Stimulation system, stimulation method

Abstract

To effectively provide the user with stimuli that guide them to the desired state. [Solution] The stimulation system comprises a stimulation unit that provides a target stimulus to the user to stimulate a target part of the user's body, and a stimulation control unit that controls the stimulation unit to provide the target stimulus to the user, thereby (1) changing the intensity of a predetermined frequency component of the brainwaves in a predetermined region of the user's brain, or (2) changing the firing frequency of nerve cells in the predetermined region.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to a stimulation system and a stimulation method that induce a user's state to a desired state by stimulating the user's body. [Background technology]

[0002] Biofeedback devices that control a person's physiological state by applying stimuli such as music or light are known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for inducing synchronized neural oscillations in the user's brain using stimuli such as light pulses or sound pulses.

[0003] Furthermore, Non-Patent Document 1 describes how rats in free-roaming conditions can lower their own heart rate through biofeedback training. According to Non-Patent Document 1, as training progresses and the heart rate reduction progresses, the intensity of theta waves in neural activity measured from cells in the anterior cingulate cortex that project to the medial thalamic nucleus significantly increases. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2020-501853 [Non-patent literature]

[0005] [Non-Patent Document 1] Yoshimoto A. et. al.,Top-down brain circuits for operant bradycardia, Science,Vol 384, No 6702, p.1361-1368,2024 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] There is room for improvement in the technology that guides a user's state to a desired state by stimulating the user's body.

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure provides a stimulus application system and a stimulus application method for applying stimuli to a user in order to guide the user's state to a desired state. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A stimulus application system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a stimulus unit that provides a target stimulus to a user to stimulate a target part of the user's body, and a stimulus control unit that controls the stimulus unit to provide the user with the target stimulus, thereby (1) changing the intensity of a predetermined frequency component of brain waves in a predetermined region of the user's brain, or (2) changing the frequency of firing of nerve cells in the predetermined region.

[0009] A method for providing stimulation according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a stimulation step of providing a target stimulus to a user to stimulate a target part of the user's body, which involves (1) changing the intensity of a predetermined frequency component of an electroencephalogram in a predetermined region of the user's brain, or (2) changing the frequency of firing of nerve cells in the predetermined region.

[0010] Each aspect of the stimulus-granting system according to this disclosure may be implemented by a computer, in which case a control program for the stimulus-granting system that enables the computer to implement the stimulus-granting system by operating the computer as each part (software element) of the stimulus-granting system, and a computer-readable recording medium on which the program is recorded, also fall within the scope of this disclosure. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to one aspect of this disclosure, stimuli can be effectively provided to the user to guide the user's state to a desired state. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] It is a functional block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the stimulation application system according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an example of a target stimulus applied to the user's body. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing another example of a target stimulus applied to the user's body. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing another example of a target stimulus applied to the user's body. [Figure 5] It is a functional block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the stimulation application system according to Embodiment 2 of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] It is a functional block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the stimulation application system according to Embodiment 3 of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] It is a functional block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the stimulation application system according to Embodiment 4 of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing an example of the process flow performed by the stimulation application system.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] 〔Embodiment 1〕 Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0014] (Stimulation Application System 100) FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the stimulation application system 100 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the stimulation application system 100 includes a stimulation application device 1 that gives a stimulus to the user P.

[0015] The user P is one or more individuals of a biological species having a brain. The user P is not limited to humans. The user P may be, for example, an animal including a dog, a cat, a rabbit, a cow, a pig, a sheep, or a goat. In each of the following embodiments, the case where the user P is a human will be described as an example.

[0016] In this disclosure, user P may apply the target stimulus to user P by operating the stimulation device 1 (for example, by operating the input unit 30 described later). Alternatively, a person other than user P (for example, a doctor, nurse, or physical therapist) may operate the stimulation device 1 to apply the target stimulus to user P.

[0017] (Target area and target stimulus) In this disclosure, the target area is one or more organs of the user P's body that can receive stimuli and transmit stimuli to the brain. The target area may include at least one of the subject's sensory organs and brain. Here, the sensory organs may be at least one of the eyes, ears, nose, and skin.

[0018] Furthermore, in this disclosure, the target stimulus is one or more stimuli applied to the target area. The target stimulus is a stimulus having a specific pattern that has been theoretically or experimentally shown to have the functions described in (1) and / or (2) below when applied to the target area of ​​user P.

