Biological rhythm adjustment method, biological rhythm adjustment device, biological rhythm adjustment system

The present invention relates to techniques for adjusting a biological rhythm, which can contribute to a reduction in Jet Lag Syndrome (the so-called “jet lag”), for example.

Conventionally, methods of eliminating or reducing jet lag have been proposed. Such methods are illustrated in patent documents 1 to 4, for example. A patent document 5, for example, discloses a technique for controlling an ambient temperature in order to obtain a favorable sleeping state.

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-235385 Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-136276 Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-68787 Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-114885 Patent Document 5: Japanese Patent No. 2987981

The techniques described in the patent documents 1 and 2 contribute to elimination of jet lag, but lack a viewpoint of considering the actual time difference with respect to the time and period to which the techniques are applied based on a time difference. The patent documents 3 and 4 propose processes based on a time difference, but lack a viewpoint of individually dealing with travelers.

In view of the above, the present invention has an object to adjust a biological rhythm based on a time difference as well while individually dealing with moving subjects that move in accordance with moving schedules.

A first aspect of a biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention includes (a) a step (S 1 ) of inputting a moving schedule, and biological information on a subject that moves in accordance with the moving schedule, and (b) a step (S 2 ) of setting a sleeping schedule for the subject based on the moving schedule and the biological information.

A second aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention is the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the first aspect, wherein in the step (b), sleep of the subject is set to a first time/a second time correspondingly to an eastward route/a westward route of the moving schedule, respectively, the first time being shorter than the second time.

A third aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention is the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the first or second aspect, wherein the step (b) includes at least one of (b-1) a step (S 201 ; S 302 ; S 211 ) of introducing the subject to sleep by raising a body temperature of the subject, and (b-2) a step (S 203 , S 304 ) of irradiating light on the subject after the subject is aroused.

For example, the step (b-1) includes a step of raising an ambient temperature of the subject, or a step of giving instructions encouraging to do exercise to the subject.

A fourth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention is the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the third aspect, wherein the step (b) further includes (b-3) a step (S 204 ) of relaxing the subject after executing the steps (b-1) and (b-2) when the moving schedule is on an eastward route.

A fifth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention is the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the third aspect, wherein the step (b) further includes (b-4) a step (S 301 ) of relaxing the subject prior to both of the steps (b-1) and (b-2) when the moving schedule is on a westward route.

For example, the step (S 204 , S 301 ) of relaxing the subject includes a step of supplying music to the subject, or a step of giving instructions encouraging to do exercise to the subject, or a step of massaging the subject.

A sixth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention is the biological rhythm adjustment method according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the biological information includes a sleeping time and an arousal time of the subject, and the sleeping schedule is set based on the sleeping time and the arousal time as well in the step (b).

A first aspect of a biological rhythm adjustment device according to the present invention includes an information input unit (B 1 ) inputting a moving schedule, and biological information on a subject that moves in accordance with the moving schedule, and a block (B 21 , B 22 ) setting a sleeping schedule for the subject based on the moving schedule and the biological information.

Preferably, the block (B 21 , B 22 ) includes a parameter-setting unit (B 21 ) for setting the sleeping schedule based on the moving schedule and the biological information, and a sleep/arousal introducing unit (B 22 ) setting the sleeping schedule with the parameters.

A second aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment device according to the present invention is the biological rhythm adjustment device according to the first aspect, wherein sleep of the subject is set to a first time/a second time correspondingly to an eastward route/a westward route of the moving schedule, respectively, the first time being shorter than the second time.

A third aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment device according to the present invention is the biological rhythm adjustment device according to the first or second aspect, wherein the sleep/arousal introducing unit (B 22 ) includes a device ( 22 f ; 22 g ) raising a body temperature of the subject.

A fourth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment device according to the present invention is the biological rhythm adjustment device according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the sleep/arousal introducing unit (B 22 ) includes a device ( 22 b , 22 c ) irradiating light on the subject.

For example, the device raising a body temperature of the subject includes an air conditioner ( 22 f ) raising an ambient temperature of the subject, or exercise equipment ( 22 g ), or preferably a device ( 22 c , 22 d ) giving instructions encouraging to do exercise to the subject.

A fifth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment device according to the present invention is the biological rhythm adjustment device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the sleep/arousal introducing unit (B 22 ) includes a device ( 22 d , 22 h , 22 g ) relaxing the subject.

For example, the device relaxing the subject includes a sound output device ( 22 d ), or exercise equipment ( 22 g ), or preferably a device ( 22 c , 22 d ) giving instructions encouraging to do exercise to the subject. Alternatively, the device relaxing the subject may include a massager ( 22 h ).

A sixth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment device according to the present invention is the biological rhythm adjustment device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the biological information includes a sleeping time and an arousal time of the subject, and the sleeping schedule is set based on the sleeping time and the arousal time as well in the sleep/arousal introducing unit (B 22 ).

