Wearable device and method for providing smoking effects

Abstract

A wearable device that provides a smoking effect includes a housing, a first stimulation unit provided on one side of the housing, the first stimulation unit including at least one electrode that is positioned at a position corresponding to a first part of the user and provides electrical stimulation, a second stimulation unit provided on one side of the housing, the second stimulation unit including at least one electrode that is positioned at a position corresponding to a second part of the user and provides electrical stimulation, and a controller that controls the first stimulation unit or the second stimulation unit, wherein the first stimulation unit or the second stimulation unit provides an electrical stimulation signal that induces a state of alertness that can achieve the smoking effect.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The following various embodiments relate to a wearable device for providing a smoking effect and a smoking effect providing system. [Background technology]

[0002] Research into electroencephalogram generating devices has been conducted. For example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 10-2011-0064706 discloses an electroencephalogram generating device and a method for generating electroencephalograms. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] A wearable device and a method for providing smoking effects according to one embodiment are intended to provide a user with smoking effects without the user having to smoke.

[0004] The wearable device and method for providing smoking effects according to one embodiment aim to effectively provide smoking effects to a user through brain stimulation.

[0005] The wearable device and smoking provision method according to one embodiment aim to increase the efficiency of brain stimulation by providing brain stimulation to multiple parts of the user.

[0006] The wearable device and smoking effect providing method according to one embodiment efficiently control the level of brain stimulation based on feedback from the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, a wearable device that provides a smoking effect includes a housing, a first stimulation unit provided on one side of the housing, the first stimulation unit including at least one electrode that is positioned at a position corresponding to a first part of the user and provides electrical stimulation, a second stimulation unit provided on one side of the housing, the second stimulation unit including at least one electrode that is positioned at a position corresponding to a second part of the user and provides electrical stimulation, and a controller that controls the first stimulation unit or the second stimulation unit, wherein the first stimulation unit or the second stimulation unit can provide an electrical stimulation signal that induces an alert state that can achieve the smoking effect.

[0008] In one embodiment, the device may further include a third stimulation unit provided on one surface of the housing, the third stimulation unit including at least one electrode disposed at a position corresponding to a third part of the user to provide electrical stimulation.

[0009] In one embodiment, the first location may be the frontal lobe, the second location may be the parietal lobe, and the third location may be the occipital lobe.

[0010] In one embodiment, the controller can control at least one of the first stimulation unit, the second stimulation unit, or the third stimulation unit to provide a brain stimulation signal that reduces delta or theta waves or increases beta waves in a user.

[0011] In one embodiment, the controller is capable of activating the second stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit to reduce delta waves in the user.

[0012] The controller activates the second stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit, and the second stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit can provide electrical stimulation that reduces the power spectral density of the user's brain waves in the 1 to 4 Hz frequency range by 0.3 to 0.9 dB.

[0013] In one embodiment, the controller can activate the first stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit to reduce the user's theta waves, and activate an electrode of the first stimulation unit at a position corresponding to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

[0014] The controller activates the first stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit, and the first stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit can provide electrical stimulation that reduces the power spectral density of the user's brain waves in the 4 to 8 Hz frequency range by 0.2 to 0.5 dB.

[0015] In one embodiment, the controller is capable of activating at least one of the first stimulation unit, the second stimulation unit, or the third stimulation unit to increase beta waves in the user.

[0016] The controller activates at least one of the first stimulation unit, the second stimulation unit, or the third stimulation unit, and at least one of the first stimulation unit, the second stimulation unit, or the third stimulation unit can provide electrical stimulation that increases the power spectral density of the user's brain waves in the 12 to 25 Hz frequency range by 0.1 to 1.1 dB.

[0017] In one embodiment, the housing may be configured to be wearable on a user's head.

[0018] In one embodiment, a method for providing a smoking effect may include placing electrodes on at least two of a user's frontal, parietal, and occipital lobes, and providing an electrical stimulation signal to the electrodes to decrease delta or theta waves or increase beta waves in the user's brain waves.

[0019] In one embodiment, in the step of providing an electrical stimulation signal to the electrode, the delta waves may be reduced by providing an electrical stimulation signal to an electrode placed at a position corresponding to the parietal lobe or the occipital lobe.

[0020] In one embodiment, in the step of providing an electrical stimulation signal to the electrode, the electrical stimulation signal may be provided to an electrode placed at a position corresponding to the frontal lobe or the occipital lobe to reduce the theta waves.

