JP7407255B2 - chair massage machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a chair-type massage machine that includes a seat and a backrest.

JP-A-2004-041383 (Patent Document 1) discloses a chair-type massage machine. This massage machine is equipped with a massaging unit of massaging balls on the backrest, and connected to the front side of the seat is a footrest equipped with air cells for foot massage. Air is supplied to the air cell to inflate it, the foot rest is lowered while the foot is being held, and the foot rest is controlled to be raised after releasing the foot hold state.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-210270 (Patent Document 2) discloses that a massage chair is equipped with an airbag for massaging the shoulders, back, and lower back in the backrest, and a footrest on which to place the feet. The footrest includes an airbag that massages the lower legs, and with the lower legs sandwiched and restrained using the airbag, the footrest is rotated in the vertical direction and the backrest is controlled to be tilted down.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-041383 Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-210270

The massage machine of Patent Document 1 lowers the footrest while holding the foot, and raises the footrest after releasing the foothold, thereby producing a leg-stretching effect. However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose that a massage unit including kneading balls is operated simultaneously in conjunction with the operation of the footrest. That is, Patent Document 1 discloses an operation in which, in addition to stretching the lower body due to the effect of stretching the legs, the massage ball provided in the backrest portion touches the part of the person to be treated, while also stretching the upper body. Not yet. For this reason, with the massage machine of Patent Document 1, it was not possible to make the user stretch the entire body while intensively treating the upper body region.

The massage machine of Patent Document 2 obtains a stretching effect by tilting the backrest while rotating the footrest in the vertical direction. However, Patent Document 2 does not disclose an operation in which each airbag provided in the backrest is operated in conjunction with the movement of the footrest to stretch the upper body of the patient. do not have. For this reason, with the massage machine of Patent Document 1, it was not possible to make the user stretch the entire body while intensively treating the upper body region.

An object of the present invention is to provide a chair-type massage machine that can stretch the entire body while intensively treating the upper body region.

A chair-type massage machine according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a seat, a tiltable backrest that is pivotally supported on the rear side of the seat, and a backrest that is pivotally supported on the front side of the seat, and that supports the user. a leg rest on which a leg is placed; a treatment section that includes a treatment element that treats at least the back of a person to be treated, and that projects the treatment element toward the person who is leaning on the backrest; a control section that controls each of the backrest section, the leg rest section, and the treatment section; the back support section has a shoulder holding section that holds both shoulders of the user; includes a holding means for holding the leg of the user, and an extension means for moving the leg of the user, and the extension means moves the leg rest from a horizontal position to a vertical position with respect to the seat. or from the vertical position to the horizontal position; and an expansion and contraction mechanism that extends and contracts the leg rest with respect to the seat; controlling the holding means to hold the legs of the person, and then controlling the treatment section to project the treatment elements, and extending the leg rest with respect to the seat in the horizontal position. By controlling the expansion and contraction mechanism as shown in FIG. The upper body of the user is pushed out and bent toward the opposite side of the backrest, and at the same time, the user's legs are stretched into the horizontal position, and the user's upper body is intensively treated. It is possible to do a full-body stretch where the entire body is arched.

Preferably, the backrest section includes an elevating mechanism that moves the treatment section in the longitudinal direction of the backrest section, the control section further controls the elevating mechanism, and the control section further controls the elevating mechanism. The elevating mechanism is controlled to move the treatment section upward within a predetermined massage range while the massager is protruding.

Preferably, the backrest section includes an elevating mechanism that moves the treatment section in the longitudinal direction of the backrest section, the control section further controls the elevating mechanism, and the control section further controls the elevating mechanism. The elevating mechanism is controlled to move the treatment section upward within a predetermined massage range while intermittently protruding.

These and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

1 is a perspective view showing a chair-type massage machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a control unit and peripheral parts of the chair-type massage machine shown in FIG. 1 in association with each other. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of a control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a display section of an operation panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a control flowchart according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the time chart of the stretch mode based on 1st Example (reference example). It is a figure showing typically operation of each part of a chair-type massage machine concerning a 1st example (reference example). It is a figure which shows the time chart of the stretch mode based on 2nd Example. It is a figure which shows typically the operation|movement of each part of the chair-type massage machine based on 2nd Example. It is a figure which shows the time chart of the stretch mode based on 3rd Example. It is a figure which shows typically the operation|movement of each part of the chair-type massage machine based on 3rd Example. 7 is a diagram showing a time chart of a stretch mode according to modification example 1. FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing the operation of each part of the chair-type massage machine according to Modification 1. FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a time chart of a stretch mode according to Modification 2. FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing a massage operation A according to a second modification. FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing a massage operation B according to a second modification. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a time chart of a stretch mode according to Modification 3. FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing the operation of each part of a chair-type massage machine according to a third modification. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a chair-type massage machine according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are given the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated. In this specification, "treatment" does not refer to treatment of the human body, but to the application of force to the human body from the outside, such as in a "massage." Furthermore, in this embodiment, a "leg" corresponds to a portion of the lower limb extending below the knee. This downwardly extending portion includes the foot extending from the ankle (the top of the foot and the tips of the fingers).

[Chair massage machine 11]
Referring to FIG. 1, the chair-type massage machine 11 includes a seat section 2, a backrest section 3, a treatment section 4, a leg rest section 5, a shoulder holding section 6, and a control section 91.

In the following description, the front-rear direction corresponds to the front-rear direction as seen from the user when the user is seated on the seat 2. The vertical direction corresponds to the vertical direction as seen from the user when the user is seated on the seat 2. The left-right direction corresponds to the left-right direction as seen from the user when the user is seated on the seat 2.