A biological rhythm adjustment system according to the present invention includes the biological rhythm adjustment device according to the first to sixth aspects, wherein the sleep/arousal introducing unit (B 22 ) is provided to an airplane seat in an aircraft, and the information input unit (B 1 ) and the parameter-setting unit (B 21 ) are provided separately from the airplane seat.

Preferably, the parameter-setting unit (B 21 ) is provided in the crew's cabin in the aircraft.

Preferably, the information input unit (B 1 ) is provided to a check-in counter for the aircraft.

A seventh aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention includes a first step (S 201 ; S 211 ) of encouraging the onset of sleep before the onset of sleep, a second step (S 212 ) of reducing an ambient temperature in a predetermined period of time following the onset of sleep, a third step (S 212 ) of raising an ambient temperature in a prescribed period of time, from a point in time that goes back the prescribed period of time from a scheduled arousal time, and a fourth step (S 203 ) of weakening drowsiness after arousal.

An eighth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention includes a first step (S 301 ; S 311 ) of interfering with the onset of sleep before the onset of sleep, a second step (S 313 ) of reducing an ambient temperature in a predetermined period of time following the onset of sleep, a third step (S 313 ) of raising the ambient temperature in a prescribed period of time, from a point in time that goes back the prescribed period of time from a scheduled arousal time, and a fourth step (S 313 ) of interfering with arousal prior to the scheduled arousal time.

A ninth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention includes a first step (S 201 ; S 211 ) of encouraging the onset of sleep before the onset of sleep, a second step (S 313 ) of reducing an ambient temperature in a predetermined period of time following the onset of sleep, a third step (S 313 ) of raising an ambient temperature in a prescribed period of time, from a point in time that goes back the prescribed period of time from a scheduled arousal time after the onset of sleep, and a fourth step (S 313 ) of interfering with arousal prior to the scheduled arousal time.

A tenth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention includes a first step (S 301 ; S 311 ) of interfering with the onset of sleep before the onset of sleep, a second step (S 212 ) of reducing an ambient temperature in a predetermined period of time following the onset of sleep, a third step (S 212 ) of raising an ambient temperature in a prescribed period of time, from a point in time that goes back the prescribed period of time from a scheduled arousal time, and a fourth step (S 203 ) of weakening drowsiness after arousal.

Preferably in the seventh to tenth aspects, as an eleven aspect, after the ambient temperature reaches a lowest value in the second step, the ambient temperature is kept at the lowest value until the point in time of starting the third step.

According to the first aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method of the present invention, a biological rhythm can be adjusted based on a time difference as well while individually dealing with moving subjects that move in accordance with moving schedules.

According to the second aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method of the present invention, the biological rhythm is shortened and extended for an eastward direction and a westward direction, respectively.

According to the third aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method of the present invention, sleep pressure of the moving subject is increased quickly in step (b-1). The biological rhythm after arousal is established in step (b-2).

According to the fourth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method of the present invention, arousal is further ensured.

According to the fifth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method of the present invention, sleep pressure is reduced.

According to the sixth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method of the present invention, sleeping hours are adjusted depending on the degree of pleasantness of sleep.

According to the first aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment device of the present invention, a biological rhythm can be adjusted based on a time difference as well while individually dealing with moving subjects that move in accordance with moving schedules.

According to the second aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment device of the present invention, the biological rhythm is shortened and extended for an eastward direction and a westward direction, respectively.

According to the third aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment device of the present invention, sleep pressure of the moving subject is increased quickly.

According to the fourth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment device of the present invention, the biological rhythm after arousal is established.

According to the fifth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment device of the present invention, arousal is ensured, and sleep pressure can be reduced.

According to the sixth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment device of the present invention, sleeping hours are adjusted depending on the degree of pleasantness of sleep.

According to the biological rhythm adjustment system of the present invention, a biological rhythm can be adjusted while the moving subject is moving.

According to the seventh aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method of the present invention, when advancing the onset of sleep time and arousal time, the reduction in ambient temperature after encouraging the onset of sleep results in a favorable sleeping state, and also allows a smooth introduction of arousal. Further, drowsiness after arousal, if it remains, can be weakened.

According to the eighth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method of the present invention, when delaying the onset of sleep time and arousal time, the reduction in ambient temperature after interfering with the onset of sleep results in a favorable sleeping state, and arousal is interfered with in a state where arousal is likely to occur during sleep, thereby maintaining the sleeping state until the arousal time.

According to the ninth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method of the present invention, long-time sleeping can be obtained.

According to the tenth aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method of the present invention, short-time sleeping can be obtained.

According to the eleventh aspect of the biological rhythm adjustment method of the present invention, the favorable sleeping state is maintained since the ambient temperature is reduced down to the lowest value where the favorable sleeping state is obtained, and is kept at the lowest value.