[0021] In one embodiment, the step of providing an electrical stimulation signal to the electrodes may activate at least one of the frontal lobe, the parietal lobe, or the occipital lobe to increase the beta waves.

[0022] In one embodiment, the wearable device provides a smoking effect and includes a housing, a stimulation unit provided on one side of the housing to provide a stimulation signal, and a controller that controls the stimulation unit, and the controller can control the stimulation unit to generate a stimulation signal that induces a state of wakefulness that can achieve the smoking effect.

[0023] In one embodiment, the stimulation unit is capable of generating a stimulation signal to stimulate the user's brain.

[0024] In one embodiment, the stimulation signal may be a brain stimulation signal that decreases at least one of delta waves and theta waves and increases beta waves.

[0025] In one embodiment, the controller is capable of controlling the stimulation unit to generate a brain stimulation signal that increases the frequency range of brain waves falling above 10 Hz.

[0026] In one embodiment, the controller can control the stimulation unit to generate a brain stimulation signal that reduces the power spectral density (PSD) of the user's brain waves in the 1 to 4 Hz frequency range by 0.3 to 0.9 dB.

[0027] In one embodiment, the controller can control the stimulation unit to generate a brain stimulation signal that reduces the power spectral density of the user's brain waves in the 4 to 8 Hz frequency region by 0.2 to 0.5 dB.

[0028] In one embodiment, the controller can control the stimulation unit to generate a brain stimulation signal that increases the power spectral density of the user's brain waves in the 12 to 25 Hz frequency region by 0.1 to 1.1 dB.

[0029] In one embodiment, the stimulation unit includes a plurality of electrodes for electrical stimulation and a power source connected to the electrodes, at least one of which can be positioned at a location corresponding to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of the user.

[0030] In one embodiment, the wearable device may further include a verification unit for verifying the effects of smoking.

[0031] In one embodiment, the controller can determine the activity of the stimulation unit based on a smoking indicator signal from the verification unit.

[0032] In one embodiment, the verification unit is capable of measuring Heart Rate Variability (HRV).

[0033] In one embodiment, a smoking effect providing system includes a stimulation unit that stimulates a user's brain and a controller that controls the stimulation signal of the stimulation unit, and the controller can control the stimulation unit to reduce at least one of the user's delta waves or theta waves and increase beta waves.

[0034] In one embodiment, the stimulation unit is capable of providing electrical stimulation to a location corresponding to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of a user.

[0035] In one embodiment, the smoking effect providing system further includes a verification member for verifying the smoking effect of the user, and the verification member can transmit a smoking indicator signal measured from the user to the controller.

[0036] In one embodiment, the controller is capable of determining the activity of the stimulation unit based on a smoking indicator signal from the verification member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0037] According to an embodiment of the wearable device and smoking effect method, the smoking effect can be provided to the user without the act of smoking.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the wearable device and smoking effect method, the smoking effect can be efficiently provided through brain stimulation of the user.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the wearable device and smoking provision method, brain stimulation can be performed on multiple parts of the user, thereby increasing the efficiency of brain stimulation.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the wearable device and smoking effect method, the degree of brain stimulation can be efficiently controlled based on feedback from the user.

[0041] The effects of the wearable device and smoking effect providing method according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0042] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a wearable device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows the electrode arrangement of a wearable device according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a state in which a wearable device according to an embodiment is in use. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows the user's brain waves before and after smoking. [Figure 5a] Figure 5a shows brain stimulation sites for delta wave reduction. [Figure 5b] Figure 5b shows brain stimulation sites for delta wave reduction. [Figure 6a] Figure 6a shows brain stimulation sites for theta wave reduction. [Figure 6b] Figure 6b shows brain stimulation sites for theta wave reduction. [Figure 7a] Figure 7a shows brain stimulation sites for increasing beta waves. [Figure 7b] Figure 7b shows brain stimulation sites for increasing beta waves. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows the user's brain waves before and after stimulation by a wearable device according to one embodiment. [Figure 9a] FIG. 9a shows the heart rate variability index of a user before and after smoking. [Figure 9b] FIG. 9b shows the heart rate variability index of the user before and after smoking. [Figure 9c] FIG. 9c shows the user's heart rate variability index before and after smoking. [Figure 9d] FIG. 9d shows the heart rate variability index of the user before and after smoking. [Figure 9e] FIG. 9e shows the user's heart rate variability index before and after smoking. [Figure 10a] FIG. 10a shows the autonomic nervous activity of a user's heart rate variability before and after stimulation by a wearable device according to one embodiment. [Figure 10b] FIG. 10b shows the autonomic nervous activity of the user's heart rate variability before and after stimulation by a wearable device according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing smoking effects according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows a smoking effect providing system according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0043] The terms used in the embodiments are generally used as widely as possible while taking into consideration the functions in the embodiments, but these may change depending on the intentions of engineers in the field, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, and in such cases, the meanings thereof will be described in detail in the relevant description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply the names of the terms.

