JP2010142369A - Bathtub apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a bathtub apparatus capable of making a bather continuously exercise. <P>SOLUTION: The bathtub apparatus includes: a bathtub provided with a first bathtub wall surface that the back can lean against and a second bathtub wall surface facing the first bathtub wall surface; a water discharge part provided on the second bathtub wall surface, for discharging a jet to the feet of a bather bathing in the bathtub turning the feet toward the second bathtub wall surface; and a control part for controlling the state of the jet. The control part can set the state of the jet discharged from the water discharge part to a first jet state of not bending the legs of the bather and a second jet state of bending the legs of the bather with a higher water discharge flow rate than the first jet state, and can change the duration of at least one of the first and second jet states. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  Aspects of the present invention generally relate to a bathtub device, and specifically to a bathtub device that causes a bather to exercise.

  In recent years, the health-consciousness has increased, and there has been an increasing demand for health management through exercise such as fitness and exercise. There is also a desire to exercise easily while taking a bath.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for providing a step that can be stepped into a bathtub. A stepping load is applied to the step board by a spring, and the bather can exercise by stepping on the step board with one foot while sitting. However, a person who does not usually have exercise habits needs considerable will power to exercise. In particular, when taking a bath, it is difficult to demonstrate the power of will because it is in a relaxed mental state. For this reason, even if exercise equipment is installed in the bathtub, it is expected that the exercise will not last long.

  On the other hand, Patent Document 2 discloses a circulation bathtub in which a footrest portion is provided inside and a discharge port for ejecting a jet is provided in the footrest portion. Patent Document 2 describes that the bather can stimulate the bather's sole and perform massage by ejecting a jet from the discharge port in a state where the foot is placed on the footrest. Yes. However, this circulating bathtub is used by the bather with his / her feet on the footrest, and does not cause the bather to exercise.

Patent Document 3 discloses a bubble generating device that controls jetting / stopping of a jet flow from a jet nozzle by a control unit. Patent Document 3 describes that a certain overlap time in which bath water is jetted out by both jetting points occurs, and the transition of the jetting points can be performed smoothly, so that no uncomfortable feeling is given to the bather. However, this bubble generating device does not cause the bather to exercise, like the circulation bathtub disclosed in Patent Document 2.
JP 2003-236014 A JP 2005-287541 A Japanese Patent No. 2710829

  The aspect of this invention is made | formed based on recognition of this subject, and provides the bathtub apparatus which can make a bather exercise continuously.

  According to one aspect of the present invention, a bathtub having a first bathtub wall surface capable of being backrested and a second bathtub wall surface facing the first bathtub wall surface is provided on the second bathtub wall surface, A water discharger for discharging a jet to a bather's foot bathing in the bathtub with his feet facing the second bathtub wall; and a control unit for controlling the state of the jet; The state of the jet spouted from the water spouting section includes a first jet state in which the bather's foot is not bent, and a second jet in which the water discharge flow rate is higher than that in the first jet state and the bather's foot is bent. There is provided a bathtub device characterized in that it can be set to a jet state and the duration of at least one of the first and second jet states can be changed.

  According to the aspect of the present invention, there is provided a bathtub device that allows a bather to continuously exercise.

  1st invention is provided in the said 2nd bathtub wall surface, the bathtub which has the 1st bathtub wall surface which can be backrested, and the 2nd bathtub wall surface which opposes the said 1st bathtub wall surface, said 2nd A water discharge part for discharging a jet to a bather's foot bathing in the bathtub with his feet facing the bathtub wall, and a control part for controlling the state of the jet, wherein the control part is the water discharge part The first jet state in which the bather's foot is not bent, and the second jet state in which the water discharge flow rate is higher than that in the first jet state and the bather's foot is bent. The bathtub device is characterized in that the duration of at least one of the first and second jet states can be changed.

  According to this bathtub apparatus, the bather can change various exercise modes by changing the water discharge time of at least one of the first and second jet states. Therefore, the bather can continue these exercises without getting tired of the exercises. That is, it can be said that this bathtub apparatus is an exercise bathtub apparatus that can cause exercise to be performed dynamically while the bather is in a sitting state.

Further, according to a second aspect, in the first aspect, the control unit alternately changes the state of the jet discharged from the water discharger into the first jet state and the second jet state. It is the bathtub apparatus characterized by setting.
According to this bathtub device, the bather can perform a stepping exercise or a walking exercise by alternately switching between the first jet state and the second jet state to discharge water.

Moreover, 3rd invention is 1st or 2nd invention, The said control part is a ratio of the duration of the said 1st and 2nd jet state with respect to the period of the change of the jet state discharged from the said water discharging part. It is a bathtub apparatus characterized by being able to change.
According to this bathtub apparatus, the bather can change the ratio of the water discharge time in the first and second jet states with respect to the period of the jet state discharged from the water discharge section, and can perform exercise and walking that approximate the stretch exercise. It is possible to change a flexion / extension motion such as exercise and a motion approximate to balance training. Therefore, the bather can continue these exercises without getting tired of the exercises.

Moreover, 4th invention is the bathtub apparatus characterized by the said control part being able to change the period of the change of the jet state discharged from the said water discharging part in 1st thru | or 3rd invention.
According to this bathtub device, the bather changes the exercise that approximates the stretching exercise or balance training and the bending and extension exercise such as the walking exercise by changing the cycle of the jet state discharged from the water discharge portion. be able to. Therefore, the bather can continue these exercises without getting tired of the exercises.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, in each drawing, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same component and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted suitably.
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a bathtub device according to an embodiment of the invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the bathtub device 1 according to this embodiment is provided in a bathroom unit 60. The bathroom unit 60 is a box-shaped watertight unit in which a floor is constituted by a waterproof pan 61, a wall is constituted by a wall panel 62, and a ceiling is constituted by a ceiling panel (not shown). The bathtub device 1 is disposed on the waterproof pan 61.