These and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing a biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of the structure of a biological rhythm adjustment device according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of the structure of the biological rhythm adjustment device according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a specific arrangement of the biological rhythm adjustment device according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 shows a graph of a variation of the present invention.

FIG. 10 shows a graph of a variation of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing rough steps of a biological rhythm adjustment method according to the present invention. In the present invention, a sleeping schedule for a subject that moves in accordance with a moving schedule is set, and the so-called jet lag is reduced with the sleeping schedule. The moving schedule shall mean a travel schedule by aircraft, for example, and the subject that moves (hereafter called a “moving subject”) shall mean a human being, for example. By way of example, sleep control in order to eliminate jet lag while moving by aircraft will be described below.

In step S 1 , information including the above moving schedule and biological information on the above moving subject is input. In step S 2 , a sleeping schedule is set based on the information obtained in step S 1 . Namely, a biological rhythm can be adjusted based on a time difference as well while individually dealing with the moving subjects that move in accordance with the moving schedules.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart that divides step S 2 roughly into steps S 21 and S 22 . In step S 21 , parameters for setting the sleeping schedule are set based on the moving schedule and the biological information. In step S 22 , the sleeping schedule is set with the parameters obtained in step S 21 . The settings of the parameters and the sleeping schedule will be described later in detail.

FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of the structure of a biological rhythm adjustment device that executes the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 . This device includes an information input unit B 1 that executes step S 1 , a parameter-setting unit B 21 that executes step S 21 , and a sleep/arousal introducing unit B 22 that executes step S 22 . Namely, the parameter-setting unit B 21 inputs information such as the moving schedule and the biological information, and supplies the information to the parameter-setting unit B 21 . The parameter-setting unit B 21 generates parameters based on the above information. The sleep/arousal introducing unit B 22 not only sets the sleeping schedule with those parameters, but executes various kinds of operations to encourage the moving subject to follow the sleeping schedule. The various kinds of operations will be described later in detail as well.

The information input unit B 1 , the parameter-setting unit B 21 , and the sleep/arousal introducing unit B 22 can be provided together to an airplane seat, for example. Alternatively, the parameter-setting unit B 21 and the sleep/arousal introducing unit B 22 may be provided together to an airplane seat while providing the information input unit B 1 apart from the airplane seat, with data being given and received by cable or by radio between them. For example, the information input unit B 1 may be provided to the check-in counter. Still alternatively, only the sleep/arousal introducing unit B 22 may be provided to an airplane seat while separating the information input unit B 1 and the parameter-setting unit B 21 from the airplane seat. For example, the information input unit B 1 may be provided to the check-in counter and the parameter-setting unit B 21 in the crew's cabin. The information input unit B 1 may be connected to the parameter-setting unit B 21 through the use of a communications network such as the Internet.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the details of the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 . Step S 1 includes steps S 101 , S 105 , S 107 and S 109 , step S 21 includes steps S 102 , S 103 , S 104 , S 106 , S 108 and S 110 , and step S 22 includes steps S 20 and S 30 , respectively.

(i) Details of Step S 1

In step S 101 , travel information is input. Specific examples of the travel information include a departure place, an arrival place, a travel route, a departure time, and an arrival time.

In step S 105 , biological information is input. Specific examples of the biological information include sex, age, height, and weight.

In step S 107 , a reply to a questionnaire on everyday life is input. Specific examples of the questionnaire on everyday life include a taste in music, meal and smell, and hobbies.

In step S 109 , a reply to a questionnaire on sleeping is input. Specific examples of the questionnaire on sleeping include bedtime (sleeping time), wakeup time (arousal time), and the quality of sleep. The quality of sleep includes “today's wakeup condition (whether you feel you have slept well)”, and “whether you are satisfied with a recent sleeping state”, for example.

(ii) Details of Step S 21

In step S 102 , a time difference of the arrival place when viewed from the departure place is calculated and determined based on the travel information. In step S 103 , a starting time for each schedule in the sleeping schedule as described later is set based on the time difference.

In step S 104 , a direction of travel route is determined. Namely, whether eastward or westward is determined.

In step S 106 , a physical examination is carried out based on the biological information. More specifically, the degree of obesity and a body mass index of the moving subject are obtained, for example.

In step S 108 , a personality examination is carried out based on the reply to the questionnaire on everyday life. More specifically, an index is determined that indicates how short-tempered the moving subject is, for example.

In step S 110 , a sleeping examination is carried out based on the reply to the questionnaire on sleeping. More specifically, indexes of pleasantness of sleep and tiredness are determined, for example.

(iii) Details of Step S 22

Steps S 20 and S 30 are selected to be executed when the travel route is eastward and westward, respectively. Step S 20 sets a sleeping schedule for shortening a biological rhythm while step S 30 sets a sleeping schedule for extending a biological rhythm, and both steps encourage the moving subject to follow their respective sleeping schedules.

