Frame members, neck pillow, and napping device

Abstract

To provide a frame component that can contribute to improving the convenience of a neck pillow. [Solution] The frame member 121 according to the present disclosure is a frame member 121 that constitutes a neck pillow 12, and comprises a base portion 121b extending along the circumferential direction D1 of the frame member 121, and a mounting portion 121c disposed on the base portion 121b to which a face shield 11 that covers the user's face when the frame member 121 is placed on the user's neck is attached.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a frame member, a neck pillow, and a nap device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, techniques related to a neck pillow that wraps around a user's neck to support the neck during a nap are known. For example, in Patent Document 1, when through holes are formed in each of a pair of side portions and a member for improving the supporting force is provided in the portion of the through holes, compared with the case where a member for suppressing deformation of the side portions is not provided, a neck pillow is disclosed that suppresses sweating of the neck and suppresses deformation of the side portions when the head is tilted left and right.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] For example, when a user takes a nap while sitting, such as in an office, various requirements are placed on the neck pillow used for the nap. For example, the user desires to stably place the head without wobbling, hide the face so that the sleeping face is not seen by others around, and maintain the state of the hair and makeup without being disrupted. In the prior art described in Patent Document 1, these diverse requirements have not been sufficiently considered. As a result, sufficient convenience has not been obtained for the neck pillow.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a frame member of a neck pillow, a neck pillow, and a nap device having the neck pillow that can contribute to an improvement in the convenience of the neck pillow.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The frame member for solving the above problem is: A frame member that constitutes a neck pillow, The frame member has a base portion that extends along the circumferential direction, A mounting portion is provided on the base, to which a face shield covering the user's face is attached when the frame member is positioned around the user's neck, It is equipped with.

[0007] A neck pillow designed to solve the above problems is: The frame member described above, A cushioning member covering the frame member, It is equipped with.

[0008] A napping device to solve the above problems is: The neck pillow mentioned above, The face shield attached to the aforementioned mounting portion, It is equipped with. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a neck pillow frame member, a neck pillow, and a napping device having a neck pillow, which can contribute to improving the convenience of the neck pillow. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a nap system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a nap device. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a napping device. [Figure 4] This block diagram shows an example of the configuration of a terminal device, as shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] This is a schematic external perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a frame member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a schematic external perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a face shield according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the arrangement of the irradiation unit of the sleep device in FIG. 3. [Figure 7B] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the function of the irradiation unit of the sleep device in FIG. 3. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the sleep device in FIG. 3. [Figure 9A] It is an external perspective view schematically showing the high state of the frame member according to the first modification example. [Figure 9B] It is an external perspective view schematically showing the low state of the frame member in FIG. 9A. [Figure 9C] It is an external perspective view schematically showing the folded state of the frame member in FIG. 9A. [Figure 10A] It is an external perspective view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the frame member according to the second modification example. [Figure 10B] It is a front view of the frame member in FIG. 10A. [Figure 10C] It is a side view of the frame member in FIG. 10A.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a sleep system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG. 1, a state where the inside of the face shield 11 cannot be visually recognized from the outside by the light shielding portion 115 of the face shield 11 described later is shown.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the sleep device 10 in FIG. 1. In FIG. 2, in order to facilitate understanding of the configuration of the sleep device 10, the illustration of the light shielding portion 115 located on the outer layer of the face shield 11 is omitted, and the reflection portion 114 located on the inner layer of the face shield 11 is illustrated. In FIG. 2, a state where the inside of the face shield 11 can be visually recognized from the outside by the reflection portion 114 of the face shield 11 is shown.

[0014] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, an example of the configuration and function of a nap system 1 having a nap device 10 according to one embodiment will be mainly described. The nap system 1 includes a nap device 10 and a terminal device 20.

[0015] In Figures 1 and 2, only one napping device 10 is shown for ease of understanding, but the napping system 1 may have two or more napping devices 10. Similarly, in Figure 1, only one terminal device 20 is shown for ease of understanding, but the napping system 1 may have two or more terminal devices 20. The napping system 1 may have multiple sets of napping devices 10 and terminal devices 20 in the same number, or it may have at least one set of napping devices 10 and terminal devices 20 in different numbers. The napping devices 10 and terminal devices 20 are connected to each other so that they can communicate directly, for example, by wire or wireless.

[0016] The napping device 10 is a device used in conjunction with the terminal device 20, for example, when a user takes a nap. When worn by the user, the napping device 10 performs predetermined actions for the user at each stage from falling asleep to sleeping and waking up. The napping device 10 is positioned around the user's neck and covers the user's face. The napping device 10 encloses the entire face while being separated from the user's head, with an internal gap between the head and the device.

[0017] The terminal device 20 is a general-purpose electronic device, including, for example, a smartphone, a tablet PC (Personal Computer), a PC, and a wearable device such as a smartwatch. The terminal device 20 is an electronic device used by a user who possesses the napping device 10. The terminal device 20 is not limited to these, and may be other electronic devices used exclusively for the napping device 10 in the napping system 1, or it may be one or more server devices that can communicate with each other.

[0018] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the napping device 10 shown in Figure 1. Referring to Figures 1 and 2, as well as Figure 3, we will primarily describe an example of the configuration of the napping device 10 included in the napping system 1.

[0019] The napping device 10 includes a face shield 11, a neck pillow 12, a communication unit 13, a storage unit 14, an illumination unit 15, an output unit 16, a sensor unit 17, a power supply unit 18, and a control unit 19. The neck pillow 12 includes a frame member 121 having a vibrating unit 121a, and a cushion member 122 covering the frame member 121. In Figures 1 and 2, the communication unit 13, storage unit 14, illumination unit 15, output unit 16, sensor unit 17, power supply unit 18, and control unit 19 are not shown.

[0020] The face shield 11, when attached to the neck pillow 12, constitutes the napping device 10 together with the neck pillow 12. The face shield 11 covers the user's face when the napping device 10 is worn by the user. The face shield 11 encloses the entire face while being separated from the user's head, such that there is an internal gap relative to the user's head.

