JP2005334022A - On-vehicle liquid circulation/storage apparatus and on-vehicle massage apparatus utilizing the same - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an on-vehicle massage apparatus having excellence in silence and capable of appropriately massaging the body. <P>SOLUTION: Sequentially expanding and contracting massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1', V2', V3' and V4' of a massage pad 3 by employing a window washer liquid realize a massage function. Performing expansion and contraction actions by utilizing the liquid obtains the excellence in silence. The expansion and contraction actions of the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1', V2', V3' and V4' are similar to actions of finger-pressure, thereby providing the user with not only a temporal feeling change but an effect of a massage of the body and relief from the fatigue hopefully. Employing a rear force-feed pump P2 for feeding the window washer liquid to a rear window washer nozzle 7 as a liquid force-feed means reduces manufacturing costs. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an on-vehicle liquid circulation storage device and an on-vehicle massage device using the same.

  It is effective to carry out the massage for recovery of physical function continuously every day even if the execution time is short. However, considering the current living conditions, it is difficult to regularly massage at home as everyday, and it is difficult to expect the effect of continuing massage.

  As one method for solving this type of problem, it is conceivable to mount a massage device as one of the on-vehicle equipment.

  As an in-vehicle massage device, for example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a device that operates an air bag type massage pad using compressed air supplied from a compressor has already been proposed. There was an adverse effect that the noise of the compressor as the driving source adversely affects the quietness of the interior of the vehicle.

Moreover, what embedded the massage means which consists of a vibrator in the vehicle seat part is disclosed as Patent Document 2.
In this case, since the electric vibrator is used as a massage means, the noise problem is lower than that of the compressor, but the stimulation of the massage is local, so it is good for temporary change of mood, The effects of relieving the body and removing fatigue are not expected.

JP-A-6-284944 (paragraph number 0014) Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 6-44465 (paragraph number 0008)

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a circulating system that circulates a liquid while allowing the stored liquid to be dispersed and mounted inside and outside the cabin, and to improve the driving efficiency of a pump that pumps the liquid using the circulation system. An object of the present invention is to provide an in-vehicle massage apparatus that can be improved and quiet, and that can improve the comfort of passengers.

The in-vehicle liquid circulation storage device of the present invention is
A flexible pad with multiple tubes,
Flexible piping provided connected to each tube;
A tank for storing liquid,
Liquid pumping means for pumping the liquid in the tank to the outside;
A distribution valve that is interposed between the liquid pumping means and each of the pipes and distributes the liquid pumped from the liquid pumping means to each of the tubes;
And a controller for controlling the supply and discharge of the distribution valve and expanding and contracting each of the tubes at different timings.

  Thus, a new in-vehicle liquid circulation storage device that circulates the liquid by dispersing and mounting the storage liquid is provided.

The in-vehicle massage device of the present invention achieves the above-described problem,
A flexible massage pad with multiple massage tubes;
Flexible piping provided connected to each massage tube;
A tank for storing liquid,
Liquid pumping means for pumping liquid in the tank to the outside;
A distribution valve that is interposed between the liquid pumping means and each of the pipes and distributes the liquid pumped from the liquid pumping means to each of the massage tubes;
A controller for controlling supply and discharge of the distribution valve and expanding and contracting each of the massage tubes at different timings.

The liquid pumped from the tank by the liquid pumping means is distributed to each of a plurality of massage tubes mounted on a flexible massage pad via a distribution valve controlled by a controller and a flexible pipe. Then, each of the massage tubes is expanded and contracted at different timings.
Since the liquid is used to expand and contract the massage tube, it is highly quiet, and the expansion and contraction movement of the massage tube is similar to acupressure. You can also expect great effects such as massaging your body and removing fatigue.

When multiple massage tubes are installed in parallel on the massage pad,
It is desirable that the controller is provided with a unidirectional peristaltic motion control means for controlling supply and discharge of the distribution valve so that the massage tube is inflated and contracted in order from one end to the other end in the parallel direction.

Since the adjacent massage tubes repeat expansion and contraction operations in order from one end to the other end in the parallel direction of the massage tubes, a massage effect is obtained in which the hand is pressed against the affected area and moved.
Such an operation mode is particularly effective in eliminating neck fatigue, stiff shoulders, and the like.

  Moreover, it is also possible to provide a center-aligned peristaltic motion control means for controlling supply / exhaust of the distribution valve so that a plurality of massage tubes are inflated and contracted sequentially from both ends in the parallel direction toward the center.

In this case, it is possible to obtain a massage effect in which both hands are applied to the affected area and pressed from the outside to the inside.
Such an operation mode is particularly effective for eliminating fatigue of the waist and back.

  Or you may make it arrange | position the both-ends movement motion control means which controls supply / exhaust of the said distribution valve so that a several massage tube may be expanded-contracted in order toward the both ends from the center of a parallel direction.

  Since a massage effect is obtained in which both hands are applied to the affected area and pressed and moved from the inside to the outside, it is particularly effective for relieving fatigue of the waist and back as described above.

  Further, it is possible to provide an air tube that is superposed on a massage tube and encloses air.

  Since the temperature of the liquid used for the expansion and contraction of the massage tube is not directly transmitted to the body, the unpleasant temperature stimulus is eliminated, and the pulsation when the liquid pumping means pumps the liquid is inadvertently applied to the body. Since it can be prevented from being transmitted, a comfortable massage effect can be expected.

  When the massage pad is formed in a band shape, it is desirable to provide a seat belt clamp member that is detachably engaged with an arbitrary position of the seat belt at least at one end thereof.

  By fixing one end of a belt-shaped massage pad to an arbitrary position of the seat belt in use via a seat belt clamp member, the peripheral parts such as the neck, shoulders, and waist can be easily massaged even during driving of the vehicle. be able to. The other end of the belt-like massage pad can be fixed by being sandwiched between the seat and the back.

  Moreover, you may make it arrange | position the clamp member for sheets which engages with the seat surface of a vehicle so that attachment or detachment is possible at the edge part of the back surface side of a massage pad.

Since the massage pad can be operated while being fixed to the seat, it is possible to prevent the massage pad from being inadvertently displaced even when the body is lifted from the seat while the vehicle is driving.
In particular, when a seat belt clamp member is provided at one end of the belt-shaped massage pad, one end of the massage pad is fixed to the seat belt, and the other end side of the massage pad is fixed to the seat with the seat clamp member. It is possible to reliably prevent the massage pad from sliding off from the neck, shoulders, waist and the like.

  As the tank for storing the liquid, a window washer liquid tank of the vehicle can be used, and as the liquid pressure feeding means, a window washer liquid pump can be used.

By diverting the standard equipment of the vehicle as a tank and liquid pumping means, the manufacturing cost of the in-vehicle massage device can be reduced, and there is no need to place a tank in the vehicle, so sufficient living space is secured. Is done.
An electromagnetically driven control valve is used to switch the connection between the distribution valve and the window washer nozzle of the in-vehicle massage device, and the control valve automatic control means provided in the controller of the in-vehicle massage device allows the in-vehicle massage device to be switched. In operation, the connection destination of the pressure feed pump is automatically switched from the window washer nozzle to the distribution valve.

  The in-vehicle liquid circulation storage device of the present invention is a new in-vehicle liquid circulation storage device that circulates liquid by dispersing and mounting the storage liquid.

  The in-vehicle massage device according to the present invention realizes a massage function by inflating and contracting the massage tube using liquid, so that the silence function is high, and the expansion and contraction operation of the massage tube is similar to acupressure. Because it becomes a movement, it can be expected not only a temporary change of mood, but also an effect of relieving the body and removing fatigue.

  In addition, a massage is provided in which a plurality of massage tubes are provided in parallel on the massage pad, and the massage tube is inflated and contracted in order from one end to the other end in the parallel direction, and the affected area is pressed and moved. The effect came to be obtained. Such an operation mode is particularly effective in eliminating neck fatigue, stiff shoulders, and the like.

  In addition, a massaging effect can be obtained in which a plurality of massage tubes are inflated and shrunk in order from both ends in the parallel direction toward the center, so that both hands are applied to the affected area and pressed and moved from the outside to the inside.

  Furthermore, a massaging effect can be obtained in which a plurality of massage tubes are inflated and shrunk in order from the center in the parallel direction toward both ends, so that both hands are applied to the affected area and pressed and moved from the inside to the outside. Any of these operation modes is effective in eliminating fatigue of the waist and back.

  In addition, an air tube that is superposed on the massage tube and encloses air is provided, so unpleasant temperature stimulation caused by the liquid flowing in the massage tube is eliminated, and pulsation when the liquid pumping means pumps the liquid. Can be prevented from being inadvertently transmitted to the body, so a comfortable massage effect can be expected.