  The bathtub device 1 is provided with a bathtub 2. The shape of the bathtub 2 is, for example, a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the inner side surface of one end portion in the longitudinal direction is a back side surface (first bath wall surface) 2a with which the back m1 of the bather M comes into contact. The inner side surface of the end portion is a foot side surface (second bathtub wall surface) 2b to which the sole m2 faces when the bather M takes a bathing posture. That is, the bather M can rest on the back side surface 2a. The back side surface 2a and the foot side surface 2b are opposed to each other with the bottom surface 2c interposed therebetween.

  The foot side surface 2b of the bathtub 2 is provided with a nozzle (a water discharge portion) 3 for discharging a jet to the feet of the bather M. The nozzle 3 includes a left foot nozzle 3L and a right foot nozzle 3R. The nozzle 3 injects a water flow (jet) toward the inside of the bathtub 2, and the direction of this jet is the direction from the foot side surface 2b to the back side surface 2a. The pair of nozzles 3 are arranged in the horizontal direction, and are disposed, for example, at positions symmetrical with respect to a center line extending in the vertical direction on the foot side surface 2b. In FIG. 1, for convenience of illustration, the nozzles 3L and 3R are drawn so as to be shifted from each other. However, the nozzles 3L and 3R are actually arranged at the same height.

  The length in the longitudinal direction of the bathtub 2, that is, the length between the foot side surface 2 b and the back side surface 2 a in the bathtub 2 is determined when the bather M having a standard physique takes a bathing posture, ie, 2 so as to cover the nozzle 3 with the sole m2 when the back m1 is brought into contact with the back side 2a of the bathtub 2 and the sole m2 is opposed to the foot side 2b. It is.

  Moreover, the pump apparatus 4 is provided in the bathtub apparatus 1 as a drive part which produces | generates a jet. The pump 4 includes a pump 4L that discharges water to the nozzle 3L for the left foot and a pump 4R that discharges water to the nozzle 3R for the right foot. That is, the pump 4L is connected to the nozzle 3L, and the pump 4R is connected to the nozzle 3R. In the present specification, the term “water” includes not only cold water but also heated hot water. The suction port 7 of the pump 4 communicates with the inside of the bathtub 2. Thereby, the pump 4 draws water out of the bathtub 2, produces | generates a jet, and discharges it.

  However, the pump 4 does not necessarily have the pumps 4L and 4R connected to the nozzles 3L and 3R, respectively, and may be a single pump. In this case, a switching unit that switches the flow path of the jet generated by the pump 4 and alternately supplies the jet to the nozzles 3 </ b> L and 3 </ b> R is provided between the nozzle 3 and the pump 4. According to this, the size of the pump 4 can be reduced, and the distance between the foot side surface 2b of the bathtub 2 and the wall panel 62 can be shortened. Thereby, the space enclosed by the waterproof pan 61, the foot side surface 2b, and the wall panel 62, and accommodating the pump 4 etc. can be made small and the limited space in a bathtub unit can be utilized effectively.

  On the other hand, according to the bathtub apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1, since the pump 4 has the pumps 4L and 4R connected to the nozzles 3L and 3R, respectively, the nozzles 3L and 3R discharge water jets or discharge water alternately. can do. Furthermore, since the pumps 4L and 4R are connected to the nozzles 3L and 3R, the nozzles 3L and 3R can discharge jets having different water discharge flow rates and water discharge times, respectively. Hereinafter, in the bathtub apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, a case where the pump 4 includes the pumps 4L and 4R will be described as an example.

  The bathtub device 1 is further provided with a control unit 5 that controls the operation of the pump 4. The controller 5 is electrically connected to the pump 4 and can control the state of the jet flow from the nozzle 3 by controlling the operation of the pump 4. And the control part 5 makes the state of the jet flow from the nozzle 3 into the jet flow state (1st jet flow state) which does not bend the bather's M leg, and the water discharge flow volume is larger than the 1st jet flow state. It can be set to a jet state (second jet state) in which the foot is bent.

  The discharge water flow rate Q1 from the nozzle 3 in the first jet state is, for example, about 30 liters / minute. On the other hand, the water discharge flow rate Q2 from the nozzle 3 in the second jet state is, for example, about 130 liters / minute. Thus, the water discharge flow rate Q2 in the second jet state is considerably larger than the water discharge flow rate of the jet jetted for massage. Therefore, the jet flow from the nozzle 3 in the second jet state is such that when the bather M brings the back m1 into contact with the back side 2a and the sole m2 faces the nozzle 3, the ankle joint of the bather M It is possible to flex the knee joint and the hip joint at the same time.

  Moreover, the bathtub apparatus 1 concerning this embodiment is provided with operation parts 8, such as a remote control, for example. This operation part 8 is attached to the wall panel 62 of the bathroom unit 60, for example, and can transmit a control signal to the control part 5 by operation from the bather M. The control unit 5 can control the operation of the pump 4 based on a control signal from the operation unit 8. That is, the bather M can control the operation of the pump 4 by operating the operation unit 8 and can change the state of the jet from the nozzle 3.

  As described above, the water discharge flow rate Q1 in the first jet state is, for example, about 30 liters / minute, and is not 0 (zero) liters / minute. Therefore, even when the control unit 5 switches the jet flow from the nozzle 3 from the first jet flow state to the second jet flow state, the pump 4 is less likely to be overloaded. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the time for switching from the first jet state to the second jet state, that is, the time until the jet flow having the water discharge flow rate Q1 to the water discharge flow rate Q2 is discharged.

Next, the specific example of operation | movement of the bathtub apparatus concerning this embodiment is demonstrated, referring drawings.
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state when the bather receives a jet from the nozzle on his / her foot. 2 (a) represents the flexion period of the bather's foot, FIG. 2 (b) represents the retention period of the bather's foot, and FIG. 2 (c) represents the bather's leg retention period. Represents the period of leg extension.
FIG. 3 is a graph illustrating a specific example of the water discharge flow rate from the nozzle with respect to time.
FIG. 4 is a graph illustrating another specific example of the water discharge flow rate from the nozzle with respect to time.
The period T1 of the jet state shown in FIG. 3 is longer than the period T2 of the jet state shown in FIG.