[0021] The frame member 121 of the neck pillow 12 is used as a support to maintain the shape of the neck pillow 12 when covered by the cushion member 122. The frame member 121 is made of a resin material or metal material that can maintain the shape shown in Figures 1 and 2, for example. The cushion member 122 forms the external shape of the neck pillow 12 when covering the frame member 121. The cushion member 122 is made of a urethane sponge, for example.

[0022] The vibration unit 121a includes one or more vibration modules that vibrate the frame member 121 to apply vibration to the neck of a user wearing the napping device 10. The vibration modules include piezoelectric elements and other actuators. The vibration modules of the vibration unit 121a operate under the control of the control unit 19 and, for example, apply vibrations with a predetermined vibration pattern to the user's neck when waking the user up.

[0023] Further details regarding the configurations of the face shield 11 and the neck pillow 12 will be described later.

[0024] The communication unit 13 includes one or more communication interfaces that are directly connected to the terminal device 20 via wired or wireless means. The communication interfaces may support any wired or wireless communication standard for wired or wireless communication. Wired communication standards include communication standards such as USB (Universal Serial Bus). Wireless communication standards include Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi®, ZigBee®, and any other short-range wireless communication standards. In one embodiment, the sleeping device 10 is connected to the terminal device 20 via the communication unit 13. The sleeping device 10 receives and transmits various information to and from the terminal device 20 via the communication unit 13.

[0025] Without limiting itself to these, the communication interface of the communication unit 13 may support any other communication standards. For example, the communication interface may support mobile communication standards such as 4G (4th Generation) and 5G (5th Generation), wired LAN (Local Area Network) standards, or wireless LAN standards in order to connect to a network including mobile communication networks and the Internet. The sleeping device 10 may be connected to the network in a communicative manner via the communication unit 13. The communication unit 13 may receive and transmit various types of information via the network.

[0026] The storage unit 14 includes storage modules such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage unit 14 stores information necessary to realize the operation of the sleep device 10. The storage unit 14 stores information obtained through the operation of the sleep device 10. The storage unit 14 stores system programs, application programs, and various data obtained by any means such as communication.

[0027] The memory unit 14 may function as a main memory module, an auxiliary memory module, or a cache memory. The memory unit 14 is not limited to one built into the sleep device 10, and may also include an external memory module connected by a digital input / output port such as USB.

[0028] The irradiation unit 15 includes one or more light sources that irradiate white light onto the eyes of a user wearing the face shield 11 and the sleeping device 10. The light sources include lasers such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and semiconductor lasers, and lamps. The lamps include halogen lamps, tungsten lamps, and xenon lamps.

[0029] The output unit 16 includes one or more output modules that stimulate the hearing or smell of a user wearing the napping device 10. The output modules include, for example, a speaker that stimulates the user's hearing with sound. The sounds output from the speaker of the output unit 16 include breathing sounds, heartbeat sounds, Western music, jazz, classical music, white noise, and nature sounds. The output modules also include, for example, a diffuser that stimulates the user's sense of smell with scent. The scents output from the diffuser of the output unit 16 include the scent of lavender, the scent of cedrol, the scent of cedarwood, the scent of coffee such as Guatemalan and Blue Mountain, and the scent of allyl sulfide found in onions, etc.

[0030] The sensor unit 17 includes one or more sensor modules that acquire biometric information related to the sleep of a user who is napping while wearing the napping device 10. In this disclosure, “biometric information” includes, for example, information that appears inside or outside the body in relation to the user’s sleep activity. Biometric information includes information such as heart rate, pulse rate, blood pressure, blood flow, electroencephalogram, respiration, and body temperature. The sensor modules include, for example, vital sensors depending on the type of biometric information to be acquired.

[0031] The power supply unit 18 includes one or more power sources that supply the power necessary for each component of the sleeping device 10 to operate. The power sources include, for example, a built-in battery including a primary battery and a secondary battery. However, the power sources may also include other electrical components that can receive power from an external power source and supply it to each component of the sleeping device 10, in place of or in addition to the built-in battery of the sleeping device 10. For example, the other electrical components may include a USB connector. The power supply unit 18 may receive power from an external power source via a USB cable connected to the USB connector and supply it to each component of the sleeping device 10.

[0032] The control unit 19 includes one or more processors. The processors are general-purpose processors or dedicated processors specialized for specific processing, but are not limited to these. The control unit 19 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control unit 19 is communicatively connected to each component constituting the sleeping device 10 and controls the operation of the entire sleeping device 10.

[0033] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the terminal device 20 in Figure 1. Referring to Figure 4, an example of the configuration of the terminal device 20 included in the nap system 1 will be mainly described. The terminal device 20 includes a communication unit 21, a storage unit 22, an input unit 23, an output unit 24, and a control unit 25.

[0034] The communication unit 21 includes one or more communication interfaces that are directly connected to the sleeping device 10 via wired or wireless means. The communication interfaces may support any wired or wireless communication standard for wired or wireless communication. Wired communication standards include communication standards such as USB. Wireless communication standards include Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi®, ZigBee®, and any other short-range wireless communication standards. In one embodiment, the terminal device 20 is connected to the sleeping device 10 via the communication unit 21. The terminal device 20 transmits and receives various information to and from the sleeping device 10 via the communication unit 21.

[0035] Without limiting itself to these, the communication interface of the communication unit 21 may support any other communication standards. For example, the communication interface may support mobile communication standards such as 4G and 5G, wired LAN standards, or wireless LAN standards in order to connect to a network including mobile communication networks and the Internet. The terminal device 20 may be connected to the network in a communicative manner via the communication unit 21. The communication unit 21 may transmit and receive various types of information via the network.

