JP2001252265A - Biofeedback device - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [Problem] To grasp the mental activity state of the user in detail, or to grasp the mental activity state desired by the user, and to perform visual, auditory, olfactory, tactile, and taste chronologically. The present invention provides a biofeedback device that stimulates the subject while varying it to intentionally change the player's mental activity state. SOLUTION: Various biological reactions of the user are detected by a mental activity detecting means 1, and a mental activity determining means 6
This detection result is analyzed in a complex manner, and the mental activity state of the user is determined. Then, the user selects the mental activity selecting means 4.
The stimulus generating means 3 provides a stimulus that changes in a time series for the user's five senses with the goal of the mental activity selected by the user.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to an information terminal, for example,
The present invention relates to a biofeedback device that is applied to a communication terminal, a game terminal, or the like and adapts to a mental activity state of a user.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, various types of game machines incorporating a computer have been developed. As a basic form of such a game device, there is a configuration provided with a display showing a game situation, an interface such as a joystick and buttons for allowing a player to act on the game, and the like. In recent years, there has been developed a game in which a joystick or the like is fed back according to the progress of the game so that a more realistic game development can be enjoyed.

[0003] Further, biofeedback game machines and the like, which detect a player's biological reaction and the like and change the game development in accordance with the information, are being developed. As such a biofeedback game machine, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-328412 discloses the following device. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the biofeedback game machine disclosed in the above publication. As shown in the figure, this biofeedback game device has sensors 201, C
PU (Central Processing Unit) 202, storage device 20
3. CRT (CathodeRay Tube) 204, controller 2
05, a sensor check means 206, a start switch 207, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 208, a timer 209, and a speaker 210.

[0004] The sensor 201 is attached to, for example, an earlobe and detects a biological signal (pulse, heartbeat, etc.) of a human body from the earlobe. The CPU 202 functions as an arithmetic device. The storage device 203 stores a game program, data, and the like. CRT204
Is a display for showing the progress of the game to the player. The controller 205 is a means for the player to control the game. The sensor check unit 206 checks whether a biological signal is detected from the sensor 201. The start switch 207 is a switch for starting a game. The RAM 208 is used by the CPU 202 as a work memory. The timer 209 emits a pulse used when measuring a biological signal. The speaker 210 emits a sound effect of the game and the like.

[0005] This biofeedback game machine,
The system is to check in advance whether a biological signal is detected from the player. If the biosignal is not detected normally, a warning such as re-attaching the sensor to the player is issued, and if the biosignal is detected normally so that the game cannot be started with the sensor disconnected. Only, the game can be started.

As another example of a biofeedback game machine, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H11-169558 discloses the following device. This biofeedback game machine detects a change in a factor composed of one or more combinations selected from among pulse, skin temperature, and skin resistance response, and determines the presence or absence of psychological stability based on the change in these signals. Decision, display this in the form of a game, binaural beat with different frequency
With this configuration, synchronization of brain waves is induced. Thereby, it is possible to experience a change in the psychological state while inducing the interest of the player.

[0007]

However, in the configuration described in the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-328412,
It is possible to take in various biological signals from the player and use the signals as parameters to change the progress and development of the game. However, with this configuration, it is impossible to consciously change the current mental (psychological) state of the player.

Further, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H11-16955 describes
In the configuration described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 8 (1994), a sensing means for sensing a psychophysiological response factor of pulse, skin temperature, skin resistance response, and an electroencephalogram synchronizing means by an electroencephalogram adjustment sound signal responds to a mental change. It is possible to change the progress of the game. However, other biological reactions mentioned above, such as EEG, magnetoencephalography, biochemical reactions, frequency of blinking, sweating, voice inflection, body movements, mouth movements and dryness, head movements, pupil size , Facial expressions, heart rate, respiratory rate,
It is impossible to grasp the player's mental state in more detail by detecting the breathing state and the like in a complex manner. Also, the feedback to the player is based only on the method based on the brain wave adjusting sound signal, which is insufficient for controlling the mental activity of the player.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and has as its object to grasp the mental activity of a user in detail or to grasp the mental activity desired by the user. Another object of the present invention is to provide a biofeedback device that stimulates the visual, auditory, olfactory, tactile, and taste sensations while changing the chronological order, and consciously changes the mental activity state of the player.

[0010]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a biofeedback device according to the present invention comprises a mental activity detecting means for detecting at least one kind of biological reaction among user's biological reactions. Based on the detection result by the mental activity detecting means, a mental activity determining means for determining the mental activity state of the user, based on the determination result by the mental activity determining means, visual, auditory, olfactory, tactile, taste A stimulus generating means for providing a user with a stimulus corresponding to at least one sensation in a time-series manner.

[0011] In the above configuration, first, the mental activity detecting means detects a biological reaction of the user, for example, an electroencephalogram, a magnetoencephalogram,
Biochemical reactions, frequency of blinking, skin resistance, sweating, voice inflection, body movements, mouth movements and dryness, head movements, pupil size, facial expressions, heart rate, pulse, respiratory rate, At least one of a respiratory condition, a body surface temperature, and the like is detected. By complexly analyzing the detection result of the mental activity detecting means, the mental activity determining means determines the mental activity status of the user. Then, based on the determination result of the mental activity determining means, the output of the stimulus generating means for stimulating at least one of sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste is time-series based on, for example, 1 / f fluctuation or the like. The user's biofeedback function can be used to control the mental activity of the user, such as sleep induction, relaxation, normal, and active, by giving the user a variable response.

Therefore, for example, when the user is going to give a presentation, the active mental state can be quickly established by stimulation of the five senses by biofeedback. Also, for example, when the user wants to take a sleep, it is possible to perform control to induce sleep in a short time, and when the user wants to relax, the excitement of mental activity can be reduced in a short time. It becomes possible to calm down.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be arranged such that the above-mentioned configuration further includes a display unit for displaying a detection result by the mental activity detection unit.

According to the above arrangement, the display means
Since the result of the detection by the mental activity detecting means can be displayed to the user, the user can be aware of his / her mental activity status, and can be conscious of the biofeedback situation. Therefore, the control of the mental activity of the user can be performed more effectively.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be configured such that, in the above configuration, a man-machine interface serving as an interface with a user is further provided.

According to the above configuration, the user can interactively operate the biofeedback device in real time by using a man-machine interface such as a display unit, a key input unit, a joystick, a speaker, and a microphone.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be arranged such that, in the above configuration, the setting of the man-machine interface is changed based on the determination result by the mental activity determining means.

According to the above arrangement, the mental activity determining means determines the mental activity state of the user, and the brightness, the color, the scrolling speed, and the flashing speed of the display screen are appropriate for the mental activity state. Now, it is possible to set the key response speed, joystick response speed, background sound, microphone input sound, and the like.

Therefore, when the above-described biofeedback device is applied to, for example, a mobile phone, the brightness and color of the liquid crystal display are changed according to the user's mental state, and the display speed is changed according to the activity status. It becomes possible. In addition, it is possible to change the voice and inflection of the sender, and to change the background noise and sound. Becomes possible.

When the above-mentioned biofeedback device is applied to, for example, an electronic notebook or an electronic book, the brightness of the display screen, the color, the scrolling speed, and the flashing speed of the screen are determined according to the user's mental state. Now, by changing the response speed of the key, the music playing in the background, etc.,
It is possible to provide operability that suits the mood of the user.

When the above-described biofeedback device is applied to a game terminal, for example, the brightness of the display screen, the color, the flashing speed of the screen, the reaction speed of the joystick, By changing the music that flows on the ground, the sound from the device, and the like, it is possible to more effectively produce a sense of realism of the game.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention includes a mental activity detecting means for detecting at least one kind of biological reaction among the biological reactions of the user, and a detection result by the mental activity detecting means. Mental activity determining means for determining the mental activity state of the user, and a man-machine interface serving as an interface with the user, the setting of the man-machine interface based on the determination result by the mental activity determining means It is characterized by being changed.

In the above configuration, first, a biological reaction of the user, for example, an electroencephalogram, a magnetoencephalogram,
Biochemical reactions, frequency of blinking, skin resistance, sweating, voice inflection, body movements, mouth movements and dryness, head movements, pupil size, facial expressions, heart rate, pulse, respiratory rate, At least one of a respiratory condition, a body surface temperature, and the like is detected. By complexly analyzing the detection result of the mental activity detecting means, the mental activity determining means determines the mental activity status of the user.

The brightness of the display screen, which is appropriate for the mental activity state determined by the mental activity determining means,
You can set color, scrolling speed, screen flashing speed, key response speed, joystick response speed, background sound, microphone input sound, and so on.