  First, in a state where water (hot water) W is put in the bathtub 2, the bather M enters the bathtub 2 and takes a bathing posture (see FIG. 1). That is, the bather M brings the buttocks into contact with the bottom surface 2c of the bathtub 2, makes the back m1 contact the back side surface 2a of the bathtub 2, and makes the sole m2 face the foot side surface 2b. Then, the bather M arranges the left and right feet so as to cover the left nozzle 3L with the left sole m2 and the right nozzle 3R with the right sole m2, and the jets ejected from the nozzle 3 Take the initial posture to capture with the soles of the feet. At this time, the bather M is in a relaxed state, and the ankle joint, knee joint and hip joint are weakened.

  From this state, the pump 4 is operated. Accordingly, the pump 4 draws water in the bathtub 2 from the suction port 7 to generate a jet and supplies it to the nozzle 3. At this time, the water discharge flow rate with respect to the jet time discharged from the nozzles 3L and 3R is as shown in FIG. 3 or FIG.

  More specifically, in the graphs shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the duty ratio indicating the ratio (ratio) of the time of the discharged water flow rate Q2 to the cycle is both “0.5”. However, this duty ratio (0.5) is only an example, and is not limited to this. That is, here, a specific example of the operation of changing the cycle without changing the duty ratio will be described. Further, the first jet state (water discharge flow rate Q1) and the second jet state (water discharge flow rate Q2) are alternately switched, and the jet state from the left foot nozzle 3L and the right foot nozzle 3R is reversed. The case of phase will be described as an example. In the specification of the present application, the term “cycle” refers to the time from the start of water discharge in the first jet state (water discharge flow rate Q1) until the start of water discharge in the next first jet state (water discharge flow rate Q1), or The time from when the second jet state (water discharge flow rate Q2) is started to discharge until the next second jet state (discharge water flow rate Q2) is started to discharge water.

  When a jet of water discharge flow rate Q2 is jetted from the nozzle 3, this jet presses the sole m2 of the bather M. Accordingly, as in the flexion period shown in FIG. 2A, the ankle joint, knee joint and hip joint of the bather M are bent at the same time, and the foot moves toward the back side surface 2a. At this time, since the jet flow from the nozzle 3 generates a flow field so as to wrap the foot portion of the bather M, a force that prevents the foot portion from coming off from the jet flow is applied to the sole m2. This is the same phenomenon that when a ping-pong ball is placed on the fountain, the ping-pong ball does not fall and stays at the approximate center of the fountain.

  On the other hand, when the jet flow of the discharged water flow rate Q1 is ejected from the nozzle 3, the pressure that presses the sole m2 decreases. Therefore, as in the extension period shown in FIG. 2C, the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint of the bather M naturally extend, and the foot moves toward the foot side surface 2b. At this time, when the bather consciously adjusts the position of the foot so as to cover the nozzle 3 with the sole m2, the foot returns to the vicinity of the nozzle 3. Therefore, the nozzle 3 alternately jets the jets of the water discharge flow rates Q <b> 1 and Q <b> 2, so that the bather's feet reciprocate along the longitudinal direction of the bathtub 2.

  At this time, when the period of the jet state from the nozzle 3 is relatively long as in the period T1 of the graph shown in FIG. 3, the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint of the bather M are simultaneously bent and stopped. That is, the holding state shown in FIG. 2B continues for a relatively long time. Then, after the retention period has continued for a relatively long time, a jet of a water discharge flow rate Q1 is ejected from the nozzle 3, so that the ankle joint, knee joint and hip joint of the bather M are extended as shown in FIG. Transition to the period. Then, after this extension period continues for a while (here, time a1), the ankle, knee joint, and hip joint of the bather M are transitioned to the flexion period by jetting the water discharge flow rate Q2 from the nozzle 3 again. To do.

  As described above, when the period of the jet state from the nozzle 3 is relatively long, the time of the bending period, the holding period, and the extending period of the ankle joint, the knee joint, and the hip joint of the bather M continues for a relatively long time. Therefore, the exercise of the bather M's legs in this case is an exercise similar to a stretch exercise or balance training. In addition, the bather M loses the balance of posture by this exercise and becomes unstable. Therefore, the bather M performs a compensation operation to unconsciously work the muscles of the whole body to stabilize the posture. Bathers can also exercise by this.

  On the other hand, when the period of the jet state from the nozzle 3 is relatively short as in the period T2 of the graph shown in FIG. 4, the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint of the bather M are simultaneously bent and stopped. There is almost no state, that is, the state of the holding period shown in FIG. That is, when the cycle is relatively short, the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint of the bather M are substantially continuous from the flexion period shown in FIG. 2 (a) to the extension period shown in FIG. 2 (c). Transition to. Then, when the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint of the bather M naturally extend, the transition to the flexion period occurs again.

  As described above, when the period of the jet state from the nozzle 3 is relatively short, there is almost no holding period of the bather M's ankle joint, knee joint and hip joint, and the flexion period and the extension period alternate. Transition almost continuously. The nozzles 3L and 3R alternately inject jets, so that the left and right feet of the bather M reciprocate in opposite phases. Therefore, the bather's M exercise | movement of the bather M in this case turns into a bending and stretching exercise like a walking exercise. In addition, the bather M is more stable than in the period T1, but the balance of posture is lost by this exercise. Therefore, the bather M performs a compensation operation to unconsciously work the muscles of the whole body to stabilize the posture. Bathers can also exercise by this.

  As described above, the exercise mode of the bather M can be changed by changing the cycle of the jet state from the nozzle 3. That is, by changing the cycle of the jet state from the nozzle 3, it is possible to change a motion that approximates a stretching exercise or balance training and a bending and stretching motion such as a walking motion. Therefore, the bather M can continue these exercises without getting tired of the exercises.

  Moreover, since this exercise is a passive exercise that is given from the outside and is not an automatic exercise that is performed according to the will of the bather, there are few parts depending on the will of the bather M, and it tends to last long. Further, since this exercise can be performed while taking a bathing posture, the bather can exercise in a relaxed state. As a result, it is easy to continue exercise. The “passive motion” refers to a motion performed by a person using an external force instead of his / her own muscular strength. In the present specification, a compensation operation when the posture is lost as described above is also included. That is, it can be said that the bathtub apparatus according to the present embodiment is an exercise bathtub apparatus that can cause exercise to be performed dynamically while the bather is in a sitting state.