[0044] Throughout the specification, when a part is described as "comprising" a component, unless otherwise specified, this does not exclude other components and means that the part may further include other components. Furthermore, the terms "module," "unit," etc. described in this specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and may be embodied in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0045] As used herein, when a phrase such as "at least any" precedes an arrangement of components, it modifies the arrangement as a whole, not each individual component of the arrangement. For example, the phrase "at least any of a, b, and c" should be interpreted as including a, b, or c, or a and b, a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0046] FIG. 1 shows a wearable device 100 according to one embodiment, FIG. 2 shows the electrode arrangement of the wearable device 100 according to one embodiment, and FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the use state of the wearable device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0047] 1 to 3, a wearable device 100 according to one embodiment can provide a smoking effect, and includes a housing 110, a first stimulation unit 121 provided on one side of the housing 110 and providing a stimulation signal to a first part of the user, a second stimulation unit 122 provided on one side of the housing 110 and providing a stimulation signal to a second part of the user, and a controller for controlling the first stimulation unit 121 or the second stimulation unit 122. The wearable device 100 may further include a third stimulation unit 123 providing a stimulation signal to a third part of the user.

[0048] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the housing 110 may be worn in contact with the body of the user O. The housing 110 may be configured to be worn on the head of the user O, like a helmet, hat, or the like. For example, the housing 110 may be made of a metal or plastic material. According to various embodiments, a portion of the housing 110 (e.g., a frame) may be made of a metal material, and other portions of the housing 110 may be made of a plastic material.

[0049] The housing 110 can be firmly worn on the head of the user O via the wearing means 111. For example, the wearing means 111 has the form of a band or strap that can connect one end of the housing 110 to the other end, and may be made of various materials (e.g., rubber, plastic, metal, etc.). The wearing means 111 is configured to be detachable from the housing 110 according to the preference of the user O, and can impart various aesthetic senses to the appearance of the wearable device 100. As another example, the housing 110 may be worn in a manner that forcefully fits on the head of the user O, with the wearing means 111 omitted.

[0050] The housing 110 includes a first surface 110-1 that contacts the user O, a second surface 110-2 opposite the first surface 110-1, and a side surface between the first surface 110-1 and the second surface 110-2. A first stimulation unit 121, a second stimulation unit 122, and a third stimulation unit 123 are disposed in the internal space of the housing 110 defined by the first surface 110-1, the second surface 110-2, and the side surface of the housing 110, and at least a portion of each of the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and the third stimulation unit 123 may be exposed to the outside of the first surface 110-1. The internal space of the housing 110 may further accommodate a memory, a communication unit, a power supply, etc.

[0051] For example, the memory may be hardware that stores various data processed within the wearable device 100, and may store data that has been processed by the controller and data to be processed. The memory may include at least one type of storage medium selected from the group consisting of flash memory, hard disk, micro multimedia card, card-type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The memory may store the operating time, maximum usage time, current usage time, and data on the smoking pattern of the user O of the wearable device 100.

[0052] For example, the communication unit may include a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit. The short-range communication unit includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth® communication unit, a Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a Wi-Fi (WLAN) communication unit, a Zigbee® communication unit, an infrared (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an ultra wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0053] In one embodiment, a power supply or stimulus generator 112 may be disposed on one side of the housing 110. The power supply or stimulus generator 112 is connected to the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and the third stimulation unit 123 via connecting wires 113. The power supply or stimulus generator 112 may provide power or electrical stimulation signals for brain stimulation to the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and the third stimulation unit 123.

