JP2023039749A - Biofeedback system, biofeedback method, and control program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a biofeedback system, a biofeedback method, and a control program that can efficiently assist a predetermined movement of a user.SOLUTION: The biofeedback system is used to assist a predetermined movement performed by a user. The biofeedback system includes an acquisition unit and a reporting unit. The acquisition unit continuously acquires parameters of postures of the user. The reporting unit continuously reports, to the user, posture information generated based on the parameters. The reporting unit stops the reporting of the posture information at a predetermined timing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a biofeedback system, biofeedback method and control program.

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2018-82770 (Patent Document 1) discloses a motion analysis device. This motion analysis apparatus sequentially detects changes in the inclination of the body of a subject performing a predetermined motion. Then, a posture model moving image generated based on the detection result is displayed. By confirming this posture model moving image, the subject can easily grasp the posture of his/her own body (see Patent Document 1).

JP-A-2018-82770

A technique for allowing a user to grasp the posture of his or her own body, as disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, is considered to be effective in assisting the user in performing a predetermined exercise. On the other hand, the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 has room for further improvement.

The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and its object is to provide a biofeedback system, a biofeedback method, and a control program that can effectively support a user's predetermined exercise. is.

A biofeedback system according to one aspect of the invention is used to assist a user in performing a given exercise. This biofeedback system comprises an acquisition unit and a notification unit. The acquisition unit is configured to continuously acquire parameters related to the user's posture. The notification unit is configured to continuously notify the user of the posture information generated based on the parameters. The notification unit is configured to stop notification of posture information at a predetermined timing.

In this biofeedback system, the posture information is continuously notified to the user, while the posture information is stopped at a predetermined timing. Therefore, according to this biofeedback system, a predetermined exercise (hereinafter also referred to as "first predetermined exercise") in a state in which posture information has been notified is changed to a predetermined exercise in a state in which posture information has not been notified (hereinafter, "second predetermined exercise"). (also referred to as “exercise”) at an appropriate time. As a result, according to this biofeedback system, it is possible to effectively support the user's predetermined exercise.

In the above-described biofeedback system, the predetermined timing may be timing when a first predetermined time has passed since notification of the posture information was started.

According to this biofeedback system, the type of predetermined exercise can be switched from the first predetermined exercise to the second predetermined exercise at a pre-programmed appropriate timing.

In the biofeedback system described above, the predetermined timing may be the timing when the parameter satisfies a predetermined condition.

According to this biofeedback system, the type of predetermined exercise can be switched from the first predetermined exercise to the second predetermined exercise at an appropriate timing when the parameter satisfies the predetermined condition.

The biofeedback system may further include a receiving unit configured to receive an instruction to stop notification of posture information from an operator of the biofeedback system, and the predetermined timing may be the timing at which the stop instruction is received.

According to this biofeedback system, the type of predetermined exercise can be switched from the first predetermined exercise to the second predetermined exercise at the timing considered appropriate by the operator.

In the above biofeedback system, the notification unit may be configured to notify the user of suspension of posture information notification before suspension of posture information notification.

According to this biofeedback system, since the suspension of notification of the posture information is announced, the user can perform the second predetermined exercise after making mental preparations in advance.

In the biofeedback system described above, the notification unit may be configured to start a predetermined notification to the user when the parameter remains out of the target range for a second predetermined period of time.

According to this biofeedback system, a predetermined notification is given when the user's posture is deteriorating, so it is possible to encourage the user to improve his/her posture.

In the above biofeedback system, the notification unit starts a predetermined notification to the user when the parameter is within the target range, and issues a predetermined notification when the parameter remains out of the target range for a second predetermined time. It may be configured to stop.

According to this biofeedback system, since the predetermined notification is stopped when the user's posture is deteriorating, it is possible to prompt the user to improve his/her posture.

In the biofeedback system described above, the notification unit may be configured to perform a predetermined notification only while notification of the posture information is stopped.

According to this biofeedback system, since the predetermined notification is not performed while the posture information is being notified, it is possible to avoid a situation in which excessive information is provided to the user.

The biofeedback system further includes a storage unit configured to store first posture information indicating posture information that has not been notified to the user, and the notification unit notifies the first posture information after the predetermined exercise. It may be configured as

According to this biofeedback system, since the first posture information is notified, the user can check his/her own posture during the second predetermined exercise after the predetermined exercise.

In the above biofeedback system, the storage unit is configured to store second posture information indicating posture information notified to the user, and the notification unit is configured by a monitor. 2 posture information may be displayed side by side after a predetermined exercise.

According to this biofeedback system, since the first posture information and the second posture information are displayed side by side, the user can check his/her posture during the first predetermined exercise and his/her posture during the second predetermined exercise. They can be easily compared visually.

The biofeedback system may further comprise an orthosis worn by the user and fitted with sensors used to detect the parameter.

According to this biofeedback system, since the sensor is attached to the equipment worn by the user, it is possible to acquire the information necessary for parameter detection with higher accuracy, and as a result, the parameter can be detected with higher accuracy. can be done.

A biofeedback method according to another aspect of the present invention is a method for assisting a user with predetermined exercise. This biofeedback method includes the steps of continuously acquiring parameters related to the user's posture, continuously notifying the user of posture information generated based on the parameters, and notifying the user of the posture information at a predetermined timing. and stopping.

