JP2021130408A - Warm feeling device and vehicle seat - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a warm feeling device that emphasizes warm feeling above actual local skin temperature of a seated person of a seat.SOLUTION: A warm feeling device 1A for giving a human body a warm feeling, is equipped with mechanically stimulating portions 11 and 21 that give mechanical stimulation f to a skin surface of the human body, and a control portion 12 that operates the mechanically stimulating portion during a predetermined mechanically stimulating period FT1, and controls to intermittently repeat the operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a warming device and a vehicle seat, and more particularly to a warming device for giving a warm feeling to a human body and a vehicle seat provided with the warming device.

As a conventional massage machine, there is known one that controls a heat applying means so as to be interlocked with a treatment operation (pushing operation) for the purpose of making the user feel warmth (for example, Patent Document 1 and the like). See). In this massager, the heat applying means is controlled so that the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the temperature fluctuation sandwich the indifferent zone (the temperature range from the constant temperature to the temperature range where the feeling of warmth and coldness does not occur).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-126440

However, in the above-mentioned conventional massage machine, since the heat applying means is controlled so that the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the temperature fluctuation sandwich the indifferent band, the heat applying means is not raised by the pushing operation (pressure stimulation). It aims at the effect of emphasizing the feeling of warmth by the temperature change itself. In order to exert its effect, it is necessary to change the temperature by the heat applying means, and the temperature change must fluctuate beyond the insignificant zone.

The present invention has been made in view of the above situation, and an object of the present invention is to provide a warming device capable of emphasizing and feeling warmth above the actual local skin temperature of the human body.

The present inventors have discovered a phenomenon in which a feeling of warmth occurs at the moment when a local and intermittent mechanical stimulus is applied to the skin surface of the human body, and have completed the present invention.

In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 1 is a warming device for giving a warm feeling to the human body, and a mechanical stimulation unit for giving mechanical stimulation to the skin surface of the human body. The gist is to include a control unit that operates the mechanical stimulation unit for a predetermined mechanical stimulation period and controls the operation so as to repeat the operation intermittently.
The invention according to claim 2 includes, in the invention according to claim 1, a heat stimulating unit that gives a heat stimulus to the skin surface of the human body, and the heat stimulating unit is provided with a predetermined heat stimulus by the control unit. The operation of the period is controlled to be repeated intermittently, and the control unit is controlled so that the thermal sensation period in which a person feels the heat by the operation of the thermal stimulation unit is sandwiched between the mechanical stimulation periods. The gist is to operate the heat stimulating unit and the heat stimulating unit.
The gist of the invention according to claim 3 is that in the invention according to claim 2, the mechanical stimulation period and the thermal sensation period are controlled so as not to overlap with each other.
The gist of the invention according to claim 4 is that, in the invention according to claim 2, a part or all of the mechanical stimulation period is controlled so as to overlap a part of the thermal sensation period.
In order to solve the above problem, the invention according to claim 5 is a vehicle seat, and it is a gist to include the warming device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

According to the warming device of the present invention, a mechanical stimulus unit that gives a mechanical stimulus to the skin surface of the human body and a control unit that operates the mechanical stimulus unit for a predetermined mechanical stimulus period and controls the operation to be repeated intermittently. And. As a result, the mechanical stimulus is locally and intermittently applied to the skin surface of the human body, so that the region to which the mechanical stimulus is applied can be made to feel the warmth more than the actual skin temperature. Therefore, it is possible to improve the thermal comfort of a person.

Further, a heat stimulating unit that gives a heat stimulus to the skin surface of the human body is provided, and the heat stimulating unit is controlled by the control unit so as to intermittently repeat the operation during a predetermined heat stimulation period. When operating the mechanical stimulation unit and the thermal stimulation unit, the mechanical stimulation period is used so that the thermal stimulation period during which a person feels the heat is sandwiched between the mechanical stimulation periods. It is possible to feel the warmth due to the mechanical stimulation, and also to feel the warmth due to the thermal stimulation during the thermal stimulation period sandwiched between the mechanical stimulation periods. That is, there is an effect that a local warm feeling is maintained both when the heat stimulating portion is heated and when heat is dissipated.

Further, when the mechanical stimulation period and the thermal sensation period are controlled so as not to overlap with each other, the warm sensation due to the mechanical stimulus and the warm sensation due to the thermal stimulus can be alternately felt.

Further, when a part or all of the mechanical stimulation period and a part of the thermal sensation period are controlled to overlap, a part or all of the mechanical stimulation period and a part of the thermal sensation period overlap. During the period, the area where the mechanical stimulus is given by the thermal illusion phenomenon (Thermal Referral) can be made to feel the warmth more emphasized than the actual skin temperature.

According to the vehicle seat of the present invention, since the above-mentioned warming device is provided, mechanical stimulation is locally and intermittently applied to the skin surface of the seated person, so that the mechanical stimulation is applied to the region. It is possible to emphasize the feeling of warmth above the actual skin temperature. Therefore, the thermal comfort of the seated person can be improved.

The present invention will be further described in the following detailed description with reference to the plurality of references mentioned with reference to non-limiting examples of typical embodiments according to the invention. Similar parts are shown through several figures.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an automobile seat provided with a warming device according to the first embodiment. It is a block diagram of the said warming apparatus. It is a timing diagram which shows the control pattern of the mechanical stimulus part by the control part which comprises the said warming device. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating Experimental Example 1 concerning the phenomenon that a feeling of warmth is generated by a mechanical stimulus. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an automobile seat provided with a warming device according to a second embodiment. It is a block diagram of the said warming apparatus. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the said warming apparatus, (a) shows the front view of the seat back, and (b) shows the sectional view taken along line bb. It is a timing diagram which shows the control pattern of the mechanical stimulation part and the heat stimulation part by the control part which constitutes the warm feeling device. It is a timing diagram which shows the perceived pattern of the mechanical stimulus and the thermal stimulus of a seated person of a seat. It is a timing diagram which shows the feeling pattern of the heat stimulus of the seated person of a seat. It is a timing diagram which shows the control pattern of the mechanical stimulation part and the thermal stimulation part by the control part which concerns on the modification 1 of Example 2. FIG. It is a timing diagram which shows the perceived pattern of the mechanical stimulus and the thermal stimulus of a seated person of a seat. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the skin segment. It is a graph which shows the experimental result of the experimental example 2 concerning the temperature illusion phenomenon (Thermal Referral). It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating another form of a warming apparatus, (a) and (b) show the form in which a part of a mechanical stimulation period and a part of a thermal sensation period overlap, and (c) is a mechanical stimulation. It shows a form in which the entire period and a part of the thermal sensation period overlap. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating another form of a warming apparatus.