The broken line arrows in FIG. 4 show that the parameters obtained in steps S 103 , S 106 , S 108 and S 110 , namely, the time for starting each schedule in the sleeping schedule, the degree of obesity and the body mass index of the moving subject, the index indicative of how short-tempered the moving subject is, and the indexes of pleasantness of sleep and tiredness, set the details of the sleeping schedules of steps S 20 and S 30 .

The direction of moving route is obtained in step S 104 , which too can be regarded as a parameter for setting the sleeping schedule. Yet the route direction, which is used for selecting and executing one of steps S 20 and S 30 , is indicated by the solid line arrows in FIG. 4 . From the viewpoint of step S 22 including steps S 20 and S 30 , however, it can be understood that the sleeping schedule is set with the parameters including the route direction as well. The same holds true for the relationship between the parameter-setting unit B 21 and the sleep/arousal introducing unit B 22 .

In addition, the time for starting each schedule in the sleeping schedule (step S 103 ) specifically servers as the reference for advancing or delaying the execution time of step S 20 or S 30 , or for extending or shortening the time required for execution, for example.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are flowcharts showing the details of steps S 20 and S 30 , respectively. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a detailed structure of the sleep/arousal introducing unit B 22 that executes step S 22 .

The sleep/arousal introducing unit B 22 includes devices 22 b to 22 h that execute various kinds of operations with the parameters for setting the sleeping schedule, and an operation control part 22 a that controls the operations of these devices. By way of example, the device 22 b is an irradiation device such as an LED, the device 22 c is a display device such as a VDT, the device 22 d is a sound output device such as a speaker or an earphone, the device 22 e is an alarm such as a buzzer or a lamp, the device 22 f is an air conditioner such as a warm air blower, the device 22 g is exercise equipment the moving subject uses for exercise such as pedaling, and the device 22 h is relaxation equipment such as a massager. The irradiation device 22 b and the display device 22 c may be combined together, or may be combined with a display installed in an airplane seat.

The operation control part 22 a and the devices 22 b to 22 h can be provided together to an airplane seat. It is desirable, however, that the alarm 22 e be arranged in the crew's cabin to provide notification to the crew, as described later. The alarm 22 e may be combined with a cabin attendant call typically provided to an airplane seat, for example.

Further, the sound output device 22 d may be combined with the functions of an earphone typically provided to an airplane seat.

(iv) Details of Step S 20

As shown in FIG. 5 , step S 20 includes steps S 201 to S 206 . In step S 201 , an event for raising a body temperature (hereafter and in the drawings called a “body-temperature raising event”) is performed. Sleep pressure is thus increased quickly to shorten a biological rhythm.

As the body-temperature raising event, an ambient temperature of the moving subject is raised, or instructions encouraging to do exercise are given to the moving subject, for example. The ambient temperature of the moving subject is raised by the air conditioner 22 f , for example. Alternatively, display encouraging exercise is given on the display device 22 c . The instructions encouraging exercise may be announced by the sound output device 22 d . The moving subject having received the instructions may use the exercise equipment 22 g , for example, to do exercise. The body-temperature raising event may employ one or both of the two kinds of events described above, or still another method.

When raising the ambient temperature of the moving subject in step S 201 , while the ambient temperature is raised, the setting temperature is set low with an increase in the degree of obesity obtained in step S 106 , under the assumption of the higher the degree of obesity, the more sensitive to heat.

When encouraging the moving subject to do exercise in step S 201 , the amount of exercise is reduced with an increase in the degree of obesity obtained in step S 106 , under the assumption that the body temperature increases with a small amount of exercise. For example, the load applied to the moving subject from the exercise equipment 22 g is reduced.

A period of execution of step S 201 is reduced with an increase in index indicative of short-temperedness obtained in step S 108 . More specifically, the speed of raising the ambient temperature is increased, for example. Alternatively, the load applied to the moving subject from the exercise equipment 22 g is increased to increase the amount of exercise per hour. Or the moving subject is subjected to anaerobic exercise. Conversely, a period of execution of step S 201 may be extended with a decrease in index indicative of short-temperedness. For example, the amount of exercise per hour is reduced. Or the moving subject is subjected to aerobic exercise.

It is to be noted that the schedule starting time obtained in step S 103 is also considered for a period of execution of step S 201 . This is because if a period of execution of step S 201 is extended because of a low index indicative of short-temperedness, all the steps of step S 20 will not be finished before landing when the schedule starting time is late. The same holds true for the other steps S 202 to S 206 .

Processing then continues from step S 201 to step S 202 . In step S 202 , a process for short-time sleeping is performed.

It is known that the body temperature regulation capability of a living body decreases during sleep, so that a body temperature can be easily controlled by a change in external temperature. Accordingly, the quality of sleep can be enhanced by increasing the depth of sleep. Temperature contributes not only to the falling asleep that determines the quality of sleep but to the depth of sleep.