Further, the vertical posture corresponds to a posture in which the legs of a seated treatment recipient hang down in the vertical direction. The vertical position includes not only a vertical position but also a substantially vertical position. Further, the horizontal posture corresponds to a posture in which the legs of a seated treatment recipient are stretched horizontally in the front-back direction. The horizontal attitude includes not only a horizontal state but also a substantially horizontal state.

The seat portion 2 is for seating the person to be treated. The seat portion 2 includes a plurality of seat airbags 21. The plurality of seat airbags 21 are provided at positions corresponding to the back side of the thighs of the seated user. More specifically, the plurality of seat airbags 21 include two airbags 21a and 21b corresponding to the upper thighs and one airbag 21c corresponding to the lower thighs. Each of the airbags 21a and 21b is arranged on the rear side of the seat portion 2, and is arranged separately in the left-right direction. The airbag 21c is arranged on the front side of the seat portion 2.

The backrest portion 3 is pivotally supported on the rear side of the seat portion 2. The backrest part 3 can be tilted to the rear side of the seat part 2 and reclined. More specifically, the backrest portion 3 is reclined to the rear side of the seat portion 2 by a reclining expansion/contraction mechanism 18a (see FIG. 2) built into the chair-type massage machine 11.

The backrest portion 3 has a guide rail 32 extending in the vertical direction. The guide rail 32 moves the treatment section 4 in the longitudinal direction of the backrest section 3.

The treatment section 4 includes a pair of left and right massaging balls 41 (corresponding to treatment elements) for treating at least the back of the user, and also includes a pair of left and right massaging balls 41 facing the user who is leaning on the backrest section 3. make it stand out. Details of the treatment section 4 will be described later.

The leg rest 5 places the leg of the person to be treated. The leg rest 5 has a pair of left and right grooves 51. The pair of left and right grooves 51 are formed to have a size that accommodates both legs of the user seated on the seat 2 from the knees down.

The leg rest 5 includes a plurality of leg airbags 52 (corresponding to holding means) and an extension mechanism 53 (corresponding to extension means). Note that details of the extension mechanism 53 will be described later.

The plurality of leg airbags 52 have a function as a holding means for holding the legs of the user. The plurality of leg airbags 52 inflate to sandwich the left and right sides of the shin portion of the leg, thereby massaging the leg. The plurality of leg airbags 52 include at least airbags 52a to 52d. Each of the airbags 52a to 52d is disposed on the inner surface of the pair of left and right grooves 51, respectively.

The shoulder holding parts 6 are provided on both sides of the backrest part 3. More specifically, the shoulder holding section 6 is provided at a position opposite to the shoulder of the user who is leaning on the backrest section 3. The shoulder holding part 6 includes a raised part 61 and a shoulder airbag 62.

The raised portion 61 has a shape that bulges forward from the backrest surface of the backrest portion 3. The raised portions 61 are provided on both sides of the backrest portion 3. Shoulder airbag 62 is disposed on raised portion 61 . The shoulder airbag 62 is inflated upon receiving air supply from an air distribution section 94A (see FIG. 2), which will be described later. As a result, both shoulders of the user are subjected to pneumatic treatment while being sandwiched between the left and right shoulder airbags 62. The raised portion 61 and the shoulder airbag 62 are preferably formed to be long along the longitudinal direction of the backrest portion 3.

More preferably, the shoulder airbag 62 is formed by stacking a plurality of airbags. Thereby, it is possible to increase the holding force on both shoulders of the user and to enhance the effect of the pneumatic treatment by the shoulder airbag 62.

The control unit 91 controls the operation of the chair-type massage machine 11. More specifically, the control section 91 controls the operation of each section including the seat section 2, the backrest section 3, the treatment section 4, the leg rest section 5, and the shoulder holding section 6 according to a pre-built-in program.

Here, each of the above-mentioned airbags is controlled independently from each other. Regarding each airbag, one end of the flexible hollow air pipe is connected to each of the above-mentioned airbags, and the other end of each air pipe is connected to the air distribution section 94A (see Fig. 2) corresponding to the supply/exhaust section. Connected. Each airbag is inflated by air supply and deflated by exhaust air via an air pipe.

[Controller unit]
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the control unit 9 of the chair-type massage machine 11 and its peripheral parts in association with each other. The control unit 9 includes a control section 91, an operation panel 92, an air generation section 93, and a distributor 94.

The control unit 91 is composed of a microcomputer or the like. The control unit 91 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 91A and a timer 91B. The control section 91 is connected to an operation panel 92, an air generation section 93, a distributor 94, and a storage section 95, respectively. The control unit 91 controls each airbag, the treatment unit 4, the extension mechanism 53, and the reclining extension mechanism 18a.

The operation panel 92 includes a switch section 92A and a display section 92B (see FIG. 4). The switch section 92A is operated by the patient to input instructions. The display section 92B includes a liquid crystal screen for displaying various information.

The air generation unit 93 includes a pump 93A for delivering air and a motor (not shown) that drives the pump 93A.

The distributor 94 distributes and outputs the air from the air generating section 93 to each airbag. The air generator 93 and the distributor 94 are controlled by the controller 91 and inflate/deflate each airbag independently. Each part of the person to be treated is treated with pneumatic pressure by inflating each air bag. The distributor 94 includes an air distribution section 94A and a signal distribution section 94B.

The air distribution section 94A independently controls the opening and closing of solenoid valves (not shown) connected to the air pipes of each airbag according to control signals from the control section 91. As a result, air is supplied/exhausted so that each airbag is inflated or deflated independently.

The signal distribution section 94B uses an A/D (Analog/Digital) conversion section (not shown) to control the control section 91 and each section of the chair massage machine 11 (the reclining extension mechanism 18a, the massage mechanism 42, the pressure sensor 43, and the extension mechanism 18a, the massage mechanism 42, the pressure sensor 43, and the 53).

