Low oxygen room and low oxygen training facility

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of providing a low oxygen room and a low oxygen training facility in which the arrangement and function of low oxygen space components are optimized in comparison with the prior art, health related accidents caused by a low oxygen state are prevented in advance, and a user can perform pseudo-high altitude training safely.　This low oxygen room is for performing training in a low oxygen state, the low oxygen room comprising, as low oxygen space components: an indoor air exhaust means for exhausting air from inside the low oxygen room; a low oxygen air supply means for supplying air having a low oxygen concentration into the low oxygen room; and an air monitoring means for monitoring the oxygen concentration of the air in the low oxygen room, wherein the air monitoring means in the low oxygen room is located at a position lower from the floor than the low oxygen air supply means. As a result, the above problem is resolved.

Description

Hypoxic Room and Hypoxic Training Facility

[0001] The present disclosure relates to hypoxic rooms and hypoxic training facilities.

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a technique for creating a low-oxygen environment in a training room, etc. This type of technique is described, for example, in Patent Document 1.

[0003] The technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 will be described. A temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a first oxygen concentration sensor, and a second oxygen concentration sensor are arranged within the training room in Patent Document 1. The first oxygen concentration sensor is used to control the oxygen concentration within the training room, and the second oxygen concentration sensor is used to monitor whether the oxygen concentration within the training room is excessively low. The training room is equipped with a hypoxic air supply device and a ventilation device, and a carbon dioxide concentration sensor is installed downstream of the ventilation device. Training machines are installed within the training room, and users can enter the training room and use the training machines in a hypoxic environment to perform simulated high-altitude training.

[0004] Patent No. 7156965

[0005] Conventional training rooms have room for improvement in terms of optimizing the arrangement and functionality of components that make up the hypoxic space, such as oxygen concentration sensors, carbon dioxide concentration sensors, ventilation vents, hypoxic air supply vents, training machines, etc. For example, further improvements are desired in terms of ensuring the accuracy and fail-safety of the positional relationship with the user when measuring oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations, and maintaining an appropriate air environment within the training room.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a hypoxic room and hypoxic training facility in which the arrangement and functions of hypoxic space components are optimized compared to conventional techniques, health accidents caused by hypoxic conditions are prevented, and users can safely perform simulated high-altitude training.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a hypoxic room for training in a hypoxic environment, which comprises, as hypoxic space components, an indoor air exhaust means for exhausting air from within the hypoxic room, a hypoxic air supply means for supplying air with a low oxygen concentration into the hypoxic room, and an air monitoring means for monitoring the oxygen concentration of the air within the hypoxic room, and the air monitoring means in the hypoxic room is located at a lower height from the floor than the hypoxic air supply means.

[0008] Another aspect of the present invention is a hypoxic training facility comprising the hypoxic room and a machine room in which a hypoxic air generating device is installed.

[0009] According to the present invention, the arrangement and functions of the components of the hypoxic space are optimized compared to conventional techniques, thereby preventing health accidents caused by hypoxic conditions and providing a hypoxic room and hypoxic training facility in which users can safely perform simulated high altitude training.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a hypoxic training facility according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view showing the configuration of a machine room according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of an information processing device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an information processing device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a table showing the relationship between altitude and oxygen concentration in the atmosphere. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a hypoxic facility according to a second embodiment.

[0011] [First Embodiment] (Overview) In this embodiment, a hypoxic training facility for training in a hypoxic state will be described. The hypoxic training facility described in this embodiment is a facility where efficient training can be carried out in a hypoxic room that has an environment simulating high altitude by creating a hypoxic state. Hypoxic air with a low oxygen concentration is supplied from outside the hypoxic room, allowing users in the hypoxic room to train in a hypoxic state. The oxygen concentration is constantly monitored to prevent hypoxemia. By optimizing the position of the monitoring device, the position of the exhaust port that exhausts air from the hypoxic room, and the like, health accidents caused by hypoxic conditions can be prevented, allowing users to safely perform simulated high altitude training.

[0012] (Overall Configuration) <Hypoxic Training Facility 100> Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a hypoxic training facility 100 according to this embodiment. The hypoxic training facility 100 includes an information processing device 1, a hypoxic room 2, a machine room 3, and a control room 4. The hypoxic room 2 and the machine room 3 are provided separately and are separated by a wall. The configuration of the wall is not particularly limited, and the hypoxic room 2 and the machine room 3 do not have to be separated by a wall.

[0013] <Information Processing Device 1> The information processing device 1 controls each device of the hypoxic training facility 100. Note that the information processing device 1 is not limited to being installed in the control room 4, and may be installed in, for example, the machine room 3. Details of the control by the information processing device 1 will be described later.

[0014] <Hypoxic Room 2> Hypoxic Room 2 provides a space with a low oxygen concentration for exercise training. In this embodiment, the positional relationship between objects is defined by the shortest distance between the points unless otherwise specified. For example, the distance between a first object and a second object refers to the shortest distance between the first object and the second object. The height of the first object from the floor refers to the shortest distance between the first object and the floor. Similarly, the height of an opening from the floor refers to the shortest distance between the opening and the floor. Furthermore, because entry / exit doors and windows are relatively large, their geometric centers are used as an exception. The geometric center is the position of the arithmetic mean of all points belonging to that shape (two-dimensional or three-dimensional). For example, if the opening when the entry / exit door is opened is rectangular, the geometric center is the intersection of its two diagonals.

[0015] The hypoxic room 2 provides a space with a low oxygen concentration. As shown in Figure 1, the hypoxic space components that make up the hypoxic space of the hypoxic room 2 include an air monitoring device 201, an air conditioning device 202, a display device 203, exercise equipment 204, an indoor air exhaust opening 205, a hypoxic air supply opening 206, a biological information acquisition unit 207, and a partition 208. The above hypoxic space components will be described in detail below.

[0016] <Machine Room 3> As shown in FIG. 2, the machine room 3 is a space that houses the hypoxic air generator 30. The indoor temperature of the machine room 3 is preferably controlled within a range of 2°C to 30°C, for example, by an air conditioning unit (not shown). This allows the hypoxic air supplied to the hypoxic room 2 to be close to the above temperature, making it easier to regulate the temperature of the hypoxic room 2. In addition, this prevents the hypoxic air generator 30 from overheating and becoming inoperable. The machine room 3 and the hypoxic room 2 are separated by a wall. The wall may be, for example, a wall or window of a structure constructed on-site, or an opaque wall assembled on-site. The wall may be partially assembled on-site, or partially constructed as a wall or window. The hypoxic air generator 30 is disposed in the machine room 3.

[0017] 2, the door 35 is disposed in the machine room 3. The area of ​​the door 35 is set to be 8.0% or less, preferably 6.0% or less, and more preferably 4.0% or less of the area of ​​the wall surfaces of the machine room 3 excluding the ceiling and floor.

[0018] The hypoxic air generator 30 is a hypoxic air generator that functions to separate atmospheric air into hypoxic air and hyperoxic air. The hypoxic air generator 30 can efficiently generate air with an oxygen concentration controlled to 2.0 to 12.0%, making it possible to efficiently reduce the amount of oxygen in the hypoxic room 2. Note that the oxygen concentration generated by the hypoxic air generator 30 of this embodiment is low enough to adversely affect the human body. For example, directly inhaling the hypoxic air described above may cause hypoxemia. To prevent this situation, the position of the hypoxic air supply opening 206, the position of the air monitoring device 201, and other factors are appropriately set, as will be described in detail below.

[0019] The hypoxic air generator 30 has an outlet 301 that discharges oxygen-rich air generated by separating hypoxic air from atmospheric air. The height of the oxygen-rich air outlet 301 should be 1.8 m or more (more preferably 2.0 m or more) above the floor. Because oxygen-rich air is discharged, it is dangerous to bring a fire close to it. In this regard, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the outlet 301 is set at a high position, making it difficult for people and fire to approach, thereby reducing the risk. The hypoxic air generator 30 may be a device that adds nitrogen to air from a nitrogen cylinder. Note that the machine room 3 may also be equipped with other devices in addition to the hypoxic air generator 30.

[0020] <Control Room 4> In this embodiment, the control room 4 is provided separately from the hypoxic room 2 and houses the information processing device 1. The oxygen concentration in the control room 4 is approximately 20%, which is the normal level. The information processing device 1 is disposed in the control room 4. The control room 4 also houses the information processing device 1, which performs various controls to realize a hypoxic environment. The information processing device 1 is a computer that executes various processes to realize a hypoxic environment. The computer may be a stationary computer, a mobile laptop computer, or a tablet terminal. The information processing device 1 executes various processes in cooperation with the operation of the above-described hypoxic air generating device 30 and the hypoxic space components (e.g., the air monitoring device 201, the air conditioning device 202, the display device 203, the exercise equipment 204, the indoor air exhaust opening 205, the hypoxic air supply opening 206, the biometric information acquisition unit 207, the partition unit 208, etc.).

[0021] <Hardware Configuration of Information Processing Device 1> A description will be given of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 1. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment. The information processing device 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a bus 14, an input / output interface 15, an output unit 16, an input unit 17, a storage unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20.