Therefore, when the above-described biofeedback device is applied to, for example, a mobile phone, the brightness and color of the liquid crystal display are changed according to the user's mental state, and the display speed is changed according to the activity status. It becomes possible. In addition, it is possible to change the voice and inflection of the sender, and to change the background noise and sound. Becomes possible.

When the above-mentioned biofeedback device is applied to, for example, an electronic organizer or an electronic book, the brightness of the display screen, the color, the scrolling speed, and the flashing speed of the screen are determined according to the psychological state of the user. Now, by changing the response speed of the key, the music playing in the background, etc.,
It is possible to provide operability that suits the mood of the user.

When the above-mentioned biofeedback device is applied to, for example, a game terminal, the brightness of the display screen, the color, the speed of flashing the screen, the reaction speed of the joystick, By changing the music that flows on the ground, the sound from the device, and the like, it is possible to more effectively produce a sense of realism of the game.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention, in the above-mentioned configuration, further comprises a mental activity selecting means for selecting a mental activity state targeted by a user, wherein the stimulus generating means comprises the mental activity selecting means. Control may be provided to apply a stimulus to the user so that the mental activity state of the user recognized by the determination result of the determination means becomes the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selection means.

According to the above configuration, the mental activity selecting means enables the user to select a target mental activity state, and the stimulus generating means causes the stimulus generating means to achieve the selected mental activity state. Is added to the user, so that the user can control himself to the mental activity state desired by the user.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention, in the above configuration, includes a display means for displaying the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means together with the detection result by the mental activity detecting means. It may be configured.

According to the above configuration, the result of detection by the mental activity detecting means and the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means are displayed together by the display means, so that the user can display his / her current personality. It is possible to recognize the difference between the mental activity state and the target mental activity state.
Therefore, the control of the mental activity of the user can be performed more effectively.

Further, in the biofeedback device according to the present invention, in the above configuration, when performing an operation based on the time-series data, the stimulus output from the stimulus generating means is performed based on the data content earlier than the present time. It may be configured to include a time-series stimulation engine to be controlled.

In the above configuration, when an operation based on time-series data is performed, for example, when applied to an electronic book or a game terminal, a time-series stimulus engine is executed based on the data contents prior to the present time. The stimulus output from the stimulus generation means is controlled by the stimulus. Thus, for example, when applied to an information terminal such as an electronic book, it is used in advance according to the contents of the story, and when applied to a game terminal, for example, according to the contents in the progress of the game. Control the mental activity of the person. Therefore, the user of the information terminal or the game terminal can actively and effectively experience a psychological change corresponding to the story or the progress of the game.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention, in the above configuration, includes a time constant input means for setting a time constant for controlling a mental activity state of the user by the stimulus output from the stimulus generating means. Configuration.

According to the above configuration, the user can set the time constant of the control of the mental activity state by the time constant input means, so that the mental activity state is shifted at a time desired by the user. It becomes possible. For example, when a user is about to make a presentation, biofeedback can transition to an active mental state at any time before its start. Also,
For example, when the user is going to sleep, the sleep induction time is set so that the sleep time is a multiple of 90 minutes, which is the REM sleep cycle, to make the wake up the next day comfortable. It is possible to do.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention has a mental activity selecting means for selecting a mental activity state targeted by a user and at least one of sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste. Stimulus generation means for giving a stimulus to the user in a time-series manner, wherein the stimulus generation means provides the stimulus to the user such that the stimulus generation means is in the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selection means. It is characterized by giving.

According to the above arrangement, the mental activity selecting means allows the user to select a target mental activity state. Then, the output of the stimulus generating means for stimulating at least one of sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste is set based on, for example, 1 / f fluctuation so as to be in the selected mental activity state. By giving the user a series of changes, the user's biofeedback function can control the mental activity of the user, such as sleep induction, relaxation, normal, and active. That is, it is possible to control itself to the mental activity state desired by the user.

Therefore, for example, when the user is going to give a presentation, the user selects an active mental state by means of mental activity selection means, so that the user can be activated in a short time by stimulation of the five senses by biofeedback. A mental state. Similarly, for example, when the user wants to take a sleep, it is possible to perform control to induce sleep in a short time, and when the user wants to relax,
It is possible to calm the excitement of mental activity in a short time.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be configured such that, in the above configuration, a man-machine interface serving as an interface with a user is further provided.

According to the above configuration, for example, the user can interactively operate the biofeedback device in real time by using a man-machine interface such as a display unit, a key input unit, a joystick, a speaker, and a microphone.

In the biofeedback device according to the present invention, in the above configuration, the setting of the man-machine interface may be changed according to the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means.

According to the above arrangement, the brightness of the display screen, the color, the scrolling speed, the blinking speed of the screen, the key response speed, and the key speed suitable for the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means. It is possible to set the reaction speed of the joystick, the sound flowing in the background, the sound of the microphone input, and the like.

Therefore, for example, when the above-mentioned biofeedback device is applied to a mobile phone or the like, the brightness or color of the liquid crystal display is changed according to the selected mental activity state, or the display speed is changed according to the activity status. Can be changed.

When the above-described biofeedback device is applied to, for example, an electronic organizer or an electronic book, the brightness of the display screen depends on the selected mental activity state.
By changing the color, the speed of scrolling, the speed of flashing the screen, the speed of key reaction, the music played in the background, and the like, it is possible to provide operability that suits the user's mood.

When the above-mentioned biofeedback device is applied to a game terminal or the like, for example, the brightness of the display screen, the color, the blinking speed of the screen, and the reaction speed of the joystick are selected according to the selected mental activity state. By changing the music played in the background, the sound from the device, and the like, the sense of reality of the game can be more effectively produced.

Further, the feedback device according to the present invention includes a mental activity selecting means for selecting a mental activity state which a user aims at, and a man-machine interface serving as an interface between the user and the mental activity. According to the mental activity state selected by the selection means,
The setting of the man-machine interface is changed.

According to the above arrangement, the mental activity selecting means allows the user to select a target mental activity state. Then, in accordance with the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means, the brightness of the display screen, the color, the speed of scrolling, the speed of blinking the screen, the key response speed, the joystick response speed, the background It is possible to set the sound that flows, the sound of microphone input, and the like.

Therefore, for example, when the above-mentioned biofeedback device is applied to a mobile phone or the like, the brightness or color of the liquid crystal display is changed according to the selected mental activity state, or the display speed is changed according to the activity state. Can be changed.

When the above-described biofeedback device is applied to, for example, an electronic organizer or an electronic book, the brightness of the display screen depends on the selected mental activity state.
By changing the color, the speed of scrolling, the speed of flashing the screen, the speed of key reaction, the music played in the background, and the like, it is possible to provide operability that suits the user's mood.

When the above-described biofeedback device is applied to, for example, a game terminal, the brightness and color of the display screen, the speed of flashing the screen, and the reaction speed of the joystick are selected according to the selected mental activity state. By changing the music played in the background, the sound from the device, and the like, the sense of reality of the game can be more effectively produced.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be configured such that, in the above configuration, display means for displaying a mental activity state selected by the mental activity selection means is provided.

According to the above configuration, the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means is displayed by the display means, so that the user can recognize the target mental activity state. Therefore, the control of the mental activity of the user can be performed more effectively.

Further, in the biofeedback device according to the present invention, in the above configuration, when performing an operation based on the time-series data, the stimulus output from the stimulus generating means is performed based on the data content earlier than the present time. It may be configured to include a time-series stimulation engine to be controlled.

In the above-described configuration, for example, when an operation based on time-series data is performed, such as when applied to an electronic book or a game terminal, a time-series stimulus engine The stimulus output from the stimulus generation means is controlled by the stimulus. Thus, for example, when applied to an information terminal such as an electronic book, it is used in advance according to the contents of the story, and when applied to a game terminal, for example, according to the contents in the progress of the game. Control the mental activity of the person. Therefore, the user of the information terminal or the game terminal can actively and effectively experience a psychological change corresponding to the story or the progress of the game.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention, in the above configuration, includes a time constant input means for setting a time constant for controlling a mental activity state of the user by the stimulus output from the stimulus generating means. Configuration.

According to the above configuration, the user can set the time constant for controlling the mental activity state by the time constant input means, so that the mental activity state is shifted at a time desired by the user. It becomes possible. For example, when a user is about to make a presentation, biofeedback can transition to an active mental state at any time before its start. Also,
For example, when the user is going to sleep, the sleep induction time is set so that the sleep time is a multiple of 90 minutes, which is the REM sleep cycle, to make the wake up the next day comfortable. It is possible to do.