Storage unit 95 stores programs and data. The storage unit 95 includes volatile and nonvolatile ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like. The programs stored in the storage unit 95 include a treatment program for operating the chair massage machine 11. The program stored in the storage section 95 is executed by the control section 91 according to the operation contents received from the operation panel 92.

[Treatment Department 4]
Next, referring to FIG. 2, the treatment section 4 includes a pair of left and right massage balls 41, a massage mechanism 42, and a pressure sensor 43.

The massage mechanism 42 includes a kneading mechanism 42a, a hitting mechanism 42b, a protruding mechanism 42c, and a lifting mechanism 42d.

The kneading mechanism 42a has gears and a motor. The kneading mechanism 42a is controlled by the control unit 91 and causes the pair of left and right kneading balls 41 to perform a kneading operation. The striking mechanism 42b has a gear and a motor. The beating mechanism 42b is controlled by the control unit 91 and causes the pair of left and right kneading balls 41 to perform a beating operation.

The protrusion mechanism 42c has a gear and a motor. The protruding mechanism 42c is controlled by the control unit 91 and causes the pair of left and right massaging balls 41 to protrude toward the user leaning on the backrest 3. Thereby, the degree of contact (treatment intensity) of the pair of left and right massaging balls 41 with respect to the upper body including the back of the user is adjusted as appropriate. Further, by causing the protruding mechanism 42c to protrude the pair of left and right massaging balls 41, acupressure treatment can be applied to each part of the upper body of the user.

The lifting mechanism 42d has gears and a motor. The elevating mechanism 42d is controlled by the control section 91 and moves the treatment section 4 within the backrest section 3. More specifically, the elevating mechanism 42d moves the treatment section 4 in the vertical direction along the guide rail 32.

Further, the protruding mechanism 42c and the elevating mechanism 42d are simultaneously controlled by the control unit 91 to cause the pair of left and right massaging balls 41 to perform a predetermined massage operation. Note that the predetermined massage operation will be described later.

The pressure sensor 43 detects the pressure applied to the left and right pair of massaging balls 41. The control unit 91 specifies the back muscle line of the user based on the detection result of the pressure sensor 43.

The spine line is specified as follows. First, the CPU 91A controls the lifting mechanism 42d to move the treatment section 4 above the backrest section 3 along the guide rail 32. The CPU 91A uses the pressure sensor 43 to detect the pressure applied to the massaging balls 41 that are moving upward. The CPU 91A compares the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor 43 with a predetermined pressure value. Based on the results of this comparison, the treatment recipient's back muscle line is identified.

[Extension mechanism 53]
Referring to FIG. 2, the extension mechanism 53 of the leg rest 5 includes a rotation mechanism 53a and an extension mechanism 53b.

The rotation mechanism 53a has a motor and gears. The rotation mechanism 53a rotates the leg rest 5 in the vertical direction from a vertical position to a horizontal position or from a horizontal position to a vertical position. Further, the rotation mechanism 53a can also rotate the leg rest 5 to a predetermined angle and maintain the leg rest 5 in an inclined state at that angle.

The telescopic mechanism 53b has a motor and gears. The expansion/contraction mechanism 53b extends and contracts the leg rest 5 with respect to the seat 2. This expansion/contraction mechanism 53b allows the position of the leg rest 5 with respect to the seat 2 to be changed according to the length of the leg of the user.

[Functional configuration of control unit 91]
Referring to FIG. 3, a control unit 91 includes a first control unit 911 for implementing stretch control in a first mode of a first embodiment (reference example) to be described later, and a second mode of a second embodiment to be described later. The second control section 912 has a second control section 912 for carrying out stretch control according to the third embodiment, and a third control section 913 for carrying out stretch control according to a third mode of the third embodiment described later. The first control section 911, the second control section 912, and the third control section 913 correspond to a program stored in the storage section 95 in advance, or a combination of the program and a circuit. When the CPU 91A reads and executes the program from the storage section 95, stretch control by the first control section 911, the second control section 912, and the third control section 913 is realized.

[Menu screen]
Referring to FIG. 4, display section 92B of operation panel 92 displays a menu screen of massage contents. The massage content menu includes a plurality of stretching modes including stretching motions using the massaging balls 41. These stretch modes include a first mode of a first example (reference example), a second mode of a second example, and a third mode of a third example, which will be described later. Each of the stretch modes mainly involves stretching that specifies the treatment area. This stretching includes "neck stretch,""backstretch," and "waist stretch" for each treatment area.

The menu screen according to the embodiment is composed of a plurality of menu screens. The patient can switch the menu screen by operating the switch section 92A (see FIG. 2). The menu screen in FIG. 4 displays a menu for selecting a treatment area. By selecting one of "Neck Stretch," "Back Stretch," and "Lower Stretch" on the menu screen, the recipient can select one of the treatment areas: "Neck," "Back," and "Lower." can be selected as Other menu screens (not shown) include a first mode of the first embodiment (reference example), a second mode of the second embodiment, and a third mode of the third embodiment, which will be described later. includes a screen for selecting the desired stretch mode from among the stretch modes.

The person to be treated is seated on the chair-type massage machine 11 and operates the operation panel 92 to select a desired treatment area and the type of stretch mode. More specifically, the patient selects a desired treatment area from the menu screen of display unit 92B, then switches to another menu screen and selects a stretch mode (first to third modes). Thereafter, the start button of the switch section 92A (see FIG. 2) is operated. As a result, the selected treatment area is massaged in the selected stretch mode.

Note that each airbag is completely evacuated beforehand when performing a massage using the chair-type massage machine 11. Furthermore, before the massage is performed, the backrest 3 is in an upright position, and the legrest 5 is in a vertical position.