[0036] The storage unit 22 includes storage modules such as HDD, SSD, EEPROM, ROM, and RAM. The storage unit 22 stores information necessary to realize the operation of the terminal device 20. The storage unit 22 stores information obtained through the operation of the terminal device 20. The storage unit 22 stores system programs, application programs, and various data obtained by any means such as communication.

[0037] The storage unit 22 may function as a main memory module, an auxiliary memory module, or a cache memory. The storage unit 22 is not limited to one built into the terminal device 20, and may also include an external storage module connected by a digital input / output port such as USB.

[0038] The input unit 23 includes one or more input interfaces that detect user input and acquire input information based on user operations. The input interfaces include physical keys, capacitive keys, a touchscreen integrated with the display of the output unit 24, an imaging module such as a camera, and a microphone that accepts voice input.

[0039] The output unit 24 includes one or more output interfaces that output information to the user. The output interfaces include a display that outputs information visually as an image, a speaker that outputs information aurally as sound, and a vibrator that outputs information tactilely as vibration.

[0040] The control unit 25 includes one or more processors. The processors are general-purpose processors or dedicated processors specialized for specific processing, but are not limited to these. The control unit 25 includes, for example, a CPU. The control unit 25 is communicatively connected to each component constituting the terminal device 20 and controls the operation of the entire terminal device 20.

[0041] Figure 5 is a schematic external perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a frame member 121 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The details of the configuration of the frame member 121 constituting the neck pillow 12 will be mainly described with reference to Figure 5.

[0042] The frame member 121 has a base portion 121b that extends along the circumferential direction D1 of the frame member 121. The base portion 121b has an annular shape along the circumferential direction D1, with a portion of it cut out at the front of the frame member 121. The base portion 121b has a first free end E1 and a second free end E2 that are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction D1 at the front of the frame member 121.

[0043] The base portion 121b is positioned to surround the user's neck when the frame member 121 is placed around the neck of a user wearing the napping device 10. At this time, the base portion 121b is positioned such that the first free end E1 and the second free end E2 are located, for example, diagonally in front of the user's neck, and the cut-out portion of the base portion 121b is positioned in front of the user's neck.

[0044] The frame member 121 is positioned on the base 121b and has a mounting portion 121c to which the face shield 11, which covers the user's face when the frame member 121 is positioned around the user's neck, is attached. The mounting portion 121c has a clamping structure that supports the face shield 11 by sandwiching it. As also shown in Figure 2, the mounting portion 121c supports the entire face shield 11 by sandwiching and holding the attachment portion 111 of the face shield 11 (described later) from both sides in the thickness direction of the face shield 11.

[0045] The mounting portion 121c extends inward along the circumferential direction D1 from each of the first free end E1 and the second free end E2 of the base portion 121b. In this disclosure, "inward" corresponds, for example, to the direction toward the center of the frame member 121. However, it is not limited to this, and "inward" does not have to be a direction toward the center perfectly, but may correspond to a direction toward the center at a slight angle. "Outward" is the opposite of "inward".

[0046] Each of the pair of mounting portions 121c located at the front of the base portion 121b extends along the circumferential direction D1 from near the diagonal front of the user's neck to the front of the user's neck when the frame member 121 is positioned around the neck of a user wearing the napping device 10. The pair of mounting portions 121c hold the pair of mounting portions 111 of the face shield 11, described later, from both sides in the thickness direction of the face shield 11, thereby positioning the face shield 11 in front of the user's face so that it covers the user's face.

[0047] The frame member 121 has a support portion 121d that extends from the base portion 121b along the height direction D2 intersecting the circumferential direction D1 of the frame member 121. The support portion 121d extends symmetrically from the base portion 121b on both sides in the height direction D2, while inclining outward from the base portion 121b. The support portion 121d has a first portion that extends diagonally upward from the base portion 121b toward the outside of the base portion 121b, and a second portion that extends diagonally downward from the base portion 121b toward the outside of the base portion 121b. For example, the first portion and the second portion are the same size and have shapes that are symmetrical with respect to the base portion 121b. For example, the first portion and the second portion extend from the base portion 121b on both sides in the height direction D2 at the same angle to each other.

[0048] The frame member 121 has multiple support portions 121d. The multiple support portions 121d are arranged symmetrically in the circumferential direction D1 of the frame member 121 at the base portion 121b. For example, one support portion 121d is placed at the first free end E1 and the second free end E2 located at the front of the base portion 121b, and one is placed between the side and rear of the base portion 121b, for a total of four support portions along the circumferential direction D1.

[0049] The four support portions 121d extending from the base portion 121b along the height direction D2 are symmetrically positioned around the user's neck when the frame member 121 is placed around the neck of a user wearing the napping device 10. For example, the two support portions 121d located at the first free end E1 and the second free end E2, respectively, are positioned near the front of the user's neck. For example, the two support portions 121d located between the side and rear of the base portion 121b, respectively, are positioned near the rear of the user's neck.

[0050] The vibrating parts 121a of the frame member 121 are positioned on at least one of the sides and rear of the base 121b, causing the frame member 121 to vibrate. For example, multiple vibrating parts 121a are arranged symmetrically on the base 121b in the circumferential direction D1 of the frame member 121. For example, one vibrating part 121a is positioned on each side of the base 121b, two are positioned at the rear of the base 121b, and a total of four are positioned along the circumferential direction D1.

[0051] The four vibrating parts 121a are arranged symmetrically around the user's neck when the frame member 121 is placed on the neck of a user wearing the napping device 10. For example, two of the four vibrating parts 121a located on either side of the base 121b are positioned relative to both sides of the user's neck. For example, two of the four vibrating parts 121a located at the rear of the base 121b are positioned relative to the rear of the user's neck.

[0052] Figure 6 is a schematic external perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a face shield 11 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The details of the configuration of the face shield 11, which constitutes the napping device 10 together with the neck pillow 12, will be mainly described with reference to Figure 6. In the following description using Figure 6, the front / back, left / right, and up / down directions are based on the directions of the arrows in Figure 6. The up / down direction in Figure 6 corresponds to the height direction D2 in Figure 5.

