Clothing System

The clothing system addresses the challenge of varying thermal needs across body parts by delivering customized airflow, temperature, and humidity to each section, ensuring comfortable sleep and overall health benefits.

JP7763190B2Active Publication Date: 2025-10-31中津川 重一
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2022573044
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2020-12-28
Filing Date
2021-12-23
Publication Date
2025-10-31
Estimated Expiration
2041-12-23

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing clothing systems fail to deliver air at appropriate temperatures and humidity levels individually to different parts of the body, leading to discomfort and potential health issues during sleep, especially for elderly individuals and those with underlying illnesses, due to varying thermal requirements across body regions.

Method used

A clothing system with multiple sections corresponding to body parts, equipped with an air blowing unit and control device that adjusts airflow, temperature, and humidity independently for each section, using detection units and a processing device to optimize thermal conditions based on user and environmental data.

Benefits of technology

Enables comfortable sleep by individually tailoring airflow, temperature, and humidity to each body part, improving sleep quality, preventing diseases, and enhancing cognitive function and productivity.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

This clothing system includes clothing worn by a user, a blower unit that blows wind at the clothing, and a control device that controls the blower unit, wherein: the clothing is divided into a plurality of sections respectively corresponding to a plurality of parts of the body of the user and includes an inner layer positioned on the user side and an outer layer positioned on the opposite side from the user from the perspective of the inner layer; the blower unit blows wind between the inner layer and the outer layer of each of the plurality of sections; and the control device controls the blowing of the wind by the blower unit section by section.
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a clothing system for use by a user while sleeping. [Background technology]

[0002] The world is currently undergoing dramatic change, with climate extremes due to environmental destruction caused by global warming, widening disparities in all aspects of the global economy, the possibility of war due to the intensifying conflict between the United States and China, and the global spread of COVID-19, raising fears of death, especially among the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. Disparities extend beyond economic power, nutrition, and education to include physical activity, information acquisition, and processing ability. It is no exaggeration to say that we are in the midst of unprecedented upheaval. In this environment, it is extremely difficult for people to maintain sufficient quality sleep, which is essential for maintaining peace of mind and physical health. However, with age, sleep, like other vital functions such as decreased physical activity, undergoes changes. It has been thought that sleep duration, which is strongly correlated with cognitive function, decreases, light sleep increases, and deep sleep decreases are inevitable. In other words, it has been assumed that the risk of dementia increases with age and that a shortened healthy lifespan is inevitable.

[0003] A person's life (daily activities) is regulated by the biological clock, with social activities outside the home accounting for approximately 34-50% of the time, family life accounting for approximately 17-33%, and the remaining 33% being spent sleeping. Sleep plays a major role in memory consolidation and maintaining internal organ function, and it has become clear that it is essential for improving productivity. In a sense, activities outside of sleep are supported by psychological and physical factors, such as fluid intake, nutrition (reflecting digestion, absorption, metabolism, excretion, etc.), exercise, sleep, lifestyle habits, memory, and purpose in life. Conversely, the quality and quantity of sleep are determined by factors such as physical or psychological fatigue, stress, psychological state, other social activities, nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle habits.

[0004] Furthermore, sleep varies greatly from person to person, including changes in body temperature, heat generation (e.g., exercise, diet), and the balance of heat dissipation (e.g., sweating ability). It is also known to be significantly influenced by the local climate, including temperature, humidity, sound, light, oxygen saturation, carbon dioxide concentration, and carbon monoxide concentration. Individual differences are influenced by a wide range of factors, including an individual's body composition, particularly muscle mass related to heat generation, skeletal structure and heat dissipation, the cardiovascular and nervous systems related to sweating, internal organ development and aging, the combination of lifestyle-related diseases, the balance of the immune and endocrine systems, and the quantity and type of work. Furthermore, the perceived temperature comfort, even when measured using the wet bulb globe temperature, is significantly influenced by humidity.

[0005] By the way, the temperature of each part of the body is First, factors that lead to temperature rise 1. Heat transfer (mainly through arterial blood) 2. Heat production (mainly in muscles and internal organs (e.g., liver), as well as congestion and inflammatory reactions) 3 Thermal convection (transfer of heat from a hot gas (or liquid) passing over exposed skin to the skin) 4. Heat conduction (transfer of heat from a surface (solid) that is in direct contact with the body and is hotter than body temperature to a surface that is colder than body temperature) 5. Suppression of heat convection (obesity (reduced body surface area), thick clothing, wind protection)

[0006] Next, factors that lead to a drop in temperature 6. Heat emission (mainly influenced by infrared rays to reduce the temperature difference with the surrounding environment, body surface area (thinness), and balance of the autonomic nervous system) 7 Evaporation (e.g., cooling due to evaporation of sweat) 8 Thermal convection (transfer of heat to a cooler gas (or liquid) passing over exposed skin: e.g., ventilation) 9 Heat conduction (the conduction of heat from the body surface to a surface (solid) that is cooler than the body surface temperature, or the transfer of heat from a hot surface to a cold surface (e.g., an ischemic area) in direct contact) 10 Heat transfer (mainly through venous blood, cutaneous veins, capillaries, and ischemia) It is determined by the balance of the following:

[0007] Heat production is due to muscle movement (60%) and visceral metabolism (40%). Other factors that contribute to an increase in body temperature include sympathetic nervous system stimulation, hyperthyroidism, and severe obesity. On the other hand, parasympathetic nervous system dominance, hypothyroidism, and emaciation lead to a decrease in body temperature.

