Sound playback device, sound playback method, and computer program product

Abstract

A sound playback apparatus, a sound playback method, and a computer program product are provided. The sound playback device is provided with: a sensor, the output of which changes in accordance with the position of an object in a detection region including a first region and a second region; a detection unit that detects the position of the object on the basis of the output of the sensor; a sound control unit that controls sound playback; and a determination unit that determines whether or not the first condition is satisfied on the basis of a detection result different from the position of the object detected on the basis of the output of the sensor. The sound control unit changes the playback mode of the sound when a second condition is satisfied, and changes the playback mode of the sound when a third condition is satisfied, the second condition including that the position of the object originally detected in the first area is no longer detected in the first area and the position of the object is detected in the second area. The third condition includes that the position of the object originally detected in the first area is no longer detected in the detection area and the first condition is determined not to be satisfied.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a sound playback device, a sound playback method, and a computer program product. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, a system was known to notify the user when it was determined that the user had gotten up (e.g., JP2018-147089A). In particular, in the system described in JP2018-147089A, the user was determined to have gotten up after a specified part of the user was detected in the bed area and then a specified part of the user was detected in the wake-up area. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In situations where no further objects are detected after the object has been detected within a specified area, it is sometimes impossible to properly determine when the object has woken up.

[0004] The main points of this disclosure are as follows.

[0005] (1) A sound playback device, comprising:

[0006] The sensor, the output of which varies according to the position or motion of an object within a detection area comprising a first region and a second region;

[0007] The detection unit detects the position of the object based on the output of the sensor;

[0008] The sound control unit controls the playback of sound; and

[0009] The determination unit determines whether the first condition is met based on a detection result that differs from the position of the object detected based on the output of the sensor.

[0010] The sound control unit changes the sound playback mode when the second condition is met, and changes the sound playback mode based on the fulfillment of a third condition. The second condition includes the case where the position of an object originally detected in the first area is no longer detected in the first area, and the case where the position of an object is detected in the second area. The third condition includes the case where the position of an object originally detected in the first area is no longer detected in the detection area, and the case where the first condition is determined not to be met.

[0011] (2) The sound playback device according to (1) above, wherein,

[0012] When the second condition is met, the sound control unit does not need to have the determination unit determine whether the first condition is met in order to change the sound playback mode.

[0013] (3) The sound playback device according to (1) or (2) above, wherein,

[0014] It also has a timing unit for keeping track of time.

[0015] When the time measured by the timing unit reaches the time determined according to the alarm time set by the user, the sound control unit plays a first sound.

[0016] When at least one of the second and third conditions is met, the sound control unit stops playing the first sound.

[0017] (4) The sound playback device according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein,

[0018] The detection unit detects the position of the object as the position of the first motion, which is a motion of a specified magnitude or greater, based on the output of the sensor.

[0019] (5) The sound playback device according to (4) above, wherein,

[0020] Even if the third condition is met, but the third condition is met after a first time has elapsed since the last detected position of the object, the sound control unit does not change the playback mode of the sound.

[0021] (6) The sound playback device according to (4) or (5) above, wherein,

[0022] The detection unit detects whether there is a second movement smaller than the specified size based on the output of the sensor.

[0023] If the second motion is detected, the first condition is satisfied.

[0024] (7) The sound playback device according to (6) above, wherein,

[0025] It also has a timing unit for keeping track of time.

[0026] When the time counted by the timing unit changes to the time determined by the alarm time set by the user, the sound control unit plays a first sound.

[0027] When at least one of the second and third conditions is met, the sound control unit stops playing the first sound.

[0028] If the playback of the first sound is stopped when the third condition is met, and the second movement is detected before a second time has elapsed since the playback of the first sound was stopped, the sound control unit restarts the playback of the first sound.

[0029] If the playback of the first sound is stopped when the second condition is met, the sound control unit will not restart the playback of the first sound even if the second movement is detected before a second time has elapsed since the playback of the first sound was stopped.

[0030] (8) The sound playback device according to (7) above, wherein,

[0031] If the first movement is detected in the second region before the second time elapses from when the playback of the first sound is stopped according to the third condition, the sound control unit will no longer start the playback of the first sound.

[0032] (9) The sound playback device according to (7) or (8) above, wherein,

[0033] If the first movement is detected in the first area before the second time elapses from when the playback of the first sound is stopped according to the third condition, the sound control unit restarts the playback of the first sound.

[0034] (10) The sound playback device according to any one of (7) to (9) above, wherein,

[0035] When no first movement or second movement is detected from the time the playback of the first sound stops according to the third condition until the second time interval has elapsed, and when the second condition is met, the determination unit determines that the object has left the first area.

[0036] If the first movement is detected in the first area before a third time elapses from the start of the first sound playback or before the object is determined to have left the first area, the sound control unit restarts the playback of the first sound.

[0037] (11) The sound playback device according to (10) above, wherein,

[0038] If the first motion is detected in the first area before the third time elapses after the object has been determined to have detached, and if the first motion is not detected for a period of time longer than the fourth time elapsed thereafter due to the second condition or the third condition not being met, the sound control unit restarts the playback of the first sound.

[0039] (12) The sound playback device according to any one of (1) to (11) above, wherein,

[0040] When at least one of the sound playback conditions, including the second condition being met, and the sound playback conditions, including the third condition being met, is met, the sound control unit plays the second sound.

[0041] (13) The sound playback device according to any one of (1) to (11) above, wherein,

[0042] When the sound playback condition, including the condition in which the second condition is met, is met, the sound control unit plays the second sound.

[0043] When the sound playback condition, including the third condition being met, is met, the sound control unit plays a sound different from the second sound.

[0044] (14) The sound playback device according to (12) or (13) above, wherein,

[0045] The detection unit detects the position of the object as the position of a first motion, which is greater than or equal to a predetermined size, based on the output of the sensor, and detects whether a second motion, smaller than the predetermined size, exists based on the output of the sensor.

[0046] The sound playback condition that includes the second condition being met is a condition that is met when the second condition is satisfied.

[0047] The sound playback condition that includes the third condition being met is a condition that is met when the third condition is met and no first motion or second motion is detected thereafter until the second time period has elapsed.

[0048] (15) The sound playback device according to any one of (1) to (11) above, wherein,

[0049] It also has a timing unit for keeping track of time.

[0050] When the time counted by the timing unit changes to the time determined by the alarm time set by the user, the sound control unit plays a first sound.

[0051] When at least one of the second and third conditions is met, the sound control unit stops playing the first sound.

[0052] When at least one of the sound playback conditions, including the condition where the second condition is met, and the sound playback condition, including the condition where the third condition is met, is satisfied before a fifth time has elapsed since the first sound was played, the sound control unit plays the fourth sound.

[0053] When at least one of the sound playback conditions, including the second condition being met and the third condition being met, is satisfied after the fifth time elapsed since the first sound was played, the sound control unit plays a fifth sound different from the fourth sound.

[0054] (16) The sound playback device according to (15) above, wherein,

[0055] The playback time of the fourth sound is longer than that of the fifth sound.

[0056] (17) The sound playback device according to any one of (1) to (16) above further comprises:

[0057] Light-emitting part for emitting light; and

[0058] The light-emitting control unit controls the light emission of the light-emitting unit.

[0059] When at least one of the second and third conditions is satisfied, the light emission control unit changes the light emission mode of the light emission unit.

[0060] (18) The sound playback device according to (17) above, wherein,

[0061] When the second condition is met, the light-emitting control unit changes the light-emitting mode of the light-emitting unit to the first mode.

[0062] When the third condition is met, the light emission control unit changes the light emission mode of the light emission unit to a mode different from the first mode.

[0063] (19) A sound playback method, comprising the following processing:

[0064] The position of an object within a detection area comprising a first region and a second region is detected based on the output of a sensor, wherein the output of the sensor varies according to the position or movement of the object;

[0065] Based on the detection result, which differs from the position of the object detected based on the output of the sensor, it is determined whether the first condition is met; and

[0066] When the second condition is met, the playback mode of the sound is changed, and the playback mode of the sound is changed based on the meeting of the third condition. The second condition includes the case where the position of an object originally detected in the first area is no longer detected in the first area, and the case where the position of an object is detected in the second area. The third condition includes the case where the position of an object originally detected in the first area is no longer detected in the detection area, and the case where the first condition is determined not to be met.

[0067] (20) A sound playback program that causes a computer to perform the following processes:

[0068] The position of an object within a detection area comprising a first region and a second region is detected based on the output of a sensor, wherein the output of the sensor varies according to the position or movement of the object;

[0069] Based on the detection result, which differs from the position of the object detected based on the output of the sensor, it is determined whether the first condition is met; and

[0070] When the second condition is met, the playback mode of the sound is changed, and the playback mode of the sound is changed based on the meeting of the third condition. The second condition includes the case where the position of an object originally detected in the first area is no longer detected in the first area, and the case where the position of an object is detected in the second area. The third condition includes the case where the position of an object originally detected in the first area is no longer detected in the detection area, and the case where the first condition is determined not to be met. Attached Figure Description

[0071] Figure 1 It is a three-dimensional view that provides a general overview of the placement type of equipment.

[0072] Figure 2 It is a block diagram that provides a general overview of the component structure of a placement-type device.

[0073] Figure 3 This is a functional block diagram of the processor in the control unit.

[0074] Figure 4 This is a diagram that provides a general overview of the detection range of the object sensor when the placement device is set up next to the user's bedside while they sleep.

[0075] Figure 5 It is a diagram that provides a summary view of the state and operation transitions of the placement device during processing when the time arrives.

[0076] Figure 6 It is a timing diagram of the motion detected by the detection unit and the sound played by the sound control unit.

[0077] Figure 7 It is a timing diagram of the motion detected by the detection unit and the sound played by the sound control unit.

[0078] Figure 8 It is a timing diagram of the motion detected by the detection unit and the sound played by the sound control unit.

[0079] Figure 9 It is a flowchart that provides a general overview of the sound playback processing flow.

[0080] Figure 10 It is a flowchart that provides a summary of the process for handling the arrival of a given time.

[0081] Figure 11 It is a timing diagram showing the execution status of image generation processing, time announcement playback processing, and light emission processing.

[0082] Figure 12 This is a summary illustration of the detection area of ​​the object sensor when the placement device is set up beside the bed, and... Figure 4 The same diagram.

[0083] Figure 13 This diagram illustrates the situation where an image generated by the image generation unit during image generation processing is displayed on a monitor.

[0084] Figure 14 It is a flowchart that outlines the execution process of image generation, time announcement playback, and illumination processing.

[0085] Figure 15 This is a flowchart that outlines the process of sensor response image generation and processing.

[0086] Figure 16 It is a timing diagram showing the actions of the sound control unit and the detection status during the execution of inspection and control processing.

[0087] Figure 17 It is a timing diagram showing the actions of the sound control unit and the detection status during the execution of inspection and control processing.

[0088] Figure 18 This is an example of an image showing the detection status of an object.

[0089] Figure 19 This is a diagram that provides a summary view of the image generation process performed by the image generation unit in the inspection control process.

[0090] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the status check process. Detailed Implementation

[0091] The embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description, the same reference numerals will be used to denote the same constituent elements.

[0092] Overall structure

[0093] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 This section describes the structure of a placement device 1 according to one embodiment. The placement device 1 is a movable device that can be mounted on a table, floor, shelf, or headboard of a bed (bedding). The placement device 1 also functions as a sound playback device, particularly as an alarm clock playback device. Specifically, in this embodiment, the placement device 1 functions as an alarm clock to wake a user who has gone to sleep in front of it. Specifically, the placement device 1 can be, for example, a table clock, music player, television, gaming device, smartphone, tablet PC, or monitoring device.

[0094] Figure 1 This is a perspective view that provides a schematic representation of the placement-type device 1. (For example...) Figure 1 As shown, the placement-type device 1 includes a main body 10, a display 11 disposed on the main body 10, and an operation unit 20 disposed on the upper part of the main body 10. In this embodiment, as... Figure 1 As shown, the main body 10 is configured as a cylindrical shell. However, the main body 10 can be configured as any three-dimensional shape such as a cuboid or a semi-cylindrical shape.

[0095] The display 11 is positioned on the front surface of the main body 10 in a manner that allows the user to visually confirm it from the front. The display 11 shows, for example, the current time. The current time can be displayed using any display method, such as numbers, minute and hour hands, or an image corresponding to the current time. Furthermore, the placement-type device 1 may not have a display 11, as long as it allows the user to recognize the current time and the alarm time (described later). For example, it may have minute and hour hands and a clock face.

[0096] The operation unit 20 is a component for allowing a user to operate various functions of the placement device 1. In this embodiment, the operation unit 20 is a generally cylindrical component disposed above the main body 10. The operation unit 20 is mounted so that it can be pressed toward the main body 10 and rotated. When the user presses the operation unit 20 toward the main body 10 or rotates the operation unit 20 relative to the main body 10, various functions of the placement device 1 are operated. Furthermore, any component can be provided as the operation unit 20 as long as it can operate various functions of the placement device 1. Therefore, the operation unit 20 can be, for example, a button, a switch, a cross key, a touch panel disposed on the screen of the display 11, etc. In addition, the operation unit 20 also operates various functions of the placement device 1 when the user performs operations other than pressing and rotating (e.g., tilting the operation unit, touching the operation unit).

[0097] Figure 2 This is a block diagram that schematically illustrates the component structure of the placement-type device 1. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the placement device 1 includes a display 11, a speaker 12, a light emitter 13, an object sensor 21, an operation sensor 22, and a control unit 30. The display 11, speaker 12, light emitter 13, object sensor 21, and operation sensor 22 are electrically connected to the control unit 30 via signal lines. In addition, the placement device 1 also includes a battery (not shown) that supplies power to the display 11, light emitter 13, and control unit 30. In this embodiment, the display 11, speaker 12, light emitter 13, object sensor 21, operation sensor 22, and control unit 30 are housed within the main body 10, but some of them may not be housed within the main body 10.

[0098] The display 11 is an example of a display unit that displays images. The display 11 is positioned in front of the placement device 1. The display 11 is electrically connected to the control unit 30 and is a device that displays images following image signals from the control unit 30. The display 11 displays images following a computer program executed by the control unit 30. The display 11 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an EL (Electroluminescence) display, or a plasma display. Alternatively, the display unit may not be provided in the placement device 1.

[0099] The speaker 12 is an example of a sound generator. The speaker 12 is electrically connected to the control unit 30 and generates sound in accordance with sound signals from the control unit 30. The speaker 12 generates sound following a computer program executed by the control unit 30.

[0100] The light-emitting element 13 is an example of a light-emitting part that emits light. The light-emitting element 13 is electrically connected to the control unit 30 and emits light in accordance with a light-emitting signal from the control unit 30. The light-emitting element 13 is, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode). However, the light-emitting element 13 can be any device that emits light, such as a light bulb. The light-emitting element 13 can be configured to emit light in a single color or to emit light in multiple colors. In this embodiment, the light-emitting element 13 is disposed inside the operation unit 20. In particular, the light-emitting element 13 is configured such that when the light-emitting element 13 emits light, the operation unit 20, formed of a light-diffusing material, is illuminated and becomes visible. Because the light-emitting element 13 is configured in this way so that the operation unit 20, which is disposed above the placement device 1, is illuminated and visible, even a user who cannot see the display 11 can visually confirm the illumination of the light-emitting element 13. However, the light-emitting element 13 can also be disposed in a location different from the operation unit 20 of the placement device 1.

