Refresh system and control system

Abstract

To provide a refresh system capable of smoothly shifting a user into a normal active state from a meditation state while making the user maintain mental calmness due to meditation.SOLUTION: A refresh system 1 includes: a light source 3 directly or indirectly irradiating a face F1 of a user H1 with light L1; and a light control part 22 adjusting light output of the light source 3. The refresh system 1 operates in accordance with each of a plurality of phases including a meditation phase for inducing the user H1 to a meditation state and a recover phase for shifting the user H1 from the meditation state to a normal state. In the recovery phase, the light control part 22 gradually increases the light output for a gradually increasing period of time being 2-90 sec and makes the lighting intensity of the face at the completion time in the gradually increasing period of time become 2lx or more and less than 100lx.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refresh system and a control system.

Background Art

[0002] The lighting system of Patent Document 1 is a lighting system for phototherapy. The light source included in the lighting system of Patent Document 1 is a light source capable of irradiating normal illumination light and biological rhythm adjustment light having a higher or lower illuminance than the normal illumination light. The biological rhythm adjustment light is light that has the effect of adjusting the body clock and regulating the daily rhythm. As the biological rhythm adjustment light, there are bioactive light, which is illumination light having a higher illuminance than normal illumination light, and calming light, which is illumination light having a lower illuminance than normal illumination light.

[0003] The lighting system of Patent Document 1 sets the illuminance by normal illumination light to, for example, 100 lx (lux) to 700 lx, preferably 300 lx to 700 lx. Also, the illuminance by bioactive light is set to, for example, about 1000 lx or more, preferably about 2500 lx. Further, the illuminance by calming light is set to, for example, less than 50 lx, preferably 1 lx to 30 lx.

[0004] And the lighting system of Patent Document 1 sequentially executes an increase mode, a steady mode, a decrease mode, a normal illumination mode, a calming light introduction mode, and a calming light steady mode to irradiate light to a phototherapy subject.

[0005] In the increase mode, the illuminance by the lighting system gradually increases over time to the illuminance by bioactive light. In the steady mode, the illuminance maintains the illuminance by bioactive light at a constant level. In the decrease mode, the illuminance gradually decreases over time from the illuminance by bioactive light to the illuminance by normal illumination light. In the normal illumination mode, the illuminance maintains the illuminance by normal illumination light at a constant level. In the calming light introduction mode, the illuminance gradually decreases over time from the illuminance by normal illumination light to the illuminance by calming light. In the calming light steady mode, the illuminance maintains the illuminance by calming light for a predetermined time.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-206476 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] Conventional refreshment systems, such as those described in Patent Document 1, have made it difficult to smoothly transition from a meditative state to a normal activity state while maintaining a calm state of mind through meditation.

[0008] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a refresh system and a control system that allow a person to maintain a state of calm through meditation while smoothly transitioning from a meditative state to a normal activity state. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A refresh system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a light source that directly or indirectly irradiates light onto a user's face, and a light control unit that adjusts the light output of the light source. The refresh system operates in accordance with each of a plurality of phases, including a meditation phase for guiding the user into a meditative state and a recovery phase for transitioning the user from the meditative state to a normal state. The meditation phase includes at least one steady-state subphase. In the at least one steady-state subphase, the light control unit encourages the user to transition to the meditative state by repeatedly increasing and decreasing the light output at a constant fluctuation period. In the recovery phase, the light control unit gradually increases the light output over a gradual increase period of 2 seconds or more and 90 seconds or less, so that the illuminance on the face at the end of the gradual increase period is greater than the peak value of the light output in the at least one steady-state subphase, and is 2 lx or more and less than 100 lx. The gradual increase period is longer than the period of variation of the optical output in the at least one steady-state subphase.

[0011] A control system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is used in a refresh system that operates in accordance with each of a plurality of phases, including a meditation phase that guides a user into a meditative state and a recovery phase that transitions the user from the meditative state to a normal state. The control system includes a light control unit that adjusts the light output of a light source that directly or indirectly irradiates the user's face with light. The meditation phase includes at least one steady subphase. In the at least one steady subphase, the light control unit encourages the user to transition to the meditative state by repeatedly increasing and decreasing the light output at a constant fluctuation period. In the recovery phase, the light control unit gradually increases the light output over a gradual increase period of 2 seconds or more and 90 seconds or less, so that the illuminance on the face at the end of the gradual increase period is greater than the peak value of the light output in the at least one steady subphase, and is 2 lx or more and less than 100 lx. The gradual increase period is longer than the period of variation of the optical output in the at least one steady-state subphase. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] As explained above, this disclosure has the effect of allowing a person to maintain a state of calm through meditation while smoothly transitioning from a meditative state to a normal state of activity. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a refresh system equipped with a control system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the use of the refresh system described above. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a waveform diagram showing the time variation of the optical output in the refresh system described above. [Figure 4] Figures 4A and 4B are waveform diagrams showing the time evolution of the optical output in the first modified embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a waveform diagram showing the time variation of the optical output in a second modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a waveform diagram showing the time change of the optical output in the third modification of the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a waveform diagram showing the time change of the optical output in the fourth modification of the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the refresh system of the fifth modification of the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a waveform diagram showing the time change of the optical output and the sound output as described above.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] The following embodiments relate to a refresh system and a control system. More specifically, they relate to a refresh system and a control system for refreshing a user.

[0015] Note that the embodiments described below are merely examples of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications can be made according to the design and the like as long as the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0016] (Embodiment) (1) Outline of the Refresh System The refresh system guides a user (person) into a meditation state, reduces the user's fatigue, tension, stress, etc., and refreshes at least one of the user's body and mind. Such a refresh system is assumed to be used by users who perform various activities such as mental work, physical work, simple work, creative activities, or exercise. Therefore, the refresh system is required to smoothly transition from the meditation state to the normal activity state while maintaining the user's mental calmness through meditation.

