WO2024247767A1 - Alpha wave estimation method, information processing device, and alpha wave estimation program - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides an alpha wave estimation method, an information processing device, and an alpha wave estimation program that make it possible to efficiently measure illusory jitter. In the present invention, a first screen is output in which a target figure is moved along at least part of the circumference of a prescribed circle, the target figure including as part thereof a partial figure of a first color, the portion of the target figure other than the partial figure being a second color. Input of a first determination result regarding the oscillation state of the partial figure is received from a subject. On the basis of the first determination result for which input was received, the oscillation state of alpha waves of the subject is estimated. Information indicating the estimated oscillation state of the alpha waves is output.

Description

Alpha wave estimation method, information processing device, and alpha wave estimation program

The present invention relates to an alpha wave estimation method, an information processing device, and an alpha wave estimation program.

For example, managing the state of the brain, which controls many functions such as perception, cognition, and movement, is essential for maintaining mental and physical health. For this reason, in recent years, research has been conducted into various methods that make it easier to manage the state of the brain.

Specifically, for example, a method has been developed that utilizes the correspondence between the frequency of alpha waves and the frequency of the jitter illusion to estimate the frequency of alpha waves from the frequency of the jitter illusion measured by a smart device or the like, without directly measuring the frequency of alpha waves (hereinafter, simply referred to as the estimation method) (see Non-Patent Document 1).

https://www.cell.com/current-biology/pdfExtended/S0960-9822(17)30770-4

When measuring the frequency of the jitter illusion in the estimation process described above, the subject, for example, gazes at a specific point on the screen (hereinafter also referred to as the fixation point) and determines the frequency of the vibration (shaking) that he or she perceives to be occurring in a target figure moving on the screen (Non-Patent Document 1).

Specifically, in this case, the subject compares a target figure (a figure that does not actually vibrate) and a comparison figure (a figure that actually vibrates) that are moving on the screen.The subject then adjusts the frequency of vibration in the comparison figure so that the frequency of vibration in the target figure matches the frequency of vibration in the comparison figure.

This allows the subject to measure, for example, the frequency of vibration in the comparison figure after adjustment as the frequency of vibration in the target figure (i.e., the frequency of the jitter illusion).

When measuring the frequency of the jitter illusion, the time it takes for a subject to recognize that vibration is occurring may differ from person to person. Therefore, in the estimation process described above, for example, it may take a long time to measure the frequency of the jitter illusion, and it may not be possible to efficiently estimate the frequency of alpha waves.

The object of the present invention is to provide an alpha wave estimation method, an information processing device, and an alpha wave estimation program that enable efficient measurement of the jitter illusion.

In order to achieve the above object, the alpha wave estimation method of the present invention outputs a first screen in which a target figure, part of which includes a partial figure of a first color and the part other than the partial figure is a second color, moves along at least a portion of the circumference of a specified circle, accepts input of a first judgment result regarding the vibration status of the partial figure by a subject, estimates the vibration status of the alpha waves of the subject based on the first judgment result that has been input, and outputs information indicating the estimated vibration status of the alpha waves.

The alpha wave estimation method, information processing device, and alpha wave estimation program of the present invention make it possible to efficiently measure the jitter illusion.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an information processing system 10 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of the target screen SC1. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of the object figure OB. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of the information processing device 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating the alpha wave estimation process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of the comparison figure OBa. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining a specific example in which the subject T determines the frequency of vibration in the third partial figure OB3. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a specific example in which the subject T determines the frequency of vibration in the third partial figure OB3. FIG. 10 illustrates a specific example in which the subject T judges the magnitude of vibration of the third partial figure OB3. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the measurement results of the strength of alpha waves of subjects for each judgment result by the subjects. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the validity determination process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the validity determination process according to the first embodiment.

Below, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. However, such description should not be construed in a limiting sense, and does not limit the subject matter described in the claims. Furthermore, various changes, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, different embodiments can be combined as appropriate.

[Example of configuration of information processing system according to the first embodiment]
First, a description will be given of a configuration example of an information processing system 10 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an information processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

The information processing system 10 includes, for example, an information processing device 1 and a storage unit 130. The storage unit 130 may be, for example, a storage unit disposed outside the information processing device 1, or a storage unit mounted within the information processing device 1.

The information processing device 1 is, for example, a mobile terminal such as a PC (Personal Computer) or a smartphone, and performs a process of estimating alpha waves from the measurement results of the jitter illusion of the subject T (hereinafter simply referred to as alpha wave estimation process). Then, the information processing device 1 stores, for example, the estimation results of alpha waves obtained by the alpha wave estimation process (not shown) in the storage unit 130.