[0022] The CPU 11 executes various processes in accordance with programs recorded in the ROM 12 or programs loaded from the storage unit 18 into the RAM 13. The RAM 13 also stores data and the like required for the CPU 11 to execute various processes. The CPU 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are interconnected via a bus 14. An input / output interface 15 is also connected to this bus 14.

[0023] The input / output interface 15 is connected to an output unit 16, an input unit 17, a storage unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20. The output unit 16 is composed of a display, a speaker, etc., and outputs various information as images and sounds. The input unit 17 is composed of a keyboard, a mouse, etc., and inputs various information. The storage unit 18 is composed of a hard disk, a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), etc., and stores various data. The communication unit 19 communicates with other devices via a network including the Internet.

[0024] Removable media 21, such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or semiconductor memory, is appropriately attached to the drive 20. Programs read from the removable media 21 by the drive 20 are installed in the storage unit 18 as needed. The removable media 21 can also store various data stored in the storage unit 18 in the same way as the storage unit 18.

[0025] The information processing device 1, the hypoxic air generating device 30, and the hypoxic space components such as the air monitoring device 201, the air conditioning device 202, and the display device 203 are connected to each other via a predetermined network such as the Internet, which is not shown in Figure 1.

[0026] <Components of Hypoxic Room 2> The hypoxic room 2 provides a space with a low oxygen concentration. As shown in Figure 1, the hypoxic space components that make up the hypoxic space of the hypoxic room 2 include an air monitoring device 201, an air conditioning device 202, a display device 203, exercise equipment 204, an indoor air exhaust opening 205, a hypoxic air supply opening 206, a biometric information acquisition unit 207, and a partition 208. The hypoxic space components will be described below in order.

[0027] <Air monitoring device 201> The air monitoring device 201 detects, monitors, or measures the properties of the air in the hypoxic room 2. The air monitoring device 201 is a sensor box that monitors, for example, the concentration of oxygen in the air, the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air, the air temperature, the air humidity, etc.

[0028] The air monitoring device 201 is not limited to a configuration that measures all of oxygen, carbon dioxide, temperature, and humidity. The air monitoring device 201 may be configured to measure the concentration of oxygen in the air, the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air, temperature, humidity, etc., but may omit the components for measuring carbon dioxide, temperature, humidity, etc., and may be specialized in measuring the oxygen concentration. The air monitoring device 201 may also use a sensor mounted on another device. For example, the temperature may be measured using a temperature sensor included in the air conditioning device 202 described below, and the humidity may be measured using a humidity sensor included in a separately installed dehumidifier.

[0029] It is preferable that the air monitoring device 201 accurately measures the oxygen and other elements and that a fail-safe mechanism be taken into consideration. The air monitoring device 201 may have one sensor for monitoring oxygen, carbon dioxide, temperature, humidity, etc., but it is desirable to have multiple sensors from a fail-safe perspective. For example, two or more oxygen sensors may be provided. When two or more oxygen sensors are provided in the air monitoring device 201, the information processing device 1 may assign a greater weight to the lower value of the values ​​detected by the two or more oxygen sensors. More specifically, the information processing device 1 may use only the lower of the detected values ​​output by the air monitoring device 201, or may assign double the weight to the lower detected value.

[0030] If fail-safe measures are taken into consideration, the air monitoring device 201 may be provided with two or more sensors, and if the difference between the two measured values ​​is greater than a predetermined value (e.g., 2.0% in absolute value, preferably 1.0%, or 10.0% in percentage, preferably 8.0%), the device may display an abnormality on the display device 203.

[0031] Additionally, the air monitoring device 201 may have separate sensors for control and display. This allows the air monitoring device 201 to display a message indicating that an abnormality has occurred if one of the sensing units (e.g., oxygen sensor) malfunctions. This makes it easier for users and managers to notice the abnormality.

[0032] Furthermore, to take fail-safe measures into consideration, it is preferable that the output of the air monitoring device 201 is connected to the information processing device 1 by wired electrical cable. Furthermore, outputting current rather than voltage is advantageous from the standpoint of fail-safe, as it makes it easier to detect faults, including broken wires. This is because when the air monitoring device 201 monitors the current value, any break in the wire will reliably result in the current value being zero.

[0033] <Air Conditioning Device 202> The air conditioning device 202 is, for example, a device (e.g., an air conditioner) that circulates air, adjusts temperature, and adjusts humidity in the hypoxic room 2. The air conditioning device 202 can control the room temperature, humidity, or both of the hypoxic room 2. The air conditioning device 202 of this embodiment is configured to be operable based on control from the information processing device 1.

[0034] <Display Device 203> The display device 203 is, for example, a display that displays various types of information. The display device 203 is positioned in front of and spaced apart from a user of exercise equipment 204 (described later) in the hypoxic room 2. The display device 203 is a display of 24 inches or more, preferably 32 inches or more, and more preferably 40 inches or more. The distance between the display device 203 and the exercise equipment 204 in the hypoxic room 2 may be within 5.0 m, preferably within 3.0 m, and more preferably within 2.0 m.

[0035] The display device 203 may display, for example, the user's biological information, as well as other quantities causally related thereto (e.g., exercise load, oxygen concentration in a hypoxic room, altitude). The biological information is an index value indicating the user's physical condition, such as heart rate, percutaneous arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2), blood pressure, etc.

[0036] <Exercise Equipment 204> The hypoxic room 2 according to this embodiment provides a space for training involving exercise. Stationary exercise equipment 204 is provided. The user is a human being. The exercise equipment 204 is, for example, stationary exercise equipment 204 such as exercise equipment 204 for training muscles or aerobic exercise equipment. More specifically, the stationary exercise equipment 204 refers to exercise equipment 204 weighing 30 kg or more, exercise equipment 204 placed on the floor, and / or exercise equipment 204 fixed to a wall, floor, or ceiling, which can allow a person to exercise. Examples of stationary exercise equipment 204 include treadmills, fitness bikes, cross trainers, step machines, rowing machines, strength machines, abdominal machines, chest press machines, lat pulldown machines, shoulder press machines, leg extension machines, leg curl machines, leg press machines, bench presses, Smith machines, power racks, horizontal bars, cable machines, hip thrusts, swimming facilities, ball game facilities, running facilities, skiing facilities, cycling facilities, and the like.

[0037] <<Indoor air exhaust opening 205>> Indoor air exhaust opening 205 is an opening for replacing air containing carbon dioxide within hypoxic room 2. Air within hypoxic room 2 is exhausted to the outside of hypoxic room 2 through indoor air exhaust opening 205.

[0038] The indoor air exhaust opening 205 is composed of, for example, an exhaust port, an intake / exhaust port, a window, an entrance / exit door, etc. The entrance / exit door is a door through which users enter and exit the hypoxic room 2. Windows and entrance / exit doors function as openings when opened. In other words, the indoor air exhaust opening 205 can also be composed of something that is not necessarily opened or closed for ventilation purposes, such as an entrance / exit door.

[0039] The number of indoor air exhaust openings 205 is not particularly limited, but in this embodiment is set to be between 1 and 5. When multiple indoor air exhaust openings 205 are installed (for example, when installed as exhaust vents, windows, or entrance / exit doors), the number of indoor air exhaust openings 205 that are always open may be between 0 and 2.

[0040] The room air exhaust opening 205 is located within 0.5 m, preferably within 0.3 m, and more preferably within 0.2 m from the floor of the hypoxic room 2. This allows for efficient air exchange within the hypoxic room 2.

[0041] 1 , two indoor air exhaust openings 205 are provided: a normally open exhaust port 205a and an entrance / exit door 205b. The entrance / exit door 205b that constitutes the indoor air exhaust opening 205 may be a hinged door that opens inward, or a sliding door. By using an inward-opening hinged door or sliding door, the increase in oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2 that occurs when the entrance / exit door is opened and closed can be suppressed compared to a hinged door that opens outward, and the hypoxic state in the hypoxic room 2 can be quickly established.

[0042] If the entrance / exit door 205b is a sliding door, a windbreak with a height of 0.1 m or more, desirably 0.3 m or more, and preferably 0.5 m or more may be provided above the sliding door, and the windbreak may be light-transmitting. Furthermore, the handle 120 provided on the entrance / exit door 205b and in the hypoxic room 2 may be located at a predetermined height (e.g., 0.5 m or less, 0.3 m or less) from the floor of the entrance / exit door 205b. This allows even a person who is feeling unwell and crouching down to easily open the entrance / exit door 205b.

[0043] The area of ​​the entrance / exit door 205b relative to the area of ​​the walls excluding the ceiling and floor of the hypoxic room 2 is 10.0% or less, preferably 8.0% or less, and more preferably 6.0% or less.

[0044] The indoor air exhaust opening 205 may be normally open, or may be retractable, or may open toward the outside of the hypoxic room 2 using air pressure. The area of ​​the indoor air exhaust opening 205 and the hypoxic supply capacity may be correlated. For example, the higher the hypoxic supply capacity, the larger the area of ​​the indoor air exhaust opening 205 may be. When the hypoxic supply capacity is high, the area of ​​the indoor air exhaust opening 205 may be 8% or more of the area of ​​the walls of the hypoxic room 2 excluding the ceiling and floor.