[0053] As shown in Figure 2, the face shield 11 is attached to the mounting portion 121c of the frame member 121. The face shield 11 has an overall symmetrical shape in the left-right direction.

[0054] The face shield 11 used in the napping device 10 has a mounting portion 111 that is attached to the mounting object when the face shield 11 covers the user's face. In this disclosure, “mounting object” includes, for example, an object that supports the face shield 11 attached via the mounting portion 111 and allows the face shield 11 to cover the user's face. The mounting object is, for example, to which the mounting portion 111 of the face shield 11 is attached and which is positioned around the user's neck. For example, the mounting object includes a neck pillow 12. In this case, the vibrating portion 121a is positioned on the neck pillow 12 as the mounting object and vibrates the user's neck.

[0055] The mounting portion 111 includes a portion that protrudes downward from the other parts of the front of the face shield 11. One mounting portion 111 is located on each side of the front of the face shield 11. The pair of mounting portions 111 are arranged symmetrically in the left-right direction on the front of the face shield 11. The pair of mounting portions 111 are attached to a pair of mounting portions 121c on the frame member 121 of the neck pillow 12. The face shield 11 has a notch 112 located at the bottom of the front of the face shield 11. The notch 112 is located between the pair of mounting portions 111 along the left-right direction and is configured in a substantially V-shape.

[0056] The face shield 11 has a self-supporting shape when the attachment portion 111 is attached to the neck pillow 12 to which it is to be attached. In this disclosure, "self-supporting shape" includes a three-dimensional shape that is maintained independently without using, for example, support columns such as a frame as structural members for the face shield 11. The face shield 11 has fold lines 113 that maintain the self-supporting shape. Multiple fold lines 113 are arranged on the face shield 11. The multiple fold lines 113 are arranged symmetrically in the left-right direction.

[0057] The face shield 11 has a folding structure that transitions between a first state in which the entire structure is self-supporting and a second state in which the entire structure is folded along a fold line 113. In this disclosure, "first state" means, for example, the state shown in Figure 6. "Second state" means, for example, the state in which the face shield 11 has a folded shape when it is folded into a thin, flat shape.

[0058] As shown in Figures 2 and 6, the face shield 11 has a reflective portion 114 located on the inner surface of the face shield 11 when it maintains its self-supporting shape, which reflects only blue light into the interior of the face shield 11. In addition, as shown in Figures 1 and 6, the face shield 11 has a light-shielding portion 115 laminated on the reflective portion 114 and located on the outer surface of the face shield 11, which blocks light from the outside.

[0059] The face shield 11 has a laminated structure including at least two layers, with a reflective portion 114 placed in the innermost layer and a light-shielding portion 115 placed in the outermost layer. The reflective portion 114 includes blue film and sheets, etc. The light-shielding portion 115 includes, for example, a black-based material that absorbs and blocks light. The light-shielding portion 115 includes, for example, black film and sheets, etc. However, it is not limited to these, and each of the reflective portion 114 and the light-shielding portion 115 may have any configuration that can achieve its function. For example, the light-shielding portion 115 may be made of woven fabric, cloth, and sponge, etc.

[0060] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram showing an example of the arrangement of the irradiation unit 15 of the napping device 10 in Figure 3. Figure 7B is a schematic diagram showing an example of the function of the irradiation unit 15 of the napping device 10 in Figure 3. Note that in Figure 7B, the arrangement of the irradiation unit 15 is shown conceptually for ease of understanding, and differs from the actual arrangement of the irradiation unit 15 schematically shown in Figure 7A. Referring to Figures 7A and 7B, we will mainly explain an example of the arrangement and function of the irradiation unit 15 when a user is wearing the napping device 10.

[0061] The illumination unit 15 of the napping device 10 is positioned, for example, on the inner surface of the face shield 11, i.e., on the surface of the reflective part 114. The illumination unit 15 is positioned directly above the user's eyes when the face shield 11 is positioned on the user's face in a self-supporting shape, and it illuminates the reflective part 114 and the user's eyes with white light. The illumination unit 15 operates, for example, when it receives a control signal from the control unit 19 to wake up a napping user. At this time, the illumination unit 15 illuminates the user's eyes with white light at an optimal intensity that allows the user to perceive a moderate brightness even with their eyes closed.

[0062] As shown on the left side of Figure 7A, if the irradiating unit 15 is positioned directly in front of the user's eyes, the user will receive strong white light even with their eyes closed, causing glare and discomfort. Conversely, as shown in the center of Figure 7A, if the irradiating unit 15 is positioned diagonally behind and above the user's eyes, the user will receive weak white light with their eyes closed and will not perceive brightness. On the other hand, as shown on the right side of Figure 7A, by positioning the irradiating unit 15 directly above the user's eyes, it irradiates the user's eyes with white light at an optimal intensity that allows the user to perceive moderate brightness even with their eyes closed.

[0063] As shown in Figure 7B, the irradiating unit 15 emits white light not only to the user's eyes but also to the reflecting unit 114. The reflecting unit 114, located on the inner surface of the face shield 11, reflects only the blue light from the white light emitted by the irradiating unit 15 into the interior of the face shield 11. For example, white light emitted from the irradiating unit 15 toward the reflecting unit 114 becomes blue light in the reflecting unit 114 and is emitted to the user's eyes located inside the face shield 11. When the user's eyes are closed, they primarily perceive the white light emitted directly from the irradiating unit 15 into their eyes. On the other hand, when the user's eyes are open, they primarily perceive the blue light emitted indirectly from the irradiating unit 15 to their eyes via the reflecting unit 114, in addition to or instead of the white light emitted directly from the irradiating unit 15 into their eyes.

[0064] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the nap device 10 shown in Figure 3. Referring to Figure 8, we will mainly explain an example of the processing flow performed by the control unit 19 of the nap device 10 shown in Figure 3. Figure 8 shows a series of processing steps performed by the control unit 19 when, for example, a user who is napping while wearing the nap device 10 is woken up.

