JP2001137363A - Low frequency stimulating device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a low frequency stimulating device wherein the listening of music and the applying of a plurality of different low frequency stimulation can be performed by one earphone, a stimulation being rich in variety can be realized, and the handling is convenient, and improve a conventional low frequency stimulating device wherein the variety of stimulation is less, and the handling is inconvenient. SOLUTION: This low frequency stimulating device is constituted of a sound signal reproducing section 1 comprising a MP3 reproducing device, a low frequency signal generating section 7, earphones 25 and 26, and a control means. In this case, the low frequency signal generating section 7 can generate a low frequency superimposed signal wherein a low frequency pulse signal and a low frequency sound signal are synthesized, or a low frequency sound signal. The earphones 25 and 26 are constituted of a box body having conductive metal plated layers 25b and 26b, which comes into contact with the auricle. The control means transmits the sound signal from the sound signal reproducing section 1 to the earphones 25 and 26, and at the same time, can selectively transmit either one of the low frequency sound signal or the low frequency superimposed signal from the low frequency signal generating section 7 to the conductive metal plated layers 25b and 26b of the earphones 25 and 26.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a low-frequency stimulating apparatus capable of applying a low-frequency signal to a housing of an earphone or the like of a music reproducing apparatus to apply a low-frequency stimulus to a human body through the earphone. is there.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known an apparatus which generates a low-frequency stimulus signal based on an audio signal reproduced by a tape recorder or the like, and supplies the low-frequency stimulus signal to the human body through an electrode to stimulate the human body. is there. Such a conventional device can listen to music with speakers or headphones such as a tape recorder, and also energizes the low-frequency stimulation signal to an electrode provided separately from the headphones or speakers, and connects the electrodes to the waist or the like. It was intended to stimulate the human body.

[0003]

However, the above-mentioned conventional apparatus merely gives a low-frequency signal generated from an audio signal to the human body, so that the stimulus to be given to the human body has little change. There is a problem that the effect of the stimulus is reduced if the user gets used to it.

Further, since the sound source is a tape player or a compact disc player, the device becomes large and it is inconvenient to carry. When sound skips due to vibration or the like, the low-frequency stimulus signal is disturbed and an appropriate sound is generated. There was a problem that stimulation could not be given to the human body.

Furthermore, the above-mentioned conventional device is inconvenient to handle because the electrodes are provided separately from headphones or the like, and is used mainly for treatment in a bed or the like in a room, and when going out or walking. It has been difficult to easily receive low-frequency stimulation at times.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a low-frequency stimulating apparatus which is small in size, convenient to carry, and has no sound skipping. The purpose is to provide.

[0007]

To achieve the above object, the present invention firstly provides an audio signal reproducing means for reproducing a signal from an audio signal generating source to generate an audio signal; A low-frequency audio signal generating unit that extracts a low-frequency component from an audio signal obtained based on a signal from a source and generates a low-frequency audio signal; and generates a low-frequency pulse signal and converts the low-frequency pulse signal into the low-frequency audio signal. A low-frequency signal generating unit having a low-frequency superimposed signal generating unit capable of generating a low-frequency superimposed signal by superimposing the signal on a signal; and a housing having a conductive portion in contact with an auricle. An earphone that has a speaker unit that can receive and reproduce the audio signal from the means, receives the low-frequency signal from the low-frequency signal generation unit, and can energize the conductive portion; and Above the audio signal Control means for transmitting to the earphone, and selectively transmitting any of the low-frequency audio signal or the low-frequency superimposed signal from the low-frequency signal generation means to the conductive portion of the earphone. It is constituted by a characteristic low-frequency stimulator.

[0008] Therefore, by reproducing the audio signal from the audio signal generation source with the speaker section of the earphone, it is possible to listen to the audio signal such as music. If it is desired to receive a stimulus by a low-frequency audio signal, a mode for transmitting a low-frequency audio signal (S mode) is set, and the control means extracts a low-frequency component from the audio signal obtained based on the signal from the audio signal source. The low-frequency sound signal is generated by taking out the low-frequency sound signal, and the low-frequency sound signal is transmitted from the low-frequency sound signal generating section to the conductive portion of the earphone. Then, a low-frequency sound signal is supplied to the human body through the pinna from the conductive portion of the earphone, and a low-frequency stimulus corresponding to the level of the low-frequency sound signal can be received. At this time, the listener can receive a pleasant low-frequency stimulus rich in changes synchronized with the low-frequency audio signal of the music while listening to the music with the earphone. Next, when it is desired to receive a stimulus by the low-frequency superimposed signal, a mode for transmitting the low-frequency superimposed signal (S + P mode) is provided. A low-frequency pulse signal is generated together with the low-frequency pulse signal, and the low-frequency pulse signal is combined with the low-frequency audio signal to form a low-frequency superimposed signal, which is transmitted to the conductive portion of the earphone. Therefore, a low-frequency superimposed signal is supplied to the human body from the pinna from the conductive portion of the earphone worn on the ear, and a low-frequency stimulus corresponding to the level of the low-frequency superimposed signal can be received. At this time, the listener can receive a comfortable low-frequency stimulus by the low-frequency superimposed signal while listening to music with the earphone.

