JP2020062415A - Fragrant space system - Google Patents

Abstract

CONSTITUTION: A fragrant space system 100 is assumed to be used, for example, in the entrance of a home, comprising: an olfactory display 10 mounted to the ceiling of the entrance; an information processor 4 for controlling the olfactory display 10; and a pressure sensor 6 for identifying a user who visits the entrance. The olfactory display 10 is attached with a plurality of cartridges, each of which contains a different fragrance source. For example, a user can preregister his or her body weight, etc. as user information, and also register an injection task for executing a preset injection pattern. When the user visits the entrance with the above-mentioned conditions preset, the user is identified to be a preset user on the basis of the body weight detected by the pressure sensor. Then, the preset fragrance is discharged to the entrance on the basis of the injection pattern preset by the user.EFFECT: A fragrance suitable for each person can be discharged in a space used by various persons.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a scent space system, and more particularly to, for example, a scent space system that emits a scent into a space.

  An example of the background art is disclosed in Patent Document 1. In the aroma device of Patent Document 1, the aroma component filling the inner space of the porous body is gradually released to the outside through the pores. As a result, since the fragrance component is released to the outside in a substantially constant amount from the beginning of use to the end of use, a stable fragrance space can be formed in the surroundings.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 8-191883 [A61L 9/12]

  The scent component that gives a feeling of comfort or the like varies depending on the user. Therefore, when the fragrance device of the cited document 1 is provided in a space used by many users, it is difficult to emit an appropriate scent to all users.

  Therefore, the main object of the present invention is to provide a novel, scented space system.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a scent space system that can be used in a space where a plurality of people pass.

  The present invention adopts the following configurations in order to solve the above problems. The reference numerals in parentheses, supplementary explanations, and the like show the correspondence with the embodiments described to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the present invention in any way.

  A first aspect of the present invention is a scent space system that emits a scent to a space having a passage through which a person passes, and a cartridge containing a scent source is attached to each of a plurality of cartridge attachment locations. However, an olfactory display capable of releasing a plurality of scents by ejecting a scent component from each scent source in each cartridge, so that one or more scent components are simultaneously ejected to each of a plurality of persons. A storage means for storing a pattern associated with a scent, an identification means for identifying a person who passes a position of the olfactory display, and a scent corresponding to the person identified by the identification means, based on the pattern, one or It is a scent space system provided with a control means for controlling an olfactory display so that two or more scent components are simultaneously ejected.

In the first invention, the scent space system (100: reference numeral exemplifying a corresponding portion in the embodiment. The same applies hereinafter) emits a scent to a space such as an entrance having a passage through which a person passes. The olfactory display (10) is arranged, for example, on the ceiling of a passage and is equipped with a cartridge (14) containing a scent source, and emits a plurality of scents by ejecting a scent component from the scent source in each cartridge. The storage unit (404) is called, for example, a database, and stores a pattern in which a scent is associated with each of a plurality of people so that one or more scent components are simultaneously ejected. The identification unit (6) is, for example, a pressure sensor, and identifies the person who passes the position of the olfactory display by using the weight of the person. The control means (400, S47) controls the olfactory display so that, for example, when a person who has come to the entrance is identified, the scent corresponding to the identified person is released based on the pattern. When the olfactory display emits a scent, one or two or more scent components are simultaneously ejected.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the scent can be emitted while adjusting the type of the scent according to the person. Therefore, in a space used by various people, an appropriate scent can be emitted to each person.

  A second invention is according to the first invention, wherein the pattern is further associated with a time zone for each of a plurality of persons, and the control means includes the current time in the time zone of the pattern. Then, when the scent corresponding to the person identified by the identification unit is released based on the pattern, the olfactory display is controlled so that one or more scent components are simultaneously ejected.

  In the second invention, for example, a certain person is associated with a pattern used in the morning time zone. For example, when a person goes to the front door in the morning and is identified by the identification means as a person, the scent corresponding to the person is released at the front door.

  According to the second aspect, the scent can be released during the set time period, so that the scent can be prevented from being released at a timing unintended by a person, for example. As a result, the period during which the scent can be released from the cartridge, that is, the life of the cartridge can be extended.

  A third invention is according to the second invention, and different scents are associated with a plurality of patterns of the same person for each time period.

  In the third invention, for example, a certain person is associated with the morning time zone pattern and the night time zone pattern. Then, different scents are associated with these patterns.

  According to the third aspect, it is possible to associate one person with a plurality of ejection tasks having different scents to be emitted. Therefore, an appropriate scent can be emitted according to the time of day when a person visits the space.

  A fourth invention is according to any one of the first invention to the third invention, and the control means controls the olfactory display so as to emit a predetermined scent when the person is not identified by the identification means. .

  In the fourth aspect of the invention, for example, if the person who visited the entrance is not registered in advance, a predetermined scent is emitted.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, even if it is not possible to predict in advance who will visit the space, the predetermined scent is emitted, so it is possible to avoid a situation in which the scent is not emitted.

  In addition, for example, when a scent space system is installed in a hotel lobby where many unspecified people come and go, a specified scent is emitted to people who cannot be identified, and a specified scent to specific people. It is also possible to release the scent of.

  A fifth invention is according to any one of the first invention to the fourth invention, and the olfactory display includes a wind power source that is in close contact with the cartridge and is driven by a piezoelectric element, and the wind power source is the olfactory display is a control means. Drive when controlled by.

  In the fifth invention, the wind power source (26) is in close contact with the cartridge containing the scent source. For example, the piezoelectric element (56) is attached to the diaphragm (58). When a high-frequency alternating voltage or pulse voltage is ignited by the piezoelectric element, the diaphragm flexibly vibrates in the plate thickness direction at high speed, and air flow is generated. Then, the wind power source is driven when the olfactory display is controlled by the control means.

  According to the fifth aspect, since the wind power source driven by the piezoelectric element is not a rotating mechanism such as a blower fan or a scroll blower, it is possible to reduce the size and height, and consume less power. Therefore, it is possible to generate a high static pressure in a short time with virtually no vibration.

  A sixth invention is according to any one of the first invention to the fifth invention, and the pattern shows the concentration of the scent component to be jetted.

  A seventh invention is according to the sixth invention, and the pattern shows a change in concentration of the scent component to be jetted.

  According to the sixth invention and the seventh invention, it is possible to release the scent while adjusting the type and concentration of the scent according to the person.

  An eighth invention is according to any one of the first invention to the seventh invention, and the pattern further includes an instruction to continuously release one scent.

  A ninth invention is according to any one of the first invention to the eighth invention, and the pattern further includes an instruction to intermittently release one scent.

  According to the eighth invention and the ninth invention, when releasing the scent, a person can arbitrarily select whether to release the scent continuously or intermittently.

  According to the present invention, an appropriate scent can be emitted to each person in a space used by various people.

  The above-mentioned objects, other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is an illustrative view showing an outline of a scented watch according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an illustrative view showing one example of the configuration of the scented watch shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is an external view showing an example of the external appearance of the olfactory display shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 4 is an illustrative view schematically showing an example of the internal structure of the olfactory display shown in FIG. 3 when viewed from the front side. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the internal structure of the olfactory display shown in FIG. 3 when viewed from the side, and shows a cross section taken along line VV of FIG. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an example of an external appearance of a display main body included in the olfactory display shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is an illustrative view showing one example of a state in which the cover of the display main body shown in FIG. 6 is opened. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the internal structure of the display body shown in FIG. 6 viewed from the front side. FIG. 9 is a sectional view schematically showing an example of the internal structure of the display body shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a cross section when the wind power source included in the olfactory display shown in FIG. 3 is cut diagonally. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a cross section when the operation sound suppressing unit included in the olfactory display shown in FIG. 3 is cut in a direction orthogonal to the thickness direction. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of a scent source cartridge used in the olfactory display of FIG. FIG. 13 is an illustrative view showing one example of the external appearance of the scent source cartridge of FIG. 12 as seen from the front direction. FIG. 14 is a circuit diagram showing an example of a control circuit provided in the olfactory display shown in FIG. FIG. 15 is an illustrative view for explaining an example of a method for adjusting the concentration of the scent component ejected from the olfactory display shown in FIG. 3, and FIG. 15 (A) is a method for adjusting the concentration to normal (medium). 15B shows an example of a method of adjusting the density to a high state, and FIG. 15C shows an example of a method of adjusting the density to a low state. FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the information processing apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is an illustrative view showing one example of a configuration of an injection pattern table included in the aroma pattern database shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is an illustrative view showing an example of an image visually representing the ejection pattern shown in FIG. 17, and FIG. 18A is an example of an image showing a state in which the density is adjusted to be gradually increased. FIG. 18B is an example of an image showing an example of a state in which the density is adjusted to gradually decrease. FIG. 19 is an illustrative view showing one example of a configuration of a user information table stored in the memory shown in FIG. FIG. 20 is an illustrative view showing one example of a configuration of an injection task table included in the aroma pattern database shown in FIG. FIG. 21 is an illustrative view showing one example of the ejection screen displayed on the display of the information processing apparatus shown in FIG. 1. 22 is an illustrative view showing one example of a configuration of an injection history table included in the aroma pattern database shown in FIG. 16. 23 is an illustrative view showing one example of a memory map of the memory of the information processing apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of the injection task creation processing of the processor of the information processing apparatus shown in FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an example of the ejection task management process of the processor of the information processing apparatus shown in FIG.