The matters shown here are for exemplifying and exemplifying embodiments of the present invention, and are considered to be the most effective and effortless explanations for understanding the principles and conceptual features of the present invention. It is stated for the purpose of providing what seems to be. In this regard, it is not intended to show structural details of the invention beyond a certain degree necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, and some embodiments of the invention are provided by description in conjunction with the drawings. It is intended to clarify to those skilled in the art how it is actually realized.

<Warming device>
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, for example, the warming device according to the present embodiment is a warming device (1A, 1B, 1C) for giving a warm feeling to the human body, and is the skin of the human body. The mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) that gives mechanical stimulation (f) to the surface and the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) are operated for a predetermined mechanical stimulation period (FT1), and the operation is intermittently repeated. A control unit (12) for controlling is provided.

The above-mentioned warming devices (1A to 1C) apply a phenomenon in which a warm feeling (warm feeling; warm feeling) is generated at the moment when a local and intermittent mechanical stimulus (f) is applied to the skin surface of the human body. be. That is, by applying a mechanical stimulus (vibration, pressure stimulus, etc.) as a human tactile sensation, spatial attention is focused on one part of the body (that is, the size of the space to be noticed is limited), and that part. It applies a phenomenon that can change the intensity of the warm sensation of. The effect is produced by the warmth control based on the human warmth characteristics and spatial attention. It should be noted that the warmth of a person has a characteristic that spatial weighting, that is, the warmth of a thermal stimulus within a predetermined area on the skin is integrated and the warmth intensity is perceived.

The application of the warming device (1A to 1C) is not particularly limited. Examples of applications of the warming device (1A to 1C) include seats (particularly vehicle seats), beds, clothes, and fittings that can be worn on the human body such as arms and legs.

The type, number, arrangement location, etc. of the mechanical stimulation units (11, 21) are not particularly limited as long as the mechanical stimulation (f) is applied to a local region on the skin surface of the human body. Examples of the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) include a vibrator that gives vibration to a local region, a pressing mechanism that applies a pressing force to the local region by a roller or the like, and the like. Examples of this vibrator include those using a voice coil motor, an eccentric motor, ultrasonic waves, and the like. Further, as the frequency of the vibrator, for example, 1 Hz to 1000 Hz can be mentioned.

The control unit (12) is configured to control the drive of the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21). These control methods are not particularly limited, and for example, a PWM (pulse width modulation) method can be applied for easy control.
For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the control unit (12) turns on the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) for a predetermined mechanical stimulation period (FT1). Then, the control unit (12) operates the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) intermittently (for example, in the cycle FT3). In the example shown in FIG. 3 and the like, the mechanical stimulation units (11, 21) are turned off during the period (FT2) after the mechanical stimulation period (FT1).

The lengths of the mechanical stimulation period (FT1), period (FT2), and cycle (FT3) can be appropriately set. Further, as shown in FIG. 1 and the like, in the configuration in which the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) is divided into a plurality of parts, the mechanical stimulation period (FT1) is determined for each mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21). The length of the period (FT2) and the period (FT3) may be set. Further, for example, the mechanical stimulation period (FT1), the period (FT2), and the cycle (FT3) are appropriately selected according to the environmental temperature, the body part of the human body, the amount of clothing, the required warmth, and the like.
Examples of the mechanical stimulation period (FT1) include 0.1 seconds to 5 seconds (preferably 0.2 seconds to 4 seconds). The period (FT2) includes, for example, 0.1 seconds to 10 seconds (preferably 0.2 seconds to 9 seconds). Further, as the period (FT3), for example, 0.1 second to 10 seconds (preferably 0.2 seconds to 9 seconds) can be mentioned.

The control process by the control unit (12) may be realized by any of hardware and software, and preferably a microcontroller (microcomputer) including a CPU, a storage device (ROM, RAM, etc.), an input / output circuit, and the like. It can be configured by providing peripheral circuits such as an input / output interface around the above.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, for example, the warming device (1B, 1C) may include a heat stimulating unit (10, 20) that gives a heat stimulus (h) to the skin surface of the human body. can. The heat stimulation units (10, 20) are controlled by the control unit (12) so as to intermittently repeat the operation of the predetermined heat stimulation period (HT1), for example, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 11. NS. Then, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 12, for example, the control unit (12) has all or one of the heat sensation period (HT) in which a person feels the heat by the operation of the heat stimulation unit (10, 20). The mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) and the thermal stimulation unit (10, 20) can be operated so that the unit is sandwiched between the mechanical stimulation period (FT1).

The type, number, location, etc. of the heat stimulating portions (10, 20) are not particularly limited as long as the heat stimulus (h) is applied to a local region on the skin surface of the human body. Examples of the heat stimulating unit (10, 20) include a heater using a heating wire or a heating sheet, a heater that irradiates infrared rays, a blowing mechanism that blows warm air, and the like. Further, the amount of heat output by the heat stimulating unit (10, 20) is not particularly limited. Further, the temperature change rate in the temperature change region by the heat stimulating unit (10, 20) is not particularly limited, and for example, the absolute value of the temperature change rate is 0.1 ° C./sec to 10 ° C./sec (preferably 0.2). ° C./sec to 8 ° C./sec).

The region where the heat stimulating portion (10, 20) is provided and the region where the mechanical stimulating portion (11, 21) is provided may be at least a partially overlapping region, but are preferably non-overlapping regions. .. This is because the effect of the temperature illusion phenomenon described later can be more easily obtained.