[0017] Hereinafter, a refresh system that enables a smooth transition from the meditation state to the normal activity state while maintaining the mental calmness through meditation will be described.

[0018] FIG. 1 shows the configuration of the refresh system 1 of the embodiment.

[0019] The refresh system 1 includes a control system 2 and a light source 3, and operates corresponding to each of a plurality of phases including a meditation phase P2 (see FIG. 3) and a recovery phase P3 (see FIG. 3). The meditation phase P2 is a phase for guiding the user H1 into a meditation state. The recovery phase P3 is a phase for shifting the user H1 from the meditation state to the normal state. Then, the light source 3 irradiates the face F1 of the user H1 with light L1 directly or indirectly. The control system 2 includes a light control unit 22, and the light control unit 22 adjusts the light output of the light source 3. In the recovery phase P3, the light control unit 22 increases the light output over a gradual increase period T2 (see FIG. 3) of 2 seconds or more and 90 seconds or less, and sets the illuminance Y3 (see FIG. 3) of the face F1 at the completion time t10 (see FIG. 3) of the gradual increase period to be 2 lx (lux) or more and less than 100 lx.

[0020] The refresh system 1 having the above configuration increases the light output over a gradual increase period T2 of 2 seconds or more and 90 seconds or less in the recovery phase P3 for shifting the user H1 from the meditation state to the normal state, and sets the illuminance Y3 of the face F1 at the completion time t10 of the gradual increase period T2 to be 2 lx or more and less than 100 lx. As a result, the refresh system 1 can smoothly shift the user H1 from the meditation state to the normal activity state while maintaining the mental calmness by meditation.

[0021] (2) Details As shown in FIG. 1, the refresh system 1 includes a control system 2 and a light source 3.

[0022] (2.1) Light source The light source 3 is equipped with a solid-state light-emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode), an organic EL (Organic Electro Luminescence, OEL), or a laser diode, and emits light L1 of a predetermined color. The color of light L1 is, for example, white, yellow, blue, red, or a mixture of two or more colors. The light source 3 may also be a color-tunable light source. The light source 3 is supported by a stand or bracket or the like. The position (distance, direction) of the light source 3 relative to the user H1's face F1 is adjustable, and the light source 3 directly or indirectly irradiates the user H1's face F1 with light L1.

[0023] For example, the light source 3 may be positioned in front of the user H1 and directly illuminate the user H1's face F1 with light L1. Alternatively, the light source 3 may illuminate a structure such as a wall, panel, or reflector with light L1, and indirectly illuminate the user H1's face F1 with the light L1 reflected by the structure. In other words, the light source 3 only needs to be configured to directly or indirectly illuminate the user H1's face F1 with light L1, and the position of the light source 3 relative to the user H1 is not limited to a specific position.

[0024] Light source 3 directly or indirectly illuminates the face F1 of user H1, who is located in a dimly lit space with reduced ambient light, or in a dark space where ambient light is blocked, with light L1. The illuminance of face F1 mainly depends on the light L1 from light source 3.

[0025] As an example, as shown in Figure 2, the light source 3 illuminates the face F1 of user H1, who is sitting in a reclining chair G1, with light L1. In this case, the relative position of the light source 3 and the reclining chair G1 is adjustable, and the position of the light source 3 relative to user H1's face F1 can be adjusted to a predetermined position.

[0026] Furthermore, the light source 3 may irradiate the face F1 of user H1 lying in bed, or the face F1 of user H1 sitting in a work chair, with light L1.

[0027] (2.2) Control System As shown in Figure 1, the control system 2 includes a trigger generation unit 21 and an optical control unit 22.

[0028] The control system 2 preferably includes a computer system. That is, in the control system 2, some or all of the functions of the control system 2 are realized by a processor, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit), reading and executing a program stored in memory. The control system 2 primarily includes a processor that operates according to the program as its hardware configuration. The type of processor is not limited as long as it can realize its functions by executing a program. The processor consists of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integration (LSI). Here, we refer to them as ICs and LSIs, but the name changes depending on the degree of integration; they may also be called system LSIs, VLSIs (very large-scale integrations), or ULSIs (ultra-large-scale integrations). Field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), which are programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or reconfigurable logic devices that allow for the reconfiguration of internal junction relationships or the setup of internal circuit compartments, can also be used for the same purpose. Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated on a single chip or provided on multiple chips. Multiple chips may be arranged in a cluster or distributed.

[0029] (2.2.1) Trigger generation section The trigger generation unit 21 generates a start signal.

[0030] For example, the trigger generation unit 21 includes an operation unit that accepts human input, and when the operation unit accepts human input, it generates a start signal. The operation unit may include a switch, a button, or a remote controller.

[0031] Furthermore, the trigger generation unit 21 may be equipped with a human sensor that detects the presence of user H1, and when the human sensor detects the presence of user H1, it may generate a start signal. The human sensor may be a pyroelectric sensor, a pressure sensor, or a camera.

[0032] Furthermore, the trigger generation unit 21 may be equipped with a clock function and generate a start signal when the current time reaches a predetermined time. Alternatively, the trigger generation unit 21 may be equipped with a timing function and generate a start signal when the timing time reaches a predetermined time.

[0033] (2.2.2) Phototherapy The light control unit 22 adjusts the light output of the light source 3. Specifically, the light control unit 22 adjusts the illuminance of the user H1's face F1 by adjusting (dimming) the intensity of the light L1 emitted by the light source 3. The light control unit 22 adjusts the light output of the light source 3 by controlling at least one of the current supplied to the light source 3 and the voltage applied to the light source 3.