In this biofeedback method, posture information is continuously notified to the user, while posture information notification is stopped at a predetermined timing. Therefore, according to this biofeedback method, it is possible to switch from the first predetermined exercise to the second predetermined exercise at an appropriate timing. As a result, according to this biofeedback method, it is possible to effectively assist the user's predetermined exercise.

A control program according to another aspect of the present invention is a control program for a biofeedback system used to assist a user in predetermined exercise. This control program includes steps of continuously obtaining parameters related to the user's posture, continuously notifying the user of posture information generated based on the parameters, and stopping notification of the posture information at a predetermined timing. causing the computer to perform the steps of:

When this control program is executed, the posture information is continuously notified to the user, while the posture information is stopped at a predetermined timing. Therefore, according to this control program, it is possible to switch from the first predetermined motion to the second predetermined motion at an appropriate timing. As a result, according to this control program, it is possible to effectively assist the user's predetermined exercise.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a biofeedback system, a biofeedback method, and a control program that can effectively support a user's predetermined exercise.

1 is a diagram schematically showing a biofeedback system; FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing an electrical configuration of an information terminal; FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of an equipment typically. It is a figure which shows typically an example of a structure of a fiber sensor. It is a figure which shows typically the state which the fiber sensor curved. 4 is a flow chart showing a procedure of calibration operation; It is a flowchart which shows the operation|movement procedure of the brace during rehabilitation. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an operation procedure of the information terminal during first rehabilitation when the information terminal is set to the first automatic mode; FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing an example of posture information displayed on a monitor; FIG. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an operation procedure of the information terminal during second rehabilitation when the information terminal is set to the first automatic mode; FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the transition notice of rehabilitation classification. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an operation procedure of the information terminal during first rehabilitation when the information terminal is set to the second automatic mode; FIG. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an operation procedure of the information terminal during second rehabilitation when the information terminal is set to the second automatic mode; FIG. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an operation procedure of the information terminal during first rehabilitation when the information terminal is set to manual mode; FIG. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an operating procedure of the information terminal during the second rehabilitation when the information terminal is set to manual mode; FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing a procedure of operations performed in an information terminal regardless of mode; It is a figure which shows typically an example of the alert displayed on a monitor. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the operation|movement performed after rehabilitation. It is a figure which shows an example of 1st attitude|position information. 10 is a flow chart showing the procedure of operations executed in the information terminal regardless of the mode in the modified example. It is a figure which shows an example of the message displayed on a monitor in a modification. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a monitor when both the angle and tilt of a specific part of the user's body are detected;

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The same or corresponding parts in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[1. composition]
<1-1. Overall System Configuration>
FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a biofeedback system 10 according to this embodiment. Biofeedback is an operation that measures physiological activity (reaction) that indicates the state of a living body, converts the activity into easily understandable information (for example, images, sounds or vibrations), and transmits the information to the living body. The biofeedback system 10 is used, for example, for functional recovery (rehabilitation) of the user's body. Rehabilitation is an example of "predetermined exercise" in the present invention. Biofeedback system 10 is used, for example, in the rehabilitation of users who are unable to move their spine, knees, hips, or shoulders. As used herein, “user” refers to a person undergoing rehabilitation through biofeedback system 10 . Note that the biofeedback system 10 may be operated by an operator other than the user. Examples of "operators" include physical therapists, nurses and doctors.

As shown in FIG. 1, biofeedback system 10 includes information terminal 100 and equipment 200 . The brace 200 is configured to be worn by a user and to detect parameters related to the user's posture. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the brace 200 is configured to detect the curvature (angle) of the user's back.

The information terminal 100 is configured by, for example, a PC (Personal Computer), tablet, or smart phone. The information terminal 100 is configured to receive parameters detected by the device 200 and to notify the user of posture information generated based on the parameters. For example, the information terminal 100 displays an image showing the posture information on the monitor and notifies the user of the posture information. Further, the information terminal 100 may output a sound indicating the posture information from a speaker to notify the user of the posture information. Also, when the information terminal 100 is a smartphone, the posture information may be notified to the user through vibration.

The user tries to improve his or her posture while referring to the notified posture information. For example, users with central nervous system impairments may not be able to recognize whether they are standing up straight. Such a user can recognize whether he or she is standing straight by referring to the notified posture information. Accurately recognizing one's actual posture allows the user to make trial and error in rehabilitation.

On the other hand, the state in which the user can move his or her body as desired by referring to the posture information is only an intermediate stage of rehabilitation. Ultimately, it is necessary for users to be able to move their bodies as they wish without referring to posture information. Biofeedback system 10 according to the present embodiment is devised so that the user can move his or her body as desired without referring to posture information.

That is, in the biofeedback system 10, the information terminal 100 continuously notifies the user of posture information, and stops notifying the posture information at a predetermined timing. Therefore, according to the biofeedback system 10, rehabilitation in a state in which posture information has been notified (hereinafter also referred to as "first rehabilitation") to rehabilitation in a state in which posture information has not been notified (hereinafter also referred to as "second rehabilitation") ) can be switched at the appropriate time. As a result, the biofeedback system 10 can effectively support rehabilitation for the user to be able to move his/her own body as desired without referring to the posture information. The first rehabilitation is an example of the first predetermined exercise, and the second rehabilitation is an example of the second predetermined exercise. Each component and operation of the biofeedback system 10 will now be described in detail.