[0045] The hypoxic room 2 may have only one entrance / exit door 205b for users, excluding the emergency door. This allows the hypoxic state in the hypoxic room to be maintained stably. There may be only one entrance / exit door in the hypoxic room 2, in which case there may be only one door, including the emergency door.

[0046] Furthermore, only the entrance / exit door 205b may be considered as the indoor air exhaust opening 205 of the hypoxic room 2. If there is also a door 35 (see FIG. 2) connecting to the machine room 3 in which the hypoxic air generating device 30 is installed, the door 35 may also be considered as the indoor air exhaust opening 205. Doors that are intended to be normally closed, such as emergency doors, do not need to be considered. Furthermore, it may be understood that windows and entrance / exit doors do not qualify as indoor air exhaust openings 205.

[0047] When the exhaust port or intake / exhaust port is the indoor air exhaust opening 205, a fan may be provided at the indoor air exhaust opening 205 (exhaust port 205a) as a means for forcibly exhausting air from inside the hypoxic room 2 to the outside of the hypoxic room 2. A bidirectional fan may also be provided as a means for forcibly drawing air from outside the hypoxic room 2 into the hypoxic room 2. In this case, the exhaust force may be greater than the intake force. This allows for efficient replacement of air within the hypoxic room 2. Intake is effective when multiple hypoxic rooms 2 share the hypoxic air generator 30. The fan may be controlled by the information processing device 1.

[0048] Furthermore, when the indoor air exhaust opening 205 is used as an exhaust port or an intake / exhaust port, the indoor air exhaust opening 205 may be provided in the entrance / exit door 205b. By configuring the indoor air exhaust opening 205 to automatically close when the entrance / exit door 205b is opened, the exhaust of air from the low-oxygen room 2 can be suppressed.

[0049] <Hypoxic Air Supply Opening 206> The hypoxic air supply opening 206 supplies air having an oxygen concentration lower than the oxygen concentration inside the hypoxic room 2 to the hypoxic room 2. The hypoxic air supply opening 206 is, for example, a hypoxic air outlet through which air (fluid) having a low oxygen concentration is supplied from the hypoxic air generator 30.

[0050] Requirements for the hypoxic air supply opening 206 will be explained one by one. The number of hypoxic air supply openings 206 is not particularly limited, but in this embodiment it is between one and four, and preferably between one and two. In the hypoxic room 2 in this example, one opening is preferable, but if the area of ​​the hypoxic room 2 exceeds 200 square meters, multiple openings may be preferable instead of one. By arranging multiple hypoxic air supply openings 206, hypoxic air can be supplied evenly within the hypoxic room 2.

[0051] There is no particular limitation on the opening direction of the hypoxic air supply opening 206. For example, the opening direction of the hypoxic air supply opening 206 may be downward (toward the floor) when provided in the ceiling, or may be horizontal when provided in the wall.

[0052] The location of the hypoxic air supply opening 206 will now be described. In this embodiment, the hypoxic air supply opening 206 is positioned higher than the indoor air exhaust opening 205. The height comparison may be performed by comparing the top, center, and bottom, or by comparing a combination of these, such as the top and bottom, or the center and bottom. The hypoxic air supply opening 206 may be located in the ceiling, in a duct, or inside a wall such as a side wall. It is also desirable to have at least one hypoxic air supply opening 206 located between the indoor air exhaust opening 205 and the air monitoring device 201.

[0053] The lowest point of the hypoxic air supply opening 206 of the hypoxic room 2 is located at a height of 1.8 m or more, preferably 2.0 m or more, and preferably 2.5 m or more, measured from the floor. Furthermore, the lowest point of the hypoxic air supply opening 206 is located at the ceiling of the hypoxic room 2 or within 0.5 m, preferably within 0.3 m, and preferably within 0.2 m from the ceiling. This ensures safety. As described above, if there are multiple hypoxic air supply openings 206, it is preferable that at least one of the hypoxic air supply openings 206's height from the floor or ceiling be within the above-mentioned range, and it is more preferable that all hypoxic air supply openings 206 be within the above-mentioned range. Meeting the above requirements reduces the risk of users directly inhaling hypoxic air. Hypoxia can have adverse effects on the human body, but locating the hypoxic air supply opening 206 at a high position that satisfies the above-mentioned height requirements reduces the risk of users directly inhaling hypoxic air. Furthermore, by positioning the low-oxygen air supply opening 206 and the room air exhaust opening 205 in the manner described above, air can be efficiently exchanged. That is, air can be efficiently exhausted from the low-oxygen room 2 and low-oxygen air can be efficiently supplied to the low-oxygen room 2.

[0054] A fan may be provided in the flow path connected to the opening of the hypoxic air supply opening 206 as a means for forcibly discharging hypoxic air into the hypoxic room 2. A bidirectional fan may also be provided as a means for forcibly drawing in air from the hypoxic room 2. The discharge force may be greater than the intake force. This allows for efficient replacement of air within the hypoxic room 2. Intake is effective when multiple hypoxic rooms 2 share the hypoxic air generator 30.

[0055] <Biometric information acquisition unit 207> The biological information acquisition unit 207 monitors the condition of the person being monitored. From the viewpoint of further improving safety, it is preferable to provide the biological information acquisition unit 207. The person being monitored is, for example, a trainee who trains in the hypoxic room 2, or a user who experiences a hypoxic environment in the hypoxic room 2 without training.

[0056] The biometric information acquisition unit 207 acquires biometric information of the user. Examples of the user's biometric information include SpO2 and heart rate. SpO2 refers to percutaneous arterial oxygen saturation and can be measured using a pulse oximeter. Heart rate refers to the number of times the heart beats per minute, and in this example, the measured pulse rate is used as the heart rate.

[0057] The biometric information acquisition unit 207 is a device carried by a user of the hypoxic room 2. The biometric information is sent from the biometric information acquisition unit 207 to the information processing device 1. The control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 acquires the biometric information. The biometric information may be measured while the user is in the hypoxic room 2, or measurement may begin before the user enters the hypoxic room 2. The SpO2 and heart rate are acquired by the biometric information acquisition unit 207, such as a pulse oximeter or a heart rate monitor. The biometric information acquisition unit 207 may be a wearable device worn by the user, such as a smartwatch. The biometric information acquisition unit 207 transmits the measured values ​​of the biometric information to the information processing device 1 in real time or at a predetermined timing. Note that the method for acquiring biometric information by the information processing device 1 is not limited to this method, and various methods can be adopted. For example, the information processing device 1 may acquire biometric information at a timing specified by an administrator.

[0058] When determining a representative value for a value that should be monitored for a decrease, such as SpO2, lower measured values ​​may be weighted (e.g., one or more larger measured values ​​may be excluded and the lower measured values ​​may be weighted twice as much). Conversely, when determining a representative value for a value that should be monitored for an increase, such as heart rate, higher measured values ​​may be weighted (e.g., one or more lower measured values ​​may be excluded and the higher measured values ​​may be weighted twice as much). This allows for monitoring that takes fail-safe measures into consideration.

[0059] When training begins, the value of the biological information may move in a direction that should be monitored. For example, after training begins, SpO2 tends to decrease, and heart rate tends to increase. The value of the biological information may be monitored based on its change (e.g., difference from a reference value, rate of decrease / increase, decrease / increase trend, decrease / increase pattern). This allows for more rapid monitoring.

[0060] The value of the biological information may be monitored by comparing it with past data (e.g., absolute value, change) of the person being monitored, which allows for flexible monitoring according to the person being monitored (e.g., user, trainee).

[0061] The value of the biological information may be monitored by comparing it with standard data (e.g., absolute value, change) of the person being monitored. The standard data may be categorized by the profile (e.g., gender, years of experience, basic physical strength, occupation, hobbies) of the person being monitored (e.g., user, trainee). The standard data may also be categorized by the degree of poor health (e.g., no problem, worsening health). This allows for more accurate monitoring.

[0062] It may also be desirable to monitor the absolute value of the biological information. The absolute value of SpO2, which serves as a monitoring criterion among the biological information, may be set to 75% or higher, preferably 78% or higher, and more preferably 80% or higher. Furthermore, the information processing device 1 may refer to the SpO2 value and display on the display device 203 a recommendation to increase exercise intensity. For example, the absolute value of SpO2, which serves as a criterion for increasing exercise intensity in this case, may be set to 95%, preferably 90%.

[0063] Furthermore, the information processing device 1 may monitor both the amount of change in the biological information and the value of the biological information itself in monitoring the biological information. This is advantageous from the viewpoint of fail-safe because it can prevent monitoring errors even if there is an error in the results of monitoring due to changes in the biological information (e.g., an error in measuring the reference value).

[0064] Furthermore, other quantities that are causally related to the biological information (e.g., exercise load, oxygen concentration in a hypoxic room) may be taken into account in addition to the biological information value, thereby enabling more accurate monitoring.

[0065] <<Partition 208>> The partition 208 separates the interior of the hypoxic room 2 from the exterior of the hypoxic room 2 so as not to allow free circulation of air. The partition 208 is, for example, a partition, a ceiling or floor of a building, a wall of a building, or a window of a building. The partition may be one used for an office, may be a prefabricated partition, or may be a constructed wall.