[0019] (1) A function that changes the intensity of a predetermined frequency component of the electroencephalogram in a predetermined area of ​​the user P's brain.

[0020] (2) A function that changes the frequency of nerve cell firing in a predetermined area of ​​user P's brain. The target stimulus may include stimulation by at least one of the following: light, sound, smell, electricity, magnetism, and temperature. If the target stimulus is sound, it is also possible to directly vibrate user P's cells. Here, "nerve cell firing" refers to "a change in the electrical potential of nerve cells." "Nerve cell firing" may be detected indirectly by detecting the bodily changes that occur as a result of the firing of the target nerve cells. For example, nerve cell firing in the anterior cingulate cortex may be detected indirectly by measuring user P's heart rate and determining whether or not there is a decrease in heart rate.

[0021] The specified region may include at least one of the following regions: the anterior cingulate cortex, prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, thalamus, and hypothalamus. Below, we will explain using the example of inducing the firing of neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex of the brain at a specified frequency (e.g., 7 Hz) by applying a target stimulus.

[0022] The predetermined frequency components may include components within a frequency band corresponding to at least one of alpha waves, beta waves, gamma waves, theta waves, and delta waves.

[0023] (Configuration of Stimulation Device 1) The stimulation device 1 provides a target stimulus to user P. For example, when the target stimulus is applied at frequency f, the stimulation device 1 can amplify the intensity of frequency components at natural multiples of frequency f in the anterior cingulate cortex of user P's brain, or cause neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex of user P's brain to fire at frequencies at natural multiples of frequency f.

[0024] The stimulation device 1 comprises a control unit 10, a storage unit 20, an input unit 30, and a stimulation unit 40.

[0025] The memory unit 20 stores the data necessary for the operation of the stimulation device 1. As shown in Figure 1, for example, the memory unit 20 stores the stimulation pattern 21 as data.

[0026] The stimulus pattern 21 records information about the pattern of the target stimulus. This information may include the temporal change in the frequency of the target stimulus, the temporal change in the intensity of the target stimulus, and the frequency of the target stimulus. Here, the frequency of the target stimulus corresponds to color if the target stimulus is light, and to pitch if the target stimulus is sound. The intensity of the target stimulus corresponds to luminance if the target stimulus is light, to volume if the target stimulus is sound, and to power if the target stimulus is electricity. If the target stimulus is light, the intensity of the target stimulus may also correspond to irradiance or luminous flux. Furthermore, the frequency of the target stimulus corresponds to the number of times the target stimulus is delivered per second (the "predetermined switching frequency fa" or "predetermined frequency fb" described later).

[0027] The input unit 30 receives information from user P. The information received may include information related to the operation of the stimulation device 1, such as start instructions and stop instructions for the stimulation device 1.

[0028] The stimulating unit 40 emits a target stimulus. In this way, the stimulating unit 40 delivers a target stimulus to user P, stimulating a target area of ​​user P's body. The stimulating unit 40 may also have the function of delivering the target stimulus to user P from a position away from the user P's body. In this case, the stimulating unit 40 may be a display, a lighting device (light source), a speaker that emits sound, a device that emits odors, etc. If the stimulating unit 40 is a light source, the stimulating unit 40 may be a light-emitting element such as a light-emitting diode (LED) or a semiconductor laser (LD).

[0029] The stimulator 40 may have the function of contacting the user P's body and providing the user P with a target stimulus. In this case, the stimulator 40 may be an electrode pad, a microneedle for providing an electrical target stimulus to the user P's body, or a coil for providing a magnetic target stimulus to the user P's body. Alternatively, the stimulator 40 may have a function that allows it to control the stimulus received by the user P instead of emitting a target stimulus. For example, the stimulator 40 may be an openable and closable shutter, and the ambient light received by the user's eyes (e.g., light emitted from an indoor light) may be controlled by opening and closing the shutter.

[0030] The stimulation device 1 may be implemented as a headgear, goggles, eye mask, earphones, and headphones that have the functions of the stimulation device 1.

