Bedding evaluation system, information processing device, and bedding evaluation method

Abstract

To provide bedding suitable for a user after consideration of a posture during lying in bed.SOLUTION: A bedding evaluation system acquires target data concerning a body line targeted by a user and present situation data concerning a present body line in a lying posture on bedding of the user, compares the target data with the present situation data, and evaluates the bedding.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a bedding evaluation system, an information processing device, and a bedding evaluation method. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known a technique for identifying appropriate bedding based on information about a user's body type. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-166688 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the above prior art does not take into consideration the user's posture when lying down.

[0005] The problem that the present disclosure aims to solve is to provide bedding that is suitable for users, taking into consideration their posture when lying down. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The bedding evaluation system of the embodiment acquires target data regarding the user's desired body line and current data regarding the user's current body line when lying down on the bedding, compares the target data with the current data, and evaluates the bedding. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a bedding evaluation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an electric bed provided in the bedding evaluation system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a mattress provided in the bedding evaluation system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the electric bed. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an example of the arrangement of sleeping posture sensors in the bedding evaluation system. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a distribution diagram showing an example of a pressure detection area of ​​the sleeping posture sensor. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the connection of the sleeping posture sensor. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram for explaining the process of detecting the sleeping posture. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a distribution diagram showing an example of the output result when the user is determined to be in a lateral position. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a distribution diagram showing an example of the output result when the user is determined to be in the supine position. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram showing the flow of processing by the bedding evaluation system. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the target data acquisition process. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the current data acquisition process. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a process for comparing target data with current data. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing details of the process of comparing the target data with the current data. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a bedding adjustment process based on the evaluation results. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of an information processing device. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing the functions of a bedding evaluation system according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] <1. Embodiment> Each embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the present specification and each drawing, elements similar to those already described will be designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions will not be repeated. Note that the drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the size ratio between parts, and the like are not necessarily the same as those in reality. Even when the same part is shown, the dimensions and ratios may be different depending on the drawing. Furthermore, in the present specification and each drawing, elements similar to those previously described with reference to the previously mentioned drawings will be designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0009] (1.1. Functional configuration of bedding evaluation system 1) The functional configuration of a bedding evaluation system 1 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 1, the bedding evaluation system 1 includes a terminal device 50, an electric bed 210, an air mattress device 110, a sleeping posture sensor 260, and an imaging device 410. These components are configured to be able to communicate with each other.

[0010] The terminal device 50 is an information processing device that includes input means and output means and can be operated by a user of the bedding evaluation system 1. The terminal device 50 may be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a wearable device such as a smart watch (watch-type) or a smart ring (finger ring-type), or may be a general-purpose or dedicated personal computer. The hardware configuration of the terminal device 50 will be described later. The terminal device 50 includes a control unit 51, a storage unit 52, a display 53, and an imaging unit 54.

[0011] The control unit 51 acquires target data relating to the user's desired body line and current data relating to the user's current body line in a lying position on the bedding, and compares them to evaluate the bedding. Details of the processing by the control unit 51 will be described later.

[0012] The storage unit 52 stores programs and data necessary for the processing of the control unit 51, data obtained by the processing of the control unit 51, etc. As an example, the storage unit 52 stores target data obtained by the imaging unit 54. The display 53 functions as an output means, and presents predetermined information to the user by displaying it. Details of the information displayed on the display 53 will be described later. The imaging unit 54 is a camera that captures images, and may be, for example, a camera built into the terminal device 50 such as a smartphone.

[0013] The electric bed 210 is bedding used by a user when sleeping, and includes a drive mechanism that adjusts at least one of the height and hardness. As an example, the control unit 51 may be configured to control the drive mechanism to adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the electric bed 210 based on the evaluation result of the bedding. Details of the electric bed 210 will be described later.

[0014] The air mattress device 110 is placed on an electric bed 210. Details of the air mattress device 110 will be described later. The sleeping posture sensor 260 is placed on the electric bed 210 and detects the sleeping posture of the user while sleeping. Details of the sleeping posture sensor 260 will be described later.

[0015] The imaging device 410 is a camera that captures images, and may be, for example, a digital camera that can store captured images as digital data.

[0016] (1.2. Configuration of the electric bed 210) 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of an electric bed 210. As shown in FIG. 2, the electric bed 210 includes a movable part 70 and an air mattress device 110 placed on the movable part 70.

[0017] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an air mattress device 110. As shown in Fig. 3, the air mattress device 110 includes an air mattress 10 and an operation panel 30. The air mattress 10 includes a plurality of air cells 11, a pump unit 12 as a drive mechanism, and a cover 13.