[0066] The hypoxic room 2 may be constructed within a building using the compartments 208 and may be transportable. It may need to be disassembled for transportation. At least a portion of the compartments 208 of the hypoxic room 2 may utilize the ceiling, floor, walls, or windows of the building. This can reduce the total cost of constructing the hypoxic room 2 or the cost per user.

[0067] Conventionally, it has been thought that special construction is required to maintain airtightness in the hypoxic room 2. However, if a normal partition is used as the compartment 208 of the hypoxic room 2 and no additional construction is required to maintain airtightness, the air will naturally escape, eliminating the need for a normally open exhaust port and reducing the manufacturing cost of the hypoxic room 2. In this configuration, it is preferable to perform preparatory operation for a predetermined period of time (e.g., one hour or more) to create a hypoxic state in the hypoxic room 2. The information processing device 1 can achieve greater efficiency by starting the preparatory operation at a preset operation start time.

[0068] Furthermore, at least a portion of the partition 208 in this embodiment is a see-through area 130. The see-through area 130 is provided to include at least a portion of a position 0.0 to 0.7 m above the floor. The area of ​​the see-through area 130 is set to 1.0 square meters or greater. The area of ​​the see-through area 130 is preferably 1.5 square meters or greater, and more preferably 2.0 square meters or greater. By providing the see-through area 130, it becomes possible to see from outside a person who is feeling unwell and crouching down inside the low-oxygen room 2. The partition 208 having the see-through area 130 may be a partition in which light is transmitted except for the frame portion below a predetermined height (e.g., 1.2 m ± 0.4 m), or may be a partition in which light is transmitted from top to bottom except for the frame portion.

[0069] <Positional Relationships of Hypoxic Space Components> Next, the positions and relative positions of the hypoxic space components will be described. The hypoxic space components whose positions and relative positions are important are the air monitoring device 201, exercise equipment 204, indoor air exhaust opening 205, hypoxic air supply opening 206, biological information acquisition unit 207, partition unit 208, etc.

[0070] The height of the air monitoring device 201 from the floor is set lower than the height of the hypoxic air supply opening 206 from the floor.

[0071] In this embodiment, the distance from the exhaust port 205a serving as the indoor air exhaust opening 205 to the hypoxic air supply opening 206 is shorter than the distance from the exhaust port 205a serving as the indoor air exhaust opening 205 to the air monitoring device 201. In other words, when the distance A is from the exhaust port 205a serving as the indoor air exhaust opening 205 to the hypoxic air supply opening 206 and the distance B is from the indoor air exhaust opening 205 to the air monitoring device 201, there is at least one hypoxic air supply opening 206 that satisfies the requirement A<B.

[0072] In plan view (a plane parallel to the floor), the distance from exhaust port 205a as indoor air exhaust opening 205 to low-oxygen air supply opening 206 is desirably set to a length between 30.0% and 70.0% of the distance from exhaust port 205a as indoor air exhaust opening 205 to air monitoring device 201. This reduces the influence of indoor air exhaust opening 205 and prevents air monitoring device 201 from measuring an oxygen concentration that is too high, which is beneficial from a fail-safe perspective.

[0073] Furthermore, the distance from exhaust port 205a, which serves as indoor air exhaust opening 205, to hypoxic air supply opening 206 is longer than the distance from hypoxic air supply opening 206 to air monitoring device 201. In other words, when distance A is the distance from exhaust port 205a, which serves as indoor air exhaust opening 205, to hypoxic air supply opening 206, and distance C is the distance from hypoxic air supply opening 206 to air monitoring device 201, the requirement of A > C is satisfied. This also reduces the influence of indoor air exhaust opening 205 and prevents the oxygen concentration from being measured as being higher than it should be, which is beneficial from a fail-safe perspective.

[0074] The height of the air monitoring device 201 may be equal to or greater than 1.5 m and less than 3.0 m. The height of the air monitoring device 201 may be less than the height of the hypoxic air supply opening 206.

[0075] Furthermore, the low oxygen air supply opening 206 may be located within 3.0 m, preferably within 2.0 m, and more preferably within 1.0 m from the line connecting the indoor air exhaust opening 205 and the air monitoring device 201 in a plan view.

[0076] This positional relationship reduces the influence of the room air exhaust opening 205 during measurement, and is beneficial from the viewpoint of fail-safe, as it prevents the oxygen concentration from being measured too high. It also prevents the oxygen concentration from being measured too low.

[0077] When the size of the indoor air exhaust opening 205 is E square meters (e.g., 2.0 square meters) and the volume of the low-oxygen room 2 is R m3 (e.g., 60 m3), it is desirable to set R ≥ 25 × E, R ≥ 35 × E, or R ≥ 50 × E. Setting R within this range reduces the influence of the indoor air exhaust opening 205 and prevents the oxygen concentration from being measured as too high, which is beneficial from a fail-safe perspective.

[0078] It is preferable to similarly define the distance between indoor air exhaust opening 205 and exercise equipment 204 in hypoxic room 2. For example, the distance from exhaust port 205a serving as indoor air exhaust opening 205 to hypoxic air supply opening 206 is set longer than the distance from hypoxic air supply opening 206 to exercise equipment 204 in hypoxic room 2. By adopting this positional relationship, a hypoxic environment around the user of exercise equipment 204 can be accurately maintained.

[0079] Furthermore, the exercise equipment 204 in the low-oxygen room 2 is positioned so that the user can train with their back to the indoor air exhaust opening 205, thereby maintaining the low-oxygen environment for the user. "With their back to the floor" means that, when viewed from the indoor air exhaust opening 205, more of the user's back is visible than their chest.

[0080] <Functional Configuration of Information Processing Device 1> Fig. 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment. As described above, the information processing device 1 has a CPU 11, a storage unit 18, and a communication unit 19 as its hardware configuration. In the CPU 11 of the information processing device 1, a control unit 31 functions during operation. In addition, an information DB 41 that stores information is provided in the storage unit 18 of the information processing device 1 shown in Fig. 4.

[0081] 4, the information processing device 1 of this embodiment transmits, receives, or transmits / receives various information to / from components of the hypoxic space, such as the hypoxic air generator 30, air monitoring device 201, air conditioner 202, and display device 203. The control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 monitors the oxygen concentration and carbon dioxide concentration and performs various controls such as the oxygen concentration, carbon dioxide concentration, temperature, and humidity. The information processing device 1 may also transmit, receive, or transmit / receive various information to / from exercise equipment 204 in the hypoxic room 2.

[0082] Information is input to the information processing device 1 from the hypoxic space components, such as the hypoxic air generating device 30, air monitoring device 201, air conditioning device 202, exercise equipment 204, indoor air exhaust opening 205, hypoxic air supply opening 206, and biometric information acquisition unit 207. The information processing device 1 then controls the hypoxic air generating device 30 and the various devices included in the hypoxic space components. The information processing device 1 may be configured as a single computer, or may be configured as multiple computers arranged in each of the various devices. In the following description, the term "control" simply refers to control by the information processing device 1, but it may also be configured to control various numerical values ​​depending on the structure and configuration.

[0083] In the following description, the upper and lower limits of a numerical range are independent of each other; for example, a lower limit indicated as "desirably" may be combined with an upper limit indicated as "preferably." The upper and lower limits of a numerical range should be understood as "not less than" and "not more than," unless otherwise specified. However, when the upper or lower limit is omitted, it is also possible to replace it with "less than" and "over," in which case "less than" and "over" are explicitly stated.

[0084] Numerical values ​​are understood to include numerical ranges that result in the same value when rounded. For example, "2.0 m" is understood to mean "1.95 m or greater but less than 2.05 m." Similarly, numerical ranges that include boundary values, such as "less than or equal to," should be understood to include values ​​that result in the same value when rounded, and numerical ranges that do not include boundary values, such as "less than," should be understood to exclude values ​​that result in the same value when rounded.

[0085] <<Air Pressure Control>> The control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 controls the air pressure inside the hypoxic room 2 to be slightly higher than the air pressure outside the hypoxic room 2. The air pressure inside the hypoxic room 2 may be slightly higher than the air pressure outside the hypoxic room 2, for example, due to the flow rate of hypoxic air supplied from the hypoxic air supply opening 206. This makes it possible to prevent high oxygen air from leaking into the hypoxic room 2 from outside.

[0086] The control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 sets the oxygen concentration of the hypoxic air supplied from the hypoxic air supply opening 206 to 12.0% or less, and to be at least 1.0% lower than the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2. This allows the hypoxic state inside the hypoxic room 2 to be quickly created.

[0087] The control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 maintains the hypoxic room 2 at normal pressure. Alternatively, the device may not be provided with a means for controlling the air pressure inside the hypoxic room 2. Furthermore, the partition 208 of the hypoxic room 2 may not be provided with a configuration for maintaining the hypoxic room 2 at high or low pressure.

[0088] In the hypoxic room 2, it is sufficient that the control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 measures, monitors, and / or controls at least the oxygen concentration, and it is also preferable that the control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 measures, monitors, and / or controls at least the carbon dioxide concentration. In the hypoxic room 2, it is also preferable that the control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 measures, monitors, and / or controls humidity, and preferably may also measure, monitor, and / or control odors and dust (PM2.5, etc.).

