Stimulus control device, stimulus control method, and program

Abstract

The present invention provides a stimulus control device capable of generating stimuli at the appropriate timing to keep the user awake. [Solution] The stimulus control device includes: a biometric information acquisition means for acquiring the user's biometric information; a numerical value generation means for generating a numerical value based on the biometric information; a start instruction means for instructing a stimulus means to start stimulating the user when the numerical value exceeds a first threshold; a stop instruction acquisition means for acquiring a stop instruction from the user to the stimulus means; and a setting means for setting the first threshold based on the numerical value when the stop instruction is acquired.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a stimulation control device, a stimulation control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] To avoid drowsiness of a driver of an automobile, an arousal support device that supports arousal of the driver by emitting a warning sound or the like is known.

[0003] As such an arousal support device, there is an arousal support device disclosed in Patent Document 1 that asks the driver whether to desire arousal support when the degree of drowsiness of the driver reaches a standard, and performs arousal support when an answer indicating a desire for arousal support is obtained.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The arousal support device of Patent Document 1 does not perform arousal support until an answer is obtained from the driver. For this reason, a problem that arousal of the driver cannot be supported when the driver does not give an answer due to some reason is cited as an example of the problems.

[0006] Further, Patent Document 1 discloses that arousal support is started without waiting for an answer from the driver when a strong degree of drowsiness is detected. However, in such a situation, a problem that it takes time to arouse the driver because the drowsiness of the driver is already strong is cited as an example of the problems.

[0007] This invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned points, and one of its objectives is to provide a stimulus control device that can generate stimuli at an appropriate timing for the user's arousal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The stimulus control device described in claim 1 of the present application is characterized by comprising: a biometric information acquisition means for acquiring a user's biometric information; a numerical value generation means for generating a numerical value based on the biometric information; a start instruction means for instructing a stimulus means that stimulates the user to start stimulating when the numerical value exceeds a first threshold; a stop instruction acquisition means for acquiring a stop instruction from the user to the stimulus means; and a setting means for setting the first threshold based on the numerical value at the time the stop instruction was acquired.

[0009] The stimulus control method described in claim 11 of the present application is a stimulus control method performed by a stimulus control device that controls a stimulus means for stimulating a user, and is characterized by comprising: a step of acquiring biological information of the user; a step of generating a numerical value based on the biological information; a step of instructing the stimulus means to start stimulating when the numerical value exceeds a first threshold; a step of acquiring a stop instruction from the user to the stimulus means; and a step of setting the first threshold based on the numerical value at the time the stop instruction was acquired.

[0010] The program described in claim 12 of this application is characterized by causing a computer to perform the steps of: acquiring a user's biometric information; generating a numerical value based on the biometric information; instructing a stimulating means that stimulates the user to start stimulating when the numerical value exceeds a first threshold; obtaining a stop instruction from the user to the stimulating means; and setting the first threshold based on the numerical value at the time the stop instruction was obtained.

[0011] The recording medium described in claim 13 of the present application is characterized in that it records a program that causes a computer to perform the following steps: acquiring a user's biometric information; generating a numerical value based on the biometric information; instructing a stimulating means that stimulates the user to start stimulating when the numerical value exceeds a first threshold; acquiring a stop instruction from the user to the stimulating means; and setting the first threshold based on the numerical value at the time the stop instruction was acquired. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a functional block diagram of the stimulus control device according to Example 1. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a threshold database table stored in the memory unit. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the stimulus control device according to Example 1. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a threshold database table stored in the memory unit. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the stimulus control device according to Example 2. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the processing by the stimulus control device according to a modified example of Example 2. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the stimulus control device according to Example 3. [Figure 8] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a threshold database table stored in the memory unit. [Figure 9] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a threshold database table stored in the memory unit. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the stimulus control device according to Example 5. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the stimulus control device according to Example 6. [Figure 12] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a threshold database table stored in the memory unit.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

Example

[0013] The stimulus control device 10 of Example 1 will be described below.

[0014] The stimulus control device 10 is mounted on a moving body such as an automobile. The moving body may be a moving body other than an automobile, such as a bicycle, a motorcycle, or an airplane. In this example, the case where the stimulus control device is mounted on an automobile, which is an example of a moving body, will be described.

[0015] FIG. 1 shows the functional blocks of the stimulus control device 10 according to Example 1.

[0016] The input unit 20 is an interface unit that is connected so as to be able to acquire data from the biological sensor BS and the display device DS. The stimulus control device 10 receives data from the biological sensor BS and the display device DS via the input unit 20.

[0017] [[ID=2�]]The biological sensor BS is a sensor that acquires biological information of a driver who drives an automobile, that is, a user. The biological sensor BS is communicably connected to the stimulus control device 10 by wire or wirelessly. Examples of the biological information include the driver's body temperature, pulse rate per predetermined time, blood pressure, respiratory rate per predetermined time, blink rate per predetermined time, yawn rate per predetermined time, and the like.