[0057]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] The following will describe one embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the biofeedback device according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, this biofeedback device has a configuration including a mental activity detecting means 1, a central part 2, a stimulus generating means 3, and a mental activity selecting means 4.

The mental activity detecting means 1 detects an electroencephalogram, a magnetoencephalogram, a biochemical reaction, a frequency of blinking, a skin resistance, sweating, voice inflection, body movement, mouth movement for detecting the activity state of the brain of the user P. It detects at least one of movement, dryness, head movement, pupil size, facial expression, heart rate, pulse, respiration rate, respiratory state, and body surface temperature.

The central unit 2 is a part for performing various arithmetic processing in the biofeedback device. In the present embodiment, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 5 and a mental activity determining means for performing arithmetic processing by the CPU 5 6 and a five-sensory stimulation engine 7.

The stimulus generating means 3 is a visual sense which is a human's five senses,
The stimulus corresponding to at least one of hearing, smell, touch, and taste is changed in time series based on the 1 / f fluctuation theory and transmitted to the user P. The user P is guided to sleep, relaxation, normal, and active mental activities by the approximation of the fluctuation of the stimulus emitted from the stimulus generation means 3.

The mental activity selecting means 4 is an input means for the user P to select a desired mental activity, and information on the selected mental activity is transmitted to the central part 2.

The information signal of the mental activity detected by the mental activity detecting means 1 is transmitted to the center 2 via the interface 8A. Similarly, the information signal of the mental activity selected by the mental activity selecting means 4 is transmitted to the central part 2 via the interface 8C. Further, an information signal regarding the five-sense stimulus output from the five-sense stimulus engine 7 in the central part 2 is transmitted to the stimulus generation means 3 via the interface 8B.

Next, the operation of the mental activity detecting means 1 will be described in detail. First, this mental activity detection means 1
The various biological reactions that are detected by will be described.

EEGs are classified into four representative EEGs according to their frequency bands. These brain waves are respectively δ
Wave (0.5-4 Hz), θ wave (4-8 Hz), α wave (8
１４14 Hz) and β waves (14 to 30 Hz).

The δ wave is an electroencephalogram that appears during sleep. The θ wave is an electroencephalogram that appears during a deep relaxation state such as during meditation. The α-wave is an electroencephalogram that appears when the user is in a relaxed state, such as when relaxing, and when the user is in a state of mental concentration, such as when trying to memorize something. Beta waves are brain waves that appear when the degree of tension is high.

As a simple method for detecting an electroencephalogram, a target person wears a headband having an electrode in contact with the epidermis of the forehead and an ear electrode in contact with the epidermis of the ear. There is a method of detecting a weak change in skin potential between the electrodes and detecting the change as an electroencephalogram.

As described above, the electroencephalogram is detected by measuring the electric potential, whereas the magnetoencephalogram is obtained by measuring the magnetic field generated by the action potential of the brain using the SQUID sensor.

The heart rate, pulse and respiratory rate tend to decrease when the target person's mental and psychological conditions are stabilized, and increase when the subject is excited, that is, when the degree of tension is high. Changes in heart rate, pulse and respiratory rate will reflect mental and psychological activity. As a method of detecting the heart rate, pulse, and respiration rate, for example, there is a simple detection method using an LED and a light receiving element.

As for the body surface temperature, the peripheral blood vessels expand as the target person is in a mentally and psychologically stable state.
As arterial blood flows into peripheral defects on the body surface, the body surface temperature will rise. Conversely, when mental tension increases,
Since peripheral blood vessels contract, the inflow of arterial blood to the body surface decreases, and the body temperature tends to decrease. This detection of the body surface temperature can be easily detected by a thermistor or the like.

Blinking is the mental (psychological) level of tension and interest.
It reflects the activity. Blinks tend to be less when the target person is paying attention to the outside, and more when they pay attention to the inner part of the mind. That is, when the target person finds the target being viewed interesting,
Blinks are suppressed when attention is paid, and conversely, when released from the state, blinks tend to increase temporarily due to rebound.

The pupil fluctuates due to light reflex and near vision reflex, but also fluctuates due to reflex accompanying mental (psychological) activity. Pupil reactions reflecting mental (psychological) activities include the following. When the target person is interested in what he / she is seeing and has a high degree of tension, the relative increase rate of the pupil area is high and the pupil is dilated.
Conversely, if the target person is not interested in what he / she is looking at and has a low degree of tension, the subject has miosis. As a method of detecting blinking and pupil movement, there is a method in which continuous images are taken in by a CCD or CMOS image sensor, and edge movements are detected from these continuous images.

Skin resistance is the mental (psychological) level of the target person.
It increases when the condition is stable, and decreases when the degree of mental (psychological) tension is high due to stress or the like.
Sweating, body movements, head movements, mouth movements and dryness decrease in a mentally (psychologically) stable state, and increase when mental (psychologically) stressful stress is high. For a biochemical reaction, a sensor corresponding to a chemical change of a substance generated from a living body is used.

After the mental activity detecting means 1 detects the mental activity status of the user P, these detection signals are sent to the CPU 2 through the interface 8A. The detection signal sent to the CPU 2 is analyzed by a multivariate analysis or the like. And the mental activity determining means 6
Accordingly, the mental state of the user P, such as a sleep-inducing state, a relaxing state, a normal state, and an active state, is determined from time to time from the value of each detection signal.

Based on the result of the mental state determination by the mental activity determining means 6 and the information on the mental activity selected by the user P by the mental activity selecting means 4, the five sense stimulation engine 7
Sends a stimulus generation signal that changes in a time series based on 1 / f fluctuation or the like to the stimulus generation means 3.

In order to effectively control mental (psychological) activities by utilizing the biofeed function of the user P, the stimulus generating means 3 includes the five senses of the human being, namely, sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste. A stimulus corresponding to at least one sensation from the inside is given to the user P in a time-series manner based on 1 / f fluctuation or the like. The mental (psychological) activity of the user P such as a sleep-induced state, a relaxed state, a normal state, and an active state is controlled by the degree of approximation of the fluctuation.

For example, the following can be mentioned as a method of auditory stimulation. As one example, there is a method of allowing the user P to hear a sound whose frequency is changed in a time-series manner. In the case of this method, a method is used in which the power is increased when the frequency of the audible sound is low, and the power is decreased when the frequency of the audible sound is high, such as on the 1 / f line. .

As another example of the auditory stimulus, there is a method in which the user P is made to hear a sound of the same frequency that sounds intermittently. In this method, when the period (interval) of the intermittent sound (ton or p) is large, the power is large, and when the period (interval) of the intermittent sound (ton or p) is small, the power is low. For example, a technique such as performing

Regarding the tactile stimulus, the same effect as the above-mentioned auditory stimulus can be obtained by changing the (ton) of the above-mentioned intermittent sound stimulus to a tapping operation. In other words, a method of stimulating to hit the 1 / f line strongly when the cycle (interval) of intermittent tapping is large, and to strike small when the cycle (interval) of intermittent tapping is small, etc. Used.

Further, as for the visual stimulus, the same effect as the above-mentioned auditory stimulus can be obtained by returning the (ton) of the above-mentioned intermittent sound stimulus to the blinking of light. In other words, a method is used such that the LED or the screen is bright when the cycle of blinking is large, and the brightness is weak when the cycle of blinking is small, such as riding on the 1 / f line.

As described above, by applying stimuli for various senses to the user P in a manner of being on the line of 1 / f, that is, based on the fluctuation of 1 / f, the user P The mental (psychological) state will be stable and relaxed. Conversely, the condition of 1 / f is deviated from the condition, and as the stimulus is randomly stimulated, the state becomes mentally (psychologically) unstable and changes to an excited state. To give a specific example, sleep is induced when being shaken by a train, and this phenomenon is due to a sleep inducing action caused by biofeedback based on 1 / f fluctuation.

For example, regarding auditory stimulation, bin
It is also possible to tune brain waves by aural beat. For example, there is the following method for synchronizing with the delta wave of the brain wave appearing during sleep. For example, 98
Hz sound and 100 Hz sound are heard to the right and left ears in stereo sound. When sounds with different frequencies are heard in both ears, the 2 Hz brain wave corresponding to the frequency difference is synchronized, so that it is possible to control the state that appears during sleep.

In the same manner, binaural be
Using at, the deep relaxed state (θ wave) is 94
Hz and 100Hz sound, relaxing (α wave)
Is the sound of 90Hz and 100Hz, the state when giving a presentation or playing sports (β wave)
Since the brain waves are synchronized by the sounds of 90 Hz and 110 Hz, it is possible to control each mental (nerve) state.

