body pillow

Abstract

To provide a convenient huggable pillow.SOLUTION: A huggable pillow includes: a main body part having a first part positioned on an upper half body side when a user hugs the pillow, and a second part positioned on a lower half body side when the user hugs the pillow; temperature adjustment parts arranged in the main body part; and a control part for controlling the temperature adjustment parts. The first part has hand contact surface part with which hands have contact when the user hugs the pillow. The hand contact surface part includes temperature change parts for changing temperature by the temperature adjustment parts.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a hugging pillow.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a hugging pillow provided with a storage portion for storing a cold insulating agent or a heat generating agent (Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The hugging pillow described in Patent Document 1 requires the prior preparation of a cold insulating agent or a heat generating agent, which may be troublesome.

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention provide a user-friendly hugging pillow.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention include a main body portion having a first portion located on the upper body side when the user hugs it and a second portion located on the lower body side when the user hugs it, a temperature adjusting portion provided on the main body portion, and a control portion for controlling the temperature adjusting portion. The first portion has a hand contact surface portion that is contacted by the hand when the user hugs it, and the hand contact surface portion has a temperature change portion whose temperature is changed by the temperature adjusting portion. The hugging pillow is characterized by this.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] Embodiments of the present invention can provide a user-friendly hugging pillow.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a front view of the body pillow. [Figure 3] This is a side view of a body pillow. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the body pillow from the direction indicated by arrow AA. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of section B in Figure 4. [Figure 6] This is an electrical block for body pillows. [Figure 7] This flowchart illustrates the temperature control performed by the control unit. [Figure 8] This is a block diagram showing the electrical system of a body pillow according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view showing a user holding a body pillow according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is an electrical block for body pillows. [Figure 11] This flowchart illustrates the temperature control performed by the control unit. [Figure 12] This is a block diagram showing the electrical system of a body pillow according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This flowchart illustrates the temperature control performed by the control unit. [Figure 14] This is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing a body pillow according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] A body pillow according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 16.

[0010] Figures 1 to 7 show a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view of the body pillow as seen from the front. FIG. 3 is a side view of the body pillow as seen from the side. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the body pillow in FIG. 2 as seen from the direction of arrow A-A. FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing part B in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the electrical system of the body pillow. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the temperature control executed by the control unit.

[0011] The body pillow 1 is, for example, a pillow that is used to be hugged when the user goes to bed. For this purpose, the body pillow 1 has a length that extends from the user's chest to the feet. In the embodiment, when the user hugs the body pillow 1, the direction in which the hand is located is described as "front", the direction in which the chest is located is described as "back", the direction in which the right arm is located when the user hugs the body pillow 1 is described as "right", and the direction in which the left arm is located is described as "left". Also, when the user hugs the body pillow 1, the head side is described as "up" and the foot side is described as "down". The body pillow 1 includes a main body portion 10, a temperature adjustment portion 40 provided in the main body portion 10, and a control portion 60 that controls the temperature adjustment portion 40.

[0012] The main body portion 10 is formed, for example, by bonding soft urethane to the outside of hard urethane. The main body portion 10 has cushioning properties. The main body portion 10 has a first portion 20 that is located on the upper body side when the user hugs it, and a second portion 30 that is located on the lower body side when the user hugs it. That is, the main body portion 10 has a first portion 20 that is located on the head side of the user and a second portion 30 that is located on the foot side.

[0013] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the main body 10 has different shapes in the first part 20 and the second part 30. Specifically, the thickness dimension L1 of the first part 20 is smaller than the width dimension L2 of the first part 20. On the other hand, the thickness dimension L3 of the second part 30 is larger than the width dimension L4 of the second part 30. Furthermore, the thickness dimension L1 of the first part 20 is smaller than the thickness dimension L3 of the second part 30. The width dimension L2 of the first part 20 is larger than the width dimension L4 of the second part 30.

[0014] The first part 20 is wide and thin. This allows the first part 20 to make contact with a wide area of ​​the user's chest and to be easily hugged with the arms. On the other hand, the second part 30 is narrow and thick. This allows the second part 30 to be easily wrapped around the user's legs. Because the main body 10 of the body pillow 1 is shaped in this way, it can give the user a comfortable feeling and promote quality sleep.

[0015] The first part 20 has a hand contact surface 21 that the user's hands come into contact with when they hold the baby, and a chest contact surface 23 that the user's chest comes into contact with when they hold the baby. That is, the hand contact surface 21 and the chest contact surface 23 face each other in the front-to-back direction. The chest contact surface 23 is, for example, a flat surface that comes into contact with the user's entire chest, giving the user a sense of security.