  With reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, a scent space system 100 which is an embodiment of the present invention includes an information processing device 4, a pressure sensor 6, and an olfactory display 10. When a user (person) passes through a space having a passage such as a front door of a home, the scent space system 100 identifies the user and emits a scent.

The information processing device 4 is, for example, a tablet terminal, and performs wireless communication with the pressure sensor 6 and the olfactory display 10. The information processing device 4 can also communicate with a server on the network via an access point (AP) provided nearby. For example, the information processing device 4 can acquire information such as weather and season when the scent is emitted from the server via the network. In addition, in another embodiment, the information processing device 4 may be a mobile phone called a so-called smartphone, or may be a laptop or desktop PC.

  The pressure sensor 6 is, for example, a load cell type pressure sensor, and is connected to a wireless communication module compatible with wireless communication of ZigBee (registered trademark) system. Further, the pressure sensor 6 is provided below the entrance mat, detects the weight of the user on the entrance mat, and transmits the detected weight to the information processing device 4. Further, since the pressure sensor 6 is used for identifying the user, it may be called an identifying means. In another embodiment, a sheet sensor or the like that can detect the surface pressure may be used as the pressure sensor 6.

  The olfactory display 10 is attached to the ceiling of the passage and installed around the user, for example, so that the ejection port 16 for ejecting the scent faces the direction of the user's face (head). The olfactory display 10 emits a scent in a temporally and spatially limited range according to an instruction from the information processing device 4.

  In addition, the olfactory display 10 of the present embodiment adds a scent (olfactory information) to a content including a video and a sound and emits (presents or outputs) it to the user to enhance the realism and the realism of the content. It can also be used. For example, the olfactory display 10 includes information processing device 4, television, radio, game machine, karaoke device, camera, CD player, DVD player, mobile phone (including so-called smartphone), smart watch, smart glasses, PC, and the like. The scent can also be output in conjunction with various audiovisual displays.

  FIG. 4 is an illustrative view schematically showing the internal structure of the olfactory display 10 as viewed from the front side, and shows the internal state of the olfactory display 10 with the ejection plate 34, which will be described later, omitted. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the olfactory display 10 taken along the line VV of FIG. 4, schematically showing the internal structure of the olfactory display 10 as viewed from the side.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the olfactory display 10 includes a display main body 12 and a plurality of scent source cartridges (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as “cartridges”) 14 that are detachably accommodated in the display main body 12. . In this embodiment, the display body 12 accommodates six cartridges 14 arranged side by side in the circumferential direction. However, the number of cartridges 14 that can be accommodated in the display main body 12 at the same time (the number of cartridge accommodation chambers 24 described later) is not particularly limited.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the olfactory display 10 will be specifically described. As shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, the display main body 12 includes a housing 20 that constitutes an outer shell thereof, and a plurality of cartridge accommodating chambers (cartridges) formed by partitioning an internal space of the housing 20 with partition walls 22. (Mounting place) 24. Further, each of the cartridge accommodating chambers 24 is provided with a wind power source 26 and an operation sound suppressing section 28 that are closely arranged in the partition wall 22.

  The housing 20 includes a base portion 30, a side wall 32, and an injection plate 34, and is formed in a hollow hexagonal column shape by an appropriate material such as acrylic resin. Regarding the size of the housing 20, the length between the vertices facing each other in front view is, for example, 60 mm, and the length in the axial direction (front-back direction) is, for example, 60 mm.

  Although illustration is omitted, inside the display body 12, a control board chamber for accommodating the control board is provided. The control board has a structure in which electronic parts such as a CPU and a memory are mounted on the board (see FIG. 14), and is connected to a wind power source 26, an auxiliary wind power source 76 and the like described later via wiring (not shown). Then, the operation of the olfactory display 10 is controlled.

  The base portion 30 is formed in a regular hexagonal plate shape and is arranged on the rear side of the housing 20 (on the side opposite to the user). A side wall 32 is provided on the peripheral portion of the base portion 30. The side wall 32 is formed in a hexagonal tubular shape by a holder 32a connected to each of the peripheral edge corners of the base portion 30 and a slide cover 32b provided between the holders 32a. A slide groove 36 is formed on the side surface of the holder 32a, and a protrusion (not shown) formed on the side surface of the slide cover 32b is fitted into the slide groove 36. This allows the slide cover 32b to slide between the holders 32a. As will be described later, each of the openings between the holders 32a functions as a cartridge exchange port 38 of the cartridge storage chamber 24, and the slide cover 32b is used to open and close the cartridge exchange port 38. Further, when the cartridge 14 is accommodated in the cartridge accommodating chamber 24, the slide cover 32b comes into contact with the rear end of the cartridge 14 in the insertion direction and pushes the cartridge 14 in the insertion direction.

  An injection plate 34 is provided on the front end of the side wall 32, that is, on the front side of the housing 20. The ejection plate 34 is formed in a regular hexagonal plate shape and covers the end opening of the side wall 32. A dome-shaped protrusion 40 is provided at the center of the ejection plate 34, and a communication hole 42 extending in the thickness direction of the ejection plate 34 is formed so as to penetrate the center of the protrusion 40. The communication hole 42 has a tapered diameter-reduced portion whose diameter decreases toward the front side, and the front portion is formed in a straight tube shape. The tip end opening of the protrusion 40 functions as the ejection port 16, and the communication hole 42 connects the ejection port 16 and each cartridge housing chamber 24. The diameter of the injection port 16 is 0.8 mm, for example.

Further, a screw hole 44 for attaching to a tripod platform is formed at an appropriate position of the housing 20 (in the embodiment, the back side of the housing 20). In this embodiment, the screw hole standard is adapted to the camera platform. The standard screw for the camera platform is the world standard (1/4 inch-20 UNC).
), It is possible to use the pan head for cameras around the world as it is as a pan head for installing the olfactory display 10 on the ceiling if the screw hole standard is adapted to it. It is convenient.

  The housing 20 may be installed on the ceiling by using, for example, a “hook ceiling rosette” to which a lighting device is attached or a socket for a light bulb. In this case, it is convenient to make the olfactory display 10 compatible with a power source for lighting because the power source can be secured.

  Further, the internal space of the housing 20 is partitioned by radial partition walls 22 that connect the opposing holders 32a to each other, and inside the housing 20, six regular triangular prism-shaped cartridge accommodating chambers 24 arranged in the circumferential direction are formed. It That is, the inner side surface of the cartridge housing chamber 24 has two inclined surfaces 46 that converge toward the center side of the housing 20 (that is, incline inward with respect to the insertion direction of the cartridge 14 described later). . Further, the central shaft 48, which is a connecting portion of each partition wall 22, is formed in a hexagonal columnar shape, protrudes from the base portion 30, and the tip portion thereof extends into the communication hole 42. The tip end of the central shaft 48 has a tapered shape in which a groove-shaped notch is formed on the outer peripheral surface, and the aroma (air containing a scent component) discharged from the aroma outlet 88 of the cartridge 14 described later is directed toward the ejection port 16 direction. It functions as a guiding part. This prevents the backflow of the aroma and the infiltration of the aroma into the other cartridge 14.

  An air delivery port 50 that communicates with the ejection port 16 through a communication hole 42 formed in the ejection plate 34 is formed in each cartridge housing chamber 24. Further, a cartridge exchange port 38 that can be opened and closed by the slide cover 32b is formed in each cartridge housing chamber 24.

  Further, a wind power source 26 is provided in each cartridge housing chamber 24 in close contact with the partition wall 22. The wind power source 26 is arranged in the partition wall 22 (that is, radially arranged in the housing 20) and constitutes a part of the partition wall 22. The nozzle 52 (see FIG. 10) provided in the central portion of the wind power source 26 communicates with the inside of the cartridge housing chamber 24 and functions as an air supply port 54 that allows air to flow into the cartridge 14 housed in the cartridge housing chamber 24. To do. The size of the wind power source 26 is, for example, 20 mm in length, 20 mm in width, and 2 mm in thickness.

  FIG. 10 shows a cross section when the wind power source 26 is diagonally cut. The wind power source 26 includes a diaphragm 58 to which a piezoelectric element (piezo element) 56 is attached, and by applying a high frequency alternating voltage (sine wave voltage or rectangular wave voltage) or pulse voltage to the piezoelectric element 56, the diaphragm is provided. It is a piezoelectric type that generates a flow of air by bending and vibrating 58 at high speed in the plate thickness direction.