With respect to visual stimuli, in the above-described method, biofeedback control in a short time is difficult, but by adjusting the number of times of stimulating light of a single-frequency LED or the like to the frequency of the electroencephalograms, It causes entrainment and allows control over each mental (psychological) state. For example, the sleep state (δ wave) blinks light at an interval of 2 Hz, and the deep relaxation state (θ wave) blinks light at an interval of 12 Hz, when giving a presentation or playing sports. In the state (β-wave), the brain waves are synchronized by blinking of light at intervals of 20 Hz.

On the other hand, regarding the sense of smell and taste, there is a great difference between individuals in response to stimuli, so it is necessary to set in advance a smell and taste suitable for the mental (psychological) state of the user P and to make a database. Then, based on this database, an olfactory stimulus or a taste stimulus is applied to the user P.

The stimulus corresponding to the difference between the mental (psychological) activity detected by the mental activity detecting means 1 and determined by the mental activity determining means 6 and the mental (psychological) activity selected by the mental activity selecting means 4 is In addition, the stimulus generation unit 3 adds the result to the user P based on the mental (psychological) activity of the detection result while considering the determined time constant. The loop through the user P (the loop indicated by the bold arrow in FIG. 1) is specified by the mental (psychological) activity determined by the detection value from the mental activity detecting unit 1 and the mental activity selecting unit 4. It is repeated until the mental (psychological) activity matches.

Therefore, for example, when the user P intends to give a presentation, the user P selects an active mental state by the mental activity selecting means 4, so that the user P can be activated in a short time by the five sense stimulation of biofeedback. A mental state. Further, for example, when the user P wants to take a sleep, the mental activity that induces sleep is selected by the mental activity selecting means 4 so that the mental condition that induces sleep in a short time can be obtained. Further, for example, when the user P wants to lower the power state of the mental (psychological) activity from the normal state, the potential of the mental state can be reduced by selecting the relaxed state by the mental activity selecting means 4.

[Embodiment 2] Another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The components having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the biofeedback device according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the biofeedback device has a configuration including a mental activity detecting unit 1, a central unit 2, a stimulus generating unit 3, a mental activity selecting unit 4, and a visual information displaying unit 9. The biofeedback device according to the present embodiment is different from the configuration described in the first embodiment with reference to FIG. 1 in that the biofeedback device includes a visual information display unit 9. The other configuration is almost the same as the configuration described in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will not be repeated.

The visual information display means 9 visually displays the state of mental activity detected by the mental activity detecting means 1 and determined by the mental activity determining means 6, and is selected by the mental activity selecting means 4. The frequency band and the intensity of each stimulus applied from the stimulus generation means 3 are displayed in time series with the goal of the state of mental activity. This visual information display means 9 is connected to the CPU 5 in the central part 2 via the interface 8D.

That is, the stimulus for at least one of sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste is changed by the stimulus generation means 3 in a time-series manner based on 1 / f fluctuation or the like, whereby the user P In addition to controlling the mental (psychological) activity of the user, the change of the state of the mental activity of the user P and the frequency band and intensity of the stimulus are displayed on the visual information display means 9 in real time, so that the bio- The feedback function is strengthened, and the mental (psychological) activity of the user P can be more effectively controlled.

In other words, since the biofeedback situation is under the consciousness of the user P when the control of the mental activity of the user P is in a transition state, the control function of the mental activity is not performed. It will be further strengthened.
Therefore, for example, when the user P is going to give a presentation, by selecting an active mental state by the mental activity selecting means 4, the mental (psychological) activity can be effectively activated. Similarly, when the user P wants to take a sleep, by selecting it, sleep can be effectively induced in a short time, and when the user P wants to lower the power state of mental (psychological) activity from the normal state, the user is in a relaxed state. By selecting, it is possible to more effectively lower the potential of the mental state.

Third Embodiment Still another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to configurations having the same functions as the configurations described in each of the above-described embodiments,
The description is omitted.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the biofeedback device according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, this biofeedback device is configured to include a time constant input unit 10, a central unit 2, a stimulus generation unit 3, a mental activity selection unit 4, and a target display unit 11. Compared with the configuration described in the first embodiment with reference to FIG. 1, the biofeedback device of the present embodiment does not include the mental activity detection unit 1, and the time constant input unit 10 and the target display unit 11 Is different. Another difference is that the mental activity determining means 6 is not provided in the central part 2. The other configuration is almost the same as the configuration described in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will not be repeated.

As described above, the biofeedback apparatus according to the present embodiment does not include the mental activity detecting means 1, but aims at the mental activity selected by the user P by the mental activity selecting means 4 and sets the stimulus generating means 3 as the target. Is applied to the user P. The target display unit 11 displays the type, frequency band, intensity, and the like of the stimulus applied to the user P from the stimulus generation unit 3.

The time constant input means 10 sets the control time constant for the generation of the stimulus from the stimulus generation means 3 to the user P.
Is for input. This time constant input means 10
Accordingly, the user P can set the time during which the mental activity is controlled and the time during which the biocontrol is performed.

Therefore, according to the above-described configuration, the visual feedback, the auditory sense,
To change the degree of time series change such as 1 / f fluctuation of the stimulus generation means 3 for stimulating at least one of olfaction, touch, and taste according to the time constant input by the time constant input means 10. Accordingly, it is possible to control the mental (psychological) activity of the user P, whether it is sleep induction, relaxation, normal, or active.

As described above, since the user P can set the time constant in controlling the mental activity, for example, when the user wants to give a presentation, by setting the time required until the presentation,
An active mental state can be achieved in a practical time. When it is desired to take a sleep, by setting the induction time until sleep so that the user can wake up in a cycle of a multiple of 90 minutes which is the cycle of the REM sleep, comfortable activities can be performed the next day.

As a more specific example, for example, assuming that the wake-up time of tomorrow is 7:00 am and the present time is 11:15 pm, the time until the sleep state is set to 15 minutes. For example, the cycle of REM sleep matches at 7:00 am, and the user can get up in a comfortable state.
On the other hand, if the time required to enter the sleep state is set to 60 minutes, the wake-up time at 7:00 am is out of the cycle of the REM sleep, and the user must wake up under the hardest conditions.

[Embodiment 4] Still another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to configurations having the same functions as the configurations described in each of the above-described embodiments,
The description is omitted.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the biofeedback device according to the present embodiment. This biofeedback device is assumed to be used as, for example, an information terminal, a communication terminal, a game terminal, and the like. As shown in the figure, the biofeedback device has a configuration including a mental activity detecting unit 1, a central unit 2, and a man-machine interface 13.

As shown in the above-described embodiment, the mental activity detecting means 1 detects the brain activity of the user P, the electroencephalogram, the magnetoencephalogram, the biochemical reaction, the frequency of blinking, the skin resistance, Sweating, voice inflection, body movement, mouth movement and dryness, head movement, pupil size, facial expression, heart rate, pulse, respiratory rate, respiratory condition, body temperature It is to detect.

As shown in the above embodiment, the central unit 2 is also a part for performing various arithmetic processing in the biofeedback apparatus.
(Central Processing Unit) 5 and this CPU 5
Is provided with a mental activity determination means 6 for performing arithmetic processing.

The man-machine interface 13 is a general term for a group of interface devices including various interface devices 14A to 14E between the biofeedback device and the user P. Here, as an example, the interface devices 14A to 14E are respectively
A, a key input unit 14B, a joystick 14C, a speaker 14D, and a microphone 14E. The man-machine interface 13 is connected to the central unit 2 via the interface 8G.

The operation of the biofeedback device configured as described above is as follows. First, after the mental (psychological) activity status is detected by the mental activity detecting means 1, these detection signals are sent to the central part 2 through the interface 8A. Then, the central unit 2 analyzes the detected signal by multivariate analysis or the like, and the mental activity determining unit 6 determines the mental state of the user P from the value of each detected signal.

After the mental state of the user P is determined by the mental activity determining means 6 to be a sleep-inducing state, a relaxed state, a normal state, an active state, etc., the brightness of the display screen suitable for the mental state is determined. Display screen color, display scrolling speed, display screen flashing speed, key response speed, joystick response speed, background sound, audio from the sender or receiver or device, At least one initial state among the contents of the game and the like is input to the man-machine interface 13 as the initial setting value 12A. Then, this initial setting value 12
A, each of the interface devices 14A to 14E
Is initialized.

When the biofeedback device configured as described above is applied to, for example, a mobile phone, the user P
It is conceivable to control the following interface devices according to the mental state and mental activity of the user. (1)
The display brightness and display color of the display unit 14A are changed. (2)
The speed of display development on the display unit 14A is changed. (3)
The voice and inflection of the sender input from the microphone 14E are changed. (4) Change background noise and sound from the speaker 14D. By performing such control, it is possible to change the mood of the sender and to transmit to the receiver by emphasizing or attenuating the psychological and mental state of the sender.