The control unit (12) is configured to control the drive of the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) and control the power supply to the thermal stimulation unit (10, 20). These control methods are not particularly limited, and for example, a PWM (pulse width modulation) method can be applied for easy control. If PWM control is used, the power supply during operation can be easily changed by the duty ratio of the pulse wave.
As shown in FIGS. 8 and 11, for example, the control unit (12) turns on the mechanical stimulation period (FT1) for the operation of the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21), and the thermal stimulation unit (10, 20) is turned on. ) Is turned on during the thermal stimulation period (HT1). Then, the control unit (12) intermittently operates the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) and the thermal stimulation unit (10, 20) (for example, in the cycle FT3 = HT3). In the examples shown in FIGS. 8 and 11, the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) is turned off during the period (FT2) after the mechanical stimulation period (FT1), and the thermal stimulation unit (10, 20) is activated. , The operation is turned off during the period (HT2) after the thermal stimulation period (HT1). Then, this series of operations is repeated in a predetermined cycle (FT3 = HT3).

The lengths of the mechanical stimulation period (FT1), the thermal stimulation period (HT1), the period (FT2, HT2), and the cycle (FT3, HT3) can be appropriately set. Further, as shown in FIG. 5 and the like, in a configuration in which the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) and the thermal stimulation unit (10, 20) are divided into a plurality of parts, the corresponding mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) ) And the thermal stimulation unit (10, 20), the length of the mechanical stimulation period (FT1), the thermal stimulation period (HT1), the period (FT2, HT2) and the cycle (FT3, HT3) may be set.

When the operation of the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) is turned on, the mechanical stimulation (f) is applied to a local region on the skin surface of the human body. Further, when the operation of the heat stimulating part (10, 20) is turned on, the heat stimulus (h) is given to a local region on the skin surface of the human body.
For the human body, the thermal stimulus (h) is easily transmitted to the local region after the start of operation of the thermal stimulator (10, 11) due to the influence of the environmental temperature, the body part of the human body, the amount of clothing, etc. f) is easily transmitted to the local region at the same time as the operation of the mechanical stimulation unit (20, 21) starts regardless of the environmental temperature, the body part of the human body, the amount of clothing, and the like. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 12, the heat sensation period (HT) at which a person feels heat (heat stimulation) is delayed by a delay time (t) from the start of operation of the heat stimulation unit (10, 20). On the other hand, the mechanical stimulus sensation period (FT) in which a person feels the mechanical stimulus (f) is not substantially delayed from the start of operation of the mechanical stimulus portions (11, 21).

The delay time (t) is appropriately selected depending on, for example, the environmental temperature, the body part of the human body, the amount of clothing, and the like. Examples of the delay time (t) include 0 seconds to 5 seconds (preferably 0.1 seconds to 4 seconds). Further, when the thermal stimulus (h) is provided so as to come into direct contact with the skin surface of the human body, the delay time (t) becomes zero.
Further, the control unit (12) controls the heat stimulation unit (10, 20) by detecting, for example, the environmental temperature and / or the amount of clothing worn by the human body, and adjusting the delay time (t) based on the detection result. You may.
The length of the heat sensation period (HT) is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, the same as the length of the heat stimulation period (HT1). The length of the mechanical stimulation sensation period (FT) is not particularly limited, but usually coincides with the length of the mechanical stimulation period (FT1).

The mechanical stimulation period (FT1), thermal stimulation period (HT1), period (FT2, HT2) and cycle (FT3, HT3) also depend on the environmental temperature, the body part of the human body, the amount of clothing, the required warmth, and the like. It is selected as appropriate.
Examples of the mechanical stimulation period (FT1) include 0.1 seconds to 5 seconds (preferably 0.2 seconds to 4 seconds). The period (FT2) includes, for example, 0.1 seconds to 10 seconds (preferably 0.2 seconds to 9 seconds). Further, as the period (FT3), for example, 0.1 second to 10 seconds (preferably 0.2 seconds to 9 seconds) can be mentioned.
Examples of the heat stimulation period (HT1) include 0.1 seconds to 5 seconds (preferably 0.2 seconds to 4 seconds). The period (HT2) includes, for example, 0.1 seconds to 10 seconds (preferably 0.2 seconds to 9 seconds). Further, as the period (HT3), for example, 0.1 second to 10 seconds (preferably 0.2 seconds to 9 seconds) can be mentioned.
The mechanical stimulation period (FT1) and the thermal stimulation period (HT1) may have the same value or different values.

In the mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) and the thermal stimulation unit (10, 20), for example, as shown in FIG. 9, the mechanical stimulation period (FT1) and the thermal sensation period (HT) do not overlap. Can be controlled. In this case, the warm sensation due to the mechanical stimulus (f) and the warm sensation due to the thermal stimulus (h) can be alternately felt.

The mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) and the thermal stimulation unit (10, 20) are, for example, a part of the mechanical stimulation period (FT1) and heat as shown in FIGS. 12 and 15 (a) and 15 (b). It can be controlled so as to overlap a part of the sensation period (HT).
The mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) and the thermal stimulation unit (10, 20) are, for example, the entire mechanical stimulation period (FT1) and the thermal sensation period (HT), as shown in FIG. 15 (c) and the like. It can be controlled so that it overlaps with a part.

As described above, when the mechanical stimulation period (FT1) and the thermal sensation period (HT) overlap, the area where the mechanical stimulation (f) is given by the thermal illusion phenomenon (Thermal Referral) feels warmer than the actual skin temperature. Can be further emphasized and felt. This temperature illusion phenomenon is an induction region when a thermal stimulus (h) is applied to a local region (temperature change region) on the skin surface and a mechanical stimulus (f) is applied to a local region (induction region) on the skin surface. This is a phenomenon in which a feeling of warmth occurs above the actual skin temperature. That is, it is a phenomenon in which the warm feeling generated in the temperature change region is transferred to the induction region.

The warming devices (1A to 1C) can be used for the seat (3) to give a warm feeling to the seated person, for example, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. The structure, use, etc. of this sheet (3) are not particularly limited. The seat (3) usually includes a seat cushion (5) that serves as a seat for the seated person. Further, the seat (3) may include, for example, a seat back (4) that serves as a backrest for a seated person. Further, the seat (3) may be, for example, one in which only one seated person can be seated, or one in which a plurality of seated people can be seated side by side. That is, the seat (3) may include, for example, one or a plurality of seating areas in which one seated person can be seated.
The mechanical stimulation unit (11, 21) and the thermal stimulation unit may be provided on the surface layer portion of the sheet (3) or a cover material retrofitted to the sheet (3), for example. Further, the control unit (12) may be incorporated in the seat (3) or may be provided separately.