[0101] The object sensor 21 is a sensor whose output changes according to the position or movement of an object within a detection area surrounding the object sensor 21 (i.e., surrounding the placement device 1). The output of the object sensor 21 changes based on the distance to the object within the detection area, the orientation of the object relative to the object sensor 21, and the movement of the object within the detection area. Therefore, the control unit 30 can detect the distance to the object within the detection area, the orientation of the object relative to the object sensor 21, and the movement of the object within the detection area based on the output of the object sensor 21. Furthermore, the detection area includes a sleeping determination area (first area), a departure determination area (second area), and a response action display area, described later.

[0102] In this embodiment, the object sensor 21 is disposed at the front of the main body 10, such that its output varies according to the position of an object in the detection area in front of the placement device 1. For example, the object sensor 21 outputs an output signal indicating the position or movement of an object within the detection area. The output signal from the object sensor 21 is input to the control unit 30.

[0103] In this embodiment, the object sensor 21 is a millimeter-wave sensor. The millimeter-wave sensor transmits millimeter-wave radio signals from a transmitting antenna and receives reflected signals from surrounding objects using a receiving antenna, outputting an output signal based on the transmitted radio signal and the received reflected signals. In this embodiment, the millimeter-wave sensor outputs an output signal that varies depending on the distance from the millimeter-wave sensor to the object by combining the transmitted radio signal and the received reflected signals and performing processing such as Fourier transform. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the millimeter-wave sensor has multiple transmitting and receiving antennas, and outputs an output signal that varies depending on the distance from each transmitting and receiving antenna to the object. Therefore, when the object's direction relative to the millimeter-wave sensor changes, the output signal varying according to the distance to the object also changes between different antennas. Thus, it can be said that the millimeter-wave sensor outputs an output signal that varies according to the object's direction relative to the millimeter-wave sensor. In addition, the output signal of the millimeter-wave sensor changes when the distance to the object changes, and also when the object's direction relative to the millimeter-wave sensor changes. Therefore, millimeter-wave sensors output a signal that changes according to the motion of the object.

[0104] Furthermore, as long as the distance, orientation, and motion of an object can be detected non-contactly, sensors other than millimeter-wave sensors, such as infrared sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and microwave sensors, can be used as object sensor 21. Additionally, as long as objects within the detection area can be detected non-contactly, other types of sensors, such as temperature sensors, can be used instead of object sensor 21.

[0105] The operation sensor 22 is an example of an operation detection unit that detects operations performed by the user on the operation unit 20. In this embodiment, the operation sensor 22 outputs an output signal indicating that the operation unit 20 has been pressed when the user presses it. Additionally, the operation sensor 22 outputs an output signal indicating the angle of rotation of the operation unit 20 when the user rotates it. The output signals from the operation sensor 22 are input to the control unit 30.

[0106] Furthermore, the operation sensor 22 is a sensor corresponding to the type of operation unit 20. For example, when using a button as the operation unit 20, the operation sensor 22 is a sensor whose output signal changes depending on whether the button is pressed. Alternatively, when using a touch panel as the operation unit 20, the operation sensor 22 is a sensor that outputs a signal indicating the position of a finger.

[0107] Structure and operation of the control unit

[0108] Next, refer to Figures 2 to 4 The structure and operation of the control unit 30 will be explained below. Based on signals received from the object sensor 21 and the operation sensor 22, the control unit 30 sends control signals to the display 11, speaker 12, and light emitter 13, etc., following the executing computer program. The control unit 30 has a communication interface 31, a memory 32, and a processor 33. Furthermore, the communication interface 31, memory 32, and processor 33 can be independent circuits or configured as a single integrated circuit.

[0109] The communication interface 31 is a circuit used to connect the control unit 30 to other electronic components in the main body 10, namely the display 11, the speaker 12, the object sensor 21 and the operation sensor 22.

[0110] Memory 32 is an example of a storage unit that stores data. Memory 32 is a storage medium for storing data, such as a volatile semiconductor memory or a non-volatile semiconductor memory. In addition, memory 32 may also be a removable medium such as a memory card or an optical disc. Memory 32 stores computer programs executed by processor 33. In addition, memory 32 stores various data used by the executing program, such as output signals from object sensors 21, etc.

[0111] Furthermore, the memory 32 stores the data of the sound played by the control unit 30. Therefore, the processor 33 retrieves the data of the sound to be played from the memory 32, plays the sound based on the retrieved data, and thus outputs sound from the speaker 12.

[0112] In this embodiment, the memory 32 stores multiple settings, multiple different sounds (including alarm sounds, bed-leaving sounds, and sleep guidance sounds described later), and images of multiple different characters. Furthermore, the memory 32 stores these sounds and images displayed on the display 11 in association with each setting. Therefore, each setting is associated with an alarm sound different from the alarm sounds associated with other settings, a bed-leaving sound different from the bed-leaving sounds associated with other settings, a sleep guidance sound different from the sleep guidance sounds associated with other settings, and images of characters different from the images of characters associated with other settings.

[0113] Specifically, for example, multiple settings may correspond to multiple different games, and the sounds and images associated with each game are stored in memory 32 in association with their respective settings. For example, for a certain setting, it may be associated with the background music (BGM) of the game corresponding to that setting, which serves as an alarm sound, and with the sound effect of completing the game, which serves as an exit sound. Additionally, for that setting, it may be associated with images of characters from that game or images of objects such as items used in that game. Furthermore, it is also possible that some or all of the multiple settings correspond to a single game. In this case, multiple different settings corresponding to the same game may also contain some of the same sounds or images.

[0114] Alternatively, memory 32 may not store settings. In this case, memory 32 stores multiple different sounds (including alarm sounds, bed-leaving sounds, and sleep guidance sounds, described later) and images of multiple different characters, independent of the settings.

[0115] In addition, in this embodiment, the memory 32 stores various settings made by the user. For example, the memory 32 stores the predetermined bedtime and alarm time set by the user. Furthermore, the memory 32 stores the settings selected by the user from the settings stored in the memory 32.

[0116] Furthermore, memory 32 stores information related to the area where the bed (bedding) B for the user to sleep in is located. For example, memory 32 stores the area where the bed B is located, the relative position of the placement device 1 to the bed B, the distance from the placement device 1 to the bed B, and the size of the bed B.

[0117] Processor 33 has one or more CPUs (Central Processing Units) and their peripheral circuitry. Processor 33 may also have other arithmetic circuits such as logic units or numerical processing units. Processor 33 executes various processes based on computer programs stored in memory 32. For example, processor 33 executes control processes for display 11, speaker 12, and light emitter 13, outputting control signals to display 11, speaker 12, and light emitter 13. Therefore, processor 33 controls the image displayed on display 11, plays sound, and controls the light emitted by light emitter 13.

[0118] Figure 3 This is a functional block diagram of the processor 33 in the control unit 30. (Example) Figure 3As shown, the processor 33 includes a timing unit 331, a setting unit 332, a detection unit 333, a judgment unit 334, a sound control unit 335, an image generation unit 336, a light emission control unit 337, and a check execution unit 338. These units of the processor 33 are functional modules implemented, for example, by a computer program operating on the processor 33. Alternatively, the units of the processor 33 may be installed as independent integrated circuits, microprocessors, or firmware in the control unit 30.

[0119] The timing unit 331 keeps track of time. The timing unit 331 keeps track of time, for example, by counting a signal output from a circuit oscillating at a predetermined period and adding it to an initial time. The time counted by the timing unit 331 (hereinafter also referred to as the "timing time") essentially represents the current time. The timing unit 331 may also have the function of modifying the timing based on a standard radio wave representing standard time received by a receiver (not shown). The timing time is displayed on the display 11.

[0120] The setting unit 332 performs settings required for the operation of the placement device 1. In this embodiment, the setting unit 332 performs various settings based on input from the user via the operation unit 20. In particular, in this embodiment, the setting unit 332 performs settings related to time, settings related to the area surrounding the placement device 1, and settings related to the types of sounds played and images displayed on the screen. The items set by the setting unit 332 are stored in the memory 32.

[0121] Specifically, the setting unit 332 sets the user's bedtime, i.e., the scheduled bedtime, and the user's wake-up time, i.e., the alarm time. These scheduled bedtime and alarm times are set by the user through input via the operation unit 20.

[0122] Additionally, the setting unit 332 sets the sleeping area A where the user is currently sleeping, the area where bed B is located, and the response action display area E (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 12The area where bed B is located is set, for example, by the user inputting the relative position of the placement device 1 with respect to bed B, the distance from the placement device 1 to bed B, and the size of bed B via the operation unit 20. When the user inputs the relative position, the setting unit 332 first provides guidance that the placement device 1 should be positioned so that the front surface of the placement device 1 faces the center of bed B. This guidance is displayed on the display 11 or output by voice from the speaker 12. Next, the setting unit 332 allows the user to input the relative position of the placement device 1 with respect to bed B and the distance from the end of the placement device 1 to bed B. Alternatively, the setting unit 332 may allow the user to input the orientation of the front surface of the placement device 1 relative to bed B (such as the front surface of the placement device 1 facing the center of bed B) as the relative position of the placement device 1 with respect to bed B.

[0123] Furthermore, the relative positional relationship, distance to bed B, and dimensions of bed B, input by the user, are stored in memory 32. In addition, the area where bed B is located, set by setting unit 332, can also be stored in memory 32. Alternatively, setting unit 332 can set the area where bed B is located based on other means (e.g., the output of object sensor 21) rather than on input from the user via operation unit 20. For example, setting unit 332 can allow the user to turn over on bed B, and simultaneously set the area where the detection unit 333 detects a large movement (described later regarding "large movement") based on the output of object sensor 21 as the area where bed B is located.

[0124] Sleeping area A is the area used to determine that the user is inside bed B when movement of the user is detected within this area. Therefore, in this embodiment, sleeping area A is set to be a wider area than the area where bed B is located, so that even if part of the user (fingertips, toes, etc.) extends slightly outside bed B during sleep, it is still determined that the user is inside bed B. Alternatively, sleeping area A can be set to be the same area as the area where bed B is located, or it can be set to be a narrower area than the area where bed B is located.

[0125] The motion response display area E is the area where an image is generated based on the detection result when user movement is detected. In this embodiment, the motion response display area E is the distance from the furthest position of the placement device 1 (object sensor 21) in the area where bed B is located (within... Figure 12The distance (shown by a dashed arc in the middle) is further defined as a region of distance X (e.g., 20 cm) wider than the distance indicated by the dashed arc in the middle. Therefore, the response motion display area E is a region that includes the detection range of the object sensor 21 and the area within the sleeping area A (sleeping determination area). In this way, by generating an image that varies based on the detection result of the user's movement in a region that is wider than the area where the bed B is located, it is possible to suppress the situation where, even if the user moves near the bed B, for example, before lying down or after getting out of bed, the user's movement is not detected, and as a result, an image corresponding to the detection result is no longer generated. In addition, the response motion display area E can also be set to the same area as the sleeping determination area C.

[0126] Furthermore, the setting unit 332 sets the reference motion level (described later) based on user input. Thus, the user can adjust the magnitude of motion detected by the detection unit 333 as exceeding the reference motion level.

[0127] In addition, the setting unit 332 sets the setting item selected by the user from among the multiple setting items stored in the setting memory 32. The setting item is set by the user selecting one of the multiple setting items using the operation unit 20.

[0128] Furthermore, when the setting unit 332 sets a setting selected by the user, the sound control unit 335 plays sounds that conform to the set setting (including alarm sounds, get-out-of-bed sounds, and sleep guidance sounds, described later). When an alarm sound is required, the sound control unit 335 plays the alarm sound associated with the user-selected setting. Similarly, when an get-out-of-bed sound is required, the sound control unit 335 plays the get-out-of-bed sound associated with the user-selected setting. Likewise, when a sleep guidance sound is required, the sound control unit 335 plays the sleep guidance sound associated with the user-selected setting. Therefore, the sound control unit 335 plays a sound based on the user's selection from among multiple different sounds. Additionally, when the setting unit 332 sets a setting selected by the user, the image generation unit 336 generates a character image or object image that conforms to the set setting when a character image or object image (such as a vehicle) is required. Thus, sounds that conform to the user's preferences are played, and character images or object images that conform to the user's preferences are generated.

[0129] Alternatively, the setting unit 332 may not set sound-related settings, but rather set a sound or image selected by the user from among multiple different sounds stored in the memory 32. In this case, for example, the setting unit 332 sets one alarm sound selected by the user from among multiple alarm sounds as the alarm sound to be played when it is due. Similarly, the setting unit 332 sets one get-out-of-bed sound selected by the user from among multiple get-out-of-bed sounds as the get-out-of-bed sound to be played when it is due. In addition, the setting unit 332 sets one sleep guidance sound selected by the user from among multiple sleep guidance sounds as the sleep guidance sound to be played when it is due. As a result, the sound control unit 335 plays the alarm sound, get-out-of-bed sound, and sleep guidance sound selected by the user, thus playing sounds according to the user's preferences.

[0130] The detection unit 333 performs detection based on the output of the object sensor 21. In this embodiment, the detection unit 333 detects objects around the placement device 1 (particularly around the object sensor 21) based on the output of the object sensor 21. In particular, in this embodiment, the detection unit 333 detects the position or movement of objects within the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21 based on the output of the object sensor 21. As described above, the output of the object sensor 21 varies according to the position or movement of objects within the detection area, therefore the detection unit 333 can detect the position or movement of objects based on the output of the object sensor 21.

[0131] Figure 4 This diagram schematically illustrates the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21 when the placement device 1 is positioned beside the user's bed B. Figure 4 In the example shown, the placement device 1 is positioned beside bed B with its front surface facing the center of bed B. Figure 4 In the diagram, the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21 is shown in gray. The output of the object sensor 21 varies according to the position or movement of the object within that detection area. Figure 4 As shown, the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21 reaches a certain angular range. Furthermore, the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21 even extends to a distance that significantly exceeds the size of a typical bed B. Therefore, the object sensor 21 can detect distances exceeding the bed B within this angular range.

[0132] In addition, Figure 4Within the angular range of the detection area shown, a narrower range than the aforementioned certain angular range allows for more accurate detection of the object's position compared to a wider range. Thus, the range within which the object's position can be more accurately detected can be defined as the angular range (detection area) detected by the object sensor 21. Furthermore, the area within a predetermined lower limit distance (e.g., 15 cm) from the object sensor 21 can be designated as an invalid area where object detection is not performed.

[0133] In this embodiment, the detection unit 333 detects a large-scale movement (first movement) of a predetermined size (hereinafter referred to as the "reference movement level") and its position based on the output of the object sensor 21. The reference movement level is, for example, the magnitude of the object's movement detected by the detection unit 333 when the user performs a movement of a predetermined size or larger (e.g., getting up, turning over, moving arms and legs). On the other hand, the reference movement level is, for example, greater than the magnitude of the movement detected by the detection unit 333 when there is chest movement caused by the user's breathing. Therefore, if only chest movement caused by breathing occurs during a period when the user remains still in bed within the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21, the detection unit 333 will not detect a large-scale movement.

[0134] The detection unit 333 can also detect the location of a large-scale movement as the location of an object based on the output of the object sensor 21. Here, the object sensor 21 also outputs an output signal indicating the presence of an object at that location when an object other than the user is within the detection area. Therefore, by detecting the location of a large-scale movement as the location of an object, it is possible to suppress the detection of objects other than the user as the user.

[0135] Furthermore, when the detection unit 333 detects a large-scale movement based on the output of the object sensor 21, it can detect the distance to the location where the large-scale movement was detected, but it cannot detect the direction of the location where the large-scale movement was detected relative to the object sensor 21. Therefore, in such cases, the detection unit 333 detects the distance to the large-scale movement rather than the location of the large-scale movement.