[flowchart]
FIG. 5 is a control flowchart when a treatment area and stretch mode are selected. The CPU 91A reads the program stored in the storage unit 95 and executes the control flowchart shown in FIG.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 5, a case where "lower back stretch" is selected from the menu screen shown in FIG. 4, that is, a case where "lower back" is selected as the treatment area will be described. It is assumed that the leg rest 5 is held in a vertical position before the control flowchart shown in FIG. 5 is executed.

The CPU 91A receives the operation details of the operation panel 92, and determines the type of stretch mode selected by the user (step S1). That is, the CPU 91A determines the selected treatment area (ie, "lower back") and the stretch mode selected from the first to third modes based on the operation details. Thereafter, the CPU 91A rotates the leg rest 5 upward from the vertical position to the horizontal position (step S3). Hereinafter, the horizontal state of the leg rest 5 will also be referred to as the "stretch mode initial state." In the initial state of the stretch mode, the massaging balls 41 are set at a predetermined initial position within the backrest 3.

After that, the CPU 91A controls the elevating mechanism 42d to move the treatment section 4 to the region specified by the determined stretch mode (step S5). Since "lower back stretch" is selected in this flowchart, the treatment section 4 moves to the lower back.

Here, the movement of the treatment section 4 up to the waist is performed as follows. That is, the CPU 91A identifies positions corresponding to the neck, shoulders, shoulder blades, lower back, etc. of the user based on the information on the back muscle line of the user identified by the pressure sensor 43 described above and a predetermined calculation formula. By this identification, the treatment section 4 is moved to a position on the guide rail 32 corresponding to the determined treatment area (lower back) in the stretch mode. Note that the method of detecting each part is not limited to the method using the pressure sensor 43. For example, the position of the treatment site (the position on the guide rail 32 corresponding to the desired site) may be determined from the position information of the desired site that the patient manually inputs from the operation panel 92.

Next, the CPU 91A controls the air generation section 93 and the air distribution section 94A to supply air to the airbags in each section to inflate them (step S7, step S9). It is preferable that the air supply speed of the pump 93A is constant. After starting air supply to each air bag, when the CPU 91A determines that a predetermined time has elapsed by the timer 91B (YES in step S9), the CPU 91A controls the solenoid valve of each air bag via the air distribution unit 94A. Switch from “open” to “closed”. Completion of holding the body is detected when the airbag completes inflation.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time has not yet elapsed (NO in step S9), the process returns to step S7 and subsequent processes such as air supply are repeated. After the processing in steps S7 and S9, the leg of the user is fixedly held by the inflated leg airbag 52 in the initial state of the stretch mode.

Thereafter, the CPU 91A executes stretch control according to the stretch mode determined in step S1 (step S11). Specifically, when the first mode is selected, the first control unit 911 executes stretch control according to the control sequence of the first embodiment (reference example) described later. Furthermore, when the second mode is selected, the second control unit 912 executes stretch control according to the control sequence of the second embodiment described later. Further, when the third mode is selected, the third control unit 913 executes stretch control according to the control sequence of the third embodiment described later. When step S11 is completed, the CPU 91A returns the posture of the chair-type massage machine 11 to a predetermined posture (for example, the vertical posture in FIG. 1).

[Stretch control]
Regarding the stretch control (step S11 in FIG. 5) in each stretch mode described above, a first example (reference example), a second example, a third example, and modifications 1 to 3 will be illustrated.

Here, the time T0 to T1 in the control sequences in FIGS. 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, and 17 are the steps S7 and T1 in FIG. 5 before the stretch control (step S11 in FIG. 5). Corresponds to S9. Note that in FIGS. 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, and 17, the time intervals shown in the control sequences are not particularly limited and can be set as appropriate.

Further, in FIGS. 7, 9, 11, 13, and 18, hatched portions indicate the inflated state in which the leg airbag 52 and the shoulder airbag 62 are supplied with air. The black portion shows the state in which the kneading balls 41 protrude from the backrest surface of the backrest portion 3.

[First example (reference example)]
A first example (reference example) will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. Although the first example (reference example) is outside the scope of the claims of the present invention, the first example (reference example) will be described for comparison with the second and third examples described later. do. The first example (reference example) shows stretch control performed by the first control unit 911 when the user selects the first mode. In FIG. 6, the sequence of operation or control of the leg airbag 52 of the leg rest 5, the massaging ball 41, and the leg rest 5 is schematically shown as time passes along the time axis t. is shown.

When the first control unit 911 inflates the leg airbag 52 to hold the leg of the user, the first control unit 911 then controls the protrusion mechanism 42c to protrude the kneading balls 41. , controls the rotation mechanism 53a to rotate the leg rest 5 downward. Here, it is preferable that the protrusion of the kneading balls 41 and the rotation of the leg rest 5 are performed at the same time.

During time T0 to T1, the first control unit 911 controls the air generation unit 93 and the air distribution unit 94A to supply air to and inflate the leg airbag 52 of the leg rest 5 in the horizontal position (see FIG. 7). A)→See Figure 7(B)).

During time T1 to T2, the first control unit 911 maintains the inflated state of the leg airbag 52. As a result, the leg of the user placed on the leg rest 5 in a horizontal position is held.

During time T2 to T3, the first control section 911 controls the protrusion mechanism 42c and the rotation mechanism 53a. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C, the first control unit 911 controls the protrusion mechanism 42c so that the massaging balls 41 protrude in the direction of arrow AR3, and also controls the protrusion mechanism 42c in a horizontal position. The rotation mechanism 53a is controlled to rotate the leg rest 5 downward (in the direction of arrow AR1). The first control unit 911 controls the rotation mechanism 53a so that the leg rest 5 stops at a predetermined inclination angle, as shown in FIG. 7(C). Further, during time T2 to T3, the first control unit 911 maintains the inflated state of the leg airbag 52.