[0016] The body pillow 1 is designed to electrically change the temperature of the hand contact surface 21. The hand contact surface 21 has a temperature change section 21a whose temperature is changed by a temperature control section 40, which will be described later. The temperature change section 21a is formed at the position where the user's hands come into contact when the user hugs the first part 20. The body pillow 1 is designed to promote stable sleep for the user by warming or cooling the user's hands.

[0017] The main body 10 may also have a pocket or band (not shown) into which a hand can be inserted at a position corresponding to the temperature-changing section 21a. This allows the user's hand to be naturally guided to the temperature-changing section 21a.

[0018] As shown in Figure 4, the main body 10 has an intake port 11 for drawing in air F from the outside, and a passage portion 13 extending from the intake port 11 toward the temperature change portion 21a. That is, the inside of the main body 10 is formed as a cavity by the passage portion 13. The intake port 11 is provided on the bottom surface portion 30a of the second portion 30. Note that the intake port 11 may also be provided at a location other than the bottom surface portion 30a of the second portion 30 (for example, on the side portion).

[0019] The temperature-changing section 21a has a plurality of through holes 21a1. These through holes 21a1 connect the passage section 13 to the outside. In other words, the air F drawn in from the intake port 11 is discharged to the outside through the through holes 21a1.

[0020] The temperature control unit 40 is located in the main body 10. The temperature control unit 40 operates electrically to change the temperature of the temperature change section 21a. The body pillow 1 is designed so that the user's hands, which are in contact with the temperature change section 21a, can be warmed or cooled by the operation of the temperature control unit 40. The temperature control unit 40 has a heating section 41 located in the temperature change section 21a and an air blower section 43 located in the passage section 13. The operation of the temperature control unit 40 is controlled by the control unit 60, which will be described later.

[0021] The heating unit 41 consists of, for example, a seat heater and is provided on the surface of the hand contact surface 21. In other words, the portion of the hand contact surface 21 on which the heating unit 41 is provided is the temperature change section 21a. The heating unit 41 can be identified by, for example, having a different color from the hand contact surface 21, or by having seams or steps. As a result, the temperature change section 21a can be identified. Therefore, the body pillow 1 makes it easy for the user to know where to place their hands.

[0022] The heating section 41 has a plurality of through holes 41a that penetrate in the thickness direction. These through holes 41a are provided at positions corresponding to the through holes 21a1 of the temperature change section 21a. The heating section 41 may also be provided on the back surface or inside the hand contact surface 21. In such cases, the heat emitted by the heating section 41 is transferred to the surface of the hand contact surface 21, thereby forming the temperature change section 21a.

[0023] The air blower 43 consists of, for example, a fan and is provided in the passage 13. The air blower 43 draws in outside air F from the intake port 11 and discharges the air F to the outside through the through hole 41a of the heating unit 41 via the through hole 21a1 of the temperature change unit 21a. The air F discharged from the through hole 41a cools the user's hands when it comes into contact with them.

[0024] The body pillow 1 further includes a vibrating unit 50 that vibrates the main body 10. The vibrating unit 50 is located inside the main body 10. As shown in Figure 4, the vibrating unit 50 vibrates, for example, the chest contact surface 23. The vibrating unit 50 may also vibrate other parts.

[0025] The vibrating unit 50 is activated, for example, by operating the control unit 65 described later, or at a set time. The vibrating unit 50 provides relaxation and wake-up functions to the user who is holding the body pillow 1. The operation of the vibrating unit 50 is controlled by the control unit 60 described later. The vibrating unit 50 may be provided as needed, or it may not be necessary.

[0026] The control unit 60 controls the operation of the temperature control unit 40 (heating unit 41 and blower unit 43) and the vibration unit 50. The control unit 60 is located inside the main unit 10. The control unit 60 is connected to the battery 63 and controls the power supply from the battery 63 to the temperature control unit 40. The battery 63 is, for example, a rechargeable secondary battery. The control unit 60 has a memory unit 61. The memory unit 61 stores, for example, a temperature control program based on the operation of the temperature control unit 40. The temperature control program executed by the control unit 60 will be described later.

[0027] The control unit 65 is located on the main body 10. The control unit 65 is operated to activate the temperature control unit 40 and the vibration unit 50. The control unit 60 operates the temperature control unit 40 and the vibration unit 50 based on the operation of the control unit 65. The control unit 65 includes a continuous switch for continuously operating the heating unit 41 and the blower unit 43, a heating switch for operating only the heating unit 41, a cooling switch for operating only the blower unit 43, and a stop switch for stopping the operation of the heating unit 41 and the blower unit 43.

[0028] The temperature measuring unit 67 is located in the main body 10. The temperature measuring unit 67 measures the temperature of the temperature change section 21a that the user's hand comes into contact with. The temperature measuring unit 67 is connected to the control unit 60 and transmits the measured temperature to the control unit 60.