Specifically, the information processing device 1 in this embodiment generates a target screen (hereinafter also referred to as the first screen) in which a target figure, which includes a partial figure of a first color and has other parts other than the partial figure in a second color different from the first color, moves along at least a part of the circumference of a predetermined circle. The combination of the first and second colors is a combination of colors that generates a jitter illusion in the subject T, for example, the first color is green and the second color is red. Then, the information processing device 1 outputs the generated target screen to an output device (not shown) of the information processing device 1, for example.

Subject T then judges the vibration status of the partial figure displayed on the target screen, for example, while gazing at the gaze point on the target screen output to the output device. The vibration status may be, for example, the frequency of vibration in the partial figure, as in Non-Patent Document 1. Also, the vibration status may be, for example, the magnitude (amplitude) of vibration in the partial figure, unlike in Non-Patent Document 1. Subject T then inputs, for example, the judgment result regarding the vibration status (hereinafter also referred to as the first judgment result) to the output device.

Then, the information processing device 1, for example, accepts input of the judgment result by the subject T regarding the vibration state of the partial figure. Then, the information processing device 1, for example, estimates the vibration state of the alpha waves of the subject T based on the judgment result that has been accepted as input. Furthermore, the information processing device 1, for example, outputs information indicating the estimated vibration state of the alpha waves.

In other words, in the information processing device 1 of this embodiment, the target figure moves in a circular motion on the target screen, unlike, for example, the case in Non-Patent Document 1 (where the target figure moves horizontally). Therefore, the information processing device 1 can, for example, keep the distance from the gaze point to the target figure (partial figure) constant by setting the center of the circle drawn by the target figure as the gaze point. Therefore, the information processing device 1 can, for example, improve the visibility of vibrations in the partial figure, shorten the time it takes for subject T to recognize that vibrations are occurring in the partial figure, and enable subject T to continue to recognize the vibrations stably even after he or she recognizes that vibrations are occurring.

This enables the information processing device 1 to, for example, efficiently measure the jitter illusion and efficiently estimate the frequency of alpha waves.

In addition, in the target figure, the difference between the luminance of the first color in the partial figure and the luminance of the second color in the part other than the partial figure may be, for example, a predetermined value or less. Specifically, the luminance of the partial figure in the target figure may be, for example, the same as the luminance of the part other than the partial figure. In addition, the subject T may perform a pre-adjustment before performing the alpha wave estimation process, for example, so that the difference between the luminance of the first color in the partial figure and the luminance of the second color in the part other than the partial figure is a certain value or less.

[Example of target screen]
Next, a specific example of the object screen SC1 will be described. Fig. 2 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of the object screen SC1. Fig. 3 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of the object figure OB.

As shown in FIG. 2, the target screen SC1 is, for example, a screen in which the background color is a third color (e.g., black) different from the first and second colors, and includes eight target figures OB arranged on the circumference of a specified circle. Each of the eight target figures OB rotates, for example, at a constant speed along the circumference of the specified circle. Note that each of the eight target figures OB may rotate, for example, clockwise or counterclockwise on the target screen SC1.

The target figure OB is, for example, a figure having an annular sector shape, as shown in FIG. 3. Specifically, the target figure OB is, for example, made up of a first partial figure OB1 and a second partial figure OB2 each having an annular sector shape of the second color, and a third partial figure OB3 (hereinafter also simply referred to as partial figure OB3) having an annular sector shape of the first color. The third partial figure OB3 is, for example, positioned between the first partial figure OB1 and the second partial figure OB2.

Specifically, the difference between the luminance of the first color in the third partial figure OB3 and the luminance of the second color in the first partial figure OB1 and the second partial figure OB2 is, for example, less than a predetermined value. In other words, the combination of the first and second colors is, for example, a color combination that can be determined to cause a jitter illusion in subject T.

Note that, although the following description will be given of a case where eight target figures OB are displayed on the target screen SC1, the target screen SC1 may display, for example, a number of target figures OB other than eight. Also, the following description will be given of a case where the target figures OB are arranged at equal intervals on the target screen SC1, but the target figures OB may not be arranged at equal intervals, for example.

Furthermore, the following description will be given for the case where the target figure OB (i.e., each of the first partial figure OB1, the second partial figure OB2, and the third partial figure OB3) is an annular sector shape, but the target figure OB may be another shape, such as, for example, a rectangular shape. Further, the following description will be given for the case where the first partial figure OB1 and the second partial figure OB2 have the same size (area), but the first partial figure OB1 and the second partial figure OB2 may have different sizes, for example. Further, the following description will be given for the case where the third partial figure OB3 has a smaller size (area) than the first partial figure OB1 and the second partial figure OB2, but the third partial figure OB3 may have a size equal to or larger than the first partial figure OB1 and the second partial figure OB2, for example.

Then, the subject T, for example, while gazing at the gaze point LP, which is the center of a specified circle, judges the vibration status of the third partial figure OB3 included in each target figure OB. Specifically, the subject T, for example, judges the frequency or magnitude of vibration in the third partial figure OB3 included in each target figure OB.