  A massage pad is formed in a band shape, and a seat belt clamp member that is detachably engaged with an arbitrary position of the seat belt is provided at one end of the massage pad, so that the peripheral parts such as the neck, shoulders, and waist can be used even during vehicle operation. Can now be easily massaged.

Further, since the seat clamp member that is detachably engaged with the seat surface of the vehicle is disposed at the end of the back surface of the massage pad, it is possible to prevent the displacement of the massage pad that occurs during operation of the vehicle.
In particular, when a seat belt clamp member is provided at one end of the belt-shaped massage pad, one end of the massage pad is fixed to the seat belt, and the other end side of the massage pad is fixed to the seat with the seat clamp member. Thus, it is possible to reliably prevent the massage pad from sliding off from the neck, shoulders, waist, and the like.

  In addition, the vehicle's window washer fluid tank is used as the liquid storage tank, and the window washer fluid pump is used as the liquid pumping means, so the manufacturing cost of the in-vehicle massage device can be reduced. In addition, since the storage means is mounted by dispersing the liquid in the passenger compartment and outside the passenger compartment on the vehicle, a sufficient occupant space for the occupant and a mounting space for the vehicle body fitting parts are secured.

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example when the on-vehicle liquid circulation storage device of the present invention is applied to an on-vehicle massage device.

  This in-vehicle massage apparatus 1 includes a window washer liquid tank 2 that functions as a tank for storing liquid, and a rear that functions as a liquid pumping means for pressure-feeding window washer liquid that is liquid in the window washer liquid tank 2 to the outside. A flexible massage pad 3 is provided with a pressure pump P2 for use and eight massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, and V4 ′.

  Also, flexible pipes 4V1, 4V2, 4V3, 4V4, 4V1 ', 4V2 provided for each of the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1', V2 ', V3', V4 '. ', 4V3', 4V4 ', the rear pressure pump P2 and the respective pipes 4V1, 4V2, 4V3, 4V4, 4V1', 4V2 ', 4V3', 4V4 'and from the rear pressure pump P2. The distribution valve 5 for distributing and supplying / discharging the pressurized window washer fluid to each of the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′, and the supply / discharge of the distribution valve 5 It has a controller 6 as a control means for controlling and expanding and contracting each of the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, and V4 ′ at different timings.

  The control valve VR0 is an electromagnetically driven control valve that is driven by a solenoid SOL0. In response to a command from the controller 6, the connection destination of the rear pressure pump P2 that is a liquid pressure feeding means is connected to the distribution valve 5 or the rear window washer nozzle 7. Selectively switch to any of the following.

  Reference numeral 8 denotes a drain pipe, and the window washer liquid discharged from the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ of the massage pad 3 is supplied to the window washer liquid tank 2. Functions as a conduit for returning.

  The window washer liquid tank 2 is provided with a front pressure pump P1 as in the prior art, and the window washer liquid fed from the window washer liquid tank 2 is supplied to the front window washer nozzle 9.

  The front pressure pump P1 is ON / OFF controlled by a washer switch 10 provided in the vicinity of the steering wheel. The rear pressure pump P2 is ON / OFF controlled via the pump motor controller 11 in response to a command from the washer switch 10 or the controller 6.

  SW1 is an ON / OFF switch of the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1, and SW2 is a mode switch for selecting an operation mode of the massage pad 3.

  The control valve VR0 and the distribution valve 5 are housed in a housing 12 and installed in an empty space below the seat 14 in the vehicle 13 as shown in FIG. 2, and the controller 6 is located inside the instrument panel or on the seat. 14 is installed in an empty space below 14. It is desirable that the ON / OFF switch SW1 and the mode switch SW2 required for the operation of the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1 are arranged on the side of the seat 14 or the like in order to ensure the ease of switch operation.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 8 denotes the drain pipe, reference numeral 15 denotes a washer liquid supply pipe for guiding the window washer liquid fed from the rear pressure pump P2 to the control valve VR0, and reference numeral 16 denotes the control valve VR0. This is a rear washer fluid supply pipe that connects the rear window washer nozzle 7 and can be connected to the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ of the massage pad 3. The flexible pipes 4V1, 4V2, 4V3, 4V4, 4V1 ′, 4V2 ′, 4V3 ′, and 4V4 ′ are collectively indicated by 4V in FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the massage pad 3 as seen from the back side. The massage pad 3 is formed in a band shape as a whole, and the eight massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, and V4 ′ described above are arranged in parallel along the longitudinal direction. Is provided.

  4A is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the massage pad 3 divided in the longitudinal direction, and FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the massage pad 3 divided by a plane perpendicular to this. FIG. Both the front and back surfaces of the massage pad 3, that is, the front surface portion 3a constituting the surface in contact with the body and the back surface portion 3b constituting the surface in contact with the sheet 14 and the like are both waterproof sheet-like materials such as nylon and polyurethane. The outer surface is provided with a cloth such as a non-woven fabric in consideration of the touch. The overall size of the massage pad 3 is preferably about the size of a face towel, or about half that of the length and width.

  Eight massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ are arranged in parallel on the sheet-like material forming the back surface portion 3b along the longitudinal direction of the massage pad 3. The massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ and the surface portion 3a are formed by independent air chambers, each containing air. The air tubes T1, T2, T3, T4, T1 ′, T2 ′, T3 ′, and T4 ′ are superposed and provided side by side.

  Air tubes T1, T2, T3, T4, T1 ′, T2 ′, T3 ′, and T4 ′ are used for expansion and contraction of massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, and V4 ′. A heat insulating layer is formed to prevent the temperature of the window washer fluid from being directly transmitted to the body, and pulsation when the rear pressure pump P2 pumps the window washer fluid is transmitted to the body. To prevent it.

  As shown in FIG. 3, at one end of the massage pad 3 on the back side, an arbitrary position of the seat belt 29 in use, that is, an arbitrary position on the seat belt 29 extending from one shoulder to the other hipbone position. A seat belt clamp member 17 is detachably engaged at the position.

  The seat belt clamp member 17 has a locking surface 17a in which elastic claw-like projections are collectively arranged at one end, and a locked surface 17b in which loop-like projections are collectively arranged at the other end. By engaging the locking surface 17a and the locked surface 17b in a state where the seat belt clamp member 17 is wound around the seat belt, one end portion of the massage pad 3 is attached. It can be fixed to the seat belt.

  The structures of the locking surface 17a and the locked surface 17b are well known as magic tape (registered trademark of Kuraray Co., Ltd.) or velcro tape (registered trademark of Velcro Co., Ltd.).

  The seat belt clamp member 17 is rotatably attached to one end portion on the back surface side of the massage pad 3 via a rivet 18 penetrating the center portion thereof, and the seat belt clamp member 17 is fixed to the seat belt. Thus, the crossing angle of the massage pad 3 with respect to the seat belt 29 can be freely adjusted. The rotation direction of the seat belt clamping member 17 around the rivet 18 is indicated by an arrow A in FIG.

  Further, seat clamping members 19 and 20 that are detachably engaged with the surface of the seat 14 in the vehicle 13 are arranged at both ends on the back side of the massage pad 3. The seat clamp members 19 and 20 in this embodiment are configured by collecting and deploying claw-like projections having elasticity, like the locking surface 17a of the seat belt clamp member 17. Therefore, by using a fabric having loop-shaped protrusions as the outer surface of the sheet 14, the back surface side of the massage pad 3 can be fixed at an arbitrary position of the sheet 14. Contrary to this, it is possible to use a cloth in which claws-like projections are gathered and arranged as the outer surface of the sheet 14 and make the sheet clamping members 19 and 20 side loop-like projections. Then, by using a fabric having loop-shaped protrusions as the outer surface of the sheet 14, the surface of the sheet 14 and the clothes are not caught, and in particular, damage to the sweater or the like is prevented.

  Instead of the locking surface 17a and the locked surface 17b of the seat belt clamp member 17, a button & buttonhole, a hook set, a snap button set, or the like can be used. Further, when the attachment position of the massage pad 3 on the seat 14 is determined in advance or when the attachment position of the massage pad 3 on the seat 14 is selected from several places, the clamp members 19 and 20 for the seat are used. The button & buttonhole, hook set, snap button set, etc. can also be used in relation to the mounting surface on the seat 14 side.

  Here, the concept of the seat 14 includes a seat body including a seat surface and a backrest and accessories thereof, for example, an armrest, an ottoman (footrest), and the like.