[0029] The control unit 60 controls the operation of the temperature control unit 40 based on the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 67. The control unit 60 operates the heating unit 41 until the temperature change unit 21a reaches a target temperature (for example, 40°C). The control unit 60 also temporarily stops the operation of the heating unit 41 if the temperature change unit 21a is above the target temperature (for example, 45°C). In other words, the control unit 60 changes the output of the temperature control unit 40 based on the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 67. The temperature measuring unit 67 may be provided as needed, or it may not be necessary.

[0030] The body pillow 1 according to this embodiment has the configuration described above, and the temperature control performed by the control unit 60 will now be explained with reference to Figure 7. The control process shown in Figure 7 is stored in advance in the memory unit 61 of the control unit 60. The control process shown in Figure 7 is executed at a predetermined cycle. In Figure 7, each step is indicated by "S".

[0031] In S1, it is determined whether the continuous switch has been turned ON. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether the continuous switch on the operation unit 65 has been turned ON. If the result in S1 is "YES", meaning the continuous switch has been turned ON, the process proceeds to S2. On the other hand, if the result in S1 is "NO", meaning the continuous switch has not been turned ON, the process proceeds to S7.

[0032] In S2, the heating unit is activated. That is, the control unit 60 starts heating the heating unit 41. As a result, the temperature of the temperature change section 21a of the hand contact surface 21 rises. The control unit 60 also measures the time elapsed since the heating unit 41 started operating. The body pillow 1 first warms the user's hands with the heating unit 41, dilating the arteriovenous anastomoses of the hands. As the arteriovenous anastomoses dilate, the user's body heat is more easily released, which induces sleep.

[0033] In S3, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the heating unit 41 started heating. The predetermined time is stored in advance in the memory unit 61 and is set to a time between 10 and 30 minutes (for example, 10 minutes). The predetermined time may also be selectable, for example, 10 minutes or 20 minutes. If it is determined in S3 to be "YES", that is, the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to S4. On the other hand, if it is determined in S3 to be "NO", that is, the predetermined time has not elapsed, the elapsed time is monitored.

[0034] In S4, the heating unit is stopped and the blower unit is activated. Specifically, the control unit 60 stops the heating unit 41 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the heating unit 41 started operating. Then, the control unit 60 starts the blower unit 43. In other words, the heating unit 41 automatically stops after a predetermined time has elapsed since the heating unit 41 started operating. On the other hand, the blower unit 43 automatically starts operating after a predetermined time has elapsed since the heating unit 41 started operating.

[0035] When the blower unit 43 is activated, air F is discharged from the through-hole 41a of the heating unit 41. The control unit 60 also measures the time elapsed since the start of operation of the blower unit 43. The body pillow 1 cools the user's hands, which were heated in S2, with the air F discharged from the through-hole 41a. As a result, the user efficiently releases heat from their body. The rapid decrease in the user's core body temperature effectively promotes falling asleep.

[0036] In S5, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the blower unit 43 started blowing air. The predetermined time is stored in advance in the memory unit 61 and is set to a time between 30 and 60 minutes (for example, 30 minutes). The predetermined time may be selectable, for example, 30 minutes or 60 minutes. If it is determined in S5 to be "YES", that is, the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to S6. On the other hand, if it is determined in S5 to be "NO", that is, that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the elapsed time is monitored.

[0037] In S6, the operation of the blower unit is stopped. That is, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the blower unit 43 and ends the process after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the blower unit 43. In other words, the blower unit 43 automatically stops after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the blower unit 43.

[0038] As described above, when the continuous switch on the control unit 65 is activated, the user's hands are warmed by the heating unit 41 for a predetermined time, and then cooled by the air blower unit 43 for a predetermined time. The body pillow 1 warms the user's hands with the heating unit 41, which dilates blood vessels and makes it easier to release heat from the body. After that, the body pillow 1 efficiently releases heat from the body with the air blower unit 43. As a result, the user's core body temperature drops rapidly, effectively promoting sleep.

[0039] In S7, it is determined whether the heating switch has been turned ON or not. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether the heating switch on the operation unit 65 has been turned ON or not. If the result in S7 is "YES", meaning the heating switch has been turned ON, the process proceeds to S8. On the other hand, if the result in S7 is "NO", meaning the heating switch has not been turned ON, the process proceeds to S11.

[0040] In S8, the heating unit is activated. In S8, the same control processing as in S2 is performed. The body pillow 1 warms the user's hands by heating with the heating unit 41. In the next step, S9, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. In S9, the same control processing as in S3 is performed. The predetermined time in S9 may be longer or shorter than the predetermined time in S3. If it is determined in S9 that "YES", that is, the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to S10. On the other hand, if it is determined in S9 that "NO", that is, the predetermined time has not elapsed, the elapsed time is monitored.

