Huggable pillow

Abstract

To provide a convenient huggable pillow.SOLUTION: A huggable pillow includes: a main body part having a first part positioned on an upper half body side when a user hugs the pillow, and a second part positioned on a lower half body side when the user hugs the pillow; temperature adjustment parts arranged in the main body part; and a control part for controlling the temperature adjustment parts. The first part has hand contact surface part with which hands have contact when the user hugs the pillow. The hand contact surface part includes temperature change parts for changing temperature by the temperature adjustment parts.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a body pillow. [Background technology]

[0002] A body pillow that is provided with a storage section for storing a cooling agent or a heat generating agent is known (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2000-70075 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The body pillow described in Patent Document 1 requires the user to prepare cooling agents and heat generating agents in advance, which can be time-consuming.

[0005] The embodiment of the present invention provides a convenient body pillow. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An embodiment of the present invention is a body pillow comprising a main body having a first portion that is located on the upper body side when held by a user and a second portion that is located on the lower body side when held by a user, a temperature adjustment portion provided on the main body, and a control portion that controls the temperature adjustment portion, wherein the first portion has a hand contact surface portion that comes into contact with the user's hands when held by the user, and the hand contact surface portion has a temperature change portion whose temperature is changed by the temperature adjustment portion. Effect of the Invention

[0007] The embodiment of the present invention can provide a convenient body pillow. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] This is a front view of the body pillow. [Diagram 3] This is a side view of the body pillow. [Figure 4] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the body pillow in FIG. 2 as viewed from the direction of arrow AA. [Diagram 5] 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of part B in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical system of the body pillow. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart showing temperature control executed by a control unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an electrical system of a body pillow according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a user holding a body pillow according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical system of the body pillow. [Figure 11] 4 is a flowchart showing temperature control executed by a control unit. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an electrical system of a body pillow according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 4 is a flowchart showing temperature control executed by a control unit. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] 4, showing a body pillow according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] A body pillow according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figs.

[0010] 1 to 7 show a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view of the body pillow. FIG. 3 is a side view of the body pillow. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the body pillow in FIG. 2 as viewed from the direction of arrow AA. FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of part B in FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the electrical system of the body pillow. FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing the temperature control executed by the control unit.

[0011] The body pillow 1 is a pillow that is used to be hugged when the user goes to sleep, for example. For this reason, the body pillow 1 has a length that extends from the chest to the feet of the user. In the embodiment, when the user hugs the body pillow 1, the direction in which the hands are located is described as "front" and the direction in which the chest is located is described as "rear". Also, when the user hugs the body pillow 1, the direction in which the right arm is located is described as "right" and the direction in which the left arm is located is described as "left". Also, when the user hugs the body pillow 1, the head side is described as "up" and the foot side is described as "down". The body pillow 1 includes a main body 10, a temperature adjustment unit 40 provided in the main body 10, and a control unit 60 that controls the temperature adjustment unit 40.

[0012] The main body 10 is formed, for example, by joining soft urethane to the outside of hard urethane. The main body 10 has cushioning properties. The main body 10 has a first portion 20 located on the upper body side when the user holds it, and a second portion 30 located on the lower body side when the user holds it. That is, the main body 10 has the first portion 20 located on the head side of the user, and the second portion 30 located on the foot side.

[0013] As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the main body 10 has a first region 20 and a second region 30 that have different shapes. Specifically, the thickness dimension L1 of the first region 20 is smaller than the width dimension L2 of the first region 20. On the other hand, the thickness dimension L3 of the second region 30 is larger than the width dimension L4 of the second region 30. Furthermore, the thickness dimension L1 of the first region 20 is smaller than the thickness dimension L3 of the second region 30. The width dimension L2 of the first region 20 is larger than the width dimension L4 of the second region 30.

[0014] The first portion 20 is wide and thin. This allows the first portion 20 to come into contact with a wide area of ​​the user's chest and allows the user to easily hug the first portion 20 with their arms. On the other hand, the second portion 30 is narrow and thick. This allows the user to easily wrap their legs around the second portion 30. The body portion 10 of the body pillow 1 has such a shape, so it can give the user a comfortable sensation and promote good quality sleep.

[0015] The first section 20 has a hand contact surface 21 that comes into contact with the user's hands when the user holds the device, and a chest contact surface 23 that comes into contact with the user's chest when the user holds the device. That is, the hand contact surface 21 and the chest contact surface 23 face each other in the front-to-rear direction. The chest contact surface 23 is, for example, a flat surface that comes into contact with the user's entire chest, giving the user a sense of security.