[Example of configuration of information processing device 1 according to the first embodiment]
Next, a description will be given of an example of the configuration of the information processing device 1. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device 1 in the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 4, the information processing device 1 has, for example, a CPU 101, which is a processor, a memory 102, a communication interface 103, and a storage medium 104. Each part is connected to each other via a bus 105.

The storage medium 104 has, for example, a program storage area (not shown) that stores a program 110 for performing alpha wave estimation processing.

The storage medium 104 also has, for example, a storage unit 130 (hereinafter also referred to as information storage area 130). The storage medium 104 may be, for example, a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

The CPU 101, for example, executes the program 110 loaded from the storage medium 104 to the memory 102 to perform the alpha wave estimation process.

The communication interface 103 also communicates with, for example, other information processing devices (not shown) that collect and store the results of the alpha wave estimation process performed on each subject T (alpha wave estimation results).

[Outline of the first embodiment]
Next, an outline of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 5, the information processing device 1 realizes various functions including, for example, a screen output unit 111, an input receiving unit 112, a vibration estimation unit 113, a result output unit 114, a validity determination unit 115, and a validity output unit 116.

The screen output unit 111 outputs, for example, the target screen SC1 to an output device. Specifically, the screen output unit 111 outputs, for example, the target screen SC1 stored in the information storage area 130 to an output device.

The input receiving unit 112, for example, receives an input of a judgment result about the vibration status of the third partial figure OB3 made by the subject T who viewed the target screen SC1 output by the screen output unit 111. Then, the input receiving unit 112 stores the judgment result that has been received as input in the information storage area 130, for example.

The vibration estimation unit 113 estimates the vibration state of the alpha waves of the subject T, for example, based on the judgment result of the input received by the input receiving unit 112.

The result output unit 114 outputs, for example, an estimation result indicating the vibration state of alpha waves estimated by the vibration estimation unit 113 to an output device.

The validity determination unit 115, for example, determines the validity of the judgment result of the input received by the input receiving unit 112.

The validity output unit 116 outputs, for example, the validity judgment result of the judgment result by the validity judgment unit 115 to another information processing device (not shown).

[Flowchart of Alpha Wave Estimation Processing in the First Embodiment]
Next, the alpha wave estimation process according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to a flow chart shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 6, the screen output unit 111 waits, for example, until the estimation timing arrives (NO in S11). The estimation timing may be, for example, the timing when the subject T inputs to the information processing device 1 that he or she will estimate the vibration situation. In other words, if the subject T estimates alpha waves once a day, the estimation timing may be, for example, once a day.

Then, when the estimated timing arrives (YES in S11), the screen output unit 111 outputs, for example, the target screen SC1 stored in the information storage area 130 to the output device (S12).

Then, the input receiving unit 112 waits, for example, until the subject T, who has viewed the target screen SC1 output by the screen output unit 111, inputs the judgment result (NO in S13).

Then, when the judgment result input by the subject T is accepted (YES in S13), the vibration estimation unit 113 estimates the vibration state of the alpha waves of the subject T, for example, based on the judgment result that was accepted as input (S14).

Then, the result output unit 114 outputs, for example, an estimation result indicating the vibration state of alpha waves estimated in the processing of S14 to an output device (S15).

In addition, the information processing device 1 may, for example, repeatedly perform the process of S12 and the process of S13. Then, the subject T may, for example, input the judgment result regarding the target screen SC1 multiple times. After that, in the process of S14, the information processing device 1 may, for example, estimate the vibration state of the alpha waves of the subject T based on the judgment result input multiple times by the subject T (for example, the average value indicated by the judgment result input multiple times by the subject T).

[Example of a case where a subject judges the frequency of vibration in the third partial figure]
Next, a specific example of the case where the subject T judges the vibration frequency in the third partial figure OB3 will be described. Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of the comparison figure OBa. Figs. 8 and 9 are diagrams for explaining a specific example of the case where the subject T judges the vibration frequency in the third partial figure OB3. Below, the processes explained in the flow chart of Fig. 6 will be referred to as appropriate.

First, we will explain the comparison figure OBa used for the vibration frequency in the third partial figure OB3.

As shown in FIG. 7, the comparison figure OBa is, for example, a figure consisting of an annular sector shape, similar to the target figure OB described in FIG. 3. Specifically, the comparison figure OBa is, for example, a figure consisting of a first partial figure OB1 and a second partial figure OB2 each having an annular sector shape of a second color, and a third partial figure OB3 (hereinafter also referred to as a fourth partial figure OB3a) having an annular sector shape of a third color. The fourth partial figure OB3a is, for example, disposed between the first partial figure OB1 and the second partial figure OB2. In other words, the comparison figure OBa shown in FIG. 7 is, for example, a figure in which the color of the third partial figure OB3 in the target figure OB described in FIG. 3 has been changed to the same color as the background color of the target screen SC1.