[0009] Second, the audio signal generating source is an MP3 reproducing apparatus, which is constituted by the low frequency stimulating apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention.

Therefore, the low-frequency audio signal and the low-frequency superimposed signal can be generated based on digital data such as music reproduced from the MP3 reproducing apparatus. Such an MP3 reproducing apparatus does not have a driving portion and does not cause a skip, so that the entire apparatus can be reduced in size and a low-frequency stimulator free from adverse effects due to the skip can be realized.

Third, the low-frequency signal generating means is provided with a high-level low-frequency pulse signal generating section for generating a high-level low-frequency pulse signal having a higher voltage level than the low-frequency pulse signal. The low-frequency stimulating device according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, wherein the high-level low-frequency pulse signal is transmitted to the conductive portion of the earphone when a sound signal is reproduced or stopped from a signal source. It consists of.

Therefore, when it is desired to receive a stimulus by a high-level low-frequency pulse signal, the mode is set to a high-level low-frequency pulse signal transmission mode (P mode). Generate a low frequency pulse signal. Since the high-level low-frequency pulse signal is transmitted to the conductive portion of the earphone housing, the high-level low-frequency pulse signal is supplied to the human body through the pinna from the conductive portion of the earphone attached to the ear. , Can receive a low frequency stimulus according to the level. At this time, the listener can be stimulated by the high-level low-frequency pulse signal regardless of whether music or the like is being reproduced or stopped from the speaker section of the earphone.

Fourthly, there is provided level adjusting means for independently adjusting the signal level of the low-frequency audio signal and the signal level of the high-level low-frequency pulse signal, and the control means converts the low-frequency superimposed signal into an earphone signal. The low frequency stimulating device according to the third aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the level of the low frequency audio signal is increased or decreased based on the operation of the level adjusting means when transmitting to the conductive portion. It is composed.

The mode (S) for generating a low-frequency audio signal
Mode) or a mode generating a high-level low-frequency pulse signal (P mode), the listener can adjust the signal level of each low-frequency signal independently by adjusting the level adjusting means, In the mode in which the low-frequency superimposed signal is generated (S + P mode), by adjusting the level adjusting means, the low-frequency superimposed signal can be obtained from among the low-frequency superimposed signal.
Only the signal level of the low-frequency audio signal can be adjusted. This allows the listener to increase or decrease only the low-frequency sound signal level synchronized with the low-frequency sound of the music when receiving the stimulus by the low-frequency superimposed signal. Can be changed as desired.

Fifth, when any one of the low-frequency audio signal, the low-frequency superimposed signal, and the high-level low-frequency pulse signal is transmitted to the conductive portion of the earphone, the signal level being transmitted is kept constant. A boost function for increasing the signal level to a predetermined level is provided, and the control means releases the boost function after increasing the signal level for the fixed time and returns the signal level to the level before the boost. The low-frequency stimulator according to the third or fourth aspect of the present invention.

Therefore, in each of the above modes, when the listener turns on the boost function, the control means controls the low-frequency signal (low-frequency audio signal, high-level low-frequency pulse signal or low-frequency superimposed signal) that is currently being generated. ) Is doubled, for example. Accordingly, when the current does not easily flow due to the skin resistance, the boost function can break the skin resistance and allow the current to flow, and the listener can be stimulated by an appropriate current. After the boost function is turned on, the boost function is turned off after, for example, three minutes have elapsed, and the signal level can be automatically returned to the level before the boost. No action is required.

[0017]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes an audio signal reproducing unit (audio signal reproducing means).
Playback device, ie, MPEG-1 audio part Layer
An audio file reproducing device created based on the er3 standard is used. The audio signal reproducing unit 1 stores a music signal as digital data in a semiconductor memory 2 such as a smart media, and demodulates the music data read from the memory 2 by the CPU 9 by the MP3 decoder 3, and decodes the audio signal (audio) by the PCM decoder 4. After demodulation and conversion into signals of frequency band music and the like, and cutting the higher harmonics by the low-pass filter 5, the signals are transmitted to the speaker units 25 a and 26 a of the earphones 25 and 26 (see FIG. 2) via the amplifier circuit 6. Then, an audio signal such as music is reproduced. In the present embodiment, the music signal generating source is constituted by the semiconductor memory 2, the CPU 9, the MP3 decoder 3, the PCM decoder 4, and the like. The MP3 playback apparatus according to the present invention is different from the cassette tape player and the CD player in that it has no driving parts such as rotating parts, can be reduced in size and weight, and does not cause sound skipping. Suitable as a music signal source for stimulators. In this embodiment, music is used as a signal source, but a human voice other than music, an animal singing, a natural sound, or the like may be used.