[0016] The body pillow 1 is designed to be able to electrically change the temperature of the hand contact surface portion 21. The hand contact surface portion 21 has a temperature change portion 21a whose temperature is changed by a temperature adjustment portion 40, which will be described later. The temperature change portion 21a is formed at a position where the hand comes into contact when the user holds the first portion 20. The body pillow 1 is designed to warm or cool the user's hands, thereby encouraging the user to fall asleep steadily.

[0017] The main body 10 may have a pocket or band (neither of which is shown) into which the user's hand can be inserted, at a position corresponding to the temperature change unit 21a. This allows the user's hand to be naturally guided to the temperature change unit 21a.

[0018] 4, the main body 10 has an inlet 11 that draws in air F from the outside, and a passage 13 that extends from the inlet 11 toward the temperature change section 21a. That is, the inside of the main body 10 is formed as a cavity by the passage 13. The inlet 11 is provided in the bottom surface 30a of the second section 30. Note that the inlet 11 may be provided in a position of the second section 30 other than the bottom surface 30a (for example, a side surface, etc.).

[0019] The temperature change section 21a has a plurality of through holes 21a1. These through holes 21a1 communicate between the passage section 13 and the outside. That is, the air F sucked in through the suction port 11 is discharged to the outside through the through holes 21a1.

[0020] The temperature adjustment unit 40 is provided in the main body 10. The temperature adjustment unit 40 is electrically operated to change the temperature of the temperature change unit 21a. The hugging pillow 1 is designed to warm or cool the user's hand that is in contact with the temperature change unit 21a by the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 40. The temperature adjustment unit 40 has a heating unit 41 provided in the temperature change unit 21a and an air blowing unit 43 provided in the passage unit 13. The operation of the temperature adjustment unit 40 is controlled by a control unit 60 described later.

[0021] The heating section 41 is, for example, a sheet heater, and is provided on the surface of the hand-contact surface section 21. That is, the part of the hand-contact surface section 21 where the heating section 41 is provided is the temperature change section 21a. The heating section 41 is, for example, a different color from the hand-contact surface section 21, or has stitching or steps, so that its position can be recognized. This allows the position of the temperature change section 21a to be recognized. Therefore, the hug pillow 1 allows the user to easily know where to place his or her hands.

[0022] The heating section 41 has a plurality of through holes 41a penetrating in the thickness direction. These through holes 41a are provided at positions corresponding to the through holes 21a1 of the temperature change section 21a. The heating section 41 may be provided on the back surface or inside of the hand-contact surface section 21. In such a case, the heat generated by the heating section 41 is transferred to the surface of the hand-contact surface section 21, thereby forming the temperature change section 21a.

[0023] The air blowing section 43 is, for example, a fan, and is provided in the passage section 13. The air blowing section 43 draws in outside air F from the inlet 11, and exhausts the air F to the outside from the through-hole 41a of the heating section 41 via the through-hole 21a1 of the temperature changing section 21a. The air F exhausted from the through-hole 41a cools the user's hands by coming into contact with them.

[0024] The body pillow 1 further includes a vibration unit 50 that vibrates the main body unit 10. The vibration unit 50 is provided inside the main body unit 10. As shown in Fig. 4, the vibration unit 50 vibrates, for example, the chest contact surface unit 23. Note that the vibration unit 50 may vibrate other parts.

[0025] The vibration unit 50 is activated, for example, by operating the operation unit 65 described below, or at a set time. The vibration unit 50 provides a relaxation function and an alarm function to a user who is holding the body pillow 1. The operation of the vibration unit 50 is controlled by the control unit 60 described below. The vibration unit 50 may be provided as necessary, or may not be required.

[0026] The control unit 60 controls the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 40 (heating unit 41 and air blowing unit 43) and the operation of the vibration unit 50. The control unit 60 is provided inside the main body unit 10. The control unit 60 is connected to a battery 63 and controls the power supply from the battery 63 to the temperature adjustment unit 40. The battery 63 is, for example, a rechargeable secondary battery. The control unit 60 has a memory unit 61. The memory unit 61 stores, for example, a temperature control program based on the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 40. The temperature control program executed by the control unit 60 will be described later.

[0027] The operation unit 65 is provided on the main body 10. The operation unit 65 is a part that is operated to operate the temperature adjustment unit 40 and the vibration unit 50. The control unit 60 operates the temperature adjustment unit 40 and the vibration unit 50 based on the operation of the operation unit 65. The operation unit 65 has a continuous switch that operates the heating unit 41 and the air blowing unit 43 continuously, a heating switch that operates only the heating unit 41, a cooling switch that operates only the air blowing unit 43, and a stop switch that stops the operation of the heating unit 41 and the air blowing unit 43.

[0028] The temperature measuring unit 67 is provided in the main body 10. The temperature measuring unit 67 measures the temperature of the temperature changing unit 21a that is in contact with the user's hand. The temperature measuring unit 67 is connected to the control unit 60 and transmits the measured temperature to the control unit 60.

