Bathtub system

Abstract

The present invention provides a bathtub system (1) including a bathtub (2) configured to store hot or cold water therein; a vibration generation unit (10) configured to generate vibrations in the hot or cold water stored in the bathtub (2); and a control unit (30) configured to output an operation signal to the vibration generation unit (10). The control unit (30) has a plurality of control modes and is configured such that one of the plurality of control modes is selected in accordance with an input signal. In a case where a first control mode is selected, the control unit (30) generates the operation signal by changing the input signal in accordance with a first signal conversion type. In a case where a second control mode different from the first control mode is selected, the control unit (30) generates the operation signal by changing the input signal in accordance with a second signal conversion type different from the first signal conversion type.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a bathtub system.2. Description of the Related Art

[0002] It is known that a speaker is installed in a bathtub so that a bather can enjoy music. For example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 3-15423 proposes fixing a sound source unit on a rear face of a bathtub. Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2006-128970 discloses individually controlling a speaker that emits sound toward a water pooling region inside a bathtub and a speaker that emits sound toward an air space region above the water pooling region.

[0003] According to Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2006-128970, a frequency range of vibrations that are transmitted and can be perceived through bathwater is 20 Hz to 600 Hz, a peak is present especially in the vicinity of 80 Hz and vibrations in the vicinity of the peak are transmitted well, and it is therefore desirable that a signal supplied to the speaker that emits sound toward the water pooling region be filtered to remove high frequencies.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The inventors of the present invention diligently studied a relationship between vibrations transmitted through bathwater and physical sensation for the purpose of enabling a bather to comfortably enjoy both music and vibrations (comfortable collaboration between music and vibrations).

[0005] The inventors of the present invention found that not only whether or not vibration transmissibility is good can be selected, but also more relaxing vibrations and vibrations that deliver a greater impact can be provided by appropriately adjusting a frequency component of vibrations generated by a vibration generation unit.

[0006] More specifically, the inventors of the present invention found that when an input signal input to the vibration generation unit (e.g., a signal supplied to the speaker that emits sound toward the air space region above the water pooling region) is converted into an operation signal for offering more relaxing vibrations or an operation signal for offering vibrations that deliver a greater impact, for example, in accordance with the music tone of the input signal, a bather can enjoy vibrations transmitted through bathwater in various manners.

[0007] The present invention was accomplished based on the above findings. An object of the present invention is to provide a bathtub system that allows a bather to enjoy vibrations transmitted through bathwater in various manners, for example, in accordance with the music tone of an input signal.

[0008] The present invention provides a bathtub system including a bathtub configured to store hot or cold water therein; a vibration generation unit that is installed on or in the bathtub and is configured to generate vibrations in the hot or cold water stored in the bathtub without supplying hot or cold water into the bathtub; and a control unit configured to output an operation signal to the vibration generation unit. The control unit has a plurality of control modes and is configured such that one of the plurality of control modes is selected in accordance with an input signal. In a case where a first control mode is selected, the control unit generates the operation signal by changing the input signal in accordance with a first signal conversion type. In a case where a second control mode different from the first control mode is selected, the control unit generates the operation signal by changing the input signal in accordance with a second signal conversion type different from the first signal conversion type.

[0009] According to the bathtub system according to the present invention, even in a case where an identical input signal is input, the input signal is changed in accordance with different signal conversion types in a case where the first control mode is selected and a case where the second control mode is selected, and the thus-generated operation signal is output to the vibration generation unit; therefore, vibrations generated by the vibration generation unit differ between these cases. This makes it possible to offer vibrations transmitted through bathwater to a bather in various manners in the individual control modes selected in accordance with the input signal.

[0010] In the present invention, it is preferable that the control unit be configured such that one of the plurality of control modes is selected in accordance with a music tone of the input signal.

[0011] According to this feature, vibrations transmitted through bathwater can be offered to the bather in various manners in accordance with the music tone of the input signal.

[0012] For example, it is preferable that one of the plurality of control modes be selected on the basis of the classification of the music tone, such as (1) "intense music tone", (2) "cheerful music tone", (3) "gentle music tone", (4) "slightly sad music tone", or (5) "sad music tone".

[0013] The music tone may be classified on the basis of judgment by a music expert, or may be classified on the basis of a result of a questionnaire answered by a large number of persons or a result of voting conducted by a large number of persons, or may be classified by a classifier trained by machine learning of such data by using AI or the like. Examples of elements considered for the classification of the "music tone" include melody, rhythm, harmony, chord signals, timbre, tempo, playing style, lyrics, and signal waveform.

[0014] Furthermore, the classification of the music tone and the selection of the control mode based on a result of the classification may be performed in the control unit (as a function of the control unit itself) or may be performed by another device, server, or the like connected (including wireless communication connection) to the control unit. In the latter case, for example, information on the input signal (which may be the input signal itself or may be a song title or the like corresponding to the input signal) can be sent from the control unit to the device, server, or the like, and a result of the classification and / or a result of the selection (e.g., information on the control mode) can be returned to the control unit.

[0015] In the present invention, it is preferable that the first signal conversion type be a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing output values of frequency components of the input signal by applying a first increasing / decreasing pattern corresponding to the frequency components, and the second signal conversion type be a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing the output values of the frequency components of the input signal by applying a second increasing / decreasing pattern corresponding to the frequency components that is different from the first increasing / decreasing pattern.

[0016] In this case, by increasing or decreasing the output values of the frequency components in each of the control modes in accordance with a corresponding increasing / decreasing pattern, physical sensation (tactile impact or tactile feel) of underwater vibrations can be offered to the bather in various manners.