[0065] In step S101, the control unit 19 of the napping device 10 acquires biological information related to the sleep of the user who is napping using the sensor unit 17.

[0066] In step S102, the control unit 19 of the nap device 10 measures the user's sleep state based on the biological information acquired by the sensor unit 17 in step S101. In this disclosure, "sleep state" means, for example, the depth of sleep, such as REM sleep and non-REM sleep.

[0067] In step S103, the control unit 19 of the nap device 10 determines whether or not to start a wake-up control based on the sleep state measured in step S102. For example, if the control unit 19 determines that the user is about to transition from light REM sleep to deep non-REM sleep, it starts a wake-up control. For example, if the control unit 19 determines that the numerical value of the biometric information acquired in step S101 has fallen within a predetermined range relative to the boundary value between REM sleep and non-REM sleep, it starts a wake-up control. If the control unit 19 determines to start a wake-up control, it executes the process in step S104. If the control unit 19 determines not to start a wake-up control, it repeats the process from step S101.

[0068] In step S104, if the control unit 19 of the napping device 10 determines in step S103 that it has started control for waking up, it activates at least one of the irradiation unit 15, the vibration unit 121a, and the output unit 16.

[0069] For example, the control unit 19 activates the irradiation unit 15 to emit white light from the light source of the irradiation unit 15 when waking the user. For example, the control unit 19 activates the vibration unit 121a to apply vibrations with a predetermined vibration pattern to the user's neck when waking the user. For example, the control unit 19 activates the output unit 16 to output sound from the speaker of the output unit 16 when waking the user. For example, the control unit 19 activates the output unit 16 to output a scent from the diffuser of the output unit 16 when waking the user.

[0070] In step S105, the control unit 19 of the sleeping device 10 determines whether or not it has received a request from the user to stop the operation. For example, the control unit 25 of the user's own terminal device 20 receives input operations via the input unit 23 to stop the operation of each component of the sleeping device 10 that was operated in step S104. The control unit 25 transmits the operation stop request information obtained by the input unit 23 to the sleeping device 10 via the communication unit 21. When the control unit 19 of the sleeping device 10 receives the request information from the terminal device 20 via the communication unit 13, it determines that it has received a request from the user to stop the operation. If the control unit 19 determines that it has received a request from the user to stop the operation, it executes the process in step S106. If the control unit 19 determines that it has not received a request from the user to stop the operation, it repeats the process from step S105 again.

[0071] In step S106, if the control unit 19 of the napping device 10 determines that it has received a request from the user to stop operation in step S105, it stops the operation of each component that was operated in step S104.

[0072] According to the frame member 121, neck pillow 12, and napping device 10 of the above embodiment, it is possible to improve the convenience of the neck pillow 12. For example, the convenience of the neck pillow 12 is improved when the user takes a nap while seated. The frame member 121 constituting the neck pillow 12 has a base portion 121b that extends along the circumferential direction D1 of the frame member 121 and has a mounting portion 121c to which a face shield 11 that covers the user's face is attached when the frame member 121 is placed around the user's neck.

[0073] As a result, the frame member 121 can also constitute a neck pillow 12 to which the face shield 11 is attached. Therefore, the frame member 121 makes it possible for a user taking a nap to conceal their face with the face shield 11 so that their sleeping face is not seen by others around them. In addition, the frame member 121 can also stably position the user's head without it wobbling by forming the neck pillow 12 with a base portion 121b that extends along the circumferential direction D1 of the frame member 121. Furthermore, the frame member 121 can also position the face shield 11 away from the user's head, in which case it is possible to maintain the condition of the user's hair and makeup without disturbing them. In summary, the frame member 121 can improve the convenience of the neck pillow 12.

[0074] The mounting portion 121c has a clamping structure that supports the face shield 11 by sandwiching it. This allows the frame member 121 to stably support the face shield 11 while facilitating the attachment and detachment of the face shield 11 to the mounting portion 121c. Therefore, the frame member 121 improves the convenience of the napping device 10, which has a neck pillow 12 and a face shield 11 formed by the frame member 121.

[0075] The base portion 121b has a first free end E1 and a second free end E2 that are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction D1 at the front of the frame member 121. This makes it possible to provide an opening between the first free end E1 and the second free end E2 in the frame member 121. Therefore, the frame member 121 opens the front of the neck pillow 12, making it easier for the user to attach the neck pillow 12 to their neck.

[0076] The mounting portion 121c extends inward along the circumferential direction D1 from each of the first free end E1 and the second free end E2. This allows the frame member 121 to position the mounting portion 121c along the circumferential direction D1 from near the diagonal front of the user's neck to the front of the user's neck when the user is wearing the napping device 10. Therefore, the frame member 121 can easily position the face shield 11 in front of the user's face using the mounting portion 121c so that the face shield 11 covers the user's face from the front.

[0077] The frame member 121 has a support portion 121d that extends from the base portion 121b along the height direction D2 intersecting the circumferential direction D1. This allows the frame member 121, including the support portion 121d along with the base portion 121b, to constitute the neck pillow 12, thereby providing a more stable and stable position for the user's head. Therefore, the frame member 121 can also improve the comfort of the user using the neck pillow 12.

[0078] The support portion 121d extends symmetrically from the base portion 121b on both sides in the height direction D2, while being inclined outward from the base portion 121b. This allows the frame member 121 to support the user's head more stably. Therefore, the frame member 121 can further improve the comfort of the user using the neck pillow 12.

[0079] The multiple support parts 121d are arranged symmetrically in the circumferential direction D1 at the base 121b. This allows the frame member 121 to arrange the multiple support parts 121d symmetrically around the user's neck. Therefore, the frame member 121 can support the user's head more stably. As a result, the frame member 121 can further improve the comfort of the user using the neck pillow 12.