[0029] The control unit 60 controls the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 40 based on the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit 67. The control unit 60 operates the heating unit 41 until the temperature change unit 21a reaches a target temperature (e.g., 40°C). Furthermore, the control unit 60 suspends the operation of the heating unit 41 when the temperature change unit 21a reaches the target temperature or higher (e.g., 45°C). That is, the control unit 60 changes the output of the temperature adjustment unit 40 based on the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit 67. The temperature measurement unit 67 may be provided as necessary, but is not necessary.

[0030] The body pillow 1 according to this embodiment has the configuration as described above, and the temperature control executed by the control unit 60 will now be described with reference to FIG. 7. The control process shown in FIG. 7 is stored in advance in the storage unit 61 of the control unit 60. The control process shown in FIG. 7 is executed at a predetermined cycle. In FIG. 7, each step is indicated by "S".

[0031] In S1, it is determined whether or not the continuous switch is turned ON. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the continuous switch of the operation unit 65 is turned ON. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S1, that is, that the continuous switch is turned ON, the process proceeds to S2. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S1, that is, that the continuous switch is not turned ON, the process proceeds to S7.

[0032] In S2, the heating unit is operated. That is, the control unit 60 starts heating the heating unit 41. This causes the temperature change unit 21a of the hand contact surface unit 21 to rise in temperature. The control unit 60 also measures the time from when the heating unit 41 starts operating. The body pillow 1 first warms the user's hand with the heating unit 41, expanding the arteriovenous anastomoses of the hand. With the arteriovenous anastomoses expanded, the user's body heat is more easily released, and sleep is induced.

[0033] In S3, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the heating unit 41 started heating. The predetermined time is stored in advance in the storage unit 61, and is a set time between 10 minutes and 30 minutes (for example, 10 minutes). The predetermined time may be selectable, for example, 10 minutes or 20 minutes. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S3, that is, that the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to S4. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S3, that is, that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process monitors the passage of the predetermined time.

[0034] In S4, the operation of the heating unit is stopped and the air blowing unit is operated. That is, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the heating unit 41 when a predetermined time has elapsed since the heating unit 41 started to operate. Then, the control unit 60 starts the operation of the air blowing unit 43. That is, the heating unit 41 automatically stops when a predetermined time has elapsed since the heating unit 41 started to operate. On the other hand, the air blowing unit 43 automatically starts to operate when a predetermined time has elapsed since the heating unit 41 started to operate.

[0035] By operating the air blower 43, air F is discharged from the through-hole 41a of the heating unit 41. The control unit 60 also measures the time from when the air blower 43 started operating. The body pillow 1 cools the user's hand, which was heated in S2 above, with the air F discharged from the through-hole 41a. This allows the user to efficiently release heat from within the body. The user's core body temperature is suddenly lowered, which effectively encourages them to fall asleep.

[0036] In S5, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the blower unit 43 started blowing air. The predetermined time is stored in advance in the storage unit 61, and is a set time between 30 minutes and 60 minutes (for example, 30 minutes). The predetermined time may be selectable, for example, 30 minutes or 60 minutes. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S5, that is, that the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to S6. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S5, that is, that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process monitors the passage of the predetermined time.

[0037] In S6, the operation of the blower unit 43 is stopped. That is, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the blower unit 43, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the blower unit 43 and ends the process. That is, the blower unit 43 automatically stops when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the blower unit 43.

[0038] In this way, when the continuous switch of the operation unit 65 is operated, the user's hands are warmed for a predetermined time by the heating unit 41, and then cooled for a predetermined time by the air blowing unit 43. By warming the user's hands with the heating unit 41, the body pillow 1 expands blood vessels, making it easier to release heat from within the body. After that, the body pillow 1 efficiently releases the heat from within the body with the air blowing unit 43. This causes the user's core body temperature to drop rapidly, effectively encouraging them to fall asleep.

[0039] In S7, it is determined whether the heating switch has been turned ON. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether the heating switch of the operation unit 65 has been turned ON. Then, if it is determined that S7 is "YES", that is, that the heating switch has been turned ON, the process proceeds to S8. On the other hand, if it is determined that S7 is "NO", that is, that the heating switch has not been turned ON, the process proceeds to S11.

[0040] In S8, the heating unit is operated. In S8, the same control process as in S2 is executed. The body pillow 1 warms the user's hands by heating the heating unit 41. In the next S9, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. In S9, the same control process as in S3 is executed. The predetermined time in S9 may be longer or shorter than the predetermined time in S3. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S9, that is, that the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to S10. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S9, that is, that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the passage of the predetermined time is monitored.