[0018] A biosensor BS is any device that measures this biological information. For example, to measure a driver's pulse, the biosensor BS is a pulse meter with a pulse measurement function. To measure a driver's blood pressure, the biosensor BS is a blood pressure monitor with a blood pressure measurement function. To measure a driver's respiratory rate, the biosensor BS is a measuring device that measures the vertical movement of the driver's chest wall as captured by a camera. To measure a driver's blink rate, the biosensor BS is a measuring device that measures the vertical movement of the driver's eyelids as captured by a camera. These devices may be installed in the vehicle or they may be wearable devices worn by the driver.

[0019] The display device DS is, for example, a display located on the center console of an automobile. The display device DS is a touch panel display on which the driver can input arbitrary information to the stimulus control device 10. However, it is not limited to the display device DS as long as it is possible to input arbitrary information to the stimulus control device 10; for example, it may be an input device such as a keyboard.

[0020] The output unit 22 is an interface unit connected to the vibration generator VB. The stimulation control device 10 can control the start and stop of vibrations from the vibration generator VB.

[0021] The vibration generator VB provides vibrations to the driver, which are stimuli that promote wakefulness, in response to instructions from the stimulus control device 10. In other words, the vibration generator VB functions as a stimulus means to promote wakefulness in the driver. The vibration generator VB is, for example, built into the driver's seat of a car.

[0022] The storage device 23 is composed of, for example, a hard disk drive, an SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory. The storage device 23 stores various programs such as the BIOS (Basic Input Output System) and software.

[0023] Furthermore, the device can store information for generating information on the driver's level of drowsiness from biological information, as well as a first threshold (hereinafter referred to as the first threshold) which is the threshold for the driver's level of drowsiness that triggers the vibration generation from the vibration generator VB. Specifically, the storage device 23 can store a threshold DB (Data Base) in which the first threshold is recorded for each driver.

[0024] The control unit 24 is implemented by a computer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 24a as an arithmetic processing unit, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 24b as main memory, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 24c. The CPU 24a reads a program corresponding to the processing content from the ROM 24b and the memory device 23, loads it into the RAM 24c, and works in cooperation with the loaded program to realize various functions.

[0025] The input unit 20, output unit 22, storage device 23, and control unit 24 are each connected to one another via the system bus 25.

[0026] The control unit 24 can acquire the driver's biological information received via the input unit 20. The control unit 24 can acquire a stop instruction from the driver to the vibration generator VB. Specifically, the control unit 24 can acquire a stop instruction input from the display device DS via the input unit 20.

[0027] The control unit 24 is capable of generating numerical values ​​based on the biometric information received via the input unit 20. Specifically, the control unit 24 is capable of generating a numerical value related to the driver's level of drowsiness based on the driver's biometric information. Hereinafter, the numerical value generated by the control unit 24 will simply be referred to as the drowsiness level value.

[0028] The control unit 24 can instruct the vibration generator VB to start stimulating when the drowsiness level value exceeds a first threshold. Specifically, the control unit 24 transmits a signal to the vibration generator VB via the output unit 22 instructing it to start stimulating.

[0029] The control unit 24 can set a first threshold value based on the driver's drowsiness level when a stop command is received. Specifically, the control unit 24 updates and sets the first threshold value stored in the threshold DB stored in the memory unit 23 based on the drowsiness level when it receives stop command information to stop the vibration of the vibration generator VB input by the display device DS.

[0030] The control unit 24 can identify one driver from among multiple drivers. Specifically, the control unit 24 sets a first threshold value for each driver based on the drowsiness level value at the time the stop command is received.

[0031] Figure 2 shows an example of a threshold DB table stored in the memory unit 23. When the driver's drowsiness level exceeds the first threshold, the control unit 24 sends a start command to the vibration generator VB to begin vibration. As shown in Figure 2, the initial setting (initial value) of the first threshold is set to a driver drowsiness level of "6". In this embodiment and subsequent embodiments, the drowsiness level is a numerical value on a 10-point scale. The closer the drowsiness level is to "10", the lower the driver's alertness level. Conversely, the closer the drowsiness level is to "1", the higher the driver's alertness level.

[0032] When the driver stops the vibration of the vibration generator VB, the control unit 24 receives a stop command. The control unit 24 sets a first threshold value based on the drowsiness level value at the time the stop command is received.

[0033] For example, if the first threshold is set to "6" and the expected drowsiness level at the time of receiving a stop command is set to "3", the control unit 24 will maintain the settings if the expected result is obtained.

[0034] Furthermore, if the driver's drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "5" or "4", the driver is considered to be more alert than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is higher than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold higher. Specifically, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "5", the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "8". Also, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "4", the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "7".

[0035] Furthermore, if the driver's drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "1" or "2", it is considered that the driver is more drowsy than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is lower than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to a lower value. Specifically, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "1", the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "4". Also, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "2", the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "5".

[0036] Furthermore, the control unit 24 sets a first threshold value for generating vibration in the vibration generator VB for each driver. Driver identification is not particularly limited and may be performed, for example, by reading from a storage medium containing driver information. Specifically, driver information may be read from an IC (integrated circuit) chip embedded in a card. Alternatively, one or more drivers may be stored in the storage unit 23 in advance, and the user may read the information of the registered driver from the storage unit 23 by operating the display device DS.

