to sensor information from the microphone 152, that the experiencer is interacting with the object of their memory. The connection arousal control unit 232 estimates, based on experiencer information corresponding to sensor information from the heartbeat sensor 155, the electroencephalogram sensor 156, the perspiration sensor 157, etc., that bio-information has changed since the experiencer generated an intracranial message as an interaction.

[0194] As described above, after providing cognitive stimuli for reproducing the speech message, and after estimating that an interaction has occurred that brings the user closer mentally to the object of memory, the connection arousal control unit 232 performs control by providing a new message through the speech of the object of memory. Alternatively, the connection arousal control unit 232 performs control by providing speech to the new message based on text-to-speech (TTS). As described above, after providing cognitive stimuli for reproducing the text message, and after estimating that an interaction has occurred that brings the user closer mentally to the object of memory, the connection arousal control unit 232 performs control by providing an image of the new message. This new message is selected, for example, from information about the object of memory.

[0195] and Figure 11 The information corresponding to the item "Reproduction Element" in the third row from the top of the table is "Image (moving image with audio, still image)". The information corresponding to the item "Recall Object Information" is "Moving image with audio acquired via an RGB camera and microphone, still image captured via an RGB camera". The information corresponding to the item "Cognitive Stimulus" is "Sound from headphones and displayed moving image, display of still image". The information corresponding to the items "Experiencer Interaction" and "Means of Acquisition" is similar to the second row from the top. The information corresponding to the item "Changes in Cognitive Stimulus" is "In the case of reproducing moving images using audio: provide a new moving image or a moving image with a different viewpoint, or reproduce a moving image using the currently provided audio; in the case of reproducing still images: provide a new still image or a still image with a different viewpoint".

[0196] That is, in this case, in active mode, a cognitive stimulus for reproducing the motion image of the audio of the object of memory is provided based on the motion image of the audio acquired by the RGB camera 51 and the microphone 52 in the information of the object of memory. Specifically, the voice of the headphones 162 and the motion image of the display 168 are provided as the cognitive stimulus for reproducing the motion image of the audio of the object of memory. Alternatively, a still image of the display 168 is provided as the cognitive stimulus for reproducing the still image of the object of memory based on the still image captured by the RGB camera 51 in the evoking target information.

[0197] After providing the cognitive stimulus, similar to providing a reproducible audio or text message, the connection arousal control unit 232 estimates the occurrence of an interaction that mentally brings the user closer to the object of memory. If the estimation of an interaction that mentally brings the user closer to the object of memory after providing a cognitive stimulus that reproduces a moving image with audio, the connection arousal control unit 232 performs control by providing a new moving image, a moving image with a different viewpoint, or replaying the currently provided moving image with audio. If the estimation of an interaction that mentally brings the user closer to the object of memory after providing a cognitive stimulus that reproduces a still image, the connection arousal control unit 232 performs control by providing a new still image or a still image with a different viewpoint.

[0198] <Examples of how the supply device provides stimulation>

[0199] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of how the supply device 12 provides stimulation.

[0200] exist Figure 12 In one embodiment, firstly, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 of the supply device 12 causes the headset 62 to provide a few seconds of voice guidance A. Voice guidance A includes a prompt to insert hands into the pressure supply mechanism 201 to begin the experience and a message introducing stimulation in mindfulness and relaxation mode.

[0201] For example, the initiation message is, "You are now engaging in an experience related to feelings associated with ○○ (name of the person being recalled). Please place your hands in front of the mat (pressure delivery mechanism 201), slowly close your eyes, and relax." The introductory message is, "Breathe slowly and focus on your own breathing." The introductory message is then provided a predetermined time after the initiation message.

[0202] After providing the voice guide A, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 causes the vibrator 161 to provide simple vibrations, and the headphones 162 provide relaxing music as background music (BGM) as stimulation in mindfulness and relaxation mode. As a result, the user is able to focus on the vibrations (mindfulness arising from the vibrations) while listening to relaxing music. Alternatively, instead of simple vibrations, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 can also provide breathing regulation via guided messages. In this case, the user can practice mindfulness by focusing on their breathing.

[0203] After providing stimulation for 60 seconds in mindfulness and relaxation mode, the connection arousal control unit 232 causes the headset 62 to provide a few seconds of voice guidance B. Voice guidance B is, for example, "Now, feel the heartbeat information from (○○) (the name of the person you are recalling) and remember this person."

[0204] After the sound guidance B is provided, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 stops the vibrator 161 from providing simple vibrations. In the passive mode of the connection arousal mode, the connection arousal control unit 232, based on information related to heartbeat and heart rate from the memory object information as a physical stimulus, begins to cause the vibrator 161 to provide heartbeat vibrations. As a result, the experiencer can feel the heartbeat of the memory object.