[0031] Figure 1 shows a configuration in which the stimulation device 1 includes a stimulation unit 40. However, the stimulation device 1 may also be configured without a stimulation unit 40. That is, the stimulation device 1 may be implemented by a single device or by multiple devices. For example, the function of the stimulation unit 40 of the stimulation device 1 may be provided by a device other than the stimulation device 1. In this case, the stimulation device 1 can, for example, transmit a control signal to the device via a communication network such as the Internet to provide the target stimulus to the user P (see Embodiment 2 of this Disclosure, etc.).

[0032] The control unit 10 includes a stimulation control unit 11 that controls the stimulation unit 40. The stimulation control unit 11 may control the stimulation unit 40 so that at least one of the intensity and frequency of the target stimulus changes. Alternatively, the stimulation control unit 11 may control the stimulation unit 40 so that the frequency of the target stimulus changes. A specific control method by the stimulation control unit 11 will be illustrated in the embodiments described later. As a result, the stimulation device 1 can provide the user P with a target stimulus and (1) change the intensity of a predetermined frequency component of the electroencephalogram in a predetermined region of the user P's brain, and / or (2) change the frequency of nerve cell firing in the predetermined region.

[0033] <Example of target stimulus 1> Examples of target stimuli applied to user P using the stimulus application system 100 will be explained using Figures 1 to 4. Figures 2 to 4 are diagrams showing examples of target stimuli applied to user P's body. In one example, the target stimuli shown in Figures 2 to 4 are recorded in the stimulus pattern 21.

[0034] In this example, the target area is the user P's eye, and the type of target stimulus is light. In addition to the stimulus application device 1, the stimulus application system 100 may further include a display (not shown) and a light source (not shown) capable of applying light stimulation to the user P.

[0035] The target stimulus shown in Figure 2 is a stimulus in which the brightness of light having the same wavelength is changed seven times per second, and this is observed (received) by user P. Here, the brightness difference between the high-brightness light and the low-brightness light may be set in accordance with ITU-R Recommendation BT.1702-3. Specifically, the brightness of the lower-brightness light (second light) (second brightness) is 160 candelas / m 2 It may be less than 20 candelas / m², and the difference between the luminance of the lower-luminance light (first light) (first luminance) and the second luminance is 20 candelas / m². 2 It may be less than 160 candelas / m². Also, the second luminance is 160 candelas / m². 2 The values ​​may be greater than or equal to the above, and the difference between the first and second brightness levels may be less than or equal to 1 / 17 Mickelson contrast. In this case, if the light to be received by the user P is emitted from the display screen, the area from which the light is emitted may be less than 25% of the entire display screen.

[0036] The stimulation control unit 11 may control a first state in which the user P receives a first light with a first brightness from the stimulation unit 40, and a second state in which the user P receives a second light with a second brightness lower than the first brightness from the stimulation unit 40, using a predetermined switching frequency fa (7 Hz in this example). This allows the stimulation device 1 to cause the neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex of the user P to fire at a specific frequency (for example, 7 Hz).

[0037] The target stimulus shown in Figure 3 is a stimulus that allows user P to see (receive) two types of light with different wavelengths, switching between them seven times per second. Specifically, the target stimulus consists of two types of light: a third light with a first wavelength and a fourth light with a second wavelength different from the first wavelength. The two types of light are emitted alternately with a period of seven times per second. In one example, the third light may be light with a wavelength of 404-654 nm that has the effect of alleviating the physical pain felt by user P. That is, the third light may be green light, and the fourth light may be light of a different color than green. In the target stimulus shown in Figure 3, the difference in brightness between the third light and the fourth light is 20 candelas / m 2 It is less than [value]. The luminance of the third light and the luminance of the fourth light may be the same.

[0038] The stimulation control unit 11 may control a third state in which a third light of a first wavelength is emitted from the stimulator 40, and a fourth state in which a fourth light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength is emitted from the stimulator 40, using a predetermined switching frequency fa (7 Hz in this example). This allows the stimulation device 1 to cause the neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex of user P to fire at a specific frequency (e.g., 7 Hz) while reducing the possibility of user P experiencing photosensitive seizures caused by the difference in brightness between the two types of light.