Reference numeral 7 denotes a low-frequency signal generation section (low-frequency signal generation means).
Is a D / A conversion circuit that converts music data from the semiconductor memory 2 into an analog audio signal in an audio frequency band based on the control of the CPU 9 in an S mode described below.
0 is an audio signal converted by the D / A conversion circuit 8;
A low-pass filter that passes a low-frequency band from the middle band of 16 kHz or less to produce a low-frequency audio signal (an example of the waveform is shown in FIG. 6). Reference numeral 11 denotes a signal level of the low-frequency audio signal that has passed through the low-pass filter 10 ( A volume 12 for changing the voltage level is an amplifier for the low-frequency audio signal. In this embodiment, the CPU 9, D
/ A conversion circuit 8, low-pass filter 10, volume 1
1, a low frequency audio signal generating unit is constituted by the amplifier 12 and the like. In the present embodiment, the low-pass filter 10 has a frequency of 16 kHz or less. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a lower frequency may be used.

Reference numeral 13 denotes a few tens of Hz (10H in this embodiment) generated by the CPU 9 in an S + P mode described later.
z) Low frequency pulse signal for S + P mode (see FIG. 8)
And 14 is an amplifier for amplifying the low-frequency pulse signal. The low-frequency pulse signal is combined with the low-frequency audio signal at point a to produce a low-frequency pulse signal. It is configured to form a superimposed signal. That is, in the S + P mode, the low-frequency sound signal shown in FIG. 6 and the low-frequency pulse signal shown in FIG. 8 are combined. The S + P-mode low-frequency pulse signal (see FIG. 8) has four levels having different levels alternately.
One impulse signal is repeated at a period of 100 ms, and each one of the impulse signals S1 stimulates the auricle to exert an effect such as pain relief. In the present embodiment, the CPU 9, the volume 13, the amplifier 1
4. The low frequency superimposed signal generator is constituted by points a and the like.

Reference numeral 15 denotes a P mode which will be described later.
Dozens of Hz generated in U9 (10 Hz in this embodiment)
High-level low-frequency pulse signal for P-mode (FIG. 7)
(A) a volume for changing the voltage level,
16 is an amplifier for the pulse signal, and 17 is a booster for the voltage level of the high-level low-frequency pulse signal (usually a maximum of 40).
V). As shown in FIG. 7A, the high-level low-frequency pulse signal for the P mode repeats four impulse signals whose levels are gradually reduced at a cycle of 100 ms. Is set to a maximum of 40 V so as to give a considerably stronger stimulus than the low frequency pulse (3 to 4 V at the maximum) in the S + P mode. Then, each impulse signal S2 of the low-frequency pulse signal stimulates the auricle through the earphone to obtain an effect such as pain relief as in the S + P mode. The reason why the voltage level of the high-level low-frequency pulse signal for the P mode is higher than that of the low-frequency pulse signal in the S + P mode is that the reproduction of music by the audio signal reproducing unit 1 is stopped in the P mode. Is possible,
When the music is stopped, the voltage level is set high so that a sufficient bodily stimulus can be obtained only by the low frequency pulse signal. In this embodiment, the CPU 9, the volume 15, the amplifier 16, and the booster circuit 17 are used.
Thus, a high-level low-frequency pulse signal generation unit is configured.

Reference numeral 18 denotes an amplifier for amplifying the low-frequency audio signal or the low-frequency superimposed signal.
8, the low-frequency audio signal, the low-frequency superimposed signal, or the high-level low-frequency pulse signal that has passed through the booster circuit 17 is
The output is sent to the casings of the earphones 25 and 26 to be described later via the output switching circuit 19.

An operation switch 20 is provided with a mode changeover switch 21, a level adjustment switch 22, and a boost switch 23 in association with the low frequency signal generator 7. By operating the mode switch 21, the low-frequency audio signal (FIG. 6) is transmitted to the earphones 25 and 2.
6, the high-level low-frequency pulse signal (FIG. 7A) to the earphones 25 and 26, the low-frequency audio signal (FIG. 6) and the low-frequency pulse signal for the S + P mode. The mode can be switched between the S + P mode in which the low-frequency superimposed signal obtained by synthesizing (FIG. 8) is transmitted to the earphones 25 and 26 and the cut-off mode in which the transmission of each of the low-frequency signals is stopped. On the basis of the mode switching signal from the changeover switch 21, the transmission of the low-frequency pulse signals for the P mode and the S + P mode is stopped in the S mode, and only the music pulse signal is transmitted. The transmission of the frequency pulse signal and the music pulse signal is stopped, and only the high-level low-frequency pulse signal for the P mode is transmitted. The transmission of the bell low frequency pulse signal is stopped, and both the low frequency pulse signal and the music pulse signal for the S + P mode are transmitted. In the off mode, the transmission of the music pulse signal and the low frequency pulse signals are stopped. (See FIG. 5, P1 to P5).