When the above-mentioned warming device (1B, 1C) is used for the seat (3), for example, as shown in FIG. The mechanical stimulation part (11, 21) is arranged in the high sitting pressure part (4a, 5a) where the pressure) is high, and the seating pressure (contact pressure) of the seated person in the seat (3) is higher than the high sitting pressure part (4a, 5a). Can be placed in low sitting pressure sites (4b, 5b).
As a result, the thermal stimulus (h) effectively gives a warm feeling to the part where the seating pressure is high, and the mechanical stimulation (f) gives a warm feeling to the part where the sitting pressure is low. Given effectively. Further, even if the area of the heat stimulating part (10, 20) is reduced, a feeling of warmth is given by the mechanical stimulus (f) to the part where the seating pressure is low, so that the robustness against the physical disparity of the seated person is enhanced. Be done.

When the warming device (1B) is used for the seat back (4), for example, the heat stimulating unit (10) is located on the center side (that is, the seating position reference of the seated person (person)) in the width direction of the seat back (4). , The mechanical stimulation portion (11) is arranged in the high sitting pressure portion (4a) located in the seating area center side in the width direction of the seat back (4), and the mechanical stimulation portion (11) is located in the high sitting pressure portion (4a) in the width direction of the seat back (4). It can be arranged at a low sitting pressure portion (4b) located outside of 4a).

The distance (S1) between the center of the heat stimulating portion (10) in the width direction and the center line of the seating position of a person is, for example, 0 mm to 500 mm (preferably 0 mm to 300 mm). Further, for example, the distance (S2) between the center in the width direction of the mechanical stimulation unit (11) and the center line of the seating position of a person is, for example, 0 mm to 500 mm (preferably 0 mm to 300 mm).

When the warming device (1C) is used for the seat cushion (5), for example, the heat stimulating portion (20) is arranged at a high sitting pressure portion (5a) located on the rear side in the front-rear direction of the seat cushion (5). The mechanical stimulation portion (21) can be arranged at a low sitting pressure portion (5b) located in front of the high sitting pressure portion (5a) in the front-rear direction of the seat cushion (5).

<Vehicle seat>
The vehicle seat (3) according to the present embodiment includes, for example, the above-mentioned warming devices (1A to 1C) as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 and the like. Examples of the vehicle seat (3) include seats for automobiles, railways, aircraft, ships, and the like. Further, in the case of an automobile seat, for example, it may be a front seat or a rear seat in the second and subsequent rows.

The reference numerals in parentheses of each configuration described in the above-described embodiment indicate the correspondence with the specific configurations described in the examples described later.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, the automobile seat 3 (hereinafter, also simply referred to as “seat 3”) is exemplified as the “vehicle seat” according to the present invention (see FIG. 1). The seat 3 includes a seat back 4 that serves as a backrest for the seated person, and a seat cushion 5 that serves as a seat for the seated person.

<Example 1>
(1) Configuration of the warming device The warming device 1A according to the first embodiment is used for the seat 3 to give a warm feeling to the seated person, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The warming device 1A includes mechanical stimulation units 11 and 21 and a control unit 12.

The mechanical stimulation unit 11 applies the mechanical stimulation f to a local region on the skin surface of the seated person in contact with the seat back 4. Further, the mechanical stimulation unit 21 applies the mechanical stimulation f to a local region on the skin surface of the seated person in contact with the seat cushion 5. Each of these mechanical stimulation units 11 and 21 is a vibrator (specifically, a voice coil motor) that gives vibration to a local region. This vibrator has a predetermined size (for example, 50 mm in diameter), frequency (for example, 100 Hz), vibration acceleration of the sheet surface (for example, 2 G), and total amplitude (for example, 0.1 mm). Further, the mechanical stimulation units 11 and 21 are arranged inside the seat back 4 and the seat cushion 5.

In this embodiment, the warming device 1A including the mechanical stimulation unit 11 arranged on the seat back 4 and the mechanical stimulation unit 21 arranged on the seat cushion 5 is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, The warming device 1A including only one of the mechanical stimulation units 11 and 21 may be used.

The control unit 12 is electrically connected to the mechanical stimulation units 11 and 21 (see FIG. 2). As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 12 controls the mechanical stimulation units 11 and 21 to intermittently repeat the operation by the PWM (pulse width modulation) method, and the vertical axis in FIG. 3 indicates the duty ratio. Represents.

Specifically, the control unit 12 turns on the mechanical stimulation units 11 and 21 for a predetermined mechanical stimulation period FT1 (for example, 0.8 seconds), and intermittently turns the operation on the periodic FT3 (for example, 6 seconds). Control to repeat. The mechanical stimulation units 11 and 21 are turned off during the period FT2 (for example, 5.2 seconds) after the mechanical stimulation period FT1.

(2) Action of the warming device Next, the action of the warming device 1A having the above configuration will be described. By the operation of the warming device 1A, the mechanical stimulus (vibration) f is intermittently and repeatedly applied to the local region of the skin surface of the seated person in contact with the seat back 4 and the seat cushion 5.

(3) Effect of Example 1 According to the warming device 1A of the first embodiment, the mechanical stimulus units 11 and 21 that give the mechanical stimulus f to the skin surface of the human body and the mechanical stimulus units 11 and 21 are predetermined machines. A control unit 12 for operating the FT1 during the stimulation period and controlling the operation to be repeated intermittently is provided. As a result, the mechanical stimulus f is locally and intermittently applied to the skin surface of the human body, so that the region to which the mechanical stimulus f is applied can be made to feel warmer than the actual skin temperature. can. Therefore, it is possible to improve the thermal comfort of a person. In particular, as compared with the conventional technique provided with the heat applying means for changing the temperature beyond the unrelated zone, the heat applying means is not required, and the feeling of warmth can be effectively felt even in the unrelated zone.

<Experimental example 1>
Next, Experimental Example 1 relating to the phenomenon that a feeling of warmth is generated by the mechanical stimulus f will be described. As an experimental method, as shown in FIG. 4, a vibrator 11 (coin-type eccentric motor (diameter 1 cm)) is placed on the instep of the left foot of the subject, and a planar heater 30 (50 mm × 50 mm) is placed on the instep of the right foot. Deploy.