[0205] After 60 seconds of providing physical stimulation, the connection activation control unit 232 causes the headset 62 to provide a voice guidance C within a few seconds. The voice guidance C is, for example, "Now, let your touch convey your feelings to people. Extend a hand and touch the pad (pressure delivery mechanism 201) to feel the person's heartbeat and receive new messages."

[0206] As a result, the user removes one hand inserted into the pressure supply mechanism 201 and touches the upper mechanism 201a. Consequently, the pressure sensor 153 located in the upper mechanism 201a measures the pressure.

[0207] Five seconds after pressure measurement, the connection activation control unit 232, based on the voice of message A, begins to provide the voice of message A of the memory object as a cognitive stimulus in the passive mode of the connection activation mode. As a result, the user can receive the voice message of the memory object and think about the memory object.

[0208] On the other hand, after performing sound guidance C, the connection arousal control unit 232 terminates the provision of physical stimulation in passive mode. The connection arousal control unit 232 then begins to cause the vibrator 161 to provide heartbeat vibrations to the experiencer as a physical stimulus in active mode, based on information about the heartbeat and the heart rate of the recalled object from the information about the recalled object. As a result, the experiencer can feel the heartbeat vibrations according to his / her interaction.

[0209] Specifically, after touching the upper mechanism 201a with one hand, the user grasps the upper mechanism 201a with their hand or covers it with both hands, while simultaneously feeling a heartbeat vibration provided by the vibrator 161. As a result, the pressure sensor 153 installed in the upper mechanism 201a measures the pressure, and the pressure distribution sensor 154 measures the pressure distribution. The connection arousal control unit 232 infers whether the user is grasping the pressure-providing mechanism 201a with one hand or both hands based on the pressure or pressure distribution and interacts with it. Then, the connection arousal control unit 232 controls the vibrator 161 to provide a heartbeat vibration with an intensity corresponding to the grasping or covering strength, based on the measured pressure or pressure distribution.

[0210] Participants can enhance their connection with the object of their memory by interacting with the stress-providing mechanism 201 while thinking about it. For example, in "[Demonstration Guide] Skin Therapy to Releve Stress from the Brain," published by Hajime Yamaguchi on July 1, 2018, Seishun Publishing Co., Ltd. describes a study in which oxytocin was secreted more in the person receiving the massage than in the person receiving the massage. That is, working while thinking about someone else enhances oxytocin secretion. As a result, this oxytocin-enhancing loop is further strengthened.

[0211] Sixty seconds after the message A of the object of remembrance is provided, the self-compassion control unit 233 causes the headset receiver 162 to provide the voice guidance D and the guiding message of self-compassion meditation as a stimulus to be in self-compassion mode.

[0212] The guided speech D is, for example, “Now we will practice connection and loving-kindness meditation to care for your partner. You don’t need to speak, but simply follow my words and speak with your partner in your heart. Let’s begin.” At a predetermined time after the guided speech D concludes, a guided message for loving-kindness meditation is provided. The participant performs loving-kindness meditation according to the guided message, while enjoying the offering of heartbeat vibrations with intensity based on the interaction and relaxation music.

[0213] Compassion meditation is a meditation in which a person feels connected to themselves and others and prays for happiness. By practicing compassion meditation, a person can accept their emotions, enhance their gentleness towards others, and develop the capacity to care for their own happiness and the happiness of others. For example, the effects of compassion meditation are described in Non-Patent Literature 1.

[0214] The guided messages on loving-kindness meditation include, in sequence, guiding messages on loving-kindness meditation on one's own compassion, guiding messages on loving-kindness meditation on oneself, and a closing message.

[0215] An example of a guiding message for loving-kindness meditation is: "May you be happy. May your heart be at peace. May you be healthy. May you live easily. May you be safe."

[0216] An example of a guiding message for loving-kindness meditation is, “May you and I be happy. May you and I be at peace. May you and I be healthy. May you and I live easily. May you and I be safe.”

[0217] An example of a guiding message for loving-kindness meditation is: “May I be happy. May my heart be at peace. May I be healthy. May I live with ease. May I be safe.” An example of a closing message is: “This concludes my loving-kindness meditation.”

[0218] After a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the guided message of voice guidance D and compassionate meditation, the connection awakening control unit 232 terminates the provision of stimulation in active mode. Then, the connection awakening control unit 232 causes the headset 162 to provide a few seconds of voice guidance E. Voice guidance E is, for example, "This is the end of the connection experience. Slowly open your eyes."