[0080] The frame member 121 is positioned on at least one of the side and rear of the base portion 121b and has a vibrating portion 121a that vibrates the frame member 121. As a result, the frame member 121 can vibrate the neck of a user wearing the neck pillow 12 made of the frame member 121, allowing the user to feel the vibration. Therefore, the frame member 121 can also be used, for example, to wake up a user who is napping by vibrating the user's neck, allowing the user to wake up comfortably through the vibration they feel.

[0081] A similar effect applies to the irradiation unit 15 and output unit 16 controlled by the control unit 19 of the napping device 10 in step S104 of Figure 8. For example, the napping device 10 can irradiate the user with white light from the light source of the irradiation unit 15, allowing the user, who is napping with their eyes closed, to perceive brightness from the white light as pseudo-sunlight. The napping device 10 can also, for example, irradiate the user's closed eyes with white light when waking a napping user, allowing the user to wake up comfortably with brightness similar to what they perceive as sunlight.

[0082] For example, the napping device 10 emits white light from the light source of the illumination unit 15 and emits blue light to the user via the reflector unit 114, thereby allowing the user, who has just woken up and opened their eyes, to experience the blue light of a simulated blue sky. The napping device 10 can also, for example, emit blue light into the user's eyes, which are open immediately after waking up from a nap, giving the user a sensation similar to looking at a blue sky, thus helping the user wake up comfortably.

[0083] For example, the napping device 10 can stimulate the hearing of a napping user by emitting sound from the speaker of the output unit 16. The napping device 10 can also stimulate the user's own hearing and help them wake up smoothly from their nap by playing a sound to the user when waking them up.

[0084] For example, the napping device 10 can stimulate the sense of smell of a napping user by emitting a scent from the diffuser of the output unit 16. The napping device 10 can also stimulate the user's sense of smell by having them smell a scent when waking them up, thus facilitating a smooth and comfortable awakening from their nap.

[0085] The napping device 10 can also stimulate the user's sight, hearing, smell, and touch in an integrated manner by combining light, sound, smell, and vibration. Therefore, the user can wake up smoothly and comfortably from a nap while stimulating multiple senses simultaneously.

[0086] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this disclosure can be implemented in other predetermined forms besides the embodiments described above without deviating from its spirit or essential features. Therefore, the prior description is illustrative and not limiting. The scope of the disclosure is defined not by the prior description but by the added claims. Any modifications within their equivalent scope are included therein.

[0087] For example, the shape, pattern, size, arrangement, orientation, type, and number of each component described above are not limited to those shown in the above description and drawings. The shape, pattern, size, arrangement, orientation, type, and number of each component may be configured arbitrarily as long as they can achieve their function. The frame member 121, neck pillow 12, face shield 11, and napping device 10 shown are functional concepts, and the specific form of each component is not limited to those shown.

[0088] For example, the functions included in each component or step can be rearranged in a logically consistent manner, and multiple components or steps can be combined into one or separated.

[0089] In the above embodiment, the mounting portion 121c was described as having a clamping structure that holds and supports the face shield 11, but it is not limited to this. The mounting portion 121c may have any other structure as long as the face shield 11 that covers the user's face can be attached when the frame member 121 is positioned around the user's neck. For example, the mounting portion 121c may have other structures such as a screw structure, a joining structure, an adhesive structure, an engaging structure, a locking structure, and a fitting structure instead of, or in addition to, the clamping structure.

[0090] In the above embodiment, the base portion 121b was described as having a first free end E1 and a second free end E2 spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction D1 at the front of the frame member 121, but it is not limited to this. The base portion 121b may be configured in a continuous annular shape without having free ends.

[0091] In the above embodiment, the mounting portion 121c was described as extending inward along the circumferential direction D1 from each of the first free end E1 and the second free end E2, but it is not limited to this. The mounting portion 121c may be located at a different location on the base portion 121b from the first free end E1 and the second free end E2.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the frame member 121 was described as having a support portion 121d extending from the base portion 121b along the height direction D2 intersecting the circumferential direction D1, but it is not limited to this. The frame member 121 does not have to have a support portion 121d.

[0093] In the above embodiment, the support portion 121d was described as extending symmetrically from the base portion 121b on both sides in the height direction D2 while inclined outward from the base portion 121b, but is not limited thereto. The support portion 121d may have any other shape that can stably support the user's head. For example, the support portion 121d may be inclined inward from the base portion 121b. The support portion 121d may extend from the base portion 121b on one side in the height direction D2. The support portion 121d may extend asymmetrically from the base portion 121b on both sides in the height direction D2.

[0094] In the above embodiment, the frame member 121 was described as having multiple support portions 121d, but it is not limited to this. The frame member 121 may have only one support portion 121d. In the above embodiment, the multiple support portions 121d were described as being arranged symmetrically in the circumferential direction D1 on the base portion 121b, but it is not limited to this. The multiple support portions 121d may be arranged asymmetrically in the circumferential direction D1 on the base portion 121b.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the frame member 121 was described as having a vibrating part 121a that is positioned on at least one of the side and rear of the base 121b and causes the frame member 121 to vibrate, but it is not limited to this. The vibrating part 121a of the frame member 121 may be positioned at locations other than the side and rear of the base 121b.

[0096] Alternatively, the frame member 121 does not have to have a vibrating part 121a. In this case, the vibrating part 121a does not have to be located anywhere in the napping device 10, or it may be located in a different location in the napping device 10 from the frame member 121. For example, the vibrating part 121a may be located on the cushion member 122 of the neck pillow 12, or on the face shield 11.

[0097] In the above embodiment, the neck pillow 12 was described as having a frame member 121 and a cushion member 122 that covers the frame member 121, but it is not limited to this. The neck pillow 12 may cover the frame member 121 with a member different from the cushion member 122, or the frame member 121 may be left exposed without being covered by a member.