[0054] As another example, the power source or stimulus generator 112 may be arranged to be separated from the housing 110. For example, the power source or stimulus generator 112 may be configured in the form of a neckband and worn around the neck of the user O. In this case, the power source or stimulus generator 112 is also connected to the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123 by connecting wires 113.

[0055] In one embodiment, the controller of the wearable device 100 controls the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123 to generate an electrical stimulation signal that induces an arousal state that can achieve the smoking effect. As an example, the controller may be housed in the internal space of the housing 110 and connected to the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123. As another example, the controller may be housed in another electronic device (e.g., a mobile communication terminal) outside the housing 110 and provide control signals to the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123 via the communication unit.

[0056] In one embodiment, the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123 may include at least one electrode for providing electrical stimulation. The electrode may be connected to a controller. The electrode may be connected to a power source or stimulation generator 112.

[0057] For example, a pad may be attached to the electrode exposed from the first surface 110-1 of the housing 110. The pad may contact the scalp of the user O. The pad may be made of a hydrogel material for multiple uses. The pad may be replaced after its lifespan has expired.

[0058] In particular, referring to FIG. 2, the electrodes may be comprised of a plurality of electrodes A1, A2, C3, C4, Cz, F3, F4, F7, F8, Fp1, Fp2, Fz, O1, O2, P3, P4, Pz, T3, T4, T5, and T6.

[0059] In one embodiment, the first stimulation unit 121 includes some electrodes F3, Fz, and F4 that are arranged at positions corresponding to a first region of the user O (for example, the frontal lobe).

[0060] The second stimulation unit 122 includes some electrodes C3, Cz, and C4 that are placed at positions corresponding to a second part of the user O (for example, the parietal lobe).

[0061] The third stimulation unit 123 includes some electrodes T5, P3, Pz, P4, P6, O1, and O2 that are arranged at positions corresponding to a third part of the user O (for example, the occipital lobe).

[0062] The controller of the wearable device 100 can provide an electrical stimulation signal to the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123 to change the state of the user O to an awake state. For example, referring to FIG. 3 , the controller of the wearable device 100 can provide an electrical stimulation signal to electrode F7 or electrode F8, which is disposed at a position corresponding to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of the user O, to electrically stimulate the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of the user O. Electrode F7 may be configured as an anode (+), and electrode F8 may be configured as a cathode (-). The controller of the wearable device 100 can cause a current from electrode F7 to flow to electrode F8 via at least a portion of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of the user O. Here, the excitability of neurons in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex adjacent to electrode F7 is increased, and the excitability of neurons in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex adjacent to electrode F8 is decreased, thereby maximizing the waking effect of the user O.

[0063] In one embodiment, the controller of the wearable device 100 controls the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122 and / or the third stimulation unit 123 so that the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122 and / or the third stimulation unit 123 generate brain stimulation signals that induce a state of alertness that can achieve the effects of smoking.

[0064] In one embodiment, the brain stimulation signal may be an electrical stimulation signal, or a transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), which uses sine waves of various frequencies with a maximum current of 2 mA or less to affect periodic excitability changes in neurons in the cerebral cortex, thereby inducing changes in brain functions such as cognition and memory.

[0065] In one embodiment, the controller of the wearable device 100 can control the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122 and / or the third stimulation unit 123 to provide brain stimulation signals that decrease at least one of the delta wave region or theta wave region of the user's brain waves or increase the beta wave region of the user's brain waves.

[0066] Delta waves may be in the 1-4 Hz frequency range and are associated with involuntary bodily activities such as heartbeat and digestive regulation. Increasing the power of delta waves induces a state of calm and sleep in the user, embodying states such as relaxation, while decreasing the power of delta waves induces a state of wakefulness. Theta waves may be in the 4-8 Hz frequency range and are primarily produced during meditation or activation of the hippocampus, the brain's memory center. Increasing the power of theta waves induces states of inspiration, insight, or memory fragment binding, while decreasing the power of theta waves induces states of anxiety, stress, and low emotional self-awareness. Beta waves may be in the 12-25 Hz frequency range and, since beta waves occur during normal wakefulness, increasing beta waves indicates wakefulness. Increasing the power of beta waves induces a state of wakefulness, such as cognitive thought activity, while decreasing the power of beta waves induces a state of relaxation.

[0067] FIG. 4 shows the brain waves of a user before and after smoking a cigarette or e-cigarette.