The CPU (control means) 9 operates the level adjustment switch 22 in the S mode.
Controls the volume 11 to increase or decrease the signal level of the low-frequency audio signal (see FIGS. 5, P7 and P8), and operates the switch 22 in the P mode to operate the CP.
U9 controls the volume 15 to increase or decrease the voltage level of the high-level low-frequency pulse signal (FIG. 5, P17, P17).
18) Also, in the S + P mode, the control of the volume 11 is performed to control the voltage level of the low-frequency audio signal of the low-frequency superimposed signal (see FIG. 5, P5, P24, P7, P8). In the present embodiment, the level adjustment switch 2
2. The level adjustment means is constituted by the volumes 11, 15, 24 and the like.

When the boost switch 23 is pressed, the CPU
9 is volume 2 in S mode and S + P mode
4 to control the amplification of the amplifier 18 to increase the maximum potential of the low-frequency audio signal or the low-frequency superimposed signal to, for example, about twice (predetermined level) (FIG. 5, P9, P9).
10, P19, P20). Further, in the P mode, when the boost switch 21 is pressed, the CPU 9 controls the volume 15 to increase the maximum potential of the high level low frequency pulse signal for the P mode from 40V to 60V. The CPU 9 is provided with the boost switch 23.
When the built-in timer starts counting simultaneously with the operation, the boost function is automatically released after elapse of, for example, 3 minutes or 1 minute (constant time), and the voltage level is returned to the state before the boost (FIG. 5, P11, P12, P21, P22). After that, control is performed so that the boost function is disabled for, for example, 10 minutes (see FIG. 5, P13 and P23). This boost function is to increase the potential to break the skin resistance of the ear and facilitate the flow of a weak current when a current does not easily flow due to skin resistance at a normal potential. Further, once the skin resistance is broken, a current easily flows even at a normal potential, so that the boost function is automatically released after 3 minutes, so that the boost function release operation of the operator is not required.
The boost amount, the duration of the boost function, and the duration of disabling the boost function are not limited to the above, and any other boost amount or time can be set. still,
When the power is turned off, control is performed to release the boost function invalidation (see P14 and P15 in FIG. 5). Incidentally, the operation switch 20 is connected to the music signal reproducing unit 1 in a normal M mode.
As the P3 player, there are provided switch groups 27 for playing, stopping, sending, returning, and music volume of music (see FIG. 4).

As described above, the CPU (control means) 9 takes in music data from the semiconductor memory 2, reproduces music, sends music data to the D / A conversion circuit 8, and outputs each low-frequency pulse signal in each mode. As shown in the flowchart of the control shown in FIG. 5, the control of the volumes 11, 15, 24 and the like in each mode, and various controls relating to the mode switching and the boost function are performed.

In FIG. 2, reference numeral 25 denotes a right earphone;
Is a left earphone, each of which has internal speakers 25a, 2a
An audio signal such as music from the audio signal reproducing unit 1 is supplied to 6a to reproduce music and the like. Further, these earphones 25 and 26 have conductive metal plating layers (conductive portions) 25b and 26b in which the surface of a synthetic resin housing is nickel-plated and further gold-plated. The line L1 of the low-frequency audio signal, the low-frequency pulse signal, or the low-frequency superimposed signal is connected to the metal plating layer 25b of the earphone 25 at point b, and the earphone 26
The ground line L2 for each of the low-frequency signals is connected to the metal plating layer 26b at point c. Therefore, when the earphones 25 and 26 are attached to the ears, the speaker 2
5a and 26a, the low frequency superimposed signal or the low frequency pulse signal input to the points b and c is supplied to the human body from the auricle through the conductive metal plating layers 25b and 26b, and the voltage is applied to the low frequency superimposed signal or the low frequency pulse signal. A low frequency stimulus according to the level and the current level can be given.
The earphones 25 and 26 are more specifically shown in FIG.
Or (f) (the left earphone 26 is shown for convenience because it is symmetric), and a conductive metal plating layer 26b is applied to the entire housing. The earphone 26 has a protruding portion 26c for attachment to an ear hole, and a flat portion 26d that contacts the auricle (around the ear hole) around the protruding portion 26c. 26d comes in contact with the pinna and the flat portion 26d
A low-frequency stimulus can be applied to the auricle via the conductive metal plating layer 26b. There are many acupoints (acupoints) in the ear, and it is conceivable to apply physical stimulation to the pinna and the other triangular fossa, but it is more likely that the acupuncture points than the irritation to the entire ear skin. Because the physical stimulation of the concentrated pinna is considered to be effective, the effective stimulation can be given to the pinna instead of the headphone type that stimulates the skin of the entire ear. This is an earphone type having the flat portion 26d. Note that the earphones 25 and 26 have a configuration in which the conductive metal plating layers 25d and 26d are formed as described above, or a conductive coating is applied to the housing surface, or the entire housing is formed of a conductive resin. May be.

FIG. 4 shows the appearance of one embodiment of the low-frequency stimulator according to the present invention, wherein 28 is an indicator for each mode, 29 is a card slot of a memory card, and 30 is an earphone jack. is there.

