Characteristic information collection method and characteristic information collection device
The characteristic information collecting method and device address the challenge of diagnosing visual and auditory cognitive function biases by assessing how sound stimuli are perceived in different light environments, enabling effective diagnosis and intervention.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2023194109
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-11-15
- Publication Date
- 2025-05-27
- Estimated Expiration
- 2043-11-15
AI Technical Summary
Individuals with biases in visual and auditory cognitive functions often go undiagnosed, as these biases cannot be effectively assessed in standard medical settings and require specialized knowledge and expertise.
A characteristic information collecting method and device that provide sound stimuli to subjects in both white and predetermined light environments, allowing for the collection and analysis of how these stimuli are perceived, thereby assessing the integration of vision and hearing.
Enables the objective and quantitative collection of characteristic information regarding the integration of vision and hearing, facilitating the diagnosis of visual and auditory cognitive function biases and providing a basis for targeted interventions and treatments.
Smart Images

Figure 2025080820000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical field]
[0001] The present invention relates to a characteristic information collecting method and a characteristic information collecting device for collecting characteristic information regarding the integration of a subject's vision and hearing. [Background technology]
[0002] Learning disabilities (specific learning disorders) are conditions in which a person has difficulty mastering a task in a specific field, even though their general intelligence is within the normal range, they have no visual or auditory impairments, and there are no problems with the learning environment or the individual's motivation. There are various types of learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. Some people also have difficulty with visual-spatial cognition (the ability to accurately recognize the form and positional relationship of an object, such as its position, shape, direction, and size).
[0003] Some people with learning disabilities complain that "letters appear to be shaking," "text appears to be wavy," or "paper appears to be shiny." Such symptoms (vision) are called Irlen syndrome, Meares-Irlen syndrome, or visual stress. It is known that such symptoms can sometimes be improved by using colored films or lenses. The use of colored lenses and colored films is considered to be particularly effective for Irlen syndrome (see non-patent literature 1 and 2). For this reason, it is believed that Irlen syndrome and the like may be associated with a disorder related to visual perception (imbalance in visual cognitive function), particularly imbalance in light sensitivity. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]
[0004] [Non-Patent Document 1] Sandra Irlen et al., “A controlled field study of the use of colored overlays on reading achievement”, Australian Journal of Learning Disabilities, Volume 9, 2004 - Issue 2, Pages 14-22 [Non-Patent Document 2] Keiko Kumagai et al., “The Research of Visual Characteristics of the Clients with Irlen Syndrome”, Japanese Journal of Learning Disabilities, 2021 Volume 30 Issue 2, Pages 126-137 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0005] As mentioned above, people with biases in visual cognitive function (light sensitivity) may have a different "way of seeing" from healthy people. However, because that "way of seeing (visual cognitive function characteristics)" is something they are born with, it is difficult for the individual to realize that they are not healthy. For this reason, many people who are considered healthy have biases in their visual cognitive function. Nevertheless, visual cognitive function bias cannot be handled at hospitals, and assessments are only performed at a limited number of research facilities. In addition, visual cognitive function bias has various symptoms and there are large individual differences. For this reason, only those with specialized knowledge and experience can assess visual cognitive function bias.
[0006] In addition, people with biases in visual cognitive function may also have biases in auditory cognitive function (sound sensitivity), and may have a different way of "hearing" from healthy people. Such symptoms (auditory cognitive characteristics) are also called hyperacusis or hypoacusis, and people may have difficulty listening to loud noises (especially sudden noises) or may be distracted by small everyday sounds such as clocks and air conditioners, making it difficult to concentrate. Some people have difficulty hearing only interesting conversations or necessary sounds (selective listening to audio) even in noisy situations or when many people are chatting. Selective listening to audio is called the cocktail party effect. For this reason, it is also called listening difficulties (LiD) or auditory processing disorder (APD).
[0007] Information from different senses, such as vision and hearing, strongly influence each other. A phenomenon known as cross-modal interaction, in which perception in one sense changes due to the complementary function of multisensory information, is known. Hyperacusis and hypoacusis may be caused by a bias in visual cognitive function that adversely affects hearing (auditory cognition). It is speculated that a bias in visual cognitive function disrupts the integration of vision and hearing, as well as multisensory perception (integrative cognition). Therefore, it may be possible to assess biases in visual and auditory cognitive functions based on characteristic information regarding the subject's visual and auditory integration.
[0008] In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a characteristic information collecting method capable of collecting characteristic information regarding the integration of a subject's vision and hearing. [Means for solving the problem]
[0009] A first aspect of a characteristic information collecting method according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a first sound stimulus providing step of providing a sound stimulus including a predetermined audible sound to a subject in a white light environment in which white light is incident on the subject's retina, a predetermined light environment creating step of creating a predetermined light environment in which predetermined light having at least one of a spectral distribution and a luminance different from that of the white light is incident on the subject's retina, a second sound stimulus providing step of providing the sound stimulus again to the subject in the predetermined light environment, an information receiving step of receiving from the subject characteristic information regarding how the sound stimuli are heard in the first sound stimulus providing step and the second sound stimulus providing step, and a collection step of collecting the characteristic information received from the subject.
[0010] A second aspect of the characteristic information collecting method of the first aspect further includes a compilation step of compiling the information obtained in the collection step. A third aspect of the characteristic information collecting method in the second aspect further includes an analysis step of creating an analysis table based on the information obtained in the compilation step. In a fourth aspect of the characteristic information collecting method according to the second aspect, in the information receiving step and the collecting step, the characteristic information is quantified using a Likert scale in a multiple choice answer method. A fifth aspect of the characteristic information collecting method is the fourth aspect, wherein the multi-stage multiple choice answer method uses a SD method, which is a psychometric statistical method.
[0011] A sixth aspect of the characteristic information collecting method according to the first to fifth aspects is characterized in that the predetermined light is yellow light having a dominant wavelength of 570 nm to 590 nm. A seventh aspect of the characteristic information collecting method according to any one of the first to sixth aspects is characterized in that the predetermined light is magenta light having a complementary dominant wavelength of 500 nm to 570 nm. An eighth aspect of the characteristic information collecting method according to any one of the first to seventh aspects is characterized in that the predetermined light is cyan light having a dominant wavelength of 470 nm to 530 nm. A ninth aspect of the characteristic information collecting method according to the first to eighth aspects is such that the predetermined light is green light having a dominant wavelength of 500 nm to 570 nm. A tenth aspect of the characteristic information collecting method is the first to ninth aspects, wherein the predetermined light has a luminance of 0.001 to 5 cd / m 2 It is. An eleventh aspect of the characteristic information collecting method is the first to tenth aspects, wherein the predetermined light has a luminance of 0.001 cd / m 2 The following is the result.
[0012] A twelfth aspect of the characteristic information collecting method according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects is that the predetermined audible sound is a voice, a conversation sound, or a noise, or a combination of these sounds. A thirteenth aspect of the characteristic information collecting method according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, further comprises changing at least one of the spectral distribution and the luminance of the predetermined light, and performing the steps from the predetermined light environment creating step to the collecting step again.
[0013] A first aspect of a characteristic information collecting device according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a first optical unit that creates a white light environment in which white light is incident on the subject's retina, a second optical unit that creates a predetermined light environment in which a predetermined light having at least one of a spectral distribution and a luminance different from the white light is incident on the subject's retina, a sound stimulation providing unit that provides a sound stimulation including a predetermined audible sound to the subject in the white light environment and then provides the sound stimulation again to the subject in the predetermined light environment, an information receiving unit that receives from the subject characteristic information regarding how the sound stimulation is heard in the white light environment and the predetermined light environment, and a collection unit that collects the characteristic information received by the information receiving unit.