[0041] In the next step, S10, the operation of the heating unit is stopped. That is, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the heating unit 41 and ends the process after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the heating unit 41. In other words, the heating unit 41 automatically stops after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the heating unit 41. This prevents the heating unit 41 from continuing to operate even if the user forgets to stop it.

[0042] In S11, it is determined whether the cooling switch has been turned ON or not. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether the cooling switch on the operation unit 65 has been turned ON or not. If the result in S11 is "YES", meaning the cooling switch has been turned ON, the process proceeds to S12. On the other hand, if the result in S11 is "NO", meaning the cooling switch has not been turned ON, the process ends.

[0043] In S12, the air blower is activated. That is, the control unit 60 starts the operation of the air blower 43. When the air blower 43 is activated, air F is discharged from the through hole 41a of the heating unit 41. The control unit 60 also measures the time elapsed since the start of operation of the air blower 43. The body pillow 1 cools the user's hands with the air F discharged from the through hole 41a.

[0044] In the next step, S13, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. S13 performs the same control processing as S5. The predetermined time in S13 may be longer or shorter than the predetermined time in S5.

[0045] In S14, the operation of the blower unit is stopped. That is, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the blower unit 43 and ends the process after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the blower unit 43. In other words, the blower unit 43 automatically stops after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the blower unit 43. This prevents the blower unit 43 from continuing to operate even if the user forgets to stop it. Note that the heating unit 41 and the blower unit 43 will also stop operating if the stop switch on the operation unit 65 is operated, even before the predetermined time has elapsed.

[0046] Thus, when the continuous switch on the operation unit 65 is operated, the control unit 60 activates the heating unit 41 and then the air blower unit 43. The body pillow 1 first warms the user's hands, dilating the arteriovenous anastomoses of the hands. As the arteriovenous anastomoses dilate, the user finds it easier to release heat from their body, which induces sleep. The body pillow 1 then cools the user's hands in this state. This allows the user to efficiently release heat from their body. As the user's core body temperature drops rapidly, they are effectively encouraged to fall asleep.

[0047] The control of core body temperature through temperature control of arteriovenous anastomoses in the hand, and its effect on sleep onset, are described in the following references A to D. Reference A: Kurauchi et al., A relationship between heat loss and sleepiness: Effects of postural change and melatonin administration, Journal of Applied Physiology, 1997, 83 (1):134-139. Reference B: Kurauchi et al., Functional link between distal vasodilation and sleep-onset latency?, Am J Physiol Regulatory Int Comp Physiol, 2000, 278:R741-R748 Reference C: Kurauchi et al., Circadian Clues to Sleep onset Mechanisms, Neuropsichohmacolog, 2001, Vol. 25, No. S5 Reference D: PJ Murphy et al., Nighttime drop in body temperature: a physiological trigger for sleep onset?, Sleep, 1997, 20 (7):505-511.

[0048] Furthermore, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the temperature control unit 40 (heating unit 41 or blower unit 43) when a predetermined time has elapsed since the unit started operating. This prevents the body pillow 1 from continuing to operate the temperature control unit 40 for longer than necessary.

[0049] Furthermore, the body pillow 1 has a wide and thin shape in its first section 20, and a narrow and thick shape in its second section 30. This allows the user to naturally assume a good posture when hugging the body pillow 1. Therefore, the user can assume a relaxed posture when hugging the body pillow 1.

[0050] Next, a body pillow according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 8. In the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as in the body pillow 1 according to the first embodiment, and their descriptions are omitted. Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the electrical system of a body pillow according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] The body pillow 1 has a contact sensor 70 that detects whether or not the user is in contact with the main body 10. The contact sensor 70 is provided on the main body 10 and, for example, detects a hand touching the hand contact surface 21. The contact sensor 70 may also detect the user's chest touching the chest contact surface 23, or the user's feet at the second part 30. The contact sensor 70 transmits the detection result of whether or not the user is in contact with the main body 10 to the control unit 60.

[0052] The control unit 60 starts the operation of the temperature control unit 40 when contact is detected by the contact sensor 70. The control unit 60 also stops the operation of the temperature control unit 40 when no contact is detected by the contact sensor 70. In other words, the contact sensor 70 acts as an operating switch for activating the temperature control unit 40.

[0053] Detection by the contact sensor 70 (enabled or disabled) can be switched, for example, by the operation unit 65. For example, when the user turns the contact sensor 70 ON (enabled) using the operation unit 65, the operation and stopping of the temperature control unit 40 are controlled depending on whether or not the contact sensor 70 detects contact with the main unit 10.