[0136] In addition, in this embodiment, the detection unit 333 detects the presence of a small movement (second movement) less than a reference movement level based on the output of the object sensor 21. Small movements include, for example, movements detected by the detection unit 333 when there is chest movement caused by the user's breathing. Therefore, in the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21, small movements are detected by the detection unit 333 when there is only chest movement caused by breathing during the user's time remaining still on the bed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, small movements can be detected in areas of the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21 that are relatively close to the object sensor 21. Therefore, small movements cannot be detected in areas of the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21 that are far from the object sensor 21. Therefore, when a small movement is detected by the detection unit 333, the user's position on the bed B near the object sensor 21 can be estimated.

[0137] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the detection unit 333 is provided in the processor 33 of the control unit 30, which is independent of the object sensor 21. Therefore, the processor 33 detects the position or movement of the object based on the output of the object sensor 21. However, it is also possible to provide a processor in the object sensor 21, and to provide the detection unit 333 in the processor provided in the object sensor 21. In this case, the position or movement of the object is detected in the object sensor 21, and the detection results, such as the position of the object, are sent to the processor 33 of the control unit 30.

[0138] The determination unit 334 determines whether any condition is met based on the detection result of the detection unit 333. In this embodiment, the determination unit 334 determines, for example, whether the condition of existence within the region, the condition of existence outside the region, the condition of existence estimation, or the condition of not being estimated is met based on the detection result of the detection unit 333.

[0139] The presence condition within the area is a condition that is met when it is confirmed that the user is on bed B (e.g., asleep). In this embodiment, the presence condition within the area (hereinafter referred to as the "sleep determination area" or "first area") C within the detection range of the object sensor 21 and the sleeping area A is met. In particular, in this embodiment, the determination unit 334 determines that the presence condition within the area is met when the detection unit 333 detects a large movement within the sleeping determination area C, and subsequently continuously detects an object that was originally in the position where the large movement occurred within the sleeping determination area C. Furthermore, the determination unit 334 may also determine that the presence condition within the area is met before the detection unit 333 detects a large movement within the sleeping determination area C, and other conditions such as the presence condition outside the area are met.

[0140] Furthermore, the condition of presence outside the area is a condition that is met when it is confirmed that the user is outside bed B. In this embodiment, the condition of presence outside the area is met when an object is detected within the detection range of the object sensor 21 and outside the sleeping area A (hereinafter referred to as the "escape determination area, second area") D. In particular, in this embodiment, the determination unit 334 determines that the condition of presence outside the area is met when the detection unit 333 detects a large movement within the escape determination area D, and then continuously detects an object that was originally in the position where the large movement occurred within the escape determination area D. In addition, the determination unit 334 may also determine that the condition of presence outside the area is met before the detection unit 333 detects a large movement within the escape determination area D, and other conditions such as the condition of presence within the area are met. In addition, the escape determination area D may also be a region within the detection range of the object sensor 21 and within a predetermined upper limit distance (e.g., 3.5m) from the object sensor 21 and outside the sleeping area A.

[0141] The existence estimation condition is a condition that is satisfied when it is estimated that the user is on bed B (e.g., sleeping). In this embodiment, the existence estimation condition is satisfied when the detection unit 333 detects a small movement but not a large movement in the sleeping determination area C, or when the detection unit 333 detects a small movement but not a large movement in the departure determination area D. The absence estimation condition is a condition that is satisfied when it is estimated that the user is not on bed B. In this embodiment, the absence estimation condition is satisfied when the detection unit 333 detects that neither large nor small movements exist.

[0142] Furthermore, when the existence condition or the existence estimation condition within the region is met, it is confirmed or estimated that the user is located on bed B. Therefore, the satisfaction of either the existence condition or the existence estimation condition within the region indicates that the user is located on bed B, meaning that the existence condition satisfied when the user is located on bed B is satisfied. Similarly, when the existence condition or the absence estimation condition outside the region is met, it indicates that the user is not located on bed B. Therefore, the satisfaction of either the existence condition or the absence estimation condition outside the region indicates that the absence condition satisfied when the user is not located on bed B is satisfied.

[0143] Furthermore, the determination unit 334 determines whether the detachment condition of the user having detached from bed B has been met, i.e., whether the object has detached from the sleeping determination area C. In this embodiment, the determination unit 334 determines that the detachment condition has been met when it determines that the condition of presence within the area has been met, or when it determines that the condition of presence within the area is no longer met but the condition of presence outside the area is met. Therefore, the determination unit 334 determines that the detachment condition has been met when the position of an object originally detected within the sleeping determination area C is no longer detected within the sleeping determination area C, or when the position of an object is detected within the detachment determination area D. In addition, the determination unit 334 may also determine that the detachment condition has been met when the object sensor 21 detects movement from within the sleeping determination area C to outside the sleeping determination area C.

[0144] In addition, in this embodiment, the determination unit 334 determines that the departure condition is met after determining that the condition for the existence of an object in the area is satisfied, and after a predetermined standby time (second time) has elapsed since the condition for the existence of an object in the area is no longer satisfied and the estimated condition is no longer satisfied. Therefore, the determination unit 334 determines that the departure condition is met when the position of an object originally detected in the sleeping determination area C is no longer detected in the detection area, and the detection unit 333 no longer detects small movements for a certain period of time.

[0145] The sound control unit 335 controls the playback of sounds. When the sound control unit 335 controls the playback of sounds, sound is simultaneously output from the speaker 12. In this embodiment, the sound control unit 335 plays at least an alarm sound, a bed-leaving sound, a sleep guidance sound, and a time announcement sound. Specific control of the sound playback performed by the sound control unit 335 will be described later.

[0146] The alarm sound is the sound played when the timer changes to the alarm time set by the setting unit 332 (or another time determined based on the alarm time). The alarm sound is a sound effect and / or music. For example, the alarm sound is any background music in a game, or the sound of a character walking or running.

[0147] Additionally, the "get out of bed" sound is the sound played when the user has left bed B. The "get out of bed" sound can be, for example, a sound effect. Specifically, it can be a sound effect played when something is accomplished (including voice messages). For example, it can be a sound effect played when any level is completed in any game. More specifically, it can be a speaker sound or similar sound effect. Furthermore, the "get out of bed" sound can also be music.

[0148] A sleep guidance sound is a sound that encourages the user to go to sleep. It is played when the timer reaches a predetermined bedtime set by the setting unit 332 (or another time determined based on the predetermined bedtime). Alternatively, the sleep guidance sound may also be played when the timer reaches the predetermined bedtime and the detection unit 333 detects an object within the bedtime determination area C. In this case, the sleep guidance sound is not played if the timer reaches the predetermined bedtime but no object is detected within the bedtime determination area C. The sleep guidance sound is, for example, an effect sound. Specifically, the sleep guidance sound is an effect sound such as white noise that encourages the user to go to sleep.

[0149] The time announcement sound is a sound that informs the user of the time. It is played when the time counted by the timing unit 331 reaches a preset time. The time announcement sound can be, for example, an effect sound indicating the current time. Specifically, the time announcement sound can be a sound that repeats a number of times matching the time (for example, the sound of a clock repeating 5 times if it is 5 o'clock), or it can be a voice announcing the time.

[0150] The image generation unit 336 generates an image. In this embodiment, the image generated by the image generation unit 336 is displayed on the display 11. In this embodiment, the placement device 1, in order to function as a clock, generates an image containing an image (time, date and time, day of the week, etc.) related to the time being timed by the timing unit 331. In addition, in this embodiment, the image generation unit 336 generates an image related to the state of the placement device 1 (see reference). Figure 5 The corresponding image. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the image generation unit 336 generates an image corresponding to the output of the object sensor 21. In addition, the image generation unit 336 generates an image corresponding to the inspection control process during the execution of the inspection control process described later. Details regarding the images generated by the image generation unit 336 will be described later.

[0151] Furthermore, in cases where the placement device 1 does not have a display 11, the image generated by the image generation unit 336 can also be displayed on the display of an external device. In this case, the placement device 1 has a communication module, and the image generated by the image generation unit 336 is transmitted to the external device via this communication module. Moreover, in this case, the image generated by the image generation unit 336 is displayed on the display of the external device.

[0152] The light emission control unit 337 controls the light emission of the light-emitting body 13. The light emission control unit 337 causes the light-emitting body 13 to light up, flash, or turn off. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the light emission control unit 337 can switch the light emission color of the light-emitting body 13, or cause the light-emitting body 13 to light up with multiple colors. Details regarding the light emission control of the light-emitting body 13 performed by the light emission control unit 337 will be described later.

[0153] The inspection execution unit 338 performs a status check process to determine whether the detection state is in a normal state. In this embodiment, during the status check process, if the normal determination conditions are met, the inspection execution unit 338 determines that the detection state is in a normal state; if the normal determination conditions are not met, the inspection execution unit 338 determines that the detection state is in an abnormal state. The normal determination conditions include the situation where a condition is not met. Details regarding the status check process performed by the inspection execution unit 338 will be described later.

[0154] Processing when time arrives

[0155] State transitions during time-out processing

[0156] Next, refer to Figures 5-10 The process for handling the arrival of a specific time will be explained. This time arrival processing is performed by the processor 33 when the time (timing time) counted by the timing unit 331 arrives at the time determined according to the alarm time. First, refer to... Figure 5 This explains the transition of the state and actions of the placement device 1 during the processing when the time arrives. Figure 5 This is a diagram that provides a summary view of the state and operational transitions of the placement device 1 during processing at the arrival of the specified time. Specifically, Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the transition between the sound control state by the sound control unit 335 and the control state of the light emitter 13 by the light emission control unit 337. Furthermore, in Figure 5 In the diagram, the rectangle indicates the state of the placement device 1, and the rounded quadrilateral indicates the operation of the placement device 1.

[0157] In the time arrival processing, when the timer reaches the time determined by the alarm time, the determination unit 334 makes a determination. The time determined by the alarm time can be the alarm time, a time predetermined before the alarm time, or a time predetermined after the alarm time.

[0158] When the timer reaches the time determined by the alarm clock, the determination unit 334 determines whether the condition within the bedtime determination area is met (A11). That is, the determination unit 334 determines whether the detection unit 333 has detected an object located within the bedtime determination area C. In particular, in this embodiment, the determination unit 334 determines whether the detection unit 333 has detected significant movement within the bedtime determination area C.

[0159] When the determination unit 334 determines that the condition within the area is met (C11), the placement device 1 is set to alarm sound playback state (A12). In this case, the timer reaches the time determined according to the alarm time, and the user is very likely to be on bed B. Therefore, when the placement device 1 is in alarm sound playback state, the sound control unit 335 plays the alarm sound (first sound). Thus, the sound control unit 335 plays the alarm sound when the timer reaches the time determined according to the alarm time. Additionally, when the placement device 1 is in alarm sound playback state, the light emission control unit 337 causes the light emitter 13 to flash. Furthermore, when the placement device 1 is in alarm sound playback state, the image generation unit 336 can also generate an image for alarm sound playback state. In this case, the image generated by the image generation unit 336 is displayed on the display 11.

[0160] In this embodiment, when the placement device 1 changes to alarm sound playback mode, the alarm sound begins to play. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the timer reaches the time determined according to the alarm time, if a condition is met within the area, the alarm sound is played. This notifies the user of the arrival of the alarm time. Afterwards, if the detection unit 333 continuously detects significant movement within the bedtime determination area C for a predetermined motion detection time (e.g., 3 seconds) during the alarm sound playback, the volume of the alarm sound is reduced (or the alarm sound playback may be stopped). At this time, the type of alarm sound may also be changed from a first alarm sound to a second alarm sound. By reducing the volume of the alarm sound when significant movement of the user is continuously detected, the user can be encouraged to move significantly, thereby waking the user.

[0161] Subsequently, when the alarm sound volume is low, if the detection unit 333 detects minor movement but no significant movement is detected during a predetermined inactive standby time (e.g., 3 minutes), the alarm sound volume is increased again (the alarm sound playback is restarted when it has stopped). At this time, the type of alarm sound can also be changed from the second alarm sound to the first alarm sound. By increasing the alarm sound volume when no significant movement from the user is continuously detected, the user can be encouraged to move significantly, thereby waking them up.

[0162] Thus, in this embodiment, when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound playback state, the volume or type of the alarm sound is repeatedly changed based on whether a large movement is detected within the bedtime determination area C. However, when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound playback state, the volume and type of the alarm sound may not be changed, or the volume and type of the alarm sound may be changed based on other necessary conditions, regardless of whether a large movement is detected.

[0163] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the light-emitting control unit 337 continuously causes the light-emitting element 13 to flash while the placement device 1 is in alarm sound playback mode. Therefore, the user can be notified that the placement device 1 is in alarm sound playback mode even through means other than sound. In particular, in this embodiment, the light-emitting control unit 337 can also cause the light-emitting element 13 to flash gently when the placement device 1 is in alarm sound playback mode and the alarm sound volume is low, and cause the light-emitting element 13 to flash rapidly when the placement device 1 is in alarm sound playback mode and the alarm sound volume is high. Furthermore, when the placement device 1 is in alarm sound playback mode, the light-emitting control unit 337 can also keep the light-emitting element 13 continuously lit instead of flashing, or it can keep the light-emitting element 13 continuously off. Additionally, when the placement device 1 is in alarm sound playback mode, the light-emitting control unit 337 can also change the color of the light emitted by the light-emitting element 13.

[0164] When the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound playback state (A12), if the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for the presence outside the area is met (C12), that is, if the detection unit 333 detects a large movement (position of an object) outside the determination area D, the placement device 1 is set to the bed-leaving sound playback state (A13). In this case, it is highly likely that the user has moved from inside the bed to outside the bed. When the placement device 1 is in the bed-leaving sound playback state, the sound control unit 335 plays a bed-leaving sound (second sound) different from the alarm sound. In addition, when the placement device 1 is in the bed-leaving sound playback state, the light emission control unit 337 illuminates the light emitter 13 with multiple colors, such as rainbow colors. Furthermore, when the placement device 1 is in the bed-leaving sound playback state, the image generation unit 336 can also generate an image different from the image when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound playback state, so the display 11 can also display an image different from the image when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound playback state.

[0165] Therefore, in this embodiment, the sound control unit 335 changes the sound playback mode when the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for existence within the area is met, or when it determines that the condition for existence within the area is no longer met but the condition for existence outside the area is met. In other words, in this embodiment, the sound control unit 335 changes the sound playback mode when the condition for movement within and outside the area (the second condition) is met. The condition for movement within and outside the area (the second condition) includes situations where a large movement (object position) previously detected within the sleeping determination area C is no longer detected within the sleeping determination area C, and situations where a large movement (object position) is detected within the departure determination area D. Specifically, in this embodiment, when the condition for movement within and outside the area is met, the determination unit 334 determines that the departure condition (the sound playback condition for playing the departure sound) indicating that the user has left bed B is met. Upon making this determination, the sound control unit 335 stops playing the alarm sound and plays the departure sound. Thus, when the user leaves bed B, the alarm sound can be stopped, thereby prompting the user to move and leave bed B. Additionally, it can prevent the alarm from playing even when the user is not in bed B. Furthermore, by playing an exit sound when the user leaves bed B, it can notify the user that it is not a malfunction but that the alarm has been stopped.

[0166] In particular, in this embodiment, when the sound control unit 335 is satisfied with the condition of moving within or outside the area, it is not necessary for the determination unit 334 to determine whether the aforementioned existence estimation condition is satisfied and thus change the sound playback mode. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to unnecessarily determine whether the existence estimation condition is satisfied. Furthermore, since it is not necessary to determine whether the existence estimation condition is satisfied, the sound playback mode can be quickly changed (the alarm sound can be stopped) even when the user leaves bed B.