[0008] There have been many reports of elderly people, those with severe obesity or frailty, or those with multiple co-morbidities, suddenly falling into serious conditions due to hypothermia or heat stroke while sleeping during periods of extreme heat or cold. While proper air conditioning should be able to prevent much of this, with the recent abnormal weather, even regular air conditioning does not appear to be completely effective. Just to be sure, let's take another look at the mechanisms of body temperature maintenance.

[0009] The thermoregulatory center (hypothalamus) senses the temperature of the body, as detected by nerves that act as sensors for surface and core body temperature, and the temperatures of organs such as muscles and the liver, in an effort to maintain an appropriate temperature difference between the surface and core. Specifically, when peripheral blood vessels in the fingertips sense cold, the sympathetic nervous system constricts to reduce heat loss and maintain body temperature, while shivering stimulates muscles to produce heat to prevent a drop in body temperature. However, factors such as changes in external temperature (humidity) (extremely low temperatures outdoors, excessive air conditioning indoors), extreme dieting, lack of exercise leading to sarcopenia (muscle loss), and low thyroid hormone levels can reduce heat production, as well as autonomic imbalances and reduced vascular contractility due to stress, aging, and spondylosis. This can disrupt the balance between heat dissipation and the body's overall temperature, resulting in hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when the body's heat dissipation significantly exceeds its heat production. Approximately 60% of the body's heat comes from the muscles, and 40% comes from internal organs such as the liver.

[0010] While the body can compensate to some extent for large fluctuations in heat load, significant or prolonged exposure to heat that exceeds the body's ability to dissipate heat increases core temperature and leads to heatstroke. While mild and transient increases in core temperature are tolerable, severe increases (generally above 41°C) can lead to protein denaturation and the release of proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-1β), particularly during heavy work or strenuous exercise in high temperatures. This results in cellular dysfunction and activation of the inflammatory cascade. These pathophysiological processes are similar to those in multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), which occurs following prolonged shock.

[0011] These findings suggest that, particularly during sleep, a relatively narrow range of humidity and temperature conditions can promote a good night's sleep. However, even slight deviations from this range can lead to discomfort, and elderly people and those with underlying illnesses may suffer from hypothermia or heatstroke, cerebral infarction, myocardial infarction, pulmonary infarction, or arrhythmia due to dehydration caused by extreme sweating, or heart failure or decreased renal function if sweating is not possible. As described above, with age, the above-mentioned autonomic thermoregulatory function declines, narrowing the range of comfortable environments. Therefore, it is understood that, depending on each individual's thermoregulatory ability, elderly people, those with severe obesity or frailty, and those with certain coexisting diseases, need to actively adjust temperature and humidity according to the season, physical condition, and each stage of sleep.

[0012] Furthermore, while the basic principle is to keep the head cool and the feet warm (to cool the brain, which has warmed up during the day), physical overwork, coupled with acute inflammatory changes in local muscles, can cause temperature to rise, and the pain that accompanies this temperature rise can disrupt sleep. Indeed, bathing, massage, or applying a cold compress can be effective. Local temperature control in bed is limited to temperature control at the point of contact with the body, so a futon should also be used. However, considering tossing and turning and body movement, it is often the case that hypothermia occurs when the futon is thrown off in winter or when air conditioning is in use, making it difficult to control temperature using only a traditional futon or pajamas.

[0013] Various types of clothing have been proposed that can adjust the temperature and humidity (sensible) of a user's body. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a clothing item for regulating the body's perceived temperature, which is equipped with an air fan that blows out air that has been dehumidified and cooled by a dehumidifying and cooling filter. Air is blown out from the air fan to the inside of the clothing worn by the user. The air blown out from the air fan then spreads around the air fan and inside the clothing. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0014] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-199674 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0015] Here, it is conceivable that the body cooling garment of Patent Document 1 may be worn during sleep during hot seasons to cool the body for a comfortable sleep. However, the appropriate temperature varies for different parts of the body (e.g., the head, neck, arms, legs, abdomen, etc.). For example, some parts, such as the brain, testicles, and acutely inflamed areas, require strong cooling, while other parts, such as chronically inflamed areas, lower limbs, and internal organs including the ovaries, liver, and kidneys, do not require excessive cooling. Therefore, for a comfortable sleep, it is desirable to deliver air at an appropriate temperature to each part of the user's body, depending on the environment (e.g., season, weather, etc.) and the individual's physical and mental state. However, the technology of Patent Document 1 makes it difficult to deliver air individually to each part of the body. In consideration of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to provide a clothing system that can deliver appropriate air individually to each section corresponding to the user's body. [Means for solving the problem]

[0016] In order to solve the above problems, the clothing system of the present invention comprises clothing worn by a user, an air blowing unit that blows air onto the clothing, and a control device that controls the air blowing unit, wherein the clothing is divided into multiple sections corresponding to multiple parts of the user's body, and includes an inner layer located on the user's side and an outer layer located on the opposite side of the inner layer from the user, the air blowing unit blows air between the inner layer and the outer layer for each of the multiple sections, and the control device controls the blowing of air by the air blowing unit for each section. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] In a preferred embodiment of the clothing system of the present invention, airflow is controlled for each of a plurality of sections (i.e., for each section) of the clothing, each corresponding to a different part of the body. For example, the presence or absence of airflow, the timing of airflow, the airflow volume, temperature, and humidity can be varied for each section. In other words, appropriate airflow can be individually tailored to each body section. This allows users to sleep comfortably while wearing the clothing system. Furthermore, this system can achieve individual optimization of sleep through a physical or environmental approach, which is relatively stable among individuals and does not rely on chemicals or pharmaceuticals. This can dramatically improve the quality of an individual's sleep, prevent various diseases, including infectious diseases, and increase productivity in activities other than sleep. Furthermore, achieving comfortable sleep can also maintain cognitive function and extend healthy lifespan. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram of a clothing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of a garment according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functions of the clothing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a trained model stored in a storage device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a garment according to a modified example. [Figure 6]FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of a blower unit according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a clothing system 100 according to a first embodiment. The clothing system 100 is a system related to clothing worn during sleep to ensure a comfortable sleep for the user. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the clothing system 100 of the first embodiment includes a garment 10, a blower unit 20, a processing device 30, and a detection unit 40.