  The operation of the wind power source 26 will be briefly described below. In the wind power source 26, suction and discharge of air are repeated from the vent hole 62 provided in the central portion of the pump chamber 60 as the diaphragm 58 to which the disk-shaped piezoelectric element 56 is attached vibrates at about 26 kHz. The air taken into the pump chamber 60 from the suction flow passage 64 at the time of suction passes through the nozzle 52 on the top plate 66 arranged coaxially with the ventilation hole 62 at the time of discharge, and expands in the taper pipe inside the nozzle 52. Is ejected. At this time, a negative pressure portion is generated in the space between the ventilation hole 62 and the nozzle 52 due to the Venturi effect, so that the air in the ventilation hole 62 is continuously sucked. This provides a continuous pumping action from the vent 62 to the nozzle 52.

  As described above, since the wind power source (piezoelectric wind power source) 26 driven by the piezoelectric element 56 is not a rotating mechanism such as a blower fan or a scroll blower, downsizing and height reduction are possible, and power consumption is also low. small. Further, it has a characteristic that it is virtually vibration-free and can generate a high static pressure in a short time. As the wind power source 26, for example, a micro blower (model number: MZBX001) manufactured by Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. can be used.

  Returning to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, on the back side of the wind power source 26 (upstream side of the air flow path), a flat plate shape for suppressing external leakage of operating noise of the wind power source 26 (vibration noise of the diaphragm 58). The operation sound suppressing unit 28 is provided. The operation sound suppressing unit 28 also constitutes a part of the partition wall 22. The operation sound suppressing portion 28 is formed of an appropriate material such as acrylic resin, and forms a hollow portion on the back side of the diaphragm 58. The outside air port 70 (see FIG. 11) of the operation sound suppressing unit 28 communicates with the outside of the housing 20 via the outside air intake port 74 formed in the peripheral portion of the base unit 30. The size of the operation sound suppressing unit 28 is, for example, 20 mm in length, 20 mm in width, and 2 mm in thickness.

  FIG. 11 shows a cross section when the operation sound suppressing portion 28 is cut in a direction orthogonal to the thickness direction. As shown in FIG. 11, an outside air port 70 for sucking outside air when the wind power source 26 is operating is formed on the side wall 68 of the operation noise suppressing unit 28, and the inside of the operation noise suppressing unit 28 is C-shaped. It is partitioned by a partition wall 72 having a shape. As a result, the operation sound of the wind power source 26 reaches the outside air port 70 by making a detour in the maze-like air passage, so that the leakage of the operation sound from the outside air port 70 is suppressed.

Further, returning to FIGS. 8 and 9, an auxiliary wind power source 76 is provided in the base portion 30. The auxiliary wind power source 76 is provided independently of each cartridge accommodating chamber 24, and is used for accelerating aroma, adjusting the concentration of scent components, and deodorizing. The auxiliary wind power source 76 is the same as the wind power source 26, that is, a diaphragm to which a piezoelectric element is attached is provided, and when a high frequency alternating voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element, the diaphragm is vibrated at high speed to generate an air flow. It is good to use what is generated. The operation noise suppression unit 28 is also appropriately provided on the back side of the auxiliary wind power source 76.

  Further, in the central shaft 48, an auxiliary passage 78 is formed that serves as a path for the air (odorless air) discharged from the nozzle of the auxiliary wind power source 76. The auxiliary passage 78 is a through hole that linearly connects the nozzle of the auxiliary wind power source 76 and the communication hole 42, and linearly extends to the injection port 16 via the communication hole 42. When the auxiliary wind power source 76 is activated, odorless air is discharged from the nozzle of the auxiliary wind power source 76 into the auxiliary passage 78. Since this odorless air goes straight to the injection port 16 without following a complicated path, it is ejected from the injection port 16 with almost no pressure drop.

  The cartridge 14 is detachably housed in the cartridge housing chamber 24 of the display body 12 as described above. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the cartridge 14 includes a container body 80 formed of a synthetic resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene. The container body 80 is formed in a hollow regular triangular prism shape so as to have an outer surface shape that fits the inner surface shape of the cartridge housing chamber 24 without a gap. An intake port 82 is formed in the container body 80 at a position facing the air supply port 54 of the cartridge housing chamber 24 when the cartridge 14 is housed in the cartridge housing chamber 24 (see FIG. 5). That is, the outer surface of the container body 80 has two inclined surfaces 84 that converge with respect to the insertion direction of the cartridge 14, and the intake port 82 is formed on one of the inclined surfaces 84.

  Further, a fragrance outlet 88 is formed in the container body 80 at a position facing the air outlet 50 of the cartridge housing chamber 24 (see FIGS. 3 and 4). Since each of the fragrance outlets 88 communicates with the injection port 16 through the communication hole 42 in a substantially linear manner, the fragrance delivered from the fragrance outlet 88 is ejected from the injection port 16 without reducing its momentum. The diameter of the intake port 82 and the diameter of the fragrance outlet 88 are, for example, 0.8 mm.

  Further, since the internal passage of the display main body 12 with which the scent sent from the cartridge 14 comes into contact is only the communication hole 42 of the ejection plate 34, the scent component hardly adheres to the display main body 12 (remaining scent). Since the diameters of the intake port 82 and the fragrance outlet 88 are small, fragrance hardly leaks from the cartridge 14 when the wind power source 26 is not operated.

  A solid scent source 90 is housed inside the container body 80. The solid scent source 90 is produced, for example, by impregnating (impregnating) a granular porous body with a liquid perfume and retaining the liquid perfume on the outer surface and pores of the porous body. As the fragrance, a natural fragrance, a synthetic fragrance, and a mixed fragrance thereof can be appropriately used. As the porous body, a granular body such as calcium silicate can be appropriately used. The particle size and shape of the porous body are not particularly limited. By using the solid scent source 90 in this manner, the scent (scent component) can be gradually released from the scent source 90.

  When accommodating the cartridge 14 in the cartridge accommodating chamber 24 of the display main body 12, the slide cover 32b is opened and the cartridge 14 is pushed in from the cartridge exchange port 38 toward the central axis 48 into the cartridge accommodating chamber 24. Accommodate. Then, by closing the slide cover 32b, the rear end side in the insertion direction of the cartridge 14 (container body 80) is suppressed by the slide cover 32b. Therefore, the connection between the air supply port 54 of the display main body 12 and the air intake port 82 of the cartridge 14 has an increased adhesiveness and is properly adhered.

Further, since the cartridge accommodating chamber 24 and the cartridge 14 have the inclined surfaces 46 and 84 that incline inward with respect to the inserting direction, the inlet portion of the cartridge accommodating chamber 24 (that is, the cartridge exchange port 38) is in the inserting direction of the cartridge 14. Larger than the front part.
Therefore, it is easy to insert the cartridge 14 into the cartridge housing chamber 24.

  In the olfactory display 10 having such a configuration, when an alternating voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 56 of the wind power source 26 corresponding to the cartridge 14 accommodating the target scent source 90, the diaphragm 58 is flexed and vibrated at high speed, and the outside air is exposed. Outside air is sucked from the suction port 74, and high-speed and high-pressure air is sent from the nozzle 52 (air supply port 54) of the wind power source 26 into the cartridge 14 through the suction port 82. The air in the cartridge 14 contains a gaseous scent component volatilized from the scent source 90, and the air (scent) containing the scent component is discharged from the scent outlet 88 into the communication hole 42.

  Specifically, the control board of the olfactory display 10 is configured such that the cartridge 14 accommodating the target scent source 90 is responsive to an instruction signal sent from the information processing device 4 via the wireless communication module 206 (see FIG. 14). The alternating voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 56 of the wind power source 26 corresponding to. Then, the diaphragm 58 is flexibly vibrated at a high speed, and the outside air is sucked into the wind power source 26 through the outside air suction port 74, the operation sound suppressing portion 28, and the like, and at the same time, the nozzle 52 of the wind power source 26 moves into the cartridge 14 at a high speed. High-pressure air is sent. The air in the cartridge 14 contains a gaseous scent component volatilized from the scent source 90, and the air (scent) containing the scent component is discharged from the scent outlet 88 into the communication hole 42.

  The instruction signal also includes scent information (aroma code) indicating the scent component to be jetted. The aroma code is, for example, a unique number (code) assigned to each scent (or type of scent) such as banana, apple, vanilla, and orange. For example, the ports of the olfactory display 10 (cartridge accommodating chamber 24) are designated by the numbers 1-6. The aroma pattern database 404 (see FIG. 16) included in the information processing device 4 stores (saves) a device information table indicating which type of scent source 90 cartridge is attached to each port by an aroma code. It

  Therefore, the information processing device 4 outputs an instruction signal to the olfactory display 10 based on the device information table. The instruction signal includes information on the scent component to be ejected, that is, information on the wind power source 26 (piezoelectric element 56) provided in the cartridge 14 in which the scent source 90 of the scent is placed.