[0089] Next, a description will be given of an example of controlling the oxygen concentration and carbon dioxide concentration in the low-oxygen room 2. In the following description, % for oxygen concentration, carbon dioxide concentration, etc. indicates % by volume.

[0090] <Oxygen Concentration Control> Oxygen concentration control can be achieved, for example, by the information processing device 1 controlling the low-oxygen air generator 30. The standard for oxygen concentration will be described. The current ground air pressure P can be calculated using the following formula 1. In formula 1, P represents the current ground air pressure (hPa), P0 represents the air pressure at an altitude of 0 m (hPa), h represents the altitude (m), and T represents the temperature (°C).

[0091] Assuming that the oxygen concentration at an altitude of 0 m is 21% and the atmospheric pressure is 1013.25 hPa, the relationship between altitude and atmospheric oxygen concentration can be shown as in Figure 5. Figure 5 is a table showing the relationship between altitude and atmospheric oxygen concentration.

[0092] For example, the atmospheric pressure at an altitude of 3,500 m can be calculated as 648.62 hPa. Although the oxygen concentration remains at 21% even at an altitude of 3,500 m, because the air is thinner, the oxygen concentration is calculated as 21% x 648.62 hPa ÷ 1013.25 hPa = 13.4% when converted to oxygen content. Thus, there is a correlation between altitude and oxygen concentration. By utilizing this correlation, an environment with an oxygen concentration corresponding to a specified altitude can be realized.

[0093] In this embodiment, the oxygen concentration in the low-oxygen room 2 is, for example, 12.6 to 17.4% (equivalent to an altitude of 4000 m to 1500 m), preferably 13.4 to 15.3% (equivalent to an altitude of 3500 m to 2500 m), and is controlled with an accuracy of ±1.0%, preferably ±0.5%.

[0094] The oxygen concentration discharged from the hypoxic air supply opening 206 is controlled to, for example, 2.0 to 12.0%. The oxygen concentration can be desirably set to 2.0 to 10.0%, and preferably 2.0 to 8.0%. The difference between the oxygen concentration discharged from the hypoxic air supply opening 206 and the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room is, for example, 1.0% or more, desirably 3.0% or more, and preferably 5.0% or more. This allows the hypoxic state inside the hypoxic room 2 to be quickly established.

[0095] The oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2 may also be changed depending on the exercise intensity (absolute heart rate) and / or type of training. For example, the oxygen concentration for strength training or running may be set higher than the oxygen concentration for walking. The oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2 when the exercise intensity (absolute heart rate) is high may be 0.5 to 3.0% higher, and preferably 1.0 to 2.0%, per 30 heart rate difference than the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2 when the exercise intensity (absolute heart rate) is low.

[0096] The oxygen concentration may also be adjusted depending on the type and intensity of training (e.g., running, strength training), age, etc. For example, if the maximum heart rate of a 35-year-old is 185, the heart rate difference may be set to be less than 40, which is between 120 (64%) and 160 (86%).

[0097] <Temperature Control> The control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 controls the air conditioning device 202 to control the temperature of the low-oxygen room 2 to a temperature range of, for example, 10.0 to 30.0° C., preferably 15.0 to 25.0° C., and more preferably 18.0 to 22.0° C. Alternatively, the control unit 31 may set a temperature range according to the high altitude environment corresponding to the set oxygen concentration and altitude.

[0098] The temperature difference between the inside and outside of room air exhaust opening 205 may be 1.0°C or more, desirably 2.0°C or more, and preferably 3.0°C or more, and the temperature in low oxygen room 2 may be lower. If the temperature in low oxygen room 2 is lower, when room air exhaust opening 205 is opened, the air below will flow out of low oxygen room 2 and the air above will flow into low oxygen room 2. The air that flows in has a high oxygen concentration, but the proximity of low oxygen air supply opening 206 mitigates this effect, making it less likely to affect air monitoring device 201. Furthermore, because the air below, which is closer to the floor and contains a relatively high amount of carbon dioxide, flows out of low oxygen room 2, a ventilation effect can be expected.

[0099] <<Control of Carbon Dioxide Concentration>> Carbon dioxide concentration is an important indicator because it can cause carbon dioxide poisoning. The control unit 31 controls the carbon dioxide concentration to realize a safer low-oxygen environment. The carbon dioxide concentration in the low-oxygen room 2 is controlled to, for example, 10,000 ppm or less, preferably 8,000 ppm or less, and more preferably 6,000 ppm or less.

[0100] The carbon dioxide concentration can be measured, for example, by the air monitoring device 201. Furthermore, the control unit 31 may estimate the exhaled air volume according to the number of users multiplied by the exercise intensity (heart rate), and calculate the amount of carbon dioxide in the hypoxic room 2 based on this exhaled air volume. Even if the environment of the hypoxic room 2 is the same, the exhaled air volume (amount of carbon dioxide) varies depending on the type of exercise. For example, running on a treadmill produces a higher exhaled air volume (amount of carbon dioxide) than strength training. The control unit 31 may correct the calculated amount of carbon dioxide according to the type of exercise, such as running or strength training.

[0101] Furthermore, the control unit 31 may change the flow rate setting in the hypoxic air generator 30 based on the amount of carbon dioxide (carbon dioxide concentration). For example, the control unit 31 obtains the carbon dioxide concentration based on a measured value, a calculated value, or both, and changes the flow rate of the hypoxic air generator 30 in accordance with the carbon dioxide concentration.

[0102] Humidity Control Humidity can affect the breathlessness felt by the user. For this reason, the control unit 31 may control the humidity to an appropriate range. If the humidity is not appropriately controlled, it may take a while for the user to realize that they are feeling unwell.

[0103] An example of humidity control will be described below. The control unit 31 controls the humidity in the low-oxygen room 2 to, for example, 20.0 to 70.0%, preferably 40.0 to 60.0%, and more preferably 45.0 to 55.0%.

[0104] <<Response to Physical Condition>> As part of the monitoring control, the control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 sets a reference value for the value of the biometric information acquired from the biometric information acquisition unit 207, and determines the state of the human body based on the reference value. The reference value can be set based on the value of the biometric information, such as SpO2 or heart rate, at the start of measurement. This allows the information processing device 1 to perform monitoring based on the normal values ​​of the user, who is the monitoring target. The reference value can be a representative value, such as an average value of multiple past measurements, a majority value, a most frequent value, or a value excluding the maximum and minimum values. A representative value is a value that is more likely to be measured than a single measurement value. This allows for more accurate monitoring.

[0105] The control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 may issue a message encouraging deep breathing to a monitored subject whose biometric information obtained based on the biometric information acquisition unit 207 is showing a worsening trend. For example, when the information processing device 1 detects that the biometric information is showing a worsening trend, the control unit 31 may execute a process of transmitting information to the display device 203 to display information indicating the worsening trend and a message encouraging deep breathing. Furthermore, if the biometric information (e.g., SpO2, heart rate) of a certain percentage (e.g., more than half, more than two-thirds) of the monitored subjects in the hypoxic room 2 shows a trend requiring caution, the control unit 31 may control the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room to be higher. For example, the control unit 31 controls the hypoxic air supply opening 206 to close and the room air exhaust opening 205 to open.

[0106] The control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 may control the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2 to be higher if the values ​​of biological information (e.g., SpO2, heart rate) of a certain percentage (e.g., more than half, more than two-thirds) of the monitored individuals (e.g., users, trainees) in the hypoxic room 2 show a tendency requiring caution. For example, the control unit 31 performs control to close the hypoxic air supply opening 206 and open the room air exhaust opening 205.

[0107] The biological information may also be the subject's perceived intensity of exercise. The perceived intensity of exercise is an indicator that changes, for example, when the subject recognizes that the exercise is difficult or when there is a change in the subject's movement. The control unit 31 acquires the perceived intensity of exercise by monitoring changes in facial expression, complexion, limb movement, a decrease in running speed, etc. The control unit 31 may determine changes in facial expression, complexion, limb movement, a decrease in running speed, etc. by analyzing images acquired by an imaging device, or may determine the control unit 31 based on detection values ​​from various sensors that detect movement, such as an acceleration sensor.

[0108] Furthermore, the control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 may execute a usage suspension process to suspend use of the hypoxic room 2 if someone remains in the hypoxic room 2 continuously for more than a predetermined time. The usage suspension process for the hypoxic room 2 may include at least one of the following processes: a process for issuing a notification urging people to leave the hypoxic room 2, a process for increasing the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2, and a process for opening the entrance / exit door. This makes it possible to prevent the hypoxic room 2 from being used for more than a predetermined time. When the process for opening the entrance / exit door is implemented, it is desirable that the control unit 31 have an automatic opening / closing function for opening and closing the entrance / exit door remotely or automatically.

[0109] The configuration of the above embodiment can be modified as needed. For example, a surveillance camera may be installed inside the hypoxic room 2. This allows the hypoxic training facility 100 to function unmanned, such as a 24-hour gym with no staff.