[0054] The temperature control unit 40 automatically starts operating when the user hugs the main body unit 10. The control unit 60 starts operating the heating unit 41 if, for example, the operation unit 65 is set to a continuous switch or the operation unit 65 is set to a heating switch. On the other hand, if the operation unit 65 is set to a cooling switch, it starts operating the air blower unit 43. The temperature control unit 40 also automatically stops when, for example, the user moves away from the main body unit 10 due to turning over in sleep. This prevents the temperature control unit 40 from continuing to operate when the user is not in contact with the body pillow 1.

[0055] Next, a body pillow according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 11. In the third embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as in the body pillow 1 according to the first embodiment, and their descriptions are omitted. Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a user holding a body pillow according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the electrical system of a body pillow. Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating the temperature control performed by the control unit.

[0056] As shown in Figure 9, a user is lying on the bed 100, hugging a body pillow 1. The bed 100 is equipped with a state detection sensor 80. The state detection sensor 80 is placed, for example, on or under the mattress, and detects the state of the user on the bed 100 (wakeful or asleep). The state detection sensor 80 detects whether the user is awake or asleep by, for example, detecting the user's body movements and breathing on the bed 100.

[0057] The state detection sensor 80 transmits a user state signal to the communication unit 85 of the body pillow 1 based on the detected user state. The user state signal includes an awakening signal when the user is awake and a sleep signal when the user is asleep. The state detection sensor 80 transmits the user state at predetermined intervals, for example, after the power to the body pillow 1 is turned on. The control unit 60 stores the acquired user state in the storage unit 61. The control unit 60 controls the operation of the temperature control unit 40 based on the user state.

[0058] Next, the temperature control performed by the control unit 60 will be explained with reference to Figure 11. The control process shown in Figure 11 is pre-stored in the memory unit 61 of the control unit 60. The control process shown in Figure 11 is performed when the temperature control unit 40 is operating. In Figure 11, each step is indicated by "S".

[0059] In S21, the user status signal is acquired. That is, the control unit 60 acquires either an awakening signal or a sleep signal. By receiving the user status signal, the control unit 60 monitors the user's status on the bed 100.

[0060] In the next step, S22, it is determined whether or not a sleep signal has been acquired. That is, the control unit 60 determines whether or not the user on the bed 100 has fallen asleep. If the result in S22 is "YES," meaning a sleep signal has been acquired, the process proceeds to S23. On the other hand, if the result in S22 is "NO," meaning no sleep signal has been acquired, the process ends.

[0061] In S23, the operation of the temperature control unit is stopped. That is, the control unit 60 stops the operation of the heating unit 41 or the blowing unit 43, and the process ends. In other words, the body pillow 1 automatically stops the operation of the temperature control unit 40 when the user falls asleep. For example, if the user falls asleep while the heating unit 41 or blowing unit 43 is operating, the heating unit 41 or blowing unit 43 is stopped without waiting for a predetermined time to elapse (S3, S5, S9, S13 in Figure 7). This prevents the temperature control unit 40 from continuing to operate after the user has fallen asleep.

[0062] The control unit 60 may analyze the acquired information on past user status signals and perform the next temperature control based on the analysis results. The information on user status signals includes, for example, the elapsed time and time from when the continuous switch of the operation unit 65 is turned ON until the user goes from an awake state to a sleep state, and the sleep score (depth of sleep).

[0063] For example, for a certain period after the user starts using the body pillow 1, the heating time of the heating unit 41, the temperature of the temperature change unit 21a, and the airflow time and output (airflow rate) of the air blower unit 43 are experimentally changed each time the body pillow 1 is used. The control unit 60 records the control combination at that time and sleep information (time taken to fall asleep, sleep score for the day) as a set in the memory unit 61. Based on the control combinations when the time taken to fall asleep was short or the sleep score was high, the control unit 60 calculates the optimal control combination for the user.

[0064] Furthermore, if the user falls asleep while the heating unit 41 is operating, the control unit 60 may shorten the predetermined time for the heating unit 41 to operate in the next temperature control. Also, if the user remains awake even after the air blower unit 43 has finished operating, the control unit 60 may lengthen the predetermined time for the heating unit 41 and the air blower unit 43 to operate in the next temperature control. Note that the control unit 60 is not limited to changing the predetermined time for the heating unit 41 and the air blower unit 43 to operate; for example, it may also change the output of the heating unit 41 and the air blower unit 43.

[0065] In this way, the body pillow 1 analyzes the user's past states from wakefulness to sleep and adjusts the temperature control by the heating unit 41 and the air blowing unit 43 accordingly. Consequently, the body pillow 1 can effectively promote sleep for the user.

[0066] Next, a body pillow according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 12 and 13. In the fourth embodiment, the operating time and temperature control of the temperature control unit 40 are changed according to the environment (temperature and humidity) surrounding the body pillow 1. In the fourth embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as in the body pillow 1 according to the first embodiment, and their descriptions are omitted. Figure 12 is a block diagram showing the electrical system of a body pillow according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating the temperature control performed by the control unit.