[0018] Gas (e.g., air) is stored inside the multiple air cells 11 and the air pillow 14. The pump unit 12 is connected to the multiple air cells 11 and the air pillow 14, respectively, and supplies gas to the multiple air cells 11 and the air pillow 14. Alternatively, the pump unit 12 exhausts gas from inside the multiple air cells 11 and the air pillow 14. A cover 13 covers the multiple air cells 11 and the pump unit 12. The air pillow 14 is placed on the air mattress 10. Note that the air pillow 14 does not have to be used; any other pillow whose height can be adjusted may be used.

[0019] The pump unit 12 is located, for example, on the foot side of a person sleeping on the air mattress 10. The head side and foot side of the air mattress 10 can be determined, for example, by letters or pictures attached to the air mattress 10.

[0020] The operation panel 30 accepts operations to control the pump unit 12. For example, a user can operate the operation panel 30 to make the pump unit 12 discharge gas, thereby increasing or decreasing the pressure inside the air cell 11 and the air pillow 14. This makes the air mattress 10 and the air pillow 14 harder or softer. The operation panel 30 is electrically connected to the pump unit 12 by a cable 35, as shown in FIG. 3, for example. Furthermore, the control unit 51 of the terminal device 50 is connected to the pump unit 12 by wireless communication means. That is, the control unit 51 can control the hardness of the air mattress 10 and the air pillow 14 via the wireless communication means.

[0021] The electric bed 210 includes a movable unit 70 as a drive mechanism, and an operating unit 230. The operating unit 230 accepts operations for controlling the movable unit 70. For example, the user can operate the operating unit 230 to change the angle of at least one of the back bottom 70a, knee bottom 70b, and leg bottom 70c provided on the movable unit 70.

[0022] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the movable unit 70. As shown in Fig. 4, the movable unit 70 includes, for example, a back bottom part 70a, a knee bottom part 70b, a leg bottom part 70c, a back bottom driving unit 71a, a knee bottom driving unit 71b, and a height driving unit 72. For example, each of the back bottom driving unit 71a, the knee bottom driving unit 71b, and the height driving unit 72 includes an actuator.

[0023] Driving the back bottom drive unit 71a moves the back bottom 70a, allowing the angle of the back of the user P on the air mattress device 110 to be changed. Driving the knee bottom drive unit 71b moves the knee bottom 70b and leg bottom 70c, allowing the angle between these bottoms to be changed. This allows the angle of the user's knees to be changed. The angles between each bottom may change in conjunction with each other. Driving the height drive unit 72 allows the height of the movable unit 70 (the distance between the floor surface and the bed surface) to be changed.

[0024] The electric bed 210 includes a control unit 220. The control unit 220 includes a bottom control unit 221 and a height control unit 222. The back bottom drive unit 71a and the knee bottom drive unit 71b are electrically connected to the bottom control unit 221. The operations of the back bottom drive unit 71a and the knee bottom drive unit 71b are controlled based on signals transmitted from the bottom control unit 221. The height drive unit 72 is electrically connected to the height control unit 222. The operation of the height drive unit 72 is controlled based on signals transmitted from the height control unit 222.

[0025] The operation unit 230 is electrically connected to the control unit 220. The operation unit 230 is connected to the control unit 220, for example, by a cable 235 shown in Fig. 2. Furthermore, the control unit 51 of the terminal device 50 is connected to the control unit 220 by wireless communication means. That is, the control unit 51 can control the height and angle of the movable unit 70 via the wireless communication means.

[0026] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of the sleeping posture sensor 260. As shown in FIG. 5, the sleeping posture sensor 260 is arranged on the air mattress 10. The sleeping posture sensor 260 is strip-shaped, and its vertical width along the longitudinal direction of the air mattress 10 is width W11, which covers a portion of the user P. Furthermore, its horizontal width along the lateral direction of the air mattress 10 is width W12, which is the same as the horizontal width of the air mattress 10. Width W11 is, for example, a width that covers the waist region of the user P. Therefore, the sleeping posture sensor 260 is arranged to cover the waist region of the user P and to cover the entire width of the air mattress 10. A thin sheet may be arranged on the sleeping posture sensor 260. Note that the width of the sleeping posture sensor 260 does not have to be the entire width of the air mattress 10, and may be limited to the range within which the user P can move.