<1-2. Configuration of Information Terminal>
FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the electrical configuration of the information terminal 100. As shown in FIG. As described above, the information terminal 100 is configured by, for example, a PC, tablet, or smart phone. As shown in FIG. 2 , information terminal 100 includes control unit 110 , communication I/F (interface) 130 , monitor 140 , reception unit 150 , speaker 160 , and storage unit 120 . In the information terminal 100, each component is electrically connected via a bus.

The control unit 110 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 112, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 113, etc., and is configured to control each component according to information processing. . Communication I/F 130 is configured to communicate with equipment 200 directly or via the Internet. The communication I/F 130 is composed of, for example, a wired or wireless communication module.

Monitor 140 is configured to display an image. The monitor 140 is, for example, a display device such as a liquid crystal monitor or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) monitor. The receiving unit 150 is configured to receive instructions from the user. The reception unit 150 is composed of, for example, a part or all of a touch panel, keyboard, mouse, and microphone. Speaker 160 is configured to output sound.

The storage unit 120 is, for example, an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive or solid state drive. The storage unit 120 is configured to store a control program 121, for example. Various functions of the information terminal 100 are realized by the control program 121 being executed by the CPU 111 .

<1-3. Configuration of equipment>
FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing the electrical configuration of the brace 200. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the equipment 200 includes a control unit 210, a communication I/F 230, a fiber sensor 240, a capacitance difference calculation unit 250, a reception unit 260, and a storage unit 220. . In the appliance 200, each component is electrically connected via a bus. The brace 200 is worn on the user's back such that the fiber sensor 240 follows the user's spinal column. The equipment 200 is configured to detect the curvature of the back of the user wearing the equipment 200 (parameter indicating the angle) and transmit the detected parameter to the information terminal 100 .

The control unit 210 includes a CPU 211, a RAM 212, a ROM 213, and the like, and is configured to control each component according to information processing. Communication I/F 230 is configured to communicate with information terminal 100 directly or via the Internet. Communication I/F 230 is configured by, for example, a wired or wireless communication module.

FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the configuration of the fiber sensor 240. As shown in FIG. The fiber sensor 240 is used to detect a parameter (angle) indicating how the back of the user wearing the brace 200 bends.

As shown in FIG. 4, fiber sensor 240 includes multiple layers. Specifically, the fiber sensor 240 includes a layer constituting the capacitance sensor (capacitor) 21, a layer constituting the capacitance sensor (capacitor) 22, and an insulating layer sandwiched between the capacitance sensors 21 and 22. 245.

The capacitance sensor 21 is composed of electrode layers 241 and 242 and an insulating layer 246 sandwiched between the electrode layers 241 and 242 . The capacitance sensor 22 is composed of electrode layers 243 and 244 and an insulating layer 247 sandwiched between the electrode layers 243 and 244 .

Each electrode layer is formed of, for example, a thin film formed using a metal or a conductive resin, or a cloth knitted or woven using a metal fiber or a conductive fiber. Also, each insulating layer is formed of a resin film such as a polyurethane film, a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film, a biaxially stretched polypropylene film, or the like. Two layers adjacent to each other are joined, for example, by an adhesive.

FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a state in which the fiber sensor 240 is curved. As shown in FIG. 5, in this example, the electrode layer 241 of the fiber sensor 240 is convexly curved and the electrode layer 244 of the fiber sensor 240 is concavely curved. In this case, the insulating layer 246 included in the capacitive sensor 21 is thinned, and the insulating layer 247 included in the capacitive sensor 22 is thickened. As a result, the capacitance C1 of the capacitance sensor 21 increases and the capacitance C2 of the capacitance sensor 22 decreases. In the brace 200, the bending degree (angle) of the fiber sensor 240 can be calculated from the difference between the capacitance C1 and the capacitance C2. As the fiber sensor 240, various known fiber sensors capable of detecting the degree of bending (angle) can be applied.

Referring again to FIG. 3, fiber sensor 240 is configured to continuously detect the values of capacitances C1 and C2. The capacitance difference calculator 250 is configured to calculate the difference between the capacitance C1 and the capacitance C2. In this example, the controller 210 is configured to calculate the angle (parameter) of the fiber sensor 240 based on the capacitance difference calculated by the capacitance difference calculator 250 . The calculated parameters are transmitted to information terminal 100 via communication I/F 230 .

The receiving unit 260 is configured to receive instructions from the user. The reception unit 260 is composed of physical buttons, for example. The storage unit 220 is, for example, an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive or solid state drive. The storage unit 220 is configured to store a control program 221, for example. Various functions in the equipment 200 are realized by the control program 221 being executed by the CPU 211 .

[2. motion]
<2-1. Calibration operation>
In the biofeedback system 10, the equipment 200 is first calibrated. Calibration is the task of determining the bending degree reference of the fiber sensor 240 (position of zero angle). Calibration is performed while the device 200 is worn by the user.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing the procedure of calibration operation. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed by the control unit 210 while the user wears the brace 200 when preparing to start rehabilitation.

Referring to FIG. 6, control unit 210 determines whether or not an instruction to execute calibration (hereinafter also referred to as "calibration execution instruction") has been received from an operator such as a physical therapist. step S100). The operator issues a calibration execution instruction, for example, at the timing when the user's posture becomes an ideal posture.