[0034] Furthermore, the light control unit 22 may provide feedback control to the light output of the light source 3 so that the illuminance on the user H1's face F1 reaches the target illuminance.

[0035] (2.3) Refresh operation The operation of Refresh System 1 will be described below.

[0036] Figure 3 shows an example of the time change in the intensity of the light L1 that directly or indirectly irradiates the face F1 of user H1 when the refresh system 1 refreshes user H1, i.e., the time change in the light output of the light source 3. The refresh system 1 operates in accordance with each of the multiple phases. The light control unit 22 has a timing function and sequentially executes operations corresponding to each of the multiple phases according to the elapsed time since the trigger generation unit 21 generates a start signal.

[0037] Figure 3 shows that the system comprises multiple phases: a relaxation phase (first phase) P1, a meditation phase (second phase) P2, and a recovery phase (third phase) P3. In this embodiment, the period during which the relaxation phase P1 and meditation phase P2 are in operation corresponds to the fluctuation period T1. The fluctuation period T1 is the period prior to the gradual increase period T2. The light control unit 22 then repeatedly increases and decreases the light output for 20 seconds or more during the fluctuation period T1. Preferably, during the fluctuation period T1, the light control unit 22 sets the fluctuation period of the light output to 7 seconds or more and the peak value of the illuminance on the face F1 to less than 100 lx.

[0038] When the fluctuation period T1 begins, the light control unit 22 adjusts the light output of the light source 3 to the light output corresponding to the relaxation phase P1, and then adjusts the light output of the light source 3 to the light output corresponding to the meditation phase P2. In this embodiment, the duration of the fluctuation period T1 is set to, for example, 6 minutes.

[0039] (2.3.1) Relaxation Phase Relaxation Phase P1 is a phase designed to put user H1 into a relaxed state, encouraging user H1 to take deep breaths at their own pace. The duration of Relaxation Phase P1 is preferably 20 seconds or longer, and in this embodiment, for example, it is 1 minute. A relaxed state refers to a state in which user H1 feels at ease.

[0040] At time t0, when the trigger generation unit 21 generates a start signal, the refresh system 1 starts the operation corresponding to the relaxation phase P1. In the relaxation phase P1, the light control unit 22 repeatedly increases and decreases the light output of the light source 3 with a fluctuation period C1. In Figure 3, the magnitude of the light output of the light source 3 reaches a peak value (maximum value) Y1 for each fluctuation period C1. The light control unit 22 sets the fluctuation period C1 to a value within the range of 7 seconds or more and 14 seconds or less. That is, in the relaxation phase P1, the light control unit 22 repeatedly increases and decreases the light output of the light source 3 with a fluctuation period C1 to teach the user H1 the timing of breathing and encourage deep breathing at the user H1's own pace.

[0041] Furthermore, the light control unit 22 ensures that the peak illuminance value of the user H1's face F1 is less than 100 lx during the relaxation phase P1. In this case, it is preferable that the light control unit 22 feedback-controls the light output of the light source 3 so that the peak illuminance value of the user H1's face F1 is less than 100 lx.

[0042] Furthermore, during the relaxation phase P1, it is preferable that the difference between the maximum and minimum illuminance values ​​of the user H1's face F1 is 0.5 lx or less.

[0043] (2.3.2) Meditation Phase Meditation Phase P2 is a phase for guiding user H1 into a meditative state. In this embodiment, Meditation Phase P2 transitions user H1 from a relaxed state to a meditative state.

[0044] When the relaxation phase P1 ends, the light control unit 22 starts the operation corresponding to the meditation phase P2. That is, the light control unit 22 first adjusts the light output of the light source 3 to the light output corresponding to the relaxation phase P1, and then adjusts the light output of the light source 3 to the light output corresponding to the meditation phase P2. The duration of the meditation phase P2 is preferably 20 seconds or more, and in this embodiment, it is, for example, 5 minutes.

[0045] Meditation phase P2 includes a steady-state subphase P21. In steady-state subphase P21, the light control unit 22 repeatedly increases and decreases the light output of the light source 3 at a constant period of variation C2. That is, the light control unit 22 varies the light output of the light source 3 in steady-state subphase P21 at a constant period of variation C2, and the waveform of the light output of the light source 3 repeats the same waveform with each variation period C2. In Figure 3, the magnitude of the light output of the light source 3 reaches a peak value (maximum value) Y2 with each variation period C2. The light control unit 22 sets the variation period C2 to a value within the range of 7 seconds or more and 60 seconds or less. In this embodiment, the variation period C2 is set to 10 seconds, for example.

[0046] In other words, during the meditation phase P2, the light control unit 22 encourages the user H1 to transition to a meditative state by repeatedly increasing and decreasing the light output of the light source 3 with a fluctuation period C2.

[0047] Furthermore, the light control unit 22 ensures that the peak illuminance value of the user H1's face F1 is less than 100 lx during the steady-state subphase P21. In this case, it is preferable that the light control unit 22 feedback-controls the light output of the light source 3 so that the peak illuminance value of the user H1's face F1 is less than 100 lx.

[0048] Furthermore, the light control unit 22 makes at least one of the peak value of the light output magnitude and the fluctuation period of the light output different for the relaxation phase P1 and the meditation phase P2. In this embodiment, the light control unit 22 makes both the peak value of the light output magnitude and the fluctuation period of the light output different for the relaxation phase P1 and the meditation phase P2.