[0020] <Clothing 10> The garment 10 of the first embodiment is a sleeping bag-like garment 10 shaped like a human body and conforming to the shape of the user's body. As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the garment 10 covers the user's body parts except for the neck and cervical region. Specifically, the garment 10 includes an inner layer 11 and an outer layer 12. The inner layer 11 is located on the user's side when worn and is the area that comes into direct contact with the user. The outer layer 12 is located on the opposite side of the inner layer 11 from the user. From the perspective of the user wearing the garment 10, the outer layer 12 is located outside the inner layer 11. In other words, the inner layer 11 is located between the user and the outer layer 12.

[0021] The inner layer 11 and the outer layer 12 are sheet-like members formed into a bag shape with an opening in a portion corresponding to the neck. The outer layer 12 and the inner layer 11 are connected to each other so that the inner layer 11 is located inside the outer layer 12. For example, the inner layer 11 and the outer layer 12 are connected (e.g., sewn) at the position of the neck opening. However, the inner surface of the outer layer 12 (the surface facing the inner layer 11) and the outer surface of the inner layer 11 (the surface opposite the user) are not connected except in the portion corresponding to the neck opening. In other words, a space is formed between the outer surface of the inner layer 11 and the inner surface of the outer layer 12. Note that, to allow for dressing by one person, it is anticipated that the opening is located in the center of the front, making it difficult for air to circulate between the left and right sides at the front.

[0022] The inner layer 11 and the outer layer 12 are made of any material (for example, fiber). The inner layer 11 is preferably made of a breathable material. The garment 10 is provided with measures to protect against parasites such as mites, lice, and mollusks, as well as static electricity. The inner layer 11 is also prone to stains and odors, so it must be easy to replace and wash. Therefore, it is preferable that the inner layer 11 be detachable from the outer layer 12.

[0023] 2 is a schematic diagram showing the inner layer 11 and the outer layer 12. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the garment 10 is divided into a plurality of sections Rn (n=1 to N) corresponding to a plurality of parts of the user's body. For example, the plurality of sections Rn of the garment 10 include a section R1 corresponding to the right forearm, a section R2 corresponding to the right upper arm, a section R3 corresponding to the left forearm, a section R4 corresponding to the left upper arm, a section R5 corresponding to the right lower leg, a section R6 corresponding to the right thigh, a section R7 corresponding to the left lower leg, a section R8 corresponding to the left thigh, a section R9 corresponding to the abdomen, and a section R10 corresponding to the chest.

[0024] However, the number of sections Rn in the garment 10 is arbitrary. For example, the body may be divided into 24 to 32 sections Rn on each of the front and back, and one or more sections Rn corresponding to the sides. Similarly, the position or size of each section Rn is arbitrary.

[0025] The configuration for defining each section Rn in the garment 10 is arbitrary. For example, each of the multiple sections Rn is defined by a member (e.g., a cloth-like member) that separates the sections Rn. Alternatively, the outer surface of the inner layer 11 and the inner surface of the outer layer 12 may be connected (e.g., sewn) along the periphery of the section Rn to define the section Rn. As can be understood from the above explanation, a space H defined by the inner layer 11 and the outer layer 12 can be conceived in each of the multiple sections Rn in the garment 10.

[0026] <Blower unit 20> FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the functions of the clothing system 100. The air blowing unit 20 is a device that blows air toward the garment 10. Specifically, the air blowing unit 20 individually blows air toward each of the multiple sections Rn in the garment 10. For each of the multiple sections Rn in the garment 10, air is blown between the inner layer 11 and the outer layer 12. That is, in each section Rn, air is blown from the air blowing unit 20 into the space H defined by the inner layer 11 and the outer layer 12. The air blowing unit 20 of the first embodiment blows air whose temperature and humidity have been adjusted. The inner layer 11 is preferably made of a highly breathable material so that the air blown from the air blowing unit 20 is delivered to the user through the inner layer 11.

[0027] 4, the air blowing unit 20 includes an air blower 21, a temperature adjustment mechanism 22, and a humidity adjustment mechanism 23. The air blower 21 is, for example, one of various air blowing devices such as a fan, a circulator, or a compressor.

[0028] The temperature adjustment mechanism 22 is a device that adjusts (cools or heats) the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20. For example, the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 includes a cooling device (e.g., a Peltier element) that can cool the air blown by the air blowing unit 20, or a heat generating device (e.g., a heater) that can heat the air blown by the air blowing unit 20. However, the specific configuration of the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 is arbitrary as long as it can adjust the temperature of the air. The temperature adjustment mechanism 22 can adjust the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 for each section Rn (location).

[0029] The humidity adjustment mechanism 23 is a device that adjusts (dehumidifies or humidifies) the humidity of the air blown out by the air blowing unit 20. For example, it is configured by a dehumidifier that can dehumidify the air blown out by the air blowing unit 20 and a humidifier that can humidify the air blown out by the air blowing unit 20. However, the specific configuration of the humidity adjustment mechanism 23 is arbitrary as long as it can adjust the humidity of the air. The humidity adjustment mechanism 23 can adjust the humidity of the air blown out by the air blowing unit 20 for each section Rn (location).