If it is determined that the calibration execution instruction has not been received (NO in step S100), control unit 210 waits until the calibration execution instruction is received. On the other hand, when it is determined that the calibration execution instruction has been received (YES in step S100), control unit 210 executes calibration (step S110). Specifically, the control unit 210 regards the angle (degree of bending) of the fiber sensor 240 at the timing of receiving the calibration execution instruction as zero. The controller 210 outputs the angle of the fiber sensor 240 as the amount of change from the angle considered to be zero. According to the biofeedback system 10, for example, by using the ideal state of a specific part (for example, the spinal column) as a reference, the amount of deviation from the ideal state can be detected as an angle.

<2-2. Movement during rehabilitation>
When rehabilitation is started, each of the equipment 200 and the information terminal 100 performs various operations. As described above, for example, in information terminal 100, switching operation between the first rehabilitation and the second rehabilitation is performed. Types of switching modes include a first automatic mode, a second automatic mode, and a manual mode. The trigger for switching the rehabilitation type changes depending on which mode is set. Hereinafter, the operation of the equipment 200, the operation of the information terminal 100 in the first automatic mode, the operation of the information terminal 100 in the second automatic mode, the operation of the information terminal 100 in the manual mode, the common operation of the information terminal 100 in each mode, and The operation of the information terminal 100 at times other than rehabilitation will be described in order.

(2-2-1. Operation of the orthosis)
FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing the operation procedure of the brace 200 during rehabilitation. The processing shown in this flowchart is repeatedly executed in a predetermined cycle by the control unit 210 .

Referring to FIG. 7, control unit 210 acquires a calculation result from capacitance difference calculation unit 250 (step S200). The controller 210 calculates the angle of the fiber sensor 240 based on the calculated capacitance difference (step S210). Control unit 210 controls communication I/F 230 to transmit information indicating the calculated angle (angle information) to information terminal 100 (step S220). By repeating this process in a predetermined cycle, the latest angle information of the fiber sensor 240 is transmitted to the information terminal 100 in a predetermined cycle.

(2-2-2. Operation of information terminal in first automatic mode)
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the information terminal 100 during the first rehabilitation when the information terminal 100 is set to the first automatic mode. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed by control unit 110 during the first rehabilitation when information terminal 100 is set to the first automatic mode.

Referring to FIG. 8, control unit 110 determines whether angle information has been acquired from equipment 200 via communication I/F 130 (step S300). If it is determined that the angle information has not been acquired (NO in step S300), control unit 110 waits until the angle information is acquired.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the angle information has been acquired (YES in step S300), control unit 110 stores the acquired angle information in storage unit 120 (step S310). Control unit 110 generates posture information based on the acquired angle information (step S320). Posture information is image information indicating the state of the user's posture. Control unit 110 controls monitor 140 to display the generated posture information (step S330).

FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing an example of posture information displayed on monitor 140. As shown in FIG. Referring to FIG. 9, scale image 300 is displayed on monitor 140 . The scale image 300 has, for example, a rectangular shape, and angles (angles of the fiber sensors 240) are assigned at equal intervals in the longitudinal direction. In this example, angles from -30° to 60° are equally spaced.

A bar image 305 is displayed on the scale image 300 . The bar image 305 is rectangular, and one end of the bar image 305 is fixed at the 0° position. The position of the other end of bar image 305 is variable. The position of the other end of bar image 305 indicates the current fiber sensor 240 angle. That is, the bar image 305 expands and contracts in the longitudinal direction of the scale image 300 as the angle of the fiber sensor 240 changes. By visually recognizing the posture information, the user can recognize the degree of curvature of his or her spinal column.

An upper limit line image 310 indicates the position of the upper limit value of the angle range targeted by the user, and a lower limit line image 315 indicates the position of the lower limit value of the angle range targeted by the user. By visually recognizing the bar image 305, the upper limit line image 310, and the lower limit line image 315, the user can recognize whether or not the current degree of curvature of his or her spinal column is within the target range.

Referring to FIG. 8 again, when the posture information is displayed in step S330, control unit 110 determines whether or not the first rehabilitation time has elapsed since the start of the first rehabilitation (step S340). The first rehabilitation time indicates the time during which the first rehabilitation is continuously performed, and is determined in advance in the control program 121, for example.

If it is determined that the first rehabilitation time period has not elapsed (NO in step S340), control unit 110 repeats the processes of steps S300 to S340 until the first rehabilitation time period has elapsed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first rehabilitation time has elapsed (YES in step S340), control unit 110 controls monitor 140 to stop displaying the posture information, and shifts to the second rehabilitation process ( step S350). According to the biofeedback system 10, the type of rehabilitation can be switched from the first rehabilitation to the second rehabilitation at a pre-programmed appropriate timing.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the information terminal 100 during the second rehabilitation when the information terminal 100 is set to the first automatic mode. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed by control unit 110 during the second rehabilitation when information terminal 100 is set to the first automatic mode.

Referring to FIG. 10, control unit 110 determines whether or not angle information has been acquired from equipment 200 via communication I/F 130 (step S400). If it is determined that the angle information has not been acquired (NO in step S400), control unit 110 waits until the angle information is acquired.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the angle information has been acquired (YES in step S400), control unit 110 stores the acquired angle information in storage unit 120 (step S410). Control unit 110 determines whether or not the second rehabilitation time has elapsed since the start of the second rehabilitation (step S420). The second rehabilitation time indicates the time during which the second rehabilitation is continuously performed, and is determined in advance in the control program 121, for example.

If it is determined that the second rehabilitation time period has not elapsed (NO in step S420), control unit 110 repeats the processes of steps S400 to S420 until the second rehabilitation time period has elapsed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the second rehabilitation time has passed (YES in step S420), control unit 110 executes processing according to control program 121 (step S430). Control part 110 performs processing for shifting to the 1st rehabilitation again, for example.