[0039] The target stimulus shown in Figure 4 is a stimulus in which the brightness of light having the same wavelength is changed seven times in two seconds, and this is observed (received) by user P. In this case as well, the brightness difference between the high-brightness light and the low-brightness light may be set in accordance with ITU-R Recommendation BT.1702-3. Specifically, the brightness of the light with lower brightness (second light) (second brightness) is 160 candelas / m 2 It may be less than 20 candelas / m², and the difference between the luminance of the lower-luminance light (first light) (first luminance) and the second luminance is 20 candelas / m². 2 It may be less than 160 candelas / m². Also, the second luminance is 160 candelas / m². 2 The values ​​may be greater than or equal to the above, and the difference between the first and second brightness levels may be less than or equal to 1 / 17 Mickelson contrast. In this case, if the light to be received by the user P is emitted from the display screen, the area from which the light is emitted may be less than 25% of the entire display screen.

[0040] The stimulation control unit 11 controls the first state, in which the user P receives a first light with a first brightness from the stimulation unit 40, and the second state, in which the user P receives a second light with a second brightness lower than the first brightness from the stimulation unit 40, at a predetermined switching frequency fa (3.5 Hz in this example). This allows the stimulation device 1 to cause the neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex of user P to fire at a specific frequency (7 Hz, which is a natural multiple of 3.5 Hz). This allows the stimulation device 1 to cause the neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex of user P to fire at a specific frequency (e.g., 7 Hz) while reducing the possibility of user P experiencing photosensitive seizures caused by the cycle of the two types of light being emitted.

[0041] In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 4, the switching frequency fa is 7 Hz or 3.5 Hz. However, as mentioned above, when the target stimulus is applied at frequency f, neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex of user P's brain may fire at frequencies that are natural multiples of frequency f. Therefore, if the switching frequency fa is set to (7 / n) Hz (where n is a natural number), the stimulus application device 1 can cause neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex of user P's brain to fire at a frequency of 7 Hz. In other words, the switching frequency fa may also be (7 / n) Hz (where n is a natural number).

[0042] <Example of target stimulus 2> Another example of a target stimulus applied to user P using the stimulus application system 100 will be described. In this example, the target area is user P's ear, and the type of target stimulus is sound. In addition to the stimulus application device 1, the stimulus application system 100 may further include a speaker (not shown) or the like that can provide sound stimuli to user P.

[0043] The target stimulus may be a sound with a constant frequency g (pitch) and a periodic change in amplitude (volume) seven times per second. Alternatively, it may be a sound with a constant amplitude (volume) and a periodic change in frequency g (pitch) seven times per second.

[0044] The stimulation control unit 11 may, for example, control the stimulation unit 40 to output a sound from a speaker that has a periodic change in amplitude (volume) seven times per second. This allows the stimulation device 1 to cause cells in the anterior cingulate cortex of user P to fire at a specific frequency (7 Hz).

[0045] Similar to the case where the target stimulus is light, if the frequency fb is (7 / n)Hz (where n is a natural number), the stimulation device 1 can cause neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex of the user P's brain to fire at a frequency of 7Hz. In other words, the frequency fb may be (7 / n)Hz (where n is a natural number).

[0046] [Embodiment 2] Other embodiments of this disclosure are described below. For convenience of explanation, components having the same function as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated.

[0047] (Stimulation system 100a) Figure 5 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the stimulation system 100a according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the stimulation system 100a comprises a stimulation device 1a and a stimulation device 4.

[0048] The stimulation device 1a comprises a control unit 10, a storage unit 20, and an input unit 30.

[0049] The stimulator 4 is a device that has functions equivalent to the stimulator 40 of the stimulator 1. The stimulator 4 is communicatively connected to the stimulator 1a and is controlled by control signals transmitted by the control unit 10. The stimulator 4 comprises a stimulator 40 and a mounting unit 41.

[0050] The attachment part 41 fixes the stimulator 4 to a predetermined part of the user's body. This allows the stimulation system 100a to efficiently deliver the target stimulus to the user P. Furthermore, the stimulation system 100a can continue to deliver the target stimulus even if the user P moves. The predetermined part may include at least one of the head, torso, arms, hands, legs, and feet.

[0051] If the designated area is the head, the attachment part 41 may take the form of a headgear, helmet, goggles, glasses, or eye mask. For example, if the attachment part 41 is in the form of a headgear and the stimulator 4 is an electrode pad or microneedle, the stimulator 4 may provide electrical stimulation to the user P and also measure the subject's brainwaves.