During time T3 to T4, the first control unit 911 controls the protruding mechanism 42c so that the massaging balls 41 maintain the protruding state. The leg rest 5 is held at a predetermined inclination angle that is above the vertical position. Further, the first control unit 911 maintains the inflated state of the leg airbag 52.

As described above, in the first embodiment (reference example), while intensive shiatsu is applied to the part of the treated person that is in contact with the massaging balls 41 (in this example, the lower back), the protruding massaging balls 41 are applied to Using the region as a fulcrum, the upper body of the user is pushed out and bent toward the opposite side of the backrest 2, and the user's legs (knees) are bent and stretched from a horizontal position. In this way, the upper body is stretched by arching the user's back (lower back), and the lower body is stretched by bending and stretching the legs (knees) in a horizontal position. In other words, the user can receive acupressure on the lower back with the massage balls 41 while undergoing a full-body stretch in which the entire body is bent.

[Second example]
A second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. The second example shows stretch control performed by the second control unit 912 when the user selects the second mode. In FIG. 8, the sequence of operation or control of the leg airbag 52, the massaging ball 41, and the leg rest 5 is schematically shown as time passes along the time axis t, in association with each other. .

The second control unit 912 inflates the leg airbag 52 so as to hold the leg of the user. Thereafter, the second control unit 912 controls the protrusion mechanism 42c to protrude the massaging balls 41, and controls the extension mechanism 53b to extend the leg rest 5 with respect to the seat 2. Thereafter, the rotation mechanism 53a is controlled to rotate the leg rest 5 downward. Here, it is preferable that the protrusion of the kneading balls 41 and the extension of the leg rest 5 are carried out at the same time.

During time T0 to T1, the second control unit 912 controls the air generation unit 93 and the air distribution unit 94A to supply air to and inflate the leg airbag 52 of the leg rest 5 in the horizontal position (see FIG. 9). A)→See FIG. 9(B)).

During time T1 to T2, the second control unit 912 maintains the inflated state of the leg airbag 52. As a result, the leg of the user placed on the leg rest 5 in a horizontal position is held.

During time T2 to T3, the second control section 912 controls the protrusion mechanism 42c and the expansion/contraction mechanism 53b. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C, the second control unit 912 controls the protrusion mechanism 42c so that the kneading balls 41 protrude in the direction of arrow AR3, and The extension/contraction mechanism 53b is controlled to extend the leg rest 5 in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2 with respect to AR2. Further, during time T2 to T3, the second control unit 912 maintains the inflated state of the leg airbag 52.

During time T3 to T4, the second control unit 912 controls the protruding mechanism 42c so that the massaging balls 41 maintain the protruding state. Further, the second control unit 912 controls the rotation mechanism 53a to rotate the leg rest 5 in the horizontal position downward (in the direction of arrow AR1) while maintaining the protruding state of the kneading balls 41 (see FIG. 9(C)→See FIG. 9(D)). The CPU 91A controls the rotation mechanism 53a so that the leg rest 5 stops at a predetermined inclination angle, as shown in FIG. 9(D). Further, the second control unit 912 maintains the inflated state of the leg airbag 52.

As described above, in the second embodiment, intensive acupressure is applied to the part of the person to be treated that is in contact with the massaging balls 41 (in this example, the lower back), and the part of the person to be treated that is in contact with the protruding massaging balls 41 is used as a fulcrum. As a result, the upper body of the person to be treated is pushed out to the side opposite to the backrest portion 2 and bent, and the legs of the person to be treated are stretched in a horizontal position. Furthermore, the legs (knees) of the person to be treated are bent and stretched from a horizontal position. In this way, the upper body is stretched by arching the user's back (lower back), and the lower body is stretched by stretching the legs in a horizontal position and bending and stretching the legs (knees). In other words, the user can receive acupressure on the lower back with the massage balls 41 while undergoing a full-body stretch in which the entire body is bent. In particular, in the second embodiment, after the legs are stretched in a horizontal position, the legs (knees) are bent and stretched, which further enhances the effect of stretching the lower body.

[Third example]
A third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. The third example shows stretch control performed by the third control unit 913 when the treated person selects the third mode. In FIG. 10, the sequence of operation or control of the leg airbag 52, the massaging ball 41, and the leg rest 5 is schematically shown as time passes along the time axis t, in association with each other. .

The third control unit 913 inflates the leg airbag 52 so as to hold the leg of the user. Next, the third control unit 913 controls the extension mechanism 53b to extend the leg rest 5, and then controls the protrusion mechanism 42c to project the massaging balls 41, and also moves the leg rest 5 downward. The rotation mechanism 53a is controlled to rotate. Here, it is preferable that the protrusion of the kneading balls 41 and the rotation of the leg rest 5 are carried out at the same time.

During time T0 to T1, the third control unit 913 controls the air generation unit 93 and the air distribution unit 94A to supply air to and inflate the leg airbag 52 of the leg rest 5 in the horizontal position (see FIG. 11). A)→See FIG. 11(B)).

During time T1 to T2, the third control unit 913 maintains the inflated state of the leg airbag 52. As a result, the leg of the user placed on the leg rest 5 in a horizontal position is held.

During time T2 to T3, the third control section 913 controls the expansion and contraction mechanism 53b. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 11B and 11C, the third control unit 913 controls the expansion and contraction mechanism to extend the leg rest 5 with respect to the seat 2 in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2. 53b. Further, during time T2 to T3, the third control unit 913 maintains the inflated state of the leg airbag 52.