More specifically, the ambient temperature is quickly reduced by the air conditioner 22 f , for example. This quickly reduces the body temperature of the moving subject as well, thereby introducing the moving subject to a deep sleep state in a relatively short period of time. About four sleeping hours are set as standard.

The biological rhythm is advanced by adjusting the sleeping hours as described above, thereby eliminating jet lag.

The sleeping hours can be reduced with an increase in degree of pleasantness of sleep obtained in step S 110 and a decrease in degree of tiredness. This is under the assumption that less sleep is required in such circumstances. Conversely, the sleeping hours are extended with a decrease in degree of pleasantness of sleep and an increase in degree of tiredness. Variation within plus or minus about one hour can be added to the four hours set as standard above.

The short-time sleeping in step S 202 can be terminated by an arousal method with an alarm by the sound output device 22 d , for example. Alternatively, the alarm 22 e may notify the crew of the termination of sleeping hours, causing the crew to arouse the moving subject.

Processing then continues from step S 202 to step S 203 . In step S 203 , light is irradiated on the moving subject. This establishes the biological rhythm after arousal. The light can be supplied to the moving subject from the irradiation device 22 b or the display device 22 c , for example. For the biological rhythm after arousal to be established, it is desirable that the light have a wavelength of not less than 5000 K in terms of color temperature, and illuminance of not less than 2500 lux to the moving subject. Light having illuminance of not less than 2500 lux and a color temperature of about 5000 K is supplied to the person. Light having illuminance of not less than 2500 lux makes the person strongly feel ambient brightness. Light having a color temperature of about 5000 K is blue-tinged and makes the person feel chillness through the sense of sight.

Processing then continues from step S 203 to step S 204 . In step S 204 , an event for relaxation (hereafter and in the drawings called a “relaxation event”) is performed. The arousal is thus further ensured. As the relaxation event, the moving subject is encouraged to take action to relax. For example, the moving subject is subjected to exercise, music listening, or a massage. When subjecting the moving subject to exercise, display encouraging exercise is given on the display device 22 c or instructions are announced by the sound output device 22 d as described above with respect to step S 201 . The moving subject having received the instructions may use the exercise equipment 22 g , for example, to do exercise.

When subjecting the moving subject to music listening, display encouraging to listen to music is given on the display device 22 c , or instructions are announced by the sound output device 22 d , for example. The moving subject having received the instructions is then supplied with music from the sound output device 22 d . The above instructions and music may be supplied in a reverse order. Alternatively, music may be supplied while omitting the instructions. It is desirable that the music be the so-called healing music, or sound effects and music that promote alpha waves. The degree of relaxation of the moving subject is thus increased.

Likewise, when subjecting the moving subject to a massage, display encouraging to get a massage is given on the display device 22 c , or instructions are announced by the sound output device 22 d . The moving subject having received the instructions is then massaged by the massager 22 h . The above instructions and massage may be supplied in a reverse order. Alternatively, a massage may be supplied while omitting the instructions.

The higher the degree of obesity determined in step S 106 , the better for the moving subject to do exercise than get a massage. Also, the higher the degree of short-temperedness determined in step S 108 , the better it is to reduce a period of exercise. A lengthy exercise gives stress to the short-tempered moving subject, interfering with the effects of relaxation.

Processing then continues from step S 204 to step S 205 . In step S 205 , an event for feeding the moving subject (hereafter and in the drawings called a “feeding event”) S 205 is performed. As the feeding event, the alarm 22 e is used to notify the crew to supply the moving subject with a meal, for example.

It is desirable to supply a meal that is low in calorie, sugar and fat with an increase in the degree of obesity determined in step S 106 . The meal should further be low in protein in order to adjust the biological rhythm.

Processing then continues from step S 205 to step S 206 . In step S 206 , a stretching event is performed that encourages the moving subject to stretch in preparation for landing. More specifically, display encouraging to stretch is given on the display device 22 c , or instructions are announced by the sound output device 22 d . The moving subject having received the instructions then stretches, to be prepared for activity at the arrival place.

(v) Details of Step S 30

As shown in FIG. 6 , step S 30 includes steps S 301 to S 306 . A relaxation event is performed in step S 301 as in step S 204 , a body-temperature raising event is performed in step S 302 as in step S 201 , light of high illuminance is irradiated in step S 304 as in step S 203 , a feeding event is performed in step S 305 as in step S 205 , and a stretching event is performed in step S 306 as in step S 206 .

However, the relaxation event is performed after performing the body-temperature raising event and irradiation of high-illuminance light in step S 20 , whereas the relaxation event is performed prior to both of the body-temperature raising event and irradiation of high-illuminance light in step S 30 . This is to reduce sleep pressure to extend the biological rhythm.