[0017] In this case, it is preferable that the first control mode be a meditation mode, the input signal have a frequency component in a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, and the first signal conversion type include conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the first range. The meditation mode is, for example, selected in a case where the music tone of the input signal is classified as (3) "gentle music tone", (4) "slightly sad music tone", or (5) "sad music tone".

[0018] When the output value of the frequency component in the first range is increased, underwater vibrations with a high tendency to give an impression such as "smooth" or "light" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a relaxed state like a meditation state.

[0019] In this case, it is preferable that the input signal further have a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than the first range and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and the first signal conversion type further include conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the third range and conversion that does not increase an output value of the frequency component in the second range.

[0020] When the output value of the frequency component in the third range is increased, underwater vibrations with a higher tendency to give a "soft" impression can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to more deeply experience a relaxed state like a meditation state.

[0021] In this case, it is preferable that in the first signal conversion type, the conversion that does not increase the output value of the frequency component in the second range be conversion that decreases the output value of the frequency component in the second range.

[0022] When the output value of the frequency component in the second range is decreased, underwater vibrations with a reduced tendency to give an impression such as "rough" or "hard" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to more deeply experience a relaxed state like a meditation state.

[0023] In a preferable example of the present invention, the first control mode is a meditation mode, the input signal has a frequency component in a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than the first range, and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and in the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type, the output value of the frequency component in the first range and the output value of the frequency component in the third range are larger than the output value of the frequency component in the second range.

[0024] According to this example, underwater vibrations with a relatively enhanced tendency to give an impression such as "smooth" or "light" and a "soft" impression and a relatively reduced tendency to give an impression such as "rough" or "hard" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a relaxed state like a meditation state.

[0025] Alternatively, it is preferable that the second control mode be a dynamic mode, the input signal have a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, and the second signal conversion type include conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the second range. The dynamic mode is, for example, selected in a case where the music tone of the input signal is classified as (1) "intense music tone" or (2) "cheerful music tone".

[0026] When the output value of the frequency component in the second range is increased, underwater vibrations with a high tendency to give an impression such as "rough" or "hard" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a state where he or she feels a comfortable yet dynamic impact.

[0027] In this case, it is preferable that the input signal further have a frequency component in the first range and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and the second signal conversion type further include conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the third range and conversion that does not increase an output value of the frequency component in the first range.

[0028] When the output value of the frequency component in the third range is increased, underwater vibrations that can also give a "soft" impression can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a state where he or she feels a soft yet dynamic impact.

[0029] In this case, it is preferable that in the second signal conversion type, the conversion that does not increase the output value of the frequency component in the first range be conversion that decreases the output value of the frequency component in the first range.

[0030] When the output value of the frequency component in the first range is decreased, underwater vibrations with a reduced tendency to give an impression such as "smooth" or "light" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a state where he or she feels a stronger dynamic impact.

[0031] In a preferable example of the present invention, the second control mode is a dynamic mode, the input signal has a frequency component in a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than the first range, and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and in the operation signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type, an output value of the frequency component in the second range and an output value of the frequency component in the third range are larger than an output value of the frequency component in the first range.

[0032] According to this example, underwater vibrations with a relatively enhanced tendency to give an impression such as "rough" or "hard" and a "soft" impression and a relatively reduced tendency to give an impression such as "smooth" or "light" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a state where he or she feels a comfortable yet dynamic impact.

[0033] Alternatively, it is preferable that the bathtub system according to the present invention further include an acoustic generation unit configured to generate sound, the control unit output an acoustic signal to the acoustic generation unit, in a case where the first control mode is selected, the control unit generate the acoustic signal by changing the input signal in accordance with the first signal conversion type, in a case where the second control mode is selected, the control unit generate the acoustic signal by changing the input signal in accordance with the second signal conversion type, the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type be larger in amount of change from the input signal than the acoustic signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type, and the operation signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type be larger in amount of change from the input signal than the acoustic signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type.

[0034] In this case, since the operation signal output to the vibration generation unit is larger in amount of change than the acoustic signal output to the acoustic generation unit, physical sensation (tactile impact or tactile feel) of underwater vibrations which a bather enjoys in bathwater can be offered to the bather in various manners without markedly changing a state of sound which the bather enjoys with his or her ears (including a case where the state of sound is not changed at all).

[0035] Alternatively, in the bathtub system according to the present invention, it is preferable that the input signal have a distinguishable tempo, the operation signal also have a distinguishable tempo, the tempo of the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type be increased or decreased as compared with the tempo of the input signal, and the tempo of the operation signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type be increased or decreased in a manner different from the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type as compared with the tempo of the input signal.

[0036] In this case, by increasing or decreasing the tempo of the operation signal output to the vibration generation unit in each of the control modes, the tempo of the vibrations generated by the vibration generation unit is increased or decreased. Physical sensation (tactile impact or tactile feel) of underwater vibrations can be thus offered to the bather in various manners.

[0037] According to the present invention, even in a case where an identical input signal is input, the input signal is changed in accordance with different signal conversion types in a case where the first control mode is selected and a case where the second control mode is selected, and the thus-generated operation signal is output to the vibration generation unit; therefore, vibrations generated by the vibration generation unit differ between these cases. This makes it possible to offer vibrations transmitted through bathwater to a bather in various manners in the individual control modes selected in accordance with the input signal.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Fig. 1 is a signal system diagram of a bathtub system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of a bathtub and its surroundings of the bathtub system of Fig. 1; Fig. 3 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an example of a vibration generation unit; Fig. 4 illustrates an example of a way in which the vibration generation unit operates; Fig. 5 illustrates another example of a way in which the vibration generation unit operates; Fig. 6 is a photograph of an example of a sensor for measurement of water-pressure stimulation; Fig. 7 is a graph illustrating a relationship between a frequency band of underwater vibrations and physical sensation; Fig. 8 is a graph illustrating an example of a change in frequency component in a meditation mode; Fig. 9 is a graph illustrating an example of a change in frequency component in a dynamic mode; and Fig. 10 is a graph illustrating an example of a case where a tempo of a signal is changed. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTSConfiguration

[0039] An embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the attached drawings. Fig. 1 is a signal system diagram of a bathtub system 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram of a bath tub and its surroundings of the bathtub system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0040] As illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, the bathtub system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a bathtub 2 in which hot or cold water can be stored.