After controlling the temperature of both the left and right insteps so that the skin temperature is constant at 32 ° C, the countdown is read out as "3, 2, 1" by voice, and then added by the vibrator 11 in a time of 0.5 seconds from zero count. I shook it. Then, the subject himself adjusted the amount of heat of the heater 30 until the warm sensations of the left and right insteps matched. The amount of heat of the heater 30 is adjusted by changing the power supply of the heater 30 according to the duty ratio of the pulse wave, and this duty ratio is used as the subjective evaluation value. When the warmth enhancement effect by the mechanical stimulus f is zero, the duty ratio of the evaluation value is expected to be zero. As the environmental conditions of the laboratory, the average room temperature was 21.0 ° C. and the average relative humidity was 24.6%.

When three subjects were evaluated three times, the average duty ratio of the evaluation values was 38% (equivalent to 2.2 W), and the standard deviation was 19.4% (equivalent to 1.2 W). .. That is, it was confirmed that the warm sensation was generated only by the mechanical stimulus f.

<Example 2>
Next, the warming device 1B according to the second embodiment will be described, but the same components as those of the warming device 1A of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

(1) Configuration of warming device As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the warming device 1B according to the second embodiment is used for the seat back 4 to give a warm feeling to the seated person. The warming device 1B includes a mechanical stimulation unit 11, a thermal stimulation unit 10, and a control unit 12.

The heat stimulating unit 10 gives heat stimulation h to a local region (temperature changing region) on the skin surface of the seated person in contact with the seat back 4. The heat stimulating unit 10 is a planar heater that heats a temperature changing region. This planar heater has a predetermined size (for example, 50 mm × 50 mm) and a heating rate of the heater surface (for example, 0.5 ° C./sec to 0.7 ° C./sec). Further, a plurality (six in the figure) of the heat stimulating portions 10 are arranged at the high sitting pressure portions 4a located on the central side in the width direction of the seat back 4 (see FIG. 7). Further, the heat stimulating portion 10 is arranged on the skin material of the seat back 4. Further, the distance S1 between the center of the heat stimulating portion 10 and the center line of the seat back 4 is set to about 50 mm. The pressure fluctuation in the contact range before and after the temperature change in the temperature change region is preferably less than the human discrimination threshold.

The mechanical stimulation unit 11 applies the mechanical stimulation f to a local region (guidance region) on the skin surface of the seated person in contact with the seat back 4. A plurality (six in the figure) of the mechanical stimulation portions 11 are arranged in the low seat pressure portion 4b located outside the high seat pressure portion 4a in the width direction of the seat back 4 (see FIG. 7). Further, the mechanical stimulation unit 11 is arranged inside the seat back 4. Further, the distance S2 between the center of the mechanical stimulation unit 11 and the center line of the seat back 4 is set to about 100 mm.

The control unit 12 is electrically connected to the mechanical stimulation unit 11 and the thermal stimulation unit 10 (see FIG. 6). As shown in FIG. 8, the control unit 12 controls the mechanical stimulation unit 11 and the thermal stimulation unit 10 to intermittently repeat the operation by the PWM (pulse width modulation) method, and the vertical axis in FIG. 3 is It represents the duty ratio.

The control unit 12 operates the mechanical stimulation unit 11 and the thermal stimulation unit 10 so that the entire thermal sensation period HT in which a person feels the heat by the operation of the thermal stimulation unit 10 is sandwiched between the mechanical stimulation period FT1. (See FIG. 9). The mechanical stimulation unit 11 and the thermal stimulation unit 10 are controlled so that the mechanical stimulation period FT1 and the thermal sensation period HT do not overlap.

Specifically, the control unit 12 turns on the operation of the mechanical stimulation unit 11 for a predetermined mechanical stimulation period FT1 (for example, 0.8 seconds), and intermittently repeats the operation in the periodic FT3 (for example, 6 seconds). To control. The mechanical stimulation unit 11 is turned off during the period FT2 (for example, 5.2 seconds) after the mechanical stimulation period FT1. Further, the control unit 12 turns on the operation of the thermal stimulation unit 10 for a predetermined thermal stimulation period HT1 (for example, 0.8 seconds), and intermittently turns the operation on the periodic HT3 (for example, 6) which is the same value as the periodic FT3. Control to repeat in seconds). The thermal stimulation unit 10 is turned off during the period HT2 (for example, 5.2 seconds) after the thermal stimulation period HT1.

The thermal sensation period HT is delayed by t from the start of operation of the thermal stimulating unit 10 due to the influence of the environmental temperature, the body part of the human body, the amount of clothing, and the like (see FIG. 9). Further, the mechanical stimulus sensing period FT in which a person feels mechanical stimulus is not delayed from the start of operation of the mechanical stimulus unit 11. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 8, the start times of the mechanical stimulation period FT1 and the thermal stimulation period HT1 are the same, but the start times of both FT1 and HT1 may be staggered.

As shown in FIG. 10, the control unit 12 operates the heat stimulation unit 10 so as to raise the temperature of the temperature-changing region on the skin surface of the human body by applying the heat stimulation h intermittently. The heat stimulating unit 10 raises the temperature of the temperature-changing region during the heat sensation period HT (heating period), stops the operation, and lowers the temperature of the temperature-changing region during the period HT'(heat dissipation period). And, as a whole, the average temperature of the skin rises slowly. Vertically, the absolute value of the temperature change rate of the temperature change region in the heat dissipation period HT'is smaller than the absolute value of the temperature change rate of the temperature change region in the heating period HT. Therefore, the skin temperature rises rapidly during the heating period HT, and falls relatively slowly during the heat dissipation period HT'.

(2) Action of the warming device Next, the action of the warming device 1B having the above configuration will be described. By the operation of the warming device 1B, mechanical stimulation (vibration) f is intermittently and repeatedly applied to the local region of the skin surface of the seated person's shoulder and body side in contact with the seat back 4, and the seat back 4 is subjected to the mechanical stimulation (vibration) f. Thermal stimulation (heating) h is intermittently and repeatedly applied to local regions on the skin surface of the back and lumbar region of the seated person in contact. These mechanical stimuli f and thermal stimuli h are alternately applied to the seated person.