During time T3 to T4, the third control section 913 controls the protrusion mechanism 42c and the rotation mechanism 53a. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 11(C), the third control unit 913 controls the protrusion mechanism 42c so that the massaging balls 41 protrude in the direction of arrow AR3, and also controls the protrusion mechanism 42c so that the leg rest in the horizontal position The rotation mechanism 53a is controlled so as to rotate 5 downward (in the direction of arrow AR1). The third control unit 913 controls the rotation mechanism 53a so that the leg rest 5 stops at a predetermined inclination angle, as shown in FIG. 11(D). Further, during time T3 to T4, the third control unit 913 maintains the inflated state of the leg airbag 52.

As described above, in the third embodiment, the leg of the person to be treated is first stretched in a horizontal position, and then intensive shiatsu is applied to the part of the person to be treated (lower back in this example) that is in contact with the massaging balls 41. Using the part of the user that is in contact with the protruding massage balls 41 as a fulcrum, the upper body of the user is pushed out and warped to the side opposite to the backrest 2, and the legs (knees) of the user are bent. You are forced to bend and stretch from a horizontal position. In this way, only the lower body is stretched by stretching the legs in a horizontal position, and then the upper body is stretched by arching the patient's back (lower back), and the legs (knees) are bent and stretched. This will stretch your lower body. In other words, the user can receive acupressure on the lower back with the massage balls 41 while undergoing a full-body stretch in which the entire body is bent. In particular, in the third embodiment, compared to the first embodiment (reference example), the legs are initially stretched in a horizontal position, and as the legs (knees) are bent and stretched, the massaging balls 41 protrude. Since the upper body is arched, a strong stretch can be applied to the user all at once, focusing on the user's lower back.

[Modification 1]
As a first modification of the control sequence of the first control unit 911, second control unit 912, and third control unit 913 shown in the first example (reference example), the second example, and the third example, each control After time T4 in the sequence, an operation may be added to move the treatment section 4 upward within a predetermined massage range with the massaging balls 41 protruding. Note that each operation from time T0 to T4 in each control sequence of the first example (reference example), the second example, and the third example is as described above, so the description will not be repeated. Hereinafter, the control of the first control section 911, the second control section 912, and the third control section 913 after time T4 according to the first modification will be described as control by the CPU 91A.

As shown in FIG. 12, between times T4 and T5, the CPU 91A controls the lifting mechanism 42d to move the treatment section 4 upward within a predetermined massage range. At this time, in the first example (reference example), the second example, and the third example, the CPU 91A maintains the state of each part of the chair massage machine 11 at the time T4. That is, the CPU 91A controls the protruding mechanism 42c so as to maintain the protruding state of the massaging balls 41. Further, the CPU 91A controls the air generation section 93 and the air distribution section 94A so as to maintain the inflated state of the leg airbag 52. Further, the CPU 91A controls the rotation mechanism 53a so that the leg rest 5 is kept stopped at a predetermined inclination angle, and controls the extension mechanism 53b so that the leg rest 5 is kept in the extended state.

Here, the predetermined massage range is a range along the guide rail 32 of the backrest part 3, including a range corresponding to each part of the neck, shoulders, and lower back, and in which the treatment part 4 is movable. Defined by range.

For example, when "waist stretch" is selected on the massage operation menu screen (see FIG. 4), the predetermined massage range is a predetermined range above the waist. Here, FIG. 13 shows the operation of each part of the chair-type massage machine when Modification 1 is added to the first embodiment (reference example). When "lower back stretch" is selected, as shown in FIG. 13(C), the treatment section 4 moves upward (in the direction indicated by arrow AR4) from AR5 to AR6 indicated by the dashed line. The treatment section 4 stops at the AR6 position, as shown in FIG. 13(D).

According to this modification example 1, the protruding massaging balls 41 move above the backrest 3 within a predetermined range while the legs of the user are held on the leg rest 5, so that the user can The user's back muscles are stretched to promote upper body stretching, and a rolling massage can be applied to a predetermined massage range. As a result, while performing the whole body stretching in the first embodiment (reference example), second embodiment, and third embodiment described above, it is possible to intensively treat a specific region.

Note that when "lower back stretch" is selected on the massage operation menu screen, the predetermined massage range is preferably a range from the lower back to the center of the back or shoulders. When "back stretch" is selected, the predetermined massage range is preferably from the center of the back to the shoulder or neck. When "neck stretch" is selected on the massage operation menu screen, the predetermined massage range is preferably a range from the neck to the upper limit position of the treatment section 4. Here, the predetermined massage range may be variably set by the user operating the operation panel 92.

[Modification 2]
Further, as a second modification of the control sequence of the first control unit 911, second control unit 912, and third control unit 913 shown in the first example (reference example), the second example, and the third example, As shown in FIG. 14, after the massaging balls 41 are protruded, the massaging balls 41 may be caused to perform a predetermined massage operation after time T4 of each control sequence. Note that each operation from time T0 to T4 in the first example (reference example), the second example, and the third example is as described above, so the description will not be repeated. Hereinafter, the control of the first control section 911, the second control section 912, and the third control section 913 after time T4 according to the second modification will be described as control by the CPU 91A.

As shown in FIG. 14, from time T4 to time T5, the CPU 91A maintains the state of each part at time T4 in the first example (reference example), second example, and third example. That is, the CPU 91A controls the air generation section 93 and the air distribution section 94A so as to maintain the inflated state of the leg airbag 52. Further, the CPU 91A controls the rotation mechanism 53a to keep the leg rest 5 in a stopped state at a predetermined inclination angle, and controls the extension mechanism 53b to keep the leg rest 5 in an extended state.

In this modification 2, the predetermined massage operation includes a massage operation A and a massage operation B.

Massage operation A will be explained with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is a diagram schematically showing the movement of the massaging balls 41 in the massage operation A. Massage operation A is started with the massaging balls 41 protruding (see FIGS. 7(C), 9(C), and 11(D)).