More specifically, the difference between the luminance of the third color in the fourth partial figure OB3a and the luminance of the second color in the first partial figure OB1 and the second partial figure OB2 is, for example, a predetermined value or more. In other words, the combination of the third color and the second color is, for example, a color combination that can be determined as not causing a jitter illusion in the subject T.

Note that, in the following description, it is assumed that the color of each of the first partial figure OB1 and the second partial figure OB2 included in the comparison figure OBa is the second color, but this is not limited to this. Specifically, the color of each of the first partial figure OB1 and the second partial figure OB2 included in the comparison figure OBa may be a color other than the second color, for example, as long as the difference in luminance between them and the fourth partial figure OB3a is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

Furthermore, the following description will be given assuming that the color of the fourth partial figure OB3a is the third color, but this is not limited to this. Specifically, the color of the fourth partial figure OB3a may be a color other than the third color (hereinafter also referred to as the fourth color) as long as the difference in luminance between the fourth partial figure OB3a and each of the first partial figure OB1 and the second partial figure OB2 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.

Next, we will explain a specific example in which subject T judges the vibration frequency in the third partial figure OB3.

In the process of S12, the information processing device 1 displays, for example, the target screen SC1 described in FIG. 2 on the output device.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8(A), the information processing device 1 displays, for example, the target screen SC1 on the output device for a few seconds (for example, 4 seconds). Then, as shown in FIG. 8(B), the information processing device 1 displays, for example, the target screen SC1 (hereinafter also referred to as the target screen SC3) in a state in which the target figure OB is not displayed on the output device for a few seconds (for example, 2 seconds).

Then, as shown in FIG. 8(C), the information processing device 1 displays, for example, a screen in which all of the target figures OB in the target screen SC1 have been changed to comparison figures OBa (hereinafter also referred to as the target screen SC2) on the output device for several seconds (for example, 4 seconds). Note that the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the target screen SC2 may actually vibrate at a predetermined frequency and a predetermined magnitude, as shown in FIG. 9. Then, the information processing device 1 displays, for example, the target screen SC3 on the output device for several seconds (for example, 2 seconds), as shown in FIG. 8(D).

After that, the subject T, who has viewed each screen shown in FIG. 8(A) to FIG. 8(D), inputs the judgment result of the vibration frequency of the third partial figure OB3 shown in FIG. 8(A) to the information processing device 1, for example.

Specifically, for example, in the target screen SC3 shown in FIG. 8(D), the subject T adjusts the frequency of vibration in the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the target screen SC1 shown in FIG. 8(A) so that the frequency of vibration (the frequency of vibration felt by the subject T) in the third partial figure OB3 included in the target screen SC1 shown in FIG. 8(A) matches as closely as possible with the frequency of vibration (the frequency of vibration actually being generated) in the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the target screen SC2 shown in FIG. 8(C).

More specifically, subject T adjusts the frequency of vibration in fourth partial figure OB3a, for example, by operating a slide bar (not shown) displayed on target screen SC2 shown in FIG. 8(D). Then, when subject T has completed adjusting the frequency of vibration in fourth partial figure OB3a, he or she presses an adjustment complete button (not shown) displayed on target screen SC2.

In other words, the subject T, for example, inputs the vibration frequency in the fourth partial figure OB3a (the adjusted frequency) into the information processing device 1 as the vibration frequency in the third partial figure OB3.

In addition, the information processing device 1 may, for example, repeatedly display each target screen described in FIG. 8(A) to FIG. 8(D) (displaying each target screen in the order of target screen SC1, target screen SC3, target screen SC2, and target screen SC3). Then, the subject T may repeatedly adjust the vibration frequency of the fourth partial figure OB3a until it is determined that the vibration frequency of the third partial figure OB3 included in the target screen SC1 matches the vibration frequency of the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the target screen SC2. In other words, the subject T may, for example, gradually adjust the vibration frequency of the fourth partial figure OB3a so that the vibration frequency of the third partial figure OB3 included in the target screen SC1 matches the vibration frequency of the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the target screen SC2.

In addition, the subject T may input the vibration frequency in the fourth partial figure OB3a, for example, before the display of the target screen SC3, which is displayed after the target screen SC2, ends.

Then, in the process of S13, the information processing device 1 accepts, for example, input of the vibration frequency adjusted by the subject T. Then, in the process of S14, the information processing device 1 estimates the alpha wave frequency of the subject T from the vibration frequency input by the subject T.

As a result, the information processing device 1 in this embodiment can measure (estimate) alpha waves efficiently without using equipment such as an electroencephalograph.