[0014] A second aspect of the characteristic information collecting device is the first aspect, further comprising a compilation and analysis unit that performs various calculation processes based on the collected information obtained from the collection unit. A third aspect of the characteristic information collecting device is the first or second aspect, wherein the sound stimulation providing unit is a headphone or a speaker. A fourth aspect of the characteristic information collecting device is any of the first to third aspects, wherein the sound stimulation provision unit provides or changes a localization of the sound stimulation. A fifth aspect of the characteristic information collecting device is any of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the first optical unit or the second optical unit is a display, glasses, goggles, a light, or a lighting device. Effect of the Invention
[0015] The characteristic information collecting method of the present invention can collect characteristic information on the integration of the subject's vision and hearing, and can also collect and analyze the characteristic information on the integration of the subject's vision and hearing. In addition, it can also diagnose visual cognitive function and auditory cognitive function. [Brief description of the drawings]
[0016] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating a characteristic information collecting device 1 according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a system block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a characteristic information collecting device 1. FIG. [Diagram 3] 1A and 1B are longitudinal cross-sectional views of the structure of the human eye, showing (a) a white light environment and (b) a specified light environment; [Figure 4] (a) Schematic diagram of human photoreceptor cells, (b) Spectral sensitivity curve of human photoreceptor cells. [Diagram 5] This is an xy chromaticity diagram of the color space. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a flowchart illustrating a characteristic information collecting method according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 shows an answer form Q. [Figure 8] This is a diagram showing SD chart analysis table D. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0017] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A characteristic information collecting method and a characteristic information collecting device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The characteristic information collecting device 1 and the characteristic information collecting method are for collecting characteristic information related to the integration of vision and hearing of a person (subject) who has a bias in visual cognitive function or auditory cognitive function. In the characteristic information collecting method, first, a sound stimulus (auditory stimulus) including a predetermined audible sound is played to a subject in a white light environment. Next, a specific light environment is created in which the "way of seeing" is likely to change for a person with a bias in visual cognitive function, and the subject is made to listen to the specific audible sound again in this specific light environment. Then, information is collected from the subject regarding the manner and degree of change in hearing for a given audible sound under a white light environment and a given light environment, i.e., characteristic information regarding the integration of vision and hearing of the subject is collected.
[0018] [Characteristic information collection device 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a characteristic information collecting device 1 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a system block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the characteristic information collecting device 1. As shown in FIG.
[0019] The characteristic information collection device 1 includes a personal computer 10, a color light 20, and an indoor lighting device 30. The personal computer 10 includes a processor 11, a memory 12, a display 13, a keyboard 14a, an I / O 15, etc. Furthermore, the personal computer 10 includes a headphone 19.
[0020] The arithmetic processing unit (collection unit, tabulation and analysis unit) 11 is a CPU or the like, and executes various processes in the personal computer 10. The arithmetic processing unit 11 takes the lead in a characteristic information collection method, which will be described later. The storage unit 12 is a ROM, RAM, HDD, SSD, etc., and stores various programs and databases. Specifically, a characteristic information collection program 17 and a sound source database 18 are stored in the storage unit 12. The sound source database 18 includes various sound sources.
[0021] The display (output unit) 13 displays characters, images, etc. in response to commands from the calculation processing unit 11. The display 13 also displays a response form Q in the characteristic information receiving and collecting step S5, which will be described later, and the results (aggregated information, analytical information) of the aggregation and analysis step S6. The display 13 has a plurality of pixels, and the pixel density is preferably 150 ppi or more, and more preferably 200 ppi or more. The display 13 is controlled in terms of brightness (illuminance), color (wavelength) of emitted light, etc., in response to commands from the processor 11. The display 13 outputs visible light at a brightness of 0.001 to 1,000,000 cd / m 2 In particular, the brightness is 5cd / m 2 Emission and brightness of 5cd / m 2 You can switch the light on and off at less than
[0022] The keyboard (information receiving unit) 14a is an operation input unit for inputting information such as characters and numerical values into the personal computer 10. In addition to or instead of the keyboard 14a, a mouse (information receiving unit) 14b, a pointing device, a touch panel (display 13), or the like may be used.
[0023] The I / O 15 is an interface for inputting and outputting information to and from external devices connected to the personal computer 10. A color light 20 and an indoor lighting device 30 are connected to the I / O 15. A printer 16 or the like may also be connected to the I / O 15.
[0024] Headphones (sound stimulation providing section) 19 reproduce the sound source data recorded in the sound source database 18 and provide audible sounds to the subject. The headphones 19 are preferably of a binaural type. They may also be of a one-ear type that provides audible sound to only one ear, either the left or right. The headphones 19 may also be of any of a closed type, an open type, or a semi-open type. They may also be of any of a wired type and a wireless type. They may also be bone conduction type headphones.
[0025] The headphones 19 can not only reproduce one audible sound, but also reproduce multiple audible sounds simultaneously or at different times. The headphones 19 can also provide or change sound source localization. In other words, the headphones 19 can control output (playback) so that audible sounds can be heard from any direction, including front, back, left, right, top, and bottom, of the subject. Specifically, the headphones 19 can generate an intensity difference or time difference between the sounds that reach the left and right ears of the subject so that the sounds can be heard from any direction.
[0026] The types of audible sounds output from the headphones 19 include pure tones, musical tones, noise, and the like. A pure tone is a sound that is composed of only one frequency, such as a time signal. A musical tone is a harmonious sound (a sound that has a sense of pitch) that is mainly composed of a fundamental tone and overtones, such as musical instruments and human singing. A noise is a sound that has irregular vibrations and no clear pitch or tone (a sound that has no sense of pitch), such as the sound of a car running or the sound of home appliances operating.
[0027] (Color Light 20) The color light (second optical unit) 20 is a lighting device that irradiates a predetermined light L1. The color light 20 is a lighting device having a lamp such as a light bulb, a fluorescent lamp, an LED, or an OLED, and is, for example, a desk lamp or a handy light. The color light 20 is controlled in accordance with commands from the processor 11 of the personal computer 10 in terms of on / off, brightness (illuminance), color (wavelength) of the illumination light, irradiation direction, and the like. Color Light 20 converts visible light into light with a brightness of 0.001 to 1,000,000 cd / m 2 In particular, the brightness is 5cd / m 2 Emission and brightness of 5cd / m 2 You can switch the light on and off at less than
[0028] The color light 20 irradiates a predetermined light L1 toward the face of a subject standing in front of the personal computer 10. As a result, the predetermined light L1 is incident on the retina R of the subject. The environment in which the predetermined light L1 is incident on the subject's retina R is called the predetermined light environment. The color light 20 functions as a light source in the predetermined light environment creating step S3 described below. In the predetermined light environment, the subject can gaze at the image displayed on the display 13 without hindrance. In addition, the subject can hear the audible sound output from the headphones 19 without hindrance.
[0029] The color light 20 is preferably disposed at a position away from the display 13. This is to allow the predetermined light L1 to be incident on the peripheral visual field region R2 of the retina R. When the subject gazes at an image or the like displayed on the display 13, it is preferable that the predetermined light L1 does not interfere with the gaze. For example, the light of the image or the like displayed on the display 13 is incident on the central visual field region R1 of the retina R, and the predetermined light L1 is incident on the peripheral visual field region R2 of the retina R. Instead of the color light 20, a wearable optical device 40, which will be described later, may be used.