The present invention is configured as described above, and its operation will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, in the case of reproducing only music, when the reproduction switch of the audio signal reproducing section 1 among the operation switches 20 is operated, the CPU 9 takes in the music data from the semiconductor memory 2 and the music data is transmitted to the MP3 decoder. 3 and demodulated and converted into an audio signal by the PCM decoder 4 and supplied to the speaker units 25a and 26a of the earphones 25 and 26 via the low-pass filter 5 and the amplifier 6, and the earphones 25 and 26 are attached to the ears. By doing so, it is possible to listen to music and the like from the earphone.
At this time, if the mode changeover switch 21 is set to the off mode, no low-frequency pulse signal is generated, and the normal M
It can be used as a P3 player (Fig. 5, P
1, P2).

(1) Operation in S Mode Next, when it is desired to obtain a low-frequency stimulus in the S mode, the mode switch 21 may be operated to switch to the S mode. Then, an S mode switching command signal is output from the switch 21 to the CPU.
The CPU 9 receives the music data from the semiconductor memory 2 based on the command signal, generates a music pulse based on the data, and sends the pulse to the D / A conversion circuit 8 (FIG. 5). P1, P3, P6).
At this time, the low-frequency pulse signals for the S + P mode and the P mode are not transmitted. The D / A conversion circuit 8 converts the music pulse into an audio signal. The audio signal passes through a low-pass filter 10 to become a low-frequency audio signal in the middle and low frequencies of 16 kHz or less. After being set to the predetermined voltage level, it is amplified by the amplifiers 12 and 18 and supplied to the conductive metal plating layers 25b and 26b of the housing of the earphones 25 and 26. The low-frequency audio signal is applied to the flat portions 25d and 26 of each housing from the points b and c.
Electric current is supplied to the pinna through the conductive metal plating layers 25b and 26b, and a stimulus corresponding to the voltage level and the current level is given to the human body. Since music is reproduced by the audio signal reproducing unit 1, in the S mode,
The listener is the speaker section 25a, 26 of the earphone 25, 26.
a to listen to music from the earphone 2
The low-frequency stimulus by the low-frequency sound signal can be received in the pinna through the housings 5 and 26. At this time, as shown in an example of the waveform in FIG. 6, such a low-frequency audio signal has a signal S1 having a large voltage level to give an appropriate stimulus to the pinna, and a signal having a large level corresponds to the speaker 2.
In order to synchronize with the mid-range and low-frequency sounds of 16 kHz or less of the music being reproduced at 5a and 26a, the listener receives a rhythmic comfortable low-frequency stimulus synchronized with the low-frequency sounds from the mid-range sounds while listening to the music. You can get the effect of relaxing your mood.

In this S mode, when the level adjusting switch 22 is operated, the CPU 9 controls the volume 11 to increase or decrease the voltage level of the low frequency audio signal.
(See FIG. 5, P7, P8). Therefore, the speaker units 25a,
26a, the operator can change only the voltage level of the low-frequency sound signal, and only the level of the stimulus by the low-frequency sound signal received at the pinna while listening to the music or the like. Can be adjusted to your liking and receive a variety of stimuli.

If current does not easily flow due to skin resistance, the boost switch 23 may be turned on. Then
The CPU 9 sets the potential of the low-frequency audio signal to about twice by increasing the amplification degree of the amplifier 18 via the volume 24, and starts measuring the time of a built-in timer. Then, the boost state is continued for 3 minutes based on the timing of the timer, and at the time when 3 minutes have elapsed, the volume 24 is returned to the original set level (see P9 to P12 in FIG. 5). Therefore, the operator operates the boost switch 23 in the S mode.
By pressing, the skin resistance is broken to make it easier for the current to flow, and it is possible to receive stimulation at an appropriate current level. Further, the CPU 9 further starts counting the timer after the lapse of the three minutes, and performs control for disabling the boost function for the next ten minutes (see FIG. 5, P13, P23).
This is to prevent the boost switch 23 from being continuously pressed and to enhance the safety of the device.