[0041] In the next step S10, the operation of the heating unit 41 is stopped. That is, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the heating unit 41, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the heating unit 41 and ends the process. That is, the heating unit 41 automatically stops when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the heating unit 41. This makes it possible to prevent the operation of the heating unit 41 from continuing even if the user forgets to stop the operation of the heating unit 41.

[0042] In S11, it is determined whether or not the cooling switch has been turned ON. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the cooling switch of the operation unit 65 has been turned ON. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S11, that is, that the cooling switch has been turned ON, the process proceeds to S12. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S11, that is, that the cooling switch has not been turned ON, the process ends.

[0043] In S12, the air blowing unit is operated. That is, the control unit 60 starts the operation of the air blowing unit 43. The operation of the air blowing unit 43 causes air F to be discharged from the through-hole 41a of the heating unit 41. The control unit 60 also measures the time from the start of the operation of the air blowing unit 43. The body pillow 1 cools the user's hands with the air F discharged from the through-hole 41a.

[0044] In the next step S13, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. In step S13, the same control process as in step S5 is executed. Note that the predetermined time in step S13 may be longer or shorter than the predetermined time in step S5.

[0045] In S14, the operation of the air blowing unit is stopped. That is, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the air blowing unit 43, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the air blowing unit 43 and ends the process. That is, the air blowing unit 43 automatically stops when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the air blowing unit 43. This makes it possible to prevent the operation of the air blowing unit 43 from continuing even if the user forgets to stop the operation of the air blowing unit 43. Note that the operation of the heating unit 41 and the air blowing unit 43 is stopped when the stop switch of the operation unit 65 is operated even before the predetermined time has elapsed.

[0046] In this way, when the continuous switch of the operation unit 65 is operated, the control unit 60 operates the heating unit 41 and then the air blowing unit 43. The body pillow 1 first warms the user's hands and expands the arteriovenous anastomoses of the hands. With the arteriovenous anastomoses expanded, the user's body heat is more easily released, and sleep is induced. The body pillow 1 cools the user's hands in this state. This allows the user to efficiently release heat from within the body. The user's core body temperature is rapidly reduced, and sleep is effectively induced.

[0047] Control of core body temperature by temperature control of the arteriovenous anastomosis of the hand and its effect on falling asleep are described in References A to D below. Reference A: Kurauchi et al., A relationship between heat loss and sleepiness: Effects of postural change and melatonin administration, Journal of Applied Physiology, 1997, 83 (1):134-139 Reference B: Kurauchi et al., Functional link between distal vasodilation and sleep-onset latency?, Am J Physiol Regulatory Int Comp Physiol, 2000, 278:R741-R748 Reference C: Kurauchi et al., Circadian Clues to Sleep Onset Mechanisms, NEUROPSYCHOPHMACOLOG, 2001, VOL25, NO.S5 Reference D: PJ Murphy et al., Nighttime drop in body temperature: a physiological trigger for sleep onset?, Sleep, 1997, 20 (7):505-511

[0048] Furthermore, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the temperature adjustment unit 40 (heating unit 41 or air blowing unit 43) was activated, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 40. This enables the body pillow 1 to prevent the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 40 from continuing longer than necessary.

[0049] In addition, the first portion 20 of the body pillow 1 is wide and thin, and the second portion 30 is narrow and thick. This allows the user to naturally assume a good posture when holding the body pillow 1. Therefore, the user can assume a relaxed posture when holding the body pillow 1.

[0050] Next, a body pillow according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 8. In the second embodiment, the same components as those in the body pillow 1 according to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the electrical system of the body pillow according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] The body pillow 1 has a contact sensor 70 that detects whether or not the user is in contact with the main body part 10. The contact sensor 70 is provided on the main body part 10, and detects, for example, a hand touching the hand contact surface part 21. The contact sensor 70 may detect the chest of the user touching the chest contact surface part 23, or may detect the feet of the user at the second part 30. The contact sensor 70 transmits the detection result of whether or not the user is in contact with the main body part 10 to the control part 60.

[0052] The control unit 60 starts the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 40 when contact is detected by the contact sensor 70. Moreover, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 40 when contact is not detected by the contact sensor 70. In other words, the contact sensor 70 serves as an operation switch for operating the temperature adjustment unit 40.

[0053] Detection (enabled or disabled) by the contact sensor 70 can be switched, for example, by the operation unit 65. For example, when the user turns on (enabled) the contact sensor 70 by the operation unit 65, the operation and stop of the temperature adjustment unit 40 is controlled depending on whether or not the contact sensor 70 detects contact with the main body unit 10.