When the present invention is applied to, for example, an electronic organizer or an electronic book, the following interface devices may be controlled according to the mental state and mental activity of the user P. (1) brightness of the screen of the display unit 14A,
Change color, scrolling speed, and screen flashing speed.
(2) Change the reaction speed of the key input section 14B. (3) Change the music played from the speaker 14D in the background. By performing such control, it is possible to create an atmosphere that suits the mood of the user P, or to increase the mood when reading a novel or the like as an electronic book.

When the present invention is applied to, for example, a game terminal, it is conceivable that the following interface devices are controlled according to the mental state and mental activity of the user P. (1) Change the brightness, color, and blinking speed of the display screen of the display unit 14A. (2) Joystick 14
Change the reaction rate of C. (3) Change the sound flowing from the speaker 14D in the background or the sound emitted from the device. (4) Change the initial state of the content of the game. By performing such control, it is possible to more effectively produce a sense of reality of the game. That is, by developing the game in accordance with the psychology and emotions of the user P, the user P can more effectively enter the game world.

Embodiment 5 Still another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to configurations having the same functions as the configurations described in each of the above-described embodiments,
The description is omitted.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the biofeedback device according to the present embodiment. This biofeedback device is assumed to be used as, for example, an information terminal, a communication terminal, a game terminal, and the like. As shown in the figure, the biofeedback device has a configuration including a mental activity detecting unit 1, a central unit 2, a stimulus generating unit 3, and a man-machine interface 13.

As described above, the biofeedback apparatus according to the present embodiment has a configuration further including the stimulus generation means 3 as compared with the configuration shown in FIG. 4 in the fourth embodiment. Further, the central portion 2 has a configuration in which a five-sense stimulation engine 7 is further provided.

As shown in the above embodiment, the mental activity detecting means 1 detects the brain activity of the user P, an electroencephalogram, a biochemical reaction, a frequency of blinking, a skin resistance, Sweating, voice inflection, body movement, mouth movement and dryness, head movement, pupil size, facial expression, heart rate, pulse, respiratory rate, respiratory condition, body temperature It is to detect.

As shown in the above-described embodiment, the central unit 2 is also a part for performing various arithmetic processing in the biofeedback device.
(Central Processing Unit) 5 and this CPU 5
It is provided with a mental activity determination means 6 for which arithmetic processing is performed, and a five-sense stimulation engine 7.

As described in the above-described embodiment, the stimulus generating means 3 also generates a stimulus corresponding to at least one of the five senses of the human being, namely, sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste, by using 1 / f The change is transmitted in a time-series manner to the user P based on a fluctuation theory or the like. This stimulus generating means 3
The user P is guided to sleep-induced, relaxed, normal, or active mental activity depending on the degree of approximation of the fluctuation of the stimulus emanating from.

The man-machine interface 13 also includes various interface devices 14 between the biofeedback device and the user P as described in the above embodiment.
A generic term for a group of interface devices consisting of A to 14E. Here, as an example, the interface device 14
A to 14E are displayed on the display unit 14A and the key input unit 14, respectively.
B, a joystick 14C, a speaker 14D, and a microphone 14E.

The operation of the biofeedback device configured as described above is as follows. First, after the mental (psychological) activity status is detected by the mental activity detecting means 1, these detection signals are sent to the central part 2 through the interface 8A. Then, the central unit 2 analyzes the detected signal by multivariate analysis or the like, and the mental activity determining unit 6 determines the mental state of the user P from the value of each detected signal.

After the mental activity determining means 6 determines that the mental state of the user P is a sleep-inducing state, a relaxed state, a normal state, an active state, or the like, the brightness of the display screen suitable for the mental state is determined. Display screen color, display scrolling speed, display screen flashing speed, key response speed, joystick response speed, background sound, audio from the sender or receiver or device, At least one state among the contents of the game, etc.
3 is input. The settings of the interface devices 14A to 14E are changed as needed based on the set value 12B.

Further, from the five senses stimulus engine 7 in the central part 2 to the stimulus generation means 3, the mental activity determination means 6
, A stimulus generation signal that changes in a time series for forcibly changing or maintaining the current mental activity state of the user P is sent based on the determination result of the psychological state of the user P. Based on this stimulus generation signal, the stimulus generation means 3 gives the user P the relevant stimulus with a time-varying intensity.

When the biofeedback apparatus configured as described above is applied to, for example, a mobile phone, the user P
It is conceivable to control the following interface devices according to the mental state and mental activity of the user. (1)
The display brightness and display color of the display unit 14A are changed as needed.
(2) The speed of display development on the display unit 14A is changed as needed. (3) The voice or inflection of the sender input from the microphone 14E is changed as needed. (4) Background noise and sound from the speaker 14D are changed as needed. By performing such control, the mood of the sender can be changed at any time in accordance with the mental state of the user P at that time, or the psychological or mental state of the sender can be emphasized or attenuated by the receiver. Can be transmitted.

Further, in addition to such control of the interface device, the stimulus from the stimulus generation means 3 allows the user P to more effectively control the mental activity state.

When the present invention is applied to, for example, an electronic notebook or an electronic book, the following interface devices may be controlled in accordance with the mental state and mental activity of the user P. (1) brightness of the screen of the display unit 14A,
Change the color, scrolling speed, and flashing speed of the screen at any time. (2) The reaction speed of the key input unit 14B is changed as needed.
(3) The music played in the background from the speaker 14D is changed as needed. By performing such control,
In response to the mental state of the user P at that time, when creating an atmosphere suitable for the user P's mood at any time, or when reading a novel or the like as an electronic book, the mood is raised according to the development of the story. It becomes possible.

Further, in addition to such control of the interface device, the stimulus from the stimulus generation means 3 enables more effective control of the mental activity state of the user P as described above.

When the present invention is applied to a game terminal, for example, it is conceivable to control the following interface devices according to the mental state and mental activity of the user P. (1) The brightness, color, and blinking speed of the display screen of the display unit 14A are changed as needed. (2) The reaction speed of the joystick 14C is changed as needed. (3) Speaker 14
The sound flowing from D to the background and the sound emitted from the device are changed as needed. (4) Change the state of the content of the game as needed. By performing such control, it is possible to more effectively produce a sense of reality of the game. In particular, when the mental state of the user P who is playing the game is in a relaxed state or a sleep-inducing state, by detecting this, the game content is changed to an aggressive one. When the mental state of the user P is in an active state, it is possible to perform control such as changing the game content to one with a scary change. Therefore, by developing the game according to the psychology and emotions of the user P, the user P can more effectively enter the game world, and the user P can get tired of the game or gain more physical strength than necessary. It is possible to suppress wear and tear.

[Embodiment 6] Still another embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to configurations having the same functions as the configurations described in each of the above-described embodiments,
The description is omitted.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the biofeedback device according to the present embodiment. This biofeedback device is assumed to be used as, for example, an information terminal, a communication terminal, a game terminal, and the like. As shown in the figure, this biofeedback device is configured to include a mental activity selecting means 4, a central part 2, a stimulus generating means 3, and a man-machine interface 13.

As described above, the biofeedback device of the present embodiment is different from the configuration shown in FIG. 5 in Embodiment 5 in that the biofeedback apparatus does not include the mental activity detecting means 1 but instead includes the mental activity selecting means. 4 is provided. In the central part 2, the mental activity determining means 6
And only the five senses stimulating engine 7 is provided.

The mental activity selecting means 4 is an input means for the user P to select a desired mental activity, as described in the above embodiment, and information of the selected mental activity is It is transmitted to the central part 2.

As shown in the above-described embodiment, the central unit 2 is also a part that performs various arithmetic processing in the biofeedback device.
(Central Processing Unit) 5 and this CPU 5
It is provided with a five-sense stimulation engine 7 for which arithmetic processing is performed.

As described in the above-described embodiment, the stimulus generating means 3 also generates a stimulus corresponding to at least one of the five senses of the human being, namely, sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste, by 1 / f The change is transmitted in a time-series manner to the user P based on a fluctuation theory or the like. This stimulus generating means 3
The user P is guided to sleep-induced, relaxed, normal, or active mental activity depending on the degree of approximation of the fluctuation of the stimulus emanating from.

As shown in the above embodiment, the man-machine interface 13 also includes various interface devices 14 between the biofeedback device and the user P.
A generic term for a group of interface devices consisting of A to 14E. Here, as an example, the interface device 14
A to 14E are displayed on the display unit 14A and the key input unit 14, respectively.
B, a joystick 14C, a speaker 14D, and a microphone 14E.