By the way, if the type of rehabilitation is suddenly switched, the user may be surprised. In order to avoid such a situation, the biofeedback system 10 gives an advance notice to the user that the rehabilitation type will be changed in a few seconds.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a procedure for advance notice of transition of rehabilitation type. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed by the control unit 110 in parallel with the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8 or 10, for example.

Referring to FIG. 11 , control unit 110 determines whether or not the advance notice timing of rehabilitation type transition has arrived (step S500). The transition notice timing is, for example, the timing several seconds before the first rehabilitation time elapses in step S340 of FIG. 8 or the timing several seconds before the second rehabilitation time elapses in step S420 of FIG.

If it is determined that the transition notice timing has not arrived (NO in step S500), control unit 110 waits until the transition notice timing arrives. On the other hand, if it is determined that the advance notice timing has arrived (YES in step S500), control unit 110 controls monitor 140 to execute the advance notice (step S510). For example, control unit 110 causes monitor 140 to display a countdown. According to the biofeedback system 10, for example, since the transition to the second rehabilitation is announced, the user can prepare mentally in advance and face the second rehabilitation.

(2-2-3. Operation of information terminal in second automatic mode)
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the information terminal 100 during the first rehabilitation when the information terminal 100 is set to the second automatic mode. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed by control unit 110 during the first rehabilitation when information terminal 100 is set to the second automatic mode.

Referring to FIG. 12, control unit 110 determines whether angle information has been acquired from equipment 200 via communication I/F 130 (step S600). If it is determined that the angle information has not been acquired (NO in step S600), control unit 110 waits until the angle information is acquired.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the angle information has been acquired (YES in step S600), control unit 110 stores the acquired angle information in storage unit 120 (step S610). Control unit 110 generates posture information based on the acquired angle information (step S620). Posture information is image information indicating the state of the user's posture. Control unit 110 controls monitor 140 to display the generated posture information (step S630). Posture information is, for example, image information as shown in FIG.

Control unit 110 determines whether or not the angle information (parameter) acquired in step S600 satisfies a first predetermined condition (step S640). As an example of the first predetermined condition, (1) the angle remains within the range of the first threshold for a predetermined period of time; >first threshold) and the frequency of angle fluctuation is lower than a predetermined threshold.

If it is determined that the angle information does not satisfy the first predetermined condition (NO in step S640), control unit 110 repeats the processing of steps S600 to S640 until the angle information satisfies the first predetermined condition. On the other hand, when it is determined that the angle information satisfies the first predetermined condition (YES in step S640), control unit 110 controls monitor 140 to stop displaying the posture information, and shifts to the second rehabilitation process. (step S650). According to the biofeedback system 10, the type of rehabilitation can be switched from the first rehabilitation to the second rehabilitation at an appropriate timing when the parameter (angle information) satisfies the predetermined condition.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing the operation procedure of the information terminal 100 during the second rehabilitation when the information terminal 100 is set to the second automatic mode. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed by control unit 110 during the second rehabilitation when information terminal 100 is set to the second automatic mode.

Referring to FIG. 13, control unit 110 determines whether or not angle information has been acquired from equipment 200 via communication I/F 130 (step S700). If it is determined that the angle information has not been acquired (NO in step S700), control unit 110 waits until the angle information is acquired.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the angle information has been acquired (YES in step S700), control unit 110 stores the acquired angle information in storage unit 120 (step S710). Control unit 110 determines whether the angle information (parameter) satisfies a second predetermined condition (step S720). Examples of the second predetermined condition include (1) that the angle continues for a predetermined period of time and is out of the range of the third threshold, and (2) that the angle continues for a predetermined period of time to a fourth threshold (fourth threshold < third threshold) and the frequency of angle fluctuation is higher than a predetermined threshold.

If it is determined that the angle information does not satisfy the second predetermined condition (NO in step S720), control unit 110 repeats the processing of steps S700 to S720 until the angle information satisfies the second predetermined condition. On the other hand, when it is determined that the angle information satisfies the second predetermined condition (YES in step S720), control unit 110 executes processing according to control program 121 (step S730). Control part 110 performs processing for shifting to the 1st rehabilitation again, for example.

In the second automatic mode, it can be said that the rehabilitation progresses smoothly as the ratio of the second rehabilitation time to the entire rehabilitation time increases. For example, after completion of rehabilitation, the ratio of the first or second rehabilitation time to the entire rehabilitation time may be calculated, and the calculated ratio may be displayed on monitor 140 . This allows the user to visually recognize how effective the rehabilitation is. Further, for example, after the rehabilitation is finished, the monitor 140 may display the transition from the past of the ratio of the first or second rehabilitation time to the entire rehabilitation time. Thereby, the user can visually recognize how the effect of rehabilitation appears by continuing rehabilitation.

(2-2-4. Operation of information terminal in manual mode)
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the operating procedure of the information terminal 100 during the first rehabilitation when the information terminal 100 is set to the manual mode. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed by control unit 110 during the first rehabilitation when information terminal 100 is set to the manual mode.