[0054] The temperature adjustment unit 40 automatically starts operating when the user holds the main body unit 10. For example, when the operation unit 65 is set to a continuous switch or when the operation unit 65 is set to a heating switch, the control unit 60 starts the operation of the heating unit 41. On the other hand, when the operation unit 65 is set to a cooling switch, the control unit 60 starts the operation of the air blowing unit 43. In addition, the temperature adjustment unit 40 automatically stops when the user releases the main body unit 10, for example, by turning over in sleep. This makes it possible to prevent the temperature adjustment unit 40 from continuing to operate when the user is not in contact with the body pillow 1.

[0055] Next, a body pillow according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 9 to Fig. 11. In the third embodiment, the same components as those of the body pillow 1 according to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a user holding a body pillow according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the electrical system of the body pillow. FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the temperature control executed by the control unit.

[0056] As shown in Fig. 9, a user is lying on the bed 100 holding the body pillow 1. The bed 100 is provided with a state detection sensor 80. The state detection sensor 80 is placed, for example, on or under the mattress, and detects the state (awake state or asleep state) of the user on the bed 100. The state detection sensor 80 detects whether the user is in an awake state or asleep state by detecting, for example, the body movement and breathing of the user on the bed 100.

[0057] The state detection sensor 80 transmits a user state signal based on the detected state of the user to the communication unit 85 of the body pillow 1. The user state signal has an awakening signal when the user is awakened and a sleeping signal when the user is asleep. The state detection sensor 80 transmits the user state at a predetermined cycle, for example, after the body pillow 1 is powered on. The control unit 60 stores the acquired state of the user in the memory unit 61. The control unit 60 controls the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 40 based on the state of the user.

[0058] Next, the temperature control executed by the control unit 60 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. The control process shown in Fig. 11 is stored in advance in the storage unit 61 of the control unit 60. The control process shown in Fig. 11 is a process that is performed when the temperature adjustment unit 40 is operating. In Fig. 11, each step is indicated by "S".

[0059] In S21, a user status signal is acquired. That is, the control unit 60 acquires either an awake signal or a sleep signal. The control unit 60 monitors the status of the user on the bed 100 by receiving the user status signal.

[0060] In the next S22, it is determined whether or not a sleep signal has been acquired. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the user on the bed 100 has fallen asleep. Then, if it is determined that "YES" in S22, that is, that a sleep signal has been acquired, the process proceeds to S23. On the other hand, if it is determined that "NO" in S22, that is, that a sleep signal has not been acquired, the process ends.

[0061] In S23, the operation of the temperature adjustment unit is stopped. That is, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the heating unit 41 or the air blowing unit 43, and ends the process. That is, the body pillow 1 automatically stops the operation of the temperature adjustment unit 40 when the user falls asleep. For example, when the user falls asleep while the heating unit 41 or the air blowing unit 43 is in operation, the heating unit 41 or the air blowing unit 43 is stopped without waiting for a predetermined time to elapse (S3, S5, S9, S13 in FIG. 7). This makes it possible to prevent the temperature adjustment unit 40 from continuing to operate after the user falls asleep.

[0062] The control unit 60 may analyze information on the past user status signal acquired, and execute the next temperature control based on the analysis result. Information on the user status signal may be, for example, the time or elapsed time from when the continuous switch of the operation unit 65 is turned on until the user goes from an awake state to a sleeping state, a sleep score (sleep depth), etc.

[0063] As an example, during the first certain period after the user starts using the body pillow 1, the combination of the heating time of the heating unit 41, the temperature of the temperature changing unit 21a, and the air blowing time and output (air blowing volume) of the air blowing unit 43 is experimentally changed each time the body pillow 1 is used. The control unit 60 records the control combination at that time and the sleep information (time required to fall asleep, sleep score for that day) as a set in the memory unit 61. The control unit 60 calculates the optimal control combination for the user based on the control combination when the time required to fall asleep was short or the sleep score was high.

[0064] Furthermore, for example, if the user falls asleep while heating unit 41 is operating, control unit 60 may shorten the predetermined time for which heating unit 41 operates in the next temperature control. Also, for example, if the user is still awake even after operation of blower unit 43 has ended, control unit 60 may lengthen the predetermined time for which heating unit 41 or blower unit 43 operates in the next temperature control. Note that control unit 60 is not limited to changing the predetermined time for which heating unit 41 or blower unit 43 operates, and may also change the output of heating unit 41 or blower unit 43, for example.

[0065] In this way, the body pillow 1 analyzes the user's past state from an awake state to a sleeping state, and changes the temperature control by the heating unit 41 and the air blowing unit 43. Therefore, the body pillow 1 can encourage the user to fall asleep effectively.

[0066] Next, a body pillow according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. In the fourth embodiment, the operating time and temperature control of the temperature adjustment unit 40 are changed according to the environment (temperature and humidity) surrounding the body pillow 1. In the fourth embodiment, the same components as those in the body pillow 1 according to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an electrical system of the body pillow according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the temperature control executed by the control unit.