[0219] After the voice guidance E ends, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 causes the headphones 62 to stop providing audio stimulation.

[0220] <Example of User Information Form Configuration>

[0221] Figure 13 It means Figure 3 A diagram illustrating an embodiment of the configuration of the user information table stored in database 130.

[0222] like Figure 13 As shown, the participant information table is stored hierarchically in database 130. Specifically, database 130 stores the participant catalog table as the upper level of the participant information table. The participant catalog table is a table that registers personal information related to each participant and associates it with the participant ID of that participant. Personal information includes basic information such as name, registration time, gender, date of birth and nationality, SNS account, number of memory objects, etc.

[0223] Each participant's participant list is stored below the participant catalog for participants. Figure 13 In the example, three users, A through C, have already used the experience system 10. In this case, the user tables for users A through C are stored below the user catalog table.

[0224] The experiencer ID of experiencer A is registered in the experiencer table of experiencer A, corresponding to the experiencer information IDs of each experiencer information related to experiencer A. The experiencer information ID is a unique ID for each experiencer information. The experiencer information ID registers a timestamp as time information when the experiencer information is recorded (generated), the recording time (acquisition time) of the experiencer information, and the experiencer information. This recording time is calculated, for example, based on the time counted by clock unit 131 at the beginning and end of the generation of the experiencer information. In addition, the experiencer information IDs of each experiencer information related to experiencer A also register a state estimation index corresponding to that experiencer information, a recall object information ID corresponding to the stimulus provided to the experiencer immediately before the acquisition of the experiencer information, and stimulus information related to that stimulus.

[0225] Except for replacing participant A with participants B and C respectively, the participant tables for participants B and C are formed in the same way as the participant table for participant A, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0226] <Example of information registered in the participant form>

[0227] Figure 14 It means in Figure 13 A diagram illustrating an example of the information registered in the participant table for participant A.

[0228] exist Figure 14 In the example, heart rate, voice, and text data, as information related to experiencer A, were generated seven times. Therefore, Figure 14 The participant information form contains 7 entries. Figure 14 In one embodiment, for example, the experiencer information IDs from “001” to “0007” are added to seven experiencer information entries in the order they are generated, and each of “001” to “0007” is registered as the experiencer information ID for each entry.

[0229] exist Figure 14 In one embodiment, experiencer A's experiencer ID is "001", and "001" is registered as the experiencer ID for each entry. Figure 14 In one embodiment, the experiencer information ID "001" was generated at 9:19:40 on March 17, 2023. Therefore, in the entry for experiencer information ID "001", a timestamp (date (17; 03; 2023); time (9; 19; 40)) is registered as the timestamp.

[0230] exist Figure 14 In one embodiment, the recording time of the experience information of experience information ID "001" is 10 seconds, and "0:00:10" is registered as the recording time in the entry of experience information ID "001".

[0231] exist Figure 14 In this embodiment, the heartbeat information ID "001" in the participant information is 80, the file name of the audio file is "xxx.mp3", and the text data is "xxx". Therefore, in the entry of participant information ID "001", 80 is registered as the participant's heartbeat, "xxx.mp3" is registered as the audio file, and "xxx" is registered as the text data.

[0232] exist Figure 14 In one embodiment, the state estimation index indicating the degree of arousal of connection based on the experiencer information ID "001" is 70, and 70 is registered in the entry of experiencer information ID "001" as the state estimation index of arousal of connection.

[0233] exist Figure 14 In one embodiment, the memory object information ID used to stimulate the memory object information before obtaining the experience object information ID "001" is "001", and "001" is registered as the memory object information ID in the entry of experience object ID "001".

[0234] exist Figure 14 In the embodiments, the stimulus is Figure 12 The stimuli described in the text. Therefore, in the entry for Experiencer Information ID "001", "relaxation music" and "simple vibration (or breathing regulation)" are registered as stimuli in mindfulness and relaxation modes. In the Experiencer Information entry ID "001", "heartbeat vibration" is recorded as a stimulus in the passive and active modes of the connection arousal mode, and "guided messages of loving-kindness meditation" are recorded as a stimulus in the self-compassion mode.

[0235] Note that, although the description is omitted, the participant ID, timestamp, recording time, heart rate, voice, text data, state estimation index of connection arousal, memory object information ID, and stimulus information are registered in each entry of participant information ID “002” to “0007”.

[0236] exist Figure 13 and Figure 14 Information marked with an asterisk (*) at the end is information that can be referenced from other tables. Specifically, the Experiencer ID in the Experiencer Cataloging Table, the Experiencer Information ID, the Experiencer ID, and the Memory Object ID in the Experiencer Information Table are information that can be found in other tables.