[0068] The graph in Figure 4 shows electroencephalograms (EEGs) measured by subjects before and after smoking either cigarettes or e-cigarettes. This was done using an electrophysiological method that records electrical brain activity via electrodes. The specific test method was as follows: EEG sensors (electroencephalogram sensors) were attached to multiple locations on the subjects' heads. The subjects were divided into two groups: those who smoked cigarettes and those who smoked e-cigarettes. EEGs were measured before and after smoking for each group. The graph in Figure 4 shows the results of analyzing the power spectral density (PSD) before and after smoking. Referring to Figure 4, the analysis of the overall band power showed a tendency for low-frequency (e.g., delta waves, theta waves) to decrease and high-frequency (e.g., beta waves) waves to increase after smoking. For example, a general tendency for the power spectral density of the subjects' EEGs to increase in the frequency range above 10 Hz was confirmed.

[0069] Figures 5a and 5b show brain stimulation sites for delta wave reduction, Figures 6a and 6b show brain stimulation sites for theta wave reduction, and Figures 7a and 7b show brain stimulation sites for beta wave increase.

[0070] FIG. 5a shows the brain wave changes in terms of delta waves before and after smoking with a cigarette and an e-cigarette, and FIG. 5b shows the brain stimulation sites of user O for reducing delta waves.

[0071] Referring to Figure 5a, with respect to delta waves, e-cigarettes may activate the occipital and parietal lobes, while cigarettes may activate the occipital, parietal, and frontal lobes (particularly the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex). Both cigarettes and e-cigarettes may activate the occipital and parietal lobes.

[0072] 5b, the controller of the wearable device 100 according to an embodiment may activate the second stimulation unit 122 and / or the third stimulation unit 123 to provide a smoking effect and reduce delta waves. The controller may activate the electrodes C3, Cz, and C4 of the second stimulation unit 122 and / or the electrodes T5, P3, Pz, P4, T6, O1, and O2 of the third stimulation unit 123 to provide electrical stimulation to the parietal lobe and / or occipital lobe regions, effectively reducing delta waves of the user O.

[0073] For example, the controller of the wearable device 100 can activate the second stimulation unit 122 and / or the third stimulation unit 123, and the second stimulation unit 122 and / or the third stimulation unit 123 can provide electrical stimulation that reduces the power spectral density of the user's brain waves in the 1 to 4 Hz frequency range by 0.3 to 0.9 dB.

[0074] FIG. 6a shows the changes in brain waves related to theta waves before and after smoking with a cigarette and an e-cigarette, and FIG. 6b shows the brain stimulation sites of user O for reducing theta waves.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 6a, e-cigarettes may activate the occipital lobe, while cigarettes may activate the frontal lobe (dorsolateral prefrontal cortex) for theta waves.

[0076] 6b, the controller of the wearable device 100 according to one embodiment may activate the first stimulation unit 121 and / or the third stimulation unit 123 to reduce theta waves of the user O. Here, among the plurality of electrodes of the first stimulation unit 121, electrodes F3, Fz, and F4 at positions corresponding to the frontal lobe (dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex) may be activated. The controller may activate the electrodes F3, Fz, and F4 of the first stimulation unit 121 and / or the electrodes O1 and O2 of the third stimulation unit 123 to provide electrical stimulation to the frontal lobe (dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex) and / or the occipital lobe, thereby efficiently reducing theta waves of the user O.

[0077] For example, the controller may activate the first stimulation unit 121 and / or the third stimulation unit 123, and the first stimulation unit 121 and / or the third stimulation unit 123 may provide electrical stimulation that reduces the power spectral density of the user's electroencephalogram (EEG) by 0.2 to 0.5 dB in the 4 to 8 Hz frequency range.

[0078] FIG. 7a shows the changes in brain waves related to beta waves before and after smoking with a cigarette and an e-cigarette, and FIG. 7b shows the areas of brain stimulation of user O to increase beta waves.

[0079] Referring to Figure 7a, for beta waves, e-cigarettes activate the occipital and parietal lobes, while cigarettes activate the occipital, parietal, and frontal lobes.

[0080] 7b, the controller may increase the user's beta waves by activating the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123. The controller may activate the electrodes F3, Fz, F4 of the first stimulation unit 121, the electrodes C3, Cz, C4 of the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the electrodes T5, P3, Pz, P4, T6, O1, O2 of the third stimulation unit 123 to provide electrical stimulation to the frontal lobe, parietal lobe, and / or occipital lobe regions, thereby effectively increasing the beta waves of the user O.