[0067] The environment measuring unit 87 is provided in the main body 10. The environment measuring unit 87 is a thermometer and / or a hygrometer that measures the usage environment (surrounding environment) of the body pillow 1. The environment measuring unit 87 may be a thermometer or a hygrometer. The environment measuring unit 87 is connected to the control unit 60 and transmits the measured temperature and humidity to the control unit 60. The control unit 60 controls the operation of the temperature adjusting unit 40 based on the usage environment around the body pillow 1.

[0068] Next, the temperature control executed by the control unit 60 will be described with reference to FIG. 13. The control process shown in FIG. 13 is stored in advance in the storage unit 61 of the control unit 60. The control process shown in FIG. 13 is executed before the heating unit 41 and the air blowing unit 43 start operating. That is, the control process shown in FIG. 13 is executed to determine each predetermined time when the body pillow 1 is powered on. Note that each step is indicated by "S" in FIG. 13. In FIG. 13, the case where the environment measuring unit 87 is a thermometer will be described as an example.

[0069] In S31, the control unit 60 acquires the usage environment Ta (temperature) measured by the environment measuring unit 87.

[0070] In the next S32, it is determined whether the usage environment Ta is less than the first environmental threshold value Tx1 (Ta < Tx1). The first environmental threshold value Tx1 is stored in advance in the storage unit 61. The first environmental threshold value Tx1 is, for example, 20°C. And when it is determined as "YES" in S32, that is, when the usage environment Ta is less than the first environmental threshold value Tx1, the process proceeds to S33. On the other hand, when it is determined that the usage environment Ta is greater than or equal to the first environmental threshold value Tx1, the process proceeds to S34.

[0071] In S33, the heating unit is set to the first setting and the blowing unit is set to the second setting, and then it ends. The first setting and the second setting are stored in advance in the storage unit 61. For example, when the usage environment is less than 20°C, the control unit 60 sets the predetermined time for which the heating unit 41 operates to the first setting (for example, 15 minutes). Also, for example, when the usage environment is less than 20°C, the control unit 60 sets the predetermined time for which the blowing unit 43 operates to the second setting (for example, 20 minutes).

[0072] In S34, it is determined whether the usage environment Ta is less than the second environmental threshold value Tx2 (Tx1 ≤ Ta < Tx2). The second environmental threshold value Tx2 is stored in advance in the storage unit 61. The second environmental threshold value Tx2 is, for example, 28°C. And when it is determined as "YES" in S33, that is, when the usage environment Ta is less than the second environmental threshold value Tx2, the process proceeds to S35. On the other hand, when it is determined that the usage environment Ta is greater than or equal to the second environmental threshold value Tx2, the process proceeds to S36.

[0073] In S35, the heating unit is set to the third setting and the blowing unit is set to the fourth setting, and then it ends. The third setting and the fourth setting are stored in advance in the storage unit 61. For example, when the usage environment is 20°C or more and less than 28°C, the control unit 60 sets the predetermined time for which the heating unit 41 operates to the third setting (for example, 10 minutes). Also, for example, when the usage environment is 20°C or more and less than 28°C, the control unit 60 sets the predetermined time for which the blowing unit 43 operates to the fourth setting (for example, 30 minutes).

[0074] In S36, the heating unit is set to the fifth setting, the blowing unit is set to the sixth setting, and the process ends. The fifth setting and the sixth setting are stored in advance in the memory unit 61. For example, when the usage environment is 28°C or higher, the control unit 60 sets the predetermined time for which the heating unit 41 operates to the fifth setting (e.g., 5 minutes). Also, for example, when the usage environment is 28°C or higher, the control unit 60 sets the predetermined time for which the blowing unit 43 operates to the sixth setting (e.g., 40 minutes).

[0075] In this way, as the temperature around the body pillow 1 rises, the control unit 60 shortens the operating time of the heating unit 41 and lengthens the operating time of the air blowing unit 43. This allows the body pillow 1 to be temperature-controlled in accordance with the surrounding environment, improving the comfort of the user.

[0076] The first to sixth settings are not limited to the operation time of the heating unit 41 or the air blowing unit 43, and the maximum output value of the heating unit 41 or the air blowing unit 43 may be changed. Specifically, the first setting of the heating unit 41 can be 42°C, the third setting can be 40°C, and the fifth setting can be 38°C. The second setting of the air blowing unit 43 can be 5V, the fourth setting can be 7V, and the sixth setting can be 9V. This allows the control unit 60 to control the temperature of the temperature changing unit 21a depending on the environment around the body pillow 1. The control unit 60 may change both the operation time and the maximum output, or only one of them, based on the environment around.