  Concrete of distribution valve 5 that distributes and discharges window washer fluid pumped from rear pressure pump P2 to each of massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, and V4 ′ An example of a simple configuration is shown in FIG.

  The distribution valve 5 includes a switching valve VR1 for selecting whether to guide the window washer liquid fed from the rear pressure feed pump P2 to the pipe 21 in the housing 12 or to return it to the drain pipe 8. The switch valve VR2 for selecting whether the window washer fluid fed from the pressure feed pump P2 is led to the pipe line 22 in the housing 12 or returned to the drain pipe 8 and pressure fed from the rear pressure feed pump P2. A switching valve VR3 for selecting whether to guide the window washer fluid to the pipe line 23 in the housing 12 or return to the drain piping 8 and the window washer fluid fed from the rear pressure feed pump P2 to the housing 12 And a switching valve VR4 for selecting whether to return to the pipe 24 or return to the drain pipe 8.

  Solenoids SOL1, SOL2, SOL3 and SOL4 are driving means for the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3 and VR4. Solenoids SOL1, SOL2, SOL3, and SOL4 are used for draining the window washer fluid fed from the rear pressure feed pump P2 via the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, and VR4 in the OFF state where the excitation is released. In this state, the window washer fluid in the pipes 21, 22, 23, 24 is also transferred to the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′. , V4 ′, that is, from the body or the seat 14 when the massage pads 3 are mounted, the elastic restoring force of the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ themselves It is returned to the drain pipe 8 by a pressing force of. In the example of FIG. 5, the solenoids SOL2, SOL3, SOL4 are in an OFF state.

  On the other hand, when the solenoids SOL1, SOL2, SOL3, and SOL4 are energized and turned on, the window washer fluid fed from the rear pressure feed pump P2 passes through the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, and VR4 to the pipe lines 21, 22. , 23, 24. In the example of FIG. 5, the solenoid SOL1 is in an ON state.

The window washer fluid supplied to the pipe 21 is subjected to massage tubes V1, V1 ′ via flexible pipes 4V1, 4V1 ′ according to the operating state of the direction switching valve VR5a constituting a part of the distribution valve 5. Or guided to the massage tubes V1, V4 ′ via flexible pipes 4V1, 4V4 ′.
That is, as shown in FIG. 5, in the state where the direction switching valve VR5a is shifted to the X2 side, the window washer liquid supplied to the conduit 21 is massaged through the flexible pipes 4V1 and 4V1 ′. In contrast, when the direction switching valve VR5a is shifted to the X1 side (the state in which the direction switching valve VR5a is pushed up from the state shown in FIG. 5), it is supplied to the pipe 21. The window washer liquid is guided to the massage tubes V1, V4 ′ via the flexible pipes 4V1, 4V4 ′.

Further, the window washer liquid supplied to the pipe line 22 is subjected to the massage tubes V2, via the flexible pipes 4V2, 4V2 'in accordance with the operating state of the direction switching valve VR5b constituting a part of the distribution valve 5. It is led to V2 'or led to massage tubes V2, V3' via flexible pipes 4V2, 4V3 '.
That is, as shown in FIG. 5, in the state where the direction switching valve VR5b is shifted to the X2 side, the window washer liquid supplied to the conduit 22 is massaged through the flexible pipes 4V2 and 4V2 ′. In contrast, when the direction switching valve VR5b is shifted to the X1 side (in a state where the direction switching valve VR5b is pushed up from the state shown in FIG. 5), it is supplied to the pipeline 22. The window washer liquid is guided to the massage tubes V2, V3 ′ through the flexible pipes 4V2, 4V3 ′.

Then, the window washer liquid supplied to the pipe line 23 is subjected to the massage tube V3 via the flexible pipes 4V3 and 4V3 ′ in accordance with the operating state of the direction switching valve VR5c constituting a part of the distribution valve 5. It is led to V3 'or led to massage tubes V3, V2' via flexible pipes 4V3, 4V2 '.
That is, as shown in FIG. 5, in the state where the direction switching valve VR5c is shifted to the X2 side, the window washer liquid supplied to the conduit 23 is massaged through the flexible pipes 4V3 and 4V3 ′. V3 and V3 ′, and conversely, in the state where the direction switching valve VR5c is shifted to the X1 side (the state where the direction switching valve VR5c is pushed up from the state of FIG. 5), it is supplied to the pipeline 23. The window washer fluid is guided to the massage tubes V3, V2 ′ through the flexible pipes 4V3, 4V2 ′.

Further, the window washer liquid supplied to the pipe line 24 is massaged tube V4 via flexible pipes 4V4 and 4V4 'in accordance with the operating state of the direction switching valve VR5d constituting a part of the distribution valve 5. It is led to V4 'or led to massage tubes V4, V1' via flexible pipes 4V4, 4V1 '.
That is, as shown in FIG. 5, in the state where the direction switching valve VR5d is shifted to the X2 side, the window washer liquid supplied to the conduit 24 is massaged through the flexible pipes 4V4 and 4V4 ′. V4 and V4 ′, and conversely, in the state where the direction switching valve VR5d is shifted to the X1 side (the state where the direction switching valve VR5d is pushed up from the state of FIG. 5), it is supplied to the pipeline 24. The window washer liquid is guided to the massage tubes V4, V1 ′ via the flexible pipes 4V4, 4V1 ′.

  The solenoid 5 is a driving means for simultaneously switching the connection state of the direction switching valves VR5a, VR5b, VR5c, VR5d. The solenoid SOL5 holds the direction switching valves VR5a, VR5b, VR5c, VR5d on the X2 side in the OFF state where the excitation is released (the state of FIG. 5), and also switches the direction when excited and turned on. The valves VR5a, VR5b, VR5c, VR5d are shifted to the X1 side.

  FIG. 6A shows a substantial connection state of the pipeline when the excitation of the solenoid SOL5 is released, and FIG. 6B shows a substantial connection state of the pipeline when the solenoid SOL5 is excited. Simplified and shown.

  Further, the control valve VR0 holds the connection destination of the rear pressure pump P2 on the side of the rear window washer nozzle 7 in the OFF state where the excitation of the solenoid SOL0 is released (the state shown in FIG. 5), and is excited and turned on. At this stage, the connection destination of the rear pressure pump P2 is switched to the distribution valve 5 side, that is, the side supplying the window washer fluid to the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, and VR4.

  FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram showing an outline of the configuration of the controller 6. The controller 6 includes a CPU 25 for driving and controlling each part of the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1, a ROM 26 storing a control program for the CPU 25, and a RAM 27 for storing various flags, indicators, switch setting conditions, and the like.

  Solenoids SOL1, SOL2, SOL3, SOL4, SOL5, which are driving means for the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, VR4 and direction switching valves VR5a, VR5b, VR5c, VR5d constituting the distribution valve 5, and driving means for the control valve VR0. All the solenoids SOL0 are driven and controlled by the CPU 25 via the input / output circuit 28. The rear pumping pump P2 that functions as a liquid pumping means is driven and controlled by the CPU 25 via the pump motor controller 11 and the input / output circuit 28. Then, signals from the ON / OFF switch SW1 and the mode switch SW2 of the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1 are read into the CPU 25 via the input / output circuit 28.

  The controller 6 drives and controls the rear pressure pump P2, the distribution valve 5 and the control valve VR0 to control the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′ and V4 ′ at different timings. The control means for expanding and contracting the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ from one end to the other end in the parallel direction, for example, from left to right in FIG. Unidirectional peristaltic motion control means for controlling the supply and discharge of the distribution valve 5 so as to expand and contract in order, and massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′. Center-adjusting peristaltic motion control means for controlling supply and discharge of the distribution valve 5 so as to expand and contract sequentially from both ends in the parallel direction, and massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, 3 ', V4' and a both end pulling peristaltic motion control means for controlling the supply and discharge of the dispensing valve 5 so as to expand and contract in order toward both ends from the center of the parallel direction.

  FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are flowcharts showing an outline of processing executed by the CPU 25 of the controller 6.

  Next, the processing operation of the CPU 25 functioning as a one-way peristaltic motion control means, a center-aligned peristaltic motion control means, and a both-end peristaltic motion control means will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  In the following description, the operation for expanding and contracting the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, and V4 ′ in order from one end to the other end in the parallel direction is mode 1, massage. Mode 2, operation for expanding and contracting the tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ in order from both ends in the parallel direction toward the center, and the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4 , V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, and V4 ′ are referred to as mode 3 in order to expand and contract sequentially from the center in the parallel direction toward both ends.

  The mode selection operation is performed by the mode switch SW2, and the selection result is held in the RAM 27 until the mode switch SW2 is operated again.