As shown in FIG. 15, the massaging balls 41 are raised in the direction of arrow DR1 by the lifting mechanism 42d. Next, the massaging balls 41 are moved back in the direction of arrow DR2 by the protrusion mechanism 42c. Next, the massaging balls 41 are lowered in the direction of arrow DR3 by the lifting mechanism 42d. Finally, the massaging balls 41 are projected in the direction of arrow DR4 by the projection mechanism 42c.

As shown in FIG. 15, the massaging balls 41 repeat a series of operations of DR1→DR2→DR3→DR4→DR1... Here, the moving distance of the massaging balls 41 indicated by the arrow DR1 is longer than the moving distance of the massaging balls 41 indicated by the arrow DR3. Therefore, the massaging balls 41 (treatment section 4) performs the massage operation A while moving upward through the above-described series of operations.

As described above, in the massage operation A of the second modification, while the user is undergoing the whole body stretch according to the first to third embodiments, continuous rolling treatment is performed while moving the massaging balls 41 upward. can be set.

Next, massage operation B will be explained with reference to FIG. 16. FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically showing the movement of the massaging balls 41 in the massage operation B. Massage operation B is started by retracting the massaging balls 41 from the state in which the massaging balls 41 protrude (see FIGS. 7(C), 9(C), and 11(D)).

As shown in FIG. 16, the massaging balls 41 are raised in the direction of arrow DR1 by the lifting mechanism 42d. While the massaging balls 41 move upward, the protruding mechanism 42c repeats an operation of protruding in the direction of arrow AR3 and an operation of retreating in the opposite direction to the direction of arrow AR3.

As described above, in the massage operation B of the second modification, while the treatment recipient is undergoing the whole body stretch according to the first to third embodiments, continuous acupressure treatment is performed while the massaging balls 41 are moved upward. be able to.

Note that Modification 2 may be implemented in combination with Modification 1 described above. That is, the massaging balls 41 may be caused to perform the massage operation A and/or the massage operation B of the second modification before or after the first modification described above.

In the second modification, when the massaging balls 41 are performing the massage motion A or the massaging motion B, a massaging motion or a tapping motion may be added as appropriate.

[Modification 3]
As a further modification of the control sequence by the first control unit 911, second control unit 912, and third control unit 913 shown in the first example (reference example), the second example, and the third example, The leg airbag 52 may be inflated to hold the leg of the user, and the shoulder airbag 62 may be inflated to hold both shoulders of the user. Note that FIGS. 17 and 18 representatively show the operation of each part of the chair-type massage machine when Modification 3 is applied to the first embodiment (reference example). Modification 3 can be applied in the same way.

Referring to FIG. 17, during time T0 to T1, the CPU 91A controls the air generation section 93 and the air distribution section 94A to supply air to the leg airbag 52 of the leg rest 5 in the horizontal position. At the same time, air is supplied to the shoulder airbag 62 to inflate it. After time T1, the CPU 91A maintains the inflated state of the leg airbag 52 and shoulder airbag 62 (see FIGS. 18B and 18C).

According to this modification 3, the person to be treated can undergo whole-body stretching while keeping both shoulders held.

Note that this third modification may be implemented in combination with the first and/or second modification described above.

[Other variations]
In the above-mentioned first example (reference example), second example, and third example, the case where "lower back stretch" was selected from the menu screen in FIG. 4 was explained, but if another part was selected. In other words, even if "back stretch" or "neck stretch" is selected, the controls according to the first embodiment (reference example), second embodiment, and third embodiment described above can be applied in the same way. Can be done.

As a further modification of the above-described first embodiment (reference example), second embodiment, and third embodiment, the first embodiment (reference example), The stretch control of the second embodiment and the third embodiment may be executed. In this case, the entire body of the user can be stretched horizontally with the backrest portion 3 reclined, and a greater whole-body stretching effect can be given to the user.

Further, as a further modification of the first embodiment (reference example), second embodiment, and third embodiment described above, the reclining operation of the backrest 3 may be combined with the rotation of the leg rest 5. good. As a result, the upper body of the user is warped by the reclining motion of the backrest 3, so that in addition to stretching the legs, a greater effect of stretching the entire body can be given to the user. Note that if only this modified example is implemented, it will fall outside the scope of the claims of the present invention, but this modified example can be implemented as an option in addition to the second or third embodiment, for example. In this case, it falls within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Furthermore, as a further modification of the first embodiment (reference example), second embodiment, and third embodiment described above, the leg airbag 52 is inflated to hold the leg of the patient and The seat airbag 21 of the seat portion 2 may be inflated to lift the buttocks and thighs of the user. Alternatively, the seat airbag 21 of the seat 2 may be inflated to lift the buttocks and thighs of the user as the leg rest 5 rotates. As a result, the legs of the user can be further extended, and the stretching effect on the lower body can be increased.

[Other embodiments]
In the chair-type massage machine 11 according to the embodiment of the present invention, a pair of left and right massaging balls 41 are used as the treatment elements of the treatment section 4. However, the present invention is not limited to the treatment section 4 according to this embodiment, and for example, a treatment section including an air bag (treatment element) may be used. In this case, pneumatic treatment can be given to the person to be treated by inflating and deflating the airbag.

Moreover, as another embodiment of the present invention, the chair-type massage machine 11 may include an interlocking mechanism (not shown) that connects the seat part 2 and the backrest part 3. This interlocking mechanism allows the seat portion 2 to move in the front-rear direction in conjunction with the reclining operation of the backrest portion 3.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 19, a chair-type massage machine 12 according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a leg-rest 500 in place of the leg-rest 5 of the chair-type massage machine 11. The other configuration of the chair-type massage machine 12 is the same as that of the chair-type massage machine 11, and the description will not be repeated here.