[0237] For example, when choosing in Figure 5 When the experiencer ID "001" is registered in the memory object information table, you can refer to... Figure 14 User information form. When selecting inFigure 14 When registering the memory object ID "007" in the participant information form, you can refer to... Figure 5 The entry for the memory object information ID "007" registered in the memory object information table.

[0238] The owner of the experience system 10 pre-sets the types of experiencer information and the status estimation indicators registered in the experiencer information table.

[0239] <Examples of stimulus variations in mindfulness and relaxation patterns>

[0240] Figure 15 This is a table illustrating examples of changes in response to stimuli under mindfulness and relaxation modes based on the state estimation index.

[0241] exist Figure 15 The first row at the top of the table describes the item "Type of Experiencer Information," "Modified Stimulus," and "Effect." Each of the second to fourth rows from the top describes the information corresponding to that item.

[0242] The information corresponding to the item "Type of Experiencer Information" is the type of experiencer information used to calculate the state estimation index when the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 determines a stimulus in mindfulness and relaxation mode. The information corresponding to the item "Modified Stimulus" is the stimulus in mindfulness and relaxation mode based on the change in the state estimation index. The item "Effect" is the changed target effect.

[0243] Specifically, corresponding to Figure 15 The information for the "Type of Experiencer Information" item in the second to fourth rows at the top of the table is "Heart Rate (High and Low)", "Degree of Autonomic Nervous Activity (Sympathic / Parasympathetic)", and "Electroencephalogram (Alpha and Gamma Waves)".

[0244] That is, the experiencer information used to calculate the state estimation index used to determine stimulation in mindfulness and relaxation modes is the heart rate measured by the heart rate sensor 155. Alternatively, the experiencer information is based on the level of autonomic neural activity of pulse waves measured by the pulse wave sensor 150 and skin potentials measured by the skin potential sensor 160. Or, the experiencer information is the brain waves measured by the brainwave sensor 156.

[0245] Corresponding to Figure 15 The information for the items “Modified Stimulus” in the second to fourth rows at the top of the table is all the same, and they are “Sound”, “Moving Image / Still Image”, “Vibration and Pressure”, “Smell”, and “Temperature”.

[0246] Specifically, the altered stimuli include constant-frequency sounds used to achieve synchronization effects provided by the headphones 162, music of specific frequencies, supersonic sounds, natural sounds such as rivers and waves, reassuring guidance messages, and messages from nearby people.

[0247] The altered stimuli also include moving or still images of people, external space, natural scenery, fire, etc., provided by the display 168. The altered stimuli also include vibrations at a constant frequency, vibrations at a specific frequency, fluctuations of 1 / f, etc., to achieve a synchronization effect provided by the vibrator 161. The altered stimuli include vibrations and pressures associated with breathing provided by the vibrator 161 and the pressure delivery mechanism 201, and massage pressure provided by the pressure delivery mechanism 201 to each part of the user's body.

[0248] The altered stimuli also include the scents of botanical fragrances, rose, orange blossom, lavender, essential oils, and memorable spices provided by scent box 164. The altered stimuli also include a temperature close to body temperature provided by Parfait 165.

[0249] It has been found that aromatic compounds such as rose and orange blossom promote the secretion of oxytocin. For example, this is described in Menard's "Stem cells get best with aromas (physical effect)" retrieved on [April 11, 2023], Internet.<URL:https: / / corp.menard.co.jp / research / tech / tech_05_01.html > Therefore, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 can enhance the oxytocin-enhancing ring by providing the scent tube 164 with the fragrance of rose, orange blossom, etc.

[0250] Note that the altered stimulus can be a reassuring guiding message provided by the display 168, or a still or moving image from a message from someone nearby.

[0251] Corresponding to Figure 15 The information for the "effect" items in the second to fourth rows at the top of the table is "regulation of heart rate", "increase in the degree of parasympathetic activity", and "increase in alpha and gamma waves", respectively.

[0252] That is, based on the state estimation index calculated from the heart rate in the participant's information, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 changes the stimulus so that the heart rate becomes a reference value or an arbitrary setting value. Alternatively, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 changes the stimulus based on the state estimation index calculated from the level of autonomic nervous activity in the participant's information so that the level of parasympathetic nervous activity, which represents the degree of relaxation, reaches a reference value or an arbitrary setting value. Alternatively, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 changes the stimulus based on the state estimation index calculated from the brain waves in the participant's information so that alpha waves and gamma waves become reference values ​​or arbitrary setting values.

[0253] It is important to note that the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 can modify the stimulation so that the heart rate, parasympathetic nerve activity, and alpha and gamma waves fall within a predetermined range.