  Further, the control board operates the auxiliary wind power source 76 according to the instruction signal sent from the information processing device 4. That is, the alternating voltage is also applied to the piezoelectric element 56 of the auxiliary wind power source 76. As a result, the odorless air discharged from the nozzle 52 of the auxiliary wind power source 76 goes straight to the injection port 16 through the linear auxiliary passage 78. The aroma discharged from the aroma outlet 88 into the communication hole 42 merges with the odorless air discharged from the auxiliary wind power source 76 in the communication hole 42, rides on the flow of the air, and is accelerated in the aroma injection direction. The instruction signal from the processing device 4 is vigorously and straightly injected from the injection port 16 with almost no time delay. Then, when the application of the alternating voltage to the piezoelectric element 56 of the wind power source 26 and the auxiliary wind power source 76 is stopped, the injection of the aroma from the injection port 16 is also instantaneously stopped.

  At this time, since the piezoelectric wind power source 26 and the auxiliary wind power source 76 are used, the start and stop of the aroma injection are performed with high responsiveness (that is, accurate time control is possible), and the pulsation is also increased. It is also possible to continuously release a non-targeted constant scent. Further, by providing the auxiliary wind power source 76, even when the pressure drop occurs in the communication hole 42 only with the wind power source 26, the fragrance discharged from the cartridge 14 can be appropriately accelerated in the fragrance injection direction. It is possible to maintain or improve the aroma injection performance. That is, the aroma is vigorously ejected from the ejection port 16 with directivity, and the aroma can be emitted to a spatially very limited range (that is, only in the vicinity of the user's face).

  After stopping the wind power source 26 (after releasing the scent), the auxiliary wind power source 76 is continuously operated to inject only odorless air, and the injected scent component is diffused or diluted. Compared to free diffusion as is, faster deodorization is possible.

  Further, in this embodiment, six cartridges 14 are provided, and the aroma is jetted from one jet port 16 through the communication hole 42. Therefore, the six scents can be released individually, and the scents can be mixed and released by operating the wind power sources 26 of the cartridges 14 simultaneously or by time sharing. For example, assuming that the scent source 90 contained in each cartridge 14 is A, B, C, D, E, F, "A + B, A + C, ..., E + F, ..., B + C + D +. A variety of fragrances such as "E + F, A + B + C + D + E + F" can be provided. Further, by adjusting the duty ratio of the input signal of each wind power source 26, it is possible to appropriately change the mixing ratio of the scent.

  In this embodiment, the information processing device 4 outputs a control signal for adjusting the concentration of the scent component, in addition to the instruction signal. Then, the olfactory display 10 can adjust the concentration of the scent component according to the control signal. Specifically, the wind power source 26 and the auxiliary wind power source 76 are alternately operated, and the time for which the wind power source 26 and the auxiliary wind power source 76 are operated (hereinafter, referred to as “operation period”) and the time for which they are stopped (hereinafter, referred to as “stop period”) are controlled. Then, the mixing ratio of the aroma from the cartridge 14 and the odorless air from the auxiliary wind power source 76 is adjusted.

  Hereinafter, a method of adjusting (controlling) the concentration of the scent component will be described. In the present embodiment, as a method for controlling the concentration of the scent component, an injection method in which a scent and odorless air are alternately injected and a period during which the scent and the odorless air are injected is changed is adopted. However, in another embodiment, the scent and the odorless air are alternately jetted, an injection method of changing the number of times the scent and the odorless air are jetted, and the scent and the odorless air are alternately jetted, An injection method or the like in which the amount (amount of injection) of the fragrance is changed at one time may be adopted.

  FIG. 14 is an illustrative view showing one example of a control circuit 200 for realizing the injection method of the present embodiment described above. The control circuit 200 is formed on a control board. As shown in FIG. 14, the control circuit 200 includes a processor 202, and a memory 204 is connected to the processor 202. The memory 204 is a rewritable storage medium such as a flash memory or a RAM. A wireless communication module 206 is connected to the processor 202. The wireless communication module 206 is a module for performing communication using a short-range wireless communication technique such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) system, and receives an instruction signal and a control signal transmitted from the information processing device 4, It is given to the processor 202. Further, the switch circuit 208 is connected to the processor 202. One end of each of the seven piezoelectric elements 56 included in each of the six wind power sources 26 and the one auxiliary wind power source 76 is connected to the switch circuit 208. Each of the other ends of these piezoelectric elements 56 is connected via a variable resistor R to an alternating voltage source 300 provided outside the control circuit 200.

  For example, the switch circuit 208 includes seven switching elements (for example, FETs) and is provided between each piezoelectric element 56 and the ground. The processor 202 controls the time to turn on / off each switching element, controls (changes) the resistance value of each variable resistor R, or controls both of them according to the control signal. That is, at least one of the operating period of the wind power source 26 and the auxiliary wind power source 76 and the magnitude of the amplitude of the piezoelectric element 56 included in the wind power source 26 and the auxiliary wind power source 76 is controlled.

  The instruction signal from the information processing device 4 described above is input to the processor 202 of the olfactory display 10.

  A control signal for controlling (adjusting) the concentration of the scent component output from the information processing device 4 is input to the control circuit 200 shown in FIG. For example, when a control signal for linearly changing the concentration is input to the processor 202 (olfactory display 10), the concentration of the scent component ejected from the olfactory display 10 linearly changes accordingly. However, since it is difficult for a human sense of smell to recognize a minute change in concentration, the concentration may be adjusted stepwise. In the present embodiment, the density can be arbitrarily adjusted (controlled) from 0% (low) to 100% (high). However, in the following description, for the sake of simplicity, a case where the density is adjusted in three steps (high, normal (medium), and low) will be described.

  In the case of the injection method of the present embodiment, the wind power source 26 provided in the cartridge 14 in which the scent source 90 of the scent to be emitted is contained in the period in which the scent is emitted (hereinafter referred to as “scent emission period”). The piezoelectric element 56 of each wind power source (32, 74) is driven and stopped so that the operation period of (3) and the operation period of the auxiliary wind power source 76 are reversed. However, in this injection method, an alternating voltage having a constant peak value is applied to each piezoelectric element 56. Specifically, the alternating voltage from the alternating voltage source 300 is stepped down by each variable resistor R, and the stepped down alternating voltage (for example, frequency 26 kHz, 19.5 Vp-p) is applied to each piezoelectric element 56.

  The scent emission period is a period (time) designated by the instruction signal from the information processing device 4.

  FIG. 15A shows the operation of the wind power source 26 and the auxiliary wind power source 76 when the control signal for setting the concentration of the scent component to normal (medium) is input from the information processing device 4 to the processor 202. An example of controlling (change in time series of activation and deactivation) is shown. Further, in FIG. 15B, when the control signal for setting the concentration of the scent component to be high is input from the information processing device 4 to the processor 202, the operation of the wind power source 26 and the auxiliary wind power source 76 is controlled. An example is shown. Further, in FIG. 15C, when the control signal for setting the concentration of the scent component to be low is input from the information processing device 4 to the processor 202, the operation of the wind power source 26 and the auxiliary wind power source 76 is controlled. An example is shown.

  However, the wind power source 26 of FIGS. 15A to 15C is the wind power provided to the cartridge 14 in which the scent source 90 instructed by the information processing device 4, that is, the scent source 90 of the scent to be emitted is placed. Source 26.

  As described above, in the injection method of the present embodiment, the operation period of the wind power source 26 and the operation period of the auxiliary wind power source 76 are reversed, and the wind power source 26 and the auxiliary wind power source 76 are operated alternately.

  Further, in this embodiment, one operation period of the wind power source 26 is determined according to the concentration of the scent component.

  For example, the operating period when the concentration of the scent component is normal (medium) is set as a reference (for example, 1 second), and the operating period when the concentration of the scent component is high is 1.5 times (1.5 seconds) the reference. ), And the operating period when the concentration of the scent component is low is 0.5 times (0.5 seconds) the standard. Here, for example, the cycle for controlling the operation of the wind power source 26 is set to 2 seconds. Numerical values regarding the operating period and the cycle corresponding to the concentration are stored in the memory 204, and when the processor 202 receives the control signal from the information processing device 4, the processor 202 operates the switching elements provided in the switch circuit 208 according to these numerical values. Control on / off.

Returning to FIG. 15 (A), when the concentration of the scent component is normal, one operation period of the wind power source 26 is 1 second, and the operation control cycle is 2 seconds. The single activation period of the source 76 is set to 1 second. That is, one operating period of the wind power source 26 and one operating period of the auxiliary wind power source 76 are set to have the same length.