[0030] (Indoor lighting equipment 30) The indoor lighting device (first optical unit) 30 is an optical device that causes white light L0 to be incident on the subject's retina R. The indoor lighting device 30 is installed on the ceiling of a room H where white light such as sunlight is almost completely blocked, and the white light L0 is irradiated over the entire room H by turning on the indoor lighting device 30. The indoor lighting device 30 is a lighting fixture such as a lamp (light bulb, fluorescent lamp, LED, OLED), and functions as a light source that creates a white light environment (white light environment creating step S1). The indoor lighting device 30 irradiates white light L0 with a luminance of 5 to 1,000,000 cd / m2. The white light L0 is incident on the subject's retina R (central visual field and peripheral visual field). The indoor lighting device 30 is controlled to be turned on or off, its brightness (illuminance), etc., in response to commands from the processor 11 of the personal computer 10. The connection between the indoor lighting device 30 and the personal computer 10 is not limited to a wired connection, and may be a wireless connection. The indoor lighting device 30 emits white light L0 with a luminance of 0.001 to 1,000,000 cd / m 2 In particular, the brightness is 5cd / m 2 Emission and brightness of 5cd / m 2 You can switch the light on and off at less than
[0031] When the subject sits in front of the personal computer 10, white light L0 is incident on the subject's retina R (central visual field area R1 and peripheral visual field area R2). The environment in which white light L0 is incident on the subject's retina R is called a white light environment. The indoor lighting device 30 functions as a light source in the white light environment creation step S1. In the white light environment, the subject can easily view the images and the like displayed on the display 13. In addition, the subject can easily hear the audible sounds output from the headphones 19.
[0032] In the characteristic information collecting device 1, the arithmetic processing unit 11 executes a program stored in the memory unit 12, reads various data stored in the memory unit 12 as necessary, and operates the personal computer 10. Specifically, the arithmetic processing unit 11 executes the characteristic information collecting program 17, reads data of sound stimulation A from a sound source database 18, and outputs (sounds, plays) sound stimulation A from headphones 19. At this time, the arithmetic processing unit 11 turns on and off the indoor lighting device 30 and the color light 20, and causes white light L0 or predetermined light L1 to be incident on the retina R of the subject. Then, the arithmetic processing unit 11 displays an answer form Q regarding changes in how the sound stimulus A sounds on the display 13 in order to receive answers from the subject. The arithmetic processing unit 11 stores (collects) information input from the keyboard 14a or the like (raw data of characteristic information regarding the integration of vision and hearing) in the memory unit 12. Furthermore, the arithmetic processing unit 11 performs various arithmetic processes (collecting and analyzing) on this collected information, and displays and outputs the results (collected information and analysis information of characteristic information regarding the integration of vision and hearing) on the display 13 or the printer 16.
[0033] [Photoreceptor cells] Fig. 3(a) is a longitudinal sectional view showing the structure of the human eye, and Fig. 3(b) is a schematic diagram showing human photoreceptor cells. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the spectral sensitivity curves of human photoreceptor cells. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the xy chromaticity diagram of the color space of the International Commission on Illumination (CIE 1931).
[0034] The photoreceptor cells present in the human retina R are cone cells and rod cells. Cone cells are cone-shaped photoreceptor cells that are present near the fovea of the retina R and detect color. Cone cells function in bright light. Rod cells are rod-shaped photoreceptor cells that are present around the fovea and detect light. Rod cells function mainly in dark light.
[0035] Vision in which cone cells are active (when there is sufficient light) is called photopic vision. Photopic vision is when the luminance is between 5 and 1,000,000 cd / m 2 It occurs under light levels of 10 to 100,000 lx. Vision in which rod cells are active (low light intensity) is called scotopic vision. 2 This occurs under light intensity of 0.001 to 0.01 lx. Vision in which both cone and rod cells work together (in a situation where there is little light but not complete darkness) is called mesopic vision. Mesopic vision is a combination of photopic and scotopic vision. Mesopic vision is defined as vision in which the light emitted by the cone and rod cells overlaps with the light emitted by the rods at a luminance of 0.001 to 5 cd / m 2 The International Commission on Illumination (CIE) has a luminance of 0.005 to 5 cd / m 2 The Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IES) defines the luminance as 0.001 to 3 cd / m 2 is defined as mesopic vision.
[0036] Cone cells are classified into three types according to the three primary colors of light: long cone cells that respond to long wavelength light (around yellow), middle cone cells that respond to medium wavelength light (around yellow-green), and short cone cells that respond to short wavelength light (around blue). Long cones are also called red cones. Middle cones are also called green cones. Short cones are also called blue cones. A particular color is perceived depending on the combination of the intensity of stimulation received by each of the three types of cone cells (the relative ratio of excitation of the three types of cone cells).
[0037] In the following, long cone cells are also referred to as L photoreceptor cells VL, middle cone cells are also referred to as M photoreceptor cells VM, short cone cells are also referred to as S photoreceptor cells VS, and rod cells are also referred to as R photoreceptor cells VR.
[0038] [Visible light] Visible light is light with a wavelength of 380 to 780 nm. The relationship between wavelength and color of visible light (spectrum) is roughly as follows: Wavelength 380 to 430 nm: blue-violet, 430 to 460 nm: blue, 460 to 500 nm: blue-green, 500 to 570 nm: green, 570 to 590 nm: yellow, 590 to 610 nm: orange, 610 to 780 nm: red
[0039] The sensitivity of photoreceptor cells to visible light depends on the wavelength. Specifically, the maximum absorption wavelength of L photoreceptor cells VL is around 558 nm, that of M photoreceptor cells VM is around 531 nm, that of S photoreceptor cells VS is around 419 nm, and that of R photoreceptor cells VR is around 500 nm.
[0040] The peak wavelength at which the luminous intensity of visible light is at its maximum is different from the wavelength that the eye actually perceives. The wavelength of a color that the eye perceives is called the dominant wavelength. Light that is perceived as blue-violet has a dominant wavelength around 400 nm (380 nm to 430 nm). The light that we perceive as blue has a dominant wavelength of around 450 nm (430 nm to 470 nm). The light that we perceive as cyan has a dominant wavelength around 490 nm (470 nm to 530 nm). Light that is perceived as green has a dominant wavelength around 550 nm (530 nm to 570 nm). Light that is perceived as yellow has a dominant wavelength around 580 nm (570 nm to 590 nm). The light we perceive as red has a dominant wavelength of around 610 nm (590 nm to 780 nm). The light we perceive as magenta has a complementary dominant wavelength of around 550 nm (530 nm to 570 nm).
[0041] (White light L0) White light L0 is a light that is a nearly equal mixture of all wavelengths of visible light (colors) and does not give the sense of color. White light L0 is sometimes defined as the color of average daylight. White light L0 has a brightness of 5 to 1,000,000 cd / m 2 White light L0 is light that causes all three types of cone cells in the retina R (S photoreceptor cells VS, M photoreceptor cells VM, and L photoreceptor cells VL) to react (excite). White light L0 includes light with a color tone (illumination light) called incandescent light, warm white, natural white, and daylight, but all of these are lights that lie along the blackbody locus in the xy chromaticity diagram of the color space. White light L0 has a brightness that is expressed by its color temperature [K]. An environment in which white light L0 is incident on the subject's retina R is called a white light environment.
[0042] (Predetermined light L1) The predetermined light L1 is visible light that differs from the white light L0 in at least one of the spectral distribution and luminance. The predetermined light L1 includes light that differs from the white light L0 in spectral distribution (colored light LA), light that differs in luminance (gray light LB, low light LD), and light that differs in both spectral distribution and luminance (gray colored light LBA). The difference in spectral distribution means that the predetermined light L1 (colored light LA, gray colored light LBA) is colored light. The difference in luminance means that the predetermined light L1 has a luminance of 0.001 to 5 cd / m 2 (gray light LB, gray colored light LBA), or luminance 0.001cd / m 2 This means that the light is as follows (low light LD). An environment in which a predetermined light L1 (LA, LB, LBA, LD) is incident on the subject's retina R is called a predetermined light environment.
[0043] <Colored light LA> The light LA has a wavelength (color) of some visible light and a brightness of 5 to 1,000,000 cd / m 2 It is light (colored light). Colored light LA is light that lies along the spectral locus or the violet locus on the xy chromaticity diagram of color space. Colored light has a color that is represented by a dominant wavelength or a complementary dominant wavelength.
[0044] Light LA is light to which one or two of the three types of cone cells mainly respond. LA is either yellow light LAY with a dominant wavelength of 570nm to 590nm, magenta light LAM with a complementary dominant wavelength of 500nm to 570nm, cyan light LAC with a dominant wavelength of 470nm to 530nm, or green light LAG with a dominant wavelength of 500nm to 570nm.