[0098] In the above embodiment, the napping device 10 was described as having a neck pillow 12 and a face shield 11 attached to the mounting portion 121c, but it is not limited to this. The napping device 10 does not have to have a face shield 11.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the napping device 10 is described as operating at least one of the vibration unit 121a, the irradiation unit 15, and the output unit 16 when waking up a user who is napping, but it is not limited to this. The napping device 10 may also operate at least one of the vibration unit 121a, the irradiation unit 15, and the output unit 16 when the user is falling asleep, in order to facilitate the user falling asleep and smoothly transitioning to napping.

[0100] In the above embodiment, the napping device 10 was described as receiving a request from the user to stop its operation via the terminal device 20, but it is not limited to this. The napping device 10 may have an input unit such as a switch for stopping the operation of each component that was operated in step S104 of Figure 8. The napping device 10 may stop the operation of each component that was operated in step S104 of Figure 8 based on the user's operation of the input unit.

[0101] In the above embodiment, the napping system 1 was described as having a napping device 10 and a terminal device 20, but it is not limited to this. The napping system 1 may consist only of the napping device 10 without the terminal device 20. In this case, the functions that are realized using the terminal device 20 as described in the above embodiment may be realized by the napping device 10 itself.

[0102] Figure 9A is a schematic external perspective view showing the high state of the frame member 121 according to the first modified example. Figure 9B is a schematic external perspective view showing the low state of the frame member 121 of Figure 9A. An example of the configuration and function of the frame member 121 according to the first modified example will be mainly described with reference to Figures 9A and 9B.

[0103] In the above embodiment, as shown in Figure 5 for example, the overall height of the frame member 121 is constant, but is not limited thereto. The overall height of the frame member 121 may be variable. In this case, the frame member 121 may further have an adjustment part 121e located on the base 121b that changes the height of the frame member 121. For example, the adjustment part 121e is arranged to extend from a support part 121d located at the front of the frame member 121 to a support part 121d located at the rear of the frame member 121, centering on the portion where the vibrating part 121a is located on each of the sides of the base 121b.

[0104] The adjustment section 121e has a divided structure that divides the support section 121d in the height direction D2 into a first part extending from the base 121b to one side in the height direction D2 as shown in Figure 5, and a second part extending from the base 121b to the other side in the height direction D2. The divided structure of the adjustment section 121e includes a support column 121f that extends along the height direction D2. The adjustment section 121e changes the distance in the height direction D2 between the first and second parts of the support section 121d by tilting the three support columns 121f of the divided structure, which are located on each side of the base 121b, at an angle with respect to the height direction D2.

[0105] For example, the overall width of the adjustment section 121e along the height direction D2 is largest when the three support columns 121f are arranged parallel to each other along the height direction D2, as shown in Figure 9A. On the other hand, the overall width of the adjustment section 121e along the height direction D2 is smallest when the three support columns 121f are inclined most diagonally with respect to the height direction D2, as shown in Figure 9B. The adjustment section 121e changes the overall width along the height direction D2 continuously or in steps between, for example, the high state of the frame member 121 shown in Figure 9A and the low state of the frame member 121 shown in Figure 9B.

[0106] The frame member 121 further includes an adjustment part 121e that changes the height of the frame member 121, allowing the frame member 121 to be adjusted to an appropriate height according to the user's neck length. Generally, neck lengths vary from user to user. Even in such cases, the frame member 121 can adjust the height of the frame member 121 to suit each user, providing a consistent sense of stability when supporting the user's head for a variety of users.

[0107] In the first modified example described above, the adjustment section 121e is described as having the divided structure shown in Figures 9A and 9B, but is not limited thereto. The adjustment section 121e may have a folding structure that folds in a straight line, such that the first and second parts of the support section 121d move parallel to each other along the height direction D2 while facing each other along the height direction D2, thereby changing the height of the frame member 121.

[0108] Figure 9C is a schematic external perspective view showing the folded state of the frame member 121 in Figure 9A. Referring to Figure 9C, other examples of the configuration and function of the frame member 121 according to the first modified example will be mainly described.

[0109] In the above embodiment, for example, as shown in Figure 5, the frame member 121 does not have a folding structure, but is not limited thereto. As shown in Figure 9C, the frame member 121 may have a folding section 121g that transitions between an assembled state in which the entire structure is assembled and a folded state in which the entire structure is folded.

[0110] For example, as shown in Figure 9A, the folding part 121g is located in the center of the rear of the base part 121b. The folding part 121g has an asymmetrical axis of rotation R that is inclined with respect to the central axis of the frame member 121, and enables the folding of the frame member 121 by twisting one half of the frame member 121 toward the other half. The folding part 121g enables the folding of the frame member 121 so that one half and the other half do not overlap in the height direction D2, compared to when the frame member 121 is folded so that one half and the other half overlap in the height direction D2 by a symmetrical axis of rotation that coincides with the central axis of the frame member 121.

[0111] The frame member 121 has a folding section 121g, which allows it to be folded compactly, making it easy for the user to carry the frame member 121. When the frame member 121 is not in use by the user, it can be folded at the folding section 121g, enabling space-saving storage. The folding section 121g has an asymmetrical axis of rotation R that is inclined with respect to the central axis of the frame member 121, which allows the frame member 121 to be folded so that one half and the other half do not overlap in the height direction D2, thereby achieving a more compact fold.

[0112] In the first modified example described above, the folding portion 121g is described as having an asymmetrical axis of rotation R inclined with respect to the central axis of the frame member 121, but it is not limited to this. The folding portion 121g may also have a symmetrical axis of rotation that coincides with the central axis of the frame member 121.

[0113] Figure 10A is a schematic external perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the frame member 121 according to the second modified example. Figure 10B is a front view of the frame member 121 in Figure 10A. Figure 10C is a side view of the frame member 121 in Figure 10A. An example of the configuration and function of the frame member 121 according to the second modified example will be mainly described with reference to Figures 10A to 10C.