When the user operates the ON / OFF switch SW1 of the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1, the CPU 25 first determines whether or not the flag F is set in the RAM 25 (step S1).
The flag F is a flag that is set when the operation of the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1 is started. Therefore, if the flag F is held in the reset state, it means that the ON / OFF switch SW1 is in a state immediately after the operation, and if the flag F is set, the in-vehicle massage device 1 has already been activated. Means that

  Therefore, when the determination result in step S1 is false and a new activation command for the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1 is confirmed, the CPU 25 first sets the solenoids SOL1, SOL2, SOL3, SOL4, SOL5 to the OFF state and switches the switching valve VR1. , VR2, VR3, VR4 and the direction switching valves VR5a, VR5b, VR5c, VR5d are returned to their initial positions (step S2), the solenoid SOL0 is excited to operate only the control valve VR0, and the rear pressure feed pump which is a liquid pressure feed means The connection destination of P2 is switched from the rear window washer nozzle 7 to the distribution valve 5 (step S3).

  Next, the CPU 25 refers to the RAM 27 to determine whether or not the operation mode of the in-vehicle massage device 1 is set to mode 1 (step S4).

  Here, when the setting of mode 1 is confirmed, the CPU 25 functioning as the one-way peristaltic motion control means sets parameters a, b, c, and so on that define the operation order of the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, VR4. Each value of 1, 2, 3, 4 is set to d (step S7). In this case, since the solenoid SOL5 is held in the OFF state (see step S2), the substantial pipe connection state is maintained in the state of FIG.

  On the other hand, if the determination result in step S4 is false and it is clear that the operation mode of the in-vehicle massage device 1 is set to a mode other than mode 1, the center-adjusted peristaltic motion control means or both-end alignment The CPU 25 functioning as the peristaltic motion control means excites the solenoid SOL5 to operate the direction switching valves VR5a, VR5b, VR5c, VR5d, and switches the substantial pipe connection state to the state shown in FIG. S5). The CPU 25 further refers to the RAM 27 to determine whether the operation mode of the in-vehicle massage device 1 is set to mode 2 or mode 3 (step S6).

  Here, if mode 2 is set as the operation mode of the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1, the CPU 25 functioning as a center-aligned peristaltic motion control means defines a parameter a that defines the operation order of the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, VR4. , B, c, and d are set in the same manner as described above (step S7), and if mode 3 is set as the operation mode of the in-vehicle massage device 1, both ends are set. The CPU 25 functioning as the peristaltic motion control means sets the values 4, 3, 2, and 1 for the parameters a, b, c, d that define the operation order of the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, VR4 (step S8).

  Then, the CPU 25 operates the rear pressure pump P2 via the pump motor controller 11 (step S9). However, since the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, and VR4 are all in the initial position at this stage (see step S2), the window washer fluid pumped from the rear pressure pump P2 has the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, and VR4. To the drain piping 8.

  Next, the CPU 25 once initializes the value of the index i that defines the switching valve to be operated to 0 (step S10), sets the flag F in the RAM 25, and stores the start of operation of the in-vehicle massage device 1 (step). S11).

  The process described above is an initialization process for adjusting the connection state of the pipelines according to the setting state of the operation mode and determining the operation order of the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, VR4.

  Then, by this initialization process, under the situation where mode 1 is selected, the connection state of the pipeline is as shown in FIG. 6 (a), and the parameters a, b, c, d are 1, 2, 3, Each value of 4 is set. In the situation where mode 2 is selected, the connection state of the pipeline is as shown in FIG. 6B, and the values of 1, 2, 3, and 4 are set in the parameters a, b, c, and d. Is done. Then, under the situation in which mode 3 is selected, the pipe connection state is as shown in FIG. 6B, and the parameters a, b, c, and d are set to values 4, 3, 2, and 1, respectively. Will be.

  Next, the CPU 25 resets and restarts the timer t that regulates the operation time of the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, and VR4 (step S12), increments the value of the index i by 1 (step S13), and the index i. It is determined whether or not the value of exceeds 4 (step S14). If the value of the index i does not exceed 4, the current value of the index i is held, whereas if the value of the index i exceeds 4, the index i is reset to 1 (step S15). .

  Next, the CPU 25 determines whether the current value of the index i is 1, 2, 3, or 4 (steps S16 to S18). If the value of the index i is 1, the parameter a and the parameter a Based on the value of d, the solenoid SOL (a) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (a), and the solenoid SOL (d) is de-energized to return the switching valve VR (d) to the initial position ( Step S19).

  If the value of the index i is 2, the CPU 25 releases the excitation of the solenoid SOL (a) and returns the switching valve VR (a) to the initial position based on the values of the parameters a and b. The switching valve VR (b) is operated by exciting the solenoid SOL (b) (step S20).

  On the other hand, if the value of the index i is 3, the CPU 25 releases the excitation of the solenoid SOL (b) and returns the switching valve VR (b) to the initial position based on the values of the parameters b and c. The switching valve VR (c) is operated by exciting the solenoid SOL (c) (step S21).

  If the value of the index i is 4, the CPU 25 releases the excitation of the solenoid SOL (c) and returns the switching valve VR (c) to the initial position based on the values of the parameters c and d. The switching valve VR (d) is operated by exciting the solenoid SOL (d) (step S22).

  Next, the CPU 25 determines whether or not the ON / OFF switch SW1 of the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1 is turned off (step S23). If the ON / OFF switch SW1 is not turned off, the determination of step S1 is performed again. Returning to the processing, it is determined whether or not the flag F is set in the RAM 25.

  At this stage, since the flag F has already been set, the determination result in step S1 is true (see step S11), and the CPU 25 determines whether or not the measurement time of the timer t has reached the set time T. (Step S24).

  Here, if the measurement time of the timer t has not reached the set time T, the CPU 25 determines in steps S1, S24, and S23 unless an OFF operation of the ON / OFF switch SW1 is detected in the determination process in step S23. Only the processing is repeatedly executed, and the process waits for the measurement time of the timer t to reach the set time T.

  Then, every time the measurement time of the timer t reaches the set time T, the CPU 25 resets and restarts the timer t (step S12), and cyclically increments the value of the index i in the range of 1-4. (Steps S13 to S15) Based on the current value of the index i at that time, the processes of Steps S16 to S22 and the determination process of Step S23 are repeatedly executed in the same manner as described above.

  Here, the repetition process of step S16-step S22 performed for every predetermined period T is demonstrated concretely.

  First, in the situation where mode 1 is selected by the mode switch SW2, that is, at the end of the initialization process described above, the connection state of the pipelines is as shown in FIG. 6A, and parameters a, b, c, Under the situation where each value of 1, 2, 3, 4 is set to d, the solenoid SOL (1) is excited at the first time point when the value of the index i is incremented from 0 to 1, and the switching valve VR ( 1) is activated, and the window washer fluid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is fed into the pipeline 21 via the switching valve VR (1). At this time, since the connection state of the pipeline is as shown in FIG. 6A, the window washer fluid supplied to the pipeline 21 is massage tubes V1, V1 via the flexible piping 4V1, 4V1 ′. Then, the expansion of the massage tubes V1, V1 'is started (step S16, step S19).

  However, the set time T of the timer t is the time required from the start of the supply of the window washer liquid to the massage tubes V1, V1 ′ to the expansion of the massage tubes V1, V1 ′, and the massage tube V1. , V1 ′ is in a fully expanded state, and the time required to complete the discharge of the window washer fluid in the massage tubes V1, V1 ′ with the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V1, V1 ′ is opened. As shown in FIG. 10 (a), the time required T from the start of the supply of the window washer fluid to the completion of the expansion of the massage tubes V1, V1 ′, and the window washer fluid Of the window washer fluid in the massage tubes V1, V1 ′ after the supply of water is stopped and the conduit 21 is opened. The time required until the output is complete T is equivalent.

  Then, when the set time T elapses after the expansion of the massage tubes V1, V1 ′ and the value of the index i is incremented from 1 to 2, the excitation of the solenoid SOL (1) is released and the switching valve VR is released. (1) returns to the initial position, and the discharge of the window washer fluid in the massage tubes V1, V1 ′ is started by the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V1, V1 ′ in the fully expanded state with the conduit 21 opened. Is done. At the same time, the solenoid SOL (2) is excited to activate the switching valve VR (2), and the window washer fluid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is sent to the pipe line 22 via the switching valve VR (2). The window washer liquid supplied to the conduit 22 is guided to the massage tubes V2, V2 ′ via the flexible pipes 4V2, 4V2 ′, and as shown in FIG. The expansion of V2 ′ starts (steps S17 and S20). As an example, the state when the massage tube V2 is inflated is shown in FIG. 4 (c) and FIG. 4 (d).