[0049] Specifically, the fluctuation period C2 of the steady-state subphase P21 is longer than the fluctuation period C1 of the relaxation phase P1. The peak value Y2 of the steady-state subphase P21 is smaller than the peak value Y1 of the relaxation phase P1. By setting the fluctuation periods C1 and C2, and the peak values ​​Y1 and Y2 as described above, the user H1 can be smoothly transitioned from a relaxed state to a meditative state.

[0050] In the steady-state subphase P21 of this embodiment, the light L1 emitted by the light source 3 becomes steady-state fluctuating light in which the magnitude of the light output increases to a peak value Y2 with each fluctuation period C2. Steady-state fluctuating light is light in which the fluctuation period C2 is constant and the peak value Y2 is also constant, and has the effect of encouraging focused meditation in user H1, thereby supporting user H1's focused meditation. In other words, by directing user H1's attention to the monotonous and unstimulating steady-state fluctuating light, it encourages user H1 to focus meditation. Focused meditation is a state in which user H1 is focused on a single point, and is a state that is expressed, for example, as "becoming nothing" or "emptying one's mind."

[0051] Furthermore, in steady-state subphase P21, it is preferable that the difference between the maximum and minimum illuminance values ​​of user H1's face F1 is 0.5 lx or less.

[0052] (2.3.3) Recovery Phase Recovery Phase P3 is the phase for transitioning user H1 from a meditative state to a normal state. User H1's normal state is a state in which they have woken from the meditative state while maintaining a relaxed state.

[0053] When the meditation phase P2 ends, the light control unit 22 starts the operation corresponding to the recovery phase P3. That is, the light control unit 22 adjusts the light output of the light source 3 to the light output corresponding to the meditation phase P2, and then adjusts the light output of the light source 3 to the light output corresponding to the recovery phase P3.

[0054] In the recovery phase P3, the light control unit 22 gradually increases the light output over a gradual increase period T2 of 2 seconds or more and 90 seconds or less, so that the illuminance Y3 on the face F1 at the completion of the gradual increase period T2 at t10 (hereinafter referred to as recovery illuminance Y3) is 2 lx or more and less than 100 lx. At this time, it is preferable for the light control unit 22 to feedback control the light output of the light source 3 so that the recovery illuminance Y3 is 2 lx or more and less than 100 lx. Note that the recovery illuminance Y3 is less than the peak value Y1 of the relaxation phase P1 and greater than the peak value Y2 of the steady-state subphase P21.

[0055] Preferably, the duration of the gradual increase period T2 is set to a value within the range of 5 to 25 seconds, and the return illuminance Y3 is set to a value within the range of 20 to 40 lx. In this embodiment, the duration of the gradual increase period T2 is 15 seconds, and the return illuminance Y3 is 30 lx.

[0056] Then, the light control unit 22 gradually increases the light output of the light source 3 during the gradual increase period T2, gradually increasing the illuminance of user H1's face F1 to the return illuminance Y3. After the illuminance of user H1's face F1 reaches the return illuminance Y3, the light control unit 22 maintains the illuminance of user H1's face F1 at the return illuminance Y3 for the maintenance period T3.

[0057] The refresh system 1 gradually increases the light output of the light source 3 to the recovery illuminance Y3 during the gradual increase period T2 of the recovery phase P3, thereby allowing user H1 to maintain the calmness of mind achieved through meditation and smoothly transition from the meditative state to a normal active state. In other words, the light L1 of the light source 3 during the gradual increase period T2 has the effect of returning (inducing) user H1 from the meditative state to a normal state, supporting user H1 in returning to a normal active state.

[0058] (3) First modified example Figures 4A and 4B show a first modified example of the operation of the refresh system 1.

[0059] The refresh system 1 may have multiple phases, such as shown in Figure 4A, but may not have a relaxation phase P1, instead comprising only a meditation phase P2 and a recovery phase P3. In this case, the period during which the refresh system 1 operates in the meditation phase P2 becomes the fluctuation period T1. The light control unit 22 repeatedly increases and decreases the light output for 20 seconds or more during the fluctuation period T1.

[0060] In Figure 4A, during meditation phase P2, the light L1 emitted by light source 3 becomes steady-state fluctuating light, the magnitude of which increases to a peak value Y2 with each fluctuation period C2. This steady-state fluctuating light has the effect of encouraging focused meditation in user H1, thereby supporting user H1's focused meditation.

[0061] Furthermore, depending on the user H1, as shown in Figure 4B, the light L1 emitted by the light source 3 during the meditation phase P2 may be steady-state fluctuating light in which the magnitude of the light output increases to a peak value Y2a with each fluctuation period C2a. The fluctuation period C2a is shorter than the fluctuation period C2, and the peak value Y2a is greater than the peak value Y2. However, the fluctuation period C2a is preferably set to a value within the range of 7 seconds or more and 60 seconds or less, similar to the fluctuation period C2, and is approximately the same as the cycle of deep breathing of the user H1. Also, the peak value Y2a is preferably less than 100 lx, similar to the peak value Y2.

[0062] (4) Second variation Figure 5 shows a second modified example of the operation of the refresh system 1, in which the operation corresponding to the meditation phase P2 differs from the operation shown in Figure 3 of the above-described embodiment. In the second modified example, the meditation phase P2 includes multiple (two in Figure 5) subphases P21 and P22 in which the waveforms of the light output differ from each other. In this modified example, a steady-state subphase P21 and a transient subphase P22 are used as the two subphases. As a result, the refresh system 1 can adjust the meditation state of the user H1 in the meditation phase P2.

[0063] Specifically, the light control unit 22 includes at least one steady-state subphase P21 and at least one transient subphase P22 in the meditation phase P2. The light control unit 22 varies the light output in the steady-state subphase P21 with a constant period, which is a variation period C2, and varies the light output in the transient subphase P22 with an indeterminate period. In Figure 5, the meditation phase P2 consists of one steady-state subphase P21 and five consecutive transient subphases P22, with the five transient subphases P22 following the steady-state subphase P21 in sequence.