[0067] The environmental measurement unit 87 is located in the main body 10. The environmental measurement unit 87 is a thermometer and hygrometer that measure the usage environment (surrounding environment) of the body pillow 1. The environmental measurement unit 87 may be a thermometer or a hygrometer. The environmental measurement unit 87 is connected to the control unit 60 and transmits the measured temperature and humidity to the control unit 60. The control unit 60 controls the operation of the temperature control unit 40 based on the usage environment surrounding the body pillow 1.

[0068] Next, the temperature control performed by the control unit 60 will be explained with reference to Figure 13. The control process shown in Figure 13 is stored in advance in the memory unit 61 of the control unit 60. The control process shown in Figure 13 is performed before the heating unit 41 and the blowing unit 43 start operating. That is, the control process shown in Figure 13 is performed when the power to the body pillow 1 is turned on in order to determine each predetermined time. In Figure 13, each step is indicated by "S". In Figure 13, the case where the environmental measurement unit 87 is a thermometer will be used as an example.

[0069] In S31, the operating environment Ta is acquired. That is, the control unit 60 acquires the operating environment Ta (temperature) measured by the environmental measurement unit 87.

[0070] In the next S32, it is determined whether the usage environment Ta is less than the first environmental threshold value Tx1 (Ta < Tx1). The first environmental threshold value Tx1 is stored in the storage unit 61 in advance. The first environmental threshold value Tx1 is, for example, 20°C. And if it is determined as "YES" in S32, that is, if the usage environment Ta is determined to be less than the first environmental threshold value Tx1, the process proceeds to S33. On the other hand, if it is determined that the usage environment Ta is greater than or equal to the first environmental threshold value Tx1, the process proceeds to S34.

[0071] In S33, the heating unit is set to the first setting and the blowing unit is set to the second setting, and then it ends. The first setting and the second setting are stored in the storage unit 61 in advance. For example, when the usage environment is less than 20°C, the control unit 60 sets the predetermined time for which the heating unit 41 operates to the first setting (for example, 15 minutes). Also, for example, when the usage environment is less than 20°C, the control unit 60 sets the predetermined time for which the blowing unit 43 operates to the second setting (for example, 20 minutes).

[0072] In S34, it is determined whether the usage environment Ta is less than the second environmental threshold value Tx2 (Tx1 ≤ Ta < Tx2). The second environmental threshold value Tx2 is stored in the storage unit 61 in advance. The second environmental threshold value Tx2 is, for example, 28°C. And if it is determined as "YES" in S33, that is, if the usage environment Ta is determined to be less than the second environmental threshold value Tx2, the process proceeds to S35. On the other hand, if it is determined that the usage environment Ta is greater than or equal to the second environmental threshold value Tx2, the process proceeds to S36.

[0073] In S35, the heating unit is set to the third setting and the blowing unit is set to the fourth setting, and then it ends. The third setting and the fourth setting are stored in the storage unit 61 in advance. For example, when the usage environment is 20°C or more and less than 28°C, the control unit 60 sets the predetermined time for which the heating unit 41 operates to the third setting (for example, 10 minutes). Also, for example, when the usage environment is 20°C or more and less than 28°C, the control unit 60 sets the predetermined time for which the blowing unit 43 operates to the fourth setting (for example, 30 minutes).

[0074] In S36, the heating unit is set to setting 5 and the blower unit to setting 6, and the process ends. Settings 5 ​​and 6 are pre-stored in the memory unit 61. The control unit 60 sets the predetermined operating time of the heating unit 41 to setting 5 (for example, 5 minutes) if the operating environment is 28°C or higher. The control unit 60 also sets the predetermined operating time of the blower unit 43 to setting 6 (for example, 40 minutes) if the operating environment is 28°C or higher.

[0075] In this way, the control unit 60 shortens the operating time of the heating unit 41 and lengthens the operating time of the air blower unit 43 as the temperature around the body pillow 1 rises. As a result, the body pillow 1 is temperature-controlled to match the surrounding environment, thereby improving the user's comfort.

[0076] Furthermore, the first to sixth settings are not limited to the operating time of the heating unit 41 and the blower unit 43; the maximum output values ​​of the heating unit 41 and the blower unit 43 may also be changed. Specifically, the first setting of the heating unit 41 can be set to 42°C, the third setting to 40°C, and the fifth setting to 38°C. Also, the second setting of the blower unit 43 can be set to 5V, the fourth setting to 7V, and the sixth setting to 9V. This allows the control unit 60 to control the temperature of the temperature change unit 21a according to the environment surrounding the body pillow 1. The control unit 60 may change both the operating time and the maximum output based on the surrounding environment, or it may change only one of them.