(3) Effect of Example 2 According to the warming device 1B of the second embodiment, in addition to exerting substantially the same action and effect as the warming device 1A of the first embodiment, heat is applied to the skin surface of the human body. The heat stimulus unit 10 is provided with the heat stimulus unit 10, and the heat stimulus unit 10 is controlled by the control unit 12 so as to intermittently repeat the operation of the HT1 for a predetermined heat stimulus period, and the control unit 12 is the heat stimulus unit 10. Since the mechanical stimulation unit 11 and the thermal stimulation unit 10 are operated so that the thermal sensation period HT in which the person feels the heat by the operation is sandwiched between the mechanical stimulation period FT1, the mechanical stimulation period FT1 gives a warm feeling due to the mechanical stimulation f. It is possible to feel the warmth due to the thermal stimulation h in the thermal sensation period HT sandwiched between the mechanical stimulation period FT1. That is, there is an effect that a local warm feeling is generated both when heat is dissipated by the heat stimulating unit 10 and when heating.

Further, in this embodiment, the mechanical stimulation period FT1 and the thermal sensation period HT are controlled so as not to overlap. As a result, the warm sensation due to the mechanical stimulus f and the warm sensation due to the thermal stimulus h can be alternately felt.

Further, in this embodiment, the heat stimulating portion 10 is arranged at the high sitting pressure portion 4a of the seat back 4, and the mechanical stimulating portion 11 is arranged at the low sitting pressure portion 4b of the seat back 4. As a result, the thermal stimulus h effectively gives a warm feeling to the seated person's back, waist, and other parts with high sitting pressure, and the mechanical stimulus f gives the seated person's shoulders, body side, and other seating pressure. A feeling of warmth is effectively given to low areas. Further, even if the area of the heat stimulating portion 10 provided on the seat back 4 is reduced, a feeling of warmth is given by the mechanical stimulus f to a portion having a low sitting pressure such as the shoulder portion and the body side portion of the seated person. Robustness against physical disparity is enhanced.
On the other hand, when a portion where the seating pressure of the seated person is low is heated by the heater, the heat is difficult to be transmitted when the contact pressure is low, so that the heating efficiency is lowered. On the other hand, mechanical stimuli such as vibration are easily transmitted even if the contact pressure is low.

<Modification 1 of Example 2>
Next, the warming device 1B according to the first modification of the second embodiment will be described, but the same components as those of the warming device 1B of the second embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

(1) Configuration of Warming Device The warming device 1B according to the first modification is used for the seat back 4 to give a warm feeling to the seated person, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. The warming device 1B includes a mechanical stimulation unit 11, a thermal stimulation unit 10, and a control unit 12.

The control unit 12 is electrically connected to the mechanical stimulation unit 11 and the thermal stimulation unit 10 (see FIG. 6). As shown in FIG. 11, the control unit 12 controls the mechanical stimulation unit 11 and the thermal stimulation unit 10 to intermittently repeat the operation by the PWM (pulse width modulation) method, and the vertical axis in FIG. 11 is It represents the duty ratio.

The control unit 12 operates the mechanical stimulation unit 11 and the thermal stimulation unit 10 so that a part of the thermal sensation period HT in which a person feels the heat by the operation of the thermal stimulation unit 10 is sandwiched between the mechanical stimulation period FT1. (See FIG. 12). The mechanical stimulation unit 11 and the thermal stimulation unit 10 are controlled so that a part of the mechanical stimulation period FT1 and a part of the thermal sensation period HT overlap each other. Specifically, a part of the end side of the mechanoreceptor period FT1 and a part of the start side of the subsequent thermal sensation period HT overlap, and a part of the start side of the mechanoreceptor period FT1 and precede it. It is controlled so that it overlaps with a part of the end side of the thermal sensation period HT.

Specifically, the control unit 12 turns on the operation of the mechanical stimulation unit 11 for a predetermined mechanical stimulation period FT1 (for example, 1.4 seconds), and intermittently repeats the operation in the periodic FT3 (for example, 2 seconds). To control. The mechanical stimulation unit 11 is turned off during the period FT2 (for example, 0.6 seconds) after the mechanical stimulation period FT1. Further, the control unit 12 turns on the operation of the thermal stimulation unit 10 for a predetermined thermal stimulation period HT1 (for example, 0.8 seconds), and intermittently turns the operation on the periodic HT3 (for example, 2) which is the same value as the periodic FT3. Control to repeat in seconds). The thermal stimulation unit 10 is turned off during the period HT2 (for example, 1.2 seconds) after the thermal stimulation period HT1.

The heat sensation period HT is delayed by a delay time t from the start of operation of the heat stimulating unit 10 due to the influence of the environmental temperature, the body part of the human body, the amount of clothing, and the like (see FIG. 12). Further, the mechanical stimulus sensing period FT in which a person feels mechanical stimulus is not delayed from the start of operation of the mechanical stimulus unit 11. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 11, although the start times of the mechanical stimulation period FT1 and the thermal stimulation period HT1 are the same, the start times of both FT1 and HT1 may be staggered.

Here, a local region (temperature changing region) on the skin surface of the human body to which the mechanical stimulation f is given by the mechanical stimulation unit 11 and a local region (induction region) on the skin surface of the human body to which the thermal stimulation h is given by the thermal stimulation unit 10. Is a non-overlapping area. In the pair of the pair of heat stimulating parts 10 and the mechanical stimulating parts 11 adjacent to each other on the left and right, the skin segment including the temperature changing region is the same as the skin segment including the induction region. It is assumed that the skin segment located on the right half of the body and the skin segment located on the left half of the body belong to different skin segments.

Human skin can be divided into a number of skin segments. There is an idea that one skin segment is a region controlled by sensory nerves extending from one spinal nerve root. Therefore, when the skin segment including the temperature-changing region and the skin segment including the induction region are close to each other, the effect of the temperature illusion phenomenon can be easily obtained. For example, the skin segment containing the temperature-changing region and the skin segment containing the induction region may be the same or adjacent to each other.

Some of the above skin segments have been proposed. In the "skin clause" herein, Keegan JJ. and Garrett FD. : The segmental distribution of the cutaneous nerves in the limbs of man. The skin segment of Anat Rec 102 pp409-437 (1948) is adopted, and the skin segment of the left half of the body and the skin segment of the right half of the body are treated as different segments.