[0064] In the steady-state subphase P21, the light control unit 22 repeatedly increases and decreases the light output of the light source 3 with a constant fluctuation period C2. In Figure 5, the magnitude of the light output of the light source 3 reaches a peak value Y2 with each fluctuation period C2. That is, in the steady-state subphase P21, the light L1 emitted by the light source 3 becomes steady-state fluctuating light, where the magnitude of the light output increases to a peak value Y2 with each fluctuation period C2. Steady-state fluctuating light is light with a constant fluctuation period C2 and a constant peak value Y2, and has the effect of encouraging focused meditation in user H1, thereby supporting user H1's focused meditation.

[0065] In the non-steady-state subphase P22, the optical control unit 22 adjusts the optical output of the light source 3 so that the optical output of the light source 3 becomes a predetermined waveform W1 (hereinafter referred to as unit waveform W1) that fluctuates with an indeterminate period. An indeterminate period means that the timing of increase and decrease in optical output does not occur at a constant period, and the timing of increase and decrease in optical output does not occur periodically. The unit waveform W1 is the waveform of the optical output that fluctuates with an indeterminate period, and is a predetermined waveform pattern. The optical output that fluctuates with a unit waveform W1 of an indeterminate period becomes non-steady-state fluctuating light. For example, the unit waveform W1 is a waveform with 1 / f fluctuation. The non-steady-state fluctuating light has the effect of encouraging insight meditation (observational meditation) in user H1 and supports user H1's insight meditation. Insight meditation is a state in which user H1 has moved beyond concentrated meditation and is perceiving reality itself in its true form.

[0066] In this modified example, the light output of light source 3 fluctuates with a constant fluctuation period C2 during the first half of meditation phase P2, and fluctuates with an indeterminate period during the second half of meditation phase P2. Therefore, the refresh system 1 supports user H1's focused meditation by encouraging it during the first half of meditation phase P2, and supports user H1's insight meditation by encouraging it during the second half of meditation phase P2.

[0067] (5) Third variation Figure 6 shows a third modified example of the operation of the refresh system 1, in which the operation corresponding to the meditation phase P2 differs from the operation shown in Figure 3 of the above-described embodiment. In the third modified example, the light control unit 22 includes at least one transient subphase P22 in the meditation phase P2. In Figure 6, the meditation phase P2 is composed of eight consecutive transient subphases P22. That is, the meditation phase P2 does not include a steady subphase P21, and includes only transient subphases P22.

[0068] As described above, the light output of light source 3 repeats the unit waveform W1 throughout the entire duration of meditation phase P2. Therefore, the refresh system 1 encourages user H1 to perform insight meditation throughout the entire duration of meditation phase P2, thereby supporting user H1's insight meditation.

[0069] (6) Fourth variation Figure 7 shows a fourth modified example of the operation of the refresh system 1, in which the operation corresponding to the meditation phase P2 differs from the operation shown in Figure 3 of the above-described embodiment. In the fourth modified example, the optical control unit 22 includes at least one steady-state subphase P21 and at least one transient subphase P22 in the meditation phase P2. The optical control unit 22 varies the optical output in the steady-state subphase P21 with a constant period, which is a fluctuation period C2, and varies the optical output in the transient subphase P22 with an indeterminate period. In the meditation phase P2 of Figure 7, one steady-state subphase P21 and two transient subphases P22 are generated alternately.

[0070] As described above, the light output of light source 3 alternates between steady-state subphase P21 and transient subphase P22 during meditation phase P2. Therefore, the refresh system 1 alternately encourages user H1 to perform focused meditation and insightful meditation during meditation phase P2.

[0071] (7) Fifth variation Figure 8 shows a modified example of the refresh system 1, namely refresh system 1A.

[0072] Refresh system 1A further includes a sound output device 4 in addition to the control system 2A and the light source 3. Control system 2A further includes a sound control unit 23 in addition to the trigger generation unit 21 and the light control unit 22. Components similar to those in refresh system 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0073] The sound output device 4, equipped with a speaker and an amplifier, outputs sound towards the user H1.

[0074] The sound control unit 23 outputs an audio signal to the sound output device 4, causing the sound output device 4 to output sound. The sound control unit 23 can adjust the volume, frequency, and timbre of the sound output by the sound output device 4.

[0075] The operation of the refresh system 1A will be described below.

[0076] Figure 9 shows an example of the time change in the light output of the light source 3 and the time change in the sound output of the sound output device 4 when the refresh system 1 refreshes user H1. The time change in the sound output of the sound output device 4 represents the time change in the loudness of the sound output by the sound output device 4.

[0077] At time t0, when the trigger generation unit 21 generates a start signal, the refresh system 1 starts the operation corresponding to the relaxation phase P1. In the relaxation phase P1, the light control unit 22 maintains the light output of the light source 3 at 0 (zero). In the relaxation phase P1, the sound control unit 23 repeatedly increases and decreases the sound output of the sound output device 4 with a fluctuation period C1, thereby instructing the user H1 on the timing of breathing and encouraging the user H1 to take deep breaths at their own pace. In Figure 9, the magnitude of the sound output of the sound output device 4 reaches a peak value (maximum value) Y11 with each fluctuation period C1.

[0078] When the relaxation phase P1 ends, the sound control unit 23 starts the operation corresponding to the meditation phase P2. The sound control unit 23 adjusts the sound output of the sound output device 4 to the sound output corresponding to the relaxation phase P1, and then adjusts the sound output of the sound output device 4 to the sound output corresponding to the meditation phase P2. In the meditation phase P2 as well, the light control unit 22 maintains the light output of the light source 3 at 0 (zero).