The sleeping time is delayed in step S 301 , and then the body temperature is raised in step S 302 to increase sleep pressure. After that, a process for long-time sleeping is performed in step S 303 . More specifically, the ambient temperature is gradually raised prior to a scheduled arousal time. This avoids arousal from a deep sleep depth while extending sleeping hours. About eight sleeping hours are set as standard, for example. The biological rhythm is delayed by adjusting the sleeping hours as described above, thereby eliminating jet lag.

Variation within plus or minus about one hour can be added to the eight hours depending on the degrees of pleasantness of sleep and tiredness obtained in step S 110 , as in step S 202 . As for arousal, an alarm by the sound output device 22 d may be used, or the alarm 22 e may notify the crew to arouse the moving subject, as described with respect to step S 202 .

(vi) Example as a System

As has been mentioned in describing FIG. 3 , arrangement places of the information input unit B 1 , the parameter-setting unit B 21 , and the sleep/arousal introducing unit B 22 can be changed in various ways.

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of an example where the biological rhythm adjustment device is specifically arranged as a system. In this exemplary configuration, all components of the sleep/arousal introducing unit B 22 except the alarm 22 e are provided to an airplane seat, the information input unit B 1 is provided to the check-in counter, and the alarm 22 e and the parameter-setting unit B 21 are provided in the crew's cabin.

A terminal for example is provided as the information input unit B 1 at the check-in counter, where a staff member inputs the travel information, the biological information, the reply to the questionnaire on everyday life, and the reply to the questionnaire on sleeping. The results are supplied by radio to a computer provided in the crew's cabin in the aircraft, to set the parameters for setting the sleeping schedule. Namely, this computer serves as the parameter-setting unit B 21 . Such provision of the parameter-setting unit B 21 in the crew's cabin in the aircraft is desirable in that the parameters can be modified depending on a flight situation of the aircraft, and the conditions of a traveler which is the moving subject.

The operation control part 22 a and the devices 22 b to 22 d and 22 f to 22 h are provided together to the airplane seat. The operation control part 22 a is connected to the parameter-setting unit B 21 and the alarm part 22 e in the crew's cabin.

When arranging the biological rhythm adjustment device as a system, the parameter-setting unit B 21 may of course be provided to the check-in counter, or to an airplane seat.

(vii) Other Variations

While it is preferable to perform both of the body-temperature raising event (S 201 , S 302 ) and irradiation of high-illuminance light (S 203 , S 304 ), one of them may alternatively be employed. This is because the former introduces sleep while the latter establishes a biological rhythm, thus producing different effects from each other.

The onset of sleep is encouraged by the following methods, for example. A first method of encouraging the onset of sleep is to raise an ambient temperature from a point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from a scheduled onset of sleep time until the onset of sleep time, for example, to thereby raise the body temperature of a person. For example, a person feels moderate warmth and drowsy by raising the body temperature 0.2° C. from a point in time that goes back 30 to 60 minutes from a scheduled onset of sleep time until the onset of sleep time.

A second method of encouraging the onset of sleep is to supply a person with light having illuminance and a color temperature that have a calming effect from a point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from a scheduled onset of sleep time until the onset of sleep time. For example, the person is supplied with light having illuminance of not more than 500 lux and a color temperature of not more than 1000 K from 60 minutes until 30 minutes prior to a scheduled onset of sleep time. Then, the person is supplied with light having illuminance of not more than 50 lux and a color temperature of not more than 1000 K from 30 minutes prior to the scheduled onset of sleep time until the onset of sleep time. Light having illuminance of not more than 500 lux makes the person feel ambient duskiness. Light having illuminance of not more than 50 lux makes the person feel ambient darkness. Light having a color temperature of not more than 1000 K is red-tinged and makes the person feel warmth through the sense of sight.

As step S 211 that replaces the aforementioned steps S 201 and S 302 , one of the first and second methods of encouraging the onset of sleep may be employed, or both methods may be parallelly employed.

Parallelly with the first and/or second method of encouraging the onset of sleep, the person may be supplied with a smell from the point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from the scheduled onset of sleep time until the onset of sleep time. For example, the person is supplied with a smell of lavender, chamomile, or orange from 30 minutes prior to the scheduled onset of sleep time. Consequently, the person feels relaxed.

Alternatively, sounds transmitted to the person may be cut off from the point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from the scheduled onset of sleep time until the onset of sleep time. For example, noise transmitted to the person trying to fall asleep is cut off from 30 minutes prior to the scheduled onset of sleep time. Consequently, the person can fall asleep in a quiet state.

Still alternatively, the person may be subjected to music listening from the point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from the scheduled onset of sleep time until the onset of sleep time. For example, the person listens to music containing lots of alpha waves and music having a healing effect. Consequently, the person feels relaxed.