FIG. 13 is a simplified schematic diagram for explaining the skin segment. As mentioned above, some skin segments have been proposed and are not necessarily unique. FIG. 13 is a very simplified diagram for easy understanding of the concept of skin segments common to those skin segments. One skin segment occupies a band-shaped area depending on the height of the spinal cord nerve. The skin segment containing the point P and the skin segment containing the point Q are adjacent to each other. The skin segment containing the point P and the skin segment containing the point R are the same. The distance between the point P and the point Q is shorter than the distance between the point P and the point R. However, while the skin segment containing the point P and the point R is the same, the skin segment containing the point P and the skin segment containing the point Q are adjacent to each other. In this case, when the point P is the temperature change region and the point R is the induction region rather than the point Q, the effect of a high temperature illusion phenomenon can be obtained. As described above, it is preferable that the temperature changing region and the induction region are closer in the skin segment than the linear distance between the temperature changing region and the induction region.

In the general definition of skin segment, there is no distinction between the left and right halves across the median. However, the actual sensory nerves are divided into left and right halves and integrated. Therefore, the skin segment in the present specification is defined as different between the left half body and the right half body. The skin segment located on the right half of the body and the skin segment located on the left half of the body belong to different skin segments.

(2) Action of the warming device Next, the action of the warming device 1B having the above configuration will be described. By the operation of the warming device 1B, mechanical stimulation (vibration) f is intermittently and repeatedly applied to the local region of the skin surface of the seated person's shoulder and body side in contact with the seat back 4, and the seat back 4 is subjected to the mechanical stimulation (vibration) f. Thermal stimulation (heating) h is intermittently and repeatedly applied to local regions on the skin surface of the back and lumbar region of the seated person in contact. The mechanical stimulus f and the thermal stimulus h are alternately applied to the seated person at partially different timings, and are partially applied to the seated person at the same timing.

(3) Effect of Modified Example 1 According to the warming device 1B of the present modified example 1, in addition to exhibiting substantially the same action and effect as the warming device 1B of the second embodiment, it is a part of the mechanical stimulation period FT1. Since it is controlled so that a part of the thermal sensation period HT overlaps with each other, the mechanical stimulus is caused by the thermal illusion phenomenon (Thermal Referral) during the period when a part of the mechanical stimulation period FT1 and a part of the thermal sensation period HT overlap. It is possible to make the region where f is given emphasize the warmth more than the actual skin temperature. That is, there is an effect that a strong feeling of warmth is generated by the synergistic effect of the mechanical stimulation f and the thermal stimulation h.

Further, in this modification, the heat stimulating unit 10 heats the human skin surface by repeating the heating period HT and the heat dissipation period HT'(see FIG. 10). In this way, since the temperature of the human skin surface is changed in small steps, the rate of temperature rise of the skin can be sufficiently increased. When the temperature rise rate of the skin is high, a feeling of warmth is likely to occur, so that a temperature illusion phenomenon is likely to occur. That is, a person relatively strongly develops a warm temperature sensation even in an unheated induction region.

Further, in this modified example, a person feels a warm feeling due to heating and a warm feeling due to a temperature illusion phenomenon in a complex manner. By redistributing or emphasizing the warm sensation felt in the heated portion, the warm sensation device 1B can make the warm sensation stronger than the actual temperature in the induction region. Further, the warming device 1C need only locally heat a part of the human skin without heating the entire volume of air in the automobile. Therefore, the warming device 1B can make a person feel more warmth in the automobile at a stage where the heating appliance is just turned on and the inside of the automobile is not so warm. That is, human comfort is improved.

Further, in this modified example, the warming device 1B actually heats only a part of the human skin. Therefore, each heat stimulating unit 10 may be small. Further, the amount of heat output by the warming device 1B may be small. From these facts, the power consumption of heating appliances such as heaters and air conditioners can be suppressed, and an energy saving effect can be expected.

Further, in this modification, the heat dissipation period HT'is longer than the heating period HT. In the heat dissipation period HT', the skin is naturally cooled, so that the skin temperature rises rapidly in the heating period HT, and the skin temperature falls relatively slowly in the heat dissipation period HT'. Since the heat dissipation period HT'is longer than the heating period HT, the temperature of the skin can be gradually raised as a whole. That is, excessive heating of the skin can be suppressed.

<Modification 2 of Example 2>
Next, the warming device 1C according to the second modification of the second embodiment will be described, but the same components as those of the warming device 1B according to the second embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

(1) Configuration of warming device The warming device 1C according to the second modification is used for the seat cushion 5 to give a warm feeling to the seated person, as shown by virtual lines in FIGS. 5 and 6. be. The warming device 1C includes a mechanical stimulation unit 21, a thermal stimulation unit 20, and a control unit 12.

The heat stimulating unit 20 applies heat stimulation h to a local region (temperature changing region) on the skin surface of the seated person in contact with the seat cushion 5. The heat stimulating unit 20 is a planar heater that heats a temperature changing region. Further, a plurality (two in the figure) of the heat stimulating portions 20 are arranged at the high sitting pressure portions 5a located on the rear side in the front-rear direction of the seat cushion 5.

The mechanical stimulation unit 21 applies mechanical stimulation f to a local region (guidance region) on the skin surface of the seated person in contact with the seat cushion 5. The mechanical stimulation unit 21 is a vibrator (specifically, a voice coil motor) that gives vibration to the induction region. Further, a plurality of mechanical stimulation units 21 (two in the figure) are arranged in the low seat pressure portion 5b located in front of the high seat pressure portion 5a in the front-rear direction of the seat cushion 5.

(2) Action of the warming device Next, the action of the warming device 1C having the above configuration will be described. By the operation of the warming device 1C, mechanical stimulation (vibration) f is intermittently and repeatedly applied to the local region of the skin surface on the back side of the thigh of the seated person who comes into contact with the seat cushion 5, and also comes into contact with the seat cushion 5. Thermal stimulation (heating) h is intermittently and repeatedly applied to a local region on the skin surface of the buttocks of the seated person. These mechanical stimuli f and thermal stimuli h are alternately applied to the seated person.