[0030] The air blown by the fan 21 is sent to each zone Rn, the temperature and humidity of which have been adjusted by the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 and humidity adjustment mechanism 23. The clothing system 100 may have any number of air blowing units 20. For example, an air blowing unit 20 may be provided for each zone Rn of the clothing 10.

[0031] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the air blowing unit 20 blows air to each section Rn via a tube T. One tube T is connected to each section Rn in the garment 10. That is, the clothing system 100 of the first embodiment includes multiple tubes T corresponding to the multiple sections Rn (multiple body parts), respectively. Each tube T is connected to the outer layer 12 of the section Rn corresponding to that tube T.

[0032] <Detection Unit 40> The detection unit 40 is a mechanism for detecting various pieces of information related to the user's living body. Specifically, the detection unit 40 includes a first detection unit 41 and a second detection unit 42. The first detection unit 41 is a detection device that detects the body temperature of the user. Specifically, the first detection unit 41 detects the body temperature of each of multiple body parts of the user. For example, an infrared sensor is used as the first detection unit 41. However, a thermometer that can detect body temperature by being attached to each body part of the user may also be used as the first detection unit 41.

[0033] The second detection unit 42 is a detection device that detects the humidity on the body surface of the user. Specifically, the second detection unit 42 detects the humidity on the body surface of each of a plurality of parts of the user. For example, a hygrometer that can be attached to each part of the user is used as the second detection unit 42. In the following description, the body temperature detected by the first detection unit 41 is referred to as detected temperature S1, and the humidity detected by the second detection unit 42 is referred to as detected humidity S2.

[0034] <Processing device 30> The processing device 30 is a device for controlling the blower unit 20. For example, the processing device 30 is realized by a computer system including a control device 31 and a storage device 32. For example, an information terminal such as a personal computer or a tablet is used as the processing device 30.

[0035] The control device 31 is composed of one or more processing circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and comprehensively controls each element of the processing device 30. The storage device 32 is one or more memories composed of known recording media such as magnetic recording media or semiconductor recording media, and stores programs executed by the control device 31 and various data used by the control device 31.

[0036] The control device 31 realizes various functions for controlling the air blowing unit 20. Specifically, the control device 31 can control the air blowing by the air blowing unit 20 for each section Rn of the clothing 10. As illustrated in FIG. 4 , the control device 31 of the first embodiment functions as an air blowing control unit 321, a temperature control unit 322, and a humidity control unit 323.

[0037] The air blowing control unit 321 controls the blower 21 of the air blowing unit 20. Specifically, the air blowing control unit 321 controls the air blowing by the air blowing unit 20 for each section Rn (i.e., each body part). For example, the air blowing by the air blowing unit 20 is controlled according to various parameters related to air blowing (hereinafter referred to as "air blowing parameters") set for each section Rn. The air blowing parameters include, for example, whether or not the air blower 21 blows air, the air volume, the timing at which the air blower 21 blows air, and the length of time the air blower 21 blows air. Note that the air blowing parameters are arbitrary and may be set in advance by the user.

[0038] The temperature control unit 322 controls the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 of the air blowing unit 20. For example, the temperature control unit 322 controls the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 so that the blower blows air at a temperature that maintains each part of the user at a desired body temperature (hereinafter referred to as "target body temperature"). The target body temperature may differ for each part (zone Rn). For example, the target body temperature is set lower for the part closer to the head (zone Rn) than for the part closer to the feet (zone Rn).

[0039] Specifically, the temperature control unit 322 controls the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 according to the detected temperature S1 detected by the first detection unit 41. When the detected temperature S1 is lower than the target temperature, the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 is controlled to heat the air blown out by the blower 21. On the other hand, when the detected temperature S1 is higher than the target temperature, the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 is controlled to cool the air blown out by the blower 21. The target temperature is arbitrary and may be set by the manufacturer when the clothing system 100 is manufactured, or may be set arbitrarily by the user.

[0040] As can be understood from the above explanation, for each of the multiple sections Rn, the temperature control unit 322 controls the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 in accordance with the body temperature detected by the first detection unit 41 for the part corresponding to that section Rn. Therefore, it is possible to blow air at an appropriate temperature to each part.

[0041] The humidity control unit 323 controls the humidity adjustment mechanism 23 of the air blowing unit 20. Specifically, the humidity control unit 323 controls the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 for each section Rn of the clothing 10. For example, the humidity control unit 323 controls the humidity adjustment mechanism 23 so that the air blower blows air at a humidity that maintains the desired humidity (hereinafter referred to as "target humidity") on the surface of each part of the user's body. The target humidity is, for example, 40% to 50%. The target humidity may be different for each part (section Rn).

[0042] Specifically, the humidity control unit 323 controls the humidity adjustment mechanism 23 according to the detected humidity S2 detected by the second detection unit 42. When the detected humidity S2 is lower than the target humidity, the humidity adjustment mechanism 23 is controlled to humidify the air blown out by the blower 21. On the other hand, when the detected humidity S2 is higher than the target humidity, the humidity adjustment mechanism 23 is controlled to dehumidify the air blown out by the blower 21. The target humidity may be set by the manufacturer when the clothing system 100 is manufactured, or may be set arbitrarily by the user.

[0043] 1 and 2, the outer layer 12 in each section Rn is formed with a ventilation hole 13. The air sent into each section Rn is ultimately discharged to the outside of the garment 10 through the ventilation hole 13. Note that providing the ventilation hole 13 is not essential.