[0110] A human presence sensor may also be provided in the hypoxic room 2 as the biological information acquisition unit 207. The human presence sensor may be installed, for example, to detect that no human bodies are present above a predetermined height (e.g., 1.2 m) in the hypoxic room 2. This allows the human presence sensor to detect anyone feeling unwell and crouching down in the hypoxic room 2. The control unit 31 may also perform control to increase the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2 based on the detection result of the human presence sensor. For example, a means for forcibly drawing outside air into the hypoxic room 2 may be provided.

[0111] The human presence sensor may also be configured to detect the presence of a human body above a predetermined height (e.g., 1.8 m, 2.0 m) within the hypoxic room 2. This allows the control unit 31 to detect the risk of the user directly inhaling hypoxic air. Based on the detection result, the control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 may control the supply of hypoxic air from the hypoxic air supply opening 206 to be reduced or stopped.

[0112] In the above embodiment, various controls are executed by the information processing device 1, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, various settings may be performed for each device. Furthermore, the desirable and suitable numerical ranges in the above embodiment are preferred numerical ranges, and the present invention is not necessarily limited to the above-mentioned numerical ranges.

[0113] In addition, within the scope of the spirit of the present invention, the components in the above-described embodiments may be replaced with well-known components as appropriate, and the above-described modified examples may be combined as appropriate.

[0114] (Advantageous Effects of the Present Embodiment) According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to provide a hypoxic room 2 and a hypoxic training facility 100 in which the arrangement and functions of the functional parts that make up the hypoxic space are more optimized than in the prior art. Health accidents caused by hypoxic conditions are prevented, and users can safely perform simulated high-altitude training.

[0115] [Second embodiment] (Summary) In the first embodiment, a low-oxygen training facility for training in a low-oxygen state was disclosed. In the second embodiment, a refreshment facility or rest facility based on a low-oxygen state is provided. The low-oxygen facility is a facility intended to allow people to rest and / or change their mood. The low-oxygen facility is not a facility intended to allow people to exercise, such as a training facility equipped with stationary exercise equipment. The low-oxygen facility is equipped with a low-oxygen room. No stationary exercise equipment is provided. The low-oxygen room is equipped with an entrance / exit door for users to enter and exit the low-oxygen room, and a low-oxygen air supply opening through which air with a low oxygen concentration is supplied into the low-oxygen room. The floor area of ​​the low-oxygen room is (2.0 x N) m when the capacity is N people. ２ The following are provided: A space-saving refreshment facility will be provided.

[0116] (Overall Configuration) <Hypoxic Facility 500> Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a hypoxic facility 500 according to this embodiment. The hypoxic training facility 100 according to the first embodiment and the hypoxic facility 500 according to the second embodiment differ in at least one of the oxygen concentration, equipment (e.g., stationary exercise equipment), shape, area, temperature, etc.

[0117] The hypoxic facility 500 includes an information processing device 1, a hypoxic room 2, a machine room 3, and a control room 4. As with the hypoxic training facility 100 of the first embodiment, the machine room 3 houses a hypoxic air generating device 30, not shown in FIG. 6 , and the control room 4 houses the information processing device 1. Unless otherwise specified, in the second embodiment, explanations of components similar to those of the first embodiment will be omitted and the same reference numerals will be used. The elements constituting the hypoxic facility 500 of the second embodiment that differ from those of the first embodiment will be explained in order.

[0118] <Low-oxygen Room 2> The low-oxygen room 2 according to the second embodiment is a space designed for people to get used to a low-oxygen environment and to perform activities such as yoga to refresh themselves. The low-oxygen room 2 of this embodiment does not include any stationary exercise equipment. While people may stay in the low-oxygen room 2 in a resting state or engage in activities such as yoga or stretching to refresh, rest, or change their mood, high-intensity exercise using stationary exercise equipment is not recommended. Furthermore, the low-oxygen room 2 is designed for people to stay in and differs from spaces used to store plants such as vegetables, objects such as artwork, or animals other than humans such as horses in at least one of the following aspects: oxygen concentration, fixtures, shape, area, temperature, etc.

[0119] The hypoxic room 2 may be a sauna-type hypoxic room or a standing-type hypoxic room. A sauna-type hypoxic room is a space provided with seating means such as chairs, benches, or high benches (bar-shaped benches on which people can sit in a position similar to standing) for people to sit and stay in. Seating means an item designed for people to sit in. A standing-type hypoxic room is a space provided with no seating means for people to stay in a standing position.

[0120] The hypoxic room 2 according to the second embodiment includes the hypoxic space components similar to those of the first embodiment. However, instead of the exercise equipment 204, it includes, for example, a chair 209. This is not for the purpose of exercise, but rather for the purpose of, for example, getting used to a hypoxic environment, as described above. Note that the configurations of the air monitoring device 201, air conditioning device 202, biological information acquisition unit 207, and partition unit 208 are the same as those of the first embodiment, and therefore will not be described here.

[0121] <<Capacity>> A capacity is set for the low-oxygen room 2. The capacity of the low-oxygen room 2 refers to the number of people planned to be accommodated in the low-oxygen room 2. For example, the capacity of a standing-type low-oxygen room 2 can be set to one person, and the capacity of a sauna-type low-oxygen room 2 can be set to ten people or less, preferably five people or less, and preferably three people or less. This embodiment does not assume the placement of stationary exercise equipment, but if stationary exercise equipment is placed in the low-oxygen room 2, the capacity can also be determined by the number of such equipment.

[0122] In the case of a sauna-type hypoxic room 2 in which no stationary exercise equipment is installed, the capacity can be calculated based on the number of seating means. For example, if there are N seating means, the capacity is N people. If the seat width exceeds 0.6 m, the capacity can also be calculated by dividing the width by 0.6 m (rounded up to the nearest whole number). For example, if there are two benches with seating widths of 1.8 m, the capacity is six people. In the case of a standing hypoxic room 2 in which no stationary exercise equipment or seating means (e.g., benches, chairs) are installed, the capacity can be calculated based on the number of available 1.0 m square floor areas. For example, the capacity of a standing hypoxic room with a floor area of ​​1.4 m square is one person. The capacity of a standing hypoxic room with a floor area of ​​1.0 m x 2.0 m is two people. In cases where the capacity is zero due to a long and narrow room, the capacity is considered to be one person.

[0123] In this embodiment, when the capacity of the low-oxygen room 2 is N people, the floor area of ​​the low-oxygen room 2 is, for example, (2.0 × N) m ２ For small sizes, the following is (1.5 x N) m ２ For smaller sizes, use (1.0 x N) m. ２ The floor area of ​​the low-oxygen room 2 is set as follows: Note that the values ​​shown here are examples and are not necessarily limited to these ranges.

[0124] <<Display Device 203>> The display device 203 may be provided on the wall facing the indoor air exhaust opening 205. The hypoxic air supply opening 206 is provided on the wall opposite the wall on which the indoor air exhaust opening 205 is provided. When looking at the display device 203, a user facing the display device 203 will have their back to the hypoxic air supply opening 206. This reduces the risk of the user directly inhaling hypoxic air.

[0125] The display device 203 is installed on the wall surface farthest from the handle 120 of the entrance / exit door 205b. Alternatively, the display device 203 may be installed on the wall surface closer to the handles 120, 121 of the entrance / exit door 205b (the wall surface closest to the handles 120, 121 of the entrance / exit door 205b or the wall surface forming an angle with the entrance / exit door 205b). This allows the user to immediately place their hand on the handle if they start to feel unwell inside the low-oxygen room 2.

[0126] <<Indoor Air Exhaust Opening 205>> The indoor air exhaust opening 205 shown in Figure 6 can be installed at a location appropriate for the purpose. For example, the indoor air exhaust opening 205 can be located within 0.5 m, preferably within 0.3 m, and more preferably within 0.2 m, of the floor of the hypoxic room 2 to efficiently exchange air within the hypoxic room 2. Alternatively, the indoor air exhaust opening 205 can be located at least 0.5 m, preferably at least 0.8 m, from the floor of the hypoxic room 2. In this case, the oxygen concentration at low positions within the hypoxic room 2 is less likely to decrease, and if a person feels unwell and crouches down within the hypoxic room 2, they can inhale air with a relatively high oxygen concentration.

[0127] <<Entry / Exit Door 205b>> In the second embodiment, the low-oxygen room 2 has an entry / exit door 205b as shown in FIG. 6. The size of the entry / exit door 205b is defined as Dm ２ (Example: 2.0 m ２ ), the area of ​​the walls (excluding the ceiling and floor) of the hypoxic room 2 is Wm ２ (Example: 14.0 m ２ ), W≦7×D, W≦6×D, or W≦5×D may be satisfied.

[0128] There may be only one door 205b for users to enter and exit the hypoxic room 2. This makes it possible to maintain a stable hypoxic state in the hypoxic room 2 compared to when there are multiple doors 205b for entering and exiting the room.

[0129] <Hypoxic Air Supply Opening 206> The hypoxic air supply opening 206 is provided with a louver 150 as a diffusion means for diffusing the hypoxic air. This reduces the risk of the user directly inhaling the hypoxic air. The louver 150 can also be placed when the hypoxic air supply opening 206 is provided on the ceiling. Note that if a simpler configuration is desired, the installation of the louver 150 may be omitted.