[0077] Also, the control unit 60 has been described as changing the settings of the heating unit 41 and the blower unit 43 based on the first and second environmental threshold values ​​Tx1 and Tx2. However, the control unit 60 may change the predetermined time or maximum output of the heating unit 41 and the blower unit 43 using an arithmetic expression based on the usage environment Ta.

[0078] Also, similar control processing can be executed even when the environment measuring unit 87 is a hygrometer. As an example, when the usage environment (humidity) is less than the first environment threshold (e.g., 60%), the heating unit 41 is set to a first setting (e.g., 10 minutes or 40°C), and the blower unit 43 is set to a second setting (e.g., 30 minutes or 7V). On the other hand, when the usage environment (humidity) is equal to or greater than the first environment threshold (e.g., 60%), the heating unit 41 is set to a third setting (e.g., 7 minutes or 38°C), and the blower unit 43 is set to a fourth setting (e.g., 40 minutes or 9V).

[0079] The control unit 60 may change the predetermined time or maximum output of the heating unit 41 or the air blowing unit 43 based on an arithmetic expression based on humidity. The control unit 60 may also change the settings of the heating unit 41 or the air blowing unit 43 based on both the temperature and humidity around the body pillow 1.

[0080] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. In the above-described embodiment, the case where the heating unit 41 is provided over the entire temperature changing unit 21a has been described as an example. However, as in the case of a body pillow 3 according to a fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 14, a plurality of heating units 91 may be provided at intervals in the temperature changing unit 90.

[0081] That is, the main body 10 has an inlet 11 that draws in air from the outside, and a passage 13 that extends from the inlet 11 toward the temperature change unit 90. The temperature adjustment unit 40 has a plurality of heating units 91 provided at a distance from the temperature change unit 90, and a blower 43 provided in the passage 13. The temperature change unit 90 has a plurality of through holes 90a that penetrate into the passage 13 at positions different from the plurality of heating units 91.

[0082] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 4, showing a body pillow according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. In the above-described embodiment, the case where the suction port 11 for sucking in the air F is provided on the bottom surface portion 30a of the second portion 30 has been described as an example. However, as in the case of a body pillow 5 according to a sixth embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the air blowing portion 93 may be provided on the rear side of the temperature changing portion 94.

[0083] In this case, some of the through holes 95 provided in the temperature change section 94 are inlet ports 95a that draw in the air F, and the rest are outlet ports 95b that discharge the air F. The outlet ports 95b face the blower section 93. On the other hand, the inlet ports 95a are provided in a position that does not face the blower section 93. In this example, the air F is drawn in from the inlet ports 95a located above and below the blower section 93, and the air F is discharged from the outlet ports 95b located in front of the blower section 93. In the hugging pillow 5, the flow of air F occurs not only in the outlet ports 95b but also in the inlet ports 95a. As a result, the hugging pillow 5 can cool the user's hands even if the hands are in contact with the inlet ports 95a.

[0084] FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. In the above-described embodiment, the case where the main body 10 is continuous with no step between the first region 20 and the second region 30 has been described as an example. However, as in the case of a body pillow 7 according to a seventh embodiment shown in Fig. 16, a body portion 97 having a convex shape formed by a first region 98 and a second region 99 may be provided.

[0085] In the above embodiment, the heating unit 41 is a seat heater. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and the heating unit may be a heater provided in the passage 13. In this case, the temperature change unit can be heated by hot air generated by operating both the heater and the blower 43.

[0086] In the above-described embodiment, an example was described in which the status detection sensor 80 was provided in the bed 100. However, the present invention is not limited to this aspect, and for example, the status detection sensor may be provided in the main body of a body pillow.

[0087] In the above embodiment, a body pillow that warms or cools the user's hands to promote effective sleep has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be adapted to warm or cool the user's feet, for example.