[0081] For example, the controller may activate the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122 and / or the third stimulation unit 123, and the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122 and / or the third stimulation unit 123 may provide electrical stimulation that increases the power spectral density of the user's brain waves in the 12 to 25 Hz frequency range by 0.1 to 1.1 dB.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 8, the wearable device 100 according to one embodiment was used to achieve the same / similar results as the actual smoking shown in FIG.

[0083] Regarding the reduction of delta waves, which are in the low frequency range, the second stimulation unit 122 and / or the third stimulation unit 123 of the wearable device 100 are activated to provide electrical stimulation to the parietal lobe and / or occipital lobe of the user O, thereby efficiently reducing delta waves and maximizing the user O's arousal regarding the effects of smoking.

[0084] Regarding the reduction of theta waves, which are in the low frequency range, the first stimulation unit 121 and / or the third stimulation unit 123 of the wearable device 100 are activated to provide electrical stimulation to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and / or occipital lobe of the user O, thereby efficiently reducing theta waves and maximizing the user O's arousal in relation to the effects of smoking.

[0085] With regard to the increase in beta waves, which are in the high frequency range, the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123 of the wearable device 100 are activated to provide electrical stimulation to all areas of the user O's brain, thereby efficiently increasing beta waves and maximizing the user O's awakening regarding the effects of smoking.

[0086] The electrical stimulation from the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123 may be transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), which applies sine waves of various frequencies with a maximum current of 2 mA or less to affect periodic changes in the excitability of neurons in the cerebral cortex, thereby inducing changes in brain functions such as cognition and memory. The applied current may be 1 to 3 mA, and the stimulation time may be 10 to 30 minutes.

[0087] In one embodiment, the controller of the wearable device 100 controls the stimulation units (e.g., the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and the third stimulation unit 123) to provide brain stimulation signals that increase the frequency range of the user's brain waves that corresponds to 10 Hz or higher.

[0088] In one embodiment, the controller of the wearable device 100 controls the stimulation unit to provide a first electrical stimulus that reduces the power spectral density (PSD) of the user's electroencephalogram (EEG) by 0.3 to 0.9 dB in the 1 to 4 Hz frequency range.

[0089] In one embodiment, the controller of the wearable device 100 controls the stimulation unit to provide a second electrical stimulus that reduces the power spectral density of the user's electroencephalogram in the 4 to 8 Hz frequency range by 0.2 to 0.5 dB.

[0090] In one embodiment, the controller of the wearable device 100 controls the stimulation unit to provide a second electrical stimulus that reduces the power spectral density of the user's electroencephalogram in the 12 to 25 Hz frequency range by 0.1 to 1.1 dB.

[0091] In one embodiment, the wearable device 110 further includes a verification component for verifying the effect of smoking. The verification component can measure heart rate variability (HRV).

[0092] Heart rate variability (HR) is a composite of various indices, including heart rate (HR), mean RR (average ECG peak-to-peak interval), SDNN (standard deviation of overall NN (RR), stress resistance (physiological recovery elasticity)), RMSSD (root mean square of the difference between adjacent NN (RR), a parasympathetic nervous index (related to cardiac electrical stability)), LF (low frequency, a relative low-frequency component, an index of sympathetic nervous activity), and HF (high frequency, a relative high-frequency component, related to respiratory activity). Healthier people have more complex HRV. An increase in HR indicates increased stress (physical activity) and a state of arousal. A decrease in SDNN indicates a monotonous HRV signal, reduced ability to overcome stress, and a decline in overall health. A decrease in RMSSD indicates cardiac abnormalities, and an increase in LF indicates decreased HRV.

[0093] Figures 9a-9e show heart rate variability indices for users before and after smoking cigarettes or e-cigarettes. In the case of e-cigarettes, the effects of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes on electrocardiogram indices before and after smoking are also shown. Figure 9a shows the mean heart rate, Figure 9b shows the RMSSD, Figure 9c shows the NN standard deviation, Figure 9d shows the low-frequency band, and Figure 9e shows the high-frequency band. Referring to Figures 9a-9e, the mean heart rate and low-frequency band increased, while the NN standard deviation (SDNN), RMSSD, and high-frequency band decreased. This can be seen as a physiological and psychological state similar to arousal in response to stimuli.