[0130] <Chairs 209> The low-oxygen room 2 according to this embodiment shown in Fig. 6 provides a space for relaxation. Chairs 209, sofas, etc. are installed instead of stationary exercise equipment 204.

[0131] <<Blinding Section>> In the second embodiment, a blinding section of a predetermined height (e.g., 0.8 m, 1.2 m, 1.4 m) or more may be provided in the hypoxic room 2. The blinding section may be provided in the partition section 208. This allows the user's privacy to be maintained. The blinding section may be, for example, an opaque member that makes it difficult to see inside the hypoxic room 2 from outside, or an opaque member that makes it easy to see outside the hypoxic room 2 from inside the hypoxic room 2.

[0132] The screen may also be configured such that the surface of a light-transmitting plate is opaque and has a pattern that is light-colored on the outside and / or dark-colored on the inside, and the illuminance inside the hypoxic room 2 is lower than the illuminance outside the hypoxic room 2. "Opaque" means that the visible light transmittance is a predetermined value (e.g., 50%, 30%, 10%) or less, "light color" means that the Munsell color system is 5 or more, preferably 7 or more, and "dark color" means that the Munsell color system is 5 or less, preferably 3 or less. The pattern may be polka dots or a houndstooth pattern. This allows the sense of claustrophobia felt by users of the hypoxic room 2 to be alleviated while maintaining the screen's effectiveness.

[0133] Furthermore, when a screen is provided, the lighting in the low-oxygen room 2 may be placed at a predetermined height (e.g., 1.4 m, 1.2 m) or below so that light is not emitted upward. This can further enhance the screen effect.

[0134] <Installation of the Hypoxic Facility 500 in the Hypoxic Training Facility 100> The hypoxic room 2 provided in the hypoxic facility 500 according to the second embodiment may be installed in the hypoxic training facility 100 intended for use in exercise and other training. The hypoxic room 2 may also be installed in a room with a hypoxic environment. For example, the hypoxic room 2 may be installed in a different hypoxic training room intended for use in exercise in a hypoxic environment. This reduces the impact of air exchange when entering and exiting the room.

[0135] Furthermore, when a hypoxic room 2 is installed in a facility that also has a hypoxic training room for hypoxic training, the hypoxic room 2 may be connected to the hypoxic training room. "Connected" means that the entrance / exit door 205b of the hypoxic room 2 faces the hypoxic training room, allowing entry to the hypoxic room 2 from the hypoxic training room. Alternatively, entry to the hypoxic room 2 may be via an antechamber that serves as a hypoxic space. In this way, the increase in oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2 caused by opening and closing the entrance / exit door 205b can be suppressed, and the hypoxic state in the hypoxic room 2 can be quickly established.

[0136] When multiple hypoxic rooms 2 are provided, supply paths may be provided from the hypoxic air generator 30 to each of the hypoxic rooms 2, and the hypoxic air from the hypoxic air generator 30 may be branched and supplied. In this case, a flow control means such as a valve or an on-off valve whose opening degree can be adjusted may be provided in the branched supply path. The information processing device 1 individually controls the oxygen concentration in each of the hypoxic rooms 2 based on the flow control means. For example, the information processing device 1 may intensively hypoxic one of the hypoxic rooms 2.

[0137] <Control of hypoxic space components by information processing device 1> <Oxygen concentration control> The control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 controls the oxygen concentration of the hypoxic room 2 to, for example, 9.5 to 14.4% (equivalent to an altitude of 6000 m to 3000 m), preferably 11.7 to 13.4% (equivalent to an altitude of 4500 m to 3500 m), with an accuracy of ±1.0%, preferably ±0.5%.

[0138] When the hypoxic room 2 is installed in a hypoxic facility, the control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 sets the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2 to be 1.0 to 5.0%, preferably 2.0 to 3.0%, lower than the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic training room where exercise is performed. This increases the effectiveness of the hypoxic training and enhances the feeling of refreshment when leaving the hypoxic room 2.

[0139] The control unit 31 also changes the oxygen concentration in the low-oxygen room 2 depending on the user's condition (rest, yoga, stretching). For example, the oxygen concentration during stretching may be 0.5 to 3.0% higher than the oxygen concentration during rest, and preferably 1.0 to 2.0% higher. The oxygen concentration in the low-oxygen room 2 may also be changed depending on the user's profile (e.g., gender, years of experience, basic physical strength, occupation, hobbies). For example, the oxygen concentration for a mountain climber's hobby may be 9.5 to 11.7% (equivalent to an altitude of 6,000 to 4,500 m), and the oxygen concentration for a beginner may be 11.7 to 14.4% (equivalent to an altitude of 4,500 to 3,000 m).

[0140] <Temperature Control> The control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 controls the temperature of the low-oxygen room 2 to, for example, a temperature range of 5.0 to 40.0° C. Alternatively, the control unit 31 sets a temperature range according to a high altitude environment corresponding to the set oxygen concentration and altitude.

[0141] In the hypoxic room 2 of this embodiment, the control unit 31 sets two types: a cold climate type and a sauna type. The cold climate type hypoxic room may be either a standing type or a sauna type, with the standing type being preferred. The sauna type hypoxic room may also be either a standing type or a sauna type, with the sauna type being preferred. The control unit 31 controls the temperature of the cold climate type to -5 to 20°C, preferably 0 to 15°C, and more preferably 5 to 10°C. The control unit 31 controls the temperature of the sauna type to 20 to 50°C, preferably 25 to 45°C, and more preferably 30 to 40°C. The sauna type hypoxic room 2 and the cold climate type hypoxic room 2 may be installed side by side in the hypoxic facility 500. By installing them side by side, effects similar to those of a sauna and a cold water bath can be obtained. When installed side by side, the sauna type hypoxic room 2 and the cold climate type hypoxic room 2 may be located adjacent to each other, and the control unit 31 may control the temperature based on heat exchange. The heat exchanger may be a type without moving parts, such as a Peltier element.

[0142] (Summary) As explained above, the hypoxic room 2 of the second embodiment includes at least the hypoxic air supply opening 206, the partition 208, and the entrance / exit door 205b. The floor area of ​​the hypoxic room 2 is (2.0 × N) m when the capacity is N people. ２The following is an example. This realizes a space-saving hypoxic room 2 that can be differentiated from conventional hypoxic training rooms. Furthermore, unlike typical gyms, a facility management staff is not required within the hypoxic space. Because the hypoxic room 2 is small, the control unit 31 of the information processing device 1 can efficiently achieve the target low oxygen concentration. Furthermore, the hypoxic room can be installed at a greater degree of freedom. For example, the hypoxic facility 500 can be placed in a shop, a train station or station premises, an office, a roadside (like a vending machine), or part of a hypoxic training room. The hypoxic room 2 of this embodiment is a completely different concept from conventional hypoxic training rooms in terms of its intended use and operation method. Specifically, the invention achieves a reversal of the concept of not placing stationary exercise equipment in a hypoxic room 2 that creates a hypoxic environment. As a result, space is no longer required, resulting in a compact hypoxic room 2. Furthermore, such a hypoxic room 2 can achieve an unexpected synergistic effect by allowing the hypoxic air generator 30 to be compact as well.

[0143] (Other Embodiments) Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and modifications, improvements, etc. within the scope of achieving the object of the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0144] Furthermore, for example, the above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or software. In other words, the above-described functional configuration is merely an example and is not particularly limited. In other words, it is sufficient for the information processing system S to be provided with a function that can execute the above-described series of processes as a whole, and the type of functional block used to realize this function is not particularly limited to the above-described example.

[0145] The location of the functional blocks is not particularly limited and may be arbitrary. For example, the functional blocks of the information processing device 1 may be transferred to another device, or the functional blocks of another device may be transferred to a server. Furthermore, one functional block may be configured as a single piece of hardware, a single piece of software, or a combination of these.

[0146] When a series of processes is executed by software, the programs constituting the software are installed onto a computer or the like from a network or a recording medium. The computer may be a computer incorporated into dedicated hardware. The computer may also be a computer capable of executing various functions by installing various programs, such as a server, a general-purpose smartphone, or a personal computer.

[0147] The recording medium containing such a program may be configured as a removable medium (not shown) that is distributed separately from the device main body in order to provide the program to users, etc., or may be configured as a recording medium that is pre-installed in the device main body and provided to users, etc. Since the program can be distributed via a network, the recording medium may be installed in or accessible from a computer that is connected or connectable to the network.

[0148] In the first and second embodiments described above, the information processing device 1 controls the hypoxic air generator 30, the hypoxic space components, etc. Another effective control example is an embodiment in which the hypoxic air generator 30 and the hypoxic space components function independently. For example, the hypoxic air generator 30 is connected to an air monitoring device 201 that specializes in measuring oxygen concentration. The hypoxic air generator 30 is then autonomously controlled so that the oxygen concentration is maintained at a preset value, for example, 15%. This control can be performed by an information processing device included in the hypoxic air generator 30, or it can be controlled by an electronic circuit that switches on when the oxygen concentration exceeds 15% and turns off when the oxygen concentration falls below 15%.

[0149] In other words, the hypoxic room 2 and the hypoxic training facility 100 to which the present invention is applied can take various forms having the following configurations.