  When the set time T has elapsed after the contraction of the massage tubes V1 and V1 ′ and the expansion of the massage tubes V2 and V2 ′ have started, the value of the index i is incremented from 2 to 3, and then the massage tube V1 , V1 ′ contraction is complete. At the same time, the solenoid SOL (2) is de-energized, the switching valve VR (2) is returned to the initial position, and the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V2, V2 'in the fully expanded state is opened. The discharge of the window washer liquid in the massage tubes V2, V2 ′ is started. At this time, the solenoid SOL (3) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (3), and the window washer fluid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is fed into the pipe line 23 via the switching valve VR (3). The window washer liquid supplied to the pipe line 23 is guided to the massage tubes V3 and V3 ′ through the flexible pipes 4V3 and 4V3 ′, and as shown in FIG. 10C, the massage tube V3. , V3 ′ starts to expand (steps S18 and S21).

  When the set time T has elapsed after the contraction of the massage tubes V2 and V2 ′ and the expansion of the massage tubes V3 and V3 ′ have started, the value of the index i is incremented from 3 to 4, and then the massage tube V2 , V2 ′ contraction is complete. At the same time, the solenoid SOL (3) is de-energized, the switching valve VR (3) is returned to the initial position, and the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V3, V3 ′ in the fully expanded state is opened. The discharge of the window washer fluid in the massage tubes V3, V3 ′ is started. At this time, the solenoid SOL (4) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (4), and the window washer liquid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is fed into the pipe line 24 via the switching valve VR (4). The window washer liquid supplied to the conduit 24 is guided to the massage tubes V4, V4 ′ through the flexible pipes 4V4, 4V4 ′, and as shown in FIG. 10 (d), the massage tube V4 , V4 ′ starts to expand (steps S18 and S22).

  When the set time T has elapsed after the contraction of the massage tubes V3 and V3 ′ and the expansion of the massage tubes V4 and V4 ′ have started, the value of the index i is reset from 4 to 1, and the massage tube The contraction of V3 and V3 ′ is completed. At the same time, the excitation of the solenoid SOL (4) is released, the switching valve VR (4) returns to the initial position, and the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V4, V4 'in the fully expanded state is opened. The discharge of the window washer liquid in the massage tubes V4, V4 ′ is started. At this time, the solenoid SOL (1) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (1), and the window washer liquid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is fed into the pipe line 21 via the switching valve VR (1). The window washer liquid supplied to the conduit 21 is guided to the massage tubes V1, V1 ′ via the flexible pipes 4V1, 4V1 ′, and the massage tube V1 as shown in FIG. 10A. , V1 ′ starts to expand again (steps S16 and S19).

  In this way, the CPU 25 functioning as the unidirectional peristaltic motion control means executes the processing of step S16 to step S22 in a cycle of the set time T, so that as shown in FIG. Tube V1 and massage tube V1 ′, massage tube V2 and massage tube V2 ′, massage tube V3 and massage tube V3 ′, massage tube V4 and massage tube V4 ′, massage tube V1 and massage tube V1 ′,... Cyclically expands and contracts in this order, and the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ are moved from one end to the other end in the parallel direction. Operation mode 1 massage that expands and contracts sequentially like a peristaltic motion It is.

  Further, in the situation where the mode 2 is selected by the mode switch SW2, that is, at the end of the initialization process described above, the connection state of the pipelines is as shown in FIG. 6B, and the parameters a, b, c, Under the situation where each value of 1, 2, 3, 4 is set to d, the solenoid SOL (1) is excited at the first time point when the value of the index i is incremented from 0 to 1, and the switching valve VR ( 1) is activated, and the window washer fluid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is fed into the pipeline 21 via the switching valve VR (1). At this time, since the connection state of the pipes is as shown in FIG. 6B, the window washer fluid supplied to the pipe 21 is massaged tubes V1, V4 via the flexible pipes 4V1, 4V4 ′. Then, the expansion of the massage tubes V1, V4 ′ is started (step S16, step S19). The expansion start timing of the massage tube V1 is the same as that in FIG. 10A, but the expansion start timing of the massage tube V4 'is as shown in FIG. 11D.

  Then, when the set time T elapses after the expansion of the massage tubes V1 and V4 ′ and the value of the index i is incremented from 1 to 2, the excitation of the solenoid SOL (1) is released and the switching valve VR is released. (1) returns to the initial position, and the discharge of the window washer fluid in the massage tubes V1, V4 ′ is started by the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V1, V4 ′ in the fully expanded state with the conduit 21 opened. Is done. At the same time, the solenoid SOL (2) is excited to activate the switching valve VR (2), and the window washer fluid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is sent to the pipe line 22 via the switching valve VR (2). The window washer liquid supplied to the pipe line 22 is guided to the massage tubes V2, V3 ′ via the flexible pipes 4V2, 4V3 ′, as shown in FIGS. 10B and 11C. Then, the expansion of the massage tubes V2 and V3 ′ starts (steps S17 and S20). The expansion start timing of the massage tube V2 is the same as that in FIG. 10B, but the expansion start timing of the massage tube V3 'is as shown in FIG. 11C.

  Then, when the set time T has elapsed after the contraction of the massage tubes V1, V4 ′ and the expansion of the massage tubes V2, V3 ′ have started, the value of the index i is incremented from 2 to 3, and then the massage tube V1 , V4 ′ contraction is complete. At the same time, the solenoid SOL (2) is de-energized, the switching valve VR (2) is returned to the initial position, and the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V2, V3 ′ in the fully expanded state is opened. The discharge of the window washer liquid in the massage tubes V2, V3 ′ is started. At this time, the solenoid SOL (3) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (3), and the window washer fluid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is fed into the pipe line 23 via the switching valve VR (3). The window washer fluid supplied to the conduit 23 is guided to the massage tubes V3, V2 ′ via the flexible pipes 4V3, 4V2 ′, as shown in FIGS. 10 (c) and 11 (b). Then, the expansion of the massage tubes V3 and V2 ′ starts (steps S18 and S21). The expansion start timing of the massage tube V3 is the same as that in FIG. 10C, but the expansion start timing of the massage tube V2 'is as shown in FIG. 11B.

  When the set time T has elapsed after the contraction of the massage tubes V2 and V3 ′ and the expansion of the massage tubes V3 and V2 ′ have started, the value of the index i is incremented from 3 to 4, and then the massage tube V2 , V3 ′ contraction is complete. At the same time, the excitation of the solenoid SOL (3) is released, the switching valve VR (3) is returned to the initial position, and the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V3, V2 ′ in the fully expanded state is opened. The discharge of the window washer liquid in the massage tubes V3, V2 ′ is started. At this time, the solenoid SOL (4) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (4), and the window washer liquid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is fed into the pipe line 24 via the switching valve VR (4). The window washer fluid supplied to the conduit 24 is guided to the massage tubes V4, V1 ′ through the flexible pipes 4V4, 4V1 ′, as shown in FIGS. 10 (d) and 11 (a). Then, the expansion of the massage tubes V4 and V1 ′ starts (steps S18 and S22). The timing of the expansion start of the massage tube V4 is the same as that in FIG. 10D, but the timing of the expansion start of the massage tube V1 'is as shown in FIG.

  When the set time T has elapsed after the contraction of the massage tubes V3 and V2 ′ and the expansion of the massage tubes V4 and V1 ′ have started, the value of the index i is reset from 4 to 1, and then the massage tube The contraction of V3 and V2 'is completed. At the same time, the solenoid SOL (4) is de-energized, the switching valve VR (4) is returned to the initial position, and the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V4, V1 ′ in the fully expanded state is opened. The discharge of the window washer liquid in the massage tubes V4, V1 ′ is started. At this time, the solenoid SOL (1) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (1), and the window washer liquid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is fed into the pipe line 21 through the switching valve VR (1). The window washer fluid supplied to the conduit 21 is guided to the massage tubes V1, V4 ′ via the flexible pipes 4V1, 4V4 ′, as shown in FIGS. 10 (a) and 11 (d). Then, the massage tubes V1 and V4 ′ start to expand again (steps S16 and S19).

  As described above, the CPU 25 functioning as the center-aligned peristaltic motion control means executes the processing from step S16 to step S22 in the period of the set time T, and the results are shown in FIGS. 10 (e) and 11 (e). Like, massage tube V1 and massage tube V4 ′, massage tube V2 and massage tube V3 ′, massage tube V3 and massage tube V2 ′, massage tube V4 and massage tube V1 ′, massage tube V1 and the massage tube V4 ′,... Cyclically expand and contract in this order, and the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ are arranged in parallel. Operation mode 2 for expanding and contracting sequentially like a peristaltic movement from both ends to the center Massage is realized.