(3) Effect of Deformation Example 2 According to the warming device 1C of the present modification 2, in addition to exhibiting substantially the same action and effect as the warming device 1B of the second embodiment, the heat stimulating unit 20 is a seat cushion. Since the mechanical stimulation portion 21 is arranged at the high sitting pressure portion 5a of 5 and the mechanical stimulation portion 21 is arranged at the low sitting pressure portion 5b of the seat cushion 5, the heat stimulation h warms the seated person's buttocks and other parts having high sitting pressure. The feeling is effectively given, and the mechanical stimulation f effectively gives a warm feeling to a part having a low sitting pressure such as the thigh of the seated person. Further, even if the area of the heat stimulating portion 20 provided on the seat cushion 5 is reduced, a feeling of warmth is given by the mechanical stimulus f to a portion having a low sitting pressure such as the thigh of the seated person, so that there is a difference in body size of the seated person. Robustness is enhanced.

<Experimental example 2>
Next, Experimental Example 2 relating to the thermal illusion phenomenon (Thermal Referral) will be described. As an experimental method, while heating two places on the left calf of the subject, a heating part is placed on the back of the right foot and a vibrating part is placed on the back of the left foot. The back of the left foot is temperature-controlled so as to be constant at 32 ° C. The back of the foot is the instep. The two calves on the left are heated alternately in a pulsed manner. The subject receives vibrations on the back of his left foot while heating two parts of his left calf. The subject can operate the adjusting device for the heating part of the back of the right foot. The subject operates the adjusting device for the heating part of the right back so that the right back and the left back feel the same warmth while the left calf is being heated and the left back is vibrated. .. In this state, the temperatures of the two points on the left calf of the subject and the backs of the left and right feet are measured. The skin segment including the calf and the skin segment including the back of the foot are adjacent to each other.

According to the results of the above experiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the skin temperature of the back of the right foot and the back of the left foot gradually rises and falls gradually as a whole. The temperature of the back of the left foot maintains a constant value of about 32 ° C. The temperature of the back of the right foot is rising due to heating by the heating part. After 100 seconds from the start of the experiment, the temperature of the back of the left foot is 32 ° C, and the temperature of the back of the right foot and the left calf is about 38 ° C to 39 ° C. The experiment was completed after 100 seconds had passed. As described above, the temperature difference between the back of the right foot and the back of the left foot is about 6 ° C. 100 seconds after the start of the experiment. However, the subject has the illusion that the back of the right foot and the back of the left foot are at the same temperature. In this way, when vibration is applied to the back of the left foot along with pulse heating to the left calf, the subject feels warmth on the back of the left foot even though the temperature of the back of the left foot has not risen.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned examples, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention according to the purpose and application. That is, it may be a warming device configured by combining two or more of the above Examples 1 and 2 and Modified Examples 1 and 2. For example, the sheet 3 may be a combination of the warming devices 1B and 1C, or the sheet 3 may be a sheet 3 using only one of the warming devices 1B and 1C.

Further, in the above-mentioned modification 1, a embodiment in which each part of the start side and the end side of the mechanical stimulation period FT1 and each part of the start side and the end side of the thermal sensation period HT are controlled to overlap is exemplified. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, as shown in FIG. 15 (a), a part of the end side of the mechanical stimulation period FT1 and a part of the start side of the thermal sensation period HT are controlled to overlap. It may be in the form.
Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 15B, a form may be controlled so that a part of the start side of the mechanical stimulation period FT1 and a part of the end side of the thermal sensation period HT overlap.
Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 15C, the form may be controlled so that the entire mechanical stimulation period FT1 and a part of the thermal sensation period HT overlap.

Further, in the second embodiment, the warming devices 1B and 1C configured by combining a pair of mechanical stimulating units 11 and 21 and heat stimulating units 10 and 20 adjacent to each other have been illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example. , As shown in FIG. 16, the warming devices 1B and 1C may be configured by combining a single thermal stimulus unit 10 and 20 with respect to a plurality of mechanical stimulus units 11 and 21.

Further, in the second embodiment, the heat stimulating parts 10 and 20 provided on the skin material of the sheet 3 are illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the heat stimulating parts 10 and 20 provided in the sheet 3 may be used. good. Further, in Examples 1 and 2, the mechanical stimulation units 11 and 21 provided in the seat 3 are illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the mechanical stimulation units 11 and 21 provided on the skin material of the seat 3 are illustrated. May be.

Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 16, when the seat 3 includes an ottoman 6 as a footrest, the mechanical stimulation unit 11 is arranged at the front end portion of the ottoman 6 in the front-rear direction, and the thermal stimulation unit 10 is the ottoman 6. Can be placed posterior to the anterior end site in the anterior-posterior direction of. As a result, even if the ottoman 6 is used while wearing shoes, vibration stimulation can be effectively applied to the foot.

The above examples are for illustration purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the invention. Although the present invention has been described with reference to typical embodiments, the language used in the description and illustration of the invention is understood to be descriptive and exemplary rather than restrictive. As described in detail here, modifications can be made within the scope of the appended claims without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention in that form. Although specific structures, materials and examples have been referred to herein in detail of the invention, it is not intended to limit the invention to the disclosures herein, but rather the invention is claimed in the accompanying claims. It shall cover all functionally equivalent structures, methods and uses within the scope.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments detailed above, and various modifications or modifications can be made within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

The present invention is widely used as a technique for giving a warm feeling to the skin surface of the human body.

1A to 1C; warming device, 3; automobile seats 10, 20; thermal stimulating section 11,21; mechanical stimulating section, 12; control section, FT1; mechanical stimulating period, HT; thermal sensation period.

Claims (5)

It is a warming device to give a warm feeling to the human body.
A mechanoreceptor that gives mechanical stimulation to the skin surface of the human body,
A control unit that operates the mechanical stimulation unit for a predetermined mechanical stimulation period and controls the operation so as to repeat the operation intermittently.
A warming device characterized by being provided with. Equipped with a heat stimulating part that gives heat stimulation to the skin surface of the human body
The heat stimulating unit is controlled by the control unit so as to intermittently repeat the operation during a predetermined heat stimulating period.
According to claim 1, the control unit operates the mechanical stimulation unit and the thermal stimulation unit so that the thermal sensation period in which a person feels the heat by the operation of the thermal stimulation unit is sandwiched between the mechanical stimulation periods. The warming device described. The warming device according to claim 2, wherein the mechanical stimulation period and the thermal sensation period are controlled so as not to overlap with each other. The warming device according to claim 2, wherein a part or all of the mechanical stimulation period is controlled so that a part of the thermal sensation period overlaps. A vehicle seat comprising the warming device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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