[0167] Furthermore, the sound control unit 335 can change the sound playback mode as long as the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for movement within and outside the area is met, thus allowing the sound playback mode to be changed arbitrarily. Therefore, when the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for movement within and outside the area is met, the sound control unit 335 can also change the sound playback mode by stopping the alarm sound playback.

[0168] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the light-emitting control unit 337 changes the light-emitting mode of the light-emitting body 13 when the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for existence within the region is met, or when it determines that the condition for existence within the region is no longer met but the condition for existence outside the region is met. In other words, in this embodiment, the light-emitting control unit 337 changes the light-emitting mode of the light-emitting body 13 when the condition for movement within and outside the region (the second condition) is met. Specifically, the light-emitting control unit 337 causes the light-emitting body 13, which was originally illuminated in a single color, to illuminate in multiple colors. As a result, the user can be notified that the alarm sound has stopped, not that there is a malfunction. In addition, the light-emitting control unit 337 can also arbitrarily change the light-emitting mode of the light-emitting body 13. Therefore, the light-emitting control unit 337 can, for example, change the light-emitting mode in a way that makes the light-emitting body 13 brighter.

[0169] Furthermore, when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound playback state (A12), if the determination unit 334 determines that the estimation condition is not met (C13), that is, if the detection unit 333 does not detect even a small movement, the placement device 1 is set to the alarm sound stop and standby state (A14). In this case, the user may not be on the bed B. Therefore, when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound stop and standby state, the sound control unit 335 does not play any sound. In addition, when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound stop and standby state, the light emission control unit 337 turns off the light emitter 13. Furthermore, when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound stop and standby state, the image generation unit 336 can also generate an image different from the image when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound playback state or the bed exit sound playback state.

[0170] Therefore, in this embodiment, the sound control unit 335 stops playing the alarm sound when the determination unit 334 determines that the existence condition within the area is met, or when it determines that the existence condition within the area is no longer met and the estimation condition is not met. In other words, in this embodiment, the sound control unit 335 changes the playback mode of the sound when the external movement estimation condition (third condition) is met. The external movement estimation condition (third condition) includes a situation where a large movement (position of an object) originally detected by the detection unit 333 within the bedtime determination area C is no longer detected within the bedtime determination area C and a small movement is not detected by the detection unit 333. From another perspective, the sound control unit 335 stops playing the alarm sound when it changes from a state where the existence condition is met (a state where the determination unit 334 determines that either the existence condition within the area or the existence estimation condition is met) to a state where the existence condition is not met (a state where the determination unit 334 determines that neither the existence condition within the area nor the existence estimation condition is met). This allows the alarm sound to be suppressed when the user may not be in bed.

[0171] Here, we consider the scenario where the user moves from inside bed B to outside the detection area of ​​object sensor 21, i.e., the user moves towards... Figure 4 The situation is indicated by the white arrow, where the movement has occurred. In this case, a significant movement (object position) that was originally detected within the sleeping determination area C is detected within the departure determination area D. Therefore, in this case, the condition for movement within and outside the area is met, and it can be determined whether the user has moved from inside bed B to outside bed B.

[0172] On the other hand, consider the scenario where the user moves from inside bed B to outside bed B after moving from the detection area of ​​object sensor 21 to outside the detection area, i.e., the user moves towards... Figure 4 In the case where the user moves in the direction indicated by the shaded arrow, a large movement (object position) that was originally detected within the sleeping determination area C is no longer detected, but it is also not detected within the departure determination area D. However, if the user remains on bed B after moving from the detection area of ​​object sensor 21 to outside the detection area, vibrations caused by the user's breathing propagate on bed B, resulting in a small movement within the detection area of ​​object sensor 21. In this embodiment, the large movement (object position) that was originally detected within the sleeping determination area C is no longer detected, and the condition (first condition) that was satisfied when the user remained on bed B is determined based on the detection result that differs from the large movement (object position) using the output of object sensor 21 (i.e., the detection result related to the presence or absence of a small movement). Therefore, in this embodiment, even if the user moves to bed B, the large movement (object position) that was originally detected within the sleeping determination area C is no longer detected, and the condition that was satisfied when the user remained on bed B is satisfied. Figure 4Even if the user moves in the direction indicated by the shaded arrow, it is still possible to determine whether the user has moved from inside bed B to outside bed B. That is, even if the user is detected in the designated area but is no longer detected, it is still possible to determine that the user has left the designated area. In particular, in this embodiment, by determining whether a small movement is detected by the detection unit 333, it is possible to suppress the situation where it is determined that there is no user (object) on bed B when the user remains on bed B.

[0173] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the condition that a small movement is detected by the detection unit 333 is used as the condition for the user to remain on bed B. However, other conditions based on the output of the object sensor 21 can also be used as the condition for the user to remain on bed B.

[0174] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the light emission control unit 337 changes the light emission mode of the light emitter 13 when the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for existence within the region is met, or when it determines that the condition for existence within the region is no longer met and the estimated condition is not met. In other words, in this embodiment, the light emission control unit 337 changes the light emission mode of the light emitter 13 when the estimated condition for movement outside the region (the third condition) is met. Specifically, the light emission control unit 337 turns off the originally flashing light emitter 13. As a result, the user can be notified that the alarm sound has stopped, not that there is a malfunction. In addition, the light emission control unit 337 can also arbitrarily change the light emission mode of the light emitter 13. Therefore, the light emission control unit 337 can, for example, change the light emission mode by reducing the illuminance of the light emitter 13.

[0175] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the light-emitting control unit 337 changes the light-emitting mode differently depending on whether the in-area / out-of-area movement condition is met or the out-of-area movement estimation condition is met. Although the alarm sound stops regardless of which condition is met, by changing the light-emitting mode differently according to the condition, the user can be notified which condition caused the alarm sound to stop. However, the light-emitting control unit 337 may also change the light-emitting mode in the same way depending on whether the in-area / out-of-area movement condition is met or the out-of-area movement estimation condition is met. In this case, for example, the light-emitting control unit 337 may also illuminate the light-emitting body 13 with the same color regardless of the condition.

[0176] Based on the above, in this embodiment, when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound playback state (A12), the sound control unit 335 changes the sound playback mode when either the in-area / out-of-area movement condition or the in-area movement estimation condition is met. Specifically, in this embodiment, the sound control unit 335 stops the alarm sound playback at this time. Furthermore, the sound control unit 335 can also stop the alarm sound playback only when either the in-area / out-of-area movement condition or the in-area movement estimation condition is met.

[0177] Alternatively, even if the out-of-area movement estimation condition is met, but the out-of-area movement estimation condition is met only after a reference time (e.g., 1 second, the first time) has elapsed since the last significant movement (object position) was detected in the bedtime determination area C, the sound control unit 335 will not stop the alarm sound, and therefore, the sound playback mode may not be changed. If the detection unit 333 stops detecting the object's position immediately after failing to detect significant movement, it will not assume that the user has moved away from the bed B, thus preventing the alarm from being stopped in this situation.

[0178] Furthermore, the sound control unit 335 can change the sound playback mode as long as the out-of-area movement estimation condition is met, allowing the sound playback mode to be changed arbitrarily. Therefore, when the out-of-area movement estimation condition is met, the sound control unit 335 can also change the sound playback mode by stopping the alarm sound and playing a different sound than the alarm sound.

[0179] When the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound stopped and standby state (A14), if the estimated condition is not continuously met during the specified standby time (e.g., 20 seconds, the second time), or if the condition is not met during the specified standby time (C14), the placement device 1 is set to the bed-leaving sound playback state (A13). In this case, it is highly likely that the user is not in bed B. Therefore, in this case, the placement device 1 is set to the bed-leaving sound playback state (A13), the sound control unit 335 plays the bed-leaving sound (second sound), and the light-emitting control unit 337 illuminates the light-emitting body 13 in multiple colors.

[0180] Therefore, in this embodiment, the sound control unit 335 plays an alarm sound when the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for the presence of the user in the area has been met, or when the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for the presence of the user in the area is no longer met and the estimated condition is not met, and the aforementioned standby time has elapsed. In other words, in this embodiment, when the determination unit 334 determines that the departure condition (the sound playback condition for playing the alarm sound) indicating that the user has left bed B has been met from the time the estimated condition for movement from outside the area is met until the aforementioned standby time has elapsed, the sound control unit 335 plays the alarm sound. Thus, the alarm sound can be stopped when there is a high probability that the user has left bed B, and the situation where the alarm sound continues to play even when the user is not in bed B can be suppressed. In addition, by playing the alarm sound when the user leaves bed B, the user can be notified that the alarm sound has been stopped, not due to a malfunction.

[0181] Furthermore, when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound stopped and standby state (A14), if a condition is met outside the aforementioned standby time area (C15), that is, if a large movement (object position) is detected within the departure determination area D, the placement device 1 is set to the bed departure sound playback state (A13) without waiting for the predetermined standby time to elapse. In this case, there is a high probability that the user has moved from inside the bed to outside the bed. Therefore, the sound control unit 335 plays the bed departure sound (second sound), and the light emission control unit 337 illuminates the light emitter 13 in multiple colors.

[0182] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the sound control unit 335 determines that the condition for the presence of an object in the area is no longer met after the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for the presence of an object in the area is met, and before the aforementioned standby time has elapsed since the estimated condition was met, the detection unit 333 detects a significant movement (the position of an object) within the departure determination area D, it plays an exit sound instead of activating the alarm sound. In other words, in this embodiment, when the determination unit 334 determines that the departure condition (the sound playback condition for playing the exit sound) is met before the aforementioned standby time has elapsed since the estimated condition for movement from outside the area is met, the sound control unit 335 plays the exit sound. By playing the exit sound at this time instead of activating the alarm sound, it is possible to suppress the playing of the alarm sound when it is clear that the user is not in bed B.

[0183] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound playback state (A12) or the alarm sound stopped and in standby state (A14) and the condition outside the area is met (C12, C15), and when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound stopped and in standby state (A14) and the estimated condition is not met during the standby time (C14), the placement device 1 changes to the bed-leaving sound playback state and plays a bed-leaving sound. Thus, when it is assumed that the user has left bed B, playing the bed-leaving sound can prompt the user to leave bed B. However, in some of these cases, the bed-leaving sound may not be played.

[0184] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the exit sound played in these situations is the same in all cases. However, the exit sound played may also be different depending on the situation. For example, the sound control unit 335 may play a first exit sound (second sound) when the condition outside the area is met, and a second exit sound (third sound) when the estimated condition is not met during the standby time. For example, the first exit sound is a horn sound, and the second exit sound is a horn sound different from the first exit sound. Thus, the user can know what conditions are met to determine that the exit condition has been met.

[0185] In addition, when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound stopped and standby state (A14), if a condition is met during the aforementioned standby time (C16), that is, if a large or small movement is detected within the bedtime determination area C, the placement device 1 returns to the alarm sound playback state (A12). In this case, it is highly likely that the user is on bed B. Therefore, the sound control unit 335 plays the alarm sound according to the situation, and the light emission control unit 337 causes the light emitter 13 to flash. Thus, the sound control unit 335 controls the playback of the alarm sound based on whether the existence condition is met. In such a case, it can be assumed that the user is on bed B, and therefore, by playing the alarm sound, the user can be prompted to get up.

[0186] Therefore, in this embodiment, if the sound control unit 335 determines, after the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for existence within the area is satisfied, and the condition for existence outside the area is not satisfied, and the detection unit 333 detects a large movement (position of an object) or a small movement within the sleep determination area C before the aforementioned standby time has elapsed since the estimated condition was satisfied, then the alarm sound is restarted. That is, if the alarm sound is stopped because the estimated condition for movement outside the area is satisfied, and a large movement or a small movement is detected within the sleep determination area C before the aforementioned standby time has elapsed since the alarm sound was stopped, the sound control unit 335 restarts the alarm sound. Thus, if there is a high probability that the user will return to bed B, the user can be encouraged to leave bed B. Furthermore, if the alarm sound playback is stopped when the estimated conditions for movement within and outside the area are met (when the state of the placement device 1 switches from alarm sound playback state A12 to bed-leaving sound playback state A13), even if a small movement is detected before the aforementioned standby time has elapsed since the alarm sound playback stopped, the sound control unit 335 will not restart the alarm sound playback. In this case, there is a high probability that the user has left bed B, thus preventing unnecessary restarting of the alarm sound playback.

[0187] When the placement device 1 is in the "leaving bed" sound playback state (A13), and the playback of the "leaving bed" sound ends (C17), the placement device 1 is set to the "stop" state (A15). When the placement device 1 is in the "stop" state, it can be basically assumed that the user has left the bed B, therefore the sound control unit 335 stops the sound playback. In addition, when the placement device 1 is in the "stop" state, the light emission control unit 337 turns off the light emitter 13. Furthermore, when the placement device 1 is in the "stop" state, the image generation unit 336 can also generate an image different from the image generated when the placement device 1 is in the alarm sound playback state, the "leaving bed" sound playback state, or the alarm sound stopped and in standby mode.

[0188] Furthermore, when the timing reaches the time determined by the determination unit 334, if it is determined by the determination unit 334 that a condition in the area has not been met (C18), the state of the placement device 1 is also set to the stop state (A15). This is because it can be assumed that the user has left the bed B when the timing reaches the time determined by the alarm.

[0189] When the placement device 1 is in the stopped state (A15), the determination unit 334 determines that a condition is met within the area (C19), that is, when the detection unit 333 detects a large movement (position of an object) within the sleeping determination area C, and the placement device 1 is set to the standby state (A16). Therefore, when it is determined that the user has returned to bed B, the placement device 1 switches from the stopped state to the standby state. Even when the placement device 1 is in the standby state, similar to the stopped state (A15), the sound control unit 335 stops the sound playback, and the light emission control unit 337 turns off the light emitter 13. At this time, the image generation unit 336 can generate either an image different from the image when the placement device 1 is in the stopped state, or an image identical to the image when the placement device 1 is in the stopped state.

[0190] When the placement device 1 is in the standby state (A16), if the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for the presence of an object outside the designated area is met (C20), that is, if the detection unit 333 detects a large movement (position of an object) outside the designated area D, the placement device 1 returns to the stop state (A15). Conversely, if the placement device 1 is in the standby state (A16), if the determination unit 334 determines that the estimation condition is not met (C21), that is, if the detection unit 333 no longer detects any large or small movements (position of an object), the placement device 1 returns to the stop state (A15). Therefore, when it is determined that the user is no longer located on bed B, the placement device 1 switches from the standby state to the stop state.

[0191] On the other hand, when the placement device 1 is in the standby state (A16), if the determination unit 334 determines that the estimation conditions are met during the bed rest determination time (e.g., 10 seconds, the fourth time) (C22), that is, if the detection unit 333 does not detect large-scale movement (the position of the object) during the bed rest determination time (the in-area movement condition and the in-area movement estimation condition are not met) but detects small-scale movement, the placement device 1 returns to the alarm sound playback state (A12).

[0192] Therefore, in this embodiment, the alarm sound is restarted only when the sound control unit 335 detects a large movement within the sleeping determination area C after the departure condition is met, and then detects only a small movement during the bed-resting determination time, without detecting a large movement (the position of an object). This allows the alarm sound to be restarted only when the user returns to bed B and lies down again, thus prompting the user to leave bed B. It is conceivable that after leaving bed B, the user might retrieve items around bed B or tidy up bed B. In this case, the user is not intending to lie down on bed B, so there is no need to restart the alarm sound. In this embodiment, the alarm sound is restarted only after a large movement is detected, and then, for a certain period of time, only a small movement is detected. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the alarm sound from being restarted when the user retrieves items around bed B or tidies up bed B.