[0079] In meditation phase P2, the sound control unit 23 repeatedly increases and decreases the sound output of the sound output device 4 at a constant period of variation C2. That is, the sound control unit 23 varies the sound output of the sound output device 4 in meditation phase P2 at a constant period of variation C2, and the waveform of the sound output of the sound output device 4 repeats the same waveform with each variation period C2. In Figure 9, the magnitude of the sound output of the sound output device 4 reaches a peak value (maximum value) Y12 with each variation period C2. In other words, in meditation phase P2, the sound control unit 23 encourages the user H1 to transition to a meditative state by repeatedly increasing and decreasing the sound output of the sound output device 4 at a variation period C2.

[0080] In the meditation phase P2 of this modified version, the sound emitted by the sound output device 4 becomes a steady-state fluctuating sound in which the magnitude of the sound output increases to a peak value Y12 with each fluctuation period C2. A steady-state fluctuating sound is a sound in which the fluctuation period C2 is constant and the peak value Y12 is also constant, and it has the effect of encouraging focused meditation in user H1 and supports user H1's focused meditation.

[0081] Furthermore, the light control unit 22 makes at least one of the peak value of the sound output magnitude and the fluctuation period of the sound output different for the relaxation phase P1 and the meditation phase P2. In this embodiment, the sound control unit 23 makes both the peak value of the sound output magnitude and the fluctuation period of the sound output different for the relaxation phase P1 and the meditation phase P2.

[0082] Specifically, the fluctuation period C2 of the steady-state subphase P21 is longer than the fluctuation period C1 of the relaxation phase P1. The peak value Y12 of the steady-state subphase P21 is smaller than the peak value Y11 of the relaxation phase P1. By setting the fluctuation periods C1 and C2, and the peak values ​​Y11 and Y12 as described above, the user H1 can be smoothly transitioned from a relaxed state to a meditative state.

[0083] When the meditation phase P2 ends, the light control unit 22 starts the operation corresponding to the recovery phase P3. In the recovery phase P3, the light control unit 22 gradually increases the light output over a gradual increase period T2 of 2 seconds or more and 90 seconds or less, similar to the embodiment described above, and sets the recovery illuminance Y3 at the completion time t10 of the gradual increase period T2 to 2 lx or more and less than 100 lx. After the illuminance of the user H1's face F1 reaches the recovery illuminance Y3, the light control unit 22 maintains the illuminance of the user H1's face F1 at the recovery illuminance Y3 for a maintenance period T3.

[0084] The refresh system 1A gradually increases the light output of the light source 3 during the gradual increase period T2 of the recovery phase P3, allowing user H1 to maintain a calm state of mind through meditation while smoothly transitioning from the meditative state to a normal active state. In other words, the light L1 of the light source 3 during the gradual increase period T2 has the effect of returning (inducing) user H1 from the meditative state to a normal state, supporting user H1 in returning to a normal active state.

[0085] During the recovery phase P3, the sound control unit 23 maintains the sound output of the sound output device 4 at 0 (zero).

[0086] (8) Sixth variation The waveforms of the optical output using both the steady-state subphase P21 and the transient subphase P22 in meditation phase P2 are not limited to the waveforms shown in Figures 5 and 7. In meditation phase P2, various optical output waveforms can be used by mixing the steady-state subphase P21 and the transient subphase P22.

[0087] The unit waveform W1 of the transient subphase P22 is not limited to the waveforms shown in Figures 5-7.

[0088] In the meditation phase P2, two or more non-stationary subphases with different unit waveforms may be mixed together as non-stationary subphase P22.

[0089] The waveform of the sound output from the sound output device 4 is not limited to the waveform shown in Figure 9. The waveform of the sound output may, for example, consist of multiple pulses that occur intermittently. Also, the sound output from the sound output device 4 may be music, narration, ambient sounds (wind sounds, rain sounds, wave sounds, etc.), etc.

[0090] The fluctuation period T1 only needs to include at least one of the relaxation phase P1 and the meditation phase P2.

[0091] (9) Summary A refresh system (1, 1A) according to the first embodiment includes a light source (3) that directly or indirectly irradiates light (L1) onto the face (F1) of a user (H1), and a light control unit (22) that adjusts the light output of the light source (3). The refresh system (1, 1A) operates in accordance with each of a plurality of phases, including a meditation phase (P2) for guiding the user (H1) into a meditative state, and a recovery phase (P3) for transitioning the user (H1) from the meditative state to a normal state. In the recovery phase (P3), the light control unit (22) gradually increases the light output over a gradual increase period (T2) of 2 seconds or more and 90 seconds or less, so that the illuminance on the face (F1) at the completion of the gradual increase period (T2) (t10) is 2 lx or more and less than 100 lx.

[0092] The refresh system described above (1, 1A) allows a person (H1) to maintain a state of calm through meditation while smoothly transitioning from a meditative state to a normal state of activity.

[0093] In the refresh system (1) of the second embodiment, in the first embodiment, it is preferable that the optical control unit (22) repeats increasing and decreasing the optical output for 20 seconds or more during the fluctuation period (T1) prior to the gradual increase period (T2).

[0094] The refresh system (1) described above can put a person (H1) into a meditative or relaxed state during the fluctuation period (T1).

[0095] In the refresh system (1) of the third embodiment, in the second embodiment, it is preferable that the light control unit (22) sets the fluctuation period of the light output (C1, C2) to 7 seconds or more during the fluctuation period (T1), and the peak value of the illuminance on the face (F1) to be less than 100 lx.

[0096] The refresh system (1) described above can put a person (H1) into a meditative or relaxed state during the fluctuation period (T1).