These methods can help encourage the onset of sleep. Namely, the execution of these methods simultaneously with the first and/or second method of encouraging the onset of sleep encourages the onset of sleep more effectively.

The aforementioned step S 202 may be replaced by the following step S 212 . FIG. 9 shows a graph indicating a change in ambient temperature with respect to sleeping hours by a solid line 122 in step S 212 . The solid line 122 includes sold lines 122 a , 122 b and 122 c.

In step S 212 , the ambient temperature is first reduced, monotonously for example, in a predetermined period of time after the onset of sleep. Such change in ambient temperature is indicated by the solid line 122 a in FIG. 9 . The ambient temperature indicated by the solid line 122 a is set to 29° C. at the onset of sleep. Then, about 90 minutes are employed as the predetermined period of time, during which the ambient temperature is monotonously reduced to about 28° C. The body temperature of the person decreases as the ambient temperature is reduced. Such method of controlling the ambient temperature is disclosed in the patent document 5, for example.

The body temperature is reduced in step S 212 after executing step S 201 or step S 211 of encouraging the onset of sleep, thereby introducing the person to a favorable sleeping state.

The ambient temperature then reaches the lowest value, and is kept at the lowest value. Such change in ambient temperature is indicated by the solid line 122 b in FIG. 9 . The ambient temperature is kept at the lowest value of 28° C. for about 30 minutes.

Subsequently, the environment around the person before arousal is controlled. As the before-arousal control, at least one of a first method of before-arousal control of raising the ambient temperature, monotonously for example, in a prescribed period of time prior to a scheduled arousal time, and a second method of before-arousal control, is performed.

A change in ambient temperature controlled by the first method of before-arousal control is indicated by the solid line 122 c in FIG. 9 . About 60 minutes are employed as the prescribed period of time, during which the ambient temperature is monotonously raised from the lowest value of 28° C. to 29° C. The person is aroused after a lapse of the prescribed period of time. The body temperature of the person increases as the ambient temperature is raised. Such method of controlling the ambient temperature is also disclosed in the patent document 5, for example.

The contents of the first method of before-arousal control can be understood as raising the ambient temperature in a prescribed period of time, from a point in time that goes back the prescribed period of time from a scheduled arousal time.

In the second method of before-arousal control, the person is supplied with light having illuminance and a color temperature that have a stimulating effect from a point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from a scheduled arousal time until an arousal time. For example, the person is supplied with light having illuminance of about 1000 lux and a color temperature of about 3000 K from 30 minutes prior to the scheduled arousal time. Light having illuminance of about 1000 lux makes the person feel ambient brightness. Light having a color temperature of about 3000 K is blue-tinged and makes the person feel chillness through the sense of sight.

Parallelly with the first and/or second method of before-arousal control, the person may be supplied with a smell from the point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from the scheduled arousal time until the arousal time. For example, the person is supplied with a smell of peppermint, caffeine or basil from 30 minutes prior to the scheduled arousal time. Consequently, the person can feel refreshed, which helps encourage the arousal. Namely, the execution of this method parallelly with the first and/or second method of before-arousal control encourages the arousal more effectively.

When advancing the onset of sleep time and arousal time as described above, the reduction in ambient temperature after encouraging the onset of sleep results in a favorable sleeping state, and also allows a smooth introduction of arousal. Further, drowsiness after arousal, if it remains, can be weakened.

In addition, the favorable sleeping state is maintained since the ambient temperature is monotonously reduced down to the lowest value where the favorable sleeping state is obtained, and is kept at the lowest value. The maintenance of the ambient temperature at the lowest value may be omitted when the sleeping hours need to be further reduced.

The onset of sleep is interfered with by the following methods, for example. A first method of interfering with the onset of sleep is to keep an ambient temperature constant from a point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from a scheduled onset of sleep time until the onset of sleep time, for example, to thereby keep the body temperature of a person constant. When the body temperature is kept constant, for example, the moderate warmth and the like that are felt when the body temperature increases is hard to generate, rendering it hard for the person to feel drowsy.

A second method of interfering with the onset of sleep is to supply a person with light having illuminance and a color temperature that have a stimulating effect from a point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from a scheduled onset of sleep time until the onset of sleep time. For example, the person is supplied with light having illuminance of not less than 2500 lux and a color temperature of not less than 5000 K. Light having illuminance of not less than 2500 lux makes the person strongly feel ambient brightness. Light having a color temperature of not less than 5000 K is blue-tinged and makes the person feel chillness through the sense of sight.

In the first and second methods of interfering with the onset of sleep, the point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from the scheduled onset of sleep time is set each time depending on how much the onset of sleep time is delayed.

As step S 311 that replaces the aforementioned step S 301 , one of the first and second methods of interfering with the onset of sleep may be employed, or both methods may be simultaneously employed.