[0052] [Embodiment 3] Other embodiments of this disclosure are described below. For convenience of explanation, components having the same function as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated.

[0053] Biofeedback is a technique used to train patients to regulate their own physical states, including relaxation and tension, by measuring physical and mental responses using specialized equipment and providing feedback to the patient in a perceptible form, such as sound, light, or graphs. Biofeedback techniques can be used as a treatment to improve overall health, such as reducing pain, relieving stress, or promoting mental stability. For example, by applying biofeedback techniques, individuals can train themselves to perceive and control changes in various involuntary physiological activities regulated by the autonomic nervous system, such as blood pressure, heart rate, skin temperature, muscle tone, respiration, or skin conduction.

[0054] (Stimulation system 100b) Figure 6 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the stimulation system 100b according to this third embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the stimulation system 100b includes a stimulation device 1b instead of the stimulation device 1a in the second embodiment, and further includes a measurement unit 5. The stimulation device 1b includes a control unit 10b instead of the control unit 10 in the second embodiment.

[0055] The measurement unit 5 measures the user P's biological information and transmits it to the control unit 10b.

[0056] The control unit 10b includes a stimulus control unit 11 (stimulus generation unit) and a biological information acquisition unit 12.

[0057] The biological information acquisition unit 12 acquires biological information from the measurement unit 5.

[0058] In addition to the functions described in Embodiment 1, the stimulus control unit 11 also has the function of a stimulus generation unit. The function of the stimulus generation unit is to generate a target stimulus in a manner corresponding to the biological information acquired by the biological information acquisition unit 12. This enables the stimulus application system 100b to realize biofeedback of the user P's biological information. The stimulus control unit 11 may also generate a target stimulus immediately in a manner corresponding to the measured biological information. This enables the stimulus application system 100b to realize biofeedback of the user P's biological information in real time.

[0059] The biometric information may include at least one of the following: heart rate, pulse wave, blood flow, electrocardiogram, and electroencephalogram.

[0060] <Examples of target stimuli> An example of a target stimulus applied to user P using the stimulus application system 100b will be described. In one example, the target stimulus is recorded in the stimulus pattern 21.

[0061] In this example, the target area is the user P's brain, and the type of target stimulus is electrical. The designated area is the head. The biological information is heart rate. The attachment part 41 may also be a headgear that can be attached to the user P's head. The stimulator 4 may be electrode pads that deliver electrical stimulation to the brain from above the user P's skull.

[0062] For example, the stimulation control unit 11 may instantly generate a target stimulus such that the user's state changes more significantly the higher the user's heart rate is. For example, the stimulation control unit 11 may instantly generate a target stimulus such that the intensity increases the higher the user's heart rate is. By using the target stimulus generated in this way, the stimulation application system 100b can make user P aware of whether their heart rate is high or low at that moment.

[0063] [Embodiment 4] Other embodiments of this disclosure are described below. For convenience of explanation, components having the same function as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated.

[0064] (Stimulation system 100c) Figure 7 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the stimulation system 100c according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, the stimulation system 100c includes a stimulation device 1c in place of the stimulation device 1b in Embodiment 3. The stimulation device 1c includes a control unit 10c in place of the control unit 10b in Embodiment 3.

[0065] The control unit 10c comprises a stimulus control unit 11, a biological information acquisition unit 12, and a determination unit 13.

[0066] The determination unit 13 determines whether or not the biological information meets predetermined conditions.

[0067] The stimulus control unit 11 changes the target stimulus to be generated according to the determination result of the determination unit 13.

[0068] (Processing flow of the stimulation system 100c) Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow performed by the stimulation system 100c.

[0069] As shown in Figure 8, first, the stimulator 40 emits a target stimulus and stimulates a target area of ​​the user P's body, giving the target stimulus to user P (step S1).

[0070] Next, the measurement unit 5 measures the user P's biological information and transmits it to the control unit 10c, and the biological information acquisition unit 12 receives the biological information from the measurement unit 5 (step S2).

[0071] Next, the determination unit 13 determines whether or not the biological information meets predetermined conditions (step S3).

[0072] If the determination unit 13 determines that the biological information does not meet the predetermined conditions (NO in step S3), the stimulation control unit 11 changes the target stimulus to be generated and controls the stimulation unit 40 to emit the changed target stimulus (step S5).