  Note that in FIG. 15A, the operation period is described as H (high level) and the stop period is described as L (low level), but the pulse that the processor 202 gives to a switching element such as an FET. Means the level of. That is, in this embodiment, the switching element is turned on when the pulse is at the high level and is turned off when the pulse is at the low level.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 15B, when the concentration of the scent component is high, one operation period of the wind power source 26 is 1.5 seconds, and the operation control cycle is 2 seconds. , One operation period of the auxiliary wind power source 76 is set to 0.5 seconds. That is, one operating period of the wind power source 26 is set to be three times as long as one operating period of the auxiliary wind power source 76. Therefore, the concentration of the scent component is made higher than in the normal case.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 15 (C), when the concentration of the scent component is low, one operation period of the wind power source 26 is 0.5 seconds, and the operation control cycle is 2 seconds. The one operation period of the auxiliary wind power source 76 is set to 1.5 seconds. That is, one operation period of the wind power source 26 is set to 1/3 of the one operation period of the auxiliary wind power source 76. Therefore, the concentration of the scent component is made lower than in the normal case.

  In the case of the injection method of the present embodiment shown in FIGS. 15 (A) to 15 (C) described above, one operation period of the wind power source 26 according to the concentration is determined in advance. Need not be limited to. For example, in the case of the injection method of another embodiment, one operation period of the wind power source 26 is set to a predetermined length, and the wind power source 26 and the auxiliary wind power source 76 are operated at the number of times (frequency). The concentration can also be adjusted. Therefore, in the injection method of another embodiment, the information about the predetermined length of the operation period is stored in the memory 204.

  FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the information processing device 4. With reference to FIG. 16, the information processing device 4 includes a processor 400 and the like. A memory 402, an aroma pattern database (DB) 404, a wireless communication module 406, an output device 408, an input device 410, a GPS circuit 412, etc. are connected to the processor 400. A GPS antenna 414 is connected to the GPS circuit 412.

  The processor 400 is also called a control means, and controls the operation of the information processing device 4. Further, the processor 400 includes an RTC 400a that outputs date and time information. The memory 402 includes ROM, HDD and RAM. A control program and the like for controlling the operation of the information processing device 4 are stored in advance in the ROM and the HDD. Further, the RAM is used as a work memory or a buffer memory of the processor 400.

  The aroma pattern DB 404 is also called a storage unit, and associates the device information table described above, an injection pattern table including an injection pattern when ejecting a scent component (see FIG. 17), a set time at which a scent component is ejected, and an injection pattern. The injection task table (see FIG. 20) and the injection history table (see FIG. 22) are included. Since the above-mentioned tables will be described later, detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

The wireless communication module 406 is a module for performing communication using Bluetooth and ZigBee short-range wireless communication technologies. Therefore, the wireless communication module 406 receives the weight of the user from the pressure sensor 6, and the olfactory display 1
An instruction signal and a control signal are transmitted to 0. It should be noted that in other embodiments, communication modules corresponding to the respective methods may be connected to the processor 400, respectively.

  The output device 408 includes a display and a speaker, and the input device 410 includes a microphone, a mouse, a touch panel, and the like. For example, the user uses the output device 408 and the input device 410 to input an injection pattern or the like to the scent space system 100 and set the type of scent to be emitted.

  The GPS circuit 412 is activated when the current position is measured by the GPS function. When the GPS signal of the GPS satellite received by the GPS antenna 414 is input, the GPS circuit 412 executes positioning processing based on the GPS signal. As a result, latitude and longitude are calculated as GPS information (positional information).

  Referring to FIG. 17, the injection pattern table described above includes injection IDs, applications, injection types, aroma codes, injection times, concentrations, patterns, and injection columns corresponding to the pattern items of the injection patterns. The injection ID for identifying the injection pattern is stored in the injection ID column. Further, one injection pattern is stored in the same row in association with this injection ID. That is, one row in the injection pattern table shows one injection pattern identified by the injection ID.

  The purpose of use (use) of the injection pattern is stored in the use field. The purpose of use is, for example, going out, coming home, and visiting. The ejection pattern whose purpose is “going out” indicates that the ejection pattern is used when the user goes out. In addition, the ejection pattern whose purpose is “going home” indicates that the ejection pattern is used when the user returns home. Then, the injection pattern having the purpose of "visiting" indicates that the injection pattern is used when a third party comes to the user's home.

  The number of scent components sprayed by one spray pattern is shown in the spray type column. For example, when “2” is stored in the ejection type column, two types of scent components are ejected. The aroma code column stores the aroma code indicating the scent component to be ejected. The number of stored aroma codes corresponds to the injection type value stored in the injection type column. When a plurality of aroma codes are stored, the order of the aroma codes stored in the aroma code column indicates the order in which the scent component is injected.

  Although not shown, when two or more aroma codes are enclosed in parentheses, it means that two or more aromas are mixed and output. In this case, two or more scent components are jetted at one time.

  The injection time indicates the scent release period for one scent component (aroma code). For example, if "10" is stored in the injection time column, it means that the scent release period for one scent component is 10 seconds. If “2” is stored in the injection type column, two types of scent components will be injected for 10 seconds each, and the total scent emission period will be 20 seconds (= 2 types × 10 seconds). Becomes

The width of density change (amount of change in density) is stored in the density column. The pattern column stores how to change the concentration of the scent component after the scent component is ejected. For example, when “strong” is stored in the pattern column and “80” is stored in the concentration column, injection of the scent component is started at a concentration of 0% so that the final concentration becomes 80%. Shows that the concentration changes. When “weak” is stored in the pattern column and “100” is stored in the concentration column, the scent component with a concentration of 100% is ejected and the final concentration becomes 0%. Indicates a change. When "constant" is stored in the pattern column and "70" is stored in the concentration column, it indicates that the scent component continues to be ejected at a concentration of 70%.

  The injection column stores, for example, whether the scent component is continuously or intermittently injected. When “continuous” is stored in the ejection column, the scent component is ejected without interruption. On the other hand, when “intermittent” is stored in the ejection field, the scent component is intermittently ejected at regular intervals. In this way, the user can arbitrarily select whether to release the scent continuously or intermittently.

  18 (A) and 18 (B) are illustrative views showing an example of an image visually representing the ejection pattern shown in FIG.

  With reference to FIG. 18A, in the injection pattern of injection ID “000001”, the injection type is one type, the aroma code is “2”, the injection time is 20 seconds, and the concentration is 80%. Yes, the pattern is “strong” and the injection is “continuous”. In this case, the scent component represented by the aroma code 2 is continuously jetted for 20 seconds. The concentration is 0% at the time when the injection is started, and is controlled to be strong (80%) over 20 seconds.

  For example, the injection pattern described above is assumed to be used when the user goes out. Therefore, it is desirable that the actual scents emitted are citrus fruits such as grapefruit and lemon, and mint fruits such as peppermint and spearmint. Since such a scent has a refreshing image, the space in which such a scent is sprayed is formed as a space that enhances the motivation of the user (turns the mode on). By entering such a space, the user can easily switch his mood to the on mode.

  Next, referring to FIG. 18 (B), in the injection pattern of the injection ID “000002”, there are two types of injection, the aroma code is “3, 4”, and the injection time is 10 seconds, The density is 100%, the pattern is "weak", and the injection is "intermittent". In this case, the scent components indicated by the aroma code 3 and the aroma code 4 are intermittently jetted for 10 seconds each. Further, the concentration is 100% at the time when the injection is started, and is controlled to be weak (0%) over 20 seconds (= 2 types × 10 seconds). Therefore, when the injection of the scent component is started, first, the scent component corresponding to the aroma code 3 is intermittently injected at a concentration of 0%, and the concentration becomes about 50% after 10 seconds have elapsed. Then, the scent component corresponding to the aroma code 4 is intermittently injected at a concentration of about 50%, the concentration becomes about 0% after 10 seconds, and when the concentration reaches 0%, the scent component is injected. Ends.

  For example, the above-mentioned injection pattern is assumed to be used when the user returns home. Therefore, it is desirable that the actual scent to be released is a floral type such as lavender and chamomile. Since such a scent has a calming effect, the space in which such a scent is sprayed is formed as a space that relaxes the user's feelings (sets it in the off mode). By entering such a space, the user can easily switch his mood to the off mode.

  Although illustration is omitted, it is assumed that the injection ID “000003” is used when the user returns home. However, unlike the injection ID “000002”, only one type of scent (aroma code 4) is injected. This is because the user who uses the jetting task with the jetting ID “000001” and the user who uses the jetting task with the jetting ID “000002” have different scent preferences.

Further, the injection ID “000004” is supposed to be used when a third party comes to the house. Therefore, it is set so that the scent (aroma code 6) of a different type from the scent used when going out or coming home is injected at a constant concentration. Since different users use these injection patterns, it is possible to emit a scent corresponding to each person who visits the space (entrance).

  In addition, in other embodiments, the change in the concentration may be not only linear but also curved (exponential change). For example, the concentration of the scent component may be gently changed in the initial stage when the scent is output, and the concentration may be rapidly changed after the final stage. On the contrary, the concentration may be gradually changed after the concentration of the scent component is rapidly changed in the initial stage.