  Furthermore, the exercise effect is further improved by the thermal effect of bathing. Moreover, since the temperature boundary layer around the bather M is always destroyed by the jet, the bather M is easily warmed and the exercise effect is further improved. In this way, by performing the above-described exercise in the bathtub, a higher exercise effect can be obtained as compared with the case of performing the exercise outside the bathtub.

FIG. 5 is a graph illustrating the joint trajectory stability with respect to the cycle of the jet state.
The inventor asks about 20 test subjects to use the bathtub device according to the present embodiment, and conducts a hearing survey on the stability of the trajectory of the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint at that time. Further, the present inventor has created an index that approaches the index “2” as the hearing result from the subject at that time becomes more stable.

  According to the results of this interview survey, as shown in FIG. 5, the subject feels that the trajectory of the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint becomes stable as the period of the jet state from the nozzle 3 becomes earlier (shorter). I found out. That is, when the cycle is about 4 seconds to 6 seconds, the trajectories of the knee joint and the hip joint become more unstable, and the subject is more unbalanced in posture by this exercise. Therefore, the subject performs a compensation operation to unconsciously work the muscles of the whole body to stabilize the posture. It was found that there were many subjects who felt that the exercise at this time approximated the stretch exercise or balance training.

  A human can realize a stable walking by swinging left and right legs alternately with a good tempo at a speed of about 1 second rather than a slow speed (about 4 seconds). This is said to be caused by the speed and inertial force applied to the human leg, and the function of the human musculoskeletal and the nervous system control function called rhythm generator (walking pattern generator). As with normal walking on land, the bending motion of the left and right legs during bathing is more stable when the cycle is about 1 to 2 seconds than when the cycle is about 4 to 6 seconds. Thus, alternate bending movements can be realized. Therefore, when the period is about 1 second to about 2 seconds, the user can comfortably perform the bending / extending motion of the leg and can realize the bending / extending motion without receiving an extra load. And, the period is about 1 to 2 seconds, so that the bather can bend and stretch to stimulate many leg muscle groups in a shorter time than when the period is about 4 to 6 seconds. can do. In addition, the left and right feet of the subject reciprocate at an earlier period and in opposite phases. Therefore, it was found that there were many subjects who felt a movement feeling like a walking movement with respect to the movement at this time.

FIG. 6 is a table and a schematic diagram illustrating the use site of the muscle group corresponding to the cycle of the jet state.
FIG. 6 (a) is a table exemplifying a muscle group part that the subject felt to have used by experiencing the bathtub apparatus according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 6 (b) is a table illustrating FIG. It is a schematic diagram showing the site | part of the muscle group represented to).

  The inventor asks seven test subjects to use the bathtub apparatus according to the present embodiment, and conducts a hearing survey on the site of the muscle group having a feeling of use when the cycle is changed. According to the results of this interview survey, as shown in FIG. 6A, the subject used at least one of the muscle groups of the hip joint m4 and the thigh m5 when the cycle of the jet state was early. I knew what I was feeling.

  The muscle group of the hip joint m4 includes the iliac muscle, the psoas muscle, and the long adductor muscle. Further, the muscle group of the thigh m5 has quadriceps muscle and hamstrings. This hamstring is a group of muscles having biceps femoris, hemimembrane-like muscle, semi-tendon-like muscle, and greater adductor muscle. The function of the biceps femoris is known as a muscle that mainly generates a kicking force and a propulsive force during walking. Therefore, the exercise that stimulates the hamstrings of the thigh m5 means that the exercise can contribute to maintaining walking speed and improving walking function. Thereby, when the cycle of the jet state was early, it was found that the subject felt a feeling of movement such as walking movement.

  On the other hand, it was found that the subject felt that he / she used at least one of the muscle groups of the thigh m5, the lower leg m6, and the foot m7 when the cycle of the jet state was early. The muscle groups of the lower leg m6 and the foot m7 have the triceps surae muscle. The triceps surae muscle is a group of muscles having an anterior tibial muscle, a retraction muscle, and a soleus muscle. The function of the anterior tibial muscle is known as a muscle that works for clearance between the ground and the foot m7 during walking. Therefore, an exercise that activates the anterior tibial muscle means an exercise that contributes to prevention of falls. As a result, it was found that when the cycle of the jet state was early, the subject felt a motion that approximated a stretch exercise or balance training.

Next, a specific example of the operation of changing the duty ratio without changing the cycle will be described.
FIG. 7 is a graph illustrating a specific example of the water discharge flow rate from the nozzle and the distance from the foot side surface to the sole with respect to time.
FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view showing the operation of the bathtub device according to this example.
FIG. 9 is a graph illustrating the distance (actually measured value) from the side surface of the foot to the sole when the bathtub device according to this example is used.

  First, the upper graph shown in FIG. 7 represents the water discharge flow rate with respect to the jet flow time from the nozzle 3L. Moreover, the middle graph shown in FIG. 7 represents the water discharge flow rate with respect to the time of the jet flow from the nozzle 3R. Further, the lower graph shown in FIG. 7 represents a distance with respect to time from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the duty ratio (a1 / T3) in this specific example is relatively small, for example, about 0.3 to 0.4. The first jet state (water discharge flow rate Q1) and the second jet state (water discharge flow rate Q2) are alternately switched. When this jet state (operation state) is viewed in plan, it is as shown in FIG.

  More specifically, at time t1, water discharge is started from the nozzle 3L in the second jet state (water discharge flow rate Q2). The length of the arrow shown in FIG. 8 corresponds to the length of time a1 of the discharged water flow rate Q2 shown in FIG. Subsequently, water discharge is started from the nozzle 3R at the water discharge flow rate Q2 at time t2, water discharge is started again from the nozzle 3L at the water discharge flow rate Q2 at time t3, and water discharge is started again from the nozzle 3R at the water discharge flow rate Q2 at time t4. . In the time zone in which the arrow shown in FIG. 8 is not drawn, water is discharged from the nozzles 3L and 3R in the first jet state (water discharge flow rate Q1).