[0027] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the pressure detection area AR2 of the sleeping posture sensor 260. As shown in FIG. 6, the sleeping posture sensor 260 is configured with 24 pressure sensors, with a width W11 of 2 columns and a width W12 of 12 rows, or 2 × 12. Each pressure sensor outputs pressure data indicating the pressure state of the magnitude of the applied pressure. In this way, the sleeping posture sensor 260 is a sensor unit that measures pressure at multiple locations. Note that the width W11 does not have to be 2 columns, but may be 3 or more columns, and the width W12 does not have to be 12 columns, but may be less than 12 columns, or may be 13 or more columns.

[0028] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the connection of the sleeping posture sensor 260. As shown in Fig. 7, the sleeping posture sensor 260 is connected to the receiving unit 227 in the control unit 220. This allows the management unit 228 in the control unit 220 to acquire pressure data output from each pressure sensor of the sleeping posture sensor 260. Furthermore, the sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 included in the management unit 228 can detect the sleeping posture of the user P based on the pressure output from the sleeping posture sensor 260.

[0029] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the process of detecting sleeping posture. As shown in FIG. 8, pressure data detected by 24 pressure sensors included in the detection area AR2 of the sleeping posture sensor 260 is input to the sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 via the receiving unit 227. In this embodiment, the pressure data is acquired as image data that indicates a color corresponding to the pressure. The sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 performs CNN (Convolutional Neural Network) processing on the input image data. By performing CNN processing, it becomes possible to locally extract features. In this embodiment, the CNN processing is performed using three layers: a convolutional layer 271, a pooling layer 272, and a fully connected layer 273. Note that CNN processing is merely an example, and other processing may be performed without using CNN processing. Furthermore, the processing will be described using three layers: the convolutional layer 271, the pooling layer 272, and the fully connected layer 273, but this is not limiting. For example, the convolutional layer and the pooling layer may each be double or triple. The fully connected layer 273 may have two layers, or may have three or more layers.

[0030] The sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 performs convolution processing on multiple image data using the convolution layer 271. The convolution processing is a process of locally extracting features of an image to be identified from multiple image data. Next, the sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 compresses the data using the pooling layer 272. By providing the convolution layer 271 before the pooling layer 272, the pooling layer 272 can receive data that is more likely to have features as input. The sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 uses the fully connected layer 273 to connect the image data from which the feature parts have been extracted after performing convolution and pooling to one node and output a value converted by an activation function. The sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 may perform this fully connected processing using multiple connection layers. In this way, the output result R is output.

[0031] 9 and 10 are diagrams showing examples of the output result R. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the output result R1 when the user P is determined to be in a lateral position. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the output result R2 when the user P is determined to be in a supine position. As shown in FIG. 9, the pressure is concentrated in a region P1 where the pressure is the highest, and the pressure gradually decreases in a direction away from the region P1. In other words, the user P is present in a region with high pressure. Therefore, the sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 determines that the user P is in a lateral position. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10, the regions P2a and P2b have the second highest pressure, and the areas around the regions P2a and P2b have the third highest pressure. In this way, the pressure distribution is similar in the width direction with P2 in the regions P2a and P2b as the center. Therefore, the sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 determines that the user P is in a supine position.

[0032] In this way, the sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 of the sleeping posture sensor 260 can detect the sleeping posture of the user P. Furthermore, the sleeping posture sensor 260 only needs to be large enough to cover the waist area, which is a part of the user P, and therefore the cost of the configuration for detecting the sleeping posture can be reduced.

[0033] (1.3. Processing flow) The flow of processing by the bedding evaluation system 1 will be described with reference to Figures 11 to 16. As shown in Figure 11, the bedding evaluation system 1 executes processing from S100 to S500.

[0034] In step S100, the control unit 51 acquires target data. It is generally said that the closer a sleeping posture during sleep is to a standing posture, the more preferable it is. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12 , the imaging unit 54 of the terminal device 50 captures an image of the user P standing sideways as an image relating to a standing posture. Note that, as another example, the imaging unit 54 may capture an image of the user P standing forward as an image relating to a standing posture.

[0035] The control unit 51 uses a known image processing technique to acquire data related to the body line of the user P from the captured image as target data. As one example, the control unit 51 may perform a contour extraction process on the captured image to acquire the target data. As another example, the control unit 51 may perform a feature extraction process using machine learning on the captured image to acquire the target data.

[0036] In step S200, the control unit 51 acquires current state data. As shown in Fig. 13, as one example, the imaging device 410 captures an image of the user P lying in a supine position (face up) on the electric bed 210 as an image relating to the user's lying position on the bedding. Note that, as another example, the imaging device 410 may capture an image of the user P lying in a lateral position (face down) on the electric bed 210 as an image relating to the user's lying position on the bedding.