[0254] The mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 can also modify the stimulus in the mindfulness and relaxation mode based on a state estimation index calculated from subjective indices before, after, and during the provision of the stimulus. The mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 can also modify the stimulus in the mindfulness and relaxation mode based on a state estimation index calculated from the experiencer's information, such as the tone of voice and facial expressions.

[0255] <Description of the transmission process>

[0256] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the transmission process for transmitting memory object information via the acquisition device 11.

[0257] exist Figure 16 In step S11, the sensor unit 36 ​​acquires sensor information and provides the acquired sensor information to the memory object information generation unit 33 via the IF unit 38.

[0258] In step S12, the memory object information generation unit 33 generates memory object information based on the sensor information obtained in the processing of step S11. The memory object information generation unit 33 provides and stores the memory object information to and in the storage unit 39. The memory object information generation unit 33 reads the memory object information stored in the storage unit 39 and provides the memory object information to the communication unit 32 via the IF unit 38.

[0259] In step S13, the communication unit 32 transmits the memory object information generated in the process of step S12 to the supply device 12 and ends the process.

[0260] <Description of Control Processing>

[0261] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the control process for controlling the provision of stimuli via control unit 124.

[0262] exist Figure 17 In step S31, the reading unit 230 reads the state estimation index, stimulus information, and memory object information ID corresponding to the memory object ID and the experiencer ID provided from the experiencer information table stored in the database 130.

[0263] The reading unit 230 provides the reading state estimation index and stimulus information in mindfulness and relaxation modes to the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231. The reading unit 230 provides the reading state estimation index, stimulus information in connection arousal mode, and recall object information ID to the connection arousal control unit 232. The reading unit 230 provides the read state estimation index and stimulus information in self-compassion mode to the self-compassion control unit 233.

[0264] In step S32, the control unit 124 determines the stimulus in each operating mode. Specifically, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 determines the stimulus in the mindfulness and relaxation mode based on the state estimation index read in the processing of step S31 and the stimulus information in the mindfulness and relaxation mode. The control unit 124 provides the stimulus information indicating the stimulus and the experiencer ID to the database 130.

[0265] The connection arousal control unit 232 determines the stimulus in the connection arousal mode based on the state estimation index read in step S31, the stimulus information in the connection arousal mode, the recall object information ID, and the experiencer information supplied from the generation unit 126. The connection arousal control unit 232 provides the database 130 with stimulus information indicating the stimulus, the recall object information ID for the stimulus, and the experiencer ID.

[0266] The self-compassion control unit 233 determines the stimulus in the self-compassion mode based on the state estimation index read in step S31 and the stimulus information in the self-compassion mode. The self-compassion control unit 233 provides the stimulus information representing the stimulus and the experiencer ID to the database 130.

[0267] In step S33, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 begins to provide stimulation under the determined mindfulness and relaxation mode through the processing in step S32. Specifically, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 generates stimulation control information for controlling the supply unit 128 to provide stimulation in a certain manner, and provides the stimulation control information to the supply unit 128 via the IF unit 129.

[0268] In step S34, the connection arousal control unit 232 reads the memory object information used for stimulation in the connection arousal mode determination process in step S32 from the memory object information table in the database 130.

[0269] In step S35, the connection arousal control unit 232, based on the memory object information read through the processing in step S34, begins to provide stimulation in the connection arousal mode determined through the processing in step S32. Specifically, the connection arousal control unit 232 generates stimulation control information for controlling the supply unit 128 to provide stimulation, and provides it to the supply unit 128 via the IF unit 129.

[0270] In step S36, the self-compassion control unit 233 begins to provide stimulation in a self-compassion mode determined by the processing in step S32. Specifically, the self-compassion control unit 233 generates stimulation control information for controlling the supply unit 128 to provide stimulation to the user, and provides it to the supply unit 128 via the IF unit 129.

[0271] In step S37, the control unit 124 terminates the provision of stimulation in all operating modes. Specifically, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 terminates the provision of stimulation that began in step S33. The connection arousal control unit 232 terminates the provision of stimulation that began in step S35. The self-compassion control unit 233 terminates the provision of stimulation that began in step S36. Then the control process ends.

[0272] Note that, although in Figure 17 In one embodiment, the provision of stimulation in all operating modes ends in step S37, but at least a subset of the stimulation in mindfulness and relaxation modes or stimulation in connection arousal mode may end at any time before the processing in step S37.

[0273] <Description of Registration Processing>

[0274] Figure 18 This is a flowchart representing the login process for logging the status estimation indicators of the supply device 12.