[0037] Figure 3 shows the processing flow of the control unit 24. As shown in Figure 3, the control unit 24 acquires biological information from the biological sensor BS (step S101). In step S101, the control unit 24 functions as a biological information acquisition means for acquiring the driver's biological information. The control unit 24 may acquire biological information at predetermined intervals and sequentially store the acquired biological information in the storage unit 23.

[0038] The control unit 24 generates a sleepiness level value based on the biological information acquired in step S101 (step S102). In step S102, the control unit 24 functions as a numerical value generation means that generates a numerical value based on the biological information.

[0039] The control unit 24 determines whether the drowsiness level value generated in step S102 exceeds the first threshold (step S103).

[0040] If the control unit 24 determines in step S103 that the drowsiness level value does not exceed the first threshold (step S103:N), it acquires biological information again (step S101) to generate a drowsiness level value (step S102), and then determines whether the generated drowsiness level value exceeds the first threshold (step S103).

[0041] In step S103, if the control unit 24 determines that the drowsiness level value exceeds the first threshold (step S103:Y), it sends a start command to the vibration generator VB to start stimulating (step S104). In step S104, the control unit 24 functions as a start command means that instructs the vibration generator VB to start stimulating (vibrating) when the numerical value exceeds the first threshold.

[0042] When the driver receives a stop command from the display device DS to stop the vibration of the vibration generator VB, the stop command is transmitted from the display device DS.

[0043] The control unit 24 determines whether it has received a stop instruction transmitted from the display device DS (step S105). In step S105, the control unit 24 functions as a stop instruction acquisition means for acquiring a vibration stop instruction from the driver to the vibration generator VB. If the control unit 24 determines in the determination in step S105 that it has received a stop instruction (step S105:Y), it acquires the driver's biological information at the time the stop instruction was received (step S106), and generates a drowsiness level value based on the biological information acquired in step S106 (step S107). The control unit 24 sets a first threshold value based on the drowsiness level value generated in step S107 (step S108). In step S108, the control unit 24 functions as a setting means for setting a first threshold value based on the drowsiness level value at the time the stop instruction was received.

[0044] Furthermore, the decision in step S105 is repeated until a stop instruction is received (step S105:N).

[0045] The drowsiness level value generated in step S107 may be stored in the storage unit 23 each time the drowsiness level value generation process in step S107 is performed. In this case, the control unit 24 may acquire the drowsiness level value when a stop instruction is received multiple times and set the first threshold value based on the drowsiness level value acquired multiple times.

[0046] Specifically, for example, the control unit 24 may calculate the average value of the drowsiness level values ​​generated by the drowsiness level value generation process in the most recent four steps S107 and set the first threshold based on the calculated average value. Alternatively, for example, the control unit 24 may calculate the average value of all drowsiness level values ​​generated in step S107 and set the first threshold based on the calculated average value. Furthermore, for example, the control unit 24 may extract any multiple drowsiness level values ​​from those generated in step S107, calculate their average value, and set the first threshold based on the calculated average value. Furthermore, for example, the control unit 24 may set the first threshold based on the moving average of the drowsiness level values ​​generated in step S107.

[0047] In this embodiment, a vibration generator VB was used as the stimulating means. However, the stimulating means is not limited to a vibration generator; for example, it could be a speaker that outputs sound. Another stimulating means could be an air conditioner mounted on the mobile vehicle. For example, the driver may be stimulated by lowering the temperature inside the mobile vehicle. Alternatively, the driver may be stimulated by directing the cool air from the air conditioner onto their face. Furthermore, the driver may be stimulated by emitting a highly stimulating scent such as mint.

[0048] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 24 generated a drowsiness level value based on the driver's biological information. When the generated drowsiness level value exceeded a first threshold, the control unit 24 sent a start command to the vibration generator VB to generate vibration. However, the control unit 24 may also send a start command to the vibration generator VB to generate vibration based on the driver's biological information without generating a drowsiness level value. For example, the control unit 24 may send a start command to the vibration generator VB to generate vibration when numerical values ​​such as the driver's heart rate, respiratory rate, or blood pressure exceed a threshold.

[0049] As described above, according to the stimulus control device of this embodiment, when the driver performs a stop operation on the vibration generator VB, that is, when the stop command is received, a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration generator VB will start vibrating is set based on the drowsiness level. Therefore, it becomes possible to generate stimuli in a state appropriate for the user.

[0050] In other words, the drowsiness level value when the vibration generator VB is stopped corresponds to a state where the driver is definitely awake. It is estimated that the driver's drowsiness level value at this time will have little variation and will be a constant value. By setting the first threshold based on such a constant drowsiness level value, it becomes possible to generate stimuli in a state appropriate for the user. [Examples]

[0051] The stimulation control device 10 of Example 2 will now be described. In Example 1, the stimulation control device 10 set a threshold value for the drowsiness level that initiates vibration of the vibration generator VB, i.e., a first threshold, based on the drowsiness level value when a stop command is received. The stimulation control device 10 of Example 2 differs from the stimulation control device 10 of Example 1 in that it sets a threshold value for the drowsiness level that stops the stimulation of the vibration generator VB, i.e., a second threshold, based on the drowsiness level value when the driver performs a stop operation on the vibration generator VB. Components identical to those in Example 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted.