[0077] Furthermore, the control unit 60 was described using an example where it changes the settings of the heating unit 41 and the blowing unit 43 based on the first and second environmental thresholds Tx1 and Tx2. However, the control unit 60 may also change the predetermined time and maximum output of the heating unit 41 and the blowing unit 43 based on a calculation formula based on the operating environment Ta.

[0078] Furthermore, the same control processing can be performed even if the environmental measurement unit 87 is a hygrometer. For example, if the operating environment (humidity) is below the first environmental threshold (e.g., 60%), the heating unit 41 is set to the first setting (e.g., 10 minutes or 40°C) and the blower unit 43 is set to the second setting (e.g., 30 minutes or 7V). On the other hand, if the operating environment (humidity) is above the first environmental threshold (e.g., 60%), the heating unit 41 is set to the third setting (e.g., 7 minutes or 38°C) and the blower unit 43 is set to the fourth setting (e.g., 40 minutes or 9V).

[0079] The control unit 60 may change the predetermined time and maximum output of the heating unit 41 and the blowing unit 43 based on a calculation formula that uses humidity. Alternatively, the control unit 60 may change the settings of the heating unit 41 and the blowing unit 43 based on both the temperature and humidity around the body pillow 1.

[0080] Figure 14 is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiments described above, the example given was one in which the heating section 41 is provided over the entire temperature change section 21a. However, as shown in Figure 14, a plurality of heating sections 91 may be provided spaced apart in the temperature change section 90, such as in the body pillow 3 according to the fifth embodiment.

[0081] In other words, the main body 10 has an intake port 11 for drawing in air from the outside, and a passage portion 13 extending from the intake port 11 toward the temperature change section 90. The temperature control section 40 has a plurality of heating sections 91 spaced apart from the temperature change section 90, and a blower section 43 provided in the passage portion 13. The temperature change section 90 has a plurality of through holes 90a that penetrate the passage portion 13 at positions different from the plurality of heating sections 91.

[0082] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 4, showing a body pillow according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiments described above, the case in which an air intake 11 for drawing in air F is provided on the bottom surface 30a of the second part 30 was explained as an example. However, as in the body pillow 5 according to the sixth embodiment shown in Figure 15, the air blower 93 may be provided on the back side of the temperature change part 94.

[0083] In this case, a portion of the through-hole 95 provided in the temperature-changing section 94 serves as an intake port 95a for drawing in air F, while the other portion serves as an exhaust port 95b for expelling air F. The exhaust port 95b faces the air blowing section 93. On the other hand, the intake port 95a is located in a position that does not face the air blowing section 93. In this example, air F is drawn in from the intake port 95a, which is located above or below the air blowing section 93, and expelled from the exhaust port 95b, which is located in front of the air blowing section 93. The body pillow 5 generates airflow not only at the exhaust port 95b but also at the intake port 95a. As a result, the body pillow 5 can cool the user's hands even if they are in contact with the intake port 95a.

[0084] Figure 16 is a perspective view showing a body pillow according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiments described above, the example described was one in which the main body 10 is continuous with no step between the first part 20 and the second part 30. However, as in the seventh embodiment shown in Figure 16, the body pillow 7 may have a convex shape due to the first part 98 and the second part 99.

[0085] In the embodiments described above, the example of a heating unit 41 being a sheet heater was used. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this, and for example, the heating unit may be a heater provided in the passage unit 13. In such a case, the temperature change unit can be heated by warm air produced by operating both the heater and the air blower unit 43.

[0086] In the above-described embodiment, the case in which the state detection sensor 80 is provided on the bed 100 was used as an example. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this, and for example, the state detection sensor may be provided on the main body of the body pillow.

[0087] In the embodiments described above, a body pillow that warms or cools the user's hands to promote effective sleep was used as an example. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this, and for example, the pillow may warm or cool the user's feet.