[0275] exist Figure 18 In step S51, sensor unit 127 acquires sensor information and provides the acquired sensor information to generation unit 126 via IF unit 129. In step S52, generation unit 126 generates user information based on the sensor information acquired through the processing in step S51, and provides the user information to control unit 124, calculation unit 125, and database 130.

[0276] In step S53, the calculation unit 125 uses the communication unit 122 via the IF unit 129 to obtain the subjective index received from the smartphone 13. In step S54, the calculation unit 125 generates a state estimation index based on the experiencer information generated in step S52 and the subjective index obtained in step S53.

[0277] In step S55, the calculation unit 125 registers the state estimation index generated in the processing of step S54, together with the time information provided from the clock unit 131, into the experiencer information table stored in the database 130. Then the registration process ends.

[0278] Note that the subjective index can also be input by the user when the stimulus is provided by pressing operation button 143. In this case, the user presses operation button 143 a number of times or for a period of time corresponding to the subjective index to input the subjective index at that moment.

[0279] The amount of oxytocin measured in the participant's saliva or similar fluid can be input into the supply device 12, and the supply device 12 can calculate a state estimation index based on the amount of oxytocin. Since oxytocin is directly related to the participant's sense of connection, the supply device 12 can accurately calculate the state estimation index of arousal of connection based on the measured amount of oxytocin. Because oxytocin is released through comfortable pressure (touch) on the skin, the supply device 12 can identify the effect of physical stimulation that reproduces the touch of the recalled object based on the measured amount of oxytocin.

[0280] The control unit 124 can randomly determine the stimulus in each operating mode without referring to the participant information sheet.

[0281] The control unit 124 can generate candidates for stimuli in each operating mode based on a user information sheet, and cause the display 168, etc., to display multiple menus including combinations of candidates for stimuli in the operating modes. In this case, the user selects a desired menu from the multiple menus, and the control unit 124 performs control in a manner that provides stimuli in the operating mode constituting the selected menu. Note that the user can select a desired one from the multiple menus by specifying conditions.

[0282] The information about the object of recall can be videos of the object of recall and the experiencer's memories. The stimulus information in each operating mode can include the timing of stimulus delivery within that mode. In this case, the control unit 124 can also change the timing of stimulus delivery in each operating mode based on the experiencer's information table.

[0283] The acquisition device 11 and the supply device 12 can be the same. That is, the object of recall can be the device used when the experiencer enjoys the stimulation of inputting information about the object of recall.

[0284] The supply device 12 can generate current memory object information based on past memory object information using AI technology and record the current memory object information in the database 130. In this case, the user can recall the connection with the memory object that has passed away based on the memory object information.

[0285] The sounds and images used for stimulation in mindfulness and relaxation modes are registered in a database of 130 and can be automatically updated at any time.

[0286] The supply device 12 may use, for example, the method described in WO 2022 / 124085 filed by the applicant to generate elasticity (resistant area) as experiencer information.

[0287] If the connection arousal control unit 232 controls the provision of stimulation in at least the active or passive mode of the connection arousal mode, then no control is required to provide stimulation in both modes.

[0288] As described above, the mindfulness and relaxation control unit 231 provides stimulation to the participant in a mindfulness and relaxation mode, and the connection arousal control unit 232 provides stimulation to the participant based on information about the object of memory in a connection arousal mode. Stimulation is provided by the attention and relaxation control unit 231 before stimulation is provided by the connection arousal control unit 232. Therefore, a sense of connection with the object of memory can be effectively aroused. As a result, the participant's feelings of loneliness and tension are reduced, and the participant's health is improved.

[0289] The self-compassion control unit 233 controls the stimulation provided to the experiencer before the stimulation in the connection arousal mode is provided. Therefore, self-compassion can be effectively enhanced.

[0290] Therefore, ultimately, the participant becomes able to enhance his / her inner spiritual capacity without relying on external stimuli provided by technology or other scientific means. In other words, the participant can achieve internal transformation and internal sustainability. As a result, this can contribute to a vibrant life supported by sustained well-being throughout longevity, where living to 100 years becomes the standard.

[0291] As described above, using Experience System 10 can reduce feelings of loneliness and tension in the short term. In the long term, the feeling of connection with the object of remembrance can cultivate more positive mindfulness in the participant. Enhanced compassion can promote personal transformation and help achieve internal sustainability. It allows the participant to explore the value of happiness based on oxytocin. Therefore, it can contribute to achieving lasting well-being.

[0292] On the other hand, many conventional technologies externalize human abilities and do not develop internal, non-cognitive abilities such as the resilience that humans were originally endowed with. Some factors contributing to mental health issues are due to technological advancements, but currently, the close relationship between technological development and improvement in addressing mental health problems is not strong. For example, the development of attention-grabbing technologies (such as social networking services) has increased feelings of stress and loneliness.