[0150] (1-1) That is, a hypoxic room (e.g., hypoxic room 2 in FIG. 1) is a hypoxic room for training in a hypoxic state, and includes, as hypoxic space components (e.g., hypoxic space components in FIG. 1), a room air exhaust means (e.g., room air exhaust opening 205 in FIG. 1) for exhausting air from the hypoxic room, a hypoxic air supply means (e.g., hypoxic air supply opening 206 in FIG. 1) for supplying air with a low oxygen concentration into the hypoxic room, and an air monitoring means (e.g., air monitoring device 201 in FIG. 1) for monitoring the oxygen concentration of the air in the hypoxic room, wherein the air monitoring means in the hypoxic room is located at a lower height from the floor than the hypoxic air supply means. This allows for efficient exhaust of carbon dioxide from hypoxic room 2 and efficient supply of hypoxic air to hypoxic room 2. The arrangement and functions of the components of the hypoxic space are more optimized than in conventional technology, health accidents caused by hypoxic conditions are prevented, and a hypoxic room and hypoxic training facility are provided in which users can safely perform simulated high altitude training.

[0151] (1-2) The hypoxic room may further include either a display device (e.g., display device 203 in FIG. 1) that displays the results of air monitoring by the air monitoring means, or an air conditioning device (e.g., air conditioning device 202 in FIG. 1) that circulates the air within the hypoxic room. This allows information such as the user's SpO2 and heart rate, as well as information causally related to biological information, to be displayed on the display device 203. The temperature of the hypoxic room 2 can be controlled by the air conditioning device 202. By controlling the temperature, a comfortable hypoxic environment is realized. Furthermore, a hypoxic environment similar to that at high altitudes, where temperatures are lower than on the ground, can be reproduced.

[0152] (1-3) In the hypoxic room, the air monitoring means may further monitor the carbon dioxide concentration, thereby more reliably preventing adverse effects on users caused by high carbon dioxide concentrations.

[0153] (1-4) The hypoxic training facility may include the hypoxic room and a machine room (e.g., machine room 3 in FIG. 1 ) containing a hypoxic air generator (e.g., hypoxic air generator 30 in FIG. 1 ) that generates air with a low oxygen concentration. This allows the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2 to be accurately and stably controlled by the hypoxic air supplied from the hypoxic air generator 30. Furthermore, the hypoxic air generator 30 may be located in a different space from the hypoxic room 2. This effectively prevents the high-oxygen air discharged from the hypoxic air generator 30 from affecting the hypoxic room 2 when generating hypoxic air.

[0154] (1-5) In a hypoxic training facility, the hypoxic air generator has the function of separating atmospheric air into hypoxic air and hyperoxic air, and supplies the hypoxic air to the hypoxic room through the hypoxic air supply means. The outlet for the hyperoxic air discharged from the hypoxic air generator (e.g., outlet 301 in the figure) is preferably located at a height of 1.8 m or more from the floor. Because hyperoxic air is discharged, it is dangerous to bring fire close to it. In this regard, according to the configuration of this embodiment, outlet 301 is set at a high position, making it difficult for people and fire to approach, thereby reducing the risk.

[0155] (1-6) In a hypoxic training facility, the hypoxic room may be equipped with an air conditioner that circulates air within the hypoxic room, and an information processing device that controls at least one of the hypoxic air generator, the air conditioner, the indoor air exhaust means, and the hypoxic air supply means. This allows the information processing device 1 to appropriately set the oxygen concentration within the hypoxic room 2 according to the user's purpose, application, etc.

[0156] (1-7) In a hypoxic training facility, the information processing device is placed in a control room (for example, control room 4 in FIG. 1) that is provided separately from the hypoxic room. This allows the manager to manage the hypoxic room 2 without being affected by the hypoxic environment. Furthermore, by separating the control room 4 from the machine room 3, it is possible to avoid situations in which the manager is affected by high-oxygen air. This means that even in the unlikely event of an accident caused by hypoxia, the operation of the information processing device will not be affected by the hypoxia, and the information processing device can be operated in a location with a normal oxygen concentration. As a result, the accident can be minimized.

[0157] (2-1) A hypoxic room (e.g., hypoxic room 2) that forms a space in a hypoxic state, comprising, as hypoxic space components, at least an entrance / exit door (e.g., room air exhaust opening 205) through which users of the hypoxic room enter and exit, and a hypoxic air supply opening (e.g., hypoxic air supply opening 206) through which air with a low oxygen concentration is supplied into the hypoxic room, and the floor area of ​​the hypoxic room is (2.0 × N) m when the capacity is N people. ２ The hypoxic room is as follows. This makes it possible to provide a space-saving hypoxic room and hypoxic facility that can be differentiated from conventional hypoxic training rooms.

[0158] (2-2) The hypoxic room may further include an air conditioning device (e.g., air conditioning device 202) that circulates air within the hypoxic room as a hypoxic space component. This allows the temperature of the hypoxic room 2 to be controlled by the air conditioning device 202. By controlling the temperature, a comfortable hypoxic environment is realized. In addition, a hypoxic environment similar to that at high altitudes, where the temperature is lower than on the ground, is reproduced.

[0159] (2-3) The hypoxic room may further include an air monitoring means (e.g., air monitoring device 201) for monitoring the oxygen concentration and / or carbon dioxide concentration as a hypoxic space component. This allows for efficient exhaust of carbon dioxide from the hypoxic room 2 and efficient supply of hypoxic air to the hypoxic room 2.

[0160] (2-4) The hypoxic room may further include a display device (for example, the display device 203) as a hypoxic space component for displaying the results of air monitoring by the air monitoring means. ２ Information such as heart rate, and information causally related to the monitored human body mass are displayed on the display device 203. The temperature of the hypoxic room 2 can be controlled by the air conditioner 202. By controlling the temperature, a comfortable hypoxic environment is realized. In addition, a hypoxic environment similar to that at high altitudes where the temperature is lower than on the ground is reproduced.

[0161] (2-5) A hypoxic facility (e.g., hypoxic facility 500) is a hypoxic facility that includes a hypoxic room and a hypoxic air generator (e.g., hypoxic air generator 30) that generates air with a low oxygen concentration. As a result, the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2 is accurately and stably controlled by the hypoxic air supplied from the hypoxic air generator 30.

[0162] (2-6) The hypoxic facility may further include an information processing device (e.g., information processing device 1) that controls at least one of the hypoxic air generator, the air conditioner, the indoor air exhaust opening, and the hypoxic air supply opening. This allows the information processing device 1 to appropriately set the oxygen concentration in the hypoxic room 2 according to the user's purpose, use, etc.

[0163] (2-7) In a hypoxic facility, the information processing device may be placed in a control room (e.g., control room 4) that is provided separately from the hypoxic room. This allows the manager to manage the hypoxic room 2 without being affected by the hypoxic environment. Furthermore, by separating the control room 4 from the machine room 3, it is possible to avoid situations in which the manager is affected by high-oxygen air. This means that even in the unlikely event of an accident caused by hypoxia, the operation of the information processing device will not be affected by the hypoxia, and the information processing device can be operated in a location with a normal oxygen concentration. As a result, the accident can be minimized.

[0164] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Information processing device 2 Hypoxic room 3 Machine room 4 Control room 100 Hypoxic training facility 201 Air monitoring device 202 Air conditioning device 203 Display device 204 Exercise equipment 205 Indoor air exhaust opening 205b Entry / exit door 206 Hypoxic air supply opening 207 Biometric information acquisition unit 208 Partition 209 Chair

Claims

1. A hypoxic room for training in a hypoxic state, comprising as hypoxic space components: indoor air exhaust means for exhausting air from within the hypoxic room; hypoxic air supply means for supplying air with a low oxygen concentration into the hypoxic room; and air monitoring means for monitoring the oxygen concentration of the air in the hypoxic room, wherein the air monitoring means in the hypoxic room is located at a lower height from the floor than the hypoxic air supply means.

2. A hypoxic room as described in claim 1, further comprising at least one of the following as components of the hypoxic space: a display device that displays the results of air monitoring by the air monitoring means; and an air conditioning device that circulates air within the hypoxic room.

3. The hypoxic room of claim 1, wherein the air monitoring means further monitors a carbon dioxide concentration.

4. A hypoxic training facility comprising: a hypoxic room according to any one of claims 1 to 3; and a machine room having a hypoxic air generating device for generating air with a low oxygen concentration.

5. A hypoxic training facility as described in claim 4, wherein the hypoxic air generating device has a function of separating atmospheric air into low oxygen concentration air and high oxygen concentration air, supplies the low oxygen concentration air to the hypoxic room through the low oxygen air supply means, and the outlet for the high oxygen air discharged from the hypoxic air generating device is located at a height of 1.8 m or more from the floor of the hypoxic room.

6. A hypoxic training facility as described in claim 4, wherein the hypoxic room is equipped with an air conditioning unit that circulates air within the hypoxic room, and further comprises an information processing device that controls at least one of the hypoxic air generating device, the air conditioning unit, the indoor air exhaust means, and the hypoxic air supply means.

7. The hypoxic training facility according to claim 6, wherein the information processing device is placed in a control room provided separately from the hypoxic room.

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