The operation of the biofeedback device configured as described above is as follows. First, according to the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means 4 such as the sleep-inducing state, the relaxed state, the normal state, and the active state, the brightness of the display screen and the color of the display screen suitable for the mental activity state , Display scrolling speed, display screen flashing speed, key response speed, joystick response speed, background sound, audio from the sender or receiver or device, game content, At least one of the states is input to the man-machine interface 13 as the initial setting value 12A. Then, the initial setting of each of the interface devices 14A to 14E is changed based on the initial setting value 12A.

Further, from the five senses stimulating engine 7 in the central part 2 to the stimulus generating means 3, the mental activity selecting means 4
User P based on the mental activity selected by
A time-varying stimulus generation signal is sent to forcibly change or maintain the current state of mental activity. Based on the stimulus generation signal, stimulus generation means 3
Provides the user P with a corresponding stimulus with an intensity that changes in a time series.

When the biofeedback device configured as described above is applied to, for example, a mobile phone, the user P
It is conceivable that the following interface devices are controlled according to the mental activity status desired by the user. (1)
The display brightness and the display color of the display unit 14A are changed with time.
(2) Change the speed of display development on the display unit 14A.
(3) Change the voice or intonation of the sender input from the microphone 14E. (4) Change background noise and sound from the speaker 14D. By performing such control, the mood of the sender can be changed in accordance with the mental state desired by the user P at that time, or the psychological and mental state of the sender can be emphasized or attenuated by the receiver. Can be transmitted.

Further, in addition to such control of the interface device, the stimulus from the stimulus generation means 3 makes it possible to more effectively control the mental activity state of the user P.

When the present invention is applied to, for example, an electronic organizer or an electronic book, it is conceivable that the following interface devices are controlled in accordance with the mental state and mental activity desired by the user P. (1) Change the brightness, color, scrolling speed, and blinking speed of the screen of the display unit 14A. (2) Change the reaction speed of the key input section 14B.
(3) Change the music played from the speaker 14D in the background. By performing such control, in response to the mental state desired by the user P, to create an atmosphere suitable for the mood of the user P, or when reading a novel or the like as an electronic book, It becomes possible to raise the mood according to the development of the story.

In addition to the control of the interface device, the stimulus from the stimulus generation means 3 enables the user P to be more effectively controlled in the state of mental activity, as described above.

When the present invention is applied to a game terminal, for example, it is conceivable that the following interface devices are controlled according to the mental state and mental activity desired by the user P. (1) Change the brightness, color, and blinking speed of the display screen of the display unit 14A. (2) Change the reaction speed of the joystick 14C. (3) Speaker 1
Change the background sound from 4D or the sound emitted from the device. (4) Change the state of the content of the game. By performing such control, it is possible to more effectively produce a sense of realism desired by the user P of the game.

In particular, when the mental state of the user P who is playing the game is a relaxed state or a sleep induced state, the user P selects an active mental state to attack the game contents. Change to a typical one, or conversely,
When the mental state of the user P is in an active state,
Depending on the selection of the user P, it is possible to perform control such as changing the game content to one with a scary change. Therefore, by developing the game in accordance with the psychology and emotions desired by the user P, the user P can more effectively enter the game world, It is possible to suppress the exhaustion of physical strength.

[Embodiment 7] Still another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to configurations having the same functions as the configurations described in each of the above-described embodiments,
The description is omitted.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the biofeedback device according to the present embodiment. This biofeedback device is assumed to be used as, for example, an information terminal, a game terminal, or the like. As shown in the figure, this biofeedback device includes a mental activity detecting means 1, a central part 2, a stimulus generating means 3,
And a man-machine interface 13.

As described above, the biofeedback apparatus of the present embodiment is different from the configuration shown in FIG. 5 in the fifth embodiment in that the central unit 2 is provided with a gamebook stimulation engine (time-series stimulation engine). 15 is further provided.

As shown in the above-described embodiment, the mental activity detecting means 1 detects the brain activity of the user P, the electroencephalogram, the biochemical reaction, the frequency of blinking, the skin resistance, Sweating, voice inflection, body movement, mouth movement and dryness, head movement, pupil size, facial expression, heart rate, pulse, respiratory rate, respiratory condition, body temperature It is to detect.

As shown in the above-described embodiment, the central unit 2 is also a part that performs various arithmetic processing in the biofeedback apparatus.
(Central Processing Unit) 5 and this CPU 5
Activity determination means 6 for which arithmetic processing is performed by the five senses stimulus engine 7 and the game book stimulus engine 15
Is provided.

As described in the above embodiment, the stimulus generating means 3 also generates a stimulus corresponding to at least one of the five senses of the human, namely, sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste, by 1 / f The change is transmitted in a time-series manner to the user P based on a fluctuation theory or the like. This stimulus generating means 3
The user P is guided to sleep-induced, relaxed, normal, or active mental activity depending on the degree of approximation of the fluctuation of the stimulus emanating from.

The man-machine interface 13 also includes various interface devices 14 between the biofeedback device and the user P as described in the above embodiment.
A generic term for a group of interface devices consisting of A to 14E. Here, as an example, the interface device 14
A to 14E are displayed on the display unit 14A and the key input unit 14, respectively.
B, a joystick 14C, a speaker 14D, and a microphone 14E.

The operation of the biofeedback device configured as described above is as follows. First, after the mental (psychological) activity status is detected by the mental activity detecting means 1, these detection signals are sent to the central part 2 through the interface 8A. Then, the central unit 2 analyzes the detected signal by multivariate analysis or the like, and the mental activity determining unit 6 determines the mental state of the user P from the value of each detected signal.

After the psychological state of the user P is determined by the mental activity determining means 6 to be a sleep-inducing state, a relaxed state, a normal state, an active state, etc., the brightness of the display screen suitable for the mental state is determined. Display screen color, display scrolling speed, display screen flashing speed, key response speed, joystick response speed, background sound, audio from the sender or receiver or device, At least one state among the contents of the game, etc.
3 is input. The settings of the interface devices 14A to 14E are changed as needed based on the set value 12B.

Further, from the five senses stimulus engine 7 in the central part 2 to the stimulus generation means 3, the mental activity determination means 6
, A stimulus generation signal that changes in a time series for forcibly changing or maintaining the current mental activity state of the user P is sent based on the determination result of the psychological state of the user P. Further, the game book stimulus engine 15 in the central unit 2 sends the stimulus to the stimulus generation means 3 based on the previous contents in the time series of the progress of the game or the previous contents in the time series of the progress of information such as novels. Thus, a stimulus generation signal that changes in a time series is sent to forcibly change or maintain the current mental activity situation of the user P. Based on these stimulus generation signals, the stimulus generation means 3 gives the user P the relevant stimulus at a time-varying intensity.

For example, in the case of an electronic book or a game terminal, a book or game such that the mental (psychological) activity of the user P is adapted to the contents of the story in advance according to the contents of the story in chronological order. (Psychological) stimulus contents are attached to the time-series data. Then, the stimulus content is read by the game book stimulus engine 15 and the stimulus generation means 3 controls the mental activity of the user P. Therefore, while the user P of the information terminal or the game terminal changes the mental (psychological) state in accordance with the contents of the book or the game,
It is possible to actively and effectively experience the realism of books and games.

Eighth Embodiment Still another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to configurations having the same functions as the configurations described in each of the above-described embodiments,
The description is omitted.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the biofeedback device according to the present embodiment. This biofeedback device is assumed to be used as, for example, an information terminal, a game terminal, or the like. As shown in the figure, this biofeedback device comprises a mental activity selecting means 4, a central part 2, a stimulus generating means 3,
And a man-machine interface 13.

As described above, the biofeedback apparatus according to the present embodiment differs from the configuration shown in FIG. 7 in Embodiment 7 in that the biofeedback apparatus does not include the mental activity detecting means 1, but instead includes the mental activity selecting means. 4 is provided. In the central part 2, the mental activity determining means 6
, And is provided with a five-sense stimulation engine 7 and a game book stimulation engine 15.

As shown in the above embodiment, the mental activity detecting means 1 detects the electroencephalogram, magnetoencephalogram, biochemical reaction, blink frequency, skin resistance, Sweating, voice inflection, body movement, mouth movement and dryness, head movement, pupil size, facial expression, heart rate, pulse, respiratory rate, respiratory condition, body temperature It is to detect.

As shown in the above-described embodiment, the central portion 2 is also a portion for performing various arithmetic processing in the biofeedback device.
(Central Processing Unit) 5 and this CPU 5
And a gamebook stimulus engine 15 for which arithmetic processing is performed.