  FIG. 19 is an illustrative view showing one example of the configuration of the user information table. The user information table is used to identify the user, and the identification information is associated with the user name. For example, the user “AAA” is associated with “65.0 Kg” as identification information. Also, the user "BBB" is associated with "50.0 Kg" as identification information. For example, if the weight measured by the pressure sensor 6 is “65.0 Kg”, the person on the entrance mat (pressure sensor 6) is determined to be the user “AAA”.

  Since the weight of the user varies depending on clothes and luggage, "-1 Kg to +3 Kg" is set as an allowable range based on the weight (identification information) stored in the user information table. For example, even if the measured weight is “64.5 Kg” or “67.0 Kg”, the user is identified as “AAA”.

  Referring to FIG. 20, the injection task table described above includes columns of user, start time, end time, injection ID, repetition, and valid / invalid, which correspond to the task items of the injection task. Further, one row in the injection task table indicates one injection task. Further, in the present embodiment, a task in which a user is associated with a time zone, a jet ID, etc. is set as a jet task. Then, in the scent space system 100, the process of outputting the scent is executed based on the effectively set jetting task.

  Similar to the user information table, the user column stores user names “AAA” and “BBB”, as well as “shared” indicating a common injection task. The common injection task is an injection task that is executed when there is a visitor as described above. Further, specifically, the common injection task is executed when the user is not identified by the weight.

  In the fields of the start time and the end time, the start time and the end time indicating the time zone in which the injection task can be executed are stored. For example, when the start time is “6:00” and the end time is “7:30”, when valid identification information is acquired between 6:00 and 7:30, the corresponding injection task Is executed. In other words, if the time when the identification information is acquired is not included between the start time and the end time of the injection task, the injection task is not executed. In addition, in another embodiment, instead of the start time and the end time, a time zone column may be provided. A start time and an end time are associated in advance with the time zones (for example, "morning" and "night") stored in this time zone field.

  The injection ID is stored in the injection ID column. That is, the injection pattern corresponding to the user is indicated by the injection ID stored in the injection ID column.

Information indicating whether or not the injection task is repeatedly used is stored in the repetition column. For example, if “OFF” is stored in the repetition column, it indicates that the corresponding injection task is not repeatedly used. On the other hand, when “ON” is stored in the repetition column, it indicates that the scent component is ejected every time the valid identification information is acquired.

  In the valid / invalid column, information indicating whether or not the injection task is valid is stored. For example, when “ON” is stored in the valid / invalid column, the process of releasing the scent is executed when the valid identification information is acquired. On the other hand, when “OFF” is stored in the valid / invalid column, the process of releasing the scent is not executed even if the valid identification information is acquired.

  For example, referring to FIG. 21, when the user “AAA” is identified between 6:00 and 7:30, the scent component is ejected based on the ejection pattern of the ejection ID “000001”. At this time, the date and time information (for example, “Sunday, September 28, 2014, 7:30”) when the scent component is ejected is displayed on the display of the information processing device 4 and the set application ( For example, a jetting screen including "Go out" is displayed. In addition, the injection screen also includes an image visually showing the injection pattern of the injection ID “000001” shown in FIG. Then, the user can intuitively understand the change in the concentration of the emitted scent by checking the ejection screen.

  Although illustration is omitted, when the user “BBB” is identified between 18:00 and 19:30, the scent component is ejected based on the ejection pattern of the ejection ID “000002”. Furthermore, when the user "AAA" is identified in the time zone of "night", the scent component is ejected based on the ejection pattern of the ejection ID "000003". If the user cannot be identified irrespective of the time when the weight information is transmitted from the pressure sensor 6, the common injection task is executed. Therefore, based on the injection pattern of the injection ID “000004”, the scent is released. The components are jetted.

  Generally, the psychological effect of the scent depends on what kind of scent the user is sensitive to, but in the present embodiment, the scent can be released while adjusting the type and concentration of the scent according to the user. I can. Therefore, an appropriate scent can be provided to each user in a space used by various users.

  Further, since the scent can be released during the set time period, it is possible to prevent the scent from being released at a timing unintended by the user, for example. As a result, the period during which the aroma can be released from the cartridge, that is, the life of the cartridge can be extended.

  Further, it is possible to associate one user with a plurality of ejection tasks having different scents to be emitted. Therefore, an appropriate scent can be emitted according to the time zone when the user visits the space.

  Even if the person who visits the space cannot be predicted in advance, since the common jetting task is executed, the situation in which the scent is not emitted can be avoided. Further, when the scent space system 100 is provided in a hotel lobby or the like where an unspecified number of people come and go, a predetermined scent is emitted to a person who cannot be identified and a specific person is identified. It is also possible to release the scent of.

  With reference to FIG. 22, the injection history table described above includes injection date / time, season, time zone, weather, and injection ID columns. The time and date when the scent was released (for example, “201409270730 (7:30 on September 27, 2014)”) is stored in the field of injection date and time. Further, one injection history is stored in the same row in association with this injection date and time. That is, one row in the injection history table shows one injection history indicated by the injection date and time.

  In the season column, one of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, which is determined based on the injection date and time, is stored. In this embodiment, if the month indicated by the injection date and time is March-May, spring is June-August, summer is September-November, and December-January is winter. To be judged.

  In the column of time zone, any time zone of morning, daytime, and night determined based on the injection date and time is stored. In this embodiment, it is determined that the time indicated by the injection date and time is 6-11 o'clock in the morning, 12-18 o'clock in the daytime, 19-24 o'clock, and 0-5 o'clock at night.

  The weather column stores the weather when the scent was released. In this embodiment, the area where the scent is emitted is specified based on the position information obtained by the GPS function, and the weather information of the specified area is acquired through the network. Then, the weather (for example, "fine") is stored in the weather column based on the acquired weather information.

  The ejection ID column stores the ejection ID of the ejection pattern used when ejecting the scent component.

  For example, when the scent is emitted based on the jetting task of the user “AAA” shown in FIG. 20, the jetting time is “201409270730”, the season is “autumn”, the time zone is “morning”, the weather is “cloudy” and jetting. The injection history with the ID “000001” is created, and the injection history is added to the injection history table.

  The determination of the season may change depending on the country or region where the fragrance clock is used. For example, in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. Therefore, in another embodiment, the criterion for determining the season is changed based on the position information obtained by the GPS function.

  Also, the determination of the time zone may change depending on the season. For example, in another embodiment, if the season is summer, the time zone determined to be daytime is set to be long, and the time zone determined to be night is set to be short. On the other hand, if the season is winter, the time zone determined to be daytime is set to be short, and the time zone determined to be night is set to be long.

  Further, the position information may be registered in the information processing device 4 in advance. For example, the user can register the position information in advance by designating the position where the scent space system 100 is used by using the map data.

  Here, the user can use the information processing device 4 to set an injection pattern and create an injection task. That is, the user can release any scent when visiting the space. Further, in another embodiment, the user may be able to re-edit the set injection pattern or the created injection task. In this case, the user can easily set the injection pattern and create the injection task.

  The user can also refer to the contents of the injection history table when creating a new injection task.

  Note that in other embodiments, an identification device including a camera for image recognition, an infrared sensor for detecting a body type (height, etc.), or the like may be used as means for identifying the user. Further, the user may be identified by connecting two or more of the pressure sensor 6, the camera, or the infrared sensor of the present embodiment to the identification device. When a camera, an infrared sensor, or the like is used, the user information table stores information indicating the body type (for example, height), the feature amount of the face image for image recognition, and the like.

  Further, in still another embodiment, the short-distance wireless communication such as the NFC method of the mobile phone may be used to identify the user who owns the mobile phone. For example, it is conceivable to install an IC card key system as a door lock and use a mobile phone compatible with NFC short-range wireless communication instead of the IC card. In this case, if the user information is associated with the information for opening the key, the user can be identified by unlocking the key at the entrance by using the mobile phone.

  Further, in another embodiment, short-distance wireless communication such as the ZigBee method may be adopted for the short-distance wireless communication performed by the information processing device 4 and the olfactory display 10.

  The features of this embodiment have been outlined above. The present embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the memory map of the memory 402 of the information processing apparatus 4 shown in FIG. 23 and the flow charts shown in FIGS. 24 and 25.

  FIG. 23 is an illustrative view showing one example of a memory map of the memory 402 of the information processing device 4. As shown in FIG. 23, the memory 402 includes a program storage area 502 and a data storage area 504. In the program storage area 502, as a program for operating the information processing device 4, a jetting pattern is set and a jetting task creation program 510 for creating a jetting task and a scent for discharging a scent according to the created jetting task are created. The injection task management program 512 and the like are stored. Although illustration is omitted, the program for operating the information processing device 4 also includes a program for controlling the basic operation of the information processing device 4.