Referring to FIG. 14, control unit 110 determines whether angle information has been acquired from equipment 200 via communication I/F 130 (step S800). If it is determined that the angle information has not been acquired (NO in step S800), control unit 110 waits until the angle information is acquired.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the angle information has been acquired (YES in step S800), control unit 110 stores the acquired angle information in storage unit 120 (step S810). Control unit 110 generates posture information based on the acquired angle information (step S820). Posture information is image information indicating the state of the user's posture. Control unit 110 controls monitor 140 to display the generated posture information (step S830). Posture information is, for example, image information as shown in FIG.

Control unit 110 determines whether or not an instruction to stop displaying posture information has been received (step S840). For example, the control unit 110 determines whether or not an instruction to stop displaying posture information has been received from the operator via the receiving unit 150 .

If it is determined that the display stop instruction has not been received (NO in step S840), control unit 110 repeats the processing of steps S800 to S840 until the display stop instruction is received. On the other hand, if it is determined that the display stop instruction has been received (YES in step S840), control unit 110 controls monitor 140 to stop displaying the posture information, and proceeds to the second rehabilitation process (step S850). ). According to the biofeedback system 10, the type of rehabilitation can be switched from the first rehabilitation to the second rehabilitation at the timing that the operator considers appropriate.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the information terminal 100 during the second rehabilitation when the information terminal 100 is set to the manual mode. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed by control unit 110 during the second rehabilitation when information terminal 100 is set to the manual mode.

Referring to FIG. 15, control unit 110 determines whether angle information has been acquired from equipment 200 via communication I/F 130 (step S900). If it is determined that the angle information has not been acquired (NO in step S900), control unit 110 waits until the angle information is acquired.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the angle information has been acquired (YES in step S900), control unit 110 stores the acquired angle information in storage unit 120 (step S910). Control unit 110 determines whether or not an instruction to resume display of posture information has been received (step S920).

If it is determined that the display resumption instruction has not been received (NO in step S920), control unit 110 repeats the processing of steps S900 to S920 until the display resumption instruction is received. On the other hand, if it is determined that the display restart instruction has been received (YES in step S920), control unit 110 executes processing according to control program 121 (step S930). Control part 110 performs processing for shifting to the 1st rehabilitation again, for example.

(2-2-5. Common operation of information terminal in each mode)
FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing the procedure of operations executed in information terminal 100 regardless of the mode. The processing shown in this flowchart is repeatedly executed by the control unit 110 during the second rehabilitation. Note that the processing shown in this flowchart is not executed during the first rehabilitation.

Referring to FIG. 16, control unit 110 determines whether or not angle information has been acquired from equipment 200 via communication I/F 130 (step S1000). If it is determined that the angle information has not been acquired (NO in step S1000), control unit 110 waits until the angle information is acquired.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the angle information has been acquired (YES in step S1000), control unit 110 determines whether the acquired angle information (parameter) is outside the target range (step S1010). The target range is defined, for example, by an upper limit value and a lower limit value of the angle or an upper limit value of the angle fluctuation. Information indicating the target range is stored in the storage unit 120 .

If it is determined that the parameter is within the target range (NO in step S1010), control unit 110 executes the process of step S1000 again. On the other hand, if it is determined that the parameter is out of the target range (YES in step S1010), control unit 110 determines whether the parameter is out of the target range for a predetermined period of time (step S1020). .

If it is determined that it has not continued for the predetermined time (NO in step S1020), control unit 110 executes the process of step S1000 again. On the other hand, if it is determined that it has continued for the predetermined time (YES in step S1020), control unit 110 controls monitor 140 to display an alert (step S1030).

FIG. 17 is a diagram schematically showing an example of an alert displayed on monitor 140. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 17, a message 400 is displayed on monitor 140 . A message 400 is a message for notifying the user that the posture is deteriorating.

According to the biofeedback system 10, a predetermined notification (display of an alert) is performed when the user's posture is deteriorating, so that the user can be urged to improve the posture. Moreover, according to the biofeedback system 10, since the predetermined notification (alert display) is not performed during the first rehabilitation, it is possible to avoid a situation in which excessive information is provided to the user.

<2-3. Actions other than during rehabilitation>
FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing the procedure of actions performed after rehabilitation. The processing shown in this flowchart is repeatedly executed by the control unit 110 after the rehabilitation is finished.

Referring to FIG. 18, control unit 110 determines whether or not an instruction to display transition of posture information (first posture information) during second rehabilitation has been received (step S1100). If it is determined that the display instruction has been received (YES in step S1100), control unit 110 generates first orientation information based on the angle information stored in storage unit 120, and causes the first orientation information to be displayed. monitor 140 (step S1110). The first orientation information is, for example, image information.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of the first orientation information. Referring to FIG. 19, the horizontal axis indicates time and the vertical axis indicates the angle of fiber sensor 240 . The first posture information indicates transition of angle information during the second rehabilitation. According to the biofeedback system 10, since the first posture information is notified after rehabilitation, the user can check his/her own posture during the second rehabilitation after rehabilitation.

Referring to FIG. 18 again, if it is determined in step S1100 that a display instruction has not been received (NO in step S1100), control unit 110 issues an instruction to display the first and second orientation information so that they can be compared. It is determined whether or not it has been accepted (step S1120). If it is determined that an instruction to display the first and second orientation information in a comparable manner has not been received (NO in step S1120), control unit 110 executes the process of step S1100 again.

On the other hand, if it is determined that an instruction to display the first and second orientation information in a comparable manner has been received (YES in step S1120), control unit 110 causes the first and second orientation information to be displayed in a comparable manner. The monitor 140 is controlled (step S1130). The second posture information indicates transition of angle information during the first rehabilitation. In step S1130, for example, the first orientation information and the second orientation information are displayed side by side on the monitor 140. FIG.