[0045] Yellow light LAY is visible light that excites the L photoreceptor cells VL and the M photoreceptor cells VM and inhibits (calms) the S photoreceptor cells VS. Yellow light LAY includes light having a peak wavelength near 580 nm, as well as light having a bottom wavelength near 450 nm (the complementary color of blue) and light having peak wavelengths near 550 nm and 610 nm (a mixture of green and red). When yellow light LAY enters the retina R, it excites the L photoreceptor cells VL and the M photoreceptor cells VM, and inhibits the S photoreceptor cells VS.
[0046] Magenta light LAM is visible light that excites the L photoreceptor VL and the S photoreceptor VS and inhibits the M photoreceptor VM. Magenta light LAM includes light having a bottom wavelength near 550 nm (the complementary color of green), as well as light having peak wavelengths near 450 nm and 610 nm (a mixture of blue and red).
[0047] Cyan light LAC is visible light that excites the M photoreceptor cells VM and the S photoreceptor cells VS and inhibits the L photoreceptor cells VL. Cyan light LAC includes light having a peak wavelength near 490 nm, as well as light having a bottom wavelength near 610 nm (the complementary color of red) and light having peak wavelengths near 450 nm and 550 nm (a mixture of blue and green).
[0048] Green light LAG is visible light that excites the M photoreceptor VM and inhibits the L photoreceptor VL and S photoreceptor VS. The green light LAG includes light having a peak wavelength near 550 nm, as well as light having bottom wavelengths near 450 nm and 610 nm (a mixture of yellow and cyan).
[0049] <Gray Light LB> Light LB is a nearly equal mixture of all wavelengths of visible light (colors), with a brightness of 0.001 to 5 cd / m 2 Gray light LB is light obtained by reducing the luminance of white light L0, and is light in which the color is difficult to sense. The gray light LB realizes mesopic vision by being incident on the subject's retina R. In other words, the gray light LB is light to which the rod cells present in the retina R begin to react. Rod cells are highly sensitive to light and darkness, which correspond to the intensity of light. Rod cells are not involved in color detection. Luminance 5cd / m 2 When the following light enters the retina R, it excites the rod cells, allowing us to perceive light and dark. Gray light LB excites both cone cells (L photoreceptor VL, M photoreceptor VM, S photoreceptor VS) and rod cells (R photoreceptor VR) (mesopic vision). Gray light LB does not have a color represented by a dominant wavelength or a complementary dominant wavelength. The dominant wavelength or complementary dominant wavelength is a scale that only targets colored light LA, and does not apply to gray light LB (it is difficult to sense). In other words, gray light LB is light that is located along the blackbody locus in the xy chromaticity diagram of the color space, and has a brightness that is expressed in color temperature [K].
[0050] <Gray colored light LBA> Light LBA has light (color) with a wavelength of some visible light, and a brightness of 0.001 to 5 cd / m 2 The light LBA is gray yellow light LBY, gray magenta light LBM, gray cyan light LBC, and gray green light LBG. Gray yellow light LBY is the light with a reduced luminance of yellow light LAY. Gray magenta light LBM is the light with a reduced luminance of magenta light LAM. Gray cyan light LBC is the light with a reduced luminance of cyan light LAC. Gray green light LBG is the light with a reduced luminance of green light LAG. Gray colored light LBA is a combination of colored light LA and gray light LB, and while it has brightness expressed in color temperature [K], it also has a color expressed in dominant wavelength or complementary dominant wavelength.
[0051] <Low light LD> The optical LD has a brightness of 0.001 Cd / m 2 The following light (low light) is used. Low light LD is light that is not perceived as colored. Low light LD realizes scotopic vision by entering the subject's retina R. In other words, low light LD is light to which only the rod cells in the retina R react. The room lighting device 30 is turned off and the color light 20 is turned on, so that weak light LD is incident on the subject's retina R. The subject may wear goggle-type sunglasses or the like to achieve scotopic vision in which weak light LD is incident on the retina R. In this way, the weak light LD excites only the rod cells (R photoreceptor cells VR) (scotopic vision).
[0052] [Wearable Optical Device 40] The wearable optical device (second optical unit) 40 is an optical device that causes a predetermined light L1 (lights LA, LB, LBA, LD) to be incident on the subject's retina R in place of (or in addition to) the color light 20. There are three types of wearable optical devices 40: optical device 41, optical device 42, and optical device 43, which are used alone or in combination. The optical device 41, the optical device 42, and the optical device 43 function as light sources (means) that create a predetermined light environment (predetermined light environment creating step S3).
[0053] (Optical equipment 41) The optical device 41 is an optical device that causes light LA (colored light) to which cone cells respond to be incident on the retina R. The optical device 41 causes light LA with a luminance of 5 to 1,000,000 cd / m2 to be incident on the retina R, thereby realizing photopic vision. The optical device 41 causes light LA to which two of the three types of cone cells (S photoreceptor cells VS, M photoreceptor cells VM, and L photoreceptor cells VL) respond to be incident on the retina R. The light LA is any one of yellow light LAY with a dominant wavelength of 570 nm to 590 nm, magenta light LAM with a complementary dominant wavelength of 500 nm to 570 nm, cyan light LAC with a dominant wavelength of 470 nm to 530 nm, and green light LAG with a dominant wavelength of 500 nm to 570 nm.
[0054] The optical device 41 includes an optical device 41Y, an optical device 41M, an optical device 41C, and an optical device 41G. The optical device 41Y causes yellow light LAY, which excites the L photoreceptor cells VL and the M photoreceptor cells VM and inhibits the S photoreceptor cells VS, to be incident on the retina R. In other words, the optical device 41Y causes yellow light LAY (with a dominant wavelength of about 580 nm), which is perceived as yellow, to be incident on the retina R. The optical device 41M causes magenta light LAM, which excites the L photoreceptor cells VL and the S photoreceptor cells VS and inhibits the M photoreceptor cells VM, to be incident on the retina R. In other words, the optical device 41M causes magenta light LAM (with a complementary dominant wavelength of about 550 nm), which is perceived as magenta, to be incident on the retina R. The optical device 41C causes cyan light LAC, which excites the M photoreceptor cells VM and the S photoreceptor cells VS and inhibits the L photoreceptor cells VL, to be incident on the retina R. In other words, the optical device 41C causes cyan light LAC (with a dominant wavelength of about 490 nm) that is perceived as cyan to be incident on the retina R. The optical device 41G causes green light LAG, which excites the M photoreceptor cells VM and inhibits the L photoreceptor cells VL and S photoreceptor cells VS, to be incident on the retina R. In other words, the optical device 41G causes green light LAG (dominant wavelength around 550 nm), which is perceived as green, to be incident on the retina R.
[0055] (Optical equipment 42) The optical device 42 is an optical device that causes gray light LB, to which rod cells (R photoreceptor cells VR) and all three types of cone cells respond, to be incident on the retina R. The optical device 42 realizes mesopic vision by making gray light LB incident on the retina R. The gray light LB is light with no perceived color and a luminance of 0.001 to 5 cd / m2.
[0056] (Optical equipment 43) The optical device 43 is an optical device that causes weak light LD, to which only rod cells (R photoreceptor cells VR) react, to be incident on the retina R. The optical device 43 realizes scotopic vision by making the weak light LD incident on the retina R. The weak light LD is light with a luminance of 0.001 or less and in which no color can be perceived.
[0057] The optical instruments 41 (optical instruments 41Y, 41M, 41C, and 41G), 42, and 43 allow light to be incident on the retina R from most of the range (direction) of the field of view. The optical instruments 41, 42, and 43 allow light to be incident on the retina R from a range of at least 50% or more of the field of view, and preferably 80% or more of the field of view.