  Also, in the situation where the mode 3 is selected by the mode switch SW2, that is, at the end of the initialization process described above, the connection state of the pipelines is as shown in FIG. 6B, and the parameters a, b, c, Under the situation where each value of 4, 3, 2, and 1 is set in d, an operation completely opposite to the operation in the mode 2 described above is realized.

  That is, at the first time point when the value of the index i is incremented from 0 to 1, the solenoid SOL (4) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (4), and the window washer fluid supplied from the rear pressure pump P2 is discharged. It is fed into the pipe line 24 via the switching valve VR (4). At this time, since the connection state of the pipes is as shown in FIG. 6B, the window washer fluid supplied to the pipes 24 is massage tubes V4, V1 via the flexible pipes 4V4, 4V1 ′. Then, expansion of the massage tubes V4, V1 ′ is started (step S16, step S19).

  Then, when the set time T elapses after the expansion of the massage tubes V4 and V1 ′ and the value of the index i is incremented from 1 to 2, the excitation of the solenoid SOL (4) is released and the switching valve VR is released. (4) returns to the initial position, and the discharge of the window washer fluid in the massage tubes V4, V1 ′ is started by the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V4, V1 ′ in the fully expanded state when the conduit 24 is opened. Is done. At the same time, the solenoid SOL (3) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (3), and the window washer fluid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is sent to the pipe line 23 via the switching valve VR (3). The window washer liquid supplied to the pipe line 23 is guided to the massage tubes V3, V2 ′ via the flexible pipes 4V3, 4V2 ′, and the expansion of the massage tubes V3, V2 ′ starts (step S17). , Step S20).

  When the set time T has elapsed after the contraction of the massage tubes V4 and V1 ′ and the expansion of the massage tubes V3 and V2 ′ have started, the value of the index i is incremented from 2 to 3, and then the massage tube V4 , V1 ′ contraction is complete. At the same time, the excitation of the solenoid SOL (3) is released, the switching valve VR (3) is returned to the initial position, and the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V3, V2 ′ in the fully expanded state is opened. The discharge of the window washer liquid in the massage tubes V3, V2 ′ is started. At this time, the solenoid SOL (2) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (2), and the window washer liquid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is fed into the pipe line 22 through the switching valve VR (2). The window washer liquid supplied to the conduit 22 is guided to the massage tubes V2, V3 ′ via the flexible pipes 4V2, 4V3 ′, and the expansion of the massage tubes V2, V3 ′ starts (steps above). S18, step S21).

  When the set time T has elapsed after the contraction of the massage tubes V3, V2 ′ and the expansion of the massage tubes V2, V3 ′ have started, the value of the index i is incremented from 3 to 4, and then the massage tube V3 , V2 ′ contraction is complete. At the same time, the solenoid SOL (2) is de-energized, the switching valve VR (2) is returned to the initial position, and the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V2, V3 ′ in the fully expanded state is opened. The discharge of the window washer liquid in the massage tubes V2, V3 ′ is started. At this time, the solenoid SOL (1) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (1), and the window washer liquid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is fed into the pipe line 21 via the switching valve VR (1). The window washer liquid supplied to the pipe 21 is guided to the massage tubes V1 and V4 ′ via the flexible pipes 4V1 and 4V4 ′, and the expansion of the massage tubes V1 and V4 ′ starts (steps above). S18, step S22).

  When the set time T has elapsed after the contraction of the massage tubes V2 and V3 ′ and the expansion of the massage tubes V1 and V4 ′ have started, the value of the index i is reset from 4 to 1, and the massage tube The contraction of V2 and V3 ′ is complete. At the same time, the solenoid SOL (1) is de-energized, the switching valve VR (1) is returned to the initial position, and the external pressure acting on the massage tubes V1, V4 ′ in the fully expanded state is opened. The discharge of the window washer liquid in the massage tubes V1, V4 ′ is started. At this time, the solenoid SOL (4) is excited to operate the switching valve VR (4), and the window washer liquid supplied from the rear pressure feed pump P2 is fed into the pipe line 24 via the switching valve VR (4). The window washer liquid supplied to the conduit 24 is guided to the massage tubes V4, V1 ′ via the flexible pipes 4V4, 4V1 ′, and the massage tubes V4, V1 ′ start to expand again (above. Step S16, Step S19).

  In this way, the CPU 25 functioning as the both-ends movement motion control means executes the processing from step S16 to step S22 in the cycle of the set time T, whereby the massage tube V4, the massage tube V1 ′, and the massage tube V3 and massage tube V2 ′, massage tube V2 and massage tube V3 ′, massage tube V1 and massage tube V4 ′, massage tube V4 and massage tube V1 ′, etc. circulate in this order. The expansion and contraction of the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ is expanded and contracted in order like a peristaltic movement from the center in the parallel direction toward both ends. Mode 3 massage is achieved.

  In the operation mode 3 and the operation mode 2, only the operation order of the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, and VR4 is reversed, and the substantial processing contents are completely the same. The corresponding timing chart is omitted.

  And while such a process is repeatedly performed, when the OFF operation of the ON / OFF switch SW1 of the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1 is detected in the process of step S23, the CPU 25 receives the rear via the pump motor controller 11. The operation of the pressure pump P2 is stopped (step S25), the excitation of the solenoid SOL0 is released, the control valve VR0 is returned to the initial position, and the connection destination of the rear pressure pump P2 which is a liquid pumping means is connected from the distribution valve 5 After switching to the rear window washer nozzle 7 (step S26), the solenoids SOL1, SOL2, SOL3, SOL4, SOL5 are turned off, and the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, VR4 and the direction switching valves VR5a, VR5b, VR5c, VR5d are set. Return to the initial position (step S27) and reset the flag F. The processing related to the drive control of the in-vehicle massage device 1 is finished (step S28).

  As a result of the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, and VR4 returning to the initial positions, the window washer fluid remaining in the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, and V4 ′ It is recovered in the window washer fluid tank 2 via the paths 21, 22, 23, 24 and the switching valves VR1, VR2, VR3, VR4.

  Next, specific examples of use of the massage pad 3 will be briefly described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 12 shows an example in which massage is performed with the massage pad 3 sandwiched between the backrest portion of the seat 14 and the back. Since the sheet clamping members 19 and 20 are provided at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the back surface portion 3b of the massage pad 3 as shown in FIG. 3, fabric fabric having loop-shaped protrusions was adopted as the outer material. By engaging the seat clamping members 19 and 20 with the backrest portion of the seat 14, the massage pad 3 is securely fixed at a desired position without causing displacement due to a change in posture during operation. Can do.
As shown in FIG. 13, it is possible to arrange the massage pad 3 along the back muscles, or to arrange the massage pad 3 in the left-right direction along the waist.
When the massage pad 3 is arranged along the back muscles, the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ in the massage pad 3 are operated in the mode 1 setting. When the massage pad 3 is arranged in the left and right direction along the waist, the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, in the massage pad 3 are set in the mode 2 or mode 3. V4 'may be activated (other modes may be selected).
In the case of the massage pad 3 without the seat clamping members 19 and 20, the massage pad 3 is simply sandwiched between the back and the backrest portion of the seat 14.

FIG. 14 shows an example in which massage is performed with the massage pad 3 sandwiched between a foldable ottoman 30 (foot holder) constituting a part of the seat 14 and a calf. If the outer surface of the ottoman 30 is a fabric having loop-shaped protrusions, the massage pad 3 can be easily fixed at an arbitrary position on the ottoman 30 as described above. Alternatively, the massage may be performed by simply sandwiching the massage pad 3 between the ottoman 30 and the calf.
In this case, the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ in the massage pad 3 may be activated by setting the mode 2 or mode 3 (select another mode). It is also possible).

FIG. 15 shows an example in which a massage from the shoulder to the neck is performed using the seat belt 29.
As described above, when the massage pad 3 is arranged along the seat belt 29, the belt-shaped seat belt clamp member 17 provided at one end portion on the back surface side of the massage pad 3 is set as shown in FIG. One end portion of the massage pad 3 is formed by engaging the locking surface 17a and the locked surface 17b with the seat belt clamp member 17 wound around the seat belt 29 so as to be substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the massage pad 3. Is fixed to the seat belt 29. At the same time, the other end portion of the massage pad 3 is fixed to the backrest portion of the seat 14 by using the sheet clamping member 19 provided on the other end portion on the back surface side of the massage pad 3.
Similarly to the above, when the massage pad 3 does not include the special seat clamping member 19, the other end portion of the massage pad 3 is sandwiched and fixed between the back and the backrest portion of the seat 14.
In this case, the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, V4 ′ in the massage pad 3 may be activated by setting the mode 1 (other modes may be selected) Is).