[0293] The effects of sensitivity and self-compassion are supported by academic and scientific evidence, and the effectiveness of System 10 is highly reliable.

[0294] Since the control unit 124 determines the stimulus in each operating mode based on the state estimation index, it can select a more effective stimulus.

[0295] <2. Computer>

[0296] The aforementioned series of processing steps can be performed by hardware or software. In the case where the series of processing steps are performed by software, the program constituting the software is installed in the computer. Here, embodiments of the computer include computers integrated into dedicated hardware, and for example, general-purpose personal computers that can perform various functions by installing various programs.

[0297] Figure 19 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that performs the above series of processing steps through a program.

[0298] In a computer, the central processing unit (CPU) 901, read-only memory (ROM) 902, and random access memory (RAM) 903 are interconnected with bus 904.

[0299] The input / output interface 905 is further connected to the bus 904. The input unit 906, output unit 907, storage unit 908, communication unit 909, and driver 910 are connected to the input / output interface 905.

[0300] Input unit 906 includes a keyboard, mouse, microphone, etc. Output unit 907 includes a display, speakers, etc. Storage unit 908 includes a hard disk, non-volatile memory, etc. Communication unit 909 includes a network interface, etc. Driver 910 drives removable media 911 such as disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or semiconductor memory.

[0301] In a computer configured as described above, for example, CPU 901 loads a program stored in storage unit 908 into RAM 903 via input / output interface 905 and bus 904 and executes the program, thereby performing the series of processing steps described above.

[0302] The program executed by the computer (CPU 901) can be provided, for example, by being stored in a removable medium 911 as a packaging medium. Alternatively, the program can be provided via a wired or wireless transmission medium such as a local area network, the Internet, or digital satellite broadcasting.

[0303] In a computer, a program is installed in a storage unit 908 via an input / output interface 905 by installing a removable medium 911 on a drive 910. Alternatively, the program can be received by a communication unit 909 via a wired or wireless transmission medium and installed on the storage unit 908. Furthermore, the program can be pre-installed on a ROM 902 and the storage unit 908.

[0304] It should be noted that a program executed by a computer may be a program that processes data in the time sequence described in this specification, or it may be a program that processes data in parallel or at necessary time intervals, such as when a call is made.

[0305] The implementation of this technology is not limited to the above-described implementation, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of this technology.

[0306] For example, a pattern obtained by combining all or some of the above-described embodiments can be adopted.

[0307] For example, this technology can have a cloud computing configuration, in which a function is shared and processed collaboratively by multiple devices via a network.

[0308] Furthermore, each step described in the above flowchart can be performed by a single device, or can be performed by multiple devices in a shared manner.

[0309] Furthermore, in cases where a step includes multiple processes, the multiple processes included in that step can be executed by one device or by multiple devices in a shared manner.

[0310] It should be noted that the effects described in this specification are merely illustrative and not limiting, and that effects other than those described in this specification may exist.

[0311] This technology can have the following configurations. (1)

[0313] An information processing device, comprising:

[0314] The mindfulness control unit executes control in mindfulness mode, thereby providing the user with the initial stimulus; mindfulness mode is the operating mode used to induce mindfulness in the user; and

[0315] The connection arousal control unit executes control in connection arousal mode, thereby providing a second stimulus to the user based on memory object information. Connection arousal mode is an operating mode used to arouse a sense of connection in the user. Memory object information is information obtained from memory objects that arouse a sense of connection.

[0316] The first stimulus is provided before the second stimulus is provided. (2)

[0318] According to the information processing device of (1), wherein,

[0319] The information about the object of memory is the time sequence information about the object of memory. (3)

[0321] According to the information processing device of (1) or (2), wherein,

[0322] The connection evoked modes include: a passive mode for providing a second stimulus regardless of user input, and an active mode for providing a second stimulus based on user input.

[0323] The connection arousal control unit performs control in at least one of the passive and active modes by providing a second stimulus to the user based on the information of the recalled object. (4)

[0325] The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (3) further includes:

[0326] The Self-Compassion Control Department operates using a self-compassion mode to provide users with a third stimulus. The self-compassion mode is an operational pattern designed to promote the improvement of users' self-compassion.