Leg rest section 500 includes a leg rest section 510 and a foot rest section 520. The leg rest portion 510 includes a pair of left and right groove portions 511 and a plurality of leg airbags 512 (holding means). The pair of left and right grooves 511 are formed in a size that accommodates the calf region from below the knees to the ankles of a person to be treated who is seated on the seat 2. The plurality of leg airbags 512 are arranged on the inner and bottom surfaces of the pair of left and right grooves 511, respectively.

The footrest portion 520 includes a pair of left and right groove portions 521 and a plurality of foot airbags 522 (holding means). The pair of left and right grooves 521 are formed in a size that accommodates both feet of a user seated on the seat 2 from the ankles to the toes. The plurality of foot airbags 522 are respectively disposed on the inner surfaces of the pair of left and right grooves 521 and on the bottom surface of the soles of the feet.

As described above, the user seated on the chair-type massage machine 12 is held not only in the calves of both legs but also in the legs from the ankles to the toes by the inflation of the airbags 512 and 522. Therefore, in the chair-type massage machine 12 according to the other embodiments of the present invention, the stretching effect of the lower body according to the above-mentioned first example (reference example), second example, and third example is improved, and the whole body is stretched. The effect can be further enhanced.

[Technical philosophy]
The technical idea according to the embodiment of the present invention is as follows. The chair-type massage machine includes a seat, a tiltable backrest that is pivotally supported on the rear side of the seat, and a leg rest that is pivotally supported on the front of the seat and on which the legs of the user are placed. , a treatment section that includes a treatment element that treats at least the back of the user and that projects the treatment element toward the user who is leaning on the backrest, a control that controls each of the leg rest and the treatment unit; It is equipped with a section and a section. Further, the leg rest includes a holding means for holding the leg of the person to be treated, and an extension means for moving the leg of the person to be treated. The control unit controls the holding means to hold the leg of the user, and then controls the treatment unit to protrude the treatment element (i.e., at the same time as controlling), and stretches the leg of the user. The stretching means is controlled as follows.

In the chair-type massage machine according to the embodiment of the present invention, while intensive treatment is performed using the treatment element, the upper body of the person to be treated is opposite to the backrest portion, with the part of the person to be treated that is in contact with the protruding treatment element being used as a fulcrum. The leg of the person to be treated is extended as it is pushed out to the side and warped. In this way, by arching the back of the user, the upper body is stretched, and by stretching the legs, the lower body is stretched. That is, the person to be treated can undergo a full-body stretch in which the entire body is bent while being treated by the treatment element.

The embodiments disclosed this time should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than the above description, and it is intended that all changes within the meaning and range equivalent to the claims are included.

11, 12 Chair-type massage machine, 2 Seat part, 3 Backrest part, 4 Treatment part, 41 Massage balls, 42 Massage mechanism, 42a Massage mechanism, 42b Hitting mechanism, 42c Projection mechanism, 42d Lifting mechanism, 5 Leg rest, 52 leg airbag, 53 extension mechanism, 53a rotation mechanism, 53b extension and contraction mechanism, 6 shoulder holding part, 61 raised part, 62 shoulder airbag, 91 control part, 911 first control part, 912 second control part, 913 th 3 control section.

Claims (3)

a seat having a seat airbag that inflates to lift the buttocks and thighs of the user ;
a tiltable backrest pivotally supported on the rear side of the seat and connected to the seat by an interlocking mechanism ;
a leg rest that is pivotally supported on the front side of the seat and on which the leg of the person to be treated is placed;
a treatment section that includes a treatment element that treats at least the back of the person to be treated, and that projects the treatment element toward the person who is leaning on the backrest;
a control section that controls each of the backrest section, the leg rest section, and the treatment section;
Equipped with
The seat part is connected to the interlocking mechanism that moves in the front and back direction in conjunction with the reclining operation of the backrest part,
The backrest portion has a shoulder holding portion that holds both shoulders of the person to be treated;
The leg rest is
a holding means for holding the leg of the patient;
an extension means for moving the leg of the person to be treated;
including;
The stretching means includes:
a rotation mechanism that vertically rotates the leg rest relative to the seat from a horizontal position to a vertical position, or from the vertical position to the horizontal position;
an extension mechanism that extends and contracts the leg rest with respect to the seat;
including;
The control unit includes:
The holding means is controlled to hold the leg of the person to be treated, and then the treatment section is controlled to project the treatment element, and the leg rest is held in the horizontal position relative to the seat. By controlling the expansion/contraction mechanism so as to extend it, and controlling the shoulder holding section so as to hold both shoulders of the treatment recipient,
The upper body of the user is pushed out and bent toward the opposite side of the backrest, using the lower back of the user that is in contact with the treatment element as a fulcrum, and at the same time, the legs of the user move into the horizontal position. stretched out ,
After that, by controlling the rotation mechanism and the backrest part so as to rotate the leg rest part downward and tilt the backrest part backward,
By bending the upper body of the user , it is possible to intensively treat the upper body area while performing a full-body stretch in which the user's entire body is bent.
A chair-type massage machine in which the seat portion moves back and forth in conjunction with the tilting of the backrest portion . The backrest portion is
including an elevating mechanism that moves the treatment section in the longitudinal direction of the backrest section,
The control unit further controls the lifting mechanism,
The control unit includes:
The chair-type massage machine according to claim 1, wherein the elevating mechanism is controlled to move the treatment section upward within a predetermined massage range with the treatment element protruding. The backrest portion is
including an elevating mechanism that moves the treatment section in the longitudinal direction of the backrest section,
The control unit further controls the lifting mechanism,
The control unit includes:
The chair-type massage machine according to claim 1, wherein the elevating mechanism is controlled to move the treatment section upward within a predetermined massage range while causing the treatment element to protrude intermittently.

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