[0058] The optical devices 41, 42, and 43 are, for example, glasses (color lenses). The optical devices 41, 42, and 43 may also be contact lenses, goggles, etc. For example, a yellow lens can be used as the optical device 41Y, a pink (magenta) lens can be used as the optical device 41Y, a sky blue (cyan) lens can be used as the optical device 41C, and a green lens can be used as the optical device 41G. A gray lens can be used as the optical device 42, and a black lens (sunglasses) can be used as the optical device 43. White light L0 passes through a color lens to become predetermined light L1 (light LA, LB, LBA, LD), which then enters the retina R of the subject.
[0059] The color density (the reciprocal of the visual transmittance) of each color lens is preferably 5% to 60% (visual transmittance 95-40%) in order to suppress irritation to the subject. In particular, a color density of 10% to 50% (visual transmittance 90-50%) is preferable. If the subject has a poor reaction, a color lens with a density of 60% to 85% (visual transmittance 40-15%) may be used. [See JIST7331, JIST7333, ISO14889, ISO8980-3]
[0060] When a subject wears a wearable optical device such as glasses, contact lenses, or goggles, predetermined light L1 (light LA, LB, LBA, LD) is incident on retina R from a range (direction) of at least 50% of the subject's field of vision.
[0061] It is also possible to combine the optical device 41 and the optical device 42. Gray colored light LBA, to which rod cells (R photoreceptor cells VR) and two of the three types of cone cells (S photoreceptor cells VS, M photoreceptor cells VM, and L photoreceptor cells VL) react, is made incident on the retina R. By overlapping the optical device 41Y and the optical device 42, gray yellow light LBY, which is perceived as yellow in mesopic vision, can be made to enter the retina R. By overlapping the optical device 41M and the optical device 42, gray magenta light LBM, which is perceived as magenta in mesopic vision, can be made to enter the retina R. By overlapping the optical device 41C and the optical device 42, it is possible to allow grey-cyan light LBC, which is perceived as cyan in mesopic vision, to be incident on the retina R. By overlapping the optical device 41G and the optical device 42, gray green light LBG, which is perceived as green in mesopic vision, can be made to be incident on the retina R.
[0062] [Sound stimulus A] Sound stimulus A is a sound (acoustic) that is played to the subject. A plurality of pieces of sound source data are recorded and stored in the sound source database 18. This sound source data includes the sound source data of sound stimulus A. These pieces of sound source data are output (sounded, played) from headphones 19 individually or simultaneously. The sound stimulus A is a sound (sound) including a predetermined audible sound a1, etc. The predetermined audible sound a1, etc. is, for example, a sound (sound) used in various hearing tests, hearing psychological tests, hearing perception tests, etc. In particular, the predetermined audible sound a1, etc. includes sounds that are difficult or difficult for a person with a bias in the hearing perception function (or visual perception function) to hear or sounds that are likely to be unpleasant.
[0063] The predetermined audible sound a1 is a pure tone. This pure tone is a sound used in, for example, a pure tone hearing test. The predetermined audible sound a1 includes high tone, medium tone, low tone, loud tone (high volume), mid tone (medium volume), and soft tone (soft volume). The predetermined audible sound a1 also includes a combination of multiple pure tones. Among the predetermined audible sounds a1, particularly high-pitched sounds and loud sounds are difficult for people with biased auditory perception functions (or visual perception functions) to perceive as auditory sounds or are unpleasant.
[0064] The predetermined audible sound a2 is a voice, which is used in, for example, a speech intelligibility test (a speech comprehension test) or the like. The predetermined audible sounds a2 include male voices (low pitch), children's and infants' voices, and female voices (high pitch). The predetermined audible sounds a2 include monosyllables (words) and sounds of sentences being read out loud. The predetermined audible sounds a2 also include conversation sounds that combine multiple voices (multiple people). Furthermore, the predetermined audible sounds a2 also include fast-talking voices with a changed playback speed. Among the predetermined audible sounds a2, high-pitched voices (crying) of infants and female conversations are particularly difficult for people with biased auditory perception functions (or visual perception functions) to perceive or are unpleasant to hear.
[0065] The predetermined audible sound a3 is a noise. This noise is a sound used in, for example, an uncomfortable loudness level (UCL) test. The prescribed audible sounds a3 include sounds emitted by machines and equipment such as cars, trains, and vacuum cleaners, as well as sounds of crowds (bustling noises). These are so-called noises (loud noises). The prescribed audible sounds a3 also include sounds (high-pitched noises) made when dishes or plates touch each other or when objects collide with each other. The prescribed audible sounds a3 also include operating sounds (quiet noises) of home appliances and electronic devices such as refrigerators, air conditioners, clocks (second hands), and fluorescent lights. The prescribed audible sounds a3 may be white noise, in which sounds of various frequencies are mixed at the same intensity. The predetermined audible sound a3 is often perceived as harsh and unpleasant by people with a bias in auditory cognitive function (or visual cognitive function).
[0066] The predetermined audible sound a4 is a combination of noise and speech. This sound is used, for example, in a hearing in noise test (HINT: Hearing In Noise Test) etc. The speech in the predetermined audible sound a4 is the predetermined audible sound a2, and the noise is the predetermined audible sound a3. The predetermined audible sound a4 is difficult for a person with a bias in auditory cognitive function (or visual cognitive function) to perceive as aurally. In other words, a person with a bias in auditory cognitive function (or visual cognitive function) is often unable to hear a conversation (speech) in a noisy environment.
[0067] The sound stimulus A may be a combination of predetermined audible sounds a1, etc., or a sound with different loudness, pitch, or direction. For example, it includes sounds used in various hearing tests such as a directional sense function test, a dichotic hearing test, and a time resolution test.
[0068] [Method of collecting characteristic information] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a characteristic information collecting method according to the embodiment. The characteristic information collecting method includes a white light environment creating step S1, a first sound stimulus providing step S2, a predetermined light environment creating step S3, a second sound stimulus providing step S4, a characteristic information receiving and collecting step S5, a compilation and analysis step S6, and an output step S7. It also includes a re-execution determining step S8 and a predetermined light changing step S9.
[0069] (White light environment creation process S1) The characteristic information collection method is performed in a situation where the subject (a person with a bias in visual or auditory cognitive function) sits in front of the personal computer 10 and can easily hear the audible sound (sound stimulus A) output from the headphones 19. The personal computer 10 is placed in a white light environment in which white light L0 is incident on the subject's retina R. The white light environment is created by turning on the room lighting device 30 arranged on the ceiling of the room H in which the personal computer 10 is placed. The characteristic information collection method is started by executing the characteristic information collection program 17. The indoor lighting device 30 is turned on (creating a white light environment) by executing the characteristic information collection program 17. The characteristic information collection program 17 may be executed with the indoor lighting device 30 turned on in advance. The subject may operate the personal computer 10, or an assistant (examiner), etc. The subject does not need to gaze at the display 13.
[0070] In order for the subject to adapt to the white light environment (photoadaptation), the subject is made to stay in room H with the room lighting device 30 turned on for about 1 minute or more (after the photoadaptation time has elapsed). The white light L0 is absorbed, reflected (diffusely reflected), or transmitted by the walls and floor of the room H, the display 13, etc., and the reflected or transmitted light is incident on the subject's retina R. The white light L0 may be incident on the subject's retina R directly from the room lighting device 30.
[0071] (First sound stimulus provision step S2) In the first sound stimulus providing step S2, sound stimulus A including predetermined audible sound a1, etc. is provided to the subject in a white light environment. That is, sound stimulus A is output from headphones 19 to allow the subject to hear the predetermined audible sound a1, etc. "Hearing" includes both cases where the subject actively listens to the audible sound and cases where the subject passively listens to the audible sound. It is preferable to present about 3 to 5 types of sound stimuli A so that the subject does not forget the change in how sound stimuli A sound. It is preferable to output each sound stimulus A from the headphones 19 for at least about 10 seconds so that the subject can listen to the sound stimuli A in a relaxed manner.