[0097] In the refresh system (1) of the fourth embodiment, in the second or third embodiment, it is preferable that the optical control unit (22) adjusts the optical output of the light source (3) to the optical output corresponding to the meditation phase (P2) for at least a portion of the fluctuation period (T1).

[0098] The refresh system (1) described above can induce a meditative state in a person (H1) during the fluctuation period (T1).

[0099] In the refresh system (1) of the fifth embodiment, in the fourth embodiment, the meditation phase (P2) preferably includes a plurality of subphases (P21, P22) in which the waveforms of the optical output are different from each other.

[0100] The refresh system (1) described above can adjust the meditative state of the person (H1) during the meditation phase (P2).

[0101] In the refresh system (1) of the sixth embodiment, in the fourth or fifth embodiment, it is preferable that the phases further include a relaxation phase (P1) for putting the user (H1) into a relaxed state. The light control unit (22) adjusts the light output of the light source (3) to the light output corresponding to the relaxation phase (P1) during the fluctuation period (T1), and then adjusts the light output of the light source (3) to the light output corresponding to the meditation phase (P2). The light control unit (22) makes at least one of the peak value of the magnitude of the light output and the fluctuation period of the light output different for the relaxation phase (P1) and the meditation phase (P2).

[0102] The refresh system (1) described above can smoothly transition a person (H1) from a relaxed state to a meditative state.

[0103] In the refresh system (1) of the seventh embodiment, in the sixth embodiment, the meditation phase (P2) preferably includes at least one steady-state subphase (P21). The light control unit (22) varies the light output in at least one steady-state subphase (P21) at a constant period. The light control unit (22) makes the variation period (C2) of the light output in at least one steady-state subphase (P21) longer than the variation period (C1) of the light output in the relaxation phase (P1). The light control unit (22) makes the peak value (Y2) of the magnitude of the light output in at least one steady-state subphase (P21) smaller than the peak value (Y1) of the magnitude of the light output in the relaxation phase (P1).

[0104] The refresh system (1) described above can smoothly transition a person (H1) from a relaxed state to a meditative state. Furthermore, the refresh system (1) can support the person's (H1) focused meditation during the meditation phase (P2).

[0105] In the eighth embodiment of the refresh system (1), in the sixth or seventh embodiment, it is preferable that the light control unit (22) sets the fluctuation period (C1) of the light output to 7 seconds or more and 14 seconds or less during the relaxation phase (P1), and sets the peak value of the illuminance on the face (F1) to less than 100 lx.

[0106] The refresh system (1) described above can put a person (H1) into a relaxed state.

[0107] In the refresh system (1) of the ninth embodiment, in any one of the fourth to eighth embodiments, the meditation phase (P2) preferably includes at least one transient subphase (P22). The optical control unit (22) varies the optical output in at least one transient subphase (P22) with an indeterminate period.

[0108] The refresh system (1) described above can support the insight meditation of a person (H1) during the meditation phase (P2).

[0109] In the refresh system (1) of the tenth embodiment, in the seventh or eighth embodiment, the meditation phase (P2) preferably includes at least one steady-state subphase (P21) and at least one transient subphase (P22). The light control unit (22) varies the light output in the at least one transient subphase (P22) with an indeterminate period.

[0110] The refresh system (1) described above can support the person's (H1) focused meditation and intuition meditation during the meditation phase (P2).

[0111] A refresh system (1) according to an eleventh embodiment comprises a light source (3) that directly or indirectly irradiates light onto the face (F1) of a user (H1), and a light control unit (22) that adjusts the light output of the light source (3). The refresh system (1) operates in accordance with each of a plurality of phases, including a meditation phase (P2) for guiding the user (H1) into a meditative state. The meditation phase (P2) includes at least one transient subphase (P22). The light control unit (22) varies the light output in at least one transient subphase (P22) at an indeterminate frequency.

[0112] The refresh system (1) described above can support the insight meditation of a person (H1) during the meditation phase (P2).

[0113] In the refresh system (1) of the 12th embodiment, in the 11th embodiment, it is preferable that the phases further include a relaxation phase (P1) for putting the user (H1) into a relaxed state. The light control unit (22) adjusts the light output of the light source (3) to the light output corresponding to the relaxation phase (P1), and then adjusts the light output of the light source (3) to the light output corresponding to the meditation phase (P2). The light control unit (22) makes at least one of the peak value of the magnitude of the light output and the fluctuation period of the light output different for the relaxation phase (P1) and the meditation phase (P2).

[0114] The refresh system (1) described above can smoothly transition a person (H1) from a relaxed state to a meditative state.

[0115] In the refresh system (1) of the 13th embodiment, in the 12th embodiment, the light control unit (22) preferably sets the fluctuation period of the light output (C1, C2) to 7 seconds or more and the peak value of the illuminance on the face (F1) to less than 100 lx during the relaxation phase (P1) and the meditation phase (P2).

[0116] The refresh system (1) described above can induce a meditative and relaxed state in a person (H1).

[0117] In the refresh system (1) of the 14th embodiment, in the 12th or 13th embodiment, it is preferable that the light control unit (22) sets the fluctuation period (C1) of the light output to 7 seconds or more and 14 seconds or less during the relaxation phase (P1), and sets the peak value of the facial illuminance to less than 100 lx.

[0118] The refresh system (1) described above can put a person (H1) into a relaxed state.