[0037] The control unit 51 uses known image processing technology to acquire data related to the body line of the user P from the captured image as current state data. As one example, the control unit 51 may perform a contour extraction process on the captured image to acquire the current state data. As another example, the control unit 51 may perform a feature extraction process using machine learning on the captured image to acquire the current state data.

[0038] It is preferable that the control unit 51 acquires corresponding target data and current data for each type of sleeping position on the bedding of the user. Specifically, when the type of sleeping position of the user on the electric bed 210 is the supine position (or back position), the control unit 51 acquires an image of the user standing up sideways as the corresponding standing position. Also, when the type of sleeping position of the user on the electric bed is the lateral position, the control unit 51 acquires an image of the user standing up facing forward (or backward) as the corresponding standing position.

[0039] In step S300, the control unit 51 evaluates the bedding by comparing the target data and the current data. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 14, the control unit 51 first compares the target body line L1 in the target data M1 acquired in step S100 with the current body line L2 in the current data M2 acquired in step S200.

[0040] As an example, as shown in FIG. 15, the control unit 51 graphs the target body line L1 and the current body line L2 on a single coordinate system, with the direction from head to toe defined as the x-direction and the direction from back to abdomen defined as the y-direction. The origin of the coordinate system can be appropriately set to a characteristic part of the body so that the target body line L1 and the current body line L2 coincide with each other. For example, in the case of a supine position, the origin may be the position of the nose, and in the case of a lateral position, the origin may be the position of the ear. Furthermore, in order to align at least one of the x-axis direction, the y-axis direction, and the scale between the target body line L1 and the current body line L2, image processing such as rotation, inversion, enlargement, or reduction may be performed on at least one of the target data M1 and the current data M2.

[0041] Furthermore, the control unit 51 calculates the similarity between the target data and the current data, and the higher the similarity, the higher the evaluation of the bedding. As an example, the control unit 51 calculates the mean square error between the target body line L1 and the current body line L2 graphed on a single coordinate system. In this case, the smaller the calculated mean square error value, the higher the similarity, and the higher the evaluation of the bedding. Also, the larger the calculated mean square error value, the lower the similarity, and the lower the evaluation of the bedding.

[0042] In calculating the similarity, weighting may be applied to each part of the user's body, and the similarity may be calculated taking the weighting into consideration. Specifically, for example, a predetermined weight may be applied to a part of the user's lower back that is considered important in terms of sleeping posture, and the similarity may be calculated. In calculating the similarity, other statistics such as the residual sum of squares may be calculated instead of the mean square error.

[0043] In step S400, control unit 51 determines whether the evaluation value is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. If the evaluation value is not equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value (NO in step S400 in FIG. 11), step S430 is executed.

[0044] In step S430, the control unit 51 calculates optimal settings for at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding. The control unit 51 compares the target body line L1 with the current body line L2 to calculate optimal settings for at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding so that the calculated similarity is high. As an example, if the y-axis value of the current body line L2 is higher than the y-axis value of the target body line L1 at a specific part of the user's body, the control unit 51 may calculate a setting value to lower the bedding at a part corresponding to that part. As another example, if the y-axis value of the current body line L2 is lower than the y-axis value of the target body line L1 at a specific part of the user's body, the control unit 51 may calculate a setting value to increase the hardness of the bedding at a part corresponding to that part. As an example, the control unit 51 may calculate a setting value for the air pressure in the multiple air cells 11 of the air mattress 10.

[0045] In step S460, the control unit 51 adjusts the bedding based on the calculated setting value. As an example, as shown in Fig. 16, the control unit 51 may send an instruction to the pump unit 12 to adjust the amount of air sent to the air cell 11, thereby adjusting the hardness of the air mattress 10 in the air mattress device 110. As another example, the control unit 51 may send an instruction to the movable unit 70 of the electric bed 210 to adjust the height of the electric bed 210.

[0046] When step S460 is executed, steps S200 and S300 are executed again. That is, after adjusting the height or hardness of the bedding, control unit 51 acquires the user's posture on the bedding again as current data, compares the target data with the current data, and evaluates the bedding.

[0047] On the other hand, in step S400, if the evaluation value is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value (YES in step S400 in FIG. 11), step S500 is executed. In step S500, control unit 51 registers a set value for at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding in storage unit 52, and the process ends. Note that when registering the set value, the user's preference regarding the height or hardness of the bedding may also be reflected.

[0048] (1.4. Hardware Configuration) The hardware configuration of an information processing device used in the terminal device 50 will be described with reference to Fig. 17. The terminal device 50 as an information processing device is realized, for example, by a computer 90 shown in Fig. 17. The computer 90 includes a CPU 91, a ROM 92, a RAM 93, a storage 94, an input interface 95, an output interface 96, and a communication interface 97.