[0073] If the determination unit 13 determines that the biological information meets predetermined conditions (YES in step S3), the stimulation control unit 11 controls the stimulation unit 40 to continue emitting the current target stimulus for a predetermined time without changing the target stimulus to be generated (step S4).

[0074] The stimulation system 100c can determine whether a target stimulus is effective for user P based on user P's biological information, and if it is determined that the target stimulus is not effective for user P, it can provide user P with a different target stimulus. Therefore, the stimulation system 100c can provide user P with a target stimulus that is effective for them.

[0075] <Examples of target stimuli> An example of a target stimulus applied to user P using the stimulus application system 100c will be described. In one example, the target stimulus is recorded in stimulus pattern 21.

[0076] In this example, the target area is the brain of user P, and the type of target stimulus is electrical. The designated area is the head. The biological information is pulse wave. The stimulator 4 may also be a headgear type that is placed over the head of user P. The attachment part 41 may be electrode pads that deliver electrical stimulation to the brain from above the skull of user P.

[0077] The determination unit 13 determines whether the pulse wave frequency is 13 Hz or not. If the pulse wave frequency is around 13 Hz, the stimulation control unit 11 controls the stimulation unit 40 so as not to change the target stimulus being given to user P. If the pulse wave frequency is not around 13 Hz, the stimulation control unit 11 controls the stimulation unit 40 to increase or decrease the frequency of the target stimulus given to user P.

[0078] Here, if the pulse wave frequency deviates further from 13Hz after increasing the frequency of the target stimulus, the stimulus control unit 11 controls the stimulus unit 40 to decrease the frequency of the target stimulus given to user P. Conversely, if the pulse wave frequency deviates further from 13Hz after decreasing the frequency of the target stimulus, the stimulus control unit 11 controls the stimulus unit 40 to increase the frequency of the target stimulus given to user P. In this way, the stimulus application system 100c can efficiently determine a target stimulus that is effective for user P and provide it to user P.

[0079] [Examples of implementation using software] The functions of the stimulus application systems 100, 100a, 100b, and 100c (hereinafter referred to as "the systems") are programs that cause a computer to function as the systems, and these programs can be realized by programs that cause a computer to function as each control block of the systems (particularly each part included in the control units 10, 10b, and 10c).

[0080] In this case, the system includes a computer having at least one control device (e.g., a processor) and at least one storage device (e.g., memory) as hardware for executing the program. By executing the program using this control device and storage device, the functions described in each of the embodiments are realized.

[0081] The above program may be recorded on one or more computer-readable recording media, not temporary ones. These recording media may or may not be provided by the system. In the latter case, the program may be supplied to the system via any wired or wireless transmission medium.

[0082] Furthermore, some or all of the functions of each of the above control blocks can also be implemented by logic circuits. For example, an integrated circuit in which logic circuits functioning as each of the above control blocks are formed is also included in the scope of this disclosure. In addition, it is also possible to implement the functions of each of the above control blocks by, for example, a quantum computer.

[0083] Furthermore, each process described in the above embodiments may be performed by AI (Artificial Intelligence). In this case, the AI ​​may operate on the control device described above, or it may operate on other devices (for example, an edge computer or a cloud server).

[0084] A stimulus application system according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure comprises a stimulus unit that provides a target stimulus to a user to stimulate a target part of the user's body, and a stimulus control unit that controls the stimulus unit to provide the user with the target stimulus, thereby (1) changing the intensity of a predetermined frequency component of brain waves in a predetermined region of the user's brain, or (2) changing the frequency of firing of nerve cells in the predetermined region.

[0085] In the stimulus application system according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure, in Embodiment 1, the stimulus control unit may control the stimulus unit such that at least one of the intensity and frequency of the target stimulus provided to the user changes.

[0086] In the stimulus application system according to aspect 3 of the present disclosure, in aspect 1 or 2, the predetermined region may include at least one region from among the anterior cingulate cortex, prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, thalamus, and hypothalamus.

[0087] In any of embodiments 1 to 3, the stimulation system according to embodiment 4 of the present disclosure may include, in any of embodiments 1 to 3, a predetermined frequency component that is within a frequency band corresponding to at least one of alpha waves, beta waves, gamma waves, theta waves, and delta waves.