According to the biofeedback system 10, since the first posture information and the second posture information are displayed side by side, the user can visually see his own posture during the first rehabilitation and his own posture during the second rehabilitation. can be easily compared to

[3. feature]
As described above, in biofeedback system 10 according to the present embodiment, posture information is continuously notified to the user, while notification of posture information is stopped at a predetermined timing. Therefore, according to this biofeedback system, it is possible to switch from the first rehabilitation to the second rehabilitation at an appropriate timing. As a result, the biofeedback system 10 can effectively assist the user's rehabilitation.

The biofeedback system 10 is an example of the "biofeedback system" of the present invention. Communication I/F 130 is an example of the "acquisition unit" of the present invention, and monitor 140 is an example of the "notification unit" of the present invention. The reception unit 150 is an example of the "reception unit" of the present invention. The storage unit 120 is an example of the "storage unit" of the present invention. Fiber sensor 240 is an example of the "sensor" of the present invention. Further, it can be said that the configuration including the capacitance difference calculation unit 250 and the control unit 210 functions as an angle detection circuit.

[4. Modification]
Although the embodiments have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. Modifications will be described below.

<4-1>
In the above embodiment, the fiber sensor 240 is used as the sensor that detects the angle of the specific part of the user's body. However, the sensor that detects the angle of the specific part of the user's body is not limited to the fiber sensor 240 . Any sensor that can detect the angle of a particular part of the user's body may be used. That is, various known angle sensors can be used. For example, the angle sensor may be implemented by a magnetic sensor composed of a combination of a magnet and a Hall element, or may be implemented by an encoder capable of detecting an angle.

<4-2>
Further, in the above embodiment, an example of feeding back the curvature of the spine to the user has been mainly described, but the content of the feedback to the user is not limited to this. For example, the degree of bending of the knees, shoulders or hips, or posture during walking may be provided to the user. In this case, the user wears a device capable of detecting the degree of bending of the knees, shoulders or waist, or the posture during walking, for example.

<4-3>
Moreover, in the above embodiment, the angle of the specific part of the user's body is detected by the device 200 . According to the biofeedback system 10, since the sensor is attached to the equipment 200 worn by the user, it is possible to obtain information necessary for detecting the parameter (angle) with higher accuracy, and as a result, the parameter can be detected with higher accuracy. I was able to detect it with precision. However, the brace 200 is not necessarily required. For example, the angle of a particular part of the user's body may be detected by a camera. Also, the angle may be detected in the information terminal 100 based on the image captured by the camera.

<4-4>
Further, in the above embodiment, the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 16 was performed only during the second rehabilitation. However, the timing at which the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 16 is executed is not limited to this. The processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 16 may be performed during the first rehabilitation, for example.

<4-5>
Further, in the above embodiment, the information terminal 100 can be set to the first automatic mode, the second automatic mode, and the manual mode. However, the information terminal 100 does not necessarily have to be settable in all modes. For example, the information terminal 100 may be settable only in some modes.

<4-6>
Further, in the above-described embodiment, the calculation of the angle information based on the output of the fiber sensor 240 was performed in the brace 200 . However, the calculation of angle information does not necessarily have to be performed by the brace 200 . The output of the fiber sensor 240 may be transmitted to the information terminal 100 and angle information may be calculated in the information terminal 100 .

<4-7>
Further, in the above embodiment, the zero point correction of the angle information is performed in the brace 200 based on the calibration result. However, zero-point correction of angle information does not necessarily have to be performed in the brace 200 . For example, zero point correction of angle information may be performed in information terminal 100 .

<4-8>
Further, in the above embodiments, an example of feedback to the user through an image has been mainly described, but the means for providing feedback to the user is not limited to this. For example, feedback to the user may be provided by outputting sound from speaker 160, or feedback to the user may be provided by vibrating information terminal 100. FIG. Further, each of the audio output feedback and the vibration feedback may be performed in the brace 200, for example. That is, the feedback may be performed by outputting a sound from the equipment 200 or by vibrating the equipment 200 .

<4-9>
In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, an alert is displayed when the angle information is out of the target range for a predetermined period of time. However, the method of notifying the user that the angle information has deviated from the target range is not limited to this. For example, the message may be displayed when the angle information is within the target range, and the message display may be stopped when the angle information is outside the target range for a predetermined period of time.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing the procedure of operations executed in information terminal 100 regardless of the mode in the modification. The processing shown in this flowchart is repeatedly performed by the control unit 110 during the second rehabilitation. A message is displayed on the monitor 140 at the start of the processing shown in this flowchart.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a message displayed on monitor 140 in a modified example. As shown in FIG. 21, monitor 140 displays message 400A. Message 400A is a message for notifying the user that there is no problem with posture.

Referring to FIG. 20, control unit 110 determines whether angle information has been acquired from equipment 200 via communication I/F 130 (step S1200). If it is determined that the angle information has not been acquired (NO in step S1200), control unit 110 waits until the angle information is acquired.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the angle information has been acquired (YES in step S1200), control unit 110 determines whether the acquired angle information (parameter) is outside the target range (step S1210). If it is determined that the parameter is within the target range (NO in step S1210), control unit 110 executes the process of step S1200 again. On the other hand, when it is determined that the parameter is out of the target range (YES in step S1210), control unit 110 determines whether the parameter is out of the target range for a predetermined time period (step S1220). .