(2) Operation in S + P Mode Next, when it is desired to obtain a low-frequency stimulus in the S + P mode, the mode changeover switch 21 may be operated to set the mode to the S + P mode. Then, an S + P mode switching command signal is sent from the switch 21 to the CPU 9, and the CPU 9 takes in the music data from the semiconductor memory 2 based on the command signal and converts it into a music pulse.
The signal is sent to the conversion circuit 8 and 10H for the S + P mode.
The low frequency pulse signal of z (the signal of FIG.
(See FIG. 5, P1, P3 to P5, P24).
The D / A conversion circuit 8 converts a music pulse into an audio signal, and the audio signal passes through a low-pass filter 10 to become a low-frequency audio signal of 16 kHz or lower and a low-frequency audio signal (signal in FIG. 6). After being set to a predetermined voltage level set by the volume 11, it is amplified by the amplifier 12.
The low-frequency pulse signal is set to a predetermined voltage level by the volume 13 and then amplified by the amplifier 14 to be synthesized with the low-frequency audio signal at point a to generate a low-frequency superimposed signal. The low-frequency superimposed signal is amplified by the amplifier 18, passes through the output switching circuit 19, and then passes through the earphones 25 and 26.
Is supplied to the conductive metal plating layers 25a and 26a of the housing. The low-frequency superimposed signal is supplied to the auricle from the conductive metal plating layers 25a and 26a of each case, and gives a stimulus to the human body according to the voltage level and the current level. At this time,
The listener is the speaker section 25a, 26 of the earphone 25, 26.
While listening to the music from b, a moderate stimulus is given by the signal S3 having a large voltage level of the low-frequency superimposed signals, particularly the middle and low-frequency low-frequency audio signals. Synchronization with the mid-range and low-range audio signals from 16a at 16kHz or less allows not only bass sounds but also rhythmical comfortable stimuli synchronized with mid-range music and the like to be received, and a relaxing effect can be obtained. Further, since the low-frequency pulse signal (FIG. 8) is superimposed on the low-frequency superimposed signal, a regular stimulus by the low-frequency pulse is given at the same time. Synergistic effects such as relaxation can be obtained.

In this S + P mode, when the level adjusting switch 22 is operated, the CPU 9 controls the volume 11 to increase or decrease only the voltage level of the low-frequency audio signal (FIG. 5, P24, P7, P8). Therefore, in this case, it is possible to increase or decrease only the voltage level of the low-frequency music signal in the low-frequency superimposed signal, and to lower the voltage independently of the volume of the music reproduced from the speaker units 25a and 26a of the earphones 25 and 26. Only the voltage level of the high-frequency audio signal can be adjusted as desired, and a varied low-frequency stimulus including an audio signal from the middle range can be obtained. Also, in this case, the listener can receive a regular low-frequency stimulus at a certain level by the low-frequency pulse signal and increase only the stimulus synchronized with the music signal, so that the relaxation effect can be further enhanced.

If current does not easily flow due to skin resistance, the boost switch 23 may be turned on. Then
The CPU 9 increases the amplification of the amplifier 18 via the volume 24, increases the voltage level of the low-frequency superimposed signal to about twice, and starts time counting by a timer. Then, the boost state is continued for 3 minutes based on the timing of the timer, and at the time when 3 minutes have elapsed, the volume 24 is returned to the original set level (FIGS. 5, P9 to P11). Therefore, the operator can use the S
Even in the + P mode, by pressing the boost switch 23, the skin resistance is broken and the current can easily flow, and the stimulation by the appropriate current can be received. Also, 1
The boost function is disabled for 0 minutes and the boost function is restored after the power is turned off in the same manner as in the S mode described above (FIG. 5, P
13, P23 and P14, P15).

(3) Operation in P Mode Next, when it is desired to obtain a low frequency stimulus in the P mode, the mode switch 21 may be operated to set the mode to the P mode. Then, a P-mode switching command signal is sent from the switch 21 to the CPU.
9, and the CPU 9 outputs P based on the command signal.
The low-frequency pulse signal for the mode is sent to the volume 15 (see P1, P4, and P16 in FIG. 5). At this time, the music pulse signal and the low frequency pulse signal for the S + P mode are not transmitted. The low frequency pulse signal for P mode is
After being set to a predetermined voltage level set by the volume 15, the voltage is amplified by the amplifier 16 and converted into a high-level low-frequency pulse signal (FIG. 7A) having a maximum of 40 V by the booster circuit 17. The conductive metal plating layers 25b and 26b of the housings 25 and 26 are supplied through points b and c. The high-level low-frequency pulse signal supplied to the conductive metal plating layers 25b and 26b is
b, 26b, the pinna is energized, and a stimulus corresponding to the voltage level and the current level is given to the pinna. At this time,
Such a high-level low-frequency pulse signal can give a stronger stimulus to the pinna with regular low-frequency pulses, as shown in the waveform diagram of FIG. Obtainable. When music is being played back by the audio signal playback unit 1, the user can receive a stimulus by the high-level low-frequency pulse signal while listening to the music. It is also possible to stop the reproduction of the music by the reproducing unit 1 and receive only the stimulus of the P-mode high-level low-frequency pulse signal. When there is no music, a low-frequency pulse signal of about 4 V in the S + P mode makes it difficult to obtain bodily stimuli,
Although it is conceivable that the effect of the low-frequency stimulation is reduced due to the lack of sound due to the silent state, the maximum potential of the high-level low-frequency pulse signal is as large as 40 V. Which is effective as a low-frequency stimulus signal when there is no music or the like.

In this P mode, when the level adjusting switch 22 is operated, the CPU 9 controls the volume 15 to increase or decrease the voltage level of the low frequency pulse signal (see P17, P18 in FIG. 5). Therefore, even when music is reproduced by the speaker units 25a and 26a,
Independent of the volume of the music, the level of the stimulus by the low-frequency pulse signal can be adjusted according to the user's preference, and a variety of low-frequency stimuli can be obtained.