[0193] Alternatively, if the sound control unit 335 detects a large movement in the bedtime determination area C after the departure condition is met, the alarm sound may be restarted regardless of whether a small movement is detected by the detection unit 333 during the bedtime determination period.

[0194] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a predetermined processing duration (e.g., 30 minutes or 30 seconds, a third time) has elapsed since the timer reached the time determined by the alarm time, Figure 5 The processing ends when the indicated time is reached. When the processing ends when the time is reached, the sound control unit 335 stops the sound playback, and the light control unit 337 turns off the light emitter 13. Alternatively, the processing can also end when a predetermined end determination time (e.g., 30 seconds) has elapsed while the placement device 1 is in the stopped state (A15).

[0195] Therefore, the state of the placement device 1 returns from the standby state (A16) to the alarm sound playback state (A12) during the period from the timer reaching the time determined according to the alarm time until the aforementioned processing duration has elapsed. Thus, if the sound control unit 335 detects a large movement within the bedtime determination area C by the detection unit 333 after the departure condition is met and before the processing duration has elapsed from the time determined according to the alarm time, and then detects only a small movement instead of a large movement (object position) during the bedtime determination period, then the alarm sound playback is restarted.

[0196] Furthermore, the time-arrival processing can also end when a predetermined processing duration (e.g., 30 minutes, the third time) has elapsed since the determination unit 334 determined that the departure condition has been met. In this case, if the sound control unit 335 detects a large movement in the bedtime determination area C by the detection unit 333 before the processing duration has elapsed since the departure condition was met, and then detects a small movement but not a large movement (position of the object) during the bedtime determination period, the alarm sound will then be restarted.

[0197] Variations

[0198] Next, the explanation Figure 5 The example shown is a variation of the processing when the time arrives.

[0199] In a variation, if the departure condition has not been met even after a predetermined delay time (the fifth time, for example, 20 minutes) has elapsed since the timer reached the time determined by the alarm, the voice control unit 335 executes an emergency mode. The emergency mode is a mode that more forcefully prompts the user to wake up and get out of bed compared to the normal mode before the delay time. Furthermore, the delay time is shorter than the processing duration described above.

[0200] In this variation, in the urgent mode, the procedure is performed in the same way as in the normal mode. Figure 5 The process is completed when the indicated time arrives. However, in urgent mode, the inactive standby time when the placement device 1 is in alarm sound playback state is set to be shorter than the inactive standby time in normal mode. For example, the inactive standby time in normal mode is 3 minutes, while the inactive standby time in urgent mode is set to 1 minute.

[0201] Additionally, the alarm sound played in Urgent Mode can differ from that in Normal Mode. For example, the alarm sound in Urgent Mode may have a faster and more urgent tempo compared to Normal Mode. Furthermore, the volume of the alarm sound in Urgent Mode can also be higher than in Normal Mode.

[0202] In addition, the exit sound played in emergency mode may differ from the exit sound played in normal mode. Therefore, the sound control unit 335 may play a first exit sound (fourth sound) when the exit condition is met in normal mode, and a third exit sound (fifth sound) different from the first exit sound when the exit condition is met in emergency mode. In this case, the playback time of the first exit sound in normal mode may, for example, be longer than the playback time of the third exit sound in emergency mode.

[0203] In this way, by using different exit sounds in urgent mode and normal mode, users can gauge the time taken to get out of bed. Specifically, in this variation, the first exit sound in normal mode plays for a longer duration, thus encouraging users who want to hear a longer first exit sound to get out of bed. Furthermore, users who haven't gotten out of bed by the time urgent mode is reached may not have enough time to leisurely listen to the longer exit sound, but according to this variation, the exit sound is shorter in urgent mode, thus preventing impatient users from taking too much time to listen to the exit sound.

[0204] In addition, Figure 5 In the time-arrival processing shown, the sound played by the sound control unit 335, the light emission mode of the light-emitting body 13 implemented by the light emission control unit 337, and the image generated by the image generation unit 336 are different in each state A12 to A16. However, it is also possible that only a portion of the sound played by the sound control unit 335, the light emission mode of the light-emitting body 13 implemented by the light emission control unit 337, and the image generated by the image generation unit 336 are different in each state A12 to A16. Therefore, for example, the image generation unit 336 may generate the same image regardless of the states A12 to A16 of the placement device 1.

[0205] Specific examples of handling when the time arrives

[0206] Next, refer to Figures 6-8 This will illustrate a specific example of sound playback control performed by the sound control unit 335 when the time-arrival processing is executed. Figures 6-8 It is a timing diagram of the motion detected by the detection unit 333 and the sound played by the sound control unit 335.

[0207] Figure 6 This illustrates a scenario where, after the alarm sound is played, the user moves from inside bed B to outside within the detection area of ​​object sensor 21. Figure 6 In the example shown, a sleep guidance sound is played at time t1, determined according to a predetermined bed rest time set by the setting unit 332. In this embodiment, the sleep guidance sound plays for a predetermined duration (e.g., 10 minutes) starting from time t1, and stops at time t2 after the duration has elapsed.

[0208] In addition, Figure 6 In the example shown, after time t2, the user goes to bed on bed B. Therefore, the detection unit 333 continuously detects objects that were originally in positions where significant movements such as lying down or turning over have occurred within the bed-going determination area C. Consequently, the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for the presence of such an object within the area has been met.

[0209] Subsequently, at time t3, determined by the alarm time set by the setting unit 332, the user is still on bed B. Therefore, the detection unit 333 detects an object that was originally in a position where significant movement had occurred within the bedtime determination area C. Consequently, at time t3, the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for presence within the area has been met. As a result, the placement device 1 is set to alarm sound playback state, and the alarm sound begins to play.

[0210] Subsequently, when the user moves from inside bed B to outside bed B at time t4, after time t4, the detection unit 333 no longer detects objects in the sleeping determination area C, but detects objects that were originally in positions where significant movement occurred in the departure determination area D. Therefore, the determination unit 334 determines that the condition for the presence outside the area is met. As a result, the placement device 1 is set to the bed-leaving sound playback state and begins playing the bed-leaving sound. Alternatively, the condition for the presence within the area can also be determined based on periodically detecting significant movements such as the user turning over.

[0211] Figure 7 This illustrates a scenario where, after the alarm sound is played, the user moves from inside bed B to outside the detection area of ​​sensor 21. Figure 7 In the example shown, the alarm sound starts playing at time t3, which is the alarm clock time.

[0212] Subsequently, when the user moves from inside bed B to outside the detection area of ​​sensor 21 at time t5, after time t5, the detection unit 333 no longer detects the object that was originally in a position where a large movement had occurred within the detection area (sleep determination area C and departure determination area D), and also no longer detects small movements. Therefore, the determination unit 334 determines that the estimation condition is not met. As a result, the state of the placement device 1 is set to alarm sound stopped and standby state, and the alarm sound playback stops.

[0213] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, from time t5 until time t6, after a predetermined standby time, the detection unit 333 cannot detect any object, whether it was originally in a position where it had undergone significant movement or only slight movement. As a result, at time t6, the placement device 1 is set to the bed-leaving sound playback state, and the bed-leaving sound begins to play.

[0214] Figure 8 This illustrates a scenario where the user moves from inside bed B to outside the detection area of ​​sensor 21 but remains inside bed B. Figure 8 In the example shown, with Figure 7 Similarly, in the example shown, at time t5, the alarm sound stops playing.

[0215] exist Figure 8In the example shown, although the user remains inside bed B, after time t5, the detection unit 333 detects neither the object that was originally in a position where a large movement occurred nor any small movement. However, since the user remains inside bed B, at time t7, before the predetermined standby time has elapsed from time t5, the detection unit 333 detects a small movement. Therefore, the determination unit 334 determines after time t7 that the existence estimation condition has been met. As a result, after time t7, the state of the placement device 1 is set back to the alarm sound playback state, and the alarm sound is restarted.

[0216] Processing flow

[0217] Next, refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 This will explain the process of sound playback processing that controls sound playback. Figure 9 It is a flowchart that provides a general overview of the sound playback processing flow. Figure 9 The sound playback processing shown is performed by processor 33.

[0218] When sound playback processing begins, the sound control unit 335 first determines whether the timing has reached the time determined according to the alarm time (step S11). If it is determined in step S11 that the timing has not reached the time determined according to the alarm time, the sound playback processing ends.

[0219] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that the timing time has reached the time determined according to the alarm time, the sound control unit 335 executes... Figure 10 The time arrival processing is performed as shown in step S12. Next, the sound control unit 335 determines whether a predetermined processing duration has elapsed since the time determined based on the alarm time (step S13). If it is determined in step S13 that the processing duration has not elapsed, the time arrival processing continues.

[0220] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S13 that the processing duration has elapsed, the sound control unit 335 processes the process when the stop time arrives (step S14). Next, the sound control unit 335 determines whether the state of the placement device 1 at the time the processing stops is a stopped state (A15), that is, whether it is the state described later. Figure 10 The process repeats step S30 (step S15). If it is determined in step S15 that the state of the placement device 1 is in a stopped state, the sound playback process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S15 that the state of the placement device 1 is not in a stopped state (for example, when an alarm sound is playing), the sound control unit 335 plays a timeout sound indicating that the processing duration has expired (step S16), and then the sound playback process ends.

[0221] Next, refer to Figure 10 This will explain the process for handling the arrival of a specific time. Figure 10 This is a flowchart that provides a summary of the processing flow when a time arrives. Figure 9 When the instruction to execute is issued in step S12, it is executed by processor 33. Figure 10 The process is handled when the indicated time arrives. Additionally, Figure 10 When the time shown arrives, the processing is in Figure 9 Stop when a stop command is issued in step S14.

[0222] When the time arrives and processing begins, firstly, the determination unit 334 determines whether a large movement is detected within the sleep determination area C (step S21). If it is determined in step S21 that a large movement is detected within the sleep determination area C, the sound control unit 335 executes alarm sound playback processing (step S22). In the alarm sound playback processing, the sound control unit 335 first starts playing the alarm sound at a high volume. Then, in the alarm sound playback processing, if the determination unit 334 determines that a large movement is continuously detected within the sleep determination area C during a predetermined motion detection time, the volume of the alarm sound is reduced. Subsequently, in the alarm sound playback processing, if no large movement is detected within the sleep determination area C during a predetermined inactivity standby time, the volume of the alarm sound is increased again.

[0223] When the alarm sound playback process begins in step S22, the determination unit 334 determines whether the detection unit 333 has not detected any large or small movements within the bedtime determination area C (step S23). If it is determined in step S23 that either a large or small movement has been detected within the bedtime determination area C, step S22 is repeated. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S23 that no large or small movements have been detected, the determination unit 334 determines whether a large movement has been detected within the departure determination area D (step S24). If it is determined in step S24 that a large movement has been detected, the sound control unit 335 plays a bed-leaving sound (step S25).

[0224] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S24 that no significant movement is detected, the sound control unit 335 stops the alarm sound playback process (step S26). Next, the determination unit 334 determines whether significant movement is detected within the departure determination area D (step S27). If significant movement is detected in step S27, the sound control unit 335 plays an exit sound (step S25). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S27 that no significant movement is detected, the determination unit 334 determines whether the detection unit 333 detects significant or minor movement within the sleep determination area C (step S28). If it is determined in step S28 that either significant or minor movement is detected within the sleep determination area C, the sound control unit 335 restarts the alarm sound playback process (step S22). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S28 that no significant or minor movement is detected within the sleep determination area C, the determination unit 334 determines whether a predetermined standby time has elapsed since the alarm sound playback process stopped (step S29). If it is determined in step S29 that the prescribed standby time has not been elapsed, steps S27 and S28 are repeated. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S29 that the prescribed standby time has been elapsed, the sound control unit 335 plays an exit sound (step S25).

[0225] When the playback of the bed-leaving sound in step S25 ends, the determination unit 334 determines whether the restart condition for restarting the alarm sound playback is met (step S30). If it is determined in step S30 that the restart condition is not met, the sound control unit 335 stops the sound playback (step S31), and then repeats steps S30 and S31. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S30 that the restart condition is met, the sound control unit 335 starts the alarm sound playback process (step S22).

[0226] Image generation and processing, time announcement playback processing, and light emission processing

[0227] Next, refer to Figures 11-14 This will be used to explain image generation and processing, time announcement and playback processing, and light emission processing.

[0228] Image generation processing is primarily performed by the image generation unit 336, and it involves generating an image to be displayed on the display 11. In this embodiment, during image generation processing, the image generation unit 336 generates an image that includes information related to the time being timed by the timing unit 331 (time, date and time, day of the week, etc.). Additionally, during image generation processing, the image generation unit 336 generates an image corresponding to settings related to the timing performed by the setting unit 332, including the time being timed by the timing unit 331, the detection results from the detection unit 333, and other relevant information.

[0229] In this embodiment, the image generation process includes a constant image generation process that generates an image independently of the output of the object sensor 21, and a sensor response image generation process that generates an image corresponding to the output of the object sensor 21. Details regarding the image generation process will be described later.

[0230] The time announcement playback process is primarily performed by the sound control unit 335, which involves playing a time announcement sound when the timer reaches a preset moment. In this embodiment, during the time announcement playback process, the sound control unit 335 plays a time announcement sound to notify the time at every hour on the hour. However, the sound control unit 335 may also play the time announcement sound only at specific hours on the hour (e.g., 12 noon, 12 midnight), or at other times outside of the hour.

[0231] Alternatively, when the preset time is reached, the sound control unit 335 may play a time announcement sound, and the image generation unit 336 may generate a time announcement image to notify of the time, which is then displayed on the display 11. The time announcement image may be, for example, a moving image showing the arrival of the preset time.

[0232] The light emission processing is primarily performed by the light emission control unit 337, which controls the light emission from the light-emitting body 13. In the light emission processing, the light emission control unit 337 causes the light-emitting body 13 to emit light when any light emission condition related to its emission is met. The light emission control unit 337 also causes the light-emitting body 13 to light up or flash when any light emission condition is met. Furthermore, the light emission control unit 337 can also change the color of the light emission from the light-emitting body 13 when the light emission condition is met. In addition, the light emission control unit 337 can also cause the light-emitting body 13 to emit light in multiple colors simultaneously when the light emission condition is met.

[0233] Furthermore, the conditions related to light emission may include, for example, the condition that is met when the timing reaches the preset time. In this case, when the timing reaches the preset time, the light emitter 13 emits light simultaneously with the playback of the time announcement sound. Additionally, if the placement device 1 has a communication module and receives information via that communication module, the aforementioned conditions related to light emission may also include the condition that is met when the information is received.

[0234] Furthermore, in the aforementioned time arrival processing, the light emission control unit 337 also controls the light emission from the light-emitting body 13, and the control of light emission in this time arrival processing is also an example of light emission processing. Therefore, for example, when the light emission condition that the timing time reaches the time determined according to the alarm time is met during the execution of light emission processing, as described above, the light emission control unit 337 causes the light-emitting body 13 to flash.

[0235] Figure 11 This is a timing diagram showing the execution status of image generation processing, time announcement playback processing, and illumination processing. Figure 11 In the example shown, with Figure 6 Similarly, in the example shown, at time t1 determined according to the predetermined bed rest time set by setting unit 332 (at Figure 11 (The sleep guidance sound will play at the same time as the scheduled bedtime.) Additionally, at time t3 (as determined by the alarm time set by setting unit 332), Figure 11 (The alarm time is the same as the alarm clock time.) The alarm sound will be played according to the situation.