[0049] The CPU 91 functions as a processor that executes processing. Specifically, the CPU 91 uses the RAM 93 as a work memory and executes a program stored in at least one of the ROM 92 and the storage 94. During program execution, the CPU 91 controls each component via a system bus 98 and executes various processes.

[0050] The ROM 92 stores a program that controls the operation of the computer 90. The ROM 92 stores a program necessary for causing the computer 90 to perform each of the above-described processes. The RAM 93 functions as a storage area in which the programs stored in the ROM 92 are expanded.

[0051] The storage 94 stores data necessary for executing the programs and data obtained by executing the programs. The storage 94 includes one or more selected from a hard disk drive (HDD) and a solid state drive (SSD).

[0052] The input interface (I / F) 95 can connect the computer 90 to an input device 95a. The input interface 95 is, for example, a serial bus interface such as USB. The CPU 91 can read various data from the input device 95a via the input interface 95.

[0053] The output interface (I / F) 96 can connect the computer 90 and an output device 96a. The output interface 96 is, for example, a video output interface such as a Digital Visual Interface (DVI) or a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI (registered trademark)). The CPU 91 can transmit data to the output device 96a via the output interface 96 and cause the output device 96a to output the data.

[0054] The input device 95a includes one or more selected from a mouse, a keyboard, a microphone (voice input), and a touchpad. The output device 96a includes one or more selected from a display, a projector, a printer, and a speaker. A device having the functions of both the input device 95a and the output device 96a, such as a touch panel, may also be used.

[0055] The communication interface (I / F) 97 can connect the computer 90 to an external server 97a located outside the computer 90. The communication interface 97 is, for example, a network card such as a LAN card. The CPU 91 can read various data from the external server 97a via the communication interface 97.

[0056] Each process executed by the terminal device 50 may be realized by one computer 90 or by a plurality of computers 90 working together.

[0057] The various data processing operations described above may be recorded as a computer-executable program on a magnetic disk (such as a flexible disk or hard disk), an optical disk (such as a CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD±R, or DVD±RW), a semiconductor memory, or other non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0058] For example, information recorded on a recording medium can be read by a computer (or an embedded system). The recording medium may have any recording format (storage format). For example, the computer reads a program from the recording medium and causes a processor to execute instructions written in the program based on the program. The computer may acquire (or read) the program via a network.

[0059] (1.5.Summary) In this way, the bedding evaluation system 1 according to this embodiment acquires target data relating to the user's desired body line and current data relating to the user's current body line when lying down on the bedding. The bedding evaluation system 1 compares the acquired target data with the current data to evaluate the bedding. This configuration makes it possible to provide bedding that is suitable for the user, taking into account the user's posture when lying down.

[0060] The bedding evaluation system 1 may also include an imaging device 410 that captures an image relating to the user's lying posture on the bedding, and a terminal device 50 having a control unit 51, and the control unit 51 of the terminal device 50 may be configured to acquire current state data from the image captured by the imaging device 410. This configuration makes it easy to acquire an image relating to the user's lying posture as current state data.

[0061] Furthermore, the imaging unit 54 of the terminal device 50 may capture an image relating to the user's standing posture, and the control unit 51 may acquire the target data from the image captured by the imaging unit 54. By adopting such specifications, it becomes easy to acquire an image relating to the user's lying posture as current data.

[0062] Furthermore, the control unit 51 may be configured to correct the target data by accepting adjustments from the user for the image captured by the imaging device 410. By using such a configuration, it becomes easier for the user to obtain the target data that is ideal for the user.

[0063] The control unit 51 may also acquire target data and current data for each type of sleeping position on the bedding of the user. Specifically, for example, when the sleeping position is supine, an image of the user standing up sideways is acquired as target data, and the sleeping position in the supine position is acquired as current data. When the sleeping position is lateral, an image of the user standing up facing forward is acquired as target data, and the sleeping position in the lateral position is acquired as current data. By adopting such specifications, it is possible to acquire target data and current data that match the sleeping position of the user.

[0064] Furthermore, the electric bed 210 as bedding provided in the bedding evaluation system 1 may include a drive mechanism that can adjust at least one of the height and hardness, and the control unit 51 may be configured to control the drive mechanism to adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the electric bed 210 based on the evaluation of the bedding. By using such specifications, it becomes possible to adjust the height and hardness of the bedding based on the evaluation results of the bedding, and provide bedding that is suitable for the user.