In the above example, the target screen SC1 on which the target figure OB is displayed and the target screen SC2 on which the comparison figure OBa is displayed are different screens, and the target screen SC1 and the target screen SC2 are displayed on the output device at different times. However, this is not limited to the above. Specifically, the information processing device 1 may display one target screen (not shown) on which one or more target figures OB (e.g., eight target figures OB) arranged on the circumference of a first circle and one or more comparison figures OBa (e.g., eight comparison figures OBa) arranged on the circumference of a second circle are displayed at the same time. The second circle may be, for example, a circle located inside the first circle, or a circle located outside the first circle (e.g., next to the first circle). The second circle may be, for example, the same circle as the first circle, and one or more target figures OB and one or more comparison figures OBa may be arranged on the same circumference. Then, for example, subject T may adjust the frequency of vibration in the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the target figure OB in the displayed target figure so that the frequency of vibration in the third partial figure OB3 included in the target figure OB matches as closely as possible with the frequency of vibration in the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the comparison figure OBa.

In the above example, the subject T adjusts the vibration frequency in the fourth partial figure OB3a by operating a slide bar or the like, but this is not limited to this. Specifically, the information processing device 1 may, for example, repeatedly display each of a plurality of target screens SC2 including the fourth partial figure OB3a having different vibration frequencies. Then, the subject T may, for example, sequentially input a judgment result as to whether or not the vibration frequency of each of the plurality of repeatedly displayed target screens S2 is higher than that of the third partial figure OB3 in the target screen SC1. After that, the information processing device 1 may, for example, specify, among the plurality of target screens SC2, the target screen SC2 in which the subject T judges that the vibration frequency is higher than that of the third partial figure OB3 to be closest to a predetermined value (for example, 50%). Then, the information processing device 1 may, for example, specify the vibration frequency in the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the specified target screen SC2 as the judgment result by the subject T.

[Example of when a subject judges the magnitude of vibration in the third partial figure]
Next, a specific example of the case where the subject T judges the magnitude of vibration in the third partial figure OB3 will be described. Fig. 10 illustrates a specific example of the case where the subject T judges the magnitude of vibration in the third partial figure OB3. Below, the processes described in the flowchart of Fig. 6 will be referred to as appropriate.

In the process of S12, the information processing device 1 displays, for example, the target screen SC1 described in FIG. 2 on the output device, as shown in FIG. 10.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10(A), the information processing device 1 displays, for example, the target screen SC3 on the output device for a few seconds (for example, 2 seconds). Then, as shown in FIG. 10(B), the information processing device 1 displays, for example, the target screen SC1 on the output device for a few seconds (for example, 4 seconds). Next, as shown in FIG. 10(C), the information processing device 1 displays, for example, the target screen SC3 on the output device for a few seconds (for example, 2 seconds).

After that, the subject T, who has viewed each screen shown in FIG. 10(A) to FIG. 10(C), inputs, for example, the result of the judgment of the magnitude of vibration of the third partial figure OB3 included in the target screen SC1 shown in FIG. 10(B) to the information processing device.

Specifically, the subject T inputs, for example, the magnitude of vibration of the third partial figure OB3 included in the target screen SC1 shown in FIG. 10(B) on the target screen SC3 shown in FIG. 10(C).

More specifically, on the target screen SC3 shown in FIG. 10(C), for example, the subject T presses either a first input button (not shown) that accepts input of a judgment result (hereinafter also referred to as the first result) indicating that the subject T has judged that the third partial figure OB3 is not vibrating, a second input button (not shown) that accepts input of a judgment result (hereinafter also referred to as the second result) indicating that the subject T has judged that the third partial figure OB3 is vibrating slightly, or a third input button (not shown) that accepts input of a judgment result (hereinafter also referred to as the third result) indicating that the subject T has judged that the third partial figure OB3 is vibrating greatly.

That is, the subject T, for example, determines whether the third partial figure OB3 included in the target screen SC1 shown in FIG. 10(B) is vibrating, and determines the magnitude of the vibration of the third partial figure OB3. Then, the subject T presses an input button corresponding to the determination result regarding the magnitude of the vibration of the third partial figure OB3, from among the first input button, the second input button, and the third input button, on the target screen SC3 shown in FIG. 10(C).

Then, in the process of S13, the information processing device 1 accepts, for example, input of the vibration magnitude corresponding to the input button pressed by the subject T. Then, in the process of S14, the information processing device 1 estimates the strength of the alpha waves of the subject T (the magnitude of the alpha waves) from the vibration magnitude input by the subject T.

As a result, the information processing device 1 in this embodiment can measure (estimate) alpha waves efficiently without using equipment such as an electroencephalograph.