[0236] like Figure 11 As shown, in this embodiment, a constant image generation process is performed during the rest period from time t1, determined according to a predetermined bed rest time, until time t3, determined according to an alarm clock time. Therefore, during the rest period, the image generation unit 336 generates an image independent of the output of the object sensor 21, and thus displays an image independent of the output of the object sensor 21 on the display 11. Furthermore, since the output of the object sensor 21 is not necessary during the rest period, power supply to the object sensor 21 can be stopped. In this case, no signal may be output from the object sensor 21, and the image generation unit 336 may output a constant image that does not change based on the absence of input from the object sensor 21.

[0237] On the other hand, such as Figure 11 As shown, in this embodiment, during the active period, which is a period different from the rest period (a period excluding the rest period), sensor response image generation processing is performed as image generation processing. Therefore, during the active period, the image generation unit 336 generates an image corresponding to the output of the object sensor 21, and thus displays the image corresponding to the output of the object sensor 21 on the display 11.

[0238] In addition, such as Figure 11As shown, in this embodiment, the time announcement playback process stops during the rest period. Therefore, during the rest period, even if the timer reaches a preset time (e.g., on the hour), the sound control unit 335 does not play the time announcement sound. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the light emission process stops during the rest period. Therefore, during the rest period, even if the above-mentioned light emission conditions are met, the light emission control unit 337 does not cause the light emitter 13 to emit light, but instead keeps the light emitter 13 in an off state.

[0239] On the other hand, such as Figure 11 As shown, in this embodiment, the time announcement playback process is executed during the activity period. Therefore, during the activity period, when the timer reaches a preset time (e.g., each hour on the hour), the sound control unit 335 plays a time announcement sound. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the light emission process is executed during the activity period. Therefore, during the activity period, the light emission control unit 337 causes the light-emitting body 13 to emit light when the aforementioned light emission conditions are met.

[0240] In this embodiment, during the activity period, an image corresponding to the output of the object sensor 21 is generated and displayed on the display 11. Therefore, it is possible to notify the user whether the user was correctly detected based on the output of the object sensor 21.

[0241] Furthermore, the rest period from time t1, determined according to the predetermined bedtime, until time t3, determined according to the alarm time, is the period during which the user should go to sleep. Therefore, during this rest period, it is necessary to avoid causing movement to the user or other people around the user who is sleeping. However, if sensor response image generation processing is performed, an image corresponding to the output of the object sensor 21 is displayed on the display 11, which may cause movement to the user who intends to go to sleep or other people around the user, thereby disturbing the user's sleep. In contrast, in this embodiment, constant image generation processing is performed instead of sensor response image generation processing during the rest period, thus suppressing movement to the user or other people around the user during this period, thereby preventing disturbance to the user's sleep.

[0242] Furthermore, if a time announcement is played or the light source 13 emits light during rest periods, it may disturb the user's sleep. In this embodiment, the time announcement and light emission processes are stopped during rest periods, thus suppressing any disturbance to the user's sleep.

[0243] Furthermore, the rest period for performing constant image generation processing can be any period that includes the time before the time t3 determined according to the alarm time. Therefore, the rest period can also be a period that includes the time immediately preceding the alarm time (i.e., a period that continues until the time immediately preceding the alarm time). Alternatively, the rest period can also be a period that does not include the time t1 determined according to the predetermined bed rest time. Therefore, the rest period can also be a period from any time after the time t1 determined according to the predetermined bed rest time until the time t3 determined according to the alarm time. Or, the rest period can also be a period from any time before the time t1 determined according to the predetermined bed rest time until the time t3 determined according to the alarm time. Or, if no predetermined bed rest time is set, the rest period can be a period from the time the alarm time is set by the setting unit 332 based on user input until the time determined according to the alarm time. Or, the rest period can be a period from the time determined according to the predetermined bed rest time until the processing ends when the alarm time arrives. Or, the rest period can be the period during which the alarm setting for playing the alarm sound at the time determined according to the alarm time is enabled.

[0244] Furthermore, the active period for performing sensor response image generation processing can be any period different from the rest period. Therefore, the active period can be the entire period excluding the rest period, or it can be a portion of the period excluding the rest period. Alternatively, if the alarm setting is on during the rest period, the active period can also be the period when the alarm setting is off. Additionally, the sensor response image generation processing can also be performed only during a portion of the active period, not the entire active period. For example, even during the active period, the sensor response image generation processing can stop while a time announcement is playing. In this case, the image generation unit 336 can generate a time announcement image independent of the output of the object sensor 21.

[0245] Image Generation and Processing

[0246] Next, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 This will illustrate the image generation process. Figure 12 This is a summary illustration of the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21 when the placement device 1 is set beside the bed B, and... Figure 4 The same image. Also... Figure 13 This diagram illustrates the display of an image generated by the image generation unit 336 during image generation processing on the monitor 11. Figure 13In the example shown, the display 11 shows a date and time image including the date, day of the week, and time, as well as an image of a character. The date and time image is an image that does not change based on the output of the object sensor 21.

[0247] First, the image generation performed by the image generation unit 336 in the sensor response image generation process will be explained. In the sensor response image generation process, the image generation unit 336 generates an image based on the output of the object sensor 21. In this embodiment, the image generation unit 336 generates an image based on the position and motion of an object detected by the detection unit 333 based on the output of the object sensor 21. In particular, in this embodiment, the image generation unit 336 generates images of characters, vehicles, and other objects whose position or motion changes according to the position or motion of the object detected by the detection unit 333.

[0248] In this embodiment, during sensor response image generation processing, the image generation unit 336 generates an image corresponding to the detected object's position when the detection unit 333 detects the position of an object within the response action display area E. Alternatively, the image generation unit 336 may generate an image in a manner where the position of the character image or object image on the display 11 in the left-right direction (the position of the character image or object image in the generated image) changes according to the circumferential position of the object within the response action display area E. For example, if the position of an object is detected at the center of the circumferential direction in the response action display area E, the image generation unit 336 generates an image such that the character image or object image is displayed at the center of the display 11. Therefore, for example, when... Figure 12 If an object is detected at position b, such as Figure 13 As shown in (B), a character image is displayed in the center of the display 11. On the other hand, for example, when the position of an object is detected in the circumferentially oriented display area E near the center, the image generation unit 336 generates an image such that it displays a character image or an object image in the left-right direction on the side of the display 11 corresponding to the aforementioned center. Therefore, for example, when in… Figure 12 When objects are detected at positions c and d, respectively, as follows: Figure 13 (C) and Figure 13 As shown in (D), the character image is displayed on the display 11 at a position slightly to the left or right of the center.

[0249] Alternatively, the image generation unit 336 may generate an image in a manner where the size of the character image or object image displayed on the display 11 varies according to the distance from the object sensor 21 to the object's position within the response action display area E. For example, if the position of an object is detected at a position radially away from the object sensor 21 within the response action display area E, the image generation unit 336 generates an image in a manner that displays the character image or object image in a small size on the display 11. Thus, for example, when in Figure 12 If an object is detected at position c, such as Figure 13 As shown in (C), the character image is displayed relatively small on the display 11. On the other hand, for example, when the position of an object is detected in the response action display area E at a position radially close to the object sensor 21, the image generation unit 336 generates an image in a manner that displays the character image or object image large on the display 11. Therefore, for example, when in Figure 12 If an object is detected at position d, such as Figure 13 As shown in (D), the character image is displayed relatively large on the display 11. Alternatively, the image generation unit 336 may also generate an image by displaying on the display 11 a number representing the distance from the object sensor 21 to the position of the object within the response action display area E.

[0250] On the other hand, in the sensor response image generation process, the image generation unit 336 generates a constant image that does not change when the detection unit 333 does not detect the position of an object within the response action display area E. For example, in this case, the image generation unit 336 generates an image that does not contain an image of a character or an image of an object. Therefore, for example, when in Figure 12 If an object is detected at position a1 or a2, such as Figure 13 As shown in (A), no character image is displayed on the monitor 11.

[0251] Furthermore, in this embodiment, during the sensor response image generation process, the image generation unit 336 generates an image corresponding to the motion of an object detected by the detection unit 333 within the response motion display area E. For example, the image generation unit 336 generates an image that varies depending on whether the detection unit 333 detects motion at or above a reference motion level. Additionally, the image generation unit 336 generates an image that varies depending on whether the motion at or above the reference motion level detected by the detection unit 333 is detected as circumferential movement within the response motion display area E.

[0252] Specifically, for example, the image generation unit 336 generates a character image or object image in a static state when the detection unit 333 detects motion below a reference motion level, or when no motion of the object is detected. Therefore, for example, when in... Figure 12If a stationary object is detected at position d, such as Figure 13 As shown in (D), an image of a standing, motionless character is displayed on the monitor 11. Alternatively, in this case, a still animation (e.g., the character looking forward, the character sitting still, etc.) can be played every few seconds. This allows the user to know that the monitor has detected that the user is in a static state.

[0253] Furthermore, the image generation unit 336 generates several frames of character or object images in an action state when the detection unit detects motion at or above a reference motion level. In particular, when the motion at or above a reference motion level detected by the detection unit is detected as circumferential movement, the image generation unit 336 generates character or object images moving in the left-right direction. Therefore, for example, when... Figure 12 If position b detects a large movement of an object moving circumferentially, such as Figure 13 As shown in (B), a character image moving in the left-right direction is displayed on the monitor 11. On the other hand, the image generation unit 336 generates a character image or object image that is moving in place (e.g., jumping) when the motion above the reference motion level detected by the detection unit is detected as not moving in the circumferential direction. Thus, for example, when in Figure 12 If position c detects an object that is moving significantly in place, such as Figure 13 As shown in (C), an image of a character jumping is displayed on the monitor 11.

[0254] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when an object originally detected by the detection unit 333 within the response action display area E is detected outside the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21 but outside the response action display area E, the image generation unit 336 generates an image by switching images in a first manner. For example, when in Figure 12 In this embodiment, if the position f detects a large movement of an object moving radially away from the response action display area E, the image generation unit 336 generates a character image or object image that gradually moves away when switching from an image containing the character to an image that does not contain the character.

[0255] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the image generation unit 336 generates an image by switching images in the second manner when an object originally detected by the detection unit 333 within the response action display area E is no longer detected within the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21 and outside the response action display area E, and is no longer detected within the detection area of ​​the object sensor 21. For example, when in Figure 12In this embodiment, if position g detects a large movement of an object moving circumferentially away from the response action display area E, the image generation unit 336 will not specifically generate a character image or object image when switching from an image containing a character to an image without a character. Therefore, the character image or object image originally displayed on the display 11 suddenly disappears from the left or right end of the display 11.

[0256] In this embodiment, by generating an image corresponding to the position of the object detected by the detection unit 333, the user can know whether the object sensor 21 has properly identified the position of the object. Furthermore, the image generation unit 336 can also generate an image regardless of the position of the object detected by the detection unit 333.

[0257] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the image generated by the image generation unit 336 when the detection unit 333 detects the position of an object within the response motion display area E is different from the image generated by the image generation unit 336 when the detection unit 333 does not detect the position of an object within the response motion display area E. As a result, the user can know whether the response motion display area E has been set appropriately. In particular, the response motion display area E is set based on the area where the bed B is located, as set according to the user's input, so the user can know whether the object sensor 21 has been set appropriately to the area where the bed B is located. In addition, as long as different images are generated when the position of an object is detected within the response motion display area E and when the position of an object is not detected within the response motion display area E, the image generation unit 336 can generate images of any kind.

[0258] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the image generated by the image generation unit 336 differs from the image generated by the image generation unit 336 when the detection unit 333 detects motion at or above the reference motion level. Therefore, the user can determine whether the detection unit 333 has detected motion at or above the reference motion level. In particular, as described above, when motion at or above the reference motion level is detected while the placement device 1 is in alarm sound playback mode, the alarm sound volume can be reduced or the alarm sound playback can be stopped. Thus, the user can know the degree of action required to reduce the alarm sound volume or stop the alarm sound playback.

[0259] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the image switching method differs depending on whether an object detected within the response action display area E is now detected outside the object sensor 21's detection area, or is no longer detected within the object sensor 21's detection area. Therefore, the user can determine whether moving outside the response action display area E is within or outside the object sensor 21's detection area.

[0260] Next, the image generation performed by the image generation unit 336 in the constant image generation process will be described. As described above, in the constant image generation process, the image generation unit 336 generates an image independent of the output of the object sensor 21. In particular, in this embodiment, the image generation unit 336 generates a constant image that does not change. For example, such as Figure 13 As shown in (E), the image generation unit 336 continuously displays the horizontally lying character image without changing it. Furthermore, in the constant image generation process, the image generation unit 336 can generate images that change regardless of the output of the object sensor 21. For example, the image generation unit 336 can also generate images that change according to the passage of time.

[0261] Processing flow

[0262] Next, refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15 This section explains the processing flow related to image generation, time announcement, and light emission. Figure 14 It is a flowchart that outlines the execution process of image generation, time announcement playback, and illumination processing. Figure 14 The execution process shown is performed by processor 33.

[0263] When the processing begins, the determination unit 334 first determines whether the current time period is a rest period (step S41). In this embodiment, the determination unit 334 determines whether the time period is between the time determined according to the predetermined bed rest time and the time determined according to the alarm time. If it is determined in step S41 that the current time period is a rest period, the image generation unit 336 performs constant image generation processing (step S42), the sound control unit 335 stops the time announcement playback processing (step S43), and the light emission control unit 337 stops the light emission processing (step S44). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S41 that the current time period is not a rest period, the image generation unit 336 performs sensor response image generation processing (step S45), the sound control unit 335 performs time announcement playback processing (step S46), and the light emission control unit 337 performs light emission processing (step S47).

[0264] Figure 15This is a flowchart that outlines the process of sensor response image generation and processing. Figure 15 The sensor response image generation process shown is executed by processor 33.

[0265] When the sensor response image generation process begins, firstly, the determination unit 334 determines whether an object has been detected entering or leaving the response action display area E (step S51). That is, the determination unit 334 determines whether an object has been detected entering or leaving the response action display area E. Figure 12 The movement is as shown in positions f and g. If it is determined in step S51 that no object has been detected entering or leaving, the determination unit 334 determines whether an object has been detected within the response action display area E (step S52). If it is determined in step S52 that no object has been detected, the image generation unit 336 does not generate a character image (step S53).

[0266] If an object is detected in step S52, the determination unit 334 determines whether a large-scale movement above the reference movement level is detected (step S54). If no large-scale movement is detected in step S54, the image generation unit 336 generates an image of a character standing still (step S55). If a large-scale movement is detected in step S54, the determination unit 334 determines whether the large-scale movement is moving circumferentially (step S56). If no large-scale movement is detected in step S56, the image generation unit 336 generates an image of a character jumping (step S57). On the other hand, if a large-scale movement is detected in step S56, the image generation unit 336 generates an image of a character walking (step S58).

[0267] If it is determined in step S51 that an object has been detected entering or exiting, the determination unit 334 determines whether the object has entered or exited relative to the response action display area E by radial movement (step S59). If it is determined in step S59 that the object has entered or exited by radial movement (in the event that...), then... Figure 12 In the case of movement at position f, the image generation unit 336 generates an animated image (e.g., an image of a character gradually moving away) (step S60). On the other hand, if it is not determined in step S59 that the object is moving in or out radially, the image generation unit 336 does not generate an animated image (step S61).

[0268] Variations

[0269] Next, a variation of the image generation and processing will be described.

[0270] In one variation, during sensor-response image generation processing, the image generation unit 336 may generate different images depending on whether the object detected by the detection unit 333 is located within the sleeping determination area C or outside the sleeping determination area C. For example, if the object detected by the detection unit 333 is located within the sleeping determination area C, the image generation unit 336 generates an image of a character on the bed. Alternatively, if the object detected by the detection unit 333 is located outside the sleeping determination area C, the image generation unit 336 generates an image of a character beside the bed. Thus, the user can know which position they are in when they are determined to be within the sleeping determination area C.