[0041] The bathtub 2 includes, for example, a back-side wall face portion that is supposed to face the back of a bather, a leg-side wall face portion that is supposed to face legs of the bather, a left wall face portion that is supposed to face a left side of the bather, and a right wall face portion that is supposed to face a right side of the bather.

[0042] One or more vibration generation units 10 (e.g., water vibration units) are provided on any one (or more) of these wall face portions and a bottom face of the bathtub. Although only one vibration generation unit 10 is illustrated in Fig. 2, it is preferable to provide a plurality of vibration generation units 10.

[0043] The vibration generation unit 10 is provided at a height lower than a hot or cold water surface in a state where hot or cold water is stored in the bathtub 2. Vibrations generated by the vibration generation unit 10 are thus transmitted to the bather as underwater vibrations in the state where hot or cold water is stored in the bathtub 2. That is, the vibration generation unit 10 can generate vibrations in hot or cold water stored in the bathtub 2 without supplying hot or cold water into the bathtub 2.

[0044] In the bathtub system 1 according to the present embodiment, one or more acoustic generation units 20 (e.g., audio speakers) are provided on any one (or more) of the wall face portions of the bathtub 2. Although only one acoustic generation unit 20 is illustrated in Fig. 2, it is preferable to provide a plurality of acoustic generation units 20.

[0045] The acoustic generation unit 20 is provided at a height higher than a hot or cold water surface in a state where hot or cold water is stored in the bathtub 2. Vibrations generated by the acoustic generation unit 20 are thus transmitted to the bather as vibrations in air even in the state where hot or cold water is stored in the bathtub 2.

[0046] As illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, the bathtub system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a control unit 30 including a vibration control unit 31 that outputs an operation signal to the vibration generation unit 10 and an acoustic control unit 32 that outputs an acoustic signal to the acoustic generation unit 20.

[0047] The control unit 30 according to the present embodiment has the following three modes as a plurality of control modes: (1) a meditation mode, (2) a dynamic mode, and (3) an unchanged mode. One of these control modes is selected in accordance with the music tone of the input signal.

[0048] In the present embodiment, a music tone determination unit 33 included in the control unit 30 classifies the music tone of the input signal.

[0049] Specifically, the music tone determination unit 33 classifies the music tone of the input signal as any of the following five types of music tone: (1) "intense music tone", (2) "cheerful music tone", (3) "gentle music tone", (4) "slightly sad music tone", and (5) "sad music tone".

[0050] The music tone determination unit 33 includes a classifier that can instantaneously perform such classification. For example, the classifier is preferably a classifier trained by machine learning using AI or the like.

[0051] In a case where the music tone is classified as (4) "slightly sad music tone" or (5) "sad music tone" by the music tone determination unit 33, the meditation mode is selected in the control unit 30.

[0052] Alternatively, in a case where the music tone is classified as (1) "intense music tone" or (2) "cheerful music tone" by the music tone determination unit 33, the dynamic mode is selected in the control unit 30.

[0053] Alternatively, in a case where the music tone is classified as (3) "gentle music tone" by the music tone determination unit 33, the unchanged mode is selected in the control unit 30.

[0054] In a case where the meditation mode (an example of a first control mode) is selected, the vibration control unit 31 of the control unit 30 generates the operation signal by changing the input signal in accordance with a signal conversion type as illustrated in Fig. 8 (an example of a first signal conversion type, which will be described in detail later).

[0055] Alternatively, in a case where the dynamic mode (an example of a second control mode) is selected, the vibration control unit 31 of the control unit 30 generates the operation signal by changing the input signal in accordance with a signal conversion type as illustrated in Fig. 9 (an example of a second signal conversion type, which will be described in detail later).

[0056] Alternatively, in a case where the unchanged mode (an example of a third control mode) is selected, the vibration control unit 31 of the control unit 30 generates the operation signal without changing the input signal (uses the input signal as the operation signal without changing the input signal).

[0057] On the other hand, even in a case where the meditation mode (an example of the first control mode) is selected, the acoustic control unit 32 of the control unit 30 generates the acoustic signal without changing the input signal.

[0058] Similarly, even in a case where the dynamic mode (an example of the second control mode) is selected, the acoustic control unit 32 of the control unit 30 generates the acoustic signal without changing the input signal.

[0059] Similarly, even in a case where the unchanged mode (an example of the third control mode) is selected, the acoustic control unit 32 of the control unit 30 generates the acoustic signal without changing the input signal.

[0060] Fig. 1 also illustrates a smartphone 61 as an input signal source, a speaker 62 installed outside a bathroom that is connectable to the smartphone 61, for example, by Bluetooth (registered trademark), and a projection screen 63. These members are communicable with the control unit 30 in accordance with an appropriate communication method (which may be wireless communication or may be wired communication).

[0061] Fig. 3 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an example of the vibration generation unit 10. According to the type of the vibration generation unit illustrated in Fig. 3, a magnitude of vibration force is expressed by Lorentz force (F = IBL). F represents a magnitude of vibration force, I is a value of a current flowing through a coil, B represents a density of magnetic flux generated when the current flows through the coil, and L represents a length of an iron core. In a case where the vibration generation unit 10 is directly attached to a wall face of the bathtub 2, the wall face itself of the bathtub 2 is directly vibrated, which gives vibrations to water stored in the bathtub 2.