[0088] The embodiment may include the following configurations. (Composition 1) A main body having a first part located on the upper body side when held by the user, and a second part located on the lower body side when held by the user, The temperature control unit provided in the main body, A control unit that controls the temperature control unit, Equipped with, The aforementioned first part is, It has a hand contact surface that comes into contact with the user's hands when they hold it, The hand contact surface portion is characterized by having a temperature-changing portion whose temperature is changed by the temperature control portion. (Configuration 2) The thickness dimension of the first part is formed to be smaller than the width dimension of the first part. The body pillow according to configuration 1, characterized in that the thickness dimension of the second part is formed to be larger than the width dimension of the second part. (Composition 3) The thickness dimension of the first part is formed to be smaller than the thickness dimension of the second part. The body pillow according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the width dimension of the first part is formed to be larger than the width dimension of the second part. (Composition 4) The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, characterized in that the temperature change section is configured to allow for position recognition. (Composition 5) The main body is, An intake port for drawing in air from the outside, A passage extending from the suction port toward the temperature change section, It has, The temperature control unit is A heating section provided in the temperature change section, The air blower provided in the passage section, It has, The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, characterized in that the heating section has a plurality of through holes that penetrate the passage section. (Composition 6) The main body is, An intake port for drawing in air from the outside, A passage extending from the suction port toward the temperature change section, It has, The temperature control unit is Multiple heating units are provided spaced apart in the temperature change section, The air blower provided in the passage section, It has, The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, characterized in that the temperature change section has multiple through holes that penetrate the passage section at positions different from the multiple heating sections. (Composition 7) The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, characterized in that the control unit operates the blower unit after the heating unit has been operated. (Composition 8) The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that the control unit stops the operation of the temperature control unit when a predetermined time has elapsed since the temperature control unit was activated. (Composition 9) A body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, further comprising a vibrating part that vibrates the main body. (Composition 10) The device further includes a contact sensor that detects whether or not the user is in contact with the main body, The control unit, When contact is detected by the contact sensor, the operation of the temperature control unit is started. A body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that the operation of the temperature control unit is stopped when contact is not detected by the contact sensor. (Composition 11) The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 10, characterized in that the control unit controls the operation of the temperature control unit based on the user's awake state and sleep state. (Composition 12) The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, characterized in that the control unit controls the operation of the temperature control unit based on the surrounding usage environment. (Composition 13) The body pillow according to any one of configurations 1 to 12, characterized in that the main body portion has a pocket or band into which a hand can be inserted at a position corresponding to the temperature change portion.

[0089] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0090] 1, 3, 5, 7 Body pillow 10 Main body 11 Inlet 13 Passage section 20 Part 1 21 Hand contact surface 21a Temperature change section 21a1 Through hole 23 Chest contact area 30 Part 2 30a Bottom part 40 Temperature control section 41 Heating section 41a Through hole 43 Air blower 50 Vibration section 60 Control Unit 61 Storage section 63 batteries 65 Operation section 67 Temperature measurement unit 70. Detect 80 State detection sensors 85 Communications Department 87 Environmental Measurement Department 90 Temperature change section 90a through hole 91 Heating section 93 Air blower 94 Temperature change section 95 Through hole 95a Inlet 95b Outlet 97 Main body 98 Part 1 99 Part 2 100 beds

Claims

1. A main body having a first part located on the upper body side when the user holds it, and a second part located on the lower body side when the user holds it, A temperature control unit is provided in the main body and has a heating unit and an air blowing unit, A control unit that controls the temperature control unit, Equipped with, The first part is, It has a hand contact surface that comes into contact with the user's hands when they hold it, The hand contact surface portion has a temperature change portion whose temperature is changed by the temperature control portion, The control unit is characterized in that, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the heating unit, it stops the operation of the heating unit and activates the air blower unit.

2. The thickness dimension of the first part is formed to be smaller than the width dimension of the first part. The body pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that the thickness dimension of the second part is formed to be larger than the width dimension of the second part.

3. The thickness dimension of the first part is formed to be smaller than the thickness dimension of the second part. The body pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that the width dimension of the first part is formed to be larger than the width dimension of the second part.

4. The body pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that the temperature change section is configured to allow for position recognition.

5. The main body is, An intake port for drawing in air from the outside, A passage extending from the suction port toward the temperature change section, It has, The temperature control unit is A heating section provided in the temperature change section, The air blower provided in the passage section, It has, The body pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that the heating section has a plurality of through holes that penetrate the passage section.

6. The main body is, An intake port for drawing in air from the outside, A passage extending from the suction port toward the temperature change section, It has, The temperature control unit is Multiple heating units are provided spaced apart in the temperature change section, The air blower provided in the passage section, It has, The body pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that the temperature change section has a plurality of through holes that penetrate the passage section at positions different from the plurality of heating sections.

7. The heating unit is provided in the first part, The body pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that the air blowing unit is located on the second side of the heating unit.

8. The body pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit stops the operation of the temperature control unit when a predetermined time has elapsed since the temperature control unit was activated.

9. The body pillow according to claim 1, further comprising a vibrating part for vibrating the main body.

10. The device further includes a contact sensor that detects whether or not the user is in contact with the main body, The control unit, When contact is detected by the contact sensor, the operation of the temperature control unit is started. The body pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that the operation of the temperature control unit is stopped when contact by the contact sensor is not detected.

11. The body pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit controls the operation of the temperature control unit based on the user's awake state and sleep state.

12. The body pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit controls the operation of the temperature control unit based on the surrounding usage environment.

13. The body pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that the main body has a pocket or band into which a hand can be inserted at a position corresponding to the temperature change section.

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