Furthermore, by measuring the magnitude of the jitter illusion that occurs in the subject T, the information processing device 1 can, for example, perform the measurement more easily than when measuring the frequency of the jitter illusion. Specifically, when measuring the frequency of the jitter illusion, the subject T may be required to, for example, repeatedly view the target screen SC1 and repeatedly adjust the frequency of the vibration in the third partial figure OB3. In contrast, when measuring the magnitude of the jitter illusion, the subject T only needs to, for example, view the target screen SC1 once and input the magnitude of the vibration in the third partial figure OB3 once. Therefore, when measuring the magnitude of the jitter illusion, the information processing device 1 can, for example, reduce the burden on the subject T required to measure the jitter illusion. Therefore, the information processing device 1 can, for example, estimate alpha waves regardless of the age, condition, etc. of the subject T.

In the above example, a case has been described in which the subject T can select from three options for the judgment result (first result, second result, and third result), but this is not limited to this. Specifically, the options for the judgment result that the subject T can select from may be, for example, a number other than three.

[Specific example of estimating the strength of alpha waves from the magnitude of vibration in the third partial figure]
Next, a specific example of estimating the strength of alpha waves from the vibration magnitude in the third partial figure OB3 will be described. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the measurement results of the strength of the alpha waves of a subject for each judgment result by the subject. In FIG. 11, the horizontal axis shows the frequency of the subject's brain waves (including alpha waves), and the vertical axis shows the power spectrum of the subject's brain waves (the magnitude of the subject's brain waves). Specifically, FIG. 11(A) is a diagram showing the magnitude of the brain waves measured by an electroencephalograph (not shown) during the time when the subject is looking at the target screen SC3 described in FIG. 10(A) (hereinafter also referred to as before the presentation of the stimulus). Also, FIG. 11(B) is a diagram showing the magnitude of the brain waves measured by an electroencephalograph during the time when the subject is looking at the target screen SC1 described in FIG. 10(B) (hereinafter also referred to as during the presentation of the stimulus). That is, FIG. 11(A) is a diagram showing the magnitude of the brain waves immediately before the measurement of the jitter illusion, and FIG. 11(B) is a diagram showing the magnitude of the brain waves when the measurement of the jitter illusion is being performed.

In addition, in Figures 11(A) and 11(B), the magnitude of the brain waves around 10 Hz on the horizontal axis indicates the strength of alpha waves.

Also, the alpha brain waves shown in FIG. 11(A) (the magnitude of the brain waves while the subject is looking at target screen SC3) have a larger difference between judgment results than the magnitude of the brain waves shown in FIG. 11(B) (the magnitude of the brain waves while the subject is looking at target screen SC1). Therefore, the following will explain the case where the magnitude of the brain waves in FIG. 11(A) is referenced.

In FIG. 11(A), graph G1 shows the magnitude of the subject's brain waves when the magnitude of vibration in the third partial figure OB3 is determined to be the first result (not vibrating). Also in FIG. 11(A), graph G2 shows the magnitude of the subject's brain waves when the magnitude of vibration in the third partial figure OB3 is determined to be the second result (small vibration). Also in FIG. 11(A), graph G3 shows the magnitude of the subject's brain waves when the magnitude of vibration in the third partial figure OB3 is determined to be the third result (large vibration).

In other words, Figure 11(A) shows, for example, that the strength of alpha waves (strength of brain waves around 10 Hz) of the subject corresponding to the first result is greater than the strength of alpha waves of the subject corresponding to the second result. Also, Figure 11(A) shows, for example, that the strength of alpha waves of the subject corresponding to the second result is greater than the strength of alpha waves of the subject corresponding to the third result.

In other words, Figure 11(A) shows that, for example, the smaller the jitter illusion experienced by a subject, the larger the subject's alpha waves.

Therefore, in the process of S14, the information processing device 1 may, for example, estimate a smaller value as the strength of the alpha waves of the subject T, the greater the magnitude of vibration indicated by the judgment result received as input in the process of S13. Also, in the process of S14, the information processing device 1 may, for example, estimate a larger value as the strength of the alpha waves of the subject T, the smaller the magnitude of vibration indicated by the judgment result received as input in the process of S13.

Specifically, the information processing device 1 may, for example, when the judgment result received in the processing of S13 is a first result, identify as the estimated result information indicating that the intensity of the alpha waves of the subject T is a first value, and when the judgment result received in the processing of S13 is a second result, identify as the estimated result information indicating that the intensity of the alpha waves of the subject T is a second value smaller than the first value. Furthermore, the information processing device 1 may, for example, when the judgment result received in the processing of S13 is a third result, identify as the estimated result information indicating that the intensity of the alpha waves of the subject T is a third value smaller than the second value.

[Validity Determination Process in the First Embodiment]
Next, a process for determining the validity of a judgment result made by the subject T in the first embodiment (hereinafter, also referred to as validity determination process) will be described.