[0062] Fig. 4 illustrates an example of a way in which the vibration generation unit 10 operates. As illustrated in Fig. 4, in a case where the vibration generation unit 10 is directly attached to a wall face of the bathtub 2, the wall face itself of the bathtub 2 is directly vibrated, which gives vibrations to water stored in the bathtub 2. Fig. 5 illustrates another example of a way in which the vibration generation unit 10 operates. It is also possible to employ a configuration in which the vibration generation unit 10 is produced as a dedicated unit and the unit is attached to a hole provided in a corresponding wall face of the bathtub 2, as illustrated in Fig. 5.

[0063] "Water-pressure stimulation" used as an index for designing (adjusting) the operation signal (electric signal) for driving the vibration generation unit 10 is, for example, evaluated (measured) by the following water-pressure stimulation measurement method. Note that a 50 Hz sine wave and pink noise were input to the vibration generation unit 10 based on " JIS C 5532:2014" to measure the water-pressure stimulation.Water-pressure Stimulation Measurement Method

[0064] A new type of sensor including a transparent cylindrical body storing a sphere therein is placed at a predetermined position inside hot or cold water stored in the bathtub 2, and a distance over which the sphere moves in the cylindrical body is measured as "water-pressure stimulation". Fig. 6 schematically illustrates an example of the sensor. For example, the cylindrical body is made of polypropylene and has an outer diameter of 50 mm, an inner diameter of 40 mm, and a length of 500 mm, and the sphere is made of polystyrene foam and has a diameter of 30 mm. The cylindrical body is placed parallel to a vibration direction of the vibration generation unit 10.

[0065] The cylindrical body illustrated in Fig. 6 was placed so that one end thereof was separated away from the vibration generation unit 10 by 1 mm, and the vibration generation unit 10 was activated as follows in a state where the cylindrical body was kept in parallel with the vibration direction of the vibration generation unit 10 while keeping the sphere contained in the cylindrical body illustrated in Fig. 6 in contact with the vibration generation unit 10, and a moving distance of the sphere was measured after elapse of a predetermined period (e.g., 5 seconds) from the start of operation.

[0066] As one example of an amplitude of the operation signal, in a case where the signal of the amplitude was output to the vibration generation unit 10 as a 50 Hz sine wave or pink noise, the moving distance of the sphere was approximately 15 mm.

[0067] Note that although the sphere is made of polystyrene foam in this example, the sphere may be a sphere filled with a member made of a material having a specific gravity substantially identical to that of water (e.g., within ±5%), for example, a member made of nylon.Relationship between Frequency Band of Underwater Vibrations and Physical Sensation

[0068] The inventors of the present invention found that there is a relationship illustrated in Fig. 7 between a frequency band of underwater vibrations and physical sensation on the basis of a physical sensation experiment conducted on many bathers.

[0069] Specifically, the inventors of the present invention found that the underwater vibrations have a high tendency to give an impression such as "smooth" or "light" in a case where the underwater vibrations have a frequency component in a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, the underwater vibrations have a high tendency to give an impression such as "rough" or "hard" in a case where the underwater vibrations have a frequency component in a second range of 45 Hz to 180 Hz, and the underwater vibrations have a high tendency to give a "soft" impression in a case where the underwater vibrations have a frequency component in a third range of 22 Hz to 45 Hz, as illustrated in Fig. 7.Specific Example of Signal Conversion

[0070] In view of this, the vibration control unit 31 according to the present embodiment is configured to generate the operation signal by changing a frequency component of the input signal by using the relationship of Fig. 7.

[0071] Specifically, in a case where the meditation mode is selected, the vibration control unit 31 according to the present embodiment generates the operation signal by changing the input signal in accordance with a signal conversion type for the meditation mode (an example of the first signal conversion type), and the signal conversion type for this mode is a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing output values of frequency components of the input signal by applying an increasing / decreasing pattern for the mode corresponding to the frequency components.

[0072] Fig. 8 is a graph illustrating an example of a change in frequency component in the meditation mode. In the example illustrated in Fig. 8, the input signal itself (indicated by the broken line in Fig. 8) is relatively high in intensity of a frequency component in the first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, low in intensity of a frequency component in the second range of 45 Hz to 180 Hz, and high in intensity of a frequency component in the third range of 22 Hz to 45 Hz.

[0073] In general, an intensity (output value) distribution of frequency components of an input signal draws a smooth curve, as illustrated in the example of Fig. 8. In the example of Fig. 8, the input signal exhibits an upward peak (local maximum) in the first range, a downward peak (local minimum) in the second range, and an upward peak (local maximum) in the third range.

[0074] When the increasing / decreasing pattern for the meditation mode according to the present embodiment is applied to this input signal, the upward peak (local maximum) in the first range is increased by approximately 6 dB, the downward peak (local minimum) in the second range is decreased by approximately 3 dB, and the upward peak (local maximum) in the third range is increased by approximately 9 dB, and the operation signal thus obtained, indicated by the solid line in Fig. 8, is output.

[0075] In general, an intensity (output value) distribution of frequency components of an operation signal also draws a smooth curve, as illustrated in the example of Fig. 8.

[0076] As illustrated in Fig. 8, a position (frequency) of each peak on the horizontal axis of the graph need only remain in the same range (that is, in the same first range, in the same second range, or in the same third range) before and after conversion from the input signal to the operation signal, and slight displacement (shift) is permitted.