[0044] As can be understood from the above description, for each of the multiple sections Rn, the humidity control section 323 controls the humidity of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 in accordance with the humidity detected by the second detection section 42 for the part corresponding to that section Rn. Therefore, it is possible to blow air at an appropriate humidity to each part.

[0045] The control by the temperature control unit 322 and the humidity control unit 323 is performed at predetermined intervals (for example, every 2 to 5 minutes). Therefore, the detection of body temperature by the first detection unit 41 and the detection of humidity by the second detection unit 42 are also performed at the same intervals.

[0046] As can be understood from the above description, in the clothing system 100 of the first embodiment, the clothing 10 controls airflow for each of a plurality of sections Rn (i.e., for each body part) corresponding to each body part, enabling appropriate airflow to be delivered to each body part individually. This allows the user of the clothing system 100 to enjoy a comfortable sleep.

[0047] Furthermore, the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 is controlled in accordance with the detected body temperature detected by the first detection unit 41, and the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 is controlled in accordance with the detected humidity S2 detected by the second detection unit 42. Therefore, it is possible to blow air to each zone Rn taking into account the user's body temperature and body surface humidity. In particular, in the first embodiment, the temperature and humidity of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 are controlled for each zone Rn, so it is possible to blow air at an appropriate temperature and humidity for each part of the user's body.

[0048] Second Embodiment A second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In each of the following exemplary embodiments, elements that have the same actions or functions as those in the first embodiment will use the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions of each element will be omitted where appropriate.

[0049] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the method of controlling the air blowing unit 20. The other configurations of the air blowing unit 20 are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0050] The processing device 30 in the second embodiment controls the air blower unit 20 using a trained model. The trained model is a statistical estimation model generated by machine learning. For example, various statistical estimation models such as a decision tree or a neural network are suitably used as the trained model. The trained model is realized by combining a program (for example, a program module constituting artificial intelligence software) that causes the control device 31 to execute a calculation that generates output data from input data, and multiple coefficients that are applied to the calculation. The multiple coefficients are set by machine learning (particularly deep learning) using a large amount of training data and stored in the storage device 32.

[0051] As illustrated in Figure 4, in the second embodiment, a first trained model M1, a second trained model M2, and a third trained model M3 are stored in the memory device 32 and used to control the blower unit 20.

[0052] The first trained model M1 is used to control the blower 21 of the air blowing unit 20. Specifically, the first trained model M1 is a model that has learned the relationship between information about the user during sleep (hereinafter referred to as "user information") and air blowing parameters. The user information is, for example, information about the user himself (e.g., physical condition, body temperature, blood pressure, etc.) and information about the environment in which the user is placed (e.g., season, weather, temperature, humidity, etc.). However, the user information is not limited to the above examples. The first trained model M1 uses the user information as input data and outputs air blowing parameters. The first trained model M1 is capable of outputting air blowing parameters for each section Rn in the clothing 10.

[0053] The second trained model M2 is used to control the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 of the air blower unit 20. Specifically, the second trained model M2 is a model that has learned the relationship between user information and target temperatures. The second trained model M2 takes user information as input data and outputs a target temperature. The second trained model M2 is capable of outputting a target temperature for each section Rn in the clothing 10.

[0054] The third trained model M3 is used to control the humidity adjustment mechanism 23 of the air blower unit 20. Specifically, the third trained model M3 is a model that has learned the relationship between user information and target humidity. The third trained model M3 takes user information as input data and outputs a target humidity. The third trained model M3 can output a target humidity for each section Rn of the clothing 10.

[0055] The control device 31 in the processing device 30 functions as an air blowing control unit 321, a temperature control unit 322, and a humidity control unit 323, similarly to the first embodiment.

[0056] The air blowing control unit 321 controls the blower 21, as in the first embodiment. The air blowing control unit 321 of the second embodiment inputs user information into the first trained model M1, thereby outputting air blowing parameters. The air blowing control unit 321 then controls the blower 21 according to the air blowing parameters output by the first trained model M1. That is, the air blowing control unit 321 controls the air blowing by the blower according to the result of inputting the user information into the first trained model M1. The user information is set in advance by the user.

[0057] The temperature control unit 322 controls the temperature adjustment mechanism 22, as in the first embodiment. The temperature control unit 322 of the second embodiment inputs user information into the second trained model M2, thereby outputting a target temperature. Then, as in the first embodiment, the temperature control unit 322 controls the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 in accordance with the detected temperature S1 and the target temperature.

[0058] As can be understood from the above explanation, the temperature control unit 322 of the second embodiment controls the temperature of the air blown by the blower unit 20 based on the detected temperature S1 and the result of inputting user information into a trained model (second trained model M2) that has learned the relationship between user information and the temperature of the air blown by the blower unit 20 (target temperature).

[0059] The humidity control unit 323 controls the humidity adjustment mechanism 23, as in the first embodiment. The humidity control unit 323 of the second embodiment inputs user information into the third trained model M3, thereby outputting the target humidity. Then, as in the first embodiment, the humidity control unit 323 controls the humidity adjustment mechanism 23 in accordance with the detected humidity S2 and the target humidity.

[0060] As can be understood from the above explanation, the humidity control unit 323 controls the humidity of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 based on the detected humidity S2 and the result of inputting user information into a trained model (third trained model M3) that has learned the relationship between the user information and the humidity of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 (target humidity).

[0061] The second embodiment also achieves the same effects as the first embodiment. In particular, in the second embodiment, the air blower unit 20 is controlled by the first trained model M1 that has learned the relationship between user information and air blowing parameters, the second trained model M2 that has learned the relationship between user information and target temperature, and the third trained model M3 that has learned the relationship between user information and target humidity, so that optimal air blowing can be performed taking user information into consideration.