[0088] The embodiment may include the following features. (Configuration 1) A main body portion having a first portion located on the upper body side when held by a user, and a second portion located on the lower body side when held by the user; A temperature control unit provided in the main body unit; A control unit that controls the temperature adjustment unit; Equipped with The first portion is A hand contact surface portion that comes into contact with the user's hands when the user holds the device, The hand-contact surface portion of the body pillow has a temperature change portion whose temperature is changed by the temperature adjustment portion. (Configuration 2) The thickness dimension of the first portion is smaller than the width dimension of the first portion, The body pillow according to configuration 1, wherein the thickness dimension of the second portion is formed to be larger than the width dimension of the second portion. (Configuration 3) The thickness dimension of the first portion is smaller than the thickness dimension of the second portion, 3. The body pillow according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the width dimension of the first region is larger than the width dimension of the second region. (Configuration 4) 4. The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the temperature change portion is configured so that its position can be recognized. (Configuration 5) The main body portion is An intake port for drawing in air from the outside; a passage portion extending from the suction port toward the temperature change portion; having The temperature control unit is A heating unit provided in the temperature change unit; A blower provided in the passage; having 5. The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the heating section has a plurality of through holes penetrating the passage section. (Configuration 6) The main body portion is An intake port for drawing in air from the outside; a passage portion extending from the suction port toward the temperature change portion; having The temperature control unit is A plurality of heating units provided at intervals in the temperature change unit; A blower provided in the passage; having 5. The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the temperature change section has a plurality of through holes penetrating the passage section at positions different from the positions of the plurality of heating sections. (Configuration 7) 7. The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the control unit activates the heating unit and then activates the air blowing unit. (Configuration 8) The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the control unit stops the operation of the temperature adjustment unit when a predetermined time has elapsed since the temperature adjustment unit was activated. (Configuration 9) The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, further comprising a vibration part that vibrates the main body part. (Configuration 10) Further, a contact sensor is provided to detect whether or not a user is in contact with the main body portion. The control unit is When a contact is detected by the contact sensor, an operation of the temperature adjustment unit is started; 10. The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, wherein the operation of the temperature adjustment unit is stopped when no contact is detected by the contact sensor. (Configuration 11) 11. The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 10, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the temperature adjustment unit based on the user's state of wakefulness and state of sleep. (Configuration 12) 12. The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the temperature adjustment unit based on the surrounding environment in which the body pillow is used. (Configuration 13) 13. The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 12, wherein the main body has a pocket or band into which a hand can be inserted, at a position corresponding to the temperature change portion.

[0089] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0090] 1, 3, 5, 7 Body Pillow 10 Main body 11 Intake port 13 Passage section 20 Part 1 21 Hand contact surface 21a Temperature change section 21a1 Through hole 23 Chest contact area 30 Part 2 30a Bottom part 40 Temperature control section 41 Heating section 41a Through hole 43 Blower 50 Vibration section 60 Control section 61 Storage section 63 Battery 65 Operation section 67 Temperature measurement section 70 Contact Sensor 80 Status detection sensor 85 Communications Department 87 Environmental Measurement Division 90 Temperature change section 90a through hole 91 Heating section 93 Blower 94 Temperature change section 95 Through hole 95a Intake port 95b Outlet 97 Main body 98 Part 1 99 Part 2 100 Beds

Claims

1. a main body having a first section located on an upper body side when held by a user, and a second section located on a lower body side when held by the user; A temperature control unit provided in the main body unit; A control unit that controls the temperature adjustment unit; Equipped with The first portion is A hand contact surface portion that comes into contact with the user's hands when the user holds the device, The hand-contact surface portion of the body pillow has a temperature change portion whose temperature is changed by the temperature adjustment portion.

2. The thickness dimension of the first portion is smaller than the width dimension of the first portion, 2. The body pillow according to claim 1, wherein the thickness dimension of the second portion is larger than the width dimension of the second portion.

3. The thickness dimension of the first portion is smaller than the thickness dimension of the second portion, 2. The body pillow according to claim 1, wherein the width dimension of the first region is larger than the width dimension of the second region.

4. The body pillow according to claim 1, wherein the temperature change portion is adapted to be positioned so as to be identifiable.

5. The main body portion is An intake port for drawing in air from the outside; a passage portion extending from the suction port toward the temperature change portion; having The temperature control unit is A heating unit provided in the temperature change unit; A blower provided in the passage; having The body pillow according to claim 1 , wherein the heating portion has a plurality of through holes penetrating the passage portion.

6. The main body portion is An intake port for drawing in air from the outside; a passage portion extending from the suction port toward the temperature change portion; having The temperature control unit is A plurality of heating units provided at intervals in the temperature change unit; A blower provided in the passage; having 2. The body pillow according to claim 1, wherein the temperature change section has a plurality of through holes that penetrate the passage section at positions different from the positions of the plurality of heating sections.

7. The body pillow according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit operates the heating unit and then the blowing unit.

8. The body pillow according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit stops the operation of the temperature adjustment unit when a predetermined time has elapsed since the temperature adjustment unit was activated.

9. The body pillow according to claim 1, further comprising a vibration part for vibrating the main body part.

10. Further, a contact sensor is provided to detect whether or not a user is in contact with the main body portion. The control unit is When a contact is detected by the contact sensor, an operation of the temperature adjustment unit is started; 2. The body pillow according to claim 1, wherein the temperature adjusting unit stops operating when no contact is detected by the contact sensor.

11. The body pillow according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit controls the operation of the temperature adjustment unit based on the user's state of wakefulness and state of sleep.

12. The body pillow according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the temperature adjustment unit based on the surrounding usage environment.

13. 2. The body pillow according to claim 1, wherein the main body portion has a pocket or a band into which a hand can be inserted, at a position corresponding to the temperature change portion.

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