  When the duty ratio is relatively small such as about 0.3 to 0.4 as in this specific example, the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 as shown in the lower graph of FIG. Is short (L1), that is, the time of the extension period in which the ankle joint, knee joint and hip joint of the bather M are naturally extended is relatively long. On the other hand, the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 is long (L2), that is, the holding period in which the foot joint, knee joint and hip joint of the bather M are simultaneously bent and stationary is relatively short.

  This can also be judged from the measured value of the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 when the bathtub device according to this example is used. The inventor measured the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 in about 10 reciprocations when using the bathtub device 1 according to this example. In the specification of the present application, “one reciprocation” means a movement from the transition period in which the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint of the bather M are naturally extended to the flexion period, and again to the extension period in which the natural extension is resumed. It shall be said.

  An example of the actual measurement value is as shown in FIG. That is, from the measured values shown in FIG. 9, as described above, the time of the extension period in which the ankle joint, knee joint and hip joint of the bather M naturally stretched was relatively long, while at the same time flexing at the same time. It can be seen that the stationary holding period is relatively short.

  Therefore, as in this specific example, the exercise when the duty ratio is relatively small, about 0.3 to 0.4, is an exercise that approximates a stretch exercise. As will be described later with reference to FIG. 16, this can also be determined by an interview survey from a subject using the bathtub device 1 according to this example. That is, by setting the duty ratio to a relatively small value of about 0.3 to 0.4, it is possible to realize an exercise that approximates a stretch exercise.

FIG. 10 is a graph illustrating another specific example of the water discharge flow rate from the nozzle with respect to time and the distance from the foot side surface to the sole.
FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view showing the operation of the bathtub device according to this example.
FIG. 12 is a graph illustrating the distance (actually measured value) from the foot side surface to the sole when the bathtub device according to this example is used.

  In the graph shown in FIG. 10, like the graph shown in FIG. 7, the upper graph shows the water discharge flow rate with respect to the jet flow time from the nozzle 3L, and the middle graph shows the jet flow from the nozzle 3R. The lower part of the graph represents the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the duty ratio (a2 / T3) in this specific example is about 0.5 to 0.6. That is, the duty ratio (a2 / T3) in this specific example is larger than the duty ratio (a1 / T3) in the graph shown in FIG. Note that the cycle T3 of the jet state shown in FIG. 10 is the same as the cycle T3 of the jet state shown in FIG. In addition, the first jet state (water discharge flow rate Q1) and the second jet state (water discharge flow rate Q2) are alternately switched to have opposite phases. When this jet flow state (operation state) is viewed in plan, it is as shown in FIG.

  At time t1, water discharge is started from the nozzle 3L in the second jet state (water discharge flow rate Q2). Note that the length of the arrow shown in FIG. 11 corresponds to the length of time a2 of the discharged water flow rate Q2 shown in FIG. 10 in the same manner as the length of the arrow shown in FIG. Subsequently, water discharge is started from the nozzle 3R at the water discharge flow rate Q2 at time t2, water discharge is started again from the nozzle 3L at the water discharge flow rate Q2 at time t3, and water discharge is started again from the nozzle 3R at the water discharge flow rate Q2 at time t4. . In the time zone in which the arrow shown in FIG. 11 is not drawn, water is discharged from the nozzles 3L and 3R in the first jet state (water discharge flow rate Q1).

  When the duty ratio is about 0.5 to 0.6 as in this specific example, the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 is short as shown in the lower graph of FIG. (L1) The time, that is, the time of the extension period in which the ankle joint, knee joint and hip joint of the bather M are naturally extended is relatively short. Similarly, the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 is long (L2), that is, the holding period in which the ankle joint, knee joint and hip joint of the bather M are simultaneously bent and stationary is relatively short. . That is, the left and right feet of the bather M are reciprocating substantially continuously in opposite phases, and there is almost no stationary state.

  This can also be judged from the measured value of the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 when the bathtub device according to this example is used. The inventor measured the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 in about 10 reciprocations when using the bathtub device 1 according to this example. An example of the actual measurement value is as shown in FIG. That is, from the actual measurement values shown in FIG. 12, as described above, the time of the extension period in which the ankle, knee and hip joints of the bather M naturally stretched, It can be seen that both are relatively short.

  Therefore, as in this specific example, the exercise when the duty ratio is about 0.5 to 0.6 is a bending and stretching exercise such as a walking exercise. As will be described later with reference to FIG. 16, this can also be determined by an interview survey from a subject using the bathtub device 1 according to this example. That is, by setting the duty ratio to about 0.5 to 0.6, it is possible to realize a bending / extending movement such as a walking movement.

FIG. 13 is a graph illustrating yet another specific example of the water discharge flow rate from the nozzle with respect to time and the distance from the foot side surface to the sole.
FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view showing the operation of the bathtub device according to this example.
FIG. 15 is a graph illustrating the distance (actual value) from the foot side surface to the sole when the bathtub device according to this example is used.

  In the graph shown in FIG. 13, like the graph shown in FIG. 7, the upper graph shows the water discharge flow rate with respect to the jet flow time from the nozzle 3L, and the middle graph shows the jet flow from the nozzle 3R. The lower part of the graph represents the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the foot sole m2.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the duty ratio (a3 / T3) in this specific example is relatively large, for example, about 0.7 to 0.8. That is, the duty ratio (a3 / T3) in this specific example is larger than the duty ratio (a1 / T3) in the graph shown in FIG. 7 and the duty ratio in the graph shown in FIG. Note that the cycle T3 of the jet state shown in FIG. 10 is the same as the cycle T3 of the jet state shown in FIGS. The first jet state (water discharge flow rate Q1) and the second jet state (water discharge flow rate Q2) are alternately switched. When this jet state (operating state) is viewed in plan, it is as shown in FIG.