[0094] 10a and 10b show changes in heart rate variability indexes (e.g., autonomic nervous system activity) due to electrical stimulation by a wearable device 100 according to one embodiment, with FIG. 10a showing the autonomic nervous system activity before electrical stimulation and FIG. 10b showing the autonomic nervous system activity after electrical stimulation. As shown in FIGS. 10a and 10b, it can be seen that the balance of the autonomic nervous system is better after electrical stimulation compared to before. This can be considered a physiological and psychological state similar to arousal, which is a response to stimulation.

[0095] In one embodiment, the stimulating effect after stimulation (providing the smoking effect) by the wearable device 100 is confirmed by a verification component. For example, the verification component may use SDNN or RMSSD among the heart rate variability indices to verify whether or not the indices decrease and / or the degree of decrease before and after stimulation, thereby verifying whether a sufficient stimulating effect (smoking effect) has been achieved.

[0096] In one embodiment, the controller of the wearable device 100 can determine the activity level of the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123 based on the smoking indicator (e.g., heart rate variability indicator) signal from the verification member. For example, if the decrease in SDNN or RMSSD from the verification member sufficiently tracks the pre-stored decrease in SDNN or RMSSD during actual smoking, the controller can maintain the control state of the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123. Conversely, if the decrease in SDNN or RMSSD from the verification member does not track the pre-stored decrease in SDNN or RMSSD during actual smoking, the controller can increase or decrease the stimulation intensity of the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, and / or the third stimulation unit 123.

[0097] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing smoking effects according to one embodiment.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 11, a method for providing a smoking effect according to one embodiment may include placing electrodes in at least two locations among the frontal lobe, parietal lobe, and occipital lobe of a user, and providing an electrical stimulation signal to the electrodes to decrease delta waves or theta waves or increase beta waves in the user's brain waves.

[0099] In one embodiment, in the step of providing an electrical stimulation signal to the electrode, the electrical stimulation signal may be provided to an electrode placed at a position corresponding to the parietal lobe or the occipital lobe to reduce the delta waves.

[0100] In one embodiment, in the step of providing an electrical stimulation signal to the electrode, the electrical stimulation signal may be provided to an electrode placed at a position corresponding to the frontal lobe or the occipital lobe to reduce the theta waves.

[0101] In one embodiment, the step of providing an electrical stimulation signal to the electrodes may activate at least one of the frontal lobe, the parietal lobe, or the occipital lobe to increase the beta waves.

[0102] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a smoking effect providing system 10 according to one embodiment.

[0103] 12, the smoking effect providing system 10 includes a stimulation unit 12 (e.g., the first stimulation unit 121, the second stimulation unit 122, or the third stimulation unit 123 in FIG. 2) including a stimulator for stimulating the user's brain, and a controller 14 for controlling a stimulation signal of the stimulation unit 12. The controller 14 can control the stimulation unit 12 to decrease at least one of delta waves and theta waves in the user's brain waves and increase beta waves.

[0104] In one embodiment, the stimulation unit 12 can provide electrical stimulation to a location corresponding to the user's dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

[0105] In one embodiment, the smoking effect providing system 10 may further include a verification member 16 including a verifier for verifying the smoking effect of the user, and the verification member 16 can transmit a smoking indicator signal measured from the user to the controller 14.

[0106] In one embodiment, the controller 14 can determine the activity of the stimulation unit 12 based on a user's smoking indicator (eg, heart rate variability indicator) signal transmitted from the verification member 16 .

[0107] According to an embodiment of the wearable device 100 and the smoking effect providing method, the smoking effect can be provided to the user without the act of smoking. Here, the smoking effect can be effectively provided through brain stimulation of the user. The wearable device 100 and the smoking effect providing method according to an embodiment of the invention can maximize the awakening effect by differently stimulating the area for each brain wave of the user O. The wearable device 100 and the smoking effect providing method according to an embodiment of the invention can adjust the stimulation activity level based on feedback from the user (e.g., the user's heart rate variability), thereby efficiently controlling the degree of brain stimulation.