[0077] According to the increasing / decreasing pattern for the meditation mode according to the present embodiment, intensities (output values) at 25 Hz, 45 Hz, and 180 Hz, which are frequencies at boundaries between the first to third ranges, are not increased nor decreased.

[0078] The signal conversion type for the meditation mode illustrated in Fig. 8 is merely schematic illustration of an example, and details of the increasing / decreasing pattern can be determined as appropriate, for example, by using a result of a questionnaire answered by a large number of bathers who participated in an experiential experiment or by performing machine learning on such data by using AI or the like. (Note that the inventors of the present invention have confirmed that a significant effect is produced in physical sensation in a case where (a maximum value of) a change in intensity of a frequency component in each of the first to third ranges is at least 3 dB (preferably at least approximately 12 dB) in the meditation mode.)

[0079] Actual signal conversion may be realized in an analog manner by combining various filtering circuits or may be realized in a digital manner by re-creating a signal (creating a signal again) (the latter is also one type of signal "conversion" technically).

[0080] Next, Fig. 9 is a graph illustrating an example of a change in frequency component in the dynamic mode. Also in the example illustrated in Fig. 9, the input signal (the broken line) is identical to the input signal of Fig. 8, and exhibits an upward peak (local maximum) in the first range, a downward peak (local minimum) in the second range, and an upward peak (local maximum) in the third range.

[0081] When an increasing / decreasing pattern for the dynamic mode according to the present embodiment is applied to the input signal, the upward convex curve in the first range is converted into a downward convex curve as a whole (the upward peak (local maximum) before the conversion is decreased by approximately 9 dB), and the downward convex curve in the second range and the upward convex curve in the third range are converted into an upward convex curve as a whole so that an upward peak (local maximum) is present in the vicinity of 45 Hz, which is a boundary between these ranges, and the operation signal thus obtained, indicated by the solid line in Fig. 9, is output (the downward peak (local minimum) before the conversion is increased by approximately 9 dB).

[0082] In general, an intensity (output value) distribution of the frequency components of the operation signal in the dynamic mode also draws a smooth curve, as illustrated in the example of Fig. 9.

[0083] According to the increasing / decreasing pattern for the dynamic mode according to the present embodiment, intensities (output values) at 25 Hz and 180 Hz, which are frequencies at boundaries between the first to third ranges, are not increased nor decreased.

[0084] The signal conversion type for the dynamic mode illustrated in Fig. 9 is also merely schematic illustration of an example, and details of the increasing / decreasing pattern can be determined as appropriate, for example, by using a result of a questionnaire answered by a large number of bathers who participated in an experiential experiment or by performing machine learning on such data by using AI or the like. (Note that the inventors of the present invention have confirmed that a significant effect is produced in physical sensation in a case where (a maximum value of) a change in intensity of a frequency component in each of the first to third ranges is at least 3 dB (preferably at least approximately 12 dB) in the dynamic mode.)

[0085] Also regarding the signal conversion type for the dynamic mode, actual signal conversion may be realized in an analog manner by combining various filtering circuits or may be realized in a digital manner by re-creating a signal (creating a signal again) (the latter is also one type of signal "conversion" technically).Operation and Effects

[0086] According to the bathtub system 1 according to the present embodiment described above, even in a case where an identical input signal is input, the input signal is changed in accordance with different signal conversion types in a case where the meditation mode (an example of the first control mode) is selected and a case where the dynamic mode (an example of the second control mode) is selected, and the thus-generated operation signal is output to the vibration generation unit 10; therefore, vibrations generated by the vibration generation unit 10 differ between these cases. This makes it possible to offer vibrations transmitted through bathwater to a bather in various manners in the individual control modes in accordance with the music tone of the input signal.

[0087] In particular, according to the bathtub system 1 according to the present embodiment, the signal conversion type in the meditation mode (an example of the first signal conversion type) is a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing the output values of the frequency components of the input signal by applying the increasing / decreasing pattern for the meditation mode corresponding to the frequency components (an example of the first increasing / decreasing pattern), and the signal conversion type in the dynamic mode (an example of the second signal conversion type) is a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing the output values of the frequency components of the input signal by applying the increasing / decreasing pattern for the dynamic mode corresponding to the frequency components (an example of the second increasing / decreasing pattern).

[0088] That is, in each of the control modes, the output values of the frequency components are increased or decreased in accordance with a corresponding increasing / decreasing pattern.

[0089] According to such control, physical sensation (tactile impact or tactile feel) of underwater vibrations can be offered to a bather in various manners.

[0090] More specifically, in the present embodiment, in the meditation mode, the output value of the frequency component in the first range from 180 Hz to 355 Hz is increased.

[0091] In a case where the output value of the frequency component in the first range is increased, underwater vibrations with a high tendency to give an impression such as "smooth" or "light" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a relaxed state like a meditation state.

[0092] In the present embodiment, in the meditation mode, the output value of the frequency component in the second range of 45 Hz to 180 Hz (an example of a frequency range lower than the first range) is not increased, and the output value of the frequency component in the third range of 22 Hz to 45 Hz (an example of a frequency range lower than the second range) is increased.

[0093] When the output value of the frequency component in the third range is increased, underwater vibrations with a high tendency to give a "soft" impression can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to more deeply experience a relaxed state like a meditation state.

[0094] In the present embodiment, in the meditation mode, the output value of the frequency component in the second range of 45 Hz to 180 Hz is decreased.

[0095] When the output value of the frequency component in the second range is decreased, underwater vibrations with a reduced tendency to give an impression such as "rough" or "hard" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to more deeply experience a relaxed state like a meditation state.

[0096] Regarding the operation signal generated in the meditation mode according to the present embodiment, it can be evaluated that the output value of the frequency component in the first range and the output value of the frequency component in the third range are larger than the output value of the frequency component in the second range.