  At time t1, water discharge is started from the nozzle 3L in the second jet state (water discharge flow rate Q2). The length of the arrow shown in FIG. 14 corresponds to the length of the time a3 of the water discharge flow rate Q2 shown in FIG. 13 in the same manner as the length of the arrow shown in FIG. Subsequently, water discharge is started from the nozzle 3R at the water discharge flow rate Q2 at time t2, water discharge is started again from the nozzle 3L at the water discharge flow rate Q2 at time t3, and water discharge is started again from the nozzle 3R at the water discharge flow rate Q2 at time t4. . In the time zone in which the arrow shown in FIG. 14 is not drawn, water is discharged from the nozzles 3L and 3R in the first jet state (water discharge flow rate Q1).

  When the duty ratio is comparatively large as about 0.7 to 0.8 as in this specific example, the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 as shown in the lower graph of FIG. Is short (L1), that is, there is almost no extension period when the ankle joint, knee joint and hip joint of the bather M are naturally extended. On the other hand, the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 is long (L2), that is, the holding period in which the ankle joint, knee joint and hip joint of the bather M are simultaneously bent and stationary is relatively long. That is, even if the bather's M's leg extends and tries to contact the foot side surface 2b or the nozzle 3, the leg is bent again before the contact and becomes stationary.

  This can also be judged from the measured value of the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 when the bathtub device according to this example is used. The inventor measured the distance from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2 in about 10 reciprocations when using the bathtub device 1 according to this example. An example of the actual measurement value is as shown in FIG. That is, from the actual measurement values shown in FIG. 15, as described above, there is almost no extension period in which the ankle joint, knee joint and hip joint of the bather M naturally stretched, and on the other hand, the body flexed and stopped. It can be seen that the retention period is relatively long.

  Therefore, as in this specific example, the exercise when the duty ratio is relatively large, such as about 0.7 to 0.8, is an exercise that approximates balance training. As will be described later with reference to FIG. 16, this can also be determined by an interview survey from a subject using the bathtub device 1 according to this example. That is, by setting the duty ratio to a relatively large value of about 0.7 to 0.8, it is possible to realize an exercise that approximates a stretch exercise.

  In addition, even if the bather's M's leg extends and tries to contact the foot side surface 2b or the nozzle 3, it is bent again before the contact and is in a stationary state in the period T3 of the jet state in this specific example. . For example, in the case of a period longer than the period T3, the bather's M's foot may extend and come into contact with the foot side surface 2b or the nozzle 3.

FIG. 16 is a table illustrating a motion mode with respect to the duty ratio of the jet state.
The inventor asks the subject to use the bathtub device according to the present embodiment, and conducts a hearing survey on the motion mode felt by the subject when the duty ratio of the jet state is changed. The exercise modes are roughly classified into stretch exercise, walking exercise, and balance training.

  When the duty ratio is relatively small, about 0.3 to 0.4 (30% to 40%), as described above with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9, the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint of the bather M are The extension period naturally extended is relatively long, while the retention period, which is bent and stationary at the same time, is relatively short. Therefore, it was found that many subjects felt that the exercise in this case approximated the stretch exercise.

  Also, when the duty ratio is about 0.5 to 0.6 (50% to 60%), as described above with reference to FIGS. The time of the extension period that naturally extends and the time of the holding period that is bent and stopped at the same time are both relatively short. That is, the left and right feet of the subject are reciprocating substantially continuously in opposite phases, and there is almost no stationary state. Therefore, it was found that many subjects felt that the exercise in this case was close to a natural exercise such as a walking exercise.

  Further, when the duty ratio is relatively large, about 0.7 to 0.8 (70% to 80%), as described above with reference to FIGS. There is almost no extension period in which the hip joint has naturally extended, while the holding period in which the hip joint is bent and stationary is relatively long. That is, the left and right feet of the subject move as if walking in the air, or as if they are riding on a so-called “balance ball”. Therefore, it was found that many subjects felt that the exercise in this case approximated balance training.

  As described above, the exercise mode of the bather M can also be changed by changing the duty ratio of the jet state from the nozzle 3. That is, by changing the duty ratio of the jet state from the nozzle 3, it is possible to change a motion that approximates a stretch motion, a bending and stretching motion such as a walking motion, and a motion that approximates balance training. Therefore, the bather M can continue these exercises without getting tired of the exercises. Further, with respect to other effects, the same effects as those described above with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 17 is a table and a schematic diagram illustrating the use site of the muscle group according to the duty ratio of the jet state.
FIG. 17A is a table illustrating the muscle group parts that the subject felt to have used by experiencing the bathtub apparatus according to the present embodiment, and FIG. It is a schematic diagram showing the site | part of the muscle group represented to).

  The present inventor asked seven subjects to use the bathtub device according to the present embodiment, and conducted a hearing survey on the muscle group site that had a feeling of use when the duty ratio was changed. According to the results of this interview survey, as shown in FIG. 17A, when the subject has a relatively small duty ratio of about 0.3 to 0.4, the abdomen and trunk It was found that the user felt that the muscle group of at least one of m3, hip joint m4, thigh m5, lower leg m6, and foot m7 was used. In other words, it was found that he felt that he used a relatively wide range of muscle groups.

  The muscle group of the abdomen / trunk m3 includes a spine standing muscle, a rectus abdominis muscle, and an oblique oblique muscle. Further, as described above with reference to FIG. 6, the muscle group of the lower leg m6 and the foot m7 has the anterior tibial muscle, and the function of the anterior tibial muscle is to reduce the clearance between the ground and the foot m7 during walking. It is known as a muscle that works to take. Therefore, an exercise that activates the anterior tibial muscle means an exercise that contributes to prevention of falls. Thereby, when the duty ratio of a jet state was comparatively small with about 0.3-0.4, it turned out that the test subject is feeling the exercise | movement which approximated the stretch exercise | movement.

  In addition, when the duty ratio in the jet state is about 0.5 to 0.6, the subject used at least one muscle group of the hip joint m4, the thigh m5, and the crus m6. I knew what I was feeling. In addition, it was found that the subject felt that the muscle group of the hip joint m4 or the thigh m5 was used when the duty ratio in the jet state was relatively large, about 0.7 to 0.8. In other words, when the duty ratio of the jet state is about 0.5 to 0.6 and the duty ratio is about 0.7 to 0.8, which is relatively large, the muscle group in a relatively narrow range is used. I knew what I was feeling.