  The data storage area 504 is provided with a time buffer 530, a wireless communication buffer 532, an injection pattern buffer 534, an injection task buffer 536, a user information buffer 538, an environment information buffer 540, and the like, and also stores a user information table 542 and the like. .

  The time information output from the RTC 400a is temporarily stored in the time buffer 530. The weight (identification information) transmitted from the pressure sensor 6 is temporarily stored in the wireless communication buffer 532.

  The injection pattern buffer 534 temporarily stores each pattern item (for example, injection type, aroma code, etc.) of the injection pattern being set. The ejection task buffer 536 temporarily stores each task item (for example, set time) of the ejection task being created. The user information buffer 538 temporarily stores, for example, user information input when setting an injection task. The environment information buffer 540 temporarily stores the injection date and time when the scent is released, the season, the time zone, the weather, and the like.

  The user information table 542 is a table having the configuration shown in FIG. 19, for example, and stores identification information in association with a user name.

  Although illustration is omitted, in the data storage area 504, data for displaying the ejection screen, a buffer for temporarily storing the results of various calculations, and other data necessary for the operation of the information processing device 4 are provided. Counters and flags are also provided.

  The processor 400 of the information processing device 4, under the control of a Linux (registered trademark) -based OS or another OS, includes a plurality of injection task creation processes shown in FIG. 23 and an injection task management process shown in FIG. 24. Process the task.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart of the injection task creation process. For example, when an operation for executing the function of creating an injection task is performed, the injection task creation process is executed. When the injection task creation process is executed, the processor 400 determines in step S1 whether a pattern item has been input. For example, the use, injection type, aroma code, injection time, concentration, pattern, and each pattern item of injection are input using the input device 410 of the information processing device 4, and it is determined whether or not an operation to confirm the input has been performed. It The pattern item being input is stored in the injection pattern buffer 534.

  If “NO” in the step S1, for example, if there is no operation for confirming the input pattern item, the processor 400 repeats the process of the step S1. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S1, for example, if an operation for confirming the input pattern item is performed, the processor 400 creates an injection pattern based on the pattern item in a step S3. For example, as the pattern items, the use is “out”, the injection type is “1”, the aroma code is “2”, the injection time is “20 seconds”, the concentration is “80”, the pattern is “strong”, and the injection is “continuous”. 17 ”, the injection pattern of the injection ID“ 000001 ”is set as shown in FIG. Here, the injection ID of the injection pattern newly added is determined based on the injection ID of the latest injection pattern stored in the injection pattern table. For example, when the injection ID of the latest injection pattern is "000001", the injection ID of the newly added injection pattern is "1" added (incremented) to the injection ID of the latest injection pattern. It becomes the injection ID. When the injection pattern is not registered, “000001” indicating the first injection pattern is set as the injection ID.

  Then, the set injection pattern is added to the injection pattern table. The processor 400 that executes the process of step S3 functions as a setting unit.

  Subsequently, in step S5, the processor 400 determines whether or not the time zone is set. That is, it is determined whether the start time and end time at which the scent can be released have been set. If “NO” in the step S5, for example, if the input start time and the end time are not fixed, the processor 400 repeats the process of the step S5. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S5, for example, when an operation of fixing the input start time and end time is performed, the processor 400 associates the injection pattern with the set time and executes the injection task in a step S7. create. The created injection task is stored in the injection task buffer 536.

  Subsequently, in step S9, the processor 400 determines whether the iteration is enabled. That is, it is determined whether or not the created injection task is set to be repeated. If "NO" in the step S9, that is, if the setting for repeating the injection task is not made, the processor 400 sets the repetition task item in the injection task to "OFF", and proceeds to the processing of the step S13.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S9, for example, if the injection task is set to be repeated, the processor 400 sets the repetition of the created injection task to ON in a step S11. That is, the repetitive task item in the ejection task is turned "on".

  Subsequently, in step S13, the processor 400 sets the created injection task to valid. That is, the valid / invalid task item of the injection task is set to “valid”. This is because it is extremely unlikely that the created injection task will not be used, so in the present embodiment, the effective / ineffective task item of the injection task is automatically made "effective". However, in another embodiment, “valid” or “invalid” may be set for this task item after confirming whether or not it is valid.

  Subsequently, in step S15, the processor 400 determines whether or not the user information has been input. For example, it is determined whether the user name (for example, “AAA”) and the identification information (for example, “65.0 Kg”) are input as the information for identifying the user. Then, the input user name and identification information are stored in the user information buffer 538. When inputting the identification information, a numerical value indicating the weight may be directly input, or the user may ride the pressure sensor 6 to input the actual weight. If “NO” in the step S15, for example, unless an operation to confirm the input user information is performed, the processor 400 repeats the process of the step S15.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S15, for example, when an operation of confirming the input user information is performed, the processor 400 adds an injection task associated with the user information to the injection task table in a step S17. For example, the injection task created is associated with the user name stored in the user information buffer 538, and the injection task is added to the injection task table. Subsequently, in step S19, the processor 400 adds the user information to the user information table. For example, the processor 400 associates the user name stored in the user information buffer 538 with the identification information (weight) and adds it to the user information table 542. Then, when the process of step S19 ends, the processor 400 ends the injection task creation process.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart of the injection task management process. For example, when the weight detected by the pressure sensor 6 is received and the weight is stored in the wireless communication buffer 532, the injection task management process is executed.

  When the injection task management process is executed, the processor 400 identifies the user in step S31. That is, it is searched whether or not the weight that matches the weight (identification information) of the user stored in the wireless communication buffer 532 is stored in the user information table.

  Subsequently, in step S33, the processor 400 determines whether or not there is a jetting task of the identified user. That is, the search performed in step S31 finds user information whose identification information is the weight that matches the received weight, and determines whether the injection task corresponding to the user information is registered in the injection task table. . If “YES” in the step S33, that is, if the user information whose identification information is the weight corresponding to the received weight is found and the injection task corresponding to the user information is registered, the processor 400 determines in a step S35. , The injection task with the matching identification information is acquired. For example, if the received weight is “65.0 Kg”, the injection task of the user “AAA” shown in FIG. 20 is acquired from the injection task table. Then, when the process of step S35 ends, the processor 400 proceeds to the process of step S39.

  On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S33, if the user information having the received weight as the identification information is not found, or if the injection task corresponding to the found user information is not registered, the step S37 is performed. At 400, the processor 400 obtains a shared injection task. For example, the “shared” injection task shown in FIG. 20 is acquired from the injection task table.

  Subsequently, in step S39, the processor 400 determines whether or not the acquired injection task is valid. That is, in the acquired injection task, it is determined whether the valid / invalid task item stores “valid”. If "NO" in the step S39, that is, if the acquired injection task is not valid, the processor 400 ends the injection task management process.

Subsequently, in step S41, the processor 400 determines whether or not the time zone is set. That is, in the acquired injection task, it is determined whether each time is stored in the task item of the start time and the end time. If "NO" in the step S41, and if the start time and the end time are not set, as in the case of the "common" injection task, the processor 400 proceeds to the process of the step S45.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S41, for example, if the time zone is set as in the injection task of the user “AAA”, the processor 400 inserts the current time in the time zone in a step S43. Judge whether or not. That is, it is determined whether the time information stored in the time buffer 530 is included in the time zone indicated by the start time and the end time. If “NO” in the step S43, that is, if the current time is not included in the time zone, the processor 400 ends the injection task management process.

  Subsequently, in step S45, the processor 400 acquires an injection pattern based on the acquired injection task. For example, when the injection task of the user “AAA” has been acquired, the injection pattern of the injection ID “000001” is acquired from the injection pattern table.

  Subsequently, in step S47, the processor 400 outputs an instruction signal and a control signal based on the injection pattern. For example, the instruction signal and the control signal are output to the olfactory display 10 so that the scent is emitted as shown by the injection pattern of the injection ID “000001” shown in FIG. When these signals are output, the display of the information processing device 4 displays an ejection screen as shown in FIG. The processor 400 that executes the process of step S47 functions as a control unit.

  Subsequently, in step S49, the processor 400 determines whether or not repetition is set. That is, it is determined whether the repetitive task item is set to "ON" in the acquired injection task. If “YES” in the step S49, that is, if the repetitive task item is “ON”, the processor 400 moves to the process of the step S53. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S49, that is, if the repetitive task item is “OFF”, the processor 400 switches the acquired injection task to the invalid in a step S51. That is, the repetitive task item is turned “off” so that the acquired injection task is not repeated.

  Subsequently, in step S53, the processor 400 acquires environment information. That is, the injection date and time is obtained from the time information stored in the time buffer 530, and the season and the time zone are obtained from the injection date and time. Further, based on the position information, the weather information of the current position published on the network is acquired. Then, the acquired information is stored in the environment information buffer 540 as environment information. Subsequently, in step S55, the processor 400 creates an injection history. That is, the injection history is created based on the environment information stored in the environment information buffer 540 and the acquired injection ID of the injection task. Subsequently, in step S57, the processor 400 adds the created injection history to the injection history table. For example, when the scent is released based on the jetting task of the user “AAA”, the jetting history as shown in FIG. 22 is added.