[0097] According to such an operation signal, underwater vibrations with a relatively enhanced tendency to give an impression such as "smooth" or "light" and a "soft" impression and a relatively reduced tendency to give an impression such as "rough" or "hard" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a relaxed state like a meditation state.

[0098] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, in the dynamic mode, the output value of the frequency component in the second range of 45 Hz to 180 Hz, which is a frequency component lower than the first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, is increased.

[0099] When the output value of the frequency component in the second range is increased, underwater vibrations with a high tendency to give an impression such as "rough" or "hard" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a state where he or she feels a comfortable yet dynamic impact.

[0100] In the present embodiment, in the dynamic mode, the output value of the frequency component in the third range of 22 Hz to 45 Hz is increased, and the output value of the frequency component in the first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz is not increased.

[0101] When the output value of the frequency component in the third range is increased, underwater vibrations that can also give a "soft" impression can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a state where he or she feels a soft yet dynamic impact.

[0102] In the present embodiment, in the dynamic mode, the output value of the frequency component in the first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz is decreased.

[0103] When the output value of the frequency component in the first range is decreased, underwater vibrations with a reduced tendency to give an impression such as "smooth" or "light" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a state where he or she feels a stronger dynamic impact.

[0104] Regarding the operation signal generated in the dynamic mode according to the present embodiment, it can be evaluated that the output value of the frequency component in the second range and the output value of the frequency component in the third range are larger than the output value of the frequency component in the first range.

[0105] According to such an operation signal, underwater vibrations with a relatively enhanced tendency to give an impression such as "rough" or "hard" and a "soft" impression and a relatively reduced tendency to give an impression such as "smooth" or "light" can be given to the bather. This allows the bather to experience a state where he or she feels a comfortable yet dynamic impact.Modification 1

[0106] In the above embodiment, the acoustic control unit 32 of the control unit 30 generates the acoustic signal without changing the input signal both in a case where the meditation mode (an example of the first control mode) is selected and in a case where the dynamic mode (an example of the second control mode) is selected.

[0107] However, even in a case where an identical input signal is input, the acoustic control unit 32 of the control unit 30 may generate the acoustic signal in the control modes by changing the input signal in accordance with different signal conversion types in a case where the meditation mode (an example of the first control mode) is selected and a case where the dynamic mode (an example of the second control mode) is selected. For example, the acoustic control unit 32 of the control unit 30 may slightly decrease a sound volume (the amplitude of the acoustic signal) in a case where the meditation mode (an example of the first control mode) is selected, and slightly increase a sound volume (the amplitude of the acoustic signal) in a case where the dynamic mode (an example of the second control mode) is selected.Modification 2

[0108] In the above embodiment, the signal conversion type in the meditation mode (an example of the first signal conversion type) is a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing the output values of the frequency components of the input signal by applying the increasing / decreasing pattern for the meditation mode corresponding to the frequency components (an example of the first increasing / decreasing pattern), and the signal conversion type in the dynamic mode (an example of the second signal conversion type) is a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing the output values of the frequency components of the input signal by applying the increasing / decreasing pattern for the dynamic mode corresponding to the frequency components (an example of the second increasing / decreasing pattern).

[0109] However, the vibration control unit 31 of the control unit 30 may generate the operation signal in each of the control modes, for example, simply by slightly decreasing a vibration intensity (the amplitude of the operation signal) in a case where the meditation mode (an example of the first control mode) is selected and simply by slightly increasing a vibration intensity (the amplitude of the operation signal) in a case where the dynamic mode (an example of the second control mode) is selected.

[0110] Alternatively, a dynamic mode (A) may be selected in a case where the music tone of the input signal is classified as (1) "intense music tone", a dynamic mode (B) may be selected in a case where the music tone of the input signal is classified as (2) "cheerful music tone", a meditation mode (A) may be selected in a case where the music tone of the input signal is classified as (4) "slightly sad music tone", and a meditation mode (B) may be selected in a case where the music tone of the input signal is classified as (5) "sad music tone", and the vibration control unit 31 of the control unit 30 may generate the operation signal in each of the control modes by relatively markedly increasing the vibration intensity (the amplitude of the operation signal) in a case where the dynamic mode (A) is selected, relatively slightly increasing the vibration intensity (the amplitude of the operation signal) in a case where the dynamic mode (B) is selected, relatively slightly decreasing the vibration intensity (the amplitude of the operation signal) in a case where the meditation mode (A) is selected, and relatively markedly decreasing the vibration intensity (the amplitude of the operation signal) in a case where the meditation mode (B) is selected.

[0111] By thus simply changing the amplitude of the operation signal (vibration intensity), physical sensation (tactile impact or tactile feel) of underwater vibrations which a bather enjoys in bathwater can be offered to the bather in various manners.

[0112] In these cases of Modification 2, the acoustic control unit 32 of the control unit 30 may generate the acoustic signal without changing the input signal both in a case where the meditation mode (an example of the first control mode) is selected and a case where the dynamic mode (an example of the second control mode) is selected, as in the above embodiment.

[0113] Alternatively, in these cases of Modification 2, the acoustic control unit 32 of the control unit 30 may generate the acoustic signal in each of the control modes by slightly decreasing the sound volume (the amplitude of the acoustic signal) in a case where the meditation mode (including (A) and (B)) is selected and by slightly increasing the sound volume (the amplitude of the acoustic signal) in a case where the dynamic mode (including (A) and (B)) is selected, as in Modification 1.

[0114] In the latter case, it is preferable that the operation signal be larger in amount of change from the input signal when the operation signal and the acoustic signal generated in the meditation mode (including (A) and (B)) are compared and that the operation signal is larger in amount of change from the input signal when the operation signal and the acoustic signal generated in the dynamic mode (including (A) and (B)) are compared.