[0271] In other variations, if the object's position is detected by the detection unit 333 within a region defined by the object sensor 21 (e.g., 15 cm), the image generation unit 336 may not perform sensor response image generation processing even during the activity period. Therefore, if the object's position is detected by the detection unit 333 within a region defined by the object sensor 21 (e.g., 15 cm), the image generation unit 336 may not generate an image corresponding to the output of the object sensor 21. In this case, the image generation unit 336 may also generate an image unrelated to the output of the object sensor 21, or... Figure 13 As shown in (A), no image is generated. Therefore, in cases where the distance from the object sensor 21 to the object's position is too close, and the detection unit 333 cannot perform detection correctly, the display of an inappropriate image can be suppressed.

[0272] Checking the detection status

[0273] Furthermore, as described above, whether the detection unit 333 detects large-amplitude movements within the bedtime determination area C, and whether the detection unit 333 detects small-amplitude movements, are used to determine the state of the placement device 1. In particular, whether the presence conditions and presence estimation conditions within the area are met (i.e., whether the presence conditions are met) are used to determine whether to play an alarm sound.

[0274] Furthermore, as described above, consider the following scenario: when the user makes significant movements (e.g., getting up, turning over, moving arms and legs) within the sleep determination area C, the detection unit 333 detects significant movements above a reference movement level within the sleep determination area C. Similarly, consider the following scenario: when the user makes minor movements (e.g., breathing) on ​​the bed B near the object sensor 21, the detection unit 333 detects minor movements below a reference movement level near the object sensor 21. Therefore, even if the user is not located within the sleep determination area C or near the object sensor 21, significant movements are detected within the sleep determination area C, or minor movements are detected near the object sensor 21, the alarm sound may be inappropriately played or stopped.

[0275] For example, in a situation where air conditioning equipment such as an electric fan blows air onto bed B, even if there is no user on bed B, the fan will oscillate, the bedding will move, resulting in large or small movements. Therefore, in such a situation, even though the user is not on bed B, large movements will be detected in the sleeping determination area C, or small movements will be detected near the object sensor 21, but the user may not be aware of this.

[0276] Therefore, in this embodiment, a status check process is performed to determine whether the detection state of the detection unit 333 is normal when requested by the user. Specifically, in this embodiment, the status check process determines whether the following situation does not exist: although the user should not be located within the sleep determination area C or near the object sensor 21, a large movement is detected within the sleep determination area C, or a small movement is detected near the object sensor 21. Furthermore, in the status check process, if a large movement is detected within the sleep determination area C or a small movement is detected near the object sensor 21, even though the user should not be located within the sleep determination area C or near the object sensor 21, the detection state is determined to be abnormal. On the other hand, in the status check process, if no large movement is detected within the sleep determination area C and no small movement is detected near the object sensor 21, the detection state is determined to be normal.

[0277] Specific examples of inspection and control measures

[0278] Reference Figure 16 and Figure 17 This section describes a specific example of a check control process that includes status check processing. The check control process begins when the user provides input indicating a desire to perform status check processing and ends after the status check processing is completed and its result is communicated to the user. Figure 16 and Figure 17This is a timing diagram showing the operation and detection status of the sound control unit 335, etc., during the execution of inspection and control processing. Specifically, Figure 16 and Figure 17 It consists of the sound played by the sound control unit 335, the image generated by the image generation unit 336, the light emission state of the light emitter 13 caused by the light emission control unit 337, and the timing diagram of the motion detected by the detection unit 333.

[0279] Figure 16 This is a timing diagram for the case where the detection state is determined to be normal during the state check process. Figure 16 In the example shown, at time t 11 The user provides input indicating their desire to perform a status check. This input, indicating the desire to check, is performed, for example, by the user operating the operation unit 20. At time t... 11 When an input indicating a desired inspection is made, the inspection execution unit 338 begins inspection control processing.

[0280] Furthermore, the inspection control process can also begin at a time other than when the user inputs information indicating a desire to inspect. For example, the inspection control process can also begin when the placement device 1 is first turned on and initial settings are performed. Additionally, the inspection control process can also begin when the user changes the setting position of the placement device 1 or replaces bed B with a bed of a different size, for example, when new information related to bed B (such as the relative position of the placement device 1 to bed B) is input via the operation unit 20.

[0281] At time t 11 When the check control process begins, the image generation unit 336 first generates a check guidance image, which is displayed on the display 11. The check guidance image may also contain a message summarizing the status check process starting from this point. For example, the check guidance image may contain a message indicating that there are no moving objects within the sleep determination area C from this point onward. In addition, the check guidance image may contain a departure message prompting the user to leave the area containing the sleep determination area C. For example, the check guidance image may contain a message indicating that the user needs to move at least 3.5 meters away from the placement device 1 during the status check process. Alternatively, the check guidance image may contain a message indicating that the user is not allowed to approach the placement device 1 during the playback of the check sound played during the status check process. Furthermore, the check guidance images may be displayed all at once on the display 11, or they may be displayed sequentially multiple times, switching each time the user operates the operation unit 20.

[0282] Alternatively, it could be that at time t 11When the inspection control process begins, the inspection execution unit 338 prompts the user to input the relative position of the placement device 1 with respect to the bed B, and the distance from the placement device 1 to the bed B. As a result, when the user inputs the relative position and the distance to the bed B, the setting unit 332 sets the area where the bed B is located based on the input relative position and the distance to the bed B. By setting the area where the bed B is located immediately before the start of the state inspection process, it is possible to suppress the situation where the detection state is incorrectly determined due to the incorrect setting of the area where the bed B is located.

[0283] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the inspection control process begins, an inspection guidance image is first generated and displayed on the display 11. However, it is also possible not to generate an inspection guidance image or not to display it on the display 11. In this case, the time t (described later) is performed immediately upon the start of the inspection control process. 12 Subsequent actions.

[0284] exist Figure 16 In the example shown, afterwards, at time t 12 The user provides input indicating the start of the approval status check process. This approval input is performed, for example, by the user operating the operation unit 20.

[0285] In this embodiment, when at time t 12 When an input indicating the commencement of the status check process is received, the sound control unit 335 plays a processing start sound indicating that the status check process will begin thereafter. The processing start sound is an effect sound. For example, the processing start sound is a voice message indicating that the status check process will begin after a specified countdown time (e.g., 10 seconds). Alternatively, it could be that even at time t... 12 Even after input indicating the start of the approval status check process is received, the sound control unit 335 does not play the processing start sound.

[0286] Additionally, when at time t 12 When an input indicating the start of the approval status check process is received, the image generation unit 336 generates a countdown image representing the remaining time until the start of the status check process, and this countdown image is displayed on the display 11. The countdown image is generated from time t. 11 The countdown proceeds for a specified period of time. A countdown image, for example, represents the remaining time until the status check process begins.

[0287] In this embodiment, from time t 12Until the countdown time has elapsed, the sound control unit 335 will not play any sounds other than the processing start sound. However, the sound control unit 335 may also play a voice message indicating the remaining time until the start state check processing.

[0288] exist Figure 16 In the example shown, from time t 12 The countdown time has passed. 13 The inspection execution unit 338 begins status check processing. Therefore, in this embodiment, the inspection execution unit 338 begins status check processing after a countdown time has elapsed since the inspection guide screen was displayed on the display 11. Because the status check processing does not begin before the countdown time elapsed since the inspection guide screen was displayed, the user can leave the vicinity of the placement device 1 during this period. As a result, it is possible to prevent the user from being unable to leave the placement device 1 and thus incorrectly determining that the detection status is abnormal.

[0289] In this embodiment, the inspection execution unit 338 determines whether the detection state is normal based on whether the normal determination conditions are met during the state inspection process. The inspection execution unit 338 determines that the detection state is normal when the normal determination conditions are met, and determines that the detection state is abnormal when the normal determination conditions are not met.

[0290] In this embodiment, the normal determination condition is a condition that is satisfied if the determination unit 334 does not determine that the existence condition is satisfied even once from the start of the status check process until a predetermined check time (e.g., 20 seconds) has elapsed. Therefore, the normal determination condition is a condition that is not satisfied if the determination unit 334 determines that the existence condition is satisfied even once before the predetermined check time has elapsed from the start of the status check process.

[0291] Furthermore, the existence condition is a condition that is satisfied when the determination unit 334 determines that either the existence condition within the region or the existence estimation condition is satisfied. However, the existence condition may also be a condition that is satisfied when at least one of the existence condition within the region and the existence condition outside the region is satisfied. Alternatively, the existence condition may be a condition that is satisfied when the existence condition within the region is satisfied. Alternatively, the existence condition may also be another condition based on the detection unit 333 detecting at least one of a large movement and its position, and a small movement, and determining its satisfaction.

[0292] Therefore, the normal determination condition is met when the detection unit 333 does not detect any large-amplitude movement (movement above the reference movement level) or small-amplitude movement (movement below the reference movement level) within the sleep determination area C even once from the start of the state check process until the prescribed check time has elapsed. On the other hand, the normal determination condition is not met if the detection unit 333 detects at least one of the large-amplitude movement (movement above the reference movement level) or small-amplitude movement (movement below the reference movement level) within the sleep determination area C even once before the prescribed check time has elapsed from the start of the state check process.

[0293] In this embodiment, the normal determination condition is determined to be met only if the condition is not determined to be met even once within the specified inspection time period. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where the normal determination condition is mistakenly determined to be met, thus mistakenly determining that the detection state is in a normal state.

[0294] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the condition is not met—that is, if no large or small movement is detected within the bedtime determination area C—the detection state is determined to be normal. Therefore, in this embodiment, when determining whether the detection state is normal, the presence or absence of large movement outside the determination area D is not considered, thus enabling a more accurate determination of whether the condition for stopping the alarm sound is met. Figure 5 C13 shows the determination of whether the estimation condition is satisfied.

[0295] Furthermore, a normal determination condition can be any condition that includes the existence of a situation where a condition is not met, or it can be any other condition. For example, a normal determination condition can also be a condition that is met in the following situation: during the specified inspection time, there is a period of time (a period shorter than the inspection time) during which the condition is not met.

[0296] The image generation unit 336 generates an image indicating that the status check process is being executed during the execution of the status check process. Therefore, during the execution of the status check process, the image indicating that the status check process is being executed is displayed on the display 11. As a result, the user can understand that the status check process is being executed.

[0297] Furthermore, the sound control unit 335 plays a check-in sound during the status check process. Therefore, the sound control unit 335 plays the check-in sound from the start of the status check process until the end of the status check process. The check-in sound can be, for example, music. However, the check-in sound can also be a continuously playing sound effect.

[0298] In addition, the light emission control unit 337 causes the light emitter 13 to flash during the status check process. Therefore, the light emission control unit 337 causes the light emitter 13 to flash from the start of the status check process until the end of the status check process.

[0299] Here, during the status check process, the user needs to leave the placement device 1. Therefore, the user may not be able to observe the display 11 of the placement device 1 during the status check process. In this embodiment, a check sound is played at the beginning and end of the status check process, and the light source 13 emits light. Therefore, even if the user cannot observe the display 11, they can still know the start and end of the status check process.

[0300] Furthermore, the sound control unit 335 only needs to play sound during the start state check process and the end state check process. Therefore, the sound control unit 335 can also stop playing sound at times other than the start state check process (a predetermined time before or after the start of the state check process) and the end state check process (a predetermined time before or after the end of the state check process). Alternatively, the sound control unit 335 can also not play sound during the start state check process and the end state check process. Similarly, the light emission control unit 337 only needs to make the light emitter 13 emit light during the start state check process and the end state check process. Therefore, the light emission control unit 337 can also stop the light emission of the light emitter 13 at times other than the start state check process (a predetermined time before or after the start of the state check process) and the end state check process (a predetermined time before or after the end of the state check process). Alternatively, the light emission control unit 337 can also not make the light emitter 13 emit light during the start state check process and the end state check process.

[0301] exist Figure 16 In the example shown, at time t, which begins the state check process... 13 From the moment t until the inspection time has elapsed 14 During the period up to this point, detection unit 333 detected neither large nor small movements within the sleeping determination area C. Therefore, in Figure 16 In the example shown, since at time t 14 Since the normal judgment conditions are met, the inspection execution unit 338 determines that the detection status is normal.

[0302] At time t 14When the detection state is determined to be normal, the state check process ends. Simultaneously, the sound control unit 335 plays a processing end sound indicating that the state check process has ended. The processing end sound is an effect sound. For example, the processing end sound is a voice message indicating that the state check process has ended. After the processing end sound is played, sound playback stops. Alternatively, it is also possible that even at time t... 14 The status check process is complete, and the sound control unit 335 does not play the processing completion sound. Additionally, at time t... 14 When the status check process ends, the light emission control unit 337 may temporarily illuminate or flash the light emission element 13. However, when the light emission control unit 337 flashes the light emission element 13, it makes it flash in a manner different from the flashing mode during the status check process (e.g., changing the light emission color).

[0303] Additionally, when at time t 14 When the detection state is determined to be normal, the image generation unit 336 generates a normal determination image indicating that the detection state is normal. The normal determination image is, for example, an image containing a message indicating that the detection state is normal. Specifically, the normal determination image is, for example, an image containing a message indicating that no moving object was detected within the sleeping determination region C. Furthermore, when at time t... 14 When the detection state is determined to be normal, the light emission control unit 337 stops the light emission of the light emitter 13. Then, at time t... 15 The check control process ends when the user provides input indicating that the check is complete.

[0304] Figure 17 This is a timing diagram for cases where the detected state is determined to be an abnormal state during the state check process. Figure 17 In the example shown, with Figure 16 Similarly, in the example shown, at time t 12 The user provided input indicating the start of the approval status check process at time t. 13 Status check processing begins.

[0305] exist Figure 17 In the example shown, from time t 13 The moment t before the countdown timer expires 16 The detection unit 333 detected a large-scale movement within the sleeping determination area C. Therefore, at time t... 16 The determination unit 334 determines that the existence condition is met. Therefore, since the normal determination condition is no longer met, the inspection execution unit 338 determines that the detection state is an abnormal state. In this embodiment, the inspection execution unit 338 determines the existence condition is met at the time t. 16Ending the status check process. That is, in this embodiment, if the determination unit 334 determines that a condition is met before the check time has elapsed since the start of the status check process, the check execution unit 338 ends the status check process before the check time has elapsed. By ending the status check process before the check time has elapsed in this way, the status check process can be ended as early as possible, and the result of the status check process can be notified to the user as early as possible.

[0306] At time t 16 When the detection state is determined to be abnormal and the status check process ends, the sound control unit 335 plays a processing end sound indicating that the status check process has ended. The processing end sound played at this time can also be a different sound than the sound played when the detection state is determined to be normal and the status check process has ended. For example, the processing end sound could be set to the correct answer effect when the detection state is normal, and set to the incorrect answer effect when the detection state is abnormal.

[0307] Additionally, when at time t 16 When the status check process ends, the light emission control unit 337 may temporarily illuminate or flash the light emitter 13. At this time, the light emitter 13 may illuminate or flash in a different manner than when the status check process ends because the detection state is determined to be normal. For example, the light emitter 13 may illuminate in blue when the detection state is normal, and flash in red when the detection state is abnormal.

[0308] Additionally, when at time t 16 When the detection state is determined to be abnormal, the image generation unit 336 generates an abnormality determination image indicating that the detection state is abnormal. The abnormality determination image is an image containing a message indicating that the detection state is abnormal. Specifically, the abnormality determination image may be an image containing abnormality determination messages such as a message indicating that an object moving within the sleeping determination area C has been detected, or a message indicating that the placement device 1 may malfunction if left as is. Thus, the user can be aware that the detection state is abnormal.