[0088] In any of embodiments 1 to 4, the stimulation system according to aspect 5 of the present disclosure may include at least one of the following target areas: the eye, ear, nose, skin, and brain.

[0089] In any of embodiments 1 to 5, the stimulus application system according to embodiment 6 of the present disclosure may include, as described above, a stimulus provided by at least one of the following: light, sound, smell, electricity, magnetism, and temperature.

[0090] In any of embodiments 1 to 6, the stimulation system according to embodiment 7 of this disclosure may have the target area be the eye and the target stimulus be light.

[0091] In the stimulation system according to aspect 8 of the present disclosure, in aspect 7, the stimulation control unit may control a first state in which the user receives a first light having a first brightness from the stimulation unit, and a second state in which the user receives a second light having a second brightness lower than the first brightness from the stimulation unit, at a predetermined switching frequency.

[0092] In the stimulus system according to aspect 9 of this disclosure, in aspect 8, the second brightness is 160 candelas / m².2 It may be less than, and the difference between the first luminance and the second luminance may be less than 20 candela / m 2 It may be less than.

[0093] In the stimulation system according to Embodiment 10 of the present disclosure, in Embodiment 8, the second luminance may be 160 candela / m 2 or more, and the difference between the first luminance and the second luminance may be 1 / 17 Michelson contrast or less.

[0094] In the stimulation system according to Embodiment 11 of the present disclosure, in Embodiment 7, the stimulation control unit may control between a third state in which the third light having a first wavelength is emitted from the stimulation unit and a fourth state in which the fourth light having a second wavelength different from the first wavelength is emitted from the stimulation unit at a predetermined switching frequency.

[0095] In the stimulation system according to Embodiment 12 of the present disclosure, in any of Embodiments 8 to 11, the predetermined switching frequency may be (7 / n) Hz, where n is a natural number.

[0096] In the stimulation system according to Embodiment 13 of the present disclosure, in any of Embodiments 1 to 12, the target site may be the ear, and the target stimulus may be sound.

[0097] In the stimulation system according to Embodiment 14 of the present disclosure, in Embodiment 13, the stimulation control unit may control the stimulation unit to output a sound having a change in amplitude corresponding to a predetermined frequency.

[0098] In the stimulation system according to Embodiment 15 of the present disclosure, in Embodiment 14, the predetermined frequency may be (7 / n) Hz, where n is a natural number.

[0099] In the stimulation system according to Embodiment 16 of the present disclosure, in any of Embodiments 1 to 15, the stimulation system may further include a mounting portion for fixing the stimulation unit to a predetermined portion of the user's body.

[0100] In the stimulus application system according to aspect 17 of the present disclosure, in aspect 16, the predetermined part may include at least one of the head, torso, arms, hands, legs, and feet.

[0101] The stimulus application system according to aspect 18 of this disclosure may further include, in any of aspects 1 to 17, a measurement unit for measuring the user's biological information and a stimulus generation unit for generating the target stimulus in a manner corresponding to the measured biological information.

[0102] In the stimulus application system according to aspect 19 of this disclosure, in aspect 18, the stimulus generation unit may immediately generate the target stimulus in a manner corresponding to the measured biological information.

[0103] The stimulus application system according to embodiment 20 of the present disclosure further comprises a determination unit in embodiment 19 that determines whether or not the biological information satisfies predetermined conditions, and the stimulus generation unit may change the target stimulus to be generated according to the determination result of the determination unit.

[0104] In any of embodiments 1 to 20, the stimulation system according to embodiment 21 of the present disclosure may include at least one of the following biological information: heart rate, pulse wave, blood flow rate, electrocardiogram, and electroencephalogram.

[0105] A method for providing stimulation according to aspect 22 of the present disclosure includes a stimulation step of providing a target stimulus to a user to stimulate a target part of the user's body, which involves (1) changing the intensity of a predetermined frequency component of an electroencephalogram in a predetermined region of the user's brain, or (2) changing the frequency of firing of nerve cells in the predetermined region.