[0115] In a case where this condition is satisfied, physical sensation (tactile impact or tactile feel) of underwater vibrations which a bather enjoys in bathwater can be offered to the bather in various manners without markedly changing a state of sound which the bather enjoys with his or her ears (including a case where the state of sound is not changed at all).Modification 3

[0116] In the above embodiment, the signal conversion type in the meditation mode (an example of the first signal conversion type) is a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing the output values of the frequency components of the input signal by applying the increasing / decreasing pattern for the meditation mode corresponding to the frequency components (an example of the first increasing / decreasing pattern), and the signal conversion type in the dynamic mode (an example of the second signal conversion type) is a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing the output values of the frequency components of the input signal by applying the increasing / decreasing pattern for the dynamic mode corresponding to the frequency components (an example of the second increasing / decreasing pattern).

[0117] However, the vibration control unit 31 of the control unit 30 may generate the operation signal in each of the control modes, for example, simply by slowing down a tempo of the operation signal (a rhythm cycle of the operation signal) in a case where the meditation mode (an example of the first control mode) is selected and simply by speeding up the tempo of the operation signal (the rhythm cycle of the operation signal) in a case where the dynamic mode (an example of the second control mode) is selected.

[0118] Fig. 10 illustrates an example of a case where the tempo of the signal is changed. In the example of Fig. 10, the input signal having a tempo of 60 bbm is changed to the operation signal having a tempo of 40 bbm in the meditation mode and is changed to the operation signal having a tempo of 80 bbm in the dynamic mode.

[0119] Alternatively, a dynamic mode (A) may be selected in a case where the music tone of the input signal is classified as (1) "intense music tone", a dynamic mode (B) may be selected in a case where the music tone of the input signal is classified as (2) "cheerful music tone", a meditation mode (A) may be selected in a case where the music tone of the input signal is classified as (4) "slightly sad music tone", and a meditation mode (B) may be selected in a case where the music tone of the input signal is classified as (5) "sad music tone", and the vibration control unit 31 of the control unit 30 may generate the operation signal in each of the control modes by speeding up the tempo of the operation signal relatively markedly in a case where the dynamic mode (A) is selected, speeding up the tempo of the operation signal relatively slightly in a case where the dynamic mode (B) is selected, slowing down the tempo of the operation signal relatively slightly in a case where the meditation mode (A) is selected, and slowing down the tempo of the operation signal relatively markedly in a case where the meditation mode (B) is selected.

[0120] By thus changing the tempo of the operation signal, physical sensation (tactile impact or tactile feel) of underwater vibrations which a bather enjoys in bathwater can be offered to the bather in various manners.Modification 4

[0121] Although the classification of the music tone of the input signal is performed by the music tone determination unit 33 of the control unit 30 in the above embodiment, this is not restrictive, and the classification of the music tone of the input signal may be performed by another device, server, or the like connected (including wireless communication connection) to the control unit 30. In this case, for example, information on the input signal (which may be the input signal itself or may be a song title or the like corresponding to the input signal) can be sent from the control unit 30 to the device, server, or the like, and a result of classification can be returned to the control unit 30.

[0122] Furthermore, selection of the control mode based on a result of classification of the music tone of the input signal need not necessarily be performed by the control unit 30 itself, and may be performed by another device, server, or the like connected (including wireless communication connection) to the control unit 30. In this case, for example, information on the input signal (which may be the input signal itself or may be a song title or the like corresponding to the input signal) and / or the result of classification of the music tone can be sent to the device, server, or the like, and information on a control mode selected on the basis of the result of classification can be returned to the control unit 30.

[0123] Note that the present invention includes the following features (inventions).[Feature 1]

[0124] A bathtub system including: a bathtub configured to store hot or cold water therein; a vibration generation unit that is installed on or in the bathtub and is configured to generate vibrations in the hot or cold water stored in the bathtub without supplying hot or cold water into the bathtub; and a control unit configured to output an operation signal to the vibration generation unit, in which the control unit has a plurality of control modes and is configured such that one of the plurality of control modes is selected in accordance with an input signal, in a case where a first control mode is selected, the control unit generates the operation signal by changing the input signal in accordance with a first signal conversion type, and in a case where a second control mode different from the first control mode is selected, the control unit generates the operation signal by changing the input signal in accordance with a second signal conversion type different from the first signal conversion type. [Feature 2]

[0125] The bathtub system according to feature 1, in which the control unit is configured such that one of the plurality of control modes is selected in accordance with a music tone of the input signal.[Feature 3]

[0126] The bathtub system according to feature 1 or 2, in which the first signal conversion type is a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing output values of frequency components of the input signal by applying a first increasing / decreasing pattern corresponding to the frequency components, and the second signal conversion type is a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing the output values of the frequency components of the input signal by applying a second increasing / decreasing pattern corresponding to the frequency components that is different from the first increasing / decreasing pattern. [Feature 4]

[0127] The bathtub system according to feature 3, in which the first control mode is a meditation mode, the input signal has a frequency component in a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, and the first signal conversion type includes conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the first range. [Feature 5]

[0128] The bathtub system according to feature 4, in which the input signal further has a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than the first range and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and the first signal conversion type further includes conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the third range and conversion that does not increase an output value of the frequency component in the second range. [Feature 6]

[0129] The bathtub system according to feature 5, in which in the first signal conversion type, the conversion that does not increase the output value of the frequency component in the second range is conversion that decreases the output value of the frequency component in the second range.[Feature 7]