FIG. 16 shows an example in which massage is performed from the shoulder on the side where the seat belt 29 is not applied to the neck.
When massaging a portion where the seat belt 29 is not applied, the belt-shaped seat belt clamp member 17 provided at one end on the back side of the massage pad 3 is rotated by about 90 ° from the state shown in FIG. Thus, the massage pad 3 is engaged with the locking surface 17a and the locked surface 17b while the seat belt clamp member 17 is wound around the seat belt 29. The other end of the massage pad 3 is fixed to the backrest portion of the seat 14 using the seat clamping member 19 and the like in the same manner as described above.
In this embodiment, since the belt-shaped seat belt clamp member 17 is rotatable with respect to the massage pad 3, by applying an attachment state as shown in FIG. 16, the shoulder on the side where the seat belt 29 is not hung is applied. The neck and neck can be easily massaged.
In this case as well, the massage tubes V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ′, V2 ′, V3 ′, and V4 ′ in the massage pad 3 may be operated by setting the mode 1 as described above (other modes may be selected). It is also possible to select).

FIG. 17 shows an example in which massage is performed from the flank to the chest.
As described above, the crossing angle of the massage pad 3 with respect to the seat belt 29 can be freely adjusted by rotating the seat belt clamp member 17, so that it is easy to massage from the left and right flank to the chest.
Although FIG. 17 illustrates the case where massage is performed from the right flank to the chest, if the attachment direction of the massage pad 3 is reversed, the massage can also be performed from the left flank to the chest.

  FIG. 18 shows another configuration example of the massage pad. This massage pad 31 is different from the aforementioned massage pad 3 in that massage tubes are arranged in a radial pattern.

  In this massage pad 31, flexible pipes connected to each of the massage tubes V1a, V1b, V1c, and V1d are integrated and integrated. Similarly, flexible piping connected to each of the massage tubes V2a, V2b, V2c, V2d, flexible piping connected to each of the massage tubes V3a, V3b, V3c, V3d, and a massage tube V4a , V4b, V4c, and V4d, the flexible pipes that are connected to each other are integrated and integrated, and the total number of flexible pipes that are led out from the massage pad 31 is four. (Not shown).

  Therefore, when the massage pad 31 is operated by using the distribution valve 5 having the structure as shown in FIG. 5 as it is, an adapter that collects and integrates the pipes 4V1 and 4V1 ′, and a pipe An adapter that aggregates and integrates the paths 4V2 and 4V2 ', an adapter that aggregates and integrates the lines 4V3 and 4V3', and an adapter that aggregates and integrates the lines 4V4 and 4V4 ' Via these adapters, the flexible tubes of massage tubes V1a, V1b, V1c, V1d are connected to the conduits 4V1 and 4V1 ′, and the massage tubes V2a, V2b, V2c and V2d flexible pipes are connected, and massage tubes V3a, V3b, V3c and V3d are connected to pipe lines 4V3 and 4V3 ′, and pipes 4V4 and 4V4 ′ are connected. Ssaji tube V4a, V4b, V4c, by connecting a flexible pipe V4d, actuating the vehicle massaging apparatus 1 in mode 1.

  As a result, the massage tubes V1a, V1b, V1c, V1d, the massage tubes V2a, V2b, V2c, V2d, the massage tubes V3a, V3b, V3c, V3d, and the massage tubes V4a, V4b, V4c, V4d Each group repeats expansion and contraction synchronously, and four unidirectional peristaltic motions having different phases by 90 ° are repeatedly executed, so that a massage effect that draws a circle as a whole can be obtained. This mode of operation is suitable for removing fatigue from the abdomen and calves.

  FIG. 19 shows still another configuration example of the massage pad. This massage pad 32 is different from the aforementioned massage pad 3 and massage pad 31 in that massage tubes are arranged in a fan shape.

  In this massage pad 32, flexible pipes connected to each of the massage tubes V1a, V1b, and V1c are integrated and integrated. Similarly, flexible piping connected to each of the massage tubes V2a, V2b, V2c, flexible piping connected to each of the massage tubes V3a, V3b, V3c, and massage tubes V4a, V4b, V4c The flexible pipes connected to each of these are also integrated and integrated, and there are a total of four flexible pipes led out from the massage pad 32 (not shown).

  Therefore, when operating the massage pad 32 using the distribution valve 5 having the structure as shown in FIG. 5 as it is, an adapter that collects and integrates the pipes 4V1 and 4V1 ′, and a pipe An adapter that aggregates and integrates the paths 4V2 and 4V2 ', an adapter that aggregates and integrates the lines 4V3 and 4V3', and an adapter that aggregates and integrates the lines 4V4 and 4V4 ' Via these adapters, the flexible tubes of massage tubes V1a, V1b, V1c are connected to the conduits 4V1 and 4V1 ′, and the massage tubes V2a, V2b, V2c are connected to the conduits 4V2 and 4V2 ′. Flexible piping is connected, flexible tubing of massage tubes V3a, V3b, V3c is connected to conduits 4V3 and 4V3 ′, and massage tube V4 is connected to conduits 4V4 and 4V4 ′. , V4b, by connecting a flexible pipe V4c, actuating the vehicle massaging apparatus 1 in mode 1.

  As a result, each set of massage tubes V1a, V1b, V1c, massage tubes V2a, V2b, V2c, massage tubes V3a, V3b, V3c, and massage tubes V4a, V4b, V4c is inflated and contracted in synchronization. Thus, the unidirectional peristaltic movement from the outer periphery of the fan shape toward the inside in the radial direction is repeatedly executed. This mode of operation is also suitable for removing fatigue from the abdomen and calves.

  When the configuration example of FIG. 19 is applied, the volume including the massage tubes V1a, V1b, V1c, the volume including the massage tubes V2a, V2b, V2c, and the massage tubes V3a, V3b, V3c. Therefore, it is desirable that the width W of each massage tube be gradually increased from the outer periphery of the fan shape to the inside in the radial direction.

  When the massage pad 31 as shown in FIG. 18 or the massage pad 32 as shown in FIG. 19 is used, the distribution valve 5 having a pipe line configuration suitable for each massage pad may be designed independently. However, as described above, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost of the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1 by providing an adapter for collecting pipes and using the distribution valve 5 and the controller 6 having the same structure.

  FIG. 20 is a functional block diagram showing another configuration example of the in-vehicle massage apparatus. The configuration related to the main part of the in-vehicle massage device 33 is the same as that of the in-vehicle massage device 1 shown in FIG. 1, but the window washer fluid for storing the window washer fluid required for driving the massage pad 3 is used. 1 is different from the in-vehicle massage apparatus 1 in FIG. 1 in that a reserve reserve tank 34 is provided in addition to the tank 2.

  A water / liquid recovery tank 35 is connected to the reserve tank 34, and the water generated by the fuel cell of the power unit (however, in the case of a fuel cell vehicle), rain water, or water covered during washing is reserved through the water / liquid recovery tank 35. It is collected in the tank 34. Desirably, a filter is provided between the water-liquid recovery tank 35 and the reserve tank 34 or in the water-liquid recovery tank 35 to remove dust and dirt in the water liquid.

  The water liquid collected in the reserve tank 34 is transferred to any massage tube, for example, the massage tube Vx in the example of FIG. 20, by the pressure feed pump P3 driven and controlled by the controller 6 during the operation of the in-vehicle massage device 33. When the massage tube Vx is contracted, it is collected in the window washer liquid tank 2 via the distribution valve 5 and the drain pipe 8 and mixed with the window washer liquid collected from other massage tubes in this collection process. The

  Since the concentration of the window washer liquid is diluted as a result of the mixing of the water liquid recovered from the water liquid recovery tank 35 and the window washer liquid, a concentration sensor 36 such as an SPR sensor is provided on the drain pipe 8. The operation of the pumping pump P3 is prohibited before the concentration of the window washer liquid falls below the set lower limit value.

  The lower limit value for the concentration of window washer fluid should preferably be determined so that the window washer fluid does not freeze even at the lowest temperature in the vehicle's operating environment. The temperature sensor (such as an outside air temperature sensor for an air conditioner) installed in the vehicle should be used. The setting lower limit value may be automatically updated at predetermined intervals based on the lowest temperature detected, for example, the lowest temperature going back to the past of about one month. Or you may make it set the setting lower limit of the density | concentration of the window washer liquid in the vehicle of a cold district specification higher than a normal sales area according to the area where a vehicle is sold.