[0106] The inventions described in this disclosure have been explained above based on the drawings and embodiments. However, the inventions described in this disclosure are not limited to the embodiments described above. That is, the inventions described in this disclosure can be modified in various ways within the scope shown in this disclosure, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the inventions described in this disclosure. In other words, it should be noted that it is easy for those skilled in the art to make various modifications or alterations based on this disclosure. Furthermore, it should be noted that these modifications or alterations are included in the scope of this disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 5 Measuring part 11 Stimulation Control Unit 13 Judgment section 40 Stimulation part 41 Mounting part 100, 100a, 100b, 100c Stimulation System fa predetermined switching frequency fb predetermined frequency

Claims

1. A stimulator that provides a target stimulus to the user, which stimulates a target area of ​​the user's body, A stimulation control unit controls the stimulating unit to provide the user with the target stimulus, thereby (1) changing the intensity of a predetermined frequency component of the electroencephalogram in a predetermined region of the user's brain, or (2) changing the firing frequency of nerve cells in the predetermined region. A stimulation system equipped with the following features.

2. The stimulus control unit controls the stimulus unit such that at least one of the intensity and frequency of the target stimulus delivered to the user changes. The stimulation system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned predetermined region includes at least one region from among the anterior cingulate cortex, prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, thalamus, and hypothalamus. The stimulation system according to claim 1.

4. The predetermined frequency components include components within a frequency band corresponding to at least one of alpha waves, beta waves, gamma waves, theta waves, and delta waves. The stimulation system according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned target area includes at least one of the following: eyes, ears, nose, skin, and brain. The stimulation system according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned target stimulus includes stimulation by at least one of the following: light, sound, smell, electricity, magnetism, and temperature. The stimulation system according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned target area is the eye. The aforementioned stimulus is light. The stimulation system according to claim 1.

8. The stimulus control unit controls, at a predetermined switching frequency, between a first state in which the user receives a first light with a first brightness from the stimulus unit, and a second state in which the user receives a second light with a second brightness lower than the first brightness from the stimulus unit. The stimulation system according to claim 7.

9. The second luminance is 160 candelas / m². ２ It is less than, The difference between the first brightness and the second brightness is 20 candelas / m². ２ Less than, The stimulation system according to claim 8.

10. The second luminance is 160 candelas / m². ２ That's all. The difference between the first brightness and the second brightness is less than or equal to 1 / 17 Mickelson contrast. The stimulation system according to claim 8.

11. The stimulation control unit controls a third state in which a third light having a first wavelength is emitted from the stimulation unit, and a fourth state in which a fourth light having a second wavelength different from the first wavelength is emitted from the stimulation unit, at a predetermined switching frequency. The stimulation system according to claim 7.

12. The predetermined switching frequency is (7 / n) Hz, n is a natural number. The stimulation system according to claim 8 or 11.

13. The aforementioned target area is the ear. The aforementioned stimulus is sound. The stimulation system according to claim 1.

14. The stimulus control unit controls the stimulus unit to output a sound having an amplitude change corresponding to a predetermined frequency. The stimulation system according to claim 13.

15. The predetermined frequency is (7 / n) Hz, n is a natural number. The stimulation system according to claim 14.

16. The device further comprises a mounting portion for fixing the stimulating portion to a predetermined part of the user's body. The stimulation system according to claim 1.

17. The aforementioned predetermined part includes at least one of the head, torso, arms, hands, legs, and feet. The stimulation system according to claim 16.

18. A measurement unit for measuring the user's biological information, A stimulus generation unit that generates the target stimulus in a manner corresponding to the measured biological information, Furthermore, The stimulation system according to claim 1.

19. The stimulus generation unit immediately generates the target stimulus in a manner corresponding to the measured biological information. The stimulation system according to claim 18.

20. The system further includes a determination unit that determines whether or not the aforementioned biological information meets predetermined conditions. The stimulus generation unit changes the target stimulus to be generated according to the determination result of the determination unit. The stimulation system according to claim 19.

21. The aforementioned biometric information includes at least one of heart rate, pulse wave, blood flow, electrocardiogram, and electroencephalogram. The stimulation system according to claim 19.

22. The stimulation step includes providing a target stimulus to the user that stimulates a target part of the user's body, A method for applying stimulation, comprising: (1) changing the intensity of a predetermined frequency component of electroencephalograms in a predetermined region of the user's brain; or (2) changing the frequency of firing of nerve cells in the predetermined region.

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