[0130] The bathtub system according to any one of features 3 to 6, in which the first control mode is a meditation mode, the input signal has a frequency component in a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than the first range, and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and in the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type, the output value of the frequency component in the first range and the output value of the frequency component in the third range are larger than the output value of the frequency component in the second range. [Feature 8]

[0131] The bathtub system according to any one of features 3 to 7, in which the second control mode is a dynamic mode, the input signal has a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, and the second signal conversion type includes conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the second range. [Feature 9]

[0132] The bathtub system according to feature 8, in which the input signal further has a frequency component in the first range and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and the second signal conversion type further includes conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the third range and conversion that does not increase an output value of the frequency component in the first range. [Feature 10]

[0133] The bathtub system according to feature 9, in which in the second signal conversion type, the conversion that does not increase the output value of the frequency component in the first range is conversion that decreases the output value of the frequency component in the first range.[Feature 11]

[0134] The bathtub system according to any one of features 3 to 10, in which the second control mode is a dynamic mode, the input signal has a frequency component in a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than the first range, and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and in the operation signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type, an output value of the frequency component in the second range and an output value of the frequency component in the third range are larger than an output value of the frequency component in the first range. [Feature 12]

[0135] The bathtub system according to any one of features 1 to 11, further including an acoustic generation unit configured to generate sound, in which the control unit outputs an acoustic signal to the acoustic generation unit, in a case where the first control mode is selected, the control unit generates the acoustic signal by changing the input signal in accordance with the first signal conversion type, in a case where the second control mode is selected, the control unit generates the acoustic signal by changing the input signal in accordance with the second signal conversion type, the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type is larger in amount of change from the input signal than the acoustic signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type, and the operation signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type is larger in amount of change from the input signal than the acoustic signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type. [Feature 13]

[0136] The bathtub system according to any one of features 1 to 12, in which the input signal has a distinguishable tempo, the operation signal also has a distinguishable tempo, the tempo of the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type is increased or decreased as compared with the tempo of the input signal, and the tempo of the operation signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type is increased or decreased in a manner different from the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type as compared with the tempo of the input signal.

Claims

1. A bathtub system (1) comprising: a bathtub (2) configured to store hot or cold water therein; a vibration generation unit (10) that is installed on or in the bathtub (2) and is configured to generate vibrations in the hot or cold water stored in the bathtub (2) without supplying hot or cold water into the bathtub (2); and a control unit (30) configured to output an operation signal to the vibration generation unit (10), wherein the control unit (30) has a plurality of control modes and is configured such that one of the plurality of control modes is selected in accordance with an input signal, in a case where a first control mode is selected, the control unit (30) generates the operation signal by changing the input signal in accordance with a first signal conversion type, and in a case where a second control mode different from the first control mode is selected, the control unit (30) generates the operation signal by changing the input signal in accordance with a second signal conversion type different from the first signal conversion type.

2. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 1, wherein the control unit (30) is configured such that one of the plurality of control modes is selected in accordance with a music tone of the input signal.

3. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the first signal conversion type is a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing output values of frequency components of the input signal by applying a first increasing / decreasing pattern corresponding to the frequency components, and the second signal conversion type is a type for generating the operation signal by increasing or decreasing the output values of the frequency components of the input signal by applying a second increasing / decreasing pattern corresponding to the frequency components that is different from the first increasing / decreasing pattern.

4. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 3, wherein the first control mode is a meditation mode, the input signal has a frequency component in a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, and the first signal conversion type includes conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the first range.

5. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 4, wherein the input signal further has a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than the first range and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and the first signal conversion type further includes conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the third range and conversion that does not increase an output value of the frequency component in the second range.

6. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 5, wherein in the first signal conversion type, the conversion that does not increase the output value of the frequency component in the second range is conversion that decreases the output value of the frequency component in the second range.

7. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 3, wherein the first control mode is a meditation mode, the input signal has a frequency component in a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than the first range, and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and in the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type, the output value of the frequency component in the first range and the output value of the frequency component in the third range are larger than the output value of the frequency component in the second range.

8. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 3, wherein the second control mode is a dynamic mode, the input signal has a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, and the second signal conversion type includes conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the second range.

9. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 8, wherein the input signal further has a frequency component in the first range and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and the second signal conversion type further includes conversion that increases an output value of the frequency component in the third range and conversion that does not increase an output value of the frequency component in the first range.

10. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 9, wherein in the second signal conversion type, the conversion that does not increase the output value of the frequency component in the first range is conversion that decreases the output value of the frequency component in the first range.

11. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 3, wherein the second control mode is a dynamic mode, the input signal has a frequency component in a first range of 180 Hz to 355 Hz, a frequency component in a second range that is a frequency range lower than the first range, and a frequency component in a third range that is a frequency range lower than the second range, and in the operation signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type, an output value of the frequency component in the second range and an output value of the frequency component in the third range are larger than an output value of the frequency component in the first range.

12. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, further comprising an acoustic generation unit (20) configured to generate sound, wherein the control unit (30) outputs an acoustic signal to the acoustic generation unit (20), in a case where the first control mode is selected, the control unit (30) generates the acoustic signal by changing the input signal in accordance with the first signal conversion type, in a case where the second control mode is selected, the control unit (30) generates the acoustic signal by changing the input signal in accordance with the second signal conversion type, the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type is larger in amount of change from the input signal than the acoustic signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type, and the operation signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type is larger in amount of change from the input signal than the acoustic signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type.

13. The bathtub system (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the input signal has a distinguishable tempo, the operation signal also has a distinguishable tempo, the tempo of the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type is increased or decreased as compared with the tempo of the input signal, and the tempo of the operation signal generated in accordance with the second signal conversion type is increased or decreased in a manner different from the operation signal generated in accordance with the first signal conversion type as compared with the tempo of the input signal.

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