[0052] The control unit 24 can instruct the vibration generator VB to stop vibrating when the driver's drowsiness level exceeds a second threshold (hereinafter referred to as the second threshold) that stops the vibration of the vibration generator VB. The control unit 24 sets the second threshold according to the driver's drowsiness level when it receives the stop instruction.

[0053] Figure 4 shows an example of a threshold DB table stored in the memory unit 23. When the driver stops the vibration of the vibration generator VB, the control unit 24 receives a stop command. The control unit 24 sets a first threshold and a second threshold based on the drowsiness level value at the time the stop command is received.

[0054] As shown in Figure 4, for example, let's explain the case where the first threshold is set to "6" and the second threshold is set to "3". If the control unit 24 obtains the expected result, that is, if the drowsiness level value when the stop command is received is "3", it sets the system to maintain the current settings.

[0055] Furthermore, if the driver's drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "5" or "4", the driver is considered to be more alert than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is higher than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be higher. Specifically, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "5", the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "8" and the second threshold to "5". Also, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "4", the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "7" and the second threshold to "4".

[0056] Furthermore, if the driver's drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "1" or "2", it is considered that the driver is more drowsy than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is lower than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be lower. Specifically, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "1", the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "4" and the second threshold to "1". Also, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "2", the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "5" and the second threshold to "2".

[0057] Figure 5 shows the processing flow of the control unit 24. Note that the processing in steps S201 to S207 is the same as the processing in steps S101 to S107 described in Figure 3, so the explanation is omitted.

[0058] As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 24 sets a first threshold and a second threshold based on the drowsiness level value when it receives a stop command (step S208).

[0059] As described above, according to the stimulus control device of this embodiment, when the driver performs a stop operation on the vibration generator VB, that is, when the stop command is received, a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration generator VB will start vibrating is set based on the drowsiness level. Therefore, it becomes possible to generate stimuli in a state appropriate for the user.

[0060] Furthermore, according to the stimulation control device of this embodiment, a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the driver stops the vibration generator VB is set based on the drowsiness level at the time the driver stops the vibration generator VB. Therefore, the vibration of the vibration generator VB can be stopped when the driver is in an optimal state of alertness. Thus, it is possible to optimize the driver's user experience. [Differentiation] In Embodiment 2, the control unit 24 sets a second threshold. The control unit 24 may send a stop command to the vibration generator VB based on the set second threshold.

[0061] Figure 6 shows the processing flow of the control unit 24. Note that the processing in steps S301 to S304 is the same as the processing in steps S101 to S104 described in Figure 3, so the explanation is omitted.

[0062] As shown in Figure 6, the control unit 24 acquires biological information (step S305) and generates a sleepiness level value based on the biological information acquired in step S305 (step S306).

[0063] The control unit 24 determines whether the drowsiness level value generated in step S306 is below the second threshold (step S307). If, in the determination in step S307, the control unit 24 determines that the drowsiness level value generated in step S306 is not below the second threshold (step S307:N), it determines whether a stop instruction has been received (step S308).

[0064] In the determination in step S308, if the control unit 24 determines that it has received a stop instruction (step S308:Y), it acquires biological information at the time the stop instruction was received (step S309). Based on the biological information acquired in step S309, the control unit 24 generates a drowsiness level value (step S310), and sets a first threshold and a second threshold based on the drowsiness level value (step S311).

[0065] If, in the determination in step S308, the control unit 24 determines that it has not received a stop instruction (step S308:N), it returns to the process of acquiring biological information in step S305.

[0066] In step S307, if the control unit 24 determines that the drowsiness level value generated in step S306 is above or below the second threshold (step S307:Y), it sends a vibration stop command to the vibration generator VB (step S312). In step S312, the control unit 24 functions as a stop command means that instructs the vibration generator VB to stop the stimulation when the drowsiness level value exceeds the second threshold.

[0067] In this manner, the control unit 24 sends a stop command to the vibration generator VB when the driver's drowsiness level falls below the second threshold. Therefore, the vibration of the vibration generator VB can be stopped without the driver having to perform a stop operation, thereby improving user convenience. [Examples]

[0068] The stimulus control device 10 of Example 3 will now be described. In Example 1, the stimulus control device 10 set a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration generator VB would start vibrating, i.e., a first threshold value, based on the drowsiness level at the time a stop command was received. The stimulus control device 10 of Example 3 differs from the stimulus control device 10 of Example 1 in that it sets the first threshold value based on the drowsiness level at the time the driver initiated the vibration of the vibration generator VB.

[0069] The control unit 24 can obtain a vibration start command from the driver to the vibration generator VB. Specifically, the control unit 24 can obtain the start command input from the display device DS via the input unit 20.

[0070] The control unit 24 sets a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration generator VB will start stimulating the driver, based on the drowsiness level at the time the driver initiates the start operation of the vibration generator VB, i.e., when the start command is received.

[0071] Figure 7 shows the processing flow of the control unit 24. As shown in Figure 7, the control unit 24 acquires biological information from the biological sensor BS (step S401) and generates a sleepiness level value based on the biological information acquired in step S401 (step S402).