[0062] <Modification> The above-described embodiments can be modified in various ways. Specific examples of modifications are shown below. Two or more embodiments selected from the following examples can be combined as appropriate.

[0063] (1) In each of the above embodiments, a sleeping bag-shaped garment 10 is exemplified, but the shape of the garment 10 is arbitrary. For example, a garment 10 shaped like regular clothing, such as a shirt or pants, may be used in the clothing system 100. As can be seen from the above explanation, the shape of the garment 10 is arbitrary as long as it can be worn on the user's body. Note that a non-human-shaped sleeping bag-shaped garment 10 may also be used. Regardless of the shape of the garment 10, the inner layer 11 and the outer layer 12 may be connected so as to leave a gap that allows air to be introduced from the air blowing unit 20. In the case of a garment 10 other than a sleeping bag-shaped garment, for example, the periphery of the inner layer 11 and the periphery of the outer layer 12 are connected.

[0064] However, the sleeping bag type garment 10 has the advantage that it can accommodate a variety of sleeping positions and will not come off even if the wearer moves or turns over in bed, since only the head and neck are exposed.

[0065] (2) In each of the above-described embodiments, the garment 10 may include layers different from the inner layer 11 and the outer layer 12. For example, there may be a layer further inside the inner layer 11, or there may be a layer further outside the outer layer 12.

[0066] (3) In each of the above-described embodiments, it is not necessary to completely separate two adjacent sections Rn. For example, there may be a gap between two adjacent sections Rn as long as the airflow sent to one section Rn does not affect the airflow sent to the other section Rn.

[0067] (4) In each of the above-described embodiments, the target temperature for an inflamed area among multiple body areas may be set within the range of 27.5°C to 30°C.

[0068] (5) In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, if air is continuously blown to all parts, it is expected that a strong wind will be blown around the neck, rather than a gentle breeze. Therefore, it is possible to blow a gentle breeze with controlled temperature and humidity intermittently every 5 to 10 minutes to each part, and ultimately to blow a slightly stronger wind constantly around the neck.

[0069] (6) In each of the above-mentioned configurations, the number of layers (e.g., 3 to 6 layers) and materials are changed depending on the season. For each section Rn of the clothing 10, if there are no particular areas of heat or pain, the temperature is set to gradually increase from the back of the body to the front, and from the extremities to the trunk in a spiral pattern. Furthermore, the temperature, humidity, airflow rate, airflow timing, and airflow duration for each area are adjusted using a trained model to allow ventilation for each temperature and humidity, and to achieve the same temperature setting with an error of approximately 0.2°C to 0.5°C.

[0070] In addition, the target temperature can be adjusted for each section Rn so that higher target temperatures can be set for chronic symptoms and lower temperatures for acute symptoms in areas prone to pain and stiffness, such as the lower back, knees, upper arms, forearms, elbows, thighs, calves, and ankles. Also, higher target temperatures can be set for areas that should not be cooled, such as the ovaries, liver, kidneys, spleen, and pancreas.

[0071] The air that passes through each part is finally released to the outside of the garment 10 after adjusting the temperature and humidity of the neck area.

[0072] (7) In each of the above-described embodiments, the clothing system 100 may be configured taking the following into consideration. Flexing a joint due to pain or other reasons can reduce blood flow and increase blood pressure. If you have mild or severe heart failure, sleeping on your left side will place more than half of your body above the heart, which can increase the strain and pressure on the heart and increase the risk of angina pectoris. - Sleeping curled up can make it difficult for the lungs to expand, which can restrict breathing, depending on the severity. -Stretch your spine as much as possible to make breathing easier. - Avoid overlapping parts of the body as much as possible, as overlapping parts of the body can cause temperature and humidity to rise and make temperature and humidity control difficult.

[0073] However, especially in the height of summer, people who try to prevent heatstroke indoors by leaving their air conditioner on at nearly 20°C all night while sleeping, or who leave their heater on at 24°C in the middle of winter, often end up sweating and throwing off their futon, causing their body temperature to drop too low and leading to hypothermia. Hypothermia (causes include extreme dieting, stress, aging, and a core body temperature (not surface temperature, but the temperature of vital organs like the brain and heart; typically: liver 38.5°C, rectum 38.0°C, sublingual 37.0°C) below 35°C, with a temperature between 32-35°C classified as mild, 28-32°C as moderate, and 20-28°C as severe) can, depending on complications, increase blood viscosity and slow enzyme reactions such as digestion and absorption, further lowering body temperature and setting off a vicious cycle of cerebral infarction, myocardial infarction, or pulmonary infarction. If prolonged, this condition can be life-threatening.

[0074] To ensure good quality sleep every day, the clothing 10 worn while sleeping is very important for maintaining the body temperature in each part of the body within an appropriate temperature range.

[0075] Therefore, the clothing system 100 monitors and continuously controls the body temperature and humidity of various parts of the body, including inflamed areas. To achieve this, the clothing 10 is constructed with multiple layers (3 to 6 layers), each with its own functionality, depending on the season, indoor temperature and humidity, obesity level, basal metabolism, complications, etc. Through the gaps between each layer, a gentle breeze with adjusted temperature and humidity is sent to the inner layer 11 (innermost layer) over time for each part of the body (approximately 32 to 48 parts on the front (ventral) and back sides, depending on size), maintaining optimal temperature and humidity.