  Furthermore, it is also possible to utilize the heat capacity of the circulating liquid for a heat exchange device. For example, heat exchange circulation in combination with a Peltier element provided in the cabin in the middle of piping or instead of a massage tube It is also possible to configure the system.

  By applying such a configuration, it is possible to suppress the loss of the window washer fluid and to stably use the in-vehicle massage device 33 for a long period of time.

It is the functional block diagram shown about the structural example of the vehicle-mounted massage apparatus. It is the schematic diagram which showed layouts, such as a controller in a vehicle. It is the perspective view shown from the back side about the composition of the massage pad. FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the massage pad, FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view partially showing the internal structure by dividing the massage pad in the longitudinal direction, and FIG. 4B is a plane orthogonal thereto. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure by breaking the massage pad, FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view partially showing the internal structure including the massage tube in an operating state by breaking the massage pad in the longitudinal direction, FIG. (D) is sectional drawing which showed the internal structure by dividing a massage pad by the plane orthogonal to this. It is the figure which showed an example of the specific structure of a distribution valve. FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a switching state of a directional switching valve that constitutes a part of the distribution valve, and FIG. 6A is a conceptual diagram showing a switching state of the directional switching valve when the unidirectional peristaltic motion control means is operated. FIG. 6 and FIG. 6B are conceptual diagrams showing the switching state of the direction switching valve when the center-aligned peristaltic motion control means or the both-end peristaltic motion control means operates. It is the functional block diagram which showed the outline of the structure of a controller. It is the flowchart which showed the outline of the process which CPU of a controller implements. It is the continuation of the flowchart which showed the outline of the process which CPU of a controller implements. FIG. 10A is a timing chart showing the switching valve operation timing and the mass change of the massage tube when the unidirectional peristaltic motion control means is operating. FIG. 10A shows the operation timing of the switching valve VR1 and the massage. FIG. 10B shows the relationship between the change timing of the switching valve VR2 and the volume change of the massage tube V2. FIG. 10C shows the relationship between the change timing of the switching valve VR3 and the massage tube. FIG. 10 (d) shows the relationship between the operation timing of the switching valve VR4 and the volume change of the massage tube V4, and FIG. 10 (e) shows the relationship between the massage tubes V1, V2, V3 and V4. The volume change is summarized. FIG. 11A is a timing chart in which the switching valve operating timing and the mass change of the massage tube when the center-aligned peristaltic motion control unit is operating are shown in an overlapping manner. FIG. FIG. 11B shows the relationship between the change in volume of the tube V1 ′, FIG. 11B shows the relationship between the operation timing of the switching valve VR3 and the change in volume of the massage tube V2 ′, and FIG. 11C shows the operation timing of the switching valve VR2. FIG. 11D shows the relationship between the volume change of the tube V3 ′, FIG. 11D shows the relationship between the operation timing of the switching valve VR1 and the volume change of the massage tube V4 ′, and FIG. 11E shows the massage tubes V1 ′ and V2. The volume changes of ', V3' and V4 'are collectively shown. It is the side view shown about the usage example in the case of performing massage by pinching a massage pad between the backrest part and back of a sheet. It is the rear view shown about the usage example in the case of performing massage by pinching a massage pad between the backrest part of a sheet, and the back. It is the side view shown about the example of use in the case of massaging by putting a massage pad between the folding ottoman which comprises a part of sheet | seat, and a calf. It is the side view shown about the usage example in the case of performing massage from a shoulder to a neck using a seatbelt. It is the front view shown about the usage example in the case of massaging from the shoulder of the side where a seat belt does not hang to a neck. It is the front view shown about the usage example when it hangs on a chest from a flank. It is the conceptual diagram shown simply about the other structural example of the massage pad. It is the conceptual diagram briefly shown about the other structural example of the massage pad. It is the functional block diagram shown about the other structural example of the vehicle-mounted massage apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

1 In-vehicle massage device 2 Window washer liquid tank (tank)
3 Massage pad 3a Front surface portion 3b Back surface portion 4V Flexible piping 4V1, 4V2, 4V3, 4V4, 4V1 ', 4V2', 4V3 ', 4V4' Flexible piping 5 Distribution valve 6 Controller 7 Rear window washer nozzle 8 Pipe for drain 9 Front window washer nozzle 10 Washer switch 11 Pump motor controller 12 Housing 13 Vehicle 14 Seat 15 Washer liquid supply pipe 16 Rear washer liquid supply pipe 17 Seat belt clamp member 17a Locking surface 17b Engagement Stop surface 18 Rivet 19 Seat clamp member 20 Seat clamp members 21, 22, 23, 24 Pipe 25 CPU (unidirectional peristaltic motion control means, center-aligned peristaltic motion control means, both-end peristaltic motion control means)
26 ROM
27 RAM
28 I / O circuit 29 Seat belt 30 Ottoman 31 Massage pad 32 Massage pad 33 In-vehicle massage device 34 Reserve tank 35 Liquid recovery tank 36 Concentration sensor P1 Front pressure pump P2 Rear pressure pump (liquid pressure delivery means)
P3 pressure pumps V1, V2, V3, V4, V1 ', V2', V3 ', V4' Massage tubes T1, T2, T3, T4, T1 ', T2', T3 ', T4' Air tube VR0 Control valve VR1 , VR2, VR3, VR4 Switching valve VR5a, VR5b, VR5c, VR5d Directional switching valve SO0, SOL1, SOL2, SOL3, SOL4, SOL5 Solenoid SW1 ON / OFF switch SW2 Mode switch

Claims (9)

A flexible pad with multiple tubes,
Flexible piping provided connected to each tube;
A tank for storing liquid,
Liquid pumping means for pumping the liquid in the tank to the outside;
A distribution valve that is interposed between the liquid pumping means and each of the pipes and distributes the liquid pumped from the liquid pumping means to each of the tubes;
A vehicle-mounted liquid circulation storage device comprising: a controller that controls supply and discharge of the distribution valve and expands and contracts each of the tubes at different timings. A flexible massage pad with multiple massage tubes;
Flexible piping provided connected to each massage tube;
A tank for storing liquid,
Liquid pumping means for pumping the liquid in the tank to the outside;
A distribution valve that is interposed between the liquid pumping means and each of the pipes and distributes the liquid pumped from the liquid pumping means to each of the massage tubes;
An in-vehicle massage apparatus comprising: a controller that controls supply and discharge of the distribution valve and expands and contracts each of the massage tubes at different timings. The massage pad is provided with the plurality of massage tubes in parallel,
The controller is provided with unidirectional peristaltic motion control means for controlling supply and discharge of the distribution valve so as to sequentially expand and contract the plurality of massage tubes from one end to the other end in the parallel direction. The in-vehicle massage device according to claim 2, wherein The massage pad is provided with the plurality of massage tubes in parallel,
The controller is provided with a centering peristaltic motion control means for controlling supply and discharge of the distribution valve so that the plurality of massage tubes are inflated and contracted sequentially from both ends in the parallel direction toward the center. The in-vehicle massage device according to claim 2 or claim 3. The massage pad is provided with the plurality of massage tubes in parallel,
The controller is provided with both-end-sliding peristaltic motion control means for controlling supply and discharge of the distribution valve so that the plurality of massage tubes are inflated and contracted sequentially from the center in the parallel direction toward both ends. The in-vehicle massage apparatus according to claim 2, claim 3, or claim 4.   6. The in-vehicle massage device according to claim 2, further comprising an air tube that is superposed on the massage tube and encloses air.   2. The seat belt clamp member is provided, wherein the massage pad is formed in a band shape, and at least one end thereof is detachably engaged with an arbitrary position of the seat belt. A vehicle-mounted massage device according to claim 4, claim 5 or claim 6.   5. A seat clamping member that is detachably engaged with a seat surface of a vehicle is disposed at an end of the massage pad on the back side. An in-vehicle massage device according to claim 6 or 7. The tank is constituted by a window washer liquid tank, and the liquid pressure feeding means is constituted by a window washer liquid pressure pump,
A control valve for selectively switching the connection destination of the pressure pump to either the distribution valve or the window washer nozzle;
The controller is provided with automatic control valve control means for switching the control valve from the window washer nozzle to the distribution valve when the in-vehicle massage device is operated. The in-vehicle massage apparatus according to claim 4, claim 5, claim 6, claim 7 or claim 8.

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