As described in the above-described embodiment, the stimulus generating means 3 also generates a stimulus corresponding to at least one of the five senses of the human being, namely, sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste, by using 1 / f The change is transmitted in a time-series manner to the user P based on a fluctuation theory or the like. This stimulus generating means 3
The user P is guided to sleep-induced, relaxed, normal, or active mental activity depending on the degree of approximation of the fluctuation of the stimulus emanating from.

The man-machine interface 13 also includes various interface devices 14 between the biofeedback device and the user P, as described in the above embodiment.
A generic term for a group of interface devices consisting of A to 14E. Here, as an example, the interface device 14
A to 14E are displayed on the display unit 14A and the key input unit 14, respectively.
B, a joystick 14C, a speaker 14D, and a microphone 14E.

The operation of the biofeedback device configured as described above is as follows. First, according to the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means 4 such as the sleep-inducing state, the relaxed state, the normal state, and the active state, the brightness of the display screen and the color of the display screen suitable for the mental activity state , Display scrolling speed, display screen flashing speed, key response speed, joystick response speed, background sound, audio from the sender or receiver or device, game content, At least one of the states is input to the man-machine interface 13 as the set value 12B. Then, based on the set value 12B, each interface device 1
The settings of 4A to 14E are changed.

Further, from the five senses stimulus engine 7 in the central part 2 to the stimulus generation means 3, the mental activity selection means 4
User P based on the mental activity selected by
A time-varying stimulus generation signal is sent to forcibly change or maintain the current state of mental activity. Based on the stimulus generation signal, stimulus generation means 3
Provides the user P with a corresponding stimulus with an intensity that changes in a time series.

Further, from the game book stimulus engine 15 in the central part 2 to the stimulus generation means 3, for example,
Forcibly change or maintain the current state of mental activity of the user P based on the previous contents in the time series of the progress of the game or the previous contents in the time series of the progress of information such as a novel. For this purpose, a stimulus generation signal that changes in a time series is sent. Based on these stimulus generation signals, the stimulus generation means 3 gives the user P the relevant stimulus at a time-varying intensity.

For example, in an electronic book or a game terminal, the mental (psychological) activity of the user P is adapted to the contents of the story in advance according to the contents of the story in time series. (Psychological) stimulus contents are attached to time-series data of books and games. Then, the stimulus content is read by the game book stimulus engine 15 and the stimulus generation means 3 controls the mental activity of the user P. Therefore, the user P of the information terminal or the game terminal can actively and effectively experience the realism of the book or the game while changing the mental (psychological) state according to the content of the book or the game.

[0162]

As described above, the biofeedback device according to the present invention comprises a mental activity detecting means for detecting at least one kind of biological reaction among the biological reactions of the user, and a detection by the mental activity detecting means. Based on the result,
Mental activity determination means for determining the mental activity state of the user;
A stimulus generating means for providing a user with a stimulus corresponding to at least one of sights, sights, smells, touches, and tastes in a time-series manner based on a result of the determination by the mental activity determining means. Configuration.

Thus, first, the biological reaction of the user is detected by the mental activity detecting means, and the detection result of the mental activity detecting means is analyzed in a complex manner. The situation is determined. Then, based on the judgment result of the mental activity judgment means,
By changing the stimulus from the stimulus generation means in a time-series manner based on, for example, 1 / f fluctuation and giving it to the user's five senses, the user's biofeedback function causes sleep induction, relaxation, normal, and active. It is possible to control the mental activity of the user.

Therefore, for example, when the user is going to give a presentation, the mental state can be made active in a short time by stimulation of the five senses by the biofeedback. For example, the user wants to sleep. When it is, it is possible to perform control to induce sleep in a short time, and when it is desired to relax, it is possible to calm the excitement state of mental activity in a short time.

[0165] The biofeedback device according to the present invention may further include display means for displaying the detection result by the mental activity detecting means.

Thus, in addition to the effect of the above-described configuration, the user can be aware of his / her mental activity state, and can be conscious of the biofeedback situation. The effect that it can perform more effectively is produced.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be configured to further include a man-machine interface serving as an interface with a user.

Accordingly, in addition to the effects of the above-described configuration, for example, a display unit, a key input unit, a joystick,
With a man-machine interface such as a speaker or a microphone, the user can interactively operate the biofeedback device in real time.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be configured to change the setting of the man-machine interface based on the judgment result by the mental activity judgment means.

Thus, in addition to the effect of the above-described configuration, the mental activity determining means determines the mental activity state of the user, and the display screen brightness, color, scroll speed, It is possible to set the blinking speed of the screen, the key reaction speed, the joystick reaction speed, the sound flowing in the background, the sound of the microphone input, and the like.

Therefore, when the present invention is applied to a mobile phone, for example, it is possible to change the liquid crystal display operation, change the voice and inflection of the sender, and change the background noise depending on the mental state of the user. As a result, it is possible to emphasize or attenuate the psychology and mental state of the sender to the receiver and to send the receiver.

When the present invention is applied to, for example, an electronic organizer or an electronic book, a display operation,
By changing the key reaction speed, music played in the background, and the like, it is possible to provide operability that suits the user's mood.

When the present invention is applied to a game terminal, for example, the display operation, the reaction speed of the joystick, the music played in the background, the sound from the device, and the like are changed in accordance with the user's psychological state, thereby realizing the game realism. The effect that a feeling can be produced more effectively is produced.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention comprises a mental activity detecting means for detecting at least one kind of biological reaction among the user's biological reactions, and a detection result by the mental activity detecting means. Mental activity determining means for determining the mental activity state of the user, and a man-machine interface serving as an interface with the user, the setting of the man-machine interface based on the determination result by the mental activity determining means The configuration to be changed.

As a result, the mental activity detecting means
Biological reactions of the user, such as EEG, magnetoencephalography, biochemical reactions, frequency of blinking, skin resistance, sweating, voice intonation, body movements,
At least one of mouth movement and dryness, head movement, pupil size, facial expression, heart rate, pulse, respiratory rate, respiratory state, body surface temperature, etc. is detected. By analyzing the detection results in a complex manner, the mental activity determining means determines the mental activity status of the user.

The brightness of the display screen, which is appropriate for the mental activity state determined by the mental activity determining means,
It is possible to set a color, a scroll speed, a blinking speed of a screen, a key reaction speed, a joystick reaction speed, a sound flowing in the background, a microphone input sound, and the like.

[0177] The biofeedback device according to the present invention further comprises a mental activity selecting means for selecting a mental activity state to be targeted by the user, and wherein the stimulus generating means determines a result of the mental activity determining means. May be configured to control the user to give a stimulus such that the mental activity state of the user recognized by the above becomes the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means.

Thus, in addition to the effect of the above-described configuration, it is possible to select a target mental activity state by the mental activity selecting means. To this end, the stimulus is applied to the user by the stimulus generating means. As a result, the user can control himself to the mental activity state desired by the user.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be configured to include display means for displaying the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means together with the detection result by the mental activity detecting means.

Thus, in addition to the effect of the above-described configuration, the user can recognize the difference between the current mental activity state of the user and the target mental activity state. Therefore, there is an effect that the mental activity of the user can be more effectively controlled.

Further, when performing the operation based on the time series data, the biofeedback device according to the present invention controls the stimulus output from the stimulus generation means based on the data contents prior to the present time. It may be configured to include an engine.

Thus, in addition to the effects of the above configuration, when applied to an information terminal such as an electronic book, for example, depending on the contents of the story, or when applied to a game terminal, for example, The mental activity state of the user can be controlled in advance according to the previous contents in the progress of the game. Therefore, there is an effect that the user of the information terminal or the game terminal can actively and effectively experience a psychological change corresponding to the progress of the story or the game.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be provided with time constant input means for setting a time constant for controlling the state of mental activity of the user by the stimulus output from the stimulus generating means. .

Thus, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, there is an effect that the mental activity state can be shifted at a time desired by the user. For example, when the user is going to give a presentation,
At any time before its onset, biofeedback can lead to an active mental state. In addition, for example, when the user is going to sleep, the sleep induction time is set so that the sleep time is a multiple of 90 minutes, which is the REM sleep cycle, in order to make the wake up the next day comfortable. Can be set.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention can be provided with a mental activity selecting means for selecting a mental activity state targeted by a user, and at least one of sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste. Stimulus generation means for giving a stimulus to the user in a time-series manner, wherein the stimulus generation means provides the stimulus to the user such that the stimulus generation means is in the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selection means It is a configuration to give.

As a result, the mental activity selecting means
The user selects a mental activity state to be targeted, so that the selected mental activity state is achieved, the visual sense, the stimulus generated by the stimulus generating means is changed in a time series and applied to the five senses of the user, The user's biofeedback function can control the mental activity of the user, including sleep induction, relaxation, normal, and active. That is, there is an effect that the user can control himself to the mental activity state desired by the user.