[0072] (Predetermined light environment creation step S3) In the predetermined light environment creating step S3, a predetermined light environment in which a predetermined light L1 is incident on the retina of the subject is created. The room lighting device 30 is turned off, and the color light 20 is turned on to cause the predetermined light L1 to be incident on the retina R of the subject. The predetermined light L1 emitted from the color light 20 is initially selected as colored light LA. That is, it is one of yellow light LAY, magenta light LAM, cyan light LAC, and green light LAG. The predetermined light L1 (light LA) is most preferably yellow light LAY. When a predetermined light L1 (light LA) is incident on the subject's retina R, two or one of three types of cone cells (L photoreceptor cells VL, M photoreceptor cells VM, and S photoreceptor cells VS) mainly react.
[0073] The predetermined light L1 is incident on the subject's retina R directly from the color light 20. The predetermined light L1 may be incident on the subject's retina R as reflected light or transmitted light. When the colored lights 20 are turned on, the room lighting device 30 may remain on. The white light environment creating step S1 (white light environment) and the predetermined light environment creating step S3 (predetermined light environment) are set so that the luminance (illuminance) of the light incident on the retina R is approximately the same. For example, a luminance of 200 to 3000 cd / m2 (illuminance of 100 to 1000 lx) suitable for reading, working, etc. is preferable. In order for the subject to adapt to a specific light environment (light adaptation), the subject is made to stay in front of the personal computer 10 with the color light 20 turned on for about one minute or more (light adaptation time has elapsed).
[0074] In the predetermined light environment creating step S3, a wearable optical device 40 may be used instead of the color light 20. When the subject wears various color lens glasses (optical devices 41, 42, 43) with the indoor lighting device 30 turned on, the predetermined light L1 is incident on the retina R of the subject. When the subject is wearing the optical device 41 or the like, the color lights 20 (of the same color or different colors) may be turned on in an overlapping manner.
[0075] (Second sound stimulus provision step S4) Next, sound stimulus A is provided again under a specified light environment. In this second sound stimulus providing step S4, sound stimulus A (predetermined audible sound a1, etc.) provided in the first sound stimulus providing step S2 is provided again to the subject without any changes. Sound stimulus A is output again without changing its pitch, volume, playback order, or playback time.
[0076] (Characteristics information reception and collection process S5) In the characteristic information receiving / collecting step S5, the subject is asked (the answer is accepted) to answer whether there has been a change (difference) in how the sound stimulus A sounds in the white light environment (first sound stimulus providing step S2) and in the specified light environment (second sound stimulus providing step S4), and this information is collected. The subject is asked to answer the degree and manner of the change in how it sounds. In other words, characteristic information regarding the integration of vision and hearing is collected from the subject.
[0077] The characteristic information reception and collection step S5 may be performed in either a white light environment or a predetermined light environment. When returning to a white light environment, the color light 20 is turned off and the indoor lighting device 30 is turned on. When the wearable optical device 40 is used, the subject may either wear the color lens glasses (optical devices 41, 42, 43) or remove the color lens glasses. The subject may answer the questions while reconfirming how the sound stimulus A sounds by putting on and taking off the color lens glasses.
[0078] A person with a bias in visual or auditory cognitive function may feel that the sound stimulus A sounds different from a white light environment when a specific light L1 (such as yellow light LAY) is incident on the retina R. In other words, the subject's integration of vision and hearing (sensory integration and multisensory perception) may change. Specifically, a person with a bias in visual or auditory cognitive function may feel that a specific sound stimulus A (such as a specific audible sound a1) has changed. Changes in sound can mean changes in the volume or pitch of the sound, as well as sounds that were previously inaudible becoming audible, or sounds that were previously unpleasant becoming inaudible, etc. Conversely, sounds that were previously audible can become inaudible, or sounds that were previously unnoticeable can become unpleasant. The change in how sound stimulus A is heard varies depending on the individual's visual or auditory cognitive function.
[0079] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the answer form Q. First, a response form Q regarding changes in how sound stimulation A is heard is displayed on the display 13 (characteristics information receiving step S5a). A multi-level answer form Q uses multiple choice options (multi-level multiple choice answer method). The answers from the subjects are quantified using a Likert scale, in which each evaluation scale step of the multi-level answer is scored. For example, in the case of a five-level answer, "very good" is set to 5 points, "slightly good" to 4 points, "no change" to 3 points, "slightly bad" to 2 points, and "very bad" to 1 point.
[0080] The evaluation scale for the multi-level options is set based on the Semantic Differential Method (SD) in psychometric statistics (psychological measurement). The following questions are set for the sound stimulus A and displayed on the display 13. The contents of each question (adjective pair, rating scale score, etc.) are stored in the storage unit 12 in advance.
[0081] For example, the following question items and adjective pairs are set for sound stimulus A (predetermined audible sounds a1 to a6, etc.). Question 1: Overall change in hearing, adjective pair: "I hear better" - "I hear worse" Question item 1 is a question about whether or not the predetermined audible sounds a1 to a6, etc., were recognized.
[0082] In addition, the following questions and adjective pairs are set. Question 2: Change in volume, adjective pair: "The sound got louder" - "The sound got quieter" Question 3: Change in pitch, adjective pair: "The pitch has become easier to understand" - "The pitch has become harder to understand" Question 4: Psychological changes, adjective pair: "It became more comfortable (unpleasant sounds have disappeared)" - "It became more uncomfortable (unpleasant sounds have increased)" Question 5: Change in the direction of what can be heard, adjective pair: "It has become easier to tell the direction of sounds" - "It has become harder to tell the direction of sounds"
[0083] For the predetermined audible sounds a2 and a4, the following question items and adjective pairs are also set. Question 6: Changes in listening comprehension 1, adjective pair: "I can hear the voice / conversation" - "I can't hear the voice / conversation" Question 7: Changes in listening comprehension 2, adjective pair: "I can concentrate on the sound / conversation (noise is not bothersome)" - "I cannot concentrate on the sound / conversation (noise is bothersome)" Question 8: Changes in listening comprehension 3, adjective pair: "I can understand the content of the audio / conversation" - "I cannot understand the content of the audio / conversation"
[0084] Next, the subjects operate the keyboard 14a or mouse 14b to answer questions about the change in how they hear the sound stimulus A. Specifically, for each question item, they enter a number on the keyboard 14a or click a check button with the mouse 14b to select the most appropriate answer from five-level options (single answer method).
[0085] For example, the subject answers (enters a numerical value) about the change in hearing when hearing sound stimulus A (predetermined audible sound a1, etc.) output from headphones 19 in a predetermined light environment. For question 1, "Overall change in hearing," if you feel there has been no change, enter "3." On the other hand, if you feel that your "overall hearing change" has changed, enter the following: if your hearing has improved significantly, enter "5," if your hearing has improved somewhat, enter "4," if your hearing has gotten somewhat worse, enter "2," and if your hearing has gotten significantly worse, enter "1." In other words, with the number "3" being the standard, a higher number means better hearing, and a lower number means poorer hearing.
[0086] The subject or the like gives a plurality of answers (numerical values) of 5 to 8 for each sound stimulus A. In this way, a plurality of answers for the sound stimulus A (a plurality of predetermined audible sounds a1, etc.) are obtained (characteristic information collecting step S5b). The answers to each of the predetermined audible sounds a1, etc. (raw data of characteristic information relating to the integration of vision and hearing) are stored (collected) in the memory unit 12.
[0087] (Aggregation / analysis process S6) In the tabulation and analysis step S6, first, the response information obtained in the characteristic information reception and collection step S5 is tabulated to determine whether or not there has been a change in the subject's hearing and the degree of the change (tabulated information on characteristic information related to the integration of vision and hearing) (tabulation step S6a). Specifically, the calculation processing unit 11 performs calculations on the answers (numeric values) stored in the memory unit 12, and calculates aggregate information such as the average, mode, maximum, minimum, variance, and deviation. It also calculates the frequency at which each numerical value is input (answered). It calculates the frequency at which a numerical value other than "3" is input (answered), the frequency at which "1" or "2" is input, and the frequency at which "4" or "5" is input.