[0327] The provision of the second stimulus is initiated before the provision of the third stimulus. (5)

[0329] The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (4) further includes:

[0330] The generation unit generates feedback information indicating the changes in the user caused by the first and second stimuli. (6)

[0332] According to the information processing device of (5), wherein,

[0333] The generation unit generates feedback information based on the time-series biological information measured by the measurement unit, which measures biological information about the user. (7)

[0335] According to the information processing device of (5) or (6), wherein,

[0336] The generation unit generates feedback information based on user input. (8)

[0338] The information processing apparatus according to any one of (5) to (7), wherein,

[0339] The mindfulness control unit determines the first stimulus to be provided to the user based on feedback information. (9)

[0341] The information processing apparatus according to any one of (5) to (8), wherein,

[0342] The connection arousal control unit determines the second stimulus to be provided to the user based on feedback information. (10)

[0344] The information processing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein,

[0345] The second stimulus is a physical stimulus or a cognitive stimulus. (11)

[0347] An information processing method executed by an information processing device, the information processing method comprising:

[0348] Mindfulness control steps involve executing control in a mindfulness mode to provide the user with the initial stimulus; a mindfulness mode is an operational mode used to induce mindfulness in the user.

[0349] The connection arousal control step executes control in connection arousal mode, thereby providing a second stimulus to the user based on memory object information. Connection arousal mode is an operating mode used to arouse the user's sense of connection. Memory object information is information obtained from memory objects that arouse the sense of connection.

[0350] The first stimulus is provided before the second stimulus is provided. (12)

[0352] A program that enables a computer to be used as an information processing device, the information processing device comprising:

[0353] The mindfulness control unit executes control in mindfulness mode, thereby providing the user with the initial stimulus; mindfulness mode is the operating mode used to induce mindfulness in the user; and

[0354] The connection arousal control unit executes control in connection arousal mode, thereby providing a second stimulus to the user based on memory object information. Connection arousal mode is an operating mode used to arouse a sense of connection in the user. The memory object information is obtained from the memory object that arouses the sense of connection.

[0355] The first stimulus is provided before the second stimulus is provided.

[0356] Reference Symbol List

[0357] 12. Supply device

[0358] 125 computing units

[0359] 127 sensor units

[0360] 231 Mindfulness Control Department

[0361] 232 Connection to wake-up control unit

[0362] 233 Department of Self-Compassion Control.

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus, comprising: The mindfulness control unit performs control in a mindfulness mode to provide a first stimulus to the user, the mindfulness mode being an operating mode for inducing the user to enter a mindfulness state. as well as A connection-awakening control unit executes control in a connection-awakening mode, thereby providing a second stimulus to the user based on memory object information. This connection-awakening mode is an operating mode used to evoke a sense of connection in the user. The memory object information is obtained from a memory object that evokes the sense of connection. The first stimulus is provided before the second stimulus is provided.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The information about the memory object is time-series information about the memory object.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The connection activation modes include: a passive mode for providing the second stimulus regardless of input from the user, and an active mode for providing the second stimulus based on input from the user. The connection arousal control unit performs control in a manner that provides the second stimulus to the user based on the memory object information in at least one of the passive mode and the active mode.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The self-compassion control unit executes control in a self-compassion mode, thereby providing the user with a third stimulus. This self-compassion mode is an operational mode designed to promote the user's self-compassion. The second stimulus is provided before the third stimulus is provided.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The generation unit generates feedback information indicating the changes in the user caused by the first stimulus and the second stimulus.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The generation unit generates the feedback information based on the time-series biological information measured by the measurement unit, which measures biological information about the user.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The generation unit generates the feedback information based on the input from the user.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The mindfulness control unit determines the first stimulus to be provided to the user based on the feedback information.

9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The connection activation control unit determines the second stimulus to be provided to the user based on the feedback information.

10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The second stimulus is a physical stimulus or a cognitive stimulus.

11. An information processing method executed by an information processing device, the information processing method comprising: Mindfulness control steps, executing control in mindfulness mode to provide the user with a first stimulus, the mindfulness mode being an operating mode used to bring the user into a mindfulness state; as well as The connection arousal control step executes control in a connection arousal mode, thereby providing a second stimulus to the user based on memory object information. This connection arousal mode is an operational mode used to arouse a sense of connection in the user, and the memory object information is obtained from the memory object that arouses the sense of connection. The first stimulus is provided before the second stimulus is provided.

12. A program that enables a computer to be used as an information processing device, the information processing device comprising: The mindfulness control unit performs control in a mindfulness mode to provide a first stimulus to the user, the mindfulness mode being an operating mode for inducing the user to enter a mindfulness state. as well as A connection-awakening control unit executes control in a connection-awakening mode, thereby providing a second stimulus to the user based on memory object information. This connection-awakening mode is an operating mode used to evoke a sense of connection in the user. The memory object information is obtained from a memory object that evokes the sense of connection. The first stimulus is provided before the second stimulus is provided.

Images