[0114] In the above embodiment, the frame member 121 was described as having the shape shown in Figure 5, but it is not limited to this. The frame member 121 may have a shape similar to a neck corset, for example, as shown in Figures 10A to 10C.

[0115] The frame member 121 according to the second modified example has a base portion 121b extending along the circumferential direction D1 of the frame member 121, and a mounting portion 121c disposed on the base portion 121b to which a face shield 11 covering the user's face is attached when the frame member 121 is positioned around the user's neck. In addition, the frame member 121 has a vibrating portion 121a disposed on at least one of the side and rear of the base portion 121b to vibrate the frame member 121. For example, the multiple vibrating portions 121a are arranged symmetrically on the base portion 121b along the circumferential direction D1 of the frame member 121. For example, one vibrating portion 121a is disposed on each side of the base portion 121b, and one is disposed on the rear of the base portion 121b, for a total of three vibrating portions along the circumferential direction D1.

[0116] The frame member 121 according to the second modification further includes, in addition to the components common to the embodiment described above, a belt 121h that connects the first free end E1 and the second free end E2 of the base 121b along the circumferential direction D1. The belt 121h is intended to increase the gap between the first free end E1 and the second free end E2 so that the corset shape of the frame member 121 does not compress the user's neck.

[0117] The frame member 121 in the second modified example may be configured to have a variable height, similar to the first modified example. In this case, the frame member 121 may be, for example, a pair of members having a similar corset shape, which are arranged on the inside and outside along the circumferential direction D1 and bonded together. The frame member 121 may be configured to have a variable height by offsetting one of the pair of members in the height direction D2 relative to the other so that they can be bonded together.

[0118] Some embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. However, it should be noted that the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to these. [Note 1] A frame member that constitutes a neck pillow, The frame member has a base portion that extends along the circumferential direction, A mounting portion is provided on the base, to which a face shield covering the user's face is attached when the frame member is positioned around the user's neck, Equipped with, Frame components. [Note 2] The frame members described in Appendix 1, The mounting portion has a clamping structure that holds and supports the face shield. Frame components. [Note 3] A frame member as described in Appendix 1 or 2, The base portion has a first free end and a second free end that are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction at the front of the frame member. Frame components. [Note 4] The frame members described in Appendix 3, The mounting portion extends inward along the circumferential direction from each of the first free end and the second free end, Frame components. [Note 5] A frame member described in any one of the appendices 1 to 4, The system further comprises a support portion extending from the base portion along a height direction intersecting the circumferential direction, Frame components. [Note 6] The frame members described in Appendix 5, The support portion extends symmetrically from the base on both sides in the height direction, while being inclined outward from the base. Frame components. [Note 7] A frame member as described in Appendix 5 or 6, The system comprises multiple support parts, The multiple support portions are arranged symmetrically in the circumferential direction at the base. Frame components. [Note 8] A frame member described in any one of the appendices 1 to 7, The base is further equipped with an adjustment unit that changes the height of the frame member, Frame components. [Note 9] A frame member described in any one of the appendices 1 to 8, It has a folding section that transitions between an assembled state where the entire structure is assembled and a folded state where the entire structure is folded. Frame components. [Note 10] A frame member described in any one of the appendices 1 to 9, The base further comprises a vibrating part positioned at least on one of the side and rear portions of the base, which vibrates the frame member. Frame components. [Note 11] A frame member described in any one of the appendices 1 to 10, A cushioning member covering the frame member, Equipped with, Neck pillow. [Note 12] The neck pillow described in Appendix 11, The face shield attached to the aforementioned mounting portion, Equipped with, A napping device. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0119] 1. Nap System 10. Napping device 11 Face Shields 111 Mounting part 112 Notch 113 Fold line 114 Reflector 115 Light-shielding part 12 neck pillow 121 Frame members 121a Vibration part 121b base 121c Mounting part 121d Support part 121e Adjustment section 121f post 121g (folded part) 121h belt 122 Cushioning material 13 Communications Department 14 Storage section 15 Irradiation area 16 Output section 17. Sensor Unit 18 Power supply section 19 Control Unit 20 Terminal devices 21 Communications Department 22 Memory section 23 Input section 24 Output section 25 Control Unit D1 Circumferential direction D2 Height direction E1 1st free end E2 2nd free end R rotation axis

Claims

1. A frame member that constitutes a neck pillow, The frame member has a base portion that extends along the circumferential direction, A mounting portion is provided on the base, to which a face shield covering the user's face is attached when the frame member is positioned around the user's neck, Equipped with, Frame components.

2. A frame member according to claim 1, The mounting portion has a clamping structure that holds and supports the face shield. Frame components.

3. A frame member according to claim 1 or 2, The base portion has a first free end and a second free end that are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction at the front of the frame member. Frame components.

4. A frame member according to claim 3, The mounting portion extends inward along the circumferential direction from each of the first free end and the second free end, Frame components.

5. A frame member according to claim 1 or 2, The system further comprises a support portion extending from the base portion along a height direction intersecting the circumferential direction, Frame components.

6. A frame member according to claim 5, The support portion extends symmetrically from the base on both sides in the height direction, while being inclined outward from the base. Frame components.

7. A frame member according to claim 5, The system comprises multiple support parts, The multiple support portions are arranged symmetrically in the circumferential direction at the base. Frame components.

8. A frame member according to claim 1 or 2, The base is further equipped with an adjustment unit that changes the height of the frame member, Frame components.

9. A frame member according to claim 1 or 2, It has a folding section that transitions between an assembled state where the entire structure is assembled and a folded state where the entire structure is folded. Frame components.

10. A frame member according to claim 1 or 2, The base further comprises a vibrating part positioned at least on one of the side and rear portions of the base, which vibrates the frame member. Frame components.

11. A frame member according to claim 1 or 2, A cushioning member covering the frame member, Equipped with, Neck pillow.

12. The neck pillow according to claim 11, The face shield attached to the aforementioned mounting portion, Equipped with, A napping device.

Images