  As described above with reference to FIG. 6, the muscle group of the thigh m5 has the biceps femoris, and the function of the biceps femoris is known as a muscle that mainly generates a kicking force and a propulsive force during walking. It has been. Therefore, the exercise that stimulates the hamstrings of the thigh m5 means that the exercise can contribute to maintaining walking speed and improving walking function. As a result, when the duty ratio of the jet state is about 0.5 to 0.6 and the duty ratio is about 0.7 to 0.8, the leg is bent as in walking motion. Exercise and extend continuously. Furthermore, since these exercises are performed in a state of floating in hot water, they will work other than the main muscles that work during walking, giving the user a sense of movement as an exercise that includes elements of balance training. I understood that.

FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram for explaining the muscle activity caused by the passive movement.
FIG. 18A is a schematic diagram illustrating muscle groups that are activated by the passive movement from the jet, and FIG. 18B shows the amount of activity of the muscle groups that are activated by the passive movement from the jet. It is the graph figure illustrated. In FIG. 18B, the vertical axis represents muscle activity and the horizontal axis represents time. Furthermore, the upper graph shown in FIG. 18B represents the amount of activity of the muscle group of the thigh m5, and the lower graph shown in FIG. 18B shows the muscle group of the lower leg m6. Represents the amount of activity.

  When water is discharged from the nozzle 3 in the second jet state at time S1, the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint of the bather M are bent, and the muscle group of the thigh m5 begins to be active. This means that muscle activity occurs in the state where the sole m2 moves away from the foot side surface 2b and moves toward the back side surface 2a.

  Subsequently, at time S2, the jet flow from the nozzle 3 transitions from the second jet state to the first jet state. Thereby, the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint of the bather M naturally extend, and the sole m2 moves to the foot side surface 2b side. Then, at time S3, the sole m2 contacts the nozzle 3 or the foot side surface 2b. When the sole m2 comes into contact with the nozzle 3 or the foot side 2b, the muscle group of the lower leg m6 is activated as shown in FIG. Thus, the other-movement motion (flexion / extension motion) of the foot caused by the jet stream enhances the exercise effect by working different muscle groups.

Next, a specific example of the operation for changing the cycle and the duty ratio will be described.
FIG. 19 is a graph illustrating still another specific example of the water discharge flow rate from the nozzle with respect to time and the distance from the foot side surface to the sole.
FIG. 20 is a graph illustrating the knee joint angle with respect to the phase when the bathtub device according to this example is used.

  The upper graph shown in FIG. 19 represents the water discharge flow rate with respect to the jet flow time from the nozzle 3, and the lower graph shown in FIG. 19 represents the distance with respect to the time from the foot side surface 2b to the sole m2. Yes. As shown in FIG. 19, the period T4 and the duty ratio in this specific example are relatively large. In addition, the period T4 of the jet state in this specific example is about 6 seconds, for example. The first jet state (water discharge flow rate Q1) and the second jet state (water discharge flow rate Q2) are alternately switched.

  When the cycle and the duty ratio are relatively large as in this specific example, as shown in the lower graph of FIG. 19, the ankle joint, knee joint, and hip joint of the bather M are simultaneously bent and stopped. Both the retention period and the naturally extended extension period are relatively long. This can also be judged from the measured value of the knee joint angle with respect to the phase when the bathtub device according to this example is used.

  This inventor measured the knee joint angle with respect to the phase in about 10 reciprocations when using the bathtub apparatus 1 concerning this example. An example of the actual measurement value is as shown in FIG. Note that the thin line shown in FIG. 20 represents the actual measurement values for about 10 round trips of the subject's foot, and the thick line shown in FIG. 20 represents the average value of the respective actual measurement values. Also, from the measured values shown in FIG. 20, as described above, both the holding period when the knee joint of the bather M is bent and stationary, and the naturally extending period are both relatively long. I understand.

  Furthermore, it can be seen that each measured value (thin line) has a large variation and a large fluctuation from the average value (thick line). That is, the bather M loses his balance of posture by this exercise and becomes unstable. Therefore, the bather M performs a compensation operation to unconsciously work the muscles of the whole body to stabilize the posture. Thereby, the exercise | movement of the bather's M leg in this case becomes an exercise | movement which approximated the stretch exercise | movement or balance training.

FIG. 21 is a graph illustrating still another specific example of the water discharge flow rate from the nozzle with respect to time and the distance from the foot side surface to the sole.
FIG. 22 is a graph illustrating the knee joint angle with respect to the phase when the bathtub device according to this example is used.

  In the graph shown in FIG. 21, like the graph shown in FIG. 19, the upper graph shows the water discharge flow rate with respect to the jet flow time from the nozzle 3, and the lower graph shows the foot side 2b. This represents the distance to the time to the back m2. As shown in FIG. 21, the period T5 and the duty ratio in this specific example are relatively small. In addition, the period T5 of the jet state in this specific example is about 2 seconds, for example. The first jet state (water discharge flow rate Q1) and the second jet state (water discharge flow rate Q2) are alternately switched.

  When the cycle and the duty ratio are relatively small as in this specific example, as shown in the lower graph of FIG. 21, the time during the flexion period when the foot joint, knee joint and hip joint of the bather M are bent. , And naturally stretched time is relatively short. And there is almost no holding | maintenance time when the bather's M ankle joint, the knee joint, and the hip joint bent simultaneously, and were still. That is, the left and right feet of the bather M are reciprocating substantially continuously in opposite phases, and there is almost no stationary state. This can also be judged from the measured value of the knee joint angle with respect to the phase when the bathtub device according to this example is used.

  This inventor measured the knee joint angle with respect to the phase in about 10 reciprocations when using the bathtub apparatus 1 concerning this example. An example of the actual measurement value is as shown in FIG. Note that the thin lines shown in FIG. 22 represent the respective actual measurement values for about 10 reciprocations of the subject's feet, like the thin lines shown in FIG. Further, the thick line shown in FIG. 22 represents the average value of the actually measured values, similarly to the thick line shown in FIG. Also, from the actual measurement values shown in FIG. 22, as described above, the time of the flexion period in which the ankle joint, the knee joint and the hip joint of the bather M were bent, and the time of the extension period naturally extended were relatively short. It can be seen that there is almost no holding period that is bent and stationary at the same time.