[0072] The control unit 24 determines whether it has received a start instruction (step S403). In step S403, the control unit 24 functions as a start instruction acquisition means for acquiring a vibration start instruction from the driver to the vibration generator VB. If the control unit 24 determines in the determination in step S403 that it has received a start instruction (step S403:Y), it sets a first threshold and a second threshold based on the biological information at the time the start instruction was received (step S404).

[0073] If the control unit 24 determines in step S403 that it has not received a start instruction (step S403:N), it determines whether the drowsiness level value generated in step S402 exceeds the first threshold (step S405). The processing in steps S406 to S414 thereafter corresponds to steps S304 to S312 in Figure 6, so the explanation is omitted.

[0074] As described above, according to the stimulus control device 10 of this embodiment, when the driver performs a stop operation on the vibration generator VB, that is, when the stop command is received, a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration generator VB will start vibrating, i.e., a first threshold value, is set. Therefore, it becomes possible to generate stimuli in a state appropriate for the user.

[0075] Furthermore, when the driver initiates the vibration of the vibration generator VB, that is, when the start command is received, a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration of the vibration generator VB will start is set based on the drowsiness level at that time. In other words, according to the stimulus control device 10 of this embodiment, the drowsiness level at which the driver requires assistance in staying awake can be set as the first threshold value. Therefore, it becomes possible to generate stimuli in a state appropriate for the user.

[0076] Furthermore, a second threshold for stopping the vibration of the vibration generator VB may be set based on the drowsiness level value at the time the start command is received. In this case, the control unit 24 sends a stop command to the vibration generator VB when the driver's drowsiness level value falls below the second threshold. Therefore, the vibration of the vibration generator VB can be stopped without the driver having to perform a stop operation, thereby improving user convenience. [Examples]

[0077] The stimulus control device of Example 4 will now be described. In Example 1, the stimulus control device 10 set a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration generator VB would start vibrating, i.e., a first threshold value, based on the drowsiness level value when a stop command was received. The stimulus control device 10 of Example 4 differs from the stimulus control device 10 of Example 1 in that it sets the first threshold value taking into account the intensity of the stimulus from the vibration generator VB.

[0078] The control unit 24 can set at least one of a first threshold value and a second threshold value, which is a drowsiness level value that stops the vibration of the vibration generator VB, according to the intensity of the vibration of the vibration generator VB.

[0079] Figure 8 shows an example of a threshold DB table stored in the memory unit 23. When the driver performs an operation to stop the vibration of the vibration generator VB, the control unit 24 receives the stop instruction. The control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold based on the drowsiness level value at the time the stop instruction was received.

[0080] As shown in Figure 8, for example, let's explain the case where the first threshold is set to "6" and the second threshold is set to "3". When the stimulation intensity is "medium", the control unit 24 sets the system to maintain the current settings if the expected result is obtained, that is, if the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "3".

[0081] When the stimulus intensity is "medium," if the driver's drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "5" or "4," the driver is considered to be more alert than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is higher than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be higher. Specifically, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "5," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "8" and the second threshold to "5." Also, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "4," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "7" and the second threshold to "4."

[0082] Furthermore, if the stimulus intensity is "medium," and the driver's drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "1" or "2," it is considered that the driver is more drowsy than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is lower than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be lower. Specifically, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "1," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "4" and the second threshold to "1." Also, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "2," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "5" and the second threshold to "2."

[0083] If the stimulation intensity is "weak," the control unit 24 will maintain the current setting if the expected result is obtained, that is, if the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "2."

[0084] When the stimulus intensity is "weak," if the driver's drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "5" to "3," the driver is considered to be more alert than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is higher than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be higher. Specifically, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "5," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "9" and the second threshold to "6." Also, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "4," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "8" and the second threshold to "5." Furthermore, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "3," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "7" and the second threshold to "4."

[0085] If the stimulus intensity is "weak," and the driver's drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "1," then the driver is considered to be more drowsy than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is lower than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be lower. Specifically, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "1," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "5" and the second threshold to "2."

[0086] If the stimulation intensity is set to "strong," the control unit 24 will maintain the current setting if the expected result is obtained, that is, if the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "4."

[0087] If the stimulus intensity is "strong," and the driver's drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "5," then the driver is considered to be more alert than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is higher than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be higher. Specifically, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "5," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "7" and the second threshold to "4."

[0088] If the stimulus intensity is "strong," and the driver's drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is between "1" and "3," then the driver is considered to be more drowsy than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is lower than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be lower. Specifically, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "1," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "3" and the second threshold to "1." Also, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "2," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "4" and the second threshold to "1." Furthermore, when the drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "3," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "5" and the second threshold to "2."

[0089] As described above, the stimulus control device 10 according to this embodiment sets a threshold for the drowsiness level at which the vibration of the vibration generator VB will start vibrating, based on the drowsiness level at the time the driver performs a stop operation on the vibration generator VB, that is, when the stop command is received. Therefore, it becomes possible to generate stimuli in a state appropriate for the user.

[0090] Furthermore, the control unit 24 sets a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration generator VB starts vibrating, based on the vibration intensity of the vibration generator VB. Therefore, the control unit 24 can set a first threshold value according to the vibration intensity. Thus, it becomes possible to generate stimuli in a state appropriate for the user.