For example, if subject T is unable to spend sufficient time measuring the jitter illusion in the alpha wave estimation process (determining the magnitude of vibration for the third partial figure OB3), there is a possibility that subject T will input an invalid determination result in the alpha wave estimation process (processing of S13). Therefore, the information processing device 1 may, for example, execute a validity determination process in conjunction with the alpha wave estimation process.

This enables the information processing device 1 to, for example, exclude estimation results of alpha wave strength estimated in the alpha wave estimation process (processing of S14) that can be determined to lack validity. Furthermore, the information processing device 1 can, for example, notify the subject T that the judgment result input by the subject T lacks validity. Below, a flowchart illustrating the validity judgment process will be described.

[Flowchart of validity determination process in the first embodiment]
Fig. 12 is a flow chart illustrating the validity determination process in the first embodiment, and Fig. 13 is a diagram illustrating the validity determination process in the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 12, the screen output unit 111 waits, for example, until it is time to make a judgment (NO in S21). The judgment timing may be, for example, a timing that is a predetermined percentage of the estimated timing described in FIG. 6.

Then, when the determination timing arrives (YES in S21), the screen output unit 111 outputs, for example, the target screen SC2 stored in the information storage area 130 to the output device (S22).

Specifically, in this case, the screen output unit 111 displays the target screen SC3 on the output device for a few seconds (e.g., 2 seconds), for example, as shown in FIG. 13(A). Then, the information processing device 1 displays the target screen SC2 (hereinafter also referred to as the second screen) on the output device for a few seconds (e.g., 4 seconds), for example, as shown in FIG. 13(B). Note that in this case, the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the target screen SC2 may not vibrate. After that, the information processing device 1 displays the target screen SC3 on the output device for a few seconds (e.g., 2 seconds), for example, as shown in FIG. 13(C).

Then, the input receiving unit 112 waits until, for example, the subject T, who has viewed the target screen SC2 output by the screen output unit 111, inputs a judgment result (hereinafter also referred to as the second judgment result) (NO in S23).

Then, when the judgment result input by the subject T is accepted (YES in S23), the validity judgment unit 115 judges, for example, the validity of the judgment result input in the processing of S23 (S24).

Specifically, if the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the comparison figure OBa output in the process of S21 is not vibrating, the validity determination unit 115 determines, for example, whether the judgment result inputted in the process of S23 is the first result.

Then, the validity output unit 116 outputs the determination result determined in the processing of S24, for example, to another information processing device (S25).

Specifically, if the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the comparison figure OBa output in the process of S21 is not vibrating and it is determined that the judgment result input in the process of S13 is the first result, the validity output unit 116 outputs, for example, a judgment result indicating that the judgment result input by the subject T is valid. On the other hand, if the fourth partial figure OB3a included in the comparison figure OBa output in the process of S21 is not vibrating and it is determined that the judgment result input in the process of S13 is not the first result, the validity output unit 116 outputs, for example, a judgment result indicating that the judgment result input by the subject T is not valid.

In other words, if the fourth partial figure OB3a seen by the subject T is not vibrating and if the measurement of the jitter illusion by the subject T is being performed appropriately, it is considered that the subject T will determine that the fourth partial figure OB3a is not vibrating. Therefore, for example, when the target screen SC2 is output in the process of S21 and the judgment result inputted in the process of S23 is the first result, the validity determination unit 115 determines that the measurement of the jitter illusion by the subject T is being performed appropriately. On the other hand, for example, when the target screen SC2 is output in the process of S21 and the judgment result inputted in the process of S23 is a judgment result other than the first result (the second result or the third result), the validity determination unit 115 determines that the measurement of the jitter illusion by the subject T is not being performed appropriately.

This enables the information processing device 1 to, for example, perform alpha wave estimation processing as well as determine whether the measurement of the jitter illusion by the subject T is being performed appropriately.

In the above example, a case has been described in which the target screen SC2 including the comparison figure OBa in which the fourth partial figure OB3a is not vibrating is output to the output device in the process of S22, but this is not limited to the case. Specifically, the screen output unit 111 may output, for example, the target screen SC2 (hereinafter also referred to as the third screen) including the comparison figure OBa in which the fourth partial figure OB3a is vibrating to the output device. In this case, the validity determination unit 115 may determine, for example, whether the judgment result (hereinafter also referred to as the third judgment result) inputted in the process of S23 is the second result or the third result.

In this way, the information processing device 1 in this embodiment generates a target screen SC1 on which a target figure OB, which is a figure including a partial figure OB3 of a first color as a part thereof and the part other than the partial figure OB3 is a second color different from the first color, moves along at least a part of the circumference of a predetermined circle. Then, the information processing device 1 outputs the generated target screen SC1 to an output device (not shown) of the information processing device 1, for example.

Then, the information processing device 1, for example, accepts input of the judgment result by the subject T regarding the vibration state of the partial figure OB3. Then, the information processing device 1, for example, estimates the vibration state of the alpha waves of the subject T based on the judgment result that has been accepted as input. Furthermore, the information processing device 1, for example, outputs information indicating the estimated vibration state of the alpha waves.

