Sleep Comfort Evaluation in Bedding that Utilized Phase Change Materials (PCM)

Abstract

:The purpose of this study is to reveal the bedding influence degree to quality of sleep. This bedding utilized Phase Change Materials (PCM). We carried out two experiments. Firstly, we experimentally confirmed thermal properties of the PCM. Secondly, we carried out overnight sleep experiment in hot and cold environment. We prepared the PCM bedding and normal bedding that is commercially-supplied. Consequently, the PCM had been the property of cold tactile sensation rather than the normal bedding. From overnight sleep experiment, we found that subjects fell asleep earlier by using the PCM bedding. In cold environment, subjects' skin humidity was low and felt bad after sleep in the PCM bedding sleep. We concluded the PCM has a special endothermic property to deprive the temperature of skin surface.

The role of comfort, personality, and intention in smartwatch usage during sleep

“…Conversely, in the context of sleep scenarios, users exhibit heightened demands for comfort (Hashimoto et al, 2015). This dichotomy prompts users to navigate a decision-making juncture: whether to don a smartwatch for sleep quality monitoring or to forgo its use to preserve sleep quality.…”

“…Smartwatches provide sleep-related data like duration, nocturnal awakenings, and sleep stages, enabling users to proactively manage sleep habits, enhance awareness of potential issues, and ultimately refine sleep quality (Liang and Ploderer, 2016). However, it is imperative to acknowledge that users place a premium on comfort when it comes to the sleep environment (Hashimoto et al, 2015). This reality has engendered a scenario where only a subset of users is amenable to wearing smartwatches while asleep.…”