[0091] Furthermore, the control unit 24 sends a stop command to the vibration generator VB when the driver's drowsiness level falls below the second threshold. Therefore, the vibration of the vibration generator VB can be stopped without the driver having to perform a stop operation, thereby improving user convenience. [Examples]

[0092] The stimulus control device 10 of Example 5 will now be described. In the above-described example, the stimulus control device 10 sets a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration generator VB starts vibrating, i.e., a first threshold, based on the drowsiness level at which a stop command or start command is received. The stimulus control device 10 of Example 5 differs from the stimulus control device 10 of the above-described example in that it sets a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration generator VB starts vibrating, based on the time from when the first threshold is exceeded until a stop command is received.

[0093] The control unit 24 can set a first threshold based on the time elapsed between the driver's drowsiness level exceeding the first threshold and the acquisition of a stop command. Specifically, for example, the control unit 24 can acquire the time when the driver's drowsiness level exceeds the first threshold and the time when the stop command is acquired. The control unit 24 acquires the time elapsed between the driver's drowsiness level exceeding the first threshold and the acquisition of the stop command by the difference between the time when the stop command was acquired and the time when the driver's drowsiness level exceeded the first threshold.

[0094] Figure 9 shows an example of a threshold DB table stored in the memory unit 23. When the driver performs an operation to stop the vibration of the vibration generator VB, the control unit 24 receives a stop instruction. The control unit 24 sets a first threshold and a second threshold, which is the drowsiness level value that causes the vibration of the vibration generator VB to stop, based on the time from when the start instruction for the stimulation of the vibration generator VB is sent until the instruction to stop the stimulation is received, i.e., the operating time of the vibration generator VB.

[0095] As shown in Figure 9, for example, let's explain the case where the first threshold is set to "6", the second threshold to "3", and the operating reference time is set to "5 minutes". When the control unit 24 obtains the expected result, that is, when the operating time is "5 minutes", it sets the system to maintain the current settings.

[0096] Furthermore, if the operating time is "3 minutes" or "4 minutes," the driver is considered to be more alert than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is higher than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be higher. Specifically, when the operating time is "3 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "8" and the second threshold to "5." Also, when the operating time is "4 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "7" and the second threshold to "4."

[0097] Furthermore, if the operating time is "7 minutes" or "6 minutes," the driver is considered to be more drowsy than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is lower than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be lower. Specifically, when the operating time is "7 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "4" and the second threshold to "1." Also, when the operating time is "6 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "5" and the second threshold to "2."

[0098] Figure 10 shows the processing flow of the control unit 24. Note that the processing in steps S501 to S505 is the same as the processing in steps S101 to S105 described in Figure 3, so the explanation is omitted.

[0099] As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 24 acquires the operating time of the vibration generator VB based on the time from when the first threshold is exceeded until a stop instruction is received (step S506). The control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold based on the operating time acquired in step S506 (step S507). In step S507, the control unit 24 functions as a setting means for setting the first threshold based on the time from when the numerical value exceeds the first threshold until a stop instruction is received.

[0100] As described above, the stimulus control device 10 according to this embodiment sets a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration of the vibration generator VB is initiated, based on the time from exceeding a first threshold until a stop command is received. Therefore, it becomes possible to generate stimuli in a state appropriate for the user.

[0101] Furthermore, the control unit 24 sends a stop command to the vibration generator VB when the driver's drowsiness level falls below the second threshold. Therefore, the vibration of the vibration generator VB can be stopped without the driver having to perform a stop operation, thereby improving user convenience. [Examples]

[0102] The stimulus control device 10 of Example 6 will now be described. In Example 5, the stimulus control device 10 set the first threshold based on the time from when the drowsiness level threshold for starting vibration of the vibration generator VB was exceeded, i.e., the time from when the first threshold was exceeded until the stop instruction was received. The stimulus control device 10 of Example 6 differs from the stimulus control device 10 of Example 5 in that it sets the first threshold based on the time from when the start instruction was received until the stop instruction was received.

[0103] The control unit 24 can obtain a vibration start command from the driver to the vibration generator VB. Specifically, the control unit 24 can obtain a stop command input from the display device DS via the input unit 20.

[0104] The control unit 24 sets a first threshold and a second threshold, which is the drowsiness level value that causes the vibration of the vibration generator VB to stop, based on the time from when it receives a start command from the driver until it receives a stop command.

[0105] Figure 11 shows the processing flow of the control unit 24. Note that the processing in steps S601 to S602 is the same as the processing in steps S401 to S402 described in Figure 7, so the explanation is omitted.

[0106] As shown in Figure 11, the control unit 24 determines whether it has received a start instruction (step S603). If the control unit 24 determines in step S63 that it has not received a start instruction (step S603:N), it determines whether the drowsiness level value obtained in step S402 exceeds the first threshold (step S604).

[0107] If the control unit 24 determines in step S603 that it has received a start instruction (step S603:Y), it transmits a vibration start instruction to the vibration generator VB (step S605).

[0108] The control unit 24 acquires biological information (step S606) and generates a sleepiness level value (step S607). The control unit 24 determines whether the sleepiness level value generated in step S607 is above or below a second threshold (step S608).