  Furthermore, it can be seen that each measured value (thin line) has a small variation and a small variation from the average value (thick line). That is, the bather M becomes a more stable posture by this exercise. Thereby, the exercise | movement of the bather's M leg in this case turns into bending and stretching movement like a walking exercise.

  As described above, the exercise mode of the bather M can be changed by changing the cycle of the jet flow state from the nozzle 3 and the duty ratio. That is, by changing the cycle of the jet state from the nozzle 3, it is possible to change a motion that approximates a stretching exercise or balance training and a bending and stretching motion such as a walking motion. Therefore, the bather M can continue these exercises without getting tired of the exercises. Further, with respect to other effects, the same effects as those described above with reference to FIGS.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, at least one of the cycle of the jet state from the nozzle 3 and the duty ratio can be changed. This is equivalent to changing the water discharge time of the jet from the nozzle 3. Then, by changing at least one of the period of the jet state from the nozzle 3 and the duty ratio, for example, a motion that approximates a stretch motion, a motion that approximates a balance training, a bending motion such as a walking motion, etc. The exercise mode can be changed. Therefore, the bather M can continue these exercises without getting tired of the exercises. That is, it can be said that the bathtub apparatus according to the present embodiment is an exercise bathtub apparatus that allows a bather to perform various types of passive movement without acclimatization.

The embodiment of the present invention has been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. As long as the features of the present invention are provided, those skilled in the art appropriately modified the design of the above-described embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, material, arrangement, and the like of each element included in the nozzle 3 and the pump 4 are not limited to those illustrated, and can be appropriately changed. That is, in the description of the above-described embodiment, the case where the jet flow is mainly discharged from the nozzles 3L and 3R has been described as an example, but the jet flow may be discharged from either one of the nozzles 3L and 3R. In this case, the bather M exercises one of the left and right legs.
Moreover, each element with which each embodiment mentioned above is provided can be combined as long as technically possible, and the combination of these is also included in the scope of the present invention as long as it includes the features of the present invention.

It is typical sectional drawing which illustrates the bathtub apparatus concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram showing a state when a bather is receiving the jet from a nozzle on a leg. It is a graph which illustrates the specific example of the water discharge flow rate from the nozzle with respect to time. It is a graph which illustrates the other specific example of the discharged water flow rate from the nozzle with respect to time. It is a graph which illustrates the locus | trajectory stability of the joint with respect to the period of a jet state. It is the table | surface and schematic diagram which illustrate the use site | part of the muscle group according to the period of a jet state. It is a graph which illustrates the specific example of the water discharge flow volume from the nozzle with respect to time, and the distance from a foot side surface to a sole. It is a plane schematic diagram showing operation | movement of the bathtub apparatus concerning a specific example. It is a graph which illustrates the distance (actual measurement value) from the foot side surface when using the bathtub apparatus concerning this example. It is a graph which illustrates the other specific example of the water discharge flow volume from the nozzle with respect to time, the distance from a foot side surface to a sole. It is a plane schematic diagram showing operation | movement of the bathtub apparatus concerning a specific example. It is a graph which illustrates the distance (actual measurement value) from a foot side surface when using the bathtub apparatus concerning this example. It is a graph which illustrates the other specific example of the water discharge flow volume from the nozzle with respect to time, and the distance from a foot side surface to a sole. It is a plane schematic diagram showing operation | movement of the bathtub apparatus concerning a specific example. It is a graph which illustrates the distance (actual measurement value) from a foot side surface when using the bathtub apparatus concerning this example. It is a table | surface which illustrates the motion mode with respect to the duty ratio of a jet state. It is the table | surface and schematic diagram which illustrate the use site | part of the muscle group according to the duty ratio of a jet state. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the muscle activity which arises by a passive movement. It is a graph which illustrates the other specific example of the water discharge flow volume from the nozzle with respect to time, and the distance from a foot side surface to a sole. It is a graph which illustrates the knee joint angle with respect to the phase when using the bathtub apparatus concerning this example. It is a graph which illustrates the other specific example of the water discharge flow volume from the nozzle with respect to time, and the distance from a foot side surface to a sole. It is a graph which illustrates the knee joint angle with respect to the phase when using the bathtub apparatus concerning this example.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Bathtub apparatus, 2 Bathtub, 2a Back side surface, 2b Foot side surface, 2c Bottom surface, 3, 3L, 3R nozzle, 4, 4L, 4R pump, 5 Control part, 7 Inlet, 8 Operation part, 60 Bathroom unit, 61 Waterproofing Pan, 62 Wall panel, m1 back, m2 sole, m3 abdomen / trunk, m4 hip joint, m5 thigh, m6 lower leg, m7 foot

Claims (4)

A bathtub having a first bathtub wall that can be backrested, and a second bathtub wall that faces the first bathtub wall;
A water discharge part provided on the second bathtub wall surface, for discharging a jet to a bather's foot bathing in the bathtub with a foot directed to the second bathtub wall surface;
A control unit for controlling the state of the jet;
With
The control unit includes a first jet state that does not bend the bather's feet, and a higher water discharge flow rate than the first jet state, and the bather's feet are discharged from the water discharge unit. A bathtub device characterized in that it can be set to a second jet state to be bent, and the duration of at least one of the first and second jet states can be changed.   2. The bathtub apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit alternately sets a state of a jet discharged from the water discharge unit between the first jet state and the second jet state. .   The said control part can change the ratio of the duration of the said 1st and 2nd jet state with respect to the period of the change of the jet state discharged from the said water discharging part, The Claim 1 or 2 characterized by the above-mentioned. Bathtub equipment.   The said control part can change the period of the change of the jet state discharged from the said water discharging part, The bathtub apparatus as described in any one of Claims 1-3 characterized by the above-mentioned.