Parallelly with the first and/or second method of interfering with the onset of sleep, the person may be supplied with a smell from the point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from the scheduled onset of sleep time until the onset of sleep time. For example, the person is supplied with a smell of peppermint, caffeine or basil. Consequently, the person feels refreshed.

Alternatively, the person may be subjected to music listening from the point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from the scheduled onset of sleep time until the onset of sleep time. For example, the person listens to up-tempo music such as rock and pop music. Consequently, the person feels excited.

These methods help interfere with the onset of sleep. Namely, the execution of these methods parallelly with the first or second method interferes the onset of sleep more effectively.

In the method of supplying a smell and the method for music listening, the point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from the scheduled onset of sleep time is set each time depending on how much the onset of sleep time is delayed. The settings may be associated with the aforementioned first and second methods, or may be made individually.

The aforementioned step S 303 may be replaced by the following step S 313 . FIG. 10 shows a graph indicating a change in ambient temperature with respect to sleeping hours by a solid line 221 in step S 313 . The solid line 221 includes sold lines 221 a , 221 b and 221 c.

In step S 313 , the ambient temperature is first reduced, monotonously for example, in a predetermined period of time after the onset of sleep. Such change in ambient temperature is indicated by the solid line 221 a in FIG. 10 . The ambient temperature indicated by the solid line 221 a is set to 29° C. at the onset of sleep. Then, about 90 minutes are employed as the predetermined period of time, during which the ambient temperature is monotonously reduced to about 28° C. The body temperature of the person decreases as the ambient temperature is reduced. Such method of controlling the ambient temperature is also disclosed in the patent document 4, for example.

The body temperature is reduced in step S 313 after executing step S 301 or step S 311 of interfering with the onset of sleep, thereby introducing the person to a favorable sleeping state.

The ambient temperature then reaches the lowest value, and is kept at the lowest value. The change in ambient temperature controlled in step 23 is indicated by the solid line 221 b in FIG. 4 . The ambient temperature is kept at the lowest value of 28° C. for about 330 minutes.

Subsequently, the environment around the person before arousal is controlled. As control of the before-arousal control, at least one of a third method of before-arousal control of raising the ambient temperature, monotonously for example, in a prescribed period of time prior to a scheduled arousal time, and a fourth method of before-arousal control, is performed.

A change in ambient temperature controlled by the third method of before-arousal control is indicated by the solid line 221 c in FIG. 10 . About 90 minutes are employed as the prescribed period of time, during which the ambient temperature is monotonously raised from the lowest value of 28° C. to 29° C. The person is aroused after a lapse of the prescribed period of time. The body temperature of the person increases as the ambient temperature is raised.

The contents of the third method of before-arousal control can be understood as raising the ambient temperature in a prescribed period of time, from a point in time that goes back the prescribed period of time from a scheduled arousal time.

In the fourth method of before-arousal control, the person is supplied with light having illuminance and a color temperature that have a calming effect from a point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from a scheduled arousal time until an arousal time. For example, the person is supplied with light having illuminance of about 500 lux and a color temperature of about 1000 K from 30 minutes prior to the scheduled arousal time. Light having illuminance of about 500 lux makes the person feel ambient duskiness. Light having a color temperature of about 1000 K is red-tinged and makes the person feel warmth through the sense of sight.

Parallelly with the third and/or fourth method of before-arousal control, the person may be supplied with a smell from the point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from the scheduled arousal time until the arousal time. For example, the person is supplied with a smell of lavender, chamomile, or orange from 30 minutes prior to the scheduled arousal time. Consequently, the person feels relaxed and drowsy.

Alternatively, the person may be subjected to music listening from the point in time that goes back a prescribed period of time from the scheduled arousal time until the arousal time. For example, the person listens to music containing lots of alpha waves and music having a healing effect. Consequently, the person feels relaxed and drowsy.

These methods help interfere with the arousal. Namely, the execution of these methods simultaneously with the third and/or fourth method of before-arousal control interferes with the arousal more effectively.

When delaying the onset of sleep time and arousal time as described above, the reduction in ambient temperature after interfering with the onset of sleep results in a favorable sleeping state, and arousal is interfered with in a state where arousal is likely to occur during sleep, thereby maintaining the sleeping state until the arousal time.

In addition, the favorable sleeping state is maintained since the ambient temperature is monotonously reduced down to the lowest value where the favorable sleeping state is obtained, and is kept at the lowest value.

Moreover, when performing the short-time sleeping in step S 212 , the onset of sleep time may be delayed by interfering with the onset of sleep, and arousal may be encouraged to advance the arousal time. Alternatively, when performing the long-time sleeping in step S 313 , the onset of sleep time may be advanced by encouraging the onset of sleep, and arousal may be interfered with to delay the arousal time.

While the invention has been shown and described in detail, the foregoing description is in all aspects illustrative and not restrictive. It is therefore understood that numerous modifications and variations can be devised without departing from the scope of the invention.