[0109] In the determination in step S608, if the control unit 24 determines that the drowsiness level value generated in step S607 does not fall below the second threshold (step S608:N), it determines whether a stop instruction has been received (step S609).

[0110] In the determination in step S609, if the control unit 24 determines that it has received a stop instruction (step S609:Y), it obtains the operating time based on the time from when it receives the start instruction to when it receives the stop instruction (step S610). Based on the operating time obtained in step S610, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold (step S611).

[0111] In the determination in step S609, if the control unit 24 determines that it has not received a stop instruction (step S609:N), it returns to the process of acquiring biological information in step S606.

[0112] In step S608, if the control unit 24 determines that the drowsiness level value obtained in step S607 is below the second threshold (step S608:Y), it sends a vibration stop command to the vibration generator VB (step S612).

[0113] As described above, the stimulus control device 10 according to this embodiment sets a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration of the vibration generator VB is initiated, based on the time from the acquisition of a start command to the acquisition of a stop command. Therefore, it becomes possible to generate stimuli in a state appropriate for the user.

[0114] In particular, when the driver initiates the vibration of the vibration generator VB, a first threshold for initiating vibration of the vibration generator VB is set based on the time from the driver's start command to the driver's stop command. Therefore, according to the stimulus control device 10 of this embodiment, the first threshold can be set based on the operation time when the driver requires assistance in awakening. Thus, it becomes possible to generate stimulation in a state appropriate for the user. [Examples]

[0115] The stimulus control device 10 of Example 7 will now be described. In Examples 5 and 6, the stimulus control device 10 set the first threshold based on the drowsiness level threshold that initiates vibration of the vibration generator VB, i.e., the time from exceeding the first threshold until the acquisition of a stop command, or the time from the acquisition of a start command until the acquisition of a stop command. The stimulus control device 10 of Example 7 differs from the stimulus control devices 10 of Examples 5 and 6 in that it sets the first threshold taking into account the intensity of the stimulus from the vibration generator VB.

[0116] The control unit 24 can set at least one of a first threshold value and a second threshold value, which is a drowsiness level value that stops the vibration of the vibration generator VB, according to the intensity of the vibration of the vibration generator VB.

[0117] Figure 12 shows an example of a threshold DB table stored in the memory unit 23. As shown in Figure 12, for example, the case where the first threshold is set to "6", the second threshold to "3", and the reference operating time is set to "5 minutes" will be explained. If the stimulation intensity is "medium", the control unit 24 will maintain the settings if the expected result is obtained, i.e., if the operating time is "5 minutes".

[0118] When the stimulus intensity is "medium," if the operating time is "3 minutes" or "4 minutes," the driver is considered to be more alert than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is higher than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be higher. Specifically, when the operating time is "3 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "8" and the second threshold to "5." Also, when the operating time is "4 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "7" and the second threshold to "4."

[0119] Furthermore, when the stimulus intensity is "medium," if the operating time is "7 minutes" or "6 minutes," the driver is considered to be more drowsy than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is lower than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be lower. Specifically, when the operating time is "7 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "4" and the second threshold to "1." Also, when the operating time is "6 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "5" and the second threshold to "2."

[0120] If the stimulation intensity is set to "weak," the control unit 24 will maintain the current setting if the expected result is obtained, i.e., if the operation time was "6 minutes."

[0121] When the stimulus intensity is "weak," and the operating time is "3 minutes" to "5 minutes," the driver is considered to be more alert than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is generated at a higher value than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be higher. Specifically, when the operating time is "3 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "9" and the second threshold to "6." Also, when the operating time is "4 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "8" and the second threshold to "5." Furthermore, when the operating time is "5 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "7" and the second threshold to "4."

[0122] When the stimulus intensity is "weak" and the operating time is "7 minutes," the driver is considered to be more drowsy than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is lower than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be lower. Specifically, when the operating time is "7 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "5" and the second threshold to "2."

[0123] If the stimulation intensity is set to "strong," the control unit 24 will maintain the current setting if the expected result is obtained, i.e., if the operating time is "4 minutes."

[0124] When the stimulus intensity is "strong" and the operation time is "3 minutes," the driver is considered to be more alert than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is higher than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be higher. Specifically, when the operation time is "3 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "7" and the second threshold to "4."

[0125] If the stimulus intensity is "strong," and the driver's drowsiness level value at the time of receiving the stop command is "5 minutes" to "7 minutes," then the driver is considered to be more drowsy than expected. In other words, the drowsiness level value generated based on biological information is lower than the actual state of the driver. In this case, the control unit 24 sets the first threshold and the second threshold to be lower. Specifically, when the operating time is "7 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "3" and the second threshold to "1." Also, when the operating time is "6 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "4" and the second threshold to "1." Furthermore, when the operating time is "5 minutes," the control unit 24 sets the first threshold to "5" and the second threshold to "2."

[0126] As described above, the stimulus control device 10 according to this embodiment sets a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration of the vibration generator VB is initiated, based on the time from the acquisition of a start command to the acquisition of a stop command. Therefore, it becomes possible to generate stimuli in a state appropriate for the user.