[0076] As shown in Figure 5, to prevent excessive expansion, collapse, or contraction, the inner layer 11 has numerous columnar seams (hereinafter referred to as "columnar structures") K that connect the outer surface of the inner layer 11 and the inner surface of the outer layer 12. Narrow pieces of fabric, such as windsocks P, are placed on each columnar structure K, and the wind direction, wind strength, and timing of the breeze are controlled and managed by a trained model to maintain the temperature and humidity of each part within the expected range. However, the length of each windsock P must be such that it does not reach adjacent columnar structures K, and does not interfere with changes in wind direction and wind strength, such as being entangled in the columnar structures K or being entangled or twisted between the windsocks P. The functions of each of the above layers are expected to include heat retention, moisture absorption, heat dissipation, supplementing weak electricity, and acting as an electrode and maintaining shape.

[0077] (8) Countermeasures against microbial infections, not limited to COVID-19, but also viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, are necessary. Therefore, the air blowing unit 20 according to the modified example employs a configuration related to infection control. FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram of the air blowing unit 20 according to the modified example. Specifically, the air blowing unit 20 is equipped with an adjustment device 50 that integrates a temperature adjustment mechanism 22 and a humidity adjustment mechanism 23. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the adjustment device 50 includes an ultraviolet irradiation device, a moisture absorption layer, and an active coal seam The air sent from the air blower 21 (for example, a compressor) is sent to each section Rn of the clothing 10 through a tube. Between the air blower 21 and the clothing 10, an ultraviolet irradiation device, a moisture absorption layer, and an active coal seam and can be.

[0078] The air (e.g., air velocity 0.05-0.1 m / sec) blown out from the blower 21 first passes through an ultraviolet irradiation device, which includes, for example, a thermostatic chamber and a UVC lamp (germicidal lamp). The tube is placed in the thermostatic chamber, which is set to a predetermined temperature (e.g., 18-28°C, settable in 1°C increments), and the tube is irradiated by the UVC lamp. For example, the UVC lamp irradiates for 10 seconds or more, which is sufficient to effectively kill microorganisms such as viruses and bacteria. The ultraviolet irradiation device can also be set to a predetermined humidity (e.g., 40-52%, settable in 2% increments).

[0079] The air that has passed through the UV irradiation device then passes through a moisture absorption layer (e.g., silica gel) that can adjust the humidity, and then becomes activated. coal seam Active coal seam In this case, the ozone generated in the ultraviolet irradiation device is collected. coal seam The air that has passed through is delivered to positions corresponding to each part of the garment 10.

[0080] 6 illustrates a configuration in which the adjustment device 50 includes one ultraviolet irradiation device, but the number of ultraviolet irradiation devices can be any number and can be changed appropriately depending on the length of the tube. Regardless of the number of ultraviolet irradiation devices, a configuration that allows irradiation by UVC lamps for 10 seconds or more as a whole is preferable from the viewpoint of obtaining a sufficient sterilization effect.

[0081] It is expected that the temperature and humidity in the adjustment device 50 will change before reaching each part of the body. Therefore, the relationship between the temperature and humidity in the adjustment device 50 and the target temperature and target humidity at each part may be learned by machine learning in a trained model for each air volume and wind speed, taking into account the outside temperature and humidity, weather, the user's body temperature, and physical conditions including inflammation in each part. Then, the target temperature and target humidity in the adjustment device 50 may be set using the trained model.

[0082] Furthermore, before use and every one (normally) to two (in the case of shift work, etc.) weeks during use, the patient is asked to check the attached good sleep checklist, while feedback is given on the patient's sense of good sleep and satisfaction, the target temperature and humidity are set to comfort mode over time, and various parameters such as the patient's limbs, body movements, turning over in bed, weight, breathing, snoring, and body temperature changes are monitored and recorded over time, and temporal, physical, or geographical changes in sleeping position, body movements, and turning over in bed are recorded and understood as time changes on a three-dimensional coordinate axis, which can be used to determine the initial conditions at the time of full-scale use or to assist in changing body position.The good sleep checklist may also be divided into multiple stages, for example, as shown below, in which treatment changes are made. Score 8 or less: As is Scores of 9-14 require adjustment by the equipment technician. Scores of 15-20: Requires instructions from the doctor, such as prescription changes Score of 21 or higher: Consultation with a sleep specialist or neuropsychiatrist is required

[0083] (10) The inner layer 11 is in direct contact with the user U and is greatly affected by sweating, so it is preferable that the inner layer 11 be made of a removable and washable material.

[0084] (11) The specific configuration of the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 for adjusting the temperature of the air blown out by the air blowing unit 20 is not limited to the examples described above. For example, a liquid that can be heated or cooled may be used.

[0085] (12) Sweating, which occurs over time during sleep, increases body surface humidity and decreases body surface temperature. Therefore, temperature and humidity control during sleep must be controlled according to the passage of time, taking into account changes in body temperature, humidity, and sweating in each part of the body, as well as the physical and mental state.

[0086] Considering the above circumstances, it is preferable that the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 adjusts the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 over time while the user U is sleeping. In the above configuration, it is preferable that the clothing system 100 is equipped with any known sensor that measures whether the user has fallen asleep and the time that has passed since the user fell asleep.

[0087] Specifically, before falling asleep, the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 lowers the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 so that the core body temperature of the head and neck as well as the trunk decreases, allowing for smoother sleep onset by suppressing the excited state of the sympathetic nervous system. On the other hand, if the core body temperature of the trunk continues to decrease, hypothermia may result, causing a decline in the function of the internal organs and tissues, such as the five internal organs, and may prevent recovery from fatigue, leading to feelings of fatigue after waking up and a lack of refreshment and positive feelings. Therefore, the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 gradually increases the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit 20 over time from after falling asleep until before waking up.