[0187] The biofeedback device according to the present invention may further be provided with a man-machine interface serving as an interface with a user.

Thus, in addition to the effects of the above configuration, for example, a display unit, a key input unit, a joystick,
With a man-machine interface such as a speaker or a microphone, the user can interactively operate the biofeedback device in real time.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be configured to change the setting of the man-machine interface according to the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means.

Accordingly, in addition to the effects of the above-described configuration, the display operation, the key reaction speed, the joystick reaction speed, the sound flowing in the background, and the sound suitable for the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means.
It is possible to set the sound of the microphone input and the like.

Therefore, for example, when the present invention is applied to a mobile phone or the like, it is possible to change the display operation according to the selected mental activity state.

When the present invention is applied to, for example, an electronic pocketbook or an electronic book, depending on the selected mental activity state,
By changing the display operation, key reaction speed, music played in the background, and the like, it is possible to provide an operability that suits the user's mood.

For example, when the present invention is applied to a game terminal or the like, a display operation,
By changing the reaction speed of the joystick, the music flowing in the background, the sound from the device, and the like, the effect of realizing the realism of the game can be produced more effectively.

Further, the feedback device according to the present invention is provided with a mental activity selecting means for selecting a mental activity state targeted by the user, and a man-machine interface serving as an interface with the user. According to the mental activity state selected by the selection means,
This is a configuration for changing the setting of the man-machine interface.

Thus, by means of mental activity selection means,
The user can select the target mental activity state, and the display screen brightness, color, scrolling speed, and screen flashing speed suitable for the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means. The key reaction speed,
It is possible to set the reaction speed of the joystick, the sound flowing in the background, the sound of the microphone input, and the like.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be configured to include display means for displaying the state of mental activity selected by the mental activity selecting means.

Thus, in addition to the effect of the above-described configuration, the user can recognize the target mental activity state. Therefore, there is an effect that the mental activity of the user can be more effectively controlled.

Further, when performing the operation based on the time-series data, the biofeedback device according to the present invention controls the stimulus output from the stimulus generation means based on the data contents prior to the present time. It may be configured to include an engine.

Thus, in addition to the effects of the above-described configuration, if the present invention is applied to an information terminal such as an electronic book, it is determined according to the contents of the end of the story. The mental activity state of the user can be controlled in advance according to the previous contents in the progress of the game. Therefore, there is an effect that the user of the information terminal or the game terminal can actively and effectively experience a psychological change corresponding to the progress of the story or the game.

Further, the biofeedback device according to the present invention may be configured to include a time constant input means for setting a time constant for controlling a mental activity state of the user by the stimulus output from the stimulus generation means. .

Thus, in addition to the effect of the above configuration, since the user can set the time constant for controlling the mental activity state by the time constant input means, the mental activity can be set at the time desired by the user. There is an effect that the state can be shifted.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a biofeedback device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a biofeedback device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a biofeedback device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a biofeedback device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a biofeedback device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a biofeedback device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a biofeedback device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a biofeedback device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a conventional biofeedback game device.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Mental activity detecting means 2 Central part 3 Stimulation generating means 4 Mental activity selecting means 5 CPU 6 Mental activity judging means 7 Five sense stimulation engine 8A-8G interface 9 Visual information display means 10 Time constant input means 11 Target display means 13 Man-machine interface 14A display section 14B key input section 14C joystick 14D speaker 14E microphone 15 gamebook stimulation engine (time-series stimulation engine)

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) A61B 5/0484 A61B 5/05 C 9A001 5/05 A63F 13/00 F 13/10 5/107 G06F 3 / 00 601 5/11 680B A63F 13/00 A61B 5/02 322 13/10 5/04 320M G06F 3/00 601 5/10 300 680 310L 310A (72) Inventor Masaki Hamamoto 22 Nagaikecho, Abeno-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka No. 22 F-term in Sharp Corporation (reference) 2C001 BA07 BB05 BC00 BC06 BC09 BC10 CA00 CA09 CB01 CC02 CC03 CC08 4C017 AA02 AA09 AA14 AA16 AB08 BD01 FF05 FF17 4C027 AA00 AA03 AA07 AA10 DD00 GG03 GG01 GG03 4C038 PP03 PQ00 PR00 PR01 PR04 PS00 PS01 PS03 PS07 VA04 VA20 VB02 VB03 VB04 VB05 5E501 AA01 CA02 CA08 CB02 CB04 CB15 CC07 CC13 CC14 EA21 EB05 FA32 FA35 FA46 FB28 FB30 FB32 9A001 JJ76 KK20 KK25 KK45

Claims (19)

[Claims] 1. A mental activity detecting means for detecting at least one kind of biological reaction among a user's biological reactions, and a mental activity state of the user is determined based on a detection result by the mental activity detecting means. A stimulus that gives a user a stimulus corresponding to at least one of sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste in a time-series manner based on a result of the determination by the mental activity determining means; A biofeedback device comprising: a generator. 2. The biofeedback apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising display means for displaying a result of detection by said mental activity detecting means. 3. The biofeedback device according to claim 1, further comprising a man-machine interface serving as an interface with a user. 4. The biofeedback device according to claim 3, wherein the setting of the man-machine interface is changed based on a result of the determination by the mental activity determining means. 5. A mental activity detecting means for detecting at least one kind of biological reaction among the user's biological reactions, and determining a mental activity state of the user based on a detection result by the mental activity detecting means. Biofeedback comprising: a mental activity determination unit; and a man-machine interface serving as an interface between the user and the user, wherein the setting of the man-machine interface is changed based on a determination result by the mental activity determination unit. apparatus. 6. The setting of the man-machine interface, which is changed based on the determination result by the mental activity determining means, includes: brightness of a display screen, color, scrolling speed, blinking speed, key reaction speed, 6. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the joystick is at least one of a reaction speed of a joystick, a sound flowing in a background, a sound input by a microphone, and a sound output from a speaker.
A biofeedback device as described. 7. A mental activity selecting means for selecting a mental activity state targeted by the user, wherein the stimulus generating means is recognized by the mental activity judging means to determine the mental activity of the user. The biofeedback device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein control is performed to apply a stimulus to the user so that the state becomes the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means. 8. The biofeedback apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising display means for displaying a mental activity state selected by said mental activity selecting means together with a detection result by said mental activity detecting means. 9. A time-series stimulus engine for controlling a stimulus output from a stimulus generating means based on data contents prior to the present time when performing an operation based on the time-series data. The biofeedback device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein 10. A time constant input means for setting a time constant for controlling a mental activity state of a user by a stimulus output from said stimulus generating means. A biofeedback device according to claim 1. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the mental activity detecting means includes a user's electroencephalogram, magnetoencephalogram, biochemical reaction, blinking frequency, skin resistance,
Sweating, voice inflection, body movement, mouth movement, dry mouth, head movement, pupil size, facial expression, heart rate, pulse, respiratory rate, respiratory condition, and body surface temperature The biofeedback device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein one is detected. 12. A mental activity selecting means for selecting a mental activity state targeted by the user, and a stimulus corresponding to at least one of sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste to the user. A biofeedback device comprising: a stimulus generation unit that sequentially gives a stimulus to the user so that the stimulus generation unit has a mental activity state selected by the mental activity selection unit. . 13. The biofeedback device according to claim 12, further comprising a man-machine interface serving as an interface with a user. 14. The man-machine interface setting is changed according to the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means.
A biofeedback device as described. 15. A mental activity selecting means for selecting a mental activity state targeted by a user, and a man-machine interface serving as an interface with the user, wherein the mental activity selected by the mental activity selecting means is provided. A biofeedback device, wherein the setting of the man-machine interface is changed according to an activity state. 16. The setting of the man-machine interface, which is changed according to the mental activity state selected by the mental activity selecting means, includes: brightness of a display screen, color, scroll speed, flashing speed, Key response speed, joystick response speed, background sound,
16. The biofeedback device according to claim 14, wherein the biofeedback device is at least one of a sound input by a microphone and a sound output from a speaker. 17. The biofeedback apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising display means for displaying a mental activity state selected by said mental activity selection means. 18. When performing an operation based on time series data,
The biofeedback device according to any one of claims 12 to 17, further comprising a time-series stimulus engine for controlling a stimulus output from the stimulus generation means based on data content prior to the present time. 19. A time constant input means for setting a time constant for controlling a mental activity state of a user by a stimulus output from said stimulus generating means.
19. The biofeedback device according to any one of items 18 to 18.