  Then, when the process of step S57 ends, the processor 400 ends the injection task management process.

  In addition, in another embodiment, the contents of the injection task table may be integrated into the injection pattern table.

Further, the scent space system 100 may be used not only at the entrance of a house but also at various places such as a hotel lobby and a common space in a hospital.

  Further, the usage pattern item may store “work (study)” set when the user performs work (study), “break” taken between studies, and the like. Further, when the use is set to “work”, it is desirable that the actual scent of the scent to be released is lemongrass or bergamot, which is expected to have the effect of enhancing the concentration. On the other hand, when the application is set to “rest”, it is desirable that the actual scent of the released scent is a relaxing scent such as cypress or rosemary. And the spray pattern for such an application is used when the scent space system 100 is provided at the entrance of an office or the entrance of a break room.

  Further, in other embodiments, the aroma pattern DB 404 may be stored in the server. In this case, the information processing device 4 acquires the data of the aroma pattern DB 404 from the server via the network.

  Further, the position where the olfactory display 10 is provided may be a wall instead of the ceiling, or may be placed at an arbitrary position while being attached to a tripod platform or the like.

  Further, in yet another embodiment, the pressure sensor 6 and the olfactory display 10 do not have to be installed at substantially the same position on the plane coordinates. For example, the pressure sensor 6 may be provided in front of the olfactory display 10 in the entrance passage shown in FIG. In this case, the scent is emitted after a certain period of time has passed since the user was identified, that is, after a period of time when it is estimated that the user reached the position of the olfactory display 10. By doing so, even if it takes time to identify the user and a time lag occurs before the scent is released, the scent can be released at an appropriate timing.

  Further, in another embodiment, when the traveling direction of the user is limited as in the case of the entrance passage shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of pressure sensors 6 that detect the traveling direction of the user and associate each traveling direction with each other are detected. May be provided. Thereby, the user can be identified in advance, and the scent can be emitted when the user reaches the position of the olfactory display 10. Further, by associating the direction of travel with each of the plurality of pressure sensors 6, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the scent is accidentally released. It is assumed that a laser range finder (LRF), a range image sensor, or the like is used to detect the traveling direction of the user.

  Further, the information processing device 4 and the olfactory display 10 may be configured as one device.

In addition, the plurality of programs described in the present embodiment are stored in the HDD of the server for data distribution and distributed to the scent space system 100 (information processing device 4) having the same configuration as that of the present embodiment via the network. Good. The storage medium is sold or distributed in a state where these programs are stored in a storage medium such as an optical disk such as a CD, a DVD, a BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), a USB memory, a memory card, or the like. May be. When the plurality of programs downloaded through the server or the storage medium described above is applied to the system having the same configuration as that of the present embodiment, the same effect as that of the present embodiment can be obtained.

  The specific numerical values given in this specification are merely examples, and can be changed as appropriate according to changes in product specifications.

4 ... Information processing apparatus 6 ... Pressure sensor 10 ... Olfactory display 14 ... Fragrance source cartridge 24 ... Cartridge chamber 26 ... Wind power source 56 ... Piezoelectric element 76 ... Auxiliary wind power source 100 ... Fragrance space system 200 ... Control circuit 400 ... Processor 402 ... Memory 404 ... Aroma pattern database

A first aspect of the present invention is a scent space system that emits a scent to a space having a passage through which a plurality of specific persons pass, and is arranged in association with the passage and includes a scent source at each of a plurality of cartridge mounting locations. An olfactory display capable of emitting multiple scents by mounting cartridges and ejecting scent components from the scent source in each cartridge, and one scent component or two or more scents at the same time for each of a plurality of specific persons as component is injected, comprising a storage means for storing the injection pattern that associates aroma, storage means stores the start time and end time of the injection task for each of a plurality of specific persons, further olfactory display specific person identified when the person passing through the positions are identified person is identified by a plurality of identifying means for identifying someone of a particular person, and identification means It reads the corresponding injection pattern from the storage means, the time identifying the specific person when the time period represented by the start time and end time, based on the injection pattern, to perform the injection task to control the olfactory display It is a scent space system equipped with control means.

In the first invention, the scent space system (100: reference numeral exemplifying a corresponding portion in the embodiment. The same applies hereinafter) emits a scent to a space such as an entrance having a passage through which a person passes. Olfactory display (10) is, for example, on the ceiling of the passage, the cartridge comprising a scent source (14) is mounted, to release multiple scent by injecting the aroma components from the scent source in each cartridge You can Storage means (404), for example, called a database, for each of a plurality of specific persons, such that one fragrance ingredient or simultaneously two or more fragrance components can perform injection task to be injected, the corresponding scent The injection pattern attached is stored , and the start time and end time of the injection task are stored for each specific person. The identification unit (6) is, for example, a pressure sensor, and identifies the person who passes the position of the olfactory display by using the weight of the person. When the specific person is identified, the control means (400, S47) injects the scent corresponding to the identified specific person when the time at which the specific person is identified is within the time zone indicated by the start time and the end time. Control the olfactory display to release based on the pattern .

According to the first aspect, the scent can be emitted while adjusting the type of the scent according to the specific person and the time zone set for the specific person.

A second invention is according to the first invention, and the storage means relates to the same specific person, the first time zone and the second start time and the second end time indicated by the first start time and the first end time. When the time at which the specific person is identified is within the first time zone or the second time zone, the control means sets the second time zone indicated by, and performs the injection task based on the injection pattern so as to perform the olfactory display. It is a scent space system that controls.

A third invention is according to the second invention, wherein the storage means sets the first injection pattern in the first time zone and sets the second injection pattern different from the first injection pattern in the second time zone. The control means sets the olfactory display so as to execute the injection task based on the first injection pattern or the second injection pattern when the time at which the specific person is identified is within the first time zone or the second time zone. It is a scent space system that controls.

A fourth aspect of the invention is the scent space system according to the third aspect of the invention, in which the first spray pattern and the second spray pattern differ in at least one of the type of the scent component and the concentration of the scent component.

A fifth aspect of the invention is arranged in association with a passage through which a plurality of specific persons pass, and a cartridge containing a scent source is attached to each of a plurality of cartridge attachment locations, and a scent component is ejected from the scent source in each cartridge. An olfactory display capable of releasing a plurality of scents and a spray pattern in which scents are associated so that one scent component or two or more scent components are simultaneously sprayed to each of a plurality of specific persons In addition, it is executed by the computer of the scent space system provided with a storage means for storing the start time and the end time of the injection task for each of a plurality of specific persons, and a plurality of persons passing through the position of the olfactory display can run the computer. identifying means for identifying someone of a particular person, and the specific person that a particular person is identified when identified by the identification means The corresponding ejection pattern is read from the storage means, and when the time at which the specific person is identified is within the time period indicated by the start time and the end time, the olfactory display is controlled so as to execute the ejection task based on the ejection pattern. A scent space system program that functions as a control means.

According to the present invention, the scent can be emitted while adjusting the type of the scent according to the specific person and the time zone set for the specific person.

Claims (9)

A scent space system that emits scents into a space that has a passage for humans,
An olfactory display that is arranged in relation to the passage, is equipped with a cartridge containing a scent source in each of a plurality of cartridge mounting locations, and can emit a plurality of scents by ejecting a scent component from the scent source in each cartridge,
A storage unit that stores a pattern in which scents are associated with each other, so that one or more scent components are simultaneously ejected to each of a plurality of people.
When the identification means for identifying a person passing through the position of the olfactory display and the scent corresponding to the person identified by the identification means are released based on the pattern, one or more scent components are simultaneously ejected. And a scent space system comprising control means for controlling the olfactory display. In the pattern, a time zone is further associated with each of the plurality of persons,
When the present time is included in the time zone of the pattern, the control means may emit one or more scents when releasing the scent corresponding to the person identified by the identification means based on the pattern. The scented space system of claim 1, wherein the olfactory display is controlled such that the components are simultaneously ejected.   The scent space system according to claim 2, wherein different scents are associated with a plurality of patterns of the same person for each time period.   The scent space system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit controls the olfactory display so as to emit a predetermined scent when the person is not identified by the identification unit. The olfactory display includes a wind power source that is in close contact with the cartridge and is driven by a piezoelectric element,
The scent space system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the wind power source is driven when the olfactory display is controlled by the control means.   The scent space system according to claim 1, wherein the pattern indicates a concentration of a scent component to be jetted.   The scent space system according to claim 6, wherein the pattern shows a change in concentration of the scent component to be jetted.   8. The scent space system according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the pattern further comprises instructions for continuously releasing the scent.   9. The scent space system according to claim 1, wherein the pattern further includes instructions for intermittently releasing the scent.

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