[0108] The above description of the embodiments is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention should be determined by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope equivalent to the content described in the claims should be construed as being included in the scope of protection determined by the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A wearable device for providing a smoking effect, comprising: Housing and a first stimulation unit provided on one surface of the housing, the first stimulation unit including at least one electrode disposed at a position corresponding to a first part of the user to provide electrical stimulation; a second stimulation unit provided on one surface of the housing, the second stimulation unit including at least one electrode disposed at a position corresponding to a second part of the user to provide electrical stimulation; a controller that controls the first stimulation unit or the second stimulation unit; Including, A wearable device, wherein the first stimulation unit or the second stimulation unit provides an electrical stimulation signal that induces a state of wakefulness that can achieve the smoking effect.

2. Further comprising a third stimulation unit provided on one surface of the housing, The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the third stimulation unit includes at least one electrode positioned at a position corresponding to a third part of the user to provide electrical stimulation.

3. The wearable device of claim 2 , wherein the first region is the frontal lobe, the second region is the parietal lobe, and the third region is the occipital lobe.

4. The wearable device of claim 3, wherein the controller controls at least one of the first stimulation unit, the second stimulation unit, or the third stimulation unit to provide a brain stimulation signal that reduces the user's delta or theta waves or increases beta waves.

5. The wearable device of claim 3 , wherein the controller activates the second stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit to reduce the user's delta waves.

6. The wearable device of claim 3, wherein the controller activates the second stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit, and the second stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit provides electrical stimulation that reduces the power spectral density of the user's brain waves in the 1 to 4 Hz frequency range by 0.3 to 0.9 dB.

7. The wearable device of claim 3 , wherein the controller activates the first stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit to reduce theta waves in the user.

8. The wearable device of claim 3, wherein the controller activates the first stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit, and the first stimulation unit or the third stimulation unit provides electrical stimulation that reduces the power spectral density of the user's brain waves in the 4 to 8 Hz frequency range by 0.2 to 0.5 dB.

9. The wearable device of claim 3 , wherein the controller activates at least one of the first stimulation unit, the second stimulation unit, or the third stimulation unit to increase the user's beta waves.

10. The wearable device of claim 3, wherein the controller activates at least one of the first stimulation unit, the second stimulation unit, or the third stimulation unit, and at least one of the first stimulation unit, the second stimulation unit, or the third stimulation unit provides electrical stimulation that increases the power spectral density of the user's brain waves in the 12 to 25 Hz frequency range by 0.1 to 1.1 dB.

11. The wearable device of claim 1 , wherein the housing is configured to be wearable on a user's head.

12. 1. A method for providing a smoking effect, comprising: placing electrodes at at least two locations corresponding to the user's frontal lobe, parietal lobe, and occipital lobe; providing electrical stimulation signals to the electrodes to decrease delta or theta waves or increase beta waves in the user's brain waves; A method for providing a smoking effect, comprising:

13. 13. The method for providing smoking effects according to claim 12, wherein in the step of providing an electrical stimulation signal to the electrode, the electrical stimulation signal is provided to an electrode placed at a position corresponding to the parietal lobe or the occipital lobe, thereby reducing the delta waves.

14. 13. The method for providing smoking effects according to claim 12, wherein in the step of providing an electrical stimulation signal to the electrode, the electrical stimulation signal is provided to an electrode positioned at a position corresponding to the frontal lobe or the occipital lobe to reduce the theta waves.

15. 13. The method for providing smoking effects according to claim 12, wherein in the step of providing an electrical stimulation signal to the electrodes, at least one of the frontal lobe, the parietal lobe, or the occipital lobe is activated to increase the beta waves.

16. 1. A wearable device for providing a smoking effect, comprising: Housing and a stimulation unit including a stimulator provided on one side of the housing to provide a stimulation signal; a controller disposed within the housing and controlling the stimulation unit; Including, A wearable device, wherein the controller controls the stimulation unit to generate a stimulation signal that induces a state of wakefulness that can achieve the smoking effect.

17. The wearable device of claim 16 , wherein the stimulation unit provides at least one of electrical stimulation, acoustic stimulation, and optical stimulation to stimulate the user's brain.

18. 18. The wearable device of claim 17, wherein the stimulation signal is transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) that reduces at least one of delta waves and theta waves and increases beta waves in the user's brain waves.

19. Further comprising a verification member including a verification device for verifying the smoking effect; The wearable device of claim 16 , wherein the verification member is capable of measuring heart rate variability (HRV).

20. The wearable device of claim 19, wherein the controller determines the activity of the stimulation unit based on a smoking indicator signal from the verification member.

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