If it is determined that it has not continued for the predetermined time (NO in step S1220), control unit 110 executes the process of step S1200 again. On the other hand, if it is determined that the display has continued for the predetermined time (YES in step S1220), control unit 110 controls monitor 140 to stop displaying the message (step S1230). According to this biofeedback system 10, when the user's posture is deteriorating, the predetermined notification (message display) is stopped, so the user can be encouraged to improve the posture.

<4-10>
Further, in the above embodiment, the fiber sensor 240 detects the angle of the specific part of the user's body. For example, other acceleration sensors may be held by the equipment 200 . Thereby, the inclination of the specific part of the user's body may be detected. Alternatively, the user's posture may be detected only by the acceleration sensor. That is, the angle of the specific part of the user's body is not necessarily detected, and only the inclination of the specific part of the user's body may be detected. In this case, the inclination of the specific part of the user's body may be continuously notified to the user, and the notification of the inclination may be stopped at a predetermined timing. Even with such a configuration, switching from the first predetermined motion to the second predetermined motion is performed at appropriate timing. As a result, according to this biofeedback system, it is possible to effectively support the user's predetermined exercise.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on monitor 140 when both the angle and tilt of a specific part of the user's body are detected. As shown in FIG. 22 , the image displayed on monitor 140 includes angle notification area 500 and tilt notification area 510 . The image displayed in the angle notification area 500 is, for example, the same as the example in FIG.

For example, spheres 512 , 514 and 516 are displayed in the tilt notification area 510 . Ball 512 moves, for example, according to the user's tilt in the roll direction, and ball 514 moves, for example, according to the user's tilt in the tilt direction. Ball 516 moves by combining the movements of balls 512 and 514 . By visually recognizing the tilt notification area 510, the user can easily recognize the state of the tilt of his or her body.

The embodiments of the present invention have been exemplified above. Accordingly, the detailed description and accompanying drawings have been disclosed for the purpose of illustrative description. Therefore, the components described in the detailed description and the attached drawings may include components that are not essential for solving the problem. Therefore, the inclusion of such non-essential elements in the detailed description and accompanying drawings should not be construed as immediately identifying them as essential.

Moreover, the above embodiments are merely examples of the present invention in every respect. Various improvements and modifications can be made to the above embodiment within the scope of the present invention. That is, in carrying out the present invention, a specific configuration can be appropriately adopted according to the embodiment.

10 biofeedback system, 21,22 capacitance sensor, 100 information terminal, 110,210 control unit, 111,211 CPU, 112,212 RAM, 113,213 ROM, 120,220 storage unit, 121,221 control program, 130,230 communication I/F, 140 monitor, 150,260 reception unit, 160 speaker, 200 equipment, 240 fiber sensor, 241,242,243,244 electrode layer, 245,246,247 insulation layer, 250 capacitance difference Calculation unit, 300 scale image, 305 bar image, 310 upper limit line image, 315 lower limit line image, 400, 400A message, 500 angle notification area, 510 tilt notification area, 512, 514, 516 sphere, C1, C2 capacitance.

Claims (13)

A biofeedback system used to assist a user in predetermined exercise, comprising:
an acquisition unit configured to continuously acquire parameters related to the user's posture;
a notification unit configured to continuously notify the user of posture information generated based on the parameters;
The biofeedback system, wherein the notification unit is configured to stop notification of the posture information at a predetermined timing. 2. The biofeedback system according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined timing is a timing when a first predetermined time has passed since notification of the posture information is started. 2. The biofeedback system according to claim 1, wherein said predetermined timing is timing when said parameter satisfies a predetermined condition. further comprising a reception unit configured to receive an instruction to stop notification of the posture information from an operator of the biofeedback system;
2. The biofeedback system according to claim 1, wherein said predetermined timing is timing when said stop instruction is accepted. 4. The notification unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the notification unit is configured to notify the user of suspension of notification of the posture information before suspension of notification of the posture information. biofeedback system. 6. Any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the notification unit is configured to start a predetermined notification to the user when the parameter remains out of the target range for a second predetermined period of time. A biofeedback system according to paragraph. The notification unit starts a predetermined notification to the user when the parameter is within the target range, and stops the predetermined notification when the parameter remains out of the target range for a second predetermined time. 6. The biofeedback system of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the biofeedback system is configured to: 8. The biofeedback system according to claim 6, wherein said notification unit is configured to perform said predetermined notification only while notification of said posture information is stopped. further comprising a storage unit configured to store first posture information indicating the posture information that has not been notified to the user;
The biofeedback system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the notification unit is configured to notify the first posture information after the predetermined exercise. The storage unit is configured to store second posture information indicating the posture information notified to the user,
10. The biofeedback system according to claim 9, wherein said notification unit comprises a monitor, and is configured to display said first posture information and said second posture information side by side after said predetermined exercise. . 11. The biofeedback system of any one of claims 1-10, further comprising a device worn by the user and fitted with sensors used to detect the parameter. A biofeedback method for assisting a user with predetermined exercise, comprising:
continuously acquiring parameters related to the user's posture;
continuously notifying the user of posture information generated based on the parameters;
and c. stopping notification of the posture information at a predetermined timing. A control program for a biofeedback system used to support a user's predetermined exercise,
continuously acquiring parameters related to the user's posture;
continuously notifying the user of posture information generated based on the parameters;
A control program causing a computer to execute a step of stopping notification of the posture information at a predetermined timing.

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