In other words, in the information processing device 1 of this embodiment, the target figure moves in a circular motion on the target screen, unlike, for example, the case in Non-Patent Document 1 (where the target figure moves horizontally). Therefore, the information processing device 1 can, for example, keep the distance from the gaze point to the target figure (partial figure) constant by setting the center of the circle drawn by the target figure as the gaze point. Therefore, the information processing device 1 can, for example, improve the visibility of vibrations in the partial figure, and shorten (stabilize) the time it takes for the subject T to recognize that vibrations are occurring in the partial figure.

This enables the information processing device 1 to, for example, efficiently measure the jitter illusion and efficiently estimate the frequency of alpha waves.

1: Information processing device 10: Information processing system 101: CPU
102: Memory 103: Communication interface 104: Storage medium 105: Bus 110: Program 111: Screen output unit 112: Input reception unit 113: Vibration estimation unit 114: Result output unit 115: Validity determination unit 116: Validity output unit 130: Information storage area OB: Object figure OBa: Object figure OB1: First partial figure OB2: Second partial figure OB3: Third partial figure OB3a: Fourth partial figure SC1: Object screen SC1a: Object screen SC1b: Object screen SC2: Object screen IN1: Input screen IN2: Input screen IN3: Input screen

Claims (11)

outputting a first screen in which a target graphic, which partly includes a partial graphic of a first color and the part other than the partial graphic is a second color, moves along at least a part of the circumference of a predetermined circle;
accepting an input of a first judgment result regarding a vibration state of the partial figure by a subject;
estimating an alpha wave vibration state of the subject based on the first judgment result that has been input;
outputting information indicating the estimated vibration state of the alpha waves;
An alpha wave estimation method, characterized in that the processing is executed by a computer. the first judgment result is a judgment result regarding a vibration frequency of the partial figure,
In the estimation process, the frequency of the alpha waves is estimated as the vibration state of the alpha waves.
The method for estimating alpha waves according to claim 1 . the first judgment result is a judgment result regarding a magnitude of vibration of the partial graphic;
In the estimation process, the intensity of the alpha waves is estimated as the vibration state of the alpha waves.
The method for estimating alpha waves according to claim 1 . In the first screen, a difference in luminance between the partial figure and a portion of the target figure other than the partial figure is equal to or smaller than a predetermined value.
The method for estimating alpha waves according to claim 1 . the first screen is a screen in which the plurality of target figures move along at least a part of the circumference of the predetermined circle;
The method for estimating alpha waves according to claim 1 . In the process of accepting the input, an input of any one of a first result indicating that the subject has judged that the partial graphic is not vibrating, a second result indicating that the subject has judged that the partial graphic is vibrating, and a third result indicating that the subject has judged that the partial graphic is vibrating more than the second result is accepted as the first judgment result.
The method for estimating alpha waves according to claim 3 . a color of a portion other than the target figure on the first screen is a third color different from the first color and the second color;
The method for estimating alpha waves according to claim 1 . a second screen is output in which the target graphic, which includes the partial graphic in a fourth color different from the first color and the second color, moves along at least a part of the circumference of the predetermined circle;
accepting an input of a second judgment result by the subject regarding a vibration state of the partial figure included in the second screen;
outputting information indicating the second determination result that has been received as an input;
The alpha wave estimation method according to claim 7, characterized in that the processing is executed by a computer. outputting a third screen in which the target graphic, which is a part of the partial graphic and which is in the fourth color and vibrates, moves along at least a part of the circumference of the predetermined circle;
accepting an input of a third judgment result by the subject regarding a vibration state of the partial figure included in the third screen;
outputting information indicating the third determination result that has been received as an input;
The alpha wave estimation method according to claim 8, characterized in that the processing is executed by a computer. a screen output unit that outputs a first screen in which a target graphic, which partly includes a partial graphic of a first color and the part other than the partial graphic is a second color, moves along at least a part of the circumference of a predetermined circle;
an input receiving unit that receives an input of a first judgment result regarding a vibration state of the partial figure by a subject;
a vibration estimation unit that estimates a vibration state of alpha waves of the subject based on the first judgment result that has been input;
and a result output unit that outputs information indicating the estimated vibration state of the alpha waves.
23. An information processing apparatus comprising: outputting a first screen in which a target graphic, which partly includes a partial graphic of a first color and the part other than the partial graphic is a second color, moves along at least a part of the circumference of a predetermined circle;
accepting an input of a first judgment result regarding a vibration state of the partial figure by a subject;
estimating an alpha wave vibration state of the subject based on the first judgment result that has been input;
outputting information indicating the estimated vibration state of the alpha waves;
An alpha wave estimation program characterized by causing a computer to execute processing.

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