If current does not easily flow due to skin resistance, the boost switch 23 may be turned on. Then
The CPU 9 sets the maximum potential of the low-frequency pulse signal to 60 V by the potentiometer 15 (waveform (b) in FIG. 7), starts the timer, and continues this state for one minute based on the timer. When the minutes have elapsed, the volume 15 is returned to the original set level (FIG. 5, P19 to P22). Therefore, even in such a P mode, the operator can break the skin resistance by pressing the boost switch 23 and receive stimulation by an appropriate current. Further, similarly to the above-described modes, the timer starts counting after the elapse of the one minute, and then performs control for disabling the boost function for the next ten minutes (see FIG. 5, P13 and P23). The reason why the boost time is shortened to one minute in the P mode is that the skin resistance can be sufficiently broken even in a short time because the potential of the low-frequency pulse signal is large. Note that the function of restoring the boost function when the power is turned off is the same as in each of the above modes (see P14 and P15 in FIG. 5).

According to the present invention, as described above, the earphones 25, 2
6, while listening to music, the user can selectively receive a low-frequency stimulus by a low-frequency audio signal, a low-frequency pulse signal, or a low-frequency superimposed signal through the conductive metal plating layers 25b, 26b of the earphones 25, 26. While listening to, a stimulus synchronized with a music signal or a stimulus by a regular low-frequency pulse can be arbitrarily selected, and a decrease in a stimulus effect due to the familiarity of a human body can be prevented. Also, since the low-frequency stimulus by the low-frequency audio signal or the low-frequency superimposed signal is synchronized with the low-frequency sound from the middle range of the music currently being listened to, it is possible to receive a rhythmic and comfortable stimulus with various changes. Also, the speaker units 25a, 26 of the earphones
Since the level of only the low-frequency signal can be adjusted independently of the volume of the music reproduced from a, it is possible to obtain a low-frequency stimulus rich in changes according to the listener's taste and physical condition. Also, the conductive metal plating layers 25b, 26b
Since the earphones 25 and 26 having the above characteristics are used, the earphones 25 and 26 which are the same as the earphones for listening to music can be attached to the ears in the same manner as when listening to normal music or the like. Low-frequency stimulation can be effectively given to the user, and there is no need to separately provide an electrode for low-frequency stimulation, and the effect of the low-frequency stimulation can be obtained with the same simple feeling as listening to music. Therefore, it is possible to easily receive a low-frequency stimulus not only when used indoors, but also when going out or walking.

Further, since the MP3 reproducing apparatus is used as the music signal generating source 1, the whole apparatus can be configured to be extremely small, and since there is no driving part, a low frequency stimulating apparatus which is not adversely affected by sound skipping is realized. be able to. Therefore, the entire device according to the present invention can be housed in an ultra-small housing that can fit in the palm (see FIG. 4).

Further, in the P mode, the listener is stimulated by the high-level low-frequency pulse signal regardless of whether the music is reproduced or stopped from the speaker units 25a and 26a of the earphones 25 and 26. It is possible,
Even when there is no music or the like (silence state), it can be stimulated by the low frequency pulse signal. in this case,
Since the voltage level of the high-level low-frequency pulse signal is higher than that of the low-frequency audio signal, even when there is no music,
A sufficient bodily stimulus can be obtained.

Also, the signal levels of the low-frequency audio signal and the high-level low-frequency pulse signal can be independently adjusted, and only the signal level of the low-frequency audio signal can be adjusted when a low-frequency superimposed signal is generated. Therefore, if you are stimulated by a low-frequency superimposed signal, while receiving regular stimulation by a low-frequency pulse signal, only the level of the low-frequency audio signal synchronized with the low-frequency sound of the music signal will affect your physical condition and preference. The relaxation effect can be further enhanced while obtaining effects such as pain relief.

When the current is difficult to flow due to the skin resistance, the boost function increases the signal level for a certain period of time to break the skin resistance and allow the current to flow. Low-frequency stimulation can be realized. In addition, once the skin resistance is broken, since the current can be easily flowed by the normal potential thereafter, by automatically canceling the boost function, the operator does not need to perform the cancellation operation of the boost function, With a very simple operation, a suitable low-frequency stimulus can be continuously received thereafter. In addition, since the boost function is disabled for a predetermined period after the boost function is released, a highly safe low-frequency stimulator can be realized.

[0045]

According to the present invention, the low frequency stimulus by the low frequency audio signal or the low frequency superimposed signal is selectively passed through the conductive part of the same earphone while listening to music with the earphone. You can receive
While listening to music, it is possible to select a stimulus synchronized with the music or the like or a stimulus by a regular low-frequency pulse, and it is possible to prevent a stimulus effect from being reduced due to the familiarity of the human body. Further, since the low-frequency stimulus by the low-frequency sound signal or the low-frequency superimposed signal is synchronized with the low-frequency sound of the music currently being listened to, it is possible to receive a rhythmic and comfortable stimulus with a variety of changes. In addition, since earphones having a conductive part that contacts the pinna are used, low-frequency stimulation can be received with the same earphone as the earphone that listens to music, eliminating the need for separately providing low-frequency stimulation electrodes. The user can receive low-frequency stimulation with a simple feeling of listening to music. Therefore, it is possible to easily receive a low-frequency stimulus not only when used indoors, but also when going out or walking.