[0088] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the SD chart analysis table D. Fig. 8 is an example of a chart displaying characteristic information on how sound stimulus A is heard (integration of vision and hearing) when yellow light LAY is used. Next, the calculation processing unit 11 creates an analysis table (analysis information of characteristic information related to integration of vision and hearing) in which the question items and answers (numerical values) are graphed and charted (analysis step S6b). Specifically, the calculation processing unit 11 processes the tabulated information and creates analysis information (output image) such as an SD chart analysis table D. In addition to the SD chart analysis table D, the calculation processing unit 11 may create analysis tables such as pie charts, laser charts, and matrices. In addition, an analysis step or a diagnosis step may be performed to analyze the characteristics of the subject regarding the integration of vision and hearing, based on the information obtained in the compilation step S6a and the analysis table created in the analysis step S6b.
[0089] (Output process S7) Finally, in the output step S7, the tabulated information and analysis information (results of various arithmetic processing) obtained in the tabulating and analyzing step S6 are output to the outside. The arithmetic processing unit 11 displays the tabulated information and analysis information on the display 13 as the degree of change in the subject's hearing (characteristic information related to the integration of vision and hearing). The tabulated information and analysis information may be printed out by the printer 16. Specifically, for example, the average value, the mode value, the variance value, etc. are output as the aggregate information. In addition, an analysis table such as an SD chart is output as the analysis information.
[0090] (Re-execution decision process S8) In the re-execution determination step S8, it is determined whether or not to re-execute the above-described characteristic information collection method. For example, if there is almost no change in the way the subject hears the sound stimulus A, the characteristic information collection method is carried out again. In other words, based on the tabulated information obtained in the tabulation and analysis step S6, it is determined whether or not to carry out the characteristic information collection method again. Specifically, the determination is based on the frequency with which a numerical value other than "3" is entered in the aggregated information. If the frequency is less than a threshold (e.g., 10%), the characteristic information collection method is carried out again. On the other hand, if the frequency is equal to or greater than a threshold (e.g., 10%), the characteristic information collection method is terminated. This threshold can be set arbitrarily.
[0091] For example, it is determined whether or not to perform the characteristic information collecting method again based on the number of types of the predetermined light L1 used in the predetermined light environment creating step S3. The number of types of the predetermined light L1 that can be irradiated from the color light 20 is stored in advance, and the characteristic information collection method is re-executed until the number of times the predetermined light environment creating step S3 is performed matches the number of types of the predetermined light L1. Specifically, in the case where there are five kinds of predetermined light L1 that can be irradiated from the color light 20, if the predetermined light environment creating step S3 has been performed less than five times, the characteristic information collecting method is performed again. On the other hand, if the predetermined light environment creating step S3 has been performed five times, the characteristic information collecting method is terminated. The number of kinds of predetermined light L1 that can be irradiated from the color light 20 can be set arbitrarily.
[0092] (Predetermined light changing step S9) When it is determined that the characteristic information collecting method is to be performed again, in a predetermined light changing step S9, the light emitted by the color light 20 (predetermined light L1, light LA) is changed from yellow light LAY to, for example, magenta light LAM. Then, in a predetermined light environment creating step S3, magenta light LAM or the like is irradiated toward the subject from the color light 20. In the predetermined light environment creating step S3, the subject is made to stay in front of the computer 10 with the color light 20 turned on for about one minute or more (after the light adaptation time has elapsed) so that the subject can adapt to the changed predetermined light L1 (new predetermined light environment). Subsequently, the second sound stimulation providing step S4 to the output step S7 are performed. When the characteristic information collecting method is re-executed, the white light environment creating step S1 and the first sound stimulus providing step S2 may be omitted or may be re-executed.
[0093] In the predetermined light changing step S9, the light LA may be changed from yellow light LAY to cyan light LAC, green light LAG, etc. The order (priority) of the four lights LA (yellow light LAY, magenta light LAM, cyan light LAC, green light LAG) can be set arbitrarily.
[0094] Depending on the characteristics of the subject's disability, the specified light L1 irradiated from the color light 20 (or the wearable optical device 40) may be gray light (light LB), gray colored light (light LBA), or low light LD in addition to or instead of colored light (light LA). When using the lights LB and LBA, in the predetermined light environment creating step S3, only the color light 20 is turned on in the room H at a luminance of 0.001 to 5 cd / m 2 The brightness of the display 13 is also set to 0.001 to 5 cd / m 2 Change to. When using a low light LD, the color light 20, the room lighting device 30 and the display 13 are turned off, and the luminance of the room H is set to 0.001 or less. When using the lights LB, LBA, and LD, the subject is made to stay in front of the personal computer 10 for about 10 to 30 minutes (dark adaptation time) so that the subject adapts to the predetermined light environment (dark adaptation).
[0095] Those with biases in visual or auditory perception may feel that the sound stimulus A sounds different from a white light environment when gray light (light LB) or gray colored light (light LBA) is incident on the retina R. They also often feel that the sound stimulus A sounds different. In other words, the integration of the subject's vision and oral sensation (sensory integration and multisensory perception) may change.
[0096] Through the above steps, it is possible to collect characteristic information on the subject's integration of vision and hearing without relying on a person with specialized knowledge, and by eliminating subjective influence as much as possible. It is also possible to collect and analyze characteristic information on the subject's integration of vision and hearing. It is also possible to diagnose and treat visual and auditory cognitive functions.
[0097] The subject's light sensitivity strongly influences how the sound stimulus A is heard. If there is a bias in light sensitivity (presence or absence, strength, or variation in sensitivity to light or color), sensory integration of vision and hearing, etc., and multisensory perception (integrative cognition) are likely to be disrupted. In most cases, the person is not aware of how they hear, but if there is a change in how they hear, they will be able to become aware of it (make it apparent).
[0098] Therefore, the characteristic information collecting method and characteristic information collecting device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention create an environment in which the "way of hearing" of a person with a bias in visual cognitive function (light sensitivity) or auditory cognitive function is likely to change, and provide a sound stimulus A (such as a specified audible sound a1) in which the "way of hearing" is likely to change. Then, "characteristic information on the integration of vision and hearing" related to the type and extent of change in "how you hear" is collected from the subject. At this time, the type and extent of change in how you hear is quantified using psychostatistical methods (such as SD method) and collected. Therefore, it is possible to objectively and quantitatively collect the subject's "characteristic information regarding the integration of vision and hearing."
[0099] In addition, the subject's "characteristic information on visual and auditory integration" is collected, analyzed, and output. This provides basic information for early detection of biases in the subject's visual cognitive function and auditory cognitive function. This makes it possible to create and implement training methods that effectively improve and correct biases in the subject's visual cognitive function and auditory cognitive function, as well as various diagnoses and treatments. Therefore, the characteristic information collection device 1 and the characteristic information collection method using the same can be supplied cheaply and easily in a wide range of fields such as various industries, education, and traffic safety.
[0100] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and includes various modifications to the above-described embodiment without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In other words, the specific shapes and configurations given in the embodiment are merely examples, and can be modified as appropriate.
[0101] The characteristic information collecting method and the characteristic information collecting apparatus of the present invention are not limited to the case of using the characteristic information collecting device 1. It is sufficient to provide a sound stimulus A including a predetermined audible sound a1, etc., to a subject and collect the degree of change in how the sound stimulus A is heard in a white light environment and a predetermined light environment.
[0102] The characteristic information collecting device 1 is not limited to a desktop personal computer 10, and may be a laptop personal computer or a notebook computer. The characteristic information collecting device 1 may be a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or a mobile terminal. The color light 20 may be a flashlight (a light for camera photography) of a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or the like.