[0065] Furthermore, the control unit 51 may be configured to acquire the current data again after controlling the drive mechanism to adjust the height and hardness of the bedding, compare the current data with the target data, and evaluate the bedding. By using such a configuration, it is possible to precisely evaluate the bedding and reliably provide the bedding that is suitable for the user.

[0066] (1.6. Variations) A modification of the above embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 18. The bedding evaluation system 1 according to the modification differs from the above embodiment in that, when acquiring the user's target data or current data, the control unit 51 acquires information about the length of each part of the user's body based on information about the article included in the data.

[0067] As shown in Fig. 18, in a modified example, an imaging device 410 captures an image of a predetermined item together with an image relating to the user's posture. In the example shown in Fig. 17, the user's posture is an upright posture, and the predetermined item is an electric bed 210. An identifier 211 for identifying the model number is assigned to the electric bed 210.

[0068] The storage unit 52 stores dimensional information about the size of the electric bed 210 in association with the identifier 211. The control unit 51 identifies the dimensional information stored in the storage unit 52 based on the identifier 211 in the image captured by the imaging device 410. Based on the dimensional information, the control unit 51 compares the length D1 of a predetermined part of the electric bed 210 in the image with the length D2 of a certain part of the user's body, thereby estimating the length D2 of that part of the user's body. This specification saves the user the trouble of inputting information about their own body.

[0069] Furthermore, when the predetermined object is rectangular, the control unit 51 may correct the image so that the object in the image resembles a predetermined rectangle. Specifically, the control unit 51 may correct the image and adjust the angle of view of the imaging device 410 so that the specific rectangular shape of the electric bed 210 in the image captured by the imaging device 410 resembles the predetermined rectangle stored in the storage unit 52. By adopting such specifications, it becomes easier to acquire target data or current data more precisely.

[0070] <2. Other embodiments> The bedding evaluation system 1 according to the present embodiment has been described above, but the application of the technical concept of the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiment. For example, in the above embodiment, the control unit 51 acquires image data acquired by the imaging unit 54 as target data or current data, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 51 may perform some correction on the image data acquired by the imaging unit 54 and acquire it as target data or current data. The control unit 51 may also accept a user's adjustment operation on the image captured by the imaging device 410 and correct the acquired target data. In this case, for example, a specialist such as a doctor, therapist, or counselor may adjust the body line in the image captured by the imaging device 410 to create target data.

[0071] In the above embodiment, an image of the user's posture in a standing position is acquired as the target data, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an image of the user's posture on bedding that allows the user to maintain a suitable posture may be acquired as the target data.

[0072] In the above embodiment, in step S430, the set value for the hardness of the bedding is calculated as the set value for the air pressure in the plurality of air cells 11 of the air mattress 10, but this is not limited to this. For example, if the bedding includes a urethane mattress, the set value for the compression characteristics of the urethane mattress, such as its modulus of elasticity, may be calculated.

[0073] In the above embodiment, the bedding is evaluated and adjusted before the user goes to sleep, but this is not limiting. Specifically, the imaging device 410 may capture images of the user's posture while sleeping on the bedding. The control unit 51 may acquire current status data from the images acquired by the imaging device 410, evaluate the bedding, and, based on the evaluation, control the drive mechanism to adjust at least one of the height and firmness of the bedding while the user is sleeping. This configuration allows the height or firmness of the bedding to be adjusted in real time while the user is sleeping, instantly providing bedding that is suitable for the user.

[0074] Furthermore, the control unit 51 may control the drive mechanism to adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding, taking into consideration not only the evaluation result of the bedding but also the detection result of the sleeping posture sensor 260, which detects the user's posture while sleeping on the bedding. By adopting such specifications, it becomes possible to more precisely adjust the height or hardness of the bedding to provide a bedding that is suitable for the user, based on the user's posture while sleeping.

[0075] The terminal device 50 included in the bedding evaluation system 1 may also be configured to function as a sleep sensor that acquires sleep information. The control unit 51 may also be configured to evaluate the bedding and adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding, taking the acquired sleep information into further consideration.

[0076] In the above embodiment, the sleeping posture sensor 260 is arranged in a position that covers the waist area of ​​the user P, but this is not limiting. For example, it may be arranged to cover the shoulder area of ​​the user P. Furthermore, two sleeping posture sensors 260 may be prepared, with one arranged to cover the waist area of ​​the user P and the other to cover the shoulder area of ​​the user P. Furthermore, the two sleeping posture sensors 260 may be divided into one for the upper body and one for the lower body of the user P. By detecting the sleeping posture using the two output results R acquired from the two sleeping posture sensors 260 in this way, the sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 can detect the sleeping posture of the user P more accurately.