[0309] In addition, the anomaly determination image is an image that includes an image related to the detection status of an object based on the detection results of the detection unit 333 during the execution of the state check process. Figure 18 This is an example of an image showing the detection status of an object. Specifically, Figure 18 An image displayed on monitor 11 is shown.

[0310] If, during the execution of the status check process, the detection unit 333 detects a large movement within the sleeping determination area C, and also detects the location where the large movement is occurring, the image generation unit 336 generates, for example... Figure 18 As shown in (A), an image corresponding to the position of the object detected by the detection unit 333 (the position where a large movement is occurring) is used as an image related to the object's detection status. If, during the state check process, the detection unit 333 detects a large movement within the sleeping determination area C, but detects the distance to the location instead of its position, the image generation unit 336 generates, for example... Figure 18 As shown in (B), an image corresponding to the distance to the object detected by the detection unit 333 is used as an image related to the object's detection status. Furthermore, if, during the state check process, the detection unit 333 detects no large movement but detects small movement within the sleeping determination area C, the image generation unit 336 generates, for example... Figure 18 The image generated (as shown in (C)) represents the presence of an object near the detection unit 333, and is used as an image related to the object detection status. Furthermore, the image generated in this case can also vary depending on the detected small movement. Therefore, when the detection unit 333 detects a small movement but does not detect the object's position or distance, the image generation unit 336 generates an image indicating that a small movement has been detected. By generating an image related to the object detection status and displaying it on the display 11, the user can understand what kind of detection the detection unit 333 is performing. In particular, in this embodiment, by generating an image corresponding to the object's position by the image generation unit 336 when a position where a large movement is detected and displaying that image on the display 11, the user can easily determine the reason why movement has been determined to have occurred.

[0311] Furthermore, the images containing the anomaly determination message and the images related to the detection status of the object based on the detection result of the detection unit 333 can be displayed on the display 11 all at once, or they can be displayed sequentially multiple times in a manner that switches each time the user operates the operation unit 20.

[0312] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the inspection execution unit 338 determines that the detection state is an abnormal state during the first state inspection process in the inspection control process, it will perform the state inspection process again. Therefore, after generating the abnormality determination image, the image generation unit 336 generates an image illustrating the re-execution of the state inspection process, and the generated image is displayed on the display 11. Then, when at time t... 17 When the user provides input indicating the start of the permission status check process, at time t 18The status check process will begin again.

[0313] Here, in the state check process, if the determination unit 334 determines that the existence condition is met even once, it determines that the detection state is an abnormal state. Therefore, the condition for determining that the detection state is an abnormal state is relatively strict. In this embodiment, in the state check process, if the detection state is determined to be an abnormal state even once, the state check process is executed again, thereby allowing for careful determination of the detection state. In addition, in this embodiment, if the detection state is determined to be a normal state in the first state check process, the check control process ends and the state check process is not executed again.

[0314] Furthermore, the inspection execution unit 338 may not perform the status check process again even if the detection status is determined to be abnormal during the first status check process. Alternatively, the inspection execution unit 338 may perform the status check process again even if the detection status is determined to be normal during the first status check process.

[0315] exist Figure 17 In the example shown, from time t 18 The moment t before the countdown timer expires 19 A small movement was detected by the detection unit 333. Therefore, at time t... 19 The determination unit 334 determines that the existence condition is met, therefore, the inspection execution unit 338 determines that the detection state is an abnormal state and ends the state inspection process.

[0316] At time t 19 When the detection state is determined to be abnormal, the image generation unit 336 generates an abnormality determination image. Then, the image generation unit 336 generates an image to explain the response method. Specifically, the image generation unit 336 generates, for example, an image containing a message prompting confirmation of whether there is an object moving within the sleeping determination area C, or a message prompting a change in the installation location of the placement device 1.

[0317] Next, the user is asked whether they want to perform the status check again. Figure 17 In the example shown, at time t 20 The user inputs an indication that the status check process does not need to be performed again. When such input is made, indicating that the status check process does not need to be performed again, the image generation unit 336 generates a check completion image indicating that the status check process has ended, and displays the check completion image on the display 11. Then, at time t... 21 The check control process ends when the user provides input indicating that the check is complete.

[0318] In this embodiment, during the status check process, when the normal determination condition is met, the check execution unit 338 determines that the detection state is normal; when the normal determination condition is not met, the check execution unit 338 determines that the detection state is abnormal. The normal determination condition includes the situation where the existence condition is not met. Therefore, the user can know whether the determination unit 334 determines that the existence condition is met in the current state. Thus, according to this embodiment, the user can confirm whether the placement device 1 can properly detect that the user is not on the bedding. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the placement device 1 is a movable device. Therefore, when the status check process determines that the detection state is abnormal, the user can change the installation position of the placement device 1.

[0319] Processing flow

[0320] Next, refer to Figure 19 and Figure 20 This will explain the inspection and control process. Figure 19 This is a flowchart that provides a summary of the inspection and control process. Specifically, Figure 19 This diagram provides a summary view of the image generation process performed by the image generation unit 336 in the inspection control process. Figure 19 In the diagram, actions indicated by double boxes represent actions that can be advanced to the next action by user input via the operation unit 20. On the other hand, in... Figure 19 In the diagram, an action indicated by a single box represents an action that can proceed to the next action without user input.

[0321] like Figure 19 As shown, when the inspection control process begins, the image generation unit 336 first generates an inspection guidance image, which is then displayed on the display 11 (step S71). When the user performs an operation input such as pressing the operation unit 20 (indicating that the user agrees to start the status inspection process) while the inspection guidance image is displayed on the display 11, the image generation unit 336 generates a start confirmation image to confirm whether the start of the status inspection process has been agreed to, and this start confirmation image is displayed on the display 11 (step S72).

[0322] When a user performs an operation input such as pressing the operation unit 20 (indicating acceptance of the start of the status check process) while the start confirmation image is displayed on the display 11, the image generation unit 336 generates a countdown image indicating the remaining time until the status check process ends (step S73). Then, when the countdown time has elapsed since the operation input was performed, the check execution unit 338 executes... Figure 20 The status check process shown is (step S74).

[0323] Next, the inspection execution unit 338 determines whether the detection state is determined to be an abnormal state during the state inspection process (step S75). If the detection state is determined not to be an abnormal state in step S75 (determined to be a normal state), the image generation unit 336 generates a normal determination image, and the normal determination image is displayed on the display 11 (step S76). When the user performs an operation input such as pressing the operation unit 20 (indicating approval for the end of the inspection) while the normal determination image is displayed on the display 11, the inspection control process ends.

[0324] On the other hand, if the detection state is determined to be abnormal in step S75, the image generation unit 336 generates an abnormality determination image, and the abnormality determination image is displayed on the display 11 (step S77). When the user performs an operation input such as pressing the operation unit 20 (indicating that the user understands the content of the abnormality determination image) while the abnormality determination image is displayed on the display 11, the check execution unit 338 determines whether this is the first time the state check process has been executed (step S78).

[0325] If, in step S78, it is determined that this is the first execution of the status check process, the image generation unit 336 generates a re-check explanation image to illustrate the re-execution of the status check process, and this re-check explanation image is displayed on the display 11 (step S79). When the user performs an operation input such as pressing the operation unit 20 (indicating that the user agrees to start the status check process) while the re-check explanation image is displayed on the display 11, the processing after step S72 is repeated.

[0326] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S78 that the current state check process is being performed for the second time or more, the image generation unit 336 generates a response explanation image to explain the response method, and this response explanation image is displayed on the display 11 (step S80). When the user performs an operation input such as pressing the operation unit 20 (indicating understanding of the content of the response explanation image) while the response explanation image is displayed on the display 11, the check execution unit 338 determines whether the state check process needs to be performed again (step S81). In this embodiment, the check execution unit 338 determines whether the state check process needs to be performed based on the operation input performed by the user using the operation unit 20. If the user inputs in step S81 that they intend to perform the state check process again, the processing after step S72 is repeated.

[0327] On the other hand, if the user inputs in step S81 that the status check process does not need to be performed again, the image generation unit 336 generates a check end image indicating that the status check process has ended, and the check end image is displayed on the display 11 (step S82). When the user inputs an operation such as pressing the operation unit 20 in step S82 (indicating that the check has ended), the check control process ends.

[0328] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the status check process. Figure 20 Status check processing is in Figure 19 The flowchart is executed by processor 33 when it proceeds to step S74.

[0329] like Figure 20 As shown, when the state check process begins, the detection unit 333 detects the motion of the object based on the output of the object sensor 21 (step S91). Next, the determination unit 334 determines whether a large motion or a small motion is detected within the sleep determination area C based on the detection result of the detection unit 333 (step S92). If a large motion or a small motion is detected within the sleep determination area C in step S92, the check execution unit 338 determines that the detection state is an abnormal state (step S93), and the state check process ends.

[0330] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S92 that no large or small movements are detected within the sleep determination area C, it is determined whether a predetermined check time has elapsed since the start of the status check process (step S94). If it is determined in step S94 that no check time has elapsed, the process after step S91 is repeated. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S94 that the check time has elapsed, the check execution unit 338 determines that the detection status is normal (step S95), and the status check process ends.

[0331] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, but this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A sound playing apparatus comprising: a sensor whose output varies in accordance with a position or movement of an object within a detection region including a first region and a second region; a detection section that detects the position of the object based on the output of the sensor; a sound control section that controls playing of sound; and a determination section that determines whether a first condition is satisfied based on a detection result that is different from the position of the object detected based on the output of the sensor, wherein the sound control section changes a manner of playing of sound when a second condition is satisfied, and the sound control section changes the manner of playing of sound based on a third condition being satisfied, wherein the second condition includes a case where the position of the object that was originally detected within the first region is no longer detected within the first region and a case where the position of the object is detected within the second region, and the third condition includes a case where the position of the object that was originally detected within the first region is no longer detected within the detection region and a case where it is determined that the first condition is not satisfied.

2. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sound control section changes the manner of playing of sound when the second condition is satisfied without determining whether the first condition is satisfied by the determination section.

3. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a time counting section that counts time, wherein the sound control section plays a first sound when a time counted by the time counting section reaches a time determined in accordance with a buzzer time set by a user, and wherein the sound control section stops playing of the first sound when at least either the second condition or the third condition is satisfied.

4. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the detection section detects as the position of the object a position of a first movement that is a movement of a size or larger that is specified.

5. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the sound control section does not change the manner of playing of sound in a case where the third condition is satisfied although the third condition is satisfied after a first time elapses from when the position of the object was last detected.

6. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the detection section detects whether a second movement that is smaller than the specified size is present based on the output of the sensor, and wherein the first condition is satisfied in a case where it is detected that the second movement is present.

7. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising a time counting section that counts time, wherein the sound control section plays a first sound when a time counted by the time counting section becomes a time determined in accordance with a buzzer time set by a user, and wherein the sound control section stops playing of the first sound when at least either the second condition or the third condition is satisfied. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ the sound control section restarts the playing of the first sound when the second motion is detected before a second time elapses from when the playing of the first sound was stopped in accordance with the third condition being satisfied, the sound control section does not restart the playing of the first sound even when the second motion is detected before the second time elapses from when the playing of the first sound was stopped in accordance with the second condition being satisfied.

8. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the sound control section does not restart the playing of the first sound when the first motion is detected within the second region before the second time elapses from when the playing of the first sound was stopped in accordance with the third condition being satisfied.

9. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the sound control section restarts the playing of the first sound when the first motion is detected within the first region before the second time elapses from when the playing of the first sound was stopped in accordance with the third condition being satisfied.

10. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the determination section determines that the object has exited the first region when neither the first motion nor the second motion is detected until the second time elapses from when the playing of the first sound was stopped in accordance with the third condition being satisfied, and when the second condition is satisfied, the sound control section restarts the playing of the first sound when the first motion is detected within the first region before a third time elapses from when the playing of the first sound was started or from when it was determined that the object had exited the first region.

11. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the sound control section restarts the playing of the first sound if the second condition or the third condition is not satisfied after the first motion is detected within the first region before the third time elapses from when it was determined that the object had exited, and if the first motion is not detected for a period of time of fourth time or more.

12. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the sound control section plays a second sound when at least either of a sound playing condition including the case where the second condition is satisfied, and a sound playing condition including the case where the third condition is satisfied, is satisfied.

13. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the sound control section plays a second sound when a sound playing condition including the case where the second condition is satisfied is satisfied, the sound control section plays a sound different from the second sound when a sound playing condition including the case where the third condition is satisfied is satisfied.

14. The sound playing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein The detection unit detects a position of a first motion that is a motion of a size equal to or greater than a predetermined size as a position of the object based on the output of the sensor, and detects whether or not a second motion that is a motion of a size smaller than the predetermined size is present based on the output of the sensor, The sound play condition including the case where the third condition is satisfied is a condition that is satisfied when the third condition is satisfied and until a second time elapses after that without detecting the first motion and the second motion, The sound play condition including the case where the third condition is satisfied is a condition that is satisfied when the third condition is satisfied and until a second time elapses after that without detecting the first motion and the second motion.

15. The sound play apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a time measuring unit that measures a time, the sound control unit plays a first sound when the time measured by the time measuring unit becomes a time determined in accordance with an alarm time set by a user, the sound control unit stops the play of the first sound when at least either one of the second condition and the third condition is satisfied, the sound control unit plays a fourth sound when at least either one of the sound play condition including the case where the second condition is satisfied and the sound play condition including the case where the third condition is satisfied is satisfied before a fifth time elapses from when the first sound is played, the sound control unit plays a fifth sound different from the fourth sound when at least either one of the sound play condition including the case where the second condition is satisfied and the sound play condition including the case where the third condition is satisfied is satisfied after the fifth time elapses from when the first sound is played.

16. The sound play apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the play time of the fourth sound is longer than the play time of the fifth sound.

17. The sound play apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising: a light emitting unit that emits light; and a light emitting control unit that controls the light emission of the light emitting unit, the light emitting control unit changes the light emission mode of the light emitting unit when at least either one of the second condition and the third condition is satisfied.

18. The sound play apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the light emitting control unit changes the light emission mode of the light emitting unit to a first mode when the second condition is satisfied, the light emitting control unit changes the light emission mode of the light emitting unit to a mode different from the first mode when the third condition is satisfied.

19. A sound play method comprising the following processes: detecting a position of an object within a detection region containing a first region and a second region based on an output of a sensor, wherein the output of the sensor varies in accordance with the position or motion of the object; whether or not a first condition is satisfied is determined based on a detection result different from a position of the object detected based on the output of the sensor; and The manner of playing the sound is changed when a second condition is satisfied, and the manner of playing the sound is changed based on a third condition being satisfied, wherein the second condition includes a case where a position of an object that was originally detected within the first region is no longer detected within the first region and a case where a position of an object is detected within the second region, and the third condition includes a case where the position of the object that was originally detected within the first region is no longer detected within the detection region and a case where it is determined that the first condition is not satisfied.

20. A computer program product comprising a sound playing program that causes a computer to execute the following processing: detecting a position of an object within a detection region containing a first region and a second region based on an output of a sensor, wherein The output of the sensor varies in accordance with the position or movement of the object; It is determined whether a first condition is satisfied based on a detection result that is different from a position of an object that is detected based on the output of the sensor; and The manner of playing the sound is changed when a second condition is satisfied, and the manner of playing the sound is changed based on a third condition being satisfied, wherein the second condition includes a case where a position of an object that was originally detected within the first region is no longer detected within the first region and a case where a position of an object is detected within the second region, and the third condition includes a case where the position of the object that was originally detected within the first region is no longer detected within the detection region and a case where it is determined that the first condition is not satisfied.

Images