[0088] Furthermore, the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 may control the temperature of the air blown out by the air blowing unit 20 depending on the depth of sleep of the user U. For example, when the user U wakes up in the middle of the night or early in the morning due to urination or the like, or when the user U is in stages 1 and 2 of non-REM sleep, or in a REM sleep state one hour or less before the scheduled wake-up time after falling asleep, the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 controls the temperature of the air blown out by the air blowing unit 20 so that the core body temperature drops and deeper sleep (stage 3 non-REM sleep) is increased, improving the balance of the autonomic nervous system, and when the user U is in a REM sleep state within one hour of the scheduled wake-up time, the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 controls the temperature of the air blown out by the air blowing unit 20 so that the core body temperature rises.

[0089] In the above configuration, it is preferable that the clothing system 100 is equipped with a sensor that detects the sleep state of the user U, or that the user U input the degree of quality of sleep upon waking, and provide feedback to the AI ​​to learn and improve. Note that growth hormone, which is mostly secreted during deep sleep within three hours after falling asleep, is known to play an important role in maintaining internal organs and hair, so it is necessary to ensure deep sleep within three hours after falling asleep.

[0090] Furthermore, the temperature adjustment mechanism 22 may be controlled according to individual circumstances such as the user U's physical and mental state before sleep (e.g., work / home environment, overwork, stress, etc.), lifestyle (e.g., whether or not they have taken a bath, exercised, or consumed luxury items), and whether or not they have any illnesses.

[0091] Similarly, the humidity adjustment mechanism 23 is preferably configured to adjust the humidity of the air blown out by the air blowing unit 20 over time while the user U is sleeping.

[0092] (11) The clothing system 100 according to the present invention can also be suitably used to promote good sleep for a user U in an extreme environment such as a spaceship or a deep-sea submarine. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 10: Clothing 11: Inner layer 12: Outer layer 13: Ventilation hole 20: Blower unit 21: Blower 22: Temperature adjustment mechanism 23: Humidity adjustment mechanism 30: Processing equipment 31: Control device 32: Storage device 40:Detection unit 41: First detection unit 42: Second detection unit 50: Adjustment device 100: Clothing System 321: Air flow control unit 322: Temperature control unit 323: Humidity control unit H: Space K: Columnar structure M1: First trained model M2: Second trained model M3: Third trained model P: Streamers Rn: Clothing section S1: Detected temperature S2: Detected humidity T: Tube

Claims

1. Clothing worn by the user; a blowing unit that blows air onto the clothes; a control device for controlling the air blowing unit, the garment is divided into a plurality of sections corresponding to a plurality of parts of the user's body, and includes an inner layer positioned on the user side and an outer layer positioned on the opposite side of the inner layer from the user, The air blowing unit blows air between the inner layer and the outer layer for each of the plurality of sections, The control device controlling the blowing of air by the blowing unit in accordance with a blowing parameter related to blowing air that is set in advance for each of the sections; controlling the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit so that it changes over time while the user is sleeping or in accordance with the depth of the user's sleep; the air blowing parameters are whether or not the air blowing unit blows air, the timing at which the air blowing unit blows air, and the length of time for which the air blowing unit blows air; The air blowing unit includes a blower, a tube connecting the blower and the clothing, an ultraviolet irradiation device including a thermostatic bath capable of adjusting a temperature and a lamp for irradiating ultraviolet rays, and an activated carbon layer; the ultraviolet irradiation device and the activated carbon layer are connected in this order via the tube between the air blower and the clothing; A part of the tube is placed in the thermostatic bath, and ultraviolet light is irradiated onto the tube from the lamp. Clothing system.

2. Clothing worn by the user; a blowing unit that blows air onto the clothes; a control device for controlling the air blowing unit, the garment is divided into a plurality of sections corresponding to a plurality of parts of the user's body, and includes an inner layer positioned on the user side and an outer layer positioned on the opposite side of the inner layer from the user, The air blowing unit blows air between the inner layer and the outer layer for each of the plurality of sections, the control device controls the blowing of air by the air blowing unit for each of the sections, and controls the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit so that it changes over time while the user is sleeping or in accordance with the depth of the user's sleep; The garment includes, in addition to the members separating the sections, columnar members connecting the inner layer and the outer layer to prevent over-inflation and over-contraction within the sections. Clothing system.

3. A ventilation hole is formed in each of the sections in the outer layer. The clothing system of claim 1 or claim 2.

4. a plurality of tubes respectively connected to the outer layer in each of the plurality of sections; The air blowing unit blows air between the inner layer and the outer layer in the section through the tube. The clothing system of any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The control device is a temperature control device that controls the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit for each of the sections. and a humidity control unit that controls the humidity of the air blown by the air blowing unit for each of the sections. nothing The clothing system of any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. a first detection unit for detecting the body temperature of each of the plurality of regions and a second detection unit for detecting the humidity of the body surface of each of the regions; the temperature control unit controls, for each of the plurality of sections, a temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit in accordance with a body temperature detected by the first detection unit for a part corresponding to the section; The humidity control unit controls the humidity of the air blown by the air blowing unit in accordance with the humidity detected by the second detection unit for a portion corresponding to each of the plurality of sections. The clothing system of claim 5.

7. the temperature control unit controls the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit in accordance with a result of inputting information about the user into a trained model that has trained a relationship between the information about the user and the temperature of the air blown by the air blowing unit, and the temperature detected by the first detection unit; The humidity control unit controls the humidity of the air blown by the air blowing unit in accordance with a result of inputting the information into a trained model that has trained a relationship between the information and the humidity of the air blown by the air blowing unit and the humidity detected by the second detection unit. The clothing system of claim 6.

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