[0077] In the above embodiment, the sleeping posture sensor 260 is used to detect the user's sleeping posture, but this is not limiting. For example, instead of (or in addition to) the sleeping posture sensor 260, an infrared sensor 250 may be used to detect the temperature of the user's face area and determine the user's sleeping posture. Also, a photographing device such as a camera that photographs the user P may be provided. In this case, the sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 detects the posture of the user P based on an image photographed by the photographing device. Also, for example, a depth sensor may be provided. In this case, the sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 detects the posture of the user P based on a depth image photographed by the depth sensor.

[0078] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the sleeping posture sensor 260 detects the sleeping posture of the user P by detecting pressure at multiple locations, but this is not limited to this. For example, a sensor unit that measures temperatures at multiple locations may be used instead of the sleeping posture sensor 260. The sensor unit may acquire temperature information from each of the divided regions obtained by dividing an area including the lower back and / or shoulders of the user P according to multiple locations, and the sleeping posture detection unit 228a1 may determine the sleeping posture of the user P based on the temperature information for each of the divided regions. Even with this configuration, it is possible to detect the sleeping posture of the user P.

[0079] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the bedding evaluation system 1 includes the terminal device 50 equipped with the imaging unit 54 and the imaging device 410, but it may also be configured to include only one of the imaging device 410 and the imaging unit 54.

[0080] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example in which the processes of steps S100 to S500 are performed is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. That is, some of the processes of steps S100 to S500 may not be performed, and other processes may be added.

[0081] The disclosure may include the following features. (Appendix 1) Acquire target data relating to a target body line of the user and current data relating to a current body line of the user in a lying position on bedding; Comparing the target data with the current data, A bedding evaluation system that evaluates the bedding. (Appendix 2) Calculating the similarity between the target data and the current data; The bedding evaluation system according to claim 1, wherein the higher the similarity, the higher the rating of the bedding. (Appendix 3) weighting each part of the user; The bedding evaluation system according to claim 2, wherein the similarity is calculated taking into account the weighting. (Appendix 4) a control unit that performs the evaluation; and an imaging device, the imaging device captures an image of the user in a lying position on the bedding; The bedding evaluation system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit acquires the current state data from the image. (Appendix 5) A control unit that performs the evaluation and an imaging unit are provided, the imaging unit captures an image relating to a standing posture of the user, The bedding evaluation system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit acquires the target data from the image. (Appendix 6) The bedding evaluation system according to claim 5, wherein the control unit further receives adjustments from a user to the image captured by the imaging unit and corrects the target data. (Appendix 7) The bedding evaluation system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the control unit acquires the target data and the current state data for each type of sleeping position on the bedding of the user. (Appendix 8) a control unit that performs the evaluation, The bedding includes a drive mechanism that can adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding, The bedding evaluation system described in Appendix 1, wherein the control unit controls the drive mechanism to adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding based on the evaluation. (Appendix 9) The bedding evaluation system described in Appendix 8, wherein the control unit, after controlling the drive mechanism, acquires the current state data again, compares the target data with the current state data, and evaluates the bedding. (Appendix 10) An imaging device is provided, the imaging device captures an image relating to the user's posture while sleeping on the bedding; The control unit acquiring the current state data from the image; The bedding evaluation system of claim 8, wherein the drive mechanism is controlled to adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding while the user is sleeping based on the evaluation. (Appendix 11) a sleeping posture sensor for detecting the posture of the user while sleeping on the bedding; The bedding evaluation system described in Appendix 8, wherein the control unit further controls the drive mechanism to adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding based on the detected posture. (Appendix 12) a control unit that performs the evaluation, a storage unit, and an imaging device; the imaging device captures an image of a predetermined item together with an image relating to the posture of the user; The storage unit stores dimensional information about the size of the predetermined item, The bedding evaluation system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit estimates the length of each part of the user in the image based on the dimension information. (Appendix 13) The predetermined object is rectangular, The bedding evaluation system described in Appendix 12, wherein the control unit corrects the image so that the item in the image resembles a predetermined rectangle. (Appendix 14) The bedding evaluation system described in Appendix 12, wherein the specified item is the bedding. (Appendix 15) The predetermined item is assigned an identifier for identifying a model number, The bedding evaluation system described in Appendix 12, wherein the control unit identifies the dimensional information stored in the memory unit based on the identifier in the image. (Appendix 16) Acquire target data relating to a target body line of the user and current data relating to a current body line of the user in a lying position on bedding; Comparing the target data with the current data, An information processing device comprising a control unit that evaluates the bedding. (Appendix 17) Acquiring target data relating to a target body line of a user and current data relating to a current body line of the user in a lying position on bedding; comparing the target data with the current data; A method for evaluating bedding, comprising evaluating the bedding.