[0119] In the refresh system (1) of the 15th embodiment, in any one of the 12th to 14th embodiments, the meditation phase (P2) preferably further includes at least one steady-state subphase (P21). The light control unit (22) varies the light output in at least one steady-state subphase (P21) at a constant period. The light control unit (22) makes the variation period (C2) of the light output in at least one steady-state subphase (P21) longer than the variation period (C1) of the light output in the relaxation phase (P1). The light control unit (22) makes the peak value (Y2) of the magnitude of the light output in at least one steady-state subphase (P21) smaller than the peak value (Y1) of the magnitude of the light output in the relaxation phase (P1).

[0120] The refresh system (1) described above can smoothly transition a person (H1) from a relaxed state to a meditative state. Furthermore, the refresh system (1) can support the person's (H1) focused meditation during the meditation phase (P2).

[0121] In the sixteenth embodiment of the refresh system (1A), it is preferable that the refresh system (1A) further comprises a sound output device (4) that emits sound in at least one of the multiple phases, in the first embodiment.

[0122] The refresh system (1A) described above can support a person's (H1) refreshment through sound.

[0123] In the refresh system (1A) of the 17th embodiment, in the 16th embodiment, it is preferable that the sound output device (4) emits a sound that informs the user (H1) of the timing of breathing.

[0124] The refresh system (1A) described above can induce a person (H1) into a meditative state through sound.

[0125] The control system (2) of the 18th embodiment is used in a refresh system (1) that operates in accordance with each of a plurality of phases, including a meditation phase (P2) that guides the user (H1) into a meditative state and a recovery phase (P3) that transitions the user (H1) from the meditative state to a normal state. The control system (2) includes a light control unit (22) that adjusts the light output of a light source (3) that directly or indirectly irradiates the user's (H1) face (F1). In the recovery phase (P3), the light control unit (22) gradually increases the light output over a gradual increase period (T2) of 2 seconds or more and 90 seconds or less, so that the illuminance on the face (F1) at the completion of the gradual increase period (T2) (t10) is 2 lx or more and less than 100 lx.

[0126] The control system (2) described above allows the person (H1) to maintain a state of calm through meditation while smoothly transitioning from a meditative state to a normal state of activity. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0127] 1. 1A Refresh System 2. Control System 22 Optical Control Unit 3 light source 4. Sound output device P1 Relaxation Phase P2 Meditation Phase P21 Steady-state subphase P22 Non-steady subphase P3 Recovery Phase T1 fluctuation period T2 Gradual increase period C1, C2 fluctuation period Peak values ​​of the magnitude of the light output for Y1 and Y2. H1 Users (people) F1 Face L1 light

Claims

1. A light source that shines light directly or indirectly onto the user's face, The light control unit adjusts the light output of the light source, The system operates in accordance with each of several phases, including a meditation phase for guiding the user into a meditative state and a recovery phase for transitioning the user from the meditative state to a normal state. The meditation phase includes at least one steady subphase, The light control unit, in at least one steady-state subphase, repeatedly increases and decreases the light output at a constant fluctuation period, thereby encouraging the user to transition to the meditative state. The light control unit, in the recovery phase, gradually increases the light output over a gradual increase period of 2 seconds or more and 90 seconds or less, and sets the illuminance of the face at the completion of the gradual increase period to be greater than the peak value of the light output in at least one steady-state subphase, and 2 lx or more and less than 100 lx. The gradual increase period is longer than the period of fluctuation of the optical output in the at least one steady-state subphase. Refresh system.

2. The light control unit adjusts the light output of the light source to the light output corresponding to the meditation phase during at least a portion of the fluctuation period, which is prior to the gradual increase period and includes the period during which it operates in the meditation phase. The refresh system according to claim 1.

3. The meditation phase includes a plurality of subphases in which the waveforms of the light output differ from each other. The refresh system according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned multiple phases further include a relaxation phase for putting the user into a relaxed state, The optical control unit, During the aforementioned fluctuation period, the light output of the light source is adjusted to the light corresponding to the relaxation phase. After adjusting the output, the light output of the light source is adjusted to the light output corresponding to the meditation phase. The peak value of the magnitude of the light output and at least one of the fluctuation period of the light output are made different between the relaxation phase and the meditation phase. A refresh system according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The optical control unit, The period of fluctuation of the optical output in at least one steady-state subphase is made longer than the period of fluctuation of the optical output in the relaxation phase. The peak value of the magnitude of the optical output in at least one steady-state subphase is made smaller than the peak value of the magnitude of the optical output in the relaxation phase. The refresh system according to claim 4.

6. The meditation phase further comprises at least one non-stationary subphase, The optical control unit causes the optical output in the at least one transient subphase to vary at an indefinite period. A refresh system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The system further comprises a sound output device that emits sound in at least one of the aforementioned multiple phases. The refresh system according to claim 1.

8. The sound output device instructs the user on breathing timing by repeatedly increasing and decreasing the sound output at a constant fluctuation period. The refresh system according to claim 7.

9. The value of the light output at the start of the gradual increase period in the recovery phase coincides with the minimum value of the light output in the meditation phase. A refresh system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A control system used in a refresh system that operates in accordance with each of a plurality of phases, including a meditation phase that guides the user into a meditative state and a recovery phase that transitions the user from the meditative state to a normal state, The system includes a light control unit that adjusts the light output of a light source that directly or indirectly irradiates light onto the user's face, The meditation phase includes at least one steady subphase, The light control unit, in at least one steady-state subphase, repeatedly increases and decreases the light output at a constant fluctuation period, thereby encouraging the user to transition to the meditative state. The light control unit, in the recovery phase, gradually increases the light output over a gradual increase period of 2 seconds or more and 90 seconds or less, and sets the illuminance of the face at the completion of the gradual increase period to be greater than the peak value of the light output in at least one steady-state subphase, and 2 lx or more and less than 100 lx. The gradual increase period is longer than the period of fluctuation of the optical output in the at least one steady-state subphase. Control system.

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