[0103] The sound stimulation providing unit is not limited to headphones 19, but may be a speaker. The number of speakers is not limited to one, but may be multiple. When there is one speaker, it is placed in front of the subject (on the front side). When there are multiple speakers, they are placed so as to surround the subject.
[0104] The indoor lighting device (first optical unit) 30 is not limited to a ceiling light, and may be a floor light, a desk light, a handy light, or the like. In the room H where natural light is blocked, white light L0 may be emitted from the color light 20. In other words, instead of the indoor lighting device 30, the color light 20 may function as the first optical unit (light source of the white light environment creating step S1). The white light L0 is not limited to artificial light emitted from various lighting devices, and may be natural light (sunlight). For example, the personal computer 10 may be placed in an environment where natural light enters the room through a window without using the indoor lighting device 30 or the like. In other words, the characteristic information collecting device 1 may not include the indoor lighting device (first optical unit) 30. The white light environment may be one in which the subject does not feel glare. Natural outdoor light (sunlight) has high luminance and is often too stimulating for the subject, so it is preferable to avoid it.
[0105] The color light 20 (second optical unit) is not limited to a desk light, but may be a ceiling light, a floor light, or the like. The lighting color of the indoor lighting device 30 may be changed from white (white light L0) to yellow or the like (predetermined light L1) to create the white light environment and the predetermined light environment, respectively. In other words, the indoor lighting device 30 may function as a second optical unit (light source in the predetermined light environment creating step S3). The predetermined light L1 is not limited to artificial light emitted from various lighting fixtures, and natural light (sunlight) may be used. For example, the room H may be made into a predetermined light environment by coloring the window glass in the room or attaching a color filter to the window glass.
[0106] The predetermined light L1 (light LA) may be, for example, red light or blue light in addition to the yellow light LAY, magenta light LAM, cyan light LAC, and green light LAG. In addition to the gray light LB and gray colored light LBA, light that blocks light with wavelengths of 500 nm or less or light that blocks light with wavelengths of 400 nm or less (anti-glare eyeglasses) may be used.
[0107] The predetermined light L1 is not limited to being incident only on the peripheral visual field region R2 of the subject's retina R. The predetermined light L1 may be incident on the entire area of the retina R (central visual field region R1, peripheral visual field region R2), or may be incident only on the central visual field region R1.
[0108] Although the case where the sound stimulus A is provided again (second sound stimulus providing step S4) after the predetermined light environment creating step S3 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. During the first sound stimulus providing step S2, the white light environment may be changed to the predetermined light environment. For example, while the sound stimulus A is being provided to the subject, the color light 20 may be turned on to transition from the white light environment to the predetermined light environment.
[0109] The output step S7 does not necessarily have to be performed after the tallying and analyzing step S6. In a characteristic information collection method using a plurality of predetermined lights L1, the tallying and analyzing step S6 may be performed a plurality of times, and finally, the output step S7 may be performed only once. [Explanation of symbols]
[0110] 1. Attribute information collection device 10. Computer 11 Calculation processing unit (collection unit, data collection and analysis unit) 12 Storage section 13 Display (output section) 14a Keyboard (information reception area) 14b Mouse (Information Reception Section) 16 Printer 17. Attribute Information Collection Program 18 Sound Source Database 19 Headphones (sound stimulation unit) 20 Color light (second optical part) 30 Indoor lighting system (first optical department) 40 Wearable optical equipment (second optical section) 41 Optical instruments (colored lens glasses) 41Y Optical equipment (yellow lens glasses) 41M Optical equipment (magenta lens glasses) 41C Optical instruments (cyan lens glasses) 41G Optical equipment (green lens glasses) 42 Optical equipment (gray lens glasses) 43 Optical equipment (black lens glasses) H Indoor A sound stimulus a1, a2, a3, a4 predetermined audible tones Q Answer Form D SD Chart Analysis Table L light L0 white light L1 prescribed light LA colored light (predetermined light) LAY Yellow light (prescribed light) LAM Magenta light (prescribed light) LAC Cyan light (prescribed light) LAG green light (prescribed light) LB Gray light (prescribed light) LBA Gray colored light (prescribed light) LBY Gray yellow light (prescribed light) LBM Gray magenta light (prescribed light) LBC Grey Cyan Light (prescribed light) LBG Gray green light (prescribed light) LD faint light (predetermined light) R retina R1 central visual field R2 Peripheral vision area VL L photoreceptor cells (Long cone cells) VM M photoreceptor (Middle pyramidal cell) VS S photoreceptor (Short cone cell) VR R photoreceptor cells (rod cells)
Claims
1. A first sound stimulus providing step of providing a sound stimulus including a predetermined audible sound to the subject in a white light environment in which white light is incident on the subject's retina; a predetermined light environment creating step of creating a predetermined light environment in which a predetermined light having at least one of a spectral distribution and a luminance different from that of the white light is incident on the retina of the subject; A second sound stimulus providing step of providing the sound stimulus again to the subject in the predetermined light environment; an information receiving step of receiving characteristic information on how the sound stimulation is heard in the first sound stimulation providing step and the second sound stimulation providing step from the subject; a collection step of collecting the characteristic information received from the subject; The characteristic information collecting method includes the steps of:
2. The characteristic information collecting method according to claim 1 , further comprising a compilation step of compiling the information obtained in said collection step.
3. 3. The method for collecting characteristic information according to claim 2, further comprising an analysis step of creating an analysis table based on the information obtained in the compilation step.
4. 3. The characteristic information collecting method according to claim 2, wherein in the information accepting step and the collecting step, the characteristic information is quantified using a Likert scale in a multiple choice answer method.
5. 5. The method for collecting characteristic information according to claim 4, wherein the multi-stage multiple choice answer method uses an SD method in psychometric statistics.
6. 2. The characteristic information collecting method according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined light is yellow light having a dominant wavelength of 570 nm to 590 nm.
7. 2. The characteristic information collecting method according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined light is magenta light having a complementary dominant wavelength of 500 nm to 570 nm.
8. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined light is cyan light having a dominant wavelength of 470 nm to 530 nm. The characteristic information collection method described in
9. 2. The characteristic information collecting method according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined light is green light having a dominant wavelength of 500 nm to 570 nm.
10. The predetermined light has a luminance of 0.001 to 5 cd / m 2 The characteristic information collecting method according to claim 1 ,
11. The predetermined light has a luminance of 0.001 cd / m 2 2. The characteristic information collecting method according to claim 1, wherein:
12. The characteristic information collecting method according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined audible sound is a voice, a conversation sound, a noise sound, or a combination of these sounds.
13. The characteristic information collecting method according to claim 1 , further comprising the steps of: changing at least one of a spectral distribution and a luminance of the predetermined light, and repeating the steps from the predetermined light environment creating step to the collecting step.
14. A first optical unit that creates a white light environment in which white light is incident on the subject's retina; A second optical unit that creates a predetermined light environment in which predetermined light having at least one of a spectral distribution and a luminance different from that of the white light is incident on a retina of the subject; A sound stimulation providing unit that provides a sound stimulation including a predetermined audible sound to the subject in the white light environment, and then provides the sound stimulation to the subject again in the predetermined light environment; An information receiving unit that receives characteristic information from the subject regarding how the sound stimulus is heard in the white light environment and the specified light environment; a collection unit that collects the characteristic information accepted by the information acceptance unit; A characteristic information collecting device comprising:
15. The characteristic information collecting device according to claim 14 , further comprising a compilation and analysis unit that performs various calculation processes based on the collected information obtained from the collection unit.
16. The characteristic information collecting device according to claim 14 , wherein the sound stimulation providing unit is a headphone or a speaker.
17. The characteristic information collecting device according to claim 14 , wherein the sound stimulation provision unit provides or changes a localization of the sound stimulation.
18. The characteristic information collecting device according to claim 14 , wherein the first optical unit or the second optical unit is a display, glasses, goggles, a light, or an illumination device.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Instrument and method for measuring fatigue degree
JP2005168856A