[0082] Although several embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated above, these embodiments are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, etc. can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as set forth in the claims. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments can be implemented in combination with each other. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 1: Bedding evaluation system, 10: Air mattress, 11: Air cell, 12: Pump unit, 13: Cover, 14: Air pillow, 20: Terminal device, 30: Operation panel, 35: Cable, 50: Terminal device, 51: Control unit, 52: Memory unit, 53: Display, 54: Imaging unit, 70: Movable unit, 70a: Back bottom, 70b: Knee bottom, 70c: Leg bottom, 71a: Back bottom drive unit, 71b: Knee bottom drive unit, 72: Height drive unit, 90: Computer, 91: CPU, 92: ROM, 93: R AM, 94: Storage, 95: Input interface, 96: Output interface, 97: Communication interface, 98: System bus, 110: Air mattress device, 210: Electric bed, 211: Identifier, 220: Control unit, 221: Bottom control unit, 222: Height control unit, 227: Receiving unit, 228: Management unit, 230: Operation unit, 235: Cable, 250: Infrared sensor, 260: Sleeping posture sensor, 271: Convolution layer, 272: Pooling layer, 273: Fully connected layer, 410: Imaging device

Claims

1. Acquire target data relating to a target body line of the user and current data relating to a current body line of the user in a lying position on bedding; Comparing the target data with the current data, A bedding evaluation system that evaluates the bedding.

2. Calculating the similarity between the target data and the current data; The bedding rating system according to claim 1 , wherein the higher the similarity, the higher the rating of the bedding.

3. weighting each part of the user; The bedding evaluation system according to claim 2 , wherein the similarity is calculated taking into account the weighting.

4. a control unit that performs the evaluation; and an imaging device, the imaging device captures an image of the user in a lying position on the bedding; The bedding evaluation system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit acquires the current state data from the image.

5. A control unit that performs the evaluation and an imaging unit are provided, the imaging unit captures an image relating to a standing posture of the user, The bedding evaluation system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit acquires the target data from the image.

6. The bedding evaluation system according to claim 5 , wherein the control unit further receives adjustments from a user to the image captured by the imaging unit, and corrects the target data.

7. The bedding evaluation system according to claim 4 , wherein the control unit acquires the target data and the current state data for each type of sleeping position on the bedding of the user.

8. a control unit that performs the evaluation, The bedding includes a drive mechanism that can adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding, The bedding evaluation system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit controls the drive mechanism to adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding based on the evaluation.

9. The bedding evaluation system according to claim 8 , wherein the control unit, after controlling the drive mechanism, acquires the current state data again, compares the target data with the current state data, and evaluates the bedding.

10. An imaging device is provided, the imaging device captures an image relating to the user's posture while sleeping on the bedding; The control unit acquiring the current state data from the image; The bedding evaluation system according to claim 8 , wherein the drive mechanism is controlled to adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding while the user is sleeping based on the evaluation.

11. a sleeping posture sensor for detecting the posture of the user while sleeping on the bedding; The bedding evaluation system according to claim 8 , wherein the control unit further controls the drive mechanism to adjust at least one of the height and hardness of the bedding based on the detected posture.

12. a control unit that performs the evaluation, a storage unit, and an imaging device; the imaging device captures an image of a predetermined item together with an image relating to the posture of the user; The storage unit stores dimensional information about the size of the predetermined item, The bedding evaluation system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit estimates a length of each part of the user in the image based on the dimensional information.

13. The predetermined object is rectangular, The bedding evaluation system according to claim 12 , wherein the control unit corrects the image so that the item in the image resembles a predetermined rectangle.

14. The bedding evaluation system according to claim 12 , wherein the predetermined item is the bedding.

15. The predetermined item is assigned an identifier for identifying a model number, The bedding evaluation system according to claim 12 , wherein the control unit identifies the dimension information stored in the storage unit based on the identifier in the image.

16. Acquire target data relating to a target body line of the user and current data relating to a current body line of the user in a lying position on bedding; Comparing the target data with the current data, An information processing device comprising a control unit that evaluates the bedding.

17. Acquiring target data relating to a target body line of a user and current data relating to a current body line of the user in a lying position on bedding; comparing the target data with the current data; A method for evaluating bedding, comprising evaluating the bedding.

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