Further, since the MP3 reproducing apparatus is used as the music signal generating source, the apparatus can be made extremely small, and since there is no driving part, a low-frequency stimulating apparatus which is not adversely affected by sound skipping can be realized. it can.

The listener can be stimulated by the high-level low-frequency pulse signal during reproduction or stop of music or the like from the speaker section of the earphone, and can receive a low-frequency audio signal or the like. In comparison, since the voltage level of the high-level low-frequency pulse signal is higher, a sufficient bodily stimulus can be obtained without music or the like.

Also, the signal levels of the low-frequency audio signal and the low-frequency pulse signal can be adjusted independently, and the signal level of the low-frequency audio signal can be adjusted when a low-frequency superimposed signal is generated. While receiving regular stimulation by the frequency pulse signal, only the low-frequency stimulus synchronized with the low-frequency sound of the music signal can be adjusted to the user's preference, and the relaxing effect can be further enhanced.

If the current is difficult to flow due to skin resistance, the boost function increases the signal level for a certain period of time to break the skin resistance and allow an appropriate current to flow. A low frequency stimulus can be realized by a large current. Also, once the skin resistance is broken, the boost function is automatically released since the current can be easily passed through the normal potential, so that the operator does not perform the boost function release operation. Continue to receive appropriate low frequency stimulation.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a low-frequency stimulator according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of an earphone of the above device.

FIG. 3 is a view showing an embodiment of the earphone according to the first embodiment;
Is a plan view, (b) is a rear view, (c) is a left side view, (d)
Is a front view, (e) is a right side view, and (f) is a bottom view.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the external shape of the low-frequency stimulator according to the embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the control of the control means of the low-frequency stimulating device.

FIG. 6 is a waveform of a low-frequency sound signal generated by the low-frequency stimulating device.

7A is a waveform of a high-level low-frequency pulse signal generated by the low-frequency stimulator according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 7B is a waveform at the time of boosting the same waveform.

FIG. 8 is a waveform of a low-frequency pulse signal of the low-frequency stimulator according to the first embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Audio signal generation part 7 Low frequency signal generation part 9 CPU 11, 15 Volume 22 Level control switch 23 Boost switch 24 Volume 25, 26 Earphone 25a, 26a Speaker part 25b, 26b Conductive metal plating layer

Claims (5)

[Claims] An audio signal reproducing means for reproducing a signal from an audio signal generation source to generate an audio signal, and extracting a low frequency component from an audio signal obtained based on the signal from the audio signal generation source. A low-frequency audio signal generator for generating a low-frequency audio signal; and a low-frequency superimposed signal generator for generating a low-frequency pulse signal and superimposing the low-frequency pulse signal on the low-frequency audio signal to generate a low-frequency superimposed signal. A low-frequency signal generating means comprising: a housing having a conductive portion in contact with an auricle; and a speaker unit capable of receiving and reproducing an audio signal from the audio signal generating means; An earphone capable of receiving the low-frequency signals from the frequency signal generating means and energizing the conductive portion; and transmitting an audio signal from the audio signal generating source to the earphone, and transmitting the audio signal from the low-frequency signal generating means to the earphone. Control means for selectively transmitting either the low-frequency audio signal or the low-frequency superimposed signal to a conductive portion of the earphone. 2. The low-frequency stimulating device according to claim 1, wherein said audio signal generating source is an MP3 reproducing device. 3. The low-frequency signal generating means includes a high-level low-frequency pulse signal generating unit for generating a high-level low-frequency pulse signal having a higher voltage level than the low-frequency pulse signal. 3. The low-frequency stimulating device according to claim 1, wherein the high-level low-frequency pulse signal is transmitted to a conductive portion of the earphone when a sound signal is reproduced or stopped from a source. 4. A level adjusting means for independently adjusting a signal level of the low-frequency audio signal and a signal level of the high-level low-frequency pulse signal, wherein the control means converts the low-frequency superimposed signal into a conductive signal of an earphone. 4. The low-frequency stimulating device according to claim 3, wherein when the signal is transmitted to a portion, the level of the low-frequency audio signal is increased or decreased based on the operation of the level adjusting means. 5. When the low-frequency audio signal, the low-frequency superimposed signal, or the high-level low-frequency pulse signal is being transmitted to the conductive portion of the earphone, the signal level being transmitted is determined for a predetermined time. A boost function for increasing the signal level to a predetermined level, wherein the control means increases the signal level for the predetermined time and then releases the boost function to return the signal level to the level before the boost. A low-frequency stimulator according to claim 3.