[0127] Furthermore, the control unit 24 sets a threshold value for the drowsiness level at which the vibration generator VB starts vibrating, based on the vibration intensity of the vibration generator VB. Therefore, the control unit 24 can set a first threshold value according to the vibration intensity. Thus, it becomes possible to generate stimuli in a state appropriate for the user.

[0128] Furthermore, the control unit 24 sends a stop command to the vibration generator VB when the driver's drowsiness level falls below the second threshold. Therefore, the vibration of the vibration generator VB can be stopped without the driver having to perform a stop operation, thereby improving user convenience. [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] 10 Stimulation control device 24 Control Unit VB Vibration Generator

Claims

1. A means for acquiring biometric information of a user, Numerical generation means for generating numerical values ​​based on the aforementioned biological information, A start instruction means that instructs the stimulation means that stimulates the user to start stimulating when the aforementioned numerical value exceeds a first threshold, A stop command acquisition means for acquiring a stop command for the stimulus from the user, A setting means that adaptively sets the first threshold based on the stop instruction acquisition time information obtained in connection with the acquisition of the stop instruction, A stimulus control device characterized by having the following features.

2. The stop instruction acquisition time information is the numerical value at the time the stop instruction acquisition means acquired the stop instruction. The stimulus control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the setting means sets the first threshold value based on the numerical value when the stop instruction acquisition means acquires the stop instruction.

3. The stimulus control device according to claim 2, characterized in that the setting means acquires the numerical value when the stop instruction acquisition means acquires the stop instruction multiple times, and sets the first threshold value based on the numerical value acquired multiple times.

4. Having a means of identifying one user from among multiple users, The stimulus control device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the setting means sets the first threshold for each user based on the numerical value when the stop instruction acquisition means acquires the stop instruction.

5. The stimulation control device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that it has a stop control means for stopping stimulation by the stimulation means when the aforementioned value falls below a second threshold which is smaller than the first threshold.

6. The stimulus control device according to claim 5, wherein the setting means sets the second threshold value according to the numerical value when the stop instruction acquisition means acquires the stop instruction.

7. The system has a start command acquisition means for acquiring the start command for the stimulus from the user, The stimulus control device according to claim 5, wherein the setting means sets the second threshold value according to the numerical value when the start instruction acquisition means acquires the start instruction.

8. The stimulation control device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the setting means sets the second threshold according to the intensity of the stimulation of the stimulation means.

9. The stop instruction acquisition time information is the time from when the numerical value exceeds the first threshold until the stop instruction is acquired. The stimulus control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the setting means sets the first threshold based on the time.

10. The stimulus control device according to claim 9, characterized in that the setting means acquires the time multiple times and sets the first threshold based on the time acquired multiple times.

11. Having a means of identifying one user from among multiple users, The stimulus control device according to either 9 or 10, characterized in that the setting means sets the first threshold for each user based on the time from when the numerical value exceeds the first threshold until the stop instruction is received.

12. The stimulation control device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that it has a stop control means for stopping stimulation by the stimulation means when the aforementioned value falls below a second threshold which is smaller than the first threshold.

13. The stimulus control device according to claim 12, wherein the setting means sets the second threshold based on the time from when the numerical value exceeds the first threshold until when the stop instruction acquisition means acquires the stop instruction.

14. The system has a start command acquisition means for acquiring the start command for the stimulus from the user, The stimulus control device according to claim 12, wherein the setting means sets the second threshold based on the time from when the start instruction acquisition means acquires the start instruction until when the stop instruction acquisition means acquires the stop instruction.

15. The stimulation control device according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the setting means sets the second threshold according to the intensity of the stimulation of the stimulation means.

16. The stimulus control device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the aforementioned numerical value is a numerical value relating to the degree of sleepiness of the user.

17. The stimulus control device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the stimulus is a stimulus that promotes awakening in the user.

18. The stimulus control device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the setting means sets the first threshold according to the intensity of the stimulus of the stimulus means.

19. A stimulus control method performed by a stimulus control device that controls a stimulus means for stimulating a user, The steps include acquiring the user's biometric information, A step of generating a numerical value based on the aforementioned biological information, The steps include: instructing the stimulating means to start stimulating when the numerical value exceeds a first threshold; The steps include obtaining a command from the user to stop the stimulus, A setting step in which the first threshold is adaptively set based on feedback information obtained in connection with the acquisition of the stop instruction, A method for controlling stimuli, characterized by having the following features.

20. On the computer, Steps to acquire the user's biometric information, A step of generating a numerical value based on the aforementioned biological information, The steps include: instructing the stimulating means that stimulates the user to start stimulating when the aforementioned numerical value exceeds a first threshold; The steps include obtaining a command from the user to stop the stimulus, A step of adaptively setting the first threshold based on feedback information obtained in connection with the acquisition of the stop instruction, A program to execute.

21. On the computer, Steps to acquire the user's biometric information, A step of generating a numerical value based on the aforementioned biological information, The steps include: instructing the stimulating means that stimulates the user to start stimulating when the aforementioned numerical value exceeds a first threshold; The steps include obtaining a command from the user to stop the stimulus, A step of adaptively setting the first threshold based on feedback information obtained in connection with the acquisition of